Navy

PORTSMOUTH, Va. – Command of the Navy and Marine Corps Force Health Protection Command (NMCFHPC) and Defense Centers for Public Health – Portsmouth (DCPH-P) changed Thursday when Capt. Marion (Andy) Gregg relieved Capt. Matthew McLean during a ceremony conducted at the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP) military treatment facility, June 8.

Rear Adm. Matthew Case, commander, Naval Medical Forces Atlantic (NMFL) and director, Tidewater Market, presided over the ceremony.

In addition to welcoming Gregg to his new role as head of NMCFHPC and DCPH-P, Case praised McLean for his leadership throughout his tour at the public health center and for ensuring both a seamless and smooth transition while briefly assigned as the organization’s commander and director.

“Captain McLean has shown extraordinary leadership while serving as deputy commander and commander this past two years,” said Case. “Under his leadership, the command continues to emphasize its operational mission focus through organic preventative medicine and environmental health assets to prevent illness and its impact to mission readiness.”

“Marion, your varied and successful background as a preventive medicine planner, department head, director, and executive officer has qualified and prepared you for this role. I look forward to what you will bring here. We will rely heavily on that experience to help chart the course for this command’s future,” added Case.

McLean held the reigns as DCPH-P/NMCFHPC’s commander and director for the past two months to ensure no gap in leadership until Gregg arrived to assume command.

He continued to lead the organization during what’s been a fast-moving transition for many of the organization’s services to the Defense Health Agency Public Health Division, while maintain a close “pulse” on a multitude of high-level public health issues potentially impacting operational readiness world-wide.

During his remarks, McLean offered his gratitude to DCPH-P’s/NMCFPHC’s staff and field activities for their support during his time as commander / director.

“I am appreciative of all that you have taught me, the robust culture that emanated from our hull and the people who provided me a richer view and understanding of our community, our military and our platforms,” said McLean. “The name on our hull has changed to Navy and Marine Corp Force Health Protection Command to highlight an increased focus on operational forces following transition of other aspects under the DHA Defense Centers for Public Health umbrella but the culture of excellence, professionalism and dedication to our core mission that makes up our bone marrow and molds the life blood that brings our hull alive will never change, ” said McLean, who will be assigned as the Force Surgeon, Military Sealift Command upon completion of his tour of duty with DCPH-P/NMCFHPC.

Gregg, the new NMCFHPC Commander and DCPH-P Director, is a native of Cable, Ohio, attended Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio where he graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1998 and completed his Medical Doctorate in June 2003. He additionally has a Master of Public Health degree from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and an Executive Master of Business Administration degree from the Naval Postgraduate School

Following the completion of an Internal Medicine Internship at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland in 2004, Gregg was selected to attend the Naval Undersea Medical Institute (NUMI) in Groton, Connecticut. After graduating from NUMI in 2005, he reported to Naval Submarine Support Center, New London, Connecticut as the Squadron Undersea Medical Officer. In 2007, Gregg was hand selected and served as the Group Surgeon for Commander Submarine Group TWO in Groton, Connecticut.

From 2009 to 2011 Gregg completed his residency in Preventive Medicine at the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences. In 2011, he reported to US Naval Hospital Okinawa, Japan as the Department Head of Preventive Medicine and Public Health Emergency Officer. In 2012, Gregg deployed in support of Pacific Partnership 2012 serving on the ADVON team to providing humanitarian assistance and disaster response-preparation to Indonesia and Vietnam and was later selected as and served as the Director, Public Health at U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, Japan until August 2014.

In September of 2014, Gregg reported to USNORTHCOM in Colorado Springs, Colorado where he served as the Chief, Preventive Medicine for the NORAD-USNORTHCOM Surgeon and helped lead USNORTHCOM CONUS Ebola and Zika virus planning and response and global synchronization efforts. From August of 2016 to August 2019, he served as the Officer in Charge for Navy and Environmental Preventive Medicine Unit TWO in Norfolk, Virginia, and was responsible for three Forward Deployed Preventive Medicine Units, as well as public health and readiness support of US military forces across multiple Geographical Combatant Command Areas of Responsibilities.

