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Marines, veterans and their families gathered at the Yemassee train station for the 2nd Annual Yemassee Train Depot Reunion Oct. 16. Yemassee was the first stop for eager recruits seeking to earn the title United States Marine before reaching Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island from 1915 to 1965. Many Marines that fought in wars and conflicts spanning WWI through Vietnam began their transformation at the train station. - Marines, veterans and their families gathered at the Yemassee train station for the 2nd Annual Yemassee Train Depot Reunion Oct. 16. Yemassee was the first stop for eager recruits seeking to earn the title United States Marine before reaching Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island from 1915 to 1965. Many Marines that fought in wars and conflicts spanning WWI through Vietnam began their transformation at the train station.

Sergeant Tyler W. Envall, an H-1 avionics technician with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Aviation Combat Element, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365, conducts 90-degree gear box wiring of a UH-1Y Huey aboard the USS Iwo Jima, Oct. 27, 2014. Marines conduct flight maintenance around the clock to maintain mission readiness for all MEU aircraft. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Nichols) - Sergeant Tyler W. Envall, an H-1 avionics technician with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Aviation Combat Element, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365, conducts 90-degree gear box wiring of a UH-1Y Huey aboard the USS Iwo Jima, Oct. 27, 2014. Marines conduct flight maintenance around the clock to maintain mission readiness for all MEU aircraft. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Nichols)

Artillery Marines with Gun 3, Battery A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, prepare to send a round down range during a fire mission at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 29, 2014. Marines of Battery A conducted a live-fire artillery shoot, Oct. 28-30, 2014. 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. - Artillery Marines with Gun 3, Battery A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, prepare to send a round down range during a fire mission at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 29, 2014. Marines of Battery A conducted a live-fire artillery shoot, Oct. 28-30, 2014. 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.

Lance Cpl. James Whearry, a field artilleryman with 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fires the M777A2 Lightweight Howitzer at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., during exercise Twisted Sister, a battalion fire exercise at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., Oct. 25, 2014. Field artillerymen receive various call for fire scenarios, some requiring them to fire a certain number of rounds in a given time, others require precision shooting involving each gun in the battery as well as other batteries combined. - Lance Cpl. James Whearry, a field artilleryman with 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fires the M777A2 Lightweight Howitzer at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., during exercise Twisted Sister, a battalion fire exercise at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., Oct. 25, 2014. Field artillerymen receive various call for fire scenarios, some requiring them to fire a certain number of rounds in a given time, others require precision shooting involving each gun in the battery as well as other batteries combined.

Marines with 3rd Marine Air Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, used the remains of a CH-46E Sea Knight to represent a crashed UH-1Y Huey during a mishap drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27, 2014. The drill provided first responders the opportunity to practice every step of responding to a disabled aircraft including coordinating military and civilian agencies and rescuing the crew of the aircraft. - Marines with 3rd Marine Air Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, used the remains of a CH-46E Sea Knight to represent a crashed UH-1Y Huey during a mishap drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27, 2014. The drill provided first responders the opportunity to practice every step of responding to a disabled aircraft including coordinating military and civilian agencies and rescuing the crew of the aircraft.

A Marine with 1st Marine Division Schools, pre-scout sniper course snaps in before engaging his target. Division schools recently began the second week of training for Marines attending the pre-scout sniper course aboard Camp Pendleton California, Oct. 27 2014. - A Marine with 1st Marine Division Schools, pre-scout sniper course snaps in before engaging his target. Division schools recently began the second week of training for Marines attending the pre-scout sniper course aboard Camp Pendleton California, Oct. 27 2014.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Matthew Miller clears a malfunction while blindfolded during a security element course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 23, 2014. Miller is a radio operator with Force Reconnaissance Detachment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Marines in this course are preparing for the 15th MEU’s deployment in the spring. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Matthew Miller clears a malfunction while blindfolded during a security element course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 23, 2014. Miller is a radio operator with Force Reconnaissance Detachment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Marines in this course are preparing for the 15th MEU’s deployment in the spring.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe views the cockpit of an MV-22B Osprey Hyakuri Air Base during the Japan Air Self Defense Force’s Air Review 2014 Oct. 26. The air review happens every three years showcasing Japan's defensive air assets. Abe is the Prime Minister of Japan. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Air Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Prime Minister Shinzo Abe views the cockpit of an MV-22B Osprey Hyakuri Air Base during the Japan Air Self Defense Force’s Air Review 2014 Oct. 26. The air review happens every three years showcasing Japan's defensive air assets. Abe is the Prime Minister of Japan. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Air Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Supporting Operation United Assistance, Armed Forces of Liberia engineers work on the Tubmanburg Ebola treatment unit. Crews quickly put up a series of tents on freshly leveled and graveled ground. The U.S. Agency for International Development is the lead U.S. Government organization for Operation United Assistance. U.S. Africa Command is supporting the effort by providing command and control, logistics, training and engineering assets to contain the Ebola virus outbreak in West African nations. - Supporting Operation United Assistance, Armed Forces of Liberia engineers work on the Tubmanburg Ebola treatment unit. Crews quickly put up a series of tents on freshly leveled and graveled ground. The U.S. Agency for International Development is the lead U.S. Government organization for Operation United Assistance. U.S. Africa Command is supporting the effort by providing command and control, logistics, training and engineering assets to contain the Ebola virus outbreak in West African nations.

Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 connect a fuel hose from a KC-130J Super Hercules to a UH-60 Black Hawk during air-delivered ground refueling training at Wright Army Airfield, Ga., Oct. 22, 2014. ADGR allows aircraft unable to refuel in-flight to land, refuel and resume mission support. The Super Hercules belongs to the Marines of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 and the Black Hawk belong to the Army’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne). - Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 connect a fuel hose from a KC-130J Super Hercules to a UH-60 Black Hawk during air-delivered ground refueling training at Wright Army Airfield, Ga., Oct. 22, 2014. ADGR allows aircraft unable to refuel in-flight to land, refuel and resume mission support. The Super Hercules belongs to the Marines of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 and the Black Hawk belong to the Army’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne).

A Marine motivates Paul Kelly, a native of North Carolina, as he pushes through the last stretch of the 39th Marine Corps Marathon in Arlington, Va. Twenty-six thousand, one hundred sixty-one marathon runners crossed the start line this year. - A Marine motivates Paul Kelly, a native of North Carolina, as he pushes through the last stretch of the 39th Marine Corps Marathon in Arlington, Va. Twenty-six thousand, one hundred sixty-one marathon runners crossed the start line this year.

More than 3,000 children participated in the Marine Corps Marathon Kids Run Nov. 25 at the Pentagon in Arlington, VA. Children ages 5-12 had the opportunity to get active and run a one-mile lap for fun around the five-sided building. - More than 3,000 children participated in the Marine Corps Marathon Kids Run Oct. 25 at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. Children ages 5-12 had the opportunity to get active and run a one-mile lap for fun around the five-sided building.

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The Provost Marshall Office Special Reaction Team conducts the avalanche drill at Range 300, Oct. 23. The avalanche drill is a technique to tactically withdraw in the event the team is overrun by an enemy. - The Provost Marshall Office Special Reaction Team conducts the avalanche drill at Range 300, Oct. 23. The avalanche drill is a technique to tactically withdraw in the event the team is overrun by an enemy.

Lance Cpl. Keven Saint Louis, a marksmanship student at the Combat Marksmanship Coaches Course, loads rounds into a magazine during the pre-qualification course of fire at the Marksmanship Training Unit, Weapons Training Battalion in Quantico, Va., Oct. 24, 2014. This particular CMC course was staffed entirely by Reserve Marines from the Marine Corps Reserve Shooting Team, who are the top competitive shooters in the Marine Corps Reserve. - Lance Cpl. Keven Saint Louis, a marksmanship student at the Combat Marksmanship Coaches Course, loads rounds into a magazine during the pre-qualification course of fire at the Marksmanship Training Unit, Weapons Training Battalion in Quantico, Va., Oct. 24, 2014. This particular CMC course was staffed entirely by Reserve Marines from the Marine Corps Reserve Shooting Team, who are the top competitive shooters in the Marine Corps Reserve.

Members of the infantry weapons systems program management office from Marine Corps Systems Command spent a day at a live-fire range getting familiar with the gear they procure and field for Marines in the Fleet. The range day was held Oct. 24 aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. - Members of the infantry weapons systems program management office from Marine Corps Systems Command spent a day at a live-fire range getting familiar with the gear they procure and field for Marines in the Fleet. The range day was held Oct. 24 aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico.

Marines load simulated casualties onto a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force CH-47 helicopter Oct. 28 here during Exercise Constant Vigilance 2014. The exercise, which included personnel assigned to the Japan Self-Defense Force, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base, Camp Butler Japan, Urasoe City, Camp Kinser emergency services, Department of Defense Dependents Schools, and other civilian agencies, simulated a collaborative emergency response to a tsunami and tested cooperative emergency response procedures. The Marines are with camp services, Camp Kinser, MCIPAC-Marine Corp Base, Camp Butler Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Manning/Released) - Marines load simulated casualties onto a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force CH-47 helicopter Oct. 28 here during Exercise Constant Vigilance 2014. The exercise, which included personnel assigned to the Japan Self-Defense Force, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base, Camp Butler Japan, Urasoe City, Camp Kinser emergency services, Department of Defense Dependents Schools, and other civilian agencies, simulated a collaborative emergency response to a tsunami and tested cooperative emergency response procedures. The Marines are with camp services, Camp Kinser, MCIPAC-Marine Corp Base, Camp Butler Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Manning/Released)

First Lt. Thomas Heemer, the logistics officer for Combat Logistics Battalion 24, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, poses with his Marine Corps Marathon bib on “Broadway,” a passageway aboard the USS New York, Oct. 26, 2014. Due to pre-deployment training with the 24th MEU, Heemer ran the MCM on a treadmill aboard the New York, finishing under the four-hour mark. The 24th MEU is conducting its final pre-deployment training exercise before a deployment at the end of the year. - First Lt. Thomas Heemer, the logistics officer for Combat Logistics Battalion 24, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, poses with his Marine Corps Marathon bib on “Broadway,” a passageway aboard the USS New York, Oct. 26, 2014. Due to pre-deployment training with the 24th MEU, Heemer ran the MCM on a treadmill aboard the New York, finishing under the four-hour mark. The 24th MEU is conducting its final pre-deployment training exercise before a deployment at the end of the year.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force practice clearing rooms during a training exercise at MOC-3 range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 21, 2014. The Marines conducted the Military Operations on Urban Terrain training with live rounds and live grenades to expand their level of readiness. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force practice clearing rooms during a training exercise at MOC-3 range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 21, 2014. The Marines conducted the Military Operations on Urban Terrain training with live rounds and live grenades to expand their level of readiness.

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 13 watch as a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 carries simulated cargo during a training exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Oct. 23. The training allows Marines to be mission ready and prepared to respond at a moment’s notice. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 13 watch as a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 carries simulated cargo during a training exercise aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Oct. 23. The training allows Marines to be mission ready and prepared to respond at a moment’s notice.

Marines and sailors with Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan load onto a KC-130 aircraft on the Camp Bastion flightline, Oct. 27, 2014. The Marine Corps ended its mission in Helmand province, Afghanistan, the day prior and all Marines, sailors and service members from the United Kingdom withdrew from southwestern Afghanistan. - Marines and sailors with Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan load onto a KC-130 aircraft on the Camp Bastion flightline, Oct. 27, 2014. The Marine Corps ended its mission in Helmand province, Afghanistan, the day prior and all Marines, sailors and service members from the United Kingdom withdrew from southwestern Afghanistan.

