News

Marine Raiders with 3rd Marine Raider Battalion train Marines with 1st Battalion, 8th Marines on close quarters battles tactics at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28, 2021 - Marine Raiders with 3rd Marine Raider Battalion train Marines with 1st Battalion, 8th Marines on close quarters battles tactics at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28, 2021

Marine Raiders collaborate with Marines from 1/8 on CQB tactics and SSE

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Marine Raiders with 3rd Marine Raider Battalion and Marines from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, recently participated in a three-day close-quarters battle training evolution, Jan. 26-28, 2021, at Camp Lejeune, N.C.This training allowed for collaboration between Marine Forces Special Operations Command and Fleet Marine Forces that

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U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Ernesto Santa Ana, with the Naval Medical Research Center, collects blood samples from a Marine participant with the COVID-19 Health Action Response for Marines (CHARM) study on Camp Johnson, N.C., Mar. 3, 2021. - U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Ernesto Santa Ana, with the Naval Medical Research Center, collects blood samples from a Marine participant with the COVID-19 Health Action Response for Marines (CHARM) study on Camp Johnson, N.C., Mar. 3, 2021.

Naval Medical Research Center continues research in fight against COVID-19

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Naval Medical Research Center is continuing their ongoing study to determine the long-term effects of the COVID-19 disease to support Marines in the COVID-19 Health Action Response for Marines CHARM 2.0 at Camp Johnson, North Carolina. CHARM 2.0 is a continuation of an initial study that NMRC began at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island in May 2020. The study is a volunteer progression-based assessment to monitor possible health related issues as a result of COVID-19 recovery, and the team has resumed evaluating the initial volunteers from across multiple Camp Lejeune tenant commands. U.S. Navy Cmdr. Andrew Letizia, the principle investigator for the CHARM study said the research provides a critical approach to understanding the long term effects of the disease. “This study helps understand the long term effects of COVID-19 amongst Marines,” he said. “It will also assist in understanding how a Marine’s immune system would be able to fight off new and emerging variants of the various SARS-CoV-2 strains, the virus that causes COVID-19, that are coming from around the world.” Letizia said the CHARM studies began in 2020, with revisits this year to assess the original group of recruits, now Marines. With the most recent update to the testing, the team is tasked with scouring across the country to continue research on Marines from the original study. “The study was conducted from May to Nov. 2020, and it followed Marine recruits entering boot camp,” he said. “We wanted to better understand all the Marines that had COVID-19 after infection, regardless of symptoms. Then we evaluated them for six weeks to see how their immune system has made progression.” The research team is currently reassessing the Marine volunteers, across military installations as part of the CHARM 2.0 study. This week the team reached out to leaders on Camp Lejeune to allow time for any original study participants to continue with their follow-ups. “All participants from the first study were eligible to continue the research,” said Letizia. “We’re hoping following up with these Marines will allow us to better understand the long term effects of COVID-19 on an individual’s health, in particular their heart, lungs, their mental health as well as their immune system.” One of the original participants, U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Jada May, a supply chain and material management specialist student at Ground Supply School, volunteered for the follow-up study. “I volunteered because as a twin I wanted to see if COVID would affect me differently as well as others,” she said. “I started in the program last August as a recruit and during the assessment learned that other Marines had an immunity built up which greatly helped with the study.” May said that she’s hopeful the research will benefit the effort to understand and fight COVID-19. Researchers are hoping the clinical results over time will benefit the understanding of healthy individuals during the pandemic. “This was a unique opportunity not just for the Marine Corps, but also for the whole Department of Defense to better understand the effects on our active duty population,” said Letizia. The CHARM projects have only improved the understanding of how Naval Medicine can impact COVID-19 relief efforts as well as support the health and readiness of the Marine Corps as an organization. “CHARM 1.0 as well as 2.0 show the power of Navy Medicine to deploy and support the Marine Corps especially during this pandemic,” said Letizia. “We really need to understand our foe as well as the ability of the individual Marine to fight off that infection, and we at the Navy Medical Research Center are proud to help with that.”

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U.S. Marines conduct a call for fire while participating in Tactical Air Control Party training as a part of a Close Air Support Exercise at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, Feb. 26. - U.S. Marines conduct a call for fire while participating in Tactical Air Control Party training as a part of a Close Air Support Exercise at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, Feb. 26.

MARFORRES Marines Participate in Close Air Support Exercise

Marines from Force Headquarters Group, 4th Marine Division and 4th Marine Aircraft Wing participated in Tactical Air Control Party training during a Close Air Support Exercise along with U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force personnel at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, February 24, 2021. TACP members are responsible for accurately locating targets for fire missions, providing battle damage assessment, and aid in neutralizing enemies to meet the ground force commander's intent. With such a critical mission, having a TACP with highly skilled Marines is essential. “TACP is everybody involved in the process of providing clearance for aircrafts to strike targets on the ground near a friendly ground unit,” said Capt...

