Biography

A native of Natick, Massachusetts, Col Nation graduated from Suffolk University with a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice, and was commissioned through the Platoon Leader’s Class program in May of 1995.

As a company grade officer, his operational assignments were Forward Observer, Liaison Officer and Guns Platoon Commander, Battery K, 2nd Battalion, 11th Marines; Fire Support Coordinator, 5th Marine Regiment; Battery Commander, 1st Battalion, 11th Marines (Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 2003-2004) and Operations Officer, Marine Wing Support Squadron 372.

As a field grade officer, his operational assignments were Operations and Executive Officer, 12th Marines; Chief of Current Operations, J-3, U.S. Forces Afghanistan (Operation ENDURING FREEDOM 2011-2012); Commander, Inspector Instructor Staff, 3d Battalion, 14th Marines; Future Operations Officer, and Assistant Chief of Staff/G5, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command.

His joint duty assignment was as a Mission Planner for Joint Task Force North (2007-2010).
His professional military education includes: TBS Basic Officer Course and Field Artillery Officer Basic Course; Amphibious Warfare School; Marine Corps Command and Staff College; and the U.S. Army War College.

His personal awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, Meritorious Service Medal with two gold stars, Joint Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and Combat Action Ribbon.