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Artillery rounds fired by Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment make impact at Observation Post 3 during a battalion field exercise held by 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 15, 2016. The battalion coordinated with artillery, mortars and rotary-wing aircraft to direct fire support. - Artillery rounds fired by Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment make impact at Observation Post 3 during a battalion field exercise held by 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 15, 2016. The battalion coordinated with artillery, mortars and rotary-wing aircraft to direct fire support.

Members of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 and Japan Air Self-Defense pose for a photo in front of an F/A-18A and two F-15s at Komatsu Air Base, Japan, during the Komatsu Aviation Training Relocation exercise March 17, 2016. VMFA-314, home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, temporarily deployed to MCAS Iwakuni for a six month rotation with the unit deployment program, is forward deployed to Komatsu, Japan for the ATR. - Members of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 and Japan Air Self-Defense pose for a photo in front of an F/A-18A and two F-15s at Komatsu Air Base, Japan, during the Komatsu Aviation Training Relocation exercise March 17, 2016. VMFA-314, home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, temporarily deployed to MCAS Iwakuni for a six month rotation with the unit deployment program, is forward deployed to Komatsu, Japan for the ATR.

A plate and paddle carrying the names of fallen Marines will be carried by participants of a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. For the next 10 days, the ruckers will walk in seven teams and trade off every 10-11 miles, about 110 miles each, until they get there.. - A plate and paddle carrying the names of fallen Marines will be carried by participants of a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. For the next 10 days, the ruckers will walk in seven teams and trade off every 10-11 miles, about 110 miles each, until they get there..

The Marine Corps Tactical Service Orientated Architecture will allow users to request and share mission-critical information on-demand. TSOA is a software platform that will be installed in combat operation centers, allowing for the sharing of data between COCs across the Corps. This removes the need to depend on multiple independent tactical data systems, which are not always compatible. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. David Staten) - The Marine Corps Tactical Service Orientated Architecture will allow users to request and share mission-critical information on-demand. TSOA is a software platform that will be installed in combat operation centers, allowing for the sharing of data between COCs across the Corps. This removes the need to depend on multiple independent tactical data systems, which are not always compatible. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. David Staten)

An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 “Green Knights” flies alongside a KC-130J Super Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 over Southern California, March 8, 2016. The two F-35Bs completed additional training after successfully conducting an aerial refuel with VMGR-352. - An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 “Green Knights” flies alongside a KC-130J Super Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 over Southern California, March 8, 2016. The two F-35Bs completed additional training after successfully conducting an aerial refuel with VMGR-352.

A M1A1 Abram tank attached to Delta Company 1st Tank Battalion, 1st U.S. Marine Division is lifted by two pier side cranes onto amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) at Gwangyang, South Korea to prepare for the Assault Follow-On Echelon portion of Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 March 14, 2016. Ashland is assigned to the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group and is participating in SY16, a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations-from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. - A M1A1 Abram tank attached to Delta Company 1st Tank Battalion, 1st U.S. Marine Division is lifted by two pier side cranes onto amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) at Gwangyang, South Korea to prepare for the Assault Follow-On Echelon portion of Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 March 14, 2016. Ashland is assigned to the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group and is participating in SY16, a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations-from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations.

Marines give civilian media a ride in the inside the Amphibious Assault Vehicle Survivability Upgrade at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., March 15, 2016. The AAV SU, or amphibious assault vehicle survivability upgrade, will build upon the existing hull. The upgrades include additional armor, blast-mitigating seats and spall liners. They may also include fuel tank protection and automotive and suspension upgrades to keep both land and sea mobility regardless of the added weight. - Marines give civilian media a ride in the inside the Amphibious Assault Vehicle Survivability Upgrade at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., March 15, 2016. The AAV SU, or amphibious assault vehicle survivability upgrade, will build upon the existing hull. The upgrades include additional armor, blast-mitigating seats and spall liners. They may also include fuel tank protection and automotive and suspension upgrades to keep both land and sea mobility regardless of the added weight.

U.S. Marines Gunnery Sgt. Jordan Torcello and Staff Sgt. Zachary Rubemeyer, explosive ordnance disposal technicians with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, lay undetonated ordnance for a controlled detonation during Exercise Ssang Yong 16 on Suseongri live-fire range, Pohang, South Korea, March 13, 2016. Ssang Yong 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. - U.S. Marines Gunnery Sgt. Jordan Torcello and Staff Sgt. Zachary Rubemeyer, explosive ordnance disposal technicians with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, lay undetonated ordnance for a controlled detonation during Exercise Ssang Yong 16 on Suseongri live-fire range, Pohang, South Korea, March 13, 2016. Ssang Yong 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.

Senegalese soldiers learn how to use a pulley system and rope to remove an inert mortar round from the ground and move it safely to another spot in Bargny, Senegal March 8, 2016. The intent wasn’t to actually move the ordnance, rather to get the students familiar with different types of tools. Since Feb. 15, a group of explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, began assisting Senegalese engineers as part of the Humanitarian Mine Action Program through what is called a train-the-trainer course. - Senegalese soldiers learn how to use a pulley system and rope to remove an inert mortar round from the ground and move it safely to another spot in Bargny, Senegal March 8, 2016. The intent wasn’t to actually move the ordnance, rather to get the students familiar with different types of tools. Since Feb. 15, a group of explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, began assisting Senegalese engineers as part of the Humanitarian Mine Action Program through what is called a train-the-trainer course.

U.S. Marine Corps, Republic of Korea Marines Corps, New Zealand Army and Australian Army conduct amphibious assault training at Doksukri Beach, South Korea, March 12, 2016, during Exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial military exercise focused on strengthening the amphibious landing capabilities of the U.S. and its allies. - U.S. Marine Corps, Republic of Korea Marines Corps, New Zealand Army and Australian Army conduct amphibious assault training at Doksukri Beach, South Korea, March 12, 2016, during Exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial military exercise focused on strengthening the amphibious landing capabilities of the U.S. and its allies.

Marines with the Silent Drill Platoon affix bayonets to their rifles during a performance at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, March 11. Their performance was part of the Battle Color Ceremony aboard the air station. - Marines with the Silent Drill Platoon affix bayonets to their rifles during a performance at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, March 11. Their performance was part of the Battle Color Ceremony aboard the air station.

Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Marines take an injured Marine from an MV-22B Osprey during a simulated hard landing at Marine Corps Air Station New River March, 7, 2016. Crash fire rescue conducts the simulated drill multiple times a week to guarantee their readiness and response to emergencies. - Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Marines take an injured Marine from an MV-22B Osprey during a simulated hard landing at Marine Corps Air Station New River March, 7, 2016. Crash fire rescue conducts the simulated drill multiple times a week to guarantee their readiness and response to emergencies.

Female veterans and active duty and future Marines were united March, 11, 2016 by the Women’s Marine Association to recognize Women’s History Month and celebrate the 73rd anniversary of proudly serving in the Marine Corps. - Female veterans and active duty and future Marines were united March, 11, 2016 by the Women’s Marine Association to recognize Women’s History Month and celebrate the 73rd anniversary of proudly serving in the Marine Corps.

Lance Cpl. Ronald Hester, a combat engineer with, provides security for a casualty evacuation exercise at Landing Zone Penguin at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 10, 2016. The training allowed Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 and 2nd CEB to work together in order to be well prepared to conduct a successful CASEVAC in any situation they may encounter while deployed, to ultimately saves lives. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Hester, a combat engineer with, provides security for a casualty evacuation exercise at Landing Zone Penguin at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 10, 2016. The training allowed Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 and 2nd CEB to work together in order to be well prepared to conduct a successful CASEVAC in any situation they may encounter while deployed, to ultimately saves lives.

A Korean Assault Amphibious Vehicle comes ashore while rehearsing an amphibious assault in support of Exercise Ssang Yong on Doksukri Beach, Republic of Korea, March 11, 2016. Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 is a biennial military exercise focused on strengthening the amphibious landing capabilities of the Republic of Korea, the U.S., New Zealand and Australia. - A Korean Assault Amphibious Vehicle comes ashore while rehearsing an amphibious assault in support of Exercise Ssang Yong on Doksukri Beach, Republic of Korea, March 11, 2016. Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 is a biennial military exercise focused on strengthening the amphibious landing capabilities of the Republic of Korea, the U.S., New Zealand and Australia.

15 Marines and three civilians start a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. The Marines, led by Raider Nathan Harris, do some ceremonial push-ups at the memorial dedicated to the Raider 7. Shortly after, they began their 770-mile journey. - 15 Marines and three civilians start a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. The Marines, led by Raider Nathan Harris, do some ceremonial push-ups at the memorial dedicated to the Raider 7. Shortly after, they began their 770-mile journey.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, perform shooting drills with their M16A4 service rifles during a squadron field exercise at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground training facility in Yuma, Ariz., Wednesday, March 9, 2016. The evolution focuses on the basic fundamentals of deployment in an austere environment and a re-familiarization with weapons proficiency. - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, perform shooting drills with their M16A4 service rifles during a squadron field exercise at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground training facility in Yuma, Ariz., Wednesday, March 9, 2016. The evolution focuses on the basic fundamentals of deployment in an austere environment and a re-familiarization with weapons proficiency.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Juan Cerna, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, changes the batteries in a Talon Mark II robot at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Feb. 20, 2016. The EOD technicians are present to provide the base and airfield with the ability to handle unexploded ordnance, hung ordnance, or suspicious packages. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Juan Cerna, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, changes the batteries in a Talon Mark II robot at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Feb. 20, 2016. The EOD technicians are present to provide the base and airfield with the ability to handle unexploded ordnance, hung ordnance, or suspicious packages.

The U.S. Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps, also known as "The Commandant's Own," performs during a Battle Color Ceremony at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California March 9, 2016. The battle color ceremony features the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, the Silent Drill Platoon and the Marine Corps Color Guard. - The U.S. Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps, also known as "The Commandant's Own," performs during a Battle Color Ceremony at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California March 9, 2016. The battle color ceremony features the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, the Silent Drill Platoon and the Marine Corps Color Guard.

Soldiers with Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, await their debarkation of a landing craft air cushion onto San Clemente Island, California, Feb. 21, 2016, as part of the supported arms coordination center exercise portion of Exercise Iron Fist 2016. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise designed to improve USMC and JGSDF’s ability to plan, communicate and conduct combined amphibious operations at the platoon, company and battalion levels. - Soldiers with Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, await their debarkation of a landing craft air cushion onto San Clemente Island, California, Feb. 21, 2016, as part of the supported arms coordination center exercise portion of Exercise Iron Fist 2016. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise designed to improve USMC and JGSDF’s ability to plan, communicate and conduct combined amphibious operations at the platoon, company and battalion levels.

Marines of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conducts target recognition and engagement through a simulated door way during the close quarter marksmanship portion of Close Quarter Battle training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 8, 2016. The training focused on room clearing procedures along with close quarter marksmanship in a series of challenging drills. - Marines of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conducts target recognition and engagement through a simulated door way during the close quarter marksmanship portion of Close Quarter Battle training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 8, 2016. The training focused on room clearing procedures along with close quarter marksmanship in a series of challenging drills.

Amphibious assault ship USS Boxer transits information during photographic exercise as a part of Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 in the East Sea March 8, 2016. Boxer is the flagship of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and is participating in exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations - from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. - Amphibious assault ship USS Boxer transits information during photographic exercise as a part of Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 in the East Sea March 8, 2016. Boxer is the flagship of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and is participating in exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations - from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations.

PACIFIC OCEAN 160308-N-ZZ999-216 (Mar.8, 206) – Ships assigned to the Bonhomme Richard and Boxer Expeditionary Strike Groups (BHRESG/BOXESG) along with the Republic of Korea Flotilla 5 transit in a formation during a photo exercise commencing exercise Ssang Yong in the Pacific Ocean March 8, 2016. Sailors and Marines of ROK Navy, Marine Corps, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76 and 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3D MEB), along with 7th ROK Marine Corps Regimental Landing Team 7 (ROKMC RLT-7), Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces are participating in Ssang Yong 2016, the largest combined amphibious exercise of its kind to date, designed to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. - PACIFIC OCEAN 160308-N-ZZ999-216 (Mar.8, 206) – Ships assigned to the Bonhomme Richard and Boxer Expeditionary Strike Groups (BHRESG/BOXESG) along with the Republic of Korea Flotilla 5 transit in a formation during a photo exercise commencing exercise Ssang Yong in the Pacific Ocean March 8, 2016. Sailors and Marines of ROK Navy, Marine Corps, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76 and 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3D MEB), along with 7th ROK Marine Corps Regimental Landing Team 7 (ROKMC RLT-7), Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces are participating in Ssang Yong 2016, the largest combined amphibious exercise of its kind to date, designed to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations.

Sgt. Alberto Camacho, military policeman for Charlie Company, 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion, separates evidence without fingerprints during tactical site exploitation training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 3, 2016. The training emphasizes the importance of leaving the evidence in pristine condition to ensure they get the most accurate intelligence necessary to identify the enemies. - Sgt. Alberto Camacho, military policeman for Charlie Company, 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion, separates evidence without fingerprints during tactical site exploitation training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 3, 2016. The training emphasizes the importance of leaving the evidence in pristine condition to ensure they get the most accurate intelligence necessary to identify the enemies.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Noah S. Scalish, (right), automatic rifleman, 2nd platoon Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa escorts a simulated suspect during an active shooter exercise at U.S. Embassy, Lisbon, Portugal, Feb. 9, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF conducts a scaled embassy reinforcement exercise at American Embassy Lisbon in coordination with the Regional Security Office and host nation security forces in order to enhance mission essential task proficiency and build relationships. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Noah S. Scalish, (right), automatic rifleman, 2nd platoon Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa escorts a simulated suspect during an active shooter exercise at U.S. Embassy, Lisbon, Portugal, Feb. 9, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF conducts a scaled embassy reinforcement exercise at American Embassy Lisbon in coordination with the Regional Security Office and host nation security forces in order to enhance mission essential task proficiency and build relationships.

1st Lt. Grant McCloskey, a Light Armored Reconnaissance platoon commander with Black Sea Rotational Force, plans the next reconnaissance mission during Exercise Cold Response 16 near Namsos, Norway, March 4, 2016. The exercise is a Norwegian invitational previously-scheduled exercise that involves approximately 16,000 troops from 13 NATO and partner countries. - 1st Lt. Grant McCloskey, a Light Armored Reconnaissance platoon commander with Black Sea Rotational Force, plans the next reconnaissance mission during Exercise Cold Response 16 near Namsos, Norway, March 4, 2016. The exercise is a Norwegian invitational previously-scheduled exercise that involves approximately 16,000 troops from 13 NATO and partner countries.

Marines with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion storm a fjord in Namsos, Norway, March 3, 2016, during Exercise Cold Response 16. The landing reinforced the unit’s capabilities of operating in winter terrain and cold-weather environments. During Cold Response, 13 NATO allies and partner nations and about 15,000 troops enhance their skill sets and strengthen their bonds. - Marines with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion storm a fjord in Namsos, Norway, March 3, 2016, during Exercise Cold Response 16. The landing reinforced the unit’s capabilities of operating in winter terrain and cold-weather environments. During Cold Response, 13 NATO allies and partner nations and about 15,000 troops enhance their skill sets and strengthen their bonds.

Staff Sgt. Samuel J. Galan Jr. and Lance Cpl. Gerald J. Demontmollin III refuel a UH-1Y Venom Feb. 24, 2016, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Demontmollin and his squadron performed simulated assault and close air support training to maintain unit readiness. “We can shut the aircraft down and turn the engines off [and then fuel the aircraft]. That’s called cold refueling. What we did today was hot refueling. We can leave the aircraft running while we fuel, getting us ready to get back in the fight,” said 1st Lt. David W. Few, a UH-1Y Venom copilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Air Wing. Galan, a native of Houston, Texas, is a crew chief with HMLA-169. Demontmollin, from Grass Valley is a crew chief with HMLA-169. - Staff Sgt. Samuel J. Galan Jr. and Lance Cpl. Gerald J. Demontmollin III refuel a UH-1Y Venom Feb. 24, 2016, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Demontmollin and his squadron performed simulated assault and close air support training to maintain unit readiness. “We can shut the aircraft down and turn the engines off [and then fuel the aircraft]. That’s called cold refueling. What we did today was hot refueling. We can leave the aircraft running while we fuel, getting us ready to get back in the fight,” said 1st Lt. David W. Few, a UH-1Y Venom copilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Air Wing. Galan, a native of Houston, Texas, is a crew chief with HMLA-169. Demontmollin, from Grass Valley is a crew chief with HMLA-169.

