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Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyrone Kimbrough, a corpsman with Alpha Company, 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, checks a simulated casualty for injuries during a medical exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 24, 2014. During the exercise, the corpsmen practiced stabilizing casualties for evacuation under stressful conditions to imitate situations they may experience in combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Olivia C. McDonald/Released) - Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyrone Kimbrough, a corpsman with Alpha Company, 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, checks a simulated casualty for injuries during a medical exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 24, 2014. During the exercise, the corpsmen practiced stabilizing casualties for evacuation under stressful conditions to imitate situations they may experience in combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Olivia C. McDonald/Released)

Cpl. Michael P. Hinds, from Queens, N.Y., works on an FA-18 Hornet Sept. 29 during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base. He is doing routine maintenance to ensure the safety of the pilot. Hinds is an airframes mechanic with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released) - Cpl. Michael P. Hinds, from Queens, N.Y., works on an FA-18 Hornet Sept. 29 during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base. He is doing routine maintenance to ensure the safety of the pilot. Hinds is an airframes mechanic with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released)

Lance Corporal Colin Stegal, an ammo technician with Ammo Company, 1st Supply Battalion, fires a M1014 shotgun aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 15, 2014. The range required Marines to demonstrate proficiency with the M1014 shotgun. The live-fire ranges were part of an annual training package to keep the Marines confident and proficient with each weapon system. - Lance Corporal Colin Stegal, an ammo technician with Ammo Company, 1st Supply Battalion, fires a M1014 shotgun aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 15, 2014. The range required Marines to demonstrate proficiency with the M1014 shotgun. The live-fire ranges were part of an annual training package to keep the Marines confident and proficient with each weapon system.

A Marine with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment recites a practical phrase used to simulate the time it takes to send a burst of live fire at KR-5 live-fire range aboard Schofield Barracks, Sept. 19, 2014 as part of the Island Viper exercise. The exercise is meant to prepare Marines for real-world combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Harley Thomas) - A Marine with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment recites a practical phrase used to simulate the time it takes to send a burst of live fire at KR-5 live-fire range aboard Schofield Barracks, Sept. 19, 2014 as part of the Island Viper exercise. The exercise is meant to prepare Marines for real-world combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Harley Thomas)

Entry-level Marines with Company A, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry-West completed their culminating event at Range 408 here, Sept. 25. The range includes and implements the different infantry occupational specialties at the company level. Medium/light machine guns and mortars suppress the enemy first, providing the supporting fire for a squad size element of riflemen and assaultmen to assault the enemies’ position. - Entry-level Marines with Company A, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry-West completed their culminating event at Range 408 here, Sept. 25. The range includes and implements the different infantry occupational specialties at the company level. Medium/light machine guns and mortars suppress the enemy first, providing the supporting fire for a squad size element of riflemen and assaultmen to assault the enemies’ position.

Sgt. Anthony McDaniel Jr. from Pascagoula, Mississippi, plays front and center during sitting volleyball practice for the Marine team, Sept. 26, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team has been training since September 15 in order to build team cohesion and acclimate to the above 6,000 feet altitude of Colorado Springs. The Marine team is comprised of both active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines. The Warrior Games are a Paralympic-style competition for more than 200 wounded, ill and injured service members and are taking place Sept. 28 to Oct. 4 at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Follow the Marine team's progress at www.facebook.com/wwr.usmc. - Sgt. Anthony McDaniel Jr. from Pascagoula, Mississippi, plays front and center during sitting volleyball practice for the Marine team, Sept. 26, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team has been training since September 15 in order to build team cohesion and acclimate to the above 6,000 feet altitude of Colorado Springs. The Marine team is comprised of both active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines. The Warrior Games are a Paralympic-style competition for more than 200 wounded, ill and injured service members and are taking place Sept. 28 to Oct. 4 at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Follow the Marine team's progress at www.facebook.com/wwr.usmc.

Sgt. Devin Hughes, a member of the Marine Corps Shooting Team, fires a round at a target during the Royal Marines Operational Shooting Competition at Altcar Range near Hightown, England, Sept. 8, 2014. The U.S. Marine Corps team dominated the pistol competitions, taking first place by more than 1,000 points. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cameron Storm/Released) - Sgt. Devin Hughes, a member of the Marine Corps Shooting Team, fires a round at a target during the Royal Marines Operational Shooting Competition at Altcar Range near Hightown, England, Sept. 8, 2014. The U.S. Marine Corps team dominated the pistol competitions, taking first place by more than 1,000 points. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cameron Storm/Released)

Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6. - Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6.

A rifleman with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, hikes to his company objective during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 23, 2014. The MCCRE is designed to be a final evaluation to ensure the Marines are prepared to be deployed. The battalion is slated to deploy as the ground combat element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit next year. - A rifleman with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, hikes to his company objective during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 23, 2014. The MCCRE is designed to be a final evaluation to ensure the Marines are prepared to be deployed. The battalion is slated to deploy as the ground combat element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit next year.

A Marine wearing Rugged All Terrain boots disembarks from a helicopter in Afghanistan. Two pairs of RAT boots, a temperate variant and hot variant, like the ones pictured above, will be issued to Marine Corps recruits and officer candidates in their sea bags starting Dec. 1, 2014. - A Marine wearing Rugged All Terrain boots disembarks from a helicopter in Afghanistan. Two pairs of RAT boots, a temperate variant and hot variant, like the ones pictured above, will be issued to Marine Corps recruits and officer candidates in their sea bags starting Dec. 1, 2014.

Marine Infantry Officer Course students await a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter fast rope drill on the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Auxiliary Landing Field 2, Wednesday, August 18, 2014. The fast rope training instilled in these Marines the skills necessary to complete IOC’s final exercise, Talon Reach IV. - Marine Infantry Officer Course students await a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter fast rope drill on the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Auxiliary Landing Field 2, Wednesday, August 18, 2014. The fast rope training instilled in these Marines the skills necessary to complete IOC’s final exercise, Talon Reach IV.

Private Sarah Trull, a fiscal clerk with Marine Air Group 39, puts together an Arctic shelter Aug. 29, 2014, aboard Camp Pendleton, California. The system is an ultra-lightweight, rapidly deployable shelter that offers military forces the necessary infrastructure to operate in austere cold-weather locations. The system is being used for training exercises in Bridgeport, California, and is slated to be integrated into exercises early next year. - Private Sarah Trull, a fiscal clerk with Marine Air Group 39, puts together an Arctic shelter Aug. 29, 2014, aboard Camp Pendleton, California. The system is an ultra-lightweight, rapidly deployable shelter that offers military forces the necessary infrastructure to operate in austere cold-weather locations. The system is being used for training exercises in Bridgeport, California, and is slated to be integrated into exercises early next year.

A U.S. Marine Critical Skills Operator with 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, releases his ruck sack from his body, preparing to land during a double-bag static line parachute training course , Aug 26, 2014, in rural Arizona. The course was an introduction to the High Altitude, High Opening insertion method utilized by Special Operations Forces. - A U.S. Marine Critical Skills Operator with 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, releases his ruck sack from his body, preparing to land during a double-bag static line parachute training course , Aug 26, 2014, in rural Arizona. The course was an introduction to the High Altitude, High Opening insertion method utilized by Special Operations Forces.

British soldiers of the 5, 6, and 7 Military Intelligence Battalions, 1 Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Brigade, board buses to return to the barracks at the conclusion of Exercise Phoenix Odyssey on Sept. 17, 2014. The week-long field exercise, conducted alongside Marines of 2nd Intelligence Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, provided scenario driven tests of their ability to integrate intelligence practices. The two forces have been training in a Military Operations in Urban Terrain facility on Camp Lejeune since the field portion began Sept 11, 2014. - British soldiers of the 5, 6, and 7 Military Intelligence Battalions, 1 Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Brigade, board buses to return to the barracks at the conclusion of Exercise Phoenix Odyssey on Sept. 17, 2014. The week-long field exercise, conducted alongside Marines of 2nd Intelligence Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, provided scenario driven tests of their ability to integrate intelligence practices. The two forces have been training in a Military Operations in Urban Terrain facility on Camp Lejeune since the field portion began Sept 11, 2014.

Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, conduct a Gator Square after disembarking the USS Whidbey Island off the coast of Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. A Gator Square is completed when the assault amphibious vehicles form a square out at sea and maneuver back onto the ship. - Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, conduct a Gator Square after disembarking the USS Whidbey Island off the coast of Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. A Gator Square is completed when the assault amphibious vehicles form a square out at sea and maneuver back onto the ship.

Marines with Charlie Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, shoot at pop-up targets during a course of fire aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Sept. 2, 2014. The Marines spent the entire day shooting an unknown distance range with the M4 Carbine and the M249 squad automatic weapon to better themselves at estimating distances and eliminating a target. - Marines with Charlie Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, shoot at pop-up targets during a course of fire aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia, Sept. 2, 2014. The Marines spent the entire day shooting an unknown distance range with the M4 Carbine and the M249 squad automatic weapon to better themselves at estimating distances and eliminating a target.

Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1 Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise. - Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California, Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise.

Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise. - Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise.

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Marines load a diver propulsion device into a combat rubber raiding craft Sept. 20 at U.S. Naval Base Guam during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The device aids the Marines conducting night infiltration. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities, which provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are reconnaissance men with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines load a diver propulsion device into a combat rubber raiding craft Sept. 20 at U.S. Naval Base Guam during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The device aids the Marines conducting night infiltration. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities, which provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are reconnaissance men with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Two Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fire an AT4-Rocket Launcher at a target during a live-fire training exercise on Range P28 aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Sept. 5. The range was built specifically for the unit as a training aid to increase overall unit readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jorden M. Wells / Released) - Two Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fire an AT4-Rocket Launcher at a target during a live-fire training exercise on Range P28 aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Sept. 5. The range was built specifically for the unit as a training aid to increase overall unit readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jorden M. Wells / Released)

Brigadier Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, left, commander, Regional Command and Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan, awards Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Van Horn, a corpsman with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device during an award ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 17, 2014. Van Horn received the award for heroic achievement while being a first responder to Marine casualties after their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. - Brigadier Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, left, commander, Regional Command and Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan, awards Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Van Horn, a corpsman with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device during an award ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 17, 2014. Van Horn received the award for heroic achievement while being a first responder to Marine casualties after their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device.

Lance Cpl. Carlos Morris, admin specialist, Headquarters Battalion, helps camper, Chase Neiberger learn how to shoot an archery bow at Camp Ronald McDonald in Mountain Center, Calif. on Sept. 13, 2014. Desert Arc has provided disabled adults with care and life skills for approximately 55 years. - Lance Cpl. Carlos Morris, admin specialist, Headquarters Battalion, helps camper, Chase Neiberger learn how to shoot an archery bow at Camp Ronald McDonald in Mountain Center, Calif. on Sept. 13, 2014. Desert Arc has provided disabled adults with care and life skills for approximately 55 years.

Recruits of India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, stand at parade rest as they await the senior drill Instructor’s inspection at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 5. During the inspection it was crucial for the recruits to remain calm, keep their eyes forward while at attention and answer the questions they were asked. It was a sign of confidence and bearing - two traits drill instructors were seeking. - Recruits of India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, stand at parade rest as they await the senior drill Instructor’s inspection at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 5. During the inspection it was crucial for the recruits to remain calm, keep their eyes forward while at attention and answer the questions they were asked. It was a sign of confidence and bearing - two traits drill instructors were seeking.

Marines set up concertina wire around a weather observation compound in preparation of Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian, North Marianas Islands. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released) - Marines set up concertina wire around a weather observation compound in preparation of Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian, North Marianas Islands. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released)

Cpls. Daniel R. Roca, left, and Jarrod R. Allen check the oil on a 7-ton truck Aug. 30 during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-2 at the Yausubetsu Maneuver Area in Hokkaido, Japan. Marines working at the administrative logistics ordnance command maintained vehicles and equipment for three batteries during ARTP 14-2. Roca is from Germantown, Maryland, and an automotive organizational mechanic with 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Allen is from Amarillo, Texas, and a motor vehicle operator with the battalion. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Manning/Released) - Cpls. Daniel R. Roca, left, and Jarrod R. Allen check the oil on a 7-ton truck Aug. 30 during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-2 at the Yausubetsu Maneuver Area in Hokkaido, Japan. Marines working at the administrative logistics ordnance command maintained vehicles and equipment for three batteries during ARTP 14-2. Roca is from Germantown, Maryland, and an automotive organizational mechanic with 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Allen is from Amarillo, Texas, and a motor vehicle operator with the battalion. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Manning/Released)

Sgt. Rico L. Rose clears the back-blast area during a simulated PL-87 Stinger missile shoot during a 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion’s section leader course and team leader course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 11, 2014. Rose is a gunner with the battalion and a native of Appomattox, Va. - Sgt. Rico L. Rose clears the back-blast area during a simulated PL-87 Stinger missile shoot during a 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion’s section leader course and team leader course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 11, 2014. Rose is a gunner with the battalion and a native of Appomattox, Va.

Retired Gen. James Mattis is presented the Freedom Award by Marine veteran Jeremiah Workman at the No Greater Sacrifice 2014 Freedom Award Family Day, Washington D.C., September 13, 2014. The Freedom Award is awarded to a service member who gives in selfless service to their nation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Melissa Karnath/Released) - Retired Gen. James Mattis is presented the Freedom Award by Marine veteran Jeremiah Workman at the No Greater Sacrifice 2014 Freedom Award Family Day, Washington D.C., September 13, 2014. The Freedom Award is awarded to a service member who gives in selfless service to their nation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Melissa Karnath/Released)

Lance Cpl. Alexander Stensland, left, signals good to go to Lt. Col. Roger T. McDuffie who is piloting an AV-8B Harrier on the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. Stensland is an aircraft powerline mechanic and McDuffie is the commanding officer of Marine Attack Squadron 223. Stensland is a native of Hastings, Minn. - Lance Cpl. Alexander Stensland, left, signals good to go to Lt. Col. Roger T. McDuffie who is piloting an AV-8B Harrier on the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. Stensland is an aircraft powerline mechanic and McDuffie is the commanding officer of Marine Attack Squadron 223. Stensland is a native of Hastings, Minn.

Major Gen. Vincent A. Coglianese, 1st Marine Logistics Group Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Leonardo Pinto Morales, commander of the 7th Division of the Colombian Army, Maj. Gen. Lawrence D. Nicholson, 1st Marine Division commanding general, Col. Phil Frietze, G-3 operations officer, 1st MLG, and other leaders within the Colombian Armed Forces pose for a picture as part of the Colombian Observance Exchange Program Sept. 2, 2014 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif. More than thirty officers of the Colombian School of Advanced Warfighting visited 1st MLG to allow members of both the U.S. Marine Corps and Colombian Armed Forces to build an understanding of services, share best practices and strengthen camaraderie and interoperability. - Major Gen. Vincent A. Coglianese, 1st Marine Logistics Group Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Leonardo Pinto Morales, commander of the 7th Division of the Colombian Army, Maj. Gen. Lawrence D. Nicholson, 1st Marine Division commanding general, Col. Phil Frietze, G-3 operations officer, 1st MLG, and other leaders within the Colombian Armed Forces pose for a picture as part of the Colombian Observance Exchange Program Sept. 2, 2014 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif. More than thirty officers of the Colombian School of Advanced Warfighting visited 1st MLG to allow members of both the U.S. Marine Corps and Colombian Armed Forces to build an understanding of services, share best practices and strengthen camaraderie and interoperability.

Lance Corporal Antonio C. Galloway (center), an aircraft communications, navigation, electrical and weapon systems technician with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron [VMM 264], poses for a photo with General James F. Amos (right center), 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps and Sgt. Maj. Micheal P. Barrett, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps (center left) and other service members with VMM 264 aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, Sept. 3, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin) - Lance Corporal Antonio C. Galloway (center), an aircraft communications, navigation, electrical and weapon systems technician with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron [VMM 264], poses for a photo with General James F. Amos (right center), 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps and Sgt. Maj. Micheal P. Barrett, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps (center left) and other service members with VMM 264 aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, Sept. 3, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin)

Sgt. Maj. Robin Fortner, left, sergeant major of the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, speaks with Sgt. Jason McMullen, light armored vehicle crewman, Company B, GCEITF, during a limited technical inspection at the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion ramp, Sept. 9, 2014. Each vehicle came with dozens of tools and upkeep equipment. 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. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released) - Sgt. Maj. Robin Fortner, left, sergeant major of the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, speaks with Sgt. Jason McMullen, light armored vehicle crewman, Company B, GCEITF, during a limited technical inspection at the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion ramp, Sept. 9, 2014. Each vehicle came with dozens of tools and upkeep equipment. 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. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released)

Marines, sailors and coalition partners with Regional Command (Southwest) bow their heads during a moment of silence at the 9/11 memorial ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 11, 2014. “That moment of silence gave us an opportunity to reflect and reminds us of why we are here today in Afghanistan in Helmand province,” said Brig. Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commander, RC(SW) and Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan. - Marines, sailors and coalition partners with Regional Command (Southwest) bow their heads during a moment of silence at the 9/11 memorial ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 11, 2014. “That moment of silence gave us an opportunity to reflect and reminds us of why we are here today in Afghanistan in Helmand province,” said Brig. Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commander, RC(SW) and Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan.

Sergeant Maj. James Roberts (left) and Gunnery Sgt. Jason M. Whipkey stand on the flight deck of the USS Peleliu (LHA-5) September 10. The Marines were embarked on the ship 13 years ago when it was diverted from Darwin, Australia to Afghanistan in response to the terror attacks on September 11, 2001. Roberts is the Sergeant Major of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and is from Dallas. Whipkey is the platoon sergeant for Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and is from Carneys Point, New Jersey. The 31st MEU/Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group is currently conducting Amphibious Integration Training in preparation for the regularly schedule Fall Patrol ’14. The 31st MEU is the only continuously forward-deployed expeditionary unit. - Sergeant Maj. James Roberts (left) and Gunnery Sgt. Jason M. Whipkey stand on the flight deck of the USS Peleliu (LHA-5) September 10. The Marines were embarked on the ship 13 years ago when it was diverted from Darwin, Australia to Afghanistan in response to the terror attacks on September 11, 2001. Roberts is the Sergeant Major of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and is from Dallas. Whipkey is the platoon sergeant for Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and is from Carneys Point, New Jersey. The 31st MEU/Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group is currently conducting Amphibious Integration Training in preparation for the regularly schedule Fall Patrol ’14. The 31st MEU is the only continuously forward-deployed expeditionary unit.

Marines with Marine Corps Institute in Washington, D.C., traveled to Manassas, Va., in early August for a battle study on the Civil War’s Battle of Bull Run. - Marines with Marine Corps Institute in Washington, D.C., traveled to Manassas, Va., in early August for a battle study on the Civil War’s Battle of Bull Run.

General James F. Amos, left, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett, the 17th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, speak to Marines and sailors with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment; 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment; and 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 6, 2014. Gen. Amos and Sgt. Maj. Barrett visited Marines and sailors serving with Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan in Helmand province for the final time, thanking them for their service and sacrifice. - General James F. Amos, left, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett, the 17th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, speak to Marines and sailors with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment; 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment; and 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 6, 2014. Gen. Amos and Sgt. Maj. Barrett visited Marines and sailors serving with Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan in Helmand province for the final time, thanking them for their service and sacrifice.

John Morgenstern poses in front of a CH-46 helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico, Virginia before the last helicopters left the air facility forever, July 16, 2014. Morgenstern has been the technical representative at Marine Helicopter Squadron One for 47 years. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Aaron Hostutler/released) - John Morgenstern poses in front of a CH-46 helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico, Virginia before the last helicopters left the air facility forever, July 16, 2014. Morgenstern has been the technical representative at Marine Helicopter Squadron One for 47 years. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Aaron Hostutler/released)

Sgt. Richard Flavell, (left), and Lance Cpl. Michael Ciavirella (right rear), lead the Senegalese Companie de Fusilier Marine Commandos, or COFUMACO, in a fire and movement drill in Toubacouta, Senegal, Aug. 28, 2014. During the drill, the man bounding has to catch a ball and throw it back, forcing him to maintain situational awareness while bounding. The drill was part of a joint training engagement between U.S. Marines, Coast Guard, and the COFUMACO. (Courtesy Photo by Lance Cpl. Jonathan Neumann) - Sgt. Richard Flavell, (left), and Lance Cpl. Michael Ciavirella (right rear), lead the Senegalese Companie de Fusilier Marine Commandos, or COFUMACO, in a fire and movement drill in Toubacouta, Senegal, Aug. 28, 2014. During the drill, the man bounding has to catch a ball and throw it back, forcing him to maintain situational awareness while bounding. The drill was part of a joint training engagement between U.S. Marines, Coast Guard, and the COFUMACO. (Courtesy Photo by Lance Cpl. Jonathan Neumann)

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII - Sgt. Rafael Cervantes Jr., a combat-injured Marine with Wounded Warrior Battalion West-Detachment Hawaii, raises his hand during his re-enlistment ceremony at the Pacific War Memorial aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Aug. 25, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Suzanna Knotts) - MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII - Sgt. Rafael Cervantes Jr., a combat-injured Marine with Wounded Warrior Battalion West-Detachment Hawaii, raises his hand during his re-enlistment ceremony at the Pacific War Memorial aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Aug. 25, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Suzanna Knotts)

Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel and Georgian Minister of Defense Irakli Alasania hold a joint press conference at the Georgian Ministry of Defense in Tbilisi, Georgia, Sept. 7, 2014. Hagel and Irakli gave remarks emphasizing the importance of the relationship of their two nations and answered questions from an international pool of reporters. DoD Photo by Glenn Fawcett - Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel and Georgian Minister of Defense Irakli Alasania hold a joint press conference at the Georgian Ministry of Defense in Tbilisi, Georgia, Sept. 7, 2014. Hagel and Irakli gave remarks emphasizing the importance of the relationship of their two nations and answered questions from an international pool of reporters. DoD Photo by Glenn Fawcett

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey answers a question during a town hall meeting with Marines, sailors and former service members aboard Naval Station Great Lakes, Ill., Sept. 5. Dempsey discussed a wide range of topics including involvement in the Middle East, and how budget cuts affect service members worldwide. - Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey answers a question during a town hall meeting with Marines, sailors and former service members aboard Naval Station Great Lakes, Ill., Sept. 5. Dempsey discussed a wide range of topics including involvement in the Middle East, and how budget cuts affect service members worldwide.

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Marines stand guard at a warehouse during exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian Aug. 22 at Camp Kinser. The Marines are training for real combat situations in the Asia-Pacific region by checking for security badges, security access levels and searching all bags entering the grounds. The Marines are with 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines stand guard at a warehouse during exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian Aug. 22 at Camp Kinser. The Marines are training for real combat situations in the Asia-Pacific region by checking for security badges, security access levels and searching all bags entering the grounds. The Marines are with 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Pvt. Tyler Knotts, 19, from Kingwood, W.V., grips a ledge as he navigates his way up a cliff during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Sept. 1, 2014. Rice is an infantry rifleman with 1st Platoon, Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment will become the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s ground combat element in October. Mountain Exercise 2014 develops critical skills the battalion will need during deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released) - U.S. Marine Pvt. Tyler Knotts, 19, from Kingwood, W.V., grips a ledge as he navigates his way up a cliff during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Sept. 1, 2014. Rice is an infantry rifleman with 1st Platoon, Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment will become the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s ground combat element in October. Mountain Exercise 2014 develops critical skills the battalion will need during deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released)

Gunnery Sgt. Jhimelle Sepulveda, training chief with a fire fighting unit here, emerges from a fire training facility during an exercise conducted by the Camp Pendleton Fire Department and the Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton’s Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting unit on a controlled burn training facility at the 25 Area here.The training was designed to teach firefighters how to prevent rapid combustion of burned materials in rooms and structures."This is good training because we don't normally get to experience this type of situation when dealing with burning aircraft," said Sepulveda. - Gunnery Sgt. Jhimelle Sepulveda, training chief with a fire fighting unit here, emerges from a fire training facility during an exercise conducted by the Camp Pendleton Fire Department and the Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton’s Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting unit on a controlled burn training facility at the 25 Area here. The training was designed to teach firefighters how to prevent rapid combustion of burned materials in rooms and structures. "This is good training because we don't normally get to experience this type of situation when dealing with burning aircraft," said Sepulveda.

Recruit Axe T. Buffington, Platton 1003, Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, balances himself on a chain bridge during the 12 Stalls event at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27. The 12 Stalls event is a part of the Crucible, which is a 54-hour test of endurance where recruits must conquer more than 30 different obstacles while they experience food and sleep deprivation. During the Crucible, recruits utilize small unit leadership skills they’ve acquired throughout training. Buffington is a native of Princeton, Minn., and was recruited out of Recruiting Substation St. Cloud, Minn. - Recruit Axe T. Buffington, Platton 1003, Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, balances himself on a chain bridge during the 12 Stalls event at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27. The 12 Stalls event is a part of the Crucible, which is a 54-hour test of endurance where recruits must conquer more than 30 different obstacles while they experience food and sleep deprivation. During the Crucible, recruits utilize small unit leadership skills they’ve acquired throughout training. Buffington is a native of Princeton, Minn., and was recruited out of Recruiting Substation St. Cloud, Minn.

A Marine with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, descends a rope from an MV-22B Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th MEU, during Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System qualification at Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 22, 2014. Marines spent two days fast-roping from a tower and an MV-22B Osprey in preparation for their scheduled deployment at the end of the year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Nichols) - A Marine with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, descends a rope from an MV-22B Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th MEU, during Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System qualification at Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 22, 2014. Marines spent two days fast-roping from a tower and an MV-22B Osprey in preparation for their scheduled deployment at the end of the year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Nichols)

Lt. Gen. John Toolan, commander, U. S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, addresses the Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit following the culminating joint amphibious demonstration of Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2014 at Kg Tanduo Beach, Malaysia, Sept. 2. MALUS AMPHEX 14 is a bilateral exercise between the 11th MEU and Malaysian Armed Forces that includes operational and tactical level training in planning, command and control, and combat service support using both ground and sea assets. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Rome M. Lazarus/Released) - Lt. Gen. John Toolan, commander, U. S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, addresses the Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit following the culminating joint amphibious demonstration of Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2014 at Kg Tanduo Beach, Malaysia, Sept. 2. MALUS AMPHEX 14 is a bilateral exercise between the 11th MEU and Malaysian Armed Forces that includes operational and tactical level training in planning, command and control, and combat service support using both ground and sea assets. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Rome M. Lazarus/Released)

Col. Scott Benedict straps into an AV-8B Harrier at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Aug. 26, 2014. Benedict flew with Capt. Chris Tchinski, a Harrier instructor pilot with Marine Attack Training Squadron 203, to better understand the capabilities of the different aircraft within the Aviation Combat Element of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Benedict is the commanding officer of the 24th MEU. - Col. Scott Benedict straps into an AV-8B Harrier at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Aug. 26, 2014. Benedict flew with Capt. Chris Tchinski, a Harrier instructor pilot with Marine Attack Training Squadron 203, to better understand the capabilities of the different aircraft within the Aviation Combat Element of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Benedict is the commanding officer of the 24th MEU.

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