Sergeant Major Dallas K. Neel currently serves as Sergeant Major of Marine Air Control Squadron – 24. A native of Roanoke, Virginia, he graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice in 1996.
He enlisted in August 1989 and reported to 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Lima Company, Marine Corp Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C. in May. He was meritoriously promoted to Private First Class in August and completed Marine Combat Training and Combat Engineer School. PFC Neel then reported to Charlie Company 4th Combat Engineer Battalion 4th Marine Division in Lynchburg, Virginia.
From February - April 1991, he was activated for Dessert Storm/Dessert Shield (Operation Battle Griffin), Norway where he participated in joint operations, acting as a defensive presence against aggressive actions towards Norway.
In November 1996, Sergeant Neel trained with the Royal Dutch Marines in Aruba. He earned the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for his professionalism and performance of duties.
In May 2000, Sergeant Neel participated in Operation Cornerstone, Republic of Macedonia and earned an Air Force Achievement Medal and a Certificate of Commendation for his leadership and performance of duty during this joint, multinational humanitarian operation.
From September 2004 thru March 2005 Staff Sergeant Neel deployed with 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit 1st Marine Division to Iraq serving as Combat Engineer Platoon Guide. He earned a Combat Action Ribbon and a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his actions throughout this deployment.
Staff Sergeant Neel was a Platoon Sergeant for Charlie Company, 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division, from April thru October and received a second Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for his ability to train Marines for combat and for taking care of the Marines in his charge returning from deployment.
Gunnery Sergeant Neel served as Company Gunny from November 2005 until May 2009 at Charlie Company 4th Combat Engineer Battalion 4th Marine Division. Engineers Up!
In 2009, First Sergeant Neel reported as First Sergeant of Delta Company, 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division, located in Knoxville, Tennessee. He participated in Operations Shared Accord in Mozambique Africa, and Chromite II at Camp Pendleton, CA.
From June 2012 thru May 2013 First Sergeant Neel was assigned as First Sergeant of H & S Company, 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Marine Division, in Tampa FL. YAT YAS!
Currently his is serving as Sergeant Major of MACS-24.