The Marine Leaders of the Americas Conference (MLAC) 2025 concluded in early August after a week of strategic dialogue, bilateral meetings, and ceremonial events, reinforcing regional cooperation and shared security priorities among Marine, naval infantry leaders from across the Western Hemisphere.
“This conference definitely serves to foster communication and cooperation between us in the Latin American region and its surroundings,” said Vice Admiral Freed Burguete, commandant of the Mexican Marine Corps.
Hosted by General Eric M. Smith, the 39th commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, and sponsored by U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South (MARFORSOUTH), the conference is a triennial event. This year it convened senior leaders from 21 allied and partner nations at various locations throughout the National Capitol Region.
A central component of this year’s conference was a series of bilateral engagements led by Lieutenant General Leonard F. Anderson IV, MARFORSOUTH commander. These one-on-one meetings offered tailored discussions on maritime security, training initiatives, and opportunities for future collaboration.
Attendees were briefed on several key initiatives. Representatives from Training and Education Command presented Project Tripoli, a new live, virtual, and constructive training environment, and Project Triumph, a shift to more active, student-centered learning model. A panel from U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command also discussed technological advancements for individual Marines up to the company level.
“This conference is an advantage because we get to speak directly with our regional partners, including MARFORSOUTH,” said Rear Admiral Elton Bennett, commandant of the Belize Coast Guard. “A couple of the classes […] were also right on point talking about training and how they develop their curriculum and how they adjust facing challenges.”
On August 5, Sergeant Major Carlos A. Ruiz, sergeant major of the U.S. Marine Corps, led an interactive panel discussion on leadership development and the evolving role of enlisted Marines in modern conflict. Sgt. Maj. Ruiz emphasized that “good leadership” and “great mentors” are key to retaining Marines and maintaining high morale.
In addition to formal discussions, participants visited several historic and institutional sites, including the National Museum of the Marine Corps, Marine Corps University, and The Basic School to gain a closer look at the U.S. Marine Corps’ training pipeline and legacy.
The conference concluded with a shared commitment to deeper regional integration, increased cooperation on maritime operations, and continued leadership development across the hemisphere.
Participating nations included Argentina, Australia, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, France, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
