Marine Security Guards assigned to the MSG Detachment at the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum, Sudan, exit the plane after arriving at Dulles International Airport, Va., on April 24. (Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Bragg) The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
By: FEDweek StaffThe Marines who protected staff and sensitive material at the U.S. embassy in Khartoum, Sudan, in April were honored for their efforts during a ceremony earlier this month at their Quantico, Virginia, headquarters.
“The example that you have set protecting the life of the ambassador and lives of all the people who were at the embassy has been nothing short of extraordinary,” said Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro, as he presented each member of the Marine Security Guard Detachment Khartoum with medals.
Records show the Marines remained at their posts around the clock as a civil conflict grew in intensity while approaching the embassy. They continued to monitor the situation until the order finally was given to prepare to evacuate the compound. At that point, a contingent took control of the process and kept the mission’s leader and personnel up to date with its progress.
“It’s a humble feeling being back in the heart of it all, and it reminds you that the greater mission of MCESG [Marine Corps Embassy Security Guard] is ongoing and we must continue to support that mission,” said Staff Sgt. Derek Ferrari, the detachment commander, who received a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his actions. “The detachment is deactivated but not disbanded yet, and I continue to be impressed by my Marines’ ability to remain engaged and take care of one another the same way they did in Khartoum.”
Each of the watch-standers received Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.
“The detachment did exactly what is expected of U.S. Marines during times of uncertainty and being awarded for that by the SECNAV [secretary of the Navy] means a lot to myself and the rest of the detachment,” said Sgt. Komlan Akli, one of the watch standers.
Each member of the unit has now received new orders, and will deploy at some point to any of the 180 diplomatic facilities the U.S. maintains around the world.
Trump to move Space Command headquarters out of Colorado
National Guard Order Calls for Hiring More Fed LEOs, Military Unit Under Interior, DHS, Justice
Audit: Rise in ‘Severe Staffing Shortages’ at VA Medical Facilities
Marines Seek New Boots on the Ground
Can My Military Discharge be Upgraded? Yes
The Rules for Getting Both Military Retired Pay and a Federal Annuity
Credit for Military Service for Federal Retirement Annuities
