News

Sergeant Cody Olson, a main battle tank repairer/technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 24, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, assembles an M2 .50-caliber heavy machine gun on an M88A2 Hercules Armored Recovery Vehicle during an exercise ashore in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, Feb. 8, 2015. The 24th MEU is conducting theater security cooperation exercises to increase cooperation and interoperability, enhance relationships with existing partners and promote long-term regional stability within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. 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. - Sergeant Cody Olson, a main battle tank repairer/technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 24, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, assembles an M2 .50-caliber heavy machine gun on an M88A2 Hercules Armored Recovery Vehicle during an exercise ashore in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, Feb. 8, 2015. The 24th MEU is conducting theater security cooperation exercises to increase cooperation and interoperability, enhance relationships with existing partners and promote long-term regional stability within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. 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. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Andrew Cooper, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, demonstrates the capabilities of a remote controlled robot used by EOD Marines to the Spanish Defense Force’s Unidad Militar de Emergencias, an emergency response force, at Morón Air Base, Spain, Feb. 18, 2015. The Marines used the demonstration as an opportunity to build a stronger relationship with UME personnel and set the stage for future joint training exercises. (U.S. Marine Corps photograph by Lance Cpl. Christopher Mendoza/Released) - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Andrew Cooper, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, demonstrates the capabilities of a remote controlled robot used by EOD Marines to the Spanish Defense Force’s Unidad Militar de Emergencias, an emergency response force, at Morón Air Base, Spain, Feb. 18, 2015. The Marines used the demonstration as an opportunity to build a stronger relationship with UME personnel and set the stage for future joint training exercises. (U.S. Marine Corps photograph by Lance Cpl. Christopher Mendoza/Released)

Warrant Officer Program - Warrant Officer Program

Pfc. Jacob Chapman, an anti-tank missileman with Combined Anti-Armor Team 1, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provides security during a training patrol at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Feb. 2, 2015. A contingent of 24th MEU Marines is conducting scheduled sustainment training in Kuwait. 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. - Pfc. Jacob Chapman, an anti-tank missileman with Combined Anti-Armor Team 1, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provides security during a training patrol at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Feb. 2, 2015. A contingent of 24th MEU Marines is conducting scheduled sustainment training in Kuwait. 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.

Soldiers from the 43rd Georgian Infantry Battalion post security as another soldier attends to a simulated casualty during the Mission Rehearsal Exercise at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center, Hohenfels, Germany, Feb. 22. The Mission Rehearsal Exercise is a month-long culminating event in which soldiers from the 43rd Georgian Infantry Battalion are tested in their abilities before being deployed to Afghanistan. - Soldiers from the 43rd Georgian Infantry Battalion post security as another soldier attends to a simulated casualty during the Mission Rehearsal Exercise at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center, Hohenfels, Germany, Feb. 22. The Mission Rehearsal Exercise is a month-long culminating event in which soldiers from the 43rd Georgian Infantry Battalion are tested in their abilities before being deployed to Afghanistan.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Andrew Cooper, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, demonstrates the capabilities of a remote controlled robot used by EOD Marines to the Spanish Defense Force’s Unidad Militar de Emergencias, an emergency response force, at Morón Air Base, Spain, Feb. 18, 2015. The Marines used the demonstration as an opportunity to build a stronger relationship with UME personnel and set the stage for future joint training exercises. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Andrew Cooper, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, demonstrates the capabilities of a remote controlled robot used by EOD Marines to the Spanish Defense Force’s Unidad Militar de Emergencias, an emergency response force, at Morón Air Base, Spain, Feb. 18, 2015. The Marines used the demonstration as an opportunity to build a stronger relationship with UME personnel and set the stage for future joint training exercises.

PFC Clayton Bolen, a combat engineer with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, plots points on a map before executing a patrolling exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. Feb. 26, 2015. The patrolling exercise gave the unit a sense of their proficiency level and how it can be improved in the future. - PFC Clayton Bolen, a combat engineer with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, plots points on a map before executing a patrolling exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. Feb. 26, 2015. The patrolling exercise gave the unit a sense of their proficiency level and how it can be improved in the future.

A member of the Malaysian Armed Forces watches as an MV-22B Osprey loaded with U.S. Marines approaches a landing zone Feb. 27 during a theater security cooperation event. The Marines are with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, and Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently conducting the annual Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - A member of the Malaysian Armed Forces watches as an MV-22B Osprey loaded with U.S. Marines approaches a landing zone Feb. 27 during a theater security cooperation event. The Marines are with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, and Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently conducting the annual Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

Marines build their strength in the water during a water physical training session of Phase I of the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command's Assessment and Selection course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 30, 2015. Marines must successfully complete several qualifications with varying criteria, during the course. - Marines build their strength in the water during a water physical training session of Phase I of the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command's Assessment and Selection course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 30, 2015. Marines must successfully complete several qualifications with varying criteria, during the course.

A Marine uses his newly learned helicopter rope suspension techniques while fast roping out of an MV-22B Osprey during a Fast Rope Operator Course training exercise at Stone Bay aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 5, 2015. Helicopters cannot always land in a landing zone and the squad must fast rope into an LZ in order to conduct operations in the area. The Fast-Rope Operators Course is a one week course that teaches Marines these needed techniques. - A Marine uses his newly learned helicopter rope suspension techniques while fast roping out of an MV-22B Osprey during a Fast Rope Operator Course training exercise at Stone Bay aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 5, 2015. Helicopters cannot always land in a landing zone and the squad must fast rope into an LZ in order to conduct operations in the area. The Fast-Rope Operators Course is a one week course that teaches Marines these needed techniques.

An Iraqi squad leader assigns a soldier his area of responsibility during defense training aboard Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Feb. 08, 2015. The training gave the soldiers a greater understanding of basic ambush and defense maneuvers. - An Iraqi squad leader assigns a soldier his area of responsibility during defense training aboard Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Feb. 08, 2015. The training gave the soldiers a greater understanding of basic ambush and defense maneuvers.

The QRF security element posts up four-corner security around an objective site during a Quick Reaction Force drill, as part of Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 2015 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 22, 2015. Marines with 1st Law Enforcement Battalion employed a QRF to combat imminent “enemy threats” during MEFEX-15. - The QRF security element posts up four-corner security around an objective site during a Quick Reaction Force drill, as part of Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 2015 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 22, 2015. Marines with 1st Law Enforcement Battalion employed a QRF to combat imminent “enemy threats” during MEFEX-15.

Cpl. Joseph Howell, a tactical switching operator with Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, kneels down and takes account of his surroundings on a patrol during the Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise in Kansas City, Mo., Feb. 22, 2015. Howell was part of the acting guard force during the exercise with I MEF. The exercise enabled Marines to improve interoperability between the active and Reserve component, while preparing them with a realistic training environment at the force level. - Cpl. Joseph Howell, a tactical switching operator with Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, kneels down and takes account of his surroundings on a patrol during the Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise in Kansas City, Mo., Feb. 22, 2015. Howell was part of the acting guard force during the exercise with I MEF. The exercise enabled Marines to improve interoperability between the active and Reserve component, while preparing them with a realistic training environment at the force level.

Cpl. Larry W. Danley prepares to shut down equipment following live-burn training Feb. 21 at the training pit on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Bulk fuel specialists dispensed fuel into the pit, and a Marine with Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting ignited the fluid. ARFF and bulk fuel specialist Marines then worked together to contain and extinguish the fire while enhancing communication and teamwork. Danley is a Houston, Texas, native and a truck master with Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma. - Cpl. Larry W. Danley prepares to shut down equipment following live-burn training Feb. 21 at the training pit on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Bulk fuel specialists dispensed fuel into the pit, and a Marine with Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting ignited the fluid. ARFF and bulk fuel specialist Marines then worked together to contain and extinguish the fire while enhancing communication and teamwork. Danley is a Houston, Texas, native and a truck master with Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma.

A 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion Marine cleans off excess dirt from a Light-Armored Vehicle equipped with a new Anti-Tank weapons system at the 3rd LAR ramp prior to operational testing on range 500 aboard the Combat Center, Feb. 10, 2015. 3rd LAR has been training alongside 1st Tank Battalion and 1st LAR during operational testing of the new system. - A 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion Marine cleans off excess dirt from a Light-Armored Vehicle equipped with a new Anti-Tank weapons system at the 3rd LAR ramp prior to operational testing on range 500 aboard the Combat Center, Feb. 10, 2015. 3rd LAR has been training alongside 1st Tank Battalion and 1st LAR during operational testing of the new system.

Recruits Jacob R. Kottman and Chainey L. Ellis, (left to right) Platoon 2105, Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, determine the direction to their mark during the Land Navigation Course at Edson Range, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 22. Going through the course with minimal, or at times no supervision, recruits had a chance to get a sense of the critical factor of learning and properly executing the techniques they were taught. - Recruits Jacob R. Kottman and Chainey L. Ellis, (left to right) Platoon 2105, Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, determine the direction to their mark during the Land Navigation Course at Edson Range, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 22. Going through the course with minimal, or at times no supervision, recruits had a chance to get a sense of the critical factor of learning and properly executing the techniques they were taught.

Cpl. James Marker, Marksmanship Training Unit Shooting Team, native of Wild Rose Wis., shoots a Harrington and Richardson .22 caliber rifle during the 3rd annual Smallbore and Air Rife Competition at Range 3 A, Feb. 21, 2015. Each participant had to load one round at a time and fire on five targets in a time limit of two and half minutes. - Cpl. James Marker, Marksmanship Training Unit Shooting Team, native of Wild Rose Wis., shoots a Harrington and Richardson .22 caliber rifle during the 3rd annual Smallbore and Air Rife Competition at Range 3 A, Feb. 21, 2015. Each participant had to load one round at a time and fire on five targets in a time limit of two and half minutes.

Republic of Korea Marines hike a 35- km path up a mountain Jan. 15 during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-3 in Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK Marines were training for mountain warfare and snow mobility warfare alongside their U.S. counterparts from Alpha Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are force reconnaissance men with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Division. - Republic of Korea Marines hike a 35- km path up a mountain Jan. 15 during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-3 in Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK Marines were training for mountain warfare and snow mobility warfare alongside their U.S. counterparts from Alpha Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are force reconnaissance men with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Division.

U.S. Marine Cpl. David A. Range fires rounds from a Daewoo K5 handgun into a target Feb. 5 during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-3 at Gimpo, Republic of Korea. The U.S. Marines were given the unique opportunity to also test out the Daewoo K2 assault rifle, Daewoo K1 submachine gun, the K201 40mm grenade launcher and the Daewoo K14 sniper rifle. Range, from Arlington, Texas, is a reconnaissance man with Alpha Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marine Cpl. David A. Range fires rounds from a Daewoo K5 handgun into a target Feb. 5 during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-3 at Gimpo, Republic of Korea. The U.S. Marines were given the unique opportunity to also test out the Daewoo K2 assault rifle, Daewoo K1 submachine gun, the K201 40mm grenade launcher and the Daewoo K14 sniper rifle. Range, from Arlington, Texas, is a reconnaissance man with Alpha Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

A CH-53E Super Stallion flies an M777-A2 Howitzer to the next training area, aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 19, 2015. 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment conducted a live-fire training exercise that required them to be able to shoot, move, and communicate over a large area, in order to support fellow Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kaitlyn Klein/Released) - A CH-53E Super Stallion flies an M777-A2 Howitzer to the next training area, aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 19, 2015. 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment conducted a live-fire training exercise that required them to be able to shoot, move, and communicate over a large area, in order to support fellow Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kaitlyn Klein/Released)

Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion set up an explosive charge on a rooftop during their urban breaching training exercise on Engineer Training Area-1 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 19, 2015. During the training, the unit learned how to open any type of door, gate or roof using a variety of tools, from explosives to shotguns and sledge hammers. They learned to do whatever was necessary to allow the infantry squad they were supporting to enter the building. - Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion set up an explosive charge on a rooftop during their urban breaching training exercise on Engineer Training Area-1 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 19, 2015. During the training, the unit learned how to open any type of door, gate or roof using a variety of tools, from explosives to shotguns and sledge hammers. They learned to do whatever was necessary to allow the infantry squad they were supporting to enter the building.

Hershel "Woody" Williams, Marine survivor from the battle of Iwo Jima and the last living Medal of Honor recipient for his actions during the battle, poses for a photo during the Iwo Jima Battle Survivors and Family Association 70th anniversary reunion at Wichita Falls, Texas, February 14, 2015. Williams has started the Hershel "Woody" Williams Medal of Honor Foundation, which encourages, with the assistance of the American public and community leaders, establishing permanent gold star family memorial monuments in their communities throughout the United States to honor gold star families who have sacrificed a loved one in the service of their country. - Hershel "Woody" Williams, Marine survivor from the battle of Iwo Jima and the last living Medal of Honor recipient for his actions during the battle, poses for a photo during the Iwo Jima Battle Survivors and Family Association 70th anniversary reunion at Wichita Falls, Texas, February 14, 2015. Williams has started the Hershel "Woody" Williams Medal of Honor Foundation, which encourages, with the assistance of the American public and community leaders, establishing permanent gold star family memorial monuments in their communities throughout the United States to honor gold star families who have sacrificed a loved one in the service of their country.

Staff Sgt. Absalon A. Cabrera uses a radio to communicate with the 4th Marine Regiment’s combat operations center while transporting the commanding officer across the battle space Feb. 12 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, during the battalion assault course as part of Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. “I am very proud of all of my Marines,” said Cabrera. “They have accomplished a lot and it has been seen at different levels out here.” ITX 2-15 is designed to integrate combined arms and improve war fighting capabilities. Cabrera, a Los Angeles, California, native and an infantry unit leader, is the jump team commander for Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Four with Headquarters Company, 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Staff Sgt. Absalon A. Cabrera uses a radio to communicate with the 4th Marine Regiment’s combat operations center while transporting the commanding officer across the battle space Feb. 12 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, during the battalion assault course as part of Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. “I am very proud of all of my Marines,” said Cabrera. “They have accomplished a lot and it has been seen at different levels out here.” ITX 2-15 is designed to integrate combined arms and improve war fighting capabilities. Cabrera, a Los Angeles, California, native and an infantry unit leader, is the jump team commander for Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Four with Headquarters Company, 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Critical Skills Operator with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, teaches Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, shooting techniques before firing M4 carbine rifles and M9 service pistols at a range here, Feb. 10, 2015. Marines with 3rd MSOB participated in RAVEN 15-03, a 10-day realistic military training exercise to enhance the battalion’s readiness for worldwide support to global security. Marines with 2nd CEB played the role of a partner nation force during the exercise. - A Critical Skills Operator with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, teaches Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, shooting techniques before firing M4 carbine rifles and M9 service pistols at a range here, Feb. 10, 2015. Marines with 3rd MSOB participated in RAVEN 15-03, a 10-day realistic military training exercise to enhance the battalion’s readiness for worldwide support to global security. Marines with 2nd CEB played the role of a partner nation force during the exercise.

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.

Sergeant Major Micheal Barrett, the 17th sergeant major of the Marine Corps, stands ready to retire from active duty in the Marine Corps during the sergeant major of the Marine Corps post and relief ceremony at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, February 20, 2015. Barrett has served in the Marines since 1981. - Sergeant Major Micheal P. Barrett, the 17th sergeant major of the Marine Corps, stands ready to retire from active duty in the Marine Corps during the sergeant major of the Marine Corps post and relief ceremony at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, February 20, 2015. Barrett has served in the Marines since 1981.

Lance Cpl. Casey Miller (left) and Lance Cpl. Alex Winnecke, assaultmen with Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment and natives of Lexington, Ky. and Blaine, Minn., respectively, return to their starting position during a gun drill at training area G-G aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 18, 2015. The assaultmen refined their skills with their primary weapon, the Shoulder-Launched Multipurpose Assault Weapon, over three days of training. - Lance Cpl. Casey Miller (left) and Lance Cpl. Alex Winnecke, assaultmen with Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment and natives of Lexington, Ky. and Blaine, Minn., respectively, return to their starting position during a gun drill at training area G-G aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 18, 2015. The assaultmen refined their skills with their primary weapon, the Shoulder-Launched Multipurpose Assault Weapon, over three days of training.

Cpl. Justin Groom, an aircraft rescue firefighter with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, stokes the fire inside of a scrap airplane during a fire response scenario Feb 18, at Utapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield, Kingdom of Thailand. The scenario is part of exercise Cobra Gold 2015, which is designed to improve international partnerships and security within the region. - Cpl. Justin Groom, an aircraft rescue firefighter with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, stokes the fire inside of a scrap airplane during a fire response scenario Feb 18, at Utapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield, Kingdom of Thailand. The scenario is part of exercise Cobra Gold 2015, which is designed to improve international partnerships and security within the region.

Two crew chiefs refuel their Bell UH-1Y Venom during Marine Wing Support Squadron 272’s forward arming and refueling point in Engelhard, N.C., Feb. 12, 2015. The squadron’s FARP exercise is designed to get the Marines to refuel landed helicopters as quickly as possible, so the aircrafts can quickly take off after filling up. - Two crew chiefs refuel their Bell UH-1Y Venom during Marine Wing Support Squadron 272’s forward arming and refueling point in Engelhard, N.C., Feb. 12, 2015. The squadron’s FARP exercise is designed to get the Marines to refuel landed helicopters as quickly as possible, so the aircrafts can quickly take off after filling up.

Combat engineers with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, shoot the Benelli M4 Super 90 shotgun at Engineer Training Area 1 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 12, 2015. Before breaching with the shotgun, Marines took their time simply familiarizing themselves with the weapon in order to find a comfort level with it, before moving on to entering doorways with it. - Combat engineers with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, shoot the Benelli M4 Super 90 shotgun at Engineer Training Area 1 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 12, 2015. Before breaching with the shotgun, Marines took their time simply familiarizing themselves with the weapon in order to find a comfort level with it, before moving on to entering doorways with it.

Lance Cpl. Michael Miller and Lance Cpl. Kyle Osborne, Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 5, Camp Pendleton, Calif., oversee unloading of equipment with solders from 1st Cavalry Division out of Ft. Hood, Texas, as part of their Railway Operations training at the Yermo Annex on Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Feb. 11. The 80-hour RailOps training is now being offered through Marine Corps Training Information Management System and includes class instruction and hands-on learning - Lance Cpl. Michael Miller and Lance Cpl. Kyle Osborne, Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 5, Camp Pendleton, Calif., oversee unloading of equipment with solders from 1st Cavalry Division out of Ft. Hood, Texas, as part of their Railway Operations training at the Yermo Annex on Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Feb. 11. The 80-hour RailOps training is now being offered through Marine Corps Training Information Management System and includes class instruction and hands-on learning

Marine captures role-playing protester during Special Marine Air Ground Task Force embassy reinforcement exercise, Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif.,Feb.10. Marines participating in the exercise came from Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, both in Southern California. - Marine captures role-playing protester during Special Marine Air Ground Task Force embassy reinforcement exercise, Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif.,Feb.10. Marines participating in the exercise came from Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, both in Southern California.

A U.S. Marine pilot enters the cockpit of an F/A-18 Hornet, Feb. 16. U.S. Marines attached to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and the Royal Thai Air Force train together to maintain readiness and interoperability in support of peace and security in the region as part of Exercise Cobra Gold 2015. Exercise Cobra Gold 2015 has provided an opportunity for U.S. Marines and the Royal Thai Air Force to train together. - A U.S. Marine pilot enters the cockpit of an F/A-18 Hornet, Feb. 16. U.S. Marines attached to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and the Royal Thai Air Force train together to maintain readiness and interoperability in support of peace and security in the region as part of Exercise Cobra Gold 2015. Exercise Cobra Gold 2015 has provided an opportunity for U.S. Marines and the Royal Thai Air Force to train together.

Battle of Iwo Jima veteran and wife speak with each other after the Iwo Jima Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Va. on Feb. 19, 2015. The wreath laying recognized the 70th anniversary of the battle and the veterans' sacrifice. - Battle of Iwo Jima veteran and wife speak with each other after the Iwo Jima Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Va. on Feb. 19, 2015. The wreath laying recognized the 70th anniversary of the battle and the veterans' sacrifice.

Hershel "Woody" Williams, Marine survivor from the battle of Iwo Jima and the last living Medal of Honor recipient for his actions during the battle, and William "Bil" Schott a Marine survivor from the battle of Iwo Jima, salute during the singing of the Star Spangled Banner during the 70th Anniversary Iwo Jima Veteran's Program at Sheppard Air Force Base Elementary School, Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, February 13, 2015. The students at the school performed a program with the Sheppard Choir singing songs and the sixth graders reading poems they wrote. - Hershel "Woody" Williams, Marine survivor from the battle of Iwo Jima and the last living Medal of Honor recipient for his actions during the battle, and William "Bil" Schott a Marine survivor from the battle of Iwo Jima, salute during the singing of the Star Spangled Banner during the 70th Anniversary Iwo Jima Veteran's Program at Sheppard Air Force Base Elementary School, Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, February 13, 2015. The students at the school performed a program with the Sheppard Choir singing songs and the sixth graders reading poems they wrote.

Marines and Sailors with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, triage and evacuate role-playing victims of a simulated vehicle-borne improvised explosive device during an embassy reinforcement scenario on Joint Forces Training Base Los Alamitos, Feb. 12, 2015. This training was a part of the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response – Central Command – 15.2 certification exercise, conducted across several locations in the Western United States. The purpose of the CERTEX was to test and certify SPMAGTF CR-CC 15.2 across a broad spectrum of mission essential tasks. - Marines and Sailors with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, triage and evacuate role-playing victims of a simulated vehicle-borne improvised explosive device during an embassy reinforcement scenario on Joint Forces Training Base Los Alamitos, Feb. 12, 2015. This training was a part of the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response – Central Command – 15.2 certification exercise, conducted across several locations in the Western United States. The purpose of the CERTEX was to test and certify SPMAGTF CR-CC 15.2 across a broad spectrum of mission essential tasks.

Air Vice-Marshal Bhanupong Seyayongka, third from the right, stands with Royal Thai Air Force personnel and U.S. Marines from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, I Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force for a picture in front of a U.S. Marine MV-22 Osprey and a RTAF F-16 Air Defense Fighter at an open house held by Royal Thai Air Force Wing 1 and U.S. Marines at Royal Thai Air Force Base Korat during Exercise Cobra Gold 2015, Feb. 13. Cobra Gold is a Thailand /United States co-sponsored, multinational and joint theater security cooperation exercise, conducted annually in the Kingdom of Thailand, with 25 nations participating. This year there is an increased focus on Humanitarian Civic Action, community engagement, and medical activities to support the needs and humanitarian interests of civilian populations around the region. - Air Vice-Marshal Bhanupong Seyayongka, third from the right, stands with Royal Thai Air Force personnel and U.S. Marines from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, I Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force for a picture in front of a U.S. Marine MV-22 Osprey and a RTAF F-16 Air Defense Fighter at an open house held by Royal Thai Air Force Wing 1 and U.S. Marines at Royal Thai Air Force Base Korat during Exercise Cobra Gold 2015, Feb. 13. Cobra Gold is a Thailand /United States co-sponsored, multinational and joint theater security cooperation exercise, conducted annually in the Kingdom of Thailand, with 25 nations participating. This year there is an increased focus on Humanitarian Civic Action, community engagement, and medical activities to support the needs and humanitarian interests of civilian populations around the region.

Sergeant Marlon Madison, a military police working dog trainer with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response Central Command 15.2 (SP-MAGTF-CR-CC), and his military working dog, Fedor, conduct directional training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 11, 2015. The training was part of SP-MAGTF-CR-CC’s Certification Exercise held in several locations across southern California, Arizona, Nevada, and Idaho Feb. 5-14, 2015. Certification exercises are conducted regularly throughout the Corps, testing unit performance across a broad spectrum of mission sets and core mission essential tasks. - Sergeant Marlon Madison, a military police working dog trainer with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response Central Command 15.2 (SP-MAGTF-CR-CC), and his military working dog, Fedor, conduct directional training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 11, 2015. The training was part of SP-MAGTF-CR-CC’s Certification Exercise held in several locations across southern California, Arizona, Nevada, and Idaho Feb. 5-14, 2015. Certification exercises are conducted regularly throughout the Corps, testing unit performance across a broad spectrum of mission sets and core mission essential tasks.

PUULOA RANGE TRAINING FACILITY, Hawaii - Cpl. Christian Cox, a Marine with the Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3 and a Tacoma, Wash., native, fires his M16 service rifle in the prone position at the 500-yard line during this year’s Pacific Division Matches at Pu’uloa Range Training facility Feb. 9, 2015. More than 190 Marines competed side-by-side to claim the title of rifle or pistol champion. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Adam O. Korolev) - PUULOA RANGE TRAINING FACILITY, Hawaii - Cpl. Christian Cox, a Marine with the Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3 and a Tacoma, Wash., native, fires his M16 service rifle in the prone position at the 500-yard line during this year’s Pacific Division Matches at Pu’uloa Range Training facility Feb. 9, 2015. More than 190 Marines competed side-by-side to claim the title of rifle or pistol champion. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Adam O. Korolev)

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, work with the Marines and sailors of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit as they load vehicles, equipment and personnel aboard the USS New York at the port in Morehead City, N.C., Dec. 13, 2014. Heavy equipment operators and embarkation specialists spent several days prior to the ship's arrival staging and organizing the gear. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. James R. Smith/Released) - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, work with the Marines and sailors of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit as they load vehicles, equipment and personnel aboard the USS New York at the port in Morehead City, N.C., Dec. 13, 2014. Heavy equipment operators and embarkation specialists spent several days prior to the ship's arrival staging and organizing the gear. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. James R. Smith/Released)

Cpl. Justin M. Goodchild, right, assists Pfc. Luis A. Chavez with locating a simulated enemy target during ground-based air defense training at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic, N.C., Feb. 3, 2015. Both Goodchild and Chavez are low altitude air defense gunners with Alpha Battery, 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. Goodchild is a native of Longwood, Fla., and Chavez is a native of Beaumont, Calif. - Cpl. Justin M. Goodchild, right, assists Pfc. Luis A. Chavez with locating a simulated enemy target during ground-based air defense training at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic, N.C., Feb. 3, 2015. Both Goodchild and Chavez are low altitude air defense gunners with Alpha Battery, 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. Goodchild is a native of Longwood, Fla., and Chavez is a native of Beaumont, Calif.

Republic of Korea and U.S. Marines clear a building during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-17 Feb. 9 at the Cham Sae Mi Close-Quarters Battle Training Facility in Pohang, Republic of Korea. KMEP 15-17 is a regularly-scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps forces. The ROK Marines are with Company 5, 32nd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - Republic of Korea and U.S. Marines clear a building during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-17 Feb. 9 at the Cham Sae Mi Close-Quarters Battle Training Facility in Pohang, Republic of Korea. KMEP 15-17 is a regularly-scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps forces. The ROK Marines are with Company 5, 32nd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

Cpl. Abraham Ostosmendoza, from Staten Island, New York, and Lance Cpl. Jamie Neal, from Houma, Louisiana, purify pond water Feb. 11 during exercise Cobra Gold 2015 at Ban Chan Krem, Thailand. The U.S. Marines utilized the Light Weight Water Purification System, and consistently checked the gauges, temperature, and pressure to ensure it was efficiently supplied to the Royal Thai Marines and the ranges. Ostosmendoza is water support technician with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Neal is a water support technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd MLG. - Cpl. Abraham Ostosmendoza, from Staten Island, New York, and Lance Cpl. Jamie Neal, from Houma, Louisiana, purify pond water Feb. 11 during exercise Cobra Gold 2015 at Ban Chan Krem, Thailand. The U.S. Marines utilized the Light Weight Water Purification System, and consistently checked the gauges, temperature, and pressure to ensure it was efficiently supplied to the Royal Thai Marines and the ranges. Ostosmendoza is water support technician with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Neal is a water support technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd MLG.

Lance Cpl. Dakota Woodward, from Brandon, Florida, drinks cobra blood Feb. 8 during exercise Cobra Gold 2015. The Royal Thai Marines showed U.S. Marines various jungle survival methods. Drinking snake blood is used as a last resort in case there is nothing else to drink. Woodward is a distribution management specialist with Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Lance Cpl. Dakota Woodward, from Brandon, Florida, drinks cobra blood Feb. 8 during exercise Cobra Gold 2015. The Royal Thai Marines showed U.S. Marines various jungle survival methods. Drinking snake blood is used as a last resort in case there is nothing else to drink. Woodward is a distribution management specialist with Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines from the Marine Artillery Detachment at Fort Sill, Oklahoma gather around Marine veteran and Medal of Honor recipient Hershel "Woody" Williams after a ceremony held to honor Iwo Jima veterans and their service. Williams is the last surviving veteran who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the battle for Iwo Jima. - Marines from the Marine Artillery Detachment at Fort Sill, Oklahoma gather around Marine veteran and Medal of Honor recipient Hershel "Woody" Williams after a ceremony held to honor Iwo Jima veterans and their service. Williams is the last surviving veteran who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the battle for Iwo Jima.

Intelligence Marines from Marine Aircraft Group 31 attended the Squadron Intelligence Training and Certification Course, graduating Feb. 13. The four-week course trains intelligence Marines to serve in the air combat element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force. - Intelligence Marines from Marine Aircraft Group 31 attended the Squadron Intelligence Training and Certification Course, graduating Feb. 13. The four-week course trains intelligence Marines to serve in the air combat element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

Lance Cpl. Connor J. Shellabarger, a machine gunner for Company K, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, listens in along with his junior Marine, on the corrections his instructor has for him during a machine gun course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 4, 2015. Shellabarger is bonding with his junior Marine to create the camaraderie Marines are known for. - Lance Cpl. Connor J. Shellabarger, a machine gunner for Company K, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, listens in along with his junior Marine, on the corrections his instructor has for him during a machine gun course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 4, 2015. Shellabarger is bonding with his junior Marine to create the camaraderie Marines are known for.

Marines with the Offload Preparation Party onboard the Maritime Prepositioning Force ship, USNS Pililaau, perform pre-operation checks, Feb. 6, in order to support Exercise Cobra Gold 2015. Their mission is to prepare and offload supplies and equipment from ship to shore. - Marines with the Offload Preparation Party onboard the Maritime Prepositioning Force ship, USNS Pililaau, perform pre-operation checks, Feb. 6, in order to support Exercise Cobra Gold 2015. Their mission is to prepare and offload supplies and equipment from ship to shore.

As part of the annual training exercise Scorpion Fire, Lance Cpl. Clinton Lehner, a crew chief with Marine Light Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 369 “Gunfighters,” looks down range during close-air support maneuvers at the Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range, Calif., Jan. 29. Marines with both tiltrotor and fixed-wing squadrons participate in this annual exercise, which provides a realistic environment for ground units in need of close air support. - As part of the annual training exercise Scorpion Fire, Lance Cpl. Clinton Lehner, a crew chief with Marine Light Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 369 “Gunfighters,” looks down range during close-air support maneuvers at the Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range, Calif., Jan. 29. Marines with both tiltrotor and fixed-wing squadrons participate in this annual exercise, which provides a realistic environment for ground units in need of close air support.

U.S. Marine Chief Warrant Officer 2 Juan Rodriguez, an explosive ordnance disposal officer with Task Force Al Asad, and brigade-level leaders of the Iraqi Army walk through an improvised explosive device training lane aboard Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 31, 2015. The classes showed the leadership the training their soldiers will receive in the future and gave them a look at tactics being used today by Da'esh. - U.S. Marine Chief Warrant Officer 2 Juan Rodriguez, an explosive ordnance disposal officer with Task Force Al Asad, and brigade-level leaders of the Iraqi Army walk through an improvised explosive device training lane aboard Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Jan. 31, 2015. The classes showed the leadership the training their soldiers will receive in the future and gave them a look at tactics being used today by Da'esh.