LtGen Larry Nicholson, USMC

Class of 1979

Hometown: Toronto, Canada

Distinguished Alumnus Photo

  • Nicholson's 39 year distinguished career in the US Marine Corps included four combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.  His major commands and assignments include Commanding General III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF), Marine Forces Japan, 2015; Commander 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, Ca. (2012-2015); Senior Military Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense (2010-2012); Commanding General 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Afghanistan (2009-2010); Commanding General 5th Marine Regiment, Iraq (Jan 2006 to Feb 2007).  Nicholson was seriously wounded while serving with Regimental Combat Team 1, 1st Marine Division, during Operation Phantom Fury (second battle of Fallujah, Iraq) in 2004.
  • Nicholson's military awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit and Purple Heart.