News

U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Doug Crowder (Ret.) speaks to the participants attending the USPACOM Amphibious Leaders Symposium in San Diego, California, July 11, 2016. PALS brings together senior leaders of allied and partner nations from the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to discuss key aspects of maritime/amphibious operations, capability development, crisis response, and interoperability. Twenty-two allied and partnered nations, including the U.S. are participating. - U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Doug Crowder (Ret.) speaks to the participants attending the USPACOM Amphibious Leaders Symposium in San Diego, California, July 11, 2016. PALS brings together senior leaders of allied and partner nations from the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to discuss key aspects of maritime/amphibious operations, capability development, crisis response, and interoperability. Twenty-two allied and partnered nations, including the U.S. are participating.

Amphibious Assault Vehicles, launched from the USS Rushmore, demonstrated amphibious landings as part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s joint sea-basing exercise, Culebra Koa 15, May 19, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows. Observed by local-based military and representatives from 22 countries within the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, the landing was made in conjunction with the inaugural U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific-hosted U.S. Pacific Command Amphibious Leaders Symposium. - Amphibious Assault Vehicles, launched from the USS Rushmore, demonstrated amphibious landings as part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s joint sea-basing exercise, Culebra Koa 15, May 19, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows. Observed by local-based military and representatives from 22 countries within the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, the landing was made in conjunction with the inaugural U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific-hosted U.S. Pacific Command Amphibious Leaders Symposium.

Republic of Korea Marine Corps Commandant Lt. Gen. Kim Kye-Hwan, left, and U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, await the commencement for the closing ceremony of the 10th iteration of the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium, Seoul, South Korea, June 5, 2024. PALS brings together experts and leaders from across the Indo-Pacific to foster collaboration among Allied and partner amphibious and maritime forces, sharing knowledge and recent operational insights. This year's symposium hosts senior leaders from 24 participating nations who are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific, with the objective of strengthening and developing regional relationships. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew Benfield) - Republic of Korea Marine Corps Commandant Lt. Gen. Kim Kye-Hwan, left, and U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, await the commencement for the closing ceremony of the 10th iteration of the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium, Seoul, South Korea, June 5, 2024. PALS brings together experts and leaders from across the Indo-Pacific to foster collaboration among Allied and partner amphibious and maritime forces, sharing knowledge and recent operational insights. This year's symposium hosts senior leaders from 24 participating nations who are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific, with the objective of strengthening and developing regional relationships. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew Benfield)

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Freddy Peubla, a machine gunner with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, fires a M240B machine gun during a littoral live fire exercise for Marine Aviation Support Activity at Punta Baja, Palawan, Philippines, July 15, 2023. MASA 23 is a bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Marine Corps, aimed at enhancing interoperability and coordination in support of U.S.-Philippine mutual defense. - U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Freddy Peubla, a machine gunner with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, fires a M240B machine gun during a littoral live fire exercise for Marine Aviation Support Activity at Punta Baja, Palawan, Philippines, July 15, 2023. MASA 23 is a bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Marine Corps, aimed at enhancing interoperability and coordination in support of U.S.-Philippine mutual defense.

U.S. Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion and Navy Seabees with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4 load a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle onto an improved ribbon bridge during exercise Pacific Pioneer, Naha Port, April 21, 2021. Pacific Pioneer serves as 9th ESB’s Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation as well as an opportunity to demonstrate the ability to sustain expeditionary advanced bases with survivable force protection, practice naval integration, and position long range precision fires and tactical logistics nodes across littoral regions in support of naval operations. - U.S. Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion and Navy Seabees with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4 load a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle onto an improved ribbon bridge during exercise Pacific Pioneer, Naha Port, April 21, 2021. Pacific Pioneer serves as 9th ESB’s Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation as well as an opportunity to demonstrate the ability to sustain expeditionary advanced bases with survivable force protection, practice naval integration, and position long range precision fires and tactical logistics nodes across littoral regions in support of naval operations.

Participants of the 80th Tarawa Commemoration Ceremony pose for a group photo on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Republic of Kiribati, Nov. 22, 2023. - Participants of the 80th Tarawa Commemoration Ceremony pose for a group photo on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Republic of Kiribati, Nov. 22, 2023.

Australian Army soldiers, assigned to 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, and U.S. Marines, assigned to Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, work together during an amphibious assault exercise during Talisman Sabre 2015 at Fog Bay, Australia, July 11, 2015. Talisman Sabre is a biennial exercise that provides an invaluable opportunity for nearly 30,000 U.S. and Australian Defence Force personnel to conduct operations in a combined, joint and interagency environment that will increase both countries’ ability to plan and execute a full range of operations from combat missions to humanitarian assistance efforts. - Australian Army soldiers, assigned to 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, and U.S. Marines, assigned to Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, work together during an amphibious assault exercise during Talisman Sabre 2015 at Fog Bay, Australia, July 11, 2015. Talisman Sabre is a biennial exercise that provides an invaluable opportunity for nearly 30,000 U.S. and Australian Defence Force personnel to conduct operations in a combined, joint and interagency environment that will increase both countries’ ability to plan and execute a full range of operations from combat missions to humanitarian assistance efforts.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Mark F. Schaefer, left, commanding officer, Headquarters and Service Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, and Royal Thai Marine Corps Rear Adm. Nirat Tagoodruar, deputy commanding officer, pose for a photo following an in-brief during the USMC-RTMC Future Engagement Planning Conference in Sattahip, Thailand, Dec. 11, 2024. These discussions strengthen the enduring partnership between the two forces by fostering military-to-military collaboration, enhancing combined readiness, and supporting a shared commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Conor Ragland) - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Mark F. Schaefer, left, commanding officer, Headquarters and Service Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, and Royal Thai Marine Corps Rear Adm. Nirat Tagoodruar, deputy commanding officer, pose for a photo following an in-brief during the USMC-RTMC Future Engagement Planning Conference in Sattahip, Thailand, Dec. 11, 2024. These discussions strengthen the enduring partnership between the two forces by fostering military-to-military collaboration, enhancing combined readiness, and supporting a shared commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Conor Ragland)

U.S. Marine Corps F-35s with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 (VMFA-211), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, prepare to take off during a forward arming and refueling point (FARP) exercise that U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 174 (MWSS-174), Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, are participating in during Force Design Integration Exercise (FDIE) at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, Sept. 27, 2023. A FARP is used to extend the capabilities of rotary or fixed-wing aircraft to allow rearming and refueling without having to fall back to a forward operating base. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Logan Beeney) - U.S. Marine Corps F-35s with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 (VMFA-211), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, prepare to take off during a forward arming and refueling point (FARP) exercise that U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 174 (MWSS-174), Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, are participating in during Force Design Integration Exercise (FDIE) at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, Sept. 27, 2023. A FARP is used to extend the capabilities of rotary or fixed-wing aircraft to allow rearming and refueling without having to fall back to a forward operating base. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Logan Beeney)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, gives a brief on the site of an expeditionary command and control node training exercise at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii, Feb. 7, 2023. Forces from I Marine Expeditionary Force and III MEF established a Multi-Function Air Operations Center and Multi-Domain Operations Center during the exercise to synchronize all-domain effects across the Indo-Pacific region for the Joint Force and interagency partners. The C2 node, operated by Marines of MACG-38 and 3rd MAW informed and enabled the synchronization of organic, joint, and/or interagency fires – both lethal and non-lethal – across air, sea, land, space, and cyber to achieve specific, desired effects during the exercise. - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, gives a brief on the site of an expeditionary command and control node training exercise at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii, Feb. 7, 2023. Forces from I Marine Expeditionary Force and III MEF established a Multi-Function Air Operations Center and Multi-Domain Operations Center during the exercise to synchronize all-domain effects across the Indo-Pacific region for the Joint Force and interagency partners. The C2 node, operated by Marines of MACG-38 and 3rd MAW informed and enabled the synchronization of organic, joint, and/or interagency fires – both lethal and non-lethal – across air, sea, land, space, and cyber to achieve specific, desired effects during the exercise.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Mark Schaefer, left, commanding officer, congratulates Cpl. Sean Olson, administrative specialist, both with Headquarters and Service Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, after his meritorious promotion and award ceremony on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 13, 2024. Olson, a California native, received a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for rescuing two people who were struggling to stay afloat in rough waters. He also earned a meritorious promotion, ahead of normal service requirements, signifying his outstanding performance as a Marine. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Chloe Zimmerer) - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Mark Schaefer, left, commanding officer, congratulates Cpl. Sean Olson, administrative specialist, both with Headquarters and Service Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, after his meritorious promotion and award ceremony on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 13, 2024. Olson, a California native, received a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for rescuing two people who were struggling to stay afloat in rough waters. He also earned a meritorious promotion, ahead of normal service requirements, signifying his outstanding performance as a Marine. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Chloe Zimmerer)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, left, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, and Indonesian Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Nur Alamsyah, commandant, Korps Marinir Republik Indonesia, deliver remarks during the closing ceremony of the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium, Bali, Indonesia, July 13, 2023. PALS strengthens our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations – from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. This year's symposium hosted senior leaders from 24 participating nations who are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific, with the objective of strengthening and developing regional relationships. - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, left, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, and Indonesian Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Nur Alamsyah, commandant, Korps Marinir Republik Indonesia, deliver remarks during the closing ceremony of the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium, Bali, Indonesia, July 13, 2023. PALS strengthens our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations – from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. This year's symposium hosted senior leaders from 24 participating nations who are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific, with the objective of strengthening and developing regional relationships.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Steven R. Rudder, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, participates in a global video teleconference during the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium 21.2 at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii, Oct. 6. This iteration of PALS brought senior leaders of allied and partner militaries together to discuss Marine Corps Force Design 2030, expeditionary advanced base operations, intermediate force capabilities, and ways to improve interoperability between partners within the Indo-Pacific region. A total of 20 allies and partners from Asia, Australia, Europe, South America, and North America participated in the symposium. PALS was conducted virtually for the second time to comply with COVID-19 mitigation efforts. - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Steven R. Rudder, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, participates in a global video teleconference during the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium 21.2 at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii, Oct. 6. This iteration of PALS brought senior leaders of allied and partner militaries together to discuss Marine Corps Force Design 2030, expeditionary advanced base operations, intermediate force capabilities, and ways to improve interoperability between partners within the Indo-Pacific region. A total of 20 allies and partners from Asia, Australia, Europe, South America, and North America participated in the symposium. PALS was conducted virtually for the second time to comply with COVID-19 mitigation efforts.

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225 taxis down the flight line during exercise Cope West 17 at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Indonesia, Nov. 10, 2016. This fighter-focused, bilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Indonesian Air Force is designed to enhance the readiness of combined interoperability between the two nations. - A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225 taxis down the flight line during exercise Cope West 17 at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Indonesia, Nov. 10, 2016. This fighter-focused, bilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Indonesian Air Force is designed to enhance the readiness of combined interoperability between the two nations.

The cycle of thoughts encouraging negative behavior can be broken with proper training. - The cycle of thoughts encouraging negative behavior can be broken with proper training.

Cpl. Tyler L. Saffore, a bulk fuel specialist with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, stands before Lt. Col. James Whiteker, MWSS-171 commanding officer, as Sgt. Maj. G.V. Tunnell, MWSS-171 sergeant major, reads aloud a citation stating the things Saffore did to earn the Bulk Fuel Specialist of the Year award, Dec. 3, 2014, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Saffore won the award for his strong work ethic, initiative and superior performance. - Cpl. Tyler L. Saffore, a bulk fuel specialist with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, stands before Lt. Col. James Whiteker, MWSS-171 commanding officer, as Sgt. Maj. G.V. Tunnell, MWSS-171 sergeant major, reads aloud a citation stating the things Saffore did to earn the Bulk Fuel Specialist of the Year award, Dec. 3, 2014, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Saffore won the award for his strong work ethic, initiative and superior performance.

A Marine aims an M320 grenade launcher module at a target at Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 6, 2017. 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion is one of the first Marine Corps units to test the M320, a more effective weapon system than the current M203 grenade launcher. - A Marine aims an M320 grenade launcher module at a target at Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 6, 2017. 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion is one of the first Marine Corps units to test the M320, a more effective weapon system than the current M203 grenade launcher.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Johnny Perez, a mortarman assigned to Task Force Al Asad, with 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, loads gear into a mine-resistant, ambush-protected all-terrain vehiclewhile at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, July 5, 2017. These Marines are part of the Task Force’s coalition security force team in charge of providing security to the base and personnel onboard. Task Force Al Asad’s mission is to advise and assist and build partner capacity with the Iraqi Security Forces in Al Anbar province in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, the global coalition to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. Dave Williams) - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Johnny Perez, a mortarman assigned to Task Force Al Asad, with 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, loads gear into a mine-resistant, ambush-protected all-terrain vehiclewhile at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, July 5, 2017. These Marines are part of the Task Force’s coalition security force team in charge of providing security to the base and personnel onboard. Task Force Al Asad’s mission is to advise and assist and build partner capacity with the Iraqi Security Forces in Al Anbar province in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, the global coalition to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. Dave Williams)

John L. L'Abbe, native of Boise, Idaho, served with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division from 1942 to 1945. L'Abbe was hit in the legs by a grenade at the Battle of Tarawa. While lying on the beach injured, a Japanese officer tried to slay L'Abbe with his sword. L'Abbe seized the enemy's sword and killed him with it. The photo is courtesy of L'Abbe, who sent this newspaper clipping in a letter addressed to 2nd Bn., 8th Marines, Nov. 18, 2014. - John L. L'Abbe, native of Boise, Idaho, served with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division from 1942 to 1945. L'Abbe was hit in the legs by a grenade at the Battle of Tarawa. While lying on the beach injured, a Japanese officer tried to slay L'Abbe with his sword. L'Abbe seized the enemy's sword and killed him with it. The photo is courtesy of L'Abbe, who sent this newspaper clipping in a letter addressed to 2nd Bn., 8th Marines, Nov. 18, 2014.

Two Combat Rubber Raiding Craft drop out the back of a KC-130J Super Hercules during an aerial delivery mission at near Hurlburt Air Force Base, Fla., Oct. 24, 2014. The training was conducted in support of United States Special Operations Command. The Hercules belongs to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252. - Two Combat Rubber Raiding Craft drop out the back of a KC-130J Super Hercules during an aerial delivery mission at near Hurlburt Air Force Base, Fla., Oct. 24, 2014. The training was conducted in support of United States Special Operations Command. The Hercules belongs to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252.

A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey prepares to land on the flight deck of the Republic of Korea ship Dokdo (LPH 6111), at sea, March 26, 2015. This was the first time an Osprey has landed on a ROK amphibious assault ship. The aircraft is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Marines of the 31st MEU are embarked aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and are currently participating in Korean Marine Exchange Program 15 during the MEU’s annual Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey prepares to land on the flight deck of the Republic of Korea ship Dokdo (LPH 6111), at sea, March 26, 2015. This was the first time an Osprey has landed on a ROK amphibious assault ship. The aircraft is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Marines of the 31st MEU are embarked aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and are currently participating in Korean Marine Exchange Program 15 during the MEU’s annual Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

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.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe views the cockpit of an MV-22B Osprey Hyakuri Air Base during the Japan Air Self Defense Force’s Air Review 2014 Oct. 26. The air review happens every three years showcasing Japan's defensive air assets. Abe is the Prime Minister of Japan. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Air Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Prime Minister Shinzo Abe views the cockpit of an MV-22B Osprey Hyakuri Air Base during the Japan Air Self Defense Force’s Air Review 2014 Oct. 26. The air review happens every three years showcasing Japan's defensive air assets. Abe is the Prime Minister of Japan. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Air Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Philippine Marine posts security after fast-roping out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft Jan. 22 at Basa Air Field. Fast-roping is just one of the multiple training events conducted during Aviation Assault Support Exercise 15.1. AASE expands and promotes cooperative training opportunities with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to enhance core skill proficiency and to increase operational readiness. The Philippine Marines are with various units and the U.S. Marines are with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released). - A Philippine Marine posts security after fast-roping out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft Jan. 22 at Basa Air Field. Fast-roping is just one of the multiple training events conducted during Aviation Assault Support Exercise 15.1. AASE expands and promotes cooperative training opportunities with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to enhance core skill proficiency and to increase operational readiness. The Philippine Marines are with various units and the U.S. Marines are with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released).

Lance Cpl. Trevor Serenelli, an aviation ordnance technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, unloads high explosive ordnance during exercise Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, July 28, 2016. Southern Frontier is three weeks of unit level training helping the squadron gain experience and qualifications in low altitude, air-ground, high explosive ordnance delivery at the unit level. VMFA-122 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina and are currently assigned to MAG-12 at MCAS Iwakuni under the Unit Deployment Program. Australia is the last stop on the squadron’s deployment before heading back home. - Lance Cpl. Trevor Serenelli, an aviation ordnance technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, unloads high explosive ordnance during exercise Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, July 28, 2016. Southern Frontier is three weeks of unit level training helping the squadron gain experience and qualifications in low altitude, air-ground, high explosive ordnance delivery at the unit level. VMFA-122 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina and are currently assigned to MAG-12 at MCAS Iwakuni under the Unit Deployment Program. Australia is the last stop on the squadron’s deployment before heading back home.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

Governor Hirokazu Nakaima, left, shakes hands with Col. Christopher B. Snyder,Sept. 6 during a day of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training on and around Miyako Island. The drills marked the first time members of the Okinawa Prefectural Government hosted a series of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills with full-fledged participation by the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marines. Nakaima is the Governor of Okinawa Prefecture and Snyder is the deputy commander with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. - Governor Hirokazu Nakaima, left, shakes hands with Col. Christopher B. Snyder,Sept. 6 during a day of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training on and around Miyako Island. The drills marked the first time members of the Okinawa Prefectural Government hosted a series of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills with full-fledged participation by the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marines. Nakaima is the Governor of Okinawa Prefecture and Snyder is the deputy commander with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, in Fallujah, 7 April 2004. - U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Marine Captain Philip Treglia calls in a danger close airstrike while his Marines fire against terrorists operating in Fallujah, Iraq. Marines Corporal Philip Dennis (kneeling), Corporal Butterfield , LCpl Buskard, Cpl Justin Smith April 7, 2004. U.S. Marines suspended offensive operations after isolating and systematically clearing portions of the city. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Apprendi)

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Dannie Barnes, a mortarman with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, checks the location of an RQ-20 Puma unmanned aircraft system during Operation Buck Rogers on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 3, 2019. Operation Buck Rogers is used to count the mule deer population on Camp Pendleton and the use of Pumas is a cheaper and more effective alternative to complete the task. The survey of Camp Pendleton’s deer population is done once a year. Barnes is a native of Wataga, Illinois. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Dannie Barnes, a mortarman with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, checks the location of an RQ-20 Puma unmanned aircraft system during Operation Buck Rogers on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 3, 2019. Operation Buck Rogers is used to count the mule deer population on Camp Pendleton and the use of Pumas is a cheaper and more effective alternative to complete the task. The survey of Camp Pendleton’s deer population is done once a year. Barnes is a native of Wataga, Illinois.

U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, brace for an explosion on range Golf-36, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 12, 2020. Range G-36 is the newest addition to the Camp Lejeune training environment. This range is designed to accommodate company-size assaults and evolutions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jacqueline Parsons) - U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, brace for an explosion on range Golf-36, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 12, 2020. Range G-36 is the newest addition to the Camp Lejeune training environment. This range is designed to accommodate company-size assaults and evolutions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jacqueline Parsons)

On-the-move communications system set to field this fall - Marines from the 1st Marine Division test out the Mobile User Objective System at a Field User Evaluation in Camp Pendleton, California. MUOS is a satellite communication system that uses commercial cell phone technology to increase access while on the battlefield. Marine Corps Systems Command will begin fielding MUOS in the fourth quarter of 2018. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Eddie Young)

Lt. Col. Regina Gustavsson and Sgt. Peter Apiag discuss reporting requirements for their section for a simulated mishap during II Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 16 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., May 11, 2016. MEFEX 16 is a command and control exercise conducted in a deployed environment designed to synchronize and bring to bear the full spectrum of II Marine Expeditionary Force's C2 capabilities in support of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force. - Lt. Col. Regina Gustavsson and Sgt. Peter Apiag discuss reporting requirements for their section for a simulated mishap during II Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 16 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., May 11, 2016. MEFEX 16 is a command and control exercise conducted in a deployed environment designed to synchronize and bring to bear the full spectrum of II Marine Expeditionary Force's C2 capabilities in support of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

A Eurofighter Typhoon with the Spanish Air Force receives fuel from a U.S. Marine KC-130J Hercules with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, August 13, in Spain. A total of five Spanish pilots and their aircraft had the opportunity to practice their air-to-air refueling skills with the Marines from SPMAGTF-CR-AF. While this particular training was a first for the two countries, the U.S. and Spain work together routinely, fostering one of the closest defense partnerships around the world. - A Eurofighter Typhoon with the Spanish Air Force receives fuel from a U.S. Marine KC-130J Hercules with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, August 13, in Spain. A total of five Spanish pilots and their aircraft had the opportunity to practice their air-to-air refueling skills with the Marines from SPMAGTF-CR-AF. While this particular training was a first for the two countries, the U.S. and Spain work together routinely, fostering one of the closest defense partnerships around the world.

Staff Sgt. Randall Lester (left) points toward aircraft as Maj. Lauchlin Byrd (center) and Maj. Thomas Short (right) scan the skies during close air support operations at a range near Fort Drum, N.Y., March 16, 2017. Marines assigned to 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, worked in conjunction with Marines assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, to complete the training. - Staff Sgt. Randall Lester (left) points toward aircraft as Maj. Lauchlin Byrd (center) and Maj. Thomas Short (right) scan the skies during close air support operations at a range near Fort Drum, N.Y., March 16, 2017. Marines assigned to 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, worked in conjunction with Marines assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, to complete the training.

Members of the Japanese Air Self Defense Force pose with U.S. Marines for a photo at a farewell luncheon for the professional military exchange program February 23 at the Habu Pit Officers’ Club on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. The professional military exchange program benefits JASDF and Marines by providing first-hand insight to the daily routines and responsibilities of each service, according to Staff Sgt. Shinya Nishida, second from left. The experience and knowledge gained through the program establishes better understanding and communication. After Nishida’s exposure to the Marine Corps, the JASDF will return the favor by taking in a Marine in March to experience day-to-day routines of the JASDF. Nishida was a participant of the program and is a flight plan dispatcher with the JASDF. - Members of the Japanese Air Self Defense Force pose with U.S. Marines for a photo at a farewell luncheon for the professional military exchange program February 23 at the Habu Pit Officers’ Club on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. The professional military exchange program benefits JASDF and Marines by providing first-hand insight to the daily routines and responsibilities of each service, according to Staff Sgt. Shinya Nishida, second from left. The experience and knowledge gained through the program establishes better understanding and communication. After Nishida’s exposure to the Marine Corps, the JASDF will return the favor by taking in a Marine in March to experience day-to-day routines of the JASDF. Nishida was a participant of the program and is a flight plan dispatcher with the JASDF.

Marines, soldiers, sailors, and airmen prepare their equipment and weapons for the 53rd Annual Interservice Rifle Championship on July 7, 2014, at Range 4, Weapons Training Battalion, Marine Corps Base Quantico. The event will last for a week and will test servicemembers individual talent as well as their team work. - Marines, soldiers, sailors, and airmen prepare their equipment and weapons for the 53rd Annual Interservice Rifle Championship on July 7, 2014, at Range 4, Weapons Training Battalion, Marine Corps Base Quantico. The event will last for a week and will test servicemembers individual talent as well as their team work.

A rifleman assigned to Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self Defense Force, provides security from an amphibious assault vehicle, during a live-fire platoon level assault, during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Feb. 9, 2016. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral training exercise between the Japan Ground Self Defense Force and Marines to strengthen warfighting capabilities in ship to shore operations. - A rifleman assigned to Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self Defense Force, provides security from an amphibious assault vehicle, during a live-fire platoon level assault, during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Feb. 9, 2016. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral training exercise between the Japan Ground Self Defense Force and Marines to strengthen warfighting capabilities in ship to shore operations.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jonas G. Dewald works with a fellow Marine to don his ghillie suit Dec. 2 in the Oyanohara Training Area in Yamato, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. The concealment training is part of Forest Light 15-1, a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force to enhance the U.S. and Japan military partnership, solidify regional security agreements and improve individual and unit-level skills. Dewald, from Wilson, North Carolina, is a machine gunner with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF, under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released) - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jonas G. Dewald works with a fellow Marine to don his ghillie suit Dec. 2 in the Oyanohara Training Area in Yamato, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. The concealment training is part of Forest Light 15-1, a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force to enhance the U.S. and Japan military partnership, solidify regional security agreements and improve individual and unit-level skills. Dewald, from Wilson, North Carolina, is a machine gunner with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF, under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released)

180715-M-IM909-001.JPG - World War II veteran Sam Folsom flew the Grumman F4F Wildcat during his time of service in Guadalcanal in late 1942. His squadron, Marine Fighter Squadron 121, was the highest scoring Marine fighter squadron of WWII and received the presidential unit citation. During Folsom’s time with VMF-121, he shot down three total enemy aircrafts and received the Purple Heart and the Distinguished Flying Cross. (Courtesy Photo)

Cpl. Anthony Payton, a field artillery cannoneer with Lima Battery, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, swabs an M777 Howitzer after it was fired during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 30, 2015. This was the last exercise Lima conducted as a standalone battery. - Cpl. Anthony Payton, a field artillery cannoneer with Lima Battery, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, swabs an M777 Howitzer after it was fired during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 30, 2015. This was the last exercise Lima conducted as a standalone battery.

Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to board an assault amphibious vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion during an obstacle-breaching exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 20, 2015. The Marines used 2nd AA Bn. for communication, fire support and transport to and from their objectives throughout the exercise. - Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to board an assault amphibious vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion during an obstacle-breaching exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 20, 2015. The Marines used 2nd AA Bn. for communication, fire support and transport to and from their objectives throughout the exercise.

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Richard Cropley celebrates his 99th birthday with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 31, 2019. Cropley served his country for more than 20 years as a fighter/bomber pilot during World War II and flew multiple combat missions over the Pacific. Cropley’s birthday wish was to spend time with his Marine Corps aviation family and to see an MV-22B Osprey up close. - Retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Richard Cropley celebrates his 99th birthday with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 31, 2019. Cropley served his country for more than 20 years as a fighter/bomber pilot during World War II and flew multiple combat missions over the Pacific. Cropley’s birthday wish was to spend time with his Marine Corps aviation family and to see an MV-22B Osprey up close.

U.S. Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, extinguishes simulated aircraft fire at the installation, Dec. 15, 2023. ARFF performs routine training that equips Marines with the necessary skills and knowledge to efficiently respond to emergencies. - U.S. Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, extinguishes simulated aircraft fire at the installation, Dec. 15, 2023. ARFF performs routine training that equips Marines with the necessary skills and knowledge to efficiently respond to emergencies.

Lance Cpl. Samuel T. Mahaffey, a motor vehicle operator with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, fires a practice M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a convoy operations training simulation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 9, 2016. Throughout the simulation, vehicle gunners practiced using the M2 .50-caliber machine gun and Mk-19 automatic grenade launcher. - Lance Cpl. Samuel T. Mahaffey, a motor vehicle operator with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, fires a practice M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a convoy operations training simulation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 9, 2016. Throughout the simulation, vehicle gunners practiced using the M2 .50-caliber machine gun and Mk-19 automatic grenade launcher.

A U.S. Navy Hospitalman puts on personal protective equipment before seeing a possible Coronavirus patient at the respiratory triage clinic, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Aug. 6. - A U.S. Navy Hospitalman puts on personal protective equipment before seeing a possible Coronavirus patient at the respiratory triage clinic, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Aug. 6.

Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit move sea bags, packs and gear pier side at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, June 7, 2017. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 to form the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group – a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific. - Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit move sea bags, packs and gear pier side at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, June 7, 2017. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 to form the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group – a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

Chikako McMasters, a Vietnam war hero’s daughter, stands in front of a portrait and biography of her father that are located at the entrance of Dorris Hall - Chikako McMasters, a Vietnam war hero’s daughter, stands in front of a portrait and biography of her father that are located at the entrance of Dorris Hall, the renamed staff non-commissioned officer barracks on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 22, 2017. Recently, Chikako discovered she was the daughter of Staff Sgt. Claude H. Dorris, a Navy Cross recipient in Vietnam, which gave her a deeper connection to the Marine Corps. McMasters is a native of Okinawa, Japan.

During the exercise, Marines refine their skills to better support Division operations in an expeditionary environment. - U.S. Marines receive their final orders to establish a forward operations center Jan. 23, 2018 on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, for Exercise Samurai. During the exercise, Marines refine their skills to better support Division operations in an expeditionary environment. The Marines are assigned Headquarters and Service Battalion, 3rd Marine Division.