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Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, launch a round during a live-fire mortar exercise with 81 mm mortar systems in preparation for the unit’s upcoming deployment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 21,2016. The Marines worked with the mortar systems until the late evening, sending more than 350 rounds downrange, and accomplished their goal of having more than 90 percent of their rounds impact on their designated targets. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, launch a round during a live-fire mortar exercise with 81 mm mortar systems in preparation for the unit’s upcoming deployment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 21,2016. The Marines worked with the mortar systems until the late evening, sending more than 350 rounds downrange, and accomplished their goal of having more than 90 percent of their rounds impact on their designated targets.

PACIFIC OCEAN 160308-N-ZZ999-216 (Mar.8, 206) – Ships assigned to the Bonhomme Richard and Boxer Expeditionary Strike Groups (BHRESG/BOXESG) along with the Republic of Korea Flotilla 5 transit in a formation during a photo exercise commencing exercise Ssang Yong in the Pacific Ocean March 8, 2016. Sailors and Marines of ROK Navy, Marine Corps, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76 and 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3D MEB), along with 7th ROK Marine Corps Regimental Landing Team 7 (ROKMC RLT-7), Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces are participating in Ssang Yong 2016, the largest combined amphibious exercise of its kind to date, designed to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. - PACIFIC OCEAN 160308-N-ZZ999-216 (Mar.8, 206) – Ships assigned to the Bonhomme Richard and Boxer Expeditionary Strike Groups (BHRESG/BOXESG) along with the Republic of Korea Flotilla 5 transit in a formation during a photo exercise commencing exercise Ssang Yong in the Pacific Ocean March 8, 2016. Sailors and Marines of ROK Navy, Marine Corps, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76 and 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3D MEB), along with 7th ROK Marine Corps Regimental Landing Team 7 (ROKMC RLT-7), Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces are participating in Ssang Yong 2016, the largest combined amphibious exercise of its kind to date, designed to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations.

Sgt. James Downes, explosive ordnance disposal technician with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, and a Hermiston, Ore. native, and Sgt. Nick Graham, EOD technician with the unit and a Queen Creek, Ari. native, control a robot from their vehicle during a field training exercise Dec. 13, 2014, at EOD site 3 on Camp Lejeune, N.C. Robots allowed EOD techs to view and assess their surroundings from a distance during simulated possible improved explosive device threats. - Sgt. James Downes, explosive ordnance disposal technician with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, and a Hermiston, Ore. native, and Sgt. Nick Graham, EOD technician with the unit and a Queen Creek, Ari. native, control a robot from their vehicle during a field training exercise Dec. 13, 2014, at EOD site 3 on Camp Lejeune, N.C. Robots allowed EOD techs to view and assess their surroundings from a distance during simulated possible improved explosive device threats.

The aviation logistics support ship SS Wright is playing an important support role during Bold Alligator 16, Aug 15-26. In addition to serving in its traditional role providing intermediate aircraft maintenance, the Wright is involved in limited objective experimentation to expose participants to new technologies, applications and concepts that will inform future warfighting capabilities.The experiment will test the ship’s suitability as a potential command and control platform, providing integrated air and ground logistics support, and as a possible hub for unmanned air and maritime vehicles providing support to the landing force. - The aviation logistics support ship SS Wright is playing an important support role during Bold Alligator 16, Aug 15-26. In addition to serving in its traditional role providing intermediate aircraft maintenance, the Wright is involved in limited objective experimentation to expose participants to new technologies, applications and concepts that will inform future warfighting capabilities.The experiment will test the ship’s suitability as a potential command and control platform, providing integrated air and ground logistics support, and as a possible hub for unmanned air and maritime vehicles providing support to the landing force.

Assault amphibious vehicles with 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division drive ashore at Onslow Beach, N.C., during beach operations training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 4, 2014, as part of Exercise Bold Alligator 14. Bold Alligator 14 is a scenario-driven exercise designed to improve naval amphibious core competence, increase proficiency in operations ranging from foreign disaster relief to limited force entry, and help grow interoperability with coalition forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. James R. Smith/Released) - Assault amphibious vehicles with 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division drive ashore at Onslow Beach, N.C., during beach operations training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 4, 2014, as part of Exercise Bold Alligator 14. Bold Alligator 14 is a scenario-driven exercise designed to improve naval amphibious core competence, increase proficiency in operations ranging from foreign disaster relief to limited force entry, and help grow interoperability with coalition forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. James R. Smith/Released)

Royal Marines make their way to their first infiltration point for a ground insertion operation during Bold Alligator 17 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 20, 2017. Bold Alligator 17 is a training exercise focused on a regimental amphibious assault that allows the Navy and Marine Corps team to train with partner nations to refine and strengthen core amphibious competencies critical to maritime power projection. - Royal Marines make their way to their first infiltration point for a ground insertion operation during Bold Alligator 17 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 20, 2017. Bold Alligator 17 is a training exercise focused on a regimental amphibious assault that allows the Navy and Marine Corps team to train with partner nations to refine and strengthen core amphibious competencies critical to maritime power projection.

(Left to right) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, the commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 2, speaks with Brig. Gen. Robert F. Castellvi, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, during a rehearsal of concepts drill as part of Bold Alligator 2016 in Norfolk, Virginia, Aug. 13, 2016. BA16 focuses on improving Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Allied and partner nations as an investment in the current and future readiness of naval forces. BA16 is taking place Aug. 15-26, 2016, along the eastern seaboard. - (Left to right) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, the commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 2, speaks with Brig. Gen. Robert F. Castellvi, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, during a rehearsal of concepts drill as part of Bold Alligator 2016 in Norfolk, Virginia, Aug. 13, 2016. BA16 focuses on improving Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Allied and partner nations as an investment in the current and future readiness of naval forces. BA16 is taking place Aug. 15-26, 2016, along the eastern seaboard.

Recruit Esra D. Mullner, Platoon 3269, Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, stands at the position of attention at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., Nov. 21. Mullner is a Boise, Idaho native and was recruited out of Recruiting Substation Boise, Idaho. - Recruit Esra D. Mullner, Platoon 3269, Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, stands at the position of attention at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., Nov. 21. Mullner is a Boise, Idaho native and was recruited out of Recruiting Substation Boise, Idaho.

Cpl. Malon Johnson is a combat engineer with Improved Ribbon Bridge Platoon, Bridge Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group. - Cpl. Malon Johnson is a combat engineer with Improved Ribbon Bridge Platoon, Bridge Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group. Johnson earned his license as a bridge erection boat (BEB) operator after being tested on a series of maneuvers Jan. 29, 2019 at Naha Military Port. BEBs are used to move and connect Improved Ribbon Bridge (IRB) bays, which is a tactical bridging system that can span across bodies of water greater than 100 meters. Tactical bridging, specifically wet-gap crossing, is a unique function within logistics combat element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force and ensures mobility across rivers and waterways throughout the Indo-Pacific area of operations. Johnson is a native of San Francisco, California. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tiffany Edwards)

A U.S. Navy landing craft, air cushion is marshaled into the USS Arlington carrying tactical vehicles during Defense Support of Civil Authorities mission rehearsals at Naval Base Norfolk, Virginia, July 21, 2021. Marines and Sailors with the II Marine Expeditionary Force Maritime DSCA Task Force, commanded by Combat Logistics Battalion 22, and Sailors aboard the USS Arlington conducted a destructive weather mission rehearsal loading exercise to prepare and rehearse for a future DSCA mission during the 2021 hurricane season. - A U.S. Navy landing craft, air cushion is marshaled into the USS Arlington carrying tactical vehicles during Defense Support of Civil Authorities mission rehearsals at Naval Base Norfolk, Virginia, July 21, 2021. Marines and Sailors with the II Marine Expeditionary Force Maritime DSCA Task Force, commanded by Combat Logistics Battalion 22, and Sailors aboard the USS Arlington conducted a destructive weather mission rehearsal loading exercise to prepare and rehearse for a future DSCA mission during the 2021 hurricane season.

A U.S. Navy corpsman, assigned to the 1st Marine Division, conducts tactical combat casualty care training during the Combat Trauma Management Course, taught by instructors from the 1st Mar. Div. Navy Education and Training Office, at the Strategic Operations facility, San Diego, July 30, 2015. The course, held once a month for 40 students, combines simulated injuries on role players and chaotic battlefield environments to prepare corpsmen and Marine combat life savers for the stress of saving lives in a real world operations. - A U.S. Navy corpsman, assigned to the 1st Marine Division, conducts tactical combat casualty care training during the Combat Trauma Management Course, taught by instructors from the 1st Mar. Div. Navy Education and Training Office, at the Strategic Operations facility, San Diego, July 30, 2015. The course, held once a month for 40 students, combines simulated injuries on role players and chaotic battlefield environments to prepare corpsmen and Marine combat life savers for the stress of saving lives in a real world operations.

Marines attack their objective Nov. 2 during exercise Blue Chromite 15 in the Central Training Area. Blue Chromite demonstrates the Navy and Marine Corps’ expeditionary capabilities from the sea. Marines rode in assault amphibious vehicles in a ship-to-shore assault from the USS Germantown to Oura Wan Beach. After securing their first objective Marines advanced inland to the CTA. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marines Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Abbey Perria/Released) - Marines attack their objective Nov. 2 during exercise Blue Chromite 15 in the Central Training Area. Blue Chromite demonstrates the Navy and Marine Corps’ expeditionary capabilities from the sea. Marines rode in assault amphibious vehicles in a ship-to-shore assault from the USS Germantown to Oura Wan Beach. After securing their first objective Marines advanced inland to the CTA. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marines Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Abbey Perria/Released)

U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform aeriel manuevers at the 2015 MCAS Miramar Air Show at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Oct. 2. Sixteen pilots volunteer to fly in the formation of F/A-18 Hornets to show audiences around the world the capabilities of the armed forces’ aircraft. - U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform aeriel manuevers at the 2015 MCAS Miramar Air Show at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Oct. 2. Sixteen pilots volunteer to fly in the formation of F/A-18 Hornets to show audiences around the world the capabilities of the armed forces’ aircraft.

A Marine with Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, rappels down a cliff at the Jungle Warfare Training Center, Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 24, 2017. JWTC exposes Marines to training situations and environments unique to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region which sustain operational readiness and enhance forward deployed capabilities. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia- Pacific region. - A Marine with Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, rappels down a cliff at the Jungle Warfare Training Center, Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 24, 2017. JWTC exposes Marines to training situations and environments unique to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region which sustain operational readiness and enhance forward deployed capabilities. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia- Pacific region.

The Commanding Officer of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, Lt. Col. John P. Price, conducts a pre-flight check of aircraft in preperation of VMFA-122's first flight operations in an F-35B Lightning II on Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., March 29, 2018. VMFA-122 is conducting the flight operations for the first time as an F-35 squadron. - The Commanding Officer of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, Lt. Col. John P. Price, conducts a pre-flight check of aircraft in preperation of VMFA-122's first flight operations in an F-35B Lightning II on Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., March 29, 2018. VMFA-122 is conducting the flight operations for the first time as an F-35 squadron.

Members of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 and Japan Air Self-Defense pose for a photo in front of an F/A-18A and two F-15s at Komatsu Air Base, Japan, during the Komatsu Aviation Training Relocation exercise March 17, 2016. VMFA-314, home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, temporarily deployed to MCAS Iwakuni for a six month rotation with the unit deployment program, is forward deployed to Komatsu, Japan for the ATR. - Members of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 and Japan Air Self-Defense pose for a photo in front of an F/A-18A and two F-15s at Komatsu Air Base, Japan, during the Komatsu Aviation Training Relocation exercise March 17, 2016. VMFA-314, home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, temporarily deployed to MCAS Iwakuni for a six month rotation with the unit deployment program, is forward deployed to Komatsu, Japan for the ATR.

A Marine with 2nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company packs C4 into a M107 155mm projectile during a Protective Works Demolition Range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 12, 2016. Approximately 20 EOD technicians participated in the training event to rehearse protocol and experiment with new procedures that allow them to reduce the effects of an explosion. - A Marine with 2nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company packs C4 into a M107 155mm projectile during a Protective Works Demolition Range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 12, 2016. Approximately 20 EOD technicians participated in the training event to rehearse protocol and experiment with new procedures that allow them to reduce the effects of an explosion.

Funk was one of more than 100 veterans who attended a Veterans Day ceremony hosted by the city. - R.B. Funk, a resident of Big Bear Lake and a U.S. Army Air Force veteran, stands at Veterans Park in Big Bear Lake, Calif., Nov. 11, 2017. Funk was one of more than 100 veterans who attended a Veterans Day ceremony hosted by the city.

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)

Lance Cpl. Cody Conlon, a fireteam leader with 2nd Marine Regiment, watches Marines with his unit set up defenses from his fighting position during a battalion deployment for training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 16, 2015. The defensive training took place during a nine-day deployment for training exercise designed to prepare for a variety of combat scenarios, including defensive, offensive, and urban operations. - Lance Cpl. Cody Conlon, a fireteam leader with 2nd Marine Regiment, watches Marines with his unit set up defenses from his fighting position during a battalion deployment for training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 16, 2015. The defensive training took place during a nine-day deployment for training exercise designed to prepare for a variety of combat scenarios, including defensive, offensive, and urban operations.

Sgt. Mateusz Kaczynski, a maintenance management chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, addresses a class of non-commissioned officers from the Benin Navy at Benin Naval Forces Headquarters, Cotonou, Benin, October 24, 2016. The U.S. Marine Corps theater security cooperation team with SPMAGTF-CR-AF spent two weeks teaching an NCO development and maintenance management course during their time training with the Benin Navy. - Sgt. Mateusz Kaczynski, a maintenance management chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, addresses a class of non-commissioned officers from the Benin Navy at Benin Naval Forces Headquarters, Cotonou, Benin, October 24, 2016. The U.S. Marine Corps theater security cooperation team with SPMAGTF-CR-AF spent two weeks teaching an NCO development and maintenance management course during their time training with the Benin Navy.

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

Brig. Gen David Jones, commander of the Belize Defence Force, and Maj. Gen. William Beydler, former commanding general of II Marine Expeditionary Force, meet during a visit to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 22, 2015. The purpose of the visit was to assess the capabilities of U.S. forces, discern opportunities for Belize forces to train alongside Marines and sustain enduring partnerships between the two countries in their efforts to counter transnational organized crime. - Brig. Gen David Jones, commander of the Belize Defence Force, and Maj. Gen. William Beydler, former commanding general of II Marine Expeditionary Force, meet during a visit to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 22, 2015. The purpose of the visit was to assess the capabilities of U.S. forces, discern opportunities for Belize forces to train alongside Marines and sustain enduring partnerships between the two countries in their efforts to counter transnational organized crime.

A Marine completes a puzzle to test his dexterity during a field exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic Nov. 30, 2016. Twenty-two Marines with Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, conducted a week-long annual training exercise that refreshed the defense specialists on the roots of their basic military occupational specialty training. The exercise included an assortment of stations and classes that tested the Marines physically and mentally. - A Marine completes a puzzle to test his dexterity during a field exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic Nov. 30, 2016. Twenty-two Marines with Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, conducted a week-long annual training exercise that refreshed the defense specialists on the roots of their basic military occupational specialty training. The exercise included an assortment of stations and classes that tested the Marines physically and mentally.

A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit ground guides a Tractor, Rubber-tired Articulated, Multi-purpose vehicle to load equipment onto a Landing Craft Air Cushion assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7 during Exercise Ssang Yong 16, Dogu Beach, Pohang, South Korea, March 17, 2016. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces in order to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed aboard the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group as part of their spring deployment of the Asia-Pacific region. - A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit ground guides a Tractor, Rubber-tired Articulated, Multi-purpose vehicle to load equipment onto a Landing Craft Air Cushion assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7 during Exercise Ssang Yong 16, Dogu Beach, Pohang, South Korea, March 17, 2016. Ssang Yong 16 is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces in order to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed aboard the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group as part of their spring deployment of the Asia-Pacific region.

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Marines, veterans and civilians gathered at Waterfront Park in downtown Beaufort, S.C. for a Vietnam Veterans Tribute, Aug 8. The event was organized by veteran services to give Vietnam War veterans the welcome that many of them never received. - Marines, veterans and civilians gathered at Waterfront Park in downtown Beaufort, S.C. for a Vietnam Veterans Tribute, Aug 8. The event was organized by veteran services to give Vietnam War veterans the welcome that many of them never received.

Three Marines receive The Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal Wednesday, November 13, 2019. NCM is a decoration presented by the United States Department of the Navy to service members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps who have performed an exceedingly heroic act, exceptional achievement, or commendable service that has not been recognized by a higher award - Three Marines receive The Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal Wednesday, November 13, 2019. NCM is a decoration presented by the United States Department of the Navy to service members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps who have performed an exceedingly heroic act, exceptional achievement, or commendable service that has not been recognized by a higher award

U.S. Sailors with Navy Cargo Handling Battalion One, conduct the off-loading of tanks during exercise Saber Strike 17 in Ventspils, Latvia, May 23, 2017 Exercise Saber Strike 17 is an annual combined-joint exercise conducted at various locations throughout the Baltic region and Poland. The combined training prepares allies and partners to respond more to regional crises and meet their own security needs by improving the security of borders and countering threats. - U.S. Sailors with Navy Cargo Handling Battalion One, conduct the off-loading of tanks during exercise Saber Strike 17 in Ventspils, Latvia, May 23, 2017 Exercise Saber Strike 17 is an annual combined-joint exercise conducted at various locations throughout the Baltic region and Poland. The combined training prepares allies and partners to respond more to regional crises and meet their own security needs by improving the security of borders and countering threats.

Lynn Kinney (left), Megan McClung (center) and Amy Forsythe(right) served together during their deployment to Camp Fallujah, Iraq in 2006. They were assigned to the Camp Pendleton-based I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Public Affairs Office. This photo was taken at Camp Fallujah in April 2006. McClung was killed by an IED in Ramadi, Iraq, Dec. 6, 2006. Kinney, now a staff sergeant, serves as the public affairs chief for I MEF at Camp Pendleton, Calif. Forsythe transferred out of the Marine Corps and now serves as a public affairs officer in the U.S. Navy Reserves. - Lynn Kinney (left), Megan McClung (center) and Amy Forsythe(right) served together during their deployment to Camp Fallujah, Iraq in 2006. They were assigned to the Camp Pendleton-based I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Public Affairs Office. This photo was taken at Camp Fallujah in April 2006. McClung was killed by an IED in Ramadi, Iraq, Dec. 6, 2006. Kinney, now a staff sergeant, serves as the public affairs chief for I MEF at Camp Pendleton, Calif. Forsythe transferred out of the Marine Corps and now serves as a public affairs officer in the U.S. Navy Reserves.

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Francisco Ocegueda, the American Battle Monuments Commission Deputy Director of Cemetery Operations for the Pacific Region gives remarks during the 81st Anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal Ceremony at the Guadalcanal American Memorial in Honiara, Solomon Islands, August 7, 2023. The Battle of Guadalcanal, also known as Operation Watchtower, was a seven-month campaign that marked the first Allied land offensive in the Pacific theater in World War II. - Francisco Ocegueda, the American Battle Monuments Commission Deputy Director of Cemetery Operations for the Pacific Region gives remarks during the 81st Anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal Ceremony at the Guadalcanal American Memorial in Honiara, Solomon Islands, August 7, 2023. The Battle of Guadalcanal, also known as Operation Watchtower, was a seven-month campaign that marked the first Allied land offensive in the Pacific theater in World War II.

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

U.S. Marines and Sailors render a salute during a memorial service at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 21. - U.S. Marines and Sailors render a salute during a memorial service at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 21.

An assault breacher vehicle races towards the objective as artillery provides suppressing fire Feb. 9 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, during the battalion assault course at Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. ABV’s are used to clear areas of mines and other ordinance for ground troops and vehicles to move through. During the BAC the ABV’s fire a mine-clearing line charge to simulate destroying enemy ordinance. The Marines operating the ABV are with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force. - An assault breacher vehicle races towards the objective as artillery provides suppressing fire Feb. 9 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, during the battalion assault course at Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. ABV’s are used to clear areas of mines and other ordinance for ground troops and vehicles to move through. During the BAC the ABV’s fire a mine-clearing line charge to simulate destroying enemy ordinance. The Marines operating the ABV are with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force.

A U.S. Marine assigned to the San Antonio class amphibious transport docking ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) guides a light armored vehicle belonging to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) onto an LCAC on the Atlantic Ocean, July 25, 2023. The USS Mesa Verde (LPD-19), assigned to the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 26th MEU(SOC) under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests. - A U.S. Marine assigned to the San Antonio class amphibious transport docking ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) guides a light armored vehicle belonging to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) onto an LCAC on the Atlantic Ocean, July 25, 2023. The USS Mesa Verde (LPD-19), assigned to the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 26th MEU(SOC) under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

200622-M-MV109-1348 BIZE, Albania (June 22, 2020) Cpl. John Cartwright III, UH-1Y Venom crew chief, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 365 (reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fires an M134 GAU-17 during routine sustainment training June 22, 2020. 26th MEU is conducting operations in U.S. 6th Fleet in support of regional allies and partners, and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Patricia A. Morris/Released) - BIZE, Albania (June 22, 2020) Cpl. John Cartwright III, UH-1Y Venom crew chief, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 365 (reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fires an M134 GAU-17 during routine sustainment training June 22, 2020. 26th MEU is conducting operations in U.S. 6th Fleet in support of regional allies and partners, and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with the Basic Reconnaissance Course 2-18 conduct helocast insertion training aboard Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, March 8, 2018. Helocast training is a graduation requirement which provides flexibility and maneuverability and will prepare students for basic recon insertion. - U.S. Marines and Sailors with the Basic Reconnaissance Course 2-18 conduct helocast insertion training aboard Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, March 8, 2018. Helocast training is a graduation requirement which provides flexibility and maneuverability and will prepare students for basic recon insertion.

Marine Corps Installations West-Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton implements new policies, provisions, and guidance by the establishment of the Marine Corps Installations West-Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Hotline Program. - Marine Corps Installations West-Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton implements new policies, provisions, and guidance by the establishment of the Marine Corps Installations West-Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Hotline Program.

Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

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.

Philippine Army Capt. Armando Moncayo, Jr., left, and U.S. Marine Sgt. Lance Escobar discuss construction progress during an engineering civic assistance project in support of Balikatan 2017 in Ormoc City, Leyte, May 14, 2017. Philippine and U.S. service members worked together to build new classrooms for students at Don Carlos Elementary School. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations. - Philippine Army Capt. Armando Moncayo, Jr., left, and U.S. Marine Sgt. Lance Escobar discuss construction progress during an engineering civic assistance project in support of Balikatan 2017 in Ormoc City, Leyte, May 14, 2017. Philippine and U.S. service members worked together to build new classrooms for students at Don Carlos Elementary School. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations.

Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines, and Japan Self-Defense Forces service members and U.S. government officials pose for a group photo during a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Tabletop Exercise in support of Exercise Balikatan 25 at Camp Aguinaldo, Manila, Philippines, May 1, 2025. Balikatan is a longstanding annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military designed to strengthen our ironclad alliance, improve our capable combined force and demonstrate our commitment to regional security and stability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Carson Jeney) - Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines, and Japan Self-Defense Forces service members and U.S. government officials pose for a group photo during a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Tabletop Exercise in support of Exercise Balikatan 25 at Camp Aguinaldo, Manila, Philippines, May 1, 2025. Balikatan is a longstanding annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military designed to strengthen our ironclad alliance, improve our capable combined force and demonstrate our commitment to regional security and stability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Carson Jeney)

Balikatan is a longstanding annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen our ironclad alliance, improve our capable combined force, and demonstrate our commitment to regional security and stability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Mitchell Johnson) - U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Anti-Air Battalion, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, prepare a Marine Air Defense Integrated System for the Integrated Air Missile Defense training during Exercise Balikatan 25, at Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui, Philippines, April 25, 2025.

A U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk with 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, prepares to land while transporting U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Combat Team, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, and Philippine Marines with Marine Battalion Landing Team 10, to the Batanes island chain for the Maritime Key Terrain Security Operations event during Exercise Balikatan 25 in the Philippines, April 24, 2025. Balikatan is a longstanding annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen our ironclad alliance, improve our capable combined force, and demonstrate our commitment to regional security and stability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Malia Sparks) - A U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk with 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, prepares to land while transporting U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Combat Team, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, and Philippine Marines with Marine Battalion Landing Team 10, to the Batanes island chain for the Maritime Key Terrain Security Operations event during Exercise Balikatan 25 in the Philippines, April 24, 2025. Balikatan is a longstanding annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen our ironclad alliance, improve our capable combined force, and demonstrate our commitment to regional security and stability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Malia Sparks)

Armed Forces of the Philippines Maj. Gen. Herminigildo Aquino, left, AFP Gen. Eduardo M. Año, the Honorable Ambassador Sung Y. Kim, Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, Under Secretary Ariel Y. Abadilla, AFP Lt. Gen. Oscar T. Lactao, and U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Brian Cavanaugh stand “shoulder-to-shoulder” and shake hands during the Balikatan 2017 closing ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, May 19, 2017. Aquino is the Philippine assistance exercise director. Año is the Chief of Staff of the AFP. Kim is the U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines. Lorenzana is the Philippine Secretary of National Defense. Abadilla is the Philippine Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Concerns. Lactao is the Philippine exercise director for Balikatan. Cavanaugh is the deputy commander of Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations. ( - Armed Forces of the Philippines Maj. Gen. Herminigildo Aquino, left, AFP Gen. Eduardo M. Año, the Honorable Ambassador Sung Y. Kim, Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, Under Secretary Ariel Y. Abadilla, AFP Lt. Gen. Oscar T. Lactao, and U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Brian Cavanaugh stand “shoulder-to-shoulder” and shake hands during the Balikatan 2017 closing ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, May 19, 2017. Aquino is the Philippine assistance exercise director. Año is the Chief of Staff of the AFP. Kim is the U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines. Lorenzana is the Philippine Secretary of National Defense. Abadilla is the Philippine Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Concerns. Lactao is the Philippine exercise director for Balikatan. Cavanaugh is the deputy commander of Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations. (

From left, Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, commander, Southern Luzon Command, and Philippine Exercise Co-Director; Undersecretary Cardozo M. Luna, Undersecretary of the Department of National Defense; Sung Y. Kim, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines; Armed Forces of the Philippines Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, Jr., AFP Chief of Staff; and U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Christopher A. McPhillips, commanding general, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade stand shoulder-to-shoulder at Tejeros Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Manila, Philippines, April 1, 2019. The ceremony represented the official commencement of Balikatan 2019 and the continued partnership between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines. Balikatan 19, in its 35th iteration, is an annual U.S.-Philippine military training focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations held from April 1 to April 12. - From left, Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, commander, Southern Luzon Command, and Philippine Exercise Co-Director; Undersecretary Cardozo M. Luna, Undersecretary of the Department of National Defense; Sung Y. Kim, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines; Armed Forces of the Philippines Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, Jr., AFP Chief of Staff; and U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Christopher A. McPhillips, commanding general, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade stand shoulder-to-shoulder at Tejeros Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Manila, Philippines, April 1, 2019. The ceremony represented the official commencement of Balikatan 2019 and the continued partnership between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines. Balikatan 19, in its 35th iteration, is an annual U.S.-Philippine military training focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations held from April 1 to April 12.

Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen. Carlito G. Galvez Jr., chief of staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines, delivers his remarks during the Exercise Balikatan opening ceremony held at Tejeros Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Manila, Philippines, May 7, 2018. The ceremony represented the official commencement of Exercise Balikatan and the continued partnership between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines. Exercise Balikatan, in its 34th iteration, is an annual U.S.-Philippine military training focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations held from May 7 to May 18. - Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen. Carlito G. Galvez Jr., chief of staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines, delivers his remarks during the Exercise Balikatan opening ceremony held at Tejeros Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Manila, Philippines, May 7, 2018. The ceremony represented the official commencement of Exercise Balikatan and the continued partnership between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines. Exercise Balikatan, in its 34th iteration, is an annual U.S.-Philippine military training focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations held from May 7 to May 18.