Geraldine M. Moran
In the 1960’s a milestone was hit for promoting Women in the Marines. Geraldine M. Morgan was the first women Marine to be promoted to E-9, Mastery Gunnery Sergeant. This achievement is huge for women Marines. The Marine Corps ranks are broken down into three levels of Junior Enlisted (E-1 through E-3), Non-Commissioned Officers (E-4 through E-5), and Staff Non-Commissioned Officers (E-6 through E-9). These ranks are extremely important when determining one’s responsibility and dedication to the Marines. Every enlisted Marine will start at the bottom and move up the ladder of ranks to where he/she is fit to belong in. Moran’s promotion of E-9 demonstrates how the Marines have evolved to incorporate women who are proving to men that they are worth something to the Marines. Owning the title of Master Gunnery Sergeant shows that you are of the highest rank of Staff Non-Commissioned Officers. They serve as technical experts in Military Occupation Specialty as they offer leadership in their field to large Marine units like companies and battalions. This is where Geraldine M. Moran obtains her leadership qualities. Moran is a leader and role model to other women who now are given an opportunity to work towards the highest rank of E-9. Without her service in the Marines she would’ve missed out on a major step towards evolving and expanding women in the Marines.