Chiefs Beware: The outrageous loophole that officers can use to kick out CMCs

Glad that position didn't exist up to the point of my retirement. Any MCPO that has served on several commands knows the CO/XOs abilities and temperament varies significantly, and your chance of crossing swords is good.

If I'm not mistaken Officers can also be relieved "for lack of confidence" as well, and its much more prevalent. It wasn't uncommon at al in the Corps to see enlisted Marines taken out of their position due to poor performance and given a poor evaluation. By the time someone reached the Rank of 1st Sgt and Sgt Major they had a solid reputation. Most of the relief for cause at those ranks had to do with shady behavior. I personally never saw it used because of personality clash. Most good officers ( which the Vast majority of Marine Commanders are) hated losing their Sr enlisted.

Once you Make Chief Article 15 is almost Impossible but there are other ways to get at you and I've seen it. Skipper on the California slipped a nasty gram in the Entire Chiefs Mess Service Jackets screwing them at any hope for Advancement and Guaranteeing their Retirements.