Marine Recognized as Go-Getter of the Month
CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Lance Cpl. Kimani Marcus Cole, an aviation operations specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron at Marine Corps Air Station New River, has been honored as the Go-Getter for October 2026.
Originally from the Bronx, New York, Cole joined the Marine Corps right after graduating from high school. Although he had not initially envisioned a military career, his older brother, now a staff sergeant, significantly influenced his decision to enlist.
“My older brother was always a good role model to me, and I wanted to be like him,” Cole remarked.
In his current role at H&HS Base Operations, Cole plays a crucial part in ensuring the safety and communication at McCutcheon Field. His responsibilities include coordinating the arrival and departure of aircraft, tracking tenant aircraft, and relaying necessary information to squadrons for mission success.
Staff Sgt. Arianna D. Mom, the flight clearance chief at H&HS, praised Cole’s commitment, stating, “Lance Cpl. Cole consistently demonstrates exceptional initiative and a strong work ethic in his role as a flight dispatcher, always going above and beyond to ensure the mission is accomplished.” She highlighted his leadership qualities, noting how he sets a positive example for his colleagues and readily takes on additional responsibilities when required.
Cole’s work environment demands unwavering focus as he juggles various tasks. Recently, he achieved dispatcher qualification and is currently training to become a supervisor. In this capacity, he aids clerks and guides fellow Marines who may be uncertain about their tasks.
“I’m proud of being a dispatcher. It’s not an easy title to obtain, but I achieved it, and I’m looking forward to becoming a supervisor with more responsibility,” Cole stated.
As he progresses in his Marine career, Cole is also committed to mentoring junior Marines. He emphasizes the importance of understanding different viewpoints and aims to teach them not just how to complete tasks, but also the significance behind them.
“I try to be understanding and place myself in their shoes because every perspective is important when you’re part of a team,” Cole explained. “I try to show them the right way and why it is the right way.”
Since joining the Marine Corps, Cole has honed his ability to collaborate effectively with his team while supporting those around him. He has learned valuable lessons in patience and perseverance through his experiences.
“I have failed many times since I’ve become a Marine, but I always try again and eventually I achieve,” he noted.
Cole credits his older brother as a continuing source of inspiration, driving him to excel and make his family proud through his achievements.
Reflecting on his recognition as Go-Getter, Cole expressed that it highlights the value of hard work. “To me, it means that hard work does not go unnoticed,” he said. “You just have to be willing to strive and put in the work.”
Looking ahead, Cole aims to pursue a college degree while continuing to rise in rank and responsibility within the Marine Corps. He hopes to leverage his experiences to assist other Marines throughout his career.
“Being a Marine is the highest honor one could achieve,” Cole asserted. “It is proving every day that you are worthy of this title and doing everything you can to be as efficient to the mission and the Marines to the left and right of you.”
Through his determination, resilience, and readiness to embrace more responsibilities, Cole exemplifies the qualities of a Go-Getter Marine, contributing to the effectiveness and preparedness of Marine Corps Air Station New River.
Source: Marine Corps Installations East via DVIDS. Photo: Marine Corps Installations East via DVIDS.
