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U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region. - U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region.

U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region. - U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region.

Lance Cpl. Zackary W. Rippin, infantry assaultman, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, operates a weaponized Multi-Utility Tactical Transport vehicle (MUTT) during a company assault on Range 400 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Nov. 7, 2016, as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-17. The 28-day exercise is currently the longest-lasting activity that occurs at the installation and involves a series of progressive live-fire exercises that assesses the ability and adaptability of a force of more than 3,500 Marines and sailors. Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Robert B. Neller has designated the battalion as the Marine Corps’ experimental force. - Lance Cpl. Zackary W. Rippin, infantry assaultman, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, operates a weaponized Multi-Utility Tactical Transport vehicle (MUTT) during a company assault on Range 400 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Nov. 7, 2016, as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-17. The 28-day exercise is currently the longest-lasting activity that occurs at the installation and involves a series of progressive live-fire exercises that assesses the ability and adaptability of a force of more than 3,500 Marines and sailors. Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Robert B. Neller has designated the battalion as the Marine Corps’ experimental force.

Marines and sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 close a tent to be packed away during a command post exercise at Bogue Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field, N.C., Nov. 3, 2016. Combat Logistics Battalion 6 conducted the training in preparation for their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation. - Marines and sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 close a tent to be packed away during a command post exercise at Bogue Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field, N.C., Nov. 3, 2016. Combat Logistics Battalion 6 conducted the training in preparation for their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation.

Major Gen. James W. Lukeman, the commanding general of the Marine Corps Training and Education Command, addresses the audience of the first Force Fitness Instructor Course on Marine Corps Base Quantico,Virginia Nov. 4, 2016. The graduates will now return to their respective units and apply all that they’ve learned over the five-week course. - Major Gen. James W. Lukeman, the commanding general of the Marine Corps Training and Education Command, addresses the audience of the first Force Fitness Instructor Course on Marine Corps Base Quantico,Virginia Nov. 4, 2016. The graduates will now return to their respective units and apply all that they’ve learned over the five-week course.

U.S. Marines from Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command and Honduran soldiers from Fifth Infantry Battalion work to install a new pipeline that will provide water throughout the Fuerte Mocoron base in Mocoron, Honduras, Sept. 6, 2016. U.S. Marines and Sailors assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Southern Command participated in engineering projects, security cooperation and disaster relief preparation in Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. - U.S. Marines from Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command and Honduran soldiers from Fifth Infantry Battalion work to install a new pipeline that will provide water throughout the Fuerte Mocoron base in Mocoron, Honduras, Sept. 6, 2016. U.S. Marines and Sailors assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Southern Command participated in engineering projects, security cooperation and disaster relief preparation in Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.

Sgt. Mateusz Kaczynski, a maintenance management chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, addresses a class of non-commissioned officers from the Benin Navy at Benin Naval Forces Headquarters, Cotonou, Benin, October 24, 2016. The U.S. Marine Corps theater security cooperation team with SPMAGTF-CR-AF spent two weeks teaching an NCO development and maintenance management course during their time training with the Benin Navy. - Sgt. Mateusz Kaczynski, a maintenance management chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, addresses a class of non-commissioned officers from the Benin Navy at Benin Naval Forces Headquarters, Cotonou, Benin, October 24, 2016. The U.S. Marine Corps theater security cooperation team with SPMAGTF-CR-AF spent two weeks teaching an NCO development and maintenance management course during their time training with the Benin Navy.

U.S. Marines fire a M777 lightweight Howitzer during a Tactical Air Control Party exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose behind the exercise was to train Joint Terminal Attack Control Marines for Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic. - U.S. Marines fire a M777 lightweight Howitzer during a Tactical Air Control Party exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose behind the exercise was to train Joint Terminal Attack Control Marines for Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic.

