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An F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, forward deployed to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, taxis into an ordnance loading area after landing at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, July 21, 2016. VMFA-122 traveled to RAAF Base Tindal for the first time to participate in Pitch Black 2016 and unit level training known as Southern Frontier. Pitch Black affords Marines with VMFA-122 the opportunity to integrate and increase interoperability with regional joint and coalition partners, while developing operational concepts for conducting sustained combat operations. Southern Frontier will help the squadron gain experience and qualifications in low altitude, air-ground, high explosive ordnance delivery at the unit level. - An F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, forward deployed to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, taxis into an ordnance loading area after landing at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, July 21, 2016. VMFA-122 traveled to RAAF Base Tindal for the first time to participate in Pitch Black 2016 and unit level training known as Southern Frontier. Pitch Black affords Marines with VMFA-122 the opportunity to integrate and increase interoperability with regional joint and coalition partners, while developing operational concepts for conducting sustained combat operations. Southern Frontier will help the squadron gain experience and qualifications in low altitude, air-ground, high explosive ordnance delivery at the unit level.

Marines with Engineer Services Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 23, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, add soffit sheathing to the roof of a building used by the U.S. Forest Service, helping to mitigate the waste produce by birds flying in and out of the roofing area during Exercise Forest Rattler in Bend, Ore., July 20, 2016. The exercise allowed Marines to work with the U.S. Forest service to complete various projects while honing their skills and giving back to the community. - Marines with Engineer Services Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 23, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, add soffit sheathing to the roof of a building used by the U.S. Forest Service, helping to mitigate the waste produce by birds flying in and out of the roofing area during Exercise Forest Rattler in Bend, Ore., July 20, 2016. The exercise allowed Marines to work with the U.S. Forest service to complete various projects while honing their skills and giving back to the community.

U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit clear a water treatment facility at Koror, Palau, July 21, 2016. The Marines are conducting training in Palau to ensure familiarity with Palau's complex urban environment. The training events were planned out with local authorities to provide an opportunity for realistic training with minimal inconvenience to the community and environment. - U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit clear a water treatment facility at Koror, Palau, July 21, 2016. The Marines are conducting training in Palau to ensure familiarity with Palau's complex urban environment. The training events were planned out with local authorities to provide an opportunity for realistic training with minimal inconvenience to the community and environment.

Ed Maziarski (left) and Jake Feeney of Reconnaissance and Amphibious Raids at Marine Corps Systems Command prepare a diver propulsion device for testing July 18 at Lake Anna in Spotsylvania, Virginia. The team worked with Marine combatant divers to conduct tests of potential upgrades to the DPD to improve its speed and controllability. - Ed Maziarski (left) and Jake Feeney of Reconnaissance and Amphibious Raids at Marine Corps Systems Command prepare a diver propulsion device for testing July 18 at Lake Anna in Spotsylvania, Virginia. The team worked with Marine combatant divers to conduct tests of potential upgrades to the DPD to improve its speed and controllability.

U.S. Marines with Fuels platoon and Headquarters and Service Company, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, carry a simulated casualty to an evacuation point while conducting company level training during exercise Eagle Wrath 2016 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, July 21, 2016. MWSS-171 conducts this exercise once a year in order to train all the Marines within the squadron, enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. During this training, the company commanders have the opportunity to train their personnel and prepare for the final culminating event where Marines will construct and defend a landing zone and refueling point. - U.S. Marines with Fuels platoon and Headquarters and Service Company, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, carry a simulated casualty to an evacuation point while conducting company level training during exercise Eagle Wrath 2016 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, July 21, 2016. MWSS-171 conducts this exercise once a year in order to train all the Marines within the squadron, enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. During this training, the company commanders have the opportunity to train their personnel and prepare for the final culminating event where Marines will construct and defend a landing zone and refueling point.

