Always the Fourth
About Always the Fourth
At Always the Fourth, we are more than just an organization — we are a global movement dedicated to honoring and preserving the legacy of the Fourth Recruit Training Battalion. Founded with a deep respect for history and a commitment to empowering individuals, we unite a diverse community from all corners of the world. Our mission is simple: to celebrate the trailblazing spirit of the Fourth Recruit Training Battalion and the pioneering women and men who helped shape its legacy.
Our Name: A Legacy We Keep Alive
The name “Always the Fourth” carries with it both a history and a promise. It’s a tribute to the Fourth Recruit Training Battalion, which was once known as the Women Recruit Training Command. This was the foundation of countless stories of courage, strength, and resilience — stories that continue to inspire us today. By choosing this name, we commit to keeping the legacy of this historic unit alive for generations to come.
What We Do
Always the Fourth is a movement that serves as a global gathering point for individuals united by the values of empowerment, resilience, and community. We bring together people from all walks of life, honoring both the past and present contributions of those who have been part of the Fourth Recruit Training Battalion and the Women Recruit Training Command. Whether you are connected by history, service, or a shared passion for progress, our mission is to create a space for growth, support, and connection.
Our Purpose: Legacy, Connection, Empowerment
The purpose behind Always the Fourth is threefold: to honor the groundbreaking LEGACY and achievements of those who have come before us, and to provide a platform where future generations can thrive. We strive to bridge gaps through meaningful CONNECTIONS, cultivating a supportive community. We EMPOWER individuals to defy expectations and embrace the compact of their service.
We believe that by keeping the spirit of the Fourth Recruit Training Battalion alive, we not only celebrate the achievements of the past but also inspire and uplift those who continue to make history today. Whether you’re a veteran, an active member, or a supporter, Always the Fourth provides a space where the collective strength of our community shines through.
Why We Do It
Our mission is grounded in the belief that history is not just something to look back on, but something to live and carry forward. The Fourth Recruit Training Battalion and the Women Recruit Training Command were monumental in shaping the trajectory of women in the Marine Corps, and we aim to carry that legacy forward. The spirit of perseverance, leadership, and empowerment that these pioneers embodied is just as relevant today as it was when they first made their mark.
Join Us in the Movement
Always the Fourth is a movement for everyone who believes in the power of community, the strength of history, and the endless potential of future generations. We invite you to join us — whether by connecting with others, contributing to our initiatives, or simply standing together in remembrance and celebration. Together, we keep the legacy alive, Always the Fourth.
Our Amazing Ambassadors
Robin Fortner
Founder
Robin Fortner served in 4th RTBN as a Recruit, a Drill Instructor, and the Battalion Sergeant Major before retiring from the Marine Corps. Robin held the first Always the Fourth gathering in Virginia in 2021.
Alejandra Walker
Virginia
Alejandra served 10 years in the Marine Corps. She would return to 4th RTBN as a Drill Instructor. She has been instrumental in the movement since the beginning.