Lt. Col. Michael J. Carreiro, executive officer of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, addressed family, friends, and service members during his retirement ceremony aboard MCAS Iwakuni, July 9, 2015. In closing remarks, Carreiro extended his gratitude to several people who influenced and taught him how to be an exceptional leader and overall Marine.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Carlos Cruz Jr.

MCAS Iwakuni bids farewell to Lt. Col. Carreiro

9 Jul 2015 | Lance Cpl. Nicole Zurbrugg Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan --

Family, friends and distinguished guests gathered inside the Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 hangar aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 2, 2015, for Lt. Col. Michael J. Carreiro’s retirement ceremony.

Carreiro, executive officer for MCAS Iwakuni, enlisted in the Marine Corps in May of 1988 and honorably served for 27 years. In May of 1992 Carreiro received a Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) scholarship to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Upon graduation in 1996, Carreiro received a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps.

Col. Robert V. Boucher, commanding officer of MCAS Iwakuni, handpicked Carreiro for executive officer for his outstanding character and exceptional work ethic.

“He turned out to be a natural fit for me as my executive officer,” said Boucher. “He was an instant impact player for the station by getting things done and coordinating all of the hard efforts that are going into this air station.”

Throughout his career, Carreiro earned several personal awards including a Legion of Merit given during this ceremony for his exceptional meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements.

Among his other awards are the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Air Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and the Good Conduct Medal.

“All good leaders are missed, but the mark of a good leader is preparing the people who work for them and there replacement for their leaving,” said Boucher. “He did such an outstanding job.”

Carreiro said the goodness of the Corps and the impacts of this lifestyle on his family have become clearer than ever over the last few weeks.

“I don’t feel forlorn or saddened by my departure; rather I have an immense feeling of gratitude for what I’ve been able to experience,” said Carreiro.

In closing remarks, Carreiro extended his gratitude to several people who influenced and taught him how to be an exceptional leader and overall Marine.