Gunnery Sergeant Chuck Matijevic – Sergeant-at-Arms, McHenry County Detachment, Marine Corps League

Gunnery Sergeant Chuck Matijevic embodies the Marine Corps spirit of toughness, loyalty, and lifelong service. From the day he raised his right hand in February of 1976, to his continued commitment to the Marine Corps League today, Chuck’s life has been defined by dedication to his fellow Marines and his country.

Chuck began his Marine Corps journey through the Delayed Entry Program, shipping out to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego on September 3, 1976. Trained as a Machine Gunner (MOS 0331), he quickly proved himself as a dependable and disciplined Marine, ready for any challenge.

In February 1977, he received his first duty assignment at Marine Barracks Cornwall, England, where he spent three years on post, proudly representing the Corps overseas during the height of the Cold War. His professionalism, precision, and pride reflected the very best of the Marine Corps, earning him the respect of those he served with.

After active duty, Chuck continued his service in the Marine Corps Reserve, stationed at Naval Air Station Glenview, Illinois, where he served as a C-130 mechanic for 17 years. His technical skills, work ethic, and leadership kept Marine aviation mission-ready. Still true to his infantry roots, Chuck also trained alongside 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines, maintaining his edge as a heavy weapons Marine and instructor — the kind of Marine who could fix the plane and carry the gun.

Even after hanging up the uniform, Chuck never stopped being a Marine. While working out of state, he happened upon a state fair where he met members of the Marine Corps League. One conversation was all it took — that old Marine camaraderie sparked immediately. They convinced him to reconnect with the brotherhood back home, and he did just that. Since then, he’s been an active and valued member of the McHenry County Detachment, where he proudly serves as Sergeant-at-Arms.

Whether it’s ensuring proper decorum at meetings, standing tall at ceremonies, or supporting fellow veterans through the League’s mission, Gunnery Sergeant Matijevic continues to lead by example. His service — from the barracks of England to the hangars of Glenview, and now within the ranks of the Marine Corps League — is a testament to the enduring bond that makes Marines a family for life.

Once a Marine, Always a Marine. Gunnery Sergeant Matijevic lives that truth every day.