Major Gen. Lorna M. Mahlock
A Trailblazing Marine Corps Leader
Major Gen. Lorna Mahlock, in December 2022, received her second star and became the first Black female Major General in the US Marine Corps. She holds a master’s degree in Adult and Higher Education from the University of Oklahoma at Norman; a Master’s in National Security and Strategic Studies with distinction from the Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island; a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College; and a Master Certificate in Information Operations from the Naval Postgraduate School. She is also a Higher Command and Staff Course graduate of the United Kingdom Joint Services Command and Staff College. She has been Designated as an Air Traffic Control Officer, Mahlock earned certifications as a Federal Aviation Administration Tower Local Controller and a Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Instructor. She has commanded and led at various levels globally and in combat including but not limited to: Air Traffic Control Detachment Commander; Executive Officer 1st Stinger Battery; Director of Marine Corps Instructional Management School; Air Control Officer G3 Future Operations 1st Marine Aircraft Wing; Company Commander Operation Southern Watch and Operation Iraqi Freedom 1; Operations and Executive Officer Operation Iraqi Freedom 2; Director Marine Air Command and Control System Experimental; Commanding Officer Iraqi Freedom 8; Information Management Officer; J3 Land Operations Lead and Division Executive Officer, Headquarters European Command; Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs and Assistant Chief of Staff G6.
Early Life and Education
Lorna M. Mahlock was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and later moved to Brooklyn, New York. Her journey to becoming a prominent figure in the United States Marine Corps began with her enlistment in the Marines. Recognizing her potential, she was selected for the Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Education Program. She embarked on her educational path, ultimately graduating from Marquette University. In December 1991, she achieved a significant milestone by earning her commission, marking the start of a remarkable career.[2]
Distinguished Military Career
Throughout her distinguished military career, Mahlock has taken on a series of challenging roles. She demonstrated her leadership and strategic acumen as the Director of Command, Control, Communications, and Computers (C4) and as the Deputy Department of the Navy Chief Information Officer of the Marine Corps. Her contributions to the Marine Corps did not go unnoticed, and in 2018, she made history by becoming the first Black woman nominated for promotion to the rank of brigadier general in the Marine Corps. Her commitment to service and her exceptional leadership skills were evident during her tenure as the Deputy Director of the Operations, Plans, Policies, and Operation Directorate at Headquarters, United States Marine Corps in Washington, D.C.[3][4][5][6]
Breaking Barriers and Achieving Excellence
In December 2022, Lorna M. Mahlock reached another historic milestone as she was promoted to the rank of major general, becoming the first Black female major general in the history of the Marine Corps. Her journey serves as an inspiration to future generations, highlighting the possibilities that dedication, perseverance, and excellence can unlock in the face of challenges. Mahlock’s accomplishments have not only shattered barriers but have also paved the way for increased diversity and inclusion within the Marine Corps and the broader U.S. military establishment.[7]
Current Role and Contributions
Lorna M. Mahlock currently holds the position of Deputy Director for Combat Support for the National Security Agency’s Cybersecurity Directorate, where she continues to make significant contributions to national security efforts. Her dedication to duty and her commitment to excellence remain unwavering as she takes on new challenges and continues to be a trailblazer in her field.
Awards and Honors
Lorna M. Mahlock’s outstanding service and leadership have earned her recognition and accolades within the Marine Corps and beyond. Her journey has been marked by a series of historic achievements that have solidified her legacy as a pioneer and role model for aspiring military leaders.
Lorna M. Mahlock’s life and career exemplify the values of the United States Marine Corps, and her story continues to inspire individuals to strive for excellence, break down barriers, and pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face.