Michael Patrick Sullivan

Major General Michael P. “Lancer” Sullivan, United States Marine Corps (Ret.), passed away peacefully at home on October 21, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of leadership, devotion, and service to his family, his country, and all whose lives he touched.

Born in Beverly Hills, California, on August 22, 1933, to C. Gardner and Ann Sullivan, Lancer was inspired as a young boy during World War II after watching Wake Island with his father — a moment that set his course to become a Marine fighter pilot. A graduate of Beverly Hills High School and member of its Hall of Fame, he enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1953 and earned his commission and wings through the Naval Aviation Cadet Program in 1956.

Over a distinguished 38-year career, Lancer flew every fighter and attack aircraft in the Marine Corps— from the AD Skyraider to the F/A-18 Hornet — logging over 8,700 flight hours and more than 400 combat missions across two tours in Vietnam. During his service, he helped shape Marine Corps warfighting doctrine, commanding VMFA-323, MAG-11, and MAG-41, and later leading the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the 10th Marine Amphibious Brigade, and the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory. He concluded his career as Deputy Commander of Fleet Marine Force Atlantic. His decorations included the Distinguished Service Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross, 24 Air Medals, and the Alfred A. Cunningham Award as Marine Aviator of the Year.

After retiring in 1991, Lancer continued to serve his community and country. He was the Vice President of First Citizens Bank on Cherry Point and in Havelock, always mentoring and inspiring young men and women and community leaders.

He loved Havelock football, the Rams and Dodgers, boating, and oysters, but above all, he cherished his family, friends and dogs. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nicole, and is survived by his sons Steven (Tracy), John (Patricia), and Byron, and grandchildren Michael, Megan, Conner, Cole, and Chloe.

A memorial service will be held on December 6 at 12 PM at the Cherry Point Base Chapel, Havelock, NC, followed by a celebration of life at Miller’s Landing Club and Conference Center, MCAS Cherry Point.

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Burial with military honors at Arlington National Cemetery will take place at a later date.