Cpl. Christopher Neumann reviews his objectives during a close air support exercise at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 19, 2016. Neumann is participating in Rim of the Pacific 2016, a multinational military exercise, from June 29 to Aug. 8 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. RIMPAC offers the U.S. military the opportunity to train with partners and allies in the Pacific region. Neumann, a native of Wells, Maine, is a UH-1Y Huey crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, which supports III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Christopher Neumann reviews his objectives during a close air support exercise at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 19, 2016. Neumann is participating in Rim of the Pacific 2016, a multinational military exercise, from June 29 to Aug. 8 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. RIMPAC offers the U.S. military the opportunity to train with partners and allies in the Pacific region. Neumann, a native of Wells, Maine, is a UH-1Y Huey crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, which supports III Marine Expeditionary Force.

An M1A1 Abrams battle tank with Fox Company, 4th Tank Battalion, drives to an objective as a part of a combined arms breaching exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune N.C., July 22, 2016. Elements from a Marine engineer unit worked with 4th Tanks to clear obstacles to make way for the infantry. - An M1A1 Abrams battle tank with Fox Company, 4th Tank Battalion, drives to an objective as a part of a combined arms breaching exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune N.C., July 22, 2016. Elements from a Marine engineer unit worked with 4th Tanks to clear obstacles to make way for the infantry.

1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program. - 1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program.

Pilots with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 exit F-35B Lightning II’s after conducting training during exercise Red Flag 16-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 20, 2016. This is the first time that the fifth generation fighter has participated in the multiservice air-to-air combat training exercise. - Pilots with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 exit F-35B Lightning II’s after conducting training during exercise Red Flag 16-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 20, 2016. This is the first time that the fifth generation fighter has participated in the multiservice air-to-air combat training exercise.

Lance Cpl. Thomas Devito, a boat operator with Bridge Company Bravo, 6th Engineer Support Company, guides an M977 heavy expanded mobility tactical truck across the continuous span bridge during Exercise River Assault on Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, July 19, 2016. The Marines spent two weeks operating Mk3 bridge erection boats, and practicing connecting all the IRBs in preparation for the final exercise, which was a continuous IRB span across the Arkansas River. - Lance Cpl. Thomas Devito, a boat operator with Bridge Company Bravo, 6th Engineer Support Company, guides an M977 heavy expanded mobility tactical truck across the continuous span bridge during Exercise River Assault on Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, July 19, 2016. The Marines spent two weeks operating Mk3 bridge erection boats, and practicing connecting all the IRBs in preparation for the final exercise, which was a continuous IRB span across the Arkansas River.

Marine students with the Fast Rope Masters Course, ran by Expeditionary Operations Training Group, enter a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during elevator drills at Landing Zone Kingfisher, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 13, 2016. The week-long course is the first of its kind and focuses on qualifying Marines as subject matter experts and gives them the ability to execute fast rope training within their subordinate command. - Marine students with the Fast Rope Masters Course, ran by Expeditionary Operations Training Group, enter a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during elevator drills at Landing Zone Kingfisher, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 13, 2016. The week-long course is the first of its kind and focuses on qualifying Marines as subject matter experts and gives them the ability to execute fast rope training within their subordinate command.

1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program. - 1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program.

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Sgt. Anthony Carbajal, an explosive ordnance disposal team leader with 2nd EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, removes dirt surrounding a controlled improvised explosive device during a training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 19, 2016. The unit conducted the training to test the effects of different types of excavation charges. - Sgt. Anthony Carbajal, an explosive ordnance disposal team leader with 2nd EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, removes dirt surrounding a controlled improvised explosive device during a training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 19, 2016. The unit conducted the training to test the effects of different types of excavation charges.

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U.S. Marines with 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island, July 8, 2016. 22nd MEU, deployed with the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. - U.S. Marines with 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island, July 8, 2016. 22nd MEU, deployed with the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

Marines with Battery Q, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, fire a M777A2 Howitzer during their annual training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 16, 2016. Annual training exercises ensures that Reserve Marines are trained and prepared for any future operation or contingency. - Marines with Battery Q, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, fire a M777A2 Howitzer during their annual training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 16, 2016. Annual training exercises ensures that Reserve Marines are trained and prepared for any future operation or contingency.

