“Marines are a brotherhood.” This simple sentiment has deeply impacted the life of Gunnery Sergeant Michael J. Rock. When he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at age 19, Rock had no idea that he would go on to work, live, and fight alongside his Marine brothers for the next 21 years. But that he did. From Japan to Haiti to the Philippines to Afghanistan, Rock faithfully served his country all around the world.
Though his father was a member of the U.S. Air Force, Rock didn’t decide until he was a high school graduate to join the Armed Forces himself. A brief enrollment in college showed him that he wanted something different, and he soon found himself enlisted in the Marines.
His biggest mentor while in the service was General David H. Berger, who currently serves as the 38th Commandant of the USMC. Rock’s commanding officer at one point, Berger had a profound impact on him and helped mold him into the Marine he became. Rock was able to share those same values with other young Marines when he was an instructor. Many of those students whom he guided to become “what a Marine should be” still seek out the advice of their former instructor.
Despite retiring from the USMC, much of Rock’s life today is still dedicated to that Marine brotherhood and that of all of the U.S. Armed Forces. Rock is the Commander of Forney’s VFW, Post 9180, a position he has held for the last several years. Working to revitalize the local VFW has become like a full-time job for Rock, as they work to provide a place of belonging for local veterans, to offer support to past and present servicemen and women, and to impact local families and children through involvement with events to benefit our youngest citizens. Rock encourages the community to visit the VFW if they have interest. “We try to treat everybody like family,” he states.
When asked what he loves the most about the United States, the answer is easy for him: our freedom. The blessings of living in America are not things he takes for granted. He says, “Having been in third-world countries where they don’t have running water or police forces, you respect what you have when you get back.” His pride of country is not something he shies away from talking about, and even without having a conversation it’s no secret. Rock says that every day of the year, you can find an American flag flying proudly from his Jeep as he drives through town.
It has been said that only about three percent of America’s population serves in the U.S. Armed Forces. For that standout sacrifice, these men and women deserve our gratitude. Rock’s advice: “Respect the veterans, especially the Vietnam veterans.” He continues, “Make sure to thank them for their service; they’re part of the 3%.”
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