Major Frank P. Mease Jr graduated from Bellefonte Area High School, Bellefonte, PA in 1991. After graduation, he attended boot camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island and subsequently reported to Infantry Training Battalion at Camp Geiger, NC. In June 1992, Major Mease reported to the Presidential Helicopter Squadron (HMX-1). During his tour, he served as team leader and squad leader and was meritoriously promoted to Corporal. In April 1996, Major Mease reported to Military Police Company, 2D Force Service Support Group. During his tour with MP Company he served as squad leader and platoon sergeant and deployed to Norway and Estonia. In July 1998, Major Mease reported to Drill Instructor School at Parris Island, SC. During his tour, he served as Drill Instructor, Senior Drill Instructor, Series Chief Drill Instructor and Company Gunnery Sergeant for Company I, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion. While on duty at Parris Island he completed an Associate Degree through Park University. In December 2001, Major Mease was selected for the Meritorious Commissioning Program and attended Officer Candidates School in January 2002. He was commissioned in March 2002 and reported to The Basic School and Infantry Officers Course in Quantico, VA. In March 2003, Major Mease reported to 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment in Camp Lejeune, NC. From March 2003 through May 2006, he deployed to Afghanistan where he participated in Operation Mountain Storm and Fallujah, Iraq where he participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom. During his tour he served as rifle platoon commander, weapons platoon commander, 81mm mortar platoon commander, mobile assault platoon commander and assistant operations officer. In May 2006, Major Mease reported to Officer Candidates School. From May 2006 through August 2009, he served as tactics officer, staff platoon commander, company executive officer and assistant operations officer. During this tour, he also completed his Baccalaurea