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The Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE) is a cooperative partnership of Naval Aviation stakeholders focused on sustaining required current readiness and advancing future warfighting capabilities at best possible cost. It is comprised of Sailors, Marines, civilians, and contractors from across service branches and organizations, working together to identify and resolve readiness barriers and warfighting degraders. - The Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE) is a cooperative partnership of Naval Aviation stakeholders focused on sustaining required current readiness and advancing future warfighting capabilities at best possible cost. It is comprised of Sailors, Marines, civilians, and contractors from across service branches and organizations, working together to identify and resolve readiness barriers and warfighting degraders.

A Marine staff sgt. raises his right hand during a ceremony at an undisclosed location. Marine administrative message 160/15 announces the fiscal year 2015 Reserve Career Transition command visits will be conducted from April through July 2015, at designated commands. - A Marine staff sgt. raises his right hand during a ceremony at an undisclosed location. Marine administrative message 160/15 announces the fiscal year 2015 Reserve Career Transition command visits will be conducted from April through July 2015, at designated commands.

The Fisher House provides a “home away from home” for families of service members receiving serious and emergency medical care at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, Calif. - The Fisher House provides a “home away from home” for families of service members receiving serious and emergency medical care at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, Calif.

A Force Fitness Instructor (FFI) student executes box jumps as part of the physical training portion of the course at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, October 5, 2016. The FFI course is made up of physical training, classroom instruction and practical application to provide the students with a holistic approach to fitness. Upon completion, the Marines will serve as unit FFIs, capable of designing individual and unit-level holistic fitness programs. - A Force Fitness Instructor (FFI) student executes box jumps as part of the physical training portion of the course at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, October 5, 2016. The FFI course is made up of physical training, classroom instruction and practical application to provide the students with a holistic approach to fitness. Upon completion, the Marines will serve as unit FFIs, capable of designing individual and unit-level holistic fitness programs.

U.S. Marines with 2nd Radio Battalion and 8th Communication Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, set up an antenna during a HAM Amateur Radio Licensing Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 10, 2020. The objective of the course was to increase knowledge on amateur radios and radio operating procedures in order to develop and enhance the Marines’ capabilities. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Larisa Chavez) - U.S. Marines with 2nd Radio Battalion and 8th Communication Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, set up an antenna during a HAM Amateur Radio Licensing Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 10, 2020. The objective of the course was to increase knowledge on amateur radios and radio operating procedures in order to develop and enhance the Marines’ capabilities. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Larisa Chavez)

U.S. Marines with Bravo Company, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, rush to the first building while the Bulgarian T-72 tank to provides cover for the assault on Military Operations on Urban Terrain Town during Platinum Lion 16-3 at the Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, May 10, 2016. Hundreds of troops from five NATO countries came together to train with mechanized assets and demonstrate the ability to work seamlessly as one force. - U.S. Marines with Bravo Company, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, rush to the first building while the Bulgarian T-72 tank to provides cover for the assault on Military Operations on Urban Terrain Town during Platinum Lion 16-3 at the Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, May 10, 2016. Hundreds of troops from five NATO countries came together to train with mechanized assets and demonstrate the ability to work seamlessly as one force.

A Romanian soldier holds his nation's colors next to color bearers from NATO partners during the opening ceremony of Platinum Lion 15-3. The two-week training exercise is designed to strengthen the partnerships between the NATO nations and share knowledge to help improve their military skill sets. - A Romanian soldier holds his nation's colors next to color bearers from NATO partners during the opening ceremony of Platinum Lion 15-3. The two-week training exercise is designed to strengthen the partnerships between the NATO nations and share knowledge to help improve their military skill sets.

Head Quarters Marine Corps Special Duty Assignments Screening Team infographic and flow chart. - Head Quarters Marine Corps Special Duty Assignments Screening Team infographic and flow chart.

Soldiers of the Norwegian Armed Forces drive through training areas surrounding Camp Adazi, Latvia, during preparation for Exercise Saber Strike 17, June 2, 2017. Exercise Saber Strike 17 is an annual combined-joint exercise conducted at various locations throughout the Baltic region and Poland. The combined training prepares NATO Allies and partners to effectively respond to regional crises and to meet their own security needs by strengthening their borders and countering threats. - Soldiers of the Norwegian Armed Forces drive through training areas surrounding Camp Adazi, Latvia, during preparation for Exercise Saber Strike 17, June 2, 2017. Exercise Saber Strike 17 is an annual combined-joint exercise conducted at various locations throughout the Baltic region and Poland. The combined training prepares NATO Allies and partners to effectively respond to regional crises and to meet their own security needs by strengthening their borders and countering threats.

The commanders of all four Marine Aircraft Wings pose for a photo with Lt. Gen. Mark R. Wise (center), Deputy Commandant for Aviation, at Marine Corps Air Station, Cherry Point, North Carolina on Feb. 8, 2021. Wise visited Cherry Point to discuss talent management in aviation capabilities in the future of the United States Marine Corps. - The commanders of all four Marine Aircraft Wings pose for a photo with Lt. Gen. Mark R. Wise (center), Deputy Commandant for Aviation, at Marine Corps Air Station, Cherry Point, North Carolina on Feb. 8, 2021. Wise visited Cherry Point to discuss talent management in aviation capabilities in the future of the United States Marine Corps.

An MV-22B Osprey is displayed on the flight deck of the USS Bataan (LHD 5) for residents during Fleet Week New York, May 27, 2016. This year is the 28th year the New York has hosted Fleet Week. - An MV-22B Osprey is displayed on the flight deck of the USS Bataan (LHD 5) for residents during Fleet Week New York, May 27, 2016. This year is the 28th year the New York has hosted Fleet Week.

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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.

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U.S. Marines setup the Ground Data Terminal at a RQ-21A Blackjack spoke site in Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Aug. 9. - U.S. Marines setup the Ground Data Terminal at a RQ-21A Blackjack spoke site in Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Aug. 9.

An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 “Green Knights” flies alongside a KC-130J Super Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 over Southern California, March 8, 2016. The two F-35Bs completed additional training after successfully conducting an aerial refuel with VMGR-352. - An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 “Green Knights” flies alongside a KC-130J Super Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 over Southern California, March 8, 2016. The two F-35Bs completed additional training after successfully conducting an aerial refuel with VMGR-352.

A Marine with Task Force Southwest catches the Instant Eye small unmanned aerial system following a flight at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 8, 2017. The drone allows operators to record surveillance and execute reconnaissance in small, confined areas which are otherwise inoperable with larger aircraft. Approximately 300 Marines are assigned to Task Force Southwest, whose mission will be to train, advise and assist the Afghan National Army 215th Corps and 505th Zone National Police. - A Marine with Task Force Southwest catches the Instant Eye small unmanned aerial system following a flight at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 8, 2017. The drone allows operators to record surveillance and execute reconnaissance in small, confined areas which are otherwise inoperable with larger aircraft. Approximately 300 Marines are assigned to Task Force Southwest, whose mission will be to train, advise and assist the Afghan National Army 215th Corps and 505th Zone National Police.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Marc Mihailovic, a radar technician with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, stands in front of a UC-12W aircraft at the MCAS Camp Pendleton flight line Aug. 21, 2023. Mihailovic a Sacramento, California native, was awarded the San Diego Military Advisory Council Achievement Award for his outstanding performance while serving as staff non-commissioned officer in charge of Marine Transport Squadron detachment and as a UC-12W Transport Aircrewman Naval Air Training and Operations Procedures Standardization instructor. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Marc Mihailovic, a radar technician with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, stands in front of a UC-12W aircraft at the MCAS Camp Pendleton flight line Aug. 21, 2023. Mihailovic a Sacramento, California native, was awarded the San Diego Military Advisory Council Achievement Award for his outstanding performance while serving as staff non-commissioned officer in charge of Marine Transport Squadron detachment and as a UC-12W Transport Aircrewman Naval Air Training and Operations Procedures Standardization instructor.

A CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361 hovers over a landing pad during Field Carrier Landing Practices aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 2, 2015. Marines with HMH-361 conducted section Confined Area Landings and Field Carrier Landing Practices to fulfill training requirements for landing aboard a Navy ship. - A CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361 hovers over a landing pad during Field Carrier Landing Practices aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 2, 2015. Marines with HMH-361 conducted section Confined Area Landings and Field Carrier Landing Practices to fulfill training requirements for landing aboard a Navy ship.

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Cpl. David Dudley, Expeditionary Air Field, uses proper eye and ear protection during the 5th annual Combat Shooting Competition Oct. 28, hosted by Weapons Training Battalion aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. Advanced hearing protection for specific environments allows servicemembers to protect themselves and safely do their jobs. - Cpl. David Dudley, Expeditionary Air Field, uses proper eye and ear protection during the 5th annual Combat Shooting Competition Oct. 28, hosted by Weapons Training Battalion aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. Advanced hearing protection for specific environments allows servicemembers to protect themselves and safely do their jobs.

During June’s Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month the Behavioral Health Section staff is taking the opportunity to remind military personnel and civilians of the wide variety of support options available aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif. - During June’s Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month the Behavioral Health Section staff is taking the opportunity to remind military personnel and civilians of the wide variety of support options available aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif.

LaNell Mayberry poses with myriad FOCUS information and tools used to help military families aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, July 7. - LaNell Mayberry poses with myriad FOCUS information and tools used to help military families aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, July 7.

U.S. Marines and Department of Defense Civilians, attend the Defense Agencies Initiative training course on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Sept. 22, 2021. The DAI training course aims to simplify financial management across the DOD, to deliver more auditable records and improve integration through standard data structures and business practices. - U.S. Marines and Department of Defense Civilians, attend the Defense Agencies Initiative training course on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Sept. 22, 2021. The DAI training course aims to simplify financial management across the DOD, to deliver more auditable records and improve integration through standard data structures and business practices.

Food pantry organizations lend helping hand to Camp Pendleton service members and families - Volunteers with the Saddleback Church help families pick out groceries during a food pantry event at the Blinder Memorial Chapel at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 5, 2018. All the food handed out was donated by the church and was given out to service members and families. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by lance Cpl. Betzabeth Y. Galvan)

Cpl. Ali J. Mohammed, a Baghdad, Iraq native and a supply Marine with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, stands in front of the painting an Iraqi flag while in Northern Iraq, Dec. 26, 2016. Mohammed, fluent in Arabic, has strengthened the partnership between SPMAGTF Marines and Iraqi military members by translating pertinent information to support their operations. SPMAGTF Marines enable Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve with security forces, strikes, and advise and assist teams, all of which support the Iraqis in their efforts to defeat ISIL. - Cpl. Ali J. Mohammed, a Baghdad, Iraq native and a supply Marine with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, stands in front of the painting an Iraqi flag while in Northern Iraq, Dec. 26, 2016. Mohammed, fluent in Arabic, has strengthened the partnership between SPMAGTF Marines and Iraqi military members by translating pertinent information to support their operations. SPMAGTF Marines enable Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve with security forces, strikes, and advise and assist teams, all of which support the Iraqis in their efforts to defeat ISIL.

An F/A-18 Hornet takes off from Andersen Air Force Base Oct. 1 during Forager Fury III. The overarching training exercise,which emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability while training within the Marianas Island range complex. The aircraft is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - An F/A-18 Hornet takes off from Andersen Air Force Base Oct. 1 during Forager Fury III. The overarching training exercise,which emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability while training within the Marianas Island range complex. The aircraft is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets are parked during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base Sept. 30. The aircraft are from multiple squadrons and were used in close air support, forward air controller training, air interdiction, air-to-air missions, defensive counter-air and offensive counter-air training events. The overarching training exercise involving 1,300 personnel emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground support on a unit level to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability within the Marianas Island range complex. - Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets are parked during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base Sept. 30. The aircraft are from multiple squadrons and were used in close air support, forward air controller training, air interdiction, air-to-air missions, defensive counter-air and offensive counter-air training events. The overarching training exercise involving 1,300 personnel emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground support on a unit level to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability within the Marianas Island range complex.

Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6. - Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6.

Corporal James Lafrance, a Reconnaissance Marine with Force Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, shoots targets with a shotgun during a physical training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 7, 2014. The eight-mile hike had multiple events along the route to test the Marines’ proficiency with various weapon systems. - Corporal James Lafrance, a Reconnaissance Marine with Force Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, shoots targets with a shotgun during a physical training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 7, 2014. The eight-mile hike had multiple events along the route to test the Marines’ proficiency with various weapon systems.

Marines with Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to board the amphibious assault ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) after executing an amphibious raid rehearsal in the Philippine Sea, June 17, 2021. Marines with the 31st MEU conduct amphibious raid rehearsals in order to test maritime readiness, refine standard operating procedures, and sustain proficiency in small boat handling fundamentals. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. - Marines with Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to board the amphibious assault ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) after executing an amphibious raid rehearsal in the Philippine Sea, June 17, 2021. Marines with the 31st MEU conduct amphibious raid rehearsals in order to test maritime readiness, refine standard operating procedures, and sustain proficiency in small boat handling fundamentals. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

As dusk descends, Marines and civilians from Program Executive Officer Land System’s Ground Based Air Defense program assemble around the PEO’s cutting-edge Medium Range Intercept Capability system. Serving as the Corps’ first medium range missile capability since the HAWK system, this state-of-the-art capability is a key example of successful acquisition under FD 2030. (Marine Corps courtesy photo) - As dusk descends, Marines and civilians from Program Executive Officer Land System’s Ground Based Air Defense program assemble around the PEO’s cutting-edge Medium Range Intercept Capability system. Serving as the Corps’ first medium range missile capability since the HAWK system, this state-of-the-art capability is a key example of successful acquisition under FD 2030. (Marine Corps courtesy photo)

As dusk descends, Marines and civilians from the Program Manager for Ground-Based Air Defense assemble around Program Executive Officer Land System’s cutting-edge Medium Range Intercept Capability system. Serving as the Corps’ first medium range missile capability since the HAWK system, this state-of-the-art capability proved its mettle by successfully hitting targets at the White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, on December 16, 2021. - As dusk descends, Marines and civilians from the Program Manager for Ground-Based Air Defense assemble around Program Executive Officer Land System’s cutting-edge Medium Range Intercept Capability system. Serving as the Corps’ first medium range missile capability since the HAWK system, this state-of-the-art capability proved its mettle by successfully hitting targets at the White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, on December 16, 2021.

A U.S. Marine Corps Hercules M88 recovery vehicle disembarks from the 1st Tank Battalion ramp on a tow for the last time at Twentynine Palms, Calif. on July 28, 2020. As a part of Force Design 2030, the Hercules M88 recovery vehicles are being divested from the Marine Corps in an effort to accelerate modernization and realign capabilities, units and personnel to higher priority areas. - A U.S. Marine Corps Hercules M88 recovery vehicle disembarks from the 1st Tank Battalion ramp on a tow for the last time at Twentynine Palms, Calif. on July 28, 2020. As a part of Force Design 2030, the Hercules M88 recovery vehicles are being divested from the Marine Corps in an effort to accelerate modernization and realign capabilities, units and personnel to higher priority areas.

Major Gen. James W. Lukeman, the commanding general of the Marine Corps Training and Education Command, addresses the audience of the first Force Fitness Instructor Course on Marine Corps Base Quantico,Virginia Nov. 4, 2016. The graduates will now return to their respective units and apply all that they’ve learned over the five-week course. - Major Gen. James W. Lukeman, the commanding general of the Marine Corps Training and Education Command, addresses the audience of the first Force Fitness Instructor Course on Marine Corps Base Quantico,Virginia Nov. 4, 2016. The graduates will now return to their respective units and apply all that they’ve learned over the five-week course.

An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 9, lifts supplies off the flight deck of USNS Patuxent during a vertical replenishment with USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) May 15. - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 9, lifts supplies off the flight deck of USNS Patuxent during a vertical replenishment with USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) May 15.

Marines set up concertina wire around a weather observation compound in preparation of Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian, North Marianas Islands. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released) - Marines set up concertina wire around a weather observation compound in preparation of Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian, North Marianas Islands. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released)

Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit drive their amphibious assault vehicles along the beach during the MARFORPAC-hosted U.S. Pacific Command Amphibious Leaders Symposium (PALS) at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii, May 19, 2015. PALS is designed to bring together senior leaders of allied and partner Marine Corps, naval infantries, and militaries spanning the Indo-Asia-Pacific region with interest in military amphibious capability development. This year, 22 nations sent representatives to observe the training. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Bragg) - Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit drive their amphibious assault vehicles along the beach during the MARFORPAC-hosted U.S. Pacific Command Amphibious Leaders Symposium (PALS) at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii, May 19, 2015. PALS is designed to bring together senior leaders of allied and partner Marine Corps, naval infantries, and militaries spanning the Indo-Asia-Pacific region with interest in military amphibious capability development. This year, 22 nations sent representatives to observe the training. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Bragg)

U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Nicholas Davis, left, presents Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Col. Hiroji Yamashita with a plaque, Dec. 12, during the closing ceremony for Forest Light 15-1 at Camp Kita Kumamoto in Kumamoto, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. Forest Light is a routine, semi-annual exercise designed to enhance the U.S. and Japan military partnership, solidify regional security agreements and improve individual and unit-level skills. Davis is the commanding officer of 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. Yamashita is the commanding officer of the 42nd Regiment, 8th Division, Western Army, JGSDF. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released) - U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Nicholas Davis, left, presents Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Col. Hiroji Yamashita with a plaque, Dec. 12, during the closing ceremony for Forest Light 15-1 at Camp Kita Kumamoto in Kumamoto, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. Forest Light is a routine, semi-annual exercise designed to enhance the U.S. and Japan military partnership, solidify regional security agreements and improve individual and unit-level skills. Davis is the commanding officer of 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. Yamashita is the commanding officer of the 42nd Regiment, 8th Division, Western Army, JGSDF. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released)

A member of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force looks out the back of a CH-47JA Chinook helicopter during exercise Forest Light Eastern Army at Camp Soumagahara, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, Dec. 9. - A member of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force looks out the back of a CH-47JA Chinook helicopter during exercise Forest Light Eastern Army at Camp Soumagahara, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, Dec. 9.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. 1st Class Yatsuka Ikeda, left, helps U.S. Marine 1st Sgt. Timothy Babcock set up the American flag Dec. 1 before the opening ceremony for Forest Light 15-1 at the Oyanohara Training Area in Yamato, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. Forest Light demonstrates the continued commitment of the U.S. and Japan to increase interoperability of our armed forces and maintain a strong partnership to protect Japan from external aggression. Ikeda is with 42nd Regiment, 8th Division, Western Army, JGSDF. Babcock, from Port Austin, Michigan, is company first sergeant with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released) - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. 1st Class Yatsuka Ikeda, left, helps U.S. Marine 1st Sgt. Timothy Babcock set up the American flag Dec. 1 before the opening ceremony for Forest Light 15-1 at the Oyanohara Training Area in Yamato, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. Forest Light demonstrates the continued commitment of the U.S. and Japan to increase interoperability of our armed forces and maintain a strong partnership to protect Japan from external aggression. Ikeda is with 42nd Regiment, 8th Division, Western Army, JGSDF. Babcock, from Port Austin, Michigan, is company first sergeant with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released)

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.

The 36th Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric M. Smith, right, fits a 3D printed cast to the arm of Lance Cpl. Micah Mosley, a network administrator from 1st Marine Logistics Group (MLG), 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF), on Camp Pendleton, California, August 17, 2023. The cast was manufactured by 1st Medical Battalion. General Smith Visited 1st MLG as part of a command tour and to observe the logistical capabilities of I MEF. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Rachaelanne Woodward) - The 36th Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric M. Smith, right, fits a 3D printed cast to the arm of Lance Cpl. Micah Mosley, a network administrator from 1st Marine Logistics Group (MLG), 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF), on Camp Pendleton, California, August 17, 2023. The cast was manufactured by 1st Medical Battalion. General Smith Visited 1st MLG as part of a command tour and to observe the logistical capabilities of I MEF. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Rachaelanne Woodward)

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.

Col. Christine Houser, left, commander of Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, stands at the podium after finishing second in the Women's Masters Division during the 2024 Armed Forces Triathlon Championship at Naval Base Ventura County, Calif. Also pictured are first place finisher, Air Force Maj. Esther Willett, center; and third place finisher Army Maj. Christyn Gaa. - Col. Christine Houser, left, commander of Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, stands at the podium after finishing second in the Women's Masters Division during the 2024 Armed Forces Triathlon Championship at Naval Base Ventura County, Calif. Also pictured are first place finisher, Air Force Maj. Esther Willett, center; and third place finisher Army Maj. Christyn Gaa.

Sonny Wong, a Vietnam veteran, shares stories about the unit during his tour of 12th Marine Regiments facilities Nov. 7, 2017, at 12th Marine Regiment’s company office on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. - Sonny Wong, a Vietnam veteran, shares stories about the unit during his tour of 12th Marine Regiments facilities Nov. 7, 2017, at 12th Marine Regiment’s company office on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Wong was an interpreter attached to 12th Marines during the Vietnam War and decided to visit his old unit 51 years later. Sgt. Maj. Douglas W. Yagel gave him a tour of the Regiment’s facilities and weapons as Wong described his experience working with the Marines.

Charles “Charlie” Bolden, the 12th Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration poses for a photo in a plane he is flying at an unknown location and date. Bolden served 34 years on active duty in the Marines as a Naval aviator, spent 14 years as a member of NASA’s Astronaut Office and retired at the rank of major general. - Charles “Charlie” Bolden, the 12th Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration poses for a photo in a plane he is flying at an unknown location and date. Bolden served 34 years on active duty in the Marines as a Naval aviator, spent 14 years as a member of NASA’s Astronaut Office and retired at the rank of major general.

Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) Gen. David H. Berger presents an American flag to Barbara Kelley, wife of retired Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) Gen. Paul X. Kelley, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Feb. 13, 2020. Kelley served as CMC from 1983 to 1987. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Morgan L. R. Burgess) - Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) Gen. David H. Berger presents an American flag to Barbara Kelley, wife of retired Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) Gen. Paul X. Kelley, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Feb. 13, 2020. Kelley served as CMC from 1983 to 1987. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Morgan L. R. Burgess)

Mr. Paul Williamson, the Command Advisor at the U.S. Marine Corps’ Wounded Warrior Regiment, poses for a photo in front of memorabilia he’s collected throughout his 51-year-long career at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., April 4, 2020. Williamson served in the U.S. Navy for 31 years before joining the then newly established Wounded Warrior Regiment in 2007. - Mr. Paul Williamson, the Command Advisor at the U.S. Marine Corps’ Wounded Warrior Regiment, poses for a photo in front of memorabilia he’s collected throughout his 51-year-long career at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., April 4, 2020. Williamson served in the U.S. Navy for 31 years before joining the then newly established Wounded Warrior Regiment in 2007.

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.