Gunnery Sgt. Brandon Watson (center), project coordinator for Innovative Readiness Training Old Harbor, Alaska, briefs a group of distinguished visitors from different military branches and civilian agencies July 11, 2016. IRT Old Harbor is part of a civil and joint military program to improve military readiness while simultaneously providing quality services to underserved communities throughout the United States. - Gunnery Sgt. Brandon Watson (center), project coordinator for Innovative Readiness Training Old Harbor, Alaska, briefs a group of distinguished visitors from different military branches and civilian agencies July 11, 2016. IRT Old Harbor is part of a civil and joint military program to improve military readiness while simultaneously providing quality services to underserved communities throughout the United States.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Max T. Humphreys (center) discusses gear and personnel movement during the 2nd Royal Australian Regiment's arrival to port at Kawaihae Pier, Hawaii from the HMAS Canberra, July 12, 2016. The soldiers and Marines are participating in Rim of the Pacific 2016, a multinational military exercise, from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. RIMPAC enables units to integrate joint and combined capabilities to conduct amphibious, offensive, defensive, and stability operations. Humphreys, a native of Pueblo, Colorado, is an embarkation specialist with Transportation Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, which supports III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Max T. Humphreys (center) discusses gear and personnel movement during the 2nd Royal Australian Regiment's arrival to port at Kawaihae Pier, Hawaii from the HMAS Canberra, July 12, 2016. The soldiers and Marines are participating in Rim of the Pacific 2016, a multinational military exercise, from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. RIMPAC enables units to integrate joint and combined capabilities to conduct amphibious, offensive, defensive, and stability operations. Humphreys, a native of Pueblo, Colorado, is an embarkation specialist with Transportation Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, which supports III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Sgt. Jarrod Roper receives help from Sgt. Christian Nelson as he dons his gear during a training exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., July 12, 2016. The training further refined the interoperability between MCAS Cherry Point’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal and 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense. Roper and Nelson are CBRN defense specialist with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2. - Sgt. Jarrod Roper receives help from Sgt. Christian Nelson as he dons his gear during a training exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., July 12, 2016. The training further refined the interoperability between MCAS Cherry Point’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal and 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense. Roper and Nelson are CBRN defense specialist with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2.

Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment tenses up when struck with the tasers barbs during a non-lethal weapons course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 15, 2016. Throughout the course they learned about various take-down techniques utilizing a police baton, riot control formations and tactics as well as the function and result of using a taser. - Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment tenses up when struck with the tasers barbs during a non-lethal weapons course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 15, 2016. Throughout the course they learned about various take-down techniques utilizing a police baton, riot control formations and tactics as well as the function and result of using a taser.

Deputy sheriffs with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Special Weapons and Tactics Team clear a building in the military operations in urban terrain facility at Range 800 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 12, 2016. The Combat Center’s Special Reaction Team hosted the cross-training to provide SBCSD with insight of the Marine Corps’ tactics capabilities. - Deputy sheriffs with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Special Weapons and Tactics Team clear a building in the military operations in urban terrain facility at Range 800 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 12, 2016. The Combat Center’s Special Reaction Team hosted the cross-training to provide SBCSD with insight of the Marine Corps’ tactics capabilities.

A combat controller from the 320th Special Tactics Squadron clears a UH-60 Blackhawk for takeoff during a humanitarian assistance and disaster response as part of Rim of the Pacific 2016, at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 10, 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2016 is the 25th exercise in the series that began in 1971. - A combat controller from the 320th Special Tactics Squadron clears a UH-60 Blackhawk for takeoff during a humanitarian assistance and disaster response as part of Rim of the Pacific 2016, at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 10, 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2016 is the 25th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

Cpl. Mitchell York, a rifleman with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, rushes forward during a simulated contact left attack during a patrolling exercise with Cameroonian soldiers with Forces Fusiliers Marins et Palmeurs de Combat in Limbé, Cameroon, June 28, 2016. Marines share tactics, techniques and skills with the FORFUMAPCO soldiers to combat the illicit trafficking in Cameroon. - Cpl. Mitchell York, a rifleman with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, rushes forward during a simulated contact left attack during a patrolling exercise with Cameroonian soldiers with Forces Fusiliers Marins et Palmeurs de Combat in Limbé, Cameroon, June 28, 2016. Marines share tactics, techniques and skills with the FORFUMAPCO soldiers to combat the illicit trafficking in Cameroon.

U.S. Marines with Company B, 3rd Assault Amphibious Battalion, depart Mexican Navy’s ARM Usumacinta (A-412), in an amphibious assault vehicle at Naval Base San Diego, as part of AAV operation training during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. - U.S. Marines with Company B, 3rd Assault Amphibious Battalion, depart Mexican Navy’s ARM Usumacinta (A-412), in an amphibious assault vehicle at Naval Base San Diego, as part of AAV operation training during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California.

Chief of Staff of the Royal Thai Fleet, Vice Admiral Panu Punyavirocha, left, speaks with Commandant of the Royal Thai Marine Corps, Vice Admiral Ratanah Vongsarojn, during the USPACOM Amphibious Leaders Symposium on U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 13, 2016. PALS brings together senior leaders of allied and partner nations from the Indo-Asia Pacific region to discuss key aspects of maritime/amphibious operations, capability development, crisis response, and interoperability. Twenty-two allied and partnered nations, including the U.S. are participating. - Chief of Staff of the Royal Thai Fleet, Vice Admiral Panu Punyavirocha, left, speaks with Commandant of the Royal Thai Marine Corps, Vice Admiral Ratanah Vongsarojn, during the USPACOM Amphibious Leaders Symposium on U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 13, 2016. PALS brings together senior leaders of allied and partner nations from the Indo-Asia Pacific region to discuss key aspects of maritime/amphibious operations, capability development, crisis response, and interoperability. Twenty-two allied and partnered nations, including the U.S. are participating.

A Landing Craft Air Cushioned vehicle assigned to the USS Arlington (LPD-24), 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, makes its way to the beach-head during a training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 20, 2016. The 22nd MEU worked with students from Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools to show knowledge of real world operations. - A Landing Craft Air Cushioned vehicle assigned to the USS Arlington (LPD-24), 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, makes its way to the beach-head during a training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 20, 2016. The 22nd MEU worked with students from Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools to show knowledge of real world operations.

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Cpl. Ivan A. Barbosa, a heavy equipment operator with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, operates a 624KR TRAM during a partner-nation construction project between Honduran service members and U.S. Marines at Puerto Castilla, Honduras, June 24, 2016. The Marines worked side by side with Honduran engineers on different construction and restoration projects, and shared knowledge and experience on techniques including maintenance and operation of heavy equipment. - Cpl. Ivan A. Barbosa, a heavy equipment operator with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, operates a 624KR TRAM during a partner-nation construction project between Honduran service members and U.S. Marines at Puerto Castilla, Honduras, June 24, 2016. The Marines worked side by side with Honduran engineers on different construction and restoration projects, and shared knowledge and experience on techniques including maintenance and operation of heavy equipment.

Landing support specialists with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa, await the arrival of an MV-22B Osprey during a helicopter support team exercise at Naval Station Rota, Spain, July 6, 2016. This training prepares Marines to deliver and recover supplies quickly and efficiently in potential future missions across Europe and Africa. - Landing support specialists with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa, await the arrival of an MV-22B Osprey during a helicopter support team exercise at Naval Station Rota, Spain, July 6, 2016. This training prepares Marines to deliver and recover supplies quickly and efficiently in potential future missions across Europe and Africa.

U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Doug Crowder (Ret.) speaks to the participants attending the USPACOM Amphibious Leaders Symposium in San Diego, California, July 11, 2016. PALS brings together senior leaders of allied and partner nations from the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to discuss key aspects of maritime/amphibious operations, capability development, crisis response, and interoperability. Twenty-two allied and partnered nations, including the U.S. are participating. - U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Doug Crowder (Ret.) speaks to the participants attending the USPACOM Amphibious Leaders Symposium in San Diego, California, July 11, 2016. PALS brings together senior leaders of allied and partner nations from the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to discuss key aspects of maritime/amphibious operations, capability development, crisis response, and interoperability. Twenty-two allied and partnered nations, including the U.S. are participating.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Weapons Company, Scout Sniper Platoon, fast rope from an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 30. The ability to fast rope enables Marines to insert into an area or structure without landing the aircraft, eliminating the need for a landing zone. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Weapons Company, Scout Sniper Platoon, fast rope from an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 30. The ability to fast rope enables Marines to insert into an area or structure without landing the aircraft, eliminating the need for a landing zone.

Marines and Sailors with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force unit participated in an all hands on gas mask drill on June 7. 2016. at the Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Md. The Gas Mask Drill was to ensure all the Marines and Sailors are proficient to meet the nine second limit to successfully put on a gas mask in case of any real threat. The drill is necessary to ensure CBIRF’s ability to be ready at any moment’s notice. - Marines and Sailors with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force unit participated in an all hands on gas mask drill on June 7. 2016. at the Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Md. The Gas Mask Drill was to ensure all the Marines and Sailors are proficient to meet the nine second limit to successfully put on a gas mask in case of any real threat. The drill is necessary to ensure CBIRF’s ability to be ready at any moment’s notice.

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Master Sgt. Berle Sigman, a student in the Faculty Advisors Course at the Quantico Staff Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, completes a High Intensity Tactical Training physical training session aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, June 27, with Master Gunnery Sgt. Amber Hecht, a lead instructor in the FAC. Sigman, whose original Military Occupational Specialty was 0369 Infantryman, will teach warfighting classes at the SNCO Academy after he gradutes from the course on June 29. He was injured in Ramadi, Iraq in 2004, leading to the loss of his leg. - Master Sgt. Berle Sigman, a student in the Faculty Advisors Course at the Quantico Staff Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, completes a High Intensity Tactical Training physical training session aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, June 27, with Master Gunnery Sgt. Amber Hecht, a lead instructor in the FAC. Sigman, whose original Military Occupational Specialty was 0369 Infantryman, will teach warfighting classes at the SNCO Academy after he gradutes from the course on June 29. He was injured in Ramadi, Iraq in 2004, leading to the loss of his leg.

Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 231, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing perform a hydraulic systems inspection an AV-8B Harrier at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, June 30, 2016. By performing daily tasks and needed maintenance on the aircraft to ensure readiness, Marines maintain their squadron’s ability to deploy at a moment's notice. - Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 231, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing perform a hydraulic systems inspection an AV-8B Harrier at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, June 30, 2016. By performing daily tasks and needed maintenance on the aircraft to ensure readiness, Marines maintain their squadron’s ability to deploy at a moment's notice.

A Marine with 2nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company unearths a 155mm mortar round during a field training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 30, 2016. The exercise consisted of multiple tasks that an EOD technician might face while deployed, which tested their abilities to safely find, evaluate and dispose of unexploded ordnance. - A Marine with 2nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company unearths a 155mm mortar round during a field training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 30, 2016. The exercise consisted of multiple tasks that an EOD technician might face while deployed, which tested their abilities to safely find, evaluate and dispose of unexploded ordnance.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Colby Goranson, a radio operator with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa, works with Portuguese soldiers to set up communications equipment during Exercise Orion 16 at military training area Tancos, Portugal, June 22, 2016. Exercise Orion is an annual crisis response operation hosted by the Portuguese military, bringing together forces from Portugal, Spain and the U.S. to enhance interoperability among NATO forces. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Colby Goranson, a radio operator with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa, works with Portuguese soldiers to set up communications equipment during Exercise Orion 16 at military training area Tancos, Portugal, June 22, 2016. Exercise Orion is an annual crisis response operation hosted by the Portuguese military, bringing together forces from Portugal, Spain and the U.S. to enhance interoperability among NATO forces.

The Marine Corps has announced today that revisions have been made to its physical fitness program, to include the Physical Fitness Test (PFT), Combat Fitness Test (CFT) and the Body Composition Program (BCP). Changes to BCP will take effect immediately, while PFT and CFT changes will be implemented starting Jan. 1, 2017. - The Marine Corps has announced today that revisions have been made to its physical fitness program, to include the Physical Fitness Test (PFT), Combat Fitness Test (CFT) and the Body Composition Program (BCP). Changes to BCP will take effect immediately, while PFT and CFT changes will be implemented starting Jan. 1, 2017.

Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa pose for a picture with the Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando in Thies, Senegal, June 22, 2016. Marines and the COFUMACO conducted a three-week training exercise that included advanced combat firing techniques, a machine gun range and a live-fire platoon attack range. - Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa pose for a picture with the Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando in Thies, Senegal, June 22, 2016. Marines and the COFUMACO conducted a three-week training exercise that included advanced combat firing techniques, a machine gun range and a live-fire platoon attack range.

The F-35B made its first trans-Atlantic flight June 29, 2016. Three F-35’s flew from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in South Carolina and landed at Royal Air Force Base Fairford in Gloucestershire, England. They were assisted by two KC-10’s, and refueled 15 times over the Atlantic. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Brian Burdett/Released) - The F-35B made its first trans-Atlantic flight June 29, 2016. Three F-35’s flew from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in South Carolina and landed at Royal Air Force Base Fairford in Gloucestershire, England. They were assisted by two KC-10’s, and refueled 15 times over the Atlantic. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Brian Burdett/Released)

Brig. Gen. Christopher J. Mahoney, left, and Bill A. Miller cut a cake during the Diplomatic Security Service Centennial ceremony at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, Virginia, June 29, 2016. The ceremony also celebrated the 70th Anniversary of the Marine Corps Embassy Security Group, which has been working alongside the DSS since 1946. Miller is the director of DSS and Mahoney is the director of Strategy and Plans Division, Plans, Policies and Operations, Headquarters Marine Corps. - Brig. Gen. Christopher J. Mahoney, left, and Bill A. Miller cut a cake during the Diplomatic Security Service Centennial ceremony at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, Virginia, June 29, 2016. The ceremony also celebrated the 70th Anniversary of the Marine Corps Embassy Security Group, which has been working alongside the DSS since 1946. Miller is the director of DSS and Mahoney is the director of Strategy and Plans Division, Plans, Policies and Operations, Headquarters Marine Corps.

A Marine with Bulk Fuel Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, assists in setting up an amphibious assault fuel system at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 24, 2016. A completed AAFS can hold approximately 1.12 million gallons of fuel, which is capable of supporting an entire Marine Expeditionary Force. - A Marine with Bulk Fuel Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, assists in setting up an amphibious assault fuel system at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 24, 2016. A completed AAFS can hold approximately 1.12 million gallons of fuel, which is capable of supporting an entire Marine Expeditionary Force.

An 8-man team from Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, CBIRF, represented the unit with 74 other American service members during Exercise United Front V in Israel, June 17-25, 2016. Other units that participated in the exercise included the Indiana 19th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High-Yield Explosive Enhanced Response Force Package – 19th CERF-P, Indiana Task Force 1, Virginia Task Force 1, Bloomington Fire Department, Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region, and 120th Public Affairs Department.The exercise, hosted by the Israeli Defense Force and coordinated by the Indiana National Guard, strengthened existing bilateral relationships by ensuring interoperability with other military services, and civilian as well as international agencies to improve search and extraction capabilities of all participating units. (Courtesy Photo) - An 8-man team from Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, CBIRF, represented the unit with 74 other American service members during Exercise United Front V in Israel, June 17-25, 2016. Other units that participated in the exercise included the Indiana 19th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High-Yield Explosive Enhanced Response Force Package – 19th CERF-P, Indiana Task Force 1, Virginia Task Force 1, Bloomington Fire Department, Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region, and 120th Public Affairs Department.The exercise, hosted by the Israeli Defense Force and coordinated by the Indiana National Guard, strengthened existing bilateral relationships by ensuring interoperability with other military services, and civilian as well as international agencies to improve search and extraction capabilities of all participating units. (Courtesy Photo)

Members of the All-Marine running team pose for a picture at the end of the Torbay Half Marathon at Torbay, England, June 26, 2016. The All-Marine running team placed first in the Warriors of the Sea Challenge, a competition that has taken place between the U.S. Marine Corps and the Royal Naval team since 1980. - Members of the All-Marine running team pose for a picture at the end of the Torbay Half Marathon at Torbay, England, June 26, 2016. The All-Marine running team placed first in the Warriors of the Sea Challenge, a competition that has taken place between the U.S. Marine Corps and the Royal Naval team since 1980.

