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Mark Urrutic, project officer for Family of Field Medical Equipment Team at Marine Corps Systems Command, uses an Infrascanner to locate a simulated hematoma on a mannequin's skull while MCSC's Executive Director William Williford looks on at the Navy League's Sea Air Space Exhibition in National Harbor, Maryland, on April 3. The Infrascanner is a portable, medical diagnostic device that provides early detection of intracranial hematomas-or bleeding within the skull-in the field, potentially saving lives and improving casualty care and recovery. - Mark Urrutic, project officer for Family of Field Medical Equipment Team at Marine Corps Systems Command, uses an Infrascanner to locate a simulated hematoma on a mannequin's skull while MCSC's Executive Director William Williford looks on at the Navy League's Sea Air Space Exhibition in National Harbor, Maryland, on April 3. The Infrascanner is a portable, medical diagnostic device that provides early detection of intracranial hematomas-or bleeding within the skull-in the field, potentially saving lives and improving casualty care and recovery.

U.S. Marines attending the Gamerjibe virtual career fair occupy the Marine Corps booth, May 20. - U.S. Marines attending the Gamerjibe virtual career fair occupy the Marine Corps booth, May 20.

Referees for the 4th Annual Joint Services Sitting Volleyball Tournament toss a coin to determine which team will serve at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va. on Nov. 20, 2014. Every November since 2008, the Department of Defense and each branch of the armed forces promotes wounded warrior programs, activities and personal feats of recovery through Warrior Care Month. - Referees for the 4th Annual Joint Services Sitting Volleyball Tournament toss a coin to determine which team will serve at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va. on Nov. 20, 2014. Every November since 2008, the Department of Defense and each branch of the armed forces promotes wounded warrior programs, activities and personal feats of recovery through Warrior Care Month.

Marine Corps Base Quantico welcomes Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Microsoft Software and Systems Academy, Jan. 8, which will allow Marines to get training for promising careers in information technology and various STEM fields. - Marine Corps Base Quantico welcomes Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Microsoft Software and Systems Academy, Jan. 8, which will allow Marines to get training for promising careers in information technology and various STEM fields.

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.

Marine infantrymen make their way to a compound held by Guam Army National Guard who are acting as an opposing force Sept. 20 during the island seizure portion of Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian’s North Field. The Marines were transported from Okinawa to Guam and from there to Tinian. 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 that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are with Company A, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. D. A. Walters/ Released) - Marine infantrymen make their way to a compound held by Guam Army National Guard who are acting as an opposing force Sept. 20 during the island seizure portion of Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian’s North Field. The Marines were transported from Okinawa to Guam and from there to Tinian. 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 that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are with Company A, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. D. A. Walters/ Released)

U.S. Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment conduct MOUT training with Indonesian Marines during the Korps Marinir (KORMAR) Platoon Exchange 2019 program in Surabaya, Indonesia, August 9, 2019. The KORMAR platoon exchange program between Indonesia and the U.S. involves each country sending a platoon of Marines to live and train together at the other's military base. This program enhances the capability of both services and displays their continued commitment to share information and increase the ability to respond to crisis together. (U.S. Marine corps photo by Cpl. Eric Tso) - U.S. Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment conduct MOUT training with Indonesian Marines during the Korps Marinir (KORMAR) Platoon Exchange 2019 program in Surabaya, Indonesia, August 9, 2019. The KORMAR platoon exchange program between Indonesia and the U.S. involves each country sending a platoon of Marines to live and train together at the other's military base. This program enhances the capability of both services and displays their continued commitment to share information and increase the ability to respond to crisis together. (U.S. Marine corps photo by Cpl. Eric Tso)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Luis Gomez, a Wheeling, Illinois native and field artillery fire direction control Marine with 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division, speaks to Staff Sgt. Ramon Santiago, a Yorktown, Virginia native and joint terminal attack controller with 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division, about the Direct Affiliation Program on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 12, 2023. The DAP affords qualified active component Marines the opportunity to affiliate with a Selected Marine Corps Reserve unit or the Individual Mobilization Augmentee program following their expiration of active service with no break in service. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Luis Gomez, a Wheeling, Illinois native and field artillery fire direction control Marine with 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division, speaks to Staff Sgt. Ramon Santiago, a Yorktown, Virginia native and joint terminal attack controller with 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division, about the Direct Affiliation Program on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 12, 2023. The DAP affords qualified active component Marines the opportunity to affiliate with a Selected Marine Corps Reserve unit or the Individual Mobilization Augmentee program following their expiration of active service with no break in service.

Philippine Marines with Marine Battalion Landing Team 10 and U.S Marines with 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division conduct a bilateral beach defense exercise during Balikatan 22, at Aparri Beach, Cagayan, Philippines, March 31. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Balikatan, Tagalog for ‘shoulder-to-shoulder,’ is a long-standing bilateral exercise between the Philippines and the United States highlighting the deep-rooted partnership between both countries. BK22 is the 37th iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation. - Philippine Marines with Marine Battalion Landing Team 10 and U.S Marines with 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division conduct a bilateral beach defense exercise during Balikatan 22, at Aparri Beach, Cagayan, Philippines, March 31. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Balikatan, Tagalog for ‘shoulder-to-shoulder,’ is a long-standing bilateral exercise between the Philippines and the United States highlighting the deep-rooted partnership between both countries. BK22 is the 37th iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation.

Dale Askew pulls out a stretcher from the back of an ambulance at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., June 29. - Dale Askew pulls out a stretcher from the back of an ambulance at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., June 29.

Pilots sit in the cockpit during a training flight from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma to Yokota Air Base May 22, 2018. Training flights are a way for Marine pilots to get flight hours to help maintain their proficiency. They are also used to prepare pilots to fly in harsher weather, if needed. - Pilots sit in the cockpit during a training flight from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma to Yokota Air Base May 22, 2018. Training flights are a way for Marine pilots to get flight hours to help maintain their proficiency. They are also used to prepare pilots to fly in harsher weather, if needed.

Military working dog Oohio preforms an aggression exercise Aug. 31 at the kennels on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The Marine and military working dog are a team. The job of being a handler is always a work in progress. Marines are encouraged to push their limits and learn more when it comes to doing their jobs. They are always learning new techniques and procedures when it comes to performing their job to the best of their abilities. - Military working dog Oohio preforms an aggression exercise Aug. 31 at the kennels on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The Marine and military working dog are a team. The job of being a handler is always a work in progress. Marines are encouraged to push their limits and learn more when it comes to doing their jobs. They are always learning new techniques and procedures when it comes to performing their job to the best of their abilities.

Marines from the Mountain Leaders Section, Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Calif., approach the summit during the touring event at the Mountain Troops Winter Challenge 2018, Chamrousse, France, March 14, 2018. "Team America" is one of six international teams participating in the competition of mountain infantry skills and tactics. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Preston L. Morris) - Marines from the Mountain Leaders Section, Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Calif., approach the summit during the touring event at the Mountain Troops Winter Challenge 2018, Chamrousse, France, March 14, 2018. "Team America" is one of six international teams participating in the competition of mountain infantry skills and tactics. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Preston L. Morris)

A Marine Corps rifle team fires the three-volley salute for Gunnery Sgt. Thomas J. Sullivan’s funeral July 27, 2015, at Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawan, Massachusetts. Sullivan was one of five victims of the Chattanooga, Tennessee shootings July 16, 2015. Sullivan was described by his family and fellow Marines as a Marines Marine, and always had a quirky smile that resembled a kid in a candy store. - A Marine Corps rifle team fires the three-volley salute for Gunnery Sgt. Thomas J. Sullivan’s funeral July 27, 2015, at Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawan, Massachusetts. Sullivan was one of five victims of the Chattanooga, Tennessee shootings July 16, 2015. Sullivan was described by his family and fellow Marines as a Marines Marine, and always had a quirky smile that resembled a kid in a candy store.

