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As the final days in his Marine Corps career end, Lt. Gen. Robert E. Milstead Jr. Reflects on his past experiences and how he has molded his career to guide and inspire younger Marines. - As the final days in his Marine Corps career end, Lt. Gen. Robert E. Milstead Jr. Reflects on his past experiences and how he has molded his career to guide and inspire younger Marines.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 8, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Fwd.) travel in a convoy to the wreckage of a downed French F-2000 Mirage aircraft for a recovery operation northwest of Forward Operating Base Delaram in Helmand province, Afghanistan, May 27, 2011. Marines with the unit assisted French forces in support of International Security Assistance Force operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jeff Kaus/Released) - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 8, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Fwd.) travel in a convoy to the wreckage of a downed French F-2000 Mirage aircraft for a recovery operation northwest of Forward Operating Base Delaram in Helmand province, Afghanistan, May 27, 2011. Marines with the unit assisted French forces in support of International Security Assistance Force operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jeff Kaus/Released)

Marines with Black Sea Rotational Force 14 look on as Romanian armored vehicles engage targets downrange during a live-fire range at Cincu-14 September 25. The exercise was designed to promote interoperability between both countries with military-to-military training, live-fire ranges, fire support coordination training and sharing tactics, techniques and procedures. - Marines with Black Sea Rotational Force 14 look on as Romanian armored vehicles engage targets downrange during a live-fire range at Cincu-14 September 25. The exercise was designed to promote interoperability between both countries with military-to-military training, live-fire ranges, fire support coordination training and sharing tactics, techniques and procedures.

Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets are parked during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base Sept. 30. The aircraft are from multiple squadrons and were used in close air support, forward air controller training, air interdiction, air-to-air missions, defensive counter-air and offensive counter-air training events. The overarching training exercise involving 1,300 personnel emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground support on a unit level to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability within the Marianas Island range complex. - Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets are parked during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base Sept. 30. The aircraft are from multiple squadrons and were used in close air support, forward air controller training, air interdiction, air-to-air missions, defensive counter-air and offensive counter-air training events. The overarching training exercise involving 1,300 personnel emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground support on a unit level to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability within the Marianas Island range complex.

Marines with Charley Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, render honors to Brig. Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commander, Regional Command and Marine Expeditionary Brigade–Afghanistan, during the battalion’s transfer of authority ceremony aboard Tactical Base Dwyer, Afghanistan, Oct. 1, 2014. The ceremony signified the battalion’s transfer of authority of the base and their area of responsibility to 3rd Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, a U.S. Army command based out of Fort Hood, Texas. The ceremony also meant the end of combat operations for 7th Marines – a regiment which has been actively supporting Operation Enduring Freedom for several years. - Marines with Charley Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, render honors to Brig. Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commander, Regional Command and Marine Expeditionary Brigade–Afghanistan, during the battalion’s transfer of authority ceremony aboard Tactical Base Dwyer, Afghanistan, Oct. 1, 2014. The ceremony signified the battalion’s transfer of authority of the base and their area of responsibility to 3rd Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, a U.S. Army command based out of Fort Hood, Texas. The ceremony also meant the end of combat operations for 7th Marines – a regiment which has been actively supporting Operation Enduring Freedom for several years.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Andy Muller aims in during a dry-fire drill at a close-quarters tactics course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 25, 2014. Muller is a receiver-transmitter operator with Bravo Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. These Marines are enhancing their skills before compositing with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in October. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Andy Muller aims in during a dry-fire drill at a close-quarters tactics course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 25, 2014. Muller is a receiver-transmitter operator with Bravo Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. These Marines are enhancing their skills before compositing with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in October.

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Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyrone Kimbrough, a corpsman with Alpha Company, 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, checks a simulated casualty for injuries during a medical exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 24, 2014. During the exercise, the corpsmen practiced stabilizing casualties for evacuation under stressful conditions to imitate situations they may experience in combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Olivia C. McDonald/Released) - Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyrone Kimbrough, a corpsman with Alpha Company, 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, checks a simulated casualty for injuries during a medical exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 24, 2014. During the exercise, the corpsmen practiced stabilizing casualties for evacuation under stressful conditions to imitate situations they may experience in combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Olivia C. McDonald/Released)

Cpl. Michael P. Hinds, from Queens, N.Y., works on an FA-18 Hornet Sept. 29 during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base. He is doing routine maintenance to ensure the safety of the pilot. Hinds is an airframes mechanic with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released) - Cpl. Michael P. Hinds, from Queens, N.Y., works on an FA-18 Hornet Sept. 29 during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base. He is doing routine maintenance to ensure the safety of the pilot. Hinds is an airframes mechanic with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released)

Eric Rodriguez [bottom right], from the Marine Corps volleyball team, tips the ball to teammate Jorge Salazar [middle left] during the Marine Corps vs Air Force volleyball game at the 2014 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., Sept. 29. The Marines won the first out of three matches with a final of 25-23. - Eric Rodriguez [bottom right], from the Marine Corps volleyball team, tips the ball to teammate Jorge Salazar [middle left] during the Marine Corps vs Air Force volleyball game at the 2014 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., Sept. 29. The Marines won the first out of three matches with a final of 25-23.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Jacob Rich prepares to practice for the 100m Men's Wheel event for the 2014 Invictus Games at Mayesbrooks Training Center in London, Sept. 10, 2014. The Invictus Games is an opportunity for wounded, ill, and injured service members from around the world to recover and rehabilitate through competing in adaptive sports. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Jacob Rich, an adaptive athlete,prepares to practice for the 100m Men's Wheel event for the 2014 Invictus Games at Mayesbrooks Training Center in London, Sept. 10, 2014. The Invictus Games is an opportunity for wounded, ill, and injured service members from around the world to recover and rehabilitate through competing in adaptive sports.

Lance Corporal Colin Stegal, an ammo technician with Ammo Company, 1st Supply Battalion, fires a M1014 shotgun aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 15, 2014. The range required Marines to demonstrate proficiency with the M1014 shotgun. The live-fire ranges were part of an annual training package to keep the Marines confident and proficient with each weapon system. - Lance Corporal Colin Stegal, an ammo technician with Ammo Company, 1st Supply Battalion, fires a M1014 shotgun aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 15, 2014. The range required Marines to demonstrate proficiency with the M1014 shotgun. The live-fire ranges were part of an annual training package to keep the Marines confident and proficient with each weapon system.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Maj. Howard Kreamer, right, talks with Philippine Marine Sgt. Maj. Jamie Ardiente in Puerto Princesa, Palawan Sept. 29 after the opening ceremony for Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. Kreamer is the sergeant major of 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, 3rd MEB, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Ardiente is the 3rd Marine Brigade Sergeant Major, Armed Forces of the Philippines. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Maj. Howard Kreamer, right, talks with Philippine Marine Sgt. Maj. Jamie Ardiente in Puerto Princesa, Palawan Sept. 29 after the opening ceremony for Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. Kreamer is the sergeant major of 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, 3rd MEB, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Ardiente is the 3rd Marine Brigade Sergeant Major, Armed Forces of the Philippines.

A Marine with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment recites a practical phrase used to simulate the time it takes to send a burst of live fire at KR-5 live-fire range aboard Schofield Barracks, Sept. 19, 2014 as part of the Island Viper exercise. The exercise is meant to prepare Marines for real-world combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Harley Thomas) - A Marine with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment recites a practical phrase used to simulate the time it takes to send a burst of live fire at KR-5 live-fire range aboard Schofield Barracks, Sept. 19, 2014 as part of the Island Viper exercise. The exercise is meant to prepare Marines for real-world combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Harley Thomas)

Entry-level Marines with Company A, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry-West completed their culminating event at Range 408 here, Sept. 25. The range includes and implements the different infantry occupational specialties at the company level. Medium/light machine guns and mortars suppress the enemy first, providing the supporting fire for a squad size element of riflemen and assaultmen to assault the enemies’ position. - Entry-level Marines with Company A, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry-West completed their culminating event at Range 408 here, Sept. 25. The range includes and implements the different infantry occupational specialties at the company level. Medium/light machine guns and mortars suppress the enemy first, providing the supporting fire for a squad size element of riflemen and assaultmen to assault the enemies’ position.

Lance Cpl. Edward Manibusan, Jr., from Koblerville, Saipan, stands outside of his tent Sept. 26 during Exercise Forager Fury III. He was raised in Saipan, located near Tinian, and joined the Marine Corps shortly after graduating high school. Manibusan is a field wireman with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released) - Lance Cpl. Edward Manibusan, Jr., from Koblerville, Saipan, stands outside of his tent Sept. 26 during Exercise Forager Fury III. He was raised in Saipan, located near Tinian, and joined the Marine Corps shortly after graduating high school. Manibusan is a field wireman with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released)

Sgt. Anthony McDaniel Jr. from Pascagoula, Mississippi, plays front and center during sitting volleyball practice for the Marine team, Sept. 26, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team has been training since September 15 in order to build team cohesion and acclimate to the above 6,000 feet altitude of Colorado Springs. The Marine team is comprised of both active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines. The Warrior Games are a Paralympic-style competition for more than 200 wounded, ill and injured service members and are taking place Sept. 28 to Oct. 4 at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Follow the Marine team's progress at www.facebook.com/wwr.usmc. - Sgt. Anthony McDaniel Jr. from Pascagoula, Mississippi, plays front and center during sitting volleyball practice for the Marine team, Sept. 26, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team has been training since September 15 in order to build team cohesion and acclimate to the above 6,000 feet altitude of Colorado Springs. The Marine team is comprised of both active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines. The Warrior Games are a Paralympic-style competition for more than 200 wounded, ill and injured service members and are taking place Sept. 28 to Oct. 4 at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Follow the Marine team's progress at www.facebook.com/wwr.usmc.

Sgt. Devin Hughes, a member of the Marine Corps Shooting Team, fires a round at a target during the Royal Marines Operational Shooting Competition at Altcar Range near Hightown, England, Sept. 8, 2014. The U.S. Marine Corps team dominated the pistol competitions, taking first place by more than 1,000 points. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cameron Storm/Released) - Sgt. Devin Hughes, a member of the Marine Corps Shooting Team, fires a round at a target during the Royal Marines Operational Shooting Competition at Altcar Range near Hightown, England, Sept. 8, 2014. The U.S. Marine Corps team dominated the pistol competitions, taking first place by more than 1,000 points. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cameron Storm/Released)

Hospitalman First Class Jamie Sclater, a native to Annandale, Virginia, aims down range with other shooters during shooting practice for the Marine team, September 24, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team has been training since September 15 in order to build team cohesion and acclimate to the above 6,000 ft. altitude of Colorado Springs. The Marine team is comprised of both active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines. - Hospitalman First Class Jamie Sclater, a native to Annandale, Virginia, aims down range with other shooters during shooting practice for the Marine team, September 24, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team has been training since September 15 in order to build team cohesion and acclimate to the above 6,000 ft. altitude of Colorado Springs. The Marine team is comprised of both active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines.

Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6. - Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6.

A rifleman with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, hikes to his company objective during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 23, 2014. The MCCRE is designed to be a final evaluation to ensure the Marines are prepared to be deployed. The battalion is slated to deploy as the ground combat element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit next year. - A rifleman with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, hikes to his company objective during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 23, 2014. The MCCRE is designed to be a final evaluation to ensure the Marines are prepared to be deployed. The battalion is slated to deploy as the ground combat element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit next year.

A Marine wearing Rugged All Terrain boots disembarks from a helicopter in Afghanistan. Two pairs of RAT boots, a temperate variant and hot variant, like the ones pictured above, will be issued to Marine Corps recruits and officer candidates in their sea bags starting Dec. 1, 2014. - A Marine wearing Rugged All Terrain boots disembarks from a helicopter in Afghanistan. Two pairs of RAT boots, a temperate variant and hot variant, like the ones pictured above, will be issued to Marine Corps recruits and officer candidates in their sea bags starting Dec. 1, 2014.

Marine Infantry Officer Course students await a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter fast rope drill on the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Auxiliary Landing Field 2, Wednesday, August 18, 2014. The fast rope training instilled in these Marines the skills necessary to complete IOC’s final exercise, Talon Reach IV. - Marine Infantry Officer Course students await a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter fast rope drill on the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Auxiliary Landing Field 2, Wednesday, August 18, 2014. The fast rope training instilled in these Marines the skills necessary to complete IOC’s final exercise, Talon Reach IV.

Private Sarah Trull, a fiscal clerk with Marine Air Group 39, puts together an Arctic shelter Aug. 29, 2014, aboard Camp Pendleton, California. The system is an ultra-lightweight, rapidly deployable shelter that offers military forces the necessary infrastructure to operate in austere cold-weather locations. The system is being used for training exercises in Bridgeport, California, and is slated to be integrated into exercises early next year. - Private Sarah Trull, a fiscal clerk with Marine Air Group 39, puts together an Arctic shelter Aug. 29, 2014, aboard Camp Pendleton, California. The system is an ultra-lightweight, rapidly deployable shelter that offers military forces the necessary infrastructure to operate in austere cold-weather locations. The system is being used for training exercises in Bridgeport, California, and is slated to be integrated into exercises early next year.

