Lt. Gen. David Berger was nominated to serve as the commandant of the Marine Corps, Defense Department officials announced Wednesday.

Acting Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan announced the nomination by President Trump early Wednesday. Berger currently serves as the deputy commandant for combat development and integration as well as commanding general of the Marine Corps Combat Development Command (MCCDC). Berger assumed his current responsibilities in August 2018.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. David Berger speaks during a change of command of U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific at Marine Corps Base Hawaii on Aug. 8, 2018 when he relinquished command to his successor. (Photo: U.S. Marine Corps)
U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. David Berger speaks during a change of command of U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific at Marine Corps Base Hawaii on Aug. 8, 2018 when he relinquished command to his successor. (Photo: U.S. Marine Corps)

If confirmed by the Senate, Berger would succeed Gen. Robert Neller, who is retiring after serving as the 37th commandant since mid-2015.

Previously, Berger was promoted to lieutenant general in July 2014 and assumed command of I Marine Expeditionary Force in California and assumed command of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific. In 2012 he deployed to Afghanistan as the commanding general of the 1st Marine Division (forward) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.