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Cpl. Malynn Ochsner shows Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Officer Candidate Ayako Yukawa how to operate a MK19 machine gun, MOD 3 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 15. Three hundred and sixty JGSDF officer candidates visited Combat Logistics Regiment 35 to complete joint and combined operation requirements. The cadets watched Marine Corps Martial Art Program demonstrations, learned the capabilities of various machine guns the Marine Corps uses, and observed a static display of motor transportation vehicles. Ochsner, from Pflugerville, Texas, is a distribution management specialist with 3rd Supply Battalion, CLR-35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Malynn Ochsner shows Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Officer Candidate Ayako Yukawa how to operate a MK19 machine gun, MOD 3 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 15. Three hundred and sixty JGSDF officer candidates visited Combat Logistics Regiment 35 to complete joint and combined operation requirements. The cadets watched Marine Corps Martial Art Program demonstrations, learned the capabilities of various machine guns the Marine Corps uses, and observed a static display of motor transportation vehicles. Ochsner, from Pflugerville, Texas, is a distribution management specialist with 3rd Supply Battalion, CLR-35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Lance Cpl. Jonathan Gilbert looks through the scope of his M240 medium machine gun while providing security for his platoon Jan. 7, 2016, on Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan. Marines with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigated the jungles of Okinawa in search of a simulated enemy platoon. Gilbert, a machine gunner with Alpha Co., BLT 1/5, 31st MEU, is a native of Frederick, Maryland. - Lance Cpl. Jonathan Gilbert looks through the scope of his M240 medium machine gun while providing security for his platoon Jan. 7, 2016, on Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan. Marines with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigated the jungles of Okinawa in search of a simulated enemy platoon. Gilbert, a machine gunner with Alpha Co., BLT 1/5, 31st MEU, is a native of Frederick, Maryland.

Gen. John F. Kelly relinquished command of United States Southern Command Jan. 14, 2016. He will soon retire after more than 45 years of service. - Gen. John F. Kelly relinquished command of United States Southern Command Jan. 14, 2016. He will soon retire after more than 45 years of service.

A Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224, F/A-18D Hornet descends to Chitose Air Base in Hokkaido, Japan, after traveling from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Jan. 12, 2016. VMFA (AW)-224, homebased at MCAS Beaufort, S.C., is temporarily based in Iwakuni on a unit deployment program and deployed to Northern Japan to participate in the Chitose Aviation Training Relocation Exercise, Jan. 12-22. During the exercise, the squadron conducted dissimilar air combat training with and against the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to further support combined interoperability and Pacific theater security cooperation. - A Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224, F/A-18D Hornet descends to Chitose Air Base in Hokkaido, Japan, after traveling from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Jan. 12, 2016. VMFA (AW)-224, homebased at MCAS Beaufort, S.C., is temporarily based in Iwakuni on a unit deployment program and deployed to Northern Japan to participate in the Chitose Aviation Training Relocation Exercise, Jan. 12-22. During the exercise, the squadron conducted dissimilar air combat training with and against the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to further support combined interoperability and Pacific theater security cooperation.

A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center Pre-Scout Sniper Course sights in on a target with a M40A5 sniper rifle at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 12, 2016. The 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines. - A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center Pre-Scout Sniper Course sights in on a target with a M40A5 sniper rifle at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 12, 2016. The 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines.

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COMBINED ARMS TRAINING CENTER, GOTEMBA, Japan — Marines’ tents stand in below Mt. Fuji during Exercise Fuji Samurai at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Gotemba, Japan, Jan. 7, 2016. Exercise Fuji Samurai is held at CATC Fuji during the month of January and includes countless fire and maneuver drills and other combat-based training evolutions that take place over a period of approximately two weeks. During this time, Marines must face the chill and challenge of Mt. Fuji, as they spend night after night subject to the winter elements. The tents provided Marines with shelter from the unforgiving Mt. Fuji chill as they rested between training events. - COMBINED ARMS TRAINING CENTER, GOTEMBA, Japan — Marines’ tents stand in below Mt. Fuji during Exercise Fuji Samurai at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Gotemba, Japan, Jan. 7, 2016. Exercise Fuji Samurai is held at CATC Fuji during the month of January and includes countless fire and maneuver drills and other combat-based training evolutions that take place over a period of approximately two weeks. During this time, Marines must face the chill and challenge of Mt. Fuji, as they spend night after night subject to the winter elements. The tents provided Marines with shelter from the unforgiving Mt. Fuji chill as they rested between training events.

Sgt. Caleb Renner, the chief chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear instructor with II Marine Headquarters Group, gives an hour-long class on how to properly wear and function in a M50 gas mask at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 8, 2016. The chamber is a routine exercise to ensure the durability of each Marines gear while exposed to chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, or CS gas, which is a bi-annual qualification requirement for Marines. - Sgt. Caleb Renner, the chief chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear instructor with II Marine Headquarters Group, gives an hour-long class on how to properly wear and function in a M50 gas mask at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 8, 2016. The chamber is a routine exercise to ensure the durability of each Marines gear while exposed to chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, or CS gas, which is a bi-annual qualification requirement for Marines.

Marines get set to perform buddy rushes during squad attack training on Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 6, 2016. Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducted squad attack training in preparation for the MEU’s upcoming spring deployment. - Marines get set to perform buddy rushes during squad attack training on Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 6, 2016. Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducted squad attack training in preparation for the MEU’s upcoming spring deployment.

A CH-53E from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465 hovers above as Marines with Combat Logistic Battalion 11 rush in to attach 6,200-pound weight to the helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 7. Marines with CLB-11 support HMH-465 during daytime external lift training to prepare for future deployments. - A CH-53E from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465 hovers above as Marines with Combat Logistic Battalion 11 rush in to attach 6,200-pound weight to the helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 7. Marines with CLB-11 support HMH-465 during daytime external lift training to prepare for future deployments.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 conduct external lifts in conjunction with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 302 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 6, 2016. The Marines with CLB 2 are responsible for directing the aircraft from the ground and attaching the load with the help from the crew chief, thus giving them the capability to move heavy loads in a combat environment. - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 conduct external lifts in conjunction with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 302 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 6, 2016. The Marines with CLB 2 are responsible for directing the aircraft from the ground and attaching the load with the help from the crew chief, thus giving them the capability to move heavy loads in a combat environment.

Marines with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, depart from a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 7, 2015. The purpose of the training was to teach the Marines about the dangers during Humvee rollovers and how to properly react in case they ever faced it. - Marines with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, depart from a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 7, 2015. The purpose of the training was to teach the Marines about the dangers during Humvee rollovers and how to properly react in case they ever faced it.

A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center Pre-Scout Sniper Course looks through an M40A5 sniper rifle at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 6, 2016. The 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines. - A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center Pre-Scout Sniper Course looks through an M40A5 sniper rifle at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 6, 2016. The 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines.

Jody W. Nesbitt (right), project officer, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, officially hands-off three restored combat vehicles to Kater Miller, assistant ordnance curator, National Museum of the Marine Corps, during a ceremony held at the MDMC in Albany, Ga., Jan. 7. The vehicles restored consisted of an M60A1 Main Battle Tank, an Assault Amphibious Vehicle and a Humvee, which are scheduled to be displayed in the NMMC November 2018. Restoration of the equipment began at MDMC in July 2014. - Jody W. Nesbitt (right), project officer, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, officially hands-off three restored combat vehicles to Kater Miller, assistant ordnance curator, National Museum of the Marine Corps, during a ceremony held at the MDMC in Albany, Ga., Jan. 7. The vehicles restored consisted of an M60A1 Main Battle Tank, an Assault Amphibious Vehicle and a Humvee, which are scheduled to be displayed in the NMMC November 2018. Restoration of the equipment began at MDMC in July 2014.

Cpl. David Dudley, Expeditionary Air Field, uses proper eye and ear protection during the 5th annual Combat Shooting Competition Oct. 28, hosted by Weapons Training Battalion aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. Advanced hearing protection for specific environments allows servicemembers to protect themselves and safely do their jobs. - Cpl. David Dudley, Expeditionary Air Field, uses proper eye and ear protection during the 5th annual Combat Shooting Competition Oct. 28, hosted by Weapons Training Battalion aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. Advanced hearing protection for specific environments allows servicemembers to protect themselves and safely do their jobs.

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JoJo Domann, outside linebacker from Pine Creek High School, Colorado Springs, Colo., helps run drills during practice at Orange Coast College, Costa Mesa, California, Jan. 1, 2016. High School athletes chosen to play in the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl are well-rounded individuals on and off the field who not only are distinguished athletes, but also have academic achievements and display exemplary moral character. - JoJo Domann, outside linebacker from Pine Creek High School, Colorado Springs, Colo., helps run drills during practice at Orange Coast College, Costa Mesa, California, Jan. 1, 2016. High School athletes chosen to play in the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl are well-rounded individuals on and off the field who not only are distinguished athletes, but also have academic achievements and display exemplary moral character.

