Final answer:
Marines must meet three criteria for meritorious promotion: time in service, rank, and a recommendation from a superior officer. These criteria allow for recognition of exceptional service and potential for higher responsibilities. Academic and course achievements can also impact promotion decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The three criteria that marines must meet for meritorious promotion are: time in service, rank, and a recommendation from a superior officer. This form of promotion recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional ability and potential above their current rank. A marine who has excelled in leadership, physical fitness, and job performance may receive such a recommendation from a superior officer, which, along with the required time in service and current rank, can qualify them for meritorious promotion. This is different from the standard promotion process, which is based primarily on time-in-grade and a formalized testing system.
For example, if a marine has consistently shown outstanding leadership and has met the time in service and rank criteria, they could be considered for a meritorious promotion after receiving a strong recommendation from their commanding officer. This reflects an acknowledgment of their dedication and exemplary service to the Marine Corps. Academic achievements, such as being a Distinguished Military Graduate or achieving a rank in an Officer's Basic Course, can also influence a superior's decision to recommend a marine for advancement.