Marines Command Honors its First Female Sergeant Major

The U.S. Marines command that houses the most prestigious ceremonial units will be welcoming its first female sergeant major on Thursday.

Sgt. Maj. Angela Maness will take over the duties of senior enlisted Marine at Marine Barracks Washington.

The role is unofficially known as the "oldest post of the Corps."

Ms. Maness, who will be honored during a Thursday morning ceremony at the base in DC, joined the Marines in 1987.

She has previously served as sergeant major for Combat Logistics Battalion 8, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and for Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C.

Ms. Maness will replace Sgt. Major Eric J. Stockton, who took the post in 2010 and is retiring after a career spanning 30 years, MilitaryTimes.com reports.

"We’re very excited about the possibilities and the leadership potential that Sgt. Maj. Maness brings to the table," Capt. Jack Norton, a spokesman for 8th and I said in a release.

"She is the most qualified for the job; she just happens to be a woman."

Ms. Maness was honored for her military achievements in May by the Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues for her.

She said at the time: "It is an honor and a privilege to be selected.

"Words of wisdom, not just for female Marines, for every Marine: Do your job, stay in the fight and do the best job you can do for your boss, for the Corps, for America."

(Photo: Cpl. Tyler J. Bolken / Marine Corps)