Marines and sailors with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force train alongside the Fire Department of New York for a field training exercise at the F.D.N.Y. training academy in Randall’s Island, N.Y. June 20, 2016. CBIRF is an active duty Marine Corps unit that, when directed, forward-deploys and/or responds with minimal warning to a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or high-yield explosive threat or event in order to assist local, state, or federal agencies and the geographic combatant commanders in the conduct of CBRNE response or consequence management operations, providing capabilities for command and control; agent detection and identification; search, rescue, and decontamination; and emergency medical care for contaminated personnel. - Marines and sailors with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force train alongside the Fire Department of New York for a field training exercise at the F.D.N.Y. training academy in Randall’s Island, N.Y. June 20, 2016. CBIRF is an active duty Marine Corps unit that, when directed, forward-deploys and/or responds with minimal warning to a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or high-yield explosive threat or event in order to assist local, state, or federal agencies and the geographic combatant commanders in the conduct of CBRNE response or consequence management operations, providing capabilities for command and control; agent detection and identification; search, rescue, and decontamination; and emergency medical care for contaminated personnel.

Marines with Company B, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, train in a simulated African village where they conduct patrols and defend a village from insurgents operating nearby during a training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 23, 2016. Marines were able to practice tactics, communication within the unit, and combat readiness in a realistic training scenario, which better prepared them for a deployed environment. - Marines with Company B, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, train in a simulated African village where they conduct patrols and defend a village from insurgents operating nearby during a training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 23, 2016. Marines were able to practice tactics, communication within the unit, and combat readiness in a realistic training scenario, which better prepared them for a deployed environment.

Gunnery Sgt. Sasha Chandler, intelligence analyst, briefs military officers participating in the command and control training of Phase II during exercise Tradewinds 2016, at Up Park Camp, Jamaica, June 24, 2016. Tradewinds includes both maritime and land phases, which will further enhance opportunities for participating countries to improve their security and disaster assistance capabilities. - Gunnery Sgt. Sasha Chandler, intelligence analyst, briefs military officers participating in the command and control training of Phase II during exercise Tradewinds 2016, at Up Park Camp, Jamaica, June 24, 2016. Tradewinds includes both maritime and land phases, which will further enhance opportunities for participating countries to improve their security and disaster assistance capabilities.

Papua New Guinea soldiers and U.S. Marines and Sailors stand in formation during the opening remarks for Exercise Koa Moana, June 18, 2016, at Taurama Barracks, Papua New Guinea. The multi-national, bilateral exercise is designed to improve interoperability and relations through mil-to-mil training and by sharing infantry, engineering, medical and law enforcement skills. - Papua New Guinea soldiers and U.S. Marines and Sailors stand in formation during the opening remarks for Exercise Koa Moana, June 18, 2016, at Taurama Barracks, Papua New Guinea. The multi-national, bilateral exercise is designed to improve interoperability and relations through mil-to-mil training and by sharing infantry, engineering, medical and law enforcement skills.

Lance Cpl. Abraham U. Aaron prepares to cross a notional danger zone during a patrol, June 19, 2016, at Taurama Barracks, Papua New Guinea, as part of Exercise Koa Moana. This is the first occasion for the Papua New Guinea and U.S. Marines to train directly. Koa Moana is a multi-national, bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and relations by sharing infantry, engineering, law enforcement and medical skills. - Lance Cpl. Abraham U. Aaron prepares to cross a notional danger zone during a patrol, June 19, 2016, at Taurama Barracks, Papua New Guinea, as part of Exercise Koa Moana. This is the first occasion for the Papua New Guinea and U.S. Marines to train directly. Koa Moana is a multi-national, bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and relations by sharing infantry, engineering, law enforcement and medical skills.