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Marines with 2nd Marine Division meet with civilians during the repatriation of 1st Lt. Alexander Bonnyman Jr. in Knoxville, Tenn, Sept. 27, 2015. Bonnyman enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1942 and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Tarawa in 1943. His remains were brought home after being discovered in Tarawa 72 years later. - Marines with 2nd Marine Division meet with civilians during the repatriation of 1st Lt. Alexander Bonnyman Jr. in Knoxville, Tenn, Sept. 27, 2015. Bonnyman enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1942 and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Tarawa in 1943. His remains were brought home after being discovered in Tarawa 72 years later.

Gen. Robert B. Neller speaks to Marines for the first time as commandant at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Oct. 1, 2015. Neller focused on people, readiness, training, Naval integration and modernization during his speech. - Gen. Robert B. Neller speaks to Marines for the first time as commandant at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Oct. 1, 2015. Neller focused on people, readiness, training, Naval integration and modernization during his speech.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Carlson, right, dismounts the rappel rope during a company competition for Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-12 at Yooghuk Dae, Munseu San Mountain, Republic of Korea, Sept. 11, 2015. The U.S. and ROK Marines participated in a race of the fastest company to complete rappelling, rock climbing and rope climbing before a sprint to the finish line. KMEP 15-12 is a bilateral training exercise that enhances the ROK and U.S. alliance, promotes stability on the Korean Peninsula and strengthens ROK and U.S. military capabilities and interoperability. Carlson, from Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a rifleman with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Division and attached through the Unit Deployment Program to III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are with 11th Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ROK Headquarters Marine Corps. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Carlson, right, dismounts the rappel rope during a company competition for Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-12 at Yooghuk Dae, Munseu San Mountain, Republic of Korea, Sept. 11, 2015. The U.S. and ROK Marines participated in a race of the fastest company to complete rappelling, rock climbing and rope climbing before a sprint to the finish line. KMEP 15-12 is a bilateral training exercise that enhances the ROK and U.S. alliance, promotes stability on the Korean Peninsula and strengthens ROK and U.S. military capabilities and interoperability. Carlson, from Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a rifleman with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Division and attached through the Unit Deployment Program to III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are with 11th Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ROK Headquarters Marine Corps.

Republic of Korea Marine Lance Cpl. Jun Shin puts on his gas mask during a gas attack scenario as part of Korea Marine Exchange Program 15-12 at Gunha-Rhi, Republic of Korea, Sept. 17, 2015. The U.S. and ROK Marines practiced quickly putting on their gas mask and carrying the wounded to safety. KMEP 15-12 is an exercise in a series of continuous bilateral training exercises that enhance the ROK and U.S. alliance, promote stability on the Korean Peninsula and strengthen ROK and U.S. military capabilities and interoperability. Shin, from Ulsan, ROK, is with 2nd Company, 11th Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ROK Headquarters Marine Corps. - Republic of Korea Marine Lance Cpl. Jun Shin puts on his gas mask during a gas attack scenario as part of Korea Marine Exchange Program 15-12 at Gunha-Rhi, Republic of Korea, Sept. 17, 2015. The U.S. and ROK Marines practiced quickly putting on their gas mask and carrying the wounded to safety. KMEP 15-12 is an exercise in a series of continuous bilateral training exercises that enhance the ROK and U.S. alliance, promote stability on the Korean Peninsula and strengthen ROK and U.S. military capabilities and interoperability. Shin, from Ulsan, ROK, is with 2nd Company, 11th Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ROK Headquarters Marine Corps.

Cpl. Anthony Payton, a field artillery cannoneer with Lima Battery, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, swabs an M777 Howitzer after it was fired during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 30, 2015. This was the last exercise Lima conducted as a standalone battery. - Cpl. Anthony Payton, a field artillery cannoneer with Lima Battery, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, swabs an M777 Howitzer after it was fired during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 30, 2015. This was the last exercise Lima conducted as a standalone battery.

Cpl. Seth Dixon (left), a field radio operator with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and Blue Ridge, Georgia, native, speaks to Cpl. Terry Summerfield (center), a technician with 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, and San Diego native, and Cpl. John Boyd (right), a field radio operator with 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, and Lagrange, Georgia, native, at the Boondocker Training Area aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii during training exercise Island Viper, Sept. 22, 2015. The purpose of Island Viper was to help companies within the battalion ensure their service members have been properly trained and have met all training requirements before deployment. - Cpl. Seth Dixon (left), a field radio operator with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and Blue Ridge, Georgia, native, speaks to Cpl. Terry Summerfield (center), a technician with 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, and San Diego native, and Cpl. John Boyd (right), a field radio operator with 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, and Lagrange, Georgia, native, at the Boondocker Training Area aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii during training exercise Island Viper, Sept. 22, 2015. The purpose of Island Viper was to help companies within the battalion ensure their service members have been properly trained and have met all training requirements before deployment.

An F/A-18C Hornet lands aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, Sept. 24. VMFAT-101 brought 15 jets from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, to train at MCAS Beaufort. The Hornet is with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 101, Marine Aircraft Group 11. - An F/A-18C Hornet lands aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, Sept. 24. VMFAT-101 brought 15 jets from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, to train at MCAS Beaufort. The Hornet is with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 101, Marine Aircraft Group 11.

A Marine with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment fires the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon during a company sized combined-arms attack on range SR-9 at Marine corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 24, 2015. During the training, Alpha Company fired the M4 carbine, the M16 A4 service rifle, M249 Squad Automatic Weapons, M240B machine guns, M2 .50 caliber heavy machine guns, MK19 40mm grenade launchers and M224 60mm lightweight mortar systems. - A Marine with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment fires the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon during a company sized combined-arms attack on range SR-9 at Marine corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 24, 2015. During the training, Alpha Company fired the M4 carbine, the M16 A4 service rifle, M249 Squad Automatic Weapons, M240B machine guns, M2 .50 caliber heavy machine guns, MK19 40mm grenade launchers and M224 60mm lightweight mortar systems.

Maj. Gen. Burke Whitman, Headquarters Marine Corps director of Marine and family readiness, presents the American flag to the family of 1st Lt. Alexander Bonnyman Jr. at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery in Knoxville, Tenn., Sept. 27, 2015. Bonnyman joined Marine Forces Reserve in July 1942 and was killed while fighting in the battle of Tarawa in 1943. Bonnyman’s remains were discovered in Tarawa 72 years after he was buried there. - Maj. Gen. Burke Whitman, Headquarters Marine Corps director of Marine and family readiness, presents the American flag to the family of 1st Lt. Alexander Bonnyman Jr. at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery in Knoxville, Tenn., Sept. 27, 2015. Bonnyman joined Marine Forces Reserve in July 1942 and was killed while fighting in the battle of Tarawa in 1943. Bonnyman’s remains were discovered in Tarawa 72 years after he was buried there.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment use the M249 light machine gun to shoot at practice targets during live fire training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 22 – 23, 2015. The training aimed to improve the Marines’ proficiency with multiple weapons systems and to prepare the Marines for a security element course. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment use the M249 light machine gun to shoot at practice targets during live fire training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 22 – 23, 2015. The training aimed to improve the Marines’ proficiency with multiple weapons systems and to prepare the Marines for a security element course.

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A Marine fires an FIM-92 Stinger Missile at a target during a stinger simulation training range at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Sept. 24, 2015. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion sharpened their proficiency skills by simulating the weight transfer felt when firing the 34.2 pound missile. The weapon is a personal and portable infrared, homing, surface-to-air missile capable of tracking and engaging aircraft up to an altitude of 10,000 feet and covering distances up to eight kilometers. 2nd LAAD utilizes the stinger missile to provide ground-to-air defense to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and Marine Air-Ground Task Force elements. - A Marine fires an FIM-92 Stinger Missile at a target during a stinger simulation training range at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Sept. 24, 2015. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion sharpened their proficiency skills by simulating the weight transfer felt when firing the 34.2 pound missile. The weapon is a personal and portable infrared, homing, surface-to-air missile capable of tracking and engaging aircraft up to an altitude of 10,000 feet and covering distances up to eight kilometers. 2nd LAAD utilizes the stinger missile to provide ground-to-air defense to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and Marine Air-Ground Task Force elements.

A U.S. Marine with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 signals a Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 CH-53E Super Stallion rotary-wing aircraft to hold their position at Aibano Training Area, Sept. 15, 2015. MWSS-171 provided fuel for HMH-462 at a forward arming and refueling point during an assault transport. The assault transport supported a bilateral air assault comprehensive exercise during Forest Light 16-1. FL 16-1 is an exercise to increase interoperability of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marine Corps forces. MWSS-171 is with Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. HMH-462 is with MAG 16, 3rd MAW, currently assigned to MAG 36, 1st MAW, III MEF. - A U.S. Marine with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 signals a Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 CH-53E Super Stallion rotary-wing aircraft to hold their position at Aibano Training Area, Sept. 15, 2015. MWSS-171 provided fuel for HMH-462 at a forward arming and refueling point during an assault transport. The assault transport supported a bilateral air assault comprehensive exercise during Forest Light 16-1. FL 16-1 is an exercise to increase interoperability of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marine Corps forces. MWSS-171 is with Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. HMH-462 is with MAG 16, 3rd MAW, currently assigned to MAG 36, 1st MAW, III MEF.

Cpl. Jimran Greene, a gunner with Battery F, 2nd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force prepares to re-oil the chamber of his team’s M777 howitzer before their next fire mission aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 23, 2015. Processing fire missions is one of the most important forms of training for an artillery team. - Cpl. Jimran Greene, a gunner with Battery F, 2nd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force prepares to re-oil the chamber of his team’s M777 howitzer before their next fire mission aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 23, 2015. Processing fire missions is one of the most important forms of training for an artillery team.

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Second Lt. Aaron Burtner, security cooperation team leader, poses for a photo with Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commandos after completing their final exercise with U.S. service members in Dakar, Senegal, September 17, 2015. The Marines and Coast Guardsmen with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa spent four weeks training the COFUMACO on basic infantry tactics and small-boat operations as a part of a Maritime Security Force Assistance mission to increase interoperability with Senegal’s and strengthen the bond between the partner nations. - Second Lt. Aaron Burtner, security cooperation team leader, poses for a photo with Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commandos after completing their final exercise with U.S. service members in Dakar, Senegal, September 17, 2015. The Marines and Coast Guardsmen with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa spent four weeks training the COFUMACO on basic infantry tactics and small-boat operations as a part of a Maritime Security Force Assistance mission to increase interoperability with Senegal’s and strengthen the bond between the partner nations.

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Benin National Surveillance Police students capture their intended target during an early morning raid exercise, Sept. 25, 2015, at Benin's Military Officer Academy in Toffo, Benin. More than 150 National Surveillance Police students graduated from a monthlong U.S. Marine Corps training evolution that included weapons handling, combat marksmanship, patrolling, close-quarters combat, tactical site exploitation, tactical questioning and the operations order process. - Benin National Surveillance Police students capture their intended target during an early morning raid exercise, Sept. 25, 2015, at Benin's Military Officer Academy in Toffo, Benin. More than 150 National Surveillance Police students graduated from a monthlong U.S. Marine Corps training evolution that included weapons handling, combat marksmanship, patrolling, close-quarters combat, tactical site exploitation, tactical questioning and the operations order process.

A Marine with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, prepares to submerge underwater while wearing a supplemental emergency breathing device at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 22, 2015. The company participated in the submerged vehicle egress training to gain confidence in their abilities to safely exit a sinking amphibious assault vehicle in preparation for their upcoming deployment with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - A Marine with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, prepares to submerge underwater while wearing a supplemental emergency breathing device at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 22, 2015. The company participated in the submerged vehicle egress training to gain confidence in their abilities to safely exit a sinking amphibious assault vehicle in preparation for their upcoming deployment with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

A Landing Craft Air Cushion splashes onto San Clemente Island, Calif., during Supporting Arms Coordination Center Exercise on Sept. 24, 2015. This exercise is the first the Marines and Sailors will work together at sea as they prepare for deployment to the Pacific and Central Command areas of responsibility in early 2016. - A Landing Craft Air Cushion splashes onto San Clemente Island, Calif., during Supporting Arms Coordination Center Exercise on Sept. 24, 2015. This exercise is the first the Marines and Sailors will work together at sea as they prepare for deployment to the Pacific and Central Command areas of responsibility in early 2016.

A Marine with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, applies a tourniquet to a simulated casualty at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 23, 2015. The battalion conducted the training, which simulates vehicle rollovers and how to react, in order to hone their skills prior to deploying. - A Marine with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, applies a tourniquet to a simulated casualty at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 23, 2015. The battalion conducted the training, which simulates vehicle rollovers and how to react, in order to hone their skills prior to deploying.

U.S. Marines participate in an opening ceremony for the Combined Arms Company at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, Sept. 23, 2015. The first rotation of CAC brings advanced mechanized capabilities to training exercises with NATO allies in the region. - U.S. Marines participate in an opening ceremony for the Combined Arms Company at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, Sept. 23, 2015. The first rotation of CAC brings advanced mechanized capabilities to training exercises with NATO allies in the region.

A firefighter with Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, battles a structure fire as part of a mutual aid response to the Butte Fire in Northern California. More than 3,300 fire crews from all over the state assisted in containing the huge blaze. - A firefighter with Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, battles a structure fire as part of a mutual aid response to the Butte Fire in Northern California. More than 3,300 fire crews from all over the state assisted in containing the huge blaze.

Pedro helicopter “02” lifts off to join Marine Transport Squadron 1’s other two HH-46 helicopters on their final flight at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 25, 2015. The three search and rescue aircraft have been the last flying “phrogs” in the Department of Defense since Aug. 1. Today’s final flight marks the end of an era in combat aviation. These aircraft will be turned over to the U.S. Navy by Oct. 1. They leave behind a legacy of Cherry Point’s support to the local community in eastern North Carolina, which began in 1957. - Pedro helicopter “02” lifts off to join Marine Transport Squadron 1’s other two HH-46 helicopters on their final flight at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 25, 2015. The three search and rescue aircraft have been the last flying “phrogs” in the Department of Defense since Aug. 1. Today’s final flight marks the end of an era in combat aviation. These aircraft will be turned over to the U.S. Navy by Oct. 1. They leave behind a legacy of Cherry Point’s support to the local community in eastern North Carolina, which began in 1957.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment rush to a wire trap to set up a Bangalore charge to destroy the trap during a demolitions exercise with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion at Engineer Training Area 7 on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 22, 2015. Marines with 2/2 increased their proficiency and knowledge with various charges and techniques with the help of 2nd CEB. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment rush to a wire trap to set up a Bangalore charge to destroy the trap during a demolitions exercise with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion at Engineer Training Area 7 on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 22, 2015. Marines with 2/2 increased their proficiency and knowledge with various charges and techniques with the help of 2nd CEB.

Staff Sgt. Joshua K. Crabtree, explosive ordnance disposal technician, 3rd EOD, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, performs a sweep with a metal detector during a post-blast analysis training scenario at Emerson Lake training area, Sept. 19, 2015. While aboard the Combat Center, EOD technicians received experience in working with a wider variety of ordnance than is usually available to the unit. - Staff Sgt. Joshua K. Crabtree, explosive ordnance disposal technician, 3rd EOD, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, performs a sweep with a metal detector during a post-blast analysis training scenario at Emerson Lake training area, Sept. 19, 2015. While aboard the Combat Center, EOD technicians received experience in working with a wider variety of ordnance than is usually available to the unit.

Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa bow their heads in prayer during a September 11th remembrance ceremony in Nissoria, Italy, Sept. 22, 2015. The local priest offered a prayer as Americans and Nissorians remembered the shared pain of the lives lost that day 14 years ago. - Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa bow their heads in prayer during a September 11th remembrance ceremony in Nissoria, Italy, Sept. 22, 2015. The local priest offered a prayer as Americans and Nissorians remembered the shared pain of the lives lost that day 14 years ago.

During the month of September and throughout the year, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs officials want to share a simple message with veterans, service members, their families and friends: free, confidential crisis support from the veterans crisis line is available 24/7, 365 days a year for veterans and service members. - During the month of September and throughout the year, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs officials want to share a simple message with veterans, service members, their families and friends: free, confidential crisis support from the veterans crisis line is available 24/7, 365 days a year for veterans and service members.

U.S. Marines and sailors accompanied Benin’s National Surveillance Police to Jesu Jro, Benin, Sept. 24, 2015, to conduct a combined border surveillance training exercise. The Marines and sailors with the Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa came to Benin for a monthlong theater security cooperation mission to build the NSP’s capacity to counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders. - U.S. Marines and sailors accompanied Benin’s National Surveillance Police to Jesu Jro, Benin, Sept. 24, 2015, to conduct a combined border surveillance training exercise. The Marines and sailors with the Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa came to Benin for a monthlong theater security cooperation mission to build the NSP’s capacity to counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders.

Gen. Robert B. Neller, the 37th and new Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks during his passage of command ceremony at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, D.C., Sept. 24, 2015. Gen. Dunford relinquished the position to Gen. Robert B. Neller after being confirmed to succeed U.S. Army Gen. Martin Dempsey as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. - Gen. Robert B. Neller, the 37th and new Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks during his passage of command ceremony at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, D.C., Sept. 24, 2015. Gen. Dunford relinquished the position to Gen. Robert B. Neller after being confirmed to succeed U.S. Army Gen. Martin Dempsey as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 inspect the hooks in a CH-53E Super Stallion at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Sept. 16. Marines with HMH-466 prepared to conduct nighttime external-lift training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. - Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 inspect the hooks in a CH-53E Super Stallion at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Sept. 16. Marines with HMH-466 prepared to conduct nighttime external-lift training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Marines and civilian guests listen to the first panel discussion during the first day ofday of the 2015 Modern Day Marine Military Expo at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Sept. 22, 2015. The expo 2015 Modern Day Marine Military Expo is focusing on enhanced capabilities for expeditionary forces and is happening Sept. 22-24. - Marines and civilian guests listen to the first panel discussion during the first day ofday of the 2015 Modern Day Marine Military Expo at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Sept. 22, 2015. The expo 2015 Modern Day Marine Military Expo is focusing on enhanced capabilities for expeditionary forces and is happening Sept. 22-24.

Engineers from Bridge Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group and 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division as well as members of British 54 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers stand atop a medium girder bridge they built at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 23, 2015. Marines from 7th ESB and 1st CEB are conducting various engineer training events alongside their British counterparts in coming weeks as part of annual large-scale exercise Black Alligator. - Engineers from Bridge Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group and 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division as well as members of British 54 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers stand atop a medium girder bridge they built at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 23, 2015. Marines from 7th ESB and 1st CEB are conducting various engineer training events alongside their British counterparts in coming weeks as part of annual large-scale exercise Black Alligator.

Marines with the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab observe as an Internally Transported Vehicle (ITV) is loaded on to a Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter in preparation for an experimental field exercise at Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., Aug. 31, 2015. The exercise allows the warfighting lab to assess the capabilities of the ITVs and determine new recommendations for the design of ITVs to come. - Marines with the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab observe as an Internally Transported Vehicle (ITV) is loaded on to a Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter in preparation for an experimental field exercise at Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., Aug. 31, 2015. The exercise allows the warfighting lab to assess the capabilities of the ITVs and determine new recommendations for the design of ITVs to come.

Lance Cpl. Cody Conlon, a fireteam leader with 2nd Marine Regiment, watches Marines with his unit set up defenses from his fighting position during a battalion deployment for training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 16, 2015. The defensive training took place during a nine-day deployment for training exercise designed to prepare for a variety of combat scenarios, including defensive, offensive, and urban operations. - Lance Cpl. Cody Conlon, a fireteam leader with 2nd Marine Regiment, watches Marines with his unit set up defenses from his fighting position during a battalion deployment for training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 16, 2015. The defensive training took place during a nine-day deployment for training exercise designed to prepare for a variety of combat scenarios, including defensive, offensive, and urban operations.

A Marine with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division lands at his designated drop zone following a High Altitude – High Opening insertion event at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 17, 2015. The goal of the training was to sharpen a skill set that is of great advantage to expeditionary forces, allowing the jumpers to infiltrate locations where access would be too difficult for vehicles. - A Marine with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division lands at his designated drop zone following a High Altitude – High Opening insertion event at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 17, 2015. The goal of the training was to sharpen a skill set that is of great advantage to expeditionary forces, allowing the jumpers to infiltrate locations where access would be too difficult for vehicles.

Capt. Thomas Haynes, a fire direction officer with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, is part of the fire support coordination center for the fire support training conducted on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 17, 2015. After the FST leaders decide what they would like to use as a killing asset, the call goes through the fire support coordination center for approval. - Capt. Thomas Haynes, a fire direction officer with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, is part of the fire support coordination center for the fire support training conducted on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 17, 2015. After the FST leaders decide what they would like to use as a killing asset, the call goes through the fire support coordination center for approval.

Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, depart the training area in an M1 Abrams tank following a vehicle breaching exercise aboard Engineer Training Area 2, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 17, 2015. The exercise brought together mechanized crews with 2nd Tanks and 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion to breach through and over a high berm. - Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, depart the training area in an M1 Abrams tank following a vehicle breaching exercise aboard Engineer Training Area 2, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 17, 2015. The exercise brought together mechanized crews with 2nd Tanks and 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion to breach through and over a high berm.

Captain Guy Lee, the I Marine Expeditionary Force chaplain introduces a panel of subject matter experts that were present during the second battle for Fallujah, Iraq. Navy Chaplains and Religious Program Specialists gathered Sept. 18, 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., to discuss the roles of religious personnel during times of heavy combat; specifically revisiting the events of the second battle of Fallujah during Operation Phantom Fury. - Captain Guy Lee, the I Marine Expeditionary Force chaplain introduces a panel of subject matter experts that were present during the second battle for Fallujah, Iraq. Navy Chaplains and Religious Program Specialists gathered Sept. 18, 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., to discuss the roles of religious personnel during times of heavy combat; specifically revisiting the events of the second battle of Fallujah during Operation Phantom Fury.

Donnelly, Idaho, native, Sgt. Elizabeth Azcuenaga, an enlisted aircrew training manager with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169 (HMLA-169), Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, fires a GAU-17 machine gun from the door of a UH-1Y Huey while the pilot simultaneously launches a rocket aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 17, 2015. Azcuenaga fired the weapon during a weapons proficiency range designed to help new pilots and crew chiefs become more effective with their respective weapons systems. - Donnelly, Idaho, native, Sgt. Elizabeth Azcuenaga, an enlisted aircrew training manager with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169 (HMLA-169), Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, fires a GAU-17 machine gun from the door of a UH-1Y Huey while the pilot simultaneously launches a rocket aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 17, 2015. Azcuenaga fired the weapon during a weapons proficiency range designed to help new pilots and crew chiefs become more effective with their respective weapons systems.

A Marine with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, fires behind cover at simulated targets during immediate action drills aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 9, 2015. The drills were part of a 2-week training schedule used to build on basic infantry skills for an upcoming deployment with a Marine Expeditionary Unit. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tony Simmons/RELEASED) - A Marine with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, fires behind cover at simulated targets during immediate action drills aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 9, 2015. The drills were part of a 2-week training schedule used to build on basic infantry skills for an upcoming deployment with a Marine Expeditionary Unit. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tony Simmons/RELEASED)

A U.S. Air Force C-5 Galaxy arrives to Dakar, Senegal with U.S. Marines and equipment from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, based out of Morón, Spain, to establish a cooperative security location, or CSL, Sept. 14. The CSL allows SPMAGTF-CR-AF to temporarily locate forces in areas where they can quickly respond to developing crises. - A U.S. Air Force C-5 Galaxy arrives to Dakar, Senegal with U.S. Marines and equipment from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, based out of Morón, Spain, to establish a cooperative security location, or CSL, Sept. 14. The CSL allows SPMAGTF-CR-AF to temporarily locate forces in areas where they can quickly respond to developing crises.

Marines, sailors and members of the Canadian Army conduct an amphibious landing at Evangola State Park, New York, Sept. 11, 2015. The landing was part of exercise Lake Effect, which was a joint exercise focusing on patrolling and strengthening the interoperability between each service. The Marines are with Charlie Co, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, the Canadians are with the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, Wentworth Regiment and the sailors are with full time service support staff in Buffalo, U.S. Navy mid Atlantic Reserve Component Command. - Marines, sailors and members of the Canadian Army conduct an amphibious landing at Evangola State Park, New York, Sept. 11, 2015. The landing was part of exercise Lake Effect, which was a joint exercise focusing on patrolling and strengthening the interoperability between each service. The Marines are with Charlie Co, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, the Canadians are with the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, Wentworth Regiment and the sailors are with full time service support staff in Buffalo, U.S. Navy mid Atlantic Reserve Component Command.

An explosive ordnance disposal Marine explains how a metal detector works to an onlooker during San Diego Fleet Week 2015 at Naval Base Coronado, Calif., Sept. 20, 2015. Thirty-seven Marines from 7th ESB presented static displays during the event to demonstrate the quality of military assets to the citizens of San Diego. - An explosive ordnance disposal Marine explains how a metal detector works to an onlooker during San Diego Fleet Week 2015 at Naval Base Coronado, Calif., Sept. 20, 2015. Thirty-seven Marines from 7th ESB presented static displays during the event to demonstrate the quality of military assets to the citizens of San Diego.

Marines with 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, look over a map of the surrounding area during Operation Firestorm, and exercise to prepare the unit for their upcoming exercise, Rolling Thunder, at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 15, 2015. The operation is a week-long field operation and is designed to ensure that communication and logistics capabilities are up to par before pushing out to Fort Bragg for Rolling Thunder. - Marines with 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, look over a map of the surrounding area during Operation Firestorm, and exercise to prepare the unit for their upcoming exercise, Rolling Thunder, at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 15, 2015. The operation is a week-long field operation and is designed to ensure that communication and logistics capabilities are up to par before pushing out to Fort Bragg for Rolling Thunder.

Marines from Battery M, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fire the M240 machine gun at targets down range at Pelham Range in Anniston, Ala., on Sept. 19, 2015. The Marines attended training to hone skills and increase their proficiency in crew-served weapons systems. - Marines from Battery M, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fire the M240 machine gun at targets down range at Pelham Range in Anniston, Ala., on Sept. 19, 2015. The Marines attended training to hone skills and increase their proficiency in crew-served weapons systems.

Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, stationed aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, settles in at Camp Aibano, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015, in support of Exercise Forest Light 16-1. MWSS-171’s main purpose during this exercise is to provide aviation fuel support for Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, who will have two CH-53 Super Stallions coming in for hot fuel in an area far away from any airport or fuel line. - Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, stationed aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, settles in at Camp Aibano, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015, in support of Exercise Forest Light 16-1. MWSS-171’s main purpose during this exercise is to provide aviation fuel support for Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, who will have two CH-53 Super Stallions coming in for hot fuel in an area far away from any airport or fuel line.

September is the month of Suicide Prevention. Suicide Prevention Month aims to spread information about suicide awareness, decrease stigmatization regarding suicide and raise awareness that suicide is preventable. - September is the month of Suicide Prevention. Suicide Prevention Month aims to spread information about suicide awareness, decrease stigmatization regarding suicide and raise awareness that suicide is preventable.

U.S. Marines with Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, conduct patrol-based operations and engage in platoon-level attacks with troops from His Majesty’s Armed Forces of Tonga, the New Zealand Defence Force, the French Army of New Caledonia and the Tongan Royal Guards during their culminating event for Exercise Tafakula 15 Sept. 9-11 on Tongatapu Island, Tonga. Each military force split into integrated platoons for the event that comprised of 72 hours of patrolling, land navigation and attacking mock enemy positions. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines in Darwin affords unprecedented combined training opportunities such as Exercise Tafakula and improves interoperability between the involved forces. - U.S. Marines with Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, conduct patrol-based operations and engage in platoon-level attacks with troops from His Majesty’s Armed Forces of Tonga, the New Zealand Defence Force, the French Army of New Caledonia and the Tongan Royal Guards during their culminating event for Exercise Tafakula 15 Sept. 9-11 on Tongatapu Island, Tonga. Each military force split into integrated platoons for the event that comprised of 72 hours of patrolling, land navigation and attacking mock enemy positions. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines in Darwin affords unprecedented combined training opportunities such as Exercise Tafakula and improves interoperability between the involved forces.

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