MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- Four times a year, commands throughout give Marines, sergeants and below, the opportunity to set themselves a part from their peers and earn recognition or a meritorious promotion.

Marines compete in these competitions for their own individual advancement and progression. Marines submit their package, with the same guidelines, but it is usually the question portion and uniform inspections of the competition that ultimately sets them apart. It can make a difference between a Marine winning first and second place.

“Marines must be knowledgeable in all of the Marine Corps common skills for success on a board,” said Sgt. Maj. Roger E. Jenness, the air station sergeant major. “These are basic skills these Marines are expected to know while they are asked questions.”

The questions asked by the panel of senior staff noncommissioned officers range from Marine Corps knowledge to personal opinion. The questions are intended to test the Marine’s bearing.

“The board wants to see how the Marine presents themselves, through their bearing and confidence,” said Sgt. Maj. Gary T. Bow, sergeant major of Headquarter and Headquarters Squadron aboard the air station. “The Marine must also know their knowledge on military subjects and just why that Marine should be the squadrons representative for the title of Marine of the Quarter.”

It’s a daunting task to answer questions from a panel of senior-enlisted Marines, especially when the Marine doesn’t know the answer, commented Jenness. It sometimes doesn’t come down to answering the question right on the board.

“Just the way a Marine handles themselves during the questions can make the difference,” said Jenness. “I have had Marines fail to answer a question correctly and get credit for how they handle it.”

There are several ways Marines can prepare for a board to boost their chances against other Marines. Physical fitness test, swim qualification and marksmanship scores are examples of what Marines can improve on before going on a board.

Getting help on Marine Corps knowledge is important before going on a board, commented Cpl. Casimiro R. Zarate a former Marine of the Quarter for Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161. Marines must also take their time and show confidence while answering questions.

A Marine’s clean, neat appearance is also paramount for success in these competitions. Marines need to be squared away in every way, especially their uniforms, commented Jenness.

Not only do Marines that succeed in winning a board earn a Certificate of Commendation, they have a chance to earn advancement in their careers.

“These Marines get recognition at the command level for their sustained superior performance,” said Jenness. “They get self gratification, peer recognition and a chance to get a meritorious promotion to the next rank.”

Winning a board can give a Marine a career boost in the form of recognition and promotion, but only hard work and careful preparation will make him stand out amongst his peers when standing before the board.

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