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Alison Malachowski holds a photograph of her son, U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. James Malachowski, in front of his grave in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery, July 22, 2015. Staff Sgt. Malachowski was with the 2nd Battalion of the 8th Marines when he stepped on an improvised explosive device during his fourth combat deployment on March 20, 2011, while his unit was raising the Afghanistan national flag over a small compound near Patrol Base Dakota in Marjah Province. "He died a terrible, painful death," said Alison. "But he did not scream or cry and I know why - it was so he wouldn't frighten his guys. I know I sound like just another grieving mother - but he was one of those Marines; if a platoon wasn't doing well they'd assign him to straighten things out. His last words were, 'Is everyone OK?' He was all about taking care of his men." (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Ken Scar) - Alison Malachowski holds a photograph of her son, U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. James Malachowski, in front of his grave in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery, July 22, 2015. Staff Sgt. Malachowski was with the 2nd Battalion of the 8th Marines when he stepped on an improvised explosive device during his fourth combat deployment on March 20, 2011, while his unit was raising the Afghanistan national flag over a small compound near Patrol Base Dakota in Marjah Province. "He died a terrible, painful death," said Alison. "But he did not scream or cry and I know why - it was so he wouldn't frighten his guys. I know I sound like just another grieving mother - but he was one of those Marines; if a platoon wasn't doing well they'd assign him to straighten things out. His last words were, 'Is everyone OK?' He was all about taking care of his men." (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Ken Scar)

U.S. Marines stand in front of the boat they used to help rescue a father and son on the Potomac River in Nanjemoy, Maryland, June 14. - U.S. Marines stand in front of the boat they used to help rescue a father and son on the Potomac River in Nanjemoy, Maryland, June 14.

A CH-46E Sea Knight taxis through the streams of two fire engines on Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico July 16, 2014. It is customary among squadrons to douse an aircraft before it’s final flight with the squadron. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Terry Brady/Released) - A CH-46E Sea Knight taxis through the streams of two fire engines on Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico July 16, 2014. It is customary among squadrons to douse an aircraft before it’s final flight with the squadron. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Terry Brady/Released)

Lance Cpl. Taylor Drake, a combat engineer with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Company, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, prepares for breaching and room clearing drills aT Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 8, 2015. Drake, a Phoenix native, joined the Marine Corps to carry on the legacy of his family. - Lance Cpl. Taylor Drake, a combat engineer with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Company, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, prepares for breaching and room clearing drills aT Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 8, 2015. Drake, a Phoenix native, joined the Marine Corps to carry on the legacy of his family.

U.S. Marines prepare to fire an M777 Howitzer during exercise KAMANDAG 3 at Colonel Ernesto P. Ravina Air Base, Philippines, Oct. 13. - U.S. Marines prepare to fire an M777 Howitzer during exercise KAMANDAG 3 at Colonel Ernesto P. Ravina Air Base, Philippines, Oct. 13.

Philippine Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Bimbo R. Busico explains how to make a snare out of the surrounding environment during jungle survival training at Ternate, Philippines, Sept. 29, as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. The Marines learned basic jungle survival skills, such as building a fire, finding sources of fresh water and catching food. - Philippine Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Bimbo R. Busico explains how to make a snare out of the surrounding environment during jungle survival training at Ternate, Philippines, Sept. 29, as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. The Marines learned basic jungle survival skills, such as building a fire, finding sources of fresh water and catching food.