U.S. Marines wait aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard before going ashore after returning from their Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region, Oct. 28, 2016. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is prepared to respond to a wide range of military operations, from humanitarian assistance missions to limited combat operations, at a moment’s notice. As a balanced air-ground-logistics team, the 31st MEU is ready to respond throughout the Asia-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines wait aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard before going ashore after returning from their Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region, Oct. 28, 2016. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is prepared to respond to a wide range of military operations, from humanitarian assistance missions to limited combat operations, at a moment’s notice. As a balanced air-ground-logistics team, the 31st MEU is ready to respond throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Marines with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment’s “Black Sheep,” prepare their M777 Lightweight Towed Howitzer by digging and burying the gun’s rear spades during a direct fire training exercise as part of Lava Viper 17.1, a staple in the battalion pre-deployment training on Oct. 16, 2016, at Range 13 aboard Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii. Lava Viper Provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical, integrating combined arms exercises. - Marines with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment’s “Black Sheep,” prepare their M777 Lightweight Towed Howitzer by digging and burying the gun’s rear spades during a direct fire training exercise as part of Lava Viper 17.1, a staple in the battalion pre-deployment training on Oct. 16, 2016, at Range 13 aboard Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii. Lava Viper Provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical, integrating combined arms exercises.

A U.S. Marine assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa provides security as two MV-22B Ospreys prepare to land during an alert force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose of the drill was to rehearse and assess the SPMAGTF’s ability to integrate elements and respond to a time-sensitive crisis. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is designed to provide contingency support to U.S. Africa Command, including tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel, embassy reinforcement, support to noncombatant evacuation operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. - A U.S. Marine assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa provides security as two MV-22B Ospreys prepare to land during an alert force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose of the drill was to rehearse and assess the SPMAGTF’s ability to integrate elements and respond to a time-sensitive crisis. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is designed to provide contingency support to U.S. Africa Command, including tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel, embassy reinforcement, support to noncombatant evacuation operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

U.S. Marines and Airmen work together to properly secure the M-88A2 HERCULES and pallets in the C-17 Globemaster III at March Air Force Reserves Base, Calif., Oct. 14, 2016. Marines and Airmen checked all chains and pallets before flying to Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. - U.S. Marines and Airmen work together to properly secure the M-88A2 HERCULES and pallets in the C-17 Globemaster III at March Air Force Reserves Base, Calif., Oct. 14, 2016. Marines and Airmen checked all chains and pallets before flying to Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.

Two Marines use chainsaws to cut their most recently felled tree into more manageable pieces, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 13, 2016. Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion took part in a chainsaw licensing class where they received hands-on experience in proper cutting techniques and chainsaw safety. The class ensures that the unit always has Marines available who can help cut away various obstructions threatening mission accomplishment. - Two Marines use chainsaws to cut their most recently felled tree into more manageable pieces, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 13, 2016. Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion took part in a chainsaw licensing class where they received hands-on experience in proper cutting techniques and chainsaw safety. The class ensures that the unit always has Marines available who can help cut away various obstructions threatening mission accomplishment.

Two Marine Corps installations were recognized for the excellence of their drug awareness and educations programs this week at the Community Drug Awareness Awards ceremony in the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes Oct. 13. - Two Marine Corps installations were recognized for the excellence of their drug awareness and educations programs this week at the Community Drug Awareness Awards ceremony in the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes Oct. 13.

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A UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 prepares to land after Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, finished a fast-rope drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 6, 2016. The fast-rope training was part of a larger event called a Marine Air-Ground Task Force integration exercise, which enabled air and ground units to come together and cooperate in various training missions prior to their deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - A UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 prepares to land after Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, finished a fast-rope drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 6, 2016. The fast-rope training was part of a larger event called a Marine Air-Ground Task Force integration exercise, which enabled air and ground units to come together and cooperate in various training missions prior to their deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

U.S. Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Southern Command and soldiers from Joint Task Force-Bravo’s 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment arrive by CH-53E Super Stallion, CH-47 Chinook, and UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters at Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Oct. 6, 2016. These vertical take-off assets will prove critical in gaining access to areas that are otherwise unreachable due to Hurricane Matthew. The Marines and soldiers are a part of Joint Task Force Matthew, a U.S. Southern Command-directed team deployed to Port-au-Prince at the request of the Government of Haiti, on a mission to provide humanitarian and disaster relief assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew. - U.S. Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Southern Command and soldiers from Joint Task Force-Bravo’s 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment arrive by CH-53E Super Stallion, CH-47 Chinook, and UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters at Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Oct. 6, 2016. These vertical take-off assets will prove critical in gaining access to areas that are otherwise unreachable due to Hurricane Matthew. The Marines and soldiers are a part of Joint Task Force Matthew, a U.S. Southern Command-directed team deployed to Port-au-Prince at the request of the Government of Haiti, on a mission to provide humanitarian and disaster relief assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew.

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.

An AH-1Z Super Cobra with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron flies over Range 220, the Combat Center’s largest military operations on urbanized terrain facility, Sept. 23, 2016, as part of Exercise Talon Reach. Officers awaiting training at Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School and Marine Corps Intelligence School also participated in the exercise, for the first time, to create a mutually beneficial learning environment. - An AH-1Z Super Cobra with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron flies over Range 220, the Combat Center’s largest military operations on urbanized terrain facility, Sept. 23, 2016, as part of Exercise Talon Reach. Officers awaiting training at Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School and Marine Corps Intelligence School also participated in the exercise, for the first time, to create a mutually beneficial learning environment.

Marines rehearse salvaging an aircraft during a field exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Camp Davis, N.C., Sept. 22, 2016. Support squadrons across the Marine Corps conduct these exercises to remain ready for any challenge they may face in forward deployed environments. This exercise featured training that included auxiliary airfield construction, ground security and airfield damage repair. The squadron's capabilities contribute to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing's role in the Marine Air Ground Task Force's mission accomplishment. The Marines participating in the exercise are assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd MAW. - Marines rehearse salvaging an aircraft during a field exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Camp Davis, N.C., Sept. 22, 2016. Support squadrons across the Marine Corps conduct these exercises to remain ready for any challenge they may face in forward deployed environments. This exercise featured training that included auxiliary airfield construction, ground security and airfield damage repair. The squadron's capabilities contribute to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing's role in the Marine Air Ground Task Force's mission accomplishment. The Marines participating in the exercise are assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd MAW.

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, conduct the first ever hot load on the F-35B Lightning II in support of Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 1-17 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Sept. 22, 2016. The exercise is part of WTI 1-17, a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One cadre. MAWTS-1 provides standardized tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. - U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, conduct the first ever hot load on the F-35B Lightning II in support of Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 1-17 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Sept. 22, 2016. The exercise is part of WTI 1-17, a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One cadre. MAWTS-1 provides standardized tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Buley, Tropospheric Scatter Microwave Radio Terminal operator with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18 adjusts the radio terminal’s trajectory allowing it to receive and transmit data during Valiant Shield 16 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Sept. 18, 2016. The radio terminal provided uninterruptable communications between Guam and Tinian. VS16 is a biennial, U.S.-only, field training exercise that focuses on joint training with U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force to increase interoperability and working relationships. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Buley, Tropospheric Scatter Microwave Radio Terminal operator with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18 adjusts the radio terminal’s trajectory allowing it to receive and transmit data during Valiant Shield 16 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Sept. 18, 2016. The radio terminal provided uninterruptable communications between Guam and Tinian. VS16 is a biennial, U.S.-only, field training exercise that focuses on joint training with U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force to increase interoperability and working relationships.

British Royal Marines discuss their scheme of maneuver during an assault on Range 205 as part of Exercise Black Alligator aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Sept. 13, 2016. Black Alligator, an annual training exercise, consists of approximately 1,000 British Royal Marines and 170 Dutch Royal Army soldiers who train aboard the installation in excess of 45 days to conduct relevant live-fire combined arms training, urban operations, and joint and coalition-level integration alongside more than 300 U.S. Marines consisting of artillerymen, engineers and tankers. - British Royal Marines discuss their scheme of maneuver during an assault on Range 205 as part of Exercise Black Alligator aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Sept. 13, 2016. Black Alligator, an annual training exercise, consists of approximately 1,000 British Royal Marines and 170 Dutch Royal Army soldiers who train aboard the installation in excess of 45 days to conduct relevant live-fire combined arms training, urban operations, and joint and coalition-level integration alongside more than 300 U.S. Marines consisting of artillerymen, engineers and tankers.

U.S. Aviation Ordnance Marines with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron12 prepare ordnance for aviation squadrons participating in Valiant Shield 16 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, September 12, 2016. The ordnance constructed, provided the Marines of MALS-12 valuable experience assembling live ordnance to be used during VS16 for a sinking exercise. VS16 is a biennial U.S. only, field training exercise that focuses on joint training with U.S. Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps to increase interoperability and working relationships. - U.S. Aviation Ordnance Marines with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron12 prepare ordnance for aviation squadrons participating in Valiant Shield 16 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, September 12, 2016. The ordnance constructed, provided the Marines of MALS-12 valuable experience assembling live ordnance to be used during VS16 for a sinking exercise. VS16 is a biennial U.S. only, field training exercise that focuses on joint training with U.S. Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps to increase interoperability and working relationships.

Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Nashville salute during a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony in Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 11, 2016. Marine Week Nashville is a chance to reconnect with our Marines, sailors, veterans and their families from different generations. - Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Nashville salute during a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony in Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 11, 2016. Marine Week Nashville is a chance to reconnect with our Marines, sailors, veterans and their families from different generations.

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Darryl Worley, center-right, performs with the San Diego Marine Rock Band during the opening ceremony of Marine Week Nashville in Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 7, 2016. Marine Week is an opportunity for the people of the greater Nashville area to connect with Marines and learn about Corps’ history and capabilities. - Darryl Worley, center-right, performs with the San Diego Marine Rock Band during the opening ceremony of Marine Week Nashville in Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 7, 2016. Marine Week is an opportunity for the people of the greater Nashville area to connect with Marines and learn about Corps’ history and capabilities.

Capt. Cray Pack, left, and Capt. Nolan Utterback, right, read a story to children at the Nashville Public Library in Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 7, 2016. Pack is an AH-1W Cobra pilot and Utterback is a UH-1Y Venom pilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167 based out of New River, N.C. Marine Week Nashville celebrates the contributions of local Marines whose service to our nation has protected and preserved our way of life for hundreds of years. - Capt. Cray Pack, left, and Capt. Nolan Utterback, right, read a story to children at the Nashville Public Library in Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 7, 2016. Pack is an AH-1W Cobra pilot and Utterback is a UH-1Y Venom pilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167 based out of New River, N.C. Marine Week Nashville celebrates the contributions of local Marines whose service to our nation has protected and preserved our way of life for hundreds of years.

Retired Israeli Defense Force Brig. Gen. Moshe Edri, Assistant Minister of Defense for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense, Government of Israel, watches as Marines with Technical Rescue Platoon, Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, CBIRF, demonstrate rescuing a casualty from a trench in a contaminated environment during an official visit Aug. 29, 2016. CBIRF hosted officials from the Israeli Ministry of Defense for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear defense to showcase their skills and techniques for responding to CBRN threats or events worldwide. - Retired Israeli Defense Force Brig. Gen. Moshe Edri, Assistant Minister of Defense for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense, Government of Israel, watches as Marines with Technical Rescue Platoon, Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, CBIRF, demonstrate rescuing a casualty from a trench in a contaminated environment during an official visit Aug. 29, 2016. CBIRF hosted officials from the Israeli Ministry of Defense for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear defense to showcase their skills and techniques for responding to CBRN threats or events worldwide.

Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion based out of Camp Lejeune, N.C., show children an M240B machine gun mounted on a Light Armored Vehicle during a static display in Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 6. Marine Week Nashville celebrates the contributions of local Marines whose service to our nation has protected and preserved our way of life for hundreds of years. - Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion based out of Camp Lejeune, N.C., show children an M240B machine gun mounted on a Light Armored Vehicle during a static display in Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 6. Marine Week Nashville celebrates the contributions of local Marines whose service to our nation has protected and preserved our way of life for hundreds of years.

Multinational service members conduct a Search and Rescue demonstration during the opening ceremony for ASEAN Exercise 16-3 at 14th Military Circle Airfield, Chonburi Province, Thailand, Sept. 5, 2016. AEX 16-3 is a small-scale humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercise consisting of 18 nations and co-hosted by Thailand, Japan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Russian Federation. It is the third iteration of the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting plus multinational exercise program in 2016. - Multinational service members conduct a Search and Rescue demonstration during the opening ceremony for ASEAN Exercise 16-3 at 14th Military Circle Airfield, Chonburi Province, Thailand, Sept. 5, 2016. AEX 16-3 is a small-scale humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercise consisting of 18 nations and co-hosted by Thailand, Japan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Russian Federation. It is the third iteration of the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting plus multinational exercise program in 2016.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group man the rails aboard the USS Boxer, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickman Pier, August 29, 2016. The 13th MEU, embarked on the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Pacific region. - U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group man the rails aboard the USS Boxer, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickman Pier, August 29, 2016. The 13th MEU, embarked on the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Pacific region.

Lance Cpl. Marc Arrigo prepares to fire the M-240 Bravo as Lance Cpl. Mason McLaughlin acts as his spotter during a live-fire training exercise conducted by 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, Marine Air Control Group 28, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 29-30. The exercise allowed Marines to re-familiarize themselves and qualify with the M-240 Bravo machine gun, M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, and the M2 Browning .50 caliber machine gun during the unknown distance live-fire exercise. Arrigo and McLaughlin are gunners with 2nd LAAD. - Lance Cpl. Marc Arrigo prepares to fire the M-240 Bravo as Lance Cpl. Mason McLaughlin acts as his spotter during a live-fire training exercise conducted by 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, Marine Air Control Group 28, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 29-30. The exercise allowed Marines to re-familiarize themselves and qualify with the M-240 Bravo machine gun, M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, and the M2 Browning .50 caliber machine gun during the unknown distance live-fire exercise. Arrigo and McLaughlin are gunners with 2nd LAAD.

An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Operational Test & Evaluation Squadron 1 fires an AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile during U.S. Marine F-35B operational tests. These employment scenarios differed from those conducted in Developmental Tests in that they were specifically designed around operational employment scenarios with the aim of further validating and developing tactics, techniques, and procedures for all three variants of the F-35. The tests began August 9 and ended September 1, 2016. - An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Operational Test & Evaluation Squadron 1 fires an AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile during U.S. Marine F-35B operational tests. These employment scenarios differed from those conducted in Developmental Tests in that they were specifically designed around operational employment scenarios with the aim of further validating and developing tactics, techniques, and procedures for all three variants of the F-35. The tests began August 9 and ended September 1, 2016.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Matt Heidtman, an airframes Marine with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, tightens fasteners on an F/A-18C Hornet during Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 31, 2016. The Marines perform maintenance on the aircraft in preparation for departure at the conclusion of Southern Frontier. This three week unit level training that helps pilots gain experience and qualifications in low-altitude tactics, close air support, and air ground, high explosive ordnance delivery. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Matt Heidtman, an airframes Marine with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, tightens fasteners on an F/A-18C Hornet during Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 31, 2016. The Marines perform maintenance on the aircraft in preparation for departure at the conclusion of Southern Frontier. This three week unit level training that helps pilots gain experience and qualifications in low-altitude tactics, close air support, and air ground, high explosive ordnance delivery.

Sailors with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, CBIRF, examine a contaminated chamber using a Multi-Rae monitor while donning their Class A personal protective equipment which includes self-contained breathing apparatus during Exercise Scarlet Response 2016 at Guardian Centers, Perry, Ga., Aug. 23, 2016. This exercise is the unit’s capstone event, testing the levels of each individual CBIRF capability with lane training and culminating with a 36-hour simulated response to a nuclear detonation. CBIRF is an active duty Marine Corps unit that, when directed, forward-deploys and/or responds with minimal warning to a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or high-yield explosive threat or event in order to assist local, state, or federal agencies and the geographic combatant commanders in the conduct of CBRNE response or consequence management operations, providing capabilities for command and control; agent detection and identification; search, rescue, and decontamination; and emergency medical care for contaminated personnel. - Sailors with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, CBIRF, examine a contaminated chamber using a Multi-Rae monitor while donning their Class A personal protective equipment which includes self-contained breathing apparatus during Exercise Scarlet Response 2016 at Guardian Centers, Perry, Ga., Aug. 23, 2016. This exercise is the unit’s capstone event, testing the levels of each individual CBIRF capability with lane training and culminating with a 36-hour simulated response to a nuclear detonation. CBIRF is an active duty Marine Corps unit that, when directed, forward-deploys and/or responds with minimal warning to a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or high-yield explosive threat or event in order to assist local, state, or federal agencies and the geographic combatant commanders in the conduct of CBRNE response or consequence management operations, providing capabilities for command and control; agent detection and identification; search, rescue, and decontamination; and emergency medical care for contaminated personnel.

A color guard from Brooklyn’s 6th Communication Battalion retires the colors during a remembrance ceremony for two Reserve Marines from their unit at Floyd Bennett Field, Aug. 30, 2016. Sgt. Maj. Michael S. Curtin and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew D. Garvey, first responders with the city’s police fire departments, lost their lives at the World Trade Center on 9/11. To honor their memory, Marine Corps Reserve Center Brooklyn dedicated the Curtin Garvey Complex and a 9/11 monument made partially with steel from the World Trade Center. The remembrance ceremony is being held in conjunction with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Centennial, celebrating 100 years of service and selfless dedication to the nation. - A color guard from Brooklyn’s 6th Communication Battalion retires the colors during a remembrance ceremony for two Reserve Marines from their unit at Floyd Bennett Field, Aug. 30, 2016. Sgt. Maj. Michael S. Curtin and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew D. Garvey, first responders with the city’s police fire departments, lost their lives at the World Trade Center on 9/11. To honor their memory, Marine Corps Reserve Center Brooklyn dedicated the Curtin Garvey Complex and a 9/11 monument made partially with steel from the World Trade Center. The remembrance ceremony is being held in conjunction with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Centennial, celebrating 100 years of service and selfless dedication to the nation.

Two F/A-18C Hornets with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122 fly over head during Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 31, 2016. The Hornet squadron trained in low-altitude tactics, building pilots’ confidence and skills with low flying while performing air-to-surface maneuvers simultaneously. Southern Frontier is a three week unit level training helping pilots gain experience and qualifications in low-altitude tactics, close air support, and air ground, high explosive ordnance delivery. - Two F/A-18C Hornets with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122 fly over head during Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 31, 2016. The Hornet squadron trained in low-altitude tactics, building pilots’ confidence and skills with low flying while performing air-to-surface maneuvers simultaneously. Southern Frontier is a three week unit level training helping pilots gain experience and qualifications in low-altitude tactics, close air support, and air ground, high explosive ordnance delivery.

Pfc. Luis Moreno, a combat engineer with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, requests permission to board the USS America at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., Aug. 29, 2016. The ship will carry Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen to Los Angeles Fleet Week, Sept. 2 – Sept. 5. Fleet Weeks are annual patriotic events where active Navy and Coast Guard ships dock in major U.S. cities giving Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen an opportunity to interact with locals. This is the first year L.A. has hosted an official Fleet Week event. - Pfc. Luis Moreno, a combat engineer with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, requests permission to board the USS America at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., Aug. 29, 2016. The ship will carry Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen to Los Angeles Fleet Week, Sept. 2 – Sept. 5. Fleet Weeks are annual patriotic events where active Navy and Coast Guard ships dock in major U.S. cities giving Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen an opportunity to interact with locals. This is the first year L.A. has hosted an official Fleet Week event.

Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force, Crisis Response, Central Command, check role-players ID cards before screening them during a non-combatant evacuation operation exercise at Range 220, a military operations on urbanized terrain facility, at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Aug. 24, as part of a Certification Exercise. - Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force, Crisis Response, Central Command, check role-players ID cards before screening them during a non-combatant evacuation operation exercise at Range 220, a military operations on urbanized terrain facility, at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Aug. 24, as part of a Certification Exercise.

(Left to right) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, the commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 2, speaks with Brig. Gen. Robert F. Castellvi, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, during a rehearsal of concepts drill as part of Bold Alligator 2016 in Norfolk, Virginia, Aug. 13, 2016. BA16 focuses on improving Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Allied and partner nations as an investment in the current and future readiness of naval forces. BA16 is taking place Aug. 15-26, 2016, along the eastern seaboard. - (Left to right) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, the commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 2, speaks with Brig. Gen. Robert F. Castellvi, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, during a rehearsal of concepts drill as part of Bold Alligator 2016 in Norfolk, Virginia, Aug. 13, 2016. BA16 focuses on improving Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Allied and partner nations as an investment in the current and future readiness of naval forces. BA16 is taking place Aug. 15-26, 2016, along the eastern seaboard.

Marines with Company A, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, fire a M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 19, 2016. Marines fired the tanks to adjust their battle sight zero before the main event of their annual training. - Marines with Company A, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, fire a M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 19, 2016. Marines fired the tanks to adjust their battle sight zero before the main event of their annual training.

Sgt. Juan Gonzalez, paraloft chief for Company C, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, checks the distance left before a jump during Exercise Northern Strike 2016 at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, Mich., Aug. 16, 2016. Reserve Recon Marines practice jumping from the back of C-130s to meet their requirements and perfect their skills. Exercise Northern Strike 16 is a National Guard Bureau-sponsored exercise uniting approximately 5,000 Army, Air Force, Marine, and Special Forces service members from 20 states and three coalition countries. The exercise strives to provide accessible, readiness-building opportunities for military units from all service branches to achieve and sustain proficiency in conducting mission command, air, sea, and ground maneuver integration, and the synchronization of fires in a joint, multinational, decisive action environment. - Sgt. Juan Gonzalez, paraloft chief for Company C, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, checks the distance left before a jump during Exercise Northern Strike 2016 at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, Mich., Aug. 16, 2016. Reserve Recon Marines practice jumping from the back of C-130s to meet their requirements and perfect their skills. Exercise Northern Strike 16 is a National Guard Bureau-sponsored exercise uniting approximately 5,000 Army, Air Force, Marine, and Special Forces service members from 20 states and three coalition countries. The exercise strives to provide accessible, readiness-building opportunities for military units from all service branches to achieve and sustain proficiency in conducting mission command, air, sea, and ground maneuver integration, and the synchronization of fires in a joint, multinational, decisive action environment.

An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 taxis to the runway for a night flight during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 17, 2016. The flying squadron executed large force close air support, air interdiction, armed reconnaissance, and strike coordination and reconnaissance missions over the three week training evolution. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region. - An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 taxis to the runway for a night flight during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 17, 2016. The flying squadron executed large force close air support, air interdiction, armed reconnaissance, and strike coordination and reconnaissance missions over the three week training evolution. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region.

The aviation logistics support ship SS Wright is playing an important support role during Bold Alligator 16, Aug 15-26. In addition to serving in its traditional role providing intermediate aircraft maintenance, the Wright is involved in limited objective experimentation to expose participants to new technologies, applications and concepts that will inform future warfighting capabilities.The experiment will test the ship’s suitability as a potential command and control platform, providing integrated air and ground logistics support, and as a possible hub for unmanned air and maritime vehicles providing support to the landing force. - The aviation logistics support ship SS Wright is playing an important support role during Bold Alligator 16, Aug 15-26. In addition to serving in its traditional role providing intermediate aircraft maintenance, the Wright is involved in limited objective experimentation to expose participants to new technologies, applications and concepts that will inform future warfighting capabilities.The experiment will test the ship’s suitability as a potential command and control platform, providing integrated air and ground logistics support, and as a possible hub for unmanned air and maritime vehicles providing support to the landing force.

A range safety officer spreads CS gas during a live fire range August 18, 2016, to simulate a chemical attack at Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. The range was the final training evolution of Exercise Koolendong 16, a trilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps, Australian Defence Force and French Armed Forces New Caledonia. Marines held a defensive position while engaging targets and working through the CS gas. - A range safety officer spreads CS gas during a live fire range August 18, 2016, to simulate a chemical attack at Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. The range was the final training evolution of Exercise Koolendong 16, a trilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps, Australian Defence Force and French Armed Forces New Caledonia. Marines held a defensive position while engaging targets and working through the CS gas.

A Sikorsky S76A++ Search and Rescue helicopter hovers during SAR training at Exercise Pitch Black 2016, Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 16, 2016. The SAR team trains with local and international forces during exercises like Pitch Black to ensure all medical personnel that can respond to an aircraft emergency are capable of carrying out the same procedures. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region. - A Sikorsky S76A++ Search and Rescue helicopter hovers during SAR training at Exercise Pitch Black 2016, Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 16, 2016. The SAR team trains with local and international forces during exercises like Pitch Black to ensure all medical personnel that can respond to an aircraft emergency are capable of carrying out the same procedures. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region.

An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 takes off from a simulated combat zone during a casualty evacuation exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, August 17, 2016. Marines with VMM-161 conducted the exercise in support of 5th Battalion, 11th Marines, in order to increase proficiency in conducting CAS EVACS. - An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 takes off from a simulated combat zone during a casualty evacuation exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, August 17, 2016. Marines with VMM-161 conducted the exercise in support of 5th Battalion, 11th Marines, in order to increase proficiency in conducting CAS EVACS.

Marines with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit intelligence section assemble a tent in the field during an Intelligence Interoperability Course, Dec. 13, 2010. The Marines and sailors of the 22nd MEU recently began an aggressive series of progressively, more complex pre-deployment exercises designed to train and test the MEU's ability to operate as a cohesive and effective fighting force. - Marines with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit intelligence section assemble a tent in the field during an Intelligence Interoperability Course, Dec. 13, 2010. The Marines and sailors of the 22nd MEU recently began an aggressive series of progressively, more complex pre-deployment exercises designed to train and test the MEU's ability to operate as a cohesive and effective fighting force.

A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier with Marine Attack Squadron 542 performs a vertical landing while using the lights on the mobile Expeditionary Hover Position Indicator to adjust its position at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 9, 2016. VMA-542 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., and is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, as part of the unit deployment program. The Harrier pilots used the mobile EHPI in coordination with Aircraft Recovery assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron to recertify on boat-deck landings to prepare for other future operations in the Pacific. - A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier with Marine Attack Squadron 542 performs a vertical landing while using the lights on the mobile Expeditionary Hover Position Indicator to adjust its position at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 9, 2016. VMA-542 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., and is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, as part of the unit deployment program. The Harrier pilots used the mobile EHPI in coordination with Aircraft Recovery assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron to recertify on boat-deck landings to prepare for other future operations in the Pacific.