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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.

U.S. Marines with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, Maritime Raid Force, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fast rope from a SH-60 Seahawk with Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 4 while conducting visit, board, search and seizure training during an Amphibious Ready Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise (ARG/MEU-Ex) aboard the USNS Robert E. Peary June 19, 2015. Marines and sailors with the 26th MEU and PHIBRON 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. Marines with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, Maritime Raid Force, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fast rope from a SH-60 Seahawk with Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 4 while conducting visit, board, search and seizure training during an Amphibious Ready Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise (ARG/MEU-Ex) aboard the USNS Robert E. Peary June 19, 2015. Marines and sailors with the 26th MEU and PHIBRON 4 are conducting an ARG/MEU-Ex in preparation for their deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year.

Tserendash Tsolmon, Minister of Defense of Mongolia, shakes hands with Piper Anne Wind Campbell, U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia, during the opening ceremonies of Exercise Khaan Quest 2015 at Five Hills Training Area in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, June 20, 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. KQ15 is the latest in a continuing series of exercises designed to promote regional peace and security. This year marks the 13th iteration of this training event. - Tserendash Tsolmon, Minister of Defense of Mongolia, shakes hands with Piper Anne Wind Campbell, U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia, during the opening ceremonies of Exercise Khaan Quest 2015 at Five Hills Training Area in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, June 20, 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. KQ15 is the latest in a continuing series of exercises designed to promote regional peace and security. This year marks the 13th iteration of this training event.

The Camp Pendleton Fire Department, the San Diego County Environmental Health Department and the U.S. Army’s 9th Civil Support Team conducted a hazardous materials exercise at the Paige Fieldhouse here, June 15. The exercise was conducted in conjunction with Semper Durus, a full-scale base Force Protection exercise from June 15 – 19. Semper Durus is a regional command post exercise and is comprised of a series of field training scenarios designed to improve regional command and control, enhance interagency coordination, and improve installation capabilities to respond to, and recover from, a crisis event and validate the installation mission assurance all-hazard plan. - The Camp Pendleton Fire Department, the San Diego County Environmental Health Department and the U.S. Army’s 9th Civil Support Team conducted a hazardous materials exercise at the Paige Fieldhouse here, June 15. The exercise was conducted in conjunction with Semper Durus, a full-scale base Force Protection exercise from June 15 – 19. Semper Durus is a regional command post exercise and is comprised of a series of field training scenarios designed to improve regional command and control, enhance interagency coordination, and improve installation capabilities to respond to, and recover from, a crisis event and validate the installation mission assurance all-hazard plan.

Marines with Bravo Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, simulate returning fire during the Infantry Immersion Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 17, 2015. Marines were able to practice tactics, communication within the unit and combat readiness in a realistic training scenario, which better prepared them for a deployed environment. - Marines with Bravo Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, simulate returning fire during the Infantry Immersion Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 17, 2015. Marines were able to practice tactics, communication within the unit and combat readiness in a realistic training scenario, which better prepared them for a deployed environment.

A Marine assigned to Company A, 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, prepares an M777 howitzer to fire at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, June 17, 2015. CH-53E Super Stallions transported howitzers and ammunition as part of 1/11’s quarterly exercise to test the artillery Marines’ proficiency and readiness. - A Marine assigned to Company A, 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, prepares an M777 howitzer to fire at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, June 17, 2015. CH-53E Super Stallions transported howitzers and ammunition as part of 1/11’s quarterly exercise to test the artillery Marines’ proficiency and readiness.

Ken Asato, a corporal with the Uruma City Police Department, exits his vehicle as an “intruder” on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, June 11, 2015 during bilateral training between service members and the UCPD. The training ensured the camp guard, and the Provost Marshal’s Office are proficient in communicating with the UCPD to mitigate security threats involving service members and Okinawa residents. During the training event, Asato posed as an Okinawa resident entering the base without authorization. Camp guard Marines patrolling the perimeter of the base apprehended the intruder and rehearsed turnover procedures with PMO Marines. - Ken Asato, a corporal with the Uruma City Police Department, exits his vehicle as an “intruder” on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, June 11, 2015 during bilateral training between service members and the UCPD. The training ensured the camp guard, and the Provost Marshal’s Office are proficient in communicating with the UCPD to mitigate security threats involving service members and Okinawa residents. During the training event, Asato posed as an Okinawa resident entering the base without authorization. Camp guard Marines patrolling the perimeter of the base apprehended the intruder and rehearsed turnover procedures with PMO Marines.

Lance Corporal Jerimiah Trajkovski, a squad leader with 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment and native of Macomb, Michigan, fires his rifle during a close-quarters training exercise aboard the USS San Antonio en route from New York City to Europe, May 26-June 6, 2015. BALTOPS is an annual exercise that provides the opportunity for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and regional partners to strengthen inoperability through a series of tactical maneuvers and scenarios. The exercise involves Marines, sailors, airmen and soldiers of participating nations working side-by-side to enhance each other’s tactics and expertise, both on land and sea. - Lance Corporal Jerimiah Trajkovski, a squad leader with 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment and native of Macomb, Michigan, fires his rifle during a close-quarters training exercise aboard the USS San Antonio en route from New York City to Europe, May 26-June 6, 2015. BALTOPS is an annual exercise that provides the opportunity for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and regional partners to strengthen inoperability through a series of tactical maneuvers and scenarios. The exercise involves Marines, sailors, airmen and soldiers of participating nations working side-by-side to enhance each other’s tactics and expertise, both on land and sea.

An international Corps of Marines from Sweden, Finland, and the U.K. conduct amphibious assaults on a beachhead in Ravlunda, Sweden, for local media outlets during BALTOPS 2015, June 13. The amphibious forces are part of 17 NATO Allies and partner nations that are integrated in air, land, and sea operations to improve their combined-force capability to work together and to respond to threats in the Baltic region. - An international Corps of Marines from Sweden, Finland, and the U.K. conduct amphibious assaults on a beachhead in Ravlunda, Sweden, for local media outlets during BALTOPS 2015, June 13. The amphibious forces are part of 17 NATO Allies and partner nations that are integrated in air, land, and sea operations to improve their combined-force capability to work together and to respond to threats in the Baltic region.

Marines with the Fire Support Team for Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), observe ordnance from U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers during a combined arms live-fire event as part of exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 18, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multi-national exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - Marines with the Fire Support Team for Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), observe ordnance from U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers during a combined arms live-fire event as part of exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 18, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multi-national exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

An MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261 prepares to land onto the Karel Doorman, a Dutch warship, during an interoperability test near Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., June 12, 2015. The unit worked jointly with the Royal Netherlands Navy to perform the first MV-22 Osprey carrier landing aboard a Dutch warship and strengthened the existing partnership between the two countries. - An MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261 prepares to land onto the Karel Doorman, a Dutch warship, during an interoperability test near Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., June 12, 2015. The unit worked jointly with the Royal Netherlands Navy to perform the first MV-22 Osprey carrier landing aboard a Dutch warship and strengthened the existing partnership between the two countries.

A U.S. Marine participates in a combat marksmanship program range on the flight deck of the USS Ashland June 12, 2015. The Marines honed their skills by executing different shooting drills. The Marines are with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary. The 31st MEU is currently deployed on the regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region - A U.S. Marine participates in a combat marksmanship program range on the flight deck of the USS Ashland June 12, 2015. The Marines honed their skills by executing different shooting drills. The Marines are with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary. The 31st MEU is currently deployed on the regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region

A Marine with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, provides watch during a military operations on urban terrain exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 11, 2015. Safely practicing transitions in an urban combat environment increased Marines’ confidence and better prepared them for a combat situation. - A Marine with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, provides watch during a military operations on urban terrain exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 11, 2015. Safely practicing transitions in an urban combat environment increased Marines’ confidence and better prepared them for a combat situation.

Lance Cpl. Cody McMillian, Team Leader, 3rd Squad, 3rd Platoon, Lima Company,3rd Battalion 25th Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve shoots down range during the 2015 Integrated Training Exercise at Twentynine Palms, Calif., June 12, 2015. ITX allows Reserve Marines the opportunity to train in realistic environments and conditions, ensuring the highest levels of proficiency and readiness for worldwide deployment. - Lance Cpl. Cody McMillian, Team Leader, 3rd Squad, 3rd Platoon, Lima Company,3rd Battalion 25th Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve shoots down range during the 2015 Integrated Training Exercise at Twentynine Palms, Calif., June 12, 2015. ITX allows Reserve Marines the opportunity to train in realistic environments and conditions, ensuring the highest levels of proficiency and readiness for worldwide deployment.

U.S. Marines with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, rehearse urban operation tactics aboard USS Rushmore at sea in the Pacific Ocean, June 1, 2015. BLT 3/1 constantly trains for the unknown in order to respond to the needs of the MEU while deployed. These drills keep the Marines in a constant state of combat readiness while at sea. - U.S. Marines with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, rehearse urban operation tactics aboard USS Rushmore at sea in the Pacific Ocean, June 1, 2015. BLT 3/1 constantly trains for the unknown in order to respond to the needs of the MEU while deployed. These drills keep the Marines in a constant state of combat readiness while at sea.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment patrol a beach off the shores of Sweden during BALTOPS 2015, June 9. In its 43rd iteration, BALTOPS is a multinational exercise designed to enhance the operational familiarity of NATO allied and partner nations and demonstrate their collective capability to defend the Baltic region. - U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment patrol a beach off the shores of Sweden during BALTOPS 2015, June 9. In its 43rd iteration, BALTOPS is a multinational exercise designed to enhance the operational familiarity of NATO allied and partner nations and demonstrate their collective capability to defend the Baltic region.

A corpsman, left, with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, treats a simulated injury on a Marine roleplaying as a pilot, June 10, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel course. For a TRAP mission, a platoon of Marines is flown into an objective area, where they secure the area before locating a downed aircraft and its personnel to bring them back to safety. Expeditionary Operations Training Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force, conducted the course as an evaluation for Marines with 3/8, and with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, in preparation for upcoming deployments. - A corpsman, left, with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, treats a simulated injury on a Marine roleplaying as a pilot, June 10, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel course. For a TRAP mission, a platoon of Marines is flown into an objective area, where they secure the area before locating a downed aircraft and its personnel to bring them back to safety. Expeditionary Operations Training Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force, conducted the course as an evaluation for Marines with 3/8, and with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, in preparation for upcoming deployments.

An international Corps of Marines from Sweden, Finland, and the U.K. conduct amphibious assaults on a beachhead in Ravlunda, Sweden, for local media outlets during BALTOPS 2015, June 13. The amphibious forces are part of 17 NATO Allies and partner nations that are integrated in air, land, and sea operations to improve their combined-force capability to work together and to respond to threats in the Baltic region. - An international Corps of Marines from Sweden, Finland, and the U.K. conduct amphibious assaults on a beachhead in Ravlunda, Sweden, for local media outlets during BALTOPS 2015, June 13. The amphibious forces are part of 17 NATO Allies and partner nations that are integrated in air, land, and sea operations to improve their combined-force capability to work together and to respond to threats in the Baltic region.

Lithuanian forces are teamed with U.S. Marines from the Black Sea Rotational Force during Exercise Saber Strike at the Pabrade Training Area, Lithuania, June 9, 2015. The exercise brings NATO allies and other partner nations together in eastern Europe for a multilateral training event designed to promote regional stability and security, strengthen partnerships, and foster trust. - Lithuanian forces are teamed with U.S. Marines from the Black Sea Rotational Force during Exercise Saber Strike at the Pabrade Training Area, Lithuania, June 9, 2015. The exercise brings NATO allies and other partner nations together in eastern Europe for a multilateral training event designed to promote regional stability and security, strengthen partnerships, and foster trust.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Guillermo Lopez, with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provides medical attention to a distressed mariner aboard the USS Rushmore (LSD 47) at sea in the Pacific Ocean, June 10, 2015. Rushmore rendered assistance to the distressed mariners in the waters between the Indonesian islands of Kalimantan and Sulawesi. Once on board, evacuees were provided food and medical attention by Marines and sailors of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Essex Amphibious Ready Group. - U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Guillermo Lopez, with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provides medical attention to a distressed mariner aboard the USS Rushmore (LSD 47) at sea in the Pacific Ocean, June 10, 2015. Rushmore rendered assistance to the distressed mariners in the waters between the Indonesian islands of Kalimantan and Sulawesi. Once on board, evacuees were provided food and medical attention by Marines and sailors of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Essex Amphibious Ready Group.

Sgt. Cody Leifheit, a Marine recruiter in Lewiston, Idaho, responded to a 19-year-old man hanging himself from a tree outside his house June 7, 2015. Without hesitation, the 28-year-old infantry Marine from Ferndale, Washington climbed up the tree 25 feet and took hold of the man, who wasn’t breathing and lacked a pulse. Leifheit worked to keep him alive until first responders arrived, continuously performing chest compressions as the man faded in and out. Despite spending 48 hours in a coma, the man survived. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Reece Lodder) - Sgt. Cody Leifheit, a Marine recruiter in Lewiston, Idaho, responded to a 19-year-old man hanging himself from a tree outside his house June 7, 2015. Without hesitation, the 28-year-old infantry Marine from Ferndale, Washington climbed up the tree 25 feet and took hold of the man, who wasn’t breathing and lacked a pulse. Leifheit worked to keep him alive until first responders arrived, continuously performing chest compressions as the man faded in and out. Despite spending 48 hours in a coma, the man survived. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Reece Lodder)

A Guard Marine with Marine Barracks Washington, shoots an M9 service pistol during a training exercise at Range 5, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 10, 2015. 1st platoon, Guard Company, traveled there to increase overall marksmanship with the M9 service pistol, the M4 service rifle and M1014 shotgun. - A Guard Marine with Marine Barracks Washington, shoots an M9 service pistol during a training exercise at Range 5, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 10, 2015. 1st platoon, Guard Company, traveled there to increase overall marksmanship with the M9 service pistol, the M4 service rifle and M1014 shotgun.

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to dive and perform underwater knot-tying in a Special Operation Command screener during a pre-dive course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 25 – June 5, 2015. The students had to tie five knots underwater; having only five separate breathing opportunities with only 30 seconds on the surface of the water between tying each knot. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to dive and perform underwater knot-tying in a Special Operation Command screener during a pre-dive course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 25 – June 5, 2015. The students had to tie five knots underwater; having only five separate breathing opportunities with only 30 seconds on the surface of the water between tying each knot.

Marines with Bravo Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, take a defensive position during a live-fire and maneuver exercise at a range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 6, 2015. The training simulated the Marine’s response to encountering an enemy attack while on patrol. “If we work together in this training we’ll already know our plans, call signs and signals,” said Sgt. Christian Sampson, a combat engineer with the company. “We’ll have a plan laid out already so when we get in a fight we’ll know what to do.” (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. David N. Hersey/Released) - Marines with Bravo Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, take a defensive position during a live-fire and maneuver exercise at a range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 6, 2015. The training simulated the Marine’s response to encountering an enemy attack while on patrol. “If we work together in this training we’ll already know our plans, call signs and signals,” said Sgt. Christian Sampson, a combat engineer with the company. “We’ll have a plan laid out already so when we get in a fight we’ll know what to do.” (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. David N. Hersey/Released)

150608-N-AC887-004 CAMP PENDLETON (June 8, 2015) Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus comforts the mother of Marine Sgt. Rafael Peralta after presenting her with a Navy Cross, the Navy and Marine Corps' second highest medal for valor during a ceremony at Camp Pendleton. Mabus posthumously awarded the medal for actions Peralta took in 2004. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Sam Shavers/Released) - 150608-N-AC887-004 CAMP PENDLETON (June 8, 2015) Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus comforts the mother of Marine Sgt. Rafael Peralta after presenting her with a Navy Cross, the Navy and Marine Corps' second highest medal for valor during a ceremony at Camp Pendleton. Mabus posthumously awarded the medal for actions Peralta took in 2004. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Sam Shavers/Released)

A crew operating the M1A1 Abrams tank fires at a target during the 13th annual TIGERCOMP at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 5, 2015. The best tank gunner crews from 1st Tank Battalion, 2nd Tank Battalion and 4th Tank Battalion competed for top honors and the McCard trophy bringing the entire tank community, including tank battalion veterans, together for an entertaining display of the tanks force and powerful capabilities. - A crew operating the M1A1 Abrams tank fires at a target during the 13th annual TIGERCOMP at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 5, 2015. The best tank gunner crews from 1st Tank Battalion, 2nd Tank Battalion and 4th Tank Battalion competed for top honors and the McCard trophy bringing the entire tank community, including tank battalion veterans, together for an entertaining display of the tanks force and powerful capabilities.

U.S. Marine 1st Lt. James P. Salka wears his Bronze Star Medal with combat distinguishing device and Purple Heart after an awards ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 8, 2015. Salka received the Bronze Star Medal with combat distinguishing device for heroic service in connection with combat operations in Afghanistan. - U.S. Marine 1st Lt. James P. Salka wears his Bronze Star Medal with combat distinguishing device and Purple Heart after an awards ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 8, 2015. Salka received the Bronze Star Medal with combat distinguishing device for heroic service in connection with combat operations in Afghanistan.

First Sgt. John Beckett, the company first sergeant for Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, gives a speech during a ceremony commemorating the anniversary of the Battle of Midway aboard the dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) in the Gulf of Aden, June 6, 2015. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - First Sgt. John Beckett, the company first sergeant for Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, gives a speech during a ceremony commemorating the anniversary of the Battle of Midway aboard the dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) in the Gulf of Aden, June 6, 2015. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

U.S. Marines and a Navy corpsman with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provide first aid to a simulated patient during a mass casualty training exercise at Combat Town aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 3, 2015. Marines and sailors with CLB 26 performed casualty assessment, applied first aid and transported the simulated casualties to a landing zone. The training was conducted to prepare for the 26th MEU's deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year. - U.S. Marines and a Navy corpsman with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provide first aid to a simulated patient during a mass casualty training exercise at Combat Town aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 3, 2015. Marines and sailors with CLB 26 performed casualty assessment, applied first aid and transported the simulated casualties to a landing zone. The training was conducted to prepare for the 26th MEU's deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment participate in a section chief course learn to use every position in operating a howitzer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 18 – June 5. The howitzer is a towed 155 mm artillery piece that requires a minimum of five gun crewmembers to operate. During the course, students become familiarized with every aspect of the weapons system. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment participate in a section chief course learn to use every position in operating a howitzer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 18 – June 5. The howitzer is a towed 155 mm artillery piece that requires a minimum of five gun crewmembers to operate. During the course, students become familiarized with every aspect of the weapons system.

Marines and Sailors with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, escort a simulated casualty to an MV-22 Osprey during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel training exercise, May 29, 2015, in Southwest Asia. With U.S. and coalition forces conducting airstrikes in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the TRAP forces of the SPMAGTF provide an on-call force dedicated to the safe return of the U.S. and coalition service members. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Garrett D. White, CJTF-OIR Public Affairs) - Marines and Sailors with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, escort a simulated casualty to an MV-22 Osprey during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel training exercise, May 29, 2015, in Southwest Asia. With U.S. and coalition forces conducting airstrikes in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the TRAP forces of the SPMAGTF provide an on-call force dedicated to the safe return of the U.S. and coalition service members. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Garrett D. White, CJTF-OIR Public Affairs)

Marines and civilians attend a meeting hosted at ManTech Spaces in Stafford Va. June 2, 2015 to discuss Intelligence problems the Marine Corps faces. This is the second time this meeting was hosted. - Marines and civilians attend a meeting hosted at ManTech Spaces in Stafford Va. June 2, 2015 to discuss Intelligence problems the Marine Corps faces. This is the second time this meeting was hosted.

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An F-35B Lightning II takes off on the flight deck of USS Wasp (LHD-1) during routine daylight operations, as part of Operational Testing 1, May 22. Data and lessons learned during the operational test will lay the groundwork for future F-35B deployments aboard amphibious ships. - An F-35B Lightning II takes off on the flight deck of USS Wasp (LHD-1) during routine daylight operations, as part of Operational Testing 1, May 22. Data and lessons learned during the operational test will lay the groundwork for future F-35B deployments aboard amphibious ships.

Cpl. Alex Nguyen (left), a native of Fremont, Nebraska, tries to maneuver past his defender, Staff Sgt. Phillip Shockley, a native of Scuffleton, North Carolina, during wheelchair basketball practice for the Marine team, Sept. 20, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team is comprised of active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines. - Cpl. Alex Nguyen (left), a native of Fremont, Nebraska, tries to maneuver past his defender, Staff Sgt. Phillip Shockley, a native of Scuffleton, North Carolina, during wheelchair basketball practice for the Marine team, Sept. 20, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team is comprised of active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines.

Michelle Mummers, a retired Marine major and wounded warrior, swims at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia May 28, 2015 in preparation for the 2015 Department of Defense Warrior Games. This will be Mummer's second time competing in both the cycling and swimming portion of the games. - Michelle Mummers, a retired Marine major and wounded warrior, swims at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia May 28, 2015 in preparation for the 2015 Department of Defense Warrior Games. This will be Mummer's second time competing in both the cycling and swimming portion of the games.

Marines load ordnance onto an F-35B Lightning II during Operational Testing 1 aboard USS Wasp at sea, May 27. Marines and sailors have been working together since May 18 to assess the integration of the F-35B Lightning II, which is currently on track to replace the F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Prowler, and the AV-8B Harrier. By the end of the testing period on May 29, U.S. Marine pilots had flown 110 F-35B sorties from USS Wasp, racking up more than 85 flight hours. - Marines load ordnance onto an F-35B Lightning II during Operational Testing 1 aboard USS Wasp at sea, May 27. Marines and sailors have been working together since May 18 to assess the integration of the F-35B Lightning II, which is currently on track to replace the F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Prowler, and the AV-8B Harrier. By the end of the testing period on May 29, U.S. Marine pilots had flown 110 F-35B sorties from USS Wasp, racking up more than 85 flight hours.

U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa move toward an objective during a training exercise on Quartier Colonel de Chabrieres, France, May 29, 2015. Marines stationed at Moròn Air Base, Spain, conducted a seize and capture training exercise with service members from the French Foreign Legion’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to further improve interoperability between the two NATO forces as they concurrently deploy their service members to Africa. - U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa move toward an objective during a training exercise on Quartier Colonel de Chabrieres, France, May 29, 2015. Marines stationed at Moròn Air Base, Spain, conducted a seize and capture training exercise with service members from the French Foreign Legion’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to further improve interoperability between the two NATO forces as they concurrently deploy their service members to Africa.

A squad leader with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment calculates distance and elevation of a simulated target during emergency close air support training at the Supporting Arms Virtual Trainer facility aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 2, 2015. The training was conducted to ensure all of the squad leaders within the company are familiar with emergency CAS procedures so they can employ the tactics if the need arises while on deployment. - A squad leader with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment calculates distance and elevation of a simulated target during emergency close air support training at the Supporting Arms Virtual Trainer facility aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 2, 2015. The training was conducted to ensure all of the squad leaders within the company are familiar with emergency CAS procedures so they can employ the tactics if the need arises while on deployment.

Marines with 1st Marines Special Operations Support Battalion make their way to the ocean to swim through the surf zone during the Tactical Skills Package aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 15, 2015. The Tactical Skills Package was established to enhance enabler’s skills and qualifications before deploying. - Marines with 1st Marines Special Operations Support Battalion make their way to the ocean to swim through the surf zone during the Tactical Skills Package aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 15, 2015. The Tactical Skills Package was established to enhance enabler’s skills and qualifications before deploying.