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Dutch Marines with 32nd Raiding Company provide security in a Mercedes-Benz G-class utility vehicle for a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement 7-ton during a casualty evacuation exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The Dutch Marines spent the past three weeks utilizing Camp Lejeune’s training facilities, as well as cross-trained with U.S. Marines to learn and share tactics, techniques and procedures. - Dutch Marines with 32nd Raiding Company provide security in a Mercedes-Benz G-class utility vehicle for a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement 7-ton during a casualty evacuation exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The Dutch Marines spent the past three weeks utilizing Camp Lejeune’s training facilities, as well as cross-trained with U.S. Marines to learn and share tactics, techniques and procedures.

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

Sgt. Jason Hunter, the training noncommissioned officer in charge of Headquarters Company, 3rd Marine Regiment and a Murrieta, Calif., native, keeps his head low as he low crawls along Fort Hase Beach aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii during Sergeants Course, Aug. 19, 2015. Hunter, along with the other sergeants in the course, were low crawling in a tricky scenario where they were outnumbered four to one, and needed to repair a broken down vehicle. Sergeants Course is a vital part of professional military education for any Marine and helps to maintain the standards amongst the NCOs of the Marine Corps. The course supports MCB Hawaii’s mission, which is to provide facilities, programs and services in direct support of units, individuals and families to enhance and sustain combat readiness for all operating forces and tenant organizations aboard the installation. - Sgt. Jason Hunter, the training noncommissioned officer in charge of Headquarters Company, 3rd Marine Regiment and a Murrieta, Calif., native, keeps his head low as he low crawls along Fort Hase Beach aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii during Sergeants Course, Aug. 19, 2015. Hunter, along with the other sergeants in the course, were low crawling in a tricky scenario where they were outnumbered four to one, and needed to repair a broken down vehicle. Sergeants Course is a vital part of professional military education for any Marine and helps to maintain the standards amongst the NCOs of the Marine Corps. The course supports MCB Hawaii’s mission, which is to provide facilities, programs and services in direct support of units, individuals and families to enhance and sustain combat readiness for all operating forces and tenant organizations aboard the installation.

An iron statue welded by service members stands in the welding section in The Garden by Building Momentum, Alexandria, Va. The Garden hosts a wide variety of problem solving classes using science, engineering, and technology. - An iron statue welded by service members stands in the welding section in The Garden by Building Momentum, Alexandria, Va. The Garden hosts a wide variety of problem solving classes using science, engineering, and technology.

U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, exchange gifts with Saudi Arabian Naval Special Forces at the end of a subject matter expert exchange while forward deployed in the Middle East, May 18, 2017. The exchange proved to be an enhancing opportunity for both the U.S. and Saudi forces. Deploying U.S. Marines into the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to conduct combined military training with our partner nations’ security forces strengthens our vital relationships with partners in this important region. - U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, exchange gifts with Saudi Arabian Naval Special Forces at the end of a subject matter expert exchange while forward deployed in the Middle East, May 18, 2017. The exchange proved to be an enhancing opportunity for both the U.S. and Saudi forces. Deploying U.S. Marines into the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to conduct combined military training with our partner nations’ security forces strengthens our vital relationships with partners in this important region.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Andrew Sprouse, left, a combat engineer with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, introduces himself to Philippine Navy Seaman Apprentices Raymond Baclason, center, and Arturo Arandela, both Seabees with the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 2nd Naval Mobile Construction Battalion, at the site of a new classroom they are helping build at San Rafael Elementary School in San Rafael, on the island of Palawan, Philippines, April 16. The three are part of a larger group of service members from the AFP and U.S. militaries, constructing five new buildings across the island of Palawan as part of humanitarian civic assistance projects taking place during exercise Balikatan 2015. Balikatan, a Filipino word meaning "shoulder-to-shoulder," is an annual bilateral exercise with the AFP and U.S. militaries, which helps increase combined military-to-military training and build relationships in order to support future engagements. ( - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Andrew Sprouse, left, a combat engineer with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, introduces himself to Philippine Navy Seaman Apprentices Raymond Baclason, center, and Arturo Arandela, both Seabees with the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 2nd Naval Mobile Construction Battalion, at the site of a new classroom they are helping build at San Rafael Elementary School in San Rafael, on the island of Palawan, Philippines, April 16. The three are part of a larger group of service members from the AFP and U.S. militaries, constructing five new buildings across the island of Palawan as part of humanitarian civic assistance projects taking place during exercise Balikatan 2015. Balikatan, a Filipino word meaning "shoulder-to-shoulder," is an annual bilateral exercise with the AFP and U.S. militaries, which helps increase combined military-to-military training and build relationships in order to support future engagements. (

