Marine Corps’ beloved 29th commandant, Gen. Al Gray, dead at 95

The 29th commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Alfred M. Gray, died March 20 at his Alexandria, Virginia home while under hospice care.

Current Commandant Eric Smith announced Gray’s death in a Corps-wide message on Wednesday.

“All Marine Corps Installations will half-mast the National Ensign upon receipt of this notice until sunset on 18 April 2024,” Smith directed in his message. “This 29-day period will honor the service and legacy of our Corps’ 29th Commandant.”

Gray, a New Jersey native, was 95.

Gray enlisted in the in 1950 and reached the rank of sergeant before being commissioned a second lieutenant in 1952. Early in his career, Gray spent time in Korea and also served in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Silver Star Medal for his actions.

He ultimately rose to the rank of general and served as the 29th Commandant of the Marine Corps from 1987 to 1991, retiring after 41 years of military service, according to his official biography.

Famous for what were called “Grayisms,” among his most famous quotes are these: “Every Marine is first and foremost a rifleman. All other conditions are secondary.”

And: “ I train troops to defend democracy and I happen to be their surrogate father and mother as well as their commanding general.”

Gray was popular with his Marines and volunteered with organizations with ties to the Corps following his retirement.

Gray’s personal decorations and awards included the Distinguished Service Medal; the Silver Star Medal; the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” and a gold star in lieu of a second award; the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” and three gold stars in lieu of second, third and fourth awards; the Purple Heart with a gold star in lieu of a second Purple Heart; the Meritorious Service Medal; the Joint Service Commendation Medal; the Navy Commendation Medal; and the Combat Action Ribbon with a gold star in lieu of a second award.

Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com .