A Sailor with Beach Master Unit 1 guides heavy machinery off a Landing Craft, Air Cushions while performing a ship-to-shore drill during exercise Pacific Horizon 2015 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct 23, 2014. PH 15 is a scenario driven, simulation supported crisis response exercise designed to improve 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's and Expeditionary Strike Group 3's interoperability and strengthen Navy-Marine Corps relations by conducting an in-stream Maritime Prepositioning Force offload of equipment by providing host country civil-military security assistance, and by conducting infrastructure restoration support from Oct. 20-28. - A Sailor with Beach Master Unit 1 guides heavy machinery off a Landing Craft, Air Cushions while performing a ship-to-shore drill during exercise Pacific Horizon 2015 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct 23, 2014. PH 15 is a scenario driven, simulation supported crisis response exercise designed to improve 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's and Expeditionary Strike Group 3's interoperability and strengthen Navy-Marine Corps relations by conducting an in-stream Maritime Prepositioning Force offload of equipment by providing host country civil-military security assistance, and by conducting infrastructure restoration support from Oct. 20-28.

Marine Corps 1st Lt. Sy Poggemeyer stands in front of the USS Peleliu (LHA-5) in port, Oct. 21, 2014. Poggemeyer’s stepfather, Navy Capt. Michael Krieger, served on the USS Peleliu 20 years ago, the same ship that Poggemeyer is currently deployed on with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The 31st MEU/Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group recently participated in Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 in the Philippines as part of a regularly-scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - Marine Corps 1st Lt. Sy Poggemeyer stands in front of the USS Peleliu (LHA-5) in port, Oct. 21, 2014. Poggemeyer’s stepfather, Navy Capt. Michael Krieger, served on the USS Peleliu 20 years ago, the same ship that Poggemeyer is currently deployed on with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The 31st MEU/Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group recently participated in Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 in the Philippines as part of a regularly-scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

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Lance Cpl. Anthony Andes, right, a water support technician with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373, explains the gages of the Tactical Water Purification System at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton during exercise Pacific Horizon 2015, Oct. 23. PH 15 increases the ability of 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Expeditionary Strike Group 3 to plan, communicate and conduct complex sea and shore based operations in response to natural disasters. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Caitlin Bevel) - Lance Cpl. Anthony Andes, right, a water support technician with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373, explains the gages of the Tactical Water Purification System at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton during exercise Pacific Horizon 2015, Oct. 23. PH 15 increases the ability of 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Expeditionary Strike Group 3 to plan, communicate and conduct complex sea and shore based operations in response to natural disasters. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Caitlin Bevel)

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Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373, Combat Engineer Platoon, erect a multipurpose building during exercise Pacific Horizon 2015 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 21. The SWA hut would serve as shelter, billeting or medical facility in a humanitarian aid or disaster relief mission. PH 15 is a scenario driven, simulation supported crisis response exercise designed to improve 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's and Expeditionary Strike Group 3's interoperability and strengthen Navy-Marine Corps relations by conducting an in-stream Maritime Prepositioning Force offload of equipment by providing host country civil-military security assistance, and by conducting infrastructure restoration support from Oct. 20-28. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Rick Hurtado / Released) - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373, Combat Engineer Platoon, erect a multipurpose building during exercise Pacific Horizon 2015 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 21. The SWA hut would serve as shelter, billeting or medical facility in a humanitarian aid or disaster relief mission. PH 15 is a scenario driven, simulation supported crisis response exercise designed to improve 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's and Expeditionary Strike Group 3's interoperability and strengthen Navy-Marine Corps relations by conducting an in-stream Maritime Prepositioning Force offload of equipment by providing host country civil-military security assistance, and by conducting infrastructure restoration support from Oct. 20-28. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Rick Hurtado / Released)

This photo illustration depicts Lance Cpl. Benjamin Ferry and his Grandfather, Richard T. Ferry, side-by-side while each was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. Coincidentally, both Benjamin and Richard were assigned the same unit with more than 60 years’ difference in service time. Richard served with 3/5 during the Korean War, fighting in Inchon and at the Chosin Reservoir before being evacuated with two wounds suffered in combat. Benjamin is an automatic rifleman and is currently deployed aboard the USS Peleliu with India Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit - This photo illustration depicts Lance Cpl. Benjamin Ferry and his Grandfather, Richard T. Ferry, side-by-side while each was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. Coincidentally, both Benjamin and Richard were assigned the same unit with more than 60 years’ difference in service time. Richard served with 3/5 during the Korean War, fighting in Inchon and at the Chosin Reservoir before being evacuated with two wounds suffered in combat. Benjamin is an automatic rifleman and is currently deployed aboard the USS Peleliu with India Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit

Marines and Sailors on Black Sea Rotational Force 14, with members of the Romanian Land Forces, worked together during Platinum Lynx at the Carpathian Mountains, Romania. Marines and Romanians fostered knowledge through weapons familiarization classes and mountain warfare training. - Marines and Sailors on Black Sea Rotational Force 14, with members of the Romanian Land Forces, worked together during Platinum Lynx at the Carpathian Mountains, Romania. Marines and Romanians fostered knowledge through weapons familiarization classes and mountain warfare training.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to breach a door during a helicopter-raid exercise aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 16, 2014. BLT 3/1 is scheduled to deploy as the 15th MEU’s ground combat element next spring. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released) - U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to breach a door during a helicopter-raid exercise aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 16, 2014. BLT 3/1 is scheduled to deploy as the 15th MEU’s ground combat element next spring. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released)

U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, conduct close-quarters drills during a raid-leaders course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 8, 2014. Marines with 3/1 are the Battalion Landing Team with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. (U.S. Marine photo by Cpl. Steve H. Lopez/Released) - U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, conduct close-quarters drills during a raid-leaders course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 8, 2014. Marines with 3/1 are the Battalion Landing Team with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. (U.S. Marine photo by Cpl. Steve H. Lopez/Released)

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Erin Vasselian holds a Bronze Star Medal following a ceremony where her husband, Sgt. Daniel Vasselian, was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device, Oct. 13, in front of the American Legion’s Lewis V. Dorsey Post 112 War Memorial in Abington, Mass. Daniel was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device for combat actions while on his third deployment to Afghanistan. Erin Vasselian, and parents, Karen and Mark Vasselian, each were presented with medals during the ceremony. Daniel was killed in action Dec. 23, 2013 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. (Photo by Sgt. Richard Blumenstein) - Erin Vasselian holds a Bronze Star Medal following a ceremony where her husband, Sgt. Daniel Vasselian, was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device, Oct. 13, in front of the American Legion’s Lewis V. Dorsey Post 112 War Memorial in Abington, Mass. Daniel was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device for combat actions while on his third deployment to Afghanistan. Erin Vasselian, and parents, Karen and Mark Vasselian, each were presented with medals during the ceremony. Daniel was killed in action Dec. 23, 2013 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. (Photo by Sgt. Richard Blumenstein)

Cpl. Andrew J. Citriniti, a military policeman with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), and Sauquoit, New York native, practices close quarter tactics aboard the USS Makin Island (LHD 8), Oct. 11. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the embarked 11th MEU are deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Laura Y. Raga/ RELEASED) - Cpl. Andrew J. Citriniti, a military policeman with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), and Sauquoit, New York native, practices close quarter tactics aboard the USS Makin Island (LHD 8), Oct. 11. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the embarked 11th MEU are deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Laura Y. Raga/ RELEASED)

Seven EA-6B Prowlers fly in a vee formation over Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 16, 2014. The flight was the first in Marine Corps aviation history to have seven Prowlers from the same squadron fly together in formation. The Marines of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Training Squadron 1 conducted the fly-bys in celebration of recently being named the recipient of the 2014 Association of Old Crows Marine Corps outstanding unit award. - Seven EA-6B Prowlers fly in a vee formation over Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 16, 2014. The flight was the first in Marine Corps aviation history to have seven Prowlers from the same squadron fly together in formation. The Marines of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Training Squadron 1 conducted the fly-bys in celebration of recently being named the recipient of the 2014 Association of Old Crows Marine Corps outstanding unit award.

Marines with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, communicate with pilots of an F/A-18 Hornet before take-off during the Korean Marine Exchange Program 14-13, Oct. 13, 2014, on Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea. KMEP 14-13 is a multinational exercise that focuses on the integration of aviation and ground assets within the construct of a traditional Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise. Supporting units include, but are not limited to, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 and Marine Wing Support Squadron 171. - Marines with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, communicate with pilots of an F/A-18 Hornet before take-off during the Korean Marine Exchange Program 14-13, Oct. 13, 2014, on Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea. KMEP 14-13 is a multinational exercise that focuses on the integration of aviation and ground assets within the construct of a traditional Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise. Supporting units include, but are not limited to, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 and Marine Wing Support Squadron 171.

A UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 “Gunfighters,” prepares to land during a familiarization flight aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 16. Pilots and crews practiced basic flight operations like landings and take offs several times in succession to hone their skills. - A UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 “Gunfighters,” prepares to land during a familiarization flight aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 16. Pilots and crews practiced basic flight operations like landings and take offs several times in succession to hone their skills.

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Gen. James F. Amos, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, passes the colors to Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., during the change of command and subsequent retirement ceremony Oct. 17, 2014 at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, at 8th & I. After more than 44 years of military service, Amos passed the duties as senior-ranking officer of the Marine Corps to Dunford, who has now become the 36th Commandant of the Marine Corps. - Gen. James F. Amos, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, passes the colors to Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., during the change of command and subsequent retirement ceremony Oct. 17, 2014 at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C. After more than 44 years of military service, Amos passed the duties as senior-ranking officer of the Marine Corps to Dunford, who has now become the 36th Commandant of the Marine Corps.

After locating and destroying the enemy's primary defense location, U.S. and Bulgarian forces depart from the battle zone during Exercise Strike Back, Oct. 15 at the Koren Field Training Ground, Bulgaria. Strike Back is a multilateral combat exercise designed to prepare Bulgarian forces to control, command and operate with joint-nation forces. The training consisted of defensive tactics and offensive objectives and maneuvers. - After locating and destroying the enemy's primary defense location, U.S. and Bulgarian forces depart from the battle zone during Exercise Strike Back, Oct. 15 at the Koren Field Training Ground, Bulgaria. Strike Back is a multilateral combat exercise designed to prepare Bulgarian forces to control, command and operate with joint-nation forces. The training consisted of defensive tactics and offensive objectives and maneuvers.

A service member with the Cameroonian Naval Commando Company jumps into the water to establish beach security for follow-on operations. The COPALCO worked with Marines, Sailors and Coast Guardsmen part of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa, on marksmanship, boat operations, patrolling and noncommissioned officer leadership. - A service member with the Cameroonian Naval Commando Company jumps into the water to establish beach security for follow-on operations. The COPALCO worked with Marines, Sailors and Coast Guardsmen part of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa, on marksmanship, boat operations, patrolling and noncommissioned officer leadership.

Ella Jackson, a 93-year-old widow, receives a Congressional Gold Medal replica in lieu of her late husband, Master Sgt. George Jackson, in Port Royal, S.C., Oct. 2. George Jackson enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1942 and retired after 27 years of service in 1969. Brigadier General Terry Williams, the first African-American commanding general of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, presented Jackson with the medal at a ceremony. In 2012, congress awarded the Montford Point Marines with the Congressional Gold Medal, the United States' highest civilian award bestowed by congress. - Ella Jackson, a 93-year-old widow, receives a Congressional Gold Medal replica in lieu of her late husband, Master Sgt. George Jackson, in Port Royal, S.C., Oct. 2. George Jackson enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1942 and retired after 27 years of service in 1969. Brigadier General Terry Williams, the first African-American commanding general of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, presented Jackson with the medal at a ceremony. In 2012, congress awarded the Montford Point Marines with the Congressional Gold Medal, the United States' highest civilian award bestowed by congress.

Gunnery Sgt. Robert V. Mendoza, company gunnery sergeant, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, is the most recent recipient of the Gunnery Sgt. Carlos N. Hathcock II Award for his performance while serving as marksmanship training unit instructor and assault amphibian vehicle gunnery training coordinator for Headquarters and Service Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, from Feb. 25, 2013 to Jan. 1, 2014. From October 2014 to July 2015, the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force will conduct individual and collective skills training in designated 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released) - Gunnery Sgt. Robert V. Mendoza, company gunnery sergeant, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, is the most recent recipient of the Gunnery Sgt. Carlos N. Hathcock II Award for his performance while serving as marksmanship training unit instructor and assault amphibian vehicle gunnery training coordinator for Headquarters and Service Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, from Feb. 25, 2013 to Jan. 1, 2014. From October 2014 to July 2015, the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force will conduct individual and collective skills training in designated 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released)

Lt. Gen. John Toolan, Marine Corps Forces, Pacific commander, speaks to more than 100 guests during an honorary Marine ceremony in Jonesville, Virginia on Oct. 15, 2014. Jacob Sprinkle received the title posthumously after a complication with a heart transplant took his life in January. - Lt. Gen. John Toolan, Marine Corps Forces, Pacific commander, speaks to more than 100 guests during an honorary Marine ceremony in Jonesville, Virginia on Oct. 15, 2014. Jacob Sprinkle received the title posthumously after a complication with a heart transplant took his life in January.

Col. Matthew G. St. Clair, commanding officer, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, presents 1st Lt. Benjamin Sheldon, platoon commander, Company A, GCEITF, with a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with combat "V" distinguishing device at the task force headquarters, Oct. 10, 2014. Sheldon was awarded for actions during a deployment to Afghanistan with 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, from September 2013 to May 2014. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released) - Col. Matthew G. St. Clair, commanding officer, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, presents 1st Lt. Benjamin Sheldon, platoon commander, Company A, GCEITF, with a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with combat "V" distinguishing device at the task force headquarters, Oct. 10, 2014. Sheldon was awarded for actions during a deployment to Afghanistan with 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, from September 2013 to May 2014. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released)

U.S. Navy Lt. Yonatan Warren explains the history of the Bataan Death March at the memorial wall during Amphibious Landing Exercise 15, Oct. 8, 2014. More then 100 Marines visited the memorial over two days to learn more about the events of World War II that occurred in the Philippines. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marine and Navy Forces focused on strengthening the partnership and relationships between the two nations across a range of military operations including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations. Warren is the chaplain for Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - U.S. Navy Lt. Yonatan Warren explains the history of the Bataan Death March at the memorial wall during Amphibious Landing Exercise 15, Oct. 8, 2014. More then 100 Marines visited the memorial over two days to learn more about the events of World War II that occurred in the Philippines. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marine and Navy Forces focused on strengthening the partnership and relationships between the two nations across a range of military operations including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations. Warren is the chaplain for Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

A CH-53E Super Stallion idles before take-off at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 8, 2014. - A CH-53E Super Stallion idles before take-off at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 8, 2014.

Danish Gen. Knud Bartels, front left, Chairman of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Military Committee, briefs a group of students attending the Marine Corps War College at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia Oct. 3, 2014 during his tour of the United States. “The greatest responsibility of the Alliance is to protect and defend our territories and our populations against attack, as set out in Article 5 of the Washington Treaty,” said Bartels. “Our Alliance remains an essential source of stability in this unpredictable world.” - Danish Gen. Knud Bartels, front left, Chairman of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Military Committee, briefs a group of students attending the Marine Corps War College at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia Oct. 3, 2014 during his tour of the United States. “The greatest responsibility of the Alliance is to protect and defend our territories and our populations against attack, as set out in Article 5 of the Washington Treaty,” said Bartels. “Our Alliance remains an essential source of stability in this unpredictable world.”

The Blue Angels fly over Marina Green, San Francisco, during the San Francisco Fleet Week 2014 Air Show, Oct. 11. In partnership with the U.S. Navy, the Marine Corps is a force perfectly designed and suited for both crisis response and maritime security. No forces are more suitable to addressing emerging humanitarian assistance and disaster relief needs than naval amphibious forces. - The Blue Angels fly over Marina Green, San Francisco, during the San Francisco Fleet Week 2014 Air Show, Oct. 11. In partnership with the U.S. Navy, the Marine Corps is a force perfectly designed and suited for both crisis response and maritime security. No forces are more suitable to addressing emerging humanitarian assistance and disaster relief needs than naval amphibious forces.