Gen David Berger, USMC
Commandant of the Marine Corps
Women In Defense Virtual Leadership Symposium
General David H. Berger assumed the duties of Commandant of the Marine Corps on July 11, 2019. A native of Woodbine, Maryland, General Berger graduated from Tulane University and was commissioned in 1981. He commanded at every level—including a Reconnaissance Company; 3d Battalion, 8th Marines in Haiti during Operation SECURE TOMORROW; and a Regimental Combat Team 8 in Fallujah, Iraq, during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM.
As a General Officer, he commanded 1st Marine Division (Forward) in Afghanistan during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM; I Marine Expeditionary Force; U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific/Fleet Marine Forces Pacific; and Marine Corps Combat Development Command.
General Berger’s staff and joint assignments include serving as Assistant Division Commander of 2d Marine Division; policy planner in the Strategic Plans and Policy Directorate, J-5; Chief of Staff for Kosovo Force (KFOR) Headquarters in Pristina, Kosovo; Director of Operations in Plans, Policies, and Operations, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps; and Deputy Commandant for Combat Development and Integration.
General Berger’s formal military education includes the U.S. Army Infantry Officer Advanced Course, U.S. Marine Corps Command and Staff College, and U.S. Marine Corps School of Advanced Warfighting. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Master of International Public Policy from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies.