The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is the highest-ranking enlisted member of the Marine Corps. The role of the SMMC is to advise the Commandant on matters affecting enlisted Marines, represent the enlisted force in discussions with Senior Leadership and oversee the implementation of policies and programs that impact enlisted personnel.
Carlos A. Ruiz assumed the post as the 20th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps on August 10, 2023. Carlos and his family immigrated to the United States from Mexico. Early on, his parents insisted that his family quickly assimilate and do their part to give back to the country that gave them opportunity. He was convinced to join the Marines because the recruiter looked so impressive in his dress blues.
We discuss the concept of every Marine principally being a rifleman in the context of the rapidly changing ways that war is being waged. Carlos emphasizes Marines themselves are the weapon system. “It is a warfighting culture and we make no apologies for that. We exist only for one reason and that is to win the nation’s battles.
Recently, some of the other branches struggled to meet their recruiting and retention goals. However, the Marines Corps never had that problem. Carlos believes that to be because the nature of service in the Marines attracts a special type of person.
He also emphasizes his belief that the Corps is not only building exceptional warfighters but also good citizens. One of his focus areas as Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is helping Marines prepare to make the transition to civilian life. Carlos encourages other Veterans to assist.
We wrap up with a discussion about the importance of mental health. Early in his tenure as SMMC, a young Sergeant challenged Carlos to “get after” the issue of Veteran suicide. He believes that building life skills while they are in the Marines can help them deal with the challenges they will face in civilian life. “We have to be more open to talking about issues that are affecting us.”