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A U.S. Marine gets her arm disinfected to receive her second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, on Camp Foster, Mar. 2. - A U.S. Marine gets her arm disinfected to receive her second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, on Camp Foster, Mar. 2.

I got the COVID-19 vaccine because...

As thousands of service members on Okinawa are receiving the COVID-19 vaccination, they are given a sticker stating ‘I got my COVID-19 vaccine because…’ This personal memento signifies their unique reason to receive the vaccine. Many service members with families on Okinawa are receiving the vaccine to keep their families safe. “I feel it is my duty to get the vaccine to stop the spread of COVID-19,” explains Staff Sgt. Felicia White, a mother of one who just received the final COVID-19 booster...

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U.S. Marines and Navy Sailors conduct external lifts for a vertical replenishment of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, Naval Base Guam, Feb. 25. - U.S. Marines and Navy Sailors conduct external lifts for a vertical replenishment of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, Naval Base Guam, Feb. 25.

Hagåtña Fury 21 | CLR-3 Marines put ‘Fight Now’ concept to the test

During exercise Hagåtña Fury 21, Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Regiment 3 honed expeditionary advanced base operations and distributed maritime operations capabilities across U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, alongside elements of 3d Marine Division and 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, from February 18 to March 1. The overall operation was designed to test CLR-3’s ability to conduct distributed command and control of forces providing EABO sustainment across INDOPACOM via a robust communications network, while executing various mission profiles in support of III Marine Expeditionary Force “Fight Now” concepts.

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Photo of virus. - Photo of virus.

U.S. Marine Corps update for COVID-19

This article displays the current coronavirus disease 2019 statistics for U.S. Marine Corps personnel.

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Heavy Mobile Equipment mechanics work together with mechanics from the original equipment manufacturer, Flyer Defense, to learn every aspect of maintenance and repair of the Special Operations’ Ground Mobility Vehicle at Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, aboard the Yermo Annex of Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Feb. 24. - Heavy Mobile Equipment mechanics work together with mechanics from the original equipment manufacturer, Flyer Defense, to learn every aspect of maintenance and repair of the Special Operations’ Ground Mobility Vehicle at Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, aboard the Yermo Annex of Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Feb. 24.

Special Operations Command GMVs coming to Production Plant Barstow

Special Operations Command Ground Mobility Vehicles are coming soon to Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command on the Yermo Annex aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California. The GMV 1.1 are all-terrain vehicles developed for use by Special Forces. These vehicles are designed to be lightweight and transportable via the CH-47 Chinook. “The vehicles consist of a crew rollover protection, utilizing crush-resistant roll bars and able to withstand 100 percent of the gross vehicle weight,” said Paul Niemeyer...

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A Marine checks and adjusts a thermal optic at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Feb. 17. - A Marine checks and adjusts a thermal optic at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Feb. 17.

Marines in the fight during Service Level Training at the Combat Center

Marines and sailors from around the Marine Corps participated in Service Level Training Exercise 2-21 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, throughout January and February 2021. SLTE is a series of separate exercises designed to prepare the Marine Air Ground Task Force to respond to crises and conflicts around the globe by increasing their ability to integrate actions across the full range of military operations. “This exercise really showed the strength of the Marine Corps in that we can take a unit from anywhere around the Corps and know that when we plug them into a new headquarters, they will perform,” said Col. Fridrik Fridriksson...

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U.S. Army Cpl. Gregory McLellan and U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Clinton Smith, Joint Corporals Leadership Development Course students, plot grid points during the land navigation portion of Camp Lemonnier's Joint Corporal’s Leadership Development Course at Arta, Djibouti, March 3, 2016. During the evaluation ‎Soldiers, ‎Sailors, ‎Airmen, and ‎Marines had to find eight different points and navigate to those points in a timed event. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Dan DeCook) - U.S. Army Cpl. Gregory McLellan and U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Clinton Smith, Joint Corporals Leadership Development Course students, plot grid points during the land navigation portion of Camp Lemonnier's Joint Corporal’s Leadership Development Course at Arta, Djibouti, March 3, 2016. During the evaluation ‎Soldiers, ‎Sailors, ‎Airmen, and ‎Marines had to find eight different points and navigate to those points in a timed event. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Dan DeCook)

A concerted effort: Marine Corps, Army collaborate to strengthen programs

Marine Corps Systems Command recently joined forces with the Army to identify partnership opportunities that could benefit both organizations. In January, Marine Corps Systems Command’s Portfolio Manager, Logistics Combat Element Systems and the Army’s Program Executive Officer, Combat Support and Combat Service Support participated in a Home-on-Home conference to discuss collaboration opportunities to build synergy and identify cost savings and avoidance. This single-day, virtual event represents the culmination of various program management offices assembling and sharing information to develop a common understanding of programs to assess possible collaboration opportunities.

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Marine Forces Special Operations Command celebrates 15 years of commitment, diligence and professionalism as a component in support of Special Operations Command at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 22. - Marine Forces Special Operations Command celebrates 15 years of commitment, diligence and professionalism as a component in support of Special Operations Command at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 22.

Marine Forces Special Operations Command Celebrates 15th Anniversary

Marines with Marine Forces Special Operations Command celebrate the 15th anniversary of the organization, February 22, 2021. Fifteen years ago, the Marine Corps combined several of its specialized and uniquely trained units to become pioneers in a new chapter of Marine Corps history within Special Operations Command. While MARSOC can still be considered a relatively young unit, the history of Marine Corps specialized forces can be traced back much further than 2006...

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Marines with Weapons Training Battalion conduct the Annual Rifle Qualification train-the-trainer course on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Feb. 17, 2021. - Marines with Weapons Training Battalion conduct the Annual Rifle Qualification train-the-trainer course on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Feb. 17, 2021. The ARQ is replacing the current Annual Rifle Training to increase lethality by creating a more operationally realistic training environment which will be implemented service-wide by fiscal year 2022.

New Annual Rifle Qualification To Make Marines More Lethal

The Marine Corps began the train-the-trainer course of the new Annual Rifle Qualification, which will fully replace the previous Table 1 and Table 2 qualification course of fire October 1, 2021.

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U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy, III Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, arrives at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni during MEFEX 21. - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy, III Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, arrives at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni during MEFEX 21.

III Marine Expeditionary Force and U.S. 7th Fleet complete integrated training for MEFEX

III Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 21, a joint exercise that further enhanced the Navy-Marine Corps team’s ability to respond to crises or contingencies, concluded February 12. During MEFEX, III MEF in direct coordination with U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet conducted realistic training at each echelon of its command to train III MEF staff in the planning, deployment, and command and control of a force of more than 25,000 service members who are postured forward across Japan and Hawaii...

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U.S. Navy sailor prepares a Marine for their first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, Gotemba, Japan, Feb. 18. - U.S. Navy sailor prepares a Marine for their first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, Gotemba, Japan, Feb. 18.

CATC Camp Fuji personnel receive COVID-19 vaccine

Marines, Sailors, and civilians at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji lined up for, what was for most, their first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, February 18, Gotemba, Japan. Approximately 86% of eligible CATC Camp Fuji personnel received the first dose, and of that, 27% received their second dose. 1st Lt. Demond Glover, company commander of CATC Camp Fuji, said that number is expected to climb. “We had a lot of Marines who had been on the fence, but seeing the base’s effort showed them they should get it, they should be protected.” CATC Camp Fuji Branch Health Annex personnel had to carefully identify...

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A U.S. Navy sailor demonstrates the Squad Common Optic attached to the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 10. - A U.S. Navy sailor demonstrates the Squad Common Optic attached to the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 10.

Marines receive improved optic to identify threats from longer distances

Marines recently received an innovative new optic that better prepares them to engage adversaries from longer distances. In January, Marine Corps Systems Command’s Program Manager for Infantry Weapons began fielding the Squad Common Optic—a magnified day optic comprising an illuminated and nonilluminated aim-point designed to improve target acquisition and probability-of-hit with infantry assault rifles. The SCO can be attached to the M4 and M4A1 Carbine as well as the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle. It will supplement the attrition and replacement of the Rifle Combat Optic and the Squad Day Optic for each of those weapons for close-combat Marines...

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A U.S. Marine reviews and provides feedback on a new Marine Corps website aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 15. - A U.S. Marine reviews and provides feedback on a new Marine Corps website aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 15.

MCSC, MCTSSA create ‘social media network for Marines’ to support needs

Marine Corps Systems Command drew inspiration from social media and video games to create an information hub catering to the needs of the 21st century Marine. In February 2021, MCSC’s Program Manager for Infantry Weapons launched the Infantry Weapons Information Tool, an intuitive website inspired by social media that aims to increase communication among the Fleet and better support their needs. This easy-to-use, Common Access Card-enabled website provides Marines with relevant technical doctrine, training manuals, instructional videos and other tools associated with PM IW equipment to make them a more effective force...

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A U.S. Marine grooms MWD Shiva, on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 3. - A U.S. Marine grooms MWD Shiva, on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 3.

A Marine's best friend

“I rely heavily on the protection of Max,” said Cpl. Jarod Bell, a Military Working Dog handler, and a native of Rochester, New York. “He can potentially be the deciding factor in whether I go home or not. I feel like if I can protect my dog [Max] to make it back, it gives us another day to go out there and do it again.” “He is definitely my best friend.” U.S. Marines with the Provost Marshal’s Office and 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, MWD section, regularly conduct training to maintain mission readiness. However, for Marines like Bell, continuously building the relationship with the MWD’s means so much more...

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A U.S. Marine Corps F35B Lightning II prepares to take off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) during flight operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, Feb. 13. - A U.S. Marine Corps F35B Lightning II prepares to take off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) during flight operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, Feb. 13.

15th MEU supports Operation Inherent Resolve from Makin Island ARG

The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit began air operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, February 13. Close air support operations and defensive counter air support operations were carried out by Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164 (Reinforced), the aviation combat element of the 15th MEU, as part of broader U.S. Central Command counterterrorism operations in the region. U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft departed from the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), flagship of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, to execute the long-range strike...

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U.S. Marines and Sailors stand together with members of the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force, Australian Navy, U.S. Space Force, and U.S. Air Force, embarked together aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 21. - U.S. Marines and Sailors stand together with members of the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force, Australian Navy, U.S. Space Force, and U.S. Air Force, embarked together aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 21.

Partner to Compete, Compete to Deter

The Marines and Sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the soldiers of the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force executed a bilateral raid at Kin Blue Beach and in the Central Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, February 1. The training kicked off as U.S. Marines from the 31st MEU’s Battalion Landing Team 3/4 conducted a small boat raid to secure the beach, launching on combat rubber raiding craft from the well deck of USS Ashland (LSD 48). Once the beach was secured, JGSDF soldiers landed in a CH-47 with 109th Aviation Unit, Western Army Aviation Group, to coordinate follow-on actions...

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Maj. Indigo Gregory, company commander with Headquarters Battalion, Training and Education Command, employs Command Individual Risk and Resiliency Assessment System, Jan. 5. - Maj. Indigo Gregory, company commander with Headquarters Battalion, Training and Education Command, employs Command Individual Risk and Resiliency Assessment System, Jan. 5.

Marine Corps develops secure app to monitor holistic health and combat readiness of Marines

A Marine’s greatest threat isn’t always a physical adversary. Marines risk their lives to protect their country. However, some warfighters deal with a range of social, financial or mental health concerns upon returning home. This can lead to the Marine experiencing personal issues that compromise their overall health and combat readiness. In 2020, Marine Corps Systems Command deployed an application designed to help commanders and their leadership team monitor behavioral changes among Marines...

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U.S. Marines conducted an expeditionary refueling exercise with a U.S. Navy Poseidon P-8 with Patrol Squadron 5 during MEFEX 21, in Airai Republic of Palau, February 7. - U.S. Marines conducted an expeditionary refueling exercise with a U.S. Navy Poseidon P-8 with Patrol Squadron 5 during MEFEX 21, in Airai Republic of Palau, February 7.

From Okinawa To Palau – Marines Exercise EABO During MEFEX 21

U.S. Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 and Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, showcased expeditionary advanced basing capabilities February 7, as part of MEFEX 21, travelling from Okinawa to the Republic of Palau during a joint expeditionary refueling exercise. Two KC-130J Hercules aircraft flew to the Republic of Palau with refueling Marines and a P-19A Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicle, refueled a U.S. Navy Poseidon P-8, and quickly returned. While this exercise displayed a critical logistics capability, it highlights the broader critical role U.S. Marine KC-130J aircraft assume in an expeditionary environment...

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U.S. Marines responds to an off-base call, as Security and Emergency Services ambulance at Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Jan. 13. - U.S. Marines responds to an off-base call, as Security and Emergency Services ambulance at Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Jan. 13.

Military and civilian police join forces

Combining civilian police officers and Military Police personnel to staff the Marine Corps Police Department provides an enhanced law enforcement presence aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California. Captain Mark Machado, MCLB Barstow’s police chief and provost marshal, has been overseeing the influx of Marine Corps Military Police personnel coming in from divested MP battalions as well as MPs coming right from the United States Army Military Police School. “Right now we have 12 MPs on hand, of which 10 are on the patrol force and we have two Military Working Dog handlers,” he said...

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U.S. Marines rehearse distributed operations in mainland Japan, Jan. 31. - U.S. Marines rehearse distributed operations in mainland Japan, Jan. 31.

Command and Control from a Distance: 3rd MEB deploys to conduct distributed operations

U.S. Marines and sailors with 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade deployed to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in order to rehearse distributed operations capabilities beginning January 21. 3rd MEB plays a critical role in the success of III Marine Expeditionary Force’s mission in the Indo-Pacific region, serving as the primary scalable, rapidly deployable command and control element for III MEF crisis operations. By deploying to MCAS Iwakuni, 3rd MEB is able to provide real-world practice for the command element and associated augments while they conduct remote operations and logistics planning for crisis response...

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A U.S. Marine reviews and provides feedback on a new Marine Corps website aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 15. - A U.S. Marine reviews and provides feedback on a new Marine Corps website aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 15.

MCSC, MCTSSA create social media network for Marines to support needs

Marine Corps Systems Command drew inspiration from social media and video games to create an information hub catering to the needs of the 21st century Marine. In February, MCSC’s Program Manager for Infantry Weapons launched the Infantry Weapons Information Tool, an intuitive website inspired by social media that aims to increase communication among the Fleet and better support their needs. This easy-to-use, Common Access Card-enabled website provides Marines with relevant technical doctrine, training manuals, instructional videos and other tools associated with PM IW equipment to make them a more effective force...

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Recruiting Command launches Recruiting Resources Website Page

The Marine Corps Recruiting Command National Training Team launched a new website page, “MCRC Connections,” at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, February 1. MCRC Connections was created as an, “all in one resource for sharing ideas, asking questions, and helping MCRC develop at the speed of change,” Chief Warrant Officer 5 Christopher Mayfield said in an email to MCRC Headquarters when he announced the page launch. “Included in Connections is the ability to share links to insightful articles, podcasts, and various other useful tools...”

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A Hospital Corpsman documents a patient's vitals during Valkyrie emergency fresh whole blood transfusion training aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), Nov. 14. - A Hospital Corpsman documents a patient's vitals during Valkyrie emergency fresh whole blood transfusion training aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), Nov. 14.

Valkyrie: emergency fresh whole blood transfusion enhances 15th MEU medical capabilities

While on a mission in a hostile environment, a U.S. Marine sustains a gunshot wound which strikes an artery, immediately causing decreased blood circulation and oxygenation throughout the body. In addition to the Marine’s excessive bleeding, the Marine is showing signs of pale skin, a racing heart and low blood pressure from the injury. After suppressing incoming enemy fire, his fellow Marine races to his side to apply pressure to the wound until the platoon corpsman arrives...

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A U.S. Marine gives a brief prior to beginning the Amphibious Combat Endurance Test on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Jan. 15. - A U.S. Marine gives a brief prior to beginning the Amphibious Combat Endurance Test on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Jan. 15.

20 OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PHOTOS FROM JANUARY 2021

From Marines in the skies of Michigan to those in the airfields of Japan, these are 20 of the most influential photos from around the Marine Corps during the month of January. Sunrise Flight Photo by Lance Cpl. Elias Pimentel A UH-1Y Huey pilot communicates with

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A U.S. Marine takes the final practical application exam during Tactical Combat Casualty Care training at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 20. - A U.S. Marine takes the final practical application exam during Tactical Combat Casualty Care training at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 20.

How to save a life: Marines learn casualty care

Using a true-to-life mannequin that mimics a casualty in pain, complete with screams and fake blood, Marines with 3rd Marine Division trained to save lives during a Level II Tactical Combat Casualty Care certification course on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The three-day course, January 20-22, resulted in certification as a Combat Life Saver and included classroom instruction, practical application, and a culminating evaluation requiring students to demonstrate newly acquired TCCC skills in a stress-induced environment replicating a combat scenario...

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U.S. Marines case the regimental colors during a deactivation ceremony on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28. - U.S. Marines case the regimental colors during a deactivation ceremony on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28.

Making way for the future, 8th Marine Regiment joins other units in deactivation

For an evolving Marine Corps, a step forward means having fewer Marines and Sailors in the ranks, but a more effective strength to carry out the mission. The Corps faced several cuts last year, and the trend continues into 2021 as 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ends its most recent, 70-year, activation period with a deactivation ceremony on January 28. “It’s just a natural transition that we go through as we contract or expand the Marine Corps in certain locations and places, either by skillset or by geographical location, that fits with force design,” said Maj. Gen. Frank Donovan, commanding general, 2nd MARDIV...

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U.S. Marines conduct the table one range during 3rd Marine Division Rifle Squad Competition at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 15. - U.S. Marines conduct the table one range during 3rd Marine Division Rifle Squad Competition at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 15.

Fight Now: Marines contend in rifle squad competition

The week-long competition tested jungle survival skills, basic infantry tactics, and excellence in weapons handling. As told by the squad leader and team leader, from the individual to squad level everybody’s physical and mental limits were tested but with strong leadership and with motivation from their peers the Marines of 3rd Marine division completed this challenging competition. By the end of the week they had demonstrated the ability and readiness to fight now...

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U.S. Marines board an MV-22 Osprey during a crisis response exercise in Kuwait, Jan. 13. - U.S. Marines board an MV-22 Osprey during a crisis response exercise in Kuwait, Jan. 13.

UAE Armed Forces and U.S. Marines Complete Defense Training in UAE

Combined forces from the United Arab Emirates and United States recently completed a week long defense-focused training engagement in the UAE. Service members from the UAE Presidential Guard and U.S. Marine Corps’ Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, gathered to strengthen partnerships and enhance collective crisis response capability in the region. “The relationship between the United Arab Emirates and United States armed forces has an essential role to stability and security in the region...”

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A U.S. Marine stands in front of the new F-35 flight simulator on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 21. - A U.S. Marine stands in front of the new F-35 flight simulator on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 21.

F-35 simulator building unveiled during Winter Fury

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing dedicates its inaugural F-35 simulator building aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, January 21. This marks the next step in streamlining the training process of the fifth-generation joint strike fighter, which has been recognized as one of the most advanced aircraft in military history. In addition to providing a much more efficient means of producing highly trained pilots to operate the fifth-generation stealth fighter, this simulator will allow 3rd MAW aviators to train, rehearse, and refine their integrated abilities alongside the Navy and other Marine Corps allies operating across the globe...

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A U.S. Navy corpsman administers a U.S. Marine with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 15. - A U.S. Navy corpsman administers a U.S. Marine with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 15.

Deploying Marines and Sailors receive COVID-19 vaccine

Deploying Marines and Sailors with II Marine Expeditionary Force received the coronavirus vaccination in preparation for an upcoming overseas deployment at the Russell Marine and Family Services Center in Camp Lejeune, January 15. In compliance with the Department of Defense’s coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination plan in support of Operation Warp Speed, U.S. Navy corpsmen, nurses, and doctors with 2nd Medical Battalion worked alongside the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit to form the II MEF COVID-19 vaccination team...

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The division head for Marine Corps Systems Command’s Manpower and Services and an assistant program manager for the Program Manager for Training Systems, impart information about Human Resources to passersby in Orlando, Fla., Dec. 6. - The division head for Marine Corps Systems Command’s Manpower and Services and an assistant program manager for the Program Manager for Training Systems, impart information about Human Resources to passersby in Orlando, Fla., Dec. 6.

MCSC launches new HR structure to support recruitment and retention efforts

In December, Marine Corps Systems Command implemented a new Human Resources team—a major achievement in the command’s continued mission to support and enhance its workforce. “The Human Resources Team is the first of its kind for the Marine Corps,” said Shane Brooks, division head for MCSC’s Manpower and Services. MCSC is the Marine Corps’ only acquisition command, with needs that differ from those of the rest of the Marine Corps. The complexity and uniqueness of the acquisition workforce necessitated an HR arm well-trained in acquisition-related matters...

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A graphic in support of content about the Secretary of the Navy. - A graphic in support of content about the Secretary of the Navy.

Statement by Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas Harker

To all of our Sailors, Marines, civilians and military families, I am honored to return to the Department of the Navy team as your acting secretary. From my years on active duty in the Coast Guard and as a career civilian at several federal agencies, I am keenly aware of the sacrifices all of you make, and the dedication you show, every day in service to our Nation. As we continue to navigate our way through the COVID-19 crisis, I am confident we will work together to help bring our Nation through this historic period...

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U.S. Marines unload gear from the Spearhead-class USNS Burlington (T-EPF 10) at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Va, Dec. 28. - U.S. Marines unload gear from the Spearhead-class USNS Burlington (T-EPF 10) at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Va, Dec. 28.

Marine-Naval integration continues: U.S. Marines return from USNS Burlington deployment

A team of U.S. Marines completed a three-month deployment at sea serving as an embarked security team aboard the Spearhead-class USNS Burlington (T-EPF 10) and returned to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia, December 28. The ten-Marine team, who were selected from Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Southern Command for this mission, were responsible for providing force protection during the noncombatant vessel’s deployment to the U.S. Fourth Fleet area of responsibility...

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Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity established the Marine Corps’ first-ever Adversarial Cyber Assessment "Blue Team", Nov. 10. - Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity established the Marine Corps’ first-ever Adversarial Cyber Assessment "Blue Team", Nov. 10.

MCTSSA establishes cyber ‘Blue Team’ designation

Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity established a Marine Corps’ Adversarial Cyber Assessment “Blue Team” on November 10. This designation is dedicated to support Marine Corps Systems Command’s Programs of Record, which enhances acquisitions cyber test and evaluation capabilities, stated Maj. Gen. M.G. Glavy, commander of Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command, in a memo authorizing the adversarial “Blue Team” designation...

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A U.S. Marine relays information to onlookers while observing fixed wing close air support training at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, Jan. 14. - A U.S. Marine relays information to onlookers while observing fixed wing close air support training at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, Jan. 14.

CATC Camp Fuji oversees successful first time fixed wing close air support training

Marines from 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines coordinated fixed wing close air support at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, successfully dropping 12 inert MK76s from F18s, a first in recent history for the installation, January 14. Close air support is any aviation-delivered use of weapon systems, or fires, in close enough proximity to friendly ground forces that requires detailed integration and careful coordination between pilots and forward air controllers stationed on the ground...

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A Navy seaman wearing personal protective equipment stands on the driver's side of a vehicle and talks to a service member who is sitting in his vehicle. - Navy Seaman Christian Monieno, assigned to the Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, N.C., prepares to conduct a COVID-19 screening on Marine Corps Cpl. Menelik Collins, a combat photographer assigned to the Communication Strategy and Operations Company, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, at the new Combined Respiratory Aid Station, Jan. 8, 2021.

USMC, DoD commences Operation Warp Speed

Nearly one year after COVID-19 arrived in the U.S., the vaccine was approved for emergency use authorization on December 19. The U.S. government commenced phase one of Operation Warp Speed following the vaccine’s arrival in January 2021. According to the CDC, “Operation Warp Speed is a partnership among components of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the DoD to help develop, make, and distribute millions of vaccine doses for COVID-19 as quickly as possible while ensuring that the vaccines are safe and that they work...”

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Here to ASIST

U.S. Marines and Sailors sit, breathing warm air into their face masks, socially distanced, eyes forward, looking at the man in front of them and absorbing his every word. These service members are eager to learn and eventually share their knowledge on preventing suicide. These U.S. Marines and Sailors from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit attend a two-day class to become Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training First-Aid caregivers. “ASIST is designed to equip Marines and Sailors to take care of each other peer to peer,” says Lt. Cmdr. Jeremy Blythe, the 31st MEU Command Element Chaplain...

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U.S Marines static line jump from a KC-130J Hercules over Drop Zone Basilone on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 10. - U.S Marines static line jump from a KC-130J Hercules over Drop Zone Basilone on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 10.

Parachute operations: Pendleton Marines jump out perfectly good airplane

Marines with Air Delivery Platoon, Landing Support Company, 1st Transportation Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, coordinated a parachute operation at Drop Zone Basilone to refresh their Marines on low-level static line jumps and aerial resupply. 1st TSB invited other Pendleton units to participate in the training event, enabling Marines with 1st Marine Division and I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group with airborne and jump missions to gain proficiency and remain current with their jump training...

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Marines with November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, stand around the Molly Marine statue for an award ceremony on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Dec 16, 2020. The Molly Marine award is given to the Marine voted to best exemplify the core values of honor, courage, and commitment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Michelle Brudnicki) - Marines with November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, stand around the Molly Marine statue for an award ceremony on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Dec 16, 2020. The Molly Marine award is given to the Marine voted to best exemplify the core values of honor, courage, and commitment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Michelle Brudnicki)

Molly Marine

Seventy seven years ago, the statue known as ‘Molly Marine’ was originally commissioned by Marine Technical Sgt. Charles Gresham, a recruiter, in hopes to increase enlistment of females into the military during World War II. At that time, American service men needed to be out in battle. Women were beginning to join and take over their jobs on the home front to “free a man to fight”. Molly Marine was the first statue of a woman in uniform, and it was erected on Nov. 10, 1943 in New Orleans, La. This was the year the womens’ reserve was activated as well as the 168th Marine Corps’ birthday. Two more statues were raised, one in 2000 in Quantico Va., where female officers are made, and one in 1999 on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island...

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U.S. Marine Corps and Navy medical personnel and first responders complete an initial screening to receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 29, 2020. The Department of Defense’s (DOD) COVID-19 vaccination plan is phase driven and designed to protect members within the DOD fromCOVID-19 as quickly and safely as possible in order to bolster mission readiness and enhance capabilities of DOD members worldwide. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alex Fairchild) - U.S. Marine Corps and Navy medical personnel and first responders complete an initial screening to receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 29, 2020. The Department of Defense’s (DOD) COVID-19 vaccination plan is phase driven and designed to protect members within the DOD fromCOVID-19 as quickly and safely as possible in order to bolster mission readiness and enhance capabilities of DOD members worldwide. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alex Fairchild)

U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy First Responders and Medical Personnel Receive Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine

U.S. Marine Corps and Navy personnel received the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 29.The Department of Defense’s COVID-19 vaccination plan is phase driven and designed to protect members within the DOD from COVID-19 as quickly and safely as possible in order to bolster mission

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Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji Marines and Sailors clean up trash and ocean debris from Numazu Beach Training Area, Shizuoka, Japan, Dec. 30, 2020. Service members cleared over 2700 liters of trash and other ocean debris from the beach, which is used by joint U.S. forces and the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force for air ground and amphibious training. - Lance Cpl. Christopher Mauney, a Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji range control operator, cleans ocean debris from Numazu Beach Training Area, Shizuoka, Japan, Dec. 30, 2020. Service members cleared over 2700 liters of trash and other ocean debris from the beach, which is used by joint U.S. forces and the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force for air ground and amphibious training.

CATC Camp Fuji Marines and sailors clean Numazu beach, ensure readiness for training units

Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji Marines and sailors participated in a cleanup day at the installation’s Numazu Beach Training Area, Shizuoka, Japan, Dec. 30, 2020. Despite the gray skies and wind, 21 service members spent the day collecting approximately 2700 liters of trash and other ocean debris, as well as seven truckloads of large driftwood. A 45-minute drive from the main installation, the beach serves as a training ground for diverse land, sea, and amphibious vehicles, and is the only strip of beach on the Japanese mainland that the U.S. Marine Corps controls...

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U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Edgar Wooten (left), basic entryman, and U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Marcus Edwards (right), team commander, Special Reaction Team, Provost Marshall’s Office, Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command, practice coordinated movement techniques during an SRT familiarization range at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 11, 2020. SRT Marines are military police officers trained in hostage situation, active shooter and barricaded suspect response. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joshua Sechser) - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Edgar Wooten (left), basic entryman, and U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Marcus Edwards (right), team commander, Special Reaction Team, Provost Marshall’s Office, Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command, practice coordinated movement techniques during an SRT familiarization range at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 11, 2020. SRT Marines are military police officers trained in hostage situation, active shooter and barricaded suspect response. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joshua Sechser)

Combat Center SRT develops its Marines in fire, movement and breaching techniques

Marines with the Special Reaction Team, Provost Marshall’s Office, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, executed training on fire, movement and breaching techniques at the base Dec. 11, 2020. SRT Marines are military police officers trained in responding to hostage situations, active shooters and barricaded suspects. “Our primary mission as the Special Reaction Team requires us to handle all the sorts of calls too erratic for your average military police officer” said Sgt. Marcus L. Edwards, SRT commander. “PMO is always a first response to emergencies. We act as a secondary reaction force in any incidents of suspected terrorism, active shooters or in the case that a suspect is barricaded in place.”...

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U.S. Marines work together to pour cement into the foundation of the Republica de Cuba School in Puerto Lempira, Honduras, Aug. 17. - U.S. Marines work together to pour cement into the foundation of the Republica de Cuba School in Puerto Lempira, Honduras, Aug. 17.

Still holding strong: Task force Marines built lasting structures, relationships in Honduras

Almost two weeks after Hurricane Eta, a category 4 storm, ripped through Central America with torrential rain and heavy winds, Hurricane Iota, another category 4 storm, hit the already strained region. Hurricanes Eta and Iota hit Honduras hard with winds surpassing 100 mph and caused more than 6 feet of flooding. The storms affected more than a third of the population causing destruction of homes, extreme flooding and deadly mud slides. As the winds and rain demolished buildings across the country, four buildings in Puerto Lempira, Honduras, stood strong – so strong that locals abandoned their homes and took shelter in them...

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U.S. Marines conduct fast roping during exercise Forest Light Eastern Army in mainland Japan, Dec. 10. - U.S. Marines conduct fast roping during exercise Forest Light Eastern Army in mainland Japan, Dec. 10.

20 OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PHOTOS FROM December 2020

From Marines in the skies of California to those in the ranges of Japan, these are 20 of the most influential photos from around the Marine Corps during the month of December. Prepare the Team Photo by Cpl. Levi Guerra A crew chief with the Japan Ground

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A U.S. Marine providing security on a company attack range in Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 21. - A U.S. Marine providing security on a company attack range in Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 21.

Marine Corps begins widespread fielding of suppressors

Marines risk their lives to protect others. Many are trained to locate, close with and destroy the enemy by fire and maneuver, or repel the enemy's assault by fire and close combat. They engage adversaries in any clime and place, no matter how arduous the conditions. Marine Corps Systems Command is tasked not only with enhancing the lethality of warfighters. The command also strives to protect them. MCSC has taken another step toward increasing lethality and protection for Marines. In December, the command began the process of fielding thousands of suppressors to infantry, reconnaissance and special operation units for employment on the M27, M4 and M4A1 rifles...

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A San Diego Sheriff Bell 205 A1 fire and rescue helicopter drops water in an effort to extinguish the Creek Fire on Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 24. - A San Diego Sheriff Bell 205 A1 fire and rescue helicopter drops water in an effort to extinguish the Creek Fire on Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 24.

CPFD and local agencies battle Creek Fire

Camp Pendleton Fire Department and Cal Fire worked together to fight the Creek Fire that blazed in Fallbrook and the installation beginning Thursday, December 24. By Saturday evening, the fire was 90 percent contained and over 4,200 acres. The fire initially posed a threat to eastern areas of base. However, through firefighting strategies of back burns and control lines, by 5 p.m. on December 24, the fire no longer posed any threat to structures. Residents living in the Lake O’Neill Campground, O’Neill Heights, Wounded Warrior Battalion, and De Luz base housing areas were ordered to evacuate early Thursday morning. They gathered at Paige Fieldhouse where they awaited updates and heard from Brig. Gen. Dan Conley, commanding general of Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton...

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A member of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force looks out the back of a CH-47JA Chinook helicopter during exercise Forest Light Eastern Army at Camp Soumagahara, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, Dec. 9. - A member of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force looks out the back of a CH-47JA Chinook helicopter during exercise Forest Light Eastern Army at Camp Soumagahara, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, Dec. 9.

Forest Light 21

To end the crazy year that is 2020 strong, the U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing participated in the bilateral exercise Forest Light with Japan Ground Self-Defense Force December 3 to December 21, 2020. Forest Light is an exercise that occurs annually or semi-annually between the Marines and JGSDF that rotates through the five JGSDF Army units to strengthen cooperation and bilateral operations. This iteration of Forest Light was designed to increase the partnership between the Marines and the JGSDF Eastern Army, with focus on offensive and defensive air mobile field training...

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A U.S. Marine operates the legacy Circuit Card Assembly Test Station, aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 30. - A U.S. Marine operates the legacy Circuit Card Assembly Test Station, aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 30.