Lt. Gen. Richard P. Mills, commander of Marine Forces Reserve, presents a folded flag to the widow of Sgt. Carson Holmquist, a motor transport maintenance chief with Battery M, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, during his funeral July 25, 2015 in Grantsburg, Wisconsin. Holmquist, along with three other Marines and a sailor, was killed in an attack at the Naval Operation Support Center and Marine Corps Reserve Center in Chattanooga, Tennesee July 16, 2015. Marines, family, friends and the community of Grantsburg gathered to honor the memory and sacrifice of Holmquist and his fallen brothers-in-arms. - Lt. Gen. Richard P. Mills, commander of Marine Forces Reserve, presents a folded flag to the widow of Sgt. Carson Holmquist, a motor transport maintenance chief with Battery M, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, during his funeral July 25, 2015 in Grantsburg, Wisconsin. Holmquist, along with three other Marines and a sailor, was killed in an attack at the Naval Operation Support Center and Marine Corps Reserve Center in Chattanooga, Tennesee July 16, 2015. Marines, family, friends and the community of Grantsburg gathered to honor the memory and sacrifice of Holmquist and his fallen brothers-in-arms.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Alex S. Rankin, center, digs a hiding position alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK recon Marines specialize in stealth and scouting, so this training teaches the Marines how to survive without getting caught and still accomplishing the mission. This exercise highlights the two countries’ combined commitment to the defense of the ROK and peace and security in the region. Rankin, a Secane, Pennsylvania, native, is an intelligence specialist with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Alex S. Rankin, center, digs a hiding position alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK recon Marines specialize in stealth and scouting, so this training teaches the Marines how to survive without getting caught and still accomplishing the mission. This exercise highlights the two countries’ combined commitment to the defense of the ROK and peace and security in the region. Rankin, a Secane, Pennsylvania, native, is an intelligence specialist with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division.

Almost 70 years later families, friends, service members and the Honorable Senator Mark R. Warner gathered at the National Museum of the Marine Corps to remember fallen Montford Marine, Cpl. Julius B. Foxx, by awarding his family with the Congressional Gold Medal, Nov. 14. Nearly seven decades ago, as our Nation was at war, more than 2,000 African-American men enlisted in the United States Marine Corps with Foxx being one of many Marines who served with distinction during some of World War II’s bloodiest struggles after completing arduous and segregated basic training at Montford Point Camp. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Sgt. Jose D. Lujano/Released) - Almost 70 years later families, friends, service members and the Honorable Senator Mark R. Warner gathered at the National Museum of the Marine Corps to remember fallen Montford Marine, Cpl. Julius B. Foxx, by awarding his family with the Congressional Gold Medal, Nov. 14. Nearly seven decades ago, as our Nation was at war, more than 2,000 African-American men enlisted in the United States Marine Corps with Foxx being one of many Marines who served with distinction during some of World War II’s bloodiest struggles after completing arduous and segregated basic training at Montford Point Camp. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Sgt. Jose D. Lujano/Released)

Corina Gonzalez and her family pose for a group photo in front of a U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Gonzalez is a Marine Corps veteran and loving mother who volunteers at numerous organizations throughout MCAS Iwakuni, and has proven to be a diligent and dedicated member of the community. - Corina Gonzalez and her family pose for a group photo in front of a U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Gonzalez is a Marine Corps veteran and loving mother who volunteers at numerous organizations throughout MCAS Iwakuni, and has proven to be a diligent and dedicated member of the community.

U.S. Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, board a C-130J Super Hercules on Kadena Air Force Base, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 20, 2023. III MSB sent a small quartering party to prepare the main body movement prior to Bushido Strike 23, a training event in South Korea where III MSB will conduct their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation to validate its mission essential tasks to provide combat service support, and administrative services to III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, board a C-130J Super Hercules on Kadena Air Force Base, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 20, 2023. III MSB sent a small quartering party to prepare the main body movement prior to Bushido Strike 23, a training event in South Korea where III MSB will conduct their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation to validate its mission essential tasks to provide combat service support, and administrative services to III Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Alan Martinezbenegas, a satellite transmissions system operator with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, monitors network status during Exercise Vanguard on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2023. III MIG functions as the vanguard of III MEF, operating in the Indo-Pacific regions information environment, and supports Marine Air Ground Task Force operations with communications, intelligence, and supporting arms liaison capabilities. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Alan Martinezbenegas, a satellite transmissions system operator with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, monitors network status during Exercise Vanguard on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2023. III MIG functions as the vanguard of III MEF, operating in the Indo-Pacific regions information environment, and supports Marine Air Ground Task Force operations with communications, intelligence, and supporting arms liaison capabilities.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Calvin Gravette III, a bulk fuel specialist with Bulk Fuel Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, instructs Marines on the Expeditionary Mobile Fuel Additization on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 12, 2021. Gravette is a graduate from the EMFAC New Equipment Training, and is the lead EMFAC training instructor for III Marine Expeditionary Force. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III MEF’s comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Calvin Gravette III, a bulk fuel specialist with Bulk Fuel Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, instructs Marines on the Expeditionary Mobile Fuel Additization on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 12, 2021. Gravette is a graduate from the EMFAC New Equipment Training, and is the lead EMFAC training instructor for III Marine Expeditionary Force. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III MEF’s comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

1st Sgt. Jamie L. Byrd, left, and Lt. Col. Matthew J. Kessler, uncover the U.S. flag during the III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion activation ceremony, March 22, 2018 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. - 1st Sgt. Jamie L. Byrd, left, and Lt. Col. Matthew J. Kessler, uncover the U.S. flag during the III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion activation ceremony, March 22, 2018 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Kessler, III MSB’s first commanding officer, is from Kingsport, New York, and Byrd, III MSB’s acting sergeant major, is from Greenville, South Carolina. III MSB’s mission is to provide combat service support, security and administrative services to the command elements of III MEF, III Marine Expeditionary Brigade and III MEF Information Group.

U.S. and Japanese national flags are presented during the opening ceremony for the field training exercise portion of Resolute Dragon 23 held at Camp Kengun, Kumamoto, Japan, Oct. 14, 2023. - U.S. and Japanese national flags are presented during the opening ceremony for the field training exercise portion of Resolute Dragon 23 held at Camp Kengun, Kumamoto, Japan, Oct. 14, 2023. RD 23 is an annual bilateral exercise in Japan that strengthens the command, control, and multi-domain maneuver capabilities of Marines in III Marine Expeditionary Force and allied Japan Self-Defense Force personnel. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Robert G. Gavaldon)

U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Brannon Niesent, Fort Collins, Colorado, III Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element G-3 Force Protection officer, works with Republic of Korea (ROK) Marine Capt. Jae Eun Lee, Marine Corps Headquarters FRAGO officer, during Exercise Key Resolve 15 on Camp Mujuk, South Korea, March 10, 2015. Key Resolve is held annually to strengthen ROK-U.S. combat readiness and joint interoperability. - U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Brannon Niesent, Fort Collins, Colorado, III Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element G-3 Force Protection officer, works with Republic of Korea (ROK) Marine Capt. Jae Eun Lee, Marine Corps Headquarters FRAGO officer, during Exercise Key Resolve 15 on Camp Mujuk, South Korea, March 10, 2015. Key Resolve is held annually to strengthen ROK-U.S. combat readiness and joint interoperability.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade Alert Contingency Marine Air Ground Task Force, secure gear and equipment to pallets during an ACM drill on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2022. 3RD MEB is III Marine Expeditionary Force’s Fire Brigade, ready to respond to a wide range of crisis events throughout the Indo-Pacific region as a command-and-control node or as the nucleus of a Joint Task Force, from delivering humanitarian assistance during natural disasters to combat operations. This ACM drill showcased the 3RD MEB’s readiness and validated its ability to rapidly activate and deploy a Forward Command Element. - U.S. Marines with 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade Alert Contingency Marine Air Ground Task Force, secure gear and equipment to pallets during an ACM drill on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2022. 3RD MEB is III Marine Expeditionary Force’s Fire Brigade, ready to respond to a wide range of crisis events throughout the Indo-Pacific region as a command-and-control node or as the nucleus of a Joint Task Force, from delivering humanitarian assistance during natural disasters to combat operations. This ACM drill showcased the 3RD MEB’s readiness and validated its ability to rapidly activate and deploy a Forward Command Element.

