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“More than seven decades have passed since 10 July 1941 when [2nd Marine Aircraft Wing] was activated in San Diego, [California]. Wars in the Pacific, in the Middle East and operations around the world have added to your battle colors, but have not dulled your spirit … As we continue to confront those who would do us harm, take pride in knowing you continue to add to the storied history of our Corps, and pause to remember those who have sacrificed so much in the defense of our nation.” - “More than seven decades have passed since 10 July 1941 when [2nd Marine Aircraft Wing] was activated in San Diego, [California]. Wars in the Pacific, in the Middle East and operations around the world have added to your battle colors, but have not dulled your spirit … As we continue to confront those who would do us harm, take pride in knowing you continue to add to the storied history of our Corps, and pause to remember those who have sacrificed so much in the defense of our nation.”

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Gen. James N. Mattis speaks to Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division (MARDIV), at Mountain Warfare Training Center, Calif., May 27, 2015. The visit of Gen. Mattis was held to motivate the Marines for their upcoming exercise. - Retired U.S. Marine Corps Gen. James N. Mattis speaks to Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division (MARDIV), at Mountain Warfare Training Center, Calif., May 27, 2015. The visit of Gen. Mattis was held to motivate the Marines for their upcoming exercise.

Marines with 4th Assault Amphibian battalion drive an amphibious assault vehicle during a simulated amphibious assault at Peninsula Express 15-8 on Dogu Beach, July 3, 2015. Peninsula Express is the eighth iteration this year of the Korean-Marine Exchange Program, and the first time Marine Forces Reserve has participated in the series of exercises between the U.S. and Republic of Korea Marine Corps designed to build interoperability and tactical familiarity between partner nations. - Marines with 4th Assault Amphibian battalion drive an amphibious assault vehicle during a simulated amphibious assault at Peninsula Express 15-8 on Dogu Beach, July 3, 2015. Peninsula Express is the eighth iteration this year of the Korean-Marine Exchange Program, and the first time Marine Forces Reserve has participated in the series of exercises between the U.S. and Republic of Korea Marine Corps designed to build interoperability and tactical familiarity between partner nations.

Gabonese Gendarmerie service members practice non-lethal compliance techniques at a Cooperative Security Location established by U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa in Libreville, Gabon, June 24, 2015. The Gendarmerie service members first completed a physically challenging circuit course to test their ability to remain calm and put their training to the test under fatigue and stress. The Marines, who are based out of Morón Air Base, Spain, are currently validating their forward-staging capabilities aboard the CSL while building partnerships with their Gabonese counterparts. - Gabonese Gendarmerie service members practice non-lethal compliance techniques at a Cooperative Security Location established by U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa in Libreville, Gabon, June 24, 2015. The Gendarmerie service members first completed a physically challenging circuit course to test their ability to remain calm and put their training to the test under fatigue and stress. The Marines, who are based out of Morón Air Base, Spain, are currently validating their forward-staging capabilities aboard the CSL while building partnerships with their Gabonese counterparts.

Capt. Joseph Tremaine, a CH-53E Super Stallion pilot with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 466, conducts preflight checks aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, July 2. The aircrew prepares the aircraft for night fast-rope training on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. - Capt. Joseph Tremaine, a CH-53E Super Stallion pilot with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 466, conducts preflight checks aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, July 2. The aircrew prepares the aircraft for night fast-rope training on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California.

Cpl. Eric Rueseler, marksmanship trainer, Weapons and Training Battalion, Camp Pendleton, practices firing on the move during the Western Regional Combat Match at the Combat Center Rifle Range, June 30, 2015. The match consisted of two days of practice and two days of recorded matches. (Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Thomas Mudd/ Released) - Cpl. Eric Rueseler, marksmanship trainer, Weapons and Training Battalion, Camp Pendleton, practices firing on the move during the Western Regional Combat Match at the Combat Center Rifle Range, June 30, 2015. The match consisted of two days of practice and two days of recorded matches. (Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Thomas Mudd/ Released)

scout sniper student, fires a .50 caliber M107 special application scoped rifle during scout sniper training, July 2. The Scout Sniper Instructor School is part of the Weapon’s Training Battalion aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. - scout sniper student, fires a .50 caliber M107 special application scoped rifle during scout sniper training, July 2. The Scout Sniper Instructor School is part of the Weapon’s Training Battalion aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico.

U.S. Navy Landing Craft Air Cushioned (LCAC) vehicle from Assault Craft Unit 5 lands on Red Beach as part of a loading exercise along side Combat Logistics Battalion 11, Headquarters Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 23, 2015. This loading exercise reinforces the Marine Corps role as an amphibious force in readiness by maintaining capabilities through realistic training. - U.S. Navy Landing Craft Air Cushioned (LCAC) vehicle from Assault Craft Unit 5 lands on Red Beach as part of a loading exercise along side Combat Logistics Battalion 11, Headquarters Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 23, 2015. This loading exercise reinforces the Marine Corps role as an amphibious force in readiness by maintaining capabilities through realistic training.

Corporal Russell Robertson, a squad leader assigned to Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, extends the antenna for his radio operator during the 1st Marine Division Super Squad Competition aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 30, 2015. The Marines and Sailors tested their abilities to conduct infantry operations for the title of super squad. - Corporal Russell Robertson, a squad leader assigned to Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, extends the antenna for his radio operator during the 1st Marine Division Super Squad Competition aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 30, 2015. The Marines and Sailors tested their abilities to conduct infantry operations for the title of super squad.

A Romanian soldier holds his nation's colors next to color bearers from NATO partners during the opening ceremony of Platinum Lion 15-3. The two-week training exercise is designed to strengthen the partnerships between the NATO nations and share knowledge to help improve their military skill sets. - A Romanian soldier holds his nation's colors next to color bearers from NATO partners during the opening ceremony of Platinum Lion 15-3. The two-week training exercise is designed to strengthen the partnerships between the NATO nations and share knowledge to help improve their military skill sets.

U.S. Marines, Cpl. Shea P. Nolan and Lance Cpl. Edward Y. Cho, stand in front of a Secure, Mobile, Anti-Jam, Reliable, Tactical-Terminal during exercise Talisman Sabre 2015 at Robertson Barracks, Australia, July 6. The exercise is designed to improve U.S.-Australian combat training, readiness and interoperability. Nolan, from Wallington, New Jersey, is a tropospheric scatter radio multi-channel equipment operator. Cho, from Dix Hills, New York, is a satellite communications operator and maintainer. They are with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, currently attached to 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade. - U.S. Marines, Cpl. Shea P. Nolan and Lance Cpl. Edward Y. Cho, stand in front of a Secure, Mobile, Anti-Jam, Reliable, Tactical-Terminal during exercise Talisman Sabre 2015 at Robertson Barracks, Australia, July 6. The exercise is designed to improve U.S.-Australian combat training, readiness and interoperability. Nolan, from Wallington, New Jersey, is a tropospheric scatter radio multi-channel equipment operator. Cho, from Dix Hills, New York, is a satellite communications operator and maintainer. They are with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, currently attached to 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

Lance Cpl. Levi Hall with Golf Company, Black Sea Rotational Force, sights in on the M240B medium machine gun at the support-by-fire position during the dry-run of the U.S. and Romanian platoon attacks at Babadag Training Area, July 2. This week-long engagement is part of a continuous military skills series between BSRF and the Romanian 307th Naval Infantry. - Lance Cpl. Levi Hall with Golf Company, Black Sea Rotational Force, sights in on the M240B medium machine gun at the support-by-fire position during the dry-run of the U.S. and Romanian platoon attacks at Babadag Training Area, July 2. This week-long engagement is part of a continuous military skills series between BSRF and the Romanian 307th Naval Infantry.

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Senegalese Fusilier de Marine Commandos during plot a route during land navigation training, near St. Louis, Senegal, in early June 2015. A team of approximately 10 U.S. Marines, Sailors and Coast Guardsmen and Senegalese Compagnie Fusilier de Marine Commandos are working together as part of a Maritime Security Force Assistance training program to improve the light infantry and small boat operations skills. - Senegalese Fusilier de Marine Commandos during plot a route during land navigation training, near St. Louis, Senegal, in early June 2015. A team of approximately 10 U.S. Marines, Sailors and Coast Guardsmen and Senegalese Compagnie Fusilier de Marine Commandos are working together as part of a Maritime Security Force Assistance training program to improve the light infantry and small boat operations skills.

Lance Cpl. Raymond Guerrero, a technical controller with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron and a Rio Hondo, Texas, native, shoots the M1014 shotgun during security augment force training at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, June 30. SAF training is a two-week course that teaches service members arrest techniques and defensive tactics. - Lance Cpl. Raymond Guerrero, a technical controller with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron and a Rio Hondo, Texas, native, shoots the M1014 shotgun during security augment force training at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, June 30. SAF training is a two-week course that teaches service members arrest techniques and defensive tactics.

An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 prepares to touch down aboard Edwards Air Force Base, California, Oct. 9, 2014. This is the squadron’s first F-35 Lightning II. - An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 prepares to touch down aboard Edwards Air Force Base, California, Oct. 9, 2014. This is the squadron’s first F-35 Lightning II.

Soldiers with the U.S. Army Reserves fire down range during the 54th Interservice Rifle Championship at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 29, 2015. Participants in the competition fired from distances between 200 - 1000 yards in the standing, sitting, and prone positions. This will be the last time Department of Defense competitors will face off against each other before going to the National Rifle Matches held at Camp Perry, Ohio. - Soldiers with the U.S. Army Reserves fire down range during the 54th Interservice Rifle Championship at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 29, 2015. Participants in the competition fired from distances between 200 - 1000 yards in the standing, sitting, and prone positions. This will be the last time Department of Defense competitors will face off against each other before going to the National Rifle Matches held at Camp Perry, Ohio.

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Staff Sgt. Chad Ranton fires an M16A4 service rifle during the Marine Corps Combat Development Command Team Match at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 29, 2015. The match is part of the 54th Interservice Rifle Championship held at MCB Quantico from June 25 - July 1. The Marine Corps Shooting Team will spend months of training to develop muscle memory and conditioning to prepare them for rifle matches throughout the military and the nation. Ranton is a member of the Marine Corps Shooting Team. - Staff Sgt. Chad Ranton fires an M16A4 service rifle during the Marine Corps Combat Development Command Team Match at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 29, 2015. The match is part of the 54th Interservice Rifle Championship held at MCB Quantico from June 25 - July 1. The Marine Corps Shooting Team will spend months of training to develop muscle memory and conditioning to prepare them for rifle matches throughout the military and the nation. Ranton is a member of the Marine Corps Shooting Team.

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ATU.S. Marine Corps AAV-P7/A1 Amphibious Assault Vehicles disembark from the USS Ashland (LSD 48) during splash and recovery training June 10, 2015. The AAV's are with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Marines with BLT 2/5 and the rest of the 31st MEU are currently deployed on the regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - ATU.S. Marine Corps AAV-P7/A1 Amphibious Assault Vehicles disembark from the USS Ashland (LSD 48) during splash and recovery training June 10, 2015. The AAV's are with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Marines with BLT 2/5 and the rest of the 31st MEU are currently deployed on the regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

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Maj. Gen. Greg Charles Bilton, the deputy commanding general of operations for U.S. Army Pacific, delivers remarks at the closing ceremony of Khaan Quest 2015 at the Five Hills Training Area in Tavantolgoi, Mongolia, July 1, 2015. Khaan Quest is a regularly scheduled, multinational exercise hosted annually by Mongolian Armed Forces and co-sponsored by U.S. Army, Pacific, and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. This year marks the 13th iteration of Khaan Quest. - Maj. Gen. Greg Charles Bilton, the deputy commanding general of operations for U.S. Army Pacific, delivers remarks at the closing ceremony of Khaan Quest 2015 at the Five Hills Training Area in Tavantolgoi, Mongolia, July 1, 2015. Khaan Quest is a regularly scheduled, multinational exercise hosted annually by Mongolian Armed Forces and co-sponsored by U.S. Army, Pacific, and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. This year marks the 13th iteration of Khaan Quest.

Pilots in Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, use Full Mission Simulators as part of their training with F-35s. The F-35 simulators can also be found at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, where Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 trains. The F-35 Full Mission Simulator accurately replicates all sensors and weapons to provide a realistic mission rehearsal and training environment. - Pilots in Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, use Full Mission Simulators as part of their training with F-35s. The F-35 simulators can also be found at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, where Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 trains. The F-35 Full Mission Simulator accurately replicates all sensors and weapons to provide a realistic mission rehearsal and training environment.

Maj. Gen. Michael Rocco, commanding general of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, awards Master Gunnery Sgt. Kevin Anderson, a maintenance chief with Marine Tiltrotor Squadron 166, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal inside Hangar 6 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., June 25, 2015. A team of twenty-four Marines from VMM-166, VMM-268 and VMM-364 received awards for playing a role in returning a grounded MV-22 Osprey to operational flight status. - Maj. Gen. Michael Rocco, commanding general of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, awards Master Gunnery Sgt. Kevin Anderson, a maintenance chief with Marine Tiltrotor Squadron 166, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal inside Hangar 6 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., June 25, 2015. A team of twenty-four Marines from VMM-166, VMM-268 and VMM-364 received awards for playing a role in returning a grounded MV-22 Osprey to operational flight status.

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, perform last minute checks to their equipment aboard a C130J during intentional water training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina June 24, 2015. The training prepared the Marines for situations that require them to dive in an aquatic environment. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, perform last minute checks to their equipment aboard a C130J during intentional water training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina June 24, 2015. The training prepared the Marines for situations that require them to dive in an aquatic environment.

Lance Cpl. Alex Rowan, a combat engineer with 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division, stationed out of Bessemer, Alabama, runs to take cover before the Anti-Personnel Obstacle Breaching System detonates during the SAPPER Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 26, 2015. During the course, the Marines used assault and breaching techniques to clear a wire obstacle using line charges that utilized C4 explosives and their APOBS.  - Lance Cpl. Alex Rowan, a combat engineer with 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division, stationed out of Bessemer, Alabama, runs to take cover before the Anti-Personnel Obstacle Breaching System detonates during the SAPPER Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 26, 2015. During the course, the Marines used assault and breaching techniques to clear a wire obstacle using line charges that utilized C4 explosives and their APOBS. 

A U.S. Marine Corps AH-1 Super Cobra with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (REINFORCED), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, flies off the flight-line during an Amphibious Ready Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise (ARG/MEU-Ex) aboard the USS Kearsarge, June 25, 2015. The 26th MEU and Amphibious Squadron 4 are conducting an ARG/MEU-Ex in preparation for their deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joshua W. Brown/Released) - A U.S. Marine Corps AH-1 Super Cobra with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (REINFORCED), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, flies off the flight-line during an Amphibious Ready Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise (ARG/MEU-Ex) aboard the USS Kearsarge, June 25, 2015. The 26th MEU and Amphibious Squadron 4 are conducting an ARG/MEU-Ex in preparation for their deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joshua W. Brown/Released)

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment fire a 60mm mortar during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 25, 2015. The unit conducted the training to better prepare the Marines for the use of the direct lay method of fire. The direct lay method requires the Marines to make all their adjustments themselves and not rely on a Fire Direction Center. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment fire a 60mm mortar during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 25, 2015. The unit conducted the training to better prepare the Marines for the use of the direct lay method of fire. The direct lay method requires the Marines to make all their adjustments themselves and not rely on a Fire Direction Center.

U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, rehearse weapon presentation and four-man room clearing tactics and procedures aboard the USNS Sacagawea June 20, 2015 in Dili, East Timor in preparation for Exercise Koa Moana 15.2. The platoon of Marines will be conducting a bilateral exercise with the East Timor Defence Force, focusing on individual-level fundamentals to build proficiency in complex squad and platoon level tasks. The bilateral training will include room clearing of buildings, urban movement and patrolling. The MRF-D six-month deployment demonstrates how the Marine Air Ground Task Force is equipped and organized to carry out national objectives in cooperation with our national and international partners. - U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, rehearse weapon presentation and four-man room clearing tactics and procedures aboard the USNS Sacagawea June 20, 2015 in Dili, East Timor in preparation for Exercise Koa Moana 15.2. The platoon of Marines will be conducting a bilateral exercise with the East Timor Defence Force, focusing on individual-level fundamentals to build proficiency in complex squad and platoon level tasks. The bilateral training will include room clearing of buildings, urban movement and patrolling. The MRF-D six-month deployment demonstrates how the Marine Air Ground Task Force is equipped and organized to carry out national objectives in cooperation with our national and international partners.

Medically retired Marine Sgt. Janae Piper, looks over her air rifle as her competitors, Air Force Staff Sgt. Seth Pena and Air Force Master Sgt. Daniel Waugh wait for the air rifle competition to begin at the 2015 DoD Warrior Games at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 26, 2015. Piper earned the gold medal, Waugh earned the silver medal and Pena earned the bronze medal for the event. - Medically retired Marine Sgt. Janae Piper, looks over her air rifle as her competitors, Air Force Staff Sgt. Seth Pena and Air Force Master Sgt. Daniel Waugh wait for the air rifle competition to begin at the 2015 DoD Warrior Games at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 26, 2015. Piper earned the gold medal, Waugh earned the silver medal and Pena earned the bronze medal for the event.

Marines with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, extract a casualty from a aircraft during a mass casualty exercise during 4-15 Integrated Training Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., June 20, 2015. During the exercise Marines and Sailors worked together to perform a casualty rescue, where victims were extracted or boarded onto an aircraft and transported to a field medical station. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Ian Ferro) - Marines with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, extract a casualty from a aircraft during a mass casualty exercise during 4-15 Integrated Training Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., June 20, 2015. During the exercise Marines and Sailors worked together to perform a casualty rescue, where victims were extracted or boarded onto an aircraft and transported to a field medical station. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Ian Ferro)

A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter hovers over the water as Marines from Alpha Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, conduct soft-duct insertions out of the back at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Va., June 16, 2015. The insertion was part of a four-day recon and surveillance mission conducted by the Marines. - A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter hovers over the water as Marines from Alpha Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, conduct soft-duct insertions out of the back at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Va., June 16, 2015. The insertion was part of a four-day recon and surveillance mission conducted by the Marines.

Marines with 1st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 1st Marine Logistics Group, remove ordnance from a downed UH-1 Huey helicopter during a training exercise at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., where they were tasked with sanitizing a wreckage site of any intelligence or ordnance an enemy force could use to their advantage, June 17, 2015. The Marines of 1st EOD Co. are preparing for an upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground – Crisis Response – Central Command where they will participate in a fast reaction force role. - Marines with 1st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 1st Marine Logistics Group, remove ordnance from a downed UH-1 Huey helicopter during a training exercise at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., where they were tasked with sanitizing a wreckage site of any intelligence or ordnance an enemy force could use to their advantage, June 17, 2015. The Marines of 1st EOD Co. are preparing for an upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground – Crisis Response – Central Command where they will participate in a fast reaction force role.

Lieutenant Gen. Mark A. Brilakis fires the first shot with an M1 Garand during the opening ceremony of the 54th Interservice Rifle Championship matches at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 24, 2015. Service members from all branches will compete in 15 different shooting matches during the championships from June 25 – July 1. Lt. Gen. Brilakis is the commanding general of Marine Corps Recruiting Command, and deputy commandant, Manpower and Reserve Affairs. - Lieutenant Gen. Mark A. Brilakis fires the first shot with an M1 Garand during the opening ceremony of the 54th Interservice Rifle Championship matches at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 24, 2015. Service members from all branches will compete in 15 different shooting matches during the championships from June 25 – July 1. Lt. Gen. Brilakis is the commanding general of Marine Corps Recruiting Command, and deputy commandant, Manpower and Reserve Affairs.

Marines with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion fire an M2HB .50-caliber machine gun in a live fire training event during a Heavy Brigade Combat Team qualification course aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 19, 2015. During the live fire event, the Marines aimed and shot at moving targets to simulate enemy movement. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Chris Garcia/Released) - Marines with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion fire an M2HB .50-caliber machine gun in a live fire training event during a Heavy Brigade Combat Team qualification course aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 19, 2015. During the live fire event, the Marines aimed and shot at moving targets to simulate enemy movement. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Chris Garcia/Released)

A company representative displays a prototype at the Expeditionary Energy Concepts demonstration at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 23-25, 2015. E2C is an annual event where companies come out and display energy efficient equipment for potential future combat readiness in the Corps. - A company representative displays a prototype at the Expeditionary Energy Concepts demonstration at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 23-25, 2015. E2C is an annual event where companies come out and display energy efficient equipment for potential future combat readiness in the Corps.

U.S. Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, participate in a conditioning hike during Exercise Southern Jackaroo 2015 June 14 at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia. SJ15 was a combined training opportunity for the Marines with their Australian allies that helped to improve interoperability between the two forces. The U.S. Marine Corps and the Australian Defence Forces are committed to continuing their tradition of more than 100 years of global partnership and security cooperation between Australia and the United States of America. - U.S. Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, participate in a conditioning hike during Exercise Southern Jackaroo 2015 June 14 at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia. SJ15 was a combined training opportunity for the Marines with their Australian allies that helped to improve interoperability between the two forces. The U.S. Marine Corps and the Australian Defence Forces are committed to continuing their tradition of more than 100 years of global partnership and security cooperation between Australia and the United States of America.

Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, commence Exercise Southern Jackaroo with soldiers with Company A, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, Australian Defence Force, May 3 at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia. SJ15 is a bilateral training exercise between soldiers from Company A, 3RAR, and the Marines with MRF-D. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines in Australia affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies and improves interoperability between the two forces. - Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, commence Exercise Southern Jackaroo with soldiers with Company A, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, Australian Defence Force, May 3 at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia. SJ15 is a bilateral training exercise between soldiers from Company A, 3RAR, and the Marines with MRF-D. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines in Australia affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies and improves interoperability between the two forces.

Sgt. Maj. Robert Vanoostrom and Anthony Rios poses for a photo during the cycling awards ceremony hosted in front of Lejeune Hall at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 21, 2015. Rios is a member of the 2015 Department of Defense (DoD) Warrior Games All-Marine Team. The 2015 DoD Warrior Games, held at MCB Quantico June 19-28, is an adaptive sports competition for wounded, ill, and injured Service members and veterans from the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Special Operations Command, and the British Armed Forces. - Sgt. Maj. Robert Vanoostrom and Anthony Rios poses for a photo during the cycling awards ceremony hosted in front of Lejeune Hall at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 21, 2015. Rios is a member of the 2015 Department of Defense (DoD) Warrior Games All-Marine Team. The 2015 DoD Warrior Games, held at MCB Quantico June 19-28, is an adaptive sports competition for wounded, ill, and injured Service members and veterans from the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Special Operations Command, and the British Armed Forces.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Charles Carlile, left, a member of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, holds a defensive line at the National Gendarmerie Training Center in St. Astier, France, June 19, 2015. The Marines trained to respond to a host of urban disturbances and maneuvered their teams without verbal communication. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Charles Carlile, left, a member of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, holds a defensive line at the National Gendarmerie Training Center in St. Astier, France, June 19, 2015. The Marines trained to respond to a host of urban disturbances and maneuvered their teams without verbal communication.

A Marine guards the perimeter of his squad’s defensive position during the 2nd Marine Division Infantry Rifle Squad Competition aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 19, 2015. Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment; Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment and India Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment proved their mission readiness and superior combat abilities while competing in a grueling three-day competition to foster a competitive spirit and unit cohesion and to determine the most proficient and capable rifle squad in 2nd Marine Division. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Michelle Reif/Released) - A Marine guards the perimeter of his squad’s defensive position during the 2nd Marine Division Infantry Rifle Squad Competition aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 19, 2015. Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment; Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment and India Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment proved their mission readiness and superior combat abilities while competing in a grueling three-day competition to foster a competitive spirit and unit cohesion and to determine the most proficient and capable rifle squad in 2nd Marine Division. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Michelle Reif/Released)

An MV-22 Osprey with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa conducts a routine flight near Libreville, Gabon, June 16, 2015. The Osprey recently joined two KC-130J Hercules tankers and traveled from Moròn Air Base, Spain, to establish a Cooperative Security Location, similar to a forward-staging base, in order to validate the unit’s capabilities and train with Gabonese forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photograph by Lance Cpl. Christopher Mendoza/Released) - An MV-22 Osprey with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa conducts a routine flight near Libreville, Gabon, June 16, 2015. The Osprey recently joined two KC-130J Hercules tankers and traveled from Moròn Air Base, Spain, to establish a Cooperative Security Location, similar to a forward-staging base, in order to validate the unit’s capabilities and train with Gabonese forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photograph by Lance Cpl. Christopher Mendoza/Released)

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 secure a beam, which is intended to simulate a 6,000 pound cargo load, to a CH-53E Super Stallion operated by Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 16, 2015. HMHT-302 teamed up with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 to give pilots and landing support specialists familiarization with operating equipment and performing external operations, skills that allow them to deliver and recover supplies and gear quickly and efficiently in deployed settings. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Fatmeh Saad/Released) - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 secure a beam, which is intended to simulate a 6,000 pound cargo load, to a CH-53E Super Stallion operated by Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 16, 2015. HMHT-302 teamed up with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 to give pilots and landing support specialists familiarization with operating equipment and performing external operations, skills that allow them to deliver and recover supplies and gear quickly and efficiently in deployed settings. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Fatmeh Saad/Released)

Marines from the Finnish Nyland Brigade, U.S. Army paratroopers from the 173d Airborne Brigade, U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy sailors conduct ship to shore movements with U.S. Navy Landing Craft Air Cushions and United Kingdom Royal Navy Landing Craft Vehicle Personnels in Ravlunda, Sweden, June 9. 2015, for BALTOPS 2015. BALTOPS is an annually recurring multinational exercise designed to enhance flexibility and interoperability, as well as demonstrate resolve of allied and partner forces to defend the Baltic region. - Marines from the Finnish Nyland Brigade, U.S. Army paratroopers from the 173d Airborne Brigade, U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy sailors conduct ship to shore movements with U.S. Navy Landing Craft Air Cushions and United Kingdom Royal Navy Landing Craft Vehicle Personnels in Ravlunda, Sweden, June 9. 2015, for BALTOPS 2015. BALTOPS is an annually recurring multinational exercise designed to enhance flexibility and interoperability, as well as demonstrate resolve of allied and partner forces to defend the Baltic region.

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Marines with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, carry a casualty in a mass heat casualty exercise during the 4-15 Integrated Training Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Calif., June 20, 2015. During the mass heat casualty exercise, Marines and sailors faced a situation where multiple casualties were rapidly brought into the medical station, and Marines and Sailors had to work together efficiently to ensure that all casualties were assessed and treated properly. - Marines with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, carry a casualty in a mass heat casualty exercise during the 4-15 Integrated Training Exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Calif., June 20, 2015. During the mass heat casualty exercise, Marines and sailors faced a situation where multiple casualties were rapidly brought into the medical station, and Marines and Sailors had to work together efficiently to ensure that all casualties were assessed and treated properly.