Comptroller retires aboard Combat Center

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS -- Page has served as the assistant chief of staff, G8 Comptroller for the Combat Center since 2012. As comptroller, Page was responsible for overseeing and executing the command’s Operations and Maintenance funding accounts. He also advised the commanding general on the budget, fiscal and resourcing issues that affected the Combat Center.

“I look back and I realize that
is a success story,” said Lt. Gen. John A. Toolan Jr., commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. “I have memories of him as a midshipman and it brings to mind the idea of being indestructible. As the years go by, obviously that indestructibility gets deteriorated but he’s still leaving strong.”

Throughout his 26-year career, Page honorably served multiple commands in various aspects of financial management. His duties included deputy disbursing officer for III Marine Expeditionary Force and I MEF. He also served as the fiscal officer for defense finance and accounting and the assistant chief of staff comptroller for Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, S.C.

“I’m grateful for the little things,” Page said. “I call them divine moments; things that change your life. I appreciate those who came to celebrate with us, and I can honestly say that I would not be here if it were not for them.”

During the ceremony, Page was awarded the Legion of Merit for his exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service as the assistant chief of staff, G8 comptroller. He was presented the American flag that was flown over the Combat Center, May 5, in honor of his service. Page then presented the United States colors that were flown on October 12, 2009, over Phoenix Base International Zone Baghdad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom to his wife, Stephanie Page. Afterward, Toolan, a close friend and mentor to Page, gave his views on Page’s impact on the Marine Corps.

“He channeled all his energy into his family first and his profession second, and he’s done a remarkable job,” Toolan said. “His contributions to the Marine Corps during combat and peacetime have been significant. I’m forever grateful for all the support he gave my regiment in Iraq. He always got the job done, so I’m very proud to be here today and I’m proud of him and his career.”

Page also thanked everyone for their presence and continuing support. Flowers and gifts were presented to Page’s wife and children as well as his mother and mother-in-law at the end of the ceremony.

“The passing of time really had an impact on me,” Page said. “Just reflecting on everything from the day I joined the Marine Corps until today evokes a lot of emotion. I enjoyed working here and I’m ready to move on but I’ll miss this place.”