Retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Anthony Jackson, right, speaks with a spouse at the Pacific Views Event Center, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 28, 2023. Jackson was the guest speaker for the National Naval Officers Association, highlighting the contributions of African Americans in the defense of our nation, hoping to inspire change in light of Black History month. Jackson retired from the Marine Corps in 2012 after 36 years of service.

“Sometimes we will be challenged, sometimes we will be the odd person out, but we will have to step up to do the right thing,” said Jackson. “You will have to be able to stand up and say, ‘If not me, then who will address the issue?’”

Jackson is most known for his article published in the Marine Corps Gazette, “Minority Officers in the Marine Corps: A Perspective.” This article was key in continuing to assist in the progress of successfully handling diversity throughout the Marine Corps.