May is a month that celebrates the contributions of Americans to the nation’s history and the Defense Department’s commitment to readiness, excellence, and unity of purpose. Marine Corps Capt. Terrence Zaleski, a disciplined communications officer and accomplished wrestler, embodies the warrior ethos and high standards that define the Marine Corps.
Zaleski views his service as a Marine as the ultimate privilege, a calling inspired by his father, a retired Marine gunnery sergeant. “My dad’s professionalism and pride as a Marine set the standard I wanted to achieve,” he said. “The camaraderie and sense of purpose he shared with his fellow Marines drove me to pursue the same.” Born in Jacksonville, North Carolina, near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune where his father served, Zaleski grew up in a household steeped in military values. After his father’s retirement, the family settled in Jacksonville, reinforcing Zaleski’s connection to the Marine Corps.
His mother, originally from the Pangasinan province in the Philippines, brought a perspective of resilience and appreciation for life’s essentials. Zaleski recalls large family gatherings filled with traditional Filipino cuisine, like his mother’s renowned lumpia, which he credits as world-class. “Those events were about unity, hard work, and joy,” he said. “Visiting the Philippines showed me people thriving with less, which deepened my gratitude for the opportunities I have here and my resolve to serve.” These experiences shaped his commitment to excellence and readiness, values he carries into his Marine Corps career.
Zaleski’s dream of becoming a Marine took root early. Despite his father’s advice to join the Air Force for an easier path, he chose the Corps’ rigorous standards. “I’ve always aimed to be among the best, and the Marines represent that,” he said. In 2017, he earned his eagle, globe, and anchor (EGA) at Quantico, Virginia, a defining moment of pride and purpose. “That achievement confirmed I was where I belonged,” he added.
As a communications strategy and operations officer (MOS 4502), Zaleski excels in managing vital systems that ensure warfighting readiness. Stationed at Camp Lejeune, near his parents, he thrives in a role he loves, with aspirations to apply his skills in marketing. His technical proficiency and leadership uphold the Marine Corps’ standards, contributing to unit cohesion and mission success.
Zaleski’s dedication extends to the All-Marine Wrestling Team, where he has competed for three years. Starting at age 14, wrestling instilled in him self-discipline and sacrifice—cornerstones of the warrior ethos. “Success in this sport demands commitment and resilience,” he said. His record reflects this: a five-time All-American in Greco-Roman, an Armed Forces Gold Medalist in Freestyle and Greco-Roman, and a qualifier for the Olympic trials. These achievements showcase his physical and mental toughness, traits that enhance his effectiveness as a Marine.
His unity of purpose shines through in his willingness to prioritize the Corps’ needs. “I’ll wrestle as long as I can, but if the Marine Corps calls me to deploy, that comes first,” he said, reflecting a warfighter’s readiness to serve wherever needed. Looking ahead, Zaleski plans a 20-year career in the Marines, mentoring younger Marines to foster growth and uphold standards. “Seeing people develop under my guidance is rewarding—it’s what drives me,” he said.
In the future, he envisions opening a graphics design firm and a youth wrestling academy to inspire dedication and discipline in the next generation. “I want to be remembered for making a difference in people’s lives,” he said. “Motivating others keeps me going. Being a Marine officer is about leading with purpose.”
Capt. Terrence Zaleski’s journey reflects the Defense Department’s values of merit, readiness, and the warrior ethos. His service, athletic prowess, and leadership exemplify the standards and unity of purpose that strengthen the Marine Corps’ warfighting mission.