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A color guard from Brooklyn’s 6th Communication Battalion retires the colors during a remembrance ceremony for two Reserve Marines from their unit at Floyd Bennett Field, Aug. 30, 2016. Sgt. Maj. Michael S. Curtin and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew D. Garvey, first responders with the city’s police fire departments, lost their lives at the World Trade Center on 9/11. To honor their memory, Marine Corps Reserve Center Brooklyn dedicated the Curtin Garvey Complex and a 9/11 monument made partially with steel from the World Trade Center. The remembrance ceremony is being held in conjunction with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Centennial, celebrating 100 years of service and selfless dedication to the nation. - A color guard from Brooklyn’s 6th Communication Battalion retires the colors during a remembrance ceremony for two Reserve Marines from their unit at Floyd Bennett Field, Aug. 30, 2016. Sgt. Maj. Michael S. Curtin and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew D. Garvey, first responders with the city’s police fire departments, lost their lives at the World Trade Center on 9/11. To honor their memory, Marine Corps Reserve Center Brooklyn dedicated the Curtin Garvey Complex and a 9/11 monument made partially with steel from the World Trade Center. The remembrance ceremony is being held in conjunction with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Centennial, celebrating 100 years of service and selfless dedication to the nation.

Two F/A-18C Hornets with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122 fly over head during Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 31, 2016. The Hornet squadron trained in low-altitude tactics, building pilots’ confidence and skills with low flying while performing air-to-surface maneuvers simultaneously. Southern Frontier is a three week unit level training helping pilots gain experience and qualifications in low-altitude tactics, close air support, and air ground, high explosive ordnance delivery. - Two F/A-18C Hornets with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122 fly over head during Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 31, 2016. The Hornet squadron trained in low-altitude tactics, building pilots’ confidence and skills with low flying while performing air-to-surface maneuvers simultaneously. Southern Frontier is a three week unit level training helping pilots gain experience and qualifications in low-altitude tactics, close air support, and air ground, high explosive ordnance delivery.

Pfc. Luis Moreno, a combat engineer with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, requests permission to board the USS America at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., Aug. 29, 2016. The ship will carry Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen to Los Angeles Fleet Week, Sept. 2 – Sept. 5. Fleet Weeks are annual patriotic events where active Navy and Coast Guard ships dock in major U.S. cities giving Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen an opportunity to interact with locals. This is the first year L.A. has hosted an official Fleet Week event. - Pfc. Luis Moreno, a combat engineer with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, requests permission to board the USS America at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., Aug. 29, 2016. The ship will carry Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen to Los Angeles Fleet Week, Sept. 2 – Sept. 5. Fleet Weeks are annual patriotic events where active Navy and Coast Guard ships dock in major U.S. cities giving Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen an opportunity to interact with locals. This is the first year L.A. has hosted an official Fleet Week event.

Reserve Marines are greeted by Savannah Guthrie, co-anchor of the Today Show, during the celebration of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Centennial, at Times Square, New York, Aug. 29, 2016. The Marines are commemorating 100 years of rich history, heritage, esprit de corps, and a bond with not only New York City but with all communities across the U.S. The celebration brings awareness to the Reserve’s essential role as a crisis response force and expeditionary force in readiness that is always prepared to augment the active component. - Reserve Marines are greeted by Savannah Guthrie, co-anchor of the Today Show, during the celebration of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Centennial, at Times Square, New York, Aug. 29, 2016. The Marines are commemorating 100 years of rich history, heritage, esprit de corps, and a bond with not only New York City but with all communities across the U.S. The celebration brings awareness to the Reserve’s essential role as a crisis response force and expeditionary force in readiness that is always prepared to augment the active component.

Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force, Crisis Response, Central Command, check role-players ID cards before screening them during a non-combatant evacuation operation exercise at Range 220, a military operations on urbanized terrain facility, at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Aug. 24, as part of a Certification Exercise. - Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force, Crisis Response, Central Command, check role-players ID cards before screening them during a non-combatant evacuation operation exercise at Range 220, a military operations on urbanized terrain facility, at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Aug. 24, as part of a Certification Exercise.

Brigadier Damian Cantwell, the Exercise Kowari commander, gives a patch to all the participants of Exercise Kowari at Larrakeyah Barracks, Northern Territory, Australia, August 26, 2016. The purpose of Exercise Kowari is to enhance the United States, Australia, and China’s friendship and trust, through trilateral cooperation in the Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean Rim regions. - Brigadier Damian Cantwell, the Exercise Kowari commander, gives a patch to all the participants of Exercise Kowari at Larrakeyah Barracks, Northern Territory, Australia, August 26, 2016. The purpose of Exercise Kowari is to enhance the United States, Australia, and China’s friendship and trust, through trilateral cooperation in the Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean Rim regions.

A Marine with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment helps the gunner fire a Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided (TOW) missile during a battle drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 23, 2016. The more experienced Marines got up and helped guide the new Marines who were shooting the weapon system for the first time. - A Marine with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment helps the gunner fire a Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided (TOW) missile during a battle drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 23, 2016. The more experienced Marines got up and helped guide the new Marines who were shooting the weapon system for the first time.

U.S. Marines from Provost Marshal’s Office K-9 unit trained with Hiroshima Prefectural Police Headquarters officers and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Repair and Supply Facility Petroleum Terminal unit military working dog handlers at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 24, 2016. Handlers and their military working dogs train regularly in a variety of areas such as locating explosives and narcotics, conducting patrols and human tracking in order to become a more effective team. - U.S. Marines from Provost Marshal’s Office K-9 unit trained with Hiroshima Prefectural Police Headquarters officers and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Repair and Supply Facility Petroleum Terminal unit military working dog handlers at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 24, 2016. Handlers and their military working dogs train regularly in a variety of areas such as locating explosives and narcotics, conducting patrols and human tracking in order to become a more effective team.

(Left to right) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, the commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 2, speaks with Brig. Gen. Robert F. Castellvi, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, during a rehearsal of concepts drill as part of Bold Alligator 2016 in Norfolk, Virginia, Aug. 13, 2016. BA16 focuses on improving Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Allied and partner nations as an investment in the current and future readiness of naval forces. BA16 is taking place Aug. 15-26, 2016, along the eastern seaboard. - (Left to right) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, the commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 2, speaks with Brig. Gen. Robert F. Castellvi, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, during a rehearsal of concepts drill as part of Bold Alligator 2016 in Norfolk, Virginia, Aug. 13, 2016. BA16 focuses on improving Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Allied and partner nations as an investment in the current and future readiness of naval forces. BA16 is taking place Aug. 15-26, 2016, along the eastern seaboard.

U.S. Marines moved gear onto the Bulgarian rail system, Aug. 23, 2016. The gear movement from Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, to Agile Spirit 16 in Tbilisi, Georgia, demonstrated the Marines’ ability to pack, load and transport gear quickly to support operations anywhere in the Black Sea region. - U.S. Marines moved gear onto the Bulgarian rail system, Aug. 23, 2016. The gear movement from Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, to Agile Spirit 16 in Tbilisi, Georgia, demonstrated the Marines’ ability to pack, load and transport gear quickly to support operations anywhere in the Black Sea region.

Marines with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin box during a French Armed Forces Nautical Commando Course at Quartier Gribeauval, New Caledonia, August 16, 2016. The course is a part of Exercise AmeriCal 16, a bilateral training exercise designed to enhance mutual combat capabilities and improve relations with our partners by exchanging a U.S. Marine Corps and French Armed Forces infantry platoon. While the U.S. Marines are in New Caledonia, the French infantry platoon traveled to Australia to participate in Exercise Koolendong 16 with U.S. and Australian forces. - Marines with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin box during a French Armed Forces Nautical Commando Course at Quartier Gribeauval, New Caledonia, August 16, 2016. The course is a part of Exercise AmeriCal 16, a bilateral training exercise designed to enhance mutual combat capabilities and improve relations with our partners by exchanging a U.S. Marine Corps and French Armed Forces infantry platoon. While the U.S. Marines are in New Caledonia, the French infantry platoon traveled to Australia to participate in Exercise Koolendong 16 with U.S. and Australian forces.

Marines with Company A, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, fire a M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 19, 2016. Marines fired the tanks to adjust their battle sight zero before the main event of their annual training. - Marines with Company A, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, fire a M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 19, 2016. Marines fired the tanks to adjust their battle sight zero before the main event of their annual training.

Sgt. Juan Gonzalez, paraloft chief for Company C, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, checks the distance left before a jump during Exercise Northern Strike 2016 at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, Mich., Aug. 16, 2016. Reserve Recon Marines practice jumping from the back of C-130s to meet their requirements and perfect their skills. Exercise Northern Strike 16 is a National Guard Bureau-sponsored exercise uniting approximately 5,000 Army, Air Force, Marine, and Special Forces service members from 20 states and three coalition countries. The exercise strives to provide accessible, readiness-building opportunities for military units from all service branches to achieve and sustain proficiency in conducting mission command, air, sea, and ground maneuver integration, and the synchronization of fires in a joint, multinational, decisive action environment. - Sgt. Juan Gonzalez, paraloft chief for Company C, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, checks the distance left before a jump during Exercise Northern Strike 2016 at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, Mich., Aug. 16, 2016. Reserve Recon Marines practice jumping from the back of C-130s to meet their requirements and perfect their skills. Exercise Northern Strike 16 is a National Guard Bureau-sponsored exercise uniting approximately 5,000 Army, Air Force, Marine, and Special Forces service members from 20 states and three coalition countries. The exercise strives to provide accessible, readiness-building opportunities for military units from all service branches to achieve and sustain proficiency in conducting mission command, air, sea, and ground maneuver integration, and the synchronization of fires in a joint, multinational, decisive action environment.

Lance Cpl. Vicente C. Spence, right, a motor transport operator with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, receives a challenge coin from Rear Adm. Christina M. Alavarado, commander, reserve component expeditionary medicine, during Exercise Global Medic at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, August 19, 2016. Spence was presented the coin for the continuous hard work he did throughout the course of the exercise and for constantly maintaining a positive and upbeat attitude. - Lance Cpl. Vicente C. Spence, right, a motor transport operator with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, receives a challenge coin from Rear Adm. Christina M. Alavarado, commander, reserve component expeditionary medicine, during Exercise Global Medic at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, August 19, 2016. Spence was presented the coin for the continuous hard work he did throughout the course of the exercise and for constantly maintaining a positive and upbeat attitude.

Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force and sailors with 553 Cyber Protection Team, monitor network activity during I MEF Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug 22, 2016. The overall purpose of the exercise was to practice the deployment of a fighting force of more than 50,000 military personnel to a partner nation and incorporate both live-fire and simulated combat scenarios against a near-peer enemy force. 553-CPT is a team of cyber defense specialists with Fleet Cyber Command. The team advised I MEF while setting up the command element’s networks. - Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force and sailors with 553 Cyber Protection Team, monitor network activity during I MEF Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug 22, 2016. The overall purpose of the exercise was to practice the deployment of a fighting force of more than 50,000 military personnel to a partner nation and incorporate both live-fire and simulated combat scenarios against a near-peer enemy force. 553-CPT is a team of cyber defense specialists with Fleet Cyber Command. The team advised I MEF while setting up the command element’s networks.

Second Lieutenant Trevor Weaser (third from the left), rows at a 2014 competition at Northeastern University in Boston, Mass. Weaser was commissioned a Marine Corps officer August 7th, 2016. - Second Lieutenant Trevor Weaser (third from the left), rows at a 2014 competition at Northeastern University in Boston, Mass. Weaser was commissioned a Marine Corps officer August 7th, 2016.

An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 taxis to the runway for a night flight during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 17, 2016. The flying squadron executed large force close air support, air interdiction, armed reconnaissance, and strike coordination and reconnaissance missions over the three week training evolution. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region. - An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 taxis to the runway for a night flight during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 17, 2016. The flying squadron executed large force close air support, air interdiction, armed reconnaissance, and strike coordination and reconnaissance missions over the three week training evolution. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region.

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U.S. Marines with Company A, Law Enforcement Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, practice weapons tactics training during I Marine Expeditionary Force Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 17, 2016. LSE-16 is designed to enhance the command and control and interoperability between I MEF command element staff and its higher, adjacent and subordinate command headquarters. The exercise includes cyber and electronic warfare, information support operations, and simulated and live-fire events. - U.S. Marines with Company A, Law Enforcement Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, practice weapons tactics training during I Marine Expeditionary Force Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 17, 2016. LSE-16 is designed to enhance the command and control and interoperability between I MEF command element staff and its higher, adjacent and subordinate command headquarters. The exercise includes cyber and electronic warfare, information support operations, and simulated and live-fire events.

The aviation logistics support ship SS Wright is playing an important support role during Bold Alligator 16, Aug 15-26. In addition to serving in its traditional role providing intermediate aircraft maintenance, the Wright is involved in limited objective experimentation to expose participants to new technologies, applications and concepts that will inform future warfighting capabilities.The experiment will test the ship’s suitability as a potential command and control platform, providing integrated air and ground logistics support, and as a possible hub for unmanned air and maritime vehicles providing support to the landing force. - The aviation logistics support ship SS Wright is playing an important support role during Bold Alligator 16, Aug 15-26. In addition to serving in its traditional role providing intermediate aircraft maintenance, the Wright is involved in limited objective experimentation to expose participants to new technologies, applications and concepts that will inform future warfighting capabilities.The experiment will test the ship’s suitability as a potential command and control platform, providing integrated air and ground logistics support, and as a possible hub for unmanned air and maritime vehicles providing support to the landing force.

Lance Cpl. Samuel L. Posey, a rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company I, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, sights in through his rifle while conducting room clearing drills during exercise Arctic Eagle at Camp Grayling, Mich., April 7, 2016. Posey overcame a rough childhood to become a Marine and serve his country. - Lance Cpl. Samuel L. Posey, a rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company I, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, sights in through his rifle while conducting room clearing drills during exercise Arctic Eagle at Camp Grayling, Mich., April 7, 2016. Posey overcame a rough childhood to become a Marine and serve his country.

A range safety officer spreads CS gas during a live fire range August 18, 2016, to simulate a chemical attack at Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. The range was the final training evolution of Exercise Koolendong 16, a trilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps, Australian Defence Force and French Armed Forces New Caledonia. Marines held a defensive position while engaging targets and working through the CS gas. - A range safety officer spreads CS gas during a live fire range August 18, 2016, to simulate a chemical attack at Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. The range was the final training evolution of Exercise Koolendong 16, a trilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps, Australian Defence Force and French Armed Forces New Caledonia. Marines held a defensive position while engaging targets and working through the CS gas.

A Sikorsky S76A++ Search and Rescue helicopter hovers during SAR training at Exercise Pitch Black 2016, Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 16, 2016. The SAR team trains with local and international forces during exercises like Pitch Black to ensure all medical personnel that can respond to an aircraft emergency are capable of carrying out the same procedures. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region. - A Sikorsky S76A++ Search and Rescue helicopter hovers during SAR training at Exercise Pitch Black 2016, Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 16, 2016. The SAR team trains with local and international forces during exercises like Pitch Black to ensure all medical personnel that can respond to an aircraft emergency are capable of carrying out the same procedures. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region.

An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 takes off from a simulated combat zone during a casualty evacuation exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, August 17, 2016. Marines with VMM-161 conducted the exercise in support of 5th Battalion, 11th Marines, in order to increase proficiency in conducting CAS EVACS. - An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 takes off from a simulated combat zone during a casualty evacuation exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, August 17, 2016. Marines with VMM-161 conducted the exercise in support of 5th Battalion, 11th Marines, in order to increase proficiency in conducting CAS EVACS.

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Marines with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit intelligence section assemble a tent in the field during an Intelligence Interoperability Course, Dec. 13, 2010. The Marines and sailors of the 22nd MEU recently began an aggressive series of progressively, more complex pre-deployment exercises designed to train and test the MEU's ability to operate as a cohesive and effective fighting force. - Marines with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit intelligence section assemble a tent in the field during an Intelligence Interoperability Course, Dec. 13, 2010. The Marines and sailors of the 22nd MEU recently began an aggressive series of progressively, more complex pre-deployment exercises designed to train and test the MEU's ability to operate as a cohesive and effective fighting force.

Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion participated in a Beretta M9 pistol shoot during a weeklong weapon training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 9, 2016. Marines practiced handling and firing pistols in several unconventional style drills, helping enhance their skills with the weapon. - Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion participated in a Beretta M9 pistol shoot during a weeklong weapon training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 9, 2016. Marines practiced handling and firing pistols in several unconventional style drills, helping enhance their skills with the weapon.

A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier with Marine Attack Squadron 542 performs a vertical landing while using the lights on the mobile Expeditionary Hover Position Indicator to adjust its position at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 9, 2016. VMA-542 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., and is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, as part of the unit deployment program. The Harrier pilots used the mobile EHPI in coordination with Aircraft Recovery assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron to recertify on boat-deck landings to prepare for other future operations in the Pacific. - A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier with Marine Attack Squadron 542 performs a vertical landing while using the lights on the mobile Expeditionary Hover Position Indicator to adjust its position at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 9, 2016. VMA-542 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., and is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, as part of the unit deployment program. The Harrier pilots used the mobile EHPI in coordination with Aircraft Recovery assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron to recertify on boat-deck landings to prepare for other future operations in the Pacific.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Company 36 don their M50 Joint Service General Purpose Masks during chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, August 10, 2016. Marines, already in mission oriented protective posture gear, were evaluated on their ability to effectively detect, report, respond and operate in a simulated CBRN environment. When given the signal “gas, gas, gas,” Marines scrambled to don their M50 Joint Service General Purpose Masks before returning to work as if everything was normal. Conducting this training helps Marines refresh their tactical skill sets specific to CBRN response, maintain situational readiness and ensures the safety of personnel. - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Company 36 don their M50 Joint Service General Purpose Masks during chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, August 10, 2016. Marines, already in mission oriented protective posture gear, were evaluated on their ability to effectively detect, report, respond and operate in a simulated CBRN environment. When given the signal “gas, gas, gas,” Marines scrambled to don their M50 Joint Service General Purpose Masks before returning to work as if everything was normal. Conducting this training helps Marines refresh their tactical skill sets specific to CBRN response, maintain situational readiness and ensures the safety of personnel.

Col. Jay R. Vargas, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, waves at the camera after speaking to service members about the importance of finding help for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder May 12, 2015, at the Chaplain Joseph W. Estabrook Chapel aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii. - Col. Jay R. Vargas, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, waves at the camera after speaking to service members about the importance of finding help for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder May 12, 2015, at the Chaplain Joseph W. Estabrook Chapel aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

The “Helo Dunker” is a mock helicopter that is used to provide the safest way of simulating an actual invent of an aircraft crashing into the water without actually crashing a helicopter, it is used by submerging the Marines completely under the water to train them to egress from the vehicle at the Water Survival training facility on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune Aug. 5, 2016. The Marines undertook the training which is designed as a lifesaving course that provides service members with the skills and confidence too successfully and safely egress out of a helicopter that has suffered a controlled or uncontrolled landing within a body of water. - The “Helo Dunker” is a mock helicopter that is used to provide the safest way of simulating an actual invent of an aircraft crashing into the water without actually crashing a helicopter, it is used by submerging the Marines completely under the water to train them to egress from the vehicle at the Water Survival training facility on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune Aug. 5, 2016. The Marines undertook the training which is designed as a lifesaving course that provides service members with the skills and confidence too successfully and safely egress out of a helicopter that has suffered a controlled or uncontrolled landing within a body of water.

An F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 moves in to catch the basket during an aerial refueling mission with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia during Exercise Pitch Black 2016, Aug. 9, 2016. VMGR-152 provides aerial refueling and assault support during expeditionary and joint or combined operations like Pitch Black. This exercise is a biennial, three week, multinational, large-force training exercise hosted by RAAF Tindal. - An F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 moves in to catch the basket during an aerial refueling mission with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia during Exercise Pitch Black 2016, Aug. 9, 2016. VMGR-152 provides aerial refueling and assault support during expeditionary and joint or combined operations like Pitch Black. This exercise is a biennial, three week, multinational, large-force training exercise hosted by RAAF Tindal.

Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Installations - West, conducts Exercise Citadel Rumble, Aug. 2-5. Exercise Citadel Rumble is an integrated disaster response and recovery exercise for emergency response plans, polices, and procedures as they pertain to an all-hazards event. This scenario encompassed a 6.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Southern California. - Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Installations - West, conducts Exercise Citadel Rumble, Aug. 2-5. Exercise Citadel Rumble is an integrated disaster response and recovery exercise for emergency response plans, polices, and procedures as they pertain to an all-hazards event. This scenario encompassed a 6.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Southern California.

A group of Marines with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment attacking the oppositional force headquarters during the Marine Air Ground Task Force Integrated Experiment 2016 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. as part of the final course of action for the exercise. July 31, 2016. The Marines used everything they learn throughout the course of the exercise to secure the enemy headquarters. - A group of Marines with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment attacking the oppositional force headquarters during the Marine Air Ground Task Force Integrated Experiment 2016 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. as part of the final course of action for the exercise. July 31, 2016. The Marines used everything they learn throughout the course of the exercise to secure the enemy headquarters.

A CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 takes off to conduct a troop lift exercise with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., The CH-53E Super Stallion is the largest helicopter in the United States military, and able to carry a 26,000-pound Light Armored Vehicle, 16 tons of cargo, or enough combat-loaded Marines to lead an assault or humanitarian operation. The capabilities provided by the CH-53E strengthen the expeditionary capabilities of Marines Corps units and make this aircraft one of the most useful in the Marine Corps. HMH-461 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. - A CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 takes off to conduct a troop lift exercise with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., The CH-53E Super Stallion is the largest helicopter in the United States military, and able to carry a 26,000-pound Light Armored Vehicle, 16 tons of cargo, or enough combat-loaded Marines to lead an assault or humanitarian operation. The capabilities provided by the CH-53E strengthen the expeditionary capabilities of Marines Corps units and make this aircraft one of the most useful in the Marine Corps. HMH-461 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.

Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment line up to board an aircraft during a training exercise, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 28. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 462 and the Royal Canadian Air Force supported 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2016. - Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment line up to board an aircraft during a training exercise, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 28. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 462 and the Royal Canadian Air Force supported 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2016.

U.S. service members and guests attend the Montford Point Marine Memorial dedication ceremony held at Jacksonville, North Carolina, July 29, 2016. The memorial was built in honor of the 20,000 African-Americans who attended training at Montford Point. - U.S. service members and guests attend the Montford Point Marine Memorial dedication ceremony held at Jacksonville, North Carolina, July 29, 2016. The memorial was built in honor of the 20,000 African-Americans who attended training at Montford Point.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Christian Marin, a heavy equipment mechanic with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, radios-in a simulated casualty during Exercise Eagle Wrath 2016 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji,Japan, July 28, 2016. During the culminating event, Marines established a mock air base including a landing zone and refueling point, constructed defensive and machine-gun positions, and conducted convoys and patrols over the course of four days. MWSS-171 conducts this exercise once a year in order to train all the Marines within the squadron, enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Christian Marin, a heavy equipment mechanic with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, radios-in a simulated casualty during Exercise Eagle Wrath 2016 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji,Japan, July 28, 2016. During the culminating event, Marines established a mock air base including a landing zone and refueling point, constructed defensive and machine-gun positions, and conducted convoys and patrols over the course of four days. MWSS-171 conducts this exercise once a year in order to train all the Marines within the squadron, enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability.

An explosive ordnance disposal truck stands on a range during standoff munitions disruption training, July 28, 2016, at Marine Corps Base Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan. The training ensured explosive ordnance disposal technicians were proficient in the safe long-distance detonation of explosives, using the SASR-M107 sniper rifle. During the training, the EOD technicians were coached in marksmanship by reconnaissance Marines. The EOD technicians are with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan and Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The reconnaissance Marines are with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF. - An explosive ordnance disposal truck stands on a range during standoff munitions disruption training, July 28, 2016, at Marine Corps Base Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan. The training ensured explosive ordnance disposal technicians were proficient in the safe long-distance detonation of explosives, using the SASR-M107 sniper rifle. During the training, the EOD technicians were coached in marksmanship by reconnaissance Marines. The EOD technicians are with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan and Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The reconnaissance Marines are with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Daniel Lane, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 pilot, conducts a preflight check on an F/A-18C Hornet during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 1, 2016. Pitch Black 16 is a biennial, three week, multinational, large-force training exercise hosted by RAAF Tindal. As the training progresses, the U.S. pilots will also get the opportunity to fly with Canada, France, Germany, Indonesia, Netherlands, New Zealand and Thailand. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Daniel Lane, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 pilot, conducts a preflight check on an F/A-18C Hornet during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 1, 2016. Pitch Black 16 is a biennial, three week, multinational, large-force training exercise hosted by RAAF Tindal. As the training progresses, the U.S. pilots will also get the opportunity to fly with Canada, France, Germany, Indonesia, Netherlands, New Zealand and Thailand.

Cpl. Ryan T. Fry and Lance Cpl. Fabian J. Villegas, combat engineers with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, assemble a linear breaching charge with detonation cord at Camp Pendleton, California, July 26, 2016. A live-fire training exercise was conducted to give assaultmen and riflemen an opportunity to integrate with combat engineers and learn to build improvised breaching charges. - Cpl. Ryan T. Fry and Lance Cpl. Fabian J. Villegas, combat engineers with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, assemble a linear breaching charge with detonation cord at Camp Pendleton, California, July 26, 2016. A live-fire training exercise was conducted to give assaultmen and riflemen an opportunity to integrate with combat engineers and learn to build improvised breaching charges.

Lance Cpl. Trevor Serenelli, an aviation ordnance technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, unloads high explosive ordnance during exercise Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, July 28, 2016. Southern Frontier is three weeks of unit level training helping the squadron gain experience and qualifications in low altitude, air-ground, high explosive ordnance delivery at the unit level. VMFA-122 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina and are currently assigned to MAG-12 at MCAS Iwakuni under the Unit Deployment Program. Australia is the last stop on the squadron’s deployment before heading back home. - Lance Cpl. Trevor Serenelli, an aviation ordnance technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, unloads high explosive ordnance during exercise Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, July 28, 2016. Southern Frontier is three weeks of unit level training helping the squadron gain experience and qualifications in low altitude, air-ground, high explosive ordnance delivery at the unit level. VMFA-122 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina and are currently assigned to MAG-12 at MCAS Iwakuni under the Unit Deployment Program. Australia is the last stop on the squadron’s deployment before heading back home.

U.S. Marines with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, assault a beach during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. - U.S. Marines with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, assault a beach during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California.

A Marine Sniper prepares to fire a 7.62mm NATO through a M40A6 rifle with a chronograph attached during a market research caliber study July 13, at Fort A.P. Hill, Va. Marine Corps Systems Command’s Infantry Weapons Systems conducted the study to inform Marine Corps acquisition leaders about future Marine sniper weapon system requirements. - A Marine Sniper prepares to fire a 7.62mm NATO through a M40A6 rifle with a chronograph attached during a market research caliber study July 13, at Fort A.P. Hill, Va. Marine Corps Systems Command’s Infantry Weapons Systems conducted the study to inform Marine Corps acquisition leaders about future Marine sniper weapon system requirements.

An amphibious assault vehicle crewman with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, loads simulation rounds into a mounted MK-19 40mm grenade launcher during a live-fire gunnery range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 27, 2016. Marines with the battalion spent the day refining their marksmanship skill as individuals and their ability to work as a crew. - An amphibious assault vehicle crewman with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, loads simulation rounds into a mounted MK-19 40mm grenade launcher during a live-fire gunnery range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 27, 2016. Marines with the battalion spent the day refining their marksmanship skill as individuals and their ability to work as a crew.

Marines with engineer platoon, Chemical Biological Incident Response Force set up a mobile air-conditioning unit at the local chow hall aboard Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Maryland, July 22, 2016. Providing air-conditioning to the chow hall gave the Marines hands-on training that further sharpens their skills needed to conduct expeditionary operations. - Marines with engineer platoon, Chemical Biological Incident Response Force set up a mobile air-conditioning unit at the local chow hall aboard Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Maryland, July 22, 2016. Providing air-conditioning to the chow hall gave the Marines hands-on training that further sharpens their skills needed to conduct expeditionary operations.

Second Lieutenant David Higgins shoots his rifle in the World Championships in Granada, Spain, in September 2014. Higgins attended the United States Air Force Academy, and then decided to cross-commission into the United States Marine Corps. Higgins has qualified for the Olympics this year, and will be going to Rio to represent Team USA as well as the U.S. Marine Corps on the rifle shooting team. - Second Lieutenant David Higgins shoots his rifle in the World Championships in Granada, Spain, in September 2014. Higgins attended the United States Air Force Academy, and then decided to cross-commission into the United States Marine Corps. Higgins has qualified for the Olympics this year, and will be going to Rio to represent Team USA as well as the U.S. Marine Corps on the rifle shooting team.

Marines with Company A., 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, return from patrolling in M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 17, 2016. The annual training exercise displayed the Marines ability to execute heavily armored, large scale attacks while working with their active duty counterparts. - Marines with Company A., 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, return from patrolling in M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 17, 2016. The annual training exercise displayed the Marines ability to execute heavily armored, large scale attacks while working with their active duty counterparts.

A Marine with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command rappels off the ramp of a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 on Landing Zone Parrot at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 20, 2016. The exercise was a part of a two weeklong Helicopter Insertion and Extraction Techniques Course. The CH-53 provided for the training evolution was assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. - A Marine with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command rappels off the ramp of a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 on Landing Zone Parrot at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 20, 2016. The exercise was a part of a two weeklong Helicopter Insertion and Extraction Techniques Course. The CH-53 provided for the training evolution was assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.

Lance Cpl. Skyler Schopf, team leader, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, fires a M136 AT4 anti-tank weapon during a live-fire training exercise as part of Tactical Small-Unit Leadership Course at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, July 18, 2016. The purpose of the course was to focus on the training of small-unit leadership within “Darkside.” - Lance Cpl. Skyler Schopf, team leader, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, fires a M136 AT4 anti-tank weapon during a live-fire training exercise as part of Tactical Small-Unit Leadership Course at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, July 18, 2016. The purpose of the course was to focus on the training of small-unit leadership within “Darkside.”