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U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. John Koman, multi-purpose canine handler with Delta Company, 1st Marine Raider Support Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, awaits command during the retirement ceremony of his multi-purpose canine, Roy, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 29, 2019. Koman and Roy have served together with 1st MRSB for five years. Upon his retirement, Roy was adopted by Koman. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. John Koman, multi-purpose canine handler with Delta Company, 1st Marine Raider Support Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, awaits command during the retirement ceremony of his multi-purpose canine, Roy, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 29, 2019. Koman and Roy have served together with 1st MRSB for five years. Upon his retirement, Roy was adopted by Koman.

U.S. Pacific Command Commander, Admiral Harry Harris speaks with the President of Mongolia, The Honorable Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj during the Khan Quest 2016 opening ceremony at Five Hills Training Area, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, May 22. Khan Quest 2016 is an annual multinational peacekeeping operations exercise conducted in Mongolia and is the capstone exercise for this year’s Global Peace Operations Initiative program. - U.S. Pacific Command Commander, Admiral Harry Harris speaks with the President of Mongolia, The Honorable Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj during the Khan Quest 2016 opening ceremony at Five Hills Training Area, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, May 22. Khan Quest 2016 is an annual multinational peacekeeping operations exercise conducted in Mongolia and is the capstone exercise for this year’s Global Peace Operations Initiative program.

A U.S. Marine Corps XQ-58A Valkyrie, highly autonomous, low-cost tactical unmanned air vehicle, conducts its fourth test flight alongside a U.S Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II from VMFA-214 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., Oct. 2024. The XQ-58A Valkyrie test flight and the data collected inform future requirements for the Marine Corps in a rapidly evolving security environment, while successfully fueling joint innovation and experimentation opportunities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Blake Wiles) - A U.S. Marine Corps XQ-58A Valkyrie, highly autonomous, low-cost tactical unmanned air vehicle, conducts its fourth test flight alongside a U.S Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II from VMFA-214 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., Oct. 2024. The XQ-58A Valkyrie test flight and the data collected inform future requirements for the Marine Corps in a rapidly evolving security environment, while successfully fueling joint innovation and experimentation opportunities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Blake Wiles)

Cpl. James Marker, Marksmanship Training Unit Shooting Team, native of Wild Rose Wis., shoots a Harrington and Richardson .22 caliber rifle during the 3rd annual Smallbore and Air Rife Competition at Range 3 A, Feb. 21, 2015. Each participant had to load one round at a time and fire on five targets in a time limit of two and half minutes. - Cpl. James Marker, Marksmanship Training Unit Shooting Team, native of Wild Rose Wis., shoots a Harrington and Richardson .22 caliber rifle during the 3rd annual Smallbore and Air Rife Competition at Range 3 A, Feb. 21, 2015. Each participant had to load one round at a time and fire on five targets in a time limit of two and half minutes.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Carmen Christman, right, a logistics mobility chief with the USS Essex, and Lance Cpl. Angela Chang, an embark specialist with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, review flight plans aboard the Essex during Exercise Dawn Blitz, Oct. 27, 2017. - U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Carmen Christman, right, a logistics mobility chief with the USS Essex, and Lance Cpl. Angela Chang, an embark specialist with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, review flight plans aboard the Essex during Exercise Dawn Blitz, Oct. 27, 2017. Dawn Blitz is a scenario-driven amphibious exercise conducted between Expeditionary Strike Group 3 and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, testing their ability to conduct amphibious operations in response to global crises and to project power ashore as part of a Navy-Marine Corps team.

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U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Way, a fire support Marine with Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia, I Marine Expeditionary Force, watches for notional vessels of interest at a shore-based maritime sensing site for a simulated close air support activity during MRF-SEA 23, in Sorsogon, Luzon, Philippines, Oct. 9, 2023. Sensing sites such as this one advance maritime domain awareness and improve lethality of the joint force. MRF-SEA is a Marine Corps Forces Pacific operational model which involves planned exchanges with subject matter experts, promotes security goals with Allies and partners, and positions I MEF forces west of the International Date Line. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Way, a fire support Marine with Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia, I Marine Expeditionary Force, watches for notional vessels of interest at a shore-based maritime sensing site for a simulated close air support activity during MRF-SEA 23, in Sorsogon, Luzon, Philippines, Oct. 9, 2023. Sensing sites such as this one advance maritime domain awareness and improve lethality of the joint force. MRF-SEA is a Marine Corps Forces Pacific operational model which involves planned exchanges with subject matter experts, promotes security goals with Allies and partners, and positions I MEF forces west of the International Date Line.

Service members with the Royal Malaysian Armed Forces, along with U.S. Marines attached to Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia, pose for a photo for an amphibious planning subject matter expert exchange during exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training Malaysia 2024 on Lumut Naval Base, Lumut, Malaysia, Oct. 31, 2024. CARAT Malaysia 2024 highlights the 30th anniversary of CARAT among allies and partners as a way to demonstrate long-term commitment to strengthened relationships throughout South and Southeast Asia and to highlight U.S. commitment to key Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) partners to reinforce ASEAN Centrality. MRF-SEA is a rotational unit derived from elements of I Marine Expeditionary Force executing a U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific operational model that involves training events and exchanges with partner military subject matter experts, promotes security goals with Allied and partner nations, and ensures a persistent I MEF presence west of the International Date Line. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tyler Wilson) - Service members with the Royal Malaysian Armed Forces, along with U.S. Marines attached to Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia, pose for a photo for an amphibious planning subject matter expert exchange during exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training Malaysia 2024 on Lumut Naval Base, Lumut, Malaysia, Oct. 31, 2024. CARAT Malaysia 2024 highlights the 30th anniversary of CARAT among allies and partners as a way to demonstrate long-term commitment to strengthened relationships throughout South and Southeast Asia and to highlight U.S. commitment to key Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) partners to reinforce ASEAN Centrality. MRF-SEA is a rotational unit derived from elements of I Marine Expeditionary Force executing a U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific operational model that involves training events and exchanges with partner military subject matter experts, promotes security goals with Allied and partner nations, and ensures a persistent I MEF presence west of the International Date Line. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tyler Wilson)

A U.S. Marine conducts a joint range brief at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Sept. 5. - A U.S. Marine conducts a joint range brief at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Sept. 5.

U.S Marines with Marine Rotational Force–Darwin 22 secure a possible amphibious landing site during the Operational Regional War Fighter at Cowley Beach Training Area, Queensland. Operation Regional War Fighter supports the Australian Army’s recent focus on enhancing capabilities in the jungle, which mimics conditions seen in the nearby region. - U.S Marines with Marine Rotational Force–Darwin 22 secure a possible amphibious landing site during the Operational Regional War Fighter at Cowley Beach Training Area, Queensland. Operation Regional War Fighter supports the Australian Army’s recent focus on enhancing capabilities in the jungle, which mimics conditions seen in the nearby region.

U.S. Marines go aboard the HMAS Adelaide at Port of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, June 16, 2016. This marks the first time Marines and sailors from Marine Rotational Force - Darwin have embarked in such numbers on an Australian HMAS. This opportunity allows for MRF-D to expand the partnership capabilities with our Australian allies. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, MRF-D, and the Australians are with HMAS Adelaide. - U.S. Marines go aboard the HMAS Adelaide at Port of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, June 16, 2016. This marks the first time Marines and sailors from Marine Rotational Force - Darwin have embarked in such numbers on an Australian HMAS. This opportunity allows for MRF-D to expand the partnership capabilities with our Australian allies. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, MRF-D, and the Australians are with HMAS Adelaide.

U.S. Marines, Australian soldiers and Australian sailors stand at attention for the lowering of the Australian flag aboard the HMAS Adelaide at Port of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, June 16, 2016. This marks the first time Marines and sailors from Marine Rotational Force - Darwin have embarked in such numbers on an Australian HMAS. This opportunity allows for MRF-D to expand the partnership capabilities with our Australian allies. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, MRF-D. - U.S. Marines, Australian soldiers and Australian sailors stand at attention for the lowering of the Australian flag aboard the HMAS Adelaide at Port of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, June 16, 2016. This marks the first time Marines and sailors from Marine Rotational Force - Darwin have embarked in such numbers on an Australian HMAS. This opportunity allows for MRF-D to expand the partnership capabilities with our Australian allies. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, MRF-D.

MV-22 Ospreys and KC-130J Hercules are parked during Marine Rotational Force - Darwin trans-Pacific flight, Cassidy International Airport, Kiribati, Sep. 19, 2019. The flight was conducted to improve upon the Osprey trans-Pacific concept that has been developed and refined over the past three MRF-D iterations. - MV-22 Ospreys and KC-130J Hercules are parked during Marine Rotational Force - Darwin trans-Pacific flight, Cassidy International Airport, Kiribati, Sep. 19, 2019. The flight was conducted to improve upon the Osprey trans-Pacific concept that has been developed and refined over the past three MRF-D iterations.

A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 Reinforced, Aviation Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, refuels in flight during a Transpacific flight over Queensland, Australia, Sept. 13, 2022. TRANSPAC was a long-range tactical redeployment from Darwin to Hawaii with stops in Fiji, American Samoa, and Kiribati. - A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 Reinforced, Aviation Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, refuels in flight during a Transpacific flight over Queensland, Australia, Sept. 13, 2022. TRANSPAC was a long-range tactical redeployment from Darwin to Hawaii with stops in Fiji, American Samoa, and Kiribati.

U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, members of the Australian Defence Force, and Indonesian forces fly in an MV-22 Osprey during Exercise Crocodile Response 22 in Nhulunbuy, NT, Australia, May 17, 2022. Exercise Crocodile Response trains MRF-D, the ADF and Indonesian forces to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the Indo-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, members of the Australian Defence Force, and Indonesian forces fly in an MV-22 Osprey during Exercise Crocodile Response 22 in Nhulunbuy, NT, Australia, May 17, 2022. Exercise Crocodile Response trains MRF-D, the ADF and Indonesian forces to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dantrel Gandy, a Low Altitude Air Defense gunner with Alpha Battery, 2nd LAAD Platoon, Marine Medium Tilt Rotor Squadron – 363 (Reinforced), with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, observes a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launch during Exercise Loobye at Bradshaw Field Training Area, NT, Australia, Aug. 12, 2021. The HIMARS launched as part of the final act of Exercise Loobye to demonstrate MRF-D’s ability to conduct HIMARS Rapid Infiltration. Exercises like Loobye demonstrate MRF-D’s ability to conduct operations as a joint force with the ADF, execute expeditionary operations, like HIRAIN, and exemplify their mutual dedication to being postured and ready to respond to a crisis or contingency in the Indo-Pacific region. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dantrel Gandy, a Low Altitude Air Defense gunner with Alpha Battery, 2nd LAAD Platoon, Marine Medium Tilt Rotor Squadron – 363 (Reinforced), with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, observes a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launch during Exercise Loobye at Bradshaw Field Training Area, NT, Australia, Aug. 12, 2021. The HIMARS launched as part of the final act of Exercise Loobye to demonstrate MRF-D’s ability to conduct HIMARS Rapid Infiltration. Exercises like Loobye demonstrate MRF-D’s ability to conduct operations as a joint force with the ADF, execute expeditionary operations, like HIRAIN, and exemplify their mutual dedication to being postured and ready to respond to a crisis or contingency in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. David Berger, the Commandant of the Marine Corps and Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Troy Black, interact with Marines from Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, during a tour in Darwin, NT, Australia, April 14, 2022. Gen. Berger’s visit allowed Australian and American service members to showcase how they enhance interoperability. - U.S. Marine Corps Gen. David Berger, the Commandant of the Marine Corps and Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Troy Black, interact with Marines from Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, during a tour in Darwin, NT, Australia, April 14, 2022. Gen. Berger’s visit allowed Australian and American service members to showcase how they enhance interoperability.

U.S. Marines await to be inserted via MV-22 Ospreys during a company raid in Exercise Koolendong at Mount Bundey Training Area, NT, Australia, Aug. 23. - U.S. Marines await to be inserted via MV-22 Ospreys during a company raid in Exercise Koolendong at Mount Bundey Training Area, NT, Australia, Aug. 23.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nicholas Longden and Lance Cpl. Romig Beley, both low altitude air defense gunners with the Air Combat Element of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire a FIM-92 Stinger during Fleet Battle Problem 22-1, aboard amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), March 20, 2022. FBP 22-1 integrates naval capabilities to support special operations, provide defense ashore and at sea, and develop the use of unmanned underwater vehicles. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nicholas Longden and Lance Cpl. Romig Beley, both low altitude air defense gunners with the Air Combat Element of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire a FIM-92 Stinger during Fleet Battle Problem 22-1, aboard amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), March 20, 2022. FBP 22-1 integrates naval capabilities to support special operations, provide defense ashore and at sea, and develop the use of unmanned underwater vehicles.

U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 25.3 disembark a U.S. Air Force C-130J with 36th Airlift Squadron, 374th Airlift Wing after their arrival to Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines, from Mindanao for Balikatan 2025, April 15, 2025. Balikatan is a longstanding annual exercise between U.S. and Philippine armed forces designed to strengthen the alliance, showcase the capable combined force, and demonstrate the commitment to regional security and stability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Ezekieljay Correa) - U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 25.3 disembark a U.S. Air Force C-130J with 36th Airlift Squadron, 374th Airlift Wing after their arrival to Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines, from Mindanao for Balikatan 2025, April 15, 2025. Balikatan is a longstanding annual exercise between U.S. and Philippine armed forces designed to strengthen the alliance, showcase the capable combined force, and demonstrate the commitment to regional security and stability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Ezekieljay Correa)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Rigby, an MV-22B Osprey crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 (Reinforced), Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 24.3, looks out the back of an MV-22B Osprey during the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast in Gold Coast, QLD, Australia, Aug. 16, 2024. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Rigby, an MV-22B Osprey crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 (Reinforced), Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 24.3, looks out the back of an MV-22B Osprey during the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast in Gold Coast, QLD, Australia, Aug. 16, 2024. MRF-D’s participation in the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast demonstrates the United States Marine Corps’ commitment to international partnerships and highlights the close military ties between the United States and Australia, fostering interoperability and cooperation between their armed forces. Rigby is a native of Virginia. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Earik Barton)

U.S. Marines and Sailors with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 24.3 offload from a C-40A assigned to Marine Transport Squadron 1, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, in preparation for a humanitarian aid and disaster relief exercise at Jacksons International Airport, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, April 30, 2024. The HADR exercise will be conducted in coordination with the Papua New Guinea Defense Force and U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby, with a focus on projecting select Role II medical, logistics, and Marine Air-Ground Task Force command and control capabilities off-continent, to validate HADR training and readiness. MRF-D 24.3 remains committed to maintaining readiness and fostering partnerships to ensure a swift and effective response to humanitarian crises wherever and whenever they may occur. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Juan Torres) - U.S. Marines and Sailors with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 24.3 offload from a C-40A assigned to Marine Transport Squadron 1, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, in preparation for a humanitarian aid and disaster relief exercise at Jacksons International Airport, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, April 30, 2024. The HADR exercise will be conducted in coordination with the Papua New Guinea Defense Force and U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby, with a focus on projecting select Role II medical, logistics, and Marine Air-Ground Task Force command and control capabilities off-continent, to validate HADR training and readiness. MRF-D 24.3 remains committed to maintaining readiness and fostering partnerships to ensure a swift and effective response to humanitarian crises wherever and whenever they may occur. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Juan Torres)

U.S. Marines with India Co., 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Ground Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, arrive at South Goulburn Island, Australia via U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 reinforced, Aviation Combat Element, MRF-D 22, Aug. 31, 2022. The Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations exercise was a force-on-force training that exercised the MRF-D’s ability to forward deploy and establish expeditionary advanced bases. - U.S. Marines with India Co., 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Ground Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, arrive at South Goulburn Island, Australia via U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 reinforced, Aviation Combat Element, MRF-D 22, Aug. 31, 2022. The Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations exercise was a force-on-force training that exercised the MRF-D’s ability to forward deploy and establish expeditionary advanced bases.

U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22 and Australian Army soldiers secure an objective during exercise Predator's Run 22 at Mount Bundey Training Area, NT, Australia, Aug. 27, 2022. Predator's Run 22 is a multinational exercise that simulates littoral combined arms maneuver in a large-scale force-on-force environment. - U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22 and Australian Army soldiers secure an objective during exercise Predator's Run 22 at Mount Bundey Training Area, NT, Australia, Aug. 27, 2022. Predator's Run 22 is a multinational exercise that simulates littoral combined arms maneuver in a large-scale force-on-force environment.

U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Ground Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, approach a support by fire position during a platoon live-fire attack as part of exercise Darrandarra 22, at Mount Bundey Training Area, NT, Australia, June 10, 2022. Exercise Darrandarra 22 increases MRF-D 22’s readiness to respond to realistic crises throughout the range of military operations within the region. - U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Ground Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, approach a support by fire position during a platoon live-fire attack as part of exercise Darrandarra 22, at Mount Bundey Training Area, NT, Australia, June 10, 2022. Exercise Darrandarra 22 increases MRF-D 22’s readiness to respond to realistic crises throughout the range of military operations within the region.

Jay Cutler, professional bodybuilder, autographs a fan’s dumbbell at a promotional appearance at the GNC in the Main Exchange, Aug. 28, 2014. - Jay Cutler, professional bodybuilder, autographs a fan’s dumbbell at a promotional appearance at the GNC in the Main Exchange, Aug. 28, 2014.

A student at the Marine Military Police Officers Basic Course leads a patrol during a field exercise at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, Apr. 14, 2016. The Marine MPOBC is a 70-day training course. (Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Julien Rodarte/Released) - A student at the Marine Military Police Officers Basic Course leads a patrol during a field exercise at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, Apr. 14, 2016. The Marine MPOBC is a 70-day training course. (Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Julien Rodarte/Released)

Capt. Don E. Pigott, captain of the Maritime Prepositioning Force ship, USNS Pililaau, welcomes Brig. Gen. Steven Rudder, the commanding general for 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, aboard the ship. Rudder received a tour of the supplies and equipment onboard the ship to be used during Exercise Cobra Gold 2015. - Capt. Don E. Pigott, captain of the Maritime Prepositioning Force ship, USNS Pililaau, welcomes Brig. Gen. Steven Rudder, the commanding general for 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, aboard the ship. Rudder received a tour of the supplies and equipment onboard the ship to be used during Exercise Cobra Gold 2015.

U.S. Marines participating in Exercise Saber Strike 18 stand outside of a U.S. Marine Corps Light Armored Vehicle (LAV) during a static-display event demonstrating military vehicles and gear in Kuršėnai, Lithuania, June 1, 2018. The multinational civil engagement gave the citizens of Kuršėnai the opportunity to interact with the different militaries involved in Exercise Saber Strike 18. Saber Strike is a U.S. joint and multinational exercise conducted at various locations throughout the Baltic States and Poland. The annual exercise prepares Allies to respond to regional crises and enhance the NATO alliance throughout the region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Adwin Esters/Released) - U.S. Marines participating in Exercise Saber Strike 18 stand outside of a U.S. Marine Corps Light Armored Vehicle (LAV) during a static-display event demonstrating military vehicles and gear in Kuršėnai, Lithuania, June 1, 2018. The multinational civil engagement gave the citizens of Kuršėnai the opportunity to interact with the different militaries involved in Exercise Saber Strike 18. Saber Strike is a U.S. joint and multinational exercise conducted at various locations throughout the Baltic States and Poland. The annual exercise prepares Allies to respond to regional crises and enhance the NATO alliance throughout the region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Adwin Esters/Released)

Students at the Marine Military Police Basic Course and the new Marine Military Police Officer Basic Course patrol during a field exercise at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, April 14, 2016. The exercise tests the Marines readiness for tasks they may be required to do in the fleet. - Students at the Marine Military Police Basic Course and the new Marine Military Police Officer Basic Course patrol during a field exercise at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, April 14, 2016. The exercise tests the Marines readiness for tasks they may be required to do in the fleet.

Marines with the Headquarters Battalion Color Guard prepare to present the colors during the opening program of the Moving Vietnam Veteran Memorial Wall at Mission Springs Park in Desert Hot Springs, Calif., June 22, 2017. The Moving Wall, a scale model of the original Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, has the names of those men and women who were killed or missing in action etched onto a reflective stone, so visitors can not only see the names, but see themselves, reflecting on the lives of the people who fought and died to keep them safe. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dave Flores) - Marines with the Headquarters Battalion Color Guard prepare to present the colors during the opening program of the Moving Vietnam Veteran Memorial Wall at Mission Springs Park in Desert Hot Springs, Calif., June 22, 2017. The Moving Wall, a scale model of the original Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, has the names of those men and women who were killed or missing in action etched onto a reflective stone, so visitors can not only see the names, but see themselves, reflecting on the lives of the people who fought and died to keep them safe. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dave Flores)

Japanese motorcycle clubs and motorcycle riders from the air station gathered at the Marine Thrift Store for the third-annual Toy Drive and Motorcycle Rally at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 22, 2015. Station residents and local Japanese donated toys for Japanese orphans and enjoyed decorated bikes and the roar of engines as the motorcyclists went on a Thunder Ride around base. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Nicole Zurbrugg/Released) - Japanese motorcycle clubs and motorcycle riders from the air station gathered at the Marine Thrift Store for the third-annual Toy Drive and Motorcycle Rally at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 22, 2015. Station residents and local Japanese donated toys for Japanese orphans and enjoyed decorated bikes and the roar of engines as the motorcyclists went on a Thunder Ride around base. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Nicole Zurbrugg/Released)

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Motor Transport Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Battalion 26, Headquarters Regiment, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, conduct a simulated convoy throughout the hills aboard Bridgeport, California, Jan. 14, 2015. The Marines learned how to operate the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and the small unit support vehicles in mountainous terrain during classroom instruction and practical application. - Motor Transport Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Battalion 26, Headquarters Regiment, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, conduct a simulated convoy throughout the hills aboard Bridgeport, California, Jan. 14, 2015. The Marines learned how to operate the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and the small unit support vehicles in mountainous terrain during classroom instruction and practical application.

Sgt. Justin Odom, Marine Corps Systems Command training non-commissioned officer, performs a snatch lift July 18, at the High Intensity Tactical Training facility aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. After earning the top male competitor spot in the HITT preliminaries at Quantico, Odom was selected to represent the base in the Third Annual HITT Athlete Championship at Camp Pendleton, California, in August. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Kaitlin Kelly) - Sgt. Justin Odom, Marine Corps Systems Command training non-commissioned officer, performs a snatch lift July 18, at the High Intensity Tactical Training facility aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. After earning the top male competitor spot in the HITT preliminaries at Quantico, Odom was selected to represent the base in the Third Annual HITT Athlete Championship at Camp Pendleton, California, in August. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Kaitlin Kelly)

A mortar team with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, adjusts the mortar to the measurements provided to hit their targets during a training exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 6, 2016. Marines underwent mortar familiarization and proficiency training in preparation for their upcoming deployment in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force. - A mortar team with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, adjusts the mortar to the measurements provided to hit their targets during a training exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 6, 2016. Marines underwent mortar familiarization and proficiency training in preparation for their upcoming deployment in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

Marines assigned to India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment show Moroccan Royal Armed Forces artillerymen their howitzer’s capabilities during Exercise African Lion 15, 2015, near Tan Tan, Morocco. - Marines assigned to India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment show Moroccan Royal Armed Forces artillerymen their howitzer’s capabilities during Exercise African Lion 15, 2015, near Tan Tan, Morocco.

Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion demonstrate crowd control procedures against group of Moroccan, Dutch and Belgium soldiers acting as an unruly crowd May 20 in the Tifnit, Morocco, training area. Exercise African Lion 15 is an annually-scheduled, combined U.S.–Moroccan exercise designed to improve mutual understanding of each nation’s tactics, techniques and procedures while demonstrating the strong bond between the two nation’s militaries. The one-week exercise includes various types of military training, including a command post exercise; stability operations, such as nonlethal weapons training and crisis/disaster response training. Additionally, in February an intelligence capacity building seminar was conducted. - Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion demonstrate crowd control procedures against group of Moroccan, Dutch and Belgium soldiers acting as an unruly crowd May 20 in the Tifnit, Morocco, training area. Exercise African Lion 15 is an annually-scheduled, combined U.S.–Moroccan exercise designed to improve mutual understanding of each nation’s tactics, techniques and procedures while demonstrating the strong bond between the two nation’s militaries. The one-week exercise includes various types of military training, including a command post exercise; stability operations, such as nonlethal weapons training and crisis/disaster response training. Additionally, in February an intelligence capacity building seminar was conducted.

Patrons of Marine Corps Base Quantico’s 50M Pool sit on the pool’s edge before swimming laps Aug. 25. - Patrons of Marine Corps Base Quantico’s 50M Pool sit on the pool’s edge before swimming laps Aug. 25.

Marines and Sailors practice clearing rooms and detaining non-combatants as a part of the Raid Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 12, 2016. While the course emphasizes combat marksmanship fundamentals, Marines must be able to identify and properly handle non-combatants in urban military operations. The Marines participating in the training course are with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Corps Regiment. The Raid Leaders Course is run by Expeditionary Operations Training Group, I Marine Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines and Sailors practice clearing rooms and detaining non-combatants as a part of the Raid Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 12, 2016. While the course emphasizes combat marksmanship fundamentals, Marines must be able to identify and properly handle non-combatants in urban military operations. The Marines participating in the training course are with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Corps Regiment. The Raid Leaders Course is run by Expeditionary Operations Training Group, I Marine Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. George Kiernan, a financial management officer with I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, poses for a photo at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 15, 2022. Kiernan played for the All-Marine Men's basketball team in the 2022 Armed Forces Men's and Women’s Basketball Championship. The tournament was hosted at Admiral Prout Fieldhouse, Naval Base San Diego, in order to promote friendly competition and unity between services. - U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. George Kiernan, a financial management officer with I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, poses for a photo at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 15, 2022. Kiernan played for the All-Marine Men's basketball team in the 2022 Armed Forces Men's and Women’s Basketball Championship. The tournament was hosted at Admiral Prout Fieldhouse, Naval Base San Diego, in order to promote friendly competition and unity between services.

Members of the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Fire Department pose for a group photo in front of Fire Station 1 at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 29, 2022. The fire department safeguards property and personnel from emergency situations by providing all-hazard response services. To increase the community’s knowledge on fire prevention and education, the fire station hosts open houses and teaches classes throughout the year. - Members of the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Fire Department pose for a group photo in front of Fire Station 1 at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 29, 2022. The fire department safeguards property and personnel from emergency situations by providing all-hazard response services. To increase the community’s knowledge on fire prevention and education, the fire station hosts open houses and teaches classes throughout the year.

A memorial at the Sabånan Fadang burial site displays a plaque and ancient CHamoru lusongs, mortars used for pounding or husking rice, on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam Jan. 29, 2022. Four grave pits were initially found in 2020, with an additional three grave pits found during the construction of the monument between Oct. 29, 2021 and Nov. 2, 2021. the monument was proposed by the Guam State Historic Preservation office and supports MCB Camp Blaz's commitment to preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Guam. - A memorial at the Sabånan Fadang burial site displays a plaque and ancient CHamoru lusongs, mortars used for pounding or husking rice, on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam Jan. 29, 2022. Four grave pits were initially found in 2020, with an additional three grave pits found during the construction of the monument between Oct. 29, 2021 and Nov. 2, 2021. the monument was proposed by the Guam State Historic Preservation office and supports MCB Camp Blaz's commitment to preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Guam.

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Members of the Chaney family carry U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. John Henry Chaney to his final resting place at John Wesley United Methodist Church Cemetery in Clarksburg, Maryland, Feb. 8, 2024. Chaney was drafted in the Marine Corps in 1943, becoming one of the legendary Montford Point Marines, the first Black Americans to earn the title. Chaney served in World War II and fought at the harrowing Battle of Iwo Jima. In 2012, Chaney and other Montford Point Marines, were presented the Congressional Gold Medal. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Kelsey Dornfeld) - Members of the Chaney family carry U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. John Henry Chaney to his final resting place at John Wesley United Methodist Church Cemetery in Clarksburg, Maryland, Feb. 8, 2024. Chaney was drafted in the Marine Corps in 1943, becoming one of the legendary Montford Point Marines, the first Black Americans to earn the title. Chaney served in World War II and fought at the harrowing Battle of Iwo Jima. In 2012, Chaney and other Montford Point Marines, were presented the Congressional Gold Medal. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Kelsey Dornfeld)

U.S. service members and guests attend the Montford Point Marine Memorial dedication ceremony held at Jacksonville, North Carolina, July 29, 2016. The memorial was built in honor of the 20,000 African-Americans who attended training at Montford Point. - U.S. service members and guests attend the Montford Point Marine Memorial dedication ceremony held at Jacksonville, North Carolina, July 29, 2016. The memorial was built in honor of the 20,000 African-Americans who attended training at Montford Point.

The Montford Point Marine Sculpture that represents the Montford Point Marines; the angle of incline represents the uphill struggle for equality, stands at the Montford Point Marines Memorial in Jacksonville, N.C., Aug. 26. - The Montford Point Marine Sculpture that represents the Montford Point Marines; the angle of incline represents the uphill struggle for equality, stands at the Montford Point Marines Memorial in Jacksonville, N.C., Aug. 26.

U.S. Marines visit the Montford Point Marines Memorial in Jacksonville, N.C., Aug. 26. - U.S. Marines visit the Montford Point Marines Memorial in Jacksonville, N.C., Aug. 26.

Ella Jackson, a 93-year-old widow, receives a Congressional Gold Medal replica in lieu of her late husband, Master Sgt. George Jackson, in Port Royal, S.C., Oct. 2. George Jackson enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1942 and retired after 27 years of service in 1969. Brigadier General Terry Williams, the first African-American commanding general of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, presented Jackson with the medal at a ceremony. In 2012, congress awarded the Montford Point Marines with the Congressional Gold Medal, the United States' highest civilian award bestowed by congress. - Ella Jackson, a 93-year-old widow, receives a Congressional Gold Medal replica in lieu of her late husband, Master Sgt. George Jackson, in Port Royal, S.C., Oct. 2. George Jackson enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1942 and retired after 27 years of service in 1969. Brigadier General Terry Williams, the first African-American commanding general of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, presented Jackson with the medal at a ceremony. In 2012, congress awarded the Montford Point Marines with the Congressional Gold Medal, the United States' highest civilian award bestowed by congress.

Dr. Ernest James Harris, Jr. smiles after receiving the Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony in Honolulu Nov. 12, 2016. Harris was awarded his Congressional Gold Medal for his service as a Montford Point Marine. - Dr. Ernest James Harris, Jr. smiles after receiving the Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony in Honolulu Nov. 12, 2016. Harris was awarded his Congressional Gold Medal for his service as a Montford Point Marine.