How long did Wilbur Bestwick serve?
Wilbur Bestwick (November 27, 1911 – July 10, 1972) was a United States Marine who served as the first Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps from 1957 to 1959.
Who’s the most decorated Sgtmaj?
| William O. Wooldridge | |
|---|---|
| Years of service | 1940–1972 |
| Rank | Sergeant Major of the Army |
| Battles/wars | World War II Vietnam War |
| Awards | Silver Star (2) Legion of Merit (2) Bronze Star Medal Air Medal (6) Army Commendation Medal (2) Purple Heart Croix de guerre (Belgium) |
Who is the most decorated enlisted Marine?
Lewis “Chesty” Puller
Lewis “Chesty” Puller (1898-1971), was a 37-year veteran of the USMC, ascended to the rank of lieutenant general and is the most decorated Marine in the history of the Corps. He served in World War II, Haiti, Nicaragua and the Korean War.
Can anyone join the Marine Corps League?
Membership Eligibility Regular membership is available to anyone who is serving or has served honorably in the United States Marine Corps for more than (90) days, or has served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve and has earned no less than (90) reserve retirement credit points.
What did William Bestwick do in WW2?
Appointed a sergeant major in 1943, he saw World War II combat with the 3rd Marine Division in the Bougainville and Guam campaigns. On his return to the United States, in December 1944, Bestwick served as sergeant major of the Mare Island (California) Shipyard.
Who is Bill Bestwick?
Bestwick was born on November 27, 1911, in Sabetha, Kansas, and graduated from high school there in 1932. Bestwick enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1934 and received his basic training at San Diego, California.
When did James Bestwick retire from the Marines?
Transferred to Headquarters Marine Corps, Washington, D.C., in June 1956, Bestwick served as sergeant major to the Secretary of the General Staff until May 23, 1957, when he assumed the newly established post of Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps until he retired from active duty on September 1, 1959.