News

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, begin offloading from a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 462 during the insertion drill of their Mountain Exercise training at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, Feb. 3. On and offload drills also help air crew and pilots refine their tactics, techniques and procedures during real-time training. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, begin offloading from a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 462 during the insertion drill of their Mountain Exercise training at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, Feb. 3. On and offload drills also help air crew and pilots refine their tactics, techniques and procedures during real-time training.

Corpsmen transport a notional patient onto an aircraft during a Tactical Combat Casualty Care training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 6-10, 2017. The TCCC teaches corpsmen new communication skills and how to care for a patient in a combat zone. The corpsmen are with 2nd Medical Battalion. - Corpsmen transport a notional patient onto an aircraft during a Tactical Combat Casualty Care training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 6-10, 2017. The TCCC teaches corpsmen new communication skills and how to care for a patient in a combat zone. The corpsmen are with 2nd Medical Battalion.

Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force out of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, worked with 1st Marine Logistics Group, 1st Supply Battalion, Supply Company Marine Air Ground Task Force, MAGTF Marine Materiel Distribution Center to prepare equipment for transport with RFID tags and SHOUT nano devices, tracking equipment from Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center 29 Palms, to and from the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Feb. 7. - Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force out of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, worked with 1st Marine Logistics Group, 1st Supply Battalion, Supply Company Marine Air Ground Task Force, MAGTF Marine Materiel Distribution Center to prepare equipment for transport with RFID tags and SHOUT nano devices, tracking equipment from Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center 29 Palms, to and from the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Feb. 7.

Marine veterans and their families salute the 2nd Marine Division’s colors at a battle colors rededication ceremony for 2nd MarDiv at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 10, 2017. The ceremony consisted of veterans, who severed in different eras of American Conflict, awarding streamers to the division’s colors for maintaining the legacy passed down from generation to generation. The event coincides with the 76th birthday of the division. - Marine veterans and their families salute the 2nd Marine Division’s colors at a battle colors rededication ceremony for 2nd MarDiv at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 10, 2017. The ceremony consisted of veterans, who severed in different eras of American Conflict, awarding streamers to the division’s colors for maintaining the legacy passed down from generation to generation. The event coincides with the 76th birthday of the division.

Marines participate with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion in a grenade assault course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 9, 2017. The course prepared Marines to use the M67 fragmentation hand grenade. The exercise was in preparation for an upcoming Integrated Training Exercise 3-17 at Marine Air-Ground Combat Center Twenty-Nine Palms, California. - Marines participate with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion in a grenade assault course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 9, 2017. The course prepared Marines to use the M67 fragmentation hand grenade. The exercise was in preparation for an upcoming Integrated Training Exercise 3-17 at Marine Air-Ground Combat Center Twenty-Nine Palms, California.

Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 “Heavy Haulers” prepare to conduct cold weather training at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Calif., Feb.1, 2017. The CH-53E Super Stallion’s versatility and maneuverability is an important asset in the terrain surrounding MCMWTC and facilitates mission during the training exercise. - Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 “Heavy Haulers” prepare to conduct cold weather training at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Calif., Feb.1, 2017. The CH-53E Super Stallion’s versatility and maneuverability is an important asset in the terrain surrounding MCMWTC and facilitates mission during the training exercise.

Marines with Weapons Co., 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, hold M821A2 High Explosive mortar rounds in preparation to fire at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 8, 2017. The Marines fired off red phosphorous and high explosive rounds during a training exercise where they were able to coordinate with Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic during their qualification training for Joint Terminal Attack Controllers. - Marines with Weapons Co., 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, hold M821A2 High Explosive mortar rounds in preparation to fire at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 8, 2017. The Marines fired off red phosphorous and high explosive rounds during a training exercise where they were able to coordinate with Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic during their qualification training for Joint Terminal Attack Controllers.

A Marine with Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, rappels down a cliff at the Jungle Warfare Training Center, Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 24, 2017. JWTC exposes Marines to training situations and environments unique to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region which sustain operational readiness and enhance forward deployed capabilities. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia- Pacific region. - A Marine with Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, rappels down a cliff at the Jungle Warfare Training Center, Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 24, 2017. JWTC exposes Marines to training situations and environments unique to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region which sustain operational readiness and enhance forward deployed capabilities. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia- Pacific region.

The Marine Corps Program Executive Officer Land Systems is expected to deliver 144 Utility Task Vehicles to the regiment-level starting in February 2017. The rugged all-terrain vehicle can carry up to four Marines or be converted to haul 1,500 pounds of supplies. With minimal armor and size, the UTV can quickly haul extra ammunition and provisions, or injured Marines, while preserving energy and stealth. - The Marine Corps Program Executive Officer Land Systems is expected to deliver 144 Utility Task Vehicles to the regiment-level starting in February 2017. The rugged all-terrain vehicle can carry up to four Marines or be converted to haul 1,500 pounds of supplies. With minimal armor and size, the UTV can quickly haul extra ammunition and provisions, or injured Marines, while preserving energy and stealth.

U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Louis Simon, executive officer of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, acts as the commander of troops during the opening ceremony of Exercise Iron Fist 2017, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 6, 2017. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral training exercise where U.S. and Japanese service members train together and share techniques, tactics and procedures to improve their combined operational capabilities. - U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Louis Simon, executive officer of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, acts as the commander of troops during the opening ceremony of Exercise Iron Fist 2017, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 6, 2017. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral training exercise where U.S. and Japanese service members train together and share techniques, tactics and procedures to improve their combined operational capabilities.

Pfc. Jacob Maze peers through his scope during Marine Wing Support Squadron 271’s Military Operations in Urban Terrain training aboard Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic, N.C., Feb. 2, 2017. With corporal being the highest rank participating in the building-clearing, small unit leadership was tested with constantly shifting leadership positions. “My end goal is to ensure any of my Marines are able to take my place if the situation arises,” said Cpl. Christian Leishman, a squad leader for the exercise. Maze is an engineer equipment operator with MWSS-271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jason Jimenez/ Released) - Pfc. Jacob Maze peers through his scope during Marine Wing Support Squadron 271’s Military Operations in Urban Terrain training aboard Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic, N.C., Feb. 2, 2017. With corporal being the highest rank participating in the building-clearing, small unit leadership was tested with constantly shifting leadership positions. “My end goal is to ensure any of my Marines are able to take my place if the situation arises,” said Cpl. Christian Leishman, a squad leader for the exercise. Maze is an engineer equipment operator with MWSS-271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jason Jimenez/ Released)

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

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.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

Sgt. Zachary L. Piepenhagen (left), shakes hands with Maj. Gen. David Coffman, deputy commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force, after being awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 26, 2017. Piepenhagen was awarded the medal for saving the life of a distressed Sailor who climbed over the guard rail in an attempt to commit suicide while serving with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Sgt. Zachary L. Piepenhagen (left), shakes hands with Maj. Gen. David Coffman, deputy commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force, after being awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 26, 2017. Piepenhagen was awarded the medal for saving the life of a distressed Sailor who climbed over the guard rail in an attempt to commit suicide while serving with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 communicate to each other after loading quadcon shipping containers onto a seven-ton medium tactical vehicle replacement during exercise Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 at Haramura Maneuver Area, Hiroshima, Japan, Jan. 27, 2017. The Marines worked through inclement weather conditions and a short timeline to build a 96-foot by 96-foot vertical takeoff and landing pad. The exercise is a biannual, unit-level training exercise that is primarily focused on establishing a forward operating base and providing airfield operation services. MWSS-171 trains throughout the year completing exercises like Kamoshika Wrath to enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 communicate to each other after loading quadcon shipping containers onto a seven-ton medium tactical vehicle replacement during exercise Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 at Haramura Maneuver Area, Hiroshima, Japan, Jan. 27, 2017. The Marines worked through inclement weather conditions and a short timeline to build a 96-foot by 96-foot vertical takeoff and landing pad. The exercise is a biannual, unit-level training exercise that is primarily focused on establishing a forward operating base and providing airfield operation services. MWSS-171 trains throughout the year completing exercises like Kamoshika Wrath to enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability.

Retired Lt. Col. Frederick Grant retired Jan. 27, 2017, after 54 years of continuous service to the Marine Corps. Grant served as the director of the Tactical Exercise Control Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, after 38 years of service as an enlisted Marine and officer. Grant, from Emporia, Virginia, enlisted Oct. 2, 1963, and served as an infantryman in Vietnam in addition to various other enlisted and officer billets. - Retired Lt. Col. Frederick Grant retired Jan. 27, 2017, after 54 years of continuous service to the Marine Corps. Grant served as the director of the Tactical Exercise Control Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, after 38 years of service as an enlisted Marine and officer. Grant, from Emporia, Virginia, enlisted Oct. 2, 1963, and served as an infantryman in Vietnam in addition to various other enlisted and officer billets.

A Marine with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division climbs a rope on the obstacle course during an event known as advanced course preparation training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 23, 2017. The event was a seven-mile course that served as an initial performance assessment and tested the Marines on basic knowledge and skills. It is a way for the Marines to know which skills to refine before they begin a military occupational specialty specific advanced course. - A Marine with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division climbs a rope on the obstacle course during an event known as advanced course preparation training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 23, 2017. The event was a seven-mile course that served as an initial performance assessment and tested the Marines on basic knowledge and skills. It is a way for the Marines to know which skills to refine before they begin a military occupational specialty specific advanced course.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 move a flood light through the mud during exercise Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 at Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Haramura Maneuver Area in Hiroshima, Japan, Jan. 22, 2017. The exercise is a biannual, unit-level training exercise that is primarily focused on establishing a forward operating base and providing airfield operation services. MWSS-171 trains throughout the year completing exercises like Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 to enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 move a flood light through the mud during exercise Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 at Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Haramura Maneuver Area in Hiroshima, Japan, Jan. 22, 2017. The exercise is a biannual, unit-level training exercise that is primarily focused on establishing a forward operating base and providing airfield operation services. MWSS-171 trains throughout the year completing exercises like Kamoshika Wrath 17-1 to enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability.

Cpl. Jerrod Peterson provides security for his team at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 25, 2017. The unit is participating in embassy reinforcement exercises, which consist of relaying information to the embassy and enhancing skills within the unit in order to prepare for a Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force. Peterson is a support team leader with Alpha Co., 2nd Radio Battalion. - Cpl. Jerrod Peterson provides security for his team at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 25, 2017. The unit is participating in embassy reinforcement exercises, which consist of relaying information to the embassy and enhancing skills within the unit in order to prepare for a Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force. Peterson is a support team leader with Alpha Co., 2nd Radio Battalion.

Sgt. Kevin M. Powers ground guides the operator of an assault amphibious vehicle to ensure safety during ship-to-shore operations at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2017. The training was meant to give the Marines experience operating the AAVs in the ocean. Powers is an assault amphibious vehicle crewman assigned to 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division. - Sgt. Kevin M. Powers ground guides the operator of an assault amphibious vehicle to ensure safety during ship-to-shore operations at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2017. The training was meant to give the Marines experience operating the AAVs in the ocean. Powers is an assault amphibious vehicle crewman assigned to 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division.

A Marine with Task Force Southwest fires a PK general-purpose machine gun during foreign weapons familiarization training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 17, 2016. Marines with the unit are preparing for an upcoming deployment to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, where they will train, advise and assist the Afghan National Army 215th Corps and 505th Zone National Police to continue building well-equipped defense and security forces. - A Marine with Task Force Southwest fires a PK general-purpose machine gun during foreign weapons familiarization training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 17, 2016. Marines with the unit are preparing for an upcoming deployment to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, where they will train, advise and assist the Afghan National Army 215th Corps and 505th Zone National Police to continue building well-equipped defense and security forces.

Marines, with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, attach water filters to hydration systems for evaluation during an Experimental Forward Operating Base aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 4, 2012. Marines and sailors participating provided input on individual energy and water purification equipment. The Expeditionary Energy Office, Headquarters, Marine Corps, coordinated the XFOB for input from the servicemembers and suggestions for improvement. - Marines, with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, attach water filters to hydration systems for evaluation during an Experimental Forward Operating Base aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 4, 2012. Marines and sailors participating provided input on individual energy and water purification equipment. The Expeditionary Energy Office, Headquarters, Marine Corps, coordinated the XFOB for input from the servicemembers and suggestions for improvement.

Sgt. Tyler R. Woelmer, announces commands to shooters on the firing line when to engage their targets during table two of the annual rifle range qualification, Jan. 12, 2017, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The Marine Corps revised table two of the marksmanship program October 2016 to increase marksmanship skill and realism in a combat environment. The Corps requires Marines to annually qualify at the range to determine their marksmanship skill. Woelmer, an Ida Township, Michigan, native, is a rifle range pit noncommissioned officer attached with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Sgt. Tyler R. Woelmer, announces commands to shooters on the firing line when to engage their targets during table two of the annual rifle range qualification, Jan. 12, 2017, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The Marine Corps revised table two of the marksmanship program October 2016 to increase marksmanship skill and realism in a combat environment. The Corps requires Marines to annually qualify at the range to determine their marksmanship skill. Woelmer, an Ida Township, Michigan, native, is a rifle range pit noncommissioned officer attached with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Sgt. Gabriel R. McInnis, engineer equipment mechanic with Bulk Fuel Company C, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, poses for a photo after receiving a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., Jan. 7, 2017. McInnis received the medal for his actions in preventing an assault of a family in Tempe, Ariz., Dec. 27, 2016. - Sgt. Gabriel R. McInnis, engineer equipment mechanic with Bulk Fuel Company C, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, poses for a photo after receiving a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., Jan. 7, 2017. McInnis received the medal for his actions in preventing an assault of a family in Tempe, Ariz., Dec. 27, 2016.

An F-35B lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 prepares to take off aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Jan. 9, 2017, as it transits the Pacific en route to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. VMFA-121 is the first operational F-35B squadron in the Marine Corps, with its relocation to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing at Iwakuni. The F-35B was developed to replace the Marine Corps’ F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Harrier and EA- 6B Prowler. The Short Take-off Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft is a true force multiplier. The unique combination of stealth, cutting-edge radar and sensor technology, and electronic warfare systems bring all of the access and lethality capabilities of a fifth-generation fighter, a modern bomber, and an adverse-weather, all-threat environment air support platform. - An F-35B lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 prepares to take off aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Jan. 9, 2017, as it transits the Pacific en route to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. VMFA-121 is the first operational F-35B squadron in the Marine Corps, with its relocation to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing at Iwakuni. The F-35B was developed to replace the Marine Corps’ F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Harrier and EA- 6B Prowler. The Short Take-off Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft is a true force multiplier. The unique combination of stealth, cutting-edge radar and sensor technology, and electronic warfare systems bring all of the access and lethality capabilities of a fifth-generation fighter, a modern bomber, and an adverse-weather, all-threat environment air support platform.

Four U.S. Marines and two Sailors instinctively responded alongside local residents when a vehicle with five passengers fell from the fifth story of a parking garage in Yokosuka, Dec. 31, 2016. Once the Marines arrived on scene, the group collectively flipped the car in order to remove the passengers prior to Japanese Emergency Medical Services arriving. The Marines are assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment and forward deployed to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force based in Okinawa, Japan. The Sailors are assigned to Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka. Pictured left to right: Petty Officer 1st Class Garrett Osborne, Lance Cpl. James Flores, Lance Cpl. Manaure Arellano, Pfc. Jacob Boerner, Lance Cpl. Raheem Gilliam and Petty Officer 2nd Class Derhon Finch. - Four U.S. Marines and two Sailors instinctively responded alongside local residents when a vehicle with five passengers fell from the fifth story of a parking garage in Yokosuka, Dec. 31, 2016. Once the Marines arrived on scene, the group collectively flipped the car in order to remove the passengers prior to Japanese Emergency Medical Services arriving. The Marines are assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment and forward deployed to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force based in Okinawa, Japan. The Sailors are assigned to Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka. Pictured left to right: Petty Officer 1st Class Garrett Osborne, Lance Cpl. James Flores, Lance Cpl. Manaure Arellano, Pfc. Jacob Boerner, Lance Cpl. Raheem Gilliam and Petty Officer 2nd Class Derhon Finch.

1st Lt. Conor Campbell, a theater security cooperation team leader with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, hands a certificate to a Gabonese Armed Forces solider during a graduation ceremony at Camp Mokekou, Gabon, Dec. 8, 2016. Marines trained together with the Gabonese Agency for National Parks and Gabonese Armed Forces to help combat illicit trafficking in the region. - 1st Lt. Conor Campbell, a theater security cooperation team leader with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, hands a certificate to a Gabonese Armed Forces solider during a graduation ceremony at Camp Mokekou, Gabon, Dec. 8, 2016. Marines trained together with the Gabonese Agency for National Parks and Gabonese Armed Forces to help combat illicit trafficking in the region.

Master Sgt. Clifford Farmer, shown here during a 2010 deployment to Afghanistan, has four combat tours under his belt and years of experience as an explosive ordnance disposal technician. Today, he battles post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, and urges leaders across the Marine Corps to show understanding and compassion for Marines who may be suffering. - Master Sgt. Clifford Farmer, shown here during a 2010 deployment to Afghanistan, has four combat tours under his belt and years of experience as an explosive ordnance disposal technician. Today, he battles post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, and urges leaders across the Marine Corps to show understanding and compassion for Marines who may be suffering.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. James Wellons, commanding officer of Marine Aviation Weapons, and Tactics Squadron One, left, and U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Casey Nelson, an MV-22B Osprey pilot for MAWTS-1, display Maj. Nelson's 2015 exceptional pilot award alongside U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Nicholas (Ret.) Kehoe at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Jan. 4, 2017. The Exceptional Pilot Award recognizes one pilot from each branch for exceptional service which Maj. Nelson displayed by directing and coordinating a humanitarian aid mission in Nepal after being hit with earthquakes. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. James Wellons, commanding officer of Marine Aviation Weapons, and Tactics Squadron One, left, and U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Casey Nelson, an MV-22B Osprey pilot for MAWTS-1, display Maj. Nelson's 2015 exceptional pilot award alongside U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Nicholas (Ret.) Kehoe at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Jan. 4, 2017. The Exceptional Pilot Award recognizes one pilot from each branch for exceptional service which Maj. Nelson displayed by directing and coordinating a humanitarian aid mission in Nepal after being hit with earthquakes.

Retired 1st Lt. John J. O’Leary, a Marine veteran of World War II, looks at pictures on his dresser at the Evergreen Community of Johnson County, Olathe, Kan., Dec. 21, 2016. O’Leary fought on Guam and witnessed the bombardment of Iwo Jima as a member of 3rd Joint Assault Signal Company. He celebrated his 100th birthday on Dec. 23. - Retired 1st Lt. John J. O’Leary, a Marine veteran of World War II, looks at pictures on his dresser at the Evergreen Community of Johnson County, Olathe, Kan., Dec. 21, 2016. O’Leary fought on Guam and witnessed the bombardment of Iwo Jima as a member of 3rd Joint Assault Signal Company. He celebrated his 100th birthday on Dec. 23.

Marines craft together a detonation cord linear charge for an urban assault breaching range during a deployment for training exercise at Fort Pickett, Va., Dec. 8, 2016. The training gave the Marines an opportunity to practice making and applying donut charges, oval charges and uli knot slider charges. The Marines are with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. - Marines craft together a detonation cord linear charge for an urban assault breaching range during a deployment for training exercise at Fort Pickett, Va., Dec. 8, 2016. The training gave the Marines an opportunity to practice making and applying donut charges, oval charges and uli knot slider charges. The Marines are with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. George Price, an Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team instructor with Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment Bravo, directs a KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 during a landing as part of aircraft landing zone training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 21, 2016. The training allows the Marines to gain experience, practice constructing an expeditionary airfield, and complete training and readiness requirements. The MMT Marines conduct this training every three to six months to refine the Marines’ skills, keeping them ready for expeditionary operations while in a garrison environment. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. George Price, an Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team instructor with Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment Bravo, directs a KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 during a landing as part of aircraft landing zone training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 21, 2016. The training allows the Marines to gain experience, practice constructing an expeditionary airfield, and complete training and readiness requirements. The MMT Marines conduct this training every three to six months to refine the Marines’ skills, keeping them ready for expeditionary operations while in a garrison environment.

U.S. Marine MV-22 Ospreys, assigned to the Ridge Runners of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 163, prepare to takeoff from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island in support of a helo-borne raid during Exercise Alligator Dagger, in the Gulf of Aden, Dec. 21, 2016. The unilateral exercise provides an opportunity for the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit to train in amphibious operations within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. The 11th MEU is currently supporting U.S. 5th Fleet’s mission to promote and maintain stability and security in the region. - U.S. Marine MV-22 Ospreys, assigned to the Ridge Runners of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 163, prepare to takeoff from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island in support of a helo-borne raid during Exercise Alligator Dagger, in the Gulf of Aden, Dec. 21, 2016. The unilateral exercise provides an opportunity for the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit to train in amphibious operations within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. The 11th MEU is currently supporting U.S. 5th Fleet’s mission to promote and maintain stability and security in the region.

U.S. Marines completed Exercise Platinum Lion 17.1, conducting multiple training operations alongside eight partner nations from the Black Sea and Caucasus regions in Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, 12 Dec. to 21 Dec., 2016, to improve interoperability and tactical strength amongst NATO partners. - U.S. Marines completed Exercise Platinum Lion 17.1, conducting multiple training operations alongside eight partner nations from the Black Sea and Caucasus regions in Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, 12 Dec. to 21 Dec., 2016, to improve interoperability and tactical strength amongst NATO partners.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. George Price, an Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team instructor with Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment Bravo, directs a KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 during a landing as part of aircraft landing zone training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 21, 2016. The training allows the Marines to gain experience, practice constructing an expeditionary airfield, and complete training and readiness requirements. The MMT Marines conduct this training every three to six months to refine the Marines’ skills, keeping them ready for expeditionary operations while in a garrison environment. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. George Price, an Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team instructor with Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment Bravo, directs a KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 during a landing as part of aircraft landing zone training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 21, 2016. The training allows the Marines to gain experience, practice constructing an expeditionary airfield, and complete training and readiness requirements. The MMT Marines conduct this training every three to six months to refine the Marines’ skills, keeping them ready for expeditionary operations while in a garrison environment.

Col. Jeffrey J. Kenney, center, poses for a photo with his wife Lori Kenney, left, and mother Carmela Kenney, right, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 8, 2016. Kenney has served in the Marine Corps for 41 years and is scheduled to retire Dec. 21, 2016. Kenney is currently the officer-in-charge of Expeditionary Operations Training Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group. - Col. Jeffrey J. Kenney, center, poses for a photo with his wife Lori Kenney, left, and mother Carmela Kenney, right, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 8, 2016. Kenney has served in the Marine Corps for 41 years and is scheduled to retire Dec. 21, 2016. Kenney is currently the officer-in-charge of Expeditionary Operations Training Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group.

This fiscal year Marines will receive smart phones that make calling for fire support easier, quicker and more accurate. The Target Handoff System Version 2, or THS V.2, is a portable system designed for use by dismounted Marines to locate targets, pinpoint global positioning coordinates and call for close air, artillery and naval fire support using secure digital communications. - This fiscal year Marines will receive smart phones that make calling for fire support easier, quicker and more accurate. The Target Handoff System Version 2, or THS V.2, is a portable system designed for use by dismounted Marines to locate targets, pinpoint global positioning coordinates and call for close air, artillery and naval fire support using secure digital communications.

Capt. Huy Truong, the assistant operations officer for 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, relays information from the joint fires observer to his Marines providing security on the decks of USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) during a simulated straight transit to rehearse a defense of the amphibious task force mission during Amphibious Ready Group Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise Dec. 13, 2016. During the three-week training evolution, Marines will tackle a wide range of operations and scenarios enhancing interoperability and amphibious warfare capabilities with their Navy counterparts. The additional firepower Marines provide improves the Navy-Marine Corps team’s ability to defend the naval vessels of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group. - Capt. Huy Truong, the assistant operations officer for 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, relays information from the joint fires observer to his Marines providing security on the decks of USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) during a simulated straight transit to rehearse a defense of the amphibious task force mission during Amphibious Ready Group Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise Dec. 13, 2016. During the three-week training evolution, Marines will tackle a wide range of operations and scenarios enhancing interoperability and amphibious warfare capabilities with their Navy counterparts. The additional firepower Marines provide improves the Navy-Marine Corps team’s ability to defend the naval vessels of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group.

Marines participate in tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel training mission in conjunction with a deployment for training exercise with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 6. The purpose of the training is to ensure the Marines are able to employ the skills needed to respond to recover personnel, aircraft or sensitive material. - Marines participate in tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel training mission in conjunction with a deployment for training exercise with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 6. The purpose of the training is to ensure the Marines are able to employ the skills needed to respond to recover personnel, aircraft or sensitive material.

Pfc. Michael R. Campbell (right) and Pfc. Joseph A. Glance II (left) perform clearing operations through the Urban Assault Course during a deployment for training exercise at Fort Pickett, Va., Dec. 2, 2016. The Marines enhanced their skills as infantrymen while conducting the UAC training. Campbell and Glance are motormen with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. - Pfc. Michael R. Campbell (right) and Pfc. Joseph A. Glance II (left) perform clearing operations through the Urban Assault Course during a deployment for training exercise at Fort Pickett, Va., Dec. 2, 2016. The Marines enhanced their skills as infantrymen while conducting the UAC training. Campbell and Glance are motormen with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.

1st Lt. Laura Derouin, platoon commander, Landing Support Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observes landing support specialists connect a load to a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st MEU, as part of external lift operations training at Landing Zone Falcon, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 8, 2016. The units conducted the training to complete qualifications for the 31st MEU's upcoming spring deployment. As the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed unit, the 31st MEU air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. - 1st Lt. Laura Derouin, platoon commander, Landing Support Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observes landing support specialists connect a load to a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st MEU, as part of external lift operations training at Landing Zone Falcon, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 8, 2016. The units conducted the training to complete qualifications for the 31st MEU's upcoming spring deployment. As the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed unit, the 31st MEU air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Sgt. Angie Novoa, a warehouse chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, organizes a shelf in her warehouse on Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, Oct. 28, 2016. Novoa was awarded the non-commissioned officer of the quarter for her exemplary work in and out of the supply shop while deployed with SPMAGTF-CR-AF. - Sgt. Angie Novoa, a warehouse chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, organizes a shelf in her warehouse on Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, Oct. 28, 2016. Novoa was awarded the non-commissioned officer of the quarter for her exemplary work in and out of the supply shop while deployed with SPMAGTF-CR-AF.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Rusty Mongold, a machinist with Engineer Maintenance Company, 1st Maintenance Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, cuts a piece of metal using the Computer Numerical Control during exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 8, 2016. Steel Knight 2017 is a 1st Marine Division-led exercise that exposes Marines and Sailors to skill sets necessary to operate as a fully capable Marine air ground task force. Mongold is from Port Arthur, Texas. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Rusty Mongold, a machinist with Engineer Maintenance Company, 1st Maintenance Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, cuts a piece of metal using the Computer Numerical Control during exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 8, 2016. Steel Knight 2017 is a 1st Marine Division-led exercise that exposes Marines and Sailors to skill sets necessary to operate as a fully capable Marine air ground task force. Mongold is from Port Arthur, Texas.

Marines engage an armed objective during a room-clearing exercise at Advanced Interior Tactics training aboard Naval Support Activity Northwest Annex in Chesapeake, Va., Dec. 7. During the course, Marines were taught to identify the hands of an individual to determine whether or not they posed a threat, in order to control the scene and conduct thorough house clearings. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Kayla D. Rivera/ Released) - Marines engage an armed objective during a room-clearing exercise at Advanced Interior Tactics training aboard Naval Support Activity Northwest Annex in Chesapeake, Va., Dec. 7. During the course, Marines were taught to identify the hands of an individual to determine whether or not they posed a threat, in order to control the scene and conduct thorough house clearings. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Kayla D. Rivera/ Released)

Marines assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing fill sand bags during a field exercise aboard Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Nov. 30, 2016. MWSS-271 conducted a two-week field exercise that focused on maintaining the squadron’s expeditionary mindset and included an evaluation by the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation system. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. N.W. Huertas/ Released) - Marines assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing fill sand bags during a field exercise aboard Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Nov. 30, 2016. MWSS-271 conducted a two-week field exercise that focused on maintaining the squadron’s expeditionary mindset and included an evaluation by the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation system. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. N.W. Huertas/ Released)

Cpl. Andrew Bastian, a heavy equipment advisor with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, stands on the berm a soldier with the Uganda People’s Defense Force creates with a bulldozer at Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 16, 2016. Marines with SPMAGTF-CR-AF taught classes and participated in practical application exercises with UPDF soldiers during the nine-week training mission. - Cpl. Andrew Bastian, a heavy equipment advisor with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, stands on the berm a soldier with the Uganda People’s Defense Force creates with a bulldozer at Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 16, 2016. Marines with SPMAGTF-CR-AF taught classes and participated in practical application exercises with UPDF soldiers during the nine-week training mission.

A crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 364 watches as an MV-22B Osprey follows behind their aircraft during exercise Seahorse Wind on Dec. 6. Exercise Seahorse Wind was a long-range raid exercise conducted by over 600 Marines with the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and the 1st Marine Division. - A crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 364 watches as an MV-22B Osprey follows behind their aircraft during exercise Seahorse Wind on Dec. 6. Exercise Seahorse Wind was a long-range raid exercise conducted by over 600 Marines with the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and the 1st Marine Division.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

Marines with 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, display the Ground Renewable Expeditionary Electronics Network System during the Energy Capability Exercise, in alignment with the Great Green Fleet initiative, at Camp Wilson aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 6, 2016. - Marines with 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, display the Ground Renewable Expeditionary Electronics Network System during the Energy Capability Exercise, in alignment with the Great Green Fleet initiative, at Camp Wilson aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 6, 2016.