MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif., -- Lieutennt Col. Brent Norquist, the now-former assistant chief of staff for the G-4, gathered with his friends, family and Marines to bid farewell to the Corps he’s served for 26 years during a retirement ceremony June 10, 2011.

During one of his final acts as an active duty leader, Norquist shared some of the things he’s learned and experiences he’s had during his time in the Corps.

“A lesson I will take away from my career is bloom where you’re planted,” Norquist said, referring to multiple times in his career where things did not go according to his plan. “Also, focus on the important things. It is more important to do the right thing than to be right all the time. Lastly, leadership is an honor and a privilege. The true joy of leadership is facilitating other people to success.”

The retiring officer, Brig. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy, the Combat Center’s commanding general, expressed his sorrow over the departure of a friend and trusted colleague, but conveyed his appreciation of a great Marine’s fruitful service.

“I could not have had a finer G-4 than there was in the last year,” Clardy said. “He is in a colonel’s billet, a senior colonel’s billet. He’s done exceptionally well.

“Lt. Col. Norquist consistently demonstrated that he is what all of us strive to be, a warrior, professional and a leader,” he said. “He is a great Marine, great officer and great American. he accomplished his mission and looked out for the welfare of his Marines, sailors and family.”

Amongst the congratulations, handshakes and reminiscing, Norquist highlighted the driving force of his last 26 years of service - his family.

“I don’t have the words to say how much all of this is due to your support and the family,” Norquist said, speaking to his wife, Melissa. “I could not have done anything I have done without the support and backing of my family. The family members serve also.”

Leaving a life they’ve known for so long is going to be a hard transition for them, Melissa said.

“I’ve been most worried about him retiring because this has been his life,” Melissa said. “We love Twentynine Palms. We asked to come back here three times. We have really enjoyed being part of the Marine Corps.”

In the beginning of their marriage, 22 years ago, Melissa knew nothing about the Corps, now she said she can’t imagine life without it.

“The hardest part is that we are so used to the Marine Corps,” Melissa said. “It’s hard to leave, it’s been a great experience. No regrets.”

Norquist will be returning to his home in Echo, Ore., with his wife Melissa and daughters Ashley and Emily.

In his last farewell to the Norquists, Clardy reassured them that they will always be a part of the Corps’ long and honorable legacy.

“As the Commandant said, ‘Once a Marine always a Marine,’” he said. “You don’t have retired Marines. Even though you don’t happen to be wearing the uniform anymore, you’re still a Marine.”