Leaders behind the mission: the development of a squad leader on MRF-D 26

In the United States Marine Corps infantry, the squad leader serves as the link between higher-level guidance and the Marines executing the mission on the ground. While responsible for tactical operations and mission accomplishment, squad leaders also carry the responsibility of developing, mentoring and caring for their Marines.

During the deployment of Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 26, Sgt. James Martin and Sgt. Brandon Rivera, both squad leaders with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, demonstrated how effective small-unit leadership contributes to mission success. For them, leadership is not defined by how many Marines they lead, but by how well they prepare those Marines to succeed.

“Being a squad leader means being a servant to my Marines,” said Rivera. “I am here for them and training them to be the best versions of themselves, and to be better than me.”

Throughout the deployment, Martin and Rivera have grown as leaders through the challenges and opportunities presented during the deployment. Working alongside partner nations gave Martin the opportunity to strengthen his ability to collaborate while mentoring his corporals as they progressed through their own leadership journeys.

“I have learned how well with our partner nations and be able to get the privilege of being a mentor to some of my corporals and being able to mentor them on their leadership journey as they start progressing through their career,” said Martin.

Both leaders learned that effective leadership requires trust and adaptability. Martin initially believed he needed to handle everything himself but learned to give his Marines the information and guidance they need to accomplish tasks independently. Rivera learned that treating every Marine the same was not always effective and adapted his leadership style to the strengths and needs of everyone.

Their Marines have also shaped the way they lead. Martin learned to value the different backgrounds and perspectives his Marines bring to the squad, while Rivera learned humility from Marines who possessed experience and knowledge he did not yet have.

Their leadership extends beyond infantry tactics and training. Both squad leaders recognize that many of their Marines are still learning how to navigate adulthood. Whether teaching a Marine how to tie a tie, file taxes or overcome challenges, Martin and Rivera see mentorship as part of their responsibility.

“I’ve realized that I’m just not leading them as Marines but also leading them as what it means to be an adult,” said Martin.

Through MRF-D 26, Martin and Rivera are building more than capable infantry Marines. They are developing Marines who can think independently, overcome adversity and eventually lead others themselves. Their leadership reflects the greater purpose of the Marine Corps, accomplishing the mission today while preparing the next generation to carry it forward.

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