News

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.

Theater Medical Information Program-Marine Corps, the Corps’ version of the joint medical software that supports medical providers in tactical environments, was put to the test this summer during the largest military medical exercise, called the Global Medic Exercise, at Fort McCoy, Wis. TMIP-MC is a service-wide medical software suite used to support complete clinical care documentation, medical supply and equipment tracking, and patient movement in remote communications environments, giving medical units the tools they need to better locate, diagnosis and provide individualized care through each step of the medical process. - Theater Medical Information Program-Marine Corps, the Corps’ version of the joint medical software that supports medical providers in tactical environments, was put to the test this summer during the largest military medical exercise, called the Global Medic Exercise, at Fort McCoy, Wis. TMIP-MC is a service-wide medical software suite used to support complete clinical care documentation, medical supply and equipment tracking, and patient movement in remote communications environments, giving medical units the tools they need to better locate, diagnosis and provide individualized care through each step of the medical process.

Marine veterans Jaclyn Halsey, Kasey Miller and Molly Zimmer pose for a photo after completing the 41st Marine Corps Marathon on Oct. 30, 2016 in Arlington, Va. The three girls went to boot camp together in 2009 and finished their service in 2012. They have been training virtually together over the past year to prepare for the marathon, where they met for the first time since 2012. - Marine veterans Jaclyn Halsey, Kasey Miller and Molly Zimmer pose for a photo after completing the 41st Marine Corps Marathon on Oct. 30, 2016 in Arlington, Va. The three girls went to boot camp together in 2009 and finished their service in 2012. They have been training virtually together over the past year to prepare for the marathon, where they met for the first time since 2012.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, wait by a 500-gallon drum of water to conduct a Helicopter Support Team drill at Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, Oct. 25, 2016. The drum was taken into the Sierra Mesa Mountains to support Marines who are conducting field operations during Mountain Exercise 6-16. - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, wait by a 500-gallon drum of water to conduct a Helicopter Support Team drill at Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, Oct. 25, 2016. The drum was taken into the Sierra Mesa Mountains to support Marines who are conducting field operations during Mountain Exercise 6-16.

U.S. Marines from Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command and Honduran soldiers from Fifth Infantry Battalion work to install a new pipeline that will provide water throughout the Fuerte Mocoron base in Mocoron, Honduras, Sept. 6, 2016. U.S. Marines and Sailors assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Southern Command participated in engineering projects, security cooperation and disaster relief preparation in Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. - U.S. Marines from Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command and Honduran soldiers from Fifth Infantry Battalion work to install a new pipeline that will provide water throughout the Fuerte Mocoron base in Mocoron, Honduras, Sept. 6, 2016. U.S. Marines and Sailors assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Southern Command participated in engineering projects, security cooperation and disaster relief preparation in Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.

Sgt. Mateusz Kaczynski, a maintenance management chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, addresses a class of non-commissioned officers from the Benin Navy at Benin Naval Forces Headquarters, Cotonou, Benin, October 24, 2016. The U.S. Marine Corps theater security cooperation team with SPMAGTF-CR-AF spent two weeks teaching an NCO development and maintenance management course during their time training with the Benin Navy. - Sgt. Mateusz Kaczynski, a maintenance management chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, addresses a class of non-commissioned officers from the Benin Navy at Benin Naval Forces Headquarters, Cotonou, Benin, October 24, 2016. The U.S. Marine Corps theater security cooperation team with SPMAGTF-CR-AF spent two weeks teaching an NCO development and maintenance management course during their time training with the Benin Navy.

Marines from Okinawa, Japan, stand at attention for a Purple Heart award ceremony in front of Secher Hall on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, October 28, 2016. The Purple Heart was presented to Lt. Col. Robert C. Sellers, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade Assistant Chief of Staff G-4. The ceremony was held in front of Secher Hall to remind those in attendance to remember the fallen. Sellers is from Belvidere, Illinois. - Marines from Okinawa, Japan, stand at attention for a Purple Heart award ceremony in front of Secher Hall on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, October 28, 2016. The Purple Heart was presented to Lt. Col. Robert C. Sellers, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade Assistant Chief of Staff G-4. The ceremony was held in front of Secher Hall to remind those in attendance to remember the fallen. Sellers is from Belvidere, Illinois.

Marines guide a tractor up the railhead ramp onto a railcar during railhead operation training at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 26, 2016. 2nd Transportation Support Battalion participated in the training to get Marines certified to conduct railhead operations in the future. These Marines are with 2nd TSB. - Marines guide a tractor up the railhead ramp onto a railcar during railhead operation training at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 26, 2016. 2nd Transportation Support Battalion participated in the training to get Marines certified to conduct railhead operations in the future. These Marines are with 2nd TSB.

Gen. Robert B. Neller, Commandant of the Marine Corps, talks with Cpl. Warren Smith about the upcoming Marine Corps Marathon in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 30, 2016. This is Neller's second Marathon as Commandant of the Marine Corps. - Gen. Robert B. Neller, Commandant of the Marine Corps, talks with Cpl. Warren Smith about the upcoming Marine Corps Marathon in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 30, 2016. This is Neller's second Marathon as Commandant of the Marine Corps.

Marines with 1st Platoon, Bridge Company, 8th Electronic Support Battalion, check the security ropes holding a piece of an improvised ribbon raft during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 26, 2016. The MCCRE is where various units are evaluated in the performance of all tasks, as they pertain to combat readiness. - Marines with 1st Platoon, Bridge Company, 8th Electronic Support Battalion, check the security ropes holding a piece of an improvised ribbon raft during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 26, 2016. The MCCRE is where various units are evaluated in the performance of all tasks, as they pertain to combat readiness.

The Marine Band will perform a gravesite ceremony honoring the 162nd anniversary of its 17th Director John Philip Sousa on Nov. 6, 2016, at Congressional Cemetery in Washington, D.C. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Brian Rust/released) - The Marine Band will perform a gravesite ceremony honoring the 162nd anniversary of its 17th Director John Philip Sousa on Nov. 6, 2016, at Congressional Cemetery in Washington, D.C. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Brian Rust/released)

The Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion detach a zodiac boat from a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter before jumping into ocean waters during a helocasting exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2016. Helocasting is a means of insertion for sea to shore reconnaissance operations. - The Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion detach a zodiac boat from a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter before jumping into ocean waters during a helocasting exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2016. Helocasting is a means of insertion for sea to shore reconnaissance operations.

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

U.S. Marines fire a M777 lightweight Howitzer during a Tactical Air Control Party exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose behind the exercise was to train Joint Terminal Attack Control Marines for Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic. - U.S. Marines fire a M777 lightweight Howitzer during a Tactical Air Control Party exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose behind the exercise was to train Joint Terminal Attack Control Marines for Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic.

U.S. Marines wait aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard before going ashore after returning from their Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region, Oct. 28, 2016. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is prepared to respond to a wide range of military operations, from humanitarian assistance missions to limited combat operations, at a moment’s notice. As a balanced air-ground-logistics team, the 31st MEU is ready to respond throughout the Asia-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines wait aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard before going ashore after returning from their Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region, Oct. 28, 2016. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is prepared to respond to a wide range of military operations, from humanitarian assistance missions to limited combat operations, at a moment’s notice. As a balanced air-ground-logistics team, the 31st MEU is ready to respond throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

U.S. service members stand at attention during the 33rd Beirut Memorial Observance Ceremony, Lejeune Memorial Gardens, Jacksonville, N.C., Oct. 23, 2016. A memorial observance is held October 23rd of each year to remember those lives lost during the terrorist attack at U.S. Marine Barracks, Beirut, Lebanon, in 1983. - U.S. service members stand at attention during the 33rd Beirut Memorial Observance Ceremony, Lejeune Memorial Gardens, Jacksonville, N.C., Oct. 23, 2016. A memorial observance is held October 23rd of each year to remember those lives lost during the terrorist attack at U.S. Marine Barracks, Beirut, Lebanon, in 1983.

Sgt. Maj. Robert Brown, Sgt. Maj. of School of Infantry – East, stands at attention during a moment of silence for the fallen Marines in 1st Battalion 8th Marines at Camp Geiger Marine Corps Air Station New River, Oct. 23, 2016. The ceremony is one of three memorial ceremonies conducted in the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune area every year to memorialize the Beirut Bombing with Marines from 1st Battalion 8th Marines. - Sgt. Maj. Robert Brown, Sgt. Maj. of School of Infantry – East, stands at attention during a moment of silence for the fallen Marines in 1st Battalion 8th Marines at Camp Geiger Marine Corps Air Station New River, Oct. 23, 2016. The ceremony is one of three memorial ceremonies conducted in the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune area every year to memorialize the Beirut Bombing with Marines from 1st Battalion 8th Marines.

Cpl. Matthew A. Long turns a wrench on a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle engine on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, October 25, 2016. Long was selected as a winner in a Marine Corps logistical innovation competition for incorporating a blood clotting agent and pain killer with a Small Arms Protective Insert to minimize the time between injury and aid. Long, from Moultrie, Georgia, is a motor transport mechanic with Motor Transport Company, Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Matthew A. Long turns a wrench on a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle engine on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, October 25, 2016. Long was selected as a winner in a Marine Corps logistical innovation competition for incorporating a blood clotting agent and pain killer with a Small Arms Protective Insert to minimize the time between injury and aid. Long, from Moultrie, Georgia, is a motor transport mechanic with Motor Transport Company, Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Cpl. Ricki D. Clement solders new metal to one of the old radio cords on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan on Oct. 20, 2016. Clement’s innovational talent has saved the Marine Corps thousands of dollars in logistics and maintenance. Clement, from Houston, Texas, is a micro/miniature repair man with Electronics Maintenance Company, 3rd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Ricki D. Clement solders new metal to one of the old radio cords on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan on Oct. 20, 2016. Clement’s innovational talent has saved the Marine Corps thousands of dollars in logistics and maintenance. Clement, from Houston, Texas, is a micro/miniature repair man with Electronics Maintenance Company, 3rd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Yoshihiko Fukuda, left, mayor of Iwakuni, Japan, meets with Lt. Gen. Jon Davis, deputy commandant of aviation, Headquarters Marine Corps, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Oct. 24, 2016. Fukuda visited the air station to speak with Marine Corps aviation officials, observe the capabilities of the F-35B Lightning II and expand his knowledge of the aircraft before Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 relocates to MCAS Iwakuni next year. - Yoshihiko Fukuda, left, mayor of Iwakuni, Japan, meets with Lt. Gen. Jon Davis, deputy commandant of aviation, Headquarters Marine Corps, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Oct. 24, 2016. Fukuda visited the air station to speak with Marine Corps aviation officials, observe the capabilities of the F-35B Lightning II and expand his knowledge of the aircraft before Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 relocates to MCAS Iwakuni next year.

Marines with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment’s “Black Sheep,” prepare their M777 Lightweight Towed Howitzer by digging and burying the gun’s rear spades during a direct fire training exercise as part of Lava Viper 17.1, a staple in the battalion pre-deployment training on Oct. 16, 2016, at Range 13 aboard Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii. Lava Viper Provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical, integrating combined arms exercises. - Marines with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment’s “Black Sheep,” prepare their M777 Lightweight Towed Howitzer by digging and burying the gun’s rear spades during a direct fire training exercise as part of Lava Viper 17.1, a staple in the battalion pre-deployment training on Oct. 16, 2016, at Range 13 aboard Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii. Lava Viper Provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical, integrating combined arms exercises.

A U.S. Marine assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa provides security as two MV-22B Ospreys prepare to land during an alert force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose of the drill was to rehearse and assess the SPMAGTF’s ability to integrate elements and respond to a time-sensitive crisis. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is designed to provide contingency support to U.S. Africa Command, including tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel, embassy reinforcement, support to noncombatant evacuation operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. - A U.S. Marine assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa provides security as two MV-22B Ospreys prepare to land during an alert force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose of the drill was to rehearse and assess the SPMAGTF’s ability to integrate elements and respond to a time-sensitive crisis. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is designed to provide contingency support to U.S. Africa Command, including tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel, embassy reinforcement, support to noncombatant evacuation operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mathew Wright, a motor transportation maintenance officer with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, conducts maintenance on an Invent3D printer during a 3-D printer integration exercise at site 50 training area, Wellton, Arizona, Oct. 18, 2016. Wright used the additive manufacturing equipment to make objects from 3-D model data throughout Weapons Tactics Instructors course 1-17. Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One cadre host WTI which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions of Marine Corps aviation in support of a Marine Air Ground Task Force. MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. - U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mathew Wright, a motor transportation maintenance officer with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, conducts maintenance on an Invent3D printer during a 3-D printer integration exercise at site 50 training area, Wellton, Arizona, Oct. 18, 2016. Wright used the additive manufacturing equipment to make objects from 3-D model data throughout Weapons Tactics Instructors course 1-17. Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One cadre host WTI which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions of Marine Corps aviation in support of a Marine Air Ground Task Force. MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

Petty Officer Third Class retired Michael Keenan greets Cpl. retired Jim Caines at the opening breakfast for Honor Flight Savannah aboard U.S. Army Garrison Hunter Army Airfield Fort Stewart, Savannah, GA, Oct. 14. Keenan served as a journalist in the Navy from 1966-1976 and Caines served as an infantryman in the Marine Corps from 1966-1968. Honor Flight Savannah brings together veterans from World War II, Vietnam and Korea for a trip to visit their war memorials at the National Mall in Washington D.C. - Petty Officer Third Class retired Michael Keenan greets Cpl. retired Jim Caines at the opening breakfast for Honor Flight Savannah aboard U.S. Army Garrison Hunter Army Airfield Fort Stewart, Savannah, GA, Oct. 14. Keenan served as a journalist in the Navy from 1966-1976 and Caines served as an infantryman in the Marine Corps from 1966-1968. Honor Flight Savannah brings together veterans from World War II, Vietnam and Korea for a trip to visit their war memorials at the National Mall in Washington D.C.

U.S. Marines and Airmen work together to properly secure the M-88A2 HERCULES and pallets in the C-17 Globemaster III at March Air Force Reserves Base, Calif., Oct. 14, 2016. Marines and Airmen checked all chains and pallets before flying to Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. - U.S. Marines and Airmen work together to properly secure the M-88A2 HERCULES and pallets in the C-17 Globemaster III at March Air Force Reserves Base, Calif., Oct. 14, 2016. Marines and Airmen checked all chains and pallets before flying to Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Donald Shrewsbury, a KC-130J Hercules representative with Marine Aviation Training System Site Iwakuni, directs a Japan Air Self-Defense Force aviation cadet with the 12th Flight Training Wing from JASDF Hōfu-kita Air Base while flying a KC-130J simulator during a Japanese officer engagement program at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 19, 2016. The engagement program aims to enhance the understanding and working relationships between U.S. and Japanese pilots. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Donald Shrewsbury, a KC-130J Hercules representative with Marine Aviation Training System Site Iwakuni, directs a Japan Air Self-Defense Force aviation cadet with the 12th Flight Training Wing from JASDF Hōfu-kita Air Base while flying a KC-130J simulator during a Japanese officer engagement program at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 19, 2016. The engagement program aims to enhance the understanding and working relationships between U.S. and Japanese pilots.

Two Marines use chainsaws to cut their most recently felled tree into more manageable pieces, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 13, 2016. Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion took part in a chainsaw licensing class where they received hands-on experience in proper cutting techniques and chainsaw safety. The class ensures that the unit always has Marines available who can help cut away various obstructions threatening mission accomplishment. - Two Marines use chainsaws to cut their most recently felled tree into more manageable pieces, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 13, 2016. Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion took part in a chainsaw licensing class where they received hands-on experience in proper cutting techniques and chainsaw safety. The class ensures that the unit always has Marines available who can help cut away various obstructions threatening mission accomplishment.

Two Marine Corps installations were recognized for the excellence of their drug awareness and educations programs this week at the Community Drug Awareness Awards ceremony in the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes Oct. 13. - Two Marine Corps installations were recognized for the excellence of their drug awareness and educations programs this week at the Community Drug Awareness Awards ceremony in the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes Oct. 13.

U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen speaks during the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 closing ceremony at Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 11, 2016. PHIBLEX is an annual U.S.-Philippine military bilateral exercise that combines amphibious capabilities and live-fire training with humanitarian civic assistance efforts to strengthen interoperability and working relationships. Jansen is the commanding general of 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade. - U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen speaks during the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 closing ceremony at Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 11, 2016. PHIBLEX is an annual U.S.-Philippine military bilateral exercise that combines amphibious capabilities and live-fire training with humanitarian civic assistance efforts to strengthen interoperability and working relationships. Jansen is the commanding general of 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

U.S. Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, prepare to fire 81mm mortars at a live-fire range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 29, 2016. The supporting indirect-fire element will play an important role during coalition exercises with North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies around Eastern Europe. - U.S. Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, prepare to fire 81mm mortars at a live-fire range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 29, 2016. The supporting indirect-fire element will play an important role during coalition exercises with North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies around Eastern Europe.