Smith returns to full duty status as Marine Corps commandant following October heart attack

Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric Smith has returned to full duty status following an Oct. 29 heart attack and a subsequent open-heart surgery and four-month recovery period, according to a March 5 announcement from the service.

Assistant Commandant Gen. Christopher Mahoney, who has shouldered the duties of both the Marine Corps’ No. 1 and No. 2 positions during Smith’s recovery, will continue to serve as assistant commandant.

Prior to the cardiac arrest, Smith had been performing the duties of both commandant and assistant commandant due to Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s (R-AL) blanket hold on military nominations and promotions, which prevented Mahoney’s confirmation until after Smith’s emergency occurred.

Following the heart attack, Smith underwent surgery to repair a bicuspid aortic valve -- a congenital heart abnormality that caused the cardiac arrest, according to the Marine Corps. Throughout the recovery period, Smith has repeatedly signaled his intent to return to the role of commandant.

“Gen. Smith and his family appreciate the full support of Congress, the leadership at the Department of Defense, Department of the Navy, the Joint Force and all who extended them their well wishes during his recovery,” the Marine Corps notice states.