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Northern Viper 17 comes to an end - A crew chief fires a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun from the back of a CH-53E Super Stallion above Draughon Range near Misawa Air Base, Japan, August 21, 2017, in support of exercise Northern Viper 17. This combined-joint exercise is held to enhance regional cooperation between participating nations to collectively deter security threats. The crew chief is assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently forward deployed under the Unit Deployment Program with Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st MAW, based out of Okinawa, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez)

Story - Pfc. James P. Gross, a radio and satellite communications operator, places barbed wire on the ground at Misawa Air Base, Japan, August 10, 2017, signifying the start of exercise Northern Viper 2017. This exercise tests the interoperability and bilateral capability of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marine Corps forces to work together and provides the opportunity to conduct realistic training in an unfamiliar environment. Gross, a Milwaukee native, is with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez)

A Norwegian cadet pulls himself under barbed wire while completing the Combat Course at Officer Candidate School.While most candidates arrive at OCS via a combination of air and personal vehicle travel, the Norwegian cadets sailed a 101-year-old, three-masted steel bark known as the “Statsraad Lehmkuhl” from Norway to Baltimore. - A Norwegian cadet pulls himself under barbed wire while completing the Combat Course at Officer Candidate School.While most candidates arrive at OCS via a combination of air and personal vehicle travel, the Norwegian cadets sailed a 101-year-old, three-masted steel bark known as the “Statsraad Lehmkuhl” from Norway to Baltimore.

U.S. Marines, alongside NATO allies and partners, strategically advance, securing cover and providing fire support during a breaching and clearing mission in preparation for Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, on Feb. 7, 2024. U.S. Marines, in coordination with NATO allies and partners, are gearing up for the biennial exercise Nordic Response 24. This NATO training exercise aims to enhance Arctic security, elevate global readiness, and foster interoperability among U.S. Forces, Allied, and partner forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance. Cpl. Christian Salazar) - U.S. Marines, alongside NATO allies and partners, strategically advance, securing cover and providing fire support during a breaching and clearing mission in preparation for Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, on Feb. 7, 2024. U.S. Marines, in coordination with NATO allies and partners, are gearing up for the biennial exercise Nordic Response 24. This NATO training exercise aims to enhance Arctic security, elevate global readiness, and foster interoperability among U.S. Forces, Allied, and partner forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance. Cpl. Christian Salazar)

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

A Norwegian recovery vehicle hooks up to a U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Assault Vehicle prior to the start of a live-fire range in Rena, Norway, as part of their pre-exercise training Feb. 17, 2016. The Marines and Norwegian Army are working together as part of Exercise Cold Response, a joint NATO and allied country exercise comprised of 12 countries and approximately 16,000 troops. The U.S. European Command appreciates the opportunity for taking part in such a large multinational exercise at the invitation of our Norwegian Allies; and we are especially thankful for the chance to put our skills to the test in unique cold weather conditions. - A Norwegian recovery vehicle hooks up to a U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Assault Vehicle prior to the start of a live-fire range in Rena, Norway, as part of their pre-exercise training Feb. 17, 2016. The Marines and Norwegian Army are working together as part of Exercise Cold Response, a joint NATO and allied country exercise comprised of 12 countries and approximately 16,000 troops. The U.S. European Command appreciates the opportunity for taking part in such a large multinational exercise at the invitation of our Norwegian Allies; and we are especially thankful for the chance to put our skills to the test in unique cold weather conditions.

Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger speaks to Marines and Sailors during a visit to Marine Corps Air Station, Miramar, Calif., Aug. 27, 2019. Gen. Berger and Sgt. Maj. Black met with Marines and leaders in the Pacific to discuss partnership, readiness and core values. - Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger speaks to Marines and Sailors during a visit to Marine Corps Air Station, Miramar, Calif., Aug. 27, 2019. Gen. Berger and Sgt. Maj. Black met with Marines and leaders in the Pacific to discuss partnership, readiness and core values.

Drill Instructors and Marines with November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion march towards the Peatross Parade Deck before their graduation ceremony Nov. 16, 2018 at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. - Drill Instructors and Marines with November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion march towards the Peatross Parade Deck before their graduation ceremony Nov. 16, 2018 at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C.

A U.S. Marine conducts an operations check on a 310 Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle on Camp Dwyer, Helmand province, Afghanistan, May 11. - A U.S. Marine conducts an operations check on a 310 Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle on Camp Dwyer, Helmand province, Afghanistan, May 11.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Christian Thiessen a student at the Naval Postgraduate School and Dr. Britta Hale, a professor from NPS visit I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group to conduct research on shortfalls of the fleet at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 17, 2021. NPS provides its students with defense-focused studies in order to meet the needs and requirements of the units they support. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Christian Thiessen a student at the Naval Postgraduate School and Dr. Britta Hale, a professor from NPS visit I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group to conduct research on shortfalls of the fleet at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 17, 2021. NPS provides its students with defense-focused studies in order to meet the needs and requirements of the units they support.

Four enlisted Marines, part of the newest cadre of NCOs attending the Naval Postgraduate School, join Marine Corps officers on the front steps of Herrmann Hall, Nov. 11. - Four enlisted Marines, part of the newest cadre of NCOs attending the Naval Postgraduate School, join Marine Corps officers on the front steps of Herrmann Hall, Nov. 11.

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Officer candidates from Class 220 recite the oath for commissioned officers during their commissioning ceremony Nov. 24, 2015 at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, Va. These new second lieutenants now head to The Basic School. - Officer candidates from Class 220 recite the oath for commissioned officers during their commissioning ceremony Nov. 24, 2015 at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, Va. These new second lieutenants now head to The Basic School.

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Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, are invited to join the invocation during the Maneuver Company activation ceremony at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 30, 2019. Composed of engineers, motor transport and landing support, Maneuver Company was activated to optimize training while in garrison and to excel in distributed operations when deployed with the 31st MEU. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, are invited to join the invocation during the Maneuver Company activation ceremony at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 30, 2019. Composed of engineers, motor transport and landing support, Maneuver Company was activated to optimize training while in garrison and to excel in distributed operations when deployed with the 31st MEU. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Cpl. William Perkins, acting as a simulated suspect and assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, Command Element wrestles with a military working dog during controlled aggression training in the Central Command area of operations, Dec. 28, 2014. The dogs and trainers conducted controlled aggression training, which is designed to teach them to apprehend and restrain a target rather than kill or seriously injure. - U.S. Marine Cpl. William Perkins, acting as a simulated suspect and assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, Command Element wrestles with a military working dog during controlled aggression training in the Central Command area of operations, Dec. 28, 2014. The dogs and trainers conducted controlled aggression training, which is designed to teach them to apprehend and restrain a target rather than kill or seriously injure.

A Marine with Combat Logistics Regiment 25 drives a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle and trailer off of a Roll-on/Roll-off Discharge Facility and onto an Improved Navy Lighterage System during an in-stream Marine Prepositioning Force Exercise off the coast of Marine Corps Support Facility Blount Island, Florida, Aug. 19, 2015. Marines with CLR-25 and sailors with Naval Beach Group 2 joined forces for the latest iteration of MPFEX, which saw service members offloading the USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus using Lift-on/Lift-Off and Roll-on/Roll-off procedures. - A Marine with Combat Logistics Regiment 25 drives a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle and trailer off of a Roll-on/Roll-off Discharge Facility and onto an Improved Navy Lighterage System during an in-stream Marine Prepositioning Force Exercise off the coast of Marine Corps Support Facility Blount Island, Florida, Aug. 19, 2015. Marines with CLR-25 and sailors with Naval Beach Group 2 joined forces for the latest iteration of MPFEX, which saw service members offloading the USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus using Lift-on/Lift-Off and Roll-on/Roll-off procedures.

The Marine Corps Program Executive Officer Land Systems is expected to deliver 144 Utility Task Vehicles to the regiment-level starting in February 2017. The rugged all-terrain vehicle can carry up to four Marines or be converted to haul 1,500 pounds of supplies. With minimal armor and size, the UTV can quickly haul extra ammunition and provisions, or injured Marines, while preserving energy and stealth. - The Marine Corps Program Executive Officer Land Systems is expected to deliver 144 Utility Task Vehicles to the regiment-level starting in February 2017. The rugged all-terrain vehicle can carry up to four Marines or be converted to haul 1,500 pounds of supplies. With minimal armor and size, the UTV can quickly haul extra ammunition and provisions, or injured Marines, while preserving energy and stealth.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jonathan Myrick, from Montgomery, Alabama, conducts electrical maintenance checks with Sgt. Levi Torres from Shepheard, Texas, avionics technicians deployed in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, assigned to Marine Attack Squadron 231, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, March 2, 2017. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jonathan Myrick, from Montgomery, Alabama, conducts electrical maintenance checks with Sgt. Levi Torres from Shepheard, Texas, avionics technicians deployed in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, assigned to Marine Attack Squadron 231, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, March 2, 2017.

