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Corpsmen transport a notional patient onto an aircraft during a Tactical Combat Casualty Care training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 6-10, 2017. The TCCC teaches corpsmen new communication skills and how to care for a patient in a combat zone. The corpsmen are with 2nd Medical Battalion. - Corpsmen transport a notional patient onto an aircraft during a Tactical Combat Casualty Care training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 6-10, 2017. The TCCC teaches corpsmen new communication skills and how to care for a patient in a combat zone. The corpsmen are with 2nd Medical Battalion.

Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force out of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, worked with 1st Marine Logistics Group, 1st Supply Battalion, Supply Company Marine Air Ground Task Force, MAGTF Marine Materiel Distribution Center to prepare equipment for transport with RFID tags and SHOUT nano devices, tracking equipment from Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center 29 Palms, to and from the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Feb. 7. - Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force out of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, worked with 1st Marine Logistics Group, 1st Supply Battalion, Supply Company Marine Air Ground Task Force, MAGTF Marine Materiel Distribution Center to prepare equipment for transport with RFID tags and SHOUT nano devices, tracking equipment from Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center 29 Palms, to and from the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Feb. 7.

Marine veterans and their families salute the 2nd Marine Division’s colors at a battle colors rededication ceremony for 2nd MarDiv at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 10, 2017. The ceremony consisted of veterans, who severed in different eras of American Conflict, awarding streamers to the division’s colors for maintaining the legacy passed down from generation to generation. The event coincides with the 76th birthday of the division. - Marine veterans and their families salute the 2nd Marine Division’s colors at a battle colors rededication ceremony for 2nd MarDiv at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 10, 2017. The ceremony consisted of veterans, who severed in different eras of American Conflict, awarding streamers to the division’s colors for maintaining the legacy passed down from generation to generation. The event coincides with the 76th birthday of the division.

Marines participate with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion in a grenade assault course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 9, 2017. The course prepared Marines to use the M67 fragmentation hand grenade. The exercise was in preparation for an upcoming Integrated Training Exercise 3-17 at Marine Air-Ground Combat Center Twenty-Nine Palms, California. - Marines participate with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion in a grenade assault course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 9, 2017. The course prepared Marines to use the M67 fragmentation hand grenade. The exercise was in preparation for an upcoming Integrated Training Exercise 3-17 at Marine Air-Ground Combat Center Twenty-Nine Palms, California.

A Marine with Task Force Southwest catches the Instant Eye small unmanned aerial system following a flight at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 8, 2017. The drone allows operators to record surveillance and execute reconnaissance in small, confined areas which are otherwise inoperable with larger aircraft. Approximately 300 Marines are assigned to Task Force Southwest, whose mission will be to train, advise and assist the Afghan National Army 215th Corps and 505th Zone National Police. - A Marine with Task Force Southwest catches the Instant Eye small unmanned aerial system following a flight at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 8, 2017. The drone allows operators to record surveillance and execute reconnaissance in small, confined areas which are otherwise inoperable with larger aircraft. Approximately 300 Marines are assigned to Task Force Southwest, whose mission will be to train, advise and assist the Afghan National Army 215th Corps and 505th Zone National Police.

Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164 refuel an F-35B Lighting II at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Jan. 31, 2017. - Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164 refuel an F-35B Lighting II at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Jan. 31, 2017.

Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 “Heavy Haulers” prepare to conduct cold weather training at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Calif., Feb.1, 2017. The CH-53E Super Stallion’s versatility and maneuverability is an important asset in the terrain surrounding MCMWTC and facilitates mission during the training exercise. - Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 “Heavy Haulers” prepare to conduct cold weather training at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Calif., Feb.1, 2017. The CH-53E Super Stallion’s versatility and maneuverability is an important asset in the terrain surrounding MCMWTC and facilitates mission during the training exercise.

Marines with Weapons Co., 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, hold M821A2 High Explosive mortar rounds in preparation to fire at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 8, 2017. The Marines fired off red phosphorous and high explosive rounds during a training exercise where they were able to coordinate with Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic during their qualification training for Joint Terminal Attack Controllers. - Marines with Weapons Co., 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, hold M821A2 High Explosive mortar rounds in preparation to fire at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 8, 2017. The Marines fired off red phosphorous and high explosive rounds during a training exercise where they were able to coordinate with Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic during their qualification training for Joint Terminal Attack Controllers.

Sgt. Justin Adams, an instructor with 1st Marine Division Schools ‘Pre-Scout Sniper Course’ observes a soldier with the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force during a known distance range conducted at during Exercise Iron Fist 2017, aboard Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 7, 2017. The range consisted of known distances of targets from 100 to 550 meters. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral training exercise where U.S. and Japanese service members train together and share techniques, tactics and procedure to improve their combined operational capabilities. - Sgt. Justin Adams, an instructor with 1st Marine Division Schools ‘Pre-Scout Sniper Course’ observes a soldier with the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force during a known distance range conducted at during Exercise Iron Fist 2017, aboard Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 7, 2017. The range consisted of known distances of targets from 100 to 550 meters. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral training exercise where U.S. and Japanese service members train together and share techniques, tactics and procedure to improve their combined operational capabilities.

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A Marine with Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, rappels down a cliff at the Jungle Warfare Training Center, Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 24, 2017. JWTC exposes Marines to training situations and environments unique to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region which sustain operational readiness and enhance forward deployed capabilities. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia- Pacific region. - A Marine with Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, rappels down a cliff at the Jungle Warfare Training Center, Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 24, 2017. JWTC exposes Marines to training situations and environments unique to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region which sustain operational readiness and enhance forward deployed capabilities. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia- Pacific region.

The Marine Corps Program Executive Officer Land Systems is expected to deliver 144 Utility Task Vehicles to the regiment-level starting in February 2017. The rugged all-terrain vehicle can carry up to four Marines or be converted to haul 1,500 pounds of supplies. With minimal armor and size, the UTV can quickly haul extra ammunition and provisions, or injured Marines, while preserving energy and stealth. - The Marine Corps Program Executive Officer Land Systems is expected to deliver 144 Utility Task Vehicles to the regiment-level starting in February 2017. The rugged all-terrain vehicle can carry up to four Marines or be converted to haul 1,500 pounds of supplies. With minimal armor and size, the UTV can quickly haul extra ammunition and provisions, or injured Marines, while preserving energy and stealth.

Lance Cpl. Emmitt Aimino, a rifleman with Company C, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, secures his snow shoes during exercise Riley Xanten II, in Burwash, Ontario, Feb. 3-5, 2017. During the exercise, the Marines joined soldiers from the Canadian Armed Forces to exchange knowledge and increase proficiency in cold weather tactics, survival skills, shelter building, ice fishing, and more. - Lance Cpl. Emmitt Aimino, a rifleman with Company C, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, secures his snow shoes during exercise Riley Xanten II, in Burwash, Ontario, Feb. 3-5, 2017. During the exercise, the Marines joined soldiers from the Canadian Armed Forces to exchange knowledge and increase proficiency in cold weather tactics, survival skills, shelter building, ice fishing, and more.

An F-18D Hornet taxis down the flight line for a training exercise during the Marine Division Tactics Course aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Jan. 27, 2017. One pilot and one Weapons System Operator were selected from each squadron to participate in MDTC to hone their skills in air to air tactics. The Marines are with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224, Marine Aircraft Group 31. - An F-18D Hornet taxis down the flight line for a training exercise during the Marine Division Tactics Course aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Jan. 27, 2017. One pilot and one Weapons System Operator were selected from each squadron to participate in MDTC to hone their skills in air to air tactics. The Marines are with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224, Marine Aircraft Group 31.

U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Louis Simon, executive officer of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, acts as the commander of troops during the opening ceremony of Exercise Iron Fist 2017, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 6, 2017. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral training exercise where U.S. and Japanese service members train together and share techniques, tactics and procedures to improve their combined operational capabilities. - U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Louis Simon, executive officer of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, acts as the commander of troops during the opening ceremony of Exercise Iron Fist 2017, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 6, 2017. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral training exercise where U.S. and Japanese service members train together and share techniques, tactics and procedures to improve their combined operational capabilities.

Pfc. Jacob Maze peers through his scope during Marine Wing Support Squadron 271’s Military Operations in Urban Terrain training aboard Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic, N.C., Feb. 2, 2017. With corporal being the highest rank participating in the building-clearing, small unit leadership was tested with constantly shifting leadership positions. “My end goal is to ensure any of my Marines are able to take my place if the situation arises,” said Cpl. Christian Leishman, a squad leader for the exercise. Maze is an engineer equipment operator with MWSS-271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jason Jimenez/ Released) - Pfc. Jacob Maze peers through his scope during Marine Wing Support Squadron 271’s Military Operations in Urban Terrain training aboard Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic, N.C., Feb. 2, 2017. With corporal being the highest rank participating in the building-clearing, small unit leadership was tested with constantly shifting leadership positions. “My end goal is to ensure any of my Marines are able to take my place if the situation arises,” said Cpl. Christian Leishman, a squad leader for the exercise. Maze is an engineer equipment operator with MWSS-271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jason Jimenez/ Released)

Aircraft rescue and firefighting Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, climb the stairs to the inside of a Mobile Aircraft Firefighting Training Device aboard Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Feb. 1, 2017. The training offered a realistic experience of what an aircraft fire looks and feels like. This gave the Marines a unique opportunity to evaluate themselves on how they would handle and control a real-life emergency. - Aircraft rescue and firefighting Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, climb the stairs to the inside of a Mobile Aircraft Firefighting Training Device aboard Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Feb. 1, 2017. The training offered a realistic experience of what an aircraft fire looks and feels like. This gave the Marines a unique opportunity to evaluate themselves on how they would handle and control a real-life emergency.

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A member of the Special Response Team provides security during an anti-terrorism/force protection exercise on Parris Island, S.C., Feb. 2, 2017. The exercise simulated an active shooter and hostage situation and was designed to test various aspects of the depot’s emergency response capabilities. (NOTE: Faces of certain personnel have been blurred to protect their identity.) - A member of the Special Response Team provides security during an anti-terrorism/force protection exercise on Parris Island, S.C., Feb. 2, 2017. The exercise simulated an active shooter and hostage situation and was designed to test various aspects of the depot’s emergency response capabilities. (NOTE: Faces of certain personnel have been blurred to protect their identity.)

Members of the Defense industries show equipment to Marines from Camp Pendleton during the Marine West Expo, on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb 1, 2017. The 2017 Marine West Exposition is a forum for defense contractors to display and promote their latest equipment and technology. - Members of the Defense industries show equipment to Marines from Camp Pendleton during the Marine West Expo, on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb 1, 2017. The 2017 Marine West Exposition is a forum for defense contractors to display and promote their latest equipment and technology.

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The Marine Corps' Mounted Color Guard post for a portrait at the stables, aboard the Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow's Yermo Annex, Calif., Nov. 3. Left to right: Sgt. Monica Hilpisch, Sgt. Moses Machuca, Sgt. Terry Barker and Sgt. Jacob Cummins. - The Marine Corps' Mounted Color Guard post for a portrait at the stables, aboard the Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow's Yermo Annex, Calif., Nov. 3. Left to right: Sgt. Monica Hilpisch, Sgt. Moses Machuca, Sgt. Terry Barker and Sgt. Jacob Cummins.

Sgt. Zachary L. Piepenhagen (left), shakes hands with Maj. Gen. David Coffman, deputy commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force, after being awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 26, 2017. Piepenhagen was awarded the medal for saving the life of a distressed Sailor who climbed over the guard rail in an attempt to commit suicide while serving with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Sgt. Zachary L. Piepenhagen (left), shakes hands with Maj. Gen. David Coffman, deputy commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force, after being awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 26, 2017. Piepenhagen was awarded the medal for saving the life of a distressed Sailor who climbed over the guard rail in an attempt to commit suicide while serving with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 communicate to each other after loading quadcon shipping containers onto a seven-ton medium tactical vehicle replacement during exercise Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 at Haramura Maneuver Area, Hiroshima, Japan, Jan. 27, 2017. The Marines worked through inclement weather conditions and a short timeline to build a 96-foot by 96-foot vertical takeoff and landing pad. The exercise is a biannual, unit-level training exercise that is primarily focused on establishing a forward operating base and providing airfield operation services. MWSS-171 trains throughout the year completing exercises like Kamoshika Wrath to enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 communicate to each other after loading quadcon shipping containers onto a seven-ton medium tactical vehicle replacement during exercise Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 at Haramura Maneuver Area, Hiroshima, Japan, Jan. 27, 2017. The Marines worked through inclement weather conditions and a short timeline to build a 96-foot by 96-foot vertical takeoff and landing pad. The exercise is a biannual, unit-level training exercise that is primarily focused on establishing a forward operating base and providing airfield operation services. MWSS-171 trains throughout the year completing exercises like Kamoshika Wrath to enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, set up communication equipment in a tent city located in the Grouse Meadows training area during Mountain Training Exercise 1-17 in the vicinity of the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Bridgeport, Calif., Jan, 18, 2016. MCMWTC is one of the Marine Corps’ most secluded posts, comprised of approximately 46,000 acres of terrain with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 11,000 feet. During this iteration of MTX, the inclusion of the Artic Tent, designed to house up to 15 personnel, enabled the “Warlords” to be truly immersed in the frigid landscape throughout the full duration of the training. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, set up communication equipment in a tent city located in the Grouse Meadows training area during Mountain Training Exercise 1-17 in the vicinity of the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Bridgeport, Calif., Jan, 18, 2016. MCMWTC is one of the Marine Corps’ most secluded posts, comprised of approximately 46,000 acres of terrain with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 11,000 feet. During this iteration of MTX, the inclusion of the Artic Tent, designed to house up to 15 personnel, enabled the “Warlords” to be truly immersed in the frigid landscape throughout the full duration of the training.

