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Lance Cpl. Trent Meade, a rifleman with Security Cooperation Team-4, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, instructs a Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando on supporting his buddy during an immediate action practical application exercise led by Marines in Toubacouta, Senegal, Sept. 1, 2015. Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen with SCT-4 are in Senegal training with the COFUMACO on infantry tactics and small-boat operations to continue building a strong relationship between the partner nations and improve the interoperability of the Senegalese military. - Lance Cpl. Trent Meade, a rifleman with Security Cooperation Team-4, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, instructs a Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando on supporting his buddy during an immediate action practical application exercise led by Marines in Toubacouta, Senegal, Sept. 1, 2015. Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen with SCT-4 are in Senegal training with the COFUMACO on infantry tactics and small-boat operations to continue building a strong relationship between the partner nations and improve the interoperability of the Senegalese military.

An Australian Army soldier wears the Exercise Kowari 2015 patch after the exercise’s closing ceremony Sept. 12 at Larrakeyah Barracks, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, Sept. 16, 2015. In its second iteration, Kowari 15 was a trilateral environmental survival training opportunity hosted by Australia and included forces from the U.S., Australia and China simultaneously. - An Australian Army soldier wears the Exercise Kowari 2015 patch after the exercise’s closing ceremony Sept. 12 at Larrakeyah Barracks, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, Sept. 16, 2015. In its second iteration, Kowari 15 was a trilateral environmental survival training opportunity hosted by Australia and included forces from the U.S., Australia and China simultaneously.

Pfc. William K. Blackwood communicates with members of his convoy during a combat convoy simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 9, 2015. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion tested their combat skills and decision making as they maneuvered through a simulated desert, mimicking the possible scenarios they could encounter while in a real-life scenario. The training simulator allowed the Marines to efficiently train in a controlled environment without sacrificing safety or accuracy. Blackwood is a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd LAAD based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. - Pfc. William K. Blackwood communicates with members of his convoy during a combat convoy simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 9, 2015. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion tested their combat skills and decision making as they maneuvered through a simulated desert, mimicking the possible scenarios they could encounter while in a real-life scenario. The training simulator allowed the Marines to efficiently train in a controlled environment without sacrificing safety or accuracy. Blackwood is a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd LAAD based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C.

Lance Cpl. Aaron Philson fires a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allows them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters. Philson is an aviation communications technician with MASS-1. - Lance Cpl. Aaron Philson fires a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allows them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters. Philson is an aviation communications technician with MASS-1.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. Akito Yagi attaches vegetation to his sniper rifle while performing stalking drills during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 10, 2015. The Marines sat up on a high embankment, trying to catch the JGSDF stalking the target with binoculars. Forest Light is a semiannual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events, conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. Yagi is a sniper with 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. Akito Yagi attaches vegetation to his sniper rifle while performing stalking drills during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 10, 2015. The Marines sat up on a high embankment, trying to catch the JGSDF stalking the target with binoculars. Forest Light is a semiannual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events, conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. Yagi is a sniper with 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade.

An MV-22B Osprey practiced landing on the Spanish amphibious assault ship Juan Carlos I (L-61) during deck landing qualifications, Sept. 9 near the coast of Spain. The DLQs are part of the Allied Maritime Basing Initiative, which seeks to provide the U.S. and allies with a year-round maritime-based crisis response force in the Mediterranean Sea or the Gulf of Guinea by leveraging the significant amphibious capabilities already residing in Europe. - An MV-22B Osprey practiced landing on the Spanish amphibious assault ship Juan Carlos I (L-61) during deck landing qualifications, Sept. 9 near the coast of Spain. The DLQs are part of the Allied Maritime Basing Initiative, which seeks to provide the U.S. and allies with a year-round maritime-based crisis response force in the Mediterranean Sea or the Gulf of Guinea by leveraging the significant amphibious capabilities already residing in Europe.

Betsy Fowler, widow of Col. James Fowler founder of the Marine Corps Marathon, speaks at the Marine Corps Marathon building dedication at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 14, 2015. James Fowler founded the Marine Corps Marathon in 1975, while still serving at Headquarters Marine Corps, to help create a community of goodwill between the Marine Corps and the civilian populace. - Betsy Fowler, widow of Col. James Fowler founder of the Marine Corps Marathon, speaks at the Marine Corps Marathon building dedication at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 14, 2015. James Fowler founded the Marine Corps Marathon in 1975, while still serving at Headquarters Marine Corps, to help create a community of goodwill between the Marine Corps and the civilian populace.

Benin National Surveillance Police commemorated the Sept. 11, 2001, anniversary attacks with U.S. Marines and sailors at the National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin, today. The Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa are in Benin for a month-long training mission with the National Surveillance Police to help counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders. During a break in the training, NPS students stood alongside Marines and sailors in formation for a brief ceremony to remember the day when more than 3,000 lives perished from the heinous terrorist attack. The ceremony began with the playing of taps, followed by three smoke cans, releasing colors of the Benin flag, symbolizing the partnership between the U.S. and Benin. - Benin National Surveillance Police commemorated the Sept. 11, 2001, anniversary attacks with U.S. Marines and sailors at the National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin, today. The Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa are in Benin for a month-long training mission with the National Surveillance Police to help counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders. During a break in the training, NPS students stood alongside Marines and sailors in formation for a brief ceremony to remember the day when more than 3,000 lives perished from the heinous terrorist attack. The ceremony began with the playing of taps, followed by three smoke cans, releasing colors of the Benin flag, symbolizing the partnership between the U.S. and Benin.

Marines retire the American flag for the last time in the city of Phoenix at Civic Space Park Sept. 13, 2015. More than 800 Marines participated in Marine Week Phoenix to give the citizens of the Valley of the Sun the opportunity to meet the individual Marines and celebrate community, country and Corps. - Marines retire the American flag for the last time in the city of Phoenix at Civic Space Park Sept. 13, 2015. More than 800 Marines participated in Marine Week Phoenix to give the citizens of the Valley of the Sun the opportunity to meet the individual Marines and celebrate community, country and Corps.

A wreath is laid beside the silhouette of a combat videographer following the unveiling of the Marine Week Phoenix mural in Scottsdale, Ariz., Sept. 12, 2015. The silhouette memorializes Lance Cpl. Jacob Hug, a Scottsdale native, who perished in a helicopter crash while the Corps was providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to Nepal. - A wreath is laid beside the silhouette of a combat videographer following the unveiling of the Marine Week Phoenix mural in Scottsdale, Ariz., Sept. 12, 2015. The silhouette memorializes Lance Cpl. Jacob Hug, a Scottsdale native, who perished in a helicopter crash while the Corps was providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to Nepal.

Brig. Gen. Daniel Yoo, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, speaks during the Marine Corps Leadership Seminar at Arizona State University at Tempe, Arizona, Sept. 11, 2015. The seminar was an event supporting Marine Week Phoenix, which aims to connect the Corps with the people of Arizona. - Brig. Gen. Daniel Yoo, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, speaks during the Marine Corps Leadership Seminar at Arizona State University at Tempe, Arizona, Sept. 11, 2015. The seminar was an event supporting Marine Week Phoenix, which aims to connect the Corps with the people of Arizona.

A UH-1Y Huey lands at Arizona State University Tempe Campus, Sept. 10, 2015, as part of Marine Week Phoenix. Marine Week Phoenix allows the Marine Corps to showcase its capabilities to the people of Phoenix who may not know about the Marine Corps. - A UH-1Y Huey lands at Arizona State University Tempe Campus, Sept. 10, 2015, as part of Marine Week Phoenix. Marine Week Phoenix allows the Marine Corps to showcase its capabilities to the people of Phoenix who may not know about the Marine Corps.

Sgt. Sugimoto Yoshitaka fires the Type 01 LMAT Anti-Tank Missile System during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marines shared knowledge about different anti-tank missile systems. After giving specifications of their respective weapon systems, the two forces used practice rounds to demonstrate how well the weapon systems work. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points training, helicopter borne skills and combined arms procedures. Sugimoto is an anti-tank missile man with 50th infantry regiment, 14th Brigade. - Sgt. Sugimoto Yoshitaka fires the Type 01 LMAT Anti-Tank Missile System during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marines shared knowledge about different anti-tank missile systems. After giving specifications of their respective weapon systems, the two forces used practice rounds to demonstrate how well the weapon systems work. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points training, helicopter borne skills and combined arms procedures. Sugimoto is an anti-tank missile man with 50th infantry regiment, 14th Brigade.

U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members salute as each nations’ national anthem plays marking the beginning of Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of combined mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points, combined helicopter borne skills and combined-arms training. The JGSDF members are from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members salute as each nations’ national anthem plays marking the beginning of Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of combined mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points, combined helicopter borne skills and combined-arms training. The JGSDF members are from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force member prepares to fire a 120mm mortar during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. The JGSDF and U.S. Marines took turns calling fire missions, prepping the mortar for fire, and firing the mortar. Forest Light is a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. The JGSDF member is from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. - A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force member prepares to fire a 120mm mortar during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. The JGSDF and U.S. Marines took turns calling fire missions, prepping the mortar for fire, and firing the mortar. Forest Light is a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. The JGSDF member is from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade.

Marines listen to a veteran share his story during their visit to the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center, Phoenix, Sept. 10, 2015. Marine Week Phoenix is a chance to reconnect with Marines, sailors, veterans and their families from different generations. - Marines listen to a veteran share his story during their visit to the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center, Phoenix, Sept. 10, 2015. Marine Week Phoenix is a chance to reconnect with Marines, sailors, veterans and their families from different generations.

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An active shooter response exercise participant simulates firing a handgun during an active shooter response exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Sept. 2. The station also participated in an aircraft mishap response exercise the next day as part of required annual safety training for the installation. - An active shooter response exercise participant simulates firing a handgun during an active shooter response exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Sept. 2. The station also participated in an aircraft mishap response exercise the next day as part of required annual safety training for the installation.

Marines set up a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun prior to a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allowed them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters. - Marines set up a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun prior to a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allowed them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters.

The United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon preforms a series of rifle maneuvers at Civic Space Park, Phoenix, Sept. 9, 2015, as part of the opening ceremony for Marine Week Phoenix. Marine Week Phoenix allows the local community to see the Marine Corps in a way that they would not normally be able to experience. - The United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon preforms a series of rifle maneuvers at Civic Space Park, Phoenix, Sept. 9, 2015, as part of the opening ceremony for Marine Week Phoenix. Marine Week Phoenix allows the local community to see the Marine Corps in a way that they would not normally be able to experience.

A Marine Corps color guard prepares to raise the colors at Civic Space Park on Sept. 9, 2015 as part of Marine Week Phoenix. This event allows the Marine Corps to showcase its traditions, history, and values. - A Marine Corps color guard prepares to raise the colors at Civic Space Park on Sept. 9, 2015 as part of Marine Week Phoenix. This event allows the Marine Corps to showcase its traditions, history, and values.

The All-Marine soccer team visits McKale Memorial Center at the University of Arizona during the tour of their sports facilities in Tucson, Arizona, Sept. 9, 2015. The event was the first the All-Marine soccer team supported as part of Marine Week Phoenix. - The All-Marine soccer team visits McKale Memorial Center at the University of Arizona during the tour of their sports facilities in Tucson, Arizona, Sept. 9, 2015. The event was the first the All-Marine soccer team supported as part of Marine Week Phoenix.

A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion drives and splashes a Polaris Razor through a mud-hole in the woods during a basic recreational off-highway vehicle training qualification course on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 1, 2015. The course is designed to introduce Marines to the two-seater all-terrain vehicle, and familiarize them to its capabilities and safety consideration. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexander Mitchell/released) - A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion drives and splashes a Polaris Razor through a mud-hole in the woods during a basic recreational off-highway vehicle training qualification course on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 1, 2015. The course is designed to introduce Marines to the two-seater all-terrain vehicle, and familiarize them to its capabilities and safety consideration. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexander Mitchell/released)

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Students with the Field Medical Service Technician Course, led by HM2 Hoff, an instructor with FMTB West, reach the turn-around point during their 6-mile hike at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 1, 2015. The hike is one of three hikes that every student must complete on their journey to becoming “greenside” corpsmen, working side-by-side and caring for Marines. - Students with the Field Medical Service Technician Course, led by HM2 Hoff, an instructor with FMTB West, reach the turn-around point during their 6-mile hike at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 1, 2015. The hike is one of three hikes that every student must complete on their journey to becoming “greenside” corpsmen, working side-by-side and caring for Marines.

Mexican Navy sailors stand in formation on the deck of Mexican ship ARM Usumacinta during a media visit held in conjunction with Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 6. Mexican Naval Forces are participating as observers in Exercise Dawn Blitz for the first time in 2015, with the hope of developing a stronger and more effective amphibious presence. - Mexican Navy sailors stand in formation on the deck of Mexican ship ARM Usumacinta during a media visit held in conjunction with Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 6. Mexican Naval Forces are participating as observers in Exercise Dawn Blitz for the first time in 2015, with the hope of developing a stronger and more effective amphibious presence.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division use a compass to determine their left and right lateral limits on the beaches of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-based operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division use a compass to determine their left and right lateral limits on the beaches of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-based operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand.

Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment provide security on the beach following an amphibious landing as part of Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational, amphibious training exercise designed to hone the amphibious landing skills of I Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Expeditionary Strike Group Three and allies of the United States. - Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment provide security on the beach following an amphibious landing as part of Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational, amphibious training exercise designed to hone the amphibious landing skills of I Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Expeditionary Strike Group Three and allies of the United States.

Two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Landing Craft Air Cushion vessels maneuver past Japanese ship Hyuga during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 3, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside coalition forces. - Two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Landing Craft Air Cushion vessels maneuver past Japanese ship Hyuga during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 3, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside coalition forces.

Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, roll through smoke to meet Marines with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, during an integrated exercise at Landing Zone Dodo, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 2, 2015. The purpose of the exercise was to allow Marine infantry and tankers to work together. - Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, roll through smoke to meet Marines with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, during an integrated exercise at Landing Zone Dodo, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 2, 2015. The purpose of the exercise was to allow Marine infantry and tankers to work together.

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Members of the Montford Point Marine Association carry the casket of Lt. Gen. Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (ret.) during his memorial service at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., Sept. 3, 2015. Petersen died Aug. 25, 2015, after succumbing to lung cancer. Petersen was the first African-American Marine Corps aviator and general officer. - Members of the Montford Point Marine Association carry the casket of Lt. Gen. Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (ret.) during his memorial service at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., Sept. 3, 2015. Petersen died Aug. 25, 2015, after succumbing to lung cancer. Petersen was the first African-American Marine Corps aviator and general officer.

Rear Adm. Brent W. Scott, the Chaplain of the United States Marine Corps, delivers remarks during the Remembrance Ceremony for Company “H”, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines held at the Marine Corps War Memorial at Arlington, Va., Sept. 3. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the unit and those Marines and sailors, who gave their lives to accomplish their mission. - Rear Adm. Brent W. Scott, the Chaplain of the United States Marine Corps, delivers remarks during the Remembrance Ceremony for Company “H”, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines held at the Marine Corps War Memorial at Arlington, Va., Sept. 3. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the unit and those Marines and sailors, who gave their lives to accomplish their mission.

Cpl. Tristofer Ducharme, operator, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1, dons the joint service, lightweight, integrated suit technology during an individual equipment confidence course at building 1980 aboard the Combat Center, Aug. 27, 2015. The JSLIST is designed to protect the wearer from chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear contamination. - Cpl. Tristofer Ducharme, operator, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1, dons the joint service, lightweight, integrated suit technology during an individual equipment confidence course at building 1980 aboard the Combat Center, Aug. 27, 2015. The JSLIST is designed to protect the wearer from chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear contamination.

Lance Cpl. Gabriel J. Weaver, rifleman with E Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, provides cover fire for his squad during an assault course as part of Exercise Chosin, a squad-level training evolution, at Range 410, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 26, 2015. - Lance Cpl. Gabriel J. Weaver, rifleman with E Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, provides cover fire for his squad during an assault course as part of Exercise Chosin, a squad-level training evolution, at Range 410, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 26, 2015.

A squad with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, consolidate and debrief after a round of military operations in urban terrain training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 26, 2015. Debreifing the Marines lets them know what they did right, and what they could improve on. - A squad with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, consolidate and debrief after a round of military operations in urban terrain training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 26, 2015. Debreifing the Marines lets them know what they did right, and what they could improve on.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Phillip Lopez (front) and Seaman Jordan Saco, U.S. Navy Corpsmen with Shock Trauma Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 13, the logistics combat element for the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, carry a simulated casualty on a stretcher to the rear of a medical aid vehicle at Fort Hunter Liggett, California, during training to familiarize medical personnel with attending to casualties arriving on the flight line at Realistic Urban Training (RUT) Exercise, Sept. 2, 2015. RUT is the final ground-based training requirement prior to deployment as the 13th MEU moves toward operating embarked at sea. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Phillip Lopez (front) and Seaman Jordan Saco, U.S. Navy Corpsmen with Shock Trauma Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 13, the logistics combat element for the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, carry a simulated casualty on a stretcher to the rear of a medical aid vehicle at Fort Hunter Liggett, California, during training to familiarize medical personnel with attending to casualties arriving on the flight line at Realistic Urban Training (RUT) Exercise, Sept. 2, 2015. RUT is the final ground-based training requirement prior to deployment as the 13th MEU moves toward operating embarked at sea.

U.S. Marines Lance Cpl. Chevon Ferrel, left, and Cpl. Justine Woodend demonstrate searching techniques during a subject matter expert exchange with the Qatari Internal Security Forces Female VIP Protection Unit in Qatar. Ferrel is an ammunition technician and Woodend is a motor transportation operator with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. They are members of the Female Partner Force Engagement Team. The FPFET was comprised of U.S. Marines with the 15th MEU as well as soldiers and sailors with Special Operations Command Central-Forward and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Arabian Peninsula. During the SMEE they covered medical care, marksmanship, and personal security detail strategies. - U.S. Marines Lance Cpl. Chevon Ferrel, left, and Cpl. Justine Woodend demonstrate searching techniques during a subject matter expert exchange with the Qatari Internal Security Forces Female VIP Protection Unit in Qatar. Ferrel is an ammunition technician and Woodend is a motor transportation operator with the 15th Marine Expeditionary. They are members of the Female Partner Force Engagement Team. The FPFET was comprised of U.S. Marines with the 15th MEU as well as Soldiers and Sailors with Special Operations Command Central-Forward and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Arabian Peninsula. During the SMEE they covered medical care, marksmanship, and personal security detail strategies.

A Marine with 3rd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company and a Japanese soldier shake hands prior to the start of a live-fire shoot together during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 at San Clemente Island, California, Sept. 1, 2015. ANGLICO Marines and Japanese soldiers conducted a combined arms shoot with naval gunfire, attack rotary aircraft and 120mm mortars. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand. - A Marine with 3rd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company and a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force soldier shake hands prior to the start of a live-fire shoot together during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 at San Clemente Island, California, Sept. 1, 2015. ANGLICO Marines and the JGSDF conducted a combined arms shoot with naval gunfire, attack rotary aircraft and 120mm mortars. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand.

A Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando demonstrates his swimming technique during a swim assessment by personnel with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, during a swim assessment in Dakar, Senegal, Aug. 28, 2015. The assessment was conducted to ensure the COFUMACO are capable and confident in the water before they conduct small-boat operations training together in the following weeks. - A Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando demonstrates his swimming technique during a swim assessment by personnel with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, during a swim assessment in Dakar, Senegal, Aug. 28, 2015. The assessment was conducted to ensure the COFUMACO are capable and confident in the water before they conduct small-boat operations training together in the following weeks.

Sgt. Dashien R. Pettigrew runs through the OC Spray Performance Evaluation Course on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, during the Non-Lethal Weapons Instructor Course, Aug. 27, 2015. This inter-service course is only offered once a year on Okinawa. Pettigrew, from Moncks Corner, South Carolina, is an ammunition technician with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, and will have the collateral duty of non-lethal weapons instructor upon completion of the course. - Sgt. Dashien R. Pettigrew runs through the OC Spray Performance Evaluation Course on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, during the Non-Lethal Weapons Instructor Course, Aug. 27, 2015. This inter-service course is only offered once a year on Okinawa. Pettigrew, from Moncks Corner, South Carolina, is an ammunition technician with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, and will have the collateral duty of non-lethal weapons instructor upon completion of the course.

U.S. and Benin officials take time to pose for a photos, Aug. 31, 2015, after the opening ceremony that officially started training between U.S. Marines and sailors and Benin's National Surveillance Police at Benin's National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin. Today’s ceremony marks a new milestone of the partnership between Benin and the U.S. This training is the first time in the Nation Surveillance Police’s 10-year history a foreign military has come to train and mentor the specialized unit. - U.S. and Benin officials take time to pose for a photos, Aug. 31, 2015, after the opening ceremony that officially started training between U.S. Marines and sailors and Benin's National Surveillance Police at Benin's National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin. Today’s ceremony marks a new milestone of the partnership between Benin and the U.S. This training is the first time in the Nation Surveillance Police’s 10-year history a foreign military has come to train and mentor the specialized unit.

A Marine with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company fires the M2 .50 Caliber Heavy Machine Gun during a week-long field exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 27, 2015. The training increased the unit’s readiness and upheld the standards in support of II Marine Expeditionary Force and re-familiarized them with the weapons system. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Krista James/Released) - A Marine with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company fires the M2 .50 Caliber Heavy Machine Gun during a week-long field exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 27, 2015. The training increased the unit’s readiness and upheld the standards in support of II Marine Expeditionary Force and re-familiarized them with the weapons system. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Krista James/Released)

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A new order was released that grants a total of 126 days of convalescent leave to new mothers in the Marine Corps is now in effect. Marine Corps Administrative Message 421/15, which went into effect on August 26, states that all Marines who have had a child since January 1, 2015 and all future mothers within the Marine Corps are entitled to 84 days of leave in addition to the 42 days of convalescent leave that immediately follows release from the medical facility. - A new order was released that grants a total of 126 days of convalescent leave to new mothers in the Marine Corps is now in effect. Marine Corps Administrative Message 421/15, which went into effect on August 26, states that all Marines who have had a child since January 1, 2015 and all future mothers within the Marine Corps are entitled to 84 days of leave in addition to the 42 days of convalescent leave that immediately follows release from the medical facility.

Marines with Alpha Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team Company move down a flight of stairs after utilizing a flash bang at a shoot house aboard the Northwest Annex during Advanced Urban Combat Training Aug. 28. The training allowed the Marines to use live rounds and flash bang grenades throughout the training to test them under a stressful situation. - Marines with Alpha Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team Company move down a flight of stairs after utilizing a flash bang at a shoot house aboard the Northwest Annex during Advanced Urban Combat Training Aug. 28. The training allowed the Marines to use live rounds and flash bang grenades throughout the training to test them under a stressful situation.