Caroline Fermin

Caroline Fermin was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Corps after graduating from the University of South Carolina. Caroline has served in a wide variety of assignments within the operating forces of the Fleet Marine Force, ranging from platoon commander, operations officer, and protocol officer to Director of Personnel at U.S. Central Command. LtCol Caroline Fermin retired in 2013 following 25 years of service. She is the new Director of Veterans Affairs for Beaufort County.

Caroline has earned a Master of Economics from Johns Hopkins University, a Master in Military Studies (with Joint Military Education – I certification) from the Marine Corps Command and Staff College, a Master of Strategic Studies (with Joint Professional Military Education – II certification) from the Marine Corps War College, and a Doctorate in Leadership and Innovation from St. Thomas University. Her awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (four awards), the Joint Commendation Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
LtCol Fermin’s prior community involvement includes service as a Beaufort County and Metropolitan Planning Commissioner, Voter Registrations and Elections Commission member; she was also a board member for the Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce, the Military Enhancement Committee, and the Community Defense Task Force. Lastly, she serves on the board of several 501(c)3: Friends of Whitehall Park; Military Officers Association of America; Wreaths Across America; and participated in the Wounded Warrior Project Fly-In Congressional team. She has been selected from across the nation to be a Peer Mentor with the Wounded Warrior Program, a Member of the Women’s Veteran Advocacy Committee, and recently one of eight veterans across the county to pilot the Warrior Advocacy Program with our Federal and State Legislative bodies