Congratulations to Gen. Joseph Dunford, who on Oct. 17 assumed his new post as the 36th commandant of the Marine Corps during a passage of command ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington.
His remarks to the Marines and dignitaries in attendance were brief but poignant. "I'm not so much proud to be the commandant," Dunford said, "as I am to wear the cloth of a United States Marine." And it was his first order, however symbolic, that illustrates how attuned he is to the challenges ahead.
Continue to march.
Indeed, several pressing matters will compete for Dunford's attention from the get-go. The threat of sequestration means tough budget decisions ahead. The service is trying to determine how to integrate women into combat roles. The Corps' global posture faces significant change. But when it comes to the well-being of Marines and their families, one stands out: morale.
For a variety of reasons, people are frustrated. There is a squeeze being felt across the force. It's a prevailing sense of uncertainty as the service downsizes and shifts direction after 13 years of war.
Dunford must establish early that Marines' best interests are his top priority.
As is customary for new commandants, Dunford will publish a detailed document — the Commandant's Planning Guidance — outlining his goals for the coming months and years. It will be released in early 2015, he says, and informed by feedback from Marines of all ranks.
That's a smart move. Marines and their families must trust that their concerns are being heard. More important, Dunford must demonstrate that he is truly listening.
