In the Marines, what is a "Relief and Appointment" ceremony? Is that basically the same as a Change of Command ceremony in the Army?

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 15:05:59 -0400

I was reading an article about the Marines and came across the term "Relief and Appointment" in reference to a type of ceremony. So I was curious to ask RP what that's all about. Has anyone on RP been to both of these ceremonies and can compare them?

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2019 3:16 PM

GySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 15:16:37 -0400

It's for Sergeants Major. When practicable, the ceremony will be held upon the relief of the old and appointment of the new Sergeant Major within units of battalion or squadron size and larger. The ceremony may be as simple as a formation of the unit affected a review or a parade. For example, if the old Sergeant Major is transferring then a formation or review is appropriate. If the old Sergeant Major is retiring then a retirement parade in conjunction with the relief and appointment ceremony is appropriate.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2019 3:28 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 15:28:32 -0400

I been in a couple usually for a Sgt MAJ that is retiring and is giving up his “appointment” to the next Sgt MAJ.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2019 5:53 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 17:53:20 -0400

I am certain that it is the equivalent to a change of responsibility ceremony for army CSMs

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Apr 27 at 2019 7:30 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 19:30:53 -0400

Not all positions have "change of commands" (For Commanding Officers) so you will occasionally have "Relief and Appointment" or "Change or Charter" (with organizations that are not a "command"). They are very common on bases like Quantico.