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Brig. Gen. Gregg P. Olson, the commanding general, and Sgt. Maj. Mario A. Marquez, the sergeant major, both of Command Element, Marine Forces Central Command (Forward), finish uncasing the unit’s colors during an activation ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity, Bahrain Oct. 3, 2013.

Photo by Sgt. James Hall

Marine Corps activates forward headquarters in Bahrain

27 Oct 2013 | Sgt. Rachael K. A. Moore 5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade

Brig. Gen. Gregg P. Olson, the commanding general, and Sgt. Maj. Mario A. Marquez, the sergeant major, both of Command Element, Marine Forces Central Command (Forward), finish uncasing the unit’s colors during an activation ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity, Bahrain Oct. 3, 2013.

The traditional uncasing of the colors is rich in symbolism and heritage, dating back to medieval times. Throughout military history, unit colors have marked the command’s position on the battlefield and served as a rallying point; today, the colors are the commander’s symbol of authority.

The unit, Marine Forces Central Command (Forward), has been in Bahrain since 2010 establishing relationships and building internal infrastructure in preparation for the activation. 

“We’ve already developed a sophisticated ability to exercise command and control from garrison and the field,” said Olson. “We’ve expanded the capability to offer communications services to Marine units across the [area of responsibility]. We’ve served as a headquarters for combined operations and been considered for employment across contingency and operational plans. We’re ready for what the Corps or [combatant command] may require of us.” 


5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade