Portrait & Profile
Breaking Down Barriers
On Aug. 2 Angie Salinas became the sixth female to attain the rank of general in the Marine Corps. Enlisting in May 1974 and commissioned in December 1977, Salinas has been a part of many firsts during her 30 years of military service. She was the first female in the Marine Corps to command a recruiting station, the first woman to be assigned as a combat service support ground monitor and the first woman to serve as a recruiting district commanding officer. Her most recent first occurred when she became the first woman to command Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and Western Recruiting Region.
- Brig. Gen. Angie Salinas
- Age: (Not disclosed)
- Hometown: Alice, Texas
- Military Occupation: Commander of Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and Western Recruiting Region
- What’s your secret to success?
Good Marines. I’ve been fortunate over the years to serve with the Corps’ best. Seniors, peers and subordinates all shared with me their strengths. From them I learned what it was to be a Marine, through their passion, their love, their sacrifices, their unselfishness and their absolute devotion to Corps and Country. I learned it was a privilege to lead and I had to earn it.
- Were you ever told you’d never make it up the ranks because of your gender?
When I enlisted in the Marine Corps, women were prohibited by law to serve in any rank above colonel until 1977 and the implementation of Defense Officer Personnel Management Act of 1980 were women fully integrated by DOD and then competitive for promotion to the flag and general ranks. I don’t remember ever being told directly I would not rise in the ranks because of my gender although it was pretty apparent with only a handful of women colonels.
- How were recently featured in Latina Style?
I was recognized by Latina Style Magazine last year at their Annual Military Women meritorious service award luncheon. I met Mr. Robert Bard, CEO/Publisher of the magazine. Over the past year he has become more familiar with the Marine Corps and has been most impressed with our traditions and Corps values. He was a guest at my promotion ceremony in Quantico and then flew across country the following day to attend the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and Western Recruiting Region Change of Command. He wrote both experiences were moving and wanted to share my story with his audience.
- Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself enjoying my freedom knowing I served my Corps and my country and that I had a hand in passing a rich legacy to a new generation of Marines who raised their hands. I hope to still be working but in volunteer work because I think after 30 plus years of service, you don’t just sit at home sipping margaritas in a rocking chair next to a golf course and be happy.
- Are there any changes you’d like to make while at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego?
I believe we have been recruiting and making some pretty darn good Marines over the past few years. I don’t see any need to change something that isn’t broken. The Marines responsible for recruiting and training the next generation of Marines will continue to use our time tested methods to ensure we fill the ranks with the best our nation has to offer.
- What role do you see female Marines playing in the future?
To carry on as those who have gone before them and to pass to the next generation of Marines a legacy rich in valor and tradition. Their role will be to reflect our core values of honor, courage and commitment. Their role is to be Marines.
