Master Gunnery Sgt. Javier S. Gonzalez, deputy director of the Camp Pendleton Staff Noncommissioned Officer Academy(right) , passes the colors to the newly appointed director of the base’s SNCO Academy, Sergeant Major Walter C. Baldwin as he relieves (left) Sergeant Major Robert A. Ledferd, June 14. Ledferd will be retiring as former director of the academy after serving 28 years in the Marine Corps. During the ceremony Ledferd was also awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his accomplishments at the academy and throughout his career. The Staff NCO Academy’s mission is to provide sergeants and staff noncommissioned officers with the essential education and leadership training that will enhance their professional qualifications and prepare them to assume duties of greater responsibility, ultimately allowing for greater contributions to the Corps as leaders.