Photo provided by U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Marquez. - Photo provided by U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Marquez.

A U.S. Marine launched the first Big Ideas Challenge last August to unleash the creativity and ingenuity of III MEF Marines and sailors against the most pressing challenges facing the Marine Corps. Marines are currently reviewing the submissions along with making recommendations on how to implement them. - A U.S. Marine launched the first Big Ideas Challenge last August to unleash the creativity and ingenuity of III MEF Marines and sailors against the most pressing challenges facing the Marine Corps. Marines are currently reviewing the submissions along with making recommendations on how to implement them.

1st Lt. Cinja Webster smiles for a picture at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, April 30, 2020. - 1st Lt. Cinja Webster smiles for a picture at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, April 30, 2020.

U.S. Marines with the III Marine Expeditionary Force and members of the Japan Ground-Self Defense Force 15th Brigade bands pose for a photo at Tedako Hall in Urasoe, Okinawa, Japan, April 16, 2021. The bands' harmonious performance was a display of the III MEF and 15th Brigade bands' alliance and unity within the musical arts. The annual concert was performed virtually and the recording will debut on social media platforms within the coming weeks. - U.S. Marines with the III Marine Expeditionary Force and members of the Japan Ground-Self Defense Force 15th Brigade bands pose for a photo at Tedako Hall in Urasoe, Okinawa, Japan, April 16, 2021. The bands' harmonious performance was a display of the III MEF and 15th Brigade bands' alliance and unity within the musical arts. The annual concert was performed virtually and the recording will debut on social media platforms within the coming weeks.

The III Marine Expeditionary Force and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force 15th Brigade bands performed together from June 15 to 18, 2020, on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan. - The III Marine Expeditionary Force and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force 15th Brigade bands performed together from June 15 to 18, 2020, on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan.

U.S. Marines with the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band and members with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force 15th Brigade Band perform together during the 25th Annual Combined Concert at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 17. - U.S. Marines with the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band and members with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force 15th Brigade Band perform together during the 25th Annual Combined Concert at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 17.

Republic of Korea Marine Corps 1st Lt. Rukhan Lee, an interpreter with ROK Marine Corps Headquarters, center, facilitates a conversation between U.S. Marine Corps Col. Andrew Gourgoumis, current operations officer with III Marine Expeditionary Force, right, and ROK Marine Corps Lt. Col. Jaemyoung Lee, an exercise planning officer with ROK Marine Corps Headquarters, left, in the Landing Force Operations Center aboard the USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19) in support of Ulchi Freedom Shield 23, August 25, 2023. U.S. 7th Fleet’s flagship USS Blue Ridge is in port at Fleet Activities Yokosuka in Yokosuka, Japan. Ulchi Freedom Shield is a defense-oriented exercise designed to strengthen the ROK-U.S. Alliance, enhance our combined defense posture, and strengthen security and stability on the Korean peninsula. Gourgoumis is a native of Boston. - Republic of Korea Marine Corps 1st Lt. Rukhan Lee, an interpreter with ROK Marine Corps Headquarters, center, facilitates a conversation between U.S. Marine Corps Col. Andrew Gourgoumis, current operations officer with III Marine Expeditionary Force, right, and ROK Marine Corps Lt. Col. Jaemyoung Lee, an exercise planning officer with ROK Marine Corps Headquarters, left, in the Landing Force Operations Center aboard the USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19) in support of Ulchi Freedom Shield 23, August 25, 2023. U.S. 7th Fleet’s flagship USS Blue Ridge is in port at Fleet Activities Yokosuka in Yokosuka, Japan. Ulchi Freedom Shield is a defense-oriented exercise designed to strengthen the ROK-U.S. Alliance, enhance our combined defense posture, and strengthen security and stability on the Korean peninsula. Gourgoumis is a native of Boston.

