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Lance Cpl. Samuel T. Mahaffey, a motor vehicle operator with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, fires a practice M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a convoy operations training simulation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 9, 2016. Throughout the simulation, vehicle gunners practiced using the M2 .50-caliber machine gun and Mk-19 automatic grenade launcher. - Lance Cpl. Samuel T. Mahaffey, a motor vehicle operator with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, fires a practice M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a convoy operations training simulation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 9, 2016. Throughout the simulation, vehicle gunners practiced using the M2 .50-caliber machine gun and Mk-19 automatic grenade launcher.

Marines plot objective points on a map to reach during a combat endurance challenge Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Feb. 5, 2016. The challenge consisted of hiking nearly seven miles, testing weapons systems, combat lifesaving skills, land navigation and simulated casualty evacuation. The Marines with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment conducted the training aboard MCB Camp Pendleton. - Marines plot objective points on a map to reach during a combat endurance challenge Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Feb. 5, 2016. The challenge consisted of hiking nearly seven miles, testing weapons systems, combat lifesaving skills, land navigation and simulated casualty evacuation. The Marines with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment conducted the training aboard MCB Camp Pendleton.

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Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, prepare to unload two M1A1 Abrams tanks following their transport across New River by using a seven-bay raft system during a water-crossing operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 4, 2016. The unit boasts a wide range of raft systems and bridging that it is able to do to allow tactical vehicles to cross large bodies of water. - Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, prepare to unload two M1A1 Abrams tanks following their transport across New River by using a seven-bay raft system during a water-crossing operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 4, 2016. The unit boasts a wide range of raft systems and bridging that it is able to do to allow tactical vehicles to cross large bodies of water.

Marines breach a house during hostage scenario training aboard Laurel Bay Feb. 4. Each section had a specific role to play in the field. It is necessary for Marines to train under realistic circumstances should a security threat arise on Laurel Bay. The Marines are with the Provost Marshal’s Office aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. - Marines breach a house during hostage scenario training aboard Laurel Bay Feb. 4. Each section had a specific role to play in the field. It is necessary for Marines to train under realistic circumstances should a security threat arise on Laurel Bay. The Marines are with the Provost Marshal’s Office aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

A memorial for two pilots with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, who passed away following a mishap last year, stands at the Strategic Expeditionary Landing Field, at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty nine Palms, Calif. Jan. 23, 2016. Marine Wing Support Squadron 374 completed the memorial in time to be unveiled on the anniversary of the incident. - A memorial for two pilots with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, who passed away following a mishap last year, stands at the Strategic Expeditionary Landing Field, at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty nine Palms, Calif. Jan. 23, 2016. Marine Wing Support Squadron 374 completed the memorial in time to be unveiled on the anniversary of the incident.

Lieutenant Gen. Jon M. Davis, right, salutes the casket of Lt. Gen. William H. Fitch (ret.) at Quantico National Cemetery, Feb. 4, 2016, in Triangle, Virginia. Fitch died Jan. 19, 2016. He served as the Deputy Commandant for Aviation before he retired in 1984 after 32 years as a Marine Corps officer. - Lieutenant Gen. Jon M. Davis, right, salutes the casket of Lt. Gen. William H. Fitch (ret.) at Quantico National Cemetery, Feb. 4, 2016, in Triangle, Virginia. Fitch died Jan. 19, 2016. He served as the Deputy Commandant for Aviation before he retired in 1984 after 32 years as a Marine Corps officer.