Retired Lt. Col. Frederick Grant retired Jan. 27, 2017, after 54 years of continuous service to the Marine Corps. Grant served as the director of the Tactical Exercise Control Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, after 38 years of service as an enlisted Marine and officer. Grant, from Emporia, Virginia, enlisted Oct. 2, 1963, and served as an infantryman in Vietnam in addition to various other enlisted and officer billets. - Retired Lt. Col. Frederick Grant retired Jan. 27, 2017, after 54 years of continuous service to the Marine Corps. Grant served as the director of the Tactical Exercise Control Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, after 38 years of service as an enlisted Marine and officer. Grant, from Emporia, Virginia, enlisted Oct. 2, 1963, and served as an infantryman in Vietnam in addition to various other enlisted and officer billets.

Crew capsules of several Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicles, or M-ATV, sit awaiting repair and upgrade at Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, on the Yermo Annex of Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Jan. 12, 2017. The artisans working the M-ATV line are refurbishing the 17-ton vehicles for both the U.S. Air Force and Marine Corps for use in Afghanistan. The formidable M1 Abrams tanks usually used in the field are too wide for the narrow mountain roads found in abundance in that region. - Crew capsules of several Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicles, or M-ATV, sit awaiting repair and upgrade at Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, on the Yermo Annex of Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Jan. 12, 2017. The artisans working the M-ATV line are refurbishing the 17-ton vehicles for both the U.S. Air Force and Marine Corps for use in Afghanistan. The formidable M1 Abrams tanks usually used in the field are too wide for the narrow mountain roads found in abundance in that region.

A Marine with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division climbs a rope on the obstacle course during an event known as advanced course preparation training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 23, 2017. The event was a seven-mile course that served as an initial performance assessment and tested the Marines on basic knowledge and skills. It is a way for the Marines to know which skills to refine before they begin a military occupational specialty specific advanced course. - A Marine with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division climbs a rope on the obstacle course during an event known as advanced course preparation training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 23, 2017. The event was a seven-mile course that served as an initial performance assessment and tested the Marines on basic knowledge and skills. It is a way for the Marines to know which skills to refine before they begin a military occupational specialty specific advanced course.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 move a flood light through the mud during exercise Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 at Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Haramura Maneuver Area in Hiroshima, Japan, Jan. 22, 2017. The exercise is a biannual, unit-level training exercise that is primarily focused on establishing a forward operating base and providing airfield operation services. MWSS-171 trains throughout the year completing exercises like Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 to enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 move a flood light through the mud during exercise Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 at Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Haramura Maneuver Area in Hiroshima, Japan, Jan. 22, 2017. The exercise is a biannual, unit-level training exercise that is primarily focused on establishing a forward operating base and providing airfield operation services. MWSS-171 trains throughout the year completing exercises like Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 to enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability.

Cpl. Jerrod Peterson provides security for his team at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 25, 2017. The unit is participating in embassy reinforcement exercises, which consist of relaying information to the embassy and enhancing skills within the unit in order to prepare for a Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force. Peterson is a support team leader with Alpha Co., 2nd Radio Battalion. - Cpl. Jerrod Peterson provides security for his team at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 25, 2017. The unit is participating in embassy reinforcement exercises, which consist of relaying information to the embassy and enhancing skills within the unit in order to prepare for a Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force. Peterson is a support team leader with Alpha Co., 2nd Radio Battalion.

Sgt. Kevin M. Powers ground guides the operator of an assault amphibious vehicle to ensure safety during ship-to-shore operations at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2017. The training was meant to give the Marines experience operating the AAVs in the ocean. Powers is an assault amphibious vehicle crewman assigned to 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division. - Sgt. Kevin M. Powers ground guides the operator of an assault amphibious vehicle to ensure safety during ship-to-shore operations at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2017. The training was meant to give the Marines experience operating the AAVs in the ocean. Powers is an assault amphibious vehicle crewman assigned to 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division.

A Marine with Task Force Southwest fires a PK general-purpose machine gun during foreign weapons familiarization training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 17, 2016. Marines with the unit are preparing for an upcoming deployment to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, where they will train, advise and assist the Afghan National Army 215th Corps and 505th Zone National Police to continue building well-equipped defense and security forces. - A Marine with Task Force Southwest fires a PK general-purpose machine gun during foreign weapons familiarization training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 17, 2016. Marines with the unit are preparing for an upcoming deployment to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, where they will train, advise and assist the Afghan National Army 215th Corps and 505th Zone National Police to continue building well-equipped defense and security forces.

Marines, with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, attach water filters to hydration systems for evaluation during an Experimental Forward Operating Base aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 4, 2012. Marines and sailors participating provided input on individual energy and water purification equipment. The Expeditionary Energy Office, Headquarters, Marine Corps, coordinated the XFOB for input from the servicemembers and suggestions for improvement. - Marines, with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, attach water filters to hydration systems for evaluation during an Experimental Forward Operating Base aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 4, 2012. Marines and sailors participating provided input on individual energy and water purification equipment. The Expeditionary Energy Office, Headquarters, Marine Corps, coordinated the XFOB for input from the servicemembers and suggestions for improvement.

Lance Cpl. John K. Cash Jr. rushes in a squad assault as part of a live-fire range during a squadathon at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 12, 2017. The range was an opportunity for the Marines to practice the fundamentals of their job, while the squad leaders were evaluated on their ability to control their squads. Cash is a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division. - Lance Cpl. John K. Cash Jr. rushes in a squad assault as part of a live-fire range during a squadathon at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 12, 2017. The range was an opportunity for the Marines to practice the fundamentals of their job, while the squad leaders were evaluated on their ability to control their squads. Cash is a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division.

Cpl. Ali J. Mohammed, a Baghdad, Iraq native and a supply Marine with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, stands in front of the painting an Iraqi flag while in Northern Iraq, Dec. 26, 2016. Mohammed, fluent in Arabic, has strengthened the partnership between SPMAGTF Marines and Iraqi military members by translating pertinent information to support their operations. SPMAGTF Marines enable Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve with security forces, strikes, and advise and assist teams, all of which support the Iraqis in their efforts to defeat ISIL. - Cpl. Ali J. Mohammed, a Baghdad, Iraq native and a supply Marine with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, stands in front of the painting an Iraqi flag while in Northern Iraq, Dec. 26, 2016. Mohammed, fluent in Arabic, has strengthened the partnership between SPMAGTF Marines and Iraqi military members by translating pertinent information to support their operations. SPMAGTF Marines enable Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve with security forces, strikes, and advise and assist teams, all of which support the Iraqis in their efforts to defeat ISIL.

Marines measure standoff distance while conducting a low-order demolition range at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 17th, 2017. The range was conducted to enable the Marines to be more capable of detonating unexploded ordnance without releasing shrapnel. The Marines are explosive ordnance technicians with 2nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company S. - Marines measure standoff distance while conducting a low-order demolition range at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 17th, 2017. The range was conducted to enable the Marines to be more capable of detonating unexploded ordnance without releasing shrapnel. The Marines are explosive ordnance technicians with 2nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company S.

An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, lands at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 18, 2017. VMFA-121 conducted a permanent change of station to MCAS Iwakuni, from MCAS Yuma, Ariz., and now belongs to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The F-35B Lightning II is a fifth-generation fighter, which is the world’s first operational supersonic short takeoff and vertical landing aircraft. The F-35B brings strategic agility, operational flexibility and tactical supremacy to III MEF with a mission radius greater than that of the F/A-18 Hornet and AV-8B Harrier II in support of the U.S. – Japan alliance. - An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, lands at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 18, 2017. VMFA-121 conducted a permanent change of station to MCAS Iwakuni, from MCAS Yuma, Ariz., and now belongs to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The F-35B Lightning II is a fifth-generation fighter, which is the world’s first operational supersonic short takeoff and vertical landing aircraft. The F-35B brings strategic agility, operational flexibility and tactical supremacy to III MEF with a mission radius greater than that of the F/A-18 Hornet and AV-8B Harrier II in support of the U.S. – Japan alliance.

Sgt. Tyler R. Woelmer, announces commands to shooters on the firing line when to engage their targets during table two of the annual rifle range qualification, Jan. 12, 2017, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The Marine Corps revised table two of the marksmanship program October 2016 to increase marksmanship skill and realism in a combat environment. The Corps requires Marines to annually qualify at the range to determine their marksmanship skill. Woelmer, an Ida Township, Michigan, native, is a rifle range pit noncommissioned officer attached with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Sgt. Tyler R. Woelmer, announces commands to shooters on the firing line when to engage their targets during table two of the annual rifle range qualification, Jan. 12, 2017, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The Marine Corps revised table two of the marksmanship program October 2016 to increase marksmanship skill and realism in a combat environment. The Corps requires Marines to annually qualify at the range to determine their marksmanship skill. Woelmer, an Ida Township, Michigan, native, is a rifle range pit noncommissioned officer attached with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Sgt. Gabriel R. McInnis, engineer equipment mechanic with Bulk Fuel Company C, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, poses for a photo after receiving a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., Jan. 7, 2017. McInnis received the medal for his actions in preventing an assault of a family in Tempe, Ariz., Dec. 27, 2016. - Sgt. Gabriel R. McInnis, engineer equipment mechanic with Bulk Fuel Company C, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, poses for a photo after receiving a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., Jan. 7, 2017. McInnis received the medal for his actions in preventing an assault of a family in Tempe, Ariz., Dec. 27, 2016.

An F-35B lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 prepares to take off aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Jan. 9, 2017, as it transits the Pacific en route to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. VMFA-121 is the first operational F-35B squadron in the Marine Corps, with its relocation to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing at Iwakuni. The F-35B was developed to replace the Marine Corps’ F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Harrier and EA- 6B Prowler. The Short Take-off Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft is a true force multiplier. The unique combination of stealth, cutting-edge radar and sensor technology, and electronic warfare systems bring all of the access and lethality capabilities of a fifth-generation fighter, a modern bomber, and an adverse-weather, all-threat environment air support platform. - An F-35B lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 prepares to take off aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Jan. 9, 2017, as it transits the Pacific en route to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. VMFA-121 is the first operational F-35B squadron in the Marine Corps, with its relocation to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing at Iwakuni. The F-35B was developed to replace the Marine Corps’ F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Harrier and EA- 6B Prowler. The Short Take-off Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft is a true force multiplier. The unique combination of stealth, cutting-edge radar and sensor technology, and electronic warfare systems bring all of the access and lethality capabilities of a fifth-generation fighter, a modern bomber, and an adverse-weather, all-threat environment air support platform.

Four U.S. Marines and two Sailors instinctively responded alongside local residents when a vehicle with five passengers fell from the fifth story of a parking garage in Yokosuka, Dec. 31, 2016. Once the Marines arrived on scene, the group collectively flipped the car in order to remove the passengers prior to Japanese Emergency Medical Services arriving. The Marines are assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment and forward deployed to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force based in Okinawa, Japan. The Sailors are assigned to Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka. Pictured left to right: Petty Officer 1st Class Garrett Osborne, Lance Cpl. James Flores, Lance Cpl. Manaure Arellano, Pfc. Jacob Boerner, Lance Cpl. Raheem Gilliam and Petty Officer 2nd Class Derhon Finch. - Four U.S. Marines and two Sailors instinctively responded alongside local residents when a vehicle with five passengers fell from the fifth story of a parking garage in Yokosuka, Dec. 31, 2016. Once the Marines arrived on scene, the group collectively flipped the car in order to remove the passengers prior to Japanese Emergency Medical Services arriving. The Marines are assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment and forward deployed to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force based in Okinawa, Japan. The Sailors are assigned to Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka. Pictured left to right: Petty Officer 1st Class Garrett Osborne, Lance Cpl. James Flores, Lance Cpl. Manaure Arellano, Pfc. Jacob Boerner, Lance Cpl. Raheem Gilliam and Petty Officer 2nd Class Derhon Finch.

1st Lt. Conor Campbell, a theater security cooperation team leader with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, hands a certificate to a Gabonese Armed Forces solider during a graduation ceremony at Camp Mokekou, Gabon, Dec. 8, 2016. Marines trained together with the Gabonese Agency for National Parks and Gabonese Armed Forces to help combat illicit trafficking in the region. - 1st Lt. Conor Campbell, a theater security cooperation team leader with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, hands a certificate to a Gabonese Armed Forces solider during a graduation ceremony at Camp Mokekou, Gabon, Dec. 8, 2016. Marines trained together with the Gabonese Agency for National Parks and Gabonese Armed Forces to help combat illicit trafficking in the region.

Master Sgt. Clifford Farmer, shown here during a 2010 deployment to Afghanistan, has four combat tours under his belt and years of experience as an explosive ordnance disposal technician. Today, he battles post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, and urges leaders across the Marine Corps to show understanding and compassion for Marines who may be suffering. - Master Sgt. Clifford Farmer, shown here during a 2010 deployment to Afghanistan, has four combat tours under his belt and years of experience as an explosive ordnance disposal technician. Today, he battles post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, and urges leaders across the Marine Corps to show understanding and compassion for Marines who may be suffering.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. James Wellons, commanding officer of Marine Aviation Weapons, and Tactics Squadron One, left, and U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Casey Nelson, an MV-22B Osprey pilot for MAWTS-1, display Maj. Nelson's 2015 exceptional pilot award alongside U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Nicholas (Ret.) Kehoe at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Jan. 4, 2017. The Exceptional Pilot Award recognizes one pilot from each branch for exceptional service which Maj. Nelson displayed by directing and coordinating a humanitarian aid mission in Nepal after being hit with earthquakes. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. James Wellons, commanding officer of Marine Aviation Weapons, and Tactics Squadron One, left, and U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Casey Nelson, an MV-22B Osprey pilot for MAWTS-1, display Maj. Nelson's 2015 exceptional pilot award alongside U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Nicholas (Ret.) Kehoe at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Jan. 4, 2017. The Exceptional Pilot Award recognizes one pilot from each branch for exceptional service which Maj. Nelson displayed by directing and coordinating a humanitarian aid mission in Nepal after being hit with earthquakes.

Retired 1st Lt. John J. O’Leary, a Marine veteran of World War II, looks at pictures on his dresser at the Evergreen Community of Johnson County, Olathe, Kan., Dec. 21, 2016. O’Leary fought on Guam and witnessed the bombardment of Iwo Jima as a member of 3rd Joint Assault Signal Company. He celebrated his 100th birthday on Dec. 23. - Retired 1st Lt. John J. O’Leary, a Marine veteran of World War II, looks at pictures on his dresser at the Evergreen Community of Johnson County, Olathe, Kan., Dec. 21, 2016. O’Leary fought on Guam and witnessed the bombardment of Iwo Jima as a member of 3rd Joint Assault Signal Company. He celebrated his 100th birthday on Dec. 23.

Marines craft together a detonation cord linear charge for an urban assault breaching range during a deployment for training exercise at Fort Pickett, Va., Dec. 8, 2016. The training gave the Marines an opportunity to practice making and applying donut charges, oval charges and uli knot slider charges. The Marines are with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. - Marines craft together a detonation cord linear charge for an urban assault breaching range during a deployment for training exercise at Fort Pickett, Va., Dec. 8, 2016. The training gave the Marines an opportunity to practice making and applying donut charges, oval charges and uli knot slider charges. The Marines are with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. George Price, an Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team instructor with Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment Bravo, directs a KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 during a landing as part of aircraft landing zone training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 21, 2016. The training allows the Marines to gain experience, practice constructing an expeditionary airfield, and complete training and readiness requirements. The MMT Marines conduct this training every three to six months to refine the Marines’ skills, keeping them ready for expeditionary operations while in a garrison environment. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. George Price, an Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team instructor with Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment Bravo, directs a KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 during a landing as part of aircraft landing zone training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 21, 2016. The training allows the Marines to gain experience, practice constructing an expeditionary airfield, and complete training and readiness requirements. The MMT Marines conduct this training every three to six months to refine the Marines’ skills, keeping them ready for expeditionary operations while in a garrison environment.

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