The commanding officer of the Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36, based in Okinawa, Japan, was dismissed on Wednesday, October 25, 2023. According to a statement from the Marine Corps, Lt. Col. Calischaran G. James was relieved of his duties by Maj. Gen. Marcus B. Annibale, the commanding general of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. The announcement cited a “loss of trust and confidence” in James’ ability to command, a common phrase used in military dismissals.
The specifics surrounding James’ dismissal remain unclear, as a request for further details has not yet received a response. In the official statement, Maj. Joseph Butterfield, a spokesman for the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, emphasized the high standards expected of commanders, stating, “Commanders are held to the highest standards of conduct and must consistently live above reproach.” He added that this decision underscores the Marine Corps’ commitment to maintaining the trust essential for effective leadership.
Originally from Dominica, James enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1998 and was commissioned in 2006 after completing the Enlisted Commissioning Program. Notably, he received the Marine Corps Aviation Association’s Earle Hattaway Ground Officer of the Year Award in 2020. James took command of MALS-36 in May 2024, a role that has now been temporarily filled by Lt. Col. Ryan T. Iden, who will serve as the interim commanding officer until a replacement is appointed. Iden, who enlisted in 1997 as an infantryman, earned his commission in 2008 after rising to the rank of gunnery sergeant.
James’ dismissal follows a series of recent leadership changes within the Marine Corps, particularly affecting the Hawaii-based Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268. On October 28, 2023, the commanding officer, executive officer, and senior enlisted leader of that squadron were also relieved of their positions due to a similar loss of trust regarding their ability to enforce safety and readiness standards.
The frequency of these dismissals suggests a broader effort within the Marine Corps to ensure accountability and maintain operational effectiveness. As the military continues to navigate leadership challenges, the emphasis on trust and confidence in command remains a critical focus.
