The Marine Corps policy and commitment to equal opportunity is clear. Every member of our battalion will be afforded an equal opportunity to serve, excel, and advance regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, or national origin in an environment free from hostility, discrimination and preferential treatment. Discrimination, to include sexual harassment, acts of reprisal, hazing, or any other conduct that demeans the dignity of another person, has no place in CLB-13 and will be dealt with immediately and severely.

Cultural diversity is one of our Nation’s greatest strengths. The Marine Corps also thrives upon this same distinction and we seek to capitalize on these strengths to enable an effective fighting force. I am committed to preserving that diversity within our organization and to fostering a professional environment characterized by a positive attitude, courtesy, dignity, and respect. I expect our leadership and every Marine and Sailor within this battalion to do the same.

It is the responsibility of leaders to care for the welfare of those in their charge by establishing and maintaining an environment that promotes equal opportunity to succeed based on one’s individual merit, technical and tactical proficiency, physical and mental toughness, and overall individual ability. Additionally, I charge leaders at every level to ensure each Marine and Sailor is recognized and appreciated for their individual worth and is afforded full opportunity for professional development and achievement.

I will not tolerate discrimination in any form, or behavior that does not represent our core values of honor, courage, and commitment. Behavior of this type should not be tolerated by anyone. Any member of our battalion who feels he or she has been harassed or discriminated against may use the informal resolution system or file a formal complaint via the chain of command in order to resolve the issue. Anyone observing acts of discrimination or sexual harassment will take immediate corrective action and report the incident through the chain of command. All formal equal opportunity complaints will be investigated by the battalion’s Equal Opportunity Representative and each and every one will be dealt with directly and will be resolved promptly. Anyone engaging in this wrongful behavior will be held accountable and subject to swift and appropriate punishment under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Semper Fidelis,
Lieutenant Colonel George W. Markert, U.S. Marine Corps
Commanding Officer