U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Nicholas Bouvia, a heavy equipment operator with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, builds a berm for security in Djibouti, Apr. 9, 2016. The 13th MEU is conducting sustainment training to maintain proficiency and combat readiness while deployed with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group during Western Pacific Deployment 16-1. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Nicholas Bouvia, a heavy equipment operator with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, builds a berm for security in Djibouti, Apr. 9, 2016. The 13th MEU is conducting sustainment training to maintain proficiency and combat readiness while deployed with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group during Western Pacific Deployment 16-1.
Japan Ground Self Defense Force personnel carry supplies from a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), in Hakusui Sports Park, Kyushu island, Japan, April 22, 2016. The supplies are in support of the relief effort after a series of earthquakes struck the island of Kyushu. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps' force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region. - Japan Ground Self Defense Force personnel carry supplies from a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), in Hakusui Sports Park, Kyushu island, Japan, April 22, 2016. The supplies are in support of the relief effort after a series of earthquakes struck the island of Kyushu. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps' force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region.
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Cpl. Kody Biggs, a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, makes his down river, around a trail that is known to have notional improvised explosive devices during an attack evolution at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 20, 2016. The Marines conducted patrols, ambushes and assaults to prepare of their upcoming Integrated Training Exercise. - Cpl. Kody Biggs, a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, makes his down river, around a trail that is known to have notional improvised explosive devices during an attack evolution at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 20, 2016. The Marines conducted patrols, ambushes and assaults to prepare of their upcoming Integrated Training Exercise.
Pfc. Dugan Gilbert, a rifleman with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, suppresses enemy fire during a training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 20, 2016. The unit practiced buddy rushing and squad tactics to maintain readiness and prepare for future deployments. - Pfc. Dugan Gilbert, a rifleman with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, suppresses enemy fire during a training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 20, 2016. The unit practiced buddy rushing and squad tactics to maintain readiness and prepare for future deployments.
Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 24 begin to check role-players through their Evacuation Control Center set at Del Valle Field Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, as part of a Non-combatant Evacuation Operation exercise in support of Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-16 April 15, 2016. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 24 begin to check role-players through their Evacuation Control Center set at Del Valle Field Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, as part of a Non-combatant Evacuation Operation exercise in support of Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-16 April 15, 2016.
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force officers watch as a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), refuels aboard the JS Hyuga (DDH 181), at sea, April 22, 2016. The Osprey received supplies from the Hyuga in support of the relief effort after a series of earthquakes struck the island of Kyushu. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps' force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region. - Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force officers watch as a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), refuels aboard the JS Hyuga (DDH 181), at sea, April 22, 2016. The Osprey received supplies from the Hyuga in support of the relief effort after a series of earthquakes struck the island of Kyushu. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps' force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region.
Lance Cpl. Rafael Garcia III, left, and Lance Cpl. Marcus A. Brown, right, apprehend a role player that entered their simulated patrol base as Marines from 7th Engineer Support Battalion conduct an imitation resupply at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 25, 2016. Marines performed the training in preparation for upcoming deployments with the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response Central Command, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin and Koa Moana. Garcia, a native of Mission, Texas, and Brown, from Elko, Nevada, are combat engineers with 7th ESB, 1st Marine Logistics Group. - Lance Cpl. Rafael Garcia III, left, and Lance Cpl. Marcus A. Brown, right, apprehend a role player that entered their simulated patrol base as Marines from 7th Engineer Support Battalion conduct an imitation resupply at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 25, 2016. Marines performed the training in preparation for upcoming deployments with the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response Central Command, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin and Koa Moana. Garcia, a native of Mission, Texas, and Brown, from Elko, Nevada, are combat engineers with 7th ESB, 1st Marine Logistics Group.
An MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, begins to takeoff April 17, 2016 from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Japan. United States Forces, Japan is providing operational airlift support in coordination with the Government of Japan’s efforts to provide relief following the devastating earthquake near Kumamoto. - An MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, begins to takeoff April 17, 2016 from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Japan. United States Forces, Japan is providing operational airlift support in coordination with the Government of Japan’s efforts to provide relief following the devastating earthquake near Kumamoto.
Japan Ground Self Defense Force personnel carry supplies from a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, in Hakusui Sports Park, Kyushu island, Japan, April 20, 2016. The supplies are in support of the relief effort after a series of earthquakes struck the island of Kyushu. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps' force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region. - Japan Ground Self Defense Force personnel carry supplies from a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, in Hakusui Sports Park, Kyushu island, Japan, April 20, 2016. The supplies are in support of the relief effort after a series of earthquakes struck the island of Kyushu. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps' force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region.
Supplies await to be loaded onto an MV-22B Osprey belonging to Marine Medium Tiltroter Squadron 265 (Reinforced). 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit April 18, 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. 31st MEU Marines are in Iwakuni to support the Government of Japan’s relief efforts in response to the earthquakes that struck the island of Kyushu earlier this week. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps’ force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region. - Supplies await to be loaded onto an MV-22B Osprey belonging to Marine Medium Tiltroter Squadron 265 (Reinforced). 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit April 18, 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. 31st MEU Marines are in Iwakuni to support the Government of Japan’s relief efforts in response to the earthquakes that struck the island of Kyushu earlier this week. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps’ force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region.
MV-22B Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit arrived at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 18, 2016 to work with the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force to distribute relief supplies after a series of earthquakes struck the island of Kyushu. - MV-22B Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit arrived at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 18, 2016 to work with the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force to distribute relief supplies after a series of earthquakes struck the island of Kyushu.
A Spanish Air Force F/A-18 Hornet with 462 Squadron breaks off after receiving fuel from a U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response- Africa during an aerial refuel mission, Gran Canaria, Spain, Mar. 29, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF Marines and Spanish airmen conducted air-to-air refueling missions in order to enhance crisis response readiness and help build relationships between the two militaries. - A Spanish Air Force F/A-18 Hornet with 462 Squadron breaks off after receiving fuel from a U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response- Africa during an aerial refuel mission, Gran Canaria, Spain, Mar. 29, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF Marines and Spanish airmen conducted air-to-air refueling missions in order to enhance crisis response readiness and help build relationships between the two militaries.
Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, assists the Government of Japan in supporting those affected by recent earthquakes in Kumamoto, Japan, April 18, 2016. VMM-265 picked up supplies from Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Takayubaru and delivered them to Hakusui Sports Park in the Kumamoto Prefecture. The long-standing relationship between Japan and the U.S. allows U.S. military forces in Japan to provide rapid, integrated support to the Japan Self-Defense Forces and civil relief efforts. - Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, assists the Government of Japan in supporting those affected by recent earthquakes in Kumamoto, Japan, April 18, 2016. VMM-265 picked up supplies from Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Takayubaru and delivered them to Hakusui Sports Park in the Kumamoto Prefecture. The long-standing relationship between Japan and the U.S. allows U.S. military forces in Japan to provide rapid, integrated support to the Japan Self-Defense Forces and civil relief efforts.
U.S. Marine Lt. Gen. David A. Berger speaks to the Marines of 1st Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, after a demonstration on 3-D printing technology at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 6, 2016. Berger is the commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force. The battalion demonstrated the potential of 3-D printing capabilities to the commanders of I MEF and 1st MLG. Still in the testing phase with the printers, the battalion has already discovered endless possibilities as to how they can integrate the technology into their mission. - U.S. Marine Lt. Gen. David A. Berger speaks to the Marines of 1st Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, after a demonstration on 3-D printing technology at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 6, 2016. Berger is the commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force. The battalion demonstrated the potential of 3-D printing capabilities to the commanders of I MEF and 1st MLG. Still in the testing phase with the printers, the battalion has already discovered endless possibilities as to how they can integrate the technology into their mission.
A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion guides an amphibious assault vehicle during a gunnery skills exercise at Marine COrps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 13, 2016. The company conducted the training to prepare for their upcoming participation in the Integrated Training Exercise. - A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion guides an amphibious assault vehicle during a gunnery skills exercise at Marine COrps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 13, 2016. The company conducted the training to prepare for their upcoming participation in the Integrated Training Exercise.
Cpl. Anthony Lubbers, designated marksmanship instructor, Combat Center Marksmanship Training Unit, prepares to breach a door during the Western Regional Combat Match at Marine Corps Air Combat Center, April 8, 2016. - Cpl. Anthony Lubbers, designated marksmanship instructor, Combat Center Marksmanship Training Unit, prepares to breach a door during the Western Regional Combat Match at Marine Corps Air Combat Center, April 8, 2016.
M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks with Company B, 1st Tank Battalion, stage in the Blacktop training area during 7th Marine Regiment’s Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center April 6, 2016. CALFEX served as the kinetic portion of Desert Scimitar 16, an annual 1st Marine Division training evolution. - M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks with Company B, 1st Tank Battalion, stage in the Blacktop training area during 7th Marine Regiment’s Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center April 6, 2016. CALFEX served as the kinetic portion of Desert Scimitar 16, an annual 1st Marine Division training evolution.
U.S. Marines and Tunisian Groupement des Forces Speciales conduct convoy night operation training during an exercise in Bizerte, Tunisia, Mar. 21- Apr. 8, 2016. The Marine vehicle maintenance and assistance team trained with their Tunisian counterparts to increase the counter terrorism capabilities of the GFS. - U.S. Marines and Tunisian Groupement des Forces Speciales conduct convoy night operation training during an exercise in Bizerte, Tunisia, Mar. 21- Apr. 8, 2016. The Marine vehicle maintenance and assistance team trained with their Tunisian counterparts to increase the counter terrorism capabilities of the GFS.
Cpl. Jesus Ontiveros, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 364 “Purple Foxes,” and an Oxnard, Calif. native, walks through an MV-22B Osprey during a post-operations check aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California, April 5. Before and after every flight, Marines with VMM-364 check Ospreys for any mechanical discrepancies to ensure the safety of pilots, air crew and passengers. - Cpl. Jesus Ontiveros, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 364 “Purple Foxes,” and an Oxnard, Calif. native, walks through an MV-22B Osprey during a post-operations check aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California, April 5. Before and after every flight, Marines with VMM-364 check Ospreys for any mechanical discrepancies to ensure the safety of pilots, air crew and passengers.
Marines with the Expeditionary Warfare School battle site study group watch a short video on the Battle of Saratoga during their trip to Saratoga Springs, New York, April 5, 2016. The Marines with the Expeditionary Warfare School group attend the Saratoga Battle site visit as part of the EWS Enrichment Program. - Marines with the Expeditionary Warfare School battle site study group watch a short video on the Battle of Saratoga during their trip to Saratoga Springs, New York, April 5, 2016. The Marines with the Expeditionary Warfare School group attend the Saratoga Battle site visit as part of the EWS Enrichment Program.
A Marine with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, I Marine Expeditionary Force, guides a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launcher during Spring Fire Exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 31, 2016. The regiment, comprised of four artillery battalions and a headquarters battalion, put their skills to the test during a large-scale, combined-arms training evolution in preparation for future deployments and operations. - A Marine with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, I Marine Expeditionary Force, guides a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launcher during Spring Fire Exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 31, 2016. The regiment, comprised of four artillery battalions and a headquarters battalion, put their skills to the test during a large-scale, combined-arms training evolution in preparation for future deployments and operations.
An explosive ordnance disposal technician with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, gets hands-on experience with the Remote Fuse Disassembly System at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 8, 2016. The system was designed to make explosive ordnance disposal safer. - An explosive ordnance disposal technician with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, gets hands-on experience with the Remote Fuse Disassembly System at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 8, 2016. The system was designed to make explosive ordnance disposal safer.
Cpl. Alec Bechtel, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161, communicates with pilots during a field carrier landing practice at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 30, 2016. Marines with VMM-161 conducted field carrier landing practices at Camp Pendleton to maintain their proficiency in landing aboard Navy vessels. - Cpl. Alec Bechtel, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161, communicates with pilots during a field carrier landing practice at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 30, 2016. Marines with VMM-161 conducted field carrier landing practices at Camp Pendleton to maintain their proficiency in landing aboard Navy vessels.
An opposing force kneels in front of a riot control squad with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 during the unit’s non-lethal weapons training final exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 25, 2016. The battalion had to qualify through the Expeditionary Operations Training Group, in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa. - An opposing force kneels in front of a riot control squad with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 during the unit’s non-lethal weapons training final exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 25, 2016. The battalion had to qualify through the Expeditionary Operations Training Group, in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa.
Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 perform function checks for the flight of the RQ-7Bv2 Shadow, an unmanned aerial system, at the Cannon Air Defense Complex in Yuma, Arizona, March 25, 2016. Marine Wing Support Squadron 371 and MWSS-274 supported VMU-1 by building a runway in preparation for the Shadow’s first flight at the site. - Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 perform function checks for the flight of the RQ-7Bv2 Shadow, an unmanned aerial system, at the Cannon Air Defense Complex in Yuma, Arizona, March 25, 2016. Marine Wing Support Squadron 371 and MWSS-274 supported VMU-1 by building a runway in preparation for the Shadow’s first flight at the site.
U.S. Marine Sgt. Robert McCabe, a section leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, points out areas of interest to members of his team during a perimeter patrol in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, March 21, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-CC Marines are responsible for the force protection of coalition assets at some Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve bases within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility as part of the effort to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Robert McCabe, a section leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, points out areas of interest to members of his team during a perimeter patrol in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, March 21, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-CC Marines are responsible for the force protection of coalition assets at some Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve bases within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility as part of the effort to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant.
Marines Raiders from Company F, 2d Marine Raider Battalion, led a simulated partner nation force on ground combat patrolling tactics, techniques and procedures during a Company Collective Exercise in Fort Bragg, South Carolina, Feb. 28, 2016. The Marine Special Operations Company and individual teams where tested on their execution of basic skills as well as learned and honed new tactic, techniques and procedures. - Marines Raiders from Company F, 2d Marine Raider Battalion, led a simulated partner nation force on ground combat patrolling tactics, techniques and procedures during a Company Collective Exercise in Fort Bragg, South Carolina, Feb. 28, 2016. The Marine Special Operations Company and individual teams where tested on their execution of basic skills as well as learned and honed new tactic, techniques and procedures.
The WWII SBD Dauntless dive-bomber showcases the heroic actions of the commanding officer of Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 232 and his observer/gunner over Guadalcanal in August 1942. After temporarily closing its doors nearly three months ago, the National Museum for the Marine Corps will re-open to the public on April 1, 2016 at 9 a.m. Visitors will discover a recently restored World War II SBD Dauntless dive bomber and Vietnam-era Sikorsky UH-34D helicopter which were installed during the closure - The WWII SBD Dauntless dive-bomber showcases the heroic actions of the commanding officer of Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 232 and his observer/gunner over Guadalcanal in August 1942. After temporarily closing its doors nearly three months ago, the National Museum for the Marine Corps will re-open to the public on April 1, 2016 at 9 a.m. Visitors will discover a recently restored World War II SBD Dauntless dive bomber and Vietnam-era Sikorsky UH-34D helicopter which were installed during the closure
U.S. Marines with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company oversee a joint tactical air control operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 25, 2016. The training enhanced interoperability between the U.S., French, British, and Dutch forces, while the U.S. Marines provided fire and aviation support. - U.S. Marines with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company oversee a joint tactical air control operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 25, 2016. The training enhanced interoperability between the U.S., French, British, and Dutch forces, while the U.S. Marines provided fire and aviation support.
Marines with Company B, 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, run through smoke during a live-fire assault on Military Operations on Urban Terrain town located at Range 210 in the Combat Center training area March 24, 2016, as part of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation Exercise. 3rd LAR conducted a five-day MCCREE to evaluate the combat readiness of B Co. - Marines with Company B, 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, run through smoke during a live-fire assault on Military Operations on Urban Terrain town located at Range 210 in the Combat Center training area March 24, 2016, as part of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation Exercise. 3rd LAR conducted a five-day MCCREE to evaluate the combat readiness of B Co.
U.S. Marine Cpl. Andrew Gabriel, right, a scout sniper with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, presents Ambassador Douglas A. Silliman, the U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait, with a gift during the Corporals Course graduation ceremony in Kuwait on March 25, 2016. The corporals’ leadership program is designed to provide instruction for tasks developed in accordance with Marine Corps Order 1510.90, Individual Training Standards. Corporals Course is a professional military education requirement for all corporals to complete in order to be qualified for promotion. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Andrew Gabriel, right, a scout sniper with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, presents Ambassador Douglas A. Silliman, the U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait, with a gift during the Corporals Course graduation ceremony in Kuwait on March 25, 2016. The corporals’ leadership program is designed to provide instruction for tasks developed in accordance with Marine Corps Order 1510.90, Individual Training Standards. Corporals Course is a professional military education requirement for all corporals to complete in order to be qualified for promotion.
Lt. Col. Kris Faught speaks to Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2 before the first RQ-21A Blackjack flight into Class D airspace over Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, March 21, 2016. The RQ-21A Blackjack system is modular, flexible and multi-mission capable, providing roll-on, roll-off transitions between land and maritime environments. Faught is the commanding officer of VMU-2. - Lt. Col. Kris Faught speaks to Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2 before the first RQ-21A Blackjack flight into Class D airspace over Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, March 21, 2016. The RQ-21A Blackjack system is modular, flexible and multi-mission capable, providing roll-on, roll-off transitions between land and maritime environments. Faught is the commanding officer of VMU-2.
A Marine with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion performs rifle drills during a combat marksmanship program led by Expeditionary Operations Training Group March 17, 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. The shooting package helps to better prepare these Marines for an upcoming deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - A Marine with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion performs rifle drills during a combat marksmanship program led by Expeditionary Operations Training Group March 17, 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. The shooting package helps to better prepare these Marines for an upcoming deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit.
U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988. - U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988.
U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 drive stakes into the ground around the perimeter of a vertical take-off and landing pad during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, March 17, 2016. The MCCRE, which went from March 14-18, tested MWSS-272’s ability to build an AM-2 aluminum matting V/TOL pad ready to accept incoming aircraft. MWSS-272 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 drive stakes into the ground around the perimeter of a vertical take-off and landing pad during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, March 17, 2016. The MCCRE, which went from March 14-18, tested MWSS-272’s ability to build an AM-2 aluminum matting V/TOL pad ready to accept incoming aircraft. MWSS-272 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.
Senegalese soldiers completed a month-long training exercise with U.S. Marines, March 18, at a military training facility in Thies, Senegal. U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, trained their counterparts with Senegal’s Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando, or COFUMACO, in infantry tactics, making this the 10th training engagement the forces. In an effort to combat illicit trafficking in the region, the Marines were in Senegal at the request of the host nation government in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. The Marines trained with the COFUMACO in Toubacouta in the southern part of the country for two weeks before moving up to Thies. - Senegalese soldiers completed a month-long training exercise with U.S. Marines, March 18, at a military training facility in Thies, Senegal. U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, trained their counterparts with Senegal’s Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando, or COFUMACO, in infantry tactics, making this the 10th training engagement the forces. In an effort to combat illicit trafficking in the region, the Marines were in Senegal at the request of the host nation government in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. The Marines trained with the COFUMACO in Toubacouta in the southern part of the country for two weeks before moving up to Thies.
Sgt. Matthew Parker (ret.) speaks to a group of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment Marines during his Silver Star ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 18, 2016. Parker was awarded the Silver Star for his courageous actions during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2011, where assumed control of his platoon during a firefight after several leaders had been injured. - Sgt. Matthew Parker (ret.) speaks to a group of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment Marines during his Silver Star ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 18, 2016. Parker was awarded the Silver Star for his courageous actions during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2011, where assumed control of his platoon during a firefight after several leaders had been injured.
Inert grenades (dummy), non-exploding practice tools, sit on a table where Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion will pick them up before taking part in an assault course with grenade training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 16, 2016. This drill is part of an annual training event to prepare them for combat situations when they are called upon to deploy. Marines took turns providing cover fire for their partner, allowing them to throw a dummy grenade near the simulated enemy position. - Inert grenades (dummy), non-exploding practice tools, sit on a table where Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion will pick them up before taking part in an assault course with grenade training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 16, 2016. This drill is part of an annual training event to prepare them for combat situations when they are called upon to deploy. Marines took turns providing cover fire for their partner, allowing them to throw a dummy grenade near the simulated enemy position.
Artillery rounds fired by Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment make impact at Observation Post 3 during a battalion field exercise held by 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 15, 2016. The battalion coordinated with artillery, mortars and rotary-wing aircraft to direct fire support. - Artillery rounds fired by Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment make impact at Observation Post 3 during a battalion field exercise held by 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 15, 2016. The battalion coordinated with artillery, mortars and rotary-wing aircraft to direct fire support.
A plate and paddle carrying the names of fallen Marines will be carried by participants of a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. For the next 10 days, the ruckers will walk in seven teams and trade off every 10-11 miles, about 110 miles each, until they get there.. - A plate and paddle carrying the names of fallen Marines will be carried by participants of a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. For the next 10 days, the ruckers will walk in seven teams and trade off every 10-11 miles, about 110 miles each, until they get there..
The Marine Corps Tactical Service Orientated Architecture will allow users to request and share mission-critical information on-demand. TSOA is a software platform that will be installed in combat operation centers, allowing for the sharing of data between COCs across the Corps. This removes the need to depend on multiple independent tactical data systems, which are not always compatible. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. David Staten) - The Marine Corps Tactical Service Orientated Architecture will allow users to request and share mission-critical information on-demand. TSOA is a software platform that will be installed in combat operation centers, allowing for the sharing of data between COCs across the Corps. This removes the need to depend on multiple independent tactical data systems, which are not always compatible. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. David Staten)
Senegalese soldiers learn how to use a pulley system and rope to remove an inert mortar round from the ground and move it safely to another spot in Bargny, Senegal March 8, 2016. The intent wasn’t to actually move the ordnance, rather to get the students familiar with different types of tools. Since Feb. 15, a group of explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, began assisting Senegalese engineers as part of the Humanitarian Mine Action Program through what is called a train-the-trainer course. - Senegalese soldiers learn how to use a pulley system and rope to remove an inert mortar round from the ground and move it safely to another spot in Bargny, Senegal March 8, 2016. The intent wasn’t to actually move the ordnance, rather to get the students familiar with different types of tools. Since Feb. 15, a group of explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, began assisting Senegalese engineers as part of the Humanitarian Mine Action Program through what is called a train-the-trainer course.
U.S. Marine Corps, Republic of Korea Marines Corps, New Zealand Army and Australian Army conduct amphibious assault training at Doksukri Beach, South Korea, March 12, 2016, during Exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial military exercise focused on strengthening the amphibious landing capabilities of the U.S. and its allies. - U.S. Marine Corps, Republic of Korea Marines Corps, New Zealand Army and Australian Army conduct amphibious assault training at Doksukri Beach, South Korea, March 12, 2016, during Exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial military exercise focused on strengthening the amphibious landing capabilities of the U.S. and its allies.
Lance Cpl. Ronald Hester, a combat engineer with, provides security for a casualty evacuation exercise at Landing Zone Penguin at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 10, 2016. The training allowed Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 and 2nd CEB to work together in order to be well prepared to conduct a successful CASEVAC in any situation they may encounter while deployed, to ultimately saves lives. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Hester, a combat engineer with, provides security for a casualty evacuation exercise at Landing Zone Penguin at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 10, 2016. The training allowed Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 and 2nd CEB to work together in order to be well prepared to conduct a successful CASEVAC in any situation they may encounter while deployed, to ultimately saves lives.
Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, perform shooting drills with their M16A4 service rifles during a squadron field exercise at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground training facility in Yuma, Ariz., Wednesday, March 9, 2016. The evolution focuses on the basic fundamentals of deployment in an austere environment and a re-familiarization with weapons proficiency. - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, perform shooting drills with their M16A4 service rifles during a squadron field exercise at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground training facility in Yuma, Ariz., Wednesday, March 9, 2016. The evolution focuses on the basic fundamentals of deployment in an austere environment and a re-familiarization with weapons proficiency.
U.S. Marine Sgt. Juan Cerna, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, changes the batteries in a Talon Mark II robot at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Feb. 20, 2016. The EOD technicians are present to provide the base and airfield with the ability to handle unexploded ordnance, hung ordnance, or suspicious packages. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Juan Cerna, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, changes the batteries in a Talon Mark II robot at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Feb. 20, 2016. The EOD technicians are present to provide the base and airfield with the ability to handle unexploded ordnance, hung ordnance, or suspicious packages.
3/20/2026 - https://www.stripes.com/branches/marine_corps/2026-03-18/marine-cyber-unit-arctic-21105165.html
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3/16/2026 - https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2026/03/10/marine-corps-to-ramp-up-swim-test-difficulty/
3/11/2026 - https://taskandpurpose.com/news/marine-john-ripley-medal-of-honor/
3/05/2026 - https://www.dcnewsnow.com/news/local-news/virginia/prince-william-county/new-exhibit-highlights-marine-corps-football-history/