II Marine Expeditionary Force dedicates new headquarters in honor of Gen. Alfred M. Gray, Jr.

CAMP LEJEUNE, NC (WWAY) — II Marine Expeditionary Force has dedicated its newly completed headquarters building in honor of the late Gen. Alfred M. Gray Jr., the 29th Commandant of the Marine Corps, during a ceremony at Camp Lejeune.

Lt. Gen. Calvert L. Worth Jr., commanding general of II MEF, presided over the dedication ceremony, calling the facility the “heartbeat” of the command and a central hub for operations and readiness.

Gen. Gray, who died in March 2024, previously commanded the II Marine Amphibious Force—now II MEF—from 1984 to 1987. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern Marine Corps doctrine, championing maneuver warfare and helping author FMFM 1, Warfighting, which continues to guide Marine Corps strategy today.

Leaders say Gray’s legacy emphasized both physical toughness and intellectual discipline, fostering the “warrior-scholar” mindset and a focus on bold, decisive action in combat.

The newly named Gen. Alfred M. Gray Jr. Operations Center spans more than 180,000 square feet and includes the Littoral Warfare Training Center and a 24/7 operational watch floor. Construction on the three-story facility began in January 2022 and was completed in January 2026.

Officials say the modernized headquarters will enhance operational planning, training, and readiness for future missions while preserving Gray’s warfighting philosophy for generations of Marines.

During the ceremony, Lt. Gen. Worth emphasized that the building represents both a mission center and a reminder of the standards Gray set for the force, stressing continued focus on readiness and evolving threats.

Officials say dedication ensures Gen. Gray’s influence remains embedded in the daily operations and future direction of II MEF.