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Story - Pfc. James P. Gross, a radio and satellite communications operator, places barbed wire on the ground at Misawa Air Base, Japan, August 10, 2017, signifying the start of exercise Northern Viper 2017. This exercise tests the interoperability and bilateral capability of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marine Corps forces to work together and provides the opportunity to conduct realistic training in an unfamiliar environment. Gross, a Milwaukee native, is with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez)

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Marines with the engineer platoon for Marine Wing Support Squadron 272, construct a foundation for a Southwest Asia hut at the Combat Center during Integrated Training Exercise 5-17, July 29, 2017. MWSS-272 is supporting the Aviation Combat Element of the ITX. The ACE conducts offensive, defensive, and all other air operations to support the MAGTF mission . - Marines with the engineer platoon for Marine Wing Support Squadron 272, construct a foundation for a Southwest Asia hut at the Combat Center during Integrated Training Exercise 5-17, July 29, 2017. MWSS-272 is supporting the Aviation Combat Element of the ITX. The ACE conducts offensive, defensive, and all other air operations to support the MAGTF mission .

Photo - A Humvee full of Marines assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 is hit with a simulated improvised explosive device during Counter-IED training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 3, 2017. Nearly 30 Marines assigned to the motor transport section of MWSS-271 learned how to properly recognize IEDs during the weeklong course, and applied the lessons learned during a culminating training event that simulated a deployed environment with a known IED threat. MWSS-271 is assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jason Jimenez/ Released)

Marines with the Force Reconnaissance Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force stationed at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan jump out of the aircraft and make their descent towards the drop zone at IDIS-Corps facility in Parker, Arizona, from July 12 to August 1, 2017 The Marines conducted high altitude high opening (HAHO) sustainment training, while implementing the Joint Precision Air Drop System (JPADS). - Marines with the Force Reconnaissance Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force stationed at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan jump out of the aircraft and make their descent towards the drop zone at IDIS-Corps facility in Parker, Arizona, from July 12 to August 1, 2017 The Marines conducted high altitude high opening (HAHO) sustainment training, while implementing the Joint Precision Air Drop System (JPADS).

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U.S. Marine Sgt. Dustin J. Houghton, an infantry trainer with the Belize Detachment, Ground Combat Element, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, shows service members with the Belize Defence Force how to load their ammunition into magazines as part of basic combat marksmanship training near Ladyville, Belize, July 20, 2017. The training was part of basic infantry skills course taught by the detachment to members of the BDF. The Marines and sailors of SPMAGTF-SC are deployed to Central America for the next six months to conduct security cooperation training and engineering projects with their counterparts in Honduras, Guatemala, Belize and El Salvador. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Dustin J. Houghton, an infantry trainer with the Belize Detachment, Ground Combat Element, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, shows service members with the Belize Defence Force how to load their ammunition into magazines as part of basic combat marksmanship training near Ladyville, Belize, July 20, 2017. The training was part of basic infantry skills course taught by the detachment to members of the BDF. The Marines and sailors of SPMAGTF-SC are deployed to Central America for the next six months to conduct security cooperation training and engineering projects with their counterparts in Honduras, Guatemala, Belize and El Salvador.

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U.S. Marines with Bravo Company, 4th Amphibious Assault Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, work on Amphibious Assault Vehicles at Camp Grayling, Michigan, during exercise Northern Strike 2017, July 31, 2017. Northern Strike 2017 brought together Reserve Marine from across the country to provide realistic combined arms trainings to cover a spectrum of combat scenarios. - U.S. Marines with Bravo Company, 4th Amphibious Assault Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, work on Amphibious Assault Vehicles at Camp Grayling, Michigan, during exercise Northern Strike 2017, July 31, 2017. Northern Strike 2017 brought together Reserve Marine from across the country to provide realistic combined arms trainings to cover a spectrum of combat scenarios.