Philippine and U.S. Marines simulate a beach landing from combat rubber raiding crafts onto a small island off the coast of Palawan, Philippines, Oct. 2, 2014 during Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. The amphibious assault and boat raids were conducted by U.S. Marines to complete a certification exercise being held in conjunction with PHIBLEX 15. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. The AFP Marines are with 12th Marine Battalion, Philippine Marine Corps, and the U.S. Marines are with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Philippine and U.S. Marines simulate a beach landing from combat rubber raiding crafts onto a small island off the coast of Palawan, Philippines, Oct. 2, 2014 during Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. The amphibious assault and boat raids were conducted by U.S. Marines to complete a certification exercise being held in conjunction with PHIBLEX 15. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. The AFP Marines are with 12th Marine Battalion, Philippine Marine Corps, and the U.S. Marines are with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 174, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing and Philippine Engineers with the 357th Air Engineering Squadron members pose for a team photo during Exercise Balikatan 25 at the Barangay Dagupan Multipurpose Gymnasium, Lal-lo, Cagayan, Philippines, April 8, 2025. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 174, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing and Philippine Engineers with the 357th Air Engineering Squadron members pose for a team photo during Exercise Balikatan 25 at the Barangay Dagupan Multipurpose Gymnasium, Lal-lo, Cagayan, Philippines, April 8, 2025. Balikatan is a longstanding annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military designed to strengthen our ironclad alliance, improve our capable combined force and demonstrate our commitment to regional security and stability (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Roger- Junior Annoh)

1st Lt. William D. Comiskey (left) with brother Barrett O. Comiskey, sister-in-law JoJo and nieces Tara and Sora pose for a photo during a surprise family reunion at a mechanized assault that was part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 here, Oct. 5. Barrett traveled with his family from Taipei, Taiwan to the Philippines to surprise his brother after they had not seen each other for over a year. William is an Amphibious Assault Vehicle platoon commander with Company I, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S Marine and Navy forces. - 1st Lt. William D. Comiskey (left) with brother Barrett O. Comiskey, sister-in-law JoJo and nieces Tara and Sora pose for a photo during a surprise family reunion at a mechanized assault that was part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 here, Oct. 5. Barrett traveled with his family from Taipei, Taiwan to the Philippines to surprise his brother after they had not seen each other for over a year. William is an Amphibious Assault Vehicle platoon commander with Company I, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S Marine and Navy forces.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Mitchell Kokoruda places a claymore mine during demolition training at Crow Valley, Philippines, Oct. 2, 2015. The Philippine Marines and the U.S. Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducted the side-by-side training as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015, a bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marine and Navy forces. PHIBLEX focuses on strengthening the relationship between the two nations across a range of military operations, including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Mitchell Kokoruda places a claymore mine during demolition training at Crow Valley, Philippines, Oct. 2, 2015. The Philippine Marines and the U.S. Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducted the side-by-side training as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015, a bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marine and Navy forces. PHIBLEX focuses on strengthening the relationship between the two nations across a range of military operations, including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations.

Philippine and U.S. Marines assault their objective during a mechanized assault as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 at Naval Education Training Command, Zambales, Luzon, Philippines, Oct. 5. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S Marine and Navy forces focused on strengthening the partnership and relationships between the two nations across a range of military operations including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations.. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade. The Philippine Marines are with 4th Marine Company, Battalion Landing Team - 9. - Philippine and U.S. Marines assault their objective during a mechanized assault as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 at Naval Education Training Command, Zambales, Luzon, Philippines, Oct. 5. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S Marine and Navy forces focused on strengthening the partnership and relationships between the two nations across a range of military operations including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations.. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade. The Philippine Marines are with 4th Marine Company, Battalion Landing Team - 9.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Maj. Howard Kreamer, right, talks with Philippine Marine Sgt. Maj. Jamie Ardiente in Puerto Princesa, Palawan Sept. 29 after the opening ceremony for Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. Kreamer is the sergeant major of 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, 3rd MEB, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Ardiente is the 3rd Marine Brigade Sergeant Major, Armed Forces of the Philippines. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Maj. Howard Kreamer, right, talks with Philippine Marine Sgt. Maj. Jamie Ardiente in Puerto Princesa, Palawan Sept. 29 after the opening ceremony for Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. Kreamer is the sergeant major of 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, 3rd MEB, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Ardiente is the 3rd Marine Brigade Sergeant Major, Armed Forces of the Philippines.

U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen speaks during the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 closing ceremony at Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 11, 2016. PHIBLEX is an annual U.S.-Philippine military bilateral exercise that combines amphibious capabilities and live-fire training with humanitarian civic assistance efforts to strengthen interoperability and working relationships. Jansen is the commanding general of 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade. - U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen speaks during the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 closing ceremony at Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 11, 2016. PHIBLEX is an annual U.S.-Philippine military bilateral exercise that combines amphibious capabilities and live-fire training with humanitarian civic assistance efforts to strengthen interoperability and working relationships. Jansen is the commanding general of 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Paul J. Kennedy, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, commanding general, left, speaks with Philippine Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Alexander F. Balutan, Armed Force Philippines, Naval Inspector General, during the opening ceremony for Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (PHIBLEX 15) at the Philippine Marine Corps Base in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 1, 2015. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by U.S. Marine and Navy Forces with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across the range of military operations from disaster relief, to complex expeditionary operations. - U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Paul J. Kennedy, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, commanding general, left, speaks with Philippine Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Alexander F. Balutan, Armed Force Philippines, Naval Inspector General, during the opening ceremony for Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (PHIBLEX 15) at the Philippine Marine Corps Base in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 1, 2015. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by U.S. Marine and Navy Forces with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across the range of military operations from disaster relief, to complex expeditionary operations.

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U.S. Marine Corps Col. Brian Ecarius, the senior representative from U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South, addresses a group of U.S. and partner nation Marines and Sailors during a question and answer portion of a multinational amphibious planning conference to highlight the significance of integration and interoperability with partner nations in Ancon, Peru, July 16, 2021. Amphibious partners from Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Uruguay, and the United States gathered at the newly established International Amphibious Training Center to share experiences, tactics, and lessons learned related to amphibious operations. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Brian Ecarius, the senior representative from U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South, addresses a group of U.S. and partner nation Marines and Sailors during a question and answer portion of a multinational amphibious planning conference to highlight the significance of integration and interoperability with partner nations in Ancon, Peru, July 16, 2021. Amphibious partners from Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Uruguay, and the United States gathered at the newly established International Amphibious Training Center to share experiences, tactics, and lessons learned related to amphibious operations.

Peruvian marines operate amphibious armored vehicles, from ship-to-shore during an amphibious landing as part of UNITAS LXII in Salinas, Peru, Oct. 2, 2021. UNITAS is the world's longest-running maritime exercise. Hosted this year by Peru, it brings together multinational forces from twenty countries and includes 29 ships, four submarines, and twenty aircraft conducting operations off the coast of Lima and in the jungles of Iquitos. The exercise trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations and focuses on strengthening partnerships and increasing interoperability and capability between participating naval and marine forces. - Peruvian marines operate amphibious armored vehicles, from ship-to-shore during an amphibious landing as part of UNITAS LXII in Salinas, Peru, Oct. 2, 2021. UNITAS is the world's longest-running maritime exercise. Hosted this year by Peru, it brings together multinational forces from twenty countries and includes 29 ships, four submarines, and twenty aircraft conducting operations off the coast of Lima and in the jungles of Iquitos. The exercise trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations and focuses on strengthening partnerships and increasing interoperability and capability between participating naval and marine forces.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Marine Division and III Marine Expeditionary Force loads debris onto a USMC 7-ton truck on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Aug. 7, 2023. Typhoon Khanun moved through Okinawa as a category 4 hurricane equivalent storm, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and high waves, marking one of the strongest storms to affect the island in recent years. Immediately after the storm, crews from across Marine Corps Installation Pacific and III MEF began assessing damage and initiating repair work to ensure the Marines on Okinawa remain operationally ready. - U.S. Marines with 3rd Marine Division and III Marine Expeditionary Force loads debris onto a USMC 7-ton truck on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Aug. 7, 2023. Typhoon Khanun moved through Okinawa as a category 4 hurricane equivalent storm, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and high waves, marking one of the strongest storms to affect the island in recent years. Immediately after the storm, crews from across Marine Corps Installation Pacific and III MEF began assessing damage and initiating repair work to ensure the Marines on Okinawa remain operationally ready.

