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A graphic depicts SAAPM month initiatives, April 1- 30, 2020. - A graphic depicts SAAPM month initiatives, April 1- 30, 2020.

Protecting our people protects our mission – SAAPM Month 2020

Members of the U.S. military community across Marine Corps Base Camp Butler observe Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention month April 1 – 30. SAAPM is an opportunity to highlight Marine Corps Sexual Assault Prevention and Response progress and ensure momentum continues. According to MARADMIN 133/20, April will mark the 16th annual Department of Defense observance of SAAPM with the ongoing theme, “Protecting Our People Protects Our Mission.”

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Marine Corps Cpl. Kelsey Worth plays the saxophone during a rehearsal at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., March 12. - Marine Corps Cpl. Kelsey Worth plays the saxophone during a rehearsal at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., March 12.

Defining Worth through music and the Marine Corps

The musicians of the Marine Corps demonstrate the core values of honor, courage and commitment through the balance of musical excellence and upholding the elite stature Marines are known for. U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Kelsey Worth, a musician with Marine Band San Diego, has proven herself an integral piece to the Marine Corps’ total force by exemplifying these values through her dedication as a saxophonist and as a Marine. At a young age, Worth followed in the steps of her family and their passion for playing musical instruments. She began playing the saxophone at 11 years old and never turned back...

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A U.S. Marine fires his M4A1 service rifle during a deck shoot aboard amphibious assault ship USS America, March 26. - A U.S. Marine fires his M4A1 service rifle during a deck shoot aboard amphibious assault ship USS America, March 26.

20 OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PHOTOS FROM MARCH 2020

From Marines in the waters of Japan to those at the beaches of Thailand, these are 20 of the most influential photos from around the Marine Corps during the month of March...

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Newest MV-22B Osprey Squadron, The “Ugly Angels,” Are Ready

Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 362, known as the “Ugly Angels,” were declared fully operational capable on Feb. 28, 2020, signifying that the Marine Corps’ newest MV-22B Osprey squadron is prepared to support the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Following the certification, they continued to work together to accomplish additional training and readiness

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Jack Jack, a military working dog sits after finding explosive materials during an explosive ordnance familiarization class aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). - Jack Jack, a military working dog sits after finding explosive materials during an explosive ordnance familiarization class aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6).

A Marine's Best Friend

In 1918, the Marine Corps earned one of its many well-known nicknames at the battle of Belleau Wood. After a ferocious offensive, the Marines forced the Germans into a retreat. Marine Corps legend has it that in the wake of their withdrawal, one German soldier left a journal in which he described the Marines as "Teufelhunden", meaning "devil dogs". While Marines continue to fight with the courage and ferocity that earned them this nickname, one group of Marines rises above the rest in truly living up to this moniker. These are the Marine Corps' military working dogs...

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U.S. Marines participate in a ‘Murph’ workout challenge in memory of Gunnery Sgt. Diego Pongo and Capt. Moises Navas aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). . - U.S. Marines participate in a ‘Murph’ workout challenge in memory of Gunnery Sgt. Diego Pongo and Capt. Moises Navas aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). .

Til’ Valhalla

An intense unit workout aboard the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS America on the morning of March 14th served as more than just the average physical training session for the Marines of Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The workout, referred to as a ‘Murph,’ afforded the Marines the opportunity to honor their fallen brothers and sisters – in this case, specifically in memory of two recently deceased Marine Corps Special Operations Command Marine Raiders, Gunnery Sgt. Diego Pongo and Capt. Moises Navas...

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A U.S. Navy sailor ground guides a Kalmar Lidhults Mekaniska Verkstad container forklift truck down the ramp during a Maritime Prepositioning Force exercise at U.S. Naval Base Guam, Feb. 27. - A U.S. Navy sailor ground guides a Kalmar Lidhults Mekaniska Verkstad container forklift truck down the ramp during a Maritime Prepositioning Force exercise at U.S. Naval Base Guam, Feb. 27.

Walk The Plank | U.S. Marines better their Maritime Prepositioning Force skills

A team of U.S. Marines with 3rd Marine Logistics Group conducted a Maritime Prepositioning Force exercise in Apra Port to improve their readiness, test operational concepts and prepare for upcoming exercises. Marines executed MPF offload and onload training from Feb. 24 to 29, 2020. “MPF operations allow the Marine Corps to preposition assets for U.S. Marine Corps units anywhere in the world,” said Sgt. Jacob Thomas, a Marine Air-Ground Task Force Offload Liaison Team member based out of Okinawa, Japan. The MPF allows us to quickly support units such as III Marine Expeditionary Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade in times of crisis...

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Maj. Gen. Matthew G. Glavy, Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command and Joint Task Force Ares commander, presides over a relief and appointment ceremony in Lasswell Hall, Fort Meade, Maryland, Mar. 19, 2020. During the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Daniel L. Krause relinquished his duties as the sergeant major of MARFORCYBER while Sgt. Maj. Jay D. Williamson was appointed to fill the role. (Department of Defense photo by Joseph Wilbanks) - Maj. Gen. Matthew G. Glavy, Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command and Joint Task Force Ares commander, presides over a relief and appointment ceremony in Lasswell Hall, Fort Meade, Maryland, Mar. 19, 2020. During the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Daniel L. Krause relinquished his duties as the sergeant major of MARFORCYBER while Sgt. Maj. Jay D. Williamson was appointed to fill the role. (Department of Defense photo by Joseph Wilbanks)

MARFORCYBER Hosts Digital Relief and Appointment Ceremony: Bids Sgt. Maj. Krause Farewell, Welcomes Sgt. Maj. Williamson Through Video Conference

Sgt. Maj. Daniel L. Krause relinquished his duties as the sergeant major of Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command during a unique ceremony on Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, March 18. Krause served as the senior enlisted leader and advisor to the Marines that plan and conduct full-spectrum cyberspace operations. “In this domain, the best ideas win,” said Krause to the audience of Marines and civilians watching the ceremony from their workstations through a video conference as part of the command’s COVID-19 force health protection measures. During the ceremony, Krause formally passed the sword of office to Sgt. Maj. Jay D. Williamson who has 27 years of Marine Corps service...

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A U.S Marine lands VMFA-314's first F-35C Lightning II on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 21. - A U.S Marine lands VMFA-314's first F-35C Lightning II on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 21.

First Marine F-35C Squadron Attains Next Aviation Milestone

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 celebrated the results of over five months of F-35C Lightning II transition training when they received their Safe-For-Flight Operations Certification at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar March 20, 2020. VMFA-314 and the U.S. Navy's F-35C Fleet Replacement Squadron, Strike Fighter Squadron 125, diligently worked together toward this historic accomplishment even while conducting precautionary measures to stem the spread of novel coronavirus. SFFOC is an important milestone for VMFA-314's transition to the F-35C Lightning II from the F/A-18 Hornet...

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Valor Beyond the Line of Duty

Former Marine Corps officer John Rushing once said, “In the simple moral maxim the Marine Corps teaches, 'do the right thing for the right reasons' no exception exists that says, 'unless there's criticism or risk'. Damn the consequences.”This philosophy was embodied by Lance Cpl. Noah M. Ballow when he displayed courage and commitment beyond the

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A U.S. Marine briefs Brig. Gen. Dan Conley at the medial isolation and observation center being set up near the 13 Area on Camp Pendleton, California, March 15. - A U.S. Marine briefs Brig. Gen. Dan Conley at the medial isolation and observation center being set up near the 13 Area on Camp Pendleton, California, March 15.

Camp Pendleton Marines set up a medical isolation and observation center

U.S. Marines stationed on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton set up a medical isolation and observation center in the 13 Area of Camp Pendleton, March 15. The medical isolation and observation center comes from the direction of U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Dan Conley, the commanding general of Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. The facility is scheduled to open later this week. “There are roughly nine barracks that have 16 rooms,” said U.S. Marine Capt. Hali Brown, the safety officer for Headquarters and Support Battalion, MCB Pendleton...

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MCTSSA Marines recognized for naval integration efforts

Two Marines with Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity were recognized for their naval integration efforts in fiscal year 2019.Captains Caleb Wu and Victor Castro each received a Copernicus Award for their contributions to command, control, communications, computers and intelligence systems. At MCTSSA, Wu is an assistant naval integration

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U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Brian D. Beaudreault, commanding general, II Marine Expeditionary Force, interacts with Marines during the end of Cyber Fury 2020 at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 28, 2020. Cyber Fury is an annual training exercise that allows Marines to simulate a series of cyber space attacks by identifying and countering them. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Haley McMenamin) - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Brian D. Beaudreault, commanding general, II Marine Expeditionary Force, interacts with Marines during the end of Cyber Fury 2020 at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 28, 2020. Cyber Fury is an annual training exercise that allows Marines to simulate a series of cyber space attacks by identifying and countering them. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Haley McMenamin)

8th COMM, USCYBERCOM conduct Cyber Fury 2020

U.S. Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, (II MIG), and Marine Forces Cyber Command participated in Exercise Cyber Fury 2020 at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 17-28, 2020.The exercise put to test the Marines’ abilities to hunt down infiltrating adversaries and remove them from government networks. The challenge, doing it all

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A Royal Thai Marine talks with a U.S. Marine during a combined joint High Mobility Artillery Rocket System rapid insertion as part of Cobra Gold 2020, at Chandy Range Kingdom of Thailand, March 2. - A Royal Thai Marine talks with a U.S. Marine during a combined joint High Mobility Artillery Rocket System rapid insertion as part of Cobra Gold 2020, at Chandy Range Kingdom of Thailand, March 2.

Cobra Gold 20: HIMARS soars over Thailand in bilateral quick fire mission

A heavy transport aircraft blows clouds of dust over a dirt airstrip as it touches down in Chandy Range with an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System primed to debark and fire its payload to any enemy targeted by its missiles. During exercise Cobra Gold 2020, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit rehearsed Combined Joint HIMARS Rapid Insertion at

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Marines salute during a relief and appointment ceremony aboard amphibious assault ship USS America, March 11. - Marines salute during a relief and appointment ceremony aboard amphibious assault ship USS America, March 11.

Relief and appointment: 31st MEU welcomes new Sgt. Maj. In wake of Cobra Gold success

U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit welcomed Sergeant Major Douglas Gerhardt at a relief and appointment ceremony aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), March 11, 2020.During the ceremony, Sergeant Major Edwin A. Mota, outgoing 31st MEU Sergeant Major, turned the Sword of Office over to Sergeant Major

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Mrs. Barbara Mathews is bestowed the title of honorary United States Marine by Maj. Gen. William M. Jurney, commanding general, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, during an Honorary Marine ceremony, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 6, 2020. The Honorary Marine title is designed to reinforce the special bond between the American people and the Marine Corps by recognizing individuals in the civilian community who have made extraordinary contributions to the Marine Corps. Mrs. Mathews earn this prestigious honor for volunteering over 10 years of her personal time, talents and money capturing photo and video of hundreds of Marine Corps ceremonies, including memorials and special events surrounding the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Matthew Kirk) - Mrs. Barbara Mathews is bestowed the title of honorary United States Marine by Maj. Gen. William M. Jurney, commanding general, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, during an Honorary Marine ceremony, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 6, 2020. The Honorary Marine title is designed to reinforce the special bond between the American people and the Marine Corps by recognizing individuals in the civilian community who have made extraordinary contributions to the Marine Corps. Mrs. Mathews earn this prestigious honor for volunteering over 10 years of her personal time, talents and money capturing photo and video of hundreds of Marine Corps ceremonies, including memorials and special events surrounding the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Matthew Kirk)

Earning the title Honorary Marine

A Hawaiian-based videographer was just the 11th woman in Marine Corps history to be awarded the title of Honorary Marine during a ceremony at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 6, 2020.Mrs. Barbara Mathews earned this prestigious honor for volunteering over 10 years of her personal time, talents and money capturing photo and video of hundreds of

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U.S. Navy Corpsmen conduct a simulated casualty evacuation while participating in the final exercise during exercise Cobra Gold 2020 at Ban Chan Khrem, Chanthaburi, Kingdom of Thailand, March 5. - U.S. Navy Corpsmen conduct a simulated casualty evacuation while participating in the final exercise during exercise Cobra Gold 2020 at Ban Chan Khrem, Chanthaburi, Kingdom of Thailand, March 5.

Cobra Gold 20: US, Royal Thai Marine Corps breach, clear obstacles showcasing combined arms firepower during final exercise

Explosions and bullets rain past obstacles as the Royal Thai Marine Corps and U.S. Marines clear ground in a bilateral assault March 5, 2020, as part of exercise Cobra Gold 2020. Over the course of an hour, a force of over 100 Marines and Thais demonstrated combat breaching of obstacles and indirect fire support for combined arms

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A U.S. Marine receives a brief during the end of Cyber Fury 2020 at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 28. - A U.S. Marine receives a brief during the end of Cyber Fury 2020 at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 28.

8th COMM, USCYBERCOM conduct Cyber Fury 2020

U.S. Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group and Marine Forces Cyber Command participated in Exercise Cyber Fury 2020 at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 17-28, 2020.The exercise put to test the Marines’ abilities to hunt down infiltrating adversaries and remove them from government networks. The challenge, doing it all without

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U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Johnny Reynolds, left, a pool program specialist from Recruiting Station Nashville, tosses a freshly cut tree branch to Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Coppersmith, the administrative chief at RS Nashville, as they work together to clear fallen trees and debris on March 6, 2020. The Marines worked with local authorities and volunteers to assist with the clean-up and recovery efforts in the local area after severe storms and tornados blew across Middle Tennessee on March 3rd, 2020, which caused death, injury and widespread property damage. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Phommachanh) - U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Johnny Reynolds, left, a pool program specialist from Recruiting Station Nashville, tosses a freshly cut tree branch to Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Coppersmith, the administrative chief at RS Nashville, as they work together to clear fallen trees and debris on March 6, 2020. The Marines worked with local authorities and volunteers to assist with the clean-up and recovery efforts in the local area after severe storms and tornados blew across Middle Tennessee on March 3rd, 2020, which caused death, injury and widespread property damage. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Phommachanh)

Nashville Marines Support Tornado Recovery Efforts

Sirens sounded across Middle Tennessee late Monday evening through early Tuesday morning. Several tornadoes ripped across a 145-mile stretch, at least one traveling over 50 miles after touching down March 2-3, 2020.Nashville Mayor John Cooper declared a State of Emergency immediately following an assessment of areas affected by the tornados that

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Hershel Woodrow Williams, Retired Chief Warrant Officer Four and Medal of Honor recipient, salutes as he is introduced to the stage along with other members of the ship commissioning committee, March 7. - Hershel Woodrow Williams, Retired Chief Warrant Officer Four and Medal of Honor recipient, salutes as he is introduced to the stage along with other members of the ship commissioning committee, March 7.

USS Hershel "Woody" Williams commissioning

The Expeditionary Sea Base Hershel "Woody" Williams was commissioned as a warship on March 7, 2020. The ship transfers from military Sealift Command to the Navy.In attendance to the event were figures such as the commandant of the Marine Corps, West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark A. Milley, chairman

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A Royal Thai Marine showcases a scorpion to U.S. Marines during jungle survival training at Camp Lotawin, Kingdom of Thailand, March 4. - A Royal Thai Marine showcases a scorpion to U.S. Marines during jungle survival training at Camp Lotawin, Kingdom of Thailand, March 4.

Cobra Gold 20: Thai, US Marines strengthen bonds for another year

The 39th iteration of exercise Cobra Gold concluded March 6, 2020, wrapping up another year of bilateral cooperation between Royal Thai and U.S. Armed Forces.While the exercise drew all branches of service from 27 different countries, the bond between Royal Thai Marines and U.S. Marines is a special one.During the 2020 iteration of Cobra Gold,

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U.S. Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Battalion West athletes gather to show the medals won during the 2020 Marine Corps Trials powerlifting competition at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 4. The Marine Corps Trials promotes recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sports participation and develops camaraderie among recovering service members and veterans. - U.S. Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Battalion West athletes gather to show the medals won during the 2020 Marine Corps Trials powerlifting competition at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 4. The Marine Corps Trials promotes recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sports participation and develops camaraderie among recovering service members and veterans.

Marine Corps Trials 2020: Wounded Warrior Adaptive Sports Invitational

Wounded Warrior Regiment will host the 10th annual Marine Corps Trials at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 4-11.The Marine Corps Trials is an adaptive sports event involving more than 250 wounded, ill, or injured Marines, Sailors, veterans and international competitors. Organized into three competing teams, participants represent

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The 10th annual Marine Corps Trials opening ceremony welcomed athletes from six countries including Colombia, United Kingdom, Georgia, Canada, France, and Italy to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 29. The Marine Corps Trials is an adaptive sports event involving more than 200 wounded, ill or injured Marines, Sailors, veterans and international competitors, promoting recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sport participation. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Corporal Garrett Gillespie) - The 10th annual Marine Corps Trials opening ceremony welcomed athletes from six countries including Colombia, United Kingdom, Georgia, Canada, France, and Italy to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 29. The Marine Corps Trials is an adaptive sports event involving more than 200 wounded, ill or injured Marines, Sailors, veterans and international competitors, promoting recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sport participation. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Corporal Garrett Gillespie)

Road to the Games: Marine Corps Trials Begin

Marine Corps Trials 2020 began here today with a cheerful opening ceremony.Honoring each country and team—Canada, Columbia, France, Georgia, Italy, United Kingdom, Wounded Warrior Battalion-East and Wounded Warrior Battalion-West—and their participants as they were introduced to the crowd that gathered at the event.Lt. Col. Brian Huysman,

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The Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard passes through the streets of San Antonio, during the Western Heritage Parade, Feb. 1. - The Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard passes through the streets of San Antonio, during the Western Heritage Parade, Feb. 1.

20 OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PHOTOS FROM FEBRUARY 2020

From Marines in the snow of Alaska to those in the ranges of Hawaii, these are 20 of the most influential photos from around the Marine Corps during the month of February. 200201-M-MY519-1266 Photo by Lance Cpl. Andrew Bray U.S. Marines ride their combat rubber

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Capt. Nick Berger, project officer in Infantry Weapons at Marine Corps Systems Command, holds the M320A1 during a weeklong review of the system. - Capt. Nick Berger, project officer in Infantry Weapons at Marine Corps Systems Command, holds the M320A1 during a weeklong review of the system.

Marines test grenade launcher during fielding event

The Marine Corps has begun fielding its new grenade launcher.The M320A1 is a single-fire system that can be employed as a stand-alone weapon or mounted onto another, such as the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle. The weapon system will enable Marines to engage adversaries day or night.“The M320A1 is a 40-millimeter grenade launcher intended to replace

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U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Alex R. Diaz, retail operations chief for Marine Corps Community Services, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations East, Camp Lejeune, staples on a new target point during the 2016 intramural rifle and pistol competition on Stone Bay Rifle Range, Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 8. - U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Alex R. Diaz, retail operations chief for Marine Corps Community Services, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations East, Camp Lejeune, staples on a new target point during the 2016 intramural rifle and pistol competition on Stone Bay Rifle Range, Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 8.

MCB Camp Lejeune hosts the 2020 Marine Corps Marksmanship Competition for first time since 2016

Weapons Training Battalion will host the 2020 Marine Corps Marksmanship Competition East on Stone Bay, MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 23-April 3.The Marine Corps Shooting Team coordinates and supervises five regional MCMCs that are held annually at Far East, Pacific, West, East and the Marine Corps Championships. This will be the first

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From left to right, U.S. Marine Lt. Gen. Stacy Clardy, the III Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, Thai Army Lt. Gen. Sittipol Nimnuan, director general of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Thai Mine Action Center, and the RTAF Deputy Chief of Staff Gen. Pariphat Phalasin celebrate after detonating a group of recovered landmines at a landmine reduction event during Cobra Gold 2020 at Watthana Nakjon, Sa Kaeo, Kingdom of Thailand, March 3. - From left to right, U.S. Marine Lt. Gen. Stacy Clardy, the III Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, Thai Army Lt. Gen. Sittipol Nimnuan, director general of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Thai Mine Action Center, and the RTAF Deputy Chief of Staff Gen. Pariphat Phalasin celebrate after detonating a group of recovered landmines at a landmine reduction event during Cobra Gold 2020 at Watthana Nakjon, Sa Kaeo, Kingdom of Thailand, March 3.

Cobra Gold 20: Royal Thai, US forces commemorate landmine reduction operations with unexploded ordnance destruction

The Royal Thai Armed Forces Thailand Mine Action Center hosted a demonstration to inform U.S. and Thai military leadership about ongoing landmine reduction operations throughout the country, culminating with the destruction of unexploded ordnance at the Phakdi Phandin Village Tactical Training Field, March 3, as part of Exercise Cobra Gold 2020.The

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A U.S. Marine builds a snow wall during cold-weather training near Bjerkvik, Norway, Feb. 23. - A U.S. Marine builds a snow wall during cold-weather training near Bjerkvik, Norway, Feb. 23.

U.S. Forces to Hone Arctic Warfare Skills in Norway's High North in Exercise Cold Response 20

Nearly 1,500 U.S. service members are scheduled to take part in Exercise Cold Response 20 in Norway from March 9-18.The U.S. will be represented by service members from the United States Marine Corps, the United States Navy, the United States Army, and the United States Air Force who will join forces with Norway and eight other allied and partner

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U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. William Bowers, commanding general of Marine Corps Installations Pacific waits participates in the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society’s annual kickoff event at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, March 2. - U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. William Bowers, commanding general of Marine Corps Installations Pacific waits participates in the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society’s annual kickoff event at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, March 2.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society holds annual kickoff for 2020 fund drive season

Marines and sailors from units across Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler gathered to show support the launching of the 2020 Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society collection season, March 2 at Mess Hall 488.Members of the Camp Foster Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society office held the kickoff event to raise awareness for the four-week-long, annual

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Cobra Gold: Partner Nations Practice Noncombatant Evacuation Operations - Chemical, biochemical, radiological and nuclear defense specialists with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Royal Thai Navy Sailors scan a simulated noncombatant evacuee during a noncombatant evacuation operation as part of Exercise Cobra Gold 2020 at Utapao, Kingdom of Thailand, Feb. 29, 2020. Exercise Cobra Gold 20 is the largest theater security cooperation exercise in the Indo-Pacific region and is an integral part of the U.S. commitment to strengthen engagement in the region.

Cobra Gold: Partner nations practice noncombatant evacuation operations

Civilians stream through the gates into view of Department of State personnel and military service members welcoming them with clear directions. A military working dog sniffs for hazardous materials, and a bilateral chemical response team stands by to decontaminate evacuees.Led by the Japan Self-Defense Force, the simulated noncombatant evacuation

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Americans will head to the polls Nov. 3, 2020, to elect the president of the United States. - Americans will head to the polls Nov. 3, 2020, to elect the president of the United States.

Voicing Your Political Opinion on Social Media

The Department of Defense encourages all military and civilian personnel and their eligible family members to register and vote. Certain provisions on campaign participation, however, apply to federal employees and members of the armed forces – offline or online.So what do Marines and Department of the Navy civilians need to know before they post,

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U.S. Marines with Marine Air Support Squadron 2, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, set up a direct air support center during Cobra Gold 20 at Camp Phra Maha Jetsadaratchao, Chon Buri, Kingdom of Thailand, Feb. 26. - U.S. Marines with Marine Air Support Squadron 2, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, set up a direct air support center during Cobra Gold 20 at Camp Phra Maha Jetsadaratchao, Chon Buri, Kingdom of Thailand, Feb. 26.

Cobra Gold 20: MASS-2 augments 31st MEU for first time

For the first time, Marine Air Support Squadron 2, is falling under the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, as the MEU leads all Marine Corps forces for Exercise Cobra Gold 2020 in the Kingdom of Thailand. Based out of Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, MASS-2 is providing procedural control and coordination for Navy, Marine Corps, and

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U.S. Marines participate in a foot patrol during cold-weather training at Bjerkvik, Norway, Feb. 23. - U.S. Marines participate in a foot patrol during cold-weather training at Bjerkvik, Norway, Feb. 23.

II MIG Marines weather elements, challenges for Cold Response 20

Marines and Sailors of II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group have entered 2020 hitting the ground running as they kick off support for Exercise Cold Response 20 in the frigid climate of Northern Norway.The Norwegian-led, large-scale exercise officially begins in mid-March and is designed to boost NATO Allies and partners’ ability to

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Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class George E. Wahlen was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima. - Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class George E. Wahlen was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima.

We are Iwo: Medal of Honor recipient Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class George E. Wahlen

As the Marines stormed the beaches during World War II, Navy hospital corpsmen were alongside them for every battle in the Pacific. During the violent Battle of Iwo Jima, hospital corpsmen’s medical training, dedication to saving lives and fighting spirit proved to be an undeniable asset to the Marine Corps team. Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class George

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PFC Douglas T. Jacobson was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry S. Truman for his actions on Feb. 26, 1945. - PFC Douglas T. Jacobson was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry S. Truman for his actions on Feb. 26, 1945.

We are Iwo: Medal of Honor recipient PFC Douglas T. Jacobson

After returning home from the Battle of Iwo Jima and receiving the Medal of Honor, PFC Douglas T. Jacobson’s dedication to the Marine Corps was far from finished.A native of Rochester, New York, Jacobson enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve in 1943 at the young age of 17 and participated in campaigns for Tinian, Marianas Islands, and Marshall

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Private Wilson “Doug” Watson was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry S. Truman at the White House Oct. 5, 1945, for his actions on Feb. 26-27, 1945. - Private Wilson “Doug” Watson was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry S. Truman at the White House Oct. 5, 1945, for his actions on Feb. 26-27, 1945.

We are Iwo: Medal of Honor recipient Private Wilson “Doug” Watson

The Battle of Iwo Jima, a brutal but defining moment in Marine Corps history, was filled with uncommon valor and heroic actions by Marines and Sailors. Marines like, Private Wilson “Doug” Watson, directly influenced the victorious outcome on the unforgiving island. Watson was born in Tuscumbia, Alabama, and was one of 12 children. He was raised in

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Members of the U.S. military community on Okinawa participated in the Hiring Our Heroes Career Summit at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 25, 2020. The summit was held to help service members and their families transition out of the U.S. armed forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Zachary Larsen) - Members of the U.S. military community on Okinawa participated in the Hiring Our Heroes Career Summit at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 25, 2020. The summit was held to help service members and their families transition out of the U.S. armed forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Zachary Larsen)

Career Summit connects U.S. military community with opportunities after service

Members of the U.S. military community on Okinawa participated in a Career Summit hosted by Hiring Our Heroes Feb. 25.Over twenty employers showed up to participate in the Camp Foster Career Summit. Microsoft, Toyota, First Command, and Amazon Web Services were among the employers seeking to hire Marines with redeeming qualities, work experience,

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Volunteers from across the island of Okinawa came to participate in the English Day Camp at the Nago Youth House, Feb. 22. - Volunteers from across the island of Okinawa came to participate in the English Day Camp at the Nago Youth House, Feb. 22.

Members of U.S. military community volunteer at English Day Camp

Volunteers from the U.S. military community across Okinawa helped the youth of Okinawa to learn english through games, conversations, and skits at the Nago Youth House's English Day Camp Feb. 22. "I'm excited when I come to these events becuse these are the kids of the future and we can teach them some things that other students or teachers

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Marine Forces Special Operations Command celebrated its 14th anniversary with a Battle Colors Rededication ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C, Feb. 21. - Marine Forces Special Operations Command celebrated its 14th anniversary with a Battle Colors Rededication ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C, Feb. 21.

‘Little Sparta’ USSOCOM Commander highlights Marine Raider accomplishments at 14th Anniversary

The auditorium of the Marine Forces Special Operations Command Headquarters at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C, was standing room only as Marine Raiders gathered to celebrate the 14th anniversary ceremony of the organization, Feb. 21, 2020.The commander and command senior enlisted leader for U.S. Special Operations Command, General Richard D.

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We are Iwo: Medal of Honor recipient Cpl. Hershel “Woody” Williams

The only surviving Marine to have received the Medal of Honor during World War II, Cpl. Hershel “Woody” Williams, remembers the sound of the waves crashing along the shore upon arrival in Iwo Jima in 1945. The sounds of tranquility were quickly replaced by the sounds of brutal battle and Williams’ actions would earn him the Medal of Honor.The

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Sgt. Ross F. Gray was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima on Feb. 21, 1945. - Sgt. Ross F. Gray was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima on Feb. 21, 1945.

We are Iwo: Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Ross F. Gray

The Battle of Iwo Jima is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and defining battles for the U.S. Marine Corps. The countless acts of selflessness and uncommon valor created a fighting spirit still embodied in today’s Marines.During the battle-long commemoration for the 75th anniversary of Iwo Jima, the Marine Corps is honoring Marines and Sailors –

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U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, Marine Wing Support Group 37, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd MAW, work together to refuel an F-35B Lighting II during a forward area refueling point operation at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Feb. 4. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, Marine Wing Support Group 37, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd MAW, work together to refuel an F-35B Lighting II during a forward area refueling point operation at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Feb. 4.

MWSS-371 Employs TAGR System during FARP Operation

Five minutes. That’s the amount of time it took for Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371 to refuel an F-35B Lightning II and get it back in the air. This was all part of a forward arming and refueling point operation hosted by Marine Corps Air Station Yuma during which the tactical aviation ground refueling system was employed.A FARP is

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Equipment from the Tromsdal, Frigaard, and Bjugn caves waits to be loaded onto a Britannia Seaways shipping vessel at Orkanger Port, Norway, Feb. 17. - Equipment from the Tromsdal, Frigaard, and Bjugn caves waits to be loaded onto a Britannia Seaways shipping vessel at Orkanger Port, Norway, Feb. 17.

Logistics across Norway for Cold Response

Cold Response 20 is a Norwegian national defense exercise in conjunction with its NATO allies and partners taking place in an area stretching from the town of Narvik to Finnmark district in northern Norway. “Norway offers a unique arctic environment that’s very challenging and provides a great opportunity to improve our ability to operate in an

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Marines with Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Japanese Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade service members communicate during a simulated bilateral small-boat raid on Kin Blue, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 9. - Marines with Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Japanese Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade service members communicate during a simulated bilateral small-boat raid on Kin Blue, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 9.

Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade embarks for the first time with America ESG, 31st MEU

The embarked forces conducted boat raid scenarios over a few weeks’ time to improve tactics and techniques between Marines of the 31st MEU and the soldiers of ARDB boat platoon, in coordination with the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Germantown. By completing these scenarios, the Navy-Marine Corps team and ARDB demonstrated the ability

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U.S. Marines raise the flag atop Mount Suribachi, Iwo Jima, Feb. 23, 1945. - U.S. Marines raise the flag atop Mount Suribachi, Iwo Jima, Feb. 23, 1945.

Marine Corps Commemorates 75th Anniversary of Iwo Jima

The Marine Corps will commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima during a 36-day-long observance, Feb. 19 – March 2, 2020.In ALMAR 02-20, Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger said commanders across the force should conduct a commemoration within the 36-day observance period.“We should all pause to remember and honor

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Cpl. Tony Stein was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima on Feb. 19, 1945. - Cpl. Tony Stein was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima on Feb. 19, 1945.

We are Iwo: Medal of Honor recipient Cpl. Tony Stein

In describing the Battle of Iwo Jima that began Feb. 19, 1945, Adm. Chester W. Nimitz said, “uncommon valor was a common virtue.” Throughout a battle-long commemoration of the 75th anniversary of one of the bloodiest battles in American history, the Marine Corps is honoring some of the thousands of Marines and Sailors – far too many to highlight

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U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black speaks with Marines, Sailors and civilians during the Enlisted Professional and Personal Development Summit at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Feb. 3, 2020. The attendees were solicited to provide the Commandant of the Marine Corps with opinions and recommendations on how to improve education, health, recruitment, and retainment of Marines in a professional environment. - U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black speaks with Marines, Sailors and civilians during the Enlisted Professional and Personal Development Summit at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Feb. 3, 2020. The attendees were solicited to provide the Commandant of the Marine Corps with opinions and recommendations on how to improve education, health, recruitment, and retainment of Marines in a professional environment.

Summits for the Corps

The 19th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black, sponsored summits for health, wellness, and fitness; recruiting and retention; and enlisted professional and personal development at Quantico, V.A and Camp Lejeune, N. C., Feb. 3-7.As Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Black is responsible for offering advice to the

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Twenty-eight Iwo Jima veterans and members of the Iwo Jima Commemorative Committee pose for a group photo after the 75th Commemoration of the Battle of Iwo Jima ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 15. - Twenty-eight Iwo Jima veterans and members of the Iwo Jima Commemorative Committee pose for a group photo after the 75th Commemoration of the Battle of Iwo Jima ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 15.

Iwo Jima veterans mark 75 years since legendary battle at final tribute ceremony at Camp Pendleton

On Feb. 19, 1945, more than 70,000 U.S. Marines conducted an amphibious assault to take the Island of Iwo Jima from fortified Japanese forces. Over the next 36 days nearly 7,000 Marines would be killed during the battle, which is regarded as one of the bloodiest of World War II, as they faced hidden enemy artillery, machine guns, vast bunker

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Marines test new night vision goggles in realistic setting - U.S. Marines with the Aviation Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, conduct practical application to compare green and white phosphor night vision goggles at RAAF Base Darwin, Australia, June 18, 2019. White phosphor goggles will replace the traditional green phosphor goggles for improved night vision capabilities during MRF-D aviation operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Kealii De Los Santos)

Marines test new night vision goggles in realistic setting

In January, a group of Marines assessed next-generation night vision goggles in a realistic setting.The Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggle is a lightweight night vision system comprising an image-intensifier binocular and enhanced clip-on thermal imager. The SBNVG is more capable than the AN/PVS-14—the legacy system that lacked the performance

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Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) Gen. David H. Berger presents an American flag to Barbara Kelley, wife of retired Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) Gen. Paul X. Kelley, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Feb. 13, 2020. Kelley served as CMC from 1983 to 1987. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Morgan L. R. Burgess) - Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) Gen. David H. Berger presents an American flag to Barbara Kelley, wife of retired Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) Gen. Paul X. Kelley, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Feb. 13, 2020. Kelley served as CMC from 1983 to 1987. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Morgan L. R. Burgess)