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Marines with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion storm a fjord in Namsos, Norway, March 3, 2016, during Exercise Cold Response 16. The landing reinforced the unit’s capabilities of operating in winter terrain and cold-weather environments. During Cold Response, 13 NATO allies and partner nations and about 15,000 troops enhance their skill sets and strengthen their bonds. - Marines with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion storm a fjord in Namsos, Norway, March 3, 2016, during Exercise Cold Response 16. The landing reinforced the unit’s capabilities of operating in winter terrain and cold-weather environments. During Cold Response, 13 NATO allies and partner nations and about 15,000 troops enhance their skill sets and strengthen their bonds.

Staff Sgt. Samuel J. Galan Jr. and Lance Cpl. Gerald J. Demontmollin III refuel a UH-1Y Venom Feb. 24, 2016, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Demontmollin and his squadron performed simulated assault and close air support training to maintain unit readiness. “We can shut the aircraft down and turn the engines off [and then fuel the aircraft]. That’s called cold refueling. What we did today was hot refueling. We can leave the aircraft running while we fuel, getting us ready to get back in the fight,” said 1st Lt. David W. Few, a UH-1Y Venom copilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Air Wing. Galan, a native of Houston, Texas, is a crew chief with HMLA-169. Demontmollin, from Grass Valley is a crew chief with HMLA-169. - Staff Sgt. Samuel J. Galan Jr. and Lance Cpl. Gerald J. Demontmollin III refuel a UH-1Y Venom Feb. 24, 2016, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Demontmollin and his squadron performed simulated assault and close air support training to maintain unit readiness. “We can shut the aircraft down and turn the engines off [and then fuel the aircraft]. That’s called cold refueling. What we did today was hot refueling. We can leave the aircraft running while we fuel, getting us ready to get back in the fight,” said 1st Lt. David W. Few, a UH-1Y Venom copilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Air Wing. Galan, a native of Houston, Texas, is a crew chief with HMLA-169. Demontmollin, from Grass Valley is a crew chief with HMLA-169.

Marines execute a rehearsal of concept drill during combat marksmanship training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 2, 2016. The training was part of the Urban Leaders Course taught by 1st Marine Division Schools. The course focuses on enhancing small unit leadership through integrated training and implementation of fire teams and squad-sized elements in an urban setting. Marines participating in the training are from various units on Camp Pendleton. - Marines execute a rehearsal of concept drill during combat marksmanship training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 2, 2016. The training was part of the Urban Leaders Course taught by 1st Marine Division Schools. The course focuses on enhancing small unit leadership through integrated training and implementation of fire teams and squad-sized elements in an urban setting. Marines participating in the training are from various units on Camp Pendleton.

U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct live-fire training with the Kuwait Ministry of the Interior VIP Protection Unit, Female Division during an exchange with the 26th MEU’s Female Engagement Team Jan. 31 to Feb. 11, 2016, in Kuwait City, Kuwait. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct live-fire training with the Kuwait Ministry of the Interior VIP Protection Unit, Female Division during an exchange with the 26th MEU’s Female Engagement Team Jan. 31 to Feb. 11, 2016, in Kuwait City, Kuwait. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, utilize a compact metal detector to sweep for improvised explosive devices during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 2, 2016. Marines utilized equipment such as compact metal detectors, bomb suits and a TALON robot to locate and handle ordnance, which took the form of a simulated IED, ammunition or artillery shell. - Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, utilize a compact metal detector to sweep for improvised explosive devices during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 2, 2016. Marines utilized equipment such as compact metal detectors, bomb suits and a TALON robot to locate and handle ordnance, which took the form of a simulated IED, ammunition or artillery shell.

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, center, speaks with Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Ronald Green, left, and 1st Lt. Terri L. Piekosz, a series commander with November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, March 3, 2016 at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Mabus visited Parris Island to see firsthand how young men and women from across the country are transformed into United States Marines. Recruit training was consolidated under Recruit Training Regiment in 1986, and since then, all those desiring to complete recruit training must follow the same training program of instruction, and must complete the same graduation requirements. - Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, center, speaks with Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Ronald Green, left, and 1st Lt. Terri L. Piekosz, a series commander with November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, March 3, 2016 at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Mabus visited Parris Island to see firsthand how young men and women from across the country are transformed into United States Marines. Recruit training was consolidated under Recruit Training Regiment in 1986, and since then, all those desiring to complete recruit training must follow the same training program of instruction, and must complete the same graduation requirements.

Norwegian Minister of Defense Ine Marie Eriksen Søreide talks with Lt. Col. Justin Ansel, the commander of Task Force 1/8, at a training location near Steinkjer, Norway, March 2, 2016. Exercise Cold Response 16 is a multi-national exercise combining the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 15,000 troops taking place across Norway. - Norwegian Minister of Defense Ine Marie Eriksen Søreide talks with Lt. Col. Justin Ansel, the commander of Task Force 1/8, at a training location near Steinkjer, Norway, March 2, 2016. Exercise Cold Response 16 is a multi-national exercise combining the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 15,000 troops taking place across Norway.

Norwegian Leopard tank crews from the Telemark Battalion prepare for a live-fire exercise in Rena, Norway, Feb. 18, 2016. The U.S. Marines and Norwegians are preparing for Exercise Cold Response 16, which will bring together 12 NATO Allied and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops in order to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments. The Norwegian Telemark Battalion instructed various U.S. Marine units on cold weather survival techniques to driving armored vehicles on ice-covered roads in the weeks leading up to exercise Cold Response 16 beginning at the end of the month. The two nations along with the other participating countries will conduct multi-lateral training to improve U.S. Marine Corps capability to operate in cold-weather environments. - Norwegian Leopard tank crews from the Telemark Battalion prepare for a live-fire exercise in Rena, Norway, Feb. 18, 2016. The U.S. Marines and Norwegians are preparing for Exercise Cold Response 16, which will bring together 12 NATO Allied and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops in order to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments. The Norwegian Telemark Battalion instructed various U.S. Marine units on cold weather survival techniques to driving armored vehicles on ice-covered roads in the weeks leading up to exercise Cold Response 16 beginning at the end of the month. The two nations along with the other participating countries will conduct multi-lateral training to improve U.S. Marine Corps capability to operate in cold-weather environments.

Four EA-6B Prowlers belonging to each Prowler squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point conducted a "Final Four" division flight aboard the air station March 1, 2016. The "Final Four" flight is the last time the Prowler squadrons will be flying together before the official retirement of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Training Squadron 1 at the end of Fiscal Year 16 and the eventual transition to "MAGTF EW". MAGTF EW is a more distributed strategy where every platform contributes to the EW mission, enabling relevant tactical information to move throughout the electromagnetic spectrum and across the battlefield faster than ever before. - Four EA-6B Prowlers belonging to each Prowler squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point conducted a "Final Four" division flight aboard the air station March 1, 2016. The "Final Four" flight is the last time the Prowler squadrons will be flying together before the official retirement of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Training Squadron 1 at the end of Fiscal Year 16 and the eventual transition to "MAGTF EW". MAGTF EW is a more distributed strategy where every platform contributes to the EW mission, enabling relevant tactical information to move throughout the electromagnetic spectrum and across the battlefield faster than ever before.

Members of the Japanese Air Self Defense Force pose with U.S. Marines for a photo at a farewell luncheon for the professional military exchange program February 23 at the Habu Pit Officers’ Club on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. The professional military exchange program benefits JASDF and Marines by providing first-hand insight to the daily routines and responsibilities of each service, according to Staff Sgt. Shinya Nishida, second from left. The experience and knowledge gained through the program establishes better understanding and communication. After Nishida’s exposure to the Marine Corps, the JASDF will return the favor by taking in a Marine in March to experience day-to-day routines of the JASDF. Nishida was a participant of the program and is a flight plan dispatcher with the JASDF. - Members of the Japanese Air Self Defense Force pose with U.S. Marines for a photo at a farewell luncheon for the professional military exchange program February 23 at the Habu Pit Officers’ Club on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. The professional military exchange program benefits JASDF and Marines by providing first-hand insight to the daily routines and responsibilities of each service, according to Staff Sgt. Shinya Nishida, second from left. The experience and knowledge gained through the program establishes better understanding and communication. After Nishida’s exposure to the Marine Corps, the JASDF will return the favor by taking in a Marine in March to experience day-to-day routines of the JASDF. Nishida was a participant of the program and is a flight plan dispatcher with the JASDF.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Clay Tipton, commanding officer, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, shakes hands with Col. Yoskiyuki Goto, commanding officer, Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, after recognizing select Marines and JGSDF soldiers for their outstanding performance during Exercise Iron Fist 2016, at the exercise’s closing ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 1, 2016. Exercise Iron Fist is an annual exercise conducted between the USMC and JGSDF, designed to improve their ability to conduct amphibious operations. The ceremony brought together both militaries in celebration and formally concluded the 11th iteration of Exercise Iron Fist. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Clay Tipton, commanding officer, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, shakes hands with Col. Yoskiyuki Goto, commanding officer, Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, after recognizing select Marines and JGSDF soldiers for their outstanding performance during Exercise Iron Fist 2016, at the exercise’s closing ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 1, 2016. Exercise Iron Fist is an annual exercise conducted between the USMC and JGSDF, designed to improve their ability to conduct amphibious operations. The ceremony brought together both militaries in celebration and formally concluded the 11th iteration of Exercise Iron Fist.

A participant at the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab’s Force Development 25 Innovation Symposium writes down common problems with leadership in the Marine Corps at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 24, 2016. Participants at the event were put into workshops where they had to find problems with the Marine Corps and ways to solve them. - A participant at the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab’s Force Development 25 Innovation Symposium writes down common problems with leadership in the Marine Corps at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 24, 2016. Participants at the event were put into workshops where they had to find problems with the Marine Corps and ways to solve them.

Sgt. Andrew A. Haley observes a UH-1Y Huey as it prepares to take off for a flight mission during Exercise Cobra Gold 16 in Utapao, Thailand, February 16, 2016. Haley, an avid New England Patriots fan, is one of many maintainers who help prepare aircraft before and after takeoff. Cobra Gold is a multi-national exercise designed to advance regional security and ensure effective responses to regional crises by bringing together a robust combined task force from partner nations sharing common goals. Haley, from Conway, New Hampshire, is an airframe mechanic with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force as part of the unit deployment program. - Sgt. Andrew A. Haley observes a UH-1Y Huey as it prepares to take off for a flight mission during Exercise Cobra Gold 16 in Utapao, Thailand, February 16, 2016. Haley, an avid New England Patriots fan, is one of many maintainers who help prepare aircraft before and after takeoff. Cobra Gold is a multi-national exercise designed to advance regional security and ensure effective responses to regional crises by bringing together a robust combined task force from partner nations sharing common goals. Haley, from Conway, New Hampshire, is an airframe mechanic with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force as part of the unit deployment program.

Lance Cpl. Kevin S. Millican stands security during casualty evacuation drills at Fort Stewart, S.C., Feb. 25, 2016. During the exercise, Marines trained in events such as casualty evacuation, assault support missions and aerial refueling, proving the Marine Air-Ground Task Force is a highly effective combat force. Millican is a rifleman with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment. - Lance Cpl. Kevin S. Millican stands security during casualty evacuation drills at Fort Stewart, S.C., Feb. 25, 2016. During the exercise, Marines trained in events such as casualty evacuation, assault support missions and aerial refueling, proving the Marine Air-Ground Task Force is a highly effective combat force. Millican is a rifleman with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment.

U.S. Marine and Royal Thai sailors move in to a burnt aircraft with hand line hoses to put out spot fires and the rest of the cargo area after they used roof turrets to put out the majority of the flames during Exercise Cobra Gold 16 at Utapao, Thailand, Feb. 19, 2016. This training event was designed to build relationships between the two firefighting groups. Cobra Gold is a multi-national exercise with focuses on preserving and promoting peace in the Asia-Pacific region. The Marines with the aircraft rescue and firefighting section with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marine and Royal Thai sailors move in to a burnt aircraft with hand line hoses to put out spot fires and the rest of the cargo area after they used roof turrets to put out the majority of the flames during Exercise Cobra Gold 16 at Utapao, Thailand, Feb. 19, 2016. This training event was designed to build relationships between the two firefighting groups. Cobra Gold is a multi-national exercise with focuses on preserving and promoting peace in the Asia-Pacific region. The Marines with the aircraft rescue and firefighting section with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Military Working Dog Sirius sits near the memorial stone of his former handler, Sgt. Joshua Ashley, outside of 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion’s Ashley Kennels at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 25, 2016, shortly after his retirement ceremony and adoption. Sirius’ former handler, Sgt. Joshua Ashley, was killed while on patrol in 2012 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Ashley’s family adopted Sirius, in keeping with the fallen Marine’s wishes. - Military Working Dog Sirius sits near the memorial stone of his former handler, Sgt. Joshua Ashley, outside of 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion’s Ashley Kennels at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 25, 2016, shortly after his retirement ceremony and adoption. Sirius’ former handler, Sgt. Joshua Ashley, was killed while on patrol in 2012 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Ashley’s family adopted Sirius, in keeping with the fallen Marine’s wishes.

Corporal Jeremy Case tests simulated biohazards during a mock training drill at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Feb. 19, 2016. Marines with with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2, Marine Aircraft Group 14 and Marine Aircraft Group 28 took part in a three-day long training exercise where Marines honed their skills with their equipment and knowledge of protocol. Marines conducted live radiological training at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic as part of additional training to prepare them for any potential situation that may arise in the future and concluded the exercise with a debrief at MCAS Cherry Point. Case is a chemical, biological, radiological nuclear defense specialist with MWHS-2. - Corporal Jeremy Case tests simulated biohazards during a mock training drill at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Feb. 19, 2016. Marines with with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2, Marine Aircraft Group 14 and Marine Aircraft Group 28 took part in a three-day long training exercise where Marines honed their skills with their equipment and knowledge of protocol. Marines conducted live radiological training at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic as part of additional training to prepare them for any potential situation that may arise in the future and concluded the exercise with a debrief at MCAS Cherry Point. Case is a chemical, biological, radiological nuclear defense specialist with MWHS-2.

A U.S. Marine with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade fires the Stinger missile system during a live-fire event in Ørland, Norway, Feb. 24, 2016. The live-fire event was held in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, featuring 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops. - A U.S. Marine with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade fires the Stinger missile system during a live-fire event in Ørland, Norway, Feb. 24, 2016. The live-fire event was held in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, featuring 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops.

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct maintenance on an MV-22B Osprey aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Feb. 17, 2016. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct maintenance on an MV-22B Osprey aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Feb. 17, 2016. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment and 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion,1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, check their communication connections during a scenario-based, battalion-sized amphibious landing exercise for Exercise Iron Fist 2016, Feb. 26, 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 with 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment and 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion,1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, check their communication connections during a scenario-based, battalion-sized amphibious landing exercise for Exercise Iron Fist 2016, Feb. 26, 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.

Lance Cpl. Christian Frohlich, a radio operator with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liasion Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, relays coordinates to the objective area of a naval gunfire bombing range on San Clemente Island, Feb. 21, 2016, during the supporting arms coordination center exercise (SACCEX) portion of Exercise Iron Fist 2016. The SACCEX provides U.S. and Japanese forces with hands-on experience in tactics proven to be effective in securing enemy-occupied shorelines during large-scale amphibious assaults. - Lance Cpl. Christian Frohlich, a radio operator with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liasion Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, relays coordinates to the objective area of a naval gunfire bombing range on San Clemente Island, Feb. 21, 2016, during the supporting arms coordination center exercise (SACCEX) portion of Exercise Iron Fist 2016. The SACCEX provides U.S. and Japanese forces with hands-on experience in tactics proven to be effective in securing enemy-occupied shorelines during large-scale amphibious assaults.

Charles “Charlie” Bolden, the 12th Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration poses for a photo in a plane he is flying at an unknown location and date. Bolden served 34 years on active duty in the Marines as a Naval aviator, spent 14 years as a member of NASA’s Astronaut Office and retired at the rank of major general. - Charles “Charlie” Bolden, the 12th Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration poses for a photo in a plane he is flying at an unknown location and date. Bolden served 34 years on active duty in the Marines as a Naval aviator, spent 14 years as a member of NASA’s Astronaut Office and retired at the rank of major general.

Lt. Col. David Everly, junior military assistant to the Secretary of Defense, is presented an award at the Black Engineer of the Year 11th Annual Stars and Stripes Dinner Feb. 19, 2016 at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown Grand Ballroom in Philadelphia by Lt. Gen. Ronald Bailey, the Deputy Commandant Plans, Polices and Operations at Headquarters Marine Corps. “If you’re looking for excellence in military hands-on experience, look no further than Lt. Col. Dave Everly,” said Bailey. “Lt. Col. Everly epitomizes our values of courage, honor and commitment as a role model and a mentor.” - Lt. Col. David Everly, junior military assistant to the Secretary of Defense, is presented an award at the Black Engineer of the Year 11th Annual Stars and Stripes Dinner Feb. 19, 2016 at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown Grand Ballroom in Philadelphia by Lt. Gen. Ronald Bailey, the Deputy Commandant Plans, Polices and Operations at Headquarters Marine Corps. “If you’re looking for excellence in military hands-on experience, look no further than Lt. Col. Dave Everly,” said Bailey. “Lt. Col. Everly epitomizes our values of courage, honor and commitment as a role model and a mentor.”

Greg Hudson, Mobile Aircraft Fire Training Device program manager and an Orlando, Florida, native, talks to the Marines about the functions of the Mobile Aircraft Fire Training Device aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Feb. 22. The MAFTD is a computer-operated device and the different functions are controlled via a panel. The MAFTD is used by Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Marines to conduct live-fire training. - Greg Hudson, Mobile Aircraft Fire Training Device program manager and an Orlando, Florida, native, talks to the Marines about the functions of the Mobile Aircraft Fire Training Device aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Feb. 22. The MAFTD is a computer-operated device and the different functions are controlled via a panel. The MAFTD is used by Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Marines to conduct live-fire training.

Major Misty Posey, center, demonstrates proper form for pull-ups to Marines at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 19, 2016. Posey teaches a pull-up class at the James Wesley Marsh Center at MCB Quantico to improve the performance and capabilities of Marines for pull-ups according to Marine Corps fitness standards. Posey is a plans officer for Manpower Integration. - Major Misty Posey, center, demonstrates proper form for pull-ups to Marines at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 19, 2016. Posey teaches a pull-up class at the James Wesley Marsh Center at MCB Quantico to improve the performance and capabilities of Marines for pull-ups according to Marine Corps fitness standards. Posey is a plans officer for Manpower Integration.

Mamie Wilson-Collins and Willie Collins pose together at an unknown location and date. Willie's story of his 21-year-enlistment will live on due to the recently published 52 page biography titled: Top, A Proud Marine: The story of Master Sgt. Willie L. Collins. - Mamie Wilson-Collins and Willie Collins pose together at an unknown location and date. Willie's story of his 21-year-enlistment will live on due to the recently published 52 page biography titled: Top, A Proud Marine: The story of Master Sgt. Willie L. Collins.

Lance Cpl. Joany Echeverry, cannoneer with Combined Arms Company, assists other team members in collecting the ammunition for a live-fire shoot in Rena, Norway, Feb. 23, 2016, in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16. The exercise will include 12 NATO allies and partner nations, and approximately 16,000 troops. The Marines will provide indirect fire support for infantry units during the exercise. - Lance Cpl. Joany Echeverry, cannoneer with Combined Arms Company, assists other team members in collecting the ammunition for a live-fire shoot in Rena, Norway, Feb. 23, 2016, in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16. The exercise will include 12 NATO allies and partner nations, and approximately 16,000 troops. The Marines will provide indirect fire support for infantry units during the exercise.

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Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 attempt to hold off a crowd during non-lethal riot control training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 19, 2016. The training is in preparation for the unit’s upcoming Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa deployment later this year. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 attempt to hold off a crowd during non-lethal riot control training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 19, 2016. The training is in preparation for the unit’s upcoming Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa deployment later this year.

U.S. Marines and sailors are working with Cameroon’s Fusiliers Marins and Compagnie des Palmeurs de Combat to increase their capabilities to combat illicit activity and increase security in the waterways and borders of Cameroon. At the request of the Cameroonian government and through coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde, Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, are teaching their military counterparts in infantry tactics to help build their maritime security force capabilities. - U.S. Marines and sailors are working with Cameroon’s Fusiliers Marins and Compagnie des Palmeurs de Combat to increase their capabilities to combat illicit activity and increase security in the waterways and borders of Cameroon. At the request of the Cameroonian government and through coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde, Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, are teaching their military counterparts in infantry tactics to help build their maritime security force capabilities.

Capt. Jonathan Blankenship, a company commander with Black Sea Rotational Force, confirms the assault on the enemy objective is complete during the final exercise of cold-weather training aboard Porsangmoen, Norway, Feb. 16-20, 2016. Arctic training was conducted by U.K. Royal Marine Commando Mountain Leaders and hosted by the Norwegian military to improve the U.S. Marine Corps’ capability to support their NATO Allies in extreme environments. - Capt. Jonathan Blankenship, a company commander with Black Sea Rotational Force, confirms the assault on the enemy objective is complete during the final exercise of cold-weather training aboard Porsangmoen, Norway, Feb. 16-20, 2016. Arctic training was conducted by U.K. Royal Marine Commando Mountain Leaders and hosted by the Norwegian military to improve the U.S. Marine Corps’ capability to support their NATO Allies in extreme environments.

A rifleman assigned to Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self Defense Force, provides security from an amphibious assault vehicle, during a live-fire platoon level assault, during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Feb. 9, 2016. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral training exercise between the Japan Ground Self Defense Force and Marines to strengthen warfighting capabilities in ship to shore operations. - A rifleman assigned to Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self Defense Force, provides security from an amphibious assault vehicle, during a live-fire platoon level assault, during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Feb. 9, 2016. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral training exercise between the Japan Ground Self Defense Force and Marines to strengthen warfighting capabilities in ship to shore operations.

Paul Siverson, retired sergeant major and chairman of the board of directors for the Non-Commissioned Officers Association of America, speaks at the 2016 Mack McKinney Awards Ceremony on Feb. 5 at Sywanyk’s Scarlet and Gold Traditions in Jacksonville, N.C. Since 1993, the Mack McKinney award, is given to two military members a year who have gone above and beyond serving the local community and their fellow service members whether active duty or retired. - Paul Siverson, retired sergeant major and chairman of the board of directors for the Non-Commissioned Officers Association of America, speaks at the 2016 Mack McKinney Awards Ceremony on Feb. 5 at Sywanyk’s Scarlet and Gold Traditions in Jacksonville, N.C. Since 1993, the Mack McKinney award, is given to two military members a year who have gone above and beyond serving the local community and their fellow service members whether active duty or retired.

Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, head back to sea Feb. 17 , 2016, in Combat Rubber Raiding Craft after conducting a successful boat raid the night before. The Marines conducted the boat raid as part of the 31st MEU's amphibious integration training with the Navy ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed to the Asia-Pacific region. - Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, head back to sea Feb. 17 , 2016, in Combat Rubber Raiding Craft after conducting a successful boat raid the night before. The Marines conducted the boat raid as part of the 31st MEU's amphibious integration training with the Navy ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed to the Asia-Pacific region.

A Norwegian recovery vehicle hooks up to a U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Assault Vehicle prior to the start of a live-fire range in Rena, Norway, as part of their pre-exercise training Feb. 17, 2016. The Marines and Norwegian Army are working together as part of Exercise Cold Response, a joint NATO and allied country exercise comprised of 12 countries and approximately 16,000 troops. The U.S. European Command appreciates the opportunity for taking part in such a large multinational exercise at the invitation of our Norwegian Allies; and we are especially thankful for the chance to put our skills to the test in unique cold weather conditions. - A Norwegian recovery vehicle hooks up to a U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Assault Vehicle prior to the start of a live-fire range in Rena, Norway, as part of their pre-exercise training Feb. 17, 2016. The Marines and Norwegian Army are working together as part of Exercise Cold Response, a joint NATO and allied country exercise comprised of 12 countries and approximately 16,000 troops. The U.S. European Command appreciates the opportunity for taking part in such a large multinational exercise at the invitation of our Norwegian Allies; and we are especially thankful for the chance to put our skills to the test in unique cold weather conditions.

Sergeant Maj. Rogelio Deleon swims in a combat pool at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Feb. 17, 2016. More than 85 noncommissioned officers with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28 participated in the physical training exercise “Chaos,” which tested their warfighting abilities: strength, communication and dependability. During the training the Marines were put into fire teams where they had to navigate the obstacle course, trek through the combat pool and hike one-mile with a simulated casualty and assault load. The purpose of the event was to build on unit cohesion, esprit de corps and mental and physical resiliency. Deleon is the sergeant major of MWCS-28. - Sergeant Maj. Rogelio Deleon swims in a combat pool at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Feb. 17, 2016. More than 85 noncommissioned officers with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28 participated in the physical training exercise “Chaos,” which tested their warfighting abilities: strength, communication and dependability. During the training the Marines were put into fire teams where they had to navigate the obstacle course, trek through the combat pool and hike one-mile with a simulated casualty and assault load. The purpose of the event was to build on unit cohesion, esprit de corps and mental and physical resiliency. Deleon is the sergeant major of MWCS-28.

Master Sergeant Eden M. Pearl deployed with Fox Company, 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, to Herat Province, Afghanistan, in 2009. - Master Sergeant Eden M. Pearl deployed with Fox Company, 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, to Herat Province, Afghanistan, in 2009.

A Marine breaks the seal in his M50 Joint Service General Purpose Mask during gas chamber training at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Feb. 10, 2016. Marines with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 14 faced the CS gas as part of their qualification to familiarize themselves with the equipment and skills if faced with a biochemical attack. Marines of every military occupational specialty must be proficient with the equipment as it is part of every Marines’ basic skills. - A Marine breaks the seal in his M50 Joint Service General Purpose Mask during gas chamber training at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Feb. 10, 2016. Marines with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 14 faced the CS gas as part of their qualification to familiarize themselves with the equipment and skills if faced with a biochemical attack. Marines of every military occupational specialty must be proficient with the equipment as it is part of every Marines’ basic skills.

A U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook is used to transport Soldiers during a combined arms live fire exercise at Ban Chan Khrem, Thailand, during exercise Cobra Gold, Feb. 19, 2016. Cobra Gold is a multinational training exercise developed to strengthen security and interoperability between the Kingdom of Thailand, the U.S. and other participating nations. - A U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook is used to transport Soldiers during a combined arms live fire exercise at Ban Chan Khrem, Thailand, during exercise Cobra Gold, Feb. 19, 2016. Cobra Gold is a multinational training exercise developed to strengthen security and interoperability between the Kingdom of Thailand, the U.S. and other participating nations.

U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, attached to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, conduct non-lethal weapons training at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Feb. 2, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-CC Marines hone their skills in the event of non-lethal combatant operations. - U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, attached to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, conduct non-lethal weapons training at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Feb. 2, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-CC Marines hone their skills in the event of non-lethal combatant operations.

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Marine Corps mess halls answer the call for sweet treats with a vast variety of desserts that changes everyday to maintain high satisfaction with meals.Unlike the regular 21-day Marine Corps cycle for entrées, desserts have a local flavor with variety the topic of discussion during annual menu planning boards. - Marine Corps mess halls answer the call for sweet treats with a vast variety of desserts that changes everyday to maintain high satisfaction with meals. Unlike the regular 21-day Marine Corps cycle for entrées, desserts have a local flavor with variety the topic of discussion during annual menu planning boards.

A Marine with Bravo Company, 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion, apply restraints to a role player during a simulation involving hostile, combative civilians during an interior guard training exercise at Forward Observation Base Hawk at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 17, 2016. The training prepared Marines to conduct real-life site security operations. - A Marine with Bravo Company, 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion, apply restraints to a role player during a simulation involving hostile, combative civilians during an interior guard training exercise at Forward Observation Base Hawk at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 17, 2016. The training prepared Marines to conduct real-life site security operations.

Lt. J.G. Eric Lopez, a physician assistant with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, checks the heart rate of a notional Norwegian soldier casualty during combat casualty care training in Rena, Norway, Feb. 17, 2016. More than ten Marines and sailors with the unit conducted simulated medical treatment onto their Norwegian counterparts in order to enhance and compare their field medical care capabilities. The two countries are coming together for Exercise Cold Response 16 in March, which combines the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments. - Lt. J.G. Eric Lopez, a physician assistant with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, checks the heart rate of a notional Norwegian soldier casualty during combat casualty care training in Rena, Norway, Feb. 17, 2016. More than ten Marines and sailors with the unit conducted simulated medical treatment onto their Norwegian counterparts in order to enhance and compare their field medical care capabilities. The two countries are coming together for Exercise Cold Response 16 in March, which combines the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments.