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Japanese observers tour and examine a MV-22 Osprey during a noncombatant evacuation demonstration as part of exercise Cobra Gold 16 at Utapao, Thailand, February 17, 2016. U.S. Marines put an Osprey on static display during the demonstration while partner nations exercised their own evacuation capabilities. The Osprey provides a longer flight range and a bigger capacity for supplies compared to traditional helicopters, but allows service members to access smaller areas compared to traditional fixed-wing aircraft. Cobra Gold, in its 35th iteration, is a multi-national exercise designed to advance regional security and ensure effective responses to regional crises by bringing together a robust combined task force from partner nations sharing common goals and security commitments in the Asia-Pacific region. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Japanese observers tour and examine a MV-22 Osprey during a noncombatant evacuation demonstration as part of exercise Cobra Gold 16 at Utapao, Thailand, February 17, 2016. U.S. Marines put an Osprey on static display during the demonstration while partner nations exercised their own evacuation capabilities. The Osprey provides a longer flight range and a bigger capacity for supplies compared to traditional helicopters, but allows service members to access smaller areas compared to traditional fixed-wing aircraft. Cobra Gold, in its 35th iteration, is a multi-national exercise designed to advance regional security and ensure effective responses to regional crises by bringing together a robust combined task force from partner nations sharing common goals and security commitments in the Asia-Pacific region. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Marine with 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade shows local children around a light armored vehicle at Hell Station in Hell, Norway, Feb. 12. Tons of combat vehicles and equipment were transported by rail to Rena, Norway, where the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ground combat element will take part in live-fire exercise in the coming days. The rail operations moved vehicles and equipment prepositioned in caves here to the training area in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, comprised of 13 allied and partner nations, and over 16,000 troops, starting later this month. - A Marine with 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade shows local children around a light armored vehicle at Hell Station in Hell, Norway, Feb. 12. Tons of combat vehicles and equipment were transported by rail to Rena, Norway, where the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ground combat element will take part in live-fire exercise in the coming days. The rail operations moved vehicles and equipment prepositioned in caves here to the training area in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, comprised of 13 allied and partner nations, and over 16,000 troops, starting later this month.

Captains Calum Ramm, left, and Daniel Cartica, right, cross a finish line during the World Marathon Challenge Jan. 23 at Union Glacier, Antarctica. The World Marathon Challenge is a seven-day event that encompasses seven marathons run on every continent. Cartica won the event with a cumulative time of 24 hours, 46 minutes and 56 seconds. - Captains Calum Ramm, left, and Daniel Cartica, right, cross a finish line during the World Marathon Challenge Jan. 23 at Union Glacier, Antarctica. The World Marathon Challenge is a seven-day event that encompasses seven marathons run on every continent. Cartica won the event with a cumulative time of 24 hours, 46 minutes and 56 seconds.

A U.S. Marine provides security and overwatch for Marines conducting urban operations during Forest Light 16-2 in Yausubetsu Training Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Jan. 28, 2016. The Japan and U.S. forces demonstrated each other’s tactics for securing the area around an enemy urban zone and breaching the urban area. The exercise strengthens military partnership, solidifies regional security agreements and improves individual and unit-level skills. The JGSDF soldiers are with the 27th Infantry Regiment, 5th Brigade, Northern Army. The Marines are with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - A U.S. Marine provides security and overwatch for Marines conducting urban operations during Forest Light 16-2 in Yausubetsu Training Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Jan. 28, 2016. The Japan and U.S. forces demonstrated each other’s tactics for securing the area around an enemy urban zone and breaching the urban area. The exercise strengthens military partnership, solidifies regional security agreements and improves individual and unit-level skills. The JGSDF soldiers are with the 27th Infantry Regiment, 5th Brigade, Northern Army. The Marines are with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Sgt. Benjamin Hebert, a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469 based out of Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., performs maintenance on a UH-1Y “Venom” helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Friday, Feb. 5, 2016. - Sgt. Benjamin Hebert, a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469 based out of Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., performs maintenance on a UH-1Y “Venom” helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Friday, Feb. 5, 2016.

Marines plot objective points on a map to reach during a combat endurance challenge Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Feb. 5, 2016. The challenge consisted of hiking nearly seven miles, testing weapons systems, combat lifesaving skills, land navigation and simulated casualty evacuation. The Marines with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment conducted the training aboard MCB Camp Pendleton. - Marines plot objective points on a map to reach during a combat endurance challenge Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Feb. 5, 2016. The challenge consisted of hiking nearly seven miles, testing weapons systems, combat lifesaving skills, land navigation and simulated casualty evacuation. The Marines with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment conducted the training aboard MCB Camp Pendleton.

Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, prepare to unload two M1A1 Abrams tanks following their transport across New River by using a seven-bay raft system during a water-crossing operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 4, 2016. The unit boasts a wide range of raft systems and bridging that it is able to do to allow tactical vehicles to cross large bodies of water. - Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, prepare to unload two M1A1 Abrams tanks following their transport across New River by using a seven-bay raft system during a water-crossing operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 4, 2016. The unit boasts a wide range of raft systems and bridging that it is able to do to allow tactical vehicles to cross large bodies of water.

A memorial for two pilots with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, who passed away following a mishap last year, stands at the Strategic Expeditionary Landing Field, at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty nine Palms, Calif. Jan. 23, 2016. Marine Wing Support Squadron 374 completed the memorial in time to be unveiled on the anniversary of the incident. - A memorial for two pilots with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, who passed away following a mishap last year, stands at the Strategic Expeditionary Landing Field, at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty nine Palms, Calif. Jan. 23, 2016. Marine Wing Support Squadron 374 completed the memorial in time to be unveiled on the anniversary of the incident.

Lieutenant Gen. Jon M. Davis, right, salutes the casket of Lt. Gen. William H. Fitch (ret.) at Quantico National Cemetery, Feb. 4, 2016, in Triangle, Virginia. Fitch died Jan. 19, 2016. He served as the Deputy Commandant for Aviation before he retired in 1984 after 32 years as a Marine Corps officer. - Lieutenant Gen. Jon M. Davis, right, salutes the casket of Lt. Gen. William H. Fitch (ret.) at Quantico National Cemetery, Feb. 4, 2016, in Triangle, Virginia. Fitch died Jan. 19, 2016. He served as the Deputy Commandant for Aviation before he retired in 1984 after 32 years as a Marine Corps officer.

Staff Sgt. Nathan A. Hervey, an instructor with the Advanced Infantry Training Battalion at the School of Infantry-East, speaks to Marines at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 5, 2016. Hervey was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with the combat distinguishing device for valor, and was recognized for extraordinary heroism for his actions on May 21, 2011, while carrying out his duties as a scout sniper section leader with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. - Staff Sgt. Nathan A. Hervey, an instructor with the Advanced Infantry Training Battalion at the School of Infantry-East, speaks to Marines at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 5, 2016. Hervey was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with the combat distinguishing device for valor, and was recognized for extraordinary heroism for his actions on May 21, 2011, while carrying out his duties as a scout sniper section leader with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

A Marine with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, loads an electronic M2 .50-caliber machine gun in a Combat Convoy Simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 2, 2016. The CCS at first glance looks like an expensive, high-tech video game, but its primary use is preparing Marines for real-world combat missions with simulations of realistic scenarios. - A Marine with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, loads an electronic M2 .50-caliber machine gun in a Combat Convoy Simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 2, 2016. The CCS at first glance looks like an expensive, high-tech video game, but its primary use is preparing Marines for real-world combat missions with simulations of realistic scenarios.

Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 464 load a CH-53E Super Stallion onto a C-5 Galaxy in preparation for Operation Cold Response 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Feb. 3, 2016. The key purpose of Cold Response is to train and educate participants on how to conduct combat operations in a cold weather environment. Up to 2,000 Marines and 15,000 military personnel from 14 nations will attend the North Atlantic Treaty Organization-level exercise. - Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 464 load a CH-53E Super Stallion onto a C-5 Galaxy in preparation for Operation Cold Response 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Feb. 3, 2016. The key purpose of Cold Response is to train and educate participants on how to conduct combat operations in a cold weather environment. Up to 2,000 Marines and 15,000 military personnel from 14 nations will attend the North Atlantic Treaty Organization-level exercise.

Major Gen. Joseph L. Osterman, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, presents Petty Officer 2nd Class Alejandro Salabarria, a corpsman with Marine Special Operations Company F, 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, the Silver Star Medal during a ceremony at Stone Bay, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 5, 2016. Salabarria was awarded for his actions in Afghanistan Sept. 15, 2014. - Major Gen. Joseph L. Osterman, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, presents Petty Officer 2nd Class Alejandro Salabarria, a corpsman with Marine Special Operations Company F, 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, the Silver Star Medal during a ceremony at Stone Bay, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 5, 2016. Salabarria was awarded for his actions in Afghanistan Sept. 15, 2014.

Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 land a UH-1Y Huey to refuel during exercise Scorpion Fire 1-16 on Navy Air Facility El Centro, Calif., Jan. 25, 2016. HMLA-267 supported the exercise with close air support and live-fire capabilities, Jan. 25 to Feb. 5, 2016. - Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 land a UH-1Y Huey to refuel during exercise Scorpion Fire 1-16 on Navy Air Facility El Centro, Calif., Jan. 25, 2016. HMLA-267 supported the exercise with close air support and live-fire capabilities, Jan. 25 to Feb. 5, 2016.

Lance Cpl. Andrew Metler, a mortarman with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, mans the turret gun of a Humvee during a patrol in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, Jan. 1, 2016. U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF-CR-CC are responsible for the force protection of some Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve bases within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. - Lance Cpl. Andrew Metler, a mortarman with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, mans the turret gun of a Humvee during a patrol in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, Jan. 1, 2016. U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF-CR-CC are responsible for the force protection of some Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve bases within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

Marines gather for an after action report during an aircraft recovery training exercise at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Feb. 2, 2016. Aircraft rescue and firefighting Marines, heavy equipment operators, bulk fuels specialists, motor transportation Marines and combat engineers with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 worked hand-in-hand to retrieve a simulated downed aircraft. They were given a scenario and were tasked to provide a security perimeter around the aircraft while securing and transporting the aircraft in a safe and effective manner. The ability to retrieve aircraft without the aid of outside resources increases the unit’s effectiveness and their expeditionary capabilities. - Marines gather for an after action report during an aircraft recovery training exercise at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Feb. 2, 2016. Aircraft rescue and firefighting Marines, heavy equipment operators, bulk fuels specialists, motor transportation Marines and combat engineers with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 worked hand-in-hand to retrieve a simulated downed aircraft. They were given a scenario and were tasked to provide a security perimeter around the aircraft while securing and transporting the aircraft in a safe and effective manner. The ability to retrieve aircraft without the aid of outside resources increases the unit’s effectiveness and their expeditionary capabilities.

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Sgt. Gordon Rodgers, a field radio operator with Headquarters Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, raises an antenna during a command post exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 2, 2016. The mission of 2nd Marine Logistics Group is to provide general support combat logistics to all forces operating in the II Marine Expeditionary Force battlespace. - Sgt. Gordon Rodgers, a field radio operator with Headquarters Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, raises an antenna during a command post exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 2, 2016. The mission of 2nd Marine Logistics Group is to provide general support combat logistics to all forces operating in the II Marine Expeditionary Force battlespace.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Mark Skaggs teaches Marines how to properly lift and carry casualties during a simulated causality evacuation scenario at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 27 2016. This training was part of the newly formed combat operation medical emergency transport training. COMETT exposes the aircrew to medical emergencies and procedures they may encounter in combat and non-combat environments. Skaggs, a Pensacola native, is an aeromedical safety corpsman with Marine Aircraft Group 29. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Mark Skaggs teaches Marines how to properly lift and carry casualties during a simulated causality evacuation scenario at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 27 2016. This training was part of the newly formed combat operation medical emergency transport training. COMETT exposes the aircrew to medical emergencies and procedures they may encounter in combat and non-combat environments. Skaggs, a Pensacola native, is an aeromedical safety corpsman with Marine Aircraft Group 29.

Combat engineers and assaultmen with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, march toward a Bangalore torpedo impact zone during a Deployment for Training exercise at Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Jan 28, 2016. The range was intended to ensure Marines maintain weapon systems proficiency while preparing them for their upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan. - Combat engineers and assaultmen with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, march toward a Bangalore torpedo impact zone during a Deployment for Training exercise at Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Jan 28, 2016. The range was intended to ensure Marines maintain weapon systems proficiency while preparing them for their upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan.

Captain Scott Williams, company commander of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, dives out of a rigid-hulled inflatable boat to conduct underwater search operations training off the coast of California, Jan. 28, 2016. The Marines and Sailors of Co. A will use their dive ability to give the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit a valuable underwater search tool when it deploys later this year. - Captain Scott Williams, company commander of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, dives out of a rigid-hulled inflatable boat to conduct underwater search operations training off the coast of California, Jan. 28, 2016. The Marines and Sailors of Co. A will use their dive ability to give the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit a valuable underwater search tool when it deploys later this year.

Pfc. Nathan Murdock, rifleman, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, fires his M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle at a target during the Designated Marksman Course’s culminating event at Range 113, Jan. 28, 2016. - Pfc. Nathan Murdock, rifleman, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, fires his M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle at a target during the Designated Marksman Course’s culminating event at Range 113, Jan. 28, 2016.

Cpl. Immanuel Friddle, guide for Combat Logistics Battalion 252, prepares for a hike in Bridgeport, California, during Mountain Exercise 1-16, a cold weather training exercise, on Jan. 11, 2016. The training is a prerequisite for a large, multi-national exercise called Cold Response 16 that will take place in Norway, March of this year. Cold Response will challenge 12 NATO allies’ and partners’ abilities to work together and respond in the case of a crisis. - Cpl. Immanuel Friddle, guide for Combat Logistics Battalion 252, prepares for a hike in Bridgeport, California, during Mountain Exercise 1-16, a cold weather training exercise, on Jan. 11, 2016. The training is a prerequisite for a large, multi-national exercise called Cold Response 16 that will take place in Norway, March of this year. Cold Response will challenge 12 NATO allies’ and partners’ abilities to work together and respond in the case of a crisis.

Corpsmen with 2nd Medical Battalion rush role-playing patients into a medical tent at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C, Jan. 28, 2016. The training is preparing a Shock Trauma Squad to treat cold related injuries for an upcoming multinational exercise, Cold Response 16.1, in Norway. - Corpsmen with 2nd Medical Battalion rush role-playing patients into a medical tent at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C, Jan. 28, 2016. The training is preparing a Shock Trauma Squad to treat cold related injuries for an upcoming multinational exercise, Cold Response 16.1, in Norway.

A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, holds his post as his platoon prepares to ambush a notional enemy during Mountain Exercise 1-16, at Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California, Jan. 12, 2016. Marines with the unit took on the Mountain Warfare Course in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16 in the near future. - A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, holds his post as his platoon prepares to ambush a notional enemy during Mountain Exercise 1-16, at Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California, Jan. 12, 2016. Marines with the unit took on the Mountain Warfare Course in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16 in the near future.

First Sgt. Shonor Burton runs through a non-lethal weapons course while blinded by the effects of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, Jan. 26, 2016. Burton is the company first sergeant for Company B, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. - First Sgt. Shonor Burton runs through a non-lethal weapons course while blinded by the effects of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, Jan. 26, 2016. Burton is the company first sergeant for Company B, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California.

Pfc. Merrick Martius, a Light Armored Vehicle crewman, provides maintenance for an infrared light on an LAV-25 during a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. The qualification test consisted of gunnery training, communication between the vehicle commander and the driver, and cooperation between the crewmembers of the LAV and the command tower. This allows Marines to fire accurately when aiming on targets down range. Martius is an LAV crewman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Pfc. Merrick Martius, a Light Armored Vehicle crewman, provides maintenance for an infrared light on an LAV-25 during a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. The qualification test consisted of gunnery training, communication between the vehicle commander and the driver, and cooperation between the crewmembers of the LAV and the command tower. This allows Marines to fire accurately when aiming on targets down range. Martius is an LAV crewman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center’s Pre-Scout Sniper Course departs a field following a stalking exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 22, 2016. The DCSC offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines. - A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center’s Pre-Scout Sniper Course departs a field following a stalking exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 22, 2016. The DCSC offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Thomas McCarthy prepares to place an IV for Cpl. Walter Kowalski Jan. 5 at the U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka Branch Health Annex on Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan. The annex provides medical evaluation and care to units training on the installation and is typically staffed by less than six permanent personnel. The facility provides an area for service members in training to seek medical evaluation and care. McCarthy is a corpsman with 3rd Battalion 5th Marine Regiment; currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program, and a Visalia, Calif., native. Kowalski is a field radio operator with the battalion and an Amsterdam, N.Y., native. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Thomas McCarthy prepares to place an IV for Cpl. Walter Kowalski Jan. 5 at the U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka Branch Health Annex on Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan. The annex provides medical evaluation and care to units training on the installation and is typically staffed by less than six permanent personnel. The facility provides an area for service members in training to seek medical evaluation and care. McCarthy is a corpsman with 3rd Battalion 5th Marine Regiment; currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program, and a Visalia, Calif., native. Kowalski is a field radio operator with the battalion and an Amsterdam, N.Y., native.

Marines with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS) 3 conduct a land navigation course during their Command Post Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Jan. 19. Marines with MWHS-3 participated in a three-day, two-night CPX designed to instill and improve field and tactical skills of the Headquarter Marines, Jan. 19-21. - Marines with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS) 3 conduct a land navigation course during their Command Post Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Jan. 19. Marines with MWHS-3 participated in a three-day, two-night CPX designed to instill and improve field and tactical skills of the Headquarter Marines, Jan. 19-21.

Cpl. Joshua Payne, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 and a Spring, Texas, native, guides the pilots of an MV-22B Osprey to an unprepared field during casualty-evacuation training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 20. Casualty-evacuation training prepares the Marines to land in a combat zone, pick up injured Marines and transport them to a safe area. - Cpl. Joshua Payne, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 and a Spring, Texas, native, guides the pilots of an MV-22B Osprey to an unprepared field during casualty-evacuation training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 20. Casualty-evacuation training prepares the Marines to land in a combat zone, pick up injured Marines and transport them to a safe area.

Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 established and set up a forward operating base during a field operation at Davis North, Jan. 13, 2016. Marines tested their support capabilities during a field operation, meant to hone their skills on airfield. - Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 established and set up a forward operating base during a field operation at Davis North, Jan. 13, 2016. Marines tested their support capabilities during a field operation, meant to hone their skills on airfield.

A Marine squad leader assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security during a company-level assault, as part of combined arms live-fire, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin exercise, aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Training Center Twentynine Palms, California, Jan. 18, 2016. Infantry squad leaders holding the rank of corporal or sergeant can apply now for the recently updated Squad Leader Development Program, and earn the new military occupational specialty of 0365 - Infantry Squad Leader if selected from the pool of applicants. - A Marine squad leader assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security during a company-level assault, as part of combined arms live-fire, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin exercise, aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Training Center Twentynine Palms, California, Jan. 18, 2016. Infantry squad leaders holding the rank of corporal or sergeant can apply now for the recently updated Squad Leader Development Program, and earn the new military occupational specialty of 0365 - Infantry Squad Leader if selected from the pool of applicants.

First Lt. Nolan Vihlen (left), 1st Lt. Dave Samson (middle), and 1st Lt. David Peck (right), Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302, conduct vehicle checks on a CH-53E Super Stallion before their departure from Marine Corps Air Station New River, Jan. 7, 2016. Thorough and consistent pilot training is the best way to ensure aviation safety; HMHT-302 teaches its student pilots proper procedures for safety checks to ensure the highest level of safety and preparedness prior to any flight. - First Lt. Nolan Vihlen (left), 1st Lt. Dave Samson (middle), and 1st Lt. David Peck (right), Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302, conduct vehicle checks on a CH-53E Super Stallion before their departure from Marine Corps Air Station New River, Jan. 7, 2016. Thorough and consistent pilot training is the best way to ensure aviation safety; HMHT-302 teaches its student pilots proper procedures for safety checks to ensure the highest level of safety and preparedness prior to any flight.

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.

Lance Cpl. Sawyer Day, a combat engineer with Alpha Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, reloads his weapon during a Combat Marksmanship Program qualification. Marines conduct these qualifications yearly in order to remain combat ready in case they are called upon at a moment's notice. - Lance Cpl. Sawyer Day, a combat engineer with Alpha Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, reloads his weapon during a Combat Marksmanship Program qualification. Marines conduct these qualifications yearly in order to remain combat ready in case they are called upon at a moment's notice.

A Marine operates a simulated Personal Surface to Air Missile during a tour of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force facilities Jan. 13 at Camp Komakado, Shizuoka, Japan. The visit strengthened the relationship between Marines and members of the JGSDF through guided tours and discussions of tactics and equipment. The Marines, who are from 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, Marine Aircraft Control Group 28; currently assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program, visited their JGSDF counterpart, 1st Anti-Aircraft Battalion, to observe training procedures, weapon systems, tactical vehicles and equipment. - A Marine operates a simulated Personal Surface to Air Missile during a tour of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force facilities Jan. 13 at Camp Komakado, Shizuoka, Japan. The visit strengthened the relationship between Marines and members of the JGSDF through guided tours and discussions of tactics and equipment. The Marines, who are from 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, Marine Aircraft Control Group 28; currently assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program, visited their JGSDF counterpart, 1st Anti-Aircraft Battalion, to observe training procedures, weapon systems, tactical vehicles and equipment.

Lance Cpl. Hunter Rooks, a Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, deflects baton attacks from an assailant after being sprayed with oleoresin capsicum, more commonly known as OC spray, at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 14. “The purpose of this course is to gain compliance without using lethal force,” said Cpl. Hayden Jolly, an artillery section chief with the unit. - Lance Cpl. Hunter Rooks, a Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, deflects baton attacks from an assailant after being sprayed with oleoresin capsicum, more commonly known as OC spray, at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 14. “The purpose of this course is to gain compliance without using lethal force,” said Cpl. Hayden Jolly, an artillery section chief with the unit.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274’s Engineer Company, Heavy Equipment Platoon set their pace count before beginning a land navigation course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Jan. 13, 2016. During the 19-point course, 20 Marines headed to the field to re-experience the basic land navigation process. The course was a refresher for most of the Marines, who have not used land navigation since Marine Combat Training. - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274’s Engineer Company, Heavy Equipment Platoon set their pace count before beginning a land navigation course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Jan. 13, 2016. During the 19-point course, 20 Marines headed to the field to re-experience the basic land navigation process. The course was a refresher for most of the Marines, who have not used land navigation since Marine Combat Training.

Lance Cpl. Jordan Martin, a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, evaluates and records a refugee role player’s identification paperwork during a noncombatant evacuation training operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2016. The Marines successfully processed 28 refugee role players through a notional forward operating base. The exercise was part of the unit’s training in preparation for an upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan. - Lance Cpl. Jordan Martin, a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, evaluates and records a refugee role player’s identification paperwork during a noncombatant evacuation training operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2016. The Marines successfully processed 28 refugee role players through a notional forward operating base. The exercise was part of the unit’s training in preparation for an upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan.

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Cpl. Malynn Ochsner shows Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Officer Candidate Ayako Yukawa how to operate a MK19 machine gun, MOD 3 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 15. Three hundred and sixty JGSDF officer candidates visited Combat Logistics Regiment 35 to complete joint and combined operation requirements. The cadets watched Marine Corps Martial Art Program demonstrations, learned the capabilities of various machine guns the Marine Corps uses, and observed a static display of motor transportation vehicles. Ochsner, from Pflugerville, Texas, is a distribution management specialist with 3rd Supply Battalion, CLR-35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Malynn Ochsner shows Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Officer Candidate Ayako Yukawa how to operate a MK19 machine gun, MOD 3 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 15. Three hundred and sixty JGSDF officer candidates visited Combat Logistics Regiment 35 to complete joint and combined operation requirements. The cadets watched Marine Corps Martial Art Program demonstrations, learned the capabilities of various machine guns the Marine Corps uses, and observed a static display of motor transportation vehicles. Ochsner, from Pflugerville, Texas, is a distribution management specialist with 3rd Supply Battalion, CLR-35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Lance Cpl. Jonathan Gilbert looks through the scope of his M240 medium machine gun while providing security for his platoon Jan. 7, 2016, on Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan. Marines with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigated the jungles of Okinawa in search of a simulated enemy platoon. Gilbert, a machine gunner with Alpha Co., BLT 1/5, 31st MEU, is a native of Frederick, Maryland. - Lance Cpl. Jonathan Gilbert looks through the scope of his M240 medium machine gun while providing security for his platoon Jan. 7, 2016, on Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan. Marines with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigated the jungles of Okinawa in search of a simulated enemy platoon. Gilbert, a machine gunner with Alpha Co., BLT 1/5, 31st MEU, is a native of Frederick, Maryland.

Gen. John F. Kelly relinquished command of United States Southern Command Jan. 14, 2016. He will soon retire after more than 45 years of service. - Gen. John F. Kelly relinquished command of United States Southern Command Jan. 14, 2016. He will soon retire after more than 45 years of service.

A Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224, F/A-18D Hornet descends to Chitose Air Base in Hokkaido, Japan, after traveling from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Jan. 12, 2016. VMFA (AW)-224, homebased at MCAS Beaufort, S.C., is temporarily based in Iwakuni on a unit deployment program and deployed to Northern Japan to participate in the Chitose Aviation Training Relocation Exercise, Jan. 12-22. During the exercise, the squadron conducted dissimilar air combat training with and against the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to further support combined interoperability and Pacific theater security cooperation. - A Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224, F/A-18D Hornet descends to Chitose Air Base in Hokkaido, Japan, after traveling from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Jan. 12, 2016. VMFA (AW)-224, homebased at MCAS Beaufort, S.C., is temporarily based in Iwakuni on a unit deployment program and deployed to Northern Japan to participate in the Chitose Aviation Training Relocation Exercise, Jan. 12-22. During the exercise, the squadron conducted dissimilar air combat training with and against the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to further support combined interoperability and Pacific theater security cooperation.

A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center Pre-Scout Sniper Course sights in on a target with a M40A5 sniper rifle at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 12, 2016. The 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines. - A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center Pre-Scout Sniper Course sights in on a target with a M40A5 sniper rifle at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 12, 2016. The 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines.

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COMBINED ARMS TRAINING CENTER, GOTEMBA, Japan — Marines’ tents stand in below Mt. Fuji during Exercise Fuji Samurai at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Gotemba, Japan, Jan. 7, 2016. Exercise Fuji Samurai is held at CATC Fuji during the month of January and includes countless fire and maneuver drills and other combat-based training evolutions that take place over a period of approximately two weeks. During this time, Marines must face the chill and challenge of Mt. Fuji, as they spend night after night subject to the winter elements. The tents provided Marines with shelter from the unforgiving Mt. Fuji chill as they rested between training events. - COMBINED ARMS TRAINING CENTER, GOTEMBA, Japan — Marines’ tents stand in below Mt. Fuji during Exercise Fuji Samurai at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Gotemba, Japan, Jan. 7, 2016. Exercise Fuji Samurai is held at CATC Fuji during the month of January and includes countless fire and maneuver drills and other combat-based training evolutions that take place over a period of approximately two weeks. During this time, Marines must face the chill and challenge of Mt. Fuji, as they spend night after night subject to the winter elements. The tents provided Marines with shelter from the unforgiving Mt. Fuji chill as they rested between training events.

Sgt. Caleb Renner, the chief chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear instructor with II Marine Headquarters Group, gives an hour-long class on how to properly wear and function in a M50 gas mask at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 8, 2016. The chamber is a routine exercise to ensure the durability of each Marines gear while exposed to chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, or CS gas, which is a bi-annual qualification requirement for Marines. - Sgt. Caleb Renner, the chief chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear instructor with II Marine Headquarters Group, gives an hour-long class on how to properly wear and function in a M50 gas mask at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 8, 2016. The chamber is a routine exercise to ensure the durability of each Marines gear while exposed to chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, or CS gas, which is a bi-annual qualification requirement for Marines.