U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Tracey Holtshirley, senior judicial clerk of the Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals (NMCCA), accepted the Blacks In Government (BIG) Meritorious Service Award at the 39th Annual BIG National Training Institute in Atlantic City, N.J., on Aug. 22.
Holtshirley was recognized for his outstanding support and development of minorities and women within the Navy and Marine Corps, and his service as a role model, leader, and mentor within the Navy and Marine Corps judge advocate community.
"It is such a tremendous honor to have been selected as the Marine Corps' recipient," said Holtshirley. "I am humbled by the recognition and we should be encouraged and challenged by the many others engaged in equally wonderful efforts to increase diversity, promote inclusion, pursue excellence, and provide the tools to make that a reality."
BIG was established in 1975 and incorporated as a non-profit organization under the District of Columbia jurisdiction in 1976. BIG has been a national response to the need for African Americans in public service to organize around issues of mutual concern and to use their collective strength to confront workplace and community issues. BIG's goals are to promote equity in all aspects of American life, excellence in public service, and opportunity for all Americans.
"Maj. Holtshirley’s exceptional character distinguishes him as an outstanding leader, role model and mentor, able to promote the development and advancement of all DoD personnel including women and minorities," said Capt. Colleen Glaser-Allen, chief judge of the NMCCA. "During his 20 years of active and reserve service, he has been a role model and mentor to countless young Marines and Sailors. In short, Maj Holtshirley's commitment, compassion, and enthusiasm sets a wonderful example for all service members. He exemplifies daily that diversity is our strength -- in the JAG Corps, Marine Corps, and Navy!"
According to Glaser-Allen, Holtshirley has consistently supported the goals and objectives of diversity in the Naval service through his participation in events and activities promoting equal opportunity, professionalism, and career advancement. These events include moot court competitions, appellate training, and continuing education.
NMCCA reviews courts-martial in which the sentence includes a punitive discharge, confinement of one year or more, or death; interlocutory appeals by the government; sub-jurisdictional cases sent to the Court by the Judge Advocate of the Navy; petitions for new trials; and extraordinary writs filed under the All Writs Act.