The Mongolian Armed Forces Honor Guard preforms during the opening ceremony of Exercise Khaan Quest 2017 at Five Hills Training Area, Mongolia, July 23, 2017. Khaan Quest 2017 is a Mongolian-hosted, combined, joint training exercise designed to strengthen the capabilities of the U.S., Mongolia and other partner nations in international peacekeeping operations.(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Maximiliano Rosas) - The Mongolian Armed Forces Honor Guard preforms during the opening ceremony of Exercise Khaan Quest 2017 at Five Hills Training Area, Mongolia, July 23, 2017. Khaan Quest 2017 is a Mongolian-hosted, combined, joint training exercise designed to strengthen the capabilities of the U.S., Mongolia and other partner nations in international peacekeeping operations.(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Maximiliano Rosas)

Lance Cpl. Jeanette E. Fernando and other Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, hike towards the Iwo Jima memorial site on Mt. Suribachi, Iwo Jima, Japan, July 26, 2017. Fernando and other Marines in her squadron were given the opportunity to revisit the battlegrounds at which Fernando's grandfather, a Navajo Code Talker, fought during World War II. Fernando is an airframe mechanic assigned to HMLA-169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently on a unit deployment program with 1st MAW based in Okinawa, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Laura Gauna) - Lance Cpl. Jeanette E. Fernando and other Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, hike towards the Iwo Jima memorial site on Mt. Suribachi, Iwo Jima, Japan, July 26, 2017. Fernando and other Marines in her squadron were given the opportunity to revisit the battlegrounds at which Fernando's grandfather, a Navajo Code Talker, fought during World War II. Fernando is an airframe mechanic assigned to HMLA-169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently on a unit deployment program with 1st MAW based in Okinawa, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Laura Gauna)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Johnny Perez, a mortarman assigned to Task Force Al Asad, with 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, loads gear into a mine-resistant, ambush-protected all-terrain vehiclewhile at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, July 5, 2017. These Marines are part of the Task Force’s coalition security force team in charge of providing security to the base and personnel onboard. Task Force Al Asad’s mission is to advise and assist and build partner capacity with the Iraqi Security Forces in Al Anbar province in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, the global coalition to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. Dave Williams) - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Johnny Perez, a mortarman assigned to Task Force Al Asad, with 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, loads gear into a mine-resistant, ambush-protected all-terrain vehiclewhile at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, July 5, 2017. These Marines are part of the Task Force’s coalition security force team in charge of providing security to the base and personnel onboard. Task Force Al Asad’s mission is to advise and assist and build partner capacity with the Iraqi Security Forces in Al Anbar province in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, the global coalition to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. Dave Williams)

Marines load a charge into an M777A2 Howitzer during a live-fire range at Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 26, 2017. The purpose of this field operation is to test and improve the unit’s capabilities by putting the Marines into a simulated combat environment. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Holly Pernell) - Marines load a charge into an M777A2 Howitzer during a live-fire range at Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 26, 2017. The purpose of this field operation is to test and improve the unit’s capabilities by putting the Marines into a simulated combat environment. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Holly Pernell)

Two Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, walk away from the flight line after inspecting F-35B Lightning IIs at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 5. A total of 10 aircraft and more than 250 Marines with VMFA-211 will participate in Red Flag 17-3, a realistic combat training exercise involving the U.S. Air Force and its allies, to assess the squadron’s ability to deploy and support contingency operations using the F-35B. Red Flag 17-3 begins July 10 and ends July 28. - Two Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, walk away from the flight line after inspecting F-35B Lightning IIs at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 5. A total of 10 aircraft and more than 250 Marines with VMFA-211 will participate in Red Flag 17-3, a realistic combat training exercise involving the U.S. Air Force and its allies, to assess the squadron’s ability to deploy and support contingency operations using the F-35B. Red Flag 17-3 begins July 10 and ends July 28.

A Marine assault amphibious vehicle mechanic with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, cleans a piece of equipment aboard the USS Ashland (LSD 48) while underway in the Pacific Ocean, July 17, 2017. The AAV mechanics are currently supporting Exercise Talisman Saber 17, a biennial exercise designed to improve the interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. The 31st MEU is taking part in Talisman Saber 17 while deployed on its regularly-scheduled patrol of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Amaia Unanue/ Released) - A Marine assault amphibious vehicle mechanic with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, cleans a piece of equipment aboard the USS Ashland (LSD 48) while underway in the Pacific Ocean, July 17, 2017. The AAV mechanics are currently supporting Exercise Talisman Saber 17, a biennial exercise designed to improve the interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. The 31st MEU is taking part in Talisman Saber 17 while deployed on its regularly-scheduled patrol of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Amaia Unanue/ Released)

A MK2 MOD 0 Talon robot is maneuvered by remote control to a mock improvised explosive device during an EOD training exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., July 21, 2017. The MK2 MOD 0 Talon robot is used by explosive ordnance technicians assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and provides a safer way to investigate a suspected IED. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Skyler Pumphret/ Released) - A MK2 MOD 0 Talon robot is maneuvered by remote control to a mock improvised explosive device during an EOD training exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., July 21, 2017. The MK2 MOD 0 Talon robot is used by explosive ordnance technicians assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and provides a safer way to investigate a suspected IED. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Skyler Pumphret/ Released)

TONGATAPU ISLAND, Tonga — U.S. Marines and sailors with Task Force Koa Moana 17, Tonga’s His Majesty’s Armed Forces, French soldiers and members of the New Zealand Defense Force stand at attention as a Tongan flag is raised during the opening ceremony of Exercise TAFAKULA July 17 on Tongatapu Island, Tonga. The ceremony marks the start of two weeks of infantry and law enforcement training between the militaries. - TONGATAPU ISLAND, Tonga — U.S. Marines and sailors with Task Force Koa Moana 17, Tonga’s His Majesty’s Armed Forces, French soldiers and members of the New Zealand Defense Force stand at attention as a Tongan flag is raised during the opening ceremony of Exercise TAFAKULA July 17 on Tongatapu Island, Tonga. The ceremony marks the start of two weeks of infantry and law enforcement training between the militaries.

Lance Cpl. Justin Collins, a grenadier with 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, practices using an Emergency Breathing System during Shallow Water Egress Training, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, July 21, 2017. In the event of an Amphibious Assault Vehicle sinking, Submerged Vehicle Egress Training and Underwater Egress Training are vital training programs that prepares Marines and Sailors on safely escaping the vehicle. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew Kirk) - Lance Cpl. Justin Collins, a grenadier with 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, practices using an Emergency Breathing System during Shallow Water Egress Training, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, July 21, 2017. In the event of an Amphibious Assault Vehicle sinking, Submerged Vehicle Egress Training and Underwater Egress Training are vital training programs that prepares Marines and Sailors on safely escaping the vehicle. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew Kirk)

Sgt. Justin Odom, Marine Corps Systems Command training non-commissioned officer, performs a snatch lift July 18, at the High Intensity Tactical Training facility aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. After earning the top male competitor spot in the HITT preliminaries at Quantico, Odom was selected to represent the base in the Third Annual HITT Athlete Championship at Camp Pendleton, California, in August. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Kaitlin Kelly) - Sgt. Justin Odom, Marine Corps Systems Command training non-commissioned officer, performs a snatch lift July 18, at the High Intensity Tactical Training facility aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. After earning the top male competitor spot in the HITT preliminaries at Quantico, Odom was selected to represent the base in the Third Annual HITT Athlete Championship at Camp Pendleton, California, in August. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Kaitlin Kelly)

Christopher T. Kaag poses for a photo January 2016 at Corps Fitness in Reading, Pa. Kaag is a leader in his community and uses his drive and personal story to help those in the community overcome their own personal challenges. (Photo courtesy of Christopher T. Kaag/Released) - Christopher T. Kaag poses for a photo January 2016 at Corps Fitness in Reading, Pa. Kaag is a leader in his community and uses his drive and personal story to help those in the community overcome their own personal challenges. (Photo courtesy of Christopher T. Kaag/Released)

POHANG, GYEONGSANG, REPUBLIC OF KOREA — Lance Cpl. Jose Casias explains a drill during soccer practice July 20 in Pohang, Republic of Korea. Casias volunteers his weeknights to coach a local youth soccer team. He also teaches English classes at different grade schools and kindergartens, as well as participating in clean ups throughout the community near Camp Mujuk. Casias, an Atlanta, Georgia, native is a bulk fuel specialist with Camp Mujuk Headquarters Logistics, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. - POHANG, GYEONGSANG, REPUBLIC OF KOREA — Lance Cpl. Jose Casias explains a drill during soccer practice July 20 in Pohang, Republic of Korea. Casias volunteers his weeknights to coach a local youth soccer team. He also teaches English classes at different grade schools and kindergartens, as well as participating in clean ups throughout the community near Camp Mujuk. Casias, an Atlanta, Georgia, native is a bulk fuel specialist with Camp Mujuk Headquarters Logistics, Marine Corps Installations Pacific.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 373 and other volunteers set up tents for the Veterans Village of San Diego’s Homeless Veteran Stand Down at San Diego High School in San Diego, July 19. The Veterans Village of San Diego hosted the Homeless Veteran Stand Down to support homeless veterans by giving them a place to stay and providing services such as medical care, dental care, legal assistance, haircuts and food for three days. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jake McClung/ Released) - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 373 and other volunteers set up tents for the Veterans Village of San Diego’s Homeless Veteran Stand Down at San Diego High School in San Diego, July 19. The Veterans Village of San Diego hosted the Homeless Veteran Stand Down to support homeless veterans by giving them a place to stay and providing services such as medical care, dental care, legal assistance, haircuts and food for three days. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jake McClung/ Released)

Col. Tye R. Wallace, left, Lt. Gen. Lawrence Nicholson, center, and U.S. Navy Capt. George Doyon, spend a few minutes speaking during the closing ceremony of Exercise Talisman Saber 17 aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), ported in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, July 25, 2017. Wallace is the commanding officer of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Nicholson is the commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Doyon is the commodore of Amphibious Squadron 11 and the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group. Talisman Saber is a biennial exercise designed to improve the interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. The 31st MEU is taking part in Talisman Saber 17 while deployed on a regularly-scheduled patrol of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. T. T. Parish/Released) - Col. Tye R. Wallace, left, Lt. Gen. Lawrence Nicholson, center, and U.S. Navy Capt. George Doyon, spend a few minutes speaking during the closing ceremony of Exercise Talisman Saber 17 aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), ported in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, July 25, 2017. Wallace is the commanding officer of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Nicholson is the commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Doyon is the commodore of Amphibious Squadron 11 and the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group. Talisman Saber is a biennial exercise designed to improve the interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. The 31st MEU is taking part in Talisman Saber 17 while deployed on a regularly-scheduled patrol of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. T. T. Parish/Released)

A Peruvian marine engages targets while conducting sniper rifle drills during UNITAS 2017 at Ancon, Peru, July 20, 2017. UNITAS is an annual, multinational exercise that focuses on strengthening existing regional partnerships and encourages establishing new relationships through the exchange of maritime mission-focused knowledge and expertise during multinational training operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Taylor W. Cooper) - A Peruvian marine engages targets while conducting sniper rifle drills during UNITAS 2017 at Ancon, Peru, July 20, 2017. UNITAS is an annual, multinational exercise that focuses on strengthening existing regional partnerships and encourages establishing new relationships through the exchange of maritime mission-focused knowledge and expertise during multinational training operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Taylor W. Cooper)

U.S. Marines and sailor with Black Sea Rotational Force 17.1 and Marine Rotational Force Europe 17.1 tour the embassy compound with the assistant regional security officer during an embassy reinforcement exercise in Chisinau, Moldova, July 15, 2017. Embassy reinforcement exercises improve emergency preparedness. - U.S. Marines and sailor with Black Sea Rotational Force 17.1 and Marine Rotational Force Europe 17.1 tour the embassy compound with the assistant regional security officer during an embassy reinforcement exercise in Chisinau, Moldova, July 15, 2017. Embassy reinforcement exercises improve emergency preparedness.

SCHOFIELD BARRACKS – Marines with 4th Force Reconnaissance Company and U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers board a CH-47 Chinook helicopter to conduct a high altitude airborne jump at Schofield Barracks, July 14, 2017. The Marines trained with U.S. Army Special Forces to maintain proficiency in completing static line and high altitude free fall airborne jumps. - SCHOFIELD BARRACKS – Marines with 4th Force Reconnaissance Company and U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers board a CH-47 Chinook helicopter to conduct a high altitude airborne jump at Schofield Barracks, July 14, 2017. The Marines trained with U.S. Army Special Forces to maintain proficiency in completing static line and high altitude free fall airborne jumps.

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U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Dominic Schulte, left, a flight equipment technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232, teaches Lance Cpl. Dahee Park, an aircraft rescue firefighter with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, the ins and outs of the cockpit in an F/A-18C Hornet at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 19, 2017. Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Marines visited the aircraft display to familiarize themselves with the aircraft so they can be more efficient in emergency situations. (U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Gabriela Garcia-Herrera) - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Dominic Schulte, left, a flight equipment technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232, teaches Lance Cpl. Dahee Park, an aircraft rescue firefighter with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, the ins and outs of the cockpit in an F/A-18C Hornet at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 19, 2017. Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Marines visited the aircraft display to familiarize themselves with the aircraft so they can be more efficient in emergency situations. (U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Gabriela Garcia-Herrera)

An M1A1 Abrams battle tank fires a round at a simulated target during a combined arms range for Iron Wolf 17 at Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 14, 2017. Iron Wolf 17 is a multi-unit exercise designed to simulate battlefield conditions Marines may face while deployed. The tanks are from 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division. (United States Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jon Sosner) - An M1A1 Abrams battle tank fires a round at a simulated target during a combined arms range for Iron Wolf 17 at Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 14, 2017. Iron Wolf 17 is a multi-unit exercise designed to simulate battlefield conditions Marines may face while deployed. The tanks are from 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division. (United States Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jon Sosner)

Daniel Wilson, a patient attending Innovative Readiness Training Louisiana Care 2017, smiles after getting his teeth inspected by a Navy Corpsman at Amite High School in Amite, La., July 15, 2017. Several of the patients attending the IRT came for dental services such as fillings, simple dental extractions, screenings for oral cancer and examinations for sports medicine injuries. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Niles Lee/Released) - Daniel Wilson, a patient attending Innovative Readiness Training Louisiana Care 2017, smiles after getting his teeth inspected by a Navy Corpsman at Amite High School in Amite, La., July 15, 2017. Several of the patients attending the IRT came for dental services such as fillings, simple dental extractions, screenings for oral cancer and examinations for sports medicine injuries. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Niles Lee/Released)

From left to right: U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Christopher J. Garza, sergeant major of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, Brian Wottowa, director of Integrated Program Management Office with the Defense Policy Review Initiative, Yoshihiko Fukuda, mayor of Iwakuni City, U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard F. Fuerst, commanding officer of MCAS Iwakuni, Takahiro Sugawara, director general of Chugoku-Shikoku Defense Bureau, and John Lackie, deputy director of IPMO with DPRI, pose for a photo during a tour of Kizuna Stadium in Iwakuni City, Japan, July 19, 2017. Joint efforts between MCAS Iwakuni personnel, the locals of Iwakuni City and Fukuda have led to the upcoming completion of the stadium for U.S. service members, their families and local Japanese. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Abrego) - From left to right: U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Christopher J. Garza, sergeant major of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, Brian Wottowa, director of Integrated Program Management Office with the Defense Policy Review Initiative, Yoshihiko Fukuda, mayor of Iwakuni City, U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard F. Fuerst, commanding officer of MCAS Iwakuni, Takahiro Sugawara, director general of Chugoku-Shikoku Defense Bureau, and John Lackie, deputy director of IPMO with DPRI, pose for a photo during a tour of Kizuna Stadium in Iwakuni City, Japan, July 19, 2017. Joint efforts between MCAS Iwakuni personnel, the locals of Iwakuni City and Fukuda have led to the upcoming completion of the stadium for U.S. service members, their families and local Japanese. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Abrego)

Explosive ordnance disposal Marines conducted emergency destruct training at Target Island, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 14, 2017. The island is located near the air station and is used as a training site for EOD Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carlos Jimenez) - Explosive ordnance disposal Marines conducted emergency destruct training at Target Island, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 14, 2017. The island is located near the air station and is used as a training site for EOD Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carlos Jimenez)

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232 takes off at Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) Hyakuri Air Base, Japan, July 12, 2017. VMFA-232 has been conducting exercises with the JASDF as part of the Aviation Training Relocation program, which is designed to increase operational readiness and interoperability between U.S. and Japanese forces, and reduce local noise impacts by dispersing unilateral jet-fighter training of U.S. forces in Japan. - A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232 takes off at Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) Hyakuri Air Base, Japan, July 12, 2017. VMFA-232 has been conducting exercises with the JASDF as part of the Aviation Training Relocation program, which is designed to increase operational readiness and interoperability between U.S. and Japanese forces, and reduce local noise impacts by dispersing unilateral jet-fighter training of U.S. forces in Japan.

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Maj. Gen. Walter L. Miller, Jr. gives a speech during II Marine Expeditionary Force’s relief, appointment, and retirement ceremony at Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 14, 2017. During the ceremony, Miller relinquished his post as commanding general of II MEF to Lt. Gen. Robert F. Hedelund as the commanding general of II MEF. - Maj. Gen. Walter L. Miller, Jr. gives a speech during II Marine Expeditionary Force’s relief, appointment, and retirement ceremony at Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 14, 2017. During the ceremony, Miller relinquished his post as commanding general of II MEF to Lt. Gen. Robert F. Hedelund as the commanding general of II MEF.

Sgt. Chris P. Tellef, a fire team leader with the Logistics Combat Element, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, measures a water jet nozzle during the 3-D Printing Training Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 20, 2017. Marines from various sections of SPMAGTF-SC attended the two-day training hosted by General Support Maintenance Company, 2nd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, in order to gain hands-on experience with 3-D printers and receive instruction in computer-aided design, file creation and manufacturing. - Sgt. Chris P. Tellef, a fire team leader with the Logistics Combat Element, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, measures a water jet nozzle during the 3-D Printing Training Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 20, 2017. Marines from various sections of SPMAGTF-SC attended the two-day training hosted by General Support Maintenance Company, 2nd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, in order to gain hands-on experience with 3-D printers and receive instruction in computer-aided design, file creation and manufacturing.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Slade Wood, a cyber network operator with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, shoots an M2 machine gun during phase two of Eagle Wrath 2017 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, July 6, 2017. Phase two consisted of conducting live-fire training exercises to give MWSS-171 the knowledge and confidence to utilize weapons systems effectively in a deployed environment. - U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Slade Wood, a cyber network operator with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, shoots an M2 machine gun during phase two of Eagle Wrath 2017 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, July 6, 2017. Phase two consisted of conducting live-fire training exercises to give MWSS-171 the knowledge and confidence to utilize weapons systems effectively in a deployed environment.

Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, wait for pilots to walk to three F-35B Lightning IIs on the first day of Red Flag 17-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 10. Red Flag 17-3 is a realistic combat training exercise involving the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps and this iteration is the first to have both the Air Force’s F-35A Lightning II and the Marine Corps’ F-35B Lightning II, which is capable of short takeoff vertical landing. - Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, wait for pilots to walk to three F-35B Lightning IIs on the first day of Red Flag 17-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 10. Red Flag 17-3 is a realistic combat training exercise involving the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps and this iteration is the first to have both the Air Force’s F-35A Lightning II and the Marine Corps’ F-35B Lightning II, which is capable of short takeoff vertical landing.

Brig. Gen. Helen G. Pratt, the commanding general of 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, tours East Saint John High School with leaders of the Louisiana Innovative Readiness Training project in Reserve, Louisiana on July 10, 2017. This year's IRT builds mutually beneficial civil-military partnerships between local communities to provide high quality, mission-essential training for service members and their units. - Brig. Gen. Helen G. Pratt, the commanding general of 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, tours East Saint John High School with leaders of the Louisiana Innovative Readiness Training project in Reserve, Louisiana on July 10, 2017. This year's IRT builds mutually beneficial civil-military partnerships between local communities to provide high quality, mission-essential training for service members and their units.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Jon M. Davis, deputy commandant, Aviation, salutes the flag during the playing of the national anthem during his retirement ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, Washington, D.C., July 10, 2017. Davis retired after 37 years of service. - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Jon M. Davis, deputy commandant, Aviation, salutes the flag during the playing of the national anthem during his retirement ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, Washington, D.C., July 10, 2017. Davis retired after 37 years of service.

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Sgt. Aenoi Luangxay, right, a squad leader with Combat Engineering Company, 3rd Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, receives a challenge coin July 7, 2017, in Okinawa, Japan, from Maj. Gen. Craig Timberlake, the 3rd Marine Division commanding officer, for winning the outstanding squad leader award while participating in the 2nd annual Marine Corps Combat Engineer Sapper competition held in Camp Pendleton, California. Luangxay was one of four squad leaders to be in the running for the award. - Sgt. Aenoi Luangxay, right, a squad leader with Combat Engineering Company, 3rd Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, receives a challenge coin July 7, 2017, in Okinawa, Japan, from Maj. Gen. Craig Timberlake, the 3rd Marine Division commanding officer, for winning the outstanding squad leader award while participating in the 2nd annual Marine Corps Combat Engineer Sapper competition held in Camp Pendleton, California. Luangxay was one of four squad leaders to be in the running for the award.

U.S. Marine Cpls. Otto Thiele (center left), Eric Goodman (center), and Christopher Ehms (far right) and Lance Cpls. Antonio Martinez (far left) and Avelardo Guevera Osuna (center right) came together to assist a local Japanese woman during their hike on Mount Fuji, Japan, July 3, 2017. The woman, Moe Oda, was found lying on the ground, hyperventilating and struggling to breathe when the Marines came to her assistance. Together, they created a makeshift stretcher to carry her down approximately two miles to get to medical assistance. The Marines are with Electronics Maintenance Company, 3d Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3d Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marine Cpls. Otto Thiele (center left), Eric Goodman (center), and Christopher Ehms (far right) and Lance Cpls. Antonio Martinez (far left) and Avelardo Guevera Osuna (center right) came together to assist a local Japanese woman during their hike on Mount Fuji, Japan, July 3, 2017. The woman, Moe Oda, was found lying on the ground, hyperventilating and struggling to breathe when the Marines came to her assistance. Together, they created a makeshift stretcher to carry her down approximately two miles to get to medical assistance. The Marines are with Electronics Maintenance Company, 3d Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3d Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

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U.S. Marines with Fire Support Team, Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, direct artillery fire and close air support onto enemy positions, as apart of their Fire Support Coordination Exercise, a training event, during Integrated Training Exercise 4-17 at Camp Wilson, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California on June 26th, 2017. ITX prepares Marines to rapidly deploy forces to any place in the world. - U.S. Marines with Fire Support Team, Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, direct artillery fire and close air support onto enemy positions, as apart of their Fire Support Coordination Exercise, a training event, during Integrated Training Exercise 4-17 at Camp Wilson, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California on June 26th, 2017. ITX prepares Marines to rapidly deploy forces to any place in the world.

Marines with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, tackle Range 410A during Integrated Training Exercise 4-17 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California on June 26, 2017. ITX allows Marines to maintain familiarity with basic military requirements and offers opportunities to learn from the difficulties associated with operating in an austere environment. - Marines with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, tackle Range 410A during Integrated Training Exercise 4-17 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California on June 26, 2017. ITX allows Marines to maintain familiarity with basic military requirements and offers opportunities to learn from the difficulties associated with operating in an austere environment.

U.S. Marines attached to Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 171, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, rush in buddy pairs to provide security to a forward operating base during exercise Eagle Wrath 2017 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, June 24, 2017. Forward operating bases and forward arming and refueling points were established during the two-week exercise to train the Marines to provide explosives, weaponry, fuel, security, logistics and personnel to a forward line of troops and aircraft. - U.S. Marines attached to Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 171, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, rush in buddy pairs to provide security to a forward operating base during exercise Eagle Wrath 2017 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, June 24, 2017. Forward operating bases and forward arming and refueling points were established during the two-week exercise to train the Marines to provide explosives, weaponry, fuel, security, logistics and personnel to a forward line of troops and aircraft.

A safety vehicle with the Combat Logistics Battalion 453, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, sits ready to transport Marines to the battalion aid station during Integrated Training Exercise 4-17 in Twentynine Palms, California on June 21, 2017. The corpsmen of CLB-453 provided medical care for 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, helping to decrease the risk of heat casualties during the final battalion exercise of ITX 4-17. - A safety vehicle with the Combat Logistics Battalion 453, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, sits ready to transport Marines to the battalion aid station during Integrated Training Exercise 4-17 in Twentynine Palms, California on June 21, 2017. The corpsmen of CLB-453 provided medical care for 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, helping to decrease the risk of heat casualties during the final battalion exercise of ITX 4-17.