Sergeant Major Wilson reported to MCRD Parris Island, South Carolina on 27 June 1972, and graduated 25 September 1972. In October 1972, Private Wilson reported to 2nd Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Division where he deployed with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines on two Mediterranean Cruises.

In his stellar career Sergeant Major Wilson has attended Marine Security Guard School at Marine Security Guard Battalion, and among others, has served as a Senior Drill Instructor, Series Gunnery Sergeant, Marine Corps Air Station Staff Academy instructor, Chief Instructor for the NCO School on Camp Kinser, American Embassy Detachment Commander, “C” Company 1st Reconnaissance Battalion 1st Sergeant, and Camp David Security Company 1st Sgt.

In November 1999, SgtMaj Wilson was transferred to Marine Corps Security Force Battalion, Norfolk, VA where he retired July 1, 2002. SgtMaj is married to the former Matilda Nelson, they have two sons, Levi J. Wilson Jr. and Byron L. Wilson.