A U.S. Marine Critical Skills Operator with 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, releases his ruck sack from his body, preparing to land during a double-bag static line parachute training course , Aug 26, 2014, in rural Arizona. The course was an introduction to the High Altitude, High Opening insertion method utilized by Special Operations Forces. - A U.S. Marine Critical Skills Operator with 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, releases his ruck sack from his body, preparing to land during a double-bag static line parachute training course , Aug 26, 2014, in rural Arizona. The course was an introduction to the High Altitude, High Opening insertion method utilized by Special Operations Forces.

British soldiers of the 5, 6, and 7 Military Intelligence Battalions, 1 Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Brigade, board buses to return to the barracks at the conclusion of Exercise Phoenix Odyssey on Sept. 17, 2014. The week-long field exercise, conducted alongside Marines of 2nd Intelligence Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, provided scenario driven tests of their ability to integrate intelligence practices. The two forces have been training in a Military Operations in Urban Terrain facility on Camp Lejeune since the field portion began Sept 11, 2014. - British soldiers of the 5, 6, and 7 Military Intelligence Battalions, 1 Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Brigade, board buses to return to the barracks at the conclusion of Exercise Phoenix Odyssey on Sept. 17, 2014. The week-long field exercise, conducted alongside Marines of 2nd Intelligence Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, provided scenario driven tests of their ability to integrate intelligence practices. The two forces have been training in a Military Operations in Urban Terrain facility on Camp Lejeune since the field portion began Sept 11, 2014.

Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, conduct a Gator Square after disembarking the USS Whidbey Island off the coast of Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. A Gator Square is completed when the assault amphibious vehicles form a square out at sea and maneuver back onto the ship. - Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, conduct a Gator Square after disembarking the USS Whidbey Island off the coast of Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. A Gator Square is completed when the assault amphibious vehicles form a square out at sea and maneuver back onto the ship.

Marines with Charlie Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, shoot at pop-up targets during a course of fire aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Sept. 2, 2014. The Marines spent the entire day shooting an unknown distance range with the M4 Carbine and the M249 squad automatic weapon to better themselves at estimating distances and eliminating a target. - Marines with Charlie Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, shoot at pop-up targets during a course of fire aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia, Sept. 2, 2014. The Marines spent the entire day shooting an unknown distance range with the M4 Carbine and the M249 squad automatic weapon to better themselves at estimating distances and eliminating a target.

Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1 Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise. - Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California, Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise.

Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise. - Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise.

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Marines purchase food and drinks from a local vendor Sept. 20 during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 at a compound near Tinian’s North Field, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei) - Marines purchase food and drinks from a local vendor Sept. 20 during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 at a compound near Tinian’s North Field, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei)

Marines load a diver propulsion device into a combat rubber raiding craft Sept. 20 at U.S. Naval Base Guam during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The device aids the Marines conducting night infiltration. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities, which provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are reconnaissance men with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines load a diver propulsion device into a combat rubber raiding craft Sept. 20 at U.S. Naval Base Guam during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The device aids the Marines conducting night infiltration. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities, which provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are reconnaissance men with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marine infantrymen make their way to a compound held by Guam Army National Guard who are acting as an opposing force Sept. 20 during the island seizure portion of Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian’s North Field. The Marines were transported from Okinawa to Guam and from there to Tinian. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are with Company A, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. D. A. Walters/ Released) - Marine infantrymen make their way to a compound held by Guam Army National Guard who are acting as an opposing force Sept. 20 during the island seizure portion of Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian’s North Field. The Marines were transported from Okinawa to Guam and from there to Tinian. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are with Company A, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. D. A. Walters/ Released)

Two Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fire an AT4-Rocket Launcher at a target during a live-fire training exercise on Range P28 aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Sept. 5. The range was built specifically for the unit as a training aid to increase overall unit readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jorden M. Wells / Released) - Two Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fire an AT4-Rocket Launcher at a target during a live-fire training exercise on Range P28 aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Sept. 5. The range was built specifically for the unit as a training aid to increase overall unit readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jorden M. Wells / Released)

Brigadier Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, left, commander, Regional Command and Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan, awards Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Van Horn, a corpsman with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device during an award ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 17, 2014. Van Horn received the award for heroic achievement while being a first responder to Marine casualties after their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. - Brigadier Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, left, commander, Regional Command and Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan, awards Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Van Horn, a corpsman with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device during an award ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 17, 2014. Van Horn received the award for heroic achievement while being a first responder to Marine casualties after their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device.

