MCTOG Retirement Ceremony November 2014

The Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group (MCTOG) held a retirement ceremony for Master Sergeant Andrew Michaelson for his 22 years of service.

Several family members, friends and fellow Marines filled the seats in one of the larger facilities on the MCTOG compound for Master Sergeant Michaelson’s last appearance in uniform as an active duty Marine.

Presiding over the ceremony was Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Kisch. Lieutenant Colonel Kisch recalled one of the first times he met Master Sergeant Michaelson several years ago in Kuwait as a young non-commissioned officer (NCO). Lieutenant Colonel Kisch revealed how impressed he was with Master Sergeant Michaelson’s demeanor, describing him as a Marine who never loses his cool in unsettling moments or chaotic situations. Proof of this was Master Sergeant Michaelson’s successful tour in one of the Marine Corps’ most difficult battles in history: the battle of Fallujah.

Master Sergeant Michaelson’s entire 22 years of service has been as 0369 Infantry Unit Leader, which makes him a rarity in the infantry community according to Lieutenant Colonel Kisch. As an Infantry Unit Leader, Master Sergeant Michaelson assisted commanders and operations officers in the training, deployment and tactical employment of personnel, equipment, and weapons systems.

We wish you the best in your future endeavors Master Sergeant Michaelson. Godspeed and Semper Fidelis!

Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Kisch presents Master Sergeant Andrew Michaelson with his retirement warrant.	Master Sergeant Andrew Michaelson says a few words at the conclusion of his retirement ceremony, taking the time to thank family, friends and fellow Marines.