In July 2019, he was selected as U.S. Navy Preventive Medicine Specialty Leader and reported to Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Center Jacksonville where he served as the Director, Public Health leading the command’s effort for COVID-19 mitigation, testing, and vaccination. In April 2020, he deployed to Bahrain in support of United States Naval Forces Central Command/Combined Maritime Forces/U.S. Fifth Fleet to lead COVID-19 response and mitigation efforts for joint operational forces in the region. In June 2021, he reported as the Executive Officer for US Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Center Sigonella, Italy where he helped lead command and region support efforts for three Geographical Combatant Commands to include supporting 4,300 Afghan travelers as part of Operation Allies Refuge.

CAPT Gregg is a Fellow of the American College of Preventive Medicine, board certified in Public Health and General Preventive Medicine, and he is qualified as an Undersea and Diving Medical Officer and Submarine Medical Officer. CAPT Gregg’s personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medical, Meritorious Service Medal (six), Navy Commendation Medal (three), Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and various unit awards.

Upon assuming command, Gregg thanked McLean for his leadership and insights while serving as both deputy commander and commander. “You have done a tremendous job here at NMCPHC and now NMCFHPC, DCPH-P and I am excited to follow in your footsteps and build upon all the great work you have done over the last two years,” said Gregg.

NMCFHPC, DCPH-P is part of the DHA Public Health and Navy Medicine teams, committed to delivering high-quality healthcare and public health services to servicemembers, their families and other beneficiaries world-wide.

Navy Medicine – represented by more than 44,000 highly-trained military and civilian health care professionals – provides enduring expeditionary medical support to the warfighter on, below, and above the sea, and ashore.

In order to appreciate the commanding global presence the United States has maintained since the close of the Cold War, it is important to consider the strong, symbiotic link between America’s economic prowess and its military strength.

For this reason, within the annals of American history, individuals like J.P. Morgan, John D. Rockefeller, and Andrew Carnegie are often lauded alongside military stalwarts such as Generals Dwight D. Eisenhower, Lewis B. “Chesty” Puller and James Mattis, all bathed in the same patriotic light.

But from this rich tapestry of American exceptionalism emerges a man who left the promises of a financial career on Wall Street to serve the country he once vowed to support and defend. Meet Capt. Billy Barefoot—the Devil Dog of Wall Street.

Barefoot was born to an All-American family in the Texas heartland and raised in the vibrant city of Fort Worth, where his childhood was imbued with the values of community, patriotism, and a deep sense of duty. From a young age, Barefoot knew he wanted to follow in the footsteps of his family members who joined the Corps, but recalls that it was watching the transformation his close friend experienced after boot camp that helped make up his mind.

“The transition was swift,” Barefoot recalls. “We graduated high school on a Friday, and by Monday, I was already at boot camp. It was a fast-paced introduction to a whole new world.”

Shortly after enlisting in the Marine Corps in June 2007, Barefoot left for boot camp at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California. The rigorous training and demanding environment of boot camp provided him with a swift introduction to the world of military service. During his tenure in the fleet, Barefoot made a strategic decision to chart a unique path that aligned with his call to serve and his interest in the business world. Rather than pursuing a conventional combat arms role, he opted for the Supply Admin and Operations Specialist military occupational specialty, focusing on the fiscal aspects of supply management.

This decision would ultimately help prepare him for the world of acquisition, and the work ethic, leadership, and values he picked up while serving in the fleet have helped make him into the officer he is today.

According to Marine Corps Systems Command Chief of Staff Col. Devin Licklider, “Diversity of thought and experience lends adaptability and flexibility to any team. Billy’s breadth of life experience, passion and dedication to the Marine Corps and its mission strengthen the Marine Corps Systems Command team.”