Marines and sailors with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, patrol with Afghan National Army counterparts during a security operation in Helmand province, Sept. 9, 2014. During the 72-hour operation, Marines and ANA soldiers conducted dismounted patrols on foot to search nearby compounds for weapons and lethal aid. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cody Haas/ Released) - Marines and sailors with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, patrol with Afghan National Army counterparts during a security operation in Helmand province, Sept. 9, 2014. During the 72-hour operation, Marines and ANA soldiers conducted dismounted patrols on foot to search nearby compounds for weapons and lethal aid. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cody Haas/ Released)

Commissioners with the California Energy Commission toured Camp Pendleton, Sept. 17, to gain an overview of the bases mission and various support functions. While on the tour the commissioners observed some of the Marine Corps initiatives and successes in the employment of Alternative Energy Vehicles and Fuel usage, several of the ongoing and developing renewable energy projects and some of the tactical expeditionary energy equipment here. - Commissioners with the California Energy Commission toured Camp Pendleton, Sept. 17, to gain an overview of the bases mission and various support functions. While on the tour the commissioners observed some of the Marine Corps initiatives and successes in the employment of Alternative Energy Vehicles and Fuel usage, several of the ongoing and developing renewable energy projects and some of the tactical expeditionary energy equipment here.

Lance Cpl. Carlos Morris, admin specialist, Headquarters Battalion, helps camper, Chase Neiberger learn how to shoot an archery bow at Camp Ronald McDonald in Mountain Center, Calif. on Sept. 13, 2014. Desert Arc has provided disabled adults with care and life skills for approximately 55 years. - Lance Cpl. Carlos Morris, admin specialist, Headquarters Battalion, helps camper, Chase Neiberger learn how to shoot an archery bow at Camp Ronald McDonald in Mountain Center, Calif. on Sept. 13, 2014. Desert Arc has provided disabled adults with care and life skills for approximately 55 years.

Recruits of India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, stand at parade rest as they await the senior drill Instructor’s inspection at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 5. During the inspection it was crucial for the recruits to remain calm, keep their eyes forward while at attention and answer the questions they were asked. It was a sign of confidence and bearing - two traits drill instructors were seeking. - Recruits of India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, stand at parade rest as they await the senior drill Instructor’s inspection at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 5. During the inspection it was crucial for the recruits to remain calm, keep their eyes forward while at attention and answer the questions they were asked. It was a sign of confidence and bearing - two traits drill instructors were seeking.

Marines set up concertina wire around a weather observation compound in preparation of Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian, North Marianas Islands. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released) - Marines set up concertina wire around a weather observation compound in preparation of Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian, North Marianas Islands. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released)

Cpls. Daniel R. Roca, left, and Jarrod R. Allen check the oil on a 7-ton truck Aug. 30 during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-2 at the Yausubetsu Maneuver Area in Hokkaido, Japan. Marines working at the administrative logistics ordnance command maintained vehicles and equipment for three batteries during ARTP 14-2. Roca is from Germantown, Maryland, and an automotive organizational mechanic with 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Allen is from Amarillo, Texas, and a motor vehicle operator with the battalion. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Manning/Released) - Cpls. Daniel R. Roca, left, and Jarrod R. Allen check the oil on a 7-ton truck Aug. 30 during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-2 at the Yausubetsu Maneuver Area in Hokkaido, Japan. Marines working at the administrative logistics ordnance command maintained vehicles and equipment for three batteries during ARTP 14-2. Roca is from Germantown, Maryland, and an automotive organizational mechanic with 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Allen is from Amarillo, Texas, and a motor vehicle operator with the battalion. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Manning/Released)

Sgt. Rico L. Rose clears the back-blast area during a simulated PL-87 Stinger missile shoot during a 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion’s section leader course and team leader course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 11, 2014. Rose is a gunner with the battalion and a native of Appomattox, Va. - Sgt. Rico L. Rose clears the back-blast area during a simulated PL-87 Stinger missile shoot during a 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion’s section leader course and team leader course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 11, 2014. Rose is a gunner with the battalion and a native of Appomattox, Va.

Sgt. Steven Johnson (wearing woodland gortex jacket), a quality assurance representative with Marine Fighter Attacks Squadron 122 and Fairbanks, Alaska native, assists a maintenance Marine with pre-flight turning of one of the squadron's F/A-18C Hornets, Sept. 11, 2014, aboard Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 is conducting unit level training in Alaska as part of Exercise Distant Frontier. - Sgt. Steven Johnson (wearing woodland gortex jacket), a quality assurance representative with Marine Fighter Attacks Squadron 122 and Fairbanks, Alaska native, assists a maintenance Marine with pre-flight turning of one of the squadron's F/A-18C Hornets, Sept. 11, 2014, aboard Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 is conducting unit level training in Alaska as part of Exercise Distant Frontier.

Retired Gen. James Mattis is presented the Freedom Award by Marine veteran Jeremiah Workman at the No Greater Sacrifice 2014 Freedom Award Family Day, Washington D.C., September 13, 2014. The Freedom Award is awarded to a service member who gives in selfless service to their nation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Melissa Karnath/Released) - Retired Gen. James Mattis is presented the Freedom Award by Marine veteran Jeremiah Workman at the No Greater Sacrifice 2014 Freedom Award Family Day, Washington D.C., September 13, 2014. The Freedom Award is awarded to a service member who gives in selfless service to their nation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Melissa Karnath/Released)

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadrons 171 and 172, both currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, use a jackhammer to drive a stake into the ground as part of the M31 Marine Corps expeditionary arresting gear system installation in preparation for Valiant Shield 2014. Arresting gear is used to stop aircraft quickly in case they land on a short runway or experience an emergency. Valiant Shield is a biennial exercise which focuses on training that enables real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces. - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadrons 171 and 172, both currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, use a jackhammer to drive a stake into the ground as part of the M31 Marine Corps expeditionary arresting gear system installation in preparation for Valiant Shield 2014. Arresting gear is used to stop aircraft quickly in case they land on a short runway or experience an emergency. Valiant Shield is a biennial exercise which focuses on training that enables real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces.

Lance Cpl. Alexander Stensland, left, signals good to go to Lt. Col. Roger T. McDuffie who is piloting an AV-8B Harrier on the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. Stensland is an aircraft powerline mechanic and McDuffie is the commanding officer of Marine Attack Squadron 223. Stensland is a native of Hastings, Minn. - Lance Cpl. Alexander Stensland, left, signals good to go to Lt. Col. Roger T. McDuffie who is piloting an AV-8B Harrier on the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. Stensland is an aircraft powerline mechanic and McDuffie is the commanding officer of Marine Attack Squadron 223. Stensland is a native of Hastings, Minn.

Major Gen. Vincent A. Coglianese, 1st Marine Logistics Group Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Leonardo Pinto Morales, commander of the 7th Division of the Colombian Army, Maj. Gen. Lawrence D. Nicholson, 1st Marine Division commanding general, Col. Phil Frietze, G-3 operations officer, 1st MLG, and other leaders within the Colombian Armed Forces pose for a picture as part of the Colombian Observance Exchange Program Sept. 2, 2014 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif. More than thirty officers of the Colombian School of Advanced Warfighting visited 1st MLG to allow members of both the U.S. Marine Corps and Colombian Armed Forces to build an understanding of services, share best practices and strengthen camaraderie and interoperability. - Major Gen. Vincent A. Coglianese, 1st Marine Logistics Group Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Leonardo Pinto Morales, commander of the 7th Division of the Colombian Army, Maj. Gen. Lawrence D. Nicholson, 1st Marine Division commanding general, Col. Phil Frietze, G-3 operations officer, 1st MLG, and other leaders within the Colombian Armed Forces pose for a picture as part of the Colombian Observance Exchange Program Sept. 2, 2014 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif. More than thirty officers of the Colombian School of Advanced Warfighting visited 1st MLG to allow members of both the U.S. Marine Corps and Colombian Armed Forces to build an understanding of services, share best practices and strengthen camaraderie and interoperability.

Lance Corporal Antonio C. Galloway (center), an aircraft communications, navigation, electrical and weapon systems technician with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron [VMM 264], poses for a photo with General James F. Amos (right center), 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps and Sgt. Maj. Micheal P. Barrett, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps (center left) and other service members with VMM 264 aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, Sept. 3, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin) - Lance Corporal Antonio C. Galloway (center), an aircraft communications, navigation, electrical and weapon systems technician with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron [VMM 264], poses for a photo with General James F. Amos (right center), 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps and Sgt. Maj. Micheal P. Barrett, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps (center left) and other service members with VMM 264 aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, Sept. 3, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin)