About KJ

Kevin J. (KJ) Carleo is a retired United States Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant whose writing is deeply rooted in lived experience. Shaped by decades of leadership, responsibility, and service in high-stakes environments where clarity, accountability, and presence were non-negotiable, he learned that true leadership begins within—long before it ever appears in rank or title.

After retiring, KJ turned his focus inward. He began closely examining the beliefs, identities, and inner narratives that quietly govern human decisions and shape lives. What he discovered is that discipline without awareness is incomplete, and strength without alignment eventually collapses.

“Greatness isn’t found. It’s forged—one 30-inch step at a time toward the most magnificent version of you.” ~ KJ

His writing blends hard-earned leadership experience with spiritual reflection. He guides readers to slow down, listen more deeply, and reconnect with the wisdom they already carry. Rather than offering ready-made answers, KJ creates the internal conditions where truth, clarity, and purpose can naturally emerge.

His purpose is to help others manifest what once felt impossible—and in doing so, learn to cast their own light.

Kevin J. (KJ) Carleo enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on April 20, 1993—just four days after turning 18. He began his journey at Bravo Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, followed by Marine Combat Training at Camp Geiger, NC, and communications training at Twenty-Nine Palms, California.

“The truth I learned in the Marines, and poured into every page of Cast Your Light, is simple yet unshakable: You already carry the light.” ~ Gunnery Sergeant Carleo

His career spanned two decades of distinguished service across diverse roles and global assignments. As a young Marine, he served as a Communications Center Operator with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28, then earned selection as a Marine Security Guard. He protected U.S. Embassies in Athens, Greece (where he was promoted to Corporal) and Singapore (promoted to Sergeant and awarded the Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal).

In 1998, he deployed to Okinawa, Japan, serving with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron-1 and later 7th Communication Battalion as Platoon Sergeant for the Data Communications Platoon and NCOIC of the Information Systems Management Office. He deployed in support of Joint Exercise Cobra Gold in Thailand in 2002.

“Though Cast Your Light was born in the Marine Corps, it is written for anyone who feels called to more: Marines and veterans, first responders, leaders, and everyday people ready to take that full 30-inch step toward their greatest self.” ~ Gunnery Sergeant Carleo

In 2002, he was assigned to NORAD and U.S. Northern Command, where he served as Technical Lead on critical homeland defense projects. His innovations included developing the first online Sponsorship Training Program, which became the Department of Defense standard. He was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal and Joint Service Achievement Medal.

Returning to Quantico in 2005, he served as Training Chief and Aide to the Senior Enlisted Advisor at the Marine Corps Network Operations and Security Command (MCNOSC). Promoted to Gunnery Sergeant in 2008, he was hand-selected as Company Gunnery Sergeant and played a key role in the occupancy of the new “Code Talkers Hall.” He received the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal for his community contributions.

In 2009, he joined 8th Communication Battalion at Camp Lejeune, serving multiple tours as Company Gunnery Sergeant. He was later selected as SNCOIC of the Joint Task Force Enabler Detachment, preparing Marines for deployment. In 2011, GySgt Carleo deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as Battalion Data Communications Chief—overseeing the largest communications network in Marine Corps history at the time.

His final assignment was as Regimental Data Chief with Combat Logistics Regiment 27. He retired in September 2013 after 20 years of honorable service.

“For my fellow Marines – whether you intend to serve 4 years or 40 years, serve our beloved Corps with HONOR and PRIDE. … The day you grasped that Eagle, Globe and Anchor in your palm you earned the title ‘United States Marine’ and made a promise.” ~ Gunnery Sergeant Carleo

His personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal (with gold star), Air Force Achievement Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal.

“Mission First, My Marines ALWAYS.” ~ Gunnery Sergeant Carleo

KJ and his wife Rohani are the proud parents of four children: Adam, Daniel, Angelina, and Misha. He remains deeply connected to the Marine Corps as a Life Charter Member of the Marine Embassy Guard Association (MEGA) and a member of the Marine Corps Association, Marine Corps League, and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA).