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Marines with Company B, 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, run through smoke during a live-fire assault on Military Operations on Urban Terrain town located at Range 210 in the Combat Center training area March 24, 2016, as part of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation Exercise. 3rd LAR conducted a five-day MCCREE to evaluate the combat readiness of B Co. - Marines with Company B, 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, run through smoke during a live-fire assault on Military Operations on Urban Terrain town located at Range 210 in the Combat Center training area March 24, 2016, as part of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation Exercise. 3rd LAR conducted a five-day MCCREE to evaluate the combat readiness of B Co.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Andrew Gabriel, right, a scout sniper with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, presents Ambassador Douglas A. Silliman, the U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait, with a gift during the Corporals Course graduation ceremony in Kuwait on March 25, 2016. The corporals’ leadership program is designed to provide instruction for tasks developed in accordance with Marine Corps Order 1510.90, Individual Training Standards. Corporals Course is a professional military education requirement for all corporals to complete in order to be qualified for promotion. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Andrew Gabriel, right, a scout sniper with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, presents Ambassador Douglas A. Silliman, the U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait, with a gift during the Corporals Course graduation ceremony in Kuwait on March 25, 2016. The corporals’ leadership program is designed to provide instruction for tasks developed in accordance with Marine Corps Order 1510.90, Individual Training Standards. Corporals Course is a professional military education requirement for all corporals to complete in order to be qualified for promotion.

Marines coordinate fires for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during an M142 HIMARS live fire exercise at Camp Pendleton March 16, 2016. During the exercise, Marines coordinated fires based on hypothetical combat situations they might encounter while deployed. The HIMARS rounds are aided by Global Positioning System (GPS) technology and can travel to altitudes up to 75 kilometers and can precisely engage targets up to 40 miles away. The Marines are with Battery S, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines coordinate fires for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during an M142 HIMARS live fire exercise at Camp Pendleton March 16, 2016. During the exercise, Marines coordinated fires based on hypothetical combat situations they might encounter while deployed. The HIMARS rounds are aided by Global Positioning System (GPS) technology and can travel to altitudes up to 75 kilometers and can precisely engage targets up to 40 miles away. The Marines are with Battery S, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit ground guides a Tractor, Rubber-tired Articulated, Multi-purpose vehicle to load equipment onto a Landing Craft Air Cushion assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7 during Exercise Ssang Yong 16, Dogu Beach, Pohang, South Korea, March 17, 2016. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces in order to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed aboard the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group as part of their spring deployment of the Asia-Pacific region. - A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit ground guides a Tractor, Rubber-tired Articulated, Multi-purpose vehicle to load equipment onto a Landing Craft Air Cushion assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7 during Exercise Ssang Yong 16, Dogu Beach, Pohang, South Korea, March 17, 2016. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces in order to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed aboard the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group as part of their spring deployment of the Asia-Pacific region.

Dutch Marines with 32nd Raiding Company provide security in a Mercedes-Benz G-class utility vehicle for a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement 7-ton during a casualty evacuation exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The Dutch Marines spent the past three weeks utilizing Camp Lejeune’s training facilities, as well as cross-trained with U.S. Marines to learn and share tactics, techniques and procedures. - Dutch Marines with 32nd Raiding Company provide security in a Mercedes-Benz G-class utility vehicle for a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement 7-ton during a casualty evacuation exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The Dutch Marines spent the past three weeks utilizing Camp Lejeune’s training facilities, as well as cross-trained with U.S. Marines to learn and share tactics, techniques and procedures.

Brig. Gen. Lori E. Reynolds, the commanding general of Marine Forces cyberspace Command, speaks to the audience during the activation of command ceremony of Marine Corps Cyberspace Warfare Group at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, March 25, 2016. The mission of MCCYWG is to man, train and equip Marine Cyberspace mission teams to perform both defensive and offensive cyber operations in support of United States Cyber Command and Marine Forces Cyberspace Command. - Brig. Gen. Lori E. Reynolds, the commanding general of Marine Forces cyberspace Command, speaks to the audience during the activation of command ceremony of Marine Corps Cyberspace Warfare Group at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, March 25, 2016. The mission of MCCYWG is to man, train and equip Marine Cyberspace mission teams to perform both defensive and offensive cyber operations in support of United States Cyber Command and Marine Forces Cyberspace Command.

Lt. Col. Kris Faught speaks to Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2 before the first RQ-21A Blackjack flight into Class D airspace over Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, March 21, 2016. The RQ-21A Blackjack system is modular, flexible and multi-mission capable, providing roll-on, roll-off transitions between land and maritime environments. Faught is the commanding officer of VMU-2. - Lt. Col. Kris Faught speaks to Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2 before the first RQ-21A Blackjack flight into Class D airspace over Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, March 21, 2016. The RQ-21A Blackjack system is modular, flexible and multi-mission capable, providing roll-on, roll-off transitions between land and maritime environments. Faught is the commanding officer of VMU-2.

A Marine with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion breaches a door with a Mossberg 500 shotgun during the assault breaching portion of the battalion’s sapper squad competition at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The competition was organized to determine the most proficient squads in the battalion while simultaneously challenging squads in the execution of combat engineer-based tasks. - A Marine with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion breaches a door with a Mossberg 500 shotgun during the assault breaching portion of the battalion’s sapper squad competition at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The competition was organized to determine the most proficient squads in the battalion while simultaneously challenging squads in the execution of combat engineer-based tasks.

A Marine with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion performs rifle drills during a combat marksmanship program led by Expeditionary Operations Training Group March 17, 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. The shooting package helps to better prepare these Marines for an upcoming deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - A Marine with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion performs rifle drills during a combat marksmanship program led by Expeditionary Operations Training Group March 17, 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. The shooting package helps to better prepare these Marines for an upcoming deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988. - U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988.

Marines operating a Light Armored Vehicle with 2nd Light-Armored Reconnaissance Battalion swiftly move to a new position for the next course of fire during the unit’s annual gunnery qualification at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 18, 2016. The purpose of the training was to increase readiness and ensure that the Marines maintain their proficiency employing the weapons. - Marines operating a Light Armored Vehicle with 2nd Light-Armored Reconnaissance Battalion swiftly move to a new position for the next course of fire during the unit’s annual gunnery qualification at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 18, 2016. The purpose of the training was to increase readiness and ensure that the Marines maintain their proficiency employing the weapons.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 drive stakes into the ground around the perimeter of a vertical take-off and landing pad during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, March 17, 2016. The MCCRE, which went from March 14-18, tested MWSS-272’s ability to build an AM-2 aluminum matting V/TOL pad ready to accept incoming aircraft. MWSS-272 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 drive stakes into the ground around the perimeter of a vertical take-off and landing pad during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, March 17, 2016. The MCCRE, which went from March 14-18, tested MWSS-272’s ability to build an AM-2 aluminum matting V/TOL pad ready to accept incoming aircraft. MWSS-272 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.

Buddy Steshka, a technical support specialist at ManTech International Corporation, explains a program created by a Marine Corps Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Enterprise Accelerator team. The program is being used to help intelligence Marines do their job. - Buddy Steshka, a technical support specialist at ManTech International Corporation, explains a program created by a Marine Corps Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Enterprise Accelerator team. The program is being used to help intelligence Marines do their job.

Senegalese soldiers completed a month-long training exercise with U.S. Marines, March 18, at a military training facility in Thies, Senegal. U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, trained their counterparts with Senegal’s Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando, or COFUMACO, in infantry tactics, making this the 10th training engagement the forces. In an effort to combat illicit trafficking in the region, the Marines were in Senegal at the request of the host nation government in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. The Marines trained with the COFUMACO in Toubacouta in the southern part of the country for two weeks before moving up to Thies. - Senegalese soldiers completed a month-long training exercise with U.S. Marines, March 18, at a military training facility in Thies, Senegal. U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, trained their counterparts with Senegal’s Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando, or COFUMACO, in infantry tactics, making this the 10th training engagement the forces. In an effort to combat illicit trafficking in the region, the Marines were in Senegal at the request of the host nation government in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. The Marines trained with the COFUMACO in Toubacouta in the southern part of the country for two weeks before moving up to Thies.

Cpl. Joseph Currey, left, salutes Lt. Col. Jeremy Winters, right, during an award ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, March 1, 2016. Currey was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his actions after witnessing an ambulance wreck. Currey demonstrated his devotion to serving others as he placed the well-being of the injured personnel above his own by running towards the scene of an accident and rendering aide to those need. Currey is an air support operations operator with Marine Aviation Support Squadron 1. - Cpl. Joseph Currey, left, salutes Lt. Col. Jeremy Winters, right, during an award ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, March 1, 2016. Currey was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his actions after witnessing an ambulance wreck. Currey demonstrated his devotion to serving others as he placed the well-being of the injured personnel above his own by running towards the scene of an accident and rendering aide to those need. Currey is an air support operations operator with Marine Aviation Support Squadron 1.

Sgt. Matthew Parker (ret.) speaks to a group of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment Marines during his Silver Star ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 18, 2016. Parker was awarded the Silver Star for his courageous actions during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2011, where assumed control of his platoon during a firefight after several leaders had been injured. - Sgt. Matthew Parker (ret.) speaks to a group of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment Marines during his Silver Star ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 18, 2016. Parker was awarded the Silver Star for his courageous actions during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2011, where assumed control of his platoon during a firefight after several leaders had been injured.

The local community lined the streets and cheered on the ruckers as they finished the Marine Raider Memorial March outside the Stone Bay main gate, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 21, 2016. The Marine Raider Memorial March was designed to honor the seven Marine Raiders who died on March 10, 2015 and their families, as well as bring awareness to their sacrifice. The ruckers were made up of both active duty and former Raiders, family members, and close friends. Following the conclusion of the March there was a short ceremony to honor the fallen. - The local community lined the streets and cheered on the ruckers as they finished the Marine Raider Memorial March outside the Stone Bay main gate, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 21, 2016. The Marine Raider Memorial March was designed to honor the seven Marine Raiders who died on March 10, 2015 and their families, as well as bring awareness to their sacrifice. The ruckers were made up of both active duty and former Raiders, family members, and close friends. Following the conclusion of the March there was a short ceremony to honor the fallen.

A pilot greets his family at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, March 15, 2016. More than 180 Marines and 10 F/A-18D Hornet aircraft have been deployed to the Western Pacific since October 2015 as part of the Unit Deployment Program. The pilot is with VMFA(AW)-224. - A pilot greets his family at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, March 15, 2016. More than 180 Marines and 10 F/A-18D Hornet aircraft have been deployed to the Western Pacific since October 2015 as part of the Unit Deployment Program. The pilot is with VMFA(AW)-224.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Jesse Kimble, an instructor with Training Cell, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, demonstrates a sniper’s standing firing position to snipers of the Special Operations Battalion, Brazilian Marine Corps, during a subject matter expert exchange at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 16, 2016. Snipers from both countries gathered to exchange knowledge and experiences regarding techniques and procedures used by snipers from their respective militaries. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Jesse Kimble, an instructor with Training Cell, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, demonstrates a sniper’s standing firing position to snipers of the Special Operations Battalion, Brazilian Marine Corps, during a subject matter expert exchange at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 16, 2016. Snipers from both countries gathered to exchange knowledge and experiences regarding techniques and procedures used by snipers from their respective militaries.

Cpl. Zachary Summers, a radio operator with 3rd Radio Battalion, combat glides toward a target shooting his M9 Service Pistol during a Pacific Combat Shooting Match at the Kaneohe Bay Range Training Facility aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 16, 2016. Teams from different units used various weapons and tactics to achieve the fastest time possible on different courses of fire, while earning points for awards during the competition. Marines from the Marine Corps Combat Shooting Team instructed and gave advice to the Marines participating in the event. - Cpl. Zachary Summers, a radio operator with 3rd Radio Battalion, combat glides toward a target shooting his M9 Service Pistol during a Pacific Combat Shooting Match at the Kaneohe Bay Range Training Facility aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 16, 2016. Teams from different units used various weapons and tactics to achieve the fastest time possible on different courses of fire, while earning points for awards during the competition. Marines from the Marine Corps Combat Shooting Team instructed and gave advice to the Marines participating in the event.

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Inert grenades (dummy), non-exploding practice tools, sit on a table where Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion will pick them up before taking part in an assault course with grenade training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 16, 2016. This drill is part of an annual training event to prepare them for combat situations when they are called upon to deploy. Marines took turns providing cover fire for their partner, allowing them to throw a dummy grenade near the simulated enemy position. - Inert grenades (dummy), non-exploding practice tools, sit on a table where Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion will pick them up before taking part in an assault course with grenade training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 16, 2016. This drill is part of an annual training event to prepare them for combat situations when they are called upon to deploy. Marines took turns providing cover fire for their partner, allowing them to throw a dummy grenade near the simulated enemy position.

From left, U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dave Hermansen and Lance Cpl. Jabril Giannotti, mortarmen, and Sgt. Jack Williams, a squad leader, all assigned to Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire a 81mm training mortar with the M252A2 mortar system during Ssang Yong 16 at Suseongri, South Korea, March 15, 2016. Ssang Yong familiarizes American armed forces with the Korean Peninsula and contributes to the security and stability of the Asia-Pacific region. Hermansen is a native of Westbrook, Connecticut. Giannotti is a native of Highland Park, New Jersey. Williams is a native of Pilot Point, Texas. - From left, U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dave Hermansen and Lance Cpl. Jabril Giannotti, mortarmen, and Sgt. Jack Williams, a squad leader, all assigned to Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire a 81mm training mortar with the M252A2 mortar system during Ssang Yong 16 at Suseongri, South Korea, March 15, 2016. Ssang Yong familiarizes American armed forces with the Korean Peninsula and contributes to the security and stability of the Asia-Pacific region. Hermansen is a native of Westbrook, Connecticut. Giannotti is a native of Highland Park, New Jersey. Williams is a native of Pilot Point, Texas.

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Artillery rounds fired by Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment make impact at Observation Post 3 during a battalion field exercise held by 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 15, 2016. The battalion coordinated with artillery, mortars and rotary-wing aircraft to direct fire support. - Artillery rounds fired by Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment make impact at Observation Post 3 during a battalion field exercise held by 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 15, 2016. The battalion coordinated with artillery, mortars and rotary-wing aircraft to direct fire support.

Members of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 and Japan Air Self-Defense pose for a photo in front of an F/A-18A and two F-15s at Komatsu Air Base, Japan, during the Komatsu Aviation Training Relocation exercise March 17, 2016. VMFA-314, home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, temporarily deployed to MCAS Iwakuni for a six month rotation with the unit deployment program, is forward deployed to Komatsu, Japan for the ATR. - Members of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 and Japan Air Self-Defense pose for a photo in front of an F/A-18A and two F-15s at Komatsu Air Base, Japan, during the Komatsu Aviation Training Relocation exercise March 17, 2016. VMFA-314, home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, temporarily deployed to MCAS Iwakuni for a six month rotation with the unit deployment program, is forward deployed to Komatsu, Japan for the ATR.

A plate and paddle carrying the names of fallen Marines will be carried by participants of a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. For the next 10 days, the ruckers will walk in seven teams and trade off every 10-11 miles, about 110 miles each, until they get there.. - A plate and paddle carrying the names of fallen Marines will be carried by participants of a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. For the next 10 days, the ruckers will walk in seven teams and trade off every 10-11 miles, about 110 miles each, until they get there..

The Marine Corps Tactical Service Orientated Architecture will allow users to request and share mission-critical information on-demand. TSOA is a software platform that will be installed in combat operation centers, allowing for the sharing of data between COCs across the Corps. This removes the need to depend on multiple independent tactical data systems, which are not always compatible. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. David Staten) - The Marine Corps Tactical Service Orientated Architecture will allow users to request and share mission-critical information on-demand. TSOA is a software platform that will be installed in combat operation centers, allowing for the sharing of data between COCs across the Corps. This removes the need to depend on multiple independent tactical data systems, which are not always compatible. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. David Staten)

An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 “Green Knights” flies alongside a KC-130J Super Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 over Southern California, March 8, 2016. The two F-35Bs completed additional training after successfully conducting an aerial refuel with VMGR-352. - An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 “Green Knights” flies alongside a KC-130J Super Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 over Southern California, March 8, 2016. The two F-35Bs completed additional training after successfully conducting an aerial refuel with VMGR-352.

A M1A1 Abram tank attached to Delta Company 1st Tank Battalion, 1st U.S. Marine Division is lifted by two pier side cranes onto amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) at Gwangyang, South Korea to prepare for the Assault Follow-On Echelon portion of Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 March 14, 2016. Ashland is assigned to the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group and is participating in SY16, a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations-from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. - A M1A1 Abram tank attached to Delta Company 1st Tank Battalion, 1st U.S. Marine Division is lifted by two pier side cranes onto amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) at Gwangyang, South Korea to prepare for the Assault Follow-On Echelon portion of Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 March 14, 2016. Ashland is assigned to the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group and is participating in SY16, a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations-from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations.

Marines give civilian media a ride in the inside the Amphibious Assault Vehicle Survivability Upgrade at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., March 15, 2016. The AAV SU, or amphibious assault vehicle survivability upgrade, will build upon the existing hull. The upgrades include additional armor, blast-mitigating seats and spall liners. They may also include fuel tank protection and automotive and suspension upgrades to keep both land and sea mobility regardless of the added weight. - Marines give civilian media a ride in the inside the Amphibious Assault Vehicle Survivability Upgrade at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., March 15, 2016. The AAV SU, or amphibious assault vehicle survivability upgrade, will build upon the existing hull. The upgrades include additional armor, blast-mitigating seats and spall liners. They may also include fuel tank protection and automotive and suspension upgrades to keep both land and sea mobility regardless of the added weight.

U.S. Marines Gunnery Sgt. Jordan Torcello and Staff Sgt. Zachary Rubemeyer, explosive ordnance disposal technicians with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, lay undetonated ordnance for a controlled detonation during Exercise Ssang Yong 16 on Suseongri live-fire range, Pohang, South Korea, March 13, 2016. Ssang Yong is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations. - U.S. Marines Gunnery Sgt. Jordan Torcello and Staff Sgt. Zachary Rubemeyer, explosive ordnance disposal technicians with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, lay undetonated ordnance for a controlled detonation during Exercise Ssang Yong 16 on Suseongri live-fire range, Pohang, South Korea, March 13, 2016. Ssang Yong is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations.

Senegalese soldiers learn how to use a pulley system and rope to remove an inert mortar round from the ground and move it safely to another spot in Bargny, Senegal March 8, 2016. The intent wasn’t to actually move the ordnance, rather to get the students familiar with different types of tools. Since Feb. 15, a group of explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, began assisting Senegalese engineers as part of the Humanitarian Mine Action Program through what is called a train-the-trainer course. - Senegalese soldiers learn how to use a pulley system and rope to remove an inert mortar round from the ground and move it safely to another spot in Bargny, Senegal March 8, 2016. The intent wasn’t to actually move the ordnance, rather to get the students familiar with different types of tools. Since Feb. 15, a group of explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, began assisting Senegalese engineers as part of the Humanitarian Mine Action Program through what is called a train-the-trainer course.

U.S. Marine Corps, Republic of Korea Marines Corps, New Zealand Army and Australian Army conduct amphibious assault training at Doksukri Beach, South Korea, March 12, 2016, during Exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial military exercise focused on strengthening the amphibious landing capabilities of the U.S. and its allies. - U.S. Marine Corps, Republic of Korea Marines Corps, New Zealand Army and Australian Army conduct amphibious assault training at Doksukri Beach, South Korea, March 12, 2016, during Exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial military exercise focused on strengthening the amphibious landing capabilities of the U.S. and its allies.

Marines with the Silent Drill Platoon affix bayonets to their rifles during a performance at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, March 11. Their performance was part of the Battle Color Ceremony aboard the air station. - Marines with the Silent Drill Platoon affix bayonets to their rifles during a performance at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, March 11. Their performance was part of the Battle Color Ceremony aboard the air station.

Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Marines take an injured Marine from an MV-22B Osprey during a simulated hard landing at Marine Corps Air Station New River March, 7, 2016. Crash fire rescue conducts the simulated drill multiple times a week to guarantee their readiness and response to emergencies. - Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Marines take an injured Marine from an MV-22B Osprey during a simulated hard landing at Marine Corps Air Station New River March, 7, 2016. Crash fire rescue conducts the simulated drill multiple times a week to guarantee their readiness and response to emergencies.

Female veterans and active duty and future Marines were united March, 11, 2016 by the Women’s Marine Association to recognize Women’s History Month and celebrate the 73rd anniversary of proudly serving in the Marine Corps. - Female veterans and active duty and future Marines were united March, 11, 2016 by the Women’s Marine Association to recognize Women’s History Month and celebrate the 73rd anniversary of proudly serving in the Marine Corps.

Lance Cpl. Ronald Hester, a combat engineer with, provides security for a casualty evacuation exercise at Landing Zone Penguin at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 10, 2016. The training allowed Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 and 2nd CEB to work together in order to be well prepared to conduct a successful CASEVAC in any situation they may encounter while deployed, to ultimately saves lives. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Hester, a combat engineer with, provides security for a casualty evacuation exercise at Landing Zone Penguin at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 10, 2016. The training allowed Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 and 2nd CEB to work together in order to be well prepared to conduct a successful CASEVAC in any situation they may encounter while deployed, to ultimately saves lives.

A Korean Assault Amphibious Vehicle comes ashore while rehearsing an amphibious assault in support of Exercise Ssang Yong on Doksukri Beach, Republic of Korea, March 11, 2016. Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 is a biennial military exercise focused on strengthening the amphibious landing capabilities of the Republic of Korea, the U.S., New Zealand and Australia. - A Korean Assault Amphibious Vehicle comes ashore while rehearsing an amphibious assault in support of Exercise Ssang Yong on Doksukri Beach, Republic of Korea, March 11, 2016. Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 is a biennial military exercise focused on strengthening the amphibious landing capabilities of the Republic of Korea, the U.S., New Zealand and Australia.

15 Marines and three civilians start a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. The Marines, led by Raider Nathan Harris, do some ceremonial push-ups at the memorial dedicated to the Raider 7. Shortly after, they began their 770-mile journey. - 15 Marines and three civilians start a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. The Marines, led by Raider Nathan Harris, do some ceremonial push-ups at the memorial dedicated to the Raider 7. Shortly after, they began their 770-mile journey.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, perform shooting drills with their M16A4 service rifles during a squadron field exercise at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground training facility in Yuma, Ariz., Wednesday, March 9, 2016. The evolution focuses on the basic fundamentals of deployment in an austere environment and a re-familiarization with weapons proficiency. - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, perform shooting drills with their M16A4 service rifles during a squadron field exercise at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground training facility in Yuma, Ariz., Wednesday, March 9, 2016. The evolution focuses on the basic fundamentals of deployment in an austere environment and a re-familiarization with weapons proficiency.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Juan Cerna, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, changes the batteries in a Talon Mark II robot at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Feb. 20, 2016. The EOD technicians are present to provide the base and airfield with the ability to handle unexploded ordnance, hung ordnance, or suspicious packages. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Juan Cerna, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, changes the batteries in a Talon Mark II robot at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Feb. 20, 2016. The EOD technicians are present to provide the base and airfield with the ability to handle unexploded ordnance, hung ordnance, or suspicious packages.

The U.S. Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps, also known as "The Commandant's Own," performs during a Battle Color Ceremony at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California March 9, 2016. The battle color ceremony features the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, the Silent Drill Platoon and the Marine Corps Color Guard. - The U.S. Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps, also known as "The Commandant's Own," performs during a Battle Color Ceremony at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California March 9, 2016. The battle color ceremony features the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, the Silent Drill Platoon and the Marine Corps Color Guard.

Soldiers with Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, await their debarkation of a landing craft air cushion onto San Clemente Island, California, Feb. 21, 2016, as part of the supported arms coordination center exercise portion of Exercise Iron Fist 2016. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise designed to improve USMC and JGSDF’s ability to plan, communicate and conduct combined amphibious operations at the platoon, company and battalion levels. - Soldiers with Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, await their debarkation of a landing craft air cushion onto San Clemente Island, California, Feb. 21, 2016, as part of the supported arms coordination center exercise portion of Exercise Iron Fist 2016. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise designed to improve USMC and JGSDF’s ability to plan, communicate and conduct combined amphibious operations at the platoon, company and battalion levels.

Marines of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conducts target recognition and engagement through a simulated door way during the close quarter marksmanship portion of Close Quarter Battle training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 8, 2016. The training focused on room clearing procedures along with close quarter marksmanship in a series of challenging drills. - Marines of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conducts target recognition and engagement through a simulated door way during the close quarter marksmanship portion of Close Quarter Battle training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 8, 2016. The training focused on room clearing procedures along with close quarter marksmanship in a series of challenging drills.

Amphibious assault ship USS Boxer transits information during photographic exercise as a part of Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 in the East Sea March 8, 2016. Boxer is the flagship of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and is participating in exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations - from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. - Amphibious assault ship USS Boxer transits information during photographic exercise as a part of Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 in the East Sea March 8, 2016. Boxer is the flagship of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and is participating in exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations - from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations.

PACIFIC OCEAN 160308-N-ZZ999-216 (Mar.8, 206) – Ships assigned to the Bonhomme Richard and Boxer Expeditionary Strike Groups (BHRESG/BOXESG) along with the Republic of Korea Flotilla 5 transit in a formation during a photo exercise commencing exercise Ssang Yong in the Pacific Ocean March 8, 2016. Sailors and Marines of ROK Navy, Marine Corps, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76 and 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3D MEB), along with 7th ROK Marine Corps Regimental Landing Team 7 (ROKMC RLT-7), Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces are participating in Ssang Yong 2016, the largest combined amphibious exercise of its kind to date, designed to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. - PACIFIC OCEAN 160308-N-ZZ999-216 (Mar.8, 206) – Ships assigned to the Bonhomme Richard and Boxer Expeditionary Strike Groups (BHRESG/BOXESG) along with the Republic of Korea Flotilla 5 transit in a formation during a photo exercise commencing exercise Ssang Yong in the Pacific Ocean March 8, 2016. Sailors and Marines of ROK Navy, Marine Corps, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76 and 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3D MEB), along with 7th ROK Marine Corps Regimental Landing Team 7 (ROKMC RLT-7), Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces are participating in Ssang Yong 2016, the largest combined amphibious exercise of its kind to date, designed to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations.

Sgt. Alberto Camacho, military policeman for Charlie Company, 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion, separates evidence without fingerprints during tactical site exploitation training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 3, 2016. The training emphasizes the importance of leaving the evidence in pristine condition to ensure they get the most accurate intelligence necessary to identify the enemies. - Sgt. Alberto Camacho, military policeman for Charlie Company, 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion, separates evidence without fingerprints during tactical site exploitation training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 3, 2016. The training emphasizes the importance of leaving the evidence in pristine condition to ensure they get the most accurate intelligence necessary to identify the enemies.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Noah S. Scalish, (right), automatic rifleman, 2nd platoon Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa escorts a simulated suspect during an active shooter exercise at U.S. Embassy, Lisbon, Portugal, Feb. 9, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF conducts a scaled embassy reinforcement exercise at American Embassy Lisbon in coordination with the Regional Security Office and host nation security forces in order to enhance mission essential task proficiency and build relationships. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Noah S. Scalish, (right), automatic rifleman, 2nd platoon Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa escorts a simulated suspect during an active shooter exercise at U.S. Embassy, Lisbon, Portugal, Feb. 9, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF conducts a scaled embassy reinforcement exercise at American Embassy Lisbon in coordination with the Regional Security Office and host nation security forces in order to enhance mission essential task proficiency and build relationships.

1st Lt. Grant McCloskey, a Light Armored Reconnaissance platoon commander with Black Sea Rotational Force, plans the next reconnaissance mission during Exercise Cold Response 16 near Namsos, Norway, March 4, 2016. The exercise is a Norwegian invitational previously-scheduled exercise that involves approximately 16,000 troops from 13 NATO and partner countries. - 1st Lt. Grant McCloskey, a Light Armored Reconnaissance platoon commander with Black Sea Rotational Force, plans the next reconnaissance mission during Exercise Cold Response 16 near Namsos, Norway, March 4, 2016. The exercise is a Norwegian invitational previously-scheduled exercise that involves approximately 16,000 troops from 13 NATO and partner countries.