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From left, U.S. Marine Corps Col. Stuart Glenn, commanding officer for Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia, Philippine Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Arturo G Rojas, commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps, and Philippine Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Vicente Map Blanco III, director, exercise directorate headquarters, unfurl the KAMANDAG exercise flag during the opening ceremony for KAMANDAG 8 at Fort Bonifacio, Manila, Philippines, Oct. 15, 2024. KAMANDAG is an annual Philippine Marine Corps and U.S. Marine Corps-led exercise aimed at enhancing the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ defense and humanitarian capabilities by providing valuable training in combined operations with foreign militaries in the advancement of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. - From left, U.S. Marine Corps Col. Stuart Glenn, commanding officer for Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia, Philippine Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Arturo G Rojas, commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps, and Philippine Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Vicente Map Blanco III, director, exercise directorate headquarters, unfurl the KAMANDAG exercise flag during the opening ceremony for KAMANDAG 8 at Fort Bonifacio, Manila, Philippines, Oct. 15, 2024. KAMANDAG is an annual Philippine Marine Corps and U.S. Marine Corps-led exercise aimed at enhancing the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ defense and humanitarian capabilities by providing valuable training in combined operations with foreign militaries in the advancement of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Jimi Liddell Gayden, an intelligence chief with, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, gives opening remarks during his commissioning ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 30, 2024. Following 28 years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps, Liddell Gayden commissioned as a lieutenant junior grade in the U.S. Navy to pursue a new career as a chaplain. Liddell Gayden will attend Navy Officer Development School this fall, followed by Naval Chaplaincy School. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Nicholas Johnson) - U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Jimi Liddell Gayden, an intelligence chief with, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, gives opening remarks during his commissioning ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 30, 2024. Following 28 years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps, Liddell Gayden commissioned as a lieutenant junior grade in the U.S. Navy to pursue a new career as a chaplain. Liddell Gayden will attend Navy Officer Development School this fall, followed by Naval Chaplaincy School. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Nicholas Johnson)

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Randall McDermott, left, a supply officer, with 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, receives a coin from Lt. Gen. Michael S. Cederholm, commanding general, I MEF, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 1, 2024. McDermott exemplified the corps values by rendering aid to a Marine involved in a motorcycle accident until medical professionals arrived on the scene. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Randall McDermott, left, a supply officer, with 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, receives a coin from Lt. Gen. Michael S. Cederholm, commanding general, I MEF, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 1, 2024. McDermott exemplified the corps values by rendering aid to a Marine involved in a motorcycle accident until medical professionals arrived on the scene.

Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, the Commanding General of Training and Education Command, and Sgt. Maj. Stephen Griffin, the Command Sergeant Major of Training and Education Command, cut a ribbon at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, VA, Oct. 6, 2024. The National Museum of the Marine Corps opened the new Forward Deployed and Iraq & Afghanistan galleries to the public. - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, the Commanding General of Training and Education Command, and Sgt. Maj. Stephen Griffin, the Command Sergeant Major of Training and Education Command, cut a ribbon at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, VA, Oct. 6, 2024. The National Museum of the Marine Corps opened the new Forward Deployed and Iraq & Afghanistan galleries to the public.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dominic Albanese, a drone operator with Meteorological and Oceanographic Platoon, 1st Intelligence Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, utilizes a Base Station during Cobra Horizon 24.2 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 25, 2024. Cobra Horizon is a semiannual training exercise that focuses on refining expeditionary meteorology and oceanographic employment, rapid response planning processes, and integrating a multi-service METOC environment to support future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Nicole Stuart) - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dominic Albanese, a drone operator with Meteorological and Oceanographic Platoon, 1st Intelligence Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, utilizes a Base Station during Cobra Horizon 24.2 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 25, 2024. Cobra Horizon is a semiannual training exercise that focuses on refining expeditionary meteorology and oceanographic employment, rapid response planning processes, and integrating a multi-service METOC environment to support future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Nicole Stuart)

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Brett D. Meil is awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, September 24, 2024. Meil, a native of Texas, received this award due to his exceptional bravery and composure during a training incident with a live fragmentation grenade. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Brett D. Meil is awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, September 24, 2024. Meil, a native of Texas, received this award due to his exceptional bravery and composure during a training incident with a live fragmentation grenade.

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U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Anthony Henderson, commanding general of Training Command, reviews his shots while participating in various rifle drills at Weapons Training Battalion on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 5, 2024. Training Command develops, sustains, and enhances individual military knowledge, skills, and attitudes in Marines to meet warfighting requirements of the total force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ethan Miller) - U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Anthony Henderson, commanding general of Training Command, reviews his shots while participating in various rifle drills at Weapons Training Battalion on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 5, 2024. Training Command develops, sustains, and enhances individual military knowledge, skills, and attitudes in Marines to meet warfighting requirements of the total force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ethan Miller)

Sky Scouts of FESD – FF Ackley of Camp Geiger’s Fire Station 6 - FF Jabbok Ackley, a firefighter with Fire Station 6, Fire and Emergency Services Division (FESD), Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, poses with a drone in front of Fire Station 6 at Camp Geiger on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 17, 2024. FESD was given the opportunity to be an early adopter of the small Unmanned Aircraft System program in February 2024 and has since then successfully been used in search and rescue operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Leo Amaro)

VMFA-251 became the first East Coast-based Marine Corps squadron to receive the F-35C, designed to operate from conventional aircraft carriers or land bases and provides operational flexibility and persistence to II Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Orlanys Diaz Figueroa) - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Evan Shockley, from Virginia and commanding officer, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 251, taxis an F-35C Lightning Il at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Sept. 17, 2024. VMFA-251 became the first East Coast-based Marine Corps squadron to receive the F-35C, designed to operate from conventional aircraft carriers or land bases and provides operational flexibility and persistence to II Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Orlanys Diaz Figueroa)

The family of Cpl. Spencer Collart attend a ceremony pose for a photo during an award presentation post humously honoring his heroic actions, Sept. 16, 2024, at Marine Barracks Washington. Gen. Eric M. Smith, 39th Commandant of the Marine Corps, posthumously awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Cpl. Collart's family in recognition of the heroic actions Collart made while attempting to save the lives of his fellow Marines following a crash of their MV-22 Osprey on Aug. 27, 2023. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tawanya Norwood) - The family of Cpl. Spencer Collart attend a ceremony and pose for a photo during an award presentation posthumously honoring his heroic actions, Sept. 16, 2024, at Marine Barracks Washington. Gen. Eric M. Smith, 39th Commandant of the Marine Corps, posthumously awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Cpl. Collart's family in recognition of the heroic actions Collart made while attempting to save the lives of his fellow Marines following a crash of their MV-22 Osprey on Aug. 27, 2023. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tawanya Norwood)

Marines with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing load an AGM-158A joint air-to-surface standoff missile (JASSM) on an F/A-18 Hornet during the AGM-158A validation and verification at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Aug. 27, 2024. MALS-11 and VMFA-232 were the first Marine Corps units to conduct ordnance operations with the AGM-158A JASSM which is being incorporated into the F/A-18 Hornet ordnance arsenal. - Marines with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing load an AGM-158A joint air-to-surface standoff missile (JASSM) on an F/A-18 Hornet during the AGM-158A validation and verification at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Aug. 27, 2024. MALS-11 and VMFA-232 were the first Marine Corps units to conduct ordnance operations with the AGM-158A JASSM which is being incorporated into the F/A-18 Hornet ordnance arsenal.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Amelia Kang, a combat graphics specialist assigned to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a native of Portland, Oregon, is promoted to sergeant aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) at Busan Naval Base, South Korea, Sept. 8, 2024. The 15th MEU was in South Korea conducting Exercise Ssang Yong 24 to strengthen the Republic of Korea-U.S. Alliance through bilateral, joint training, contributing toward combined amphibious capability in defense of the Korean Peninsula. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Helms) - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Amelia Kang, a combat graphics specialist assigned to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a native of Portland, Oregon, is promoted to sergeant aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) at Busan Naval Base, South Korea, Sept. 8, 2024. The 15th MEU was in South Korea conducting Exercise Ssang Yong 24 to strengthen the Republic of Korea-U.S. Alliance through bilateral, joint training, contributing toward combined amphibious capability in defense of the Korean Peninsula. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Helms)

U.S. Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific stand in formation during the MARFORPAC change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 12, 2024. With two-thirds of the Marine Corps operating forces assigned, MARFORPAC operates in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility, the largest Geographical Combatant Command in the U.S. Department of Defense, as the Nation’s expedition force and like-minded allies and partners to preserve and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Ash McLaughlin) - U.S. Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific stand in formation during the MARFORPAC change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 12, 2024. With two-thirds of the Marine Corps operating forces assigned, MARFORPAC operates in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility, the largest Geographical Combatant Command in the U.S. Department of Defense, as the Nation’s expedition force and like-minded allies and partners to preserve and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Ash McLaughlin)

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.

A Chilean sailor looks at the flag of Chile during the opening ceremony for Exercise UNITAS LXV aboard LSDH 91 “Sargento Aldea”, Chile, Sept. 2, 2024. The ceremony kicked off the 65th annual UNITAS where 25 nations will train together to strengthen partnerships and interoperability. - A Chilean sailor looks at the flag of Chile during the opening ceremony for Exercise UNITAS LXV aboard LSDH 91 “Sargento Aldea”, Chile, Sept. 2, 2024. The ceremony kicked off the 65th annual UNITAS where 25 nations will train together to strengthen partnerships and interoperability.

The 39th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric M. Smith, shakes hands with Cpl. Daniel L. Heller, a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran, during his Navy Cross award ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, Washington D.C., Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. The award ceremony was an upgrade to a Silver Star award for Cpl. Heller's actions during the Vietnam War on Feb. 13, 1969. - The 39th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric M. Smith, shakes hands with Cpl. Daniel L. Heller, a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran, during his Navy Cross award ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, Washington D.C., Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. The award ceremony was an upgrade to a Silver Star award for Cpl. Heller's actions during the Vietnam War on Feb. 13, 1969.

Mortar and MAAWS ISMT - Mortar and MAAWS ISMT

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)

Malaysian soldiers and Mexican Naval Infantry Corps marines drive a combat rubber raiding craft onto the beach during a small boat training at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Waimanalo, Hawaii, during Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024, July 17. Twenty-nine nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, more than 150 aircraft, and 25,000 personnel are participating in and around the Hawaiian Islands June 27 to Aug. 1. The world's largest international maritime exercise; RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2024 is the 29th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Joseph Helms) - Malaysian soldiers and Mexican Naval Infantry Corps marines drive a combat rubber raiding craft onto the beach during a small boat training at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Waimanalo, Hawaii, during Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024, July 17. Twenty-nine nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, more than 150 aircraft, and 25,000 personnel are participating in and around the Hawaiian Islands June 27 to Aug. 1. The world's largest international maritime exercise; RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2024 is the 29th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Joseph Helms)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jorge Rodriguez, a logistics specialist with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and native of Oxnard, California, reads a book to kids in the Pohnpei Public Library after helping unload the boxes of book during exercise Koa Moana 24 at Kolonia, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia, Aug. 1, 2024 - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jorge Rodriguez, a logistics specialist with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and native of Oxnard, California, reads a book to kids in the Pohnpei Public Library after helping unload the boxes of book during exercise Koa Moana 24 at Kolonia, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia, Aug. 1, 2024. During Koa Moana’s deployment throughout the Indo-Pacific region, U.S. Marines and Sailors from I Marine Expeditionary Force work to strengthen alliances and partnerships with development of interoperable capabilities, combined operations, theater security cooperation, and capacity-building efforts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Hannah Hollerud)

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Joseph Morelli, left, the communications maintenance chief assigned to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Sgt. Albert Morelli, an assistant patrol leader assigned to Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th MEU, pose for a photo in the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) in the Pacific Ocean Aug. 4, 2024. - U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Joseph Morelli, left, the communications maintenance chief assigned to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Sgt. Albert Morelli, an assistant patrol leader assigned to Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th MEU, pose for a photo in the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) in the Pacific Ocean Aug. 4, 2024. Gunnery Sgt. Morelli and Sgt. Morelli, identical twins from Cheyenne, Wyoming, enlisted together in the Marine Corps in 2009 and are both underway aboard Boxer supporting the 15th MEU’s routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Luis Agostini)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Vradley Cerna, from Texas, a digital wideband systems maintainer with Marine Wing Communications Squadron (MWCS) 28, tests tele-maintenance capabilities at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Aug. 21, 2024. Marine Depot Maintenance Command is experimenting with augmented reality technology as part of its effort to modernize its maintenance capabilities from industrial-era practices to technologies suitable and capable of meeting the demands of the Information Age. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Orlanys Diaz Figueroa) - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Vradley Cerna, from Texas, a digital wideband systems maintainer with Marine Wing Communications Squadron (MWCS) 28, tests tele-maintenance capabilities at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Aug. 21, 2024. Marine Depot Maintenance Command is experimenting with augmented reality technology as part of its effort to modernize its maintenance capabilities from industrial-era practices to technologies suitable and capable of meeting the demands of the Information Age. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Orlanys Diaz Figueroa)

U.S. Marines participate in swim qualification during the Colombian Fluvial Operations Course. - U.S. Marines with Littoral Craft Company Charlie, 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Marine Division, carry a boat during the swim qualification portion of the Colombian Fluvial Operations Course, July 16, 2024, at Centro Internacional Excelencia Avanzado Fluvial (CIEF), Apartado, Colombia. LCC Charlie is the first iteration of U.S. service members participating in the Colombian Fluvial Operations Course and it consists of multiple training exercises such as swim qualification, classroom lectures, weapons handling, and maintenance and littoral craft maneuvers. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Trystan Taft)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Angel Caldero with III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, posts security during Certification Exercise 24.3 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, July 17, 2024. CERTEX 24.3 is a training exercise designed to assess, evaluate, and certify 5th ANGLICO’s ability to coordinate fires and effects, integrate with ally and partner forces, and operate independently in dynamic and challenging environments. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Angel Caldero with III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, posts security during Certification Exercise 24.3 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, July 17, 2024. CERTEX 24.3 is a training exercise designed to assess, evaluate, and certify 5th ANGLICO’s ability to coordinate fires and effects, integrate with ally and partner forces, and operate independently in dynamic and challenging environments.

Gen. George Crist poses for a command board photo, 1985. (Courtesy asset) - Gen. George Crist poses for a command board photo, 1985. (Courtesy asset)

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Soldiers with the Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force pose for a photo on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, July 11, 2024. CLB-31 hosted the ARDB to foster mutual understanding and improving interoperability between the two forces by sharing a wide range of capabilities and practices. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Juan K. Maldonado) - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Soldiers with the Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force pose for a photo on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, July 11, 2024. CLB-31 hosted the ARDB to foster mutual understanding and improving interoperability between the two forces by sharing a wide range of capabilities and practices. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Juan K. Maldonado)

U.S. Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, provide humanitarian disaster relief preparation by offloading approximately one thousand bags of rice and three thousand cases of water to Federal States of Micronesia outer island of Chuuk during exercise Koa Moana 24 in the Chuuk Lagoon, July 5-9, 2024. During Koa Moana’s deployment throughout the Indo-Pacific region, U.S. Marines and Sailors from I Marine Expeditionary Force work to strengthen alliances and partnerships with development of interoperable capabilities, combined operations, theater security cooperation, and capacity-building efforts. - U.S. Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, provide humanitarian disaster relief preparation by offloading approximately one thousand bags of rice and three thousand cases of water to Federal States of Micronesia outer island of Chuuk during exercise Koa Moana 24 in the Chuuk Lagoon, July 5-9, 2024. During Koa Moana’s deployment throughout the Indo-Pacific region, U.S. Marines and Sailors from I Marine Expeditionary Force work to strengthen alliances and partnerships with development of interoperable capabilities, combined operations, theater security cooperation, and capacity-building efforts.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Julio Carbajal, heavy equipment operations chief, Marine Wing Support Squadron 471 Det B, guides 120M Graders during grading operations to the Strategic Expeditionary Landing Field aboard Marine Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, June 12, 2024. The Marines of MWSS-471 Det B are conducting repairs on the SELF, an expeditionary airfield facility established to enhance operational reach, flexibility, and sustainability, supporting the rapid deployment and sustainment of Marine Corps aviation assets during expeditionary operations. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Julio Carbajal, heavy equipment operations chief, Marine Wing Support Squadron 471 Det B, guides 120M Graders during grading operations to the Strategic Expeditionary Landing Field aboard Marine Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, June 12, 2024. The Marines of MWSS-471 Det B are conducting repairs on the SELF, an expeditionary airfield facility established to enhance operational reach, flexibility, and sustainability, supporting the rapid deployment and sustainment of Marine Corps aviation assets during expeditionary operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Gregg Olson, director of Marine Corps Staff, left, and retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James Lukeman, president and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, unveil the new trio of commemorative coins dedicated to the 250-year anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, Virginia, July 17, 2024. The coins are a testament to the courage, sacrifice and dedication of all Marines, ensuring that their stories will be remembered and celebrated. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joaquin Dela Torre) - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Gregg Olson, director of Marine Corps Staff, left, and retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James Lukeman, president and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, unveil the new trio of commemorative coins dedicated to the 250-year anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, Virginia, July 17, 2024. The coins are a testament to the courage, sacrifice and dedication of all Marines, ensuring that their stories will be remembered and celebrated. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joaquin Dela Torre)

Service members from the United States, Australia, the Republic of the Philippines, and the United Kingdom, pose for a photo after the opening ceremony of Exercise Predator’s Run 24 at Robertson Barracks, NT, Australia, July 15, 2024. - Service members from the United States, Australia, the Republic of the Philippines, and the United Kingdom, pose for a photo after the opening ceremony of Exercise Predator’s Run 24 at Robertson Barracks, NT, Australia, July 15, 2024. Exercise Predator’s Run 24 is a littoral-focused, multilateral training exercise led by the Australian Army’s 1st Brigade, involving the Australian Defence Force, British Armed Forces, and the U.S. Marine Corps. Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 24.3’s participation in Exercise Predator’s Run 24 increases interoperability with Allies and partners, highlighting the effectiveness of combined operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Cristian Bestul)

U.S. Marine Corps Pvt. Carlos Paz-Sosa, a Marine with India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment, poses for a photo at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California, July 1, 2024. Paz-Sosa was highlighted due to his impressive transformation, losing more than 100 lbs. in order to become a Marine. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Elliott A. Flood-Johnson) - U.S. Marine Corps Pvt. Carlos Paz-Sosa, a Marine with India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment, poses for a photo at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California, July 1, 2024. Paz-Sosa was highlighted due to his impressive transformation, losing more than 100 lbs. in order to become a Marine. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Elliott A. Flood-Johnson)

N/A - U.S. Marine Corps Pvt. Oluwagbemiga Omotoye, a Marine with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, stands ready for inspection during the Battalion Commander's Inspection on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., July 5 2024. The inspection is the battalion commander's last time to inspect his Marines and correct any deficiencies before the Marines complete recruit training. (U.S. Marine Corps Depot photo by Lance Cpl. William Horsley)

Vice Adm. John Wade, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet and Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024 Combined Task Force (CTF) Commander, center, and task force leadership take questions during the opening press conference for RIMPAC 2024 held at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, June 27. Twenty-nine nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, more than 150 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC in and around the Hawaiian Islands, June 27 to Aug. 1. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2024 is the 29th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Courtney Strahan) - Vice Adm. John Wade, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet and Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024 Combined Task Force (CTF) Commander, center, and task force leadership take questions during the opening press conference for RIMPAC 2024 held at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, June 27. Twenty-nine nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, more than 150 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC in and around the Hawaiian Islands, June 27 to Aug. 1. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2024 is the 29th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Courtney Strahan)

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Jiang Xinnian, a native of China and recruited from Pasadena, Calif. with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, poses for a photo after a naturalization ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, June 27, 2024. The naturalization ceremony took place during family day to recognize Marines who became United States citizens by completing bootcamp. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Yvonna Guyette) - U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Jiang Xinnian, a native of China and recruited from Pasadena, Calif. with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, poses for a photo after a naturalization ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, June 27, 2024. The naturalization ceremony took place during family day to recognize Marines who became United States citizens by completing bootcamp. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Yvonna Guyette)

A U.S. Marine with 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, receives a lei from a USO volunteer during a homecoming event at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 26, 2024. The homecoming event was held for the Marines returning from the Philippines following their support in Exercise Balikatan 24 and Marine Aviation Support Activity 24. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Grace Gerlach) - A U.S. Marine with 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, receives a lei from a USO volunteer during a homecoming event at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 26, 2024. The homecoming event was held for the Marines returning from the Philippines following their support in Exercise Balikatan 24 and Marine Aviation Support Activity 24. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Grace Gerlach)

U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Combat Vehicles attached to Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct an amphibious landing after waterborne operations at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, June 24, 2024. Harpers Ferry and embarked elements of the 15th MEU are conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Peyton Kahle) - U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Combat Vehicles attached to Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct an amphibious landing after waterborne operations at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, June 24, 2024. Harpers Ferry and embarked elements of the 15th MEU are conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Peyton Kahle)

A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft with 1st Marine Air Wing, lands on a newly designated airstrip on the island of Peleliu, Republic of Palau, June 22, 2024. For the first time since its recertification in June, a military fixed-wing aircraft has touched down on the historic Peleliu airstrip, marking a significant and triumphant return to this iconic World War II site. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Hannah Hollerud) - A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft with 1st Marine Air Wing, lands on a newly designated airstrip on the island of Peleliu, Republic of Palau, June 22, 2024. For the first time since its recertification in June, a military fixed-wing aircraft has touched down on the historic Peleliu airstrip, marking a significant and triumphant return to this iconic World War II site. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Hannah Hollerud)

From Two Nations: USMC 1st Lt. Francisderick Corpuz Bridging Cultures through Service in the Philippines - U.S. Marine Corps 1stLt Francisderick Corpuz, center, an air intelligence officer with Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, speaks to a Philippine Marine during Marine Aviation Support Activity 24 at Fort Bonifacio, Manila, Philippines, June 18, 2024.Corpuz’s background as a Filipino native enabled him to deploy as a cultural liaison during MASA 24, bridging communication gaps and providing mutual cooperation between U.S. Marine Corps and Philippine Marines. MASA is an annual Philippine-U.S. military exercise focused on mutual defense, strengthening relationships, and rehearsing emerging aviation concepts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jennifer Sanchez)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Yasmine Huley-Morris, the station station captain of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF), Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, and a native of Virginia, stands in front of a fire truck for a picture at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, June 4, 2024. Huley-Morris recently received the Military Firefighter of the Year award for all military services. The award recognizes the firefighters accomplishments of the preceding year for setting the example of professional activities and career development goals. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dahkareo Pritchett) - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Yasmine Huley-Morris, the station station captain of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF), Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, and a native of Virginia, stands in front of a fire truck for a picture at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, June 4, 2024. Huley-Morris recently received the Military Firefighter of the Year award for all military services. The award recognizes the firefighters accomplishments of the preceding year for setting the example of professional activities and career development goals. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dahkareo Pritchett)

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Steven Maire, left, an AH-1Z Viper pilot and a native of Cleveland, Ohio, and Capt. Joseph Carey, an MV-22B Osprey and a native of Hanover, New Hampshire, both assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, pose for a photo after receiving Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals during a ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, June 10, 2024. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Steven Maire, left, an AH-1Z Viper pilot and a native of Cleveland, Ohio, and Capt. Joseph Carey, an MV-22B Osprey and a native of Hanover, New Hampshire, both assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, pose for a photo after receiving Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals during a ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, June 10, 2024. Maire and Carey were presented awards for providing lifesaving aid to a man suffering a medical emergency May 23, 2024, at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Amelia Kang)

N/A - Pvt. William Smith, a recruit with Bravo Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, stands with Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Joint Chief of Staff Sgt. Maj. Troy Black, Marine veterans John Weant, and Dan Kovach on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., May 31, 2024. Smith’s grandfather was killed in action during the Beirut bombing in Oct. 1983 and Weant and Kovach were two Marines he served with. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Dakota Dodd)

N/A - Brother and Sister, Billy and Lily Membreno Paz, grew up in a tight-knit family dynamic in a family of seven. With strong El Salvadorian roots, they were surrounded by a depth of culture throughout their childhood that later influenced them to both choose to enlist into the Marine Corps. Shipping from RSS Decatur, both Billy and Lily arrived at Parris Island together, with the same goal in mind: Earn the Title of United States Marine. Training simultaneously in Bravo Company, the siblings used the motivation they found in each other and their family back home to not only earn the title, but excel in doing so. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jacqueline Akamelu)

U.S. Marines assigned to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit walk down a pier following a maritime domain awareness exchange during Archipelagic Costal Defense Continuum at San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines, May 18, 2024. ACDC is a series of bilateral exchanges and training opportunities between U.S. Marines and Philippine Marines aimed at bolstering the Philippine Marine Corps’ Coastal Defense strategy while supporting modernization efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Donald Holbert) - U.S. Marines assigned to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit walk down a pier following a maritime domain awareness exchange during Archipelagic Costal Defense Continuum at San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines, May 18, 2024. ACDC is a series of bilateral exchanges and training opportunities between U.S. Marines and Philippine Marines aimed at bolstering the Philippine Marine Corps’ Coastal Defense strategy while supporting modernization efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Donald Holbert)

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

U.S. Marines pose for a selfie with Marine Corps veterans during the “Once a Marine, Always a Marine” formation in Times Square as a part of Fleet Week New York (FWNY) 2024, May 22, 2024. FWNY, now in its 36th year, is a time-honored celebration of the sea services that brings the citizens of New York City and the surrounding tri-state area together with Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen. Throughout the week, participants can tour ships, experience military static displays, and see drill and musical performances that showcase the expertise, excellence, and patriotism of America’s maritime services. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Sarah Pysher) - U.S. Marines pose for a selfie with Marine Corps veterans during the “Once a Marine, Always a Marine” formation in Times Square as a part of Fleet Week New York (FWNY) 2024, May 22, 2024. FWNY, now in its 36th year, is a time-honored celebration of the sea services that brings the citizens of New York City and the surrounding tri-state area together with Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen. Throughout the week, participants can tour ships, experience military static displays, and see drill and musical performances that showcase the expertise, excellence, and patriotism of America’s maritime services. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Sarah Pysher)

A CH-53E Super Stallion, assigned to the “White Knights” of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165, hovers in formation above the Indian Ocean during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Indonesia 2024, May 19, 2024. This year’s exercise coincides with 75 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Indonesia. In its 30th year, the CARAT series is comprised of multinational exercises, designed to enhance U.S. and partner navies’ abilities to operate together in response to traditional and non-traditional maritime security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. - A CH-53E Super Stallion, assigned to the “White Knights” of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165, hovers in formation above the Indian Ocean during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Indonesia 2024, May 19, 2024. This year’s exercise coincides with 75 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Indonesia. In its 30th year, the CARAT series is comprised of multinational exercises, designed to enhance U.S. and partner navies’ abilities to operate together in response to traditional and non-traditional maritime security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

Corporal Barbieri, A Follow Me Marine - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Gage Barbieri, a Florida native and corporals course instructor with Headquarters Battalion, 2d Marine Division, works on a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 4, 2024. Motor Transport operators are responsible for maintaining and operating both commercial and tactical vehicles. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Megan Ozaki)

U.S. Marines with 3rd Littoral Combat Team, 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, conduct a dry-fire rehearsal in preparation for a counter landing live-fire exercise at La Paz Sand Dunes, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, May 4, 2024. Balikatan 24 is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Eric Huynh) - U.S. Marines with 3rd Littoral Combat Team, 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, conduct a dry-fire rehearsal in preparation for a counter landing live-fire exercise at La Paz Sand Dunes, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, May 4, 2024. Balikatan 24 is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Eric Huynh)

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)