Senate Rushes Confirmation for No. 2 Marine Post: Sen. Tommy Tuberville, representing Alabama, is actively pushing for a vote to confirm the Marine Corps’ No. 2 leader following the hospitalization of the service’s top officer due to a reported heart attack.
The effort stems from the hospitalization of Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith on Sunday, with USNI reporting that the “medical emergency” was indeed a heart attack.
Gen. Smith had been juggling both the roles of the commandant and the assistant commandant amid Senate struggles to confirm Lt. Gen. Christopher Mahoney to the No. 2 position. Tuberville initiated a hold on unanimous consent votes for Senate military confirmations, citing a Pentagon policy on reimbursing service members for out-of-state abortions.
In a statement, Tuberville emphasized his goal of preventing the White House and the Pentagon from dictating Senate actions. He pointed to abortion as a top social issue, asserting the need for public input.
Despite Smith’s ongoing hospitalization, Tuberville took decisive action on Wednesday, rallying 16 Republican senators to sign a cloture petition. This move forced a vote on the Assistant Commandant, Lt. Gen. Christopher Mahoney.
Facing reluctance from Democrats, who were concerned about the process’s elongation, Tuberville’s strategic use of cloture allowed for an individual vote on Mahoney’s confirmation. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer subsequently announced the vote.
READ MORE: Tuberville Pushes for Floor Vote on No. 2: Marine Leader Amid Commandant Hospitalization
Tuberville’s office expressed confidence in Lt. Gen. Karsten Heckl, who assumed the interim top role, while also indicating Tuberville’s readiness to force additional votes if needed.
As of a Military.com report on Tuesday, Gen. Smith remained hospitalized, and the Marines have not provided updates on his condition. Maj. Jim Stenger, the head spokesperson for Marine Corps headquarters, declined to disclose details, respecting the family’s wishes for privacy and expressing hopes for a quick recovery.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the nickname for the Marines?
Throughout history, Marines have earned monikers such as “Devil Dog” and “Leatherneck,” and have embraced sayings like “Semper Fidelis,” “the Few, the Proud,” and “Esprit de Corps.” From the iconic Marines’ Hymn to the well-known Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem, there is a wealth of terminology to explore within the Corps.
Why do Marines say Oorah?
Oorah has been a rallying cry for the US Marine Corps since the 1950s. Similar to “hooah” in the Army and “hooyah” in the Navy and Coast Guard, it’s often used to respond to a greeting or show excitement.
Why are Marines so respected?
Like all military units, the Marine Corps relies on both official and unofficial traditions to build camaraderie and distinguish itself from other services. The Corps’ strong embrace of its rich culture and history is a key factor in its exceptional morale and teamwork.
What rank are you after 8 years in the Marines?
The E-8 rank in the U.S. Marine Corps is held by either a master sergeant or first sergeant. Although they have the same pay grade, they have different duties. To achieve either rank, a minimum of eight years of Time in Service (TIS) and four years of Time in Grade (TIG) are required.