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Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. Akito Yagi attaches vegetation to his sniper rifle while performing stalking drills during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 10, 2015. The Marines sat up on a high embankment, trying to catch the JGSDF stalking the target with binoculars. Forest Light is a semiannual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events, conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. Yagi is a sniper with 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. Akito Yagi attaches vegetation to his sniper rifle while performing stalking drills during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 10, 2015. The Marines sat up on a high embankment, trying to catch the JGSDF stalking the target with binoculars. Forest Light is a semiannual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events, conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. Yagi is a sniper with 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade.

Sgt. Sugimoto Yoshitaka fires the Type 01 LMAT Anti-Tank Missile System during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marines shared knowledge about different anti-tank missile systems. After giving specifications of their respective weapon systems, the two forces used practice rounds to demonstrate how well the weapon systems work. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points training, helicopter borne skills and combined arms procedures. Sugimoto is an anti-tank missile man with 50th infantry regiment, 14th Brigade. - Sgt. Sugimoto Yoshitaka fires the Type 01 LMAT Anti-Tank Missile System during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marines shared knowledge about different anti-tank missile systems. After giving specifications of their respective weapon systems, the two forces used practice rounds to demonstrate how well the weapon systems work. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points training, helicopter borne skills and combined arms procedures. Sugimoto is an anti-tank missile man with 50th infantry regiment, 14th Brigade.

U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members salute as each nations’ national anthem plays marking the beginning of Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of combined mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points, combined helicopter borne skills and combined-arms training. The JGSDF members are from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members salute as each nations’ national anthem plays marking the beginning of Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of combined mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points, combined helicopter borne skills and combined-arms training. The JGSDF members are from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force member prepares to fire a 120mm mortar during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. The JGSDF and U.S. Marines took turns calling fire missions, prepping the mortar for fire, and firing the mortar. Forest Light is a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. The JGSDF member is from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. - A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force member prepares to fire a 120mm mortar during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. The JGSDF and U.S. Marines took turns calling fire missions, prepping the mortar for fire, and firing the mortar. Forest Light is a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. The JGSDF member is from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade.

Marines set up a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun prior to a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allowed them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters. - Marines set up a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun prior to a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allowed them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters.

A Marine Corps color guard prepares to raise the colors at Civic Space Park on Sept. 9, 2015 as part of Marine Week Phoenix. This event allows the Marine Corps to showcase its traditions, history, and values. - A Marine Corps color guard prepares to raise the colors at Civic Space Park on Sept. 9, 2015 as part of Marine Week Phoenix. This event allows the Marine Corps to showcase its traditions, history, and values.

A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion drives and splashes a Polaris Razor through a mud-hole in the woods during a basic recreational off-highway vehicle training qualification course on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 1, 2015. The course is designed to introduce Marines to the two-seater all-terrain vehicle, and familiarize them to its capabilities and safety consideration. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexander Mitchell/released) - A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion drives and splashes a Polaris Razor through a mud-hole in the woods during a basic recreational off-highway vehicle training qualification course on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 1, 2015. The course is designed to introduce Marines to the two-seater all-terrain vehicle, and familiarize them to its capabilities and safety consideration. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexander Mitchell/released)

Students with the Field Medical Service Technician Course, led by HM2 Hoff, an instructor with FMTB West, reach the turn-around point during their 6-mile hike at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 1, 2015. The hike is one of three hikes that every student must complete on their journey to becoming “greenside” corpsmen, working side-by-side and caring for Marines. - Students with the Field Medical Service Technician Course, led by HM2 Hoff, an instructor with FMTB West, reach the turn-around point during their 6-mile hike at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 1, 2015. The hike is one of three hikes that every student must complete on their journey to becoming “greenside” corpsmen, working side-by-side and caring for Marines.

Mexican Navy sailors stand in formation on the deck of Mexican ship ARM Usumacinta during a media visit held in conjunction with Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 6. Mexican Naval Forces are participating as observers in Exercise Dawn Blitz for the first time in 2015, with the hope of developing a stronger and more effective amphibious presence. - Mexican Navy sailors stand in formation on the deck of Mexican ship ARM Usumacinta during a media visit held in conjunction with Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 6. Mexican Naval Forces are participating as observers in Exercise Dawn Blitz for the first time in 2015, with the hope of developing a stronger and more effective amphibious presence.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division use a compass to determine their left and right lateral limits on the beaches of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-based operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division use a compass to determine their left and right lateral limits on the beaches of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-based operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand.

Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment provide security on the beach following an amphibious landing as part of Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational, amphibious training exercise designed to hone the amphibious landing skills of I Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Expeditionary Strike Group Three and allies of the United States. - Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment provide security on the beach following an amphibious landing as part of Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational, amphibious training exercise designed to hone the amphibious landing skills of I Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Expeditionary Strike Group Three and allies of the United States.

Two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Landing Craft Air Cushion vessels maneuver past Japanese ship Hyuga during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 3, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside coalition forces. - Two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Landing Craft Air Cushion vessels maneuver past Japanese ship Hyuga during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 3, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside coalition forces.

Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, roll through smoke to meet Marines with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, during an integrated exercise at Landing Zone Dodo, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 2, 2015. The purpose of the exercise was to allow Marine infantry and tankers to work together. - Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, roll through smoke to meet Marines with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, during an integrated exercise at Landing Zone Dodo, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 2, 2015. The purpose of the exercise was to allow Marine infantry and tankers to work together.

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Rear Adm. Brent W. Scott, the Chaplain of the United States Marine Corps, delivers remarks during the Remembrance Ceremony for Company “H”, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines held at the Marine Corps War Memorial at Arlington, Va., Sept. 3. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the unit and those Marines and sailors, who gave their lives to accomplish their mission. - Rear Adm. Brent W. Scott, the Chaplain of the United States Marine Corps, delivers remarks during the Remembrance Ceremony for Company “H”, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines held at the Marine Corps War Memorial at Arlington, Va., Sept. 3. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the unit and those Marines and sailors, who gave their lives to accomplish their mission.

A squad with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, consolidate and debrief after a round of military operations in urban terrain training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 26, 2015. Debreifing the Marines lets them know what they did right, and what they could improve on. - A squad with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, consolidate and debrief after a round of military operations in urban terrain training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 26, 2015. Debreifing the Marines lets them know what they did right, and what they could improve on.

A Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando demonstrates his swimming technique during a swim assessment by personnel with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, during a swim assessment in Dakar, Senegal, Aug. 28, 2015. The assessment was conducted to ensure the COFUMACO are capable and confident in the water before they conduct small-boat operations training together in the following weeks. - A Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando demonstrates his swimming technique during a swim assessment by personnel with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, during a swim assessment in Dakar, Senegal, Aug. 28, 2015. The assessment was conducted to ensure the COFUMACO are capable and confident in the water before they conduct small-boat operations training together in the following weeks.

Sgt. Dashien R. Pettigrew runs through the OC Spray Performance Evaluation Course on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, during the Non-Lethal Weapons Instructor Course, Aug. 27, 2015. This inter-service course is only offered once a year on Okinawa. Pettigrew, from Moncks Corner, South Carolina, is an ammunition technician with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, and will have the collateral duty of non-lethal weapons instructor upon completion of the course. - Sgt. Dashien R. Pettigrew runs through the OC Spray Performance Evaluation Course on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, during the Non-Lethal Weapons Instructor Course, Aug. 27, 2015. This inter-service course is only offered once a year on Okinawa. Pettigrew, from Moncks Corner, South Carolina, is an ammunition technician with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, and will have the collateral duty of non-lethal weapons instructor upon completion of the course.

U.S. and Benin officials take time to pose for a photos, Aug. 31, 2015, after the opening ceremony that officially started training between U.S. Marines and sailors and Benin's National Surveillance Police at Benin's National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin. Today’s ceremony marks a new milestone of the partnership between Benin and the U.S. This training is the first time in the Nation Surveillance Police’s 10-year history a foreign military has come to train and mentor the specialized unit. - U.S. and Benin officials take time to pose for a photos, Aug. 31, 2015, after the opening ceremony that officially started training between U.S. Marines and sailors and Benin's National Surveillance Police at Benin's National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin. Today’s ceremony marks a new milestone of the partnership between Benin and the U.S. This training is the first time in the Nation Surveillance Police’s 10-year history a foreign military has come to train and mentor the specialized unit.

A Marine with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company fires the M2 .50 Caliber Heavy Machine Gun during a week-long field exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 27, 2015. The training increased the unit’s readiness and upheld the standards in support of II Marine Expeditionary Force and re-familiarized them with the weapons system. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Krista James/Released) - A Marine with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company fires the M2 .50 Caliber Heavy Machine Gun during a week-long field exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 27, 2015. The training increased the unit’s readiness and upheld the standards in support of II Marine Expeditionary Force and re-familiarized them with the weapons system. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Krista James/Released)

A new order was released that grants a total of 126 days of convalescent leave to new mothers in the Marine Corps is now in effect. Marine Corps Administrative Message 421/15, which went into effect on August 26, states that all Marines who have had a child since January 1, 2015 and all future mothers within the Marine Corps are entitled to 84 days of leave in addition to the 42 days of convalescent leave that immediately follows release from the medical facility. - A new order was released that grants a total of 126 days of convalescent leave to new mothers in the Marine Corps is now in effect. Marine Corps Administrative Message 421/15, which went into effect on August 26, states that all Marines who have had a child since January 1, 2015 and all future mothers within the Marine Corps are entitled to 84 days of leave in addition to the 42 days of convalescent leave that immediately follows release from the medical facility.

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The barrel of an M1A1 Abrams main battle tank from Bravo Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, aims down toward its target during an offensive and defensive maneuver exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 26, 2015. Platoons from the company practiced searching and clearing operational areas to reinforce their basic skills. The tank has a 120mm M256 smoothbore gun on the front capable of firing several types of explosive rounds. - The barrel of an M1A1 Abrams main battle tank from Bravo Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, aims down toward its target during an offensive and defensive maneuver exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 26, 2015. Platoons from the company practiced searching and clearing operational areas to reinforce their basic skills. The tank has a 120mm M256 smoothbore gun on the front capable of firing several types of explosive rounds.

Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Regiment, advance on a simulated village during a field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. They assaulted a simulated town, set up a defensive position and waited to repel simulated attacks in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response. - Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Regiment, advance on a simulated village during a field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. They assaulted a simulated town, set up a defensive position and waited to repel simulated attacks in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response.

Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, conducted a raid demonstration in a simulated town and practiced the proper procedures of apprehending detainees during an amphibious raid demonstration in conjunction with a visit from the secretary of defense, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27, 2015. The Marines were transported to shore in amphibious assault vehicles with 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion, after exiting the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) while 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion provided additional security. - Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, conducted a raid demonstration in a simulated town and practiced the proper procedures of apprehending detainees during an amphibious raid demonstration in conjunction with a visit from the secretary of defense, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27, 2015. The Marines were transported to shore in amphibious assault vehicles with 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion, after exiting the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) while 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion provided additional security.

The U.S. Secretary of Defense, the honorable Mr. Ashton Carter congratulates a young reconnaissance Marine on a job well done following a combined arms raid aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27, 2015. Carter met with senior military leaders and service members and witnessed ship-to-shore operations, a capability synonymous with Navy and Marine Corps teams in order to assess the need to better support military capabilities. - The U.S. Secretary of Defense, the honorable Mr. Ashton Carter congratulates a young reconnaissance Marine on a job well done following a combined arms raid aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27, 2015. Carter met with senior military leaders and service members and witnessed ship-to-shore operations, a capability synonymous with Navy and Marine Corps teams in order to assess the need to better support military capabilities.

Two MV-22B Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 (Reinforced) prepare for a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 18. Marines conducted casualty evacuation drills as part of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit predeployment training. - Two MV-22B Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 (Reinforced) prepare for a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 18. Marines conducted casualty evacuation drills as part of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit predeployment training.

Marine air crew with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 oversees ground Marines from within a CH-53E Super Stallion during an external lift exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. The air crew within carefully observed the ground team to ensure they securely attached their 8,500-pound high beam to a pintle hook below. - Marine air crew with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 oversees ground Marines from within a CH-53E Super Stallion during an external lift exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. The air crew within carefully observed the ground team to ensure they securely attached their 8,500-pound high beam to a pintle hook below.

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion conduct the 1,000 meter open water fin training for a pre-dive course conducted aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. Aug. 18, 2015. During the course the Marines are critiqued on both their capabilities in a pool setting and in open water. After completion of the course, Marines who pass the final evaluation will go on to the Marine Combatant Diver Course at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, Panama City, Fla. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion conduct the 1,000 meter open water fin training for a pre-dive course conducted aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. Aug. 18, 2015. During the course the Marines are critiqued on both their capabilities in a pool setting and in open water. After completion of the course, Marines who pass the final evaluation will go on to the Marine Combatant Diver Course at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, Panama City, Fla.

Marines from Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Divison, I Marine Expeditionary Force, are suspended from a UH-1Y Huey helicopter during an exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 18, 2015. Utilizing both fast-roping and Special Patrol Insertion and Extraction rigging methods, the purpose of the training exercise was to integrate operational coordination between the I MEF Ground Combat Element and Air Combat Element. - Marines from Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Divison, I Marine Expeditionary Force, are suspended from a UH-1Y Huey helicopter during an exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 18, 2015. Utilizing both fast-roping and Special Patrol Insertion and Extraction rigging methods, the purpose of the training exercise was to integrate operational coordination between the I MEF Ground Combat Element and Air Combat Element.

Gregory "Greg" Lake, a Marine Vietnam veteran, stands in front of a painting in his home in Calistoga, California, June 22, 2015. Lake made the painting based on a night he endured combat in Vietnam and swam across a river under fire to save the lives of his Marines. - Gregory "Greg" Lake, a Marine Vietnam veteran, stands in front of a painting in his home in Calistoga, California, June 22, 2015. Lake made the painting based on a night he endured combat in Vietnam and swam across a river under fire to save the lives of his Marines.

Arthur "Art" Petty, a Marine Vietnam veteran, stands in his Marine museum he created from a farm house on his property in Woodbury, Tennessee, June 19, 2015. Petty enlisted into the Marine Corps March 13, 1941 and retired at the rank of sergeant major. - Arthur "Art" Petty, a Marine Vietnam veteran, stands in his Marine museum he created from a farm house on his property in Woodbury, Tennessee, June 19, 2015. Petty enlisted into the Marine Corps March 13, 1941 and retired at the rank of sergeant major.

Marines with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, drive the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicle along all-terrain vehicle trails during an all-terrain vehicle course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 18, 2015. Marines drove the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicles through sand, mud, uneven terrain, and hills to gain experience with handling the vehicle. - Marines with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, drive the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicle along all-terrain vehicle trails during an all-terrain vehicle course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 18, 2015. Marines drove the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicles through sand, mud, uneven terrain, and hills to gain experience with handling the vehicle.

Benjamin "Ben" Palermo holds a photo of himself when he was serving on active duty in the Marine Corps in his home in San Antonio, Texas, June 4, 2015. Palermo served with G Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment during Operation Starlite during August 1965 in Vietnam. - Benjamin "Ben" Palermo holds a photo of himself when he was serving on active duty in the Marine Corps in his home in San Antonio, Texas, June 4, 2015. Palermo served with G Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment during Operation Starlite during August 1965 in Vietnam.

A Japanese security guard executes a knee strike during nonlethal weapons and level one oleoresin capsicum spray training aboard Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 14. According to Delekto, the security augmentation force instructor and staff noncommissioned officer with mobile training team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, nonlethal weapons training includes all weapons and techniques that are not inherently deadly, such as batons, defensive tactics, pepper-based spray, and mechanical-advantage control holds. - A Japanese security guard executes a knee strike during nonlethal weapons and level one oleoresin capsicum spray training aboard Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 14. According to Delekto, the security augmentation force instructor and staff noncommissioned officer with mobile training team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, nonlethal weapons training includes all weapons and techniques that are not inherently deadly, such as batons, defensive tactics, pepper-based spray, and mechanical-advantage control holds.

Marines with 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion wait for the final check of their amphibious assault vehicles and then go ahead to conduct their training exercise on Onslow Beach aboard Camp Lejeune N.C. Aug. 17, 2015. Doing a double check of the AAVs is paramount for safety in making sure everything is in working order. - Marines with 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion wait for the final check of their assault amphibious vehicles and then go ahead to conduct their training exercise on Onslow Beach at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune N.C. Aug. 17, 2015. Doing a double check of the AAVs is paramount for safety in making sure everything is in working order.

A Marine with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment sights in on a target in a preparatory exercise for Large Scale Exercise 15 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 11, 2015. LSE-15 is a combined U.S. Marine Corps, Canadian Band British Exercise conducted at the brigade level, designed to enable live, virtual and constructive training for participating forces. - A Marine with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment sights in on a target in a preparatory exercise for Large Scale Exercise 15 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 11, 2015. LSE-15 is a combined U.S. Marine Corps, Canadian Band British Exercise conducted at the brigade level, designed to enable live, virtual and constructive training for participating forces.

Ishikawa police officers Chikae Higa, left, Satoshi Goto, center, and Hisakazu Higa detain a simulated aggressive trespasser, Takao Agarijo, during a bilateral scenario-based training exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 5, 2015. The training increased teamwork between Ishikawa Police Station and the Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler Provost Marshal's Office, Precinct North, Camp Hansen. - Ishikawa police officers Chikae Higa, left, Satoshi Goto, center, and Hisakazu Higa detain a simulated aggressive trespasser, Takao Agarijo, during a bilateral scenario-based training exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 5, 2015. The training increased teamwork between Ishikawa Police Station and the Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler Provost Marshal's Office, Precinct North, Camp Hansen.

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Marines with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, and 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, practice handling a simulated enraged enemy during the culminating event of 1st Marine Division Schools’ Urban Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 12, 2015. The course is a 15-day period of instruction that includes classwork, combat marksmanship and physical training in a simulated urban combat environment. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, and 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, practice handling a simulated enraged enemy during the culminating event of 1st Marine Division Schools’ Urban Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 12, 2015. The course is a 15-day period of instruction that includes classwork, combat marksmanship and physical training in a simulated urban combat environment.

Charles "Charlie" Fink, Marine Vietnam veteran, stands in a room of his house decorated with Marine Corps memorabilia and photos June 2, 2015 at his home in Lake Butler, Florida. Fink served with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, during his deployment in Vietnam. - Charles "Charlie" Fink, Marine Vietnam veteran, stands in a room of his house decorated with Marine Corps memorabilia and photos June 2, 2015 at his home in Lake Butler, Florida. Fink served with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, during his deployment in Vietnam.

Corporal Alredo Mireles, a field artillery cannoneer with Battery B, 2nd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, fires an M777 Howitzer during Summer Fire Exercise 15, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 13, 2015. The exercise, which spans Aug. 6-17, provides an opportunity for Marines to practice standing operating procedures for coordinating and executing fire missions in preparation for future operations. - Corporal Alredo Mireles, a field artillery cannoneer with Battery B, 2nd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, fires an M777 Howitzer during Summer Fire Exercise 15, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 13, 2015. The exercise, which spans Aug. 6-17, provides an opportunity for Marines to practice standing operating procedures for coordinating and executing fire missions in preparation for future operations.

Lance Cpl. Gentry Osborne, an anti-tank missile man with Combined Anti-Armor Team Platoon, Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, operates a simulated M41A4 Saber missile system during a simulated anti-armor exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 8, 2015. The simulated Saber challenged Marines with its inclusion of friendly and enemy targets, testing their judgement before firing. - Lance Cpl. Gentry Osborne, an anti-tank missile man with Combined Anti-Armor Team Platoon, Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, operates a simulated M41A4 Saber missile system during a simulated anti-armor exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 8, 2015. The simulated Saber challenged Marines with its inclusion of friendly and enemy targets, testing their judgement before firing.

Marines with 2nd Radio Battalion prepare a Zodiac CRRC shortly before beginning amphibious operations at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 10, 2015. The amphibious operations were part of a two-week radio reconnaissance operator’s course. The unit holds the course in order to ready its radio operators for real world operations. - Marines with 2nd Radio Battalion prepare a Zodiac CRRC shortly before beginning amphibious operations at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 10, 2015. The amphibious operations were part of a two-week radio reconnaissance operator’s course. The unit holds the course in order to ready its radio operators for real world operations.

Corporal Chris Stewart, the senior crew chief aboard an MV-22B Osprey aircraft with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), communicates with pilots during a para-operations training with an 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 6, 2015. Reconnaissance Marines, rigged with parachutes, jumped from an altitude of 13,000 feet with the assistance of Marines with VMM-365 (Rein) to practice the airborne insertion. - Corporal Chris Stewart, the senior crew chief aboard an MV-22B Osprey aircraft with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), communicates with pilots during a para-operations training with an 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 6, 2015. Reconnaissance Marines, rigged with parachutes, jumped from an altitude of 13,000 feet with the assistance of Marines with VMM-365 (Rein) to practice the airborne insertion.

Lance Cpl. Dale Dibble, a mortarman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment looks through the sight on the M224 60 mm Mortar Lightweight Company Mortar System during a 10-day long 60 mm Mortar Lightweight Company Mortar System course under the direction of the Division Combat Skills Center at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 10, 2015. The course began with classroom instruction over the weapons system in which they learned how to boresight, misfire procedures and deflection changes for elevation before the unit moves into live-fire. - Lance Cpl. Dale Dibble, a mortarman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment looks through the sight on the M224 60 mm Mortar Lightweight Company Mortar System during a 10-day long 60 mm Mortar Lightweight Company Mortar System course under the direction of the Division Combat Skills Center at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 10, 2015. The course began with classroom instruction over the weapons system in which they learned how to boresight, misfire procedures and deflection changes for elevation before the unit moves into live-fire.

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Brazilian Major Rafael Pires Ferreira, an artillery officer with Corpo de Fuzileiros Navais, observes the tactical capabilities of 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment’s M142 High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 9, 2015. The two Brazilian officers visited to share and discuss information on military operations, unit structure and different weapons systems. - Brazilian Major Rafael Pires Ferreira, an artillery officer with Corpo de Fuzileiros Navais, observes the tactical capabilities of 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment’s M142 High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 9, 2015. The two Brazilian officers visited to share and discuss information on military operations, unit structure and different weapons systems.

A Marine onboard a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 directs movement during an external lift exercise with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 5, 2015. Two student pilots onboard the helicopter performed external lifts for the first time, an operation essential to deployed operations, and part of their pilot certification. - A Marine onboard a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 directs movement during an external lift exercise with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 5, 2015. Two student pilots onboard the helicopter performed external lifts for the first time, an operation essential to deployed operations, and part of their pilot certification.