Sgt. Roberto J. Perez, left, is congratulated by Sgt.

Sgt. Roberto J. Perez, left, is congratulated by Sgt. Maj. Bradley Kasal after receiving the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal at Camp Pendleton, Feb. 16, 2016. The award was presented to Perez by Lt. Gen. David H. Berger, center, for being selected as the I Marine Expeditionary Force noncommissioned officer of the year. The NCO of the year is awarded to a Marine who exemplifies the highest standards of the Marine Corps, both physically and mentally, and has the ability to inspire Marines. Perez is a squad leader with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. Kasal is the sergeant major of I Marine Expeditionary Force. Berger is the commanding general of I MEF. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pvt. Robert Bliss)