Nathan Aldaco, a 12 year-old boy with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, along with his brother and sister learn about TNT during a Make-A-Wish event supported by 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, at Marine Corps base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 24, 2016. Marines with 7th ESB and Explosive Ordnance Disposal helped to make Nathan’s wish of training with Marines come true by demonstrating the capabilities of their EOD robots and detonating TNT, C4, dynamite and blasting caps, while the heavy equipment operators gave him the opportunity to ride the D7 dozer and the excavator, in which he dug a pit, built a berm, and broke several large tree trunks. - Nathan Aldaco, a 12 year-old boy with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, along with his brother and sister learn about TNT during a Make-A-Wish event supported by 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, at Marine Corps base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 24, 2016. Marines with 7th ESB and Explosive Ordnance Disposal helped to make Nathan’s wish of training with Marines come true by demonstrating the capabilities of their EOD robots and detonating TNT, C4, dynamite and blasting caps, while the heavy equipment operators gave him the opportunity to ride the D7 dozer and the excavator, in which he dug a pit, built a berm, and broke several large tree trunks.
Cpl. Anthony Lubbers, designated marksmanship instructor, Combat Center Marksmanship Training Unit, prepares to breach a door during the Western Regional Combat Match at Marine Corps Air Combat Center, April 8, 2016. - Cpl. Anthony Lubbers, designated marksmanship instructor, Combat Center Marksmanship Training Unit, prepares to breach a door during the Western Regional Combat Match at Marine Corps Air Combat Center, April 8, 2016.
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M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks with Company B, 1st Tank Battalion, stage in the Blacktop training area during 7th Marine Regiment’s Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center April 6, 2016. CALFEX served as the kinetic portion of Desert Scimitar 16, an annual 1st Marine Division training evolution. - M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks with Company B, 1st Tank Battalion, stage in the Blacktop training area during 7th Marine Regiment’s Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center April 6, 2016. CALFEX served as the kinetic portion of Desert Scimitar 16, an annual 1st Marine Division training evolution.
Sgt. Joshua Jelinek, the lead instructor for the Assault Climbers Course (left), attaches Sgt. Chris Ginandt, a fellow instructor, to a suspension bridge during a period of instruction at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 12, 2016. These bridges allow Marines from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit to conduct cliff assaults, and move supplies and themselves safely across a river or cavern. - Sgt. Joshua Jelinek, the lead instructor for the Assault Climbers Course (left), attaches Sgt. Chris Ginandt, a fellow instructor, to a suspension bridge during a period of instruction at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 12, 2016. These bridges allow Marines from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit to conduct cliff assaults, and move supplies and themselves safely across a river or cavern.
Lance Cpl. Tevin Brown, an automatic rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, charges toward an objective during a platoon attack training event at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 12, 2016. The training event afforded the Marines an opportunity to develop and improve their strategies under stressful combat situations. - Lance Cpl. Tevin Brown, an automatic rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, charges toward an objective during a platoon attack training event at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 12, 2016. The training event afforded the Marines an opportunity to develop and improve their strategies under stressful combat situations.
U.S. Marines and Tunisian Groupement des Forces Speciales conduct convoy night operation training during an exercise in Bizerte, Tunisia, Mar. 21- Apr. 8, 2016. The Marine vehicle maintenance and assistance team trained with their Tunisian counterparts to increase the counter terrorism capabilities of the GFS. - U.S. Marines and Tunisian Groupement des Forces Speciales conduct convoy night operation training during an exercise in Bizerte, Tunisia, Mar. 21- Apr. 8, 2016. The Marine vehicle maintenance and assistance team trained with their Tunisian counterparts to increase the counter terrorism capabilities of the GFS.
Cpl. Jesus Ontiveros, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 364 “Purple Foxes,” and an Oxnard, Calif. native, walks through an MV-22B Osprey during a post-operations check aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California, April 5. Before and after every flight, Marines with VMM-364 check Ospreys for any mechanical discrepancies to ensure the safety of pilots, air crew and passengers. - Cpl. Jesus Ontiveros, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 364 “Purple Foxes,” and an Oxnard, Calif. native, walks through an MV-22B Osprey during a post-operations check aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California, April 5. Before and after every flight, Marines with VMM-364 check Ospreys for any mechanical discrepancies to ensure the safety of pilots, air crew and passengers.
Marines with the Expeditionary Warfare School battle site study group watch a short video on the Battle of Saratoga during their trip to Saratoga Springs, New York, April 5, 2016. The Marines with the Expeditionary Warfare School group attend the Saratoga Battle site visit as part of the EWS Enrichment Program. - Marines with the Expeditionary Warfare School battle site study group watch a short video on the Battle of Saratoga during their trip to Saratoga Springs, New York, April 5, 2016. The Marines with the Expeditionary Warfare School group attend the Saratoga Battle site visit as part of the EWS Enrichment Program.
A Marine with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, I Marine Expeditionary Force, guides a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launcher during Spring Fire Exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 31, 2016. The regiment, comprised of four artillery battalions and a headquarters battalion, put their skills to the test during a large-scale, combined-arms training evolution in preparation for future deployments and operations. - A Marine with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, I Marine Expeditionary Force, guides a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launcher during Spring Fire Exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 31, 2016. The regiment, comprised of four artillery battalions and a headquarters battalion, put their skills to the test during a large-scale, combined-arms training evolution in preparation for future deployments and operations.
Cpl. Richard Nedlic (Right), Light Armored Vehicle crewman and Cpl. Nicholas Guiles, rifleman, both with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and students in the Urban Leaders Course, fire their weapons from the supine position during a combat marksmanship program range at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 31, 2016. This firing drill is meant to train Marines to safely and accurately return fire if they fall backward while moving or are knocked down. - Cpl. Richard Nedlic (Right), Light Armored Vehicle crewman and Cpl. Nicholas Guiles, rifleman, both with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and students in the Urban Leaders Course, fire their weapons from the supine position during a combat marksmanship program range at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 31, 2016. This firing drill is meant to train Marines to safely and accurately return fire if they fall backward while moving or are knocked down.
An explosive ordnance disposal technician with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, gets hands-on experience with the Remote Fuse Disassembly System at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 8, 2016. The system was designed to make explosive ordnance disposal safer. - An explosive ordnance disposal technician with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, gets hands-on experience with the Remote Fuse Disassembly System at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 8, 2016. The system was designed to make explosive ordnance disposal safer.
An Amphibious Assault Vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion engages simulated enemy targets during a qualification course during Heavy Brigade Combat Team training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 5, 2016. The training allows the unit to strengthen their working relationship and maintain weapons proficiency to remain being a reliable asset for amphibious operations. - An Amphibious Assault Vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion engages simulated enemy targets during a qualification course during Heavy Brigade Combat Team training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 5, 2016. The training allows the unit to strengthen their working relationship and maintain weapons proficiency to remain being a reliable asset for amphibious operations.
Cpl. Alec Bechtel, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161, communicates with pilots during a field carrier landing practice at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 30, 2016. Marines with VMM-161 conducted field carrier landing practices at Camp Pendleton to maintain their proficiency in landing aboard Navy vessels. - Cpl. Alec Bechtel, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161, communicates with pilots during a field carrier landing practice at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 30, 2016. Marines with VMM-161 conducted field carrier landing practices at Camp Pendleton to maintain their proficiency in landing aboard Navy vessels.
Marine Raiders currently assigned to Marine Special Operations Company B, 1st Marine Raider Battalion and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command headquarters salute the remains of Sgt. John Holladay, a fallen World War II Marine Raider. During World War II Holladay was assigned to Company B, 1st Marine Raider Battalion, 1st Marine Raider Regiment, who fought in U.S. Marine Corps battles against Japanese positions along the Pacific front, when he was killed in 1943. - Marine Raiders currently assigned to Marine Special Operations Company B, 1st Marine Raider Battalion and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command headquarters salute the remains of Sgt. John Holladay, a fallen World War II Marine Raider. During World War II Holladay was assigned to Company B, 1st Marine Raider Battalion, 1st Marine Raider Regiment, who fought in U.S. Marine Corps battles against Japanese positions along the Pacific front, when he was killed in 1943.
Lance Cpl. Jeremie Lewis, Lance Cpl. Quinn Beckens, Lance Cpl. Rodrigo Cruzvera and Lance Cpl. Javier Avila Jr. pose for a photo in front of their fire truck April 1, 2016. The Marines are aircraft rescue and firefighting Marines with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. - Lance Cpl. Jeremie Lewis, Lance Cpl. Quinn Beckens, Lance Cpl. Rodrigo Cruzvera and Lance Cpl. Javier Avila Jr. pose for a photo in front of their fire truck April 1, 2016. The Marines are aircraft rescue and firefighting Marines with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific.
An opposing force kneels in front of a riot control squad with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 during the unit’s non-lethal weapons training final exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 25, 2016. The battalion had to qualify through the Expeditionary Operations Training Group, in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa. - An opposing force kneels in front of a riot control squad with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 during the unit’s non-lethal weapons training final exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 25, 2016. The battalion had to qualify through the Expeditionary Operations Training Group, in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa.
2nd Lt. James Whitcher, a student at the Marine Military Police Officer Basic Course, goes through incident reports during the Watch Officer Exercise at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, March 28, 2016. The Watch Officer Exercise was the culminating event for all the training the students have gone through during the course. - 2nd Lt. James Whitcher, a student at the Marine Military Police Officer Basic Course, goes through incident reports during the Watch Officer Exercise at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, March 28, 2016. The Watch Officer Exercise was the culminating event for all the training the students have gone through during the course.
Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 perform function checks for the flight of the RQ-7Bv2 Shadow, an unmanned aerial system, at the Cannon Air Defense Complex in Yuma, Arizona, March 25, 2016. Marine Wing Support Squadron 371 and MWSS-274 supported VMU-1 by building a runway in preparation for the Shadow’s first flight at the site. - Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 perform function checks for the flight of the RQ-7Bv2 Shadow, an unmanned aerial system, at the Cannon Air Defense Complex in Yuma, Arizona, March 25, 2016. Marine Wing Support Squadron 371 and MWSS-274 supported VMU-1 by building a runway in preparation for the Shadow’s first flight at the site.
U.S. Marine Sgt. Robert McCabe, a section leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, points out areas of interest to members of his team during a perimeter patrol in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, March 21, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-CC Marines are responsible for the force protection of coalition assets at some Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve bases within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility as part of the effort to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Robert McCabe, a section leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, points out areas of interest to members of his team during a perimeter patrol in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, March 21, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-CC Marines are responsible for the force protection of coalition assets at some Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve bases within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility as part of the effort to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant.
Marines Raiders from Company F, 2d Marine Raider Battalion, led a simulated partner nation force on ground combat patrolling tactics, techniques and procedures during a Company Collective Exercise in Fort Bragg, South Carolina, Feb. 28, 2016. The Marine Special Operations Company and individual teams where tested on their execution of basic skills as well as learned and honed new tactic, techniques and procedures. - Marines Raiders from Company F, 2d Marine Raider Battalion, led a simulated partner nation force on ground combat patrolling tactics, techniques and procedures during a Company Collective Exercise in Fort Bragg, South Carolina, Feb. 28, 2016. The Marine Special Operations Company and individual teams where tested on their execution of basic skills as well as learned and honed new tactic, techniques and procedures.
Chief Petty Officer Jaclyn Place poses for a photo with her neighbors and their family during Place’s award ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 11, 2016. Place is a lead chief petty officer with the Headquarters Regimental Aid Station, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and was awarded an impact Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for her selfless and decisive actions that saved the lives of her neighbors. - Chief Petty Officer Jaclyn Place poses for a photo with her neighbors and their family during Place’s award ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 11, 2016. Place is a lead chief petty officer with the Headquarters Regimental Aid Station, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and was awarded an impact Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for her selfless and decisive actions that saved the lives of her neighbors.
U.S. Marines with Black Sea Rotational Force fire a M240 medium machine gun to provide supporting fires for Marines maneuvering through an assault course during Platinum Lynx 16-3 at Babadag Training Area, Romania, March 26, 2016. The purpose of Platinum Lynx is to build NATO allies’ capabilities, reinforce relationships in a combined-training environment and increase operational proficiencies among U.S., Romanian, Slovenian, Bulgarian Forces. - U.S. Marines with Black Sea Rotational Force fire a M240 medium machine gun to provide supporting fires for Marines maneuvering through an assault course during Platinum Lynx 16-3 at Babadag Training Area, Romania, March 26, 2016. The purpose of Platinum Lynx is to build NATO allies’ capabilities, reinforce relationships in a combined-training environment and increase operational proficiencies among U.S., Romanian, Slovenian, Bulgarian Forces.
The WWII SBD Dauntless dive-bomber showcases the heroic actions of the commanding officer of Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 232 and his observer/gunner over Guadalcanal in August 1942. After temporarily closing its doors nearly three months ago, the National Museum for the Marine Corps will re-open to the public on April 1, 2016 at 9 a.m. Visitors will discover a recently restored World War II SBD Dauntless dive bomber and Vietnam-era Sikorsky UH-34D helicopter which were installed during the closure - The WWII SBD Dauntless dive-bomber showcases the heroic actions of the commanding officer of Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 232 and his observer/gunner over Guadalcanal in August 1942. After temporarily closing its doors nearly three months ago, the National Museum for the Marine Corps will re-open to the public on April 1, 2016 at 9 a.m. Visitors will discover a recently restored World War II SBD Dauntless dive bomber and Vietnam-era Sikorsky UH-34D helicopter which were installed during the closure
U.S. Marines with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company oversee a joint tactical air control operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 25, 2016. The training enhanced interoperability between the U.S., French, British, and Dutch forces, while the U.S. Marines provided fire and aviation support. - U.S. Marines with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company oversee a joint tactical air control operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 25, 2016. The training enhanced interoperability between the U.S., French, British, and Dutch forces, while the U.S. Marines provided fire and aviation support.
Marines with Company B, 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, run through smoke during a live-fire assault on Military Operations on Urban Terrain town located at Range 210 in the Combat Center training area March 24, 2016, as part of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation Exercise. 3rd LAR conducted a five-day MCCREE to evaluate the combat readiness of B Co. - Marines with Company B, 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, run through smoke during a live-fire assault on Military Operations on Urban Terrain town located at Range 210 in the Combat Center training area March 24, 2016, as part of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation Exercise. 3rd LAR conducted a five-day MCCREE to evaluate the combat readiness of B Co.
U.S. Marine Cpl. Andrew Gabriel, right, a scout sniper with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, presents Ambassador Douglas A. Silliman, the U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait, with a gift during the Corporals Course graduation ceremony in Kuwait on March 25, 2016. The corporals’ leadership program is designed to provide instruction for tasks developed in accordance with Marine Corps Order 1510.90, Individual Training Standards. Corporals Course is a professional military education requirement for all corporals to complete in order to be qualified for promotion. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Andrew Gabriel, right, a scout sniper with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, presents Ambassador Douglas A. Silliman, the U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait, with a gift during the Corporals Course graduation ceremony in Kuwait on March 25, 2016. The corporals’ leadership program is designed to provide instruction for tasks developed in accordance with Marine Corps Order 1510.90, Individual Training Standards. Corporals Course is a professional military education requirement for all corporals to complete in order to be qualified for promotion.
Marines coordinate fires for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during an M142 HIMARS live fire exercise at Camp Pendleton March 16, 2016. During the exercise, Marines coordinated fires based on hypothetical combat situations they might encounter while deployed. The HIMARS rounds are aided by Global Positioning System (GPS) technology and can travel to altitudes up to 75 kilometers and can precisely engage targets up to 40 miles away. The Marines are with Battery S, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines coordinate fires for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during an M142 HIMARS live fire exercise at Camp Pendleton March 16, 2016. During the exercise, Marines coordinated fires based on hypothetical combat situations they might encounter while deployed. The HIMARS rounds are aided by Global Positioning System (GPS) technology and can travel to altitudes up to 75 kilometers and can precisely engage targets up to 40 miles away. The Marines are with Battery S, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.
A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit ground guides a Tractor, Rubber-tired Articulated, Multi-purpose vehicle to load equipment onto a Landing Craft Air Cushion assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7 during Exercise Ssang Yong 16, Dogu Beach, Pohang, South Korea, March 17, 2016. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces in order to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed aboard the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group as part of their spring deployment of the Asia-Pacific region. - A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit ground guides a Tractor, Rubber-tired Articulated, Multi-purpose vehicle to load equipment onto a Landing Craft Air Cushion assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7 during Exercise Ssang Yong 16, Dogu Beach, Pohang, South Korea, March 17, 2016. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces in order to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed aboard the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group as part of their spring deployment of the Asia-Pacific region.
Dutch Marines with 32nd Raiding Company provide security in a Mercedes-Benz G-class utility vehicle for a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement 7-ton during a casualty evacuation exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The Dutch Marines spent the past three weeks utilizing Camp Lejeune’s training facilities, as well as cross-trained with U.S. Marines to learn and share tactics, techniques and procedures. - Dutch Marines with 32nd Raiding Company provide security in a Mercedes-Benz G-class utility vehicle for a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement 7-ton during a casualty evacuation exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The Dutch Marines spent the past three weeks utilizing Camp Lejeune’s training facilities, as well as cross-trained with U.S. Marines to learn and share tactics, techniques and procedures.
Brig. Gen. Lori E. Reynolds, the commanding general of Marine Forces cyberspace Command, speaks to the audience during the activation of command ceremony of Marine Corps Cyberspace Warfare Group at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, March 25, 2016. The mission of MCCYWG is to man, train and equip Marine Cyberspace mission teams to perform both defensive and offensive cyber operations in support of United States Cyber Command and Marine Forces Cyberspace Command. - Brig. Gen. Lori E. Reynolds, the commanding general of Marine Forces cyberspace Command, speaks to the audience during the activation of command ceremony of Marine Corps Cyberspace Warfare Group at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, March 25, 2016. The mission of MCCYWG is to man, train and equip Marine Cyberspace mission teams to perform both defensive and offensive cyber operations in support of United States Cyber Command and Marine Forces Cyberspace Command.
Lt. Col. Kris Faught speaks to Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2 before the first RQ-21A Blackjack flight into Class D airspace over Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, March 21, 2016. The RQ-21A Blackjack system is modular, flexible and multi-mission capable, providing roll-on, roll-off transitions between land and maritime environments. Faught is the commanding officer of VMU-2. - Lt. Col. Kris Faught speaks to Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2 before the first RQ-21A Blackjack flight into Class D airspace over Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, March 21, 2016. The RQ-21A Blackjack system is modular, flexible and multi-mission capable, providing roll-on, roll-off transitions between land and maritime environments. Faught is the commanding officer of VMU-2.
A Marine with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion breaches a door with a Mossberg 500 shotgun during the assault breaching portion of the battalion’s sapper squad competition at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The competition was organized to determine the most proficient squads in the battalion while simultaneously challenging squads in the execution of combat engineer-based tasks. - A Marine with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion breaches a door with a Mossberg 500 shotgun during the assault breaching portion of the battalion’s sapper squad competition at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The competition was organized to determine the most proficient squads in the battalion while simultaneously challenging squads in the execution of combat engineer-based tasks.
A Marine with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion performs rifle drills during a combat marksmanship program led by Expeditionary Operations Training Group March 17, 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. The shooting package helps to better prepare these Marines for an upcoming deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - A Marine with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion performs rifle drills during a combat marksmanship program led by Expeditionary Operations Training Group March 17, 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. The shooting package helps to better prepare these Marines for an upcoming deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit.
U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988. - U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988.
Marines operating a Light Armored Vehicle with 2nd Light-Armored Reconnaissance Battalion swiftly move to a new position for the next course of fire during the unit’s annual gunnery qualification at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 18, 2016. The purpose of the training was to increase readiness and ensure that the Marines maintain their proficiency employing the weapons. - Marines operating a Light Armored Vehicle with 2nd Light-Armored Reconnaissance Battalion swiftly move to a new position for the next course of fire during the unit’s annual gunnery qualification at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 18, 2016. The purpose of the training was to increase readiness and ensure that the Marines maintain their proficiency employing the weapons.
U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 drive stakes into the ground around the perimeter of a vertical take-off and landing pad during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, March 17, 2016. The MCCRE, which went from March 14-18, tested MWSS-272’s ability to build an AM-2 aluminum matting V/TOL pad ready to accept incoming aircraft. MWSS-272 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 drive stakes into the ground around the perimeter of a vertical take-off and landing pad during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, March 17, 2016. The MCCRE, which went from March 14-18, tested MWSS-272’s ability to build an AM-2 aluminum matting V/TOL pad ready to accept incoming aircraft. MWSS-272 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.
Buddy Steshka, a technical support specialist at ManTech International Corporation, explains a program created by a Marine Corps Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Enterprise Accelerator team. The program is being used to help intelligence Marines do their job. - Buddy Steshka, a technical support specialist at ManTech International Corporation, explains a program created by a Marine Corps Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Enterprise Accelerator team. The program is being used to help intelligence Marines do their job.
Senegalese soldiers completed a month-long training exercise with U.S. Marines, March 18, at a military training facility in Thies, Senegal. U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, trained their counterparts with Senegal’s Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando, or COFUMACO, in infantry tactics, making this the 10th training engagement the forces. In an effort to combat illicit trafficking in the region, the Marines were in Senegal at the request of the host nation government in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. The Marines trained with the COFUMACO in Toubacouta in the southern part of the country for two weeks before moving up to Thies. - Senegalese soldiers completed a month-long training exercise with U.S. Marines, March 18, at a military training facility in Thies, Senegal. U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, trained their counterparts with Senegal’s Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando, or COFUMACO, in infantry tactics, making this the 10th training engagement the forces. In an effort to combat illicit trafficking in the region, the Marines were in Senegal at the request of the host nation government in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. The Marines trained with the COFUMACO in Toubacouta in the southern part of the country for two weeks before moving up to Thies.
Cpl. Joseph Currey, left, salutes Lt. Col. Jeremy Winters, right, during an award ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, March 1, 2016. Currey was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his actions after witnessing an ambulance wreck. Currey demonstrated his devotion to serving others as he placed the well-being of the injured personnel above his own by running towards the scene of an accident and rendering aide to those need. Currey is an air support operations operator with Marine Aviation Support Squadron 1. - Cpl. Joseph Currey, left, salutes Lt. Col. Jeremy Winters, right, during an award ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, March 1, 2016. Currey was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his actions after witnessing an ambulance wreck. Currey demonstrated his devotion to serving others as he placed the well-being of the injured personnel above his own by running towards the scene of an accident and rendering aide to those need. Currey is an air support operations operator with Marine Aviation Support Squadron 1.
Sgt. Matthew Parker (ret.) speaks to a group of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment Marines during his Silver Star ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 18, 2016. Parker was awarded the Silver Star for his courageous actions during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2011, where assumed control of his platoon during a firefight after several leaders had been injured. - Sgt. Matthew Parker (ret.) speaks to a group of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment Marines during his Silver Star ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 18, 2016. Parker was awarded the Silver Star for his courageous actions during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2011, where assumed control of his platoon during a firefight after several leaders had been injured.
The local community lined the streets and cheered on the ruckers as they finished the Marine Raider Memorial March outside the Stone Bay main gate, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 21, 2016. The Marine Raider Memorial March was designed to honor the seven Marine Raiders who died on March 10, 2015 and their families, as well as bring awareness to their sacrifice. The ruckers were made up of both active duty and former Raiders, family members, and close friends. Following the conclusion of the March there was a short ceremony to honor the fallen. - The local community lined the streets and cheered on the ruckers as they finished the Marine Raider Memorial March outside the Stone Bay main gate, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 21, 2016. The Marine Raider Memorial March was designed to honor the seven Marine Raiders who died on March 10, 2015 and their families, as well as bring awareness to their sacrifice. The ruckers were made up of both active duty and former Raiders, family members, and close friends. Following the conclusion of the March there was a short ceremony to honor the fallen.
A pilot greets his family at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, March 15, 2016. More than 180 Marines and 10 F/A-18D Hornet aircraft have been deployed to the Western Pacific since October 2015 as part of the Unit Deployment Program. The pilot is with VMFA(AW)-224. - A pilot greets his family at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, March 15, 2016. More than 180 Marines and 10 F/A-18D Hornet aircraft have been deployed to the Western Pacific since October 2015 as part of the Unit Deployment Program. The pilot is with VMFA(AW)-224.
U.S. Marine Sgt. Jesse Kimble, an instructor with Training Cell, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, demonstrates a sniper’s standing firing position to snipers of the Special Operations Battalion, Brazilian Marine Corps, during a subject matter expert exchange at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 16, 2016. Snipers from both countries gathered to exchange knowledge and experiences regarding techniques and procedures used by snipers from their respective militaries. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Jesse Kimble, an instructor with Training Cell, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, demonstrates a sniper’s standing firing position to snipers of the Special Operations Battalion, Brazilian Marine Corps, during a subject matter expert exchange at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 16, 2016. Snipers from both countries gathered to exchange knowledge and experiences regarding techniques and procedures used by snipers from their respective militaries.
Cpl. Zachary Summers, a radio operator with 3rd Radio Battalion, combat glides toward a target shooting his M9 Service Pistol during a Pacific Combat Shooting Match at the Kaneohe Bay Range Training Facility aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 16, 2016. Teams from different units used various weapons and tactics to achieve the fastest time possible on different courses of fire, while earning points for awards during the competition. Marines from the Marine Corps Combat Shooting Team instructed and gave advice to the Marines participating in the event. - Cpl. Zachary Summers, a radio operator with 3rd Radio Battalion, combat glides toward a target shooting his M9 Service Pistol during a Pacific Combat Shooting Match at the Kaneohe Bay Range Training Facility aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 16, 2016. Teams from different units used various weapons and tactics to achieve the fastest time possible on different courses of fire, while earning points for awards during the competition. Marines from the Marine Corps Combat Shooting Team instructed and gave advice to the Marines participating in the event.
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