Norman Lee "Norm" Cooling[1][2] is a retired [3] Brigadier General in the United States Marine Corps, who most recently served as the Assistant Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies & Operations, Headquarters, United States Marine Corps [2] and who previously served a number of roles during deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom, notably as the battalion commander of 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment.

He received the Colonial Daughters of the 17th Century Silver Plate Award for the highest ranked graduating history major.

He attended the Marine Corps Command and Staff College in 2000, graduating with distinction while earning a master's degree in Military Studies.

Naval War College on 20 June 2008, earning a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies and graduating with honors.

[8] His first assignment as an infantry officer was with Second Battalion, Fourth Marines where he commanded rifle, weapons, and anti-armor platoons.

Subsequently, he has commanded infantry and light armored reconnaissance units to the battalion level as well as the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, CA.

Notably, 3/3 forced the surrender of a key regional high value target, a man named "Najmudeen," who dwelled in the Korangal Valley and was responsible for significant anti-coalition militia activity.

Upon completion of their tour, the Iraqi Army in the region could conduct independent battalion level operations, a significant increase in capabilities.