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Pfc. Michael R. Campbell (right) and Pfc. Joseph A. Glance II (left) perform clearing operations through the Urban Assault Course during a deployment for training exercise at Fort Pickett, Va., Dec. 2, 2016. The Marines enhanced their skills as infantrymen while conducting the UAC training. Campbell and Glance are motormen with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. - Pfc. Michael R. Campbell (right) and Pfc. Joseph A. Glance II (left) perform clearing operations through the Urban Assault Course during a deployment for training exercise at Fort Pickett, Va., Dec. 2, 2016. The Marines enhanced their skills as infantrymen while conducting the UAC training. Campbell and Glance are motormen with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.

Lance Cpl. Jorge Brito uses the Augmented Immersive Team Trainer to call in mortar fire on virtual targets at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 13, 2016. Brito is holding a Target Hand-Off System integrated with the AITT to spot out virtual tanks while getting coordinates to call in mortar fire. Brito is a fire support Marine with 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division. - Lance Cpl. Jorge Brito uses the Augmented Immersive Team Trainer to call in mortar fire on virtual targets at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 13, 2016. Brito is holding a Target Hand-Off System integrated with the AITT to spot out virtual tanks while getting coordinates to call in mortar fire. Brito is a fire support Marine with 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division.

Marines with Camp Hansen Provost Marshal’s Office and camp guard carry a role player Dec. 12 during Exercise Constant Vigilance 2016 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Constant Vigilance is an annual exercise that sharpens MCIPAC emergency response skills on bases across Okinawa through rehearsals and drills in varying scenarios. During the casualty evacuation, Marines with Camp Hansen Marines cleared a mock collapsed building and removed simulated casualties. Upon removing the personnel inside the building, the Marines assessed casualties’ medical needs and escorted them to the landing zone to transport them out of the area to receive advanced medical care. - Marines with Camp Hansen Provost Marshal’s Office and camp guard carry a role player Dec. 12 during Exercise Constant Vigilance 2016 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Constant Vigilance is an annual exercise that sharpens MCIPAC emergency response skills on bases across Okinawa through rehearsals and drills in varying scenarios. During the casualty evacuation, Marines with Camp Hansen Marines cleared a mock collapsed building and removed simulated casualties. Upon removing the personnel inside the building, the Marines assessed casualties’ medical needs and escorted them to the landing zone to transport them out of the area to receive advanced medical care.

Master Sgt. Conor Mahoney, a team member of the Marine Corps Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Enterprise Accelerator Program, showcases new technology developed during the program at Stafford, Virginia, Dec. 9. Helios, the technology developed during the program, is designed to keep request for intelligence (RFI) customers informed throughout the production process. The demonstration is the culmination of 12 weeks of design and development for Helios. - Master Sgt. Conor Mahoney, a team member of the Marine Corps Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Enterprise Accelerator Program, showcases new technology developed during the program at Stafford, Virginia, Dec. 9. Helios, the technology developed during the program, is designed to keep request for intelligence (RFI) customers informed throughout the production process. The demonstration is the culmination of 12 weeks of design and development for Helios.

1st Lt. Laura Derouin, platoon commander, Landing Support Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observes landing support specialists connect a load to a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st MEU, as part of external lift operations training at Landing Zone Falcon, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 8, 2016. The units conducted the training to complete qualifications for the 31st MEU's upcoming spring deployment. As the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed unit, the 31st MEU air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. - 1st Lt. Laura Derouin, platoon commander, Landing Support Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observes landing support specialists connect a load to a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st MEU, as part of external lift operations training at Landing Zone Falcon, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 8, 2016. The units conducted the training to complete qualifications for the 31st MEU's upcoming spring deployment. As the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed unit, the 31st MEU air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Sgt. Angie Novoa, a warehouse chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, organizes a shelf in her warehouse on Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, Oct. 28, 2016. Novoa was awarded the non-commissioned officer of the quarter for her exemplary work in and out of the supply shop while deployed with SPMAGTF-CR-AF. - Sgt. Angie Novoa, a warehouse chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, organizes a shelf in her warehouse on Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, Oct. 28, 2016. Novoa was awarded the non-commissioned officer of the quarter for her exemplary work in and out of the supply shop while deployed with SPMAGTF-CR-AF.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division get briefed using a terrain model of a Military Operations Urban Terrain course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 8th, 2016. MOUT is a combat course that allows Marines to train in an urban environment in which they secure buildings while taking simulated enemy fire. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division get briefed using a terrain model of a Military Operations Urban Terrain course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 8th, 2016. MOUT is a combat course that allows Marines to train in an urban environment in which they secure buildings while taking simulated enemy fire.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Rusty Mongold, a machinist with Engineer Maintenance Company, 1st Maintenance Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, cuts a piece of metal using the Computer Numerical Control during exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 8, 2016. Steel Knight 2017 is a 1st Marine Division-led exercise that exposes Marines and Sailors to skill sets necessary to operate as a fully capable Marine air ground task force. Mongold is from Port Arthur, Texas. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Rusty Mongold, a machinist with Engineer Maintenance Company, 1st Maintenance Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, cuts a piece of metal using the Computer Numerical Control during exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 8, 2016. Steel Knight 2017 is a 1st Marine Division-led exercise that exposes Marines and Sailors to skill sets necessary to operate as a fully capable Marine air ground task force. Mongold is from Port Arthur, Texas.

Marines engage an armed objective during a room-clearing exercise at Advanced Interior Tactics training aboard Naval Support Activity Northwest Annex in Chesapeake, Va., Dec. 7. During the course, Marines were taught to identify the hands of an individual to determine whether or not they posed a threat, in order to control the scene and conduct thorough house clearings. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Kayla D. Rivera/ Released) - Marines engage an armed objective during a room-clearing exercise at Advanced Interior Tactics training aboard Naval Support Activity Northwest Annex in Chesapeake, Va., Dec. 7. During the course, Marines were taught to identify the hands of an individual to determine whether or not they posed a threat, in order to control the scene and conduct thorough house clearings. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Kayla D. Rivera/ Released)

Marines assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing fill sand bags during a field exercise aboard Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Nov. 30, 2016. MWSS-271 conducted a two-week field exercise that focused on maintaining the squadron’s expeditionary mindset and included an evaluation by the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation system. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. N.W. Huertas/ Released) - Marines assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing fill sand bags during a field exercise aboard Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Nov. 30, 2016. MWSS-271 conducted a two-week field exercise that focused on maintaining the squadron’s expeditionary mindset and included an evaluation by the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation system. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. N.W. Huertas/ Released)

Cpl. Andrew Bastian, a heavy equipment advisor with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, stands on the berm a soldier with the Uganda People’s Defense Force creates with a bulldozer at Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 16, 2016. Marines with SPMAGTF-CR-AF taught classes and participated in practical application exercises with UPDF soldiers during the nine-week training mission. - Cpl. Andrew Bastian, a heavy equipment advisor with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, stands on the berm a soldier with the Uganda People’s Defense Force creates with a bulldozer at Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 16, 2016. Marines with SPMAGTF-CR-AF taught classes and participated in practical application exercises with UPDF soldiers during the nine-week training mission.

A crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 364 watches as an MV-22B Osprey follows behind their aircraft during exercise Seahorse Wind on Dec. 6. Exercise Seahorse Wind was a long-range raid exercise conducted by over 600 Marines with the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and the 1st Marine Division. - A crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 364 watches as an MV-22B Osprey follows behind their aircraft during exercise Seahorse Wind on Dec. 6. Exercise Seahorse Wind was a long-range raid exercise conducted by over 600 Marines with the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and the 1st Marine Division.

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U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Breht Urzua, a power line technician with Marine Attack Squadron 542, conducts a routine inspection of an AV-8B Harrier prior to flight at Chitose Air Base, Japan, Dec. 7, 2016. During the ATR the Marines with the power line division for VMA-542 have ensured the safety of all aircraft involved through routine flight inspections, launching the aircraft and recovering the aircraft. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Breht Urzua, a power line technician with Marine Attack Squadron 542, conducts a routine inspection of an AV-8B Harrier prior to flight at Chitose Air Base, Japan, Dec. 7, 2016. During the ATR the Marines with the power line division for VMA-542 have ensured the safety of all aircraft involved through routine flight inspections, launching the aircraft and recovering the aircraft.

U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade and service members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force salute the national colors of both nations at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, during the opening ceremony for Yama Sakura 71, Dec. 7, 2016,. The purpose of YS 71 is to enhance both nations’ combat readiness and interoperability while strengthening bilateral relationships and demonstrating U.S. resolve to support security interests of allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade and service members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force salute the national colors of both nations at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, during the opening ceremony for Yama Sakura 71, Dec. 7, 2016,. The purpose of YS 71 is to enhance both nations’ combat readiness and interoperability while strengthening bilateral relationships and demonstrating U.S. resolve to support security interests of allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Irv Jennings, a 91-year-old resident of Veterans Home of California Barstow, explains the various medals, citations and awards he earned during the most destructive conflict in human history. He served aboard the destroyer USS Case, which supported the attack on the island of Iwo Jima. Jennings also helped build the airfield that launched the Enola Gay, the bomber that dropped the first and only atomic bomb used in modern warfare. - Irv Jennings, a 91-year-old resident of Veterans Home of California Barstow, explains the various medals, citations and awards he earned during the most destructive conflict in human history. He served aboard the destroyer USS Case, which supported the attack on the island of Iwo Jima. Jennings also helped build the airfield that launched the Enola Gay, the bomber that dropped the first and only atomic bomb used in modern warfare.

Marines with 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, display the Ground Renewable Expeditionary Electronics Network System during the Energy Capability Exercise, in alignment with the Great Green Fleet initiative, at Camp Wilson aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 6, 2016. - Marines with 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, display the Ground Renewable Expeditionary Electronics Network System during the Energy Capability Exercise, in alignment with the Great Green Fleet initiative, at Camp Wilson aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 6, 2016.

Marines with Battery K, 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, fire an M777A2 Howitzer in the Quackenbush Training Area aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 3, 2016, during the regiment’s “Top Gun” competition. - Marines with Battery K, 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, fire an M777A2 Howitzer in the Quackenbush Training Area aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 3, 2016, during the regiment’s “Top Gun” competition.

Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 head to Creech Air Force Base, Nev., to conduct a deployment for training (DFT) exercise, Dec. 1. The squadron is scheduled to complete several missions during this exercise, which include long range raids, aerial refueling, and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel in preparation for their deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit next year. - Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 head to Creech Air Force Base, Nev., to conduct a deployment for training (DFT) exercise, Dec. 1. The squadron is scheduled to complete several missions during this exercise, which include long range raids, aerial refueling, and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel in preparation for their deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit next year.

U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Brian Cavanaugh, deputy commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, salutes as a wreath is laid for fallen Marines at Barber's Point Golf Course in Kapolei, Hawaii, Dec. 6, 2016. The commemoration was to honor the four Marines killed in the attack at Marine Corps Air Station Ewa Dec. 7, 1941 during the attack on Pearl Harbor and Oahu. The U.S. military and the State of Hawaii are hosting a series of remembrance events to honor the courage and sacrifices of Pacific Theater veterans. - U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Brian Cavanaugh, deputy commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, salutes as a wreath is laid for fallen Marines at Barber's Point Golf Course in Kapolei, Hawaii, Dec. 6, 2016. The commemoration was to honor the four Marines killed in the attack at Marine Corps Air Station Ewa Dec. 7, 1941 during the attack on Pearl Harbor and Oahu. The U.S. military and the State of Hawaii are hosting a series of remembrance events to honor the courage and sacrifices of Pacific Theater veterans.

Caleb Hughes, the large-caliber ammunition engineer at MCSC’s Ammunition Program Management Office, looks through a sight used to align the M777 howitzer to a target during a field artillery demonstration at Marine Corps Training Command aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico last month. During the demonstration MCSC employees gained first-hand experience of field artillery Marines in action to inform their work behind the scenes at MCSC. - Caleb Hughes, the large-caliber ammunition engineer at MCSC’s Ammunition Program Management Office, looks through a sight used to align the M777 howitzer to a target during a field artillery demonstration at Marine Corps Training Command aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico last month. During the demonstration MCSC employees gained first-hand experience of field artillery Marines in action to inform their work behind the scenes at MCSC.

Marine Cpl. Kyle Denny with the 3rd Light Armor Reconnaissance from Twentynine Palms, Calif., does a system check at Joint Battle Command-Platform Nov. 11 ,2016 during Network Integration Evaluation 14.1 at McGregor Range, N.M. - Marine Cpl. Kyle Denny with the 3rd Light Armor Reconnaissance from Twentynine Palms, Calif., does a system check at Joint Battle Command-Platform Nov. 11 ,2016 during Network Integration Evaluation 14.1 at McGregor Range, N.M.

A Marine completes a puzzle to test his dexterity during a field exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic Nov. 30, 2016. Twenty-two Marines with Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, conducted a week-long annual training exercise that refreshed the defense specialists on the roots of their basic military occupational specialty training. The exercise included an assortment of stations and classes that tested the Marines physically and mentally. - A Marine completes a puzzle to test his dexterity during a field exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic Nov. 30, 2016. Twenty-two Marines with Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, conducted a week-long annual training exercise that refreshed the defense specialists on the roots of their basic military occupational specialty training. The exercise included an assortment of stations and classes that tested the Marines physically and mentally.

Maritime Raid Force Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit demonstrate how to conduct visit, board, search, and seizure of a vessel for Sri Lankan Navy Special Boat Squadron Sailors during a Theater Security Cooperation training event at Sri Lanka Naval Base, Trincomalee, Nov. 24, 2016. This bilateral training allows the two militaries to share tactics and procedures that help build and maintain military readiness, and increase humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness. The 11th MEU, part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet’s area of responsibility in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. - Maritime Raid Force Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit demonstrate how to conduct visit, board, search, and seizure of a vessel for Sri Lankan Navy Special Boat Squadron Sailors during a Theater Security Cooperation training event at Sri Lanka Naval Base, Trincomalee, Nov. 24, 2016. This bilateral training allows the two militaries to share tactics and procedures that help build and maintain military readiness, and increase humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness. The 11th MEU, part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet’s area of responsibility in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

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Lance Cpl. John Knobloch throws a M69 training grenade during a fire and maneuver range at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 29, 2016. The range was held in order to sharpen the fundamentals of the Marines and increase combat readiness. Knobloch is a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. - Lance Cpl. John Knobloch throws a M69 training grenade during a fire and maneuver range at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 29, 2016. The range was held in order to sharpen the fundamentals of the Marines and increase combat readiness. Knobloch is a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.

Marines push through a simulated riot during the final exercise of the non-lethal weapons training course at Camp Lejeune N.C., Nov. 18, 2016. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, participated in the training in preparation for their deployment with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Marines push through a simulated riot during the final exercise of the non-lethal weapons training course at Camp Lejeune N.C., Nov. 18, 2016. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, participated in the training in preparation for their deployment with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Soldiers with 7th Battalion, Royal Malay Regiment, set up landing zone security during the final exercise of Exercise Tiger Strike 2016, in Sabah Province, Malaysia, Nov. 13, 2016. During the initial training phases of TS16, RMR soldiers were able to participate in loading, offloading and security drills with MV-22 Osprey and CH-53E Super Stallion aircraft, allowing them to experience the aircraft firsthand prior to conducting FINEX. - Soldiers with 7th Battalion, Royal Malay Regiment, set up landing zone security during the final exercise of Exercise Tiger Strike 2016, in Sabah Province, Malaysia, Nov. 13, 2016. During the initial training phases of TS16, RMR soldiers were able to participate in loading, offloading and security drills with MV-22 Osprey and CH-53E Super Stallion aircraft, allowing them to experience the aircraft firsthand prior to conducting FINEX.

Jon Ayers discusses the cockpit armament controls in a V-22 Osprey with Lance Cpl. Jared Wooten while assessing the aircraft’s onboard systems and tactical aircraft protection system at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., Nov. 17, 2016. Marine Medium Tilitrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced) underwent the assessment to prepare for their upcoming deployment with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Ayers is a ALE -47 program Navy Logistician with the fleet support team. Wooten serves as a V-22 Osprey avionics technician with the unit. - Jon Ayers discusses the cockpit armament controls in a V-22 Osprey with Lance Cpl. Jared Wooten while assessing the aircraft’s onboard systems and tactical aircraft protection system at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., Nov. 17, 2016. Marine Medium Tilitrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced) underwent the assessment to prepare for their upcoming deployment with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Ayers is a ALE -47 program Navy Logistician with the fleet support team. Wooten serves as a V-22 Osprey avionics technician with the unit.

An AH-1Z Viper with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 is prepared to be transported on a C-17 Globemaster III aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 10, 2016. HMLA-267 deployed to MCAS Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, in November. - An AH-1Z Viper with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 is prepared to be transported on a C-17 Globemaster III aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 10, 2016. HMLA-267 deployed to MCAS Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, in November.

A tactical controller with Tactical Training Exercise Control Group observes as Marines with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, fire at a target at Range 400 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, during 1/7’s night-time combined arms live-fire exercise Nov. 16, 2016. - A tactical controller with Tactical Training Exercise Control Group observes as Marines with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, fire at a target at Range 400 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, during 1/7’s night-time combined arms live-fire exercise Nov. 16, 2016.

Colonel Anthony M. Henderson speaks to an audience at a morning plenary during the Thurgood Marshall College Fund Leadership Institute at the Washington Hilton, Nov. 21, 2016. Marines host events, including workouts and workshops for the TMCF as a way to give back to the community and shape diverse young leaders. Hundreds of students from around the United States gather for the TMCF for the opportunity to learn from experienced men and women who rose from the same cultural backgrounds. - Colonel Anthony M. Henderson speaks to an audience at a morning plenary during the Thurgood Marshall College Fund Leadership Institute at the Washington Hilton, Nov. 21, 2016. Marines host events, including workouts and workshops for the TMCF as a way to give back to the community and shape diverse young leaders. Hundreds of students from around the United States gather for the TMCF for the opportunity to learn from experienced men and women who rose from the same cultural backgrounds.

Sgt. Andrew Sturgress, a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft crew chief assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, walks past Mr. Norio Tomonaga, the Mayor of Sasebo, and the Assemblymen of Defense for Sasebo City during take-off preparation from Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan, Nov. 18, 2016. The aircraft flew from the island of Okinawa, conducted simulated humanitarian aid with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force at multiple locations and was refueled by JMSDF personnel before returning to Okinawa. - Sgt. Andrew Sturgress, a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft crew chief assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, walks past Mr. Norio Tomonaga, the Mayor of Sasebo, and the Assemblymen of Defense for Sasebo City during take-off preparation from Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan, Nov. 18, 2016. The aircraft flew from the island of Okinawa, conducted simulated humanitarian aid with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force at multiple locations and was refueled by JMSDF personnel before returning to Okinawa.

U.S. Marines and U.S. Airmen work together during a simulated contamination control area in preparation of Vigilant Ace 17-1 at Osan Air Base, Korea, Nov. 17, 2016. Vigilant Ace is a biannual, bilateral training event that exercises U.S. military and Republic of Korea Air Force interoperability through simulated wartime tasking. - U.S. Marines and U.S. Airmen work together during a simulated contamination control area in preparation of Vigilant Ace 17-1 at Osan Air Base, Korea, Nov. 17, 2016. Vigilant Ace is a biannual, bilateral training event that exercises U.S. military and Republic of Korea Air Force interoperability through simulated wartime tasking.

Dr. Ernest James Harris, Jr. smiles after receiving the Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony in Honolulu Nov. 12, 2016. Harris was awarded his Congressional Gold Medal for his service as a Montford Point Marine. - Dr. Ernest James Harris, Jr. smiles after receiving the Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony in Honolulu Nov. 12, 2016. Harris was awarded his Congressional Gold Medal for his service as a Montford Point Marine.

A Marine from 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion exits an aircraft at Skydive Paraclete XP in Raeford, N.C., Nov. 3, 2016. The unit participated in jump training as part of a Tandem Offset Resupply Delivery System Course, which certifies Marines to jump with personnel and equipment. - A Marine from 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion exits an aircraft at Skydive Paraclete XP in Raeford, N.C., Nov. 3, 2016. The unit participated in jump training as part of a Tandem Offset Resupply Delivery System Course, which certifies Marines to jump with personnel and equipment.

Cpl. Aaron Rayburn speaks to Marines during a water survival advanced course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 25, 2016. Rayburn, originally an air framer with Marine Transport Squadron 1, volunteered to become a search and rescue swimmer with the squadron. After the search and rescue mission for VMR-1 ended, he took his aquatic skills and applied them as a Marine Combat Instructor of Water Survival. Rayburn is a MCIWS with VMR-1. - Cpl. Aaron Rayburn speaks to Marines during a water survival advanced course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 25, 2016. Rayburn, originally an air framer with Marine Transport Squadron 1, volunteered to become a search and rescue swimmer with the squadron. After the search and rescue mission for VMR-1 ended, he took his aquatic skills and applied them as a Marine Combat Instructor of Water Survival. Rayburn is a MCIWS with VMR-1.

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225 taxis down the flight line during exercise Cope West 17 at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Indonesia, Nov. 10, 2016. This fighter-focused, bilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Indonesian Air Force is designed to enhance the readiness of combined interoperability between the two nations. - A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225 taxis down the flight line during exercise Cope West 17 at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Indonesia, Nov. 10, 2016. This fighter-focused, bilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Indonesian Air Force is designed to enhance the readiness of combined interoperability between the two nations.

U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region. - U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region.

Marines watch Sgt. Sasha McFadden as he explains a buddy rescue drill during an advanced water survival course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 8, 2016. The course was aimed toward qualifying Marines as advanced swimmers, the highest level in the Marine Corps Water Survival Training Program. - Marines watch Sgt. Sasha McFadden as he explains a buddy rescue drill during an advanced water survival course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 8, 2016. The course was aimed toward qualifying Marines as advanced swimmers, the highest level in the Marine Corps Water Survival Training Program.

The Marine Corps Reserve Centennial wall display stands completed at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., Sept. 28, 2016. The exhibit was installed at the Pentagon in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the Marine Corps Reserve, which was celebrated Aug. 29th and was officially unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Nov. 9th. For more information on the history and heritage of the Marine Corps Reserve as well as current Marine stories and upcoming Centennial events, please visit www.marines.mil/usmcr100. - The Marine Corps Reserve Centennial wall display stands completed at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., Sept. 28, 2016. The exhibit was installed at the Pentagon in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the Marine Corps Reserve, which was celebrated Aug. 29th and was officially unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Nov. 9th. For more information on the history and heritage of the Marine Corps Reserve as well as current Marine stories and upcoming Centennial events, please visit www.marines.mil/usmcr100.

The President’s Own performs during a reunion at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Va., Nov. 10, 2016. The Marines, mostly veterans of 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, gathered to honor their fallen comrades. - The President’s Own performs during a reunion at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Va., Nov. 10, 2016. The Marines, mostly veterans of 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, gathered to honor their fallen comrades.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Meagan Baker, a heavy equipment operator with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, interacts with Sekolah Menengah Eben Haezar Manado High School students in Manado, Indonesia, Nov. 9, 2016. As part of a community relations event, the visit offered service members the opportunity to engage in cultural exchanges and build relationships within the local community. The students were afforded the opportunity to ask the Marines and Sailors questions. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Meagan Baker, a heavy equipment operator with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, interacts with Sekolah Menengah Eben Haezar Manado High School students in Manado, Indonesia, Nov. 9, 2016. As part of a community relations event, the visit offered service members the opportunity to engage in cultural exchanges and build relationships within the local community. The students were afforded the opportunity to ask the Marines and Sailors questions.

U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region. - U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region.

Lance Cpl. Zackary W. Rippin, infantry assaultman, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, operates a weaponized Multi-Utility Tactical Transport vehicle (MUTT) during a company assault on Range 400 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Nov. 7, 2016, as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-17. The 28-day exercise is currently the longest-lasting activity that occurs at the installation and involves a series of progressive live-fire exercises that assesses the ability and adaptability of a force of more than 3,500 Marines and sailors. Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Robert B. Neller has designated the battalion as the Marine Corps’ experimental force. - Lance Cpl. Zackary W. Rippin, infantry assaultman, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, operates a weaponized Multi-Utility Tactical Transport vehicle (MUTT) during a company assault on Range 400 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Nov. 7, 2016, as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-17. The 28-day exercise is currently the longest-lasting activity that occurs at the installation and involves a series of progressive live-fire exercises that assesses the ability and adaptability of a force of more than 3,500 Marines and sailors. Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Robert B. Neller has designated the battalion as the Marine Corps’ experimental force.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Raymond Spencer a team leader with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 7, prepares to depart the Afghan Uniform Police station during Operation Eagle in Delaram city, Helmand province, Afghanistan, April 8, 2013. Spencer was part of the security force detail for the 4th Brigade, 215th Corps Brigade Advisor Team that was conducting Operation Eagle, an Afghan-led clearing operation. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Raymond Spencer a team leader with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 7, prepares to depart the Afghan Uniform Police station during Operation Eagle in Delaram city, Helmand province, Afghanistan, April 8, 2013. Spencer was part of the security force detail for the 4th Brigade, 215th Corps Brigade Advisor Team that was conducting Operation Eagle, an Afghan-led clearing operation.

Marines and sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 close a tent to be packed away during a command post exercise at Bogue Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field, N.C., Nov. 3, 2016. Combat Logistics Battalion 6 conducted the training in preparation for their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation. - Marines and sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 close a tent to be packed away during a command post exercise at Bogue Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field, N.C., Nov. 3, 2016. Combat Logistics Battalion 6 conducted the training in preparation for their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation.

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

Military policemen from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit's law enforcement detachment patrol through an urban environment Nov. 2, 2016. The Marines received advanced training in tactics, techniques and procedures in urban patrolling and combat skills during the MEU's Realistic Urban Training exercise from critical skills operators from Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command. - Military policemen from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit's law enforcement detachment patrol through an urban environment Nov. 2, 2016. The Marines received advanced training in tactics, techniques and procedures in urban patrolling and combat skills during the MEU's Realistic Urban Training exercise from critical skills operators from Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command.