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U.S. Marines wait aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard before going ashore after returning from their Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region, Oct. 28, 2016. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is prepared to respond to a wide range of military operations, from humanitarian assistance missions to limited combat operations, at a moment’s notice. As a balanced air-ground-logistics team, the 31st MEU is ready to respond throughout the Asia-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines wait aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard before going ashore after returning from their Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region, Oct. 28, 2016. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is prepared to respond to a wide range of military operations, from humanitarian assistance missions to limited combat operations, at a moment’s notice. As a balanced air-ground-logistics team, the 31st MEU is ready to respond throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

A U.S. Marine assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa provides security as two MV-22B Ospreys prepare to land during an alert force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose of the drill was to rehearse and assess the SPMAGTF’s ability to integrate elements and respond to a time-sensitive crisis. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is designed to provide contingency support to U.S. Africa Command, including tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel, embassy reinforcement, support to noncombatant evacuation operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. - A U.S. Marine assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa provides security as two MV-22B Ospreys prepare to land during an alert force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose of the drill was to rehearse and assess the SPMAGTF’s ability to integrate elements and respond to a time-sensitive crisis. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is designed to provide contingency support to U.S. Africa Command, including tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel, embassy reinforcement, support to noncombatant evacuation operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen speaks during the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 closing ceremony at Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 11, 2016. PHIBLEX is an annual U.S.-Philippine military bilateral exercise that combines amphibious capabilities and live-fire training with humanitarian civic assistance efforts to strengthen interoperability and working relationships. Jansen is the commanding general of 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade. - U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen speaks during the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 closing ceremony at Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 11, 2016. PHIBLEX is an annual U.S.-Philippine military bilateral exercise that combines amphibious capabilities and live-fire training with humanitarian civic assistance efforts to strengthen interoperability and working relationships. Jansen is the commanding general of 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

Pfc. Lucas Smith asks Gen. Robert B. Neller a question during his visit to Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, October 13, 2016. Neller is visiting III Marine Expeditionary Force to reinforce the importance of every Marine and Sailor and their role in continuing the mission of the ‘Fight Tonight’ MEF. Whether responding to a crisis or natural disaster, III MEF continues to train to ensure its capabilities in keeping peace and security throughout the region. “I’m not looking to pick a fight with anybody, but you need to be ready to go,” said Neller. Neller, from East Lansing, Michigan, is the commandant of Marine Corps. Smith, from Cleveland, Ohio is a warehouse clerk at 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Supply Company, III Marine Logistics Group, III MEF. - Pfc. Lucas Smith asks Gen. Robert B. Neller a question during his visit to Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, October 13, 2016. Neller is visiting III Marine Expeditionary Force to reinforce the importance of every Marine and Sailor and their role in continuing the mission of the ‘Fight Tonight’ MEF. Whether responding to a crisis or natural disaster, III MEF continues to train to ensure its capabilities in keeping peace and security throughout the region. “I’m not looking to pick a fight with anybody, but you need to be ready to go,” said Neller. Neller, from East Lansing, Michigan, is the commandant of Marine Corps. Smith, from Cleveland, Ohio is a warehouse clerk at 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Supply Company, III Marine Logistics Group, III MEF.

U.S. military members load relief supplies onto a CH-53E super stallion helicopter during a disaster relief mission at Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Oct. 10, 2016. The 24th MEU is part of a larger U.S. response to the government of Haiti request for humanitarian assistance. The U.S. effort is coordinated by the Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Melanye E. Martinez) - U.S. military members load relief supplies onto a CH-53E super stallion helicopter during a disaster relief mission at Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Oct. 10, 2016. The 24th MEU is part of a larger U.S. response to the government of Haiti request for humanitarian assistance. The U.S. effort is coordinated by the Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Melanye E. Martinez)

U.S. Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Southern Command and soldiers from Joint Task Force-Bravo’s 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment arrive by CH-53E Super Stallion, CH-47 Chinook, and UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters at Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Oct. 6, 2016. These vertical take-off assets will prove critical in gaining access to areas that are otherwise unreachable due to Hurricane Matthew. The Marines and soldiers are a part of Joint Task Force Matthew, a U.S. Southern Command-directed team deployed to Port-au-Prince at the request of the Government of Haiti, on a mission to provide humanitarian and disaster relief assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew. - U.S. Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Southern Command and soldiers from Joint Task Force-Bravo’s 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment arrive by CH-53E Super Stallion, CH-47 Chinook, and UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters at Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Oct. 6, 2016. These vertical take-off assets will prove critical in gaining access to areas that are otherwise unreachable due to Hurricane Matthew. The Marines and soldiers are a part of Joint Task Force Matthew, a U.S. Southern Command-directed team deployed to Port-au-Prince at the request of the Government of Haiti, on a mission to provide humanitarian and disaster relief assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew.

U.S. members of the Joint Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team board an MV-22 Osprey aircraft during Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33, Oct. 2, 2016. PHIBLEX is a bilateral training exercise designed to improve the interoperability, readiness and professional relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps and partner nations. - U.S. members of the Joint Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team board an MV-22 Osprey aircraft during Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33, Oct. 2, 2016. PHIBLEX is a bilateral training exercise designed to improve the interoperability, readiness and professional relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps and partner nations.

Multinational service members conduct a Search and Rescue demonstration during the opening ceremony for ASEAN Exercise 16-3 at 14th Military Circle Airfield, Chonburi Province, Thailand, Sept. 5, 2016. AEX 16-3 is a small-scale humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercise consisting of 18 nations and co-hosted by Thailand, Japan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Russian Federation. It is the third iteration of the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting plus multinational exercise program in 2016. - Multinational service members conduct a Search and Rescue demonstration during the opening ceremony for ASEAN Exercise 16-3 at 14th Military Circle Airfield, Chonburi Province, Thailand, Sept. 5, 2016. AEX 16-3 is a small-scale humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercise consisting of 18 nations and co-hosted by Thailand, Japan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Russian Federation. It is the third iteration of the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting plus multinational exercise program in 2016.

Pfc. Luis Moreno, a combat engineer with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, requests permission to board the USS America at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., Aug. 29, 2016. The ship will carry Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen to Los Angeles Fleet Week, Sept. 2 – Sept. 5. Fleet Weeks are annual patriotic events where active Navy and Coast Guard ships dock in major U.S. cities giving Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen an opportunity to interact with locals. This is the first year L.A. has hosted an official Fleet Week event. - Pfc. Luis Moreno, a combat engineer with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, requests permission to board the USS America at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., Aug. 29, 2016. The ship will carry Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen to Los Angeles Fleet Week, Sept. 2 – Sept. 5. Fleet Weeks are annual patriotic events where active Navy and Coast Guard ships dock in major U.S. cities giving Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen an opportunity to interact with locals. This is the first year L.A. has hosted an official Fleet Week event.

U.S. Marines from Provost Marshal’s Office K-9 unit trained with Hiroshima Prefectural Police Headquarters officers and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Repair and Supply Facility Petroleum Terminal unit military working dog handlers at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 24, 2016. Handlers and their military working dogs train regularly in a variety of areas such as locating explosives and narcotics, conducting patrols and human tracking in order to become a more effective team. - U.S. Marines from Provost Marshal’s Office K-9 unit trained with Hiroshima Prefectural Police Headquarters officers and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Repair and Supply Facility Petroleum Terminal unit military working dog handlers at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 24, 2016. Handlers and their military working dogs train regularly in a variety of areas such as locating explosives and narcotics, conducting patrols and human tracking in order to become a more effective team.

Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force and sailors with 553 Cyber Protection Team, monitor network activity during I MEF Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug 22, 2016. The overall purpose of the exercise was to practice the deployment of a fighting force of more than 50,000 military personnel to a partner nation and incorporate both live-fire and simulated combat scenarios against a near-peer enemy force. 553-CPT is a team of cyber defense specialists with Fleet Cyber Command. The team advised I MEF while setting up the command element’s networks. - Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force and sailors with 553 Cyber Protection Team, monitor network activity during I MEF Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug 22, 2016. The overall purpose of the exercise was to practice the deployment of a fighting force of more than 50,000 military personnel to a partner nation and incorporate both live-fire and simulated combat scenarios against a near-peer enemy force. 553-CPT is a team of cyber defense specialists with Fleet Cyber Command. The team advised I MEF while setting up the command element’s networks.

U.S. Marines with Company A, Law Enforcement Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, practice weapons tactics training during I Marine Expeditionary Force Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 17, 2016. LSE-16 is designed to enhance the command and control and interoperability between I MEF command element staff and its higher, adjacent and subordinate command headquarters. The exercise includes cyber and electronic warfare, information support operations, and simulated and live-fire events. - U.S. Marines with Company A, Law Enforcement Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, practice weapons tactics training during I Marine Expeditionary Force Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 17, 2016. LSE-16 is designed to enhance the command and control and interoperability between I MEF command element staff and its higher, adjacent and subordinate command headquarters. The exercise includes cyber and electronic warfare, information support operations, and simulated and live-fire events.

A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier with Marine Attack Squadron 542 performs a vertical landing while using the lights on the mobile Expeditionary Hover Position Indicator to adjust its position at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 9, 2016. VMA-542 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., and is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, as part of the unit deployment program. The Harrier pilots used the mobile EHPI in coordination with Aircraft Recovery assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron to recertify on boat-deck landings to prepare for other future operations in the Pacific. - A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier with Marine Attack Squadron 542 performs a vertical landing while using the lights on the mobile Expeditionary Hover Position Indicator to adjust its position at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 9, 2016. VMA-542 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., and is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, as part of the unit deployment program. The Harrier pilots used the mobile EHPI in coordination with Aircraft Recovery assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron to recertify on boat-deck landings to prepare for other future operations in the Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Christian Marin, a heavy equipment mechanic with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, radios-in a simulated casualty during Exercise Eagle Wrath 2016 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji,Japan, July 28, 2016. During the culminating event, Marines established a mock air base including a landing zone and refueling point, constructed defensive and machine-gun positions, and conducted convoys and patrols over the course of four days. MWSS-171 conducts this exercise once a year in order to train all the Marines within the squadron, enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Christian Marin, a heavy equipment mechanic with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, radios-in a simulated casualty during Exercise Eagle Wrath 2016 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji,Japan, July 28, 2016. During the culminating event, Marines established a mock air base including a landing zone and refueling point, constructed defensive and machine-gun positions, and conducted convoys and patrols over the course of four days. MWSS-171 conducts this exercise once a year in order to train all the Marines within the squadron, enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability.

1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program. - 1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program.

1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program. - 1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program.

A combat controller from the 320th Special Tactics Squadron clears a UH-60 Blackhawk for takeoff during a humanitarian assistance and disaster response as part of Rim of the Pacific 2016, at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 10, 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2016 is the 25th exercise in the series that began in 1971. - A combat controller from the 320th Special Tactics Squadron clears a UH-60 Blackhawk for takeoff during a humanitarian assistance and disaster response as part of Rim of the Pacific 2016, at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 10, 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2016 is the 25th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

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U.S. Marines from 3rd Marine Division, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear defense platoon, Headquarters Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force, prepare to enter a room suspected of hazardous materials during exercise Habu Sentinel 16 at Disaster Village, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 7, 2016. As the annual capstone exercise for the division’s response element, this event encompasses multiple objectives specific to CBRN response and validates unit standard operating procedures in an unfamiliar training environment. - U.S. Marines from 3rd Marine Division, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear defense platoon, Headquarters Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force, prepare to enter a room suspected of hazardous materials during exercise Habu Sentinel 16 at Disaster Village, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 7, 2016. As the annual capstone exercise for the division’s response element, this event encompasses multiple objectives specific to CBRN response and validates unit standard operating procedures in an unfamiliar training environment.

Navy Corpsmen with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command asses a role player at an evacuation control center during a simulated natural disaster that displaced the local populace as part the unit’s Certification Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, May 13, 2016. Marines from SPMAGTF-SC put months of pre-deployment training to the test during the three-day exercise, which evaluated the unit's ability to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. - Navy Corpsmen with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command asses a role player at an evacuation control center during a simulated natural disaster that displaced the local populace as part the unit’s Certification Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, May 13, 2016. Marines from SPMAGTF-SC put months of pre-deployment training to the test during the three-day exercise, which evaluated the unit's ability to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

U.S. Marines assigned to Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment conduct an amphibious transition from ship to shore at Tanduo Beach, Malaysia, May 30, 2016. The Marines are embarked aboard the USS Ashland (LSD 48) in support of exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training. CARAT is a series of annual, bilateral maritime exercises between the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the armed forces of nine partner nations to include Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand and Timor-Leste.The Ashland is assigned to U.S. 7th Fleet. - U.S. Marines assigned to Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment conduct an amphibious transition from ship to shore at Tanduo Beach, Malaysia, May 30, 2016. The Marines are embarked aboard the USS Ashland (LSD 48) in support of exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training. CARAT is a series of annual, bilateral maritime exercises between the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the armed forces of nine partner nations to include Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand and Timor-Leste.The Ashland is assigned to U.S. 7th Fleet.

Aurora flight sciences tests its newly updated Autonomous Aerial Cargo/Utility System in Bealeton, Virginia, May 25, 2016. The AACUS system was created to simplify a pilot’s job in a combat environment. - Aurora flight sciences tests its newly updated Autonomous Aerial Cargo/Utility System in Bealeton, Virginia, May 25, 2016. The AACUS system was created to simplify a pilot’s job in a combat environment.

Firefighters with the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Fire Department decontaminate a Marine with Explosive Ordnance Disposal after he entered the contaminated area during a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High-Yield Explosives exercise at the gas chamber aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., May 19, 2016. The exercise revolved around PMO, the Miramar Fire Department, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, and Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting working together to identify and eliminate the threat of a simulated clandestine drug lab. - Firefighters with the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Fire Department decontaminate a Marine with Explosive Ordnance Disposal after he entered the contaminated area during a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High-Yield Explosives exercise at the gas chamber aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., May 19, 2016. The exercise revolved around PMO, the Miramar Fire Department, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, and Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting working together to identify and eliminate the threat of a simulated clandestine drug lab.

Cpl. John C. Fisher, squad leader, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, leads his Marines through Range 410 while participating in Integrated Training Exercise 3-16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, May 9, 2016. 2/8 came from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to participate in ITX 3-16. (Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dave Flores/Released) - Cpl. John C. Fisher, squad leader, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, leads his Marines through Range 410 while participating in Integrated Training Exercise 3-16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, May 9, 2016. 2/8 came from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to participate in ITX 3-16. (Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dave Flores/Released)

An AH-1Z Cobra with Marine Aircraft Group taxis down the flight line aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 28, 2016. Col. Michael Borgschulte, commanding officer of MAG-39, developed a Marine Air-Ground Task Force integration effort to develop a closer integration of the ground combat element and aviation combat element. - An AH-1Z Cobra with Marine Aircraft Group taxis down the flight line aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 28, 2016. Col. Michael Borgschulte, commanding officer of MAG-39, developed a Marine Air-Ground Task Force integration effort to develop a closer integration of the ground combat element and aviation combat element.

Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni hosted friendship day May 5, 2016. Since 1973, MCAS Iwakuni has conducted a single-day air show and open house specifically designed to foster positive relationships between the air station and our Japanese hosts. The event offers a culturally enriching experience that displays aviation performances, demonstrations and provides food and entertainment for guests of the largest single-day event in Iwakuni. - Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni hosted friendship day May 5, 2016. Since 1973, MCAS Iwakuni has conducted a single-day air show and open house specifically designed to foster positive relationships between the air station and our Japanese hosts. The event offers a culturally enriching experience that displays aviation performances, demonstrations and provides food and entertainment for guests of the largest single-day event in Iwakuni.

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A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force member visiting the annual Training Expo at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan tests out the Instrumental Tactical Evaluation Simulated System on Friday, April 29, 2016. This recently updated system works almost like the popular game, "laser tag," where a laptop traces the marksmanship of the shooter. This training can be recorded and handed back to the unit on a CD to evaluate performance. - A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force member visiting the annual Training Expo at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan tests out the Instrumental Tactical Evaluation Simulated System on Friday, April 29, 2016. This recently updated system works almost like the popular game, "laser tag," where a laptop traces the marksmanship of the shooter. This training can be recorded and handed back to the unit on a CD to evaluate performance.

Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, assists the Government of Japan in supporting those affected by recent earthquakes in Kumamoto, Japan, April 18, 2016. VMM-265 picked up supplies from Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Takayubaru and delivered them to Hakusui Sports Park in the Kumamoto Prefecture. The long-standing relationship between Japan and the U.S. allows U.S. military forces in Japan to provide rapid, integrated support to the Japan Self-Defense Forces and civil relief efforts. - Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, assists the Government of Japan in supporting those affected by recent earthquakes in Kumamoto, Japan, April 18, 2016. VMM-265 picked up supplies from Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Takayubaru and delivered them to Hakusui Sports Park in the Kumamoto Prefecture. The long-standing relationship between Japan and the U.S. allows U.S. military forces in Japan to provide rapid, integrated support to the Japan Self-Defense Forces and civil relief efforts.

Sgt. Jeffrey L. Allen scopes out the terrain from his seat in a UH-1Y Huey at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 8, 2016,. Allen, along with other crew chiefs and aircraft maintainers, may work up to 16 hours a day performing maintenance and checks on aircraft to ensure safe missions. Allen, from Ennis, Texas, is with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. - Sgt. Jeffrey L. Allen scopes out the terrain from his seat in a UH-1Y Huey at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 8, 2016,. Allen, along with other crew chiefs and aircraft maintainers, may work up to 16 hours a day performing maintenance and checks on aircraft to ensure safe missions. Allen, from Ennis, Texas, is with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program.

An MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, begins to takeoff April 17, 2016 from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Japan. United States Forces, Japan is providing operational airlift support in coordination with the Government of Japan’s efforts to provide relief following the devastating earthquake near Kumamoto. - An MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, begins to takeoff April 17, 2016 from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Japan. United States Forces, Japan is providing operational airlift support in coordination with the Government of Japan’s efforts to provide relief following the devastating earthquake near Kumamoto.

Supplies await to be loaded onto an MV-22B Osprey belonging to Marine Medium Tiltroter Squadron 265 (Reinforced). 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit April 18, 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. 31st MEU Marines are in Iwakuni to support the Government of Japan’s relief efforts in response to the earthquakes that struck the island of Kyushu earlier this week. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps’ force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region. - Supplies await to be loaded onto an MV-22B Osprey belonging to Marine Medium Tiltroter Squadron 265 (Reinforced). 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit April 18, 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. 31st MEU Marines are in Iwakuni to support the Government of Japan’s relief efforts in response to the earthquakes that struck the island of Kyushu earlier this week. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps’ force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region.

Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, assists the Government of Japan in supporting those affected by recent earthquakes in Kumamoto, Japan, April 18, 2016. VMM-265 picked up supplies from Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Takayubaru and delivered them to Hakusui Sports Park in the Kumamoto Prefecture. The long-standing relationship between Japan and the U.S. allows U.S. military forces in Japan to provide rapid, integrated support to the Japan Self-Defense Forces and civil relief efforts. - Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, assists the Government of Japan in supporting those affected by recent earthquakes in Kumamoto, Japan, April 18, 2016. VMM-265 picked up supplies from Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Takayubaru and delivered them to Hakusui Sports Park in the Kumamoto Prefecture. The long-standing relationship between Japan and the U.S. allows U.S. military forces in Japan to provide rapid, integrated support to the Japan Self-Defense Forces and civil relief efforts.

Japanese media interview Capt. Tessa Snow, an MV-22B Osprey pilot with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 attached to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, in support of the Government of Japan’s relief efforts following yesterday’s devastating earthquake near Kumamoto April 17, 2016. The long-standing relationship between Japan and the U.S. allows U.S. military forces in Japan to provide rapid, integrated support to the Japan Self-Defense Forces and civil relief efforts. - Japanese media interview Capt. Tessa Snow, an MV-22B Osprey pilot with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 attached to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, in support of the Government of Japan’s relief efforts following yesterday’s devastating earthquake near Kumamoto April 17, 2016. The long-standing relationship between Japan and the U.S. allows U.S. military forces in Japan to provide rapid, integrated support to the Japan Self-Defense Forces and civil relief efforts.

Lance Cpl. Tevin Brown, an automatic rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, charges toward an objective during a platoon attack training event at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 12, 2016. The training event afforded the Marines an opportunity to develop and improve their strategies under stressful combat situations. - Lance Cpl. Tevin Brown, an automatic rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, charges toward an objective during a platoon attack training event at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 12, 2016. The training event afforded the Marines an opportunity to develop and improve their strategies under stressful combat situations.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Robert McCabe, a section leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, points out areas of interest to members of his team during a perimeter patrol in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, March 21, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-CC Marines are responsible for the force protection of coalition assets at some Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve bases within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility as part of the effort to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Robert McCabe, a section leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, points out areas of interest to members of his team during a perimeter patrol in Al Taqaddum, Iraq, March 21, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-CC Marines are responsible for the force protection of coalition assets at some Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve bases within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility as part of the effort to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant.

U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988. - U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988.

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

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

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

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Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, head back to sea Feb. 17 , 2016, in Combat Rubber Raiding Craft after conducting a successful boat raid the night before. The Marines conducted the boat raid as part of the 31st MEU's amphibious integration training with the Navy ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed to the Asia-Pacific region. - Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, head back to sea Feb. 17 , 2016, in Combat Rubber Raiding Craft after conducting a successful boat raid the night before. The Marines conducted the boat raid as part of the 31st MEU's amphibious integration training with the Navy ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed to the Asia-Pacific region.

A U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook is used to transport Soldiers during a combined arms live fire exercise at Ban Chan Khrem, Thailand, during exercise Cobra Gold, Feb. 19, 2016. Cobra Gold is a multinational training exercise developed to strengthen security and interoperability between the Kingdom of Thailand, the U.S. and other participating nations. - A U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook is used to transport Soldiers during a combined arms live fire exercise at Ban Chan Khrem, Thailand, during exercise Cobra Gold, Feb. 19, 2016. Cobra Gold is a multinational training exercise developed to strengthen security and interoperability between the Kingdom of Thailand, the U.S. and other participating nations.

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Japanese observers tour and examine a MV-22 Osprey during a noncombatant evacuation demonstration as part of exercise Cobra Gold 16 at Utapao, Thailand, February 17, 2016. U.S. Marines put an Osprey on static display during the demonstration while partner nations exercised their own evacuation capabilities. The Osprey provides a longer flight range and a bigger capacity for supplies compared to traditional helicopters, but allows service members to access smaller areas compared to traditional fixed-wing aircraft. Cobra Gold, in its 35th iteration, is a multi-national exercise designed to advance regional security and ensure effective responses to regional crises by bringing together a robust combined task force from partner nations sharing common goals and security commitments in the Asia-Pacific region. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Japanese observers tour and examine a MV-22 Osprey during a noncombatant evacuation demonstration as part of exercise Cobra Gold 16 at Utapao, Thailand, February 17, 2016. U.S. Marines put an Osprey on static display during the demonstration while partner nations exercised their own evacuation capabilities. The Osprey provides a longer flight range and a bigger capacity for supplies compared to traditional helicopters, but allows service members to access smaller areas compared to traditional fixed-wing aircraft. Cobra Gold, in its 35th iteration, is a multi-national exercise designed to advance regional security and ensure effective responses to regional crises by bringing together a robust combined task force from partner nations sharing common goals and security commitments in the Asia-Pacific region. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps amphibious assault vehicles before a public "splash" demonstration in the Trondheim Fjord in Norway, Jan. 10. The partnership between the Norwegian military and U.S. Marines enables NATO to pivot toward crisis by alleviating logistics requirements to support a broad-spectrum military operations. - U.S. Marine Corps amphibious assault vehicles before a public "splash" demonstration in the Trondheim Fjord in Norway, Jan. 10. The partnership between the Norwegian military and U.S. Marines enables NATO to pivot toward crisis by alleviating logistics requirements to support a broad-spectrum military operations.

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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.

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.