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Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, work with the Marines and sailors of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit as they load vehicles, equipment and personnel aboard the USS New York at the port in Morehead City, N.C., Dec. 13, 2014. Heavy equipment operators and embarkation specialists spent several days prior to the ship's arrival staging and organizing the gear. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. James R. Smith/Released) - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, work with the Marines and sailors of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit as they load vehicles, equipment and personnel aboard the USS New York at the port in Morehead City, N.C., Dec. 13, 2014. Heavy equipment operators and embarkation specialists spent several days prior to the ship's arrival staging and organizing the gear. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. James R. Smith/Released)

Republic of Korea and U.S. Marines clear a building during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-17 Feb. 9 at the Cham Sae Mi Close-Quarters Battle Training Facility in Pohang, Republic of Korea. KMEP 15-17 is a regularly-scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps forces. The ROK Marines are with Company 5, 32nd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - Republic of Korea and U.S. Marines clear a building during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-17 Feb. 9 at the Cham Sae Mi Close-Quarters Battle Training Facility in Pohang, Republic of Korea. KMEP 15-17 is a regularly-scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps forces. The ROK Marines are with Company 5, 32nd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

Cpl. Abraham Ostosmendoza, from Staten Island, New York, and Lance Cpl. Jamie Neal, from Houma, Louisiana, purify pond water Feb. 11 during exercise Cobra Gold 2015 at Ban Chan Krem, Thailand. The U.S. Marines utilized the Light Weight Water Purification System, and consistently checked the gauges, temperature, and pressure to ensure it was efficiently supplied to the Royal Thai Marines and the ranges. Ostosmendoza is water support technician with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Neal is a water support technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd MLG. - Cpl. Abraham Ostosmendoza, from Staten Island, New York, and Lance Cpl. Jamie Neal, from Houma, Louisiana, purify pond water Feb. 11 during exercise Cobra Gold 2015 at Ban Chan Krem, Thailand. The U.S. Marines utilized the Light Weight Water Purification System, and consistently checked the gauges, temperature, and pressure to ensure it was efficiently supplied to the Royal Thai Marines and the ranges. Ostosmendoza is water support technician with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Neal is a water support technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd MLG.

Intelligence Marines from Marine Aircraft Group 31 attended the Squadron Intelligence Training and Certification Course, graduating Feb. 13. The four-week course trains intelligence Marines to serve in the air combat element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force. - Intelligence Marines from Marine Aircraft Group 31 attended the Squadron Intelligence Training and Certification Course, graduating Feb. 13. The four-week course trains intelligence Marines to serve in the air combat element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

Lance Cpl. Connor J. Shellabarger, a machine gunner for Company K, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, listens in along with his junior Marine, on the corrections his instructor has for him during a machine gun course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 4, 2015. Shellabarger is bonding with his junior Marine to create the camaraderie Marines are known for. - Lance Cpl. Connor J. Shellabarger, a machine gunner for Company K, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, listens in along with his junior Marine, on the corrections his instructor has for him during a machine gun course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 4, 2015. Shellabarger is bonding with his junior Marine to create the camaraderie Marines are known for.

As part of the annual training exercise Scorpion Fire, Lance Cpl. Clinton Lehner, a crew chief with Marine Light Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 369 “Gunfighters,” looks down range during close-air support maneuvers at the Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range, Calif., Jan. 29. Marines with both tiltrotor and fixed-wing squadrons participate in this annual exercise, which provides a realistic environment for ground units in need of close air support. - As part of the annual training exercise Scorpion Fire, Lance Cpl. Clinton Lehner, a crew chief with Marine Light Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 369 “Gunfighters,” looks down range during close-air support maneuvers at the Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range, Calif., Jan. 29. Marines with both tiltrotor and fixed-wing squadrons participate in this annual exercise, which provides a realistic environment for ground units in need of close air support.

U.S. Marine Chief Warrant Officer 2 Juan Rodriguez, an explosive ordnance disposal officer with Task Force Al Asad, and brigade-level leaders of the Iraqi Army walk through an improvised explosive device training lane aboard Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 31, 2015. The classes showed the leadership the training their soldiers will receive in the future and gave them a look at tactics being used today by Da'esh. - U.S. Marine Chief Warrant Officer 2 Juan Rodriguez, an explosive ordnance disposal officer with Task Force Al Asad, and brigade-level leaders of the Iraqi Army walk through an improvised explosive device training lane aboard Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 31, 2015. The classes showed the leadership the training their soldiers will receive in the future and gave them a look at tactics being used today by Da'esh.

Brig. Gen. Charles G. Chiarotti, left, Commanding General, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, speaks with Cpl. David A. Fowler, a motor vehicle operator with Marine Air Ground Task Force Materiel Distribution Company, following the company’s activation ceremony, Feb. 9, 2015, aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Fowler and other Marines with the company discussed the unit’s capabilities with Chiarotti. The company has been created within 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, to establish a proof of principle on the reorganization of intermediate supply and distribution capabilities in order to provide tailored capabilities to units deploying in support if the II Marine Expeditionary Force. The integration of personnel in the new company will enhance the unit’s ability to support outside units, with no changes to garrison support operations or deployed support operations. - Brig. Gen. Charles G. Chiarotti, left, Commanding General, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, speaks with Cpl. David A. Fowler, a motor vehicle operator with Marine Air Ground Task Force Materiel Distribution Company, following the company’s activation ceremony, Feb. 9, 2015, aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Fowler and other Marines with the company discussed the unit’s capabilities with Chiarotti. The company has been created within 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, to establish a proof of principle on the reorganization of intermediate supply and distribution capabilities in order to provide tailored capabilities to units deploying in support if the II Marine Expeditionary Force. The integration of personnel in the new company will enhance the unit’s ability to support outside units, with no changes to garrison support operations or deployed support operations.

A Marine greets his son during a homecoming event aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 14, 2015. Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion-2 returned from a six-month deployment in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa. - A Marine greets his son during a homecoming event aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 14, 2015. Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion-2 returned from a six-month deployment in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa.

Landing support specialists attach a load of tires to a UH-1Y Huey attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, during a helicopter support team exercise Feb. 6 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. The Marines used a MK-105 cable, also known as the Q-tip, to hook the load onto the bottom of the Huey. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st MEU, and are currently deployed in support of the annually-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - Landing support specialists attach a load of tires to a UH-1Y Huey attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, during a helicopter support team exercise Feb. 6 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. The Marines used a MK-105 cable, also known as the Q-tip, to hook the load onto the bottom of the Huey. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st MEU, and are currently deployed in support of the annually-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Alex S. Rankin, center, digs a hiding position alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK recon Marines specialize in stealth and scouting, so this training teaches the Marines how to survive without getting caught and still accomplishing the mission. This exercise highlights the two countries’ combined commitment to the defense of the ROK and peace and security in the region. Rankin, a Secane, Pennsylvania, native, is an intelligence specialist with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Alex S. Rankin, center, digs a hiding position alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK recon Marines specialize in stealth and scouting, so this training teaches the Marines how to survive without getting caught and still accomplishing the mission. This exercise highlights the two countries’ combined commitment to the defense of the ROK and peace and security in the region. Rankin, a Secane, Pennsylvania, native, is an intelligence specialist with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division.

Marines from Marines Forces Reserve practice how to properly report a casualty and possible toxic gas during a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense training simulation aboard Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Feb. 5, 2015. When they locate a casualty, Marines must report it to the control center and wait for further instructions. The CBRN defense training equips Marines from diverse units, with the proper knowledge and readiness needed to handle a real combat zone situation. - Marines from Marines Forces Reserve practice how to properly report a casualty and possible toxic gas during a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense training simulation aboard Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Feb. 5, 2015. When they locate a casualty, Marines must report it to the control center and wait for further instructions. The CBRN defense training equips Marines from diverse units, with the proper knowledge and readiness needed to handle a real combat zone situation.

A Marine, with Force Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, packs his parachute after completing a High Altitude Low Opening free-fall jump during a parachute training exercise at Training Landing Zone Pheasant aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28. When Marines with the battalion insert for a mission, they carry enough equipment to sustain themselves for up to 96 hours. - A Marine, with Force Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, packs his parachute after completing a High Altitude Low Opening free-fall jump during a parachute training exercise at Training Landing Zone Pheasant aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28. When Marines with the battalion insert for a mission, they carry enough equipment to sustain themselves for up to 96 hours.

Assault amphibious vehicles are used to mobilize infantry units during the Integrated Training Exercise 2-15 Tank Mechanized Assault Course Feb. 2 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms. AAVs are used to get infantry in the fight fast. The AAVs that were used during the TMAC are with Company D, 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. William Hester/Released) - Assault amphibious vehicles are used to mobilize infantry units during the Integrated Training Exercise 2-15 Tank Mechanized Assault Course Feb. 2 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms. AAVs are used to get infantry in the fight fast. The AAVs that were used during the TMAC are with Company D, 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. William Hester/Released)

Republic of Korea Marines demonstrate their combat tactics for U.S. Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. Sharing cultures is a significant factor in gaining a better understanding of the combat tactics of the two forces despite the language barrier, according to ROK Marine Capt. Moon Jung Hwan. KMEP is a regularly scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps’ forces. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Cedric R. Haller II/Released) - Republic of Korea Marines demonstrate their combat tactics for U.S. Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. Sharing cultures is a significant factor in gaining a better understanding of the combat tactics of the two forces despite the language barrier, according to ROK Marine Capt. Moon Jung Hwan. KMEP is a regularly scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps’ forces. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Cedric R. Haller II/Released)

Lance Cpl. Christian J. Hernandez (left) and Lance Cpl. Giovonni Mejia fire the M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzer Jan. 31 to support units engaged in the mechanized assault course at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms during Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. “Fighting with combined arms is on of the most important parts of the (Marine Air-Ground Task Force),” said Lt. Col. Neil J. Owens. Giovonni, a Dallas, Texas native and Hernandez, a Buford, Georgia, native are both cannoneers with 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force for ITX 2-15, as part of the ground combat element for SPMAGTF-4. Owens, a Medford, Massechusetts, native, is the commanding officer for 3rd Bn., 12th Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. William Hester/ Released) - Lance Cpl. Christian J. Hernandez (left) and Lance Cpl. Giovonni Mejia fire the M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzer Jan. 31 to support units engaged in the mechanized assault course at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms during Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. “Fighting with combined arms is on of the most important parts of the (Marine Air-Ground Task Force),” said Lt. Col. Neil J. Owens. Giovonni, a Dallas, Texas native and Hernandez, a Buford, Georgia, native are both cannoneers with 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force for ITX 2-15, as part of the ground combat element for SPMAGTF-4. Owens, a Medford, Massechusetts, native, is the commanding officer for 3rd Bn., 12th Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. William Hester/ Released)

U.S. Marines shoot their M16 rifles during a live-fire exercise Feb. 4 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. Each Marine fired 30 rounds during multiple drills. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently underway as part of the regularly scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released) - U.S. Marines shoot their M16 rifles during a live-fire exercise Feb. 4 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. Each Marine fired 30 rounds during multiple drills. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently underway as part of the regularly scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released)

A data network specialist from Headquarters Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group, communicates with an MV-22 Osprey pilot during an en-route care exercise aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 28, 2015. During the four-day exercise, corpsmen trained to prepare a Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force group that is going to forward deploy later this year. The more than 40 corpsmen set up a shock trauma platoon facility, or mobile emergency room, to treat simulated casualties. The casualties were stabilized in the STP and then flown out via aircraft. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Laura Gauna/Released) - A data network specialist from Headquarters Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group, communicates with an MV-22 Osprey pilot during an en-route care exercise aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 28, 2015. During the four-day exercise, corpsmen trained to prepare a Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force group that is going to forward deploy later this year. The more than 40 corpsmen set up a shock trauma platoon facility, or mobile emergency room, to treat simulated casualties. The casualties were stabilized in the STP and then flown out via aircraft. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Laura Gauna/Released)

Sergeant Maj. Ronald Green returns the noncommissioned officer’s sword to Lt. Gen. David H. Berger, I Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, signifying the end of his tour as the I MEF sergeant major, during a relief and appointment ceremony aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 4, 2015. During the ceremony, the Marines bid farewell to Green as he prepares to assume his new post as the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, and welcomed Sgt. Maj. Bradley Kasal as the new I MEF sergeant major. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher J. Moore/Released) - Sergeant Maj. Ronald Green returns the noncommissioned officer’s sword to Lt. Gen. David H. Berger, I Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, signifying the end of his tour as the I MEF sergeant major, during a relief and appointment ceremony aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 4, 2015. During the ceremony, the Marines bid farewell to Green as he prepares to assume his new post as the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, and welcomed Sgt. Maj. Bradley Kasal as the new I MEF sergeant major. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher J. Moore/Released)

Staff Sgt. Jose Flores, non-prior service recruiter, Recruiting Station Substation Patchogue, New York, was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for being named the Non-Prior Service Recruiter of the Year for FY14 on Jan. 29 at the Clubs at Quantico during the Combined Awards Ceremony. Flores was also meritoriously promoted from the rank of sergeant to staff sergeant. - Staff Sgt. Jose Flores, non-prior service recruiter, Recruiting Station Substation Patchogue, New York, was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for being named the Non-Prior Service Recruiter of the Year for FY14 on Jan. 29 at the Clubs at Quantico during the Combined Awards Ceremony. Flores was also meritoriously promoted from the rank of sergeant to staff sergeant.

Sgt. Sloan Seiler, Winter Mountain Leaders Course 1-15, student, Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, and 1st Lt. Mancelino Figueroa, WMLC 1-15, class commander, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, lead a line of Marines pulling a block of ice back into Levitt Lake at the MCMWTC, Bridgeport Calif., Jan. 30, 2015. The blocks of ice that were cut out of the lake were returned after the Marines concluded training. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Charles Santamaria/Released) - Sgt. Sloan Seiler, Winter Mountain Leaders Course 1-15, student, Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, and 1st Lt. Mancelino Figueroa, WMLC 1-15, class commander, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, lead a line of Marines pulling a block of ice back into Levitt Lake at the MCMWTC, Bridgeport Calif., Jan. 30, 2015. The blocks of ice that were cut out of the lake were returned after the Marines concluded training. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Charles Santamaria/Released)

Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, and members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force conduct amphibious raids and military operations on urban terrain during Exercise Iron Fist 15 aboard Camp Pendleton on Feb. 3, 2015. Exercise Iron Fist 15 is an annual bilateral training exercise between U.S. and Japanese military forces that builds their combined ability to conduct amphibious and land-based contingency operations. IF15, currently in its tenth iteration, is scheduled from Jan. 26 to Feb. 27, 2015, in southern California. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Angel Serna/Released) - Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, and members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force conduct amphibious raids and military operations on urban terrain during Exercise Iron Fist 15 aboard Camp Pendleton on Feb. 3, 2015. Exercise Iron Fist 15 is an annual bilateral training exercise between U.S. and Japanese military forces that builds their combined ability to conduct amphibious and land-based contingency operations. IF15, currently in its tenth iteration, is scheduled from Jan. 26 to Feb. 27, 2015, in southern California. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Angel Serna/Released)

Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., speaks to Marines of Company A and Weapons Company during their final field exercise at Range G6 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 3, 2015. Dunford visited GCEITF Marines to observe their training and discuss the future of the Corps, and how the Marines are helping shape a better Marine Corps. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Alicia R. Leaders/Released) - Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., speaks to Marines of Company A and Weapons Company during their final field exercise at Range G6 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 3, 2015. Dunford visited GCEITF Marines to observe their training and discuss the future of the Corps, and how the Marines are helping shape a better Marine Corps. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Alicia R. Leaders/Released)

U.S. Marine Pfc. Cody Dunlap throws a simulated grenade during squad tactics and maneuver training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 26, 2015. Dunlap is an automatic rifleman with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. As the ground combat element for the 15th MEU, BLT 3/1 is preparing for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills and learning to work as a cohesive unit. - U.S. Marine Pfc. Cody Dunlap throws a simulated grenade during squad tactics and maneuver training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 26, 2015. Dunlap is an automatic rifleman with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. As the ground combat element for the 15th MEU, BLT 3/1 is preparing for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills and learning to work as a cohesive unit.

Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response – Africa run aboard an MV-22 Osprey during an alert-force drill at Rota Air Base, Spain, Jan. 29, 2015. A platoon of Marines successfully carried out a simulated casualty evacuation mission launched from their staging area at Morón Air Base, Spain, where SPMAGTF-CR-AF is postured to respond to regional crises. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Paul Peterson/Released) - Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response – Africa run aboard an MV-22 Osprey during an alert-force drill at Rota Air Base, Spain, Jan. 29, 2015. A platoon of Marines successfully carried out a simulated casualty evacuation mission launched from their staging area at Morón Air Base, Spain, where SPMAGTF-CR-AF is postured to respond to regional crises. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Paul Peterson/Released)

Members of the Joint Chiefs of staff applaud for the conclusion of the signing of the "28-star" Letter at the Pentagon, Feb. 2, 2015. The letter challenges transitioning service members to continue serving their community and encouraged greater involvement between veterans and the public. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Remington Hall/released) - Members of the Joint Chiefs of staff applaud for the conclusion of the signing of the "32-star" Letter at the Pentagon, Feb. 2, 2015. The letter challenges transitioning service members to continue serving their community and encouraged greater involvement between veterans and the public. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Remington Hall/released)

Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment patrol alongside a road during an exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 22. The Marines conducted reconnaissance and security patrols to enhance their combat skills and readiness for future deployments. - Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment patrol alongside a road during an exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 22. The Marines conducted reconnaissance and security patrols to enhance their combat skills and readiness for future deployments.

Lance Cpl. Tyler Brinkman, an entry control point guard and radio operator with Headquarters Battalion, Communications Company, 2nd Marine Division, relays information through a radio as a 7-ton truck carrying Marines travels though the command post exercise ECP at Landing Zone Bluebird on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28, 2015. ECP guard’s duty is to control movement going in and out of the compound and maintain awareness at all times to keep the compound safe. (U.S. Marine Corps photo taken by Lance Cpl. Alexander Mitchell/released) - Lance Cpl. Tyler Brinkman, an entry control point guard and radio operator with Headquarters Battalion, Communications Company, 2nd Marine Division, relays information through a radio as a 7-ton truck carrying Marines travels though the command post exercise ECP at Landing Zone Bluebird on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28, 2015. ECP guard’s duty is to control movement going in and out of the compound and maintain awareness at all times to keep the compound safe. (U.S. Marine Corps photo taken by Lance Cpl. Alexander Mitchell/released)

Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, teach Basic Maneuver Techniques for the Combat Rubber Raiding Craft to members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force aboard Camp Pendleton on Jan. 28, 2015, during Exercise Iron Fist 2015 to help develop the Self-Defense Force’s understanding of amphibious operations. Exercise Iron Fist 15 is an annual bilateral training exercise between U.S. and Japanese military forces that builds their combined ability to conduct amphibious and land-based contingency operations. IF15, currently in its tenth iteration, is scheduled from Jan. 26 to Feb. 27, 2015, in southern California. - Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, teach Basic Maneuver Techniques for the Combat Rubber Raiding Craft to members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force aboard Camp Pendleton on Jan. 28, 2015, during Exercise Iron Fist 2015 to help develop the Self-Defense Force’s understanding of amphibious operations. Exercise Iron Fist 15 is an annual bilateral training exercise between U.S. and Japanese military forces that builds their combined ability to conduct amphibious and land-based contingency operations. IF15, currently in its tenth iteration, is scheduled from Jan. 26 to Feb. 27, 2015, in southern California.

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An M1A1 Abrams Tank from 1st Tank Battalion, Company B, fires its 120 mm main gun toward a target 1200 meters away during an assault on a Military Operation in Urban Terrain town on Range 210 during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation Exercise, Jan. 20, 2015. ‘1st Tanks’ and 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion supported 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment during their assault of the MOUT. - An M1A1 Abrams Tank from 1st Tank Battalion, Company B, fires its 120 mm main gun toward a target 1200 meters away during an assault on a Military Operation in Urban Terrain town on Range 210 during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation Exercise, Jan. 20, 2015. ‘1st Tanks’ and 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion supported 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment during their assault of the MOUT.

U.S. Navy Seaman Barry Sullivan, corpsman, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, Task Force Al Asad, demonstrates to Iraqi soldiers the proper way to evaluate and move a notional casualty after an Improvised Explosive Device detonation at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 18, 2015. Coalition forces are facilitating training in the Build Partnership Capacity program designed to equip Iraqi army units with the training and knowledge necessary to degrade and defeat Daesh in Iraq. - U.S. Navy Seaman Barry Sullivan, corpsman, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, Task Force Al Asad, demonstrates to Iraqi soldiers the proper way to evaluate and move a notional casualty after an Improvised Explosive Device detonation at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 18, 2015. Coalition forces are facilitating training in the Build Partnership Capacity program designed to equip Iraqi army units with the training and knowledge necessary to degrade and defeat Daesh in Iraq.

Sgt. Maj. Justin LeHew , Training and Education Command Sergeant Major, took part in the 25th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March on March, 23, 2014. LeHew earned the Navy Cross for his actions as a gunnery sergeant during Operation Iraqi Freedom in March of 2003. - Sgt. Maj. Justin LeHew, Training and Education Command Sergeant Major, took part in the 25th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March on March, 23, 2014. LeHew earned the Navy Cross for his actions as a gunnery sergeant during Operation Iraqi Freedom in March of 2003.

An AV-8B Harrier lands on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Kearsarge is underway conducting Afloat Training Group basic phase training. - An AV-8B Harrier lands on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Kearsarge is underway conducting Afloat Training Group basic phase training.

Soldiers from the nations of Bulgaria, Serbia and Romania receive certificates after the completion of Platinum Lion 15 at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, Jan 26. Platinum Lion was a multi-national exercise with the nations of Bulgaria, Serbia and Romania and Black Sea Rotational Force Marines. - Soldiers from the nations of Bulgaria, Serbia and Romania receive certificates after the completion of Platinum Lion 15 at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, Jan 26. Platinum Lion was a multi-national exercise with the nations of Bulgaria, Serbia and Romania and Black Sea Rotational Force Marines.

Marine Special Operations Teams with Bravo Company, 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, prepare to board a target vessel during Visit, Board, Search and Seizure training near Naval Base Coronado, Calif., Jan. 16. - Marine Special Operations Teams with Bravo Company, 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, prepare to board a target vessel during Visit, Board, Search and Seizure training near Naval Base Coronado, Calif., Jan. 16.

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Marines with Amphibious Assault Vehicle Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, assault targets downrange during a live-fire exercise at Range SR-10 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 20, 2015. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Marines with Amphibious Assault Vehicle Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, assault targets downrange during a live-fire exercise at Range SR-10 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 20, 2015. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

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

Members of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines provide security during convoy operations training, Jan. 14, 2015, at Penny Lake Fields aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. The training is part of combined arms training focused on improving unit cohesion and combat readiness. - Members of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines provide security during convoy operations training, Jan. 14, 2015, at Penny Lake Fields aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. The training is part of combined arms training focused on improving unit cohesion and combat readiness.

Participants prepare to shoot during the Combat Center DieSeL Classic at the base Qualification Range, Jan. 17, 2015. This is one of several competitions that the Combat Center shooting team participates in each year. - Participants prepare to shoot during the Combat Center DieSeL Classic at the base Qualification Range, Jan. 17, 2015. This is one of several competitions that the Combat Center shooting team participates in each year.

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Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr. announced the selection of Sgt. Maj. Ronald L. Green as the next Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Jan. 20, 2015. In this 2011 image, Sgt. Maj. Ronald L. Green, then serving as the Marine Forces Africa sergeant major, speaks to a group of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force 12 Marines and sailors. - Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr. announced the selection of Sgt. Maj. Ronald L. Green as the next Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Jan. 20, 2015. In this 2011 image, Sgt. Maj. Ronald L. Green, then serving as the Marine Forces Africa sergeant major, speaks to a group of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force 12 Marines and sailors.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Gilbert B. Heath, a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Battery, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion and Security Forces, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, does a tactical reload during a live fire and maneuver exercise on Jan. 11, 2015, in the Central Command area of operations. The live fire exercise was conducted to prepare for a future, larger-scale range to help keep SPMAGTF-CR-CC’s Security Forces primed and ready if called to action. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Gilbert B. Heath, a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Battery, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion and Security Forces, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, does a tactical reload during a live fire and maneuver exercise on Jan. 11, 2015, in the Central Command area of operations. The live fire exercise was conducted to prepare for a future, larger-scale range to help keep SPMAGTF-CR-CC’s Security Forces primed and ready if called to action.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Michael Bumanglag (left) and Lance Cpl. Erik Delgadillo (right), with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, Task Force Al Asad, search for the impact site of a 122 mm rocket aboard Al Asad Airbase, Iraq, Jan. 4, 2015. Soldiers and Marines are taking prudent measures to protect the members of Task Force Al Asad from the threat of indirect fire. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Michael Bumanglag (left) and Lance Cpl. Erik Delgadillo (right), with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, Task Force Al Asad, search for the impact site of a 122 mm rocket aboard Al Asad Airbase, Iraq, Jan. 4, 2015. Soldiers and Marines are taking prudent measures to protect the members of Task Force Al Asad from the threat of indirect fire.

Gunnery Sgt. Tawanda “Tee” Hanible, and her family attended the Washingtonian of the Year Award ceremony in the Ballroom at the Willard InterContinental Hotel, Washington, D.C, Jan. 15. Since 1971, Washingtonian Magazine has been recognizing individuals, who have stood out due to the impact they have had on the community. “I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family, friends and loved ones,” Tee said, a Southside Chicago native who most recently serves as the administration chief with Delta Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division. - Gunnery Sgt. Tawanda “Tee” Hanible, and her family attended the Washingtonian of the Year Award ceremony in the Ballroom at the Willard InterContinental Hotel, Washington, D.C, Jan. 15. Since 1971, Washingtonian Magazine has been recognizing individuals, who have stood out due to the impact they have had on the community. “I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family, friends and loved ones,” Tee said, a Southside Chicago native who most recently serves as the administration chief with Delta Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division.

Friends and family members of U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit wait for the return of their Marines from deployment at the 26th MEU command post, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 13, 2015. The Marines were deployed in support of the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response Africa. - Friends and family members of U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit wait for the return of their Marines from deployment at the 26th MEU command post, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 13, 2015. The Marines were deployed in support of the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response Africa.

Cpl. Sierra K. Tilson, rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, fires the M203 grenade launcher during a live-fire range at the Verona Loop training area, near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2015. Marines with Co. A conducted live-fire training, squad attacks, and patrolling in preparation for their upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Cpl. Sierra K. Tilson, rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, fires the M203 grenade launcher during a live-fire range at the Verona Loop training area, near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2015. Marines with Co. A conducted live-fire training, squad attacks, and patrolling in preparation for their upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

Lance Cpl. Ronald Summerlin prepares to reset equipment following the landing of an FA-18D Hornet Jan. 9 during arrested landing safety training on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Arrested landings are the use of equipment, such as a safety barrier or an arresting wire, to rapidly slow down aircraft and ensure the landing path is straight and clear. During the training, Marines demonstrated proficiency in the use of arresting equipment while ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment on the airstrip. Summerlin is a Virginia Beach, Virginia, native and an expeditionary airfield systems technician with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Summerlin prepares to reset equipment following the landing of an FA-18D Hornet Jan. 9 during arrested landing safety training on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Arrested landings are the use of equipment, such as a safety barrier or an arresting wire, to rapidly slow down aircraft and ensure the landing path is straight and clear. During the training, Marines demonstrated proficiency in the use of arresting equipment while ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment on the airstrip. Summerlin is a Virginia Beach, Virginia, native and an expeditionary airfield systems technician with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan.

1st Lt. William Tidd, center, from Angola, Indiana, confers with other members of the Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team after responding to a natural disaster scenario Jan. 13 at Camp Hansen. The HAST responds to areas that have been struck by natural disasters and determine how much supply and resources are required to assist the affected area. Tidd is the assistant officer in charge of the HAST, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - 1st Lt. William Tidd, center, from Angola, Indiana, confers with other members of the Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team after responding to a natural disaster scenario Jan. 13 at Camp Hansen. The HAST responds to areas that have been struck by natural disasters and determine how much supply and resources are required to assist the affected area. Tidd is the assistant officer in charge of the HAST, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.