Staff Sgt. Nathan A. Hervey, an instructor with the Advanced Infantry Training Battalion at the School of Infantry-East, speaks to Marines at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 5, 2016. Hervey was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with the combat distinguishing device for valor, and was recognized for extraordinary heroism for his actions on May 21, 2011, while carrying out his duties as a scout sniper section leader with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. - Staff Sgt. Nathan A. Hervey, an instructor with the Advanced Infantry Training Battalion at the School of Infantry-East, speaks to Marines at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 5, 2016. Hervey was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with the combat distinguishing device for valor, and was recognized for extraordinary heroism for his actions on May 21, 2011, while carrying out his duties as a scout sniper section leader with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

A Marine with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, loads an electronic M2 .50-caliber machine gun in a Combat Convoy Simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 2, 2016. The CCS at first glance looks like an expensive, high-tech video game, but its primary use is preparing Marines for real-world combat missions with simulations of realistic scenarios. - A Marine with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, loads an electronic M2 .50-caliber machine gun in a Combat Convoy Simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 2, 2016. The CCS at first glance looks like an expensive, high-tech video game, but its primary use is preparing Marines for real-world combat missions with simulations of realistic scenarios.

1st Lt. Nicholas Patistas, the adjutant with Black Sea Rotational Force, attempts to break the ice cold-weather training at Skoganvarre, Norway, Feb. 5, 2016. The Arctic training was conducted by the U.K. Royal Commandos and hosted by the Norwegian military to improve the U.S. Marine Corps’ capability to support their NATO Allies in extreme environments. - 1st Lt. Nicholas Patistas, the adjutant with Black Sea Rotational Force, attempts to break the ice cold-weather training at Skoganvarre, Norway, Feb. 5, 2016. The Arctic training was conducted by the U.K. Royal Commandos and hosted by the Norwegian military to improve the U.S. Marine Corps’ capability to support their NATO Allies in extreme environments.

Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 464 load a CH-53E Super Stallion onto a C-5 Galaxy in preparation for Operation Cold Response 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Feb. 3, 2016. The key purpose of Cold Response is to train and educate participants on how to conduct combat operations in a cold weather environment. Up to 2,000 Marines and 15,000 military personnel from 14 nations will attend the North Atlantic Treaty Organization-level exercise. - Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 464 load a CH-53E Super Stallion onto a C-5 Galaxy in preparation for Operation Cold Response 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Feb. 3, 2016. The key purpose of Cold Response is to train and educate participants on how to conduct combat operations in a cold weather environment. Up to 2,000 Marines and 15,000 military personnel from 14 nations will attend the North Atlantic Treaty Organization-level exercise.

Major Gen. Joseph L. Osterman, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, presents Petty Officer 2nd Class Alejandro Salabarria, a corpsman with Marine Special Operations Company F, 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, the Silver Star Medal during a ceremony at Stone Bay, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 5, 2016. Salabarria was awarded for his actions in Afghanistan Sept. 15, 2014. - Major Gen. Joseph L. Osterman, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, presents Petty Officer 2nd Class Alejandro Salabarria, a corpsman with Marine Special Operations Company F, 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, the Silver Star Medal during a ceremony at Stone Bay, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 5, 2016. Salabarria was awarded for his actions in Afghanistan Sept. 15, 2014.

Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 land a UH-1Y Huey to refuel during exercise Scorpion Fire 1-16 on Navy Air Facility El Centro, Calif., Jan. 25, 2016. HMLA-267 supported the exercise with close air support and live-fire capabilities, Jan. 25 to Feb. 5, 2016. - Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 land a UH-1Y Huey to refuel during exercise Scorpion Fire 1-16 on Navy Air Facility El Centro, Calif., Jan. 25, 2016. HMLA-267 supported the exercise with close air support and live-fire capabilities, Jan. 25 to Feb. 5, 2016.

Lance Cpl. Andrew Metler, a mortarman with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, mans the turret gun of a Humvee during a patrol in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, Jan. 1, 2016. U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF-CR-CC are responsible for the force protection of some Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve bases within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. - Lance Cpl. Andrew Metler, a mortarman with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, mans the turret gun of a Humvee during a patrol in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, Jan. 1, 2016. U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF-CR-CC are responsible for the force protection of some Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve bases within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

