Ep. 120 Inside the Commandant’s Office: Tom Gordon on Leading Marines and Cadets

In this special episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins welcomes longtime friend and retired Marine Corps Colonel Tom Gordon, now serving as the Commandant of Cadets at The Citadel, one of the nation"s premier senior military colleges. Tom shares his remarkable journey from aspiring Marine Corps Officer in junior high to leading Marines in some of the Corps’ most demanding roles — including commanding 1st Tank Battalion, leading the first Black Sea Rotational Force, and serving as the Military Secretary (Chief of Staff) to the 37th Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Robert Neller. Tom reflects on what it was like to witness top-level leadership firsthand and how that shaped his understanding of service, influence, and mentorship. We also explore his unique transition into academia, the lessons he’s carrying forward at The Citadel, and his motivation behind writing his leadership-focused book, Marine Maxims: Turning Leadership Principles into Practice — now in its fifth reprint and gaining traction beyond the military in law enforcement and other leadership circles. Whether you"re a transitioning service member, a veteran exploring new chapters, or someone passionate about leadership and public service, this conversation is packed with authentic wisdom, laughs, and actionable insights. Topics Covered:Tom’s path to the Marine Corps via The CitadelLeading Marines in tanks, Eastern Europe, and large-scale operationsLessons from the top: Inside the Commandant’s inner circleTransition tips (and what not to do)Higher education, service, and shaping future leadersWriting Marine Maxims and its real-world impact 📘 Check out Marine Maxims wherever you get your books — a must-read for leaders in and out of uniform. Listen now to hear a truly grounded and inspiring conversation between two Marines who’ve seen it all — and are still finding ways to serve. #MilVetPodcast #TomGordon #TheCitadel #MarineMaxims #VeteranLeadership #MilitaryTransition #VeteranVoices #MarineCorps #LeadershipDevelopment #VetsInHigherEd #ServiceAfterService #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranPodcast #TransitionTips #CommandantLife #LawEnforcementLeadership #MilitaryCareer #VeteransInAcademia Thanks for listening! Here"s how you can find us to continue the conversation: Tweet us at @brendan_aronson Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet