Retiring after serving 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, Sergeant Major Barry L. Frain Jr., USMC, of Blandon, was honored during a ceremony hosted by the Commanding Officer of Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 49 on June 17 at Stwart Air National Guard Base, Newburgh, N.Y.
A 1986 Boyertown Area High School alumnus, Frain served in the U.S. Marine Corps, with four years active duty and 26 years active reserves. He served in Desert Storm and Iraq twice.
“There was a formal relief and appointment followed by the retirement ceremony at the base in Newburgh NY. The Marine band from New Orleans was present. We had over 80 guests and 400 Marines either in or at the ceremony,” said Frain. “I will miss the Marine Corps family, but have been relived of a huge responsibility.”
Frain said he has been blessed with the opportunity to work with so many talented leaders and individuals.
“The privilege to lead so may in so many different aspects is by far my most rewarding experience,” he said.
His plans for after retirement?
“I have a lot of weekends with my family to make up,” he said.
Frain married his high school sweetheart, Stacey (Surmick) Frain.
“Stacey has been part of this amazing journey from day one.”
They have a son, Cody, 25, and a daughter, Kylie, 14. They currently reside in Blandon.
Frain currently works as the Assistant Plant Manager at East Penn Manufacturing Deka Batteries.