Marines gather for an after action report during an aircraft recovery training exercise at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Feb. 2, 2016. Aircraft rescue and firefighting Marines, heavy equipment operators, bulk fuels specialists, motor transportation Marines and combat engineers with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 worked hand-in-hand to retrieve a simulated downed aircraft. They were given a scenario and were tasked to provide a security perimeter around the aircraft while securing and transporting the aircraft in a safe and effective manner. The ability to retrieve aircraft without the aid of outside resources increases the unit’s effectiveness and their expeditionary capabilities. - Marines gather for an after action report during an aircraft recovery training exercise at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Feb. 2, 2016. Aircraft rescue and firefighting Marines, heavy equipment operators, bulk fuels specialists, motor transportation Marines and combat engineers with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 worked hand-in-hand to retrieve a simulated downed aircraft. They were given a scenario and were tasked to provide a security perimeter around the aircraft while securing and transporting the aircraft in a safe and effective manner. The ability to retrieve aircraft without the aid of outside resources increases the unit’s effectiveness and their expeditionary capabilities.

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Cpl. Robert Schmitt sews an Arctic camouflage net during cold weather training at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, California, Jan. 21, 2016. The cold weather training done in the Sierra Mountains is a warm-up to Exercise Cold Response 1-16 in Norway. Nearly 80 Marines with 2nd LAAD Bn. participated in the two-weeklong exercise that taught basic mobility in snow, defensive and offensive tactics as well as basic cold weather and high altitude conditions training. - Cpl. Robert Schmitt sews an Arctic camouflage net during cold weather training at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, California, Jan. 21, 2016. The cold weather training done in the Sierra Mountains is a warm-up to Exercise Cold Response 1-16 in Norway. Nearly 80 Marines with 2nd LAAD Bn. participated in the two-weeklong exercise that taught basic mobility in snow, defensive and offensive tactics as well as basic cold weather and high altitude conditions training.

Sgt. Gordon Rodgers, a field radio operator with Headquarters Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, raises an antenna during a command post exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 2, 2016. The mission of 2nd Marine Logistics Group is to provide general support combat logistics to all forces operating in the II Marine Expeditionary Force battlespace. - Sgt. Gordon Rodgers, a field radio operator with Headquarters Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, raises an antenna during a command post exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 2, 2016. The mission of 2nd Marine Logistics Group is to provide general support combat logistics to all forces operating in the II Marine Expeditionary Force battlespace.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Mark Skaggs teaches Marines how to properly lift and carry casualties during a simulated causality evacuation scenario at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 27 2016. This training was part of the newly formed combat operation medical emergency transport training. COMETT exposes the aircrew to medical emergencies and procedures they may encounter in combat and non-combat environments. Skaggs, a Pensacola native, is an aeromedical safety corpsman with Marine Aircraft Group 29. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Mark Skaggs teaches Marines how to properly lift and carry casualties during a simulated causality evacuation scenario at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 27 2016. This training was part of the newly formed combat operation medical emergency transport training. COMETT exposes the aircrew to medical emergencies and procedures they may encounter in combat and non-combat environments. Skaggs, a Pensacola native, is an aeromedical safety corpsman with Marine Aircraft Group 29.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Justin Urbany (Right,) 81mm mortar section leader, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, gives a range safety brief to Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Soldiers, prior to a live-fire mortar range, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 1, 2016. This mortar range is a part of the second of four phases of training the soldiers of the JGSDF and USMC will be conducting during Exercise Iron Fist. This phase focuses on small unit skills and tactics before moving on to larger scale operations. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Justin Urbany (Right,) 81mm mortar section leader, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, gives a range safety brief to Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Soldiers, prior to a live-fire mortar range, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 1, 2016. This mortar range is a part of the second of four phases of training the soldiers of the JGSDF and USMC will be conducting during Exercise Iron Fist. This phase focuses on small unit skills and tactics before moving on to larger scale operations.

Soldiers of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Western Army Infantry Regiment Scout Sniper Program move out on a patrol through an area with mock enemies to practice breaking contact drills during an abbreviated scout sniper course, instructed by U.S. Marine Corps instructors, during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 1, 2016 Break contact drills are important as sniper teams are typically small, with limited firepower and ammunition. During break contact drills, the team moves to a location where the enemy cannot observe and fire upon them. - Soldiers of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Western Army Infantry Regiment Scout Sniper Program move out on a patrol through an area with mock enemies to practice breaking contact drills during an abbreviated scout sniper course, instructed by U.S. Marine Corps instructors, during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 1, 2016 Break contact drills are important as sniper teams are typically small, with limited firepower and ammunition. During break contact drills, the team moves to a location where the enemy cannot observe and fire upon them.

Combat engineers and assaultmen with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, march toward a Bangalore torpedo impact zone during a Deployment for Training exercise at Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Jan 28, 2016. The range was intended to ensure Marines maintain weapon systems proficiency while preparing them for their upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan. - Combat engineers and assaultmen with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, march toward a Bangalore torpedo impact zone during a Deployment for Training exercise at Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Jan 28, 2016. The range was intended to ensure Marines maintain weapon systems proficiency while preparing them for their upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan.

Marines with Company A, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, use avalanche probes in search for a simulated casualty during an avalanche scenario at the Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California, Jan. 20, 2016. Marines across II Marine Expeditionary Force and 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade took part in the scenario as part of Mountain Exercise 1-16 in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16.1 in Norway this March. The exercise will feature military training including maritime, land and air operations that underscore NATO's ability to defend against any threat in any environment. - Marines with Company A, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, use avalanche probes in search for a simulated casualty during an avalanche scenario at the Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California, Jan. 20, 2016. Marines across II Marine Expeditionary Force and 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade took part in the scenario as part of Mountain Exercise 1-16 in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16.1 in Norway this March. The exercise will feature military training including maritime, land and air operations that underscore NATO's ability to defend against any threat in any environment.

The MK-2 Mod 1 Talon, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot controlled by Marines with EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, is used instead of Marines to acquire initial visuals of an improvised explosive device during an IED access training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 29, 2016. During the exercise, evaluators assessed Marines on safely locating and disposing of an IED while suppressing the full capabilities of the threat. - The MK-2 Mod 1 Talon, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot controlled by Marines with EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, is used instead of Marines to acquire initial visuals of an improvised explosive device during an IED access training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 29, 2016. During the exercise, evaluators assessed Marines on safely locating and disposing of an IED while suppressing the full capabilities of the threat.

Captain Scott Williams, company commander of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, dives out of a rigid-hulled inflatable boat to conduct underwater search operations training off the coast of California, Jan. 28, 2016. The Marines and Sailors of Co. A will use their dive ability to give the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit a valuable underwater search tool when it deploys later this year. - Captain Scott Williams, company commander of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, dives out of a rigid-hulled inflatable boat to conduct underwater search operations training off the coast of California, Jan. 28, 2016. The Marines and Sailors of Co. A will use their dive ability to give the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit a valuable underwater search tool when it deploys later this year.

Pfc. Nathan Murdock, rifleman, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, fires his M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle at a target during the Designated Marksman Course’s culminating event at Range 113, Jan. 28, 2016. - Pfc. Nathan Murdock, rifleman, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, fires his M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle at a target during the Designated Marksman Course’s culminating event at Range 113, Jan. 28, 2016.

Cpl. Immanuel Friddle, guide for Combat Logistics Battalion 252, prepares for a hike in Bridgeport, California, during Mountain Exercise 1-16, a cold weather training exercise, on Jan. 11, 2016. The training is a prerequisite for a large, multi-national exercise called Cold Response 16 that will take place in Norway, March of this year. Cold Response will challenge 12 NATO allies’ and partners’ abilities to work together and respond in the case of a crisis. - Cpl. Immanuel Friddle, guide for Combat Logistics Battalion 252, prepares for a hike in Bridgeport, California, during Mountain Exercise 1-16, a cold weather training exercise, on Jan. 11, 2016. The training is a prerequisite for a large, multi-national exercise called Cold Response 16 that will take place in Norway, March of this year. Cold Response will challenge 12 NATO allies’ and partners’ abilities to work together and respond in the case of a crisis.

Corpsmen with 2nd Medical Battalion rush role-playing patients into a medical tent at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C, Jan. 28, 2016. The training is preparing a Shock Trauma Squad to treat cold related injuries for an upcoming multinational exercise, Cold Response 16.1, in Norway. - Corpsmen with 2nd Medical Battalion rush role-playing patients into a medical tent at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C, Jan. 28, 2016. The training is preparing a Shock Trauma Squad to treat cold related injuries for an upcoming multinational exercise, Cold Response 16.1, in Norway.

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.

Marines with 7th Engineer Support Battalion from Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., test Improved Ribbon Bridge components with representatives from Marine Corps Systems Command, and Marine Corps Engineer School, at Production Plant Barstow's test pond aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow’s Yermo Annex, Calif., Jan. 25, 2016 - Marines with 7th Engineer Support Battalion from Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., test Improved Ribbon Bridge components with representatives from Marine Corps Systems Command, and Marine Corps Engineer School, at Production Plant Barstow's test pond aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow’s Yermo Annex, Calif., Jan. 25, 2016

First Sgt. Shonor Burton runs through a non-lethal weapons course while blinded by the effects of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, Jan. 26, 2016. Burton is the company first sergeant for Company B, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. - First Sgt. Shonor Burton runs through a non-lethal weapons course while blinded by the effects of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, Jan. 26, 2016. Burton is the company first sergeant for Company B, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California.

Lance Cpl. Curtis L. Brown, a rifleman with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, assaults targets down range during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28, 2016. The company reinforced infantry fundamentals at all levels, beginning with fire team tactics before advancing to squad-level exercises. - Lance Cpl. Curtis L. Brown, a rifleman with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, assaults targets down range during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28, 2016. The company reinforced infantry fundamentals at all levels, beginning with fire team tactics before advancing to squad-level exercises.

Pfc. Merrick Martius, a Light Armored Vehicle crewman, provides maintenance for an infrared light on an LAV-25 during a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. The qualification test consisted of gunnery training, communication between the vehicle commander and the driver, and cooperation between the crewmembers of the LAV and the command tower. This allows Marines to fire accurately when aiming on targets down range. Martius is an LAV crewman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Pfc. Merrick Martius, a Light Armored Vehicle crewman, provides maintenance for an infrared light on an LAV-25 during a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. The qualification test consisted of gunnery training, communication between the vehicle commander and the driver, and cooperation between the crewmembers of the LAV and the command tower. This allows Marines to fire accurately when aiming on targets down range. Martius is an LAV crewman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

Caroline B. Kennedy, U.S. ambassador to Japan, speaks to Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152) at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 28, 2016. This is Ambassador Kennedy’s first official visit to MCAS Iwakuni. While at the squadron’s hangar, Kennedy viewed a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft, gaining an understanding on the multiple capabilities of the aircraft in the Pacific theater. This visit also helped the ambassador better understand MCAS Iwakuni’s community and witness the ongoing transformation of the air station through the multitude of construction projects. - Caroline B. Kennedy, U.S. ambassador to Japan, speaks to Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152) at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 28, 2016. This is Ambassador Kennedy’s first official visit to MCAS Iwakuni. While at the squadron’s hangar, Kennedy viewed a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft, gaining an understanding on the multiple capabilities of the aircraft in the Pacific theater. This visit also helped the ambassador better understand MCAS Iwakuni’s community and witness the ongoing transformation of the air station through the multitude of construction projects.

A soldier with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Western Army Infantry Regiment looks out from the driver’s seat of an amphibious assault vehicle onto a simulated battlefield during training during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 26. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise designed to improve U.S. Marine Corps and JGSDF’s ability to plan, communicate and conduct combined amphibious operations. The exercise provides valuable training to warriors from different cultures, and the opportunity to build camaraderie between the U.S. and Japanese militaries. - A soldier with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Western Army Infantry Regiment looks out from the driver’s seat of an amphibious assault vehicle onto a simulated battlefield during training during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 26. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise designed to improve U.S. Marine Corps and JGSDF’s ability to plan, communicate and conduct combined amphibious operations. The exercise provides valuable training to warriors from different cultures, and the opportunity to build camaraderie between the U.S. and Japanese militaries.

U.S. Marines with the Ground Combat Element, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, run toward an MV-22B Osprey after recovering a simulated casualty during an alert-force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, January 23, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-sustaining crisis-response force prepared for the protection of American personnel and facilities on the African continent when directed. - U.S. Marines with the Ground Combat Element, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, run toward an MV-22B Osprey after recovering a simulated casualty during an alert-force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, January 23, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-sustaining crisis-response force prepared for the protection of American personnel and facilities on the African continent when directed.

Marines look over the hill tops at their targets as the sun sets at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 13, 2016. The Marines are a mix of Joint Tactical Attack Controllers and Joint Fire Observers who are responsible for directing fires of artillery and aircraft. The Marines are with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines look over the hill tops at their targets as the sun sets at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 13, 2016. The Marines are a mix of Joint Tactical Attack Controllers and Joint Fire Observers who are responsible for directing fires of artillery and aircraft. The Marines are with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center’s Pre-Scout Sniper Course departs a field following a stalking exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 22, 2016. The DCSC offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines. - A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center’s Pre-Scout Sniper Course departs a field following a stalking exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 22, 2016. The DCSC offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines.

Sgt. DeMonte R. Cheeley is presented the Purple Heart medal by Brig. Gen. Terry V. Williams Jan. 26, 2015, at a ceremony in Chattanooga, Tenn. Cheeley received the Purple Heart for injuries he sustained during a July 16, 2015 attack in Chattanooga at the Armed Forces Career Center where he works. An investigation conducted by the FBI and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service determined the attack had been inspired by a foreign terrorist group making Cheeley eligible for the Purple Heart. Cheeley is a Recruiting Substation Chattanooga recruiter in Chattanooga, Tenn. Williams is the Commanding General of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island and Eastern Recruiting Region. - Sgt. DeMonte R. Cheeley is presented the Purple Heart medal by Brig. Gen. Terry V. Williams Jan. 26, 2015, at a ceremony in Chattanooga, Tenn. Cheeley received the Purple Heart for injuries he sustained during a July 16, 2015 attack in Chattanooga at the Armed Forces Career Center where he works. An investigation conducted by the FBI and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service determined the attack had been inspired by a foreign terrorist group making Cheeley eligible for the Purple Heart. Cheeley is a Recruiting Substation Chattanooga recruiter in Chattanooga, Tenn. Williams is the Commanding General of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island and Eastern Recruiting Region.

Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command dive out the back of a MV-22B Osprey with the goal of hitting their pre-designated landing zone with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, Jan. 21, 2016. The squadron supported Marine Raiders by conducting high altitude low opening jumps as well as static line jumps to allow them to train for future operations. - Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command dive out the back of a MV-22B Osprey with the goal of hitting their pre-designated landing zone with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, Jan. 21, 2016. The squadron supported Marine Raiders by conducting high altitude low opening jumps as well as static line jumps to allow them to train for future operations.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Thomas McCarthy prepares to place an IV for Cpl. Walter Kowalski Jan. 5 at the U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka Branch Health Annex on Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan. The annex provides medical evaluation and care to units training on the installation and is typically staffed by less than six permanent personnel. The facility provides an area for service members in training to seek medical evaluation and care. McCarthy is a corpsman with 3rd Battalion 5th Marine Regiment; currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program, and a Visalia, Calif., native. Kowalski is a field radio operator with the battalion and an Amsterdam, N.Y., native. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Thomas McCarthy prepares to place an IV for Cpl. Walter Kowalski Jan. 5 at the U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka Branch Health Annex on Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan. The annex provides medical evaluation and care to units training on the installation and is typically staffed by less than six permanent personnel. The facility provides an area for service members in training to seek medical evaluation and care. McCarthy is a corpsman with 3rd Battalion 5th Marine Regiment; currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program, and a Visalia, Calif., native. Kowalski is a field radio operator with the battalion and an Amsterdam, N.Y., native.

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Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion prepare to dive in the pool during the Dive Supervisor Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2016. The course certifies Marines as dive supervisors whose mission is to oversee dives and ensure that operations are conducted safely and effectively. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion prepare to dive in the pool during the Dive Supervisor Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2016. The course certifies Marines as dive supervisors whose mission is to oversee dives and ensure that operations are conducted safely and effectively.

Marines with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS) 3 conduct a land navigation course during their Command Post Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Jan. 19. Marines with MWHS-3 participated in a three-day, two-night CPX designed to instill and improve field and tactical skills of the Headquarter Marines, Jan. 19-21. - Marines with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS) 3 conduct a land navigation course during their Command Post Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Jan. 19. Marines with MWHS-3 participated in a three-day, two-night CPX designed to instill and improve field and tactical skills of the Headquarter Marines, Jan. 19-21.

Cpl. Joshua Payne, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 and a Spring, Texas, native, guides the pilots of an MV-22B Osprey to an unprepared field during casualty-evacuation training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 20. Casualty-evacuation training prepares the Marines to land in a combat zone, pick up injured Marines and transport them to a safe area. - Cpl. Joshua Payne, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 and a Spring, Texas, native, guides the pilots of an MV-22B Osprey to an unprepared field during casualty-evacuation training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 20. Casualty-evacuation training prepares the Marines to land in a combat zone, pick up injured Marines and transport them to a safe area.

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Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 established and set up a forward operating base during a field operation at Davis North, Jan. 13, 2016. Marines tested their support capabilities during a field operation, meant to hone their skills on airfield. - Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 established and set up a forward operating base during a field operation at Davis North, Jan. 13, 2016. Marines tested their support capabilities during a field operation, meant to hone their skills on airfield.

A Marine squad leader assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security during a company-level assault, as part of combined arms live-fire, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin exercise, aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Training Center Twentynine Palms, California, Jan. 18, 2016. Infantry squad leaders holding the rank of corporal or sergeant can apply now for the recently updated Squad Leader Development Program, and earn the new military occupational specialty of 0365 - Infantry Squad Leader if selected from the pool of applicants. - A Marine squad leader assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security during a company-level assault, as part of combined arms live-fire, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin exercise, aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Training Center Twentynine Palms, California, Jan. 18, 2016. Infantry squad leaders holding the rank of corporal or sergeant can apply now for the recently updated Squad Leader Development Program, and earn the new military occupational specialty of 0365 - Infantry Squad Leader if selected from the pool of applicants.

First Lt. Nolan Vihlen (left), 1st Lt. Dave Samson (middle), and 1st Lt. David Peck (right), Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302, conduct vehicle checks on a CH-53E Super Stallion before their departure from Marine Corps Air Station New River, Jan. 7, 2016. Thorough and consistent pilot training is the best way to ensure aviation safety; HMHT-302 teaches its student pilots proper procedures for safety checks to ensure the highest level of safety and preparedness prior to any flight. - First Lt. Nolan Vihlen (left), 1st Lt. Dave Samson (middle), and 1st Lt. David Peck (right), Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302, conduct vehicle checks on a CH-53E Super Stallion before their departure from Marine Corps Air Station New River, Jan. 7, 2016. Thorough and consistent pilot training is the best way to ensure aviation safety; HMHT-302 teaches its student pilots proper procedures for safety checks to ensure the highest level of safety and preparedness prior to any flight.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, launch a round during a live-fire mortar exercise with 81 mm mortar systems in preparation for the unit’s upcoming deployment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 21,2016. The Marines worked with the mortar systems until the late evening, sending more than 350 rounds downrange, and accomplished their goal of having more than 90 percent of their rounds impact on their designated targets. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, launch a round during a live-fire mortar exercise with 81 mm mortar systems in preparation for the unit’s upcoming deployment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 21,2016. The Marines worked with the mortar systems until the late evening, sending more than 350 rounds downrange, and accomplished their goal of having more than 90 percent of their rounds impact on their designated targets.