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ITX is a large-scale, combined-arms training exercise conducted on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms conducted to continue increasing the units’ readiness as a Marine Air-Ground Task Force. - Marines standby for their departure to Integrated Training Exercise 2-18 from Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Jan. 12, 2018. ITX is a large-scale, combined-arms training exercise conducted on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms conducted to continue increasing the units’ readiness as a Marine Air-Ground Task Force. The participation from the Hawaii-based units includes 3d Marine Regiment; 2d Battalion, 3d Marine Regiment; 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment and Combat Logistics Battalion 3. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Kathy Nunez)

Nagitsy is enlisted in the Shoshone-Bannock tribes of southeastern Idaho and has bloodlines of four tribes; Northern Cheyenne, Eastern Shoshone, Shoshone-Bannock and Navajo. He will leave for Marine Corps Recruit Depot for recruit training on Jan. 16, 2018. - Devin Nagitsy, Future Marine from Fort Hall, ID, dresses in traditional Native American regalia for dancing during celebrations and social events. Nagitsy is enlisted in the Shoshone-Bannock tribes of southeastern Idaho and has bloodlines of four tribes; Northern Cheyenne, Eastern Shoshone, Shoshone-Bannock and Navajo. He will leave for Marine Corps Recruit Depot for recruit training on Jan. 16, 2018. (Courtesy Photo)

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CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan – A needle and tubing is taped down Jan. 11 at the Single Marine Program blood drive aboard Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan. - CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan – A needle and tubing is taped down Jan. 11 at the Single Marine Program blood drive aboard Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan. The blood drive was to get units of blood for Cobra Gold. The SMP blood drive had a goal of 20 units and completed it with 30 units of blood collected. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Kelcey Seymour)

Claudio D’Augustino stands in front of his sculpture during a dedication ceremony at the Officers’ Club aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Jan. 9, 2018. The sculpture was donated to the Combat Center during the ceremony to express D’Augustino’s appreciation for members of the armed services. - Claudio D’Augustino stands in front of his sculpture during a dedication ceremony at the Officers’ Club aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Jan. 9, 2018. The sculpture was donated to the Combat Center during the ceremony to express D’Augustino’s appreciation for members of the armed services.

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Air transportation division conducts ribbon cutting for air freight facility - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard F. Fuerst, commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, senior-ranking leadership and guests pose for a picture during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 8, 2018. The ceremony was held by the air transportation division (ATD) to celebrate the full operability of a nearly 50,000-square-foot air freight facility that opened October 2017 but wasn’t fully functional until recently. The new facility increases ATD’s capability to conduct cargo and sustainment operations in support of the growing air station. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andrew Jones)

Coordinating together guarantees mission success - A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 sits idle before MK-82 High Explosive General Purpose bombs are loaded onto the aircraft during hot-pit refueling and hot-load training at Naval Air Station Pohang, Republic of Korea, Dec. 12, 2017. The purpose of the exercise was to show that the Marines could effectively establish a forward arming and refueling point with supporting entities and conduct the training evolutions on foreign soil. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Stephen Campbell)

1st Lt. Aaron Cranford speaks in an interview with Justin Kinjo and Yusuke Teruya, divers who almost lost their lives at the hands of a rip current, after the he receives the Navy and Marine Corps Medal on Jan. 8, 2017, at the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion Headquarters building on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan. Cranford was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for risking his life while rescuing three divers and a local Okinawan who were caught in rip current during a recreational dive at Onna Point, Okinawa, Japan on April 23, 2017. Cranford, a native of Fort Worth, Texas, is a supply officer with Headquarters and Service Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division. - 1st Lt. Aaron Cranford speaks in an interview with Justin Kinjo and Yusuke Teruya, divers who almost lost their lives at the hands of a rip current, after the he receives the Navy and Marine Corps Medal on Jan. 8, 2017, at the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion Headquarters building on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan. Cranford was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for risking his life while rescuing three divers and a local Okinawan who were caught in rip current during a recreational dive at Onna Point, Okinawa, Japan on April 23, 2017. Cranford, a native of Fort Worth, Texas, is a supply officer with Headquarters and Service Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division.

Chikako McMasters, a Vietnam war hero’s daughter, stands in front of a portrait and biography of her father that are located at the entrance of Dorris Hall - Chikako McMasters, a Vietnam war hero’s daughter, stands in front of a portrait and biography of her father that are located at the entrance of Dorris Hall, the renamed staff non-commissioned officer barracks on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 22, 2017. Recently, Chikako discovered she was the daughter of Staff Sgt. Claude H. Dorris, a Navy Cross recipient in Vietnam, which gave her a deeper connection to the Marine Corps. McMasters is a native of Okinawa, Japan.

U.S. FIFTH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 22, 2017) – Marines and Sailors with USS San Diego and embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit pass boxes during a replenishment at sea. San Diego, with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations to reassure allies and partners and preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in the region. - U.S. FIFTH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 22, 2017) – Marines and Sailors with USS San Diego and embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit pass boxes during a replenishment at sea. San Diego, with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations to reassure allies and partners and preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in the region.

Colonel Giles R. Boyce, the commanding officer for Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, renames the staff non-commissioned officer barracks on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 22, 2017. Dorris Hall is named after the Navy Cross recipient, Staff Sgt. Claude H. Dorris, a squad leader with the Combined Action Program during the Vietnam War, who went above and beyond the call of duty. - Colonel Giles R. Boyce, the commanding officer for Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, renames the staff non-commissioned officer barracks on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 22, 2017. Dorris Hall is named after the Navy Cross recipient, Staff Sgt. Claude H. Dorris, a squad leader with the Combined Action Program during the Vietnam War, who went above and beyond the call of duty.

Marine Corps Base Quantico welcomes Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Microsoft Software and Systems Academy, Jan. 8, which will allow Marines to get training for promising careers in information technology and various STEM fields. - Marine Corps Base Quantico welcomes Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Microsoft Software and Systems Academy, Jan. 8, which will allow Marines to get training for promising careers in information technology and various STEM fields.

Sergeant Sara McGaffee, a Sioux Falls, S.D., native, poses for a photo with her friends and family after the Marines of Recruiting Sub Station Sioux Falls presented her with the Purple Heart Medal. On Oct. 20th, 2010, while deployed with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, McGaffee’s vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device while conducting convoy operations in support of Operation Steel Dawn II in the Helmand province of Afghanistan. McGaffee was awarded her Purple Heart, Dec. 16, 2017 in Sioux Falls, S.D., in front of a detail of Marines and her local friends and family. - Sergeant Sara McGaffee, a Sioux Falls, S.D., native, poses for a photo with her friends and family after the Marines of Recruiting Sub Station Sioux Falls presented her with the Purple Heart Medal. On Oct. 20th, 2010, while deployed with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, McGaffee’s vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device while conducting convoy operations in support of Operation Steel Dawn II in the Helmand province of Afghanistan. McGaffee was awarded her Purple Heart, Dec. 16, 2017 in Sioux Falls, S.D., in front of a detail of Marines and her local friends and family.

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French forces secure the area in preparation to depart the simulated tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel mission during Alligator Dagger. Alligator Dagger, led by Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Expedition Brigade, is a dedicated, bilateral combat rehearsal that combines U.S. and French forces to practice, rehearse and exercise integrated capabilities available to U.S. Central Command both afloat and ashore. - French forces secure the area in preparation to depart the simulated tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel mission during Alligator Dagger. Alligator Dagger, led by Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Expedition Brigade, is a dedicated, bilateral combat rehearsal that combines U.S. and French forces to practice, rehearse and exercise integrated capabilities available to U.S. Central Command both afloat and ashore.

Lance Cpl. Miguel Salazar, an unmanned aerial vehicle technician with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, returns an RQ-7 Shadow to the VMU-4 hanger at Camp Wilson, Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, June 22, 2017. VMU-4 provided aerial reconnaissance in support of the 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, MARFORRES final battalion exercise of ITX 4-17. - Lance Cpl. Miguel Salazar, an unmanned aerial vehicle technician with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, returns an RQ-7 Shadow to the VMU-4 hanger at Camp Wilson, Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, June 22, 2017. VMU-4 provided aerial reconnaissance in support of the 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, MARFORRES final battalion exercise of ITX 4-17.

Brig. Gen. Jason Bohm, (Far right), Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Monssen (Far left) and retired Lt. Gen. William Faulkner pose with the winners of the Training Command’s Commanding General’s Writing Competition at Marine Corps Base Quantice, Virginia, Dec. 14, 2017. Capt. Kyle Tucker-Davis, GySgt. William Callen and Sgt. Matthew Harrison, won 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, respectively. Bohm is the commanding general for Training Command. Monssen is the Sergeant Major for Training Command. - Brig. Gen. Jason Bohm, (Far right), Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Monssen (Far left) and retired Lt. Gen. William Faulkner pose with the winners of the Training Command’s Commanding General’s Writing Competition at Marine Corps Base Quantice, Virginia, Dec. 14, 2017. Capt. Kyle Tucker-Davis, GySgt. William Callen and Sgt. Matthew Harrison, won 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, respectively. Bohm is the commanding general for Training Command. Monssen is the Sergeant Major for Training Command.

171210-M-QL632-085 DJIBOUTI, Djibouti (Dec. 14, 2017) – U.S. Marines and French military forces disembark a French roll-on/roll-off catamaran landing craft during Alligator Dagger. Alligator Dagger, led by Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Expedition Brigade, is a dedicated, bilateral combat rehearsal that combines U.S. and French forces to practice, rehearse and exercise integrated capabilities available to U.S. Central Command both afloat and ashore. - DJIBOUTI, Djibouti (Dec. 14, 2017) – U.S. Marines and French military forces disembark a French roll-on/roll-off catamaran landing craft during Alligator Dagger. Alligator Dagger, led by Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Expedition Brigade, is a dedicated, bilateral combat rehearsal that combines U.S. and French forces to practice, rehearse and exercise integrated capabilities available to U.S. Central Command both afloat and ashore.

Thinking outside the box - Capt. Christopher R. Preusser, the Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 11 aviation safety officer, designed a quick-charge docking station with 12 charging ports that use one cord to connect to a power source. It’s similar to the shape or design of an engine block. The docking station is printed upside down, and the charger is one piece with 12 smaller USB cords woven inside and linked to its specific chamber. Preusser has printed six docking stations which are currently used by all of the squadrons along the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, flight line.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion compete in the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion annual Warrior Challenge on Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan, December 15, 2017. The events included the basic skills and knowledge of the reconnaissance operations fields. - U.S. Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion compete in the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion annual Warrior Challenge on Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan, December 15, 2017. The events included the basic skills and knowledge of the reconnaissance operations fields.

A drill instructor figurine, part of a much larger statue, holds a steady salute on its day of unveiling at the National Marine Corps Museum in Triangle, Virginia, Dec. 13, 2017. At Their Core, one of three statutes that were unveiled, was crafted by Kris Kuksi for Marine Corps Recruiting Command’s Battles Won brand idea, but also to represent the irreducible fighting spirit of Marines. Kuksi is an artist contracted to work with MCRC's contracted advertisement agency, J. Walter Thompson. - A drill instructor figurine, part of a much larger statue, holds a steady salute on its day of unveiling at the National Marine Corps Museum in Triangle, Virginia, Dec. 13, 2017. At Their Core, one of three statutes that were unveiled, was crafted by Kris Kuksi for Marine Corps Recruiting Command’s Battles Won brand idea, but also to represent the irreducible fighting spirit of Marines. Kuksi is an artist contracted to work with MCRC's contracted advertisement agency, J. Walter Thompson.

Marines and Sailors with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, demonstrate proper removal of a gas mask from a simulated chemical contact victim while training for the medical management of chemical and biological causalties during an exercise at Stone Bay on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 6, 2017. Long prohibited by international agreements, chemical weapons have been increasingly used on the battlefield by American adversaries including violent extremist organizations. Raiders gained valuable practical application skills in handling casualties in complex and dangerous chemical environments. - Marines and Sailors with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, demonstrate proper removal of a gas mask from a simulated chemical contact victim while training for the medical management of chemical and biological causalties during an exercise at Stone Bay on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 6, 2017. Long prohibited by international agreements, chemical weapons have been increasingly used on the battlefield by American adversaries including violent extremist organizations. Raiders gained valuable practical application skills in handling casualties in complex and dangerous chemical environments.

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Marines conduct a field user evaluation for the Identity Dominance System-Marine Corps, or IDS-MC, in Dahlgren, Virginia. In September, Marine Corps Systems Command completed fielding of the IDS-MC, which is a new biometrics system to help deployed Marines identify and track the movement of individuals encountered on the battlefield, conduct entry control point operations, and determine who is a friend or foe. - Marines conduct a field user evaluation for the Identity Dominance System-Marine Corps, or IDS-MC, in Dahlgren, Virginia. In September, Marine Corps Systems Command completed fielding of the IDS-MC, which is a new biometrics system to help deployed Marines identify and track the movement of individuals encountered on the battlefield, conduct entry control point operations, and determine who is a friend or foe.

Sgt. Ethan Mintus and Sgt. Joseph Latsch, both unmanned aerial system operators with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3, wait to be awarded during a ceremony at Hangar 103, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Dec. 11, 2017. They were awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with the newly authorized Remote Impact “R” Device for their performance during combat operations. - Sgt. Ethan Mintus and Sgt. Joseph Latsch, both unmanned aerial system operators with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3, wait to be awarded during a ceremony at Hangar 103, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Dec. 11, 2017. They were awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with the newly authorized Remote Impact “R” Device for their performance during combat operations.

Cpl. Javier Carpintero performs a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) technique on a student on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Dec. 7, 2017. The purpose of MCMAP is to train Marines on combat skills that may be used in real-life scenarios. - Cpl. Javier Carpintero performs a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) technique on a student on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Dec. 7, 2017. The purpose of MCMAP is to train Marines on combat skills that may be used in real-life scenarios.

A multi-purpose canine handler with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, controls a laceration on a realistic canine mannequin during MPC medical training at Stone Bay on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 1, 2017. During this training, MPC handlers practice applying canine medical aid on the new “robot dog” for the first time, which is in its final stages of testing and development. - A multi-purpose canine handler with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, controls a laceration on a realistic canine mannequin during MPC medical training at Stone Bay on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 1, 2017. During this training, MPC handlers practice applying canine medical aid on the new “robot dog” for the first time, which is in its final stages of testing and development.

Vivianlee Aguero is a lance corporal in the United States Marine Corps. At 17 she enlisted as an embarkation specialist from her home in Guam. - Vivianlee Aguero is a lance corporal in the United States Marine Corps. At 17 she enlisted as an embarkation specialist from her home in Guam. She is currently attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, the 31st MEU provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance, throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Marines with 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group battle one another with pugil sticks during 2nd TSB’s Commander’s Cup 2017 at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 1, 2017. The competition included an obstacle course, assembly and disassembly of the M240B medium machine gun, maneuver under fire course, tire flip relay race, log tossing, Tug o’ War and pugil stick battle. The Marines improved their physical fitness and strengthening their unit. - Marines with 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group battle one another with pugil sticks during 2nd TSB’s Commander’s Cup 2017 at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 1, 2017. The competition included an obstacle course, assembly and disassembly of the M240B medium machine gun, maneuver under fire course, tire flip relay race, log tossing, Tug o’ War and pugil stick battle. The Marines improved their physical fitness and strengthening their unit.

MCAS Iwakuni welcomes US Navy squadrons - U.S. Navy personnel with Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 and Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 arrive at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 4-5, 2017. The relocation of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 from Naval Air Facility Atsugi to MCAS Iwakuni fulfills the final Defense Policy Review Initiative objective. The relocation is in accordance with the United States’ strategic vision for the rebalance in the Indo-Asia Pacific Region and does much to further strengthen the U.S.-Japan security alliance. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Gabriela Garcia-Herrera)

Ambassador William Hagerty, U.S. ambassador to Japan, waves to local Japanese and American visitors at Iwakuni City, Japan, Nov. 30, 2017. Ambassador Hagerty toured Kizuna Stadium during his first official Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni visit since arriving in Japan earlier this year. - Ambassador William Hagerty, U.S. ambassador to Japan, waves to local Japanese and American visitors at Iwakuni City, Japan, Nov. 30, 2017. Ambassador Hagerty toured Kizuna Stadium during his first official Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni visit since arriving in Japan earlier this year.

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), picks up an AV-8B Harrier engine to transport it from the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) to the fleet replenishment ship USNS Big Horn (T-AO-198) during a Helicopter Support Team mission as part of Combined Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), Dec. 1, 2017, in the Atlantic Ocean. The exercise allows all elements of the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) to join and train in realistic scenarios so the MEU as a whole can meet its Pre-Deployment Training Program objectives prior to their upcoming deployment at sea. - A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), picks up an AV-8B Harrier engine to transport it from the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) to the fleet replenishment ship USNS Big Horn (T-AO-198) during a Helicopter Support Team mission as part of Combined Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), Dec. 1, 2017, in the Atlantic Ocean. The exercise allows all elements of the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) to join and train in realistic scenarios so the MEU as a whole can meet its Pre-Deployment Training Program objectives prior to their upcoming deployment at sea.

Marines with Recruiting Station Denver pose on the Denver Broncos field before the Military Appreciation Game at the Sports Authority Stadium in Denver, CO, November 12, 2017. - Marines with Recruiting Station Denver pose on the Denver Broncos field before the Military Appreciation Game at the Sports Authority Stadium in Denver, CO, November 12, 2017.

U.S. Marines with the 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, depart the USS Rushmore to conduct an amphibious assault on Red Beach, Camp Pendleton, California, during Exercise Dawn Blitz, Oct. 27, 2017. DB17 is a scenario-driven amphibious exercise conducted between Expeditionary Strike Group 3 and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, testing their ability to conduct amphibious operations in response to global crises and to project power ashore as part of a Navy-Marine Corps team. - U.S. Marines with the 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, depart the USS Rushmore to conduct an amphibious assault on Red Beach, Camp Pendleton, California, during Exercise Dawn Blitz, Oct. 27, 2017. DB17 is a scenario-driven amphibious exercise conducted between Expeditionary Strike Group 3 and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, testing their ability to conduct amphibious operations in response to global crises and to project power ashore as part of a Navy-Marine Corps team.

An MV-22 Osprey of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 lands on the flight deck of the Navy’s forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan. - An MV-22 Osprey of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 lands on the flight deck of the Navy’s forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Carmen Christman, right, a logistics mobility chief with the USS Essex, and Lance Cpl. Angela Chang, an embark specialist with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, review flight plans aboard the Essex during Exercise Dawn Blitz, Oct. 27, 2017. - U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Carmen Christman, right, a logistics mobility chief with the USS Essex, and Lance Cpl. Angela Chang, an embark specialist with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, review flight plans aboard the Essex during Exercise Dawn Blitz, Oct. 27, 2017. Dawn Blitz is a scenario-driven amphibious exercise conducted between Expeditionary Strike Group 3 and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, testing their ability to conduct amphibious operations in response to global crises and to project power ashore as part of a Navy-Marine Corps team.

Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer speaks to Sailors and Marines during all hands call in the hangar bay of the amphibious assault ship USS America during his visit on Thanksgiving Day. - Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer speaks to Sailors and Marines during all hands call in the hangar bay of the amphibious assault ship USS America during his visit on Thanksgiving Day. America is the flagship for the America Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations designed to reassure allies and partners and preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in the region.

U.S. Marines with Combat Assault Company (CAC), 3rd Marine Regiment, conduct ground fighting in conjunction with the 74th anniversary of the Battle of Tarawa, Fort Hase Beach, Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH), Nov. 20, 2017. CAC celebrated the anniversary with a motivational run and beach grappling to promote comradery among the Marines, while understanding the sacrifices at Tarawa. MCBH, along with its tenant units, strives to promote resiliency in remembering the past battles won and to instill in the newest generation what it means to be U.S. Marine. - U.S. Marines with Combat Assault Company (CAC), 3rd Marine Regiment, conduct ground fighting in conjunction with the 74th anniversary of the Battle of Tarawa, Fort Hase Beach, Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH), Nov. 20, 2017. CAC celebrated the anniversary with a motivational run and beach grappling to promote comradery among the Marines, while understanding the sacrifices at Tarawa. MCBH, along with its tenant units, strives to promote resiliency in remembering the past battles won and to instill in the newest generation what it means to be U.S. Marine.

A Marine tests the enhanced vision capability—part of an upgrade to the Light Armored Vehicle’s Anti-Tank Weapon System—during new equipment training Sept. 18-29, at Camp Pendleton, Calif. Marine Corps Systems Command completed its first fielding of four upgraded ATWS in September. - A Marine tests the enhanced vision capability—part of an upgrade to the Light Armored Vehicle’s Anti-Tank Weapon System—during new equipment training Sept. 18-29, at Camp Pendleton, Calif. Marine Corps Systems Command completed its first fielding of four upgraded ATWS in September.

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Capt. Miguel Garcia pushes his son during the 28th Annual Kinser Half Marathon Nov. 19 aboard Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. The 13.1-mile run brought the local and military communities together for a friendly competition. Awards were given to the top three runners in each age category. Garcia is a supply officer with the Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group. - Capt. Miguel Garcia pushes his son during the 28th Annual Kinser Half Marathon Nov. 19 aboard Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. The 13.1-mile run brought the local and military communities together for a friendly competition. Awards were given to the top three runners in each age category. Garcia is a supply officer with the Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group.

Several 3-D-printed assault vehicle models sit on display in the General Support Maintenance Company (GSM), 3rd Maintenance Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, as a display of advanced capabilities, Nov. 21 2017, at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. The Dreamer Flashforge 3-D printer is regularly used at GSM to test form, fit and functionality of equipment and military systems before the finished product is produced out of metal. - Several 3-D-printed assault vehicle models sit on display in the General Support Maintenance Company (GSM), 3rd Maintenance Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, as a display of advanced capabilities, Nov. 21 2017, at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. The Dreamer Flashforge 3-D printer is regularly used at GSM to test form, fit and functionality of equipment and military systems before the finished product is produced out of metal.

Marine Corps veteran Sgt. Eubaldo Lovato (left), Silver Star recipient, Brig. Gen. Michael Martin (center), deputy commanding general of Marine Corps Forces Command, and Sgt. Maj. Bryan Fuller, Inspector Instructor Sgt. Maj. of Combat Logistics Group 453 Sgt. Maj., 4th Marine Logistics Group, render honors during the playing of the National Anthem during the Silver Star award ceremony in Montrose, Colo., Nov. 18, 2017. Lovato received an award upgrade, from his previous Bronze Star, for his heroic actions while serving as a squad leader with Company A, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, during Operation Al Fajr, part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, on Nov. 15, 2004. The Silver Star is the United States third-highest personal decoration for valor in combat. - Marine Corps veteran Sgt. Eubaldo Lovato (left), Silver Star recipient, Brig. Gen. Michael Martin (center), deputy commanding general of Marine Corps Forces Command, and Sgt. Maj. Bryan Fuller, Inspector Instructor Sgt. Maj. of Combat Logistics Group 453 Sgt. Maj., 4th Marine Logistics Group, render honors during the playing of the National Anthem during the Silver Star award ceremony in Montrose, Colo., Nov. 18, 2017. Lovato received an award upgrade, from his previous Bronze Star, for his heroic actions while serving as a squad leader with Company A, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, during Operation Al Fajr, part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, on Nov. 15, 2004. The Silver Star is the United States third-highest personal decoration for valor in combat.

U.S. Col. Michael V. Samarov, the commander of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, answers questions from Honduran press members after a closing ceremony at Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras, Nov. 8, 2017. The unit held a closing ceremony to wrap up their six-month deployment to Central America and to thank interagency and international partners for their support. The Marines and sailors of SPMAGTF-SC have completed a successful deployment in Central America and are scheduled to return to the United States in mid-November 2017. - U.S. Col. Michael V. Samarov, the commander of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, answers questions from Honduran press members after a closing ceremony at Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras, Nov. 8, 2017. The unit held a closing ceremony to wrap up their six-month deployment to Central America and to thank interagency and international partners for their support. The Marines and sailors of SPMAGTF-SC have completed a successful deployment in Central America and are scheduled to return to the United States in mid-November 2017.

Judges evaluate each contestant’s speech and stage presence during the 56th Annual Japanese and English Speech Contest at Sinfonia Iwakuni Concert Hall in Iwakuni City, Japan, Nov. 19, 2017. The contest was hosted by the Japanese American Society to help contestants understand and appreciate each other’s language and culture, strengthening the Japanese and American friendship. - Judges evaluate each contestant’s speech and stage presence during the 56th Annual Japanese and English Speech Contest at Sinfonia Iwakuni Concert Hall in Iwakuni City, Japan, Nov. 19, 2017. The contest was hosted by the Japanese American Society to help contestants understand and appreciate each other’s language and culture, strengthening the Japanese and American friendship.

A bomb disposal robot inspects a suspicious object during non-combatant evacuation operation training aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, on Nov. 17, 2017. SPMAGTF-CR-AF deployed to conduct limited crisis-response and theater-security operation in Europe and Africa. - A bomb disposal robot inspects a suspicious object during non-combatant evacuation operation training aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, on Nov. 17, 2017. SPMAGTF-CR-AF deployed to conduct limited crisis-response and theater-security operation in Europe and Africa.

The Marines with CLB-3 practiced firing inert and live mine-clearing charges as a part of Korean Marine Exchange Program 18.1/Exercise Winter Workhorse 17, which familiarizes the American armed forces with the Korean Peninsula and builds upon an enduring alliance between the two militaries. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Larry Anderson, a landing support specialist with Landing Support Company, 3d Transportation Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, crosses an obstacle with help from his unit and Republic of Korea Marines with Landing Support Battalion, ROK Marine Logistics Group, Oct. 28, 2017 in Pohang, South Korea. The Marines from both nations came together to conduct a Leadership Reaction Course, a series of team-building exercises designed to encourage communication and camaraderie between the two forces. The LRC was held as a part of Exercise Winter Workhorse 17/ Korean Marine Exchange Program 18.1, which familiarizes American military forces with the Korean peninsula.