Birth date: Nov 24, 1946 Death date: May 13, 2023
In Loving Memory of Colonel Dennis Motta Colonel Dennis Motta, a devoted father, esteemed military officer, and passionate adventurer, passed away on May 13, 2023. His loss leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew h Read Obituary
Fifty-one years and six months ago it was the Fall of 1971. I was at MCB Quantico, Virginia and I met a young 2nd Lt named Dennis Motta. We were at The Basic School learning to be Marine Corps Officers. And so began a lifelong friendship spanning five decades. Lt Motta was just beginning what would be a distinguished military career that would be lined with energy, motivation, courage, professionalism, and self-sacrifice. Col Motta was accomplished and successful in all his military assignments and billets.
Of note, was Col Motta’s ability to conduct complex and classified briefs at the highest military levels. Col Motta was assigned as a subject matter expert on the Political and Military Asian Pacific for the largest US military command, the US Pacific Command (USPACOM) located at Camp Smith Hawaii. I too was assigned to USPACOM and was scheduled to conduct brief in late afternoon in the USPACOM Briefing Room, when in walked Col Motta to my surprise! We were conducting specific briefs to the USPACOM Commander in Chief, Admiral Larsen, and a Senator by the name of John McCain. I observed Dennis at his best, briefing two Admirals, two Generals and a US Senator. He spoke with confidence and professionalism. He was the subject matter expert and answered every complex question asked. Admiral Larson and Senator McCain thanked him for his detailed brief and answering all their questions.
I will also reflect on Col Motta’s billet as the Commanding Officer of 4th ANGLICO (Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company) a Marine Corps Special Operations Capable Fire Support and Liaison Unit. One of only four ANGLICO units in the Marine Corps, the selection process for the Commanding Officer billet was extremely competitive among the most qualified and elite Marine Officers. Col Motta’s leadership, experience, knowledge, and reputation resulted in his selection as Commanding Officer of 4th ANGLICO. He led by example and ALWAYS put his Marines before him.
Col Motta was loyal, passionate, opinionated, resolute, and yes, stubborn! And I respected him. I loved him like a brother. He was more than a friend. He was my lifelong friend. We shared the good time and bad times. We laughed together and we cried together. We grew up together. We grew old together. We were Marines once, and young. He will always have a place in my heart. And as I take my last breath, we will meet again. May you always be blessed with Fair Winds and Following Seas, my friend Dennis Roman Motta, Colonel of Marines.
I'm going to miss you so much dad & I know all your friends are going to as well. Its just not going to be the same without you here. But I'm happy your with Jesus, mom, and family. I have a lot of memories to share, but really I want to say thank you for making me the man I am today. You've raised me to be mentally strong & humble, and thats what I am, because thats what you gave me. I love you so much, and now you can rest in peace Marine!