After receiving an honorable discharge as a Sergeant in June 2011, Barefoot quickly found his way to one of New York’s Ivory Towers, being accepted to Pace University’s Lubin School of Business—a well-regarded institution located in the heart of Manhattan’s financial district.

Although Barefoot remembers considering other programs across the city, Pace’s participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program allowed him to attend tuition-free—ultimately allowing Barefoot to focus his energy on his studies and immerse himself fully in New York’s dynamic world of finance. As he pursued his studies, Barefoot was supported by his loving wife, a fellow Marine veteran who was just starting law school in the city.

“I swear, she’s a big part of what’s motivated me along the way, always pushing me to do better. We were always very competitive, you know, like, who’s going get Corporal first, who’s going to get sergeant first,” he recalled with a grin, adding, “It really helps having a like-minded partner in your corner.”

While at Pace, Barefoot capitalized on his proximity to Wall Street and secured a prestigious summer internship with a Swiss bank renowned for its service to ultra-high net worth individuals. During his four-month tenure, Barefoot was assigned to the alternative investments division, focusing on hedge funds, private equity, and non-traditional real estate investment strategies. The dynamic, fast-paced environment of alternative investments captivated him.

After graduation, Barefoot received an offer to work at the Swiss bank’s Portfolio Strategy Group, a leading independent wealth management firm. The next year, his career would lead him to Boston where he received an offer to work with another prestigious trading facility, whose services include proprietary data, investment analytics, data management, portfolio modeling, and electronic trading and clearing.

Yet, even as he navigated the exhilarating waters of finance, a longing for a different kind of challenge gnawed at him. The world of high finance was undeniably exciting, but Barefoot found himself yearning for something more. Although he found comfort and camaraderie in various veterans organizations, such as Team Red, White & Blue and American Corporate Partners, he knew that ultimately he longed to serve, yet again.

“I came to the realization that, yeah, the money’s great and it’s an exciting field to be in, but what I truly missed was the mission, the sense of purpose that the Marine Corps and the military as a whole embody,” Barefoot said.

“On Wall Street, companies have carefully crafted mission statements. But at the end of the day, it’s always about the bottom line; that’s the focus. I missed having a mission, being part of a command that prepares for deployments, supports them, or returns from them. I longed for that continuous planning, working together towards something worth more than a dollar sign,” he added.

Barefoot ultimately applied—and was accepted to—Officer Candidate School, where he initially entered as an aviator with a flight contract. Although he enjoyed his time in flight school, he recalls being unable to shake the feeling that something was still missing, echoing his experiences in finance.

But like many individuals with a calling, Barefoot would find clarity while attending Sunday service at his local church. He remembers the pastor spoke about finding purpose in various roles—such as being a spouse, parent, or police officer—and how we are all called to serve in our own way.

“It made me reflect on my own situation and it struck me that my true passion lay in working with and leading Marines, but in a different capacity—one that allowed me to leverage my past skills and experiences effectively,” he recalled.

Ultimately, he would re-designate from flight school to become a manpower officer—a role in which he excels today at MARCORSYSCOM.

“I love the MOS, I’m passionate about it, and I’m able to leverage those things that I had previously picked up and put in my tool bag from both my enlisted Marine Corps experience and on Wall Street,” Barefoot said.

Yet, that passion isn’t just a talking point; it’s something palpable to anybody who comes across Barefoot and hears his story.

According to Col. Raymond Feltham, military assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Research, Development and Acquisitions, “I was able to learn more about Capt. Barfoot’s time as a civilian through a number of MCSC sanctioned social events at the O Club. His excitement about his experiences on Wall Street was only dwarfed but his passion to be back serving in the Marines.”

Today, Barefoot is the principal advisor to the commander on manpower staffing and administrative issues that directly impact unit readiness. This summer, he will leave the command for a one-year post at the Marine Corps’ Expeditionary Warfare School in Quantico, Virginia.

But he won’t leave his current post without leaving a deep mark on the contractors, civilians, and Marines with whom he tirelessly works to equip the warfighter.

“He’s not just a good dude; he’s a hardworking, top-rate officer,” said CWO3 Khosbayar Rentsendorj, a personnel officer and data systems engineering officer at MARCORSYSCOM. “Personally, I admire his qualities, especially in this job where being a good dude matters. In our line of work, we need individuals who make important decisions for others without hesitation, decisions that impact their well-being. When it comes to combat, having good dudes on your side is crucial, especially in leadership roles. So, in my book, he’s a good dude, and I’d be honored to serve with him in battle.”

As he continues to forge his unique career path, however, he is quick to offer sage advice to other Marines hoping to leverage their Marine Corps experience in the civilian world.

“The best advice that I can give is to make your decisions based on the opportunities available to you at the time. Always plan ahead, have multiple backup plans, but remain open to deviating from them. The key is to keep moving in the right direction.”

Barefoot’s life highlights an unconventional journey from military service to the world of finance and back again, illustrating the profound sense of duty that drives the American warfighter. His story is not just about personal ambition or financial success, but rather an exemplification of dedicated service and an unyielding quest for purpose. As he continues to chart his own path in service of his nation and the Corps, his example continues to shine as a beacon of inspiration for others, reminding us all of the value of purpose, the richness of diverse experiences, and the power of an unwavering commitment to service.

MAKASSAR, Indonesia (June 8, 2023) – The United States Navy joined 20 navies from around the globe in the return of the Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK) in and around Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia June 4-8.

The exercise allowed for several exchanges that support multilateral cooperation in the maritime environment across the Indo-Pacific.

During the event, Vice Adm. Karl Thomas, commander U.S. 7th Fleet, spoke about the importance of relationships and working together to be able to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

“A multilateral relief effort doesn’t just happen. It is cultivated through exercises, exchanges, conferences, and dialogues. During efforts like Komodo, relationships between navies are forged such that during times of adversity our linkages will bear the strain – whenever and wherever it may occur,” said Thomas. “One of the U.S. Navy’s primary missions is to ensure that these sea lanes remain free and open, that they continue to connect nations and serve as the lifeblood of a vibrant global economy… after a disaster, those same sea lanes serve as a conduit by which lifesaving aid is delivered to remote and often inaccessible locations.”

Originating as a biennial exercise series in 2014, Komodo 2023 will be the first iteration since 2018 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s MNEK theme was “Partnership to recover and to rise stronger.” Under the theme, the Indonesian Navy has invited the participating nations to work together to contribute to responding to humanitarian problems and deal with potential natural disasters in the region.

“Komodo 2023 is a fantastic venue for building on our long-standing relationship with Indonesia by enhancing our coordination efforts, strengthening partnerships, and deepening collaboration,” said Capt. Tim LaBenz, commodore, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7. “It’s an honor to participate in such dynamic outreach opportunities with so many of our friends and partners in the region.”

MNEK 2023 is unique compared to other multilateral naval exercises in the region since it emphasizes non-warfighting aspects of operational-level exercises. The exercise included a shore phase with engineering and medical civic action programs, international maritime security symposium, community outreach, military sports engagements, and an international fleet review..

U.S. Navy personnel from DESRON 7, Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Manchester (LCS 14) with attached MH-60R Seahawk participated in the exercise.

“Readiness and cooperation are a top priority operation in this region,” said Cmdr. Colleen Moore, commanding officer, Manchester, “This exercise allows our Sailors to showcase their skills as we operate with navies throughout the region.”

Manchester, part of DESRON 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

As the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed DESRON in Southeast Asia, DESRON 7 serves as the primary tactical and operational commander of littoral combat ships rotationally deployed to Singapore, Expeditionary Strike Group 7’s Sea Combat Commander, and builds partnerships through training exercises and military-to-military engagements.

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.