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 | Down East Chapter Present “Mack” McKinney Awards
By Suzanne Ulbrich
Jdnews.com
Jacksonville, NC
The C.A. “Mack” McKinney Award isn’t about the trophy. Instead, it’s about recipients being among the few honored for improving the lives of service members.
Commanding General of II Marine Expeditionary Force Lt. Gen. Dennis J. Hejlik and retired Navy Chief Petty Officer Randy Reichler received this year’s awards Friday evening from the Down East Chapter of the Non Commissioned Officers Association.
This was the 18th year the award, which is named after a decorated combat veteran who dedicated his life after retirement to bettering the lives of service members, was presented by NCOA to those who demonstrate professionalism, dedication and service to the country and its military over a sustained period of time, according to the organization.
Lt. Gen. Dennis J. Hejlik
About Hejlik: Hejlik enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1968. His personal decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal with Gold Star, Legion of Merit with Gold Star, Meritorious Service Medal with two Gold Stars, Navy Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and the Leftwich Award.
On Hejlik: “I think there’s no better candidate (for the C.A. “Mack” McKinney Award), I’ve known him quite a while,” II MEF Sgt. Major Carl Green said. “He’s a Marine’s Marine. He leads from the front. He’s a true believer in tradition and taking care of young Marines and sailors. He’s the ultimate leader, an example of leadership for anyone to follow.”
Hejlik’s reaction: “The Non Commissioned Officers Association does so many great things for our enlisted sailors, soldiers and Marines — this coming from them is very humbling and a great honor. … I love Marines and ‘green sailors’ — I love what I do, I’m very fortunate.”
Retired Chief Petty Officer Randy Reichler
About Reichler: Reichler enlisted in the Navy in October 1969, retired in April 1994 and served more than 18 years of his career with the Marine Corps. He joined the civil service in June 1996 and is the only paid retired affairs officer in the Marine Corps.
On Reichler: “Randy has touched so many people in so many ways, not just Marines, but their widows, spouses and children,” retired Marine Gail Horn said. “As soon as he hears of a death he personally makes a visit (to the widow); he understands they are in mourning and he wants to make it as painless and easy as possible to get the entitlements due that veteran …”
Reichler’s reaction: “I got lucky on this one. I’ve gotten the Paul Longo Award and the Whitey Welbourne Award and a few letters of accommodation from (the) base general, but this is probably the most special award. The respect I have for Mack and the people who have already received it, I was amazed, just amazed.”
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NCOA
9330 Corporate Drive, Suite 701
Selma, Texas 78154
Mon-Fri 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. (CST)
Member Services: (800) 662-2620
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