Four Stars for Holcomb

MARINES

When the Marines' square-faced, bespectacled Lieut. General Thomas Holcomb, 64, retires on New Year's Day as commandant of the Corps, he will become a full general, the first in the 168-year-old history of the Marines.

A law passed several years ago authorizes officers decorated in World War I for services beyond the call of duty to go up one grade upon retirement. Veteran Tommy Holcomb commanded a Marine battalion in World War I, was under fire at St. Mihiel, Soissons, the Argonne. Lieut. Colonel Holcomb came out strewn with ribbons.

Another award awaits serious, hardworking General Holcomb: the Distinguished Service Medal, already authorized by the House and awaiting only Senate action. Another job also awaits General Holcomb, but that is still the Navy's well-kept secret. Best guess to date: a place among the Allied Joint Chiefs of Staff.

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