Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- The Department of Defense has established a new pin to recognize civilian Marines. 

The Marine Corps Civilian Service Pin is an award granted to civilian Marines under the DoD Awards Program.  The pin was developed to give the civilians a sense of pride for the services they provide.

The pins are scheduled for distribution through the human resources office in March.

New employees will receive the pin upon completing their new employee orientation, while current employees will receive the pin upon certification of their years of service to the Marine Corps. 

All civilian Marines will wear the pin with honor and in the knowledge the Marine Corps is a better organization because of their contribution and dedication, according to All Marine Message 005/03.

"I know civilians who have more years of service than Marines.  They don't wear uniforms or service stripes, so a Marine can't acknowledge their contributions.  This is a way for the Marine Corps to recognize them," said Sgt. Maj. Brian K. Pensak, the Marine Corps Base sergeant major.

The Marine Corps does have programs that acknowledge support, but many don't know about them.

There are recognition programs, promotions and monetary awards, such as cash bonuses, which are not visible to Marines.  The pins are a long overdue way to openly recognize them, said Pensak.

"I think that it's wonderful that civilians are being recognized as part of the Marine Corps team.  I haven't had the honor of serving in uniform, but I have served the Marine Corps for 14 years," said Daisy C. Kiley, the secretary to the commanding general of 2nd Marine Division.

The pin will have a raised eagle, globe and anchor on an unpainted finish.  Each pin will come in a red velvet presentation box.

For more information about the Marine Corps Civilian Service Pin or how to receive the pin, contact the local human resources office.