Lansing, Mich. – Maj. Christopher Buck is the commanding officer of Recruiting Station Lansing, Mich., and a graduate of Perry High School who enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1990 as an infantry man.

“One misconception about the military is it’s a last resort after high school; it’s not,” said Buck. “I excelled in high school athletics and academics and had the opportunity to go directly to college, but wanted more. I wanted to do something that would better my chances of becoming a state police officer.  I chose the Marine Corps because they are the hardest to get into, their fighting reputation and their professionalism.”

While stationed in Puerto Rico, Buck met and married his wife, Fawn, an Ohio native, and now has 14-year-old twins.

After spending eight years as an enlisted Marine, Buck applied for, and accepted, the Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP) where he attended Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, and received a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Sports Medicine.

Upon graduation in 2002, Buck received his commission as a 2nd lieutenant and assignment as an infantry officer.

“I loved my job as an infantry squad leader and platoon sergeant, but desired added responsibility,” said Buck. “I love everything about the Marine Corps: leading Marines, the comradery, day-to-day challenges, traveling and the combat experience. I love this state and this country, so the opportunity to defend our countries principals and way of life, I’ll never regret.”

During Buck’s service in the Marine Corps, he has held billets such as squad leader, platoon sergeant, platoon commander, company commander and commanding officer. He has completed nine deployments, six of which were in combat zones. He has received numerous personal awards, which include combat distinction for valor.

Buck is currently completing a Master’s Degree in Marketing, Management, Strategies and Leadership at Michigan State University and after 26 years of honorable service plans to retire from the Marine Corps in 2016 and remain in his home state of Michigan.

“What I have learned and experienced in the Marine Corps will enable me to be successful in whatever endeavor the next chapter of my life holds,” said Buck.