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An F-35B Lightning II takes off on the flight deck of USS Wasp (LHD-1) during routine daylight operations, as part of Operational Testing 1, May 22. Data and lessons learned during the operational test will lay the groundwork for future F-35B deployments aboard amphibious ships. - An F-35B Lightning II takes off on the flight deck of USS Wasp (LHD-1) during routine daylight operations, as part of Operational Testing 1, May 22. Data and lessons learned during the operational test will lay the groundwork for future F-35B deployments aboard amphibious ships.

Cpl. Alex Nguyen (left), a native of Fremont, Nebraska, tries to maneuver past his defender, Staff Sgt. Phillip Shockley, a native of Scuffleton, North Carolina, during wheelchair basketball practice for the Marine team, Sept. 20, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team is comprised of active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines. - Cpl. Alex Nguyen (left), a native of Fremont, Nebraska, tries to maneuver past his defender, Staff Sgt. Phillip Shockley, a native of Scuffleton, North Carolina, during wheelchair basketball practice for the Marine team, Sept. 20, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team is comprised of active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines.

Michelle Mummers, a retired Marine major and wounded warrior, swims at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia May 28, 2015 in preparation for the 2015 Department of Defense Warrior Games. This will be Mummer's second time competing in both the cycling and swimming portion of the games. - Michelle Mummers, a retired Marine major and wounded warrior, swims at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia May 28, 2015 in preparation for the 2015 Department of Defense Warrior Games. This will be Mummer's second time competing in both the cycling and swimming portion of the games.

Marines load ordnance onto an F-35B Lightning II during Operational Testing 1 aboard USS Wasp at sea, May 27. Marines and sailors have been working together since May 18 to assess the integration of the F-35B Lightning II, which is currently on track to replace the F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Prowler, and the AV-8B Harrier. By the end of the testing period on May 29, U.S. Marine pilots had flown 110 F-35B sorties from USS Wasp, racking up more than 85 flight hours. - Marines load ordnance onto an F-35B Lightning II during Operational Testing 1 aboard USS Wasp at sea, May 27. Marines and sailors have been working together since May 18 to assess the integration of the F-35B Lightning II, which is currently on track to replace the F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Prowler, and the AV-8B Harrier. By the end of the testing period on May 29, U.S. Marine pilots had flown 110 F-35B sorties from USS Wasp, racking up more than 85 flight hours.

U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa move toward an objective during a training exercise on Quartier Colonel de Chabrieres, France, May 29, 2015. Marines stationed at Moròn Air Base, Spain, conducted a seize and capture training exercise with service members from the French Foreign Legion’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to further improve interoperability between the two NATO forces as they concurrently deploy their service members to Africa. - U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa move toward an objective during a training exercise on Quartier Colonel de Chabrieres, France, May 29, 2015. Marines stationed at Moròn Air Base, Spain, conducted a seize and capture training exercise with service members from the French Foreign Legion’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to further improve interoperability between the two NATO forces as they concurrently deploy their service members to Africa.

Marines with 1st Marines Special Operations Support Battalion make their way to the ocean to swim through the surf zone during the Tactical Skills Package aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 15, 2015. The Tactical Skills Package was established to enhance enabler’s skills and qualifications before deploying. - Marines with 1st Marines Special Operations Support Battalion make their way to the ocean to swim through the surf zone during the Tactical Skills Package aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 15, 2015. The Tactical Skills Package was established to enhance enabler’s skills and qualifications before deploying.

One of the pilots of an MV-22 Osprey straps Secretary of Defense Ash Carter into his seat before surveying the Straits of Malacca off the coast of Singapore, May 29, 2015. - One of the pilots of an MV-22 Osprey straps Secretary of Defense Ash Carter into his seat before surveying the Straits of Malacca off the coast of Singapore, May 29, 2015.

Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting battle the blaze as part of monthly training to ensure they are always prepared in the event of an emergency on the flight line. The ARFF Marines are a part of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. - Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting battle the blaze as part of monthly training to ensure they are always prepared in the event of an emergency on the flight line. The ARFF Marines are a part of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, begin their patrol through a mock village during Infantry Immersion Training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 29, 2015. The immersion center is an indoor Military Operation on Urban Terrain environment that allows Marines to go through a life-like village and encounter role-players to better sharpen their MOUT skills. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Michael Dye/Released) - Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, begin their patrol through a mock village during Infantry Immersion Training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 29, 2015. The immersion center is an indoor Military Operation on Urban Terrain environment that allows Marines to go through a life-like village and encounter role-players to better sharpen their MOUT skills. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Michael Dye/Released)

A platoon of U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, MRF-D, sit with their gear inside of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during a refueling and transport operation May 22 at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. Two CH-53Es picked up and transported approximately 140 Marines from Robertson Barracks to MBTA to begin Exercise Predator Walk. The exercise is a three-week bilateral training evolution with the Australian Army and enables Marines to become familiar with and improve their knowledge of the Australians’ technical and tactical procedures and standard operating procedures to strengthen interoperability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released) - A platoon of U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, MRF-D, sit with their gear inside of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during a refueling and transport operation May 22 at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. Two CH-53Es picked up and transported approximately 140 Marines from Robertson Barracks to MBTA to begin Exercise Predator Walk. The exercise is a three-week bilateral training evolution with the Australian Army and enables Marines to become familiar with and improve their knowledge of the Australians’ technical and tactical procedures and standard operating procedures to strengthen interoperability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released)

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Brig. Gen Michael Groen, the director of Marine Corps Intelligence, tests the capabilities and functions of the new Tellus program to judge its effectiveness, May 29, 2015. Tellus can be used to instantly report new information to patrols and convoys without the use of radio. - Brig. Gen Michael Groen, the director of Marine Corps Intelligence, tests the capabilities and functions of the new Tellus program to judge its effectiveness, May 29, 2015. Tellus can be used to instantly report new information to patrols and convoys without the use of radio.

Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to board an assault amphibious vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion during an obstacle-breaching exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 20, 2015. The Marines used 2nd AA Bn. for communication, fire support and transport to and from their objectives throughout the exercise. - Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to board an assault amphibious vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion during an obstacle-breaching exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 20, 2015. The Marines used 2nd AA Bn. for communication, fire support and transport to and from their objectives throughout the exercise.

Master Sgt. David Jarvis, a reconnaissance Marine with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, and Capt. Patrick Zuber, a company commander for 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, are awarded for winning the 7th Annual Recon Challenge aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 15, 2015. The Marines received this honor from Col. Christopher J. Williams, the commanding officer of School of Infantry-West, and Master Gunnery Sgt. Brian Yarolem, the operations chief for Reconnaissance Training Company and event coordinator. - Master Sgt. David Jarvis, a reconnaissance Marine with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, and Capt. Patrick Zuber, a company commander for 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, are awarded for winning the 7th Annual Recon Challenge aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 15, 2015. The Marines received this honor from Col. Christopher J. Williams, the commanding officer of School of Infantry-West, and Master Gunnery Sgt. Brian Yarolem, the operations chief for Reconnaissance Training Company and event coordinator.

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

An F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter taxies to be refueled on the flight deck of USS Wasp during night operations, a part of Operational Testing 1, May, 22. The F-35B is the future of Marine Corps aviation and will be replacing three legacy platforms; the AV-8B Harrier, the F/A Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler. The F-35B is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. - An F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter taxies to be refueled on the flight deck of USS Wasp during night operations, a part of Operational Testing 1, May, 22. The F-35B is the future of Marine Corps aviation and will be replacing three legacy platforms; the AV-8B Harrier, the F/A Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler. The F-35B is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew Kelly, military assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition, provides background on the Marine Corps’ F-35B program to Air Marshall Bollam, Chief of Defence Material Air, United Kingdom, aboard USS Wasp while embarked in the Atlantic Ocean May 20, 2015. The current Marine Corps operational test, scheduled to continue through the end of May, will assess the integration of the F-35B while operating across a wide array of flight and deck operations, maintenance operations and logistical supply chain support in an at-sea environment. A former test pilot and career Marine aviator, Kelly participated in the earlier shipboard developmental tests of the F-35B. Royal Navy and Royal Air Force pilots are scheduled to begin flying the F-35B from the UK in 2018, and are on track to operate from the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers in 2020. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew Kelly, military assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition, provides background on the Marine Corps’ F-35B program to Air Marshall Bollam, Chief of Defence Material Air, United Kingdom, aboard USS Wasp while embarked in the Atlantic Ocean May 20, 2015. The current Marine Corps operational test, scheduled to continue through the end of May, will assess the integration of the F-35B while operating across a wide array of flight and deck operations, maintenance operations and logistical supply chain support in an at-sea environment. A former test pilot and career Marine aviator, Kelly participated in the earlier shipboard developmental tests of the F-35B. Royal Navy and Royal Air Force pilots are scheduled to begin flying the F-35B from the UK in 2018, and are on track to operate from the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers in 2020.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Zane Harmon fast ropes from a tower aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 12, 2015. Harmon is part of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force security element. These Marines practice fast roping to ensure they are prepared for any type of mission during deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Zane Harmon fast ropes from a tower aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 12, 2015. Harmon is part of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force security element. These Marines practice fast roping to ensure they are prepared for any type of mission during deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)

U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force security element fast rope out of a CH-53E Super Stallion aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 12, 2015. Fast roping gives the MRF the ability to rapidly insert combat forces onto an objective. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force security element fast rope out of a CH-53E Super Stallion aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 12, 2015. Fast roping gives the MRF the ability to rapidly insert combat forces onto an objective. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)

A U.S. Marine from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fires downrange during the last live-fire event of Eager Lion 15 around Al Quweyrah, Jordan, May 19, 2015. Exercise Eager Lion 15 is a multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations, and enhance regional security and stability. Eager Lion takes place annually in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, with more than 10,000 military participants from 18 countries and NATO. - A U.S. Marine from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fires downrange during the last live-fire event of Eager Lion 15 around Al Quweyrah, Jordan, May 19, 2015. Exercise Eager Lion 15 is a multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations, and enhance regional security and stability. Eager Lion takes place annually in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, with more than 10,000 military participants from 18 countries and NATO.

Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps students recreate the flag raising on Mount Suribachi as part of their float during the 2015 Chicago Memorial Day Parade May 23, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois. The annual parade is considered one of the largest in the nation and attracts thousands of visitors each year to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for American freedom. - Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps students recreate the flag raising on Mount Suribachi as part of their float during the 2015 Chicago Memorial Day Parade May 23, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois. The annual parade is considered one of the largest in the nation and attracts thousands of visitors each year to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for American freedom.

Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion arrive to put their Light Armored Vehicle on display for the public to look at as a part of Marine Day at Bryant Park, New York City, May 21, 2015. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-New York showcase the capabilities of the Marine Corps both physically, mentally and technologically during Fleet Week New York. Fleet Week is an annual event that provides New York and surrounding area a chance to see the sea services capabilities. - Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion arrive to put their Light Armored Vehicle on display for the public to look at as a part of Marine Day at Bryant Park, New York City, May 21, 2015. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-New York showcase the capabilities of the Marine Corps both physically, mentally and technologically during Fleet Week New York. Fleet Week is an annual event that provides New York and surrounding area a chance to see the sea services capabilities.

A Chinook with the Royal Canadian Air Force waits as Soldiers from the Canadian Army enter to be transported during Exercise Maple Resolve 2015 aboard Canadian Manoeuvre Training Center, Camp Wainwright, Alberta, Canada, May 16, 2015. The multi-national exercise, conducted annually by the Canadian Army, is a three-week, high-readiness validation exercise for Canadian Army elements designated for domestic or international operations. This year, the 1st Canadian Army Division and the 5th Canadian Mechanized Battle Group are being supported by the British 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade, various U.S. Army elements, and for the first time, members of I MEF’s 1st ANGLICO who bring a unique capability to the table. (Photo by Cpl. Owen Kimbrel, U.S. Marine Corps) - A Chinook with the Royal Canadian Air Force waits as Soldiers from the Canadian Army enter to be transported during Exercise Maple Resolve 2015 aboard Canadian Manoeuvre Training Center, Camp Wainwright, Alberta, Canada, May 16, 2015. The multi-national exercise, conducted annually by the Canadian Army, is a three-week, high-readiness validation exercise for Canadian Army elements designated for domestic or international operations. This year, the 1st Canadian Army Division and the 5th Canadian Mechanized Battle Group are being supported by the British 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade, various U.S. Army elements, and for the first time, members of I MEF’s 1st ANGLICO who bring a unique capability to the table. (Photo by Cpl. Owen Kimbrel, U.S. Marine Corps)

Amphibious Assault Vehicles, launched from the USS Rushmore, demonstrated amphibious landings as part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s joint sea-basing exercise, Culebra Koa 15, May 19, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows. Observed by local-based military and representatives from 22 countries within the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, the landing was made in conjunction with the inaugural U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific-hosted U.S. Pacific Command Amphibious Leaders Symposium. - Amphibious Assault Vehicles, launched from the USS Rushmore, demonstrated amphibious landings as part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s joint sea-basing exercise, Culebra Koa 15, May 19, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows. Observed by local-based military and representatives from 22 countries within the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, the landing was made in conjunction with the inaugural U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific-hosted U.S. Pacific Command Amphibious Leaders Symposium.

A Spanish Navy Harrier flies over the water after departing Naval Station Rota, Spain, for an aerial-refueling exercise with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa May 15, 2015. The Harrier flew behind a U.S. Marine KC-130J, which extended two refueling lines to allow the pilots to test their ability to complete inflight-refueling procedures. - A Spanish Navy Harrier flies over the water after departing Naval Station Rota, Spain, for an aerial-refueling exercise with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa May 15, 2015. The Harrier flew behind a U.S. Marine KC-130J, which extended two refueling lines to allow the pilots to test their ability to complete inflight-refueling procedures.

Italian Marines exit an Amphibious Assault Vehicle from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during bilateral platoon attack drills as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 11, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - Italian Marines exit an Amphibious Assault Vehicle from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during bilateral platoon attack drills as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 11, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Christopher Corpus, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Detachment 1, Marine Rotational Force- Darwin, inspects his gear before departing with a convoy to Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, May 20, 2015. Marines with MRF-D wrap up final details in order to set out for Exercise Predator Walk. Predator Walk plays a role in MRF-D that exercises a competent expeditionary fighting force with Australian allies. Corpus is a native of Reno, Nevada. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Christopher Corpus, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Detachment 1, Marine Rotational Force- Darwin, inspects his gear before departing with a convoy to Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, May 20, 2015. Marines with MRF-D wrap up final details in order to set out for Exercise Predator Walk. Predator Walk plays a role in MRF-D that exercises a competent expeditionary fighting force with Australian allies. Corpus is a native of Reno, Nevada.

Former U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Robert A. Henderson, 95, a Pearl Harbor survivor, tells Clemson University student Will Hines his story for the Veterans Project, an undergraduate research project, Feb. 21, 2015. The project was started to assist the Library of Congress collect, preserve and make accessible the personal accounts of American war veterans. "The first plane flew so close to me I could have thrown a rock and hit it," said Henderson. He would go on to serve 51 months in combat during WWII, culminated with the Battle of Okinawa. "I was in the first and last battles of the war," he said. - Former U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Robert A. Henderson, 95, a Pearl Harbor survivor, tells Clemson University student Will Hines his story for the Veterans Project, an undergraduate research project, Feb. 21, 2015. The project was started to assist the Library of Congress collect, preserve and make accessible the personal accounts of American war veterans. "The first plane flew so close to me I could have thrown a rock and hit it," said Henderson. He would go on to serve 51 months in combat during WWII, culminated with the Battle of Okinawa. "I was in the first and last battles of the war," he said.

Lance Corporal Brandon Renteria fires simulation rounds from a M32A1 multi-shot grenade launcher during a live-fire training event alongside Australian soldiers with 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, Australian Defence Force, May 15 at Kangaroo Flats Training Area, Victoria, Northern Territory, Australia. The Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, and Australian soldiers brushed up on squad attack tactics, basic point man skills and explosives to refine basic infantry skills. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies and improves interoperability between the two forces. Renteria is a rifleman with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, MRF-D. - Lance Corporal Brandon Renteria fires simulation rounds from a M32A1 multi-shot grenade launcher during a live-fire training event alongside Australian soldiers with 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, Australian Defence Force, May 15 at Kangaroo Flats Training Area, Victoria, Northern Territory, Australia. The Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, and Australian soldiers brushed up on squad attack tactics, basic point man skills and explosives to refine basic infantry skills. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies and improves interoperability between the two forces. Renteria is a rifleman with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, MRF-D.

Italian Marines exit an Amphibious Assault Vehicle from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during bilateral platoon attack drills as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 11, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - Italian Marines exit an Amphibious Assault Vehicle from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during bilateral platoon attack drills as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 11, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

U.S. Marines, Command Element Marine Forces Central Command Forward, conduct a close-order drill demonstration for Jordanian Armed Forces Non-Commissioned Officers during an NCO leadership exchange, on Camp Titin, Jordan, during Exercise Eager Lion, May 14, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring, multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations, and enhance regional security and stability. - U.S. Marines, Command Element Marine Forces Central Command Forward, conduct a close-order drill demonstration for Jordanian Armed Forces Non-Commissioned Officers during an NCO leadership exchange, on Camp Titin, Jordan, during Exercise Eager Lion, May 14, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring, multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations, and enhance regional security and stability.

U.S. Service members from Joint Task Force 505 prepare to load relief supplies from Samaritan’s Purse International Relief Organization onto a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal, May 16. JTF 505 along with other multinational forces and humanitarian relief organizations are currently in Nepal providing aid after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the country, April 25 and a 7.3 earthquake on May 12. At Nepal’s request the U.S. government ordered JTF 505 to provide unique capabilities to assist Nepal. - U.S. Service members from Joint Task Force 505 prepare to load relief supplies from Samaritan’s Purse International Relief Organization onto a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal, May 16. JTF 505 along with other multinational forces and humanitarian relief organizations are currently in Nepal providing aid after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the country, April 25 and a 7.3 earthquake on May 12. At Nepal’s request the U.S. government ordered JTF 505 to provide unique capabilities to assist Nepal.

Sgt. Kentrell Billups, a radio technician with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, tries to establish satellite communications with the division fire support cell during Exercise Maple Resolve 2015 aboard Canadian Manoeuvre Training Center, Camp Wainwright, Alberta, May 9, 2015. The multi-national exercise, conducted annually by the Canadian Army, is a three-week high-readiness validation exercise for Canadian Army elements designated for domestic or international operations. This year, the 1st Canadian Army Division and the 5th Canadian Mechanized Battle Group are being supported by the British 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade, various U.S. Army elements, and for the first time, members of I MEF’s 1st ANGLICO who bring a unique capability to the table. - Sgt. Kentrell Billups, a radio technician with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, tries to establish satellite communications with the division fire support cell during Exercise Maple Resolve 2015 aboard Canadian Manoeuvre Training Center, Camp Wainwright, Alberta, May 9, 2015. The multi-national exercise, conducted annually by the Canadian Army, is a three-week high-readiness validation exercise for Canadian Army elements designated for domestic or international operations. This year, the 1st Canadian Army Division and the 5th Canadian Mechanized Battle Group are being supported by the British 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade, various U.S. Army elements, and for the first time, members of I MEF’s 1st ANGLICO who bring a unique capability to the table.

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A Marine with 2nd Ground Sensor Platoon, 2nd Intelligence Battalion sights in on targets during a live fire range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 14, 2015. Marines with the platoon conducted fire-team competitions, fire-team rushes, and squad rushes at range K-509 to touch up on proficiency in infantry tactics. - A Marine with 2nd Ground Sensor Platoon, 2nd Intelligence Battalion sights in on targets during a live fire range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 14, 2015. Marines with the platoon conducted fire-team competitions, fire-team rushes, and squad rushes at range K-509 to touch up on proficiency in infantry tactics.

U.S. Marine Corps vehicles are lined up for inspection May 9, 2015, at the port of Agadir, Morocco, following a Maritime Prepositioning Force offload in preparation for Exercise African Lion 15. An MPF is a strategic capability that provides commanders with a forward presence and rapid crisis response by offloading combat equipment and supplies from U.S. Military Sealift Command ships to support various units, and will be used to sustain the Marines and service members operating throughout the mission rehearsal. For the offload, Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, were joined with Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 453, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, as well as sailors with NMCB 11. Exercise African Lion 15 is a combined joint task force exercise conducted in accordance with UN-mandated peace operations with humanitarian assistance themes and emphasizes the strong military bond between U.S. and Moroccan Armed Forces. It creates a foundation for slated inter-military cooperation in the future and improves interoperability between nations, building relationships with this key strategic region within the AFRICOM area of responsibility. - U.S. Marine Corps vehicles are lined up for inspection May 9, 2015, at the port of Agadir, Morocco, following a Maritime Prepositioning Force offload in preparation for Exercise African Lion 15. An MPF is a strategic capability that provides commanders with a forward presence and rapid crisis response by offloading combat equipment and supplies from U.S. Military Sealift Command ships to support various units, and will be used to sustain the Marines and service members operating throughout the mission rehearsal. For the offload, Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, were joined with Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 453, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, as well as sailors with NMCB 11. Exercise African Lion 15 is a combined joint task force exercise conducted in accordance with UN-mandated peace operations with humanitarian assistance themes and emphasizes the strong military bond between U.S. and Moroccan Armed Forces. It creates a foundation for slated inter-military cooperation in the future and improves interoperability between nations, building relationships with this key strategic region within the AFRICOM area of responsibility.

Corporal Justin Gill fires his M-16 rifle during training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 13, 2015. The training exercice focused on Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28's ability to build and maintain a communications network while in a field environment. Gill is a cyber-network operator with MWCS-28. - Corporal Justin Gill fires his M-16 rifle during training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 13, 2015. The training exercice focused on Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28's ability to build and maintain a communications network while in a field environment. Gill is a cyber-network operator with MWCS-28.

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Hospitalman Dante Johnson, a hospital corpsman with Headquarters and Support Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin and a native of Chicago, Illinois, removes an adult patient from an overturned car during a Remote Pre-Hospital Trauma and Disaster Course May 13 at the Marrara Fire Department, Northern Territory, Australia. The course refreshed the corpsmen’s basic casualty care response skills and provided them with lectures, skills labs and real world practical application addressing mass casualty care in remote areas. The MRF-D deployment enables Marines and sailors to effectively train, exercise and operate with partner to enhance regional security and build the capacity to respond more rapidly to natural disasters and crises throughout the region (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released) - Hospitalman Dante Johnson, a hospital corpsman with Headquarters and Support Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin and a native of Chicago, Illinois, removes an adult patient from an overturned car during a Remote Pre-Hospital Trauma and Disaster Course May 13 at the Marrara Fire Department, Northern Territory, Australia. The course refreshed the corpsmen’s basic casualty care response skills and provided them with lectures, skills labs and real world practical application addressing mass casualty care in remote areas. The MRF-D deployment enables Marines and sailors to effectively train, exercise and operate with partner to enhance regional security and build the capacity to respond more rapidly to natural disasters and crises throughout the region (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released)

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United States Marines from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment partnered with members of the Jordanian Armed Forces to complete a close-quarters marksmanship range May 6, 2015, during exercise Eager Lion 15. Eager Lion is an annual, multinational training exercise designed to build interoperability, promote partnerships and exchange military expertise with 16 partner nations and NATO. Eager Lion 15 takes place in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan from May 5-19. - United States Marines from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment partnered with members of the Jordanian Armed Forces to complete a close-quarters marksmanship range May 6, 2015, during exercise Eager Lion 15. Eager Lion is an annual, multinational training exercise designed to build interoperability, promote partnerships and exchange military expertise with 16 partner nations and NATO. Eager Lion 15 takes place in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan from May 5-19.

Sgt. Maj. Ronald Green, the 18th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, introduces Nicole Spaid the 2015 Armed Forces Insurance Marine Corps Spouse of the Year, at the 8th Annual Awards Luncheon at Joint Base Myer- Henderson Hall, May 8, 2015.Spaid has overcome many obstacles in her life, including cancer, but has yet to stop reaching out to local spouses to encourage them to thrive. - Sgt. Maj. Ronald Green, the 18th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, introduces Nicole Spaid the 2015 Armed Forces Insurance Marine Corps Spouse of the Year, at the 8th Annual Awards Luncheon at Joint Base Myer- Henderson Hall, May 8, 2015. Spaid has overcome many obstacles in her life, including cancer, but has yet to stop reaching out to local spouses to encourage them to thrive.

Landing support specialists with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, Headquarters Regiment, prepare to secure a simulated cargo load to a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during an external lift exercise on Landing Zone Albatross aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 7, 2015. The exercise was performed in collaboration with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and was intended to maintain readiness for future operations that will require them to efficiently transport equipment and supplies to units. - Landing support specialists with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, Headquarters Regiment, prepare to secure a simulated cargo load to a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during an external lift exercise on Landing Zone Albatross aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 7, 2015. The exercise was performed in collaboration with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and was intended to maintain readiness for future operations that will require them to efficiently transport equipment and supplies to units.

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.

Sergeant Peter Gentry III, left, an anti-tank missileman with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Mineman 2nd Class Christopher Dunham, assigned to the mine countermeasures ship USS Sentry, identify terrain features of an island they will be passing during the ship’s transit through the Strait of Bab al Mandeb, April 28, 2015. The 24th MEU provided additional small caliber action team capabilities to the USS Sentry during the transit. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of operations. ( - Sergeant Peter Gentry III, left, an anti-tank missileman with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Mineman 2nd Class Christopher Dunham, assigned to the mine countermeasures ship USS Sentry, identify terrain features of an island they will be passing during the ship’s transit through the Strait of Bab al Mandeb, April 28, 2015. The 24th MEU provided additional small caliber action team capabilities to the USS Sentry during the transit. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of operations. (

Lance Cpl. Zachary Miller, a motor vehicle operator with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division function checks a Mk-19 automatic grenade launcher during a Machine Gunners Course at the Division Combat Skills Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 15, 2015. During the course the Marines were trained how to properly disassemble, reassemble and maintain the M249 squad automatic weapon, the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the MK19 automatic grenade launcher. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. David N. Hersey/Released) - Lance Cpl. Zachary Miller, a motor vehicle operator with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division function checks a Mk-19 automatic grenade launcher during a Machine Gunners Course at the Division Combat Skills Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 15, 2015. During the course the Marines were trained how to properly disassemble, reassemble and maintain the M249 squad automatic weapon, the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the MK19 automatic grenade launcher. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. David N. Hersey/Released)

A Marine fires an M240B medium machine gun during the live-fire testing of the Machine Gunner’s Course aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 23, 2014. The course is one of the services offered to Marines by the Division Combat Skills Center and is a two-week course that familiarizes Marines with the M249 squad automatic weapon light machine gun, M240B medium machine gun, M2 .50-caliber heavy machine gun and the MK-19 40mm automatic grenade launcher. - A Marine fires an M240B medium machine gun during the live-fire testing of the Machine Gunner’s Course aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 23, 2014. The course is one of the services offered to Marines by the Division Combat Skills Center and is a two-week course that familiarizes Marines with the M249 squad automatic weapon light machine gun, M240B medium machine gun, M2 .50-caliber heavy machine gun and the MK-19 40mm automatic grenade launcher.

Pfc. Michael Ainsworth, a mortarman with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment adjusts the sights of the 81 mm mortar system during a combined-arms raid at Army National Training Center Fort Irwin, California April 11, 2015. The raid was conducted by 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion as part of exercise Desert Scimitar 2015. - Pfc. Michael Ainsworth, a mortarman with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment adjusts the sights of the 81 mm mortar system during a combined-arms raid at Army National Training Center Fort Irwin, California April 11, 2015. The raid was conducted by 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion as part of exercise Desert Scimitar 2015.