U.S. Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Training Squadron (VMUT) 2 conduct familiarization training with an MQ-9A Reaper unmanned aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, April 11, 2024. Marines with VMUT-2 worked alongside civilian contractors to conduct familiarization training with VMUT-2’s first delivered and assembled MQ-9A Reaper unmanned aircraft. VMUT-2 will serve as the Marine Corps MQ-9A Reaper Fleet Replacement Squadron, whose primary mission is to train 7318 unmanned aerial systems officers and 8022 enlisted sensor operators. - U.S. Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Training Squadron (VMUT) 2 conduct familiarization training with an MQ-9A Reaper unmanned aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, April 11, 2024. Marines with VMUT-2 worked alongside civilian contractors to conduct familiarization training with VMUT-2’s first delivered and assembled MQ-9A Reaper unmanned aircraft. VMUT-2 will serve as the Marine Corps MQ-9A Reaper Fleet Replacement Squadron, whose primary mission is to train 7318 unmanned aerial systems officers and 8022 enlisted sensor operators.

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U.S. Marine combat engineers with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, assist Uganda People’s Defense Force soldiers nail in one of the wall frames during a civil engineering exercise at Camp Singo, Nov. 19, 2015. The exercise helps the partner nations fortify their civil engineering skills while strengthening the bond between the two. - U.S. Marine combat engineers with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, assist Uganda People’s Defense Force soldiers nail in one of the wall frames during a civil engineering exercise at Camp Singo, Nov. 19, 2015. The exercise helps the partner nations fortify their civil engineering skills while strengthening the bond between the two.

U.S. Marines moved gear onto the Bulgarian rail system, Aug. 23, 2016. The gear movement from Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, to Agile Spirit 16 in Tbilisi, Georgia, demonstrated the Marines’ ability to pack, load and transport gear quickly to support operations anywhere in the Black Sea region. - U.S. Marines moved gear onto the Bulgarian rail system, Aug. 23, 2016. The gear movement from Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, to Agile Spirit 16 in Tbilisi, Georgia, demonstrated the Marines’ ability to pack, load and transport gear quickly to support operations anywhere in the Black Sea region.

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A Marine with Bulk Fuel Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, assists in setting up an amphibious assault fuel system at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 24, 2016. A completed AAFS can hold approximately 1.12 million gallons of fuel, which is capable of supporting an entire Marine Expeditionary Force. - A Marine with Bulk Fuel Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, assists in setting up an amphibious assault fuel system at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 24, 2016. A completed AAFS can hold approximately 1.12 million gallons of fuel, which is capable of supporting an entire Marine Expeditionary Force.

Lance Corporal Colin Stegal, an ammo technician with Ammo Company, 1st Supply Battalion, fires a M1014 shotgun aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 15, 2014. The range required Marines to demonstrate proficiency with the M1014 shotgun. The live-fire ranges were part of an annual training package to keep the Marines confident and proficient with each weapon system. - Lance Corporal Colin Stegal, an ammo technician with Ammo Company, 1st Supply Battalion, fires a M1014 shotgun aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 15, 2014. The range required Marines to demonstrate proficiency with the M1014 shotgun. The live-fire ranges were part of an annual training package to keep the Marines confident and proficient with each weapon system.

Burundian soldiers inspect targets and receive sight adjustments from Marines to their rifles during a live fire range in Bujumbura, Burundi, Dec. 2, 2014. Marines and Sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa trained alongside the Burundi National Defense Force, providing expertise in logistics and engineering disciplines for approximately 3-months from October to December. - Burundian soldiers inspect targets and receive sight adjustments from Marines to their rifles during a live fire range in Bujumbura, Burundi, Dec. 2, 2014. Marines and Sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa trained alongside the Burundi National Defense Force, providing expertise in logistics and engineering disciplines for approximately 3-months from October to December.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Ethan Jarn, a native of East Bethel, Minnesota and an ammunition technician with III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, maneuvers his fire team on an Infantry Battle Platoon Course during a live fire range on U.S. Army Garrison Casey, Gyeonggi, South Korea, Feb. 10, 2023. III MSB is conducting Bushido Strike 23, which comprises training events including a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation in South Korea to validate its mission essential tasks of providing combat service, security and administrative services to III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Ethan Jarn, a native of East Bethel, Minnesota and an ammunition technician with III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, maneuvers his fire team on an Infantry Battle Platoon Course during a live fire range on U.S. Army Garrison Casey, Gyeonggi, South Korea, Feb. 10, 2023. III MSB is conducting Bushido Strike 23, which comprises training events including a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation in South Korea to validate its mission essential tasks of providing combat service, security and administrative services to III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines with various Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalions conduct the first-ever Bushmaster Challenge at range SR-7 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2016. The competition consists of four light-armored vehicles, or LAV-25’s, shooting at targets with an M242 Bushmaster, which is a 25 mm chain-driven autocannon used extensively by the U.S. military, and the M240 coaxial machine gun. - Marines with various Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalions conduct the first-ever Bushmaster Challenge at range SR-7 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2016. The competition consists of four light-armored vehicles, or LAV-25’s, shooting at targets with an M242 Bushmaster, which is a 25 mm chain-driven autocannon used extensively by the U.S. military, and the M240 coaxial machine gun.

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.

Lance Cpl. Joany Echeverry, cannoneer with Combined Arms Company, assists other team members in collecting the ammunition for a live-fire shoot in Rena, Norway, Feb. 23, 2016, in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16. The exercise will include 12 NATO allies and partner nations, and approximately 16,000 troops. The Marines will provide indirect fire support for infantry units during the exercise. - Lance Cpl. Joany Echeverry, cannoneer with Combined Arms Company, assists other team members in collecting the ammunition for a live-fire shoot in Rena, Norway, Feb. 23, 2016, in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16. The exercise will include 12 NATO allies and partner nations, and approximately 16,000 troops. The Marines will provide indirect fire support for infantry units during the exercise.

Commissioners with the California Energy Commission toured Camp Pendleton, Sept. 17, to gain an overview of the bases mission and various support functions. While on the tour the commissioners observed some of the Marine Corps initiatives and successes in the employment of Alternative Energy Vehicles and Fuel usage, several of the ongoing and developing renewable energy projects and some of the tactical expeditionary energy equipment here. - Commissioners with the California Energy Commission toured Camp Pendleton, Sept. 17, to gain an overview of the bases mission and various support functions. While on the tour the commissioners observed some of the Marine Corps initiatives and successes in the employment of Alternative Energy Vehicles and Fuel usage, several of the ongoing and developing renewable energy projects and some of the tactical expeditionary energy equipment here.

Lance Cpl. Jorge Brito uses the Augmented Immersive Team Trainer to call in mortar fire on virtual targets at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 13, 2016. Brito is holding a Target Hand-Off System integrated with the AITT to spot out virtual tanks while getting coordinates to call in mortar fire. Brito is a fire support Marine with 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division. - Lance Cpl. Jorge Brito uses the Augmented Immersive Team Trainer to call in mortar fire on virtual targets at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 13, 2016. Brito is holding a Target Hand-Off System integrated with the AITT to spot out virtual tanks while getting coordinates to call in mortar fire. Brito is a fire support Marine with 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division.

U.S. Marines with Manpower Management Enlisted Assignments 22 and 1st Battalion, 7th Marines discuss retention and reenlistment opportunities as part of the MMEA Roadshow in the Central Training Area on Okinawa, Japan, April 26, 2023. During the MMEA Roadshow, career monitors met with members of the Fleet Marine Force to discuss continuing their careers with the new initiatives available under Talent Management 2030. 1st Battalion, 7th Marines is forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific with 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. - U.S. Marines with Manpower Management Enlisted Assignments 22 and 1st Battalion, 7th Marines discuss retention and reenlistment opportunities as part of the MMEA Roadshow in the Central Training Area on Okinawa, Japan, April 26, 2023. During the MMEA Roadshow, career monitors met with members of the Fleet Marine Force to discuss continuing their careers with the new initiatives available under Talent Management 2030. 1st Battalion, 7th Marines is forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific with 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Tylerruben Salas, small arms repair technician for Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, conducts rifle, pre-fire inspections before shooting on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam, Sept. 25, 2023. The Marine Corps’ Program Manager for Training Systems will conduct target calibration from Sept. 25 to Oct. 27 and testing from Dec. 4-15. Two of four ranges at the Live Fire Training Range Complex will be equipped with new technology that provide more efficient and effective combat marksmanship training to support combat readiness. The live-fire location of miss and hit or LOMAH technology, replaces the human element of observing and marking targets. The calibration and testing are to ensure that the LOMAH system is working properly. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Garrett Gillespie) - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Tylerruben Salas, small arms repair technician for Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, conducts rifle, pre-fire inspections before shooting on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam, Sept. 25, 2023. The Marine Corps’ Program Manager for Training Systems will conduct target calibration from Sept. 25 to Oct. 27 and testing from Dec. 4-15. Two of four ranges at the Live Fire Training Range Complex will be equipped with new technology that provide more efficient and effective combat marksmanship training to support combat readiness. The live-fire location of miss and hit or LOMAH technology, replaces the human element of observing and marking targets. The calibration and testing are to ensure that the LOMAH system is working properly. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Garrett Gillespie)

Gina Ferrer, right, a family medicine nurse with U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, and her daughter greet attendees at Camp Foster Fieldhouse during Comic Con Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 13, 2019. This annual event began in 2011 and is catered to comic book fans, movie fans, artists, and video gamers to meet and greet with comic industry professionals and celebrities.The event was open to members of the U.S. and local communities. - Gina Ferrer, right, a family medicine nurse with U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, and her daughter greet attendees at Camp Foster Fieldhouse during Comic Con Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 13, 2019. This annual event began in 2011 and is catered to comic book fans, movie fans, artists, and video gamers to meet and greet with comic industry professionals and celebrities.The event was open to members of the U.S. and local communities.

Thomas Richard, left, installation restoration program manager, Laura Spung, center, installation restoration program assistant, and William Hagen Ratliff, right, underground storage tank program manager, all with the Environmental Quality Branch, pose for a photo after receiving the 2022 Secretary of Defense and Secretary of the Navy Environmental Awards for Environmental Restoration after an awards presentation on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 21, 2022. The SECDEF and SECNAV Environmental Awards recognize installations, teams, and individuals for their accomplishments in innovative and cost-effective environmental management strategies supporting mission readiness. - Thomas Richard, left, installation restoration program manager, Laura Spung, center, installation restoration program assistant, and William Hagen Ratliff, right, underground storage tank program manager, all with the Environmental Quality Branch, pose for a photo after receiving the 2022 Secretary of Defense and Secretary of the Navy Environmental Awards for Environmental Restoration after an awards presentation on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 21, 2022. The SECDEF and SECNAV Environmental Awards recognize installations, teams, and individuals for their accomplishments in innovative and cost-effective environmental management strategies supporting mission readiness.

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – The families of Cpl. Johnathan T. Yale and Lance Cpl. Jordan C. Haerter bow their heads in prayer during a dedication ceremony to rename the Wallace Creek Dining Hall in honor of the two Marines Aug. 28, 2014, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. Yale and Haerter died protecting their fellow Marines in Iraq when they engaged and stopped a truck loaded with 2,000 pounds of explosives before it reached its intended target in April 2008. Both Marines were posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for heroism. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Michelle M. Mohn) - MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – The families of Cpl. Johnathan T. Yale and Lance Cpl. Jordan C. Haerter bow their heads in prayer during a dedication ceremony to rename the Wallace Creek Dining Hall in honor of the two Marines Aug. 28, 2014, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. Yale and Haerter died protecting their fellow Marines in Iraq when they engaged and stopped a truck loaded with 2,000 pounds of explosives before it reached its intended target in April 2008. Both Marines were posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for heroism. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Michelle M. Mohn)