Contestants participating in the Okinawa Spartan Race motivate each other before beginning the race on Chura Sun Beach, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 27. - Contestants participating in the Okinawa Spartan Race motivate each other before beginning the race on Chura Sun Beach, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 27.

Cpl. Matthew A. Long turns a wrench on a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle engine on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, October 25, 2016. Long was selected as a winner in a Marine Corps logistical innovation competition for incorporating a blood clotting agent and pain killer with a Small Arms Protective Insert to minimize the time between injury and aid. Long, from Moultrie, Georgia, is a motor transport mechanic with Motor Transport Company, Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Matthew A. Long turns a wrench on a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle engine on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, October 25, 2016. Long was selected as a winner in a Marine Corps logistical innovation competition for incorporating a blood clotting agent and pain killer with a Small Arms Protective Insert to minimize the time between injury and aid. Long, from Moultrie, Georgia, is a motor transport mechanic with Motor Transport Company, Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines and Sailors of 7th Communication Battalion arrive to the beaches of Iwo Jima, Japan, July 2, 2019. The Marines and Sailors hiked in order to conduct a Professional Military Education on the Battle of Iwo Jima. Through the hike the Marines and sailors were able to learn and experience some of the history of the Battle of Iwo Jima. - Marines and Sailors of 7th Communication Battalion arrive to the beaches of Iwo Jima, Japan, July 2, 2019. The Marines and Sailors hiked in order to conduct a Professional Military Education on the Battle of Iwo Jima. Through the hike the Marines and sailors were able to learn and experience some of the history of the Battle of Iwo Jima.

During the exercise, Marines refine their skills to better support Division operations in an expeditionary environment. - U.S. Marines receive their final orders to establish a forward operations center Jan. 23, 2018 on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, for Exercise Samurai. During the exercise, Marines refine their skills to better support Division operations in an expeditionary environment. The Marines are assigned Headquarters and Service Battalion, 3rd Marine Division.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Jason Cheama posts security during Exercise Samurai Jan. 23, 2018, on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Marines with Headquarters and Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Division trained to refine their skills for Division operations in an expeditionary environment. Cheama, a native of Zuni, New Mexico, supported the exercise as an assistant team leader in a provisional rifle squad. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Jason Cheama posts security during Exercise Samurai Jan. 23, 2018, on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Marines with Headquarters and Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Division trained to refine their skills for Division operations in an expeditionary environment. Cheama, a native of Zuni, New Mexico, supported the exercise as an assistant team leader in a provisional rifle squad.

Chikako McMasters, a Vietnam war hero’s daughter, stands in front of a portrait and biography of her father that are located at the entrance of Dorris Hall - Chikako McMasters, a Vietnam war hero’s daughter, stands in front of a portrait and biography of her father that are located at the entrance of Dorris Hall, the renamed staff non-commissioned officer barracks on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 22, 2017. Recently, Chikako discovered she was the daughter of Staff Sgt. Claude H. Dorris, a Navy Cross recipient in Vietnam, which gave her a deeper connection to the Marine Corps. McMasters is a native of Okinawa, Japan.

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Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit move sea bags, packs and gear pier side at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, June 7, 2017. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 to form the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group – a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific. - Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit move sea bags, packs and gear pier side at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, June 7, 2017. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 to form the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group – a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific.

A U.S. Navy Hospitalman puts on personal protective equipment before seeing a possible Coronavirus patient at the respiratory triage clinic, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Aug. 6. - A U.S. Navy Hospitalman puts on personal protective equipment before seeing a possible Coronavirus patient at the respiratory triage clinic, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Aug. 6.

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.

U.S. Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, extinguishes simulated aircraft fire at the installation, Dec. 15, 2023. ARFF performs routine training that equips Marines with the necessary skills and knowledge to efficiently respond to emergencies. - U.S. Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, extinguishes simulated aircraft fire at the installation, Dec. 15, 2023. ARFF performs routine training that equips Marines with the necessary skills and knowledge to efficiently respond to emergencies.

A U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Combat Vehicle with 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, disembarks from Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), during Quarterly Underway Amphibious Readiness Training 26.2, off the coast of California, Jan. 23, 2026. - A U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Combat Vehicle with 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, disembarks from Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), during Quarterly Underway Amphibious Readiness Training 26.2, off the coast of California, Jan. 23, 2026.

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Richard Cropley celebrates his 99th birthday with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 31, 2019. Cropley served his country for more than 20 years as a fighter/bomber pilot during World War II and flew multiple combat missions over the Pacific. Cropley’s birthday wish was to spend time with his Marine Corps aviation family and to see an MV-22B Osprey up close. - Retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Richard Cropley celebrates his 99th birthday with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 31, 2019. Cropley served his country for more than 20 years as a fighter/bomber pilot during World War II and flew multiple combat missions over the Pacific. Cropley’s birthday wish was to spend time with his Marine Corps aviation family and to see an MV-22B Osprey up close.

Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to board an assault amphibious vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion during an obstacle-breaching exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 20, 2015. The Marines used 2nd AA Bn. for communication, fire support and transport to and from their objectives throughout the exercise. - Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to board an assault amphibious vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion during an obstacle-breaching exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 20, 2015. The Marines used 2nd AA Bn. for communication, fire support and transport to and from their objectives throughout the exercise.

Cpl. Anthony Payton, a field artillery cannoneer with Lima Battery, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, swabs an M777 Howitzer after it was fired during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 30, 2015. This was the last exercise Lima conducted as a standalone battery. - Cpl. Anthony Payton, a field artillery cannoneer with Lima Battery, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, swabs an M777 Howitzer after it was fired during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 30, 2015. This was the last exercise Lima conducted as a standalone battery.

180715-M-IM909-001.JPG - World War II veteran Sam Folsom flew the Grumman F4F Wildcat during his time of service in Guadalcanal in late 1942. His squadron, Marine Fighter Squadron 121, was the highest scoring Marine fighter squadron of WWII and received the presidential unit citation. During Folsom’s time with VMF-121, he shot down three total enemy aircrafts and received the Purple Heart and the Distinguished Flying Cross. (Courtesy Photo)

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jonas G. Dewald works with a fellow Marine to don his ghillie suit Dec. 2 in the Oyanohara Training Area in Yamato, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. The concealment training is part of Forest Light 15-1, a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force to enhance the U.S. and Japan military partnership, solidify regional security agreements and improve individual and unit-level skills. Dewald, from Wilson, North Carolina, is a machine gunner with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF, under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released) - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jonas G. Dewald works with a fellow Marine to don his ghillie suit Dec. 2 in the Oyanohara Training Area in Yamato, Kumamoto prefecture, Japan. The concealment training is part of Forest Light 15-1, a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force to enhance the U.S. and Japan military partnership, solidify regional security agreements and improve individual and unit-level skills. Dewald, from Wilson, North Carolina, is a machine gunner with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF, under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Drew Tech/Released)

A rifleman assigned to Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self Defense Force, provides security from an amphibious assault vehicle, during a live-fire platoon level assault, during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Feb. 9, 2016. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral training exercise between the Japan Ground Self Defense Force and Marines to strengthen warfighting capabilities in ship to shore operations. - A rifleman assigned to Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self Defense Force, provides security from an amphibious assault vehicle, during a live-fire platoon level assault, during Exercise Iron Fist 2016 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Feb. 9, 2016. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral training exercise between the Japan Ground Self Defense Force and Marines to strengthen warfighting capabilities in ship to shore operations.

Marines, soldiers, sailors, and airmen prepare their equipment and weapons for the 53rd Annual Interservice Rifle Championship on July 7, 2014, at Range 4, Weapons Training Battalion, Marine Corps Base Quantico. The event will last for a week and will test servicemembers individual talent as well as their team work. - Marines, soldiers, sailors, and airmen prepare their equipment and weapons for the 53rd Annual Interservice Rifle Championship on July 7, 2014, at Range 4, Weapons Training Battalion, Marine Corps Base Quantico. The event will last for a week and will test servicemembers individual talent as well as their team work.

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

Staff Sgt. Randall Lester (left) points toward aircraft as Maj. Lauchlin Byrd (center) and Maj. Thomas Short (right) scan the skies during close air support operations at a range near Fort Drum, N.Y., March 16, 2017. Marines assigned to 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, worked in conjunction with Marines assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, to complete the training. - Staff Sgt. Randall Lester (left) points toward aircraft as Maj. Lauchlin Byrd (center) and Maj. Thomas Short (right) scan the skies during close air support operations at a range near Fort Drum, N.Y., March 16, 2017. Marines assigned to 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, worked in conjunction with Marines assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, to complete the training.

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.

Lt. Col. Regina Gustavsson and Sgt. Peter Apiag discuss reporting requirements for their section for a simulated mishap during II Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 16 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., May 11, 2016. MEFEX 16 is a command and control exercise conducted in a deployed environment designed to synchronize and bring to bear the full spectrum of II Marine Expeditionary Force's C2 capabilities in support of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force. - Lt. Col. Regina Gustavsson and Sgt. Peter Apiag discuss reporting requirements for their section for a simulated mishap during II Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 16 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., May 11, 2016. MEFEX 16 is a command and control exercise conducted in a deployed environment designed to synchronize and bring to bear the full spectrum of II Marine Expeditionary Force's C2 capabilities in support of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Elias Vasquez, left, and Lance Cpl. Ezequiel Soto, both machine gunners with 12th Littoral Combat Team, 12th Marine Littoral Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, fire an M240B machine gun during a Combined Arms Live-Fire Exercise at Rodriguez Live-Fire Complex, Republic of Korea, March 3, 2026. 12th LCT Marines executed a company-level CALFEX, integrating organic and supporting fires, maneuver elements, and reconnaissance capabilities to conduct a coordinated assault on a designated objective. The range strengthened the unit’s ability to synchronize fires and movement in a dynamic training environment while enhancing combat effectiveness and overall readiness. Vasquez is a native of Texas and Soto is a native of Illinois. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Rodney Frye) - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Elias Vasquez, left, and Lance Cpl. Ezequiel Soto, both machine gunners with 12th Littoral Combat Team, 12th Marine Littoral Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, fire an M240B machine gun during a Combined Arms Live-Fire Exercise at Rodriguez Live-Fire Complex, Republic of Korea, March 3, 2026. 12th LCT Marines executed a company-level CALFEX, integrating organic and supporting fires, maneuver elements, and reconnaissance capabilities to conduct a coordinated assault on a designated objective. The range strengthened the unit’s ability to synchronize fires and movement in a dynamic training environment while enhancing combat effectiveness and overall readiness. Vasquez is a native of Texas and Soto is a native of Illinois. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Rodney Frye)

On-the-move communications system set to field this fall - Marines from the 1st Marine Division test out the Mobile User Objective System at a Field User Evaluation in Camp Pendleton, California. MUOS is a satellite communication system that uses commercial cell phone technology to increase access while on the battlefield. Marine Corps Systems Command will begin fielding MUOS in the fourth quarter of 2018. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Eddie Young)

U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, brace for an explosion on range Golf-36, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 12, 2020. Range G-36 is the newest addition to the Camp Lejeune training environment. This range is designed to accommodate company-size assaults and evolutions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jacqueline Parsons) - U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, brace for an explosion on range Golf-36, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 12, 2020. Range G-36 is the newest addition to the Camp Lejeune training environment. This range is designed to accommodate company-size assaults and evolutions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jacqueline Parsons)

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Dannie Barnes, a mortarman with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, checks the location of an RQ-20 Puma unmanned aircraft system during Operation Buck Rogers on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 3, 2019. Operation Buck Rogers is used to count the mule deer population on Camp Pendleton and the use of Pumas is a cheaper and more effective alternative to complete the task. The survey of Camp Pendleton’s deer population is done once a year. Barnes is a native of Wataga, Illinois. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Dannie Barnes, a mortarman with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, checks the location of an RQ-20 Puma unmanned aircraft system during Operation Buck Rogers on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 3, 2019. Operation Buck Rogers is used to count the mule deer population on Camp Pendleton and the use of Pumas is a cheaper and more effective alternative to complete the task. The survey of Camp Pendleton’s deer population is done once a year. Barnes is a native of Wataga, Illinois.

U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, in Fallujah, 7 April 2004. - U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Marine Captain Philip Treglia calls in a danger close airstrike while his Marines fire against terrorists operating in Fallujah, Iraq. Marines Corporal Philip Dennis (kneeling), Corporal Butterfield , LCpl Buskard, Cpl Justin Smith April 7, 2004. U.S. Marines suspended offensive operations after isolating and systematically clearing portions of the city. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Apprendi)

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Governor Hirokazu Nakaima, left, shakes hands with Col. Christopher B. Snyder,Sept. 6 during a day of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training on and around Miyako Island. The drills marked the first time members of the Okinawa Prefectural Government hosted a series of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills with full-fledged participation by the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marines. Nakaima is the Governor of Okinawa Prefecture and Snyder is the deputy commander with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. - Governor Hirokazu Nakaima, left, shakes hands with Col. Christopher B. Snyder,Sept. 6 during a day of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training on and around Miyako Island. The drills marked the first time members of the Okinawa Prefectural Government hosted a series of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills with full-fledged participation by the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marines. Nakaima is the Governor of Okinawa Prefecture and Snyder is the deputy commander with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific.

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