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Sergeants Philip Kelly (Near) and Derrek Cardinale (Far), receive Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals from Lt. Gen. Richard P. Mills, commander of Marine Forces Reserve, for their work as Lance Corporal Leadership Ethics Seminar trainers after educating senior enlisted advisors in the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans auditorium, Aug. 27, 2014. The train-the-trainer course was designed to inform senior enlisted advisors on the new Lance Corporal Leadership Ethics Seminar implemented throughout the Marine Corps. The seminar was implemented to inform lance corporals of the resources available to them, as well as motivate them to succeed and strive for the next rank. - Sergeants Philip Kelly (Near) and Derrek Cardinale (Far), receive Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals from Lt. Gen. Richard P. Mills, commander of Marine Forces Reserve, for their work as Lance Corporal Leadership Ethics Seminar trainers after educating senior enlisted advisors in the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans auditorium, Aug. 27, 2014. The train-the-trainer course was designed to inform senior enlisted advisors on the new Lance Corporal Leadership Ethics Seminar implemented throughout the Marine Corps. The seminar was implemented to inform lance corporals of the resources available to them, as well as motivate them to succeed and strive for the next rank.

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Marines and sailors are competing for a place on the All Navy and Marine Corps rugby team to represent our country in the Common Wealth Navies Rugby Cup located in New Zealand.There are currently 35 members of the All Navy and Marine Corps team, but only about 28 will be going to the rugby motherland. They claimed a 21-7 victory over the Oceanside Chiefs, a division two rugby team with three division titles and one national title, in their first local scrimmage at Paige Field House here, Aug. 30.(Photo by Cpl. Keenan Zelazoski) - Marines and sailors are competing for a place on the All Navy and Marine Corps rugby team to represent our country in the Common Wealth Navies Rugby Cup located in New Zealand.There are currently 35 members of the All Navy and Marine Corps team, but only about 28 will be going to the rugby motherland. They claimed a 21-7 victory over the Oceanside Chiefs, a division two rugby team with three division titles and one national title, in their first local scrimmage at Paige Field House here, Aug. 30.(Photo by Cpl. Keenan Zelazoski)

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A CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364 approaches the flight deck of the future amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) preparing to land, Aug. 24, 2014. Four helicopters with the squadron arrived aboard America ending the exercise Partnership of the Americas 2014. POA was based on a simulated humanitarian assistance and disaster relief scenario in Chile. Multiple nations came together to plan and execute a multi-lateral exercise in response to the HA/DR scenario. Exercises like POA allow the U.S. and our partners in the region to respond to and address transnational and global challenges. America is currently transiting through the U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility on her maiden transit “America Visits the Americas.” (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Donald Holbert/ Released) - A CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364 approaches the flight deck of the future amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) preparing to land, Aug. 24, 2014. Four helicopters with the squadron arrived aboard America ending the exercise Partnership of the Americas 2014. POA was based on a simulated humanitarian assistance and disaster relief scenario in Chile. Multiple nations came together to plan and execute a multi-lateral exercise in response to the HA/DR scenario. Exercises like POA allow the U.S. and our partners in the region to respond to and address transnational and global challenges. America is currently transiting through the U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility on her maiden transit “America Visits the Americas.” (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Donald Holbert/ Released)

Children from a local school try on the flight gear worn by MV-22 crew members on an MV-22 Osprey during a tour aboard the future amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) in Valparaiso, Chile, Aug. 25, 2014. The children were given the opportunity to get hands on with several static displays hosted by Marines and Sailors showcasing the capabilities that Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South brings to the ship. SPMAGTF-South is embarked aboard America in support of her maiden transit “America Visits the Americas.” The transit demonstrates the capabilities that the Navy-Marine Corps team brings to our nation and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Donald Holbert/Released) - Children from a local school try on the flight gear worn by MV-22 crew members on an MV-22 Osprey during a tour aboard the future amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) in Valparaiso, Chile, Aug. 25, 2014. The children were given the opportunity to get hands on with several static displays hosted by Marines and Sailors showcasing the capabilities that Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South brings to the ship. SPMAGTF-South is embarked aboard America in support of her maiden transit “America Visits the Americas.” The transit demonstrates the capabilities that the Navy-Marine Corps team brings to our nation and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Donald Holbert/Released)

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Marines with reserve 4th Force Reconnaissance Company conduct live-fire training during their full-mission profile as part of their annual training on and around Kaneohe Bay Range Training Facility, Aug. 23, 2014. Force Recon’s mission is conducting deep reconnaissance to provide intelligence to follow-on forces. - Marines with reserve 4th Force Reconnaissance Company conduct live-fire training during their full-mission profile as part of their annual training on and around Kaneohe Bay Range Training Facility, Aug. 23, 2014. Force Recon’s mission is conducting deep reconnaissance to provide intelligence to follow-on forces.

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII - Divers look upon the sunken remains of a Vietnam-era amphibious landing craft, that allegedly went under during a demonstration for the Secretary of the Navy on Pyramid Rock Beach, Marine Corps Base Hawaii. (Courtesy photo from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) - MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII - Divers look upon the sunken remains of a Vietnam-era amphibious landing craft, that allegedly went under during a demonstration for the Secretary of the Navy on Pyramid Rock Beach, Marine Corps Base Hawaii. (Courtesy photo from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

Last year, service members were provided with yet another facility to choose from when the 22-area mess hall was built. Now, approximately one year and five months later, the mess hall is one of the best on the west coast.The mess hall staff completed their first inspection in pursuit of the William P.T. Hill award for best garrison mess hall in the Marine Corps here, Aug. 25.(Photo by Cpl. Keenan Zelazoski) - Last year, service members were provided with yet another facility to choose from when the 22-area mess hall was built. Now, approximately one year and five months later, the mess hall is one of the best on the west coast. The mess hall staff completed their first inspection in pursuit of the William P.T. Hill award for best garrison mess hall in the Marine Corps here, Aug. 25. (Photo by Cpl. Keenan Zelazoski)

Recruits of Company B, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, practice blood chokes during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program session at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., Aug. 25. To ensure the safety of the recruits, the chokes were not applied completely, rather the recruit having the technique applied was instructed to tap their partners as soon as they felt the choke was being applied correctly. - Recruits of Company B, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, practice blood chokes during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program session at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., Aug. 25. To ensure the safety of the recruits, the chokes were not applied completely, rather the recruit having the technique applied was instructed to tap their partners as soon as they felt the choke was being applied correctly.

Pvt. Joel A. Lopez, Platoon 3263, Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, performs buddy push-ups with his platoon during the Crucible at Marine Corps BaseCamp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 20. Lopez graduates recruit training today, and will then attend Marine Combat Training at Camp Pendleton. Upon completion of MCT, he willcontinue training for his military occupational specialty as a field artillery cannoneer. - Pvt. Joel A. Lopez, Platoon 3263, Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, performs buddy push-ups with his platoon during the Crucible at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 20. Lopez graduates recruit training today, and will then attend Marine Combat Training at Camp Pendleton. Upon completion of MCT, he will continue training for his military occupational specialty as a field artillery cannoneer.

Recruits of Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, battle each other during Pugil Sticks III at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Aug. 26. While Pugil Sticks is one of the more popular events in recruit training, it also serves a purpose beyond the physical training. - Recruits of Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, battle each other during Pugil Sticks III at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Aug. 26. While Pugil Sticks is one of the more popular events in recruit training, it also serves a purpose beyond the physical training.

A mock victim lies on the floor before an active shooter exercise called “Operation Social Fury” aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 27. The exercise allowed first responders to react to the threat of an active shooter in a safe and controlled manner while observers judged their reactions. - A mock victim lies on the floor before an active shooter exercise called “Operation Social Fury” aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 27. The exercise allowed first responders to react to the threat of an active shooter in a safe and controlled manner while observers judged their reactions.

Marines, sailors with Bravo Company conduct security patrol in Helmand province, Afghanistan - Marines, sailors with Bravo Company conduct security patrol in Helmand province, Afghanistan

Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force fire the Non-Lethal, Tube-Launched Munitions System from a vehicle at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 14, 2014. The live fire showcased the versatility and shock and awe effect of the NLTLMS and how effective it can be at a vehicle checkpoint. Marine Corps Systems Command Optics and Non-Lethal Systems is fielding the system that sends non-lethal munitions out as far as 500 meters and uses an audible bang to deter a crowd or a person with mal-intent. - Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force fire the Non-Lethal, Tube-Launched Munitions System from a vehicle at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 14, 2014. The live fire showcased the versatility and shock and awe effect of the NLTLMS and how effective it can be at a vehicle checkpoint. Marine Corps Systems Command Optics and Non-Lethal Systems is fielding the system that sends non-lethal munitions out as far as 500 meters and uses an audible bang to deter a crowd or a person with mal-intent.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Aug. 27, 2014) – Sailors with Beachmaster Unit 2, Naval Beach Group Two, guide Sgt. William Anderson, a motor transportation operator with Transport Support, Combat Logistics Battalion 26 onto an Improved Navy Lighterage System (INLS) during a loading exercise (LOADEX) aboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek Aug. 27. The LOADEX was designed to simulate a Defense Support to Civil Authorities (DSCA) mission, in order to train the Marines and Sailors what they need to accomplish during an actual DSCA mission and identify and rectify any shortfalls before the event of a real-world mission. A DSCA mission would occur if a federal agency, on behalf of local civil authorities, made a request to the Department of Defense to fill specific gaps in their abilities to respond to a natural or man-made disaster. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Scott McAdam/Released) - VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Aug. 27, 2014) – Sailors with Beachmaster Unit 2, Naval Beach Group Two, guide Sgt. William Anderson, a motor transportation operator with Transport Support, Combat Logistics Battalion 26 onto an Improved Navy Lighterage System (INLS) during a loading exercise (LOADEX) aboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek Aug. 27. The LOADEX was designed to simulate a Defense Support to Civil Authorities (DSCA) mission, in order to train the Marines and Sailors what they need to accomplish during an actual DSCA mission and identify and rectify any shortfalls before the event of a real-world mission. A DSCA mission would occur if a federal agency, on behalf of local civil authorities, made a request to the Department of Defense to fill specific gaps in their abilities to respond to a natural or man-made disaster. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Scott McAdam/Released)

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – The families of Cpl. Johnathan T. Yale and Lance Cpl. Jordan C. Haerter bow their heads in prayer during a dedication ceremony to rename the Wallace Creek Dining Hall in honor of the two Marines Aug. 28, 2014, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. Yale and Haerter died protecting their fellow Marines in Iraq when they engaged and stopped a truck loaded with 2,000 pounds of explosives before it reached its intended target in April 2008. Both Marines were posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for heroism. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Michelle M. Mohn) - MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – The families of Cpl. Johnathan T. Yale and Lance Cpl. Jordan C. Haerter bow their heads in prayer during a dedication ceremony to rename the Wallace Creek Dining Hall in honor of the two Marines Aug. 28, 2014, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. Yale and Haerter died protecting their fellow Marines in Iraq when they engaged and stopped a truck loaded with 2,000 pounds of explosives before it reached its intended target in April 2008. Both Marines were posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for heroism. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Michelle M. Mohn)

Manti Te’o, a San Diego Chargers’ linebacker, signs an autograph for a child during a military appreciation day aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 27. The Chargers practiced with the MCAS Miramar Falcons before socializing with fans. - Manti Te’o, a San Diego Chargers’ linebacker, signs an autograph for a child during a military appreciation day aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 27. The Chargers practiced with the MCAS Miramar Falcons before socializing with fans.

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Members of the 1st Marine Division Association, Phoenix Chapter, sit with Marines with E Co., 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, during the coin presentation ceremony at Building 1707 aboard the Combat Center, Aug. 22, 2014. - Members of the 1st Marine Division Association, Phoenix Chapter, sit with Marines with E Co., 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, during the coin presentation ceremony at Building 1707 aboard the Combat Center, Aug. 22, 2014.

The 6th Annual Feds Feed Families Campaign began June 18, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. The campaign, which runs through August, is a voluntary effort undertaken by federal employees to bring nonperishable food items to their offices for distribution to local food banks. The food is used to support food insecure households in the surrounding communities. Donation boxes are located at the Marine Corps Exchanges on MCAS Beaufort and Laurel Bay and the Station Chapel. - The 6th Annual Feds Feed Families Campaign began June 18, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. The campaign, which runs through August, is a voluntary effort undertaken by federal employees to bring nonperishable food items to their offices for distribution to local food banks. The food is used to support food insecure households in the surrounding communities. Donation boxes are located at the Marine Corps Exchanges on MCAS Beaufort and Laurel Bay and the Station Chapel.

Pfc. Dalton Hubbard, freight specialist, Distribution Management Office, unloads a double pallet of coffee for chaplains and Marines to redistribute at a loading dock for Operation Coffee Giveaway with donated Keurig cups and ground coffee from Holy Joe’s Café, Aug. 21, 2014. - Pfc. Dalton Hubbard, freight specialist, Distribution Management Office, unloads a double pallet of coffee for chaplains and Marines to redistribute at a loading dock for Operation Coffee Giveaway with donated Keurig cups and ground coffee from Holy Joe’s Café, Aug. 21, 2014.

In 1986, Richard Burris took the challenge of going through the rigorous 13-week training that is Marine Corps boot camp. Nearly three decades later, Burris’ son followed in those same yellow footsteps that transform young adults into Marines.Now a master gunnery sergeant in the Marine Corps, Burris is known throughout the field of correctional specialists by name and by reputation. His position as the technical advisor at the Naval Consolidated Brig Charleston, speaks well of his experience as a leader. Leadership that spans not only through the enlisted ranks but carries over to officers he has trained while they were junior enlisted. Naturally, his leadership transferred over to his family of five. - In 1986, Richard Burris took the challenge of going through the rigorous 13-week training that is Marine Corps boot camp. Nearly three decades later, Burris’ son followed in those same yellow footsteps that transform young adults into Marines. Now a master gunnery sergeant in the Marine Corps, Burris is known throughout the field of correctional specialists by name and by reputation. His position as the technical advisor at the Naval Consolidated Brig Charleston, speaks well of his experience as a leader. Leadership that spans not only through the enlisted ranks but carries over to officers he has trained while they were junior enlisted. Naturally, his leadership transferred over to his family of five.

Jacklyn Wilson, owner, Crazy Horse Ranch, leads two horses to prepare them for saddle mounting during a volunteer event for Marines at Crazy Horse Ranch. The ranch offers trail rides, personal lessons and occasional clinics for groups, Aug. 24, 2014. - Jacklyn Wilson, owner, Crazy Horse Ranch, leads two horses to prepare them for saddle mounting during a volunteer event for Marines at Crazy Horse Ranch. The ranch offers trail rides, personal lessons and occasional clinics for groups, Aug. 24, 2014.

First Lt. Wayne Quint ran Cross Country in high school, eventually becoming the team captain with his best three-mile time being 16 minutes, eight seconds. He attended the University of California, Los Angles, and went on to earn hid degree in law. Shorty after, he decided to commission in the Marine Corps. - First Lt. Wayne Quint ran Cross Country in high school, eventually becoming the team captain with his best three-mile time being 16 minutes, eight seconds. He attended the University of California, Los Angles, and went on to earn hid degree in law. Shorty after, he decided to commission in the Marine Corps.

Lance Cpl. Nathan Nguyen fires a M-1014 combat shotgun during a live-fire range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2014. Nguyen is an aviation communications technician with Marine Air Support Squadron 1. - Lance Cpl. Nathan Nguyen fires a M-1014 combat shotgun during a live-fire range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2014. Nguyen is an aviation communications technician with Marine Air Support Squadron 1.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Eric Mercado makes his way across a river while training to build and cross rope bridges during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 27, 2014. Mercado is an infantry assaultman with 2nd Platoon, India Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment will become the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s ground combat element in October. Mountain Exercise 2014 develops critical skills the battalion will need during deployment. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Eric Mercado makes his way across a river while training to build and cross rope bridges during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 27, 2014. Mercado is an infantry assaultman with 2nd Platoon, India Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment will become the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s ground combat element in October. Mountain Exercise 2014 develops critical skills the battalion will need during deployment.

Sergeant Steven B. Waddell, with Fleet Support Division, Production Plant Barstow, receives a quilt from Quilts of Valor during Quarterly Awards breakfast, Aug., 20. Quilts of Valor volunteers make quilts for deserving service members around the world. - Sergeant Steven B. Waddell, with Fleet Support Division, Production Plant Barstow, receives a quilt from Quilts of Valor during Quarterly Awards breakfast, Aug., 20. Quilts of Valor volunteers make quilts for deserving service members around the world.

A recruit from Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, attempts to swing to a platform during Gonzalez’s Challenge at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 20. Gonzalez’s Challenge is one of many exercises recruits are required to perform during the Crucible, a 54-hour exercise that is the final test of recruit training. - A recruit from Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, attempts to swing to a platform during Gonzalez’s Challenge at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 20. Gonzalez’s Challenge is one of many exercises recruits are required to perform during the Crucible, a 54-hour exercise that is the final test of recruit training.

Cpl. Megan Hancock, a native of Sheridan, Ill., has been a reproductions specialist at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., since 2012, Aug. 26, 2014. As with many other Marines, Hancock said she had to adjust to the changes that come with moving to a city. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dan Hosack/Released) - Cpl. Megan Hancock, a native of Sheridan, Ill., has been a reproductions specialist at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., since 2012, Aug. 26, 2014. As with many other Marines, Hancock said she had to adjust to the changes that come with moving to a city. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dan Hosack/Released)

Lance Cpl. Scott Wern, an assaultman with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, and fellow Marines prepare to fire a volley of rockets aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 22, 2014. The Marines performed the rocket drills to sustain of the Marine’s operational abilities. - Lance Cpl. Scott Wern, an assaultman with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, and fellow Marines prepare to fire a volley of rockets aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 22, 2014. The Marines performed the rocket drills to sustain of the Marine’s operational abilities.

A simulated improvised explosive device is set off as a tactical convoy travels down a simulated highway during the Autonomous Mobility Applique System Joint Capability Technology Demonstration Aug. 20, 2014, at the Savannah River Site in Aiken, South Carolina. The IED demonstration tested the AMAS’ capability to detect obstacles to better maneuver a convoy. - A simulated improvised explosive device is set off as a tactical convoy travels down a simulated highway during the Autonomous Mobility Applique System Joint Capability Technology Demonstration Aug. 20, 2014, at the Savannah River Site in Aiken, South Carolina. The IED demonstration tested the AMAS’ capability to detect obstacles to better maneuver a convoy.

Lance Cpl. Cody Goers, a native of Louisville, Kentucky, prepares to board a CH-53E Super Stallion Aug. 22 at the Central Training Area. Once the aircraft crews give a predetermined signal, Marines can make their way to the helicopter. Goers is a team leader with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. - Lance Cpl. Cody Goers, a native of Louisville, Kentucky, prepares to board a CH-53E Super Stallion Aug. 22 at the Central Training Area. Once the aircraft crews give a predetermined signal, Marines can make their way to the helicopter. Goers is a team leader with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program.

Patrons of Marine Corps Base Quantico’s 50M Pool sit on the pool’s edge before swimming laps Aug. 25. - Patrons of Marine Corps Base Quantico’s 50M Pool sit on the pool’s edge before swimming laps Aug. 25.

Luis Morales, No. 31, crouches with his daughter after completing the Quantico Tri on Marine Corps Base Quantico in 1 hour, 14 minutes, 50 seconds on Sunday. Morales was featured in the Aug. 21 editoin of the Quantico Sentry. - Luis Morales, No. 31, crouches with his daughter after completing the Quantico Tri on Marine Corps Base Quantico in 1 hour, 14 minutes, 50 seconