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Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members with the Special Weapons Protection Unit remove clothing from a casualty during an exercise Dec. 1 at Camp Naha, Okinawa. The casualty went through an immediate evacuation from the area prior to being treated. Participating U.S. Marine chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense specialists then wrapped the casualty in a blanket and went through the full decontamination process. The JGSDF personnel are with the Nuclear Biological Chemical Unit, 15th Brigade. - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members with the Special Weapons Protection Unit remove clothing from a casualty during an exercise Dec. 1 at Camp Naha, Okinawa. The casualty went through an immediate evacuation from the area prior to being treated. Participating U.S. Marine chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense specialists then wrapped the casualty in a blanket and went through the full decontamination process. The JGSDF personnel are with the Nuclear Biological Chemical Unit, 15th Brigade.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371 prepare for a perimeter sweep foot patrol during the security force exercise in support of pre-deployment training Dec. 7-10, 2014, at the Auxiliary Landing Field II on Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz. The exercise provided Marines a hands-on experience for installation night and day security operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/ Released) - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371 prepare for a perimeter sweep foot patrol during the security force exercise in support of pre-deployment training Dec. 7-10, 2014, at the Auxiliary Landing Field II on Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz. The exercise provided Marines a hands-on experience for installation night and day security operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/ Released)

U.S. Marines attending Infantry Squad Leaders Course (ISLC), School of Infantry, West, are hiking to establish a defensive position on the Army's Kahuku Training Area, Hawaii, Aug. 30, 2011.The mission of ISLC is to train infantrymen to be able to take charge of Marines in a combat environment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Demetrius Munnerlyn/Released) - U.S. Marines attending Infantry Squad Leaders Course (ISLC), School of Infantry, West, are hiking to establish a defensive position on the Army's Kahuku Training Area, Hawaii, Aug. 30, 2011.The mission of ISLC is to train infantrymen to be able to take charge of Marines in a combat environment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Demetrius Munnerlyn/Released)

Maj. Matthew A. Seavitte guides an AV-8B Harrier during field carrier landing practice sustainment training at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Dec. 5, 2014. Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 231 honed their skills in preparation for an upcoming deployment with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Seavitte is a landing signal officer with the squadron. - Maj. Matthew A. Seavitte guides an AV-8B Harrier during field carrier landing practice sustainment training at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Dec. 5, 2014. Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 231 honed their skills in preparation for an upcoming deployment with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Seavitte is a landing signal officer with the squadron.

Marine Vietnam veterans and their spouses listen intently to speakers at the Lt. Vincent Capodanno Medal of Honor Dedication at the Capodanno Chapel aboard The Basic School, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, December 9, 2014. Capodanno served as a Navy chaplain with 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment during the Vietnam War and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions. Capodanno's Medal of Honor was recently donated to the chapel and was dedicated during the ceremony. - Marine Vietnam veterans and their spouses listen intently to speakers at the Lt. Vincent Capodanno Medal of Honor Dedication at the Capodanno Chapel aboard The Basic School, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, December 9, 2014. Capodanno served as a Navy chaplain with 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment during the Vietnam War and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions. Capodanno's Medal of Honor was recently donated to the chapel and was dedicated during the ceremony.

A CH-53E Super Stallion hovers over an M777 Howitzer where Marines with Landing Support Platoon, Truck Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, prepare to attach an M777 Howitzer to a CH-53E Super Stallion as it hovered over the gun during Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty-nine Palms, Calif., Dec. 9, 2014. The exercise gave the Marines the opportunity to refine and rehearse essential skills needed in a combat environment. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operation and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. - A CH-53E Super Stallion hovers over an M777 Howitzer where Marines with Landing Support Platoon, Truck Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, prepare to attach an M777 Howitzer to a CH-53E Super Stallion as it hovered over the gun during Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty-nine Palms, Calif., Dec. 9, 2014. The exercise gave the Marines the opportunity to refine and rehearse essential skills needed in a combat environment. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operation and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Wilson, a hospital corpsman with Truck Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, supported Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Wilson has worked with Navy units and Marine units, caring diligently for service members during field exercises like Steel Knight, back at the barracks of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and while deployed. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operations and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher J. Moore/Released) - Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Wilson, a hospital corpsman with Truck Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, supported Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Wilson has worked with Navy units and Marine units, caring diligently for service members during field exercises like Steel Knight, back at the barracks of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and while deployed. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operations and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher J. Moore/Released)

A convoy attached to Truck Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, enters a mock enemy town where Marines acting as enemy soldiers waited to ambush the vehicles during convoy training in support of Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 5, 2014. The exercise gave the Marines the opportunity to refine and rehearse essential combat skills needed in a combat environment. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operations and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher J. Moore/Released) - A convoy attached to Truck Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, enters a mock enemy town where Marines acting as enemy soldiers waited to ambush the vehicles during convoy training in support of Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 5, 2014. The exercise gave the Marines the opportunity to refine and rehearse essential combat skills needed in a combat environment. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operations and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher J. Moore/Released)

Cpl. Jose Peralta, a Marine with Company B, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, guides a tank into a lane after conducting breaching exercises aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 8. Marines with 2nd Tank Battalion along with 2nd CEB worked together to conduct breaching exercises in which they provided support fire while Assault Breacher Vehicles eliminated tank pits and created a lane in which tanks may safely travel, aboard Camp Lejeune, Dec. 8-10. - Cpl. Jose Peralta, a Marine with Company B, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, guides a tank into a lane after conducting breaching exercises aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 8. Marines with 2nd Tank Battalion along with 2nd CEB worked together to conduct breaching exercises in which they provided support fire while Assault Breacher Vehicles eliminated tank pits and created a lane in which tanks may safely travel, aboard Camp Lejeune, Dec. 8-10.

South Carolina's silent victims of domestic violence during 2013 are represented in the halls of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. South Carolina ranks number one in women killed by their male partners. - South Carolina's silent victims of domestic violence during 2013 are represented in the halls of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. South Carolina ranks number one in women killed by their male partners.

A UH-1Y Venom helicopter with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., flies overhead during a week-long deployment-for-training exercise conducted at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Dec. 9, 2014. - A UH-1Y Venom helicopter with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., flies overhead during a week-long deployment-for-training exercise conducted at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Dec. 9, 2014.

Soldiers with 7th Singapore Infantry Brigade and Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment devise a reaction strategy in case of simulated Improvised Explosive Device attacks during exercise Valiant Mark aboard Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 6, 2014. Valiant Mark enhances U.S. and Singaporean forces’ combined combat readiness through live-fire and urban terrain training as well as amphibious operations familiarization. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Danielle Rodrigues) - Soldiers with 7th Singapore Infantry Brigade and Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment devise a reaction strategy in case of simulated Improvised Explosive Device attacks during exercise Valiant Mark aboard Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 6, 2014. Valiant Mark enhances U.S. and Singaporean forces’ combined combat readiness through live-fire and urban terrain training as well as amphibious operations familiarization. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Danielle Rodrigues)

U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response – Africa and Police with Mobile Gendarmeries Armored Group and practice crowd and riot control techniques on National Center for Training of Police Forces of France, St. Astier, France, Dec 2, 2014. The training enhanced mission readiness and help build relationships between the two militaries. - U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response – Africa and Police with Mobile Gendarmeries Armored Group and practice crowd and riot control techniques on National Center for Training of Police Forces of France, St. Astier, France, Dec 2, 2014. The training enhanced mission readiness and help build relationships between the two militaries.

U.S Marine Sgt. Eric Maehler holds security while conducting a raid during realistic urban training at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles Dec. 8, 2014. Maehler is a team leader with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills in environments they may encounter in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S Marine Sgt. Eric Maehler holds security while conducting a raid during realistic urban training at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles Dec. 8, 2014. Maehler is a team leader with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills in environments they may encounter in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)

On Nov. 25, Staff Sgt. Adam Jacks became the first amputee to graduate from the Marine Combat Instructor of Water Survival course. Over the three-week course the students swim 59 miles, complete timed drills and swims, and learn rescue techniques. They are now certified as MCIWS instructors and Red Cross lifeguards. - On Nov. 25, Staff Sgt. Adam Jacks became the first amputee to graduate from the Marine Combat Instructor of Water Survival course. Over the three-week course the students swim 59 miles, complete timed drills and swims, and learn rescue techniques. They are now certified as MCIWS instructors and Red Cross lifeguards.

Maj. Matthew A. Seavitte guides an AV-8B Harrier during field carrier landing practice sustainment training at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Dec. 5, 2014. Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 231 honed their skills in preparation for an upcoming deployment with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Seavitte is a landing signal officer with the squadron. - Maj. Matthew A. Seavitte guides an AV-8B Harrier during field carrier landing practice sustainment training at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Dec. 5, 2014. Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 231 honed their skills in preparation for an upcoming deployment with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Seavitte is a landing signal officer with the squadron.

The final nine Marines representing the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing’s involvement in Afghanistan walk down the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Dec. 6, 2014. The Marines belong to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 467 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., and served more than seven months in Afghanistan. - The final nine Marines representing the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing’s involvement in Afghanistan walk down the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Dec. 6, 2014. The Marines belong to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 467 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., and served more than seven months in Afghanistan.

Cpl. Steve Lizarraga, rifleman, 1st Platoon, Company A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, examines the initial shot groups of Lance Cpl. Anne Creasy, rifleman, 2nd Platoon, Co. A, GCEITF, during the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle 100-meter zeroing course of fire during a three-day field exercise at the Verona Loop training area on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 3, 2014. - Cpl. Steve Lizarraga, rifleman, 1st Platoon, Company A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, examines the initial shot groups of Lance Cpl. Anne Creasy, rifleman, 2nd Platoon, Co. A, GCEITF, during the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle 100-meter zeroing course of fire during a three-day field exercise at the Verona Loop training area on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 3, 2014.

U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force conduct a raid during realistic urban training aboard Camp San Luis Obispo, Calif., Dec. 5, 2014. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force conduct a raid during realistic urban training aboard Camp San Luis Obispo, Calif., Dec. 5, 2014. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)

Marines with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, were the first on the scene of this overturned truck Nov. 26, 2014, after conducting a funeral detail. The woman inside, Patti Cranford, of Garrison, Texas, was on her way to the funeral when she lost control of her vehicle a mile away from the cemetery. - Marines with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, were the first on the scene of this overturned truck Nov. 26, 2014, after conducting a funeral detail. The woman inside, Patti Cranford, of Garrison, Texas, was on her way to the funeral when she lost control of her vehicle a mile away from the cemetery.

An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tilt-Rotor Squadron 161 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, lands during Realistic Urban Training aboard Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., Dec. 4, 2014. RUT prepares the 15th MEU Marines for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Elize McKelvey/Released) - An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tilt-Rotor Squadron 161 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, lands during Realistic Urban Training aboard Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., Dec. 4, 2014. RUT prepares the 15th MEU Marines for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Elize McKelvey/Released)

Three MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 landed aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 6, 2014, to refuel and begin planning for support of Exercise Forest Light in Kumamoto Prefecture. Forest Light is a routine, semiannual training exercise that enhances the readiness of the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and is in accordance with the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. - Three MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 landed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 6, 2014, to refuel and begin planning for support of Exercise Forest Light in Kumamoto Prefecture. Forest Light is a routine, semiannual training exercise that enhances the readiness of the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and is in accordance with the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security.

U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys with SPMAGTF - Crisis Response - Africa prepare to fly at night as part of required training standards in order for pilots to continue to be qualified to carry passengers at night. while in support of Operation United Assistance in Monrovia, Liberia, Nov. 16, 2014. United Assistance is a Department of Defense operation to provide command and control, logistics, training and engineering support to U.S. Agency for International Development- led efforts to contain the Ebola virus outbreak in West African nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andre Dakis/SP-MAGTF Crisis Response Africa Combat Camera/Released) - U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys with SPMAGTF - Crisis Response - Africa prepare to fly at night as part of required training standards in order for pilots to continue to be qualified to carry passengers at night. while in support of Operation United Assistance in Monrovia, Liberia, Nov. 16, 2014. United Assistance is a Department of Defense operation to provide command and control, logistics, training and engineering support to U.S. Agency for International Development- led efforts to contain the Ebola virus outbreak in West African nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andre Dakis/SP-MAGTF Crisis Response Africa Combat Camera/Released)

The Navy Honor Guard fires a volley as part of the 21-gun salute in honor of Capt. Eli Takesian, the eighth Chaplain of the Marine Corps, at the Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va. on Dec. 4, 2014. Takesian died May 20, 2014 at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. Takesian is most renowned for the care and aid he provided to the Marines of 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment at the bloody battle of Hue City during the Vietnam War. - The Navy Honor Guard fires a volley as part of the 21-gun salute in honor of Capt. Eli Takesian, the eighth Chaplain of the Marine Corps, at the Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va. on Dec. 4, 2014. Takesian died May 20, 2014 at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. Takesian is most renowned for the care and aid he provided to the Marines of 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment at the bloody battle of Hue City during the Vietnam War.

Staff Sgt. Rafael Garcialopez, center, passes Marine Corps Martial Arts Program fundamentals and knowledge to his squad Nov. 21, at Kin Blue, Okinawa, during the culminating event for Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor course class 1-15. MCMAP focuses on real-life hand-to-hand combat survival techniques that also include leadership tie-ins that help build confidence and leadership in the Marines. The course was run by Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installation Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. Garcialopez is martial arts instructor-trainer and chief instructor for the course. (Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Joey S. Holeman, Jr./ Released) - Staff Sgt. Rafael Garcialopez, center, passes Marine Corps Martial Arts Program fundamentals and knowledge to his squad Nov. 21, at Kin Blue, Okinawa, during the culminating event for Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor course class 1-15. MCMAP focuses on real-life hand-to-hand combat survival techniques that also include leadership tie-ins that help build confidence and leadership in the Marines. The course was run by Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installation Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. Garcialopez is martial arts instructor-trainer and chief instructor for the course. (Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Joey S. Holeman, Jr./ Released)

Jason Dean, a Department of Defense Fellow for the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, talks with Lisa Murkowski, the Senior Senator of Alaska at the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Toys for Tots drive on December 3, 2014. The event was held at the Russell Senate Office Building where 17 boxes were filled with toys. - Jason Dean, a Department of Defense Fellow for the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, talks with Lisa Murkowski, the Senior Senator of Alaska at the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Toys for Tots drive on December 3, 2014. The event was held at the Russell Senate Office Building where 17 boxes were filled with toys.

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Marines attempt to break through a wall of Bulgarian and Serbian soldiers during the riot control course of Platinum Wolf 15 at South Base, Serbia Nov. 19. Platinum Wolf is a peacekeeping operations training exercise focused on non-lethal systems and basic infantry skills. Units train together as coalitions, developing and improving proficiency of peacekeeping procedures like crowd and riot control. Forces from Bulgaria, Croatia, Macedonia, Romania, Serbia and the U.S. will be participating in the two week training. - Marines attempt to break through a wall of Bulgarian and Serbian soldiers during the riot control course of Platinum Wolf 15 at South Base, Serbia Nov. 19. Platinum Wolf is a peacekeeping operations training exercise focused on non-lethal systems and basic infantry skills. Units train together as coalitions, developing and improving proficiency of peacekeeping procedures like crowd and riot control. Forces from Bulgaria, Croatia, Macedonia, Romania, Serbia and the U.S. will be participating in the two week training.

Cpl. Tyler L. Saffore, a bulk fuel specialist with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, stands before Lt. Col. James Whiteker, MWSS-171 commanding officer, as Sgt. Maj. G.V. Tunnell, MWSS-171 sergeant major, reads aloud a citation stating the things Saffore did to earn the Bulk Fuel Specialist of the Year award, Dec. 3, 2014, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Saffore won the award for his strong work ethic, initiative and superior performance. - Cpl. Tyler L. Saffore, a bulk fuel specialist with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, stands before Lt. Col. James Whiteker, MWSS-171 commanding officer, as Sgt. Maj. G.V. Tunnell, MWSS-171 sergeant major, reads aloud a citation stating the things Saffore did to earn the Bulk Fuel Specialist of the Year award, Dec. 3, 2014, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Saffore won the award for his strong work ethic, initiative and superior performance.

Rear Admiral Brent Scott, the 19th Chaplain of the United States Marine Corps and the Deputy Chief of Navy Chaplains and the guest of honor for the 239th United States Navy Chaplain Corps Birthday Ball, speaks to the audience at the Pacific Views Event Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., December 1, 2014. Navy Captain Guy M. Lee, the command chaplain of I MEF, hosted the ball. - Rear Admiral Brent Scott, the 19th Chaplain of the United States Marine Corps and the Deputy Chief of Navy Chaplains and the guest of honor for the 239th United States Navy Chaplain Corps Birthday Ball, speaks to the audience at the Pacific Views Event Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., December 1, 2014. Navy Captain Guy M. Lee, the command chaplain of I MEF, hosted the ball.

Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

Ralf, a military working dog with the Provost Marshal’s Office Kennel, bites a sleeve during aggression training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 1. It takes about 160 pounds of pressure to fracture a strong bone and each day these handlers step into the ring with these dogs to be bitten over and over again with each bite ranging up to 265 to 328 pounds of force. - Ralf, a military working dog with the Provost Marshal’s Office Kennel, bites a sleeve during aggression training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 1. It takes about 160 pounds of pressure to fracture a strong bone and each day these handlers step into the ring with these dogs to be bitten over and over again with each bite ranging up to 265 to 328 pounds of force.

Sgt. Gerry Pratama, from Anahuac, Texas, climbs up the latter after performing the helocasting practical application Nov. 4 during the scout swimmers course at White Beach Naval Facility. Marines rehearsed the procedures they will be doing on the aircraft on pier beforehand hand to ensure readiness. Pratama is a student of the course with Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF. - Sgt. Gerry Pratama, from Anahuac, Texas, climbs up the latter after performing the helocasting practical application Nov. 4 during the scout swimmers course at White Beach Naval Facility. Marines rehearsed the procedures they will be doing on the aircraft on pier beforehand hand to ensure readiness. Pratama is a student of the course with Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. 1st Class Yatsuka Ikeda, left, helps U.S. Marine 1st Sgt. Timothy Babcock set up the American flag Dec. 1 before the opening ceremony for Forest Light 15-1 at the Oyanohara Training Area in Yamato, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. Forest Light demonstrates the continued commitment of the U.S. and Japan to increase interoperability of our armed forces and maintain a strong partnership to protect Japan from external aggression. Ikeda is with 42nd Regiment, 8th Division, Western Army, JGSDF. Babcock, from Port Austin, Michigan, is company first sergeant with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released) - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. 1st Class Yatsuka Ikeda, left, helps U.S. Marine 1st Sgt. Timothy Babcock set up the American flag Dec. 1 before the opening ceremony for Forest Light 15-1 at the Oyanohara Training Area in Yamato, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. Forest Light demonstrates the continued commitment of the U.S. and Japan to increase interoperability of our armed forces and maintain a strong partnership to protect Japan from external aggression. Ikeda is with 42nd Regiment, 8th Division, Western Army, JGSDF. Babcock, from Port Austin, Michigan, is company first sergeant with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released)

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jonas G. Dewald works with a fellow Marine to don his ghillie suit Dec. 2 in the Oyanohara Training Area in Yamato, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. The concealment training is part of Forest Light 15-1, a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force to enhance the U.S. and Japan military partnership, solidify regional security agreements and improve individual and unit-level skills. Dewald, from Wilson, North Carolina, is a machine gunner with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF, under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released) - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jonas G. Dewald works with a fellow Marine to don his ghillie suit Dec. 2 in the Oyanohara Training Area in Yamato, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. The concealment training is part of Forest Light 15-1, a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force to enhance the U.S. and Japan military partnership, solidify regional security agreements and improve individual and unit-level skills. Dewald, from Wilson, North Carolina, is a machine gunner with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF, under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released)

The Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon performs during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., Aug. 22. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Larry Babilya/Released) - The Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon performs during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., Aug. 22. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Larry Babilya/Released)

Master Chief Jody Fletcher, the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command command master chief, receives an Operation One Voice branded coin from Bill Stevens, the founder of OOV, during a ceremony at the Fallen Heroes Memorial at the Gwinnett Justice Center in Lawrenceville, Ga., Sept. 11, 2014. Fletcher, Stevens and other Marines, sailors and OOV volunteers embarked on a 465-mile bike ride from North Carolina to Florida to honor Master Sgt. Aaron Torian, an explosive ordinance disposal technician and team chief with 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion, who was killed in action Jan. 29, 2014, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Donovan Lee/released) - Master Chief Jody Fletcher, the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command command master chief, receives an Operation One Voice branded coin from Bill Stevens, the founder of OOV, during a ceremony at the Fallen Heroes Memorial at the Gwinnett Justice Center in Lawrenceville, Ga., Sept. 11, 2014. Fletcher, Stevens and other Marines, sailors and OOV volunteers embarked on a 465-mile bike ride from North Carolina to Florida to honor Master Sgt. Aaron Torian, an explosive ordinance disposal technician and team chief with 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion, who was killed in action Jan. 29, 2014, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Donovan Lee/released)

Recruit Esra D. Mullner, Platoon 3269, Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, stands at the position of attention at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., Nov. 21. Mullner is a Boise, Idaho native and was recruited out of Recruiting Substation Boise, Idaho. - Recruit Esra D. Mullner, Platoon 3269, Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, stands at the position of attention at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., Nov. 21. Mullner is a Boise, Idaho native and was recruited out of Recruiting Substation Boise, Idaho.

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U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force and Security Element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, ride in a CH-53 Super Stallion during interoperability training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 20, 2014. Interop gives the 15th MEU’s MRF and Security Element an opportunity to work together and support each other in preparation for a deployment in the spring. - U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force and Security Element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, ride in a CH-53 Super Stallion during interoperability training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 20, 2014. Interop gives the 15th MEU’s MRF and Security Element an opportunity to work together and support each other in preparation for a deployment in the spring.

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First Sgt. Alvoid Hamilton, first sergeant for 1st MSOB, presents a folded American Flag to the family of Staff Sgt. Christopher Diaz a Military Working Dog handler who was killed in action, Sept. 28, 2011, during a Navy Cross and Bronze Star awards ceremony aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 25, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Scott A. Achtemeier / Released) - First Sgt. Alvoid Hamilton, first sergeant for 1st MSOB, presents a folded American Flag to the family of Staff Sgt. Christopher Diaz a Military Working Dog handler who was killed in action, Sept. 28, 2011, during a Navy Cross and Bronze Star awards ceremony aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 25, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Scott A. Achtemeier / Released)

Cpl. Tyler Raffaele, an entry team breecher with the Special Reaction Team, Marine Corps Police Department, Security Emergency Services Battalion, performs a scan of his surroundings immediately following a course of fire during a quarterly SRT qualification at Range 300, Nov. 20. The scan is a tactic used to remain aware of your surroundings and break tunnel vision in combat. - Cpl. Tyler Raffaele, an entry team breecher with the Special Reaction Team, Marine Corps Police Department, Security Emergency Services Battalion, performs a scan of his surroundings immediately following a course of fire during a quarterly SRT qualification at Range 300, Nov. 20. The scan is a tactic used to remain aware of your surroundings and break tunnel vision in combat.

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Lance Cpl. Ronald Hinson from Heath Springs, South Carolina, competes in the push up challenge portion of the Shanghai Commanders’ Cup Nov. 14 at Camp Schwab. The meet tested the Marines in nine categories, ranging from fun events like softball and sumo wrestling to pull-up and push-up competitions. Every event was performed in a team setting further reinforcing camaraderie and cohesion. Hinson is a cyber-network operator with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Hinson from Heath Springs, South Carolina, competes in the push up challenge portion of the Shanghai Commanders’ Cup Nov. 14 at Camp Schwab. The meet tested the Marines in nine categories, ranging from fun events like softball and sumo wrestling to pull-up and push-up competitions. Every event was performed in a team setting further reinforcing camaraderie and cohesion. Hinson is a cyber-network operator with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program.

Sergeant Jay Schenkel II speaks with soldiers with the Burundi National Defense Force (BNDF) after conducting practical application drills for improvised explosive device sweeping while patrolling in Bujumbura, Burundi, Nov. 6, 2014. Schenkel is an explosive ordnance disposal technician with SPMAGTF-Crisis Response-Africa training alongside the BNDF, teaching basic infantry tactics, engineering, logistical support, countering-IED, lifesaving techniques and convoy operations to prepare them for an upcoming deployment in support of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin) - Sergeant Jay Schenkel II speaks with soldiers with the Burundi National Defense Force (BNDF) after conducting practical application drills for improvised explosive device sweeping while patrolling in Bujumbura, Burundi, Nov. 6, 2014. Schenkel is an explosive ordnance disposal technician with SPMAGTF-Crisis Response-Africa training alongside the BNDF, teaching basic infantry tactics, engineering, logistical support, countering-IED, lifesaving techniques and convoy operations to prepare them for an upcoming deployment in support of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin)

Military policemen approach a barricaded suspect during an active shooter reaction drill Nov. 20 at Camp Courtney’s Commissary. The military policemen had the opportunity to use the exchange and the commissary to train in a setting where they could potentially to operate. The Marines are with the Special Reaction Team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Isaac Ibarra/Released) - Military policemen approach a barricaded suspect during an active shooter reaction drill Nov. 20 at Camp Courtney’s Commissary. The military policemen had the opportunity to use the exchange and the commissary to train in a setting where they could potentially to operate. The Marines are with the Special Reaction Team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Isaac Ibarra/Released)

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