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A Eurofighter Typhoon with the Spanish Air Force receives fuel from a U.S. Marine KC-130J Hercules with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, August 13, in Spain. A total of five Spanish pilots and their aircraft had the opportunity to practice their air-to-air refueling skills with the Marines from SPMAGTF-CR-AF. While this particular training was a first for the two countries, the U.S. and Spain work together routinely, fostering one of the closest defense partnerships around the world. - A Eurofighter Typhoon with the Spanish Air Force receives fuel from a U.S. Marine KC-130J Hercules with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, August 13, in Spain. A total of five Spanish pilots and their aircraft had the opportunity to practice their air-to-air refueling skills with the Marines from SPMAGTF-CR-AF. While this particular training was a first for the two countries, the U.S. and Spain work together routinely, fostering one of the closest defense partnerships around the world.

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U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa embed with a Spanish Legion company during a week-long exercise in the mountains of Almeria, Spain, Dec. 14-18, 2015. The combined urban and mountain warfare training is another bilateral training opportunity strengthening the U.S. and Spanish military relationship. - U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa embed with a Spanish Legion company during a week-long exercise in the mountains of Almeria, Spain, Dec. 14-18, 2015. The combined urban and mountain warfare training is another bilateral training opportunity strengthening the U.S. and Spanish military relationship.

U.S. Navy and Army medical personnel prepare to load a simulated casualty onto a UH-60 “Black Hawk” helicopter during a mass casualty exercise at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Dec. 23, 2015. Canadian forces, U.S. Air Force and Army medical personnel, along with U.S. Marines and Navy corpsmen with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, participated in the joint exercise to hone the coalition’s medical response capabilities. SPMAGTF-CR-CC is currently deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility with a mission spanning 20 nations. - U.S. Navy and Army medical personnel prepare to load a simulated casualty onto a UH-60 “Black Hawk” helicopter during a mass casualty exercise at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Dec. 23, 2015. Canadian forces, U.S. Air Force and Army medical personnel, along with U.S. Marines and Navy corpsmen with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, participated in the joint exercise to hone the coalition’s medical response capabilities. SPMAGTF-CR-CC is currently deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility with a mission spanning 20 nations.

Lance Cpl. Loren Cluff sets up satellite communications for Marines with Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, while they conduct a raid Dec. 10, 2015, on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The raid was part of Interoperability Exercise 16-1, an exercise used to build a working bond between the MRF and the rest of the MEU quickly and effectively. Cluff, from Snowflake, Arizona, is a field radio operator with the Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company Detachment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Lance Cpl. Loren Cluff sets up satellite communications for Marines with Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, while they conduct a raid Dec. 10, 2015, on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The raid was part of Interoperability Exercise 16-1, an exercise used to build a working bond between the MRF and the rest of the MEU quickly and effectively. Cluff, from Snowflake, Arizona, is a field radio operator with the Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company Detachment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Cpl. James R. Beck, a Fixed-Wing Aircraft Power Plants Mechanic from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, fires on his target during the Far East Division Marksmanship Match Dec. 17 aboard Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The shots were fired from various shooting positions and distances. Only Marines stationed throughout Japan competed in the match. - Cpl. James R. Beck, a Fixed-Wing Aircraft Power Plants Mechanic from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, fires on his target during the Far East Division Marksmanship Match Dec. 17 aboard Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The shots were fired from various shooting positions and distances. Only Marines stationed throughout Japan competed in the match.

Marines with the 1st Expeditionary Operations Training wait to reach the proper altitude before a free fall jump at 10,000 feet above Drop Zone Basilone, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec.21. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 supported the 1st EOTG in their parachute-operations training. This training is intended to improve the Marines’ skill for future uses of this knowledge, such as a deployment situation. Units like the 1st EOTG deploy often and this training allows the Marines to be ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. - Marines with the 1st Expeditionary Operations Training wait to reach the proper altitude before a free fall jump at 10,000 feet above Drop Zone Basilone, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec.21. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 supported the 1st EOTG in their parachute-operations training. This training is intended to improve the Marines’ skill for future uses of this knowledge, such as a deployment situation. Units like the 1st EOTG deploy often and this training allows the Marines to be ready to deploy at a moment’s notice.

Cpl. Jordan Canchola, an artillery gunner with Golf Battery, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, takes a knee to shield himself from the rotor wash of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter at Camp Courtney in Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 15, 2015. The battery was training to distribute food and water as part of a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operation when the crowd, played by other Marines, became unruly. A quick reaction force was called to help restore order and continue to distribute supplies. The HADR training was conducted as part of the 31st MEU’s Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise. Cpl. Canchola is from Hollister, California. - Cpl. Jordan Canchola, an artillery gunner with Golf Battery, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, takes a knee to shield himself from the rotor wash of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter at Camp Courtney in Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 15, 2015. The battery was training to distribute food and water as part of a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operation when the crowd, played by other Marines, became unruly. A quick reaction force was called to help restore order and continue to distribute supplies. The HADR training was conducted as part of the 31st MEU’s Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise. Cpl. Canchola is from Hollister, California.

Gunnery Sgt. Christopher Mulcahy, a combat marksmanship trainer instructor with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Training Squadron 303, fires an M134 GAU-17 Minigun during an aerial gunnery shoot at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 17. Marines with HMLAT-303 flew a formation flight and conducted an aerial gunnery to shoot give students the opportunity to refine basic skills needed to operate in the Fleet Marine Force. - Gunnery Sgt. Christopher Mulcahy, a combat marksmanship trainer instructor with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Training Squadron 303, fires an M134 GAU-17 Minigun during an aerial gunnery shoot at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 17. Marines with HMLAT-303 flew a formation flight and conducted an aerial gunnery to shoot give students the opportunity to refine basic skills needed to operate in the Fleet Marine Force.

U.S. Marines with Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire a shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapon (SMAW) during live fire training Nov 24, 2015. 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 Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire a shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapon (SMAW) during live fire training Nov 24, 2015. 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.

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Lynn Kinney (left), Megan McClung (center) and Amy Forsythe(right) served together during their deployment to Camp Fallujah, Iraq in 2006. They were assigned to the Camp Pendleton-based I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Public Affairs Office. This photo was taken at Camp Fallujah in April 2006. McClung was killed by an IED in Ramadi, Iraq, Dec. 6, 2006. Kinney, now a staff sergeant, serves as the public affairs chief for I MEF at Camp Pendleton, Calif. Forsythe transferred out of the Marine Corps and now serves as a public affairs officer in the U.S. Navy Reserves. - Lynn Kinney (left), Megan McClung (center) and Amy Forsythe(right) served together during their deployment to Camp Fallujah, Iraq in 2006. They were assigned to the Camp Pendleton-based I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Public Affairs Office. This photo was taken at Camp Fallujah in April 2006. McClung was killed by an IED in Ramadi, Iraq, Dec. 6, 2006. Kinney, now a staff sergeant, serves as the public affairs chief for I MEF at Camp Pendleton, Calif. Forsythe transferred out of the Marine Corps and now serves as a public affairs officer in the U.S. Navy Reserves.

A Marine conceals himself under the obstruction of deployed smoke during the company supported, live-fire assault portion of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 6, 2015. The purpose of a MCCRE is to evaluate Marines’ collective performance in specific mission requirements that will prepare them for their upcoming deployment rotation. The Marine is with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. - A Marine conceals himself under the obstruction of deployed smoke during the company supported, live-fire assault portion of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 6, 2015. The purpose of a MCCRE is to evaluate Marines’ collective performance in specific mission requirements that will prepare them for their upcoming deployment rotation. The Marine is with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.

Cpl. Dustin Deloris relays orders over the radio during the mechanized assault portion of the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 8, 2015. The purpose of a MCCRE is to evaluate Marines’ collective performance in specific mission requirements that will prepare them for their upcoming deployment rotation. Deloris is a team leader with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. - Cpl. Dustin Deloris relays orders over the radio during the mechanized assault portion of the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 8, 2015. The purpose of a MCCRE is to evaluate Marines’ collective performance in specific mission requirements that will prepare them for their upcoming deployment rotation. Deloris is a team leader with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.

U.S. Marines with 1st Reconnaisance Battalion board a HUMVEE during Steel Knight 16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 11, 2015. Steel Knight is an annual field training exercise that enables 1st Marine Division to test and refine its command and control capabilities by acting as the headquarters element for a forward-deployed Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marines with 1st Reconnaisance Battalion board a HUMVEE during Steel Knight 16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 11, 2015. Steel Knight is an annual field training exercise that enables 1st Marine Division to test and refine its command and control capabilities by acting as the headquarters element for a forward-deployed Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 5 attach a simulated cargo of 1,400 pounds to an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 16, 2015. Daytime external lift training prepares the Marines with VMM-363 to attach cargo to the aircraft which helps qualify more air crew in the mission-essential task of rapid insertion and extraction for the squadron. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 5 attach a simulated cargo of 1,400 pounds to an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 16, 2015. Daytime external lift training prepares the Marines with VMM-363 to attach cargo to the aircraft which helps qualify more air crew in the mission-essential task of rapid insertion and extraction for the squadron.

Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 perform post-flight checks on an MV-22B Osprey after an aerial refueling training event at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Dec. 16. The squadron conducts this annual training once every two months to maintain their proficiency with the maneuvers. - Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 perform post-flight checks on an MV-22B Osprey after an aerial refueling training event at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Dec. 16. The squadron conducts this annual training once every two months to maintain their proficiency with the maneuvers.

A Marine from Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 assists Sgt. Deedmund Nettles, left, food service specialist with MWSS-171, in removing his personal protective equipment during Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 18, 2015. The course covered topics such as the hazards associated with working around chemicals, how to locate information on different chemicals, and the four aspects of planning and organizing a hazardous waste site, which are organizational structure, work plan, safety meetings and inspections. This training provided Marines with the proper knowledge to identify contain and clean up hazardous materials. - A Marine from Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 assists Sgt. Deedmund Nettles, left, food service specialist with MWSS-171, in removing his personal protective equipment during Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 18, 2015. The course covered topics such as the hazards associated with working around chemicals, how to locate information on different chemicals, and the four aspects of planning and organizing a hazardous waste site, which are organizational structure, work plan, safety meetings and inspections. This training provided Marines with the proper knowledge to identify contain and clean up hazardous materials.

Lance Cpl. Taylor A. Vollmer observes aircraft as his team prepares to take off for a Joint Terminal Attack Control training scenerio Dec. 15 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. A JTAC is when combat aircraft engage in close air support and other offensive air operations from a forward position. Vollmer, a Bakersfield, California, native, is a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. - Lance Cpl. Taylor A. Vollmer observes aircraft as his team prepares to take off for a Joint Terminal Attack Control training scenerio Dec. 15 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. A JTAC is when combat aircraft engage in close air support and other offensive air operations from a forward position. Vollmer, a Bakersfield, California, native, is a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

Marines with 2nd Supply Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group prepare to conduct a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer class at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 17, 2015. The HEAT class is designed to show Marines what to do if a vehicle rolls over during low visibility, no visibility, or experiences sideways or 180-degree rollovers. - Marines with 2nd Supply Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group prepare to conduct a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer class at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 17, 2015. The HEAT class is designed to show Marines what to do if a vehicle rolls over during low visibility, no visibility, or experiences sideways or 180-degree rollovers.

First Lt. Chris Christeson, a platoon commander with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, plans for the next fire mission during a limited objective experiment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 8, 2015. The unit partnered with the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory and 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, to test direct fire missions from an artillery platoon while supporting an infantry company landing team. - First Lt. Chris Christeson, a platoon commander with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, plans for the next fire mission during a limited objective experiment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 8, 2015. The unit partnered with the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory and 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, to test direct fire missions from an artillery platoon while supporting an infantry company landing team.

U.S. service members recently completed the second module of Tactical Intelligence Support to Maritime Operations course for the Ghanaian Navy and Maritime Police Force, Dec. 7-18, at Ghana’s Eastern Naval Command Headquarters here. This course has already paid dividends, according to Foster Kotoku, the Ghanaian Maritime Police Force assistant superintendent. During the two-week course, students from the Ghanaian Maritime Police Force seized an undisclosed amount of illicit drugs from a smuggler on a ferry. With follow-on questioning, the police forces were led to a higher connection in the drug trade. - U.S. service members recently completed the second module of Tactical Intelligence Support to Maritime Operations course for the Ghanaian Navy and Maritime Police Force, Dec. 7-18, at Ghana’s Eastern Naval Command Headquarters here. This course has already paid dividends, according to Foster Kotoku, the Ghanaian Maritime Police Force assistant superintendent. During the two-week course, students from the Ghanaian Maritime Police Force seized an undisclosed amount of illicit drugs from a smuggler on a ferry. With follow-on questioning, the police forces were led to a higher connection in the drug trade.

On Dec. 18, 2015 Lt. Col. Jonathan Morel became the first Marine to fly the CH-53K helicopter, during a test flight over Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation's Development Flight Center at West Palms Beach. The flight test ran for 1.5 hours and now marks the sixth flight for the aircraft. - On Dec. 18, 2015 Lt. Col. Jonathan Morel became the first Marine to fly the CH-53K helicopter, during a test flight over Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation's Development Flight Center at West Palms Beach. The flight test ran for 1.5 hours and now marks the sixth flight for the aircraft.

Marines and Sailors with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, pose for a photo atop of the USS Mississippi, a Virginia Class Block 5 submarine aboard Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Nov. 17, 2015. Company A toured the ship as part of a one-day Special Operations Forces capabilities training event, where they learned about lock-out submarine insertions. - Marines and Sailors with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, pose for a photo atop of the USS Mississippi, a Virginia Class Block 5 submarine aboard Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Nov. 17, 2015. Company A toured the ship as part of a one-day Special Operations Forces capabilities training event, where they learned about lock-out submarine insertions.

U.S. Marine noncommissioned officers of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa visited the historic Pointe du Hoc in Normandy, France, Dec. 11-13, a pivotal site featuring the remnants of the amphibious Allied landings during World War II, also known as D-Day. The Marine NCOs are the backbone of service component operations for U.S. European Command that supports numerous NATO-led operations and exercises in Europe that enables the Alliance to continue their proven, enduring partnerships. - U.S. Marine noncommissioned officers of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa visited the historic Pointe du Hoc in Normandy, France, Dec. 11-13, a pivotal site featuring the remnants of the amphibious Allied landings during World War II, also known as D-Day. The Marine NCOs are the backbone of service component operations for U.S. European Command that supports numerous NATO-led operations and exercises in Europe that enables the Alliance to continue their proven, enduring partnerships.

Bulk refueling specialists with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 prepare to refuel an F-35B Lightning II from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 at Red Beach aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 10. Various squadrons within 3rd MAW performed more than 70 sorties ranging from external lifts, convoy escorts and casualty evacuation missions with rotary aircraft and fire support missions with the F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter to providing refueling points for air and ground assets. - Bulk refueling specialists with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 prepare to refuel an F-35B Lightning II from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 at Red Beach aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 10. Various squadrons within 3rd MAW performed more than 70 sorties ranging from external lifts, convoy escorts and casualty evacuation missions with rotary aircraft and fire support missions with the F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter to providing refueling points for air and ground assets.

A Marine with 2nd Supply Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group sits in the driver seat of a simulator during a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer class at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 17, 2015. The HEAT class is designed to show Marines what to do if a vehicle rolls over during low visibility, no visibility, or experiences sideways or 180-degree rollovers. - A Marine with 2nd Supply Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group sits in the driver seat of a simulator during a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer class at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 17, 2015. The HEAT class is designed to show Marines what to do if a vehicle rolls over during low visibility, no visibility, or experiences sideways or 180-degree rollovers.

Marines set up a perimeter around an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission as part of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 3, 2015. TRAP’s placement in a MCCRE is meant to evaluate Marines on this mission set which is performed for the specific purpose of the recovery of personnel, equipment, and/or aircraft by the insertion of a TRAP force. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. - Marines set up a perimeter around an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission as part of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 3, 2015. TRAP’s placement in a MCCRE is meant to evaluate Marines on this mission set which is performed for the specific purpose of the recovery of personnel, equipment, and/or aircraft by the insertion of a TRAP force. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.

Nearly 30 Marines participate in a Tactical Combat Casualty Care course to learn how to save lives in combat situations, Dec. 14-18, on Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy. Medical officers and corpsmen with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa taught the Marines how to apply emergency medical services to injured service members in the event a corpsman is injured or not near a casualty.The Marines and sailors are deployed to NAS Sigonella, Italy, with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa. - Nearly 30 Marines participate in a Tactical Combat Casualty Care course to learn how to save lives in combat situations, Dec. 14-18, on Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy. Medical officers and corpsmen with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa taught the Marines how to apply emergency medical services to injured service members in the event a corpsman is injured or not near a casualty.The Marines and sailors are deployed to NAS Sigonella, Italy, with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa.

Bulk refueling specialists with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 prepare to refuel an F-35B Lightning II from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 at Red Beach at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 10, 2015. Various squadrons within 3rd MAW performed more than 70 sorties ranging from external lifts, convoy escorts and casualty evacuation missions with rotary aircraft and fire support missions with the F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter to providing refueling points for air and ground assets. - Bulk refueling specialists with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 prepare to refuel an F-35B Lightning II from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 at Red Beach at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 10, 2015. Various squadrons within 3rd MAW performed more than 70 sorties ranging from external lifts, convoy escorts and casualty evacuation missions with rotary aircraft and fire support missions with the F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter to providing refueling points for air and ground assets.