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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.

A Indigenous Larrakia Nation representative Eric Fejo (center) advises Australian Army and United States Marine Corps personnel on heritage concerns for Exercise Talisman Sabre 2015, at Fog Bay Northern Territory. - A Indigenous Larrakia Nation representative Eric Fejo (center) advises Australian Army and United States Marine Corps personnel on heritage concerns for Exercise Talisman Sabre 2015, at Fog Bay Northern Territory.

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The barrel of an M1A1 Abrams main battle tank from Bravo Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, aims down toward its target during an offensive and defensive maneuver exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 26, 2015. Platoons from the company practiced searching and clearing operational areas to reinforce their basic skills. The tank has a 120mm M256 smoothbore gun on the front capable of firing several types of explosive rounds. - The barrel of an M1A1 Abrams main battle tank from Bravo Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, aims down toward its target during an offensive and defensive maneuver exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 26, 2015. Platoons from the company practiced searching and clearing operational areas to reinforce their basic skills. The tank has a 120mm M256 smoothbore gun on the front capable of firing several types of explosive rounds.

Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Regiment, advance on a simulated village during a field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. They assaulted a simulated town, set up a defensive position and waited to repel simulated attacks in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response. - Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Regiment, advance on a simulated village during a field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. They assaulted a simulated town, set up a defensive position and waited to repel simulated attacks in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response.

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Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, conducted a raid demonstration in a simulated town and practiced the proper procedures of apprehending detainees during an amphibious raid demonstration in conjunction with a visit from the secretary of defense, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27, 2015. The Marines were transported to shore in amphibious assault vehicles with 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion, after exiting the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) while 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion provided additional security. - Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, conducted a raid demonstration in a simulated town and practiced the proper procedures of apprehending detainees during an amphibious raid demonstration in conjunction with a visit from the secretary of defense, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27, 2015. The Marines were transported to shore in amphibious assault vehicles with 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion, after exiting the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) while 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion provided additional security.

The U.S. Secretary of Defense, the honorable Mr. Ashton Carter congratulates a young reconnaissance Marine on a job well done following a combined arms raid aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27, 2015. Carter met with senior military leaders and service members and witnessed ship-to-shore operations, a capability synonymous with Navy and Marine Corps teams in order to assess the need to better support military capabilities. - The U.S. Secretary of Defense, the honorable Mr. Ashton Carter congratulates a young reconnaissance Marine on a job well done following a combined arms raid aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27, 2015. Carter met with senior military leaders and service members and witnessed ship-to-shore operations, a capability synonymous with Navy and Marine Corps teams in order to assess the need to better support military capabilities.

Two MV-22B Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 (Reinforced) prepare for a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 18. Marines conducted casualty evacuation drills as part of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit predeployment training. - Two MV-22B Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 (Reinforced) prepare for a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 18. Marines conducted casualty evacuation drills as part of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit predeployment training.

Pfc. Stephanie Brown, student, Low Altitude Air Defense Gunner’s Course 3-15, performs the 13 critical checks on the FIM-92 Stinger Missile, prior to firing it as part of the class’ culminating exercise aboard Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz., Aug. 22, 2015. The purpose of the 13 critical checks is to ensure the issued weapon is ready and functional with no discrepancies. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Charles Santamaria/ Released) - Pfc. Stephanie Brown, student, Low Altitude Air Defense Gunner’s Course 3-15, performs the 13 critical checks on the FIM-92 Stinger Missile, prior to firing it as part of the class’ culminating exercise aboard Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz., Aug. 22, 2015. The purpose of the 13 critical checks is to ensure the issued weapon is ready and functional with no discrepancies. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Charles Santamaria/ Released)

Marine air crew with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 oversees ground Marines from within a CH-53E Super Stallion during an external lift exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. The air crew within carefully observed the ground team to ensure they securely attached their 8,500-pound high beam to a pintle hook below. - Marine air crew with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 oversees ground Marines from within a CH-53E Super Stallion during an external lift exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. The air crew within carefully observed the ground team to ensure they securely attached their 8,500-pound high beam to a pintle hook below.

Gunnery Sgt. Zachary Burgart (left), project officer for amphibious reconnaissance equipment, and Master Sgt. Brad Colbert (right), project officer for small craft, MK25 closed-circuit underwater breathing apparatus in Spotsylvania, Virginia July 21, 2015. The system is a closed-circuit underwater breathing apparatus that allows its users to remain concealed in covert operations. - Gunnery Sgt. Zachary Burgart (left), project officer for amphibious reconnaissance equipment, and Master Sgt. Brad Colbert (right), project officer for small craft, MK25 closed-circuit underwater breathing apparatus in Spotsylvania, Virginia July 21, 2015. The system is a closed-circuit underwater breathing apparatus that allows its users to remain concealed in covert operations.

CWO4 Jerod Murphy, assistant ordnance officer for 1st Marine Division, and Master Sgt. Shannon Sweeney, operations chief, ordnance officer and Inspector-Instructor for Combat Logistics Battalion 451, look at a make-shift memorial at what appears to be a former fountain in Biloxi, Miss., Aug. 12, 2015. Murphy and Sweeney were part of a team of Marines and sailors who rescued more than 200 people during and after Hurricane Katrina, August 2005. - CWO4 Jerod Murphy, assistant ordnance officer for 1st Marine Division, and Master Sgt. Shannon Sweeney, operations chief, ordnance officer and Inspector-Instructor for Combat Logistics Battalion 451, look at a make-shift memorial at what appears to be a former fountain in Biloxi, Miss., Aug. 12, 2015. Murphy and Sweeney were part of a team of Marines and sailors who rescued more than 200 people during and after Hurricane Katrina, August 2005.

Lt. Gen. Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (ret.) the first African-American Marine Corps aviator and the first African-American Marine Corps general, died Aug. 25, 2015. Petersen served during the Korean War in 1953 and Vietnam in 1968. During his career, he flew more than 350 combat missions and more than 4,000 hours in various military aircraft. - Lt. Gen. Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (ret.) the first African-American Marine Corps aviator and the first African-American Marine Corps general, died Aug. 25, 2015. Petersen served during the Korean War in 1953 and Vietnam in 1968. During his career, he flew more than 350 combat missions and more than 4,000 hours in various military aircraft.

Sgt. Jason Hunter, the training noncommissioned officer in charge of Headquarters Company, 3rd Marine Regiment and a Murrieta, Calif., native, keeps his head low as he low crawls along Fort Hase Beach aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii during Sergeants Course, Aug. 19, 2015. Hunter, along with the other sergeants in the course, were low crawling in a tricky scenario where they were outnumbered four to one, and needed to repair a broken down vehicle. Sergeants Course is a vital part of professional military education for any Marine and helps to maintain the standards amongst the NCOs of the Marine Corps. The course supports MCB Hawaii’s mission, which is to provide facilities, programs and services in direct support of units, individuals and families to enhance and sustain combat readiness for all operating forces and tenant organizations aboard the installation. - Sgt. Jason Hunter, the training noncommissioned officer in charge of Headquarters Company, 3rd Marine Regiment and a Murrieta, Calif., native, keeps his head low as he low crawls along Fort Hase Beach aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii during Sergeants Course, Aug. 19, 2015. Hunter, along with the other sergeants in the course, were low crawling in a tricky scenario where they were outnumbered four to one, and needed to repair a broken down vehicle. Sergeants Course is a vital part of professional military education for any Marine and helps to maintain the standards amongst the NCOs of the Marine Corps. The course supports MCB Hawaii’s mission, which is to provide facilities, programs and services in direct support of units, individuals and families to enhance and sustain combat readiness for all operating forces and tenant organizations aboard the installation.

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion conduct the 1,000 meter open water fin training for a pre-dive course conducted aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. Aug. 18, 2015. During the course the Marines are critiqued on both their capabilities in a pool setting and in open water. After completion of the course, Marines who pass the final evaluation will go on to the Marine Combatant Diver Course at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, Panama City, Fla. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion conduct the 1,000 meter open water fin training for a pre-dive course conducted aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. Aug. 18, 2015. During the course the Marines are critiqued on both their capabilities in a pool setting and in open water. After completion of the course, Marines who pass the final evaluation will go on to the Marine Combatant Diver Course at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, Panama City, Fla.

