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Lance Cpl. Brett Haertling, an intelligence analyst with Scout Platoon, 2nd Tank Battalion, and a Jackson, Miss. native, makes a fully loaded Mk 19 automatic grenade launcher ready to fire by pulling back on the charging handle during an annual qualification at training area G-7 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 21, 2015. Marines with the unit launched grenades at various, non-moving targets between 400 and 1,500 meters away to prove their level of marksmanship. - Lance Cpl. Brett Haertling, an intelligence analyst with Scout Platoon, 2nd Tank Battalion, and a Jackson, Miss. native, makes a fully loaded Mk 19 automatic grenade launcher ready to fire by pulling back on the charging handle during an annual qualification at training area G-7 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 21, 2015. Marines with the unit launched grenades at various, non-moving targets between 400 and 1,500 meters away to prove their level of marksmanship.

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Margaret B. Davis (left) and Isaiah Leiva (right) during the North Carolina Scholarship Announcement Ceremony hosted at the Marston Pavillion in Camp Lejeune on July, 18, 2015. - Margaret B. Davis (left) and Isaiah Leiva (right) during the North Carolina Scholarship Announcement Ceremony hosted at the Marston Pavillion in Camp Lejeune on July, 18, 2015.

Marines with Amphibious Assault Vehicle Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, assault targets downrange during a live-fire exercise at Range SR-10 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 20, 2015. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Marines with Amphibious Assault Vehicle Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, assault targets downrange during a live-fire exercise at Range SR-10 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 20, 2015. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

Maj. Gen. Vincent R. Stewart passes the Marine Corps colors Maj. Gen. Daniel J. O’Donohue during a change of command ceremony January 21, 2015 at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland. Stewart relinquished his position as commanding general of Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace to O'Donohue to take the position as director of Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and commander of the Joint Functional Component Command for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (JFCC-ISR). - Maj. Gen. Vincent R. Stewart passes the Marine Corps colors Maj. Gen. Daniel J. O’Donohue during a change of command ceremony January 21, 2015 at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland. Stewart relinquished his position as commanding general of Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace to O'Donohue to take the position as director of Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and commander of the Joint Functional Component Command for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (JFCC-ISR).

Motor Transport Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Battalion 26, Headquarters Regiment, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, conduct a simulated convoy throughout the hills aboard Bridgeport, California, Jan. 14, 2015. The Marines learned how to operate the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and the small unit support vehicles in mountainous terrain during classroom instruction and practical application. - Motor Transport Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Battalion 26, Headquarters Regiment, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, conduct a simulated convoy throughout the hills aboard Bridgeport, California, Jan. 14, 2015. The Marines learned how to operate the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and the small unit support vehicles in mountainous terrain during classroom instruction and practical application.

Members of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines provide security during convoy operations training, Jan. 14, 2015, at Penny Lake Fields aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. The training is part of combined arms training focused on improving unit cohesion and combat readiness. - Members of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines provide security during convoy operations training, Jan. 14, 2015, at Penny Lake Fields aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. The training is part of combined arms training focused on improving unit cohesion and combat readiness.

Participants prepare to shoot during the Combat Center DieSeL Classic at the base Qualification Range, Jan. 17, 2015. This is one of several competitions that the Combat Center shooting team participates in each year. - Participants prepare to shoot during the Combat Center DieSeL Classic at the base Qualification Range, Jan. 17, 2015. This is one of several competitions that the Combat Center shooting team participates in each year.

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Black Sea Rotational Force Marines and Romanian soldiers paired together during Platinum Lion 15 Jan 15 at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria. BSRF Marines trained with Serbian, Bulgarian and Romanian soldiers during the exercise. - Black Sea Rotational Force Marines and Romanian soldiers paired together during Platinum Lion 15 Jan 15 at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria. The Marines trained with Serbian, Bulgarian and Romanian soldiers during the exercise.

Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr. announced the selection of Sgt. Maj. Ronald L. Green as the next Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Jan. 20, 2015. In this 2011 image, Sgt. Maj. Ronald L. Green, then serving as the Marine Forces Africa sergeant major, speaks to a group of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force 12 Marines and sailors. - Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr. announced the selection of Sgt. Maj. Ronald L. Green as the next Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Jan. 20, 2015. In this 2011 image, Sgt. Maj. Ronald L. Green, then serving as the Marine Forces Africa sergeant major, speaks to a group of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force 12 Marines and sailors.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Gilbert B. Heath, a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Battery, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion and Security Forces, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, does a tactical reload during a live fire and maneuver exercise on Jan. 11, 2015, in the Central Command area of operations. The live fire exercise was conducted to prepare for a future, larger-scale range to help keep SPMAGTF-CR-CC’s Security Forces primed and ready if called to action. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Gilbert B. Heath, a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Battery, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion and Security Forces, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, does a tactical reload during a live fire and maneuver exercise on Jan. 11, 2015, in the Central Command area of operations. The live fire exercise was conducted to prepare for a future, larger-scale range to help keep SPMAGTF-CR-CC’s Security Forces primed and ready if called to action.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Michael Bumanglag (left) and Lance Cpl. Erik Delgadillo (right), with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, Task Force Al Asad, search for the impact site of a 122 mm rocket aboard Al Asad Airbase, Iraq, Jan. 4, 2015. Soldiers and Marines are taking prudent measures to protect the members of Task Force Al Asad from the threat of indirect fire. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Michael Bumanglag (left) and Lance Cpl. Erik Delgadillo (right), with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, Task Force Al Asad, search for the impact site of a 122 mm rocket aboard Al Asad Airbase, Iraq, Jan. 4, 2015. Soldiers and Marines are taking prudent measures to protect the members of Task Force Al Asad from the threat of indirect fire.

Gunnery Sgt. Tawanda “Tee” Hanible, and her family attended the Washingtonian of the Year Award ceremony in the Ballroom at the Willard InterContinental Hotel, Washington, D.C, Jan. 15. Since 1971, Washingtonian Magazine has been recognizing individuals, who have stood out due to the impact they have had on the community. “I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family, friends and loved ones,” Tee said, a Southside Chicago native who most recently serves as the administration chief with Delta Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division. - Gunnery Sgt. Tawanda “Tee” Hanible, and her family attended the Washingtonian of the Year Award ceremony in the Ballroom at the Willard InterContinental Hotel, Washington, D.C, Jan. 15. Since 1971, Washingtonian Magazine has been recognizing individuals, who have stood out due to the impact they have had on the community. “I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family, friends and loved ones,” Tee said, a Southside Chicago native who most recently serves as the administration chief with Delta Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division.

Friends and family members of U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit wait for the return of their Marines from deployment at the 26th MEU command post, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 13, 2015. The Marines were deployed in support of the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response Africa. - Friends and family members of U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit wait for the return of their Marines from deployment at the 26th MEU command post, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 13, 2015. The Marines were deployed in support of the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response Africa.

Cpl. Sierra K. Tilson, rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, fires the M203 grenade launcher during a live-fire range at the Verona Loop training area, near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2015. Marines with Co. A conducted live-fire training, squad attacks, and patrolling in preparation for their upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Cpl. Sierra K. Tilson, rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, fires the M203 grenade launcher during a live-fire range at the Verona Loop training area, near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2015. Marines with Co. A conducted live-fire training, squad attacks, and patrolling in preparation for their upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

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Lance Cpl. Ronald Summerlin prepares to reset equipment following the landing of an FA-18D Hornet Jan. 9 during arrested landing safety training on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Arrested landings are the use of equipment, such as a safety barrier or an arresting wire, to rapidly slow down aircraft and ensure the landing path is straight and clear. During the training, Marines demonstrated proficiency in the use of arresting equipment while ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment on the airstrip. Summerlin is a Virginia Beach, Virginia, native and an expeditionary airfield systems technician with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Summerlin prepares to reset equipment following the landing of an FA-18D Hornet Jan. 9 during arrested landing safety training on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Arrested landings are the use of equipment, such as a safety barrier or an arresting wire, to rapidly slow down aircraft and ensure the landing path is straight and clear. During the training, Marines demonstrated proficiency in the use of arresting equipment while ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment on the airstrip. Summerlin is a Virginia Beach, Virginia, native and an expeditionary airfield systems technician with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan.

1st Lt. William Tidd, center, from Angola, Indiana, confers with other members of the Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team after responding to a natural disaster scenario Jan. 13 at Camp Hansen. The HAST responds to areas that have been struck by natural disasters and determine how much supply and resources are required to assist the affected area. Tidd is the assistant officer in charge of the HAST, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - 1st Lt. William Tidd, center, from Angola, Indiana, confers with other members of the Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team after responding to a natural disaster scenario Jan. 13 at Camp Hansen. The HAST responds to areas that have been struck by natural disasters and determine how much supply and resources are required to assist the affected area. Tidd is the assistant officer in charge of the HAST, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

John L. L'Abbe, native of Boise, Idaho, served with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division from 1942 to 1945. L'Abbe was hit in the legs by a grenade at the Battle of Tarawa. While lying on the beach injured, a Japanese officer tried to slay L'Abbe with his sword. L'Abbe seized the enemy's sword and killed him with it. The photo is courtesy of L'Abbe, who sent this newspaper clipping in a letter addressed to 2nd Bn., 8th Marines, Nov. 18, 2014. - John L. L'Abbe, native of Boise, Idaho, served with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division from 1942 to 1945. L'Abbe was hit in the legs by a grenade at the Battle of Tarawa. While lying on the beach injured, a Japanese officer tried to slay L'Abbe with his sword. L'Abbe seized the enemy's sword and killed him with it. The photo is courtesy of L'Abbe, who sent this newspaper clipping in a letter addressed to 2nd Bn., 8th Marines, Nov. 18, 2014.

Max, military working dog, K9 unit, Provost Marshal’s Office, signals that he found a bomb threat during night training at Condor Elementary School, Dec. 9, 2014. The training helped evaluate the condition of the dogs while working. - Max, military working dog, K9 unit, Provost Marshal’s Office, signals that he found a bomb threat during night training at Condor Elementary School, Dec. 9, 2014. The training helped evaluate the condition of the dogs while working.

Brigadier Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commanding general of Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan speaks at a deactivation ceremony for MEB-A aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 9; symbolically closing another chapter in Marine Corps history following the 13-year conflict known as Operation Enduring Freedom. Marine Expeditionary Brigade - Afghanistan officially took authority of Regional Command (Southwest) from II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Feb. 5, 2014, and assumed the responsibility to lead coalition operations in Helmand and Nimroz provinces. The Marines completed operations and departed Afghanistan Oct. 27, 2014. “Ultimately the real end state was responsible transitioning and I think we did that in good order, and we should be proud of that,” added Yoo to his remarks. - Brigadier Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commanding general of Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan speaks at a deactivation ceremony for MEB-A aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 9; symbolically closing another chapter in Marine Corps history following the 13-year conflict known as Operation Enduring Freedom. Marine Expeditionary Brigade - Afghanistan officially took authority of Regional Command (Southwest) from II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Feb. 5, 2014, and assumed the responsibility to lead coalition operations in Helmand and Nimroz provinces. The Marines completed operations and departed Afghanistan Oct. 27, 2014. “Ultimately the real end state was responsible transitioning and I think we did that in good order, and we should be proud of that,” added Yoo to his remarks.

Cpl. Nick A. Buenviaje, left, tank gunner, and Sgt. Michelle A. Svec, tank crewman, both with Tank Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, tighten a bolt on the track pad of an M1A1 Abrams tank during vehicle maintenance at Range SR-10, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 9, 2015. Marines with Tank Platoon conducted offensive and defensive engagements to prepare for an upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Cpl. Nick A. Buenviaje, left, tank gunner, and Sgt. Michelle A. Svec, tank crewman, both with Tank Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, tighten a bolt on the track pad of an M1A1 Abrams tank during vehicle maintenance at Range SR-10, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 9, 2015. Marines with Tank Platoon conducted offensive and defensive engagements to prepare for an upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

Marines with Headquarters Regiment stand with their maintenance readiness awards from all four quarters and the overall 2014 fiscal year on Camp Kinser, Dec. 31. Headquarters Regiment, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force maintained an overall maintenance readiness of 90% or higher throughout the entire year of 2014. “My success comes from the success of my Marines,” said Col. Edmund J. Bowen, the regiment’s commanding officer, from Staten Island, New York. - Marines with Headquarters Regiment stand with their maintenance readiness awards from all four quarters and the overall 2014 fiscal year on Camp Kinser, Dec. 31. Headquarters Regiment, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force maintained an overall maintenance readiness of 90% or higher throughout the entire year of 2014. “My success comes from the success of my Marines,” said Col. Edmund J. Bowen, the regiment’s commanding officer, from Staten Island, New York.

Marines evacuate a simulated casualty Jan. 10 on Camp Courtney in Okinawa, Japan. The Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force took part in a night raid as the first of three situational training events that make up the Realistic Urban Training Exercise. Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF designed the training to test the MRF’s ability to respond to any contingency or crisis in the United States Pacific Command’s area of responsibility. - Marines evacuate a simulated casualty Jan. 10 on Camp Courtney in Okinawa, Japan. The Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force took part in a night raid as the first of three situational training events that make up the Realistic Urban Training Exercise. Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF designed the training to test the MRF’s ability to respond to any contingency or crisis in the United States Pacific Command’s area of responsibility.

Chuck Hagel, secretary of defense, speaks to Marines and Sailors aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 13. Marines and Sailors also had the opportunity to ask questions, take photos with Hagel and receive coins. - Chuck Hagel, secretary of defense, speaks to Marines and Sailors aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 13. Marines and Sailors also had the opportunity to ask questions, take photos with Hagel and receive coins.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Kaden Prickett, machine gunner and team leader with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, fires a .50 caliber Special Applications Scoped Rifle at a target 1,200 meters away, in the Central Command area of operations, Jan. 6, 2015. Marines and sailors of Golf Company spent time on the range getting acquainted with various weapons systems and cross-training one another in their respective areas of expertise. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Carson A. Gramley/Released) - U.S. Marine Cpl. Kaden Prickett, machine gunner and team leader with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, fires a .50 caliber Special Applications Scoped Rifle at a target 1,200 meters away, in the Central Command area of operations, Jan. 6, 2015. Marines and sailors of Golf Company spent time on the range getting acquainted with various weapons systems and cross-training one another in their respective areas of expertise. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Carson A. Gramley/Released)

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division fire a FGM-148 Javelin at a firing range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 6, 2015. The Javelin missile system is most often used by teams of two, a gunner and assistant gunner, although it can be used by one person if necessary. While the gunner aims and fires the missile itself, the assistant gunner remains on the lookout for potential targets and threats, and ensures the back blast area of the missile launcher is clear of obstructions and personnel. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division fire a FGM-148 Javelin at a firing range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 6, 2015. The Javelin missile system is most often used by teams of two, a gunner and assistant gunner, although it can be used by one person if necessary. While the gunner aims and fires the missile itself, the assistant gunner remains on the lookout for potential targets and threats, and ensures the back blast area of the missile launcher is clear of obstructions and personnel.

Pfc. William Baker, a prospect for the Special Reaction Team, holds a shield during close-quarters battle training Jan. 8 at Camp Hansen. Baker is a San Antonio, Texas, native. The special reaction team is with the Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. The team is the military equivalent of Special Weapons and Tactics teams. - Pfc. William Baker, a prospect for the Special Reaction Team, holds a shield during close-quarters battle training Jan. 8 at Camp Hansen. Baker is a San Antonio, Texas, native. The special reaction team is with the Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. The team is the military equivalent of Special Weapons and Tactics teams.

Gunnery Sgt. Michael Woods, electronic key management system manager with Marine Wing Communications Squadron (MWCS) 38, shoots an M16A4 rifle on Range 109 during Back in the Saddle training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 7. Marines practiced marksmanship skills all while in full combat gear including Kevlar and flak jacket to make the training seem as real as possible. - Gunnery Sgt. Michael Woods, electronic key management system manager with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 38, shoots an M16A4 rifle on Range 109 during Back in the Saddle training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 7. Marines practiced marksmanship skills all while in full combat gear including Kevlar and flak jacket to make the training seem as real as possible.

The chamber was filled with chlorobenzylidene malonitrile, or CS gas, a non-lethal tear gas and riot control agent. When the chemical is places on a heated surface, it turns to smoke and rises, spreading itself within the walls of the chamber. - The chamber was filled with chlorobenzylidene malonitrile, or CS gas, a non-lethal tear gas and riot control agent. When the chemical is places on a heated surface, it turns to smoke and rises, spreading itself within the walls of the chamber.

Cpl. Nickolaus Hess, a military working dog handler with the Provost Marshal’s Office, commands Azra, Hess’ military working dog, to sniff the bottom of the door during building clearing training, Jan. 12, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Military working dogs use their sense of smell to find suspicious substances or suspects. - Cpl. Nickolaus Hess, a military working dog handler with the Provost Marshal’s Office, commands Azra, Hess’ military working dog, to sniff the bottom of the door during building clearing training, Jan. 12, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Military working dogs use their sense of smell to find suspicious substances or suspects.

United States Marines practice sword manual during Ceremonial Drill School at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., Jan. 8, 2015. Crowds see the ceremonial marchers, the hosting element, the United States Marine Band, the United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, and the Silent Drill Platoon. What is not seen are the countless hours each of the individual component puts in during the off season. - United States Marines practice sword manual during Ceremonial Drill School at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., Jan. 8, 2015. Crowds see the ceremonial marchers, the hosting element, the United States Marine Band, the United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, and the Silent Drill Platoon. What is not seen are the countless hours each of the individual component puts in during the off season.

Arabic-speaking role-players simulate a riot outside the gates of a combat simulation town aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 7, 2015. The role-players dressed for the part and spoke the language to create a cultural and language barrier for Marines of 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division during a training exercise. - Arabic-speaking role-players simulate a riot outside the gates of a combat simulation town aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 7, 2015. The role-players dressed for the part and spoke the language to create a cultural and language barrier for Marines of 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division during a training exercise.

Recruit Florentino A. Buck, Platoon 1050, Charley Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, begins the timed three mile run portion of the Physical Fitness Test at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Dec. 22. Buck is Shiprock, N.M., native and was recruited out of Recruiting Substation Albuquerque, N.M. - Recruit Florentino A. Buck, Platoon 1050, Charley Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, begins the timed three mile run portion of the Physical Fitness Test at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Dec. 22. Buck is Shiprock, N.M., native and was recruited out of Recruiting Substation Albuquerque, N.M.

Sgt. Maj. Devon A. Lee, center, salutes Lt. Col. Larry G. Brown and Sgt. Maj. Timonthy J. Rudd during a post and relief ceremony Jan. 8 at hangar 525 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. . Sgt. Maj. Devon A. Lee passes on his reponsibilities as the squadron sergeant major to Sgt. Maj. Timonthy J. Rudd. Marines are with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Sgt. Maj. Devon A. Lee, center, salutes Lt. Col. Larry G. Brown and Sgt. Maj. Timonthy J. Rudd during a post and relief ceremony Jan. 8 at hangar 525 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. . Sgt. Maj. Devon A. Lee passes on his reponsibilities as the squadron sergeant major to Sgt. Maj. Timonthy J. Rudd. Marines are with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

From the left, Col. Frank Donovan, First Lt. Jonathan Messer, Maj. Brandon Turner, Maj. Michelle Macander, Maj. Jessica Ryu, Capt. Rob Sherwood, Capt. A.J. Cillo, Capt. Matt Windhol, and Maj. Jake Hood, Marines with the Expeditionary Warfare School, Quantico, Va., pose with the Kennedy Cup at the JFK 50 mile run in downtown Boonsboro, Maryland, Nov. 22, 2014. They won this year’s Kennedy Cup with completion times ranging from 7 hours, 22 minutes to just more than 11 hours, 30 minutes. The first JFK 50 Mile Challenge was held in the spring of 1963 and has since been held annually in Washington County, Maryland. - From the left, Col. Frank Donovan, First Lt. Jonathan Messer, Maj. Brandon Turner, Maj. Michelle Macander, Maj. Jessica Ryu, Capt. Rob Sherwood, Capt. A.J. Cillo, Capt. Matt Windhol, and Maj. Jake Hood, Marines with the Expeditionary Warfare School, Quantico, Va., pose with the Kennedy Cup at the JFK 50 mile run in downtown Boonsboro, Maryland, Nov. 22, 2014. They won this year’s Kennedy Cup with completion times ranging from 7 hours, 22 minutes to just more than 11 hours, 30 minutes. The first JFK 50 Mile Challenge was held in the spring of 1963 and has since been held annually in Washington County, Maryland.

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 guide a Navy landing craft air cushion onto Onslow Beach aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 16, 2014. Marines loaded vehicles, personnel and ammunition aboard the LCACs to be transported to the USS Fort McHenry. - 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 guide a Navy landing craft air cushion onto Onslow Beach aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 16, 2014. Marines loaded vehicles, personnel and ammunition aboard the LCACs to be transported to the USS Fort McHenry.

U.S. Marine Cpl. William Perkins, acting as a simulated suspect and assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, Command Element wrestles with a military working dog during controlled aggression training in the Central Command area of operations, Dec. 28, 2014. The dogs and trainers conducted controlled aggression training, which is designed to teach them to apprehend and restrain a target rather than kill or seriously injure. - U.S. Marine Cpl. William Perkins, acting as a simulated suspect and assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, Command Element wrestles with a military working dog during controlled aggression training in the Central Command area of operations, Dec. 28, 2014. The dogs and trainers conducted controlled aggression training, which is designed to teach them to apprehend and restrain a target rather than kill or seriously injure.

Gunnery Sgt. Gabriel Machado, left, Master Sgt. Raul Argumedo, center, and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Bateman jump in tandem from a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft Nov. 20, 2014 over Ie Shima Training Facility, off the northwest coast of Okinawa, Japan. The Marines jumped from an altitude of 10,000 feet during the high speed training. Machado, from New York, New York, is an air delivery specialist with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Argumedo, from Los Angeles, California, is an air delivery specialist with the battalion. Bateman, from Gaithersburg, Maryland, is a reconnaissance man with the battalion. - Gunnery Sgt. Gabriel Machado, left, Master Sgt. Raul Argumedo, center, and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Bateman jump in tandem from a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft Nov. 20, 2014 over Ie Shima Training Facility, off the northwest coast of Okinawa, Japan. The Marines jumped from an altitude of 10,000 feet during the high speed training. Machado, from New York, New York, is an air delivery specialist with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Argumedo, from Los Angeles, California, is an air delivery specialist with the battalion. Bateman, from Gaithersburg, Maryland, is a reconnaissance man with the battalion.

The high-risk training conducted at the Methods of Entry School aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico necessitates regular emergency response training. On Dec. 18 the school conducted a nighttime emergency response exercise involving corspmen, firefighters and paramedics from Quantico, and a medical aircrew and helicopter from Manassas. - The high-risk training conducted at the Methods of Entry School aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico necessitates regular emergency response training. On Dec. 18 the school conducted a nighttime emergency response exercise involving corspmen, firefighters and paramedics from Quantico, and a medical aircrew and helicopter from Manassas.

African role players rehearse combat drills aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 11, 2014. More than 80 Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 and 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment taught military tactics and built camaraderie with role players in preparation for an upcoming deployment with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa. - African role players rehearse combat drills aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 11, 2014. More than 80 Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 and 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment taught military tactics and built camaraderie with role players in preparation for an upcoming deployment with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa.

U.S. Marine Capt. Erich Lloyd, 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company forward air controller deployed from Camp Pendleton, Calif., directs team movements during an exercise urban combat scenario during exercise Mountain Roundup 2013 at Juniper Butte Range, about 70 miles from Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, Oct. 8, 2013. Lloyd, a prior-enlisted crew chief, used U.S. Navy AV-8B Harriers and Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15SG Strike Eagles air assets to neutralize enemy forces. - U.S. Marine Capt. Erich Lloyd, 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company forward air controller deployed from Camp Pendleton, Calif., directs team movements during an exercise urban combat scenario during exercise Mountain Roundup 2013 at Juniper Butte Range, about 70 miles from Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, Oct. 8, 2013. Lloyd, a prior-enlisted crew chief, used U.S. Navy AV-8B Harriers and Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15SG Strike Eagles air assets to neutralize enemy forces.

U.S. Marine Pfc. Jacob Piazza, right, fires a .50-caliber machine gun at targets during realistic urban training aboard Camp Roberts, Calif., Dec. 14, 2014. Piazza is a rifleman with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The training prepares the 15th MEU’s Marines for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions. - U.S. Marine Pfc. Jacob Piazza, right, fires a .50-caliber machine gun at targets during realistic urban training aboard Camp Roberts, Calif., Dec. 14, 2014. Piazza is a rifleman with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The training prepares the 15th MEU’s Marines for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions.

Kenny R. White, Marine veteran, native of San Diego, Calif., listens as Mathieu Brundige, tank crewman, 1st Tank Battalion, explains the functionalities of the M1A1 Abrams on the units tank ramp, Dec. 22, 2014. White served as a tank crewman for 17 years as a reservist in 4th Tank Battalion. - Kenny R. White, Marine veteran, native of San Diego, Calif., listens as Mathieu Brundige, tank crewman, 1st Tank Battalion, explains the functionalities of the M1A1 Abrams on the units tank ramp, Dec. 22, 2014. White served as a tank crewman for 17 years as a reservist in 4th Tank Battalion.

Master Gunnery Sgt. Alex C. Cabero Jr., center, explains an upcoming event Dec. 9 to a group of Marines at Camp Kinser during a Truck Rodeo. The rodeo increased camaraderie and refreshed basic motor transportation skills for Marines stationed across Okinawa. Cabero, from Vista, California, is the unit movement control chief with 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Master Gunnery Sgt. Alex C. Cabero Jr., center, explains an upcoming event Dec. 9 to a group of Marines at Camp Kinser during a Truck Rodeo. The rodeo increased camaraderie and refreshed basic motor transportation skills for Marines stationed across Okinawa. Cabero, from Vista, California, is the unit movement control chief with 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Corporal Ulises Zamoramartinez, an optics technician with 1st Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, recieves the Purple Heart Medal by Maj. Gen. Vincent Coglianese, commanding general 1st MLG, during an award ceremony aboard Camp Pendleton, California Dec. 19, 2014. Zamoramartinez, a 31-year-old native of Yakima, Washington, earned the award for injuries received while deployed in Helmand province, Afghanistan during a six-month tour with Georgian Liaison Team 10, Regional Command (Southwest). - Corporal Ulises Zamoramartinez, an optics technician with 1st Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, recieves the Purple Heart Medal by Maj. Gen. Vincent Coglianese, commanding general 1st MLG, during an award ceremony aboard Camp Pendleton, California Dec. 19, 2014. Zamoramartinez, a 31-year-old native of Yakima, Washington, earned the award for injuries received while deployed in Helmand province, Afghanistan during a six-month tour with Georgian Liaison Team 10, Regional Command (Southwest).

Urasoe Police Department Officers search a suspect before taking him into custody Dec. 24 during an anti-terrorism force protection exercise at Camp Kinser. The police officers, with the Urasoe Police Department, and the Marines and Japanese security guards with Camp Kinser Provost Marshal’s Office coordinated during a mock scenario in which they worked together to apprehend suspicious persons and vehicles attempting to access Camp Kinser. - Urasoe Police Department Officers search a suspect before taking him into custody Dec. 24 during an anti-terrorism force protection exercise at Camp Kinser. The police officers, with the Urasoe Police Department, and the Marines and Japanese security guards with Camp Kinser Provost Marshal’s Office coordinated during a mock scenario in which they worked together to apprehend suspicious persons and vehicles attempting to access Camp Kinser.