An Overview of the Colour Sergeant of the Marine Corps

Introduction

The Colour Sergeant of the Marine Corps is a 1965 billet in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) held by a non-commissioned officer (NCO) posted at Marine Barracks Washington. The postholder is responsible for carrying the official Colours of The USMC while leading “The Commandant’s Four”, members of which are part of the USMC Colour Guard Platoon. The post of Colour Sergeant of the Marine Corps was first established on 01 January 1965 and first held by Shelton L. Eakin, who was killed in action the following year during the Vietnam War.

Refer to Colour Sergeant in British Army/Royal Marines.

Kenneth Newton, 37th Colour Sergeant of the Marine Corps, is pictured holding the national ensign of the US during annual memorial observances at the tomb of John Philip Sousa in 2017.

Duties

The Colour Sergeant of the Marine Corps is considered the senior-most sergeant in the USMC and serves as the NCO in Charge of “Parade Four”, the USMCs’ principal colour guard. During state events, he is responsible for carrying the flag of the president of the US. The Colour Sergeant of the Marine Corps is also expected to serve as an example of correct appearance to all Marines.

Qualifications

The Colour Sergeant of the Marine Corps is appointed by the commanding officer of Marine Barracks Washington and applicants from throughout the Marine Corps are considered. The postholder must be a sergeant between 6-foot 2-inches and 6-foot 6-inches in height, meet Marine Corps weight standards, and be eligible for clearance to the Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information level. The appointment to Colour Sergeant of the Marine Corps is for a two-year, non-renewable term.

Rank

Most postholders have been in the rank of Sergeant. However, the first Colour Sergeant of the Marine Corps was a Gunnery Sergeant. The 8th and 9th postholders held the rank of Corporal, Corporal E.W. Williams (October 1968 to February 1969) and Corporal C.A. Kern (March 1969 to June 1969).

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