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Pfc. Merrick Martius, a Light Armored Vehicle crewman, provides maintenance for an infrared light on an LAV-25 during a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. The qualification test consisted of gunnery training, communication between the vehicle commander and the driver, and cooperation between the crewmembers of the LAV and the command tower. This allows Marines to fire accurately when aiming on targets down range. Martius is an LAV crewman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Pfc. Merrick Martius, a Light Armored Vehicle crewman, provides maintenance for an infrared light on an LAV-25 during a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. The qualification test consisted of gunnery training, communication between the vehicle commander and the driver, and cooperation between the crewmembers of the LAV and the command tower. This allows Marines to fire accurately when aiming on targets down range. Martius is an LAV crewman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

Caroline B. Kennedy, U.S. ambassador to Japan, speaks to Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152) at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 28, 2016. This is Ambassador Kennedy’s first official visit to MCAS Iwakuni. While at the squadron’s hangar, Kennedy viewed a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft, gaining an understanding on the multiple capabilities of the aircraft in the Pacific theater. This visit also helped the ambassador better understand MCAS Iwakuni’s community and witness the ongoing transformation of the air station through the multitude of construction projects. - Caroline B. Kennedy, U.S. ambassador to Japan, speaks to Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152) at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 28, 2016. This is Ambassador Kennedy’s first official visit to MCAS Iwakuni. While at the squadron’s hangar, Kennedy viewed a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft, gaining an understanding on the multiple capabilities of the aircraft in the Pacific theater. This visit also helped the ambassador better understand MCAS Iwakuni’s community and witness the ongoing transformation of the air station through the multitude of construction projects.

A soldier with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Western Army Infantry Regiment looks out from the driver’s seat of an amphibious assault vehicle onto a simulated battlefield during training during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 26. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise designed to improve U.S. Marine Corps and JGSDF’s ability to plan, communicate and conduct combined amphibious operations. The exercise provides valuable training to warriors from different cultures, and the opportunity to build camaraderie between the U.S. and Japanese militaries. - A soldier with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Western Army Infantry Regiment looks out from the driver’s seat of an amphibious assault vehicle onto a simulated battlefield during training during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 26. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise designed to improve U.S. Marine Corps and JGSDF’s ability to plan, communicate and conduct combined amphibious operations. The exercise provides valuable training to warriors from different cultures, and the opportunity to build camaraderie between the U.S. and Japanese militaries.

U.S. Marines with the Ground Combat Element, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, run toward an MV-22B Osprey after recovering a simulated casualty during an alert-force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, January 23, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-sustaining crisis-response force prepared for the protection of American personnel and facilities on the African continent when directed. - U.S. Marines with the Ground Combat Element, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, run toward an MV-22B Osprey after recovering a simulated casualty during an alert-force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, January 23, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-sustaining crisis-response force prepared for the protection of American personnel and facilities on the African continent when directed.

Marines look over the hill tops at their targets as the sun sets at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 13, 2016. The Marines are a mix of Joint Tactical Attack Controllers and Joint Fire Observers who are responsible for directing fires of artillery and aircraft. The Marines are with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines look over the hill tops at their targets as the sun sets at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 13, 2016. The Marines are a mix of Joint Tactical Attack Controllers and Joint Fire Observers who are responsible for directing fires of artillery and aircraft. The Marines are with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center’s Pre-Scout Sniper Course departs a field following a stalking exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 22, 2016. The DCSC offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines. - A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center’s Pre-Scout Sniper Course departs a field following a stalking exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 22, 2016. The DCSC offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines.

Sgt. DeMonte R. Cheeley is presented the Purple Heart medal by Brig. Gen. Terry V. Williams Jan. 26, 2015, at a ceremony in Chattanooga, Tenn. Cheeley received the Purple Heart for injuries he sustained during a July 16, 2015 attack in Chattanooga at the Armed Forces Career Center where he works. An investigation conducted by the FBI and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service determined the attack had been inspired by a foreign terrorist group making Cheeley eligible for the Purple Heart. Cheeley is a Recruiting Substation Chattanooga recruiter in Chattanooga, Tenn. Williams is the Commanding General of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island and Eastern Recruiting Region. - Sgt. DeMonte R. Cheeley is presented the Purple Heart medal by Brig. Gen. Terry V. Williams Jan. 26, 2015, at a ceremony in Chattanooga, Tenn. Cheeley received the Purple Heart for injuries he sustained during a July 16, 2015 attack in Chattanooga at the Armed Forces Career Center where he works. An investigation conducted by the FBI and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service determined the attack had been inspired by a foreign terrorist group making Cheeley eligible for the Purple Heart. Cheeley is a Recruiting Substation Chattanooga recruiter in Chattanooga, Tenn. Williams is the Commanding General of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island and Eastern Recruiting Region.

Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command dive out the back of a MV-22B Osprey with the goal of hitting their pre-designated landing zone with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, Jan. 21, 2016. The squadron supported Marine Raiders by conducting high altitude low opening jumps as well as static line jumps to allow them to train for future operations. - Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command dive out the back of a MV-22B Osprey with the goal of hitting their pre-designated landing zone with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, Jan. 21, 2016. The squadron supported Marine Raiders by conducting high altitude low opening jumps as well as static line jumps to allow them to train for future operations.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Thomas McCarthy prepares to place an IV for Cpl. Walter Kowalski Jan. 5 at the U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka Branch Health Annex on Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan. The annex provides medical evaluation and care to units training on the installation and is typically staffed by less than six permanent personnel. The facility provides an area for service members in training to seek medical evaluation and care. McCarthy is a corpsman with 3rd Battalion 5th Marine Regiment; currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program, and a Visalia, Calif., native. Kowalski is a field radio operator with the battalion and an Amsterdam, N.Y., native. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Thomas McCarthy prepares to place an IV for Cpl. Walter Kowalski Jan. 5 at the U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka Branch Health Annex on Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan. The annex provides medical evaluation and care to units training on the installation and is typically staffed by less than six permanent personnel. The facility provides an area for service members in training to seek medical evaluation and care. McCarthy is a corpsman with 3rd Battalion 5th Marine Regiment; currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program, and a Visalia, Calif., native. Kowalski is a field radio operator with the battalion and an Amsterdam, N.Y., native.

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Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion prepare to dive in the pool during the Dive Supervisor Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2016. The course certifies Marines as dive supervisors whose mission is to oversee dives and ensure that operations are conducted safely and effectively. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion prepare to dive in the pool during the Dive Supervisor Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2016. The course certifies Marines as dive supervisors whose mission is to oversee dives and ensure that operations are conducted safely and effectively.

Marines with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS) 3 conduct a land navigation course during their Command Post Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Jan. 19. Marines with MWHS-3 participated in a three-day, two-night CPX designed to instill and improve field and tactical skills of the Headquarter Marines, Jan. 19-21. - Marines with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS) 3 conduct a land navigation course during their Command Post Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Jan. 19. Marines with MWHS-3 participated in a three-day, two-night CPX designed to instill and improve field and tactical skills of the Headquarter Marines, Jan. 19-21.

Cpl. Joshua Payne, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 and a Spring, Texas, native, guides the pilots of an MV-22B Osprey to an unprepared field during casualty-evacuation training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 20. Casualty-evacuation training prepares the Marines to land in a combat zone, pick up injured Marines and transport them to a safe area. - Cpl. Joshua Payne, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 and a Spring, Texas, native, guides the pilots of an MV-22B Osprey to an unprepared field during casualty-evacuation training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 20. Casualty-evacuation training prepares the Marines to land in a combat zone, pick up injured Marines and transport them to a safe area.

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Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 established and set up a forward operating base during a field operation at Davis North, Jan. 13, 2016. Marines tested their support capabilities during a field operation, meant to hone their skills on airfield. - Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 established and set up a forward operating base during a field operation at Davis North, Jan. 13, 2016. Marines tested their support capabilities during a field operation, meant to hone their skills on airfield.

A Marine squad leader assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security during a company-level assault, as part of combined arms live-fire, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin exercise, aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Training Center Twentynine Palms, California, Jan. 18, 2016. Infantry squad leaders holding the rank of corporal or sergeant can apply now for the recently updated Squad Leader Development Program, and earn the new military occupational specialty of 0365 - Infantry Squad Leader if selected from the pool of applicants. - A Marine squad leader assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security during a company-level assault, as part of combined arms live-fire, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin exercise, aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Training Center Twentynine Palms, California, Jan. 18, 2016. Infantry squad leaders holding the rank of corporal or sergeant can apply now for the recently updated Squad Leader Development Program, and earn the new military occupational specialty of 0365 - Infantry Squad Leader if selected from the pool of applicants.

First Lt. Nolan Vihlen (left), 1st Lt. Dave Samson (middle), and 1st Lt. David Peck (right), Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302, conduct vehicle checks on a CH-53E Super Stallion before their departure from Marine Corps Air Station New River, Jan. 7, 2016. Thorough and consistent pilot training is the best way to ensure aviation safety; HMHT-302 teaches its student pilots proper procedures for safety checks to ensure the highest level of safety and preparedness prior to any flight. - First Lt. Nolan Vihlen (left), 1st Lt. Dave Samson (middle), and 1st Lt. David Peck (right), Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302, conduct vehicle checks on a CH-53E Super Stallion before their departure from Marine Corps Air Station New River, Jan. 7, 2016. Thorough and consistent pilot training is the best way to ensure aviation safety; HMHT-302 teaches its student pilots proper procedures for safety checks to ensure the highest level of safety and preparedness prior to any flight.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, launch a round during a live-fire mortar exercise with 81 mm mortar systems in preparation for the unit’s upcoming deployment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 21,2016. The Marines worked with the mortar systems until the late evening, sending more than 350 rounds downrange, and accomplished their goal of having more than 90 percent of their rounds impact on their designated targets. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, launch a round during a live-fire mortar exercise with 81 mm mortar systems in preparation for the unit’s upcoming deployment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 21,2016. The Marines worked with the mortar systems until the late evening, sending more than 350 rounds downrange, and accomplished their goal of having more than 90 percent of their rounds impact on their designated targets.

Marines and Sailors practice clearing rooms and detaining non-combatants as a part of the Raid Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 12, 2016. While the course emphasizes combat marksmanship fundamentals, Marines must be able to identify and properly handle non-combatants in urban military operations. The Marines participating in the training course are with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Corps Regiment. The Raid Leaders Course is run by Expeditionary Operations Training Group, I Marine Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines and Sailors practice clearing rooms and detaining non-combatants as a part of the Raid Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 12, 2016. While the course emphasizes combat marksmanship fundamentals, Marines must be able to identify and properly handle non-combatants in urban military operations. The Marines participating in the training course are with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Corps Regiment. The Raid Leaders Course is run by Expeditionary Operations Training Group, I Marine Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

Lance Cpl. Sawyer Day, a combat engineer with Alpha Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, reloads his weapon during a Combat Marksmanship Program qualification. Marines conduct these qualifications yearly in order to remain combat ready in case they are called upon at a moment's notice. - Lance Cpl. Sawyer Day, a combat engineer with Alpha Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, reloads his weapon during a Combat Marksmanship Program qualification. Marines conduct these qualifications yearly in order to remain combat ready in case they are called upon at a moment's notice.

A Marine operates a simulated Personal Surface to Air Missile during a tour of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force facilities Jan. 13 at Camp Komakado, Shizuoka, Japan. The visit strengthened the relationship between Marines and members of the JGSDF through guided tours and discussions of tactics and equipment. The Marines, who are from 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, Marine Aircraft Control Group 28; currently assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program, visited their JGSDF counterpart, 1st Anti-Aircraft Battalion, to observe training procedures, weapon systems, tactical vehicles and equipment. - A Marine operates a simulated Personal Surface to Air Missile during a tour of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force facilities Jan. 13 at Camp Komakado, Shizuoka, Japan. The visit strengthened the relationship between Marines and members of the JGSDF through guided tours and discussions of tactics and equipment. The Marines, who are from 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, Marine Aircraft Control Group 28; currently assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program, visited their JGSDF counterpart, 1st Anti-Aircraft Battalion, to observe training procedures, weapon systems, tactical vehicles and equipment.

Lance Cpl. Hunter Rooks, a Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, deflects baton attacks from an assailant after being sprayed with oleoresin capsicum, more commonly known as OC spray, at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 14. “The purpose of this course is to gain compliance without using lethal force,” said Cpl. Hayden Jolly, an artillery section chief with the unit. - Lance Cpl. Hunter Rooks, a Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, deflects baton attacks from an assailant after being sprayed with oleoresin capsicum, more commonly known as OC spray, at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 14. “The purpose of this course is to gain compliance without using lethal force,” said Cpl. Hayden Jolly, an artillery section chief with the unit.

Sgt. Chris Fitzpatrick, an Explosive Ordinance Disposal technician with EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, briefs his team before participating in a simulated raid during a breaching course at Camp Lejeune N.C., Jan. 14, 2016. Marines switch leadership positions throughout the entire course to keep the unit proficient. - Sgt. Chris Fitzpatrick, an Explosive Ordinance Disposal technician with EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, briefs his team before participating in a simulated raid during a breaching course at Camp Lejeune N.C., Jan. 14, 2016. Marines switch leadership positions throughout the entire course to keep the unit proficient.

Sgt. Eric Ortega holds security while waiting for a helicopter to land during a raid Jan. 13, 2015 on Guam. The raid is part of Realistic Urban Training Exercise, a high-intensity, close quarter battle training exercise conducted by Marines and sailors with Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, in an actual urban environment to provide a high degree of realism to the training. RUTEX is part of the MRF’s pre-deployment training before their upcoming deployment with the 31st MEU. Ortega, from Fresno, California, is the assistant communications chief with MRF, 31st MEU. - Sgt. Eric Ortega holds security while waiting for a helicopter to land during a raid Jan. 13, 2015 on Guam. The raid is part of Realistic Urban Training Exercise, a high-intensity, close quarter battle training exercise conducted by Marines and sailors with Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, in an actual urban environment to provide a high degree of realism to the training. RUTEX is part of the MRF’s pre-deployment training before their upcoming deployment with the 31st MEU. Ortega, from Fresno, California, is the assistant communications chief with MRF, 31st MEU.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274’s Engineer Company, Heavy Equipment Platoon set their pace count before beginning a land navigation course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Jan. 13, 2016. During the 19-point course, 20 Marines headed to the field to re-experience the basic land navigation process. The course was a refresher for most of the Marines, who have not used land navigation since Marine Combat Training. - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274’s Engineer Company, Heavy Equipment Platoon set their pace count before beginning a land navigation course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Jan. 13, 2016. During the 19-point course, 20 Marines headed to the field to re-experience the basic land navigation process. The course was a refresher for most of the Marines, who have not used land navigation since Marine Combat Training.

Lance Cpl. Jordan Martin, a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, evaluates and records a refugee role player’s identification paperwork during a noncombatant evacuation training operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2016. The Marines successfully processed 28 refugee role players through a notional forward operating base. The exercise was part of the unit’s training in preparation for an upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan. - Lance Cpl. Jordan Martin, a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, evaluates and records a refugee role player’s identification paperwork during a noncombatant evacuation training operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2016. The Marines successfully processed 28 refugee role players through a notional forward operating base. The exercise was part of the unit’s training in preparation for an upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan.

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Cpl. Malynn Ochsner shows Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Officer Candidate Ayako Yukawa how to operate a MK19 machine gun, MOD 3 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 15. Three hundred and sixty JGSDF officer candidates visited Combat Logistics Regiment 35 to complete joint and combined operation requirements. The cadets watched Marine Corps Martial Art Program demonstrations, learned the capabilities of various machine guns the Marine Corps uses, and observed a static display of motor transportation vehicles. Ochsner, from Pflugerville, Texas, is a distribution management specialist with 3rd Supply Battalion, CLR-35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Malynn Ochsner shows Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Officer Candidate Ayako Yukawa how to operate a MK19 machine gun, MOD 3 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 15. Three hundred and sixty JGSDF officer candidates visited Combat Logistics Regiment 35 to complete joint and combined operation requirements. The cadets watched Marine Corps Martial Art Program demonstrations, learned the capabilities of various machine guns the Marine Corps uses, and observed a static display of motor transportation vehicles. Ochsner, from Pflugerville, Texas, is a distribution management specialist with 3rd Supply Battalion, CLR-35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Lance Cpl. Jonathan Gilbert looks through the scope of his M240 medium machine gun while providing security for his platoon Jan. 7, 2016, on Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan. Marines with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigated the jungles of Okinawa in search of a simulated enemy platoon. Gilbert, a machine gunner with Alpha Co., BLT 1/5, 31st MEU, is a native of Frederick, Maryland. - Lance Cpl. Jonathan Gilbert looks through the scope of his M240 medium machine gun while providing security for his platoon Jan. 7, 2016, on Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan. Marines with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigated the jungles of Okinawa in search of a simulated enemy platoon. Gilbert, a machine gunner with Alpha Co., BLT 1/5, 31st MEU, is a native of Frederick, Maryland.

Gen. John F. Kelly relinquished command of United States Southern Command Jan. 14, 2016. He will soon retire after more than 45 years of service. - Gen. John F. Kelly relinquished command of United States Southern Command Jan. 14, 2016. He will soon retire after more than 45 years of service.

A Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224, F/A-18D Hornet descends to Chitose Air Base in Hokkaido, Japan, after traveling from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Jan. 12, 2016. VMFA (AW)-224, homebased at MCAS Beaufort, S.C., is temporarily based in Iwakuni on a unit deployment program and deployed to Northern Japan to participate in the Chitose Aviation Training Relocation Exercise, Jan. 12-22. During the exercise, the squadron conducted dissimilar air combat training with and against the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to further support combined interoperability and Pacific theater security cooperation. - A Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224, F/A-18D Hornet descends to Chitose Air Base in Hokkaido, Japan, after traveling from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Jan. 12, 2016. VMFA (AW)-224, homebased at MCAS Beaufort, S.C., is temporarily based in Iwakuni on a unit deployment program and deployed to Northern Japan to participate in the Chitose Aviation Training Relocation Exercise, Jan. 12-22. During the exercise, the squadron conducted dissimilar air combat training with and against the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to further support combined interoperability and Pacific theater security cooperation.

A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center Pre-Scout Sniper Course sights in on a target with a M40A5 sniper rifle at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 12, 2016. The 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines. - A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center Pre-Scout Sniper Course sights in on a target with a M40A5 sniper rifle at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 12, 2016. The 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines.

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COMBINED ARMS TRAINING CENTER, GOTEMBA, Japan — Marines’ tents stand in below Mt. Fuji during Exercise Fuji Samurai at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Gotemba, Japan, Jan. 7, 2016. Exercise Fuji Samurai is held at CATC Fuji during the month of January and includes countless fire and maneuver drills and other combat-based training evolutions that take place over a period of approximately two weeks. During this time, Marines must face the chill and challenge of Mt. Fuji, as they spend night after night subject to the winter elements. The tents provided Marines with shelter from the unforgiving Mt. Fuji chill as they rested between training events. - COMBINED ARMS TRAINING CENTER, GOTEMBA, Japan — Marines’ tents stand in below Mt. Fuji during Exercise Fuji Samurai at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Gotemba, Japan, Jan. 7, 2016. Exercise Fuji Samurai is held at CATC Fuji during the month of January and includes countless fire and maneuver drills and other combat-based training evolutions that take place over a period of approximately two weeks. During this time, Marines must face the chill and challenge of Mt. Fuji, as they spend night after night subject to the winter elements. The tents provided Marines with shelter from the unforgiving Mt. Fuji chill as they rested between training events.

Sgt. Caleb Renner, the chief chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear instructor with II Marine Headquarters Group, gives an hour-long class on how to properly wear and function in a M50 gas mask at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 8, 2016. The chamber is a routine exercise to ensure the durability of each Marines gear while exposed to chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, or CS gas, which is a bi-annual qualification requirement for Marines. - Sgt. Caleb Renner, the chief chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear instructor with II Marine Headquarters Group, gives an hour-long class on how to properly wear and function in a M50 gas mask at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 8, 2016. The chamber is a routine exercise to ensure the durability of each Marines gear while exposed to chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, or CS gas, which is a bi-annual qualification requirement for Marines.

Marines get set to perform buddy rushes during squad attack training on Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 6, 2016. Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducted squad attack training in preparation for the MEU’s upcoming spring deployment. - Marines get set to perform buddy rushes during squad attack training on Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 6, 2016. Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducted squad attack training in preparation for the MEU’s upcoming spring deployment.

A CH-53E from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465 hovers above as Marines with Combat Logistic Battalion 11 rush in to attach 6,200-pound weight to the helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 7. Marines with CLB-11 support HMH-465 during daytime external lift training to prepare for future deployments. - A CH-53E from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465 hovers above as Marines with Combat Logistic Battalion 11 rush in to attach 6,200-pound weight to the helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 7. Marines with CLB-11 support HMH-465 during daytime external lift training to prepare for future deployments.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 conduct external lifts in conjunction with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 302 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 6, 2016. The Marines with CLB 2 are responsible for directing the aircraft from the ground and attaching the load with the help from the crew chief, thus giving them the capability to move heavy loads in a combat environment. - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 conduct external lifts in conjunction with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 302 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 6, 2016. The Marines with CLB 2 are responsible for directing the aircraft from the ground and attaching the load with the help from the crew chief, thus giving them the capability to move heavy loads in a combat environment.

Marines with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, depart from a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 7, 2015. The purpose of the training was to teach the Marines about the dangers during Humvee rollovers and how to properly react in case they ever faced it. - Marines with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, depart from a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 7, 2015. The purpose of the training was to teach the Marines about the dangers during Humvee rollovers and how to properly react in case they ever faced it.

A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center Pre-Scout Sniper Course looks through an M40A5 sniper rifle at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 6, 2016. The 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines. - A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center Pre-Scout Sniper Course looks through an M40A5 sniper rifle at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 6, 2016. The 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines.

Jody W. Nesbitt (right), project officer, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, officially hands-off three restored combat vehicles to Kater Miller, assistant ordnance curator, National Museum of the Marine Corps, during a ceremony held at the MDMC in Albany, Ga., Jan. 7. The vehicles restored consisted of an M60A1 Main Battle Tank, an Assault Amphibious Vehicle and a Humvee, which are scheduled to be displayed in the NMMC November 2018. Restoration of the equipment began at MDMC in July 2014. - Jody W. Nesbitt (right), project officer, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, officially hands-off three restored combat vehicles to Kater Miller, assistant ordnance curator, National Museum of the Marine Corps, during a ceremony held at the MDMC in Albany, Ga., Jan. 7. The vehicles restored consisted of an M60A1 Main Battle Tank, an Assault Amphibious Vehicle and a Humvee, which are scheduled to be displayed in the NMMC November 2018. Restoration of the equipment began at MDMC in July 2014.

Cpl. David Dudley, Expeditionary Air Field, uses proper eye and ear protection during the 5th annual Combat Shooting Competition Oct. 28, hosted by Weapons Training Battalion aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. Advanced hearing protection for specific environments allows servicemembers to protect themselves and safely do their jobs. - Cpl. David Dudley, Expeditionary Air Field, uses proper eye and ear protection during the 5th annual Combat Shooting Competition Oct. 28, hosted by Weapons Training Battalion aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. Advanced hearing protection for specific environments allows servicemembers to protect themselves and safely do their jobs.

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JoJo Domann, outside linebacker from Pine Creek High School, Colorado Springs, Colo., helps run drills during practice at Orange Coast College, Costa Mesa, California, Jan. 1, 2016. High School athletes chosen to play in the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl are well-rounded individuals on and off the field who not only are distinguished athletes, but also have academic achievements and display exemplary moral character. - JoJo Domann, outside linebacker from Pine Creek High School, Colorado Springs, Colo., helps run drills during practice at Orange Coast College, Costa Mesa, California, Jan. 1, 2016. High School athletes chosen to play in the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl are well-rounded individuals on and off the field who not only are distinguished athletes, but also have academic achievements and display exemplary moral character.

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A Eurofighter Typhoon with the Spanish Air Force receives fuel from a U.S. Marine KC-130J Hercules with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, August 13, in Spain. A total of five Spanish pilots and their aircraft had the opportunity to practice their air-to-air refueling skills with the Marines from SPMAGTF-CR-AF. While this particular training was a first for the two countries, the U.S. and Spain work together routinely, fostering one of the closest defense partnerships around the world. - A Eurofighter Typhoon with the Spanish Air Force receives fuel from a U.S. Marine KC-130J Hercules with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, August 13, in Spain. A total of five Spanish pilots and their aircraft had the opportunity to practice their air-to-air refueling skills with the Marines from SPMAGTF-CR-AF. While this particular training was a first for the two countries, the U.S. and Spain work together routinely, fostering one of the closest defense partnerships around the world.

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U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa embed with a Spanish Legion company during a week-long exercise in the mountains of Almeria, Spain, Dec. 14-18, 2015. The combined urban and mountain warfare training is another bilateral training opportunity strengthening the U.S. and Spanish military relationship. - U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa embed with a Spanish Legion company during a week-long exercise in the mountains of Almeria, Spain, Dec. 14-18, 2015. The combined urban and mountain warfare training is another bilateral training opportunity strengthening the U.S. and Spanish military relationship.