Marines execute a rehearsal of concept drill during combat marksmanship training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 2, 2016. The training was part of the Urban Leaders Course taught by 1st Marine Division Schools. The course focuses on enhancing small unit leadership through integrated training and implementation of fire teams and squad-sized elements in an urban setting. Marines participating in the training are from various units on Camp Pendleton. - Marines execute a rehearsal of concept drill during combat marksmanship training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 2, 2016. The training was part of the Urban Leaders Course taught by 1st Marine Division Schools. The course focuses on enhancing small unit leadership through integrated training and implementation of fire teams and squad-sized elements in an urban setting. Marines participating in the training are from various units on Camp Pendleton.

U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct live-fire training with the Kuwait Ministry of the Interior VIP Protection Unit, Female Division during an exchange with the 26th MEU’s Female Engagement Team Jan. 31 to Feb. 11, 2016, in Kuwait City, Kuwait. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct live-fire training with the Kuwait Ministry of the Interior VIP Protection Unit, Female Division during an exchange with the 26th MEU’s Female Engagement Team Jan. 31 to Feb. 11, 2016, in Kuwait City, Kuwait. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, utilize a compact metal detector to sweep for improvised explosive devices during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 2, 2016. Marines utilized equipment such as compact metal detectors, bomb suits and a TALON robot to locate and handle ordnance, which took the form of a simulated IED, ammunition or artillery shell. - Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, utilize a compact metal detector to sweep for improvised explosive devices during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 2, 2016. Marines utilized equipment such as compact metal detectors, bomb suits and a TALON robot to locate and handle ordnance, which took the form of a simulated IED, ammunition or artillery shell.

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, center, speaks with Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Ronald Green, left, and 1st Lt. Terri L. Piekosz, a series commander with November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, March 3, 2016 at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Mabus visited Parris Island to see firsthand how young men and women from across the country are transformed into United States Marines. Recruit training was consolidated under Recruit Training Regiment in 1986, and since then, all those desiring to complete recruit training must follow the same training program of instruction, and must complete the same graduation requirements. - Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, center, speaks with Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Ronald Green, left, and 1st Lt. Terri L. Piekosz, a series commander with November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, March 3, 2016 at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Mabus visited Parris Island to see firsthand how young men and women from across the country are transformed into United States Marines. Recruit training was consolidated under Recruit Training Regiment in 1986, and since then, all those desiring to complete recruit training must follow the same training program of instruction, and must complete the same graduation requirements.

Norwegian Minister of Defense Ine Marie Eriksen Søreide talks with Lt. Col. Justin Ansel, the commander of Task Force 1/8, at a training location near Steinkjer, Norway, March 2, 2016. Exercise Cold Response 16 is a multi-national exercise combining the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 15,000 troops taking place across Norway. - Norwegian Minister of Defense Ine Marie Eriksen Søreide talks with Lt. Col. Justin Ansel, the commander of Task Force 1/8, at a training location near Steinkjer, Norway, March 2, 2016. Exercise Cold Response 16 is a multi-national exercise combining the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 15,000 troops taking place across Norway.

Norwegian Leopard tank crews from the Telemark Battalion prepare for a live-fire exercise in Rena, Norway, Feb. 18, 2016. The U.S. Marines and Norwegians are preparing for Exercise Cold Response 16, which will bring together 12 NATO Allied and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops in order to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments. The Norwegian Telemark Battalion instructed various U.S. Marine units on cold weather survival techniques to driving armored vehicles on ice-covered roads in the weeks leading up to exercise Cold Response 16 beginning at the end of the month. The two nations along with the other participating countries will conduct multi-lateral training to improve U.S. Marine Corps capability to operate in cold-weather environments. - Norwegian Leopard tank crews from the Telemark Battalion prepare for a live-fire exercise in Rena, Norway, Feb. 18, 2016. The U.S. Marines and Norwegians are preparing for Exercise Cold Response 16, which will bring together 12 NATO Allied and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops in order to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments. The Norwegian Telemark Battalion instructed various U.S. Marine units on cold weather survival techniques to driving armored vehicles on ice-covered roads in the weeks leading up to exercise Cold Response 16 beginning at the end of the month. The two nations along with the other participating countries will conduct multi-lateral training to improve U.S. Marine Corps capability to operate in cold-weather environments.

Four EA-6B Prowlers belonging to each Prowler squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point conducted a "Final Four" division flight aboard the air station March 1, 2016. The "Final Four" flight is the last time the Prowler squadrons will be flying together before the official retirement of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Training Squadron 1 at the end of Fiscal Year 16 and the eventual transition to "MAGTF EW". MAGTF EW is a more distributed strategy where every platform contributes to the EW mission, enabling relevant tactical information to move throughout the electromagnetic spectrum and across the battlefield faster than ever before. - Four EA-6B Prowlers belonging to each Prowler squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point conducted a "Final Four" division flight aboard the air station March 1, 2016. The "Final Four" flight is the last time the Prowler squadrons will be flying together before the official retirement of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Training Squadron 1 at the end of Fiscal Year 16 and the eventual transition to "MAGTF EW". MAGTF EW is a more distributed strategy where every platform contributes to the EW mission, enabling relevant tactical information to move throughout the electromagnetic spectrum and across the battlefield faster than ever before.

Members of the Japanese Air Self Defense Force pose with U.S. Marines for a photo at a farewell luncheon for the professional military exchange program February 23 at the Habu Pit Officers’ Club on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. The professional military exchange program benefits JASDF and Marines by providing first-hand insight to the daily routines and responsibilities of each service, according to Staff Sgt. Shinya Nishida, second from left. The experience and knowledge gained through the program establishes better understanding and communication. After Nishida’s exposure to the Marine Corps, the JASDF will return the favor by taking in a Marine in March to experience day-to-day routines of the JASDF. Nishida was a participant of the program and is a flight plan dispatcher with the JASDF. - Members of the Japanese Air Self Defense Force pose with U.S. Marines for a photo at a farewell luncheon for the professional military exchange program February 23 at the Habu Pit Officers’ Club on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. The professional military exchange program benefits JASDF and Marines by providing first-hand insight to the daily routines and responsibilities of each service, according to Staff Sgt. Shinya Nishida, second from left. The experience and knowledge gained through the program establishes better understanding and communication. After Nishida’s exposure to the Marine Corps, the JASDF will return the favor by taking in a Marine in March to experience day-to-day routines of the JASDF. Nishida was a participant of the program and is a flight plan dispatcher with the JASDF.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Clay Tipton, commanding officer, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, shakes hands with Col. Yoskiyuki Goto, commanding officer, Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, after recognizing select Marines and JGSDF soldiers for their outstanding performance during Exercise Iron Fist 2016, at the exercise’s closing ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 1, 2016. Exercise Iron Fist is an annual exercise conducted between the USMC and JGSDF, designed to improve their ability to conduct amphibious operations. The ceremony brought together both militaries in celebration and formally concluded the 11th iteration of Exercise Iron Fist. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Clay Tipton, commanding officer, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, shakes hands with Col. Yoskiyuki Goto, commanding officer, Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, after recognizing select Marines and JGSDF soldiers for their outstanding performance during Exercise Iron Fist 2016, at the exercise’s closing ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 1, 2016. Exercise Iron Fist is an annual exercise conducted between the USMC and JGSDF, designed to improve their ability to conduct amphibious operations. The ceremony brought together both militaries in celebration and formally concluded the 11th iteration of Exercise Iron Fist.

A participant at the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab’s Force Development 25 Innovation Symposium writes down common problems with leadership in the Marine Corps at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 24, 2016. Participants at the event were put into workshops where they had to find problems with the Marine Corps and ways to solve them. - A participant at the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab’s Force Development 25 Innovation Symposium writes down common problems with leadership in the Marine Corps at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 24, 2016. Participants at the event were put into workshops where they had to find problems with the Marine Corps and ways to solve them.

Sgt. Andrew A. Haley observes a UH-1Y Huey as it prepares to take off for a flight mission during Exercise Cobra Gold 16 in Utapao, Thailand, February 16, 2016. Haley, an avid New England Patriots fan, is one of many maintainers who help prepare aircraft before and after takeoff. Cobra Gold is a multi-national exercise designed to advance regional security and ensure effective responses to regional crises by bringing together a robust combined task force from partner nations sharing common goals. Haley, from Conway, New Hampshire, is an airframe mechanic with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force as part of the unit deployment program. - Sgt. Andrew A. Haley observes a UH-1Y Huey as it prepares to take off for a flight mission during Exercise Cobra Gold 16 in Utapao, Thailand, February 16, 2016. Haley, an avid New England Patriots fan, is one of many maintainers who help prepare aircraft before and after takeoff. Cobra Gold is a multi-national exercise designed to advance regional security and ensure effective responses to regional crises by bringing together a robust combined task force from partner nations sharing common goals. Haley, from Conway, New Hampshire, is an airframe mechanic with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force as part of the unit deployment program.

Lance Cpl. Kevin S. Millican stands security during casualty evacuation drills at Fort Stewart, S.C., Feb. 25, 2016. During the exercise, Marines trained in events such as casualty evacuation, assault support missions and aerial refueling, proving the Marine Air-Ground Task Force is a highly effective combat force. Millican is a rifleman with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment. - Lance Cpl. Kevin S. Millican stands security during casualty evacuation drills at Fort Stewart, S.C., Feb. 25, 2016. During the exercise, Marines trained in events such as casualty evacuation, assault support missions and aerial refueling, proving the Marine Air-Ground Task Force is a highly effective combat force. Millican is a rifleman with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment.

U.S. Marine and Royal Thai sailors move in to a burnt aircraft with hand line hoses to put out spot fires and the rest of the cargo area after they used roof turrets to put out the majority of the flames during Exercise Cobra Gold 16 at Utapao, Thailand, Feb. 19, 2016. This training event was designed to build relationships between the two firefighting groups. Cobra Gold is a multi-national exercise with focuses on preserving and promoting peace in the Asia-Pacific region. The Marines with the aircraft rescue and firefighting section with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marine and Royal Thai sailors move in to a burnt aircraft with hand line hoses to put out spot fires and the rest of the cargo area after they used roof turrets to put out the majority of the flames during Exercise Cobra Gold 16 at Utapao, Thailand, Feb. 19, 2016. This training event was designed to build relationships between the two firefighting groups. Cobra Gold is a multi-national exercise with focuses on preserving and promoting peace in the Asia-Pacific region. The Marines with the aircraft rescue and firefighting section with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Military Working Dog Sirius sits near the memorial stone of his former handler, Sgt. Joshua Ashley, outside of 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion’s Ashley Kennels at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 25, 2016, shortly after his retirement ceremony and adoption. Sirius’ former handler, Sgt. Joshua Ashley, was killed while on patrol in 2012 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Ashley’s family adopted Sirius, in keeping with the fallen Marine’s wishes. - Military Working Dog Sirius sits near the memorial stone of his former handler, Sgt. Joshua Ashley, outside of 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion’s Ashley Kennels at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 25, 2016, shortly after his retirement ceremony and adoption. Sirius’ former handler, Sgt. Joshua Ashley, was killed while on patrol in 2012 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Ashley’s family adopted Sirius, in keeping with the fallen Marine’s wishes.

Corporal Jeremy Case tests simulated biohazards during a mock training drill at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Feb. 19, 2016. Marines with with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2, Marine Aircraft Group 14 and Marine Aircraft Group 28 took part in a three-day long training exercise where Marines honed their skills with their equipment and knowledge of protocol. Marines conducted live radiological training at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic as part of additional training to prepare them for any potential situation that may arise in the future and concluded the exercise with a debrief at MCAS Cherry Point. Case is a chemical, biological, radiological nuclear defense specialist with MWHS-2. - Corporal Jeremy Case tests simulated biohazards during a mock training drill at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Feb. 19, 2016. Marines with with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2, Marine Aircraft Group 14 and Marine Aircraft Group 28 took part in a three-day long training exercise where Marines honed their skills with their equipment and knowledge of protocol. Marines conducted live radiological training at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic as part of additional training to prepare them for any potential situation that may arise in the future and concluded the exercise with a debrief at MCAS Cherry Point. Case is a chemical, biological, radiological nuclear defense specialist with MWHS-2.

A U.S. Marine with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade fires the Stinger missile system during a live-fire event in Ørland, Norway, Feb. 24, 2016. The live-fire event was held in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, featuring 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops. - A U.S. Marine with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade fires the Stinger missile system during a live-fire event in Ørland, Norway, Feb. 24, 2016. The live-fire event was held in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, featuring 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops.

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct maintenance on an MV-22B Osprey aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Feb. 17, 2016. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct maintenance on an MV-22B Osprey aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Feb. 17, 2016. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment and 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion,1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, check their communication connections during a scenario-based, battalion-sized amphibious landing exercise for Exercise Iron Fist 2016, Feb. 26, 2016. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise designed to improve USMC and JGSDF’s ability to plan, communicate and conduct combined amphibious operations at the platoon, company and battalion levels. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment and 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion,1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, check their communication connections during a scenario-based, battalion-sized amphibious landing exercise for Exercise Iron Fist 2016, Feb. 26, 2016. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise designed to improve USMC and JGSDF’s ability to plan, communicate and conduct combined amphibious operations at the platoon, company and battalion levels.

Lance Cpl. Christian Frohlich, a radio operator with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liasion Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, relays coordinates to the objective area of a naval gunfire bombing range on San Clemente Island, Feb. 21, 2016, during the supporting arms coordination center exercise (SACCEX) portion of Exercise Iron Fist 2016. The SACCEX provides U.S. and Japanese forces with hands-on experience in tactics proven to be effective in securing enemy-occupied shorelines during large-scale amphibious assaults. - Lance Cpl. Christian Frohlich, a radio operator with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liasion Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, relays coordinates to the objective area of a naval gunfire bombing range on San Clemente Island, Feb. 21, 2016, during the supporting arms coordination center exercise (SACCEX) portion of Exercise Iron Fist 2016. The SACCEX provides U.S. and Japanese forces with hands-on experience in tactics proven to be effective in securing enemy-occupied shorelines during large-scale amphibious assaults.

Charles “Charlie” Bolden, the 12th Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration poses for a photo in a plane he is flying at an unknown location and date. Bolden served 34 years on active duty in the Marines as a Naval aviator, spent 14 years as a member of NASA’s Astronaut Office and retired at the rank of major general. - Charles “Charlie” Bolden, the 12th Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration poses for a photo in a plane he is flying at an unknown location and date. Bolden served 34 years on active duty in the Marines as a Naval aviator, spent 14 years as a member of NASA’s Astronaut Office and retired at the rank of major general.

Lt. Col. David Everly, junior military assistant to the Secretary of Defense, is presented an award at the Black Engineer of the Year 11th Annual Stars and Stripes Dinner Feb. 19, 2016 at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown Grand Ballroom in Philadelphia by Lt. Gen. Ronald Bailey, the Deputy Commandant Plans, Polices and Operations at Headquarters Marine Corps. “If you’re looking for excellence in military hands-on experience, look no further than Lt. Col. Dave Everly,” said Bailey. “Lt. Col. Everly epitomizes our values of courage, honor and commitment as a role model and a mentor.” - Lt. Col. David Everly, junior military assistant to the Secretary of Defense, is presented an award at the Black Engineer of the Year 11th Annual Stars and Stripes Dinner Feb. 19, 2016 at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown Grand Ballroom in Philadelphia by Lt. Gen. Ronald Bailey, the Deputy Commandant Plans, Polices and Operations at Headquarters Marine Corps. “If you’re looking for excellence in military hands-on experience, look no further than Lt. Col. Dave Everly,” said Bailey. “Lt. Col. Everly epitomizes our values of courage, honor and commitment as a role model and a mentor.”

Greg Hudson, Mobile Aircraft Fire Training Device program manager and an Orlando, Florida, native, talks to the Marines about the functions of the Mobile Aircraft Fire Training Device aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Feb. 22. The MAFTD is a computer-operated device and the different functions are controlled via a panel. The MAFTD is used by Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Marines to conduct live-fire training. - Greg Hudson, Mobile Aircraft Fire Training Device program manager and an Orlando, Florida, native, talks to the Marines about the functions of the Mobile Aircraft Fire Training Device aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Feb. 22. The MAFTD is a computer-operated device and the different functions are controlled via a panel. The MAFTD is used by Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Marines to conduct live-fire training.