RD 24 is an annual bilateral exercise in Japan that strengthens the command, control, and multi-domain maneuver capabilities of U.S. Marines in the III Marine Expeditionary Force and Japan Self-Defense Force personnel, with a focus on controlling and defending key maritime terrain. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew Morales) - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Roger Turner, commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force, communicates with Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Lt. Gen. Masayoshi Arai, commanding general of the Western Army, during exercise Resolute Dragon 24 at JGSDF Camp Yonaguni, Okinawa, Japan, August 4, 2024. RD 24 is an annual bilateral exercise in Japan that strengthens the command, control, and multi-domain maneuver capabilities of U.S. Marines in the III Marine Expeditionary Force and Japan Self-Defense Force personnel, with a focus on controlling and defending key maritime terrain. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew Morales)

U.S. Marines with the III Marine Expeditionary Force clean their weapons outside the combat operations center in Combat Town, Camp Hansen, Okinawa Japan, Sept. 13, 2025, during the Command Post Exercise portion of Resolute Dragon 25. Resolute Dragon 25 is an annual bilateral exercise across Japan, including the southwest islands, that strengthens the command, control and multidomain maneuver capabilities of III MEF and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Western Army personnel, alongside representatives across the U.S. and Japanese Joint Force, with a focus on controlling and defending key maritime terrain. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Daniel Wetzel) - U.S. Marines with the III Marine Expeditionary Force clean their weapons outside the combat operations center in Combat Town, Camp Hansen, Okinawa Japan, Sept. 13, 2025, during the Command Post Exercise portion of Resolute Dragon 25. Resolute Dragon 25 is an annual bilateral exercise across Japan, including the southwest islands, that strengthens the command, control and multidomain maneuver capabilities of III MEF and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Western Army personnel, alongside representatives across the U.S. and Japanese Joint Force, with a focus on controlling and defending key maritime terrain. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Daniel Wetzel)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Matthew Kamm, left, a transmission systems operator, and Lance Cpl. Ali Fish, right, a data system administrator, both with Communications Company, Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, load a fallen tree into a USMC 7-ton on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Aug. 7, 2023. Typhoon Khanun moved through Okinawa as a category 4 hurricane equivalent storm, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and high waves, marking one of the strongest storms to affect the island in recent years. Immediately after the storm, crews from across Marine Corps Installation Pacific and III Marine Expeditionary Force began assessing damage and initiating repair work to ensure the Marines on Okinawa remain operationally ready. Kamm is a native of Concord, California, and Fish is a native of Adel, Georgia. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Matthew Kamm, left, a transmission systems operator, and Lance Cpl. Ali Fish, right, a data system administrator, both with Communications Company, Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, load a fallen tree into a USMC 7-ton on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Aug. 7, 2023. Typhoon Khanun moved through Okinawa as a category 4 hurricane equivalent storm, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and high waves, marking one of the strongest storms to affect the island in recent years. Immediately after the storm, crews from across Marine Corps Installation Pacific and III Marine Expeditionary Force began assessing damage and initiating repair work to ensure the Marines on Okinawa remain operationally ready. Kamm is a native of Concord, California, and Fish is a native of Adel, Georgia.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy, III Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, arrives at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni during MEFEX 21. - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy, III Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, arrives at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni during MEFEX 21.

U.S. Marines participate in a foot patrol during cold-weather training at Bjerkvik, Norway, Feb. 23. - U.S. Marines participate in a foot patrol during cold-weather training at Bjerkvik, Norway, Feb. 23.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Kaleb, a crew chief with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 Clark sits on the CH-53E Super Stallion’s ramp as the aircraft leaves the USNS D. T. Williams, April 5, 2021. 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing is participating in Dynamic Cape 21.1, an operational logistics exercise simulating a Marine expeditionary force’s ability to exercise command and control in a contested environment as well as exercising naval integration in a joint environment. 2nd CEB is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Division, the ground combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. HMH-461 is a subordinate unit to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, which is the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Kaleb, a crew chief with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 Clark sits on the CH-53E Super Stallion’s ramp as the aircraft leaves the USNS D. T. Williams, April 5, 2021. 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing is participating in Dynamic Cape 21.1, an operational logistics exercise simulating a Marine expeditionary force’s ability to exercise command and control in a contested environment as well as exercising naval integration in a joint environment. 2nd CEB is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Division, the ground combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. HMH-461 is a subordinate unit to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, which is the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared Curtis, and Lance Cpl. Dylan Shawver, guard force sentries with 2d Marine Expeditionary Support Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, pose with a portable handset enabled with PacStar Radio over Internet Protocol during Exercise Cold Response 2022, Bodo, Norway, March 9, 2022. PacStar RoIP is a critical communication capability which enables instantaneous and simultaneous two-way radio communication using local and worldwide internet networks. Exercise Cold Response '22 is a biennial Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise that takes place across Norway, with participation from each of its military services, as well as from 26 additional North Atlantic Treaty Organization allied nations and regional partners. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared Curtis, and Lance Cpl. Dylan Shawver, guard force sentries with 2d Marine Expeditionary Support Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, pose with a portable handset enabled with PacStar Radio over Internet Protocol during Exercise Cold Response 2022, Bodo, Norway, March 9, 2022. PacStar RoIP is a critical communication capability which enables instantaneous and simultaneous two-way radio communication using local and worldwide internet networks. Exercise Cold Response '22 is a biennial Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise that takes place across Norway, with participation from each of its military services, as well as from 26 additional North Atlantic Treaty Organization allied nations and regional partners.

U.S. Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force conduct a training press conference with Communication Strategy and Operations Marines during Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise-23, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 16, 2023. MEFEX is an exercise that develops command and control capabilities and warfighting functions of the MEF staff as an operational command in preparation for crisis across the spectrum of conflict. In the scenario, MEF staff developed the ability to coordinate with non-governmental organizations, U. S. Agency for International Development, and other agencies in response to a foreign humanitarian crisis. - U.S. Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force conduct a training press conference with Communication Strategy and Operations Marines during Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise-23, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 16, 2023. MEFEX is an exercise that develops command and control capabilities and warfighting functions of the MEF staff as an operational command in preparation for crisis across the spectrum of conflict. In the scenario, MEF staff developed the ability to coordinate with non-governmental organizations, U. S. Agency for International Development, and other agencies in response to a foreign humanitarian crisis.

A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, holds his post as his platoon prepares to ambush a notional enemy during Mountain Exercise 1-16, at Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California, Jan. 12, 2016. Marines with the unit took on the Mountain Warfare Course in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16 in the near future. - A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, holds his post as his platoon prepares to ambush a notional enemy during Mountain Exercise 1-16, at Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California, Jan. 12, 2016. Marines with the unit took on the Mountain Warfare Course in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16 in the near future.

A U.S. Marine boards an MV-22B Osprey as they prepare for takeoff from the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., April 10. - A U.S. Marine boards an MV-22B Osprey as they prepare for takeoff from the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., April 10.

Tents, communication networks and vehicles are set up for Marines to operate during MEFEX 16 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 16, 2016. MEFEX 16 is a command and control exercise conducted in a simulated deployed environment designed to synchronize and bring to bear the full spectrum of II Marine Expeditionary Force's C2 capabilities in support of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force. Conducting exercises of this nature ensures II MEF remains ready to provide the Marine Corps with an experienced staff capable of integrating with international allies and partner nations in a combined joint task force, charged with accomplishing a wide range of military operations. - Tents, communication networks and vehicles are set up for Marines to operate during MEFEX 16 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 16, 2016. MEFEX 16 is a command and control exercise conducted in a simulated deployed environment designed to synchronize and bring to bear the full spectrum of II Marine Expeditionary Force's C2 capabilities in support of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force. Conducting exercises of this nature ensures II MEF remains ready to provide the Marine Corps with an experienced staff capable of integrating with international allies and partner nations in a combined joint task force, charged with accomplishing a wide range of military operations.

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U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Sarah Murphy, a MAGTF planner assigned to 2nd Marine Logistics Group, participates in the Basic Analytic Wargaming Course on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 22, 2022. The BAWC is a 5-day course that provides students a hands-on experience with designing, developing, executing, and analyzing wargames. Wargames are a form of strategy game and essential to applying Marine Corps concepts of the 21st century, replicating or creating military scenarios that assists military personnel to train the mind in the art of strategic thinking. - U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Sarah Murphy, a MAGTF planner assigned to 2nd Marine Logistics Group, participates in the Basic Analytic Wargaming Course on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 22, 2022. The BAWC is a 5-day course that provides students a hands-on experience with designing, developing, executing, and analyzing wargames. Wargames are a form of strategy game and essential to applying Marine Corps concepts of the 21st century, replicating or creating military scenarios that assists military personnel to train the mind in the art of strategic thinking.

Norwegian Army Lt. Col. Per Espen Strande, commanding officer, Norwegian Military Intelligence Battalion, exchanges a challenge coin with U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Eric Tee, commanding officer, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, during a visit aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 15, 2021. II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) intelligence commanders welcomed their counterparts with a tour of facilities and workspaces showcasing their capabilities. II MEF hosts also briefed on intelligence integration, mission accomplishment, and strengthening partnerships amongst the individual units. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jesus Sepulveda Torres) - Norwegian Army Lt. Col. Per Espen Strande, commanding officer, Norwegian Military Intelligence Battalion, exchanges a challenge coin with U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Eric Tee, commanding officer, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, during a visit aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 15, 2021. II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) intelligence commanders welcomed their counterparts with a tour of facilities and workspaces showcasing their capabilities. II MEF hosts also briefed on intelligence integration, mission accomplishment, and strengthening partnerships amongst the individual units. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jesus Sepulveda Torres)

U.S. Navy personnel with U.S. Navy Amphibious Warfare Tactics Instructor Course receive a capability brief on a Micro Tactical Ground Explosive Ordnance Disposal Robot from a Marine with Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division on September 7-8, 2022, on Marine Corps Air Station New River and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. II MEF units gave AMW-WTI students capability briefs in order to familiarize them with the landward environment, planning considerations, and exposure to all the elements of the Fleet Marine Force. - U.S. Navy personnel with U.S. Navy Amphibious Warfare Tactics Instructor Course receive a capability brief on a Micro Tactical Ground Explosive Ordnance Disposal Robot from a Marine with Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division on September 7-8, 2022, on Marine Corps Air Station New River and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. II MEF units gave AMW-WTI students capability briefs in order to familiarize them with the landward environment, planning considerations, and exposure to all the elements of the Fleet Marine Force.

Lance Cpl. Dwayne Adams, a marksmanship instructor attached to II MEF Headquarters Group and Bronx, N.Y., native, provides security during the practical application portion of a class on combat formations during a MHG field exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 12-19, 2015. The purpose of the FEX was to allow the Marines the opportunity to test their skill sets and find areas of improvement. - Lance Cpl. Dwayne Adams, a marksmanship instructor attached to II MEF Headquarters Group and Bronx, N.Y., native, provides security during the practical application portion of a class on combat formations during a MHG field exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 12-19, 2015. The purpose of the FEX was to allow the Marines the opportunity to test their skill sets and find areas of improvement.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Brandon Garton, a student taking the Joint Humanitarian Operations Course, presents for a group exercise during the course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2023. The course trains and prepares the II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element to become a Joint Task Force–Capable headquarters; able to rapidly organize and establish command and control of joint forces to effectively execute potential humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions in joint and multinational environments. - U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Brandon Garton, a student taking the Joint Humanitarian Operations Course, presents for a group exercise during the course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2023. The course trains and prepares the II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element to become a Joint Task Force–Capable headquarters; able to rapidly organize and establish command and control of joint forces to effectively execute potential humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions in joint and multinational environments.

U.S. Marines assigned to II Marine Expeditionary Force board the Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS Trenton (T-EPF 5) in Ljubljana, Slovenia, Nov. 16, 2022. Marines assigned to II MEF, based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, embarked aboard USNS Trenton to improve interoperability while refining the U.S. capability to rapidly deploy forces aboard U.S. Navy expeditionary fast transport vessels. - U.S. Marines assigned to II Marine Expeditionary Force board the Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS Trenton (T-EPF 5) in Ljubljana, Slovenia, Nov. 16, 2022. Marines assigned to II MEF, based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, embarked aboard USNS Trenton to improve interoperability while refining the U.S. capability to rapidly deploy forces aboard U.S. Navy expeditionary fast transport vessels.