Military Salute: Corporal Leah Mast

Posted: Updated:

By Jaime Dailey bio | email

PARRIS ISLAND, SC (WTOC) - Drill instructors are on the front lines helping build Marines at Parris Island, but many other Marines like Corporal Leah Mast are working behind the scenes doing their part.

"I joined the Marine Corps because I wanted to be a part of an elite group," said Cpl Mast. "September 11, 2001 really influenced me to help out my country."

As the Legal Chief for the Recruit Training Regiment on base, she's got a lot of responsibIlity besides just dealing with legal matters.

"I deal with all of the awards," said Cpl Mast. "If any of the permanent personnel has a request that needs to go up to the Commanding General or the Commodant, we oversee all of that."

"I rely heavily on her," said Gunnery Sgt. Rafael Jimenez. "She's really thorough."

"Everything has a time limit," said Gunnery Sgt Jimenez. "If stuff is delayed because of paperwork that might be incorrect or any discrepancies, it could result in Marines not getting rewarded, morale could become low, Marines not getting paid."

Cpl. Mast graduated from boot camp on Parris Island about a year and half ago and now enjoys being on the other side.

"Being able to help out and see those recruits evolving into Marines is really exciting," said Cpl. Mast.

While she hasn't been in the Marine Corps long, she's proud to serve and enjoys being one of the few and the proud.

"I love the sisterhood, the brotherhood, I didn't know any of these people and three months later, they are closer than my own family," said Cpl Mast.

For her service and dedication, WTOC salutes Cpl Mast.