Cpl. Aaron Rayburn speaks to Marines during a water survival advanced course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 25, 2016. Rayburn, originally an air framer with Marine Transport Squadron 1, volunteered to become a search and rescue swimmer with the squadron. After the search and rescue mission for VMR-1 ended, he took his aquatic skills and applied them as a Marine Combat Instructor of Water Survival. Rayburn is a MCIWS with VMR-1. - Cpl. Aaron Rayburn speaks to Marines during a water survival advanced course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 25, 2016. Rayburn, originally an air framer with Marine Transport Squadron 1, volunteered to become a search and rescue swimmer with the squadron. After the search and rescue mission for VMR-1 ended, he took his aquatic skills and applied them as a Marine Combat Instructor of Water Survival. Rayburn is a MCIWS with VMR-1.

Cynthia Gregory, a runner in the marathon, finishes the 40th Marine Corps Marathon Oct. 25 at the Iwo Jima Memorial in Arlington, Va. Gregory finished the 26.2 miles in seven hours, seven minutes and 21 seconds and ranked 427th in her division. - Cynthia Gregory, a runner in the marathon, finishes the 40th Marine Corps Marathon Oct. 25 at the Iwo Jima Memorial in Arlington, Va. Gregory finished the 26.2 miles in seven hours, seven minutes and 21 seconds and ranked 427th in her division.

Gear from Camp Pendleton Fire Department’s Swift-Water Rescue Team is laid out at the 22 Area fire department on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 17. - Gear from Camp Pendleton Fire Department’s Swift-Water Rescue Team is laid out at the 22 Area fire department on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 17.

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Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services contract personnel prepare to load lead acid batteries onto a truck for removal from MCB Camp Pendleton in California in December. A hazardous waste sales contract managed by DLA helped the base avoid disposal costs on almost 325,000 pounds of batteries during fiscal 2022. - Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services contract personnel prepare to load lead acid batteries onto a truck for removal from MCB Camp Pendleton in California in December. A hazardous waste sales contract managed by DLA helped the base avoid disposal costs on almost 325,000 pounds of batteries during fiscal 2022.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Alexandra Nowak, an administrative specialist with Alpha Company, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, listens to Brig. Gen. Dan Conley, the commanding general for MCI-West, MCB Camp Pendleton, speak after he awarded her the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal on Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 6, 2019. Nowak received the award for her actions to save a family after a car crash on Interstate Highway 15. Nowak is a native of Forney, Texas. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Alexandra Nowak, an administrative specialist with Alpha Company, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, listens to Brig. Gen. Dan Conley, the commanding general for MCI-West, MCB Camp Pendleton, speak after he awarded her the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal on Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 6, 2019. Nowak received the award for her actions to save a family after a car crash on Interstate Highway 15. Nowak is a native of Forney, Texas.

U.S. Marines with Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch, Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity, drive a new Amphibious Combat Vehicle ashore during low-light surf transit testing at AVTB Beach on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 18. - U.S. Marines with Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch, Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity, drive a new Amphibious Combat Vehicle ashore during low-light surf transit testing at AVTB Beach on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 18.

The Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Color Guard presents the colors during a wreath laying ceremony for the 109th anniversary of President Ronald Reagan’s birthday at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, Feb. 6. - The Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Color Guard presents the colors during a wreath laying ceremony for the 109th anniversary of President Ronald Reagan’s birthday at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, Feb. 6.

U.S. Marine Gunnery Sgt. Kyle Wetter, the staff noncommissioned officer in charge for the marksmanship training division with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, spends time with the Hurley family after an award ceremony on Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 30, 2022. Wetter was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for the heroism he displayed in December 2020 after he saw the Hurley’s car burst into flames on the side of a road during his drive home. Wetter climbed into the backseat of the burning car and used a pocket knife to free a child from her car seat. - U.S. Marine Gunnery Sgt. Kyle Wetter, the staff noncommissioned officer in charge for the marksmanship training division with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, spends time with the Hurley family after an award ceremony on Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 30, 2022. Wetter was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for the heroism he displayed in December 2020 after he saw the Hurley’s car burst into flames on the side of a road during his drive home. Wetter climbed into the backseat of the burning car and used a pocket knife to free a child from her car seat.

A firefighter feeds a prescribed burn in the Juliet Training Area on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 23. - A firefighter feeds a prescribed burn in the Juliet Training Area on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 23.

Firefighters initiate prescribed burns at Ranges 108 and 109 on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 12. - Firefighters initiate prescribed burns at Ranges 108 and 109 on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 12.

A platoon of U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, MRF-D, sit with their gear inside of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during a refueling and transport operation May 22 at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. Two CH-53Es picked up and transported approximately 140 Marines from Robertson Barracks to MBTA to begin Exercise Predator Walk. The exercise is a three-week bilateral training evolution with the Australian Army and enables Marines to become familiar with and improve their knowledge of the Australians’ technical and tactical procedures and standard operating procedures to strengthen interoperability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released) - A platoon of U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, MRF-D, sit with their gear inside of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during a refueling and transport operation May 22 at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. Two CH-53Es picked up and transported approximately 140 Marines from Robertson Barracks to MBTA to begin Exercise Predator Walk. The exercise is a three-week bilateral training evolution with the Australian Army and enables Marines to become familiar with and improve their knowledge of the Australians’ technical and tactical procedures and standard operating procedures to strengthen interoperability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released)

Marines with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, Improved Ribbon Bridge Platoon check in with the safety boat while taking part in a Zodiac operator’s course aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 19, 2015. This course was a brief instruction on maintaining, handling and basic maneuverability and safety with the Zodiac. (U.S. Marine Corps Video illustration by Lance Cpl. Preston McDonald/Released) - Marines with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, Improved Ribbon Bridge Platoon check in with the safety boat while taking part in a Zodiac operator’s course aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 19, 2015. This course was a brief instruction on maintaining, handling and basic maneuverability and safety with the Zodiac. (U.S. Marine Corps Video illustration by Lance Cpl. Preston McDonald/Released)

U.S. Marine veteran John Campbell, a World War II pilot and Pearl Harbor survivor awaits his lunch during a Veterans Day Luncheon at La Vida Del Mar in Solana Beach, California, Dec. 6, 2019.Campbell was present during the Pearl Harbor bombing and was recognized during the luncheon as being the oldest Pearl Harbor survivor in San Diego county. - U.S. Marine veteran John Campbell, a World War II pilot and Pearl Harbor survivor awaits his lunch during a Veterans Day Luncheon at La Vida Del Mar in Solana Beach, California, Dec. 6, 2019.Campbell was present during the Pearl Harbor bombing and was recognized during the luncheon as being the oldest Pearl Harbor survivor in San Diego county.

Irv Jennings, a 91-year-old resident of Veterans Home of California Barstow, explains the various medals, citations and awards he earned during the most destructive conflict in human history. He served aboard the destroyer USS Case, which supported the attack on the island of Iwo Jima. Jennings also helped build the airfield that launched the Enola Gay, the bomber that dropped the first and only atomic bomb used in modern warfare. - Irv Jennings, a 91-year-old resident of Veterans Home of California Barstow, explains the various medals, citations and awards he earned during the most destructive conflict in human history. He served aboard the destroyer USS Case, which supported the attack on the island of Iwo Jima. Jennings also helped build the airfield that launched the Enola Gay, the bomber that dropped the first and only atomic bomb used in modern warfare.

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum "Flight School" summer camp students pose for a group photo at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, July 11, 2023. VMM-268 partnered with the summer camp to introduce middle school students to the aviation career field and enhance community relations. - U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum "Flight School" summer camp students pose for a group photo at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, July 11, 2023. VMM-268 partnered with the summer camp to introduce middle school students to the aviation career field and enhance community relations.

Cpl. Lexus Martinez, Marine Corps Installations Pacific Food Service Specialist of the Quarter, prepares to serve chow. - Cpl. Lexus Martinez, Marine Corps Installations Pacific Food Service Specialist of the Quarter, prepares to serve chow to Marines and Sailors at the Camp Kinser Mess Hall, Okinawa, Japan March 20, 2018. Martinez says that making food helps her keep her mind in a positive state. The Brooklyn native said she and her family lived a rough life and were even homeless at times. “Making food is music to me,” Martinez said. “It helps me realize exactly how far I’ve come from the bad times in my life, and I realize that I am blessed to be standing here today.” According to her, the help she received from friends, family and strangers during the worst times in her childhood inspired her to spend her life giving back to others. Martinez is a food service specialist with Headquarters Company, 3rd Marine Logistics Group.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 373 and other volunteers set up tents for the Veterans Village of San Diego’s Homeless Veteran Stand Down at San Diego High School in San Diego, July 19. The Veterans Village of San Diego hosted the Homeless Veteran Stand Down to support homeless veterans by giving them a place to stay and providing services such as medical care, dental care, legal assistance, haircuts and food for three days. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jake McClung/ Released) - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 373 and other volunteers set up tents for the Veterans Village of San Diego’s Homeless Veteran Stand Down at San Diego High School in San Diego, July 19. The Veterans Village of San Diego hosted the Homeless Veteran Stand Down to support homeless veterans by giving them a place to stay and providing services such as medical care, dental care, legal assistance, haircuts and food for three days. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jake McClung/ Released)

U.S. Navy Seaman Barry Sullivan, corpsman, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, Task Force Al Asad, demonstrates to Iraqi soldiers the proper way to evaluate and move a notional casualty after an Improvised Explosive Device detonation at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 18, 2015. Coalition forces are facilitating training in the Build Partnership Capacity program designed to equip Iraqi army units with the training and knowledge necessary to degrade and defeat Daesh in Iraq. - U.S. Navy Seaman Barry Sullivan, corpsman, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, Task Force Al Asad, demonstrates to Iraqi soldiers the proper way to evaluate and move a notional casualty after an Improvised Explosive Device detonation at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 18, 2015. Coalition forces are facilitating training in the Build Partnership Capacity program designed to equip Iraqi army units with the training and knowledge necessary to degrade and defeat Daesh in Iraq.

Benin National Surveillance Police commemorated the Sept. 11, 2001, anniversary attacks with U.S. Marines and sailors at the National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin, today. The Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa are in Benin for a month-long training mission with the National Surveillance Police to help counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders. During a break in the training, NPS students stood alongside Marines and sailors in formation for a brief ceremony to remember the day when more than 3,000 lives perished from the heinous terrorist attack. The ceremony began with the playing of taps, followed by three smoke cans, releasing colors of the Benin flag, symbolizing the partnership between the U.S. and Benin. - Benin National Surveillance Police commemorated the Sept. 11, 2001, anniversary attacks with U.S. Marines and sailors at the National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin, today. The Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa are in Benin for a month-long training mission with the National Surveillance Police to help counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders. During a break in the training, NPS students stood alongside Marines and sailors in formation for a brief ceremony to remember the day when more than 3,000 lives perished from the heinous terrorist attack. The ceremony began with the playing of taps, followed by three smoke cans, releasing colors of the Benin flag, symbolizing the partnership between the U.S. and Benin.

Marine Corps Installations Command logo - Marine Corps Installations Command logo

U.S. Marines pose for a selfie with Marine Corps veterans during the “Once a Marine, Always a Marine” formation in Times Square as a part of Fleet Week New York (FWNY) 2024, May 22, 2024. FWNY, now in its 36th year, is a time-honored celebration of the sea services that brings the citizens of New York City and the surrounding tri-state area together with Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen. Throughout the week, participants can tour ships, experience military static displays, and see drill and musical performances that showcase the expertise, excellence, and patriotism of America’s maritime services. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Sarah Pysher) - U.S. Marines pose for a selfie with Marine Corps veterans during the “Once a Marine, Always a Marine” formation in Times Square as a part of Fleet Week New York (FWNY) 2024, May 22, 2024. FWNY, now in its 36th year, is a time-honored celebration of the sea services that brings the citizens of New York City and the surrounding tri-state area together with Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen. Throughout the week, participants can tour ships, experience military static displays, and see drill and musical performances that showcase the expertise, excellence, and patriotism of America’s maritime services. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Sarah Pysher)

Gunnery Sgt. Gabriel Guest, a single leg amputee (Left), and Sgt. Michael Pride, an assistant coach for track (right), reunite after seven years at the 2015 Marine Corps Trials aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 2015. - Gunnery Sgt. Gabriel Guest, a single leg amputee (Left), and Sgt. Michael Pride, an assistant coach for track (right), reunite after seven years at the 2015 Marine Corps Trials aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 2015.

Maj. Gen. Brian Beaudreault, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Division, thanks the Second Marine Division Association for being present to celebrate the unit’s birthday with the Marines of the division aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Beaudreault talked about what it meant to be in the unit, and how he was honored to be a part of the unit as they celebrate their past and future together. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Dalton Precht/Released) - Maj. Gen. Brian Beaudreault, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Division, thanks the Second Marine Division Association for being present to celebrate the unit’s birthday with the Marines of the division aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Beaudreault talked about what it meant to be in the unit, and how he was honored to be a part of the unit as they celebrate their past and future together. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Dalton Precht/Released)

Maj. Gen. Walter L. Miller, Jr. gives a speech during II Marine Expeditionary Force’s relief, appointment, and retirement ceremony at Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 14, 2017. During the ceremony, Miller relinquished his post as commanding general of II MEF to Lt. Gen. Robert F. Hedelund as the commanding general of II MEF. - Maj. Gen. Walter L. Miller, Jr. gives a speech during II Marine Expeditionary Force’s relief, appointment, and retirement ceremony at Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 14, 2017. During the ceremony, Miller relinquished his post as commanding general of II MEF to Lt. Gen. Robert F. Hedelund as the commanding general of II MEF.

Appearing in authentic 1945-1948 Marine Corps dress blues with original regalia, 96-year-old World War II veteran and Marine Raider Cpl. Leonard B. Turner, oldest Marine present, stands next to 19-year-old Pfc. Ivan K. Lopez, the youngest Marine present, during the Marine Forces Special Operations Command’s 244th Marine Corps Birthday Ball in Wilmington, N.C., Nov. 2, 2019. Every year, each Marine Corps unit comes together and hosts a Marine Corps Birthday cake cutting to celebrate one more year since the birth of their Corps. This celebration is an event that brings together Marines, old and young - enlisted and retired, and allows them to celebrate their commitment and dedication to the Marine Corps and strengthen their camaraderie and organizational esprit de corps. This connection between the past and present can be seen throughout many traditions during the Marine Corps ball and is the foundation of this event each year. One such tradition is the passing of birthday cake from the oldest Marine to the youngest Marine, which represents the passing of experience and knowledge from older generations to the newest generation of Marines. The birthday cake is traditionally cut with the Mameluke sword, to honor Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon’s assault of Derna, Tripoli in 1805, as a reminder that Marines are a band of warriors, committed to carrying the sword, so that the nation may live in peace. - Appearing in authentic 1945-1948 Marine Corps dress blues with original regalia, 96-year-old World War II veteran and Marine Raider Cpl. Leonard B. Turner, oldest Marine present, stands next to 19-year-old Pfc. Ivan K. Lopez, the youngest Marine present, during the Marine Forces Special Operations Command’s 244th Marine Corps Birthday Ball in Wilmington, N.C., Nov. 2, 2019. Every year, each Marine Corps unit comes together and hosts a Marine Corps Birthday cake cutting to celebrate one more year since the birth of their Corps. This celebration is an event that brings together Marines, old and young - enlisted and retired, and allows them to celebrate their commitment and dedication to the Marine Corps and strengthen their camaraderie and organizational esprit de corps. This connection between the past and present can be seen throughout many traditions during the Marine Corps ball and is the foundation of this event each year. One such tradition is the passing of birthday cake from the oldest Marine to the youngest Marine, which represents the passing of experience and knowledge from older generations to the newest generation of Marines. The birthday cake is traditionally cut with the Mameluke sword, to honor Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon’s assault of Derna, Tripoli in 1805, as a reminder that Marines are a band of warriors, committed to carrying the sword, so that the nation may live in peace.

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.

Gen. James F. Amos, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, passes the colors to Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., during the change of command and subsequent retirement ceremony Oct. 17, 2014 at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, at 8th & I. After more than 44 years of military service, Amos passed the duties as senior-ranking officer of the Marine Corps to Dunford, who has now become the 36th Commandant of the Marine Corps. - Gen. James F. Amos, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, passes the colors to Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., during the change of command and subsequent retirement ceremony Oct. 17, 2014 at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C. After more than 44 years of military service, Amos passed the duties as senior-ranking officer of the Marine Corps to Dunford, who has now become the 36th Commandant of the Marine Corps.

Gen. Robert B. Neller, the 37th and new Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks during his passage of command ceremony at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, D.C., Sept. 24, 2015. Gen. Dunford relinquished the position to Gen. Robert B. Neller after being confirmed to succeed U.S. Army Gen. Martin Dempsey as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. - Gen. Robert B. Neller, the 37th and new Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks during his passage of command ceremony at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, D.C., Sept. 24, 2015. Gen. Dunford relinquished the position to Gen. Robert B. Neller after being confirmed to succeed U.S. Army Gen. Martin Dempsey as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Participants pose for a photograph during the Medical Senior Leader Symposium in Bangkok, Thailand, during exercise Cobra Gold, Feb. 15, 2017. Cobra Gold, in its 36th iteration, includes a specific focus on humanitarian civic action, community engagement, and medical activities conducted during the exercise to support the needs and humanitarian interests of civilian populations around the region. - Participants pose for a photograph during the Medical Senior Leader Symposium in Bangkok, Thailand, during exercise Cobra Gold, Feb. 15, 2017. Cobra Gold, in its 36th iteration, includes a specific focus on humanitarian civic action, community engagement, and medical activities conducted during the exercise to support the needs and humanitarian interests of civilian populations around the region.

Lance Cpl. Trent Meade, a rifleman with Security Cooperation Team-4, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, instructs a Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando on supporting his buddy during an immediate action practical application exercise led by Marines in Toubacouta, Senegal, Sept. 1, 2015. Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen with SCT-4 are in Senegal training with the COFUMACO on infantry tactics and small-boat operations to continue building a strong relationship between the partner nations and improve the interoperability of the Senegalese military. - Lance Cpl. Trent Meade, a rifleman with Security Cooperation Team-4, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, instructs a Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando on supporting his buddy during an immediate action practical application exercise led by Marines in Toubacouta, Senegal, Sept. 1, 2015. Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen with SCT-4 are in Senegal training with the COFUMACO on infantry tactics and small-boat operations to continue building a strong relationship between the partner nations and improve the interoperability of the Senegalese military.