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A reconnaissance Marine swims 500 meters during a qualification to compete in the Recon Challenge at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 14, 2015. The Recon Challenge is an annual competition of grueling tests, hosted by the Reconnaissance Training Company, Advanced Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry West, and conducted by volunteers from the recon community in honor of reconnaissance Marines and sailors killed in action. - A reconnaissance Marine swims 500 meters during a qualification to compete in the Recon Challenge at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 14, 2015. The Recon Challenge is an annual competition of grueling tests, hosted by the Reconnaissance Training Company, Advanced Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry West, and conducted by volunteers from the recon community in honor of reconnaissance Marines and sailors killed in action.

The photographs of 11 fallen service members line a theater stage, commemorating the individuals during their celebration of life ceremony, May 15, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The seven MARSOC Marines and four Louisiana Army National Guardsmen pictured were killed when a UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter crashed during amphibious operations involving helicopter and boat insertion and extraction training near Eglin, Fla., March 10. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Steven Fox/Released) - The photographs of 11 fallen service members line a theater stage, commemorating the individuals during their celebration of life ceremony, May 15, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The seven MARSOC Marines and four Louisiana Army National Guardsmen pictured were killed when a UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter crashed during amphibious operations involving helicopter and boat insertion and extraction training near Eglin, Fla., March 10. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Steven Fox/Released)

Sgt. Kentrell Billups, a radio technician with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, tries to establish satellite communications with the division fire support cell during Exercise Maple Resolve 2015 aboard Canadian Manoeuvre Training Center, Camp Wainwright, Alberta, May 9, 2015. The multi-national exercise, conducted annually by the Canadian Army, is a three-week high-readiness validation exercise for Canadian Army elements designated for domestic or international operations. This year, the 1st Canadian Army Division and the 5th Canadian Mechanized Battle Group are being supported by the British 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade, various U.S. Army elements, and for the first time, members of I MEF’s 1st ANGLICO who bring a unique capability to the table. - Sgt. Kentrell Billups, a radio technician with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, tries to establish satellite communications with the division fire support cell during Exercise Maple Resolve 2015 aboard Canadian Manoeuvre Training Center, Camp Wainwright, Alberta, May 9, 2015. The multi-national exercise, conducted annually by the Canadian Army, is a three-week high-readiness validation exercise for Canadian Army elements designated for domestic or international operations. This year, the 1st Canadian Army Division and the 5th Canadian Mechanized Battle Group are being supported by the British 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade, various U.S. Army elements, and for the first time, members of I MEF’s 1st ANGLICO who bring a unique capability to the table.

Artillerymen with Combined Arms Company Artillery Platoon, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment load an M777A2 Howitzer during a week-long training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 11-15. The newly formed unit made up of Marines from Bravo and Charlie Batteries, 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment tested their teamwork and versatility during the exercise, which is part of their preparation for an upcoming deployment in support of the Black Sea Rotational Force based in Romania. - Artillerymen with Combined Arms Company Artillery Platoon, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment load an M777A2 Howitzer during a week-long training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 11-15. The newly formed unit made up of Marines from Bravo and Charlie Batteries, 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment tested their teamwork and versatility during the exercise, which is part of their preparation for an upcoming deployment in support of the Black Sea Rotational Force based in Romania.

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A Marine with 2nd Ground Sensor Platoon, 2nd Intelligence Battalion sights in on targets during a live fire range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 14, 2015. Marines with the platoon conducted fire-team competitions, fire-team rushes, and squad rushes at range K-509 to touch up on proficiency in infantry tactics. - A Marine with 2nd Ground Sensor Platoon, 2nd Intelligence Battalion sights in on targets during a live fire range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 14, 2015. Marines with the platoon conducted fire-team competitions, fire-team rushes, and squad rushes at range K-509 to touch up on proficiency in infantry tactics.

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Explosive ordnance disposal technicians with 2nd EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, prepare to conduct a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear training operation during their pre-deployment training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 6, 2015. During the scenario, the Marines had to conduct reconnaissance on an explosive device, identify the agent in the device, and defuse it before it detonated. - Explosive ordnance disposal technicians with 2nd EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, prepare to conduct a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear training operation during their pre-deployment training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 6, 2015. During the scenario, the Marines had to conduct reconnaissance on an explosive device, identify the agent in the device, and defuse it before it detonated.

U.S. Marine Corps vehicles are lined up for inspection May 9, 2015, at the port of Agadir, Morocco, following a Maritime Prepositioning Force offload in preparation for Exercise African Lion 15. An MPF is a strategic capability that provides commanders with a forward presence and rapid crisis response by offloading combat equipment and supplies from U.S. Military Sealift Command ships to support various units, and will be used to sustain the Marines and service members operating throughout the mission rehearsal. For the offload, Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, were joined with Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 453, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, as well as sailors with NMCB 11. Exercise African Lion 15 is a combined joint task force exercise conducted in accordance with UN-mandated peace operations with humanitarian assistance themes and emphasizes the strong military bond between U.S. and Moroccan Armed Forces. It creates a foundation for slated inter-military cooperation in the future and improves interoperability between nations, building relationships with this key strategic region within the AFRICOM area of responsibility. - U.S. Marine Corps vehicles are lined up for inspection May 9, 2015, at the port of Agadir, Morocco, following a Maritime Prepositioning Force offload in preparation for Exercise African Lion 15. An MPF is a strategic capability that provides commanders with a forward presence and rapid crisis response by offloading combat equipment and supplies from U.S. Military Sealift Command ships to support various units, and will be used to sustain the Marines and service members operating throughout the mission rehearsal. For the offload, Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, were joined with Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 453, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, as well as sailors with NMCB 11. Exercise African Lion 15 is a combined joint task force exercise conducted in accordance with UN-mandated peace operations with humanitarian assistance themes and emphasizes the strong military bond between U.S. and Moroccan Armed Forces. It creates a foundation for slated inter-military cooperation in the future and improves interoperability between nations, building relationships with this key strategic region within the AFRICOM area of responsibility.

Corporal Justin Gill fires his M-16 rifle during training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 13, 2015. The training exercice focused on Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28's ability to build and maintain a communications network while in a field environment. Gill is a cyber-network operator with MWCS-28. - Corporal Justin Gill fires his M-16 rifle during training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 13, 2015. The training exercice focused on Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28's ability to build and maintain a communications network while in a field environment. Gill is a cyber-network operator with MWCS-28.

Ty R. Littau, a staff member for Senator John Thune, fires an M240B machine gun during Marine Day on Marine Corps Base Quantico, May 15, 2015. Marine Day is a day dedicated to teaching congressional staffers about Marine Corps history and ethos, as well as informing them about current and future warfighting capabilities. Over the course of the day, the staff members had the opportunity to visit the museum, fire live rounds from weapons, view a static display, and ride on Marine Corps aircraft. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Lena Wakayama/Released) - Ty R. Littau, a staff member for Senator John Thune, fires an M240B machine gun during Marine Day on Marine Corps Base Quantico, May 15, 2015. Marine Day is a day dedicated to teaching congressional staffers about Marine Corps history and ethos, as well as informing them about current and future warfighting capabilities. Over the course of the day, the staff members had the opportunity to visit the museum, fire live rounds from weapons, view a static display, and ride on Marine Corps aircraft. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Lena Wakayama/Released)

The recovery of a UH-1Y Huey helicopter that went missing on May 12 and was later discovered on May 15 has resumed today. The helicopter, assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, was delivering humanitarian assistance in support of Operation Sahayogi Haat, the U.S. military earthquake relief effort. - The recovery of a UH-1Y Huey helicopter that went missing on May 12 and was later discovered on May 15 has resumed today. The helicopter, assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, was delivering humanitarian assistance in support of Operation Sahayogi Haat, the U.S. military earthquake relief effort.

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Hospitalman Dante Johnson, a hospital corpsman with Headquarters and Support Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin and a native of Chicago, Illinois, removes an adult patient from an overturned car during a Remote Pre-Hospital Trauma and Disaster Course May 13 at the Marrara Fire Department, Northern Territory, Australia. The course refreshed the corpsmen’s basic casualty care response skills and provided them with lectures, skills labs and real world practical application addressing mass casualty care in remote areas. The MRF-D deployment enables Marines and sailors to effectively train, exercise and operate with partner to enhance regional security and build the capacity to respond more rapidly to natural disasters and crises throughout the region (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released) - Hospitalman Dante Johnson, a hospital corpsman with Headquarters and Support Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin and a native of Chicago, Illinois, removes an adult patient from an overturned car during a Remote Pre-Hospital Trauma and Disaster Course May 13 at the Marrara Fire Department, Northern Territory, Australia. The course refreshed the corpsmen’s basic casualty care response skills and provided them with lectures, skills labs and real world practical application addressing mass casualty care in remote areas. The MRF-D deployment enables Marines and sailors to effectively train, exercise and operate with partner to enhance regional security and build the capacity to respond more rapidly to natural disasters and crises throughout the region (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released)

A U.S. Navy sailor with Amphibious Squadron 4 (PHIBRON) signals an MV-22B Osprey assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, while conducting flight operations aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), in the Atlantic Ocean, May 9, 2015, during PHIBRON-MEU Integrated Training. PMINT is a joint training event the 26th MEU, supporting elements and PHIBRON 4 are conducting in preparation for their deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andre Dakis/26th MEU Combat Camera/Released) - A U.S. Navy sailor with Amphibious Squadron 4 (PHIBRON) signals an MV-22B Osprey assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, while conducting flight operations aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), in the Atlantic Ocean, May 9, 2015, during PHIBRON-MEU Integrated Training. PMINT is a joint training event the 26th MEU, supporting elements and PHIBRON 4 are conducting in preparation for their deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andre Dakis/26th MEU Combat Camera/Released)

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During a Marine Corps Intelligence Activity exercise May 5, the Multi-Utility Tactical Transport, or MUTT, is put through its paces at the Town of Quantico’s Riverside Park and in the Potomac River, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. The unmanned vehicle can carry up to 600 pounds; roll over boulders, sand and debris; and even swim. - During a Marine Corps Intelligence Activity exercise May 5, the Multi-Utility Tactical Transport, or MUTT, is put through its paces at the Town of Quantico’s Riverside Park and in the Potomac River, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. The unmanned vehicle can carry up to 600 pounds; roll over boulders, sand and debris; and even swim.

United States Marines from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment partnered with members of the Jordanian Armed Forces to complete a close-quarters marksmanship range May 6, 2015, during exercise Eager Lion 15. Eager Lion is an annual, multinational training exercise designed to build interoperability, promote partnerships and exchange military expertise with 16 partner nations and NATO. Eager Lion 15 takes place in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan from May 5-19. - United States Marines from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment partnered with members of the Jordanian Armed Forces to complete a close-quarters marksmanship range May 6, 2015, during exercise Eager Lion 15. Eager Lion is an annual, multinational training exercise designed to build interoperability, promote partnerships and exchange military expertise with 16 partner nations and NATO. Eager Lion 15 takes place in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan from May 5-19.

U.S. service members from Joint Task Force 505 and Nepalese soldiers unload casualties to a medical triage area at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal, after a 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck the country, May 12. Joint Task Force 505 along with other multinational forces and humanitarian relief organizations are currently in the Nepal providing aid after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the country, April 25. At Nepal’s request the U.S. government ordered JTF 505 to provide unique capabilities to assist Nepal. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Ricardo Morales/Released) - U.S. service members from Joint Task Force 505 and Nepalese soldiers unload casualties to a medical triage area at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal, after a 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck the country, May 12. Joint Task Force 505 along with other multinational forces and humanitarian relief organizations are currently in the Nepal providing aid after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the country, April 25. At Nepal’s request the U.S. government ordered JTF 505 to provide unique capabilities to assist Nepal. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Ricardo Morales/Released)

Sgt. Maj. Ronald Green, the 18th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, introduces Nicole Spaid the 2015 Armed Forces Insurance Marine Corps Spouse of the Year, at the 8th Annual Awards Luncheon at Joint Base Myer- Henderson Hall, May 8, 2015.Spaid has overcome many obstacles in her life, including cancer, but has yet to stop reaching out to local spouses to encourage them to thrive. - Sgt. Maj. Ronald Green, the 18th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, introduces Nicole Spaid the 2015 Armed Forces Insurance Marine Corps Spouse of the Year, at the 8th Annual Awards Luncheon at Joint Base Myer- Henderson Hall, May 8, 2015. Spaid has overcome many obstacles in her life, including cancer, but has yet to stop reaching out to local spouses to encourage them to thrive.

Landing support specialists with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, Headquarters Regiment, prepare to secure a simulated cargo load to a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during an external lift exercise on Landing Zone Albatross aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 7, 2015. The exercise was performed in collaboration with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and was intended to maintain readiness for future operations that will require them to efficiently transport equipment and supplies to units. - Landing support specialists with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, Headquarters Regiment, prepare to secure a simulated cargo load to a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during an external lift exercise on Landing Zone Albatross aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 7, 2015. The exercise was performed in collaboration with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and was intended to maintain readiness for future operations that will require them to efficiently transport equipment and supplies to units.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, and their Australian counterparts with Aviation Rescue Firefighting Service, Airservices Australia, Darwin International Airport, practice extinguishing controlled chemical fires May 11 at RAFF Base Darwin, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia. MWSS-171 is a part of the Marine Air - Ground Task Force that is composed of aviation, ground, and logistics combat elements, and lead by a command element, creating the MRF-D. The rotational deployment in Darwin enables Marines to more effectively train, exercise and operate with their partners, enhancing regional security and building a capacity to respond more rapidly to natural disasters and crises throughout that region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Angel Serna/Released) - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, and their Australian counterparts with Aviation Rescue Firefighting Service, Airservices Australia, Darwin International Airport, practice extinguishing controlled chemical fires May 11 at RAFF Base Darwin, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia. MWSS-171 is a part of the Marine Air - Ground Task Force that is composed of aviation, ground, and logistics combat elements, and lead by a command element, creating the MRF-D. The rotational deployment in Darwin enables Marines to more effectively train, exercise and operate with their partners, enhancing regional security and building a capacity to respond more rapidly to natural disasters and crises throughout that region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Angel Serna/Released)

U.S. Marine MV-22 Osprey with Joint Task Force 505 departs for a search and rescue mission out of the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal May 13. The Osprey, which is assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, carries JTF personnel in search of a UH-1Y Huey helicopter carrying six Marines and two Nepalese soldiers. The Huey, assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, went missing while conducting humanitarian assistance after a 7.3 magnitude earthquake May 12. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Thor Larson) - U.S. Marine MV-22 Osprey with Joint Task Force 505 departs for a search and rescue mission out of the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal May 13. The Osprey, which is assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, carries JTF personnel in search of a UH-1Y Huey helicopter carrying six Marines and two Nepalese soldiers. The Huey, assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, went missing while conducting humanitarian assistance after a 7.3 magnitude earthquake May 12. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Thor Larson)

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Head Quarters Marine Corps Special Duty Assignments Screening Team infographic and flow chart. - Head Quarters Marine Corps Special Duty Assignments Screening Team infographic and flow chart.

Spanish and U.S. Marine explosive ordnance disposal technicians monitor an bomb disposal robot during a training exercise in Sierra Del Retin, Spain, May 5, 2015. EOD technicians from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa joined their Spanish counterparts and completed a three-day training operation, which included live-demolition operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Paul Peterson/Released) - Spanish and U.S. Marine explosive ordnance disposal technicians monitor an bomb disposal robot during a training exercise in Sierra Del Retin, Spain, May 5, 2015. EOD technicians from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa joined their Spanish counterparts and completed a three-day training operation, which included live-demolition operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Paul Peterson/Released)

Sergeant Peter Gentry III, left, an anti-tank missileman with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Mineman 2nd Class Christopher Dunham, assigned to the mine countermeasures ship USS Sentry, identify terrain features of an island they will be passing during the ship’s transit through the Strait of Bab al Mandeb, April 28, 2015. The 24th MEU provided additional small caliber action team capabilities to the USS Sentry during the transit. 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. ( - Sergeant Peter Gentry III, left, an anti-tank missileman with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Mineman 2nd Class Christopher Dunham, assigned to the mine countermeasures ship USS Sentry, identify terrain features of an island they will be passing during the ship’s transit through the Strait of Bab al Mandeb, April 28, 2015. The 24th MEU provided additional small caliber action team capabilities to the USS Sentry during the transit. 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. (

Lance Cpl. Zachary Miller, a motor vehicle operator with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division function checks a Mk-19 automatic grenade launcher during a Machine Gunners Course at the Division Combat Skills Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 15, 2015. During the course the Marines were trained how to properly disassemble, reassemble and maintain the M249 squad automatic weapon, the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the MK19 automatic grenade launcher. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. David N. Hersey/Released) - Lance Cpl. Zachary Miller, a motor vehicle operator with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division function checks a Mk-19 automatic grenade launcher during a Machine Gunners Course at the Division Combat Skills Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 15, 2015. During the course the Marines were trained how to properly disassemble, reassemble and maintain the M249 squad automatic weapon, the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the MK19 automatic grenade launcher. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. David N. Hersey/Released)

A Marine fires an M240B medium machine gun during the live-fire testing of the Machine Gunner’s Course aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 23, 2014. The course is one of the services offered to Marines by the Division Combat Skills Center and is a two-week course that familiarizes Marines with the M249 squad automatic weapon light machine gun, M240B medium machine gun, M2 .50-caliber heavy machine gun and the MK-19 40mm automatic grenade launcher. - A Marine fires an M240B medium machine gun during the live-fire testing of the Machine Gunner’s Course aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 23, 2014. The course is one of the services offered to Marines by the Division Combat Skills Center and is a two-week course that familiarizes Marines with the M249 squad automatic weapon light machine gun, M240B medium machine gun, M2 .50-caliber heavy machine gun and the MK-19 40mm automatic grenade launcher.

Pfc. Michael Ainsworth, a mortarman with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment adjusts the sights of the 81 mm mortar system during a combined-arms raid at Army National Training Center Fort Irwin, California April 11, 2015. The raid was conducted by 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion as part of exercise Desert Scimitar 2015. - Pfc. Michael Ainsworth, a mortarman with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment adjusts the sights of the 81 mm mortar system during a combined-arms raid at Army National Training Center Fort Irwin, California April 11, 2015. The raid was conducted by 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion as part of exercise Desert Scimitar 2015.

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Nepalese military service members unload supplies from a UH-1Y Huey in Charikot, Nepal, May 5, Nepal, May 5. Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469 and Marine Medium Tilt Rotor Squadron 262 carried supplies in a UH-1Y Huey and MV-22 Ospreys to Charikot, Nepal. The supplies will provide Nepalese people with shelter after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck central Nepal, April 25, causing fatalities, injuries and significant damage. The government of Nepal declared a state of emergency and requested international assistance. The U.S. military, at the direction of the U.S. Agency for International Development, will continue to support Nepal as needed. HMLA-469 and VMM-262 are attached to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Nepalese military service members unload supplies from a UH-1Y Huey in Charikot, Nepal, May 5, Nepal, May 5. Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469 and Marine Medium Tilt Rotor Squadron 262 carried supplies in a UH-1Y Huey and MV-22 Ospreys to Charikot, Nepal. The supplies will provide Nepalese people with shelter after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck central Nepal, April 25, causing fatalities, injuries and significant damage. The government of Nepal declared a state of emergency and requested international assistance. The U.S. military, at the direction of the U.S. Agency for International Development, will continue to support Nepal as needed. HMLA-469 and VMM-262 are attached to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines with the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force depart the gorge crossing area during a Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity assessment aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Bridgeport, California, May 5, 2015. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards-based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Marines with the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force depart the gorge crossing area during a Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity assessment aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Bridgeport, California, May 5, 2015. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards-based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

A critical skills operator with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command searches the horizon for the objective zone from the ramp of a KC-130J Super Hercules during parachute training above Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 6, 2015. CSOs were supported by Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. Aerial deliveries are one of the mission essential skills VMGR-252 provides in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force. - A critical skills operator with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command searches the horizon for the objective zone from the ramp of a KC-130J Super Hercules during parachute training above Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 6, 2015. CSOs were supported by Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. Aerial deliveries are one of the mission essential skills VMGR-252 provides in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy Sailors with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit and the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp man the rails of the Wasp as it leaves Port Everglades, Fla., May 10 at the conclusion of Fleet Week 2015. Marines and Sailors of the MEU, from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, participated in Fleet Week Port Everglades May 4-10. The purpose of Fleet Week was to showcase the strength and capabilities of the Navy and Marine Corps team through tours, static displays and community relations events, and to provide the public the opportunity to meet and interact with Marines and Sailors. - U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy Sailors with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit and the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp man the rails of the Wasp as it leaves Port Everglades, Fla., May 10 at the conclusion of Fleet Week 2015. Marines and Sailors of the MEU, from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, participated in Fleet Week Port Everglades May 4-10. The purpose of Fleet Week was to showcase the strength and capabilities of the Navy and Marine Corps team through tours, static displays and community relations events, and to provide the public the opportunity to meet and interact with Marines and Sailors.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Victor CastilloGarcia, left, a field radio operator from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, provides security for an MV-22B Osprey at a landing zone in Sierra Del Retin, Spain, May 4, 2015. The Marines landed at the site to conduct range operations with the Spanish Marines, who used the Osprey as part of their battalion’s training exercise. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Victor CastilloGarcia, left, a field radio operator from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, provides security for an MV-22B Osprey at a landing zone in Sierra Del Retin, Spain, May 4, 2015. The Marines landed at the site to conduct range operations with the Spanish Marines, who used the Osprey as part of their battalion’s training exercise.

Lance Cpl. Xavier Castro, a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, fires his M203 rifle-mounted grenade launcher during a M203 qualification aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 5, 2015. The M203 grenade launcher fires various types of 40 mm ammunition, ranging from high explosive to ground marking rounds. - Lance Cpl. Xavier Castro, a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, fires his M203 rifle-mounted grenade launcher during a M203 qualification aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 5, 2015. The M203 grenade launcher fires various types of 40 mm ammunition, ranging from high explosive to ground marking rounds.

Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force scout swimmers emerge out of the water and sight in on their rifles during the Japanese Observer Exchange Program April 28, 2015 at Kin Blue. JOEP is a III Marine Expeditionary Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and JGSDF coordinated program designed to increase regional security, maintain unit readiness and enhance overall cooperation. This is the fourth iteration of JOEP for the 31st MEU after the initial partnership in September 2012. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released) - Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force scout swimmers emerge out of the water and sight in on their rifles during the Japanese Observer Exchange Program April 28, 2015 at Kin Blue. JOEP is a III Marine Expeditionary Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and JGSDF coordinated program designed to increase regional security, maintain unit readiness and enhance overall cooperation. This is the fourth iteration of JOEP for the 31st MEU after the initial partnership in September 2012. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released)

Marines with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment fire an M-72 light anti-tank weapon during a live-fire rocket range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 5, 2015. The purpose of the exercise was to build confidence, camaraderie and weapon proficiency throughout the unit. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kirstin Merrimarahajara/released) - Marines with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment fire an M-72 light anti-tank weapon during a live-fire rocket range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 5, 2015. The purpose of the exercise was to build confidence, camaraderie and weapon proficiency throughout the unit. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kirstin Merrimarahajara/released)

The “Ott Box” is an invention that was created by Gunnery Sgt. Michael Ott, the navigational aids chief for Marine Air Control Squadron 4, Detachment Alpha. Over time, Ott plans to gather additional parts for the Ott Box in order to perfect the idea of a solar powered Tactical Air Navigation system. - The “Ott Box” is an invention that was created by Gunnery Sgt. Michael Ott, the navigational aids chief for Marine Air Control Squadron 4, Detachment Alpha. Over time, Ott plans to gather additional parts for the Ott Box in order to perfect the idea of a solar powered Tactical Air Navigation system.

A light armored vehicle crew with Charlie Company, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division moves from one battle position to another during a pre-qualification on the LAV weapon systems aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 1, 2015. During the exercise, the crew on the LAV moved from position to position to engage several targets and were evaluated on their accuracy, timeliness and effectiveness in identifying the target that presented the highest threat. - A light armored vehicle crew with Charlie Company, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division moves from one battle position to another during a pre-qualification on the LAV weapon systems aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 1, 2015. During the exercise, the crew on the LAV moved from position to position to engage several targets and were evaluated on their accuracy, timeliness and effectiveness in identifying the target that presented the highest threat.

Marine scout sniper candidates with Scout Sniper Platoon, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment fire at targets from an unknown distance during a live-fire exercise at SR-10 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 22, 2015. The live-fire exercise was the last event during a two-week Basic Scout Sniper Course Preparation Course. - Marine scout sniper candidates with Scout Sniper Platoon, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment fire at targets from an unknown distance during a live-fire exercise at SR-10 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 22, 2015. The live-fire exercise was the last event during a two-week Basic Scout Sniper Course Preparation Course.

A Marine from 2nd Marine Division fires a MK-19 grenade launcher during the Advanced Machine Gunners Course at range G-3 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 30, 2015. In order to learn a new engagement method previously only employed by mortarmen, the Marines shot the MK-19 grenade launcher from behind a berm at targets that were not visible to them so that they could fire at the enemy without being in harm’s way. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Aaron Fiala/Released) - A Marine from 2nd Marine Division fires a MK-19 grenade launcher during the Advanced Machine Gunners Course at range G-3 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 30, 2015. In order to learn a new engagement method previously only employed by mortarmen, the Marines shot the MK-19 grenade launcher from behind a berm at targets that were not visible to them so that they could fire at the enemy without being in harm’s way. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Aaron Fiala/Released)

Two 123rd STS personnel off load 50 cc mini bikes to stage on a runway at an Eglin Air Force Base drop zone, prior to a static line jump and jump clearing team mission from a KC-130J Super Hercules belonging to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252, during Emerald Warrior 2015, April 28, 2015. The mini bikes are used to patrol down the air strip before the plane lands to ensure there is no debris or hostile forces near the landing zone. Emerald Warrior is a joint exercise led by Air Force Special Operations Command that provides pre-deployment training for U.S. and partner nation special operations forces and interagency elements. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexander Mitchell/released) - Two 123rd STS personnel off load 50 cc mini bikes to stage on a runway at an Eglin Air Force Base drop zone, prior to a static line jump and jump clearing team mission from a KC-130J Super Hercules belonging to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252, during Emerald Warrior 2015, April 28, 2015. The mini bikes are used to patrol down the air strip before the plane lands to ensure there is no debris or hostile forces near the landing zone. Emerald Warrior is a joint exercise led by Air Force Special Operations Command that provides pre-deployment training for U.S. and partner nation special operations forces and interagency elements. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexander Mitchell/released)

Sgt. Timothy Shirey, the data chief with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, evaluates and checks signal strength on a Rapid Response Kit during Exercise Maple Resolve 15 aboard Camp Wainwright Canadian Maneuver Training Center, Alberta, May 3, 2015. The Marines used the exercise to develop a knowledge platform to train for future operations and integrate with allied forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Owen Kimbrel) - Sgt. Timothy Shirey, the data chief with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, evaluates and checks signal strength on a Rapid Response Kit during Exercise Maple Resolve 15 aboard Camp Wainwright Canadian Maneuver Training Center, Alberta, May 3, 2015. The Marines used the exercise to develop a knowledge platform to train for future operations and integrate with allied forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Owen Kimbrel)

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Sgt. Dustin Houghton, mortar man, with Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, secures an M252 81mm medium-weight mortar during a Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity assessment at Range 107, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, April 24, 2015. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards-based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Sgt. Dustin Houghton, mortar man, with Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, secures an M252 81mm medium-weight mortar during a Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity assessment at Range 107, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, April 24, 2015. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards-based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.