Team Georgia moves to center stage during the 2018 Marine Corps Trials opening ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 17, 2018. The Marine Corps Trials promotes recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sport participation and develops camaraderie among recovering service members and veterans. It is as an opportunity for RSMs to demonstrate their achievements and serves as the primary venue to select Marine Corps participants for the DoD Warrior Games. - Team Georgia moves to center stage during the 2018 Marine Corps Trials opening ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 17, 2018. The Marine Corps Trials promotes recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sport participation and develops camaraderie among recovering service members and veterans. It is as an opportunity for RSMs to demonstrate their achievements and serves as the primary venue to select Marine Corps participants for the DoD Warrior Games.

A U.S. Marine with II Marine Support Battalion, II Marine Information Group, refills fuel containers during a convoy operation for Exercise Trident Juncture. - A U.S. Marine with II Marine Support Battalion, II Marine Information Group, refills fuel containers during a convoy operation for Exercise Trident Juncture. Trident Juncture 18 demonstrates II Marine Expeditionary Force’s ability to deploy, employ, and redeploy the Marine Air Ground Task Force while improving interoperability with NATO allies and partners.

A Marine prepares for a 600 meter conditioning swim during Water Survival-Advanced training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 4, 2017. WSA is a week-long course that tests Marines on rescues, strokes and distance swimming. The Marine is a student in the course, which is run by 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion. - A Marine prepares for a 600 meter conditioning swim during Water Survival-Advanced training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 4, 2017. WSA is a week-long course that tests Marines on rescues, strokes and distance swimming. The Marine is a student in the course, which is run by 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion.

U.S. Marines sight in on their targets during a new experimental annual rifle qualification on Bravo Range at Stone Bay on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 2. - U.S. Marines sight in on their targets during a new experimental annual rifle qualification on Bravo Range at Stone Bay on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 2.

U.S Marine Corps Capt. Quinton Boyed, field artillery officer, 2d Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, provides security with Norwegian Armed Forces at the Outdoor Infantry Immersion Trainer on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 18, 2023. The OIIT provided Marines and international partners with scenario based realistic training, creating a fully immersive environment using role players, pyrotechnics, subject matter experts, and sound and smell generators. - U.S Marine Corps Capt. Quinton Boyed, field artillery officer, 2d Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, provides security with Norwegian Armed Forces at the Outdoor Infantry Immersion Trainer on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 18, 2023. The OIIT provided Marines and international partners with scenario based realistic training, creating a fully immersive environment using role players, pyrotechnics, subject matter experts, and sound and smell generators.

U.S. Marines with India company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, conduct training at the Infantry Immersion Trainer site on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 4, 2023. The IIT is designed to provide Marines with a realistic combat environment using sound, smell, atmospherics and role-players to increase combat efficiency. - U.S. Marines with India company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, conduct training at the Infantry Immersion Trainer site on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 4, 2023. The IIT is designed to provide Marines with a realistic combat environment using sound, smell, atmospherics and role-players to increase combat efficiency.

Sgt. Fuerte as NCO of the Year - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Lina Fuerte, a legal services specialist with the Defense Services Organization, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations East-Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, poses for a photo with her Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (NAM) award citation on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 16, 2024. Fuerte was recognized as the Marine Corps Installations Command’s Noncommissioned Officer of the Year for 2023 and was awarded a NAM for her efforts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Zeta Johnson)

Owen Conner, uniforms and heraldry curator with the National Museum of the Marine Corps, inspects medal collection belonging to U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Russell Rose at warehouse 2288, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 10. - Owen Conner, uniforms and heraldry curator with the National Museum of the Marine Corps, inspects medal collection belonging to U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Russell Rose at warehouse 2288, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 10.

Owen Conner, uniforms and heraldry curator with the National Museum of the Marine Corps, inspects medal collection belonging to U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Russell Rose at warehouse 2288, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 10. - Owen Conner, uniforms and heraldry curator with the National Museum of the Marine Corps, inspects medal collection belonging to U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Russell Rose at warehouse 2288, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 10.

Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Installations - West, conducts Exercise Citadel Rumble, Aug. 2-5. Exercise Citadel Rumble is an integrated disaster response and recovery exercise for emergency response plans, polices, and procedures as they pertain to an all-hazards event. This scenario encompassed a 6.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Southern California. - Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Installations - West, conducts Exercise Citadel Rumble, Aug. 2-5. Exercise Citadel Rumble is an integrated disaster response and recovery exercise for emergency response plans, polices, and procedures as they pertain to an all-hazards event. This scenario encompassed a 6.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Southern California.

Firefighters with Camp Pendleton Fire Department and Rancho Santa Fe Fire Department work to put out a fire in Oceanside California, July 9, 2023. Camp Pendleton Fire Department worked alongside the Oceanside Fire Department and other local first responders to extinguish the fire and keep neighboring communities safe. - Firefighters with Camp Pendleton Fire Department and Rancho Santa Fe Fire Department work to put out a fire in Oceanside California, July 9, 2023. Camp Pendleton Fire Department worked alongside the Oceanside Fire Department and other local first responders to extinguish the fire and keep neighboring communities safe.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jacky Brewer, left, an explosive ordnance disposal officer in charge with Headquarters and Service Company, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, helps prepare Gunnery Sgt. Jeffrey Bright Jr., an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Headquarters and Service Company, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton during a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear training event on Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 06, 2022. The CBRN training was conducted in order to strengthen interoperability between Camp Pendleton first responders. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jacky Brewer, left, an explosive ordnance disposal officer in charge with Headquarters and Service Company, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, helps prepare Gunnery Sgt. Jeffrey Bright Jr., an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Headquarters and Service Company, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton during a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear training event on Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 06, 2022. The CBRN training was conducted in order to strengthen interoperability between Camp Pendleton first responders.

U.S. Navy veteran Ian Beard, a psychiatric technician, poses for a photo after discussing the benefits of group therapy on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 15. - U.S. Navy veteran Ian Beard, a psychiatric technician, poses for a photo after discussing the benefits of group therapy on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 15.

Marines, veterans and family gather for the Iwo Jima Commemorative Banquet for the 73rd Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima at the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. - Marines, veterans and family gather for the Iwo Jima Commemorative Banquet for the 73rd Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima at the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., February 17, 2018. The evening included a sunset memorial, 21-gun salute and banquet. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Drake Nickels)

Dr. Robert Weisenmiller, left, chair of the California Energy Commission, the Honorable Dennis McGinn, center, Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Energy, Installations and Environment) and Brig. Gen. Edward D. Banta, left, Commanding General, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Installations - West, California, pose for a photograph during the Department of Navy – California Agency Meeting held at the Pacific Views Events center, April 23. The Honorable McGinn chaired the conference, which covered energy opportunities and solutions, energy and utilities infrastructures, alternative fuel sources and vehicles, state energy legislations, and coverage of the California drought and desalination throughout the course of the conference. - Dr. Robert Weisenmiller, left, chair of the California Energy Commission, the Honorable Dennis McGinn, center, Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Energy, Installations and Environment) and Brig. Gen. Edward D. Banta, left, Commanding General, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Installations - West, California, pose for a photograph during the Department of Navy – California Agency Meeting held at the Pacific Views Events center, April 23. The Honorable McGinn chaired the conference, which covered energy opportunities and solutions, energy and utilities infrastructures, alternative fuel sources and vehicles, state energy legislations, and coverage of the California drought and desalination throughout the course of the conference.

A firefighter with the Camp Pendleton Fire Department explains the scheme of maneuver to another firefighter during a controlled burn training exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 3. - A firefighter with the Camp Pendleton Fire Department explains the scheme of maneuver to another firefighter during a controlled burn training exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 3.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Jay, a religious program specialist with Marine Corps Installations West, fires an M4 carbine during the Marine Corps Marksmanship Competition on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 16, 2022. The competition is designed to significantly enhance participants’ proficiency in the use of individual small arms by refining fundamental marksmanship skills, learning marksmanship techniques, and pushing through mental and physical boundaries in a competitive forum. - U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Jay, a religious program specialist with Marine Corps Installations West, fires an M4 carbine during the Marine Corps Marksmanship Competition on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 16, 2022. The competition is designed to significantly enhance participants’ proficiency in the use of individual small arms by refining fundamental marksmanship skills, learning marksmanship techniques, and pushing through mental and physical boundaries in a competitive forum.

Members of the Defense industries show equipment to Marines from Camp Pendleton during the Marine West Expo, on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb 1, 2017. The 2017 Marine West Exposition is a forum for defense contractors to display and promote their latest equipment and technology. - Members of the Defense industries show equipment to Marines from Camp Pendleton during the Marine West Expo, on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb 1, 2017. The 2017 Marine West Exposition is a forum for defense contractors to display and promote their latest equipment and technology.

U.S. Marines and civilians pose for a group photo after installing a water guzzler near the X-Ray Impact Area on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 15, 2022. Water guzzlers have been a vital part of animal conservation since the early years of Camp Pendleton. There are 19 endangered species on Camp Pendleton that rely on the water guzzlers each day in order to maintain a healthy population. - U.S. Marines and civilians pose for a group photo after installing a water guzzler near the X-Ray Impact Area on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 15, 2022. Water guzzlers have been a vital part of animal conservation since the early years of Camp Pendleton. There are 19 endangered species on Camp Pendleton that rely on the water guzzlers each day in order to maintain a healthy population.

U.S. Marine Corps 2nd Lt. Adam T. Taitano, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion logistics officer along with U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared R. Wilbanks, 1st CEB combat engineer, fix a door lock during Operation Clean Sweep at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 29, 2024. Operation Clean Sweep is a joint initiative between Marine Corps Installations West and I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton to improve living conditions for Marines and Sailors. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jeslianne A. Torres). - U.S. Marine Corps 2nd Lt. Adam T. Taitano, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion logistics officer along with U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared R. Wilbanks, 1st CEB combat engineer, fix a door lock during Operation Clean Sweep at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 29, 2024. Operation Clean Sweep is a joint initiative between Marine Corps Installations West and I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton to improve living conditions for Marines and Sailors. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jeslianne A. Torres).

A U.S. Marine draws a bow at the Rattlesnake Canyon Archery Range on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Jan. 8. - A U.S. Marine draws a bow at the Rattlesnake Canyon Archery Range on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Jan. 8.

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.

Darren Klassen, co-founder of Torrey Pines Surf Ministry, watches the waves at San Onofre Beach on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 24. - Darren Klassen, co-founder of Torrey Pines Surf Ministry, watches the waves at San Onofre Beach on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 24.

An endangered species sign is posted along the coastline on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 29, 2022. As a result of Pendleton’s Environmental Security Department taking charge in protecting the environment and wildlife habitats, both the California gnatcatcher and kangaroo rat have been reduced from endangered to threatened species. Safeguarding endangered and threatened habitats also allows Camp Pendleton to maintain the same training environment and quality training opportunities for Marine Corps operational forces. - An endangered species sign is posted along the coastline on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 29, 2022. As a result of Pendleton’s Environmental Security Department taking charge in protecting the environment and wildlife habitats, both the California gnatcatcher and kangaroo rat have been reduced from endangered to threatened species. Safeguarding endangered and threatened habitats also allows Camp Pendleton to maintain the same training environment and quality training opportunities for Marine Corps operational forces.

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Skip Curtis served from January 1965 to July 1996 as a pilot. Curtis deployed to South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Throughout his time in Vietnam, Curtis, a Temple, Pennsylvania, native, said what kept him going was letters from his wife, which at the time took 10 days to receive. During his last flight in Vietnam he earned his second Purple Heart after he and his crew we shot down. - Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Skip Curtis served from January 1965 to July 1996 as a pilot. Curtis deployed to South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Throughout his time in Vietnam, Curtis, a Temple, Pennsylvania, native, said what kept him going was letters from his wife, which at the time took 10 days to receive. During his last flight in Vietnam he earned his second Purple Heart after he and his crew we shot down.