Marines prepare F/A-18C Hornets to take off from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort to during Exercise Sentry Savannah 2015, Aug. 21. Several squadrons from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, including Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 flew training exercises for Sentry Savannah. The Marines are with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115, Marine Aircraft Group 31. - Marines prepare F/A-18C Hornets to take off from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort to during Exercise Sentry Savannah 2015, Aug. 21. Several squadrons from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, including Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 flew training exercises for Sentry Savannah. The Marines are with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115, Marine Aircraft Group 31.

Marines from Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Divison, I Marine Expeditionary Force, are suspended from a UH-1Y Huey helicopter during an exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 18, 2015. Utilizing both fast-roping and Special Patrol Insertion and Extraction rigging methods, the purpose of the training exercise was to integrate operational coordination between the I MEF Ground Combat Element and Air Combat Element. - Marines from Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Divison, I Marine Expeditionary Force, are suspended from a UH-1Y Huey helicopter during an exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 18, 2015. Utilizing both fast-roping and Special Patrol Insertion and Extraction rigging methods, the purpose of the training exercise was to integrate operational coordination between the I MEF Ground Combat Element and Air Combat Element.

Cpl. Mason Stone, left, a KC-130J crewmaster, Staff Sgt. David Hoyt, middle, a KC-130J loadmaster, and Cpl. Greg Gambrell, right, a KC-130J crewmaster, set up the refueling site for air delivery ground refueling training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 21, 2015. Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 uses this training to make sure their Marines are able to proficiently use all of the KC-130J’s assets. - Cpl. Mason Stone, left, a KC-130J crewmaster, Staff Sgt. David Hoyt, middle, a KC-130J loadmaster, and Cpl. Greg Gambrell, right, a KC-130J crewmaster, set up the refueling site for air delivery ground refueling training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 21, 2015. Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 uses this training to make sure their Marines are able to proficiently use all of the KC-130J’s assets.

Cpl. Steele Hartmann, left, and Lance Cpl. Daniel Lark, stand their post, sighting down the entry control point during an airbase ground defense field operation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, Aug. 19, 2015. Nearly 300 Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 were involved in the field operation by providing security for ground operations during portrayed enemy attacks. Hartmann is a combat engineer and Lark is an aircraft rescue and firefighting specialist, both with MWSS-271. - Cpl. Steele Hartmann, left, and Lance Cpl. Daniel Lark, stand their post, sighting down the entry control point during an airbase ground defense field operation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, Aug. 19, 2015. Nearly 300 Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 were involved in the field operation by providing security for ground operations during portrayed enemy attacks. Hartmann is a combat engineer and Lark is an aircraft rescue and firefighting specialist, both with MWSS-271.

A security forces Marine with Marine Wing Support Squadron-371, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force--Crisis Response--Central Command fires after transitioning to his pistol during a live-fire, combat maneuver range in Southwest Asia, August 19, 2015. The live-fire range is designed to emulate realistic combat conditions and force Marines to shoot, move, and communicate to overcome targets at an unknown distance. - A security forces Marine with Marine Wing Support Squadron-371, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force--Crisis Response--Central Command fires after transitioning to his pistol during a live-fire, combat maneuver range in Southwest Asia, August 19, 2015. The live-fire range is designed to emulate realistic combat conditions and force Marines to shoot, move, and communicate to overcome targets at an unknown distance.

Gregory "Greg" Lake, a Marine Vietnam veteran, stands in front of a painting in his home in Calistoga, California, June 22, 2015. Lake made the painting based on a night he endured combat in Vietnam and swam across a river under fire to save the lives of his Marines. - Gregory "Greg" Lake, a Marine Vietnam veteran, stands in front of a painting in his home in Calistoga, California, June 22, 2015. Lake made the painting based on a night he endured combat in Vietnam and swam across a river under fire to save the lives of his Marines.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Riley Remoket, with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fills a water bull at a water distribution site during typhoon relief efforts in Saipan, Aug. 19, 2015. The Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and CLB 31, 31st MEU, assisted the locals of Saipan by producing and distributing potable water. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU were conducting training near the Mariana Islands when they were redirected to Saipan after the island was struck by Typhoon Soudelor Aug. 2-3. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Riley Remoket, with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fills a water bull at a water distribution site during typhoon relief efforts in Saipan, Aug. 19, 2015. The Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and CLB 31, 31st MEU, assisted the locals of Saipan by producing and distributing potable water. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU were conducting training near the Mariana Islands when they were redirected to Saipan after the island was struck by Typhoon Soudelor Aug. 2-3.

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U.S. Marines fill up water jugs for locals as part of a typhoon relief mission in Saipan, Aug. 15, 2015. The Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st MEU, assisted the locals of Saipan by producing and distributing potable water. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU were conducting training near the Mariana Islands when they were redirected to Saipan after the island was struck by Typhoon Soudelor Aug. 2-3. - U.S. Marines fill up water jugs for locals as part of a typhoon relief mission in Saipan, Aug. 15, 2015. The Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st MEU, assisted the locals of Saipan by producing and distributing potable water. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU were conducting training near the Mariana Islands when they were redirected to Saipan after the island was struck by Typhoon Soudelor Aug. 2-3.

Retired Staff Sgt. Jason Ross hugs his two daughters, Jackie and Stacie, during a ceremony where a new home was presented to him and his family by The Gary Sinise Foundation and their Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment program dedicated to helping wounded veterans in Fallbrook, Californa, August 21, 2015. Ross was injured by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan in 2011 while serving as an explosive ordnance disposal technician and lost both of his legs as a result. The new home has smart technology that will significantly reduce the difficulty of everyday tasks for Ross and allow him and his family to live more comfortably. - Retired Staff Sgt. Jason Ross hugs his two daughters, Jackie and Stacie, during a ceremony where a new home was presented to him and his family by The Gary Sinise Foundation and their Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment program dedicated to helping wounded veterans in Fallbrook, Californa, August 21, 2015. Ross was injured by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan in 2011 while serving as an explosive ordnance disposal technician and lost both of his legs as a result. The new home has smart technology that will significantly reduce the difficulty of everyday tasks for Ross and allow him and his family to live more comfortably.

Arthur "Art" Petty, a Marine Vietnam veteran, stands in his Marine museum he created from a farm house on his property in Woodbury, Tennessee, June 19, 2015. Petty enlisted into the Marine Corps March 13, 1941 and retired at the rank of sergeant major. - Arthur "Art" Petty, a Marine Vietnam veteran, stands in his Marine museum he created from a farm house on his property in Woodbury, Tennessee, June 19, 2015. Petty enlisted into the Marine Corps March 13, 1941 and retired at the rank of sergeant major.

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.

Homer "Mike" Jenkins, a Marine Vietnam veteran, holds a shadow box highlighting his service in the Marines at his home near Hughes Springs, Texas, June 5, 2015. Jenkins did two tours in Vietnam, the first as an advisor to Vietnamese troops; his second tour, he was a company commander leading Marines in combat. - Homer "Mike" Jenkins, a Marine Vietnam veteran, holds a shadow box highlighting his service in the Marines at his home near Hughes Springs, Texas, June 5, 2015. Jenkins did two tours in Vietnam, the first as an advisor to Vietnamese troops; his second tour, he was a company commander leading Marines in combat.

A graphic illustration of the new F-35B Lightning II hangar slated to be completed October 2016 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Aug. 20. The construction project includes aircraft parking near the hangars and an aircraft access apron. A three-level parking garage is being constructed adjacent to the brand new facility. - A graphic illustration of the new F-35B Lightning II hangar slated to be completed October 2016 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Aug. 20. The construction project includes aircraft parking near the hangars and an aircraft access apron. A three-level parking garage is being constructed adjacent to the brand new facility.

Marines with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, drive the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicle along all-terrain vehicle trails during an all-terrain vehicle course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 18, 2015. Marines drove the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicles through sand, mud, uneven terrain, and hills to gain experience with handling the vehicle. - Marines with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, drive the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicle along all-terrain vehicle trails during an all-terrain vehicle course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 18, 2015. Marines drove the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicles through sand, mud, uneven terrain, and hills to gain experience with handling the vehicle.

A Marine with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, sights in during a maneuver exercise in support of Large Scale Exercise 15 in the vicinity of the Blacktop Training Area aboard the Combat Center, Aug. 15, 2015. The ground maneuver element, consisting of fire support teams transported by Amphibious Assault Vehicles, was tasked with assaulting two objectives. - A Marine with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, sights in during a maneuver exercise in support of Large Scale Exercise 15 in the vicinity of the Blacktop Training Area aboard the Combat Center, Aug. 15, 2015. The ground maneuver element, consisting of fire support teams transported by Amphibious Assault Vehicles, was tasked with assaulting two objectives.

Benjamin "Ben" Palermo holds a photo of himself when he was serving on active duty in the Marine Corps in his home in San Antonio, Texas, June 4, 2015. Palermo served with G Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment during Operation Starlite during August 1965 in Vietnam. - Benjamin "Ben" Palermo holds a photo of himself when he was serving on active duty in the Marine Corps in his home in San Antonio, Texas, June 4, 2015. Palermo served with G Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment during Operation Starlite during August 1965 in Vietnam.

A Japanese security guard executes a knee strike during nonlethal weapons and level one oleoresin capsicum spray training aboard Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 14. According to Delekto, the security augmentation force instructor and staff noncommissioned officer with mobile training team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, nonlethal weapons training includes all weapons and techniques that are not inherently deadly, such as batons, defensive tactics, pepper-based spray, and mechanical-advantage control holds. - A Japanese security guard executes a knee strike during nonlethal weapons and level one oleoresin capsicum spray training aboard Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 14. According to Delekto, the security augmentation force instructor and staff noncommissioned officer with mobile training team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, nonlethal weapons training includes all weapons and techniques that are not inherently deadly, such as batons, defensive tactics, pepper-based spray, and mechanical-advantage control holds.

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Marines with 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion wait for the final check of their amphibious assault vehicles and then go ahead to conduct their training exercise on Onslow Beach aboard Camp Lejeune N.C. Aug. 17, 2015. Doing a double check of the AAVs is paramount for safety in making sure everything is in working order. - Marines with 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion wait for the final check of their assault amphibious vehicles and then go ahead to conduct their training exercise on Onslow Beach at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune N.C. Aug. 17, 2015. Doing a double check of the AAVs is paramount for safety in making sure everything is in working order.

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A Marine with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment sights in on a target in a preparatory exercise for Large Scale Exercise 15 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 11, 2015. LSE-15 is a combined U.S. Marine Corps, Canadian Band British Exercise conducted at the brigade level, designed to enable live, virtual and constructive training for participating forces. - A Marine with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment sights in on a target in a preparatory exercise for Large Scale Exercise 15 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 11, 2015. LSE-15 is a combined U.S. Marine Corps, Canadian Band British Exercise conducted at the brigade level, designed to enable live, virtual and constructive training for participating forces.

Ishikawa police officers Chikae Higa, left, Satoshi Goto, center, and Hisakazu Higa detain a simulated aggressive trespasser, Takao Agarijo, during a bilateral scenario-based training exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 5, 2015. The training increased teamwork between Ishikawa Police Station and the Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler Provost Marshal's Office, Precinct North, Camp Hansen. - Ishikawa police officers Chikae Higa, left, Satoshi Goto, center, and Hisakazu Higa detain a simulated aggressive trespasser, Takao Agarijo, during a bilateral scenario-based training exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 5, 2015. The training increased teamwork between Ishikawa Police Station and the Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler Provost Marshal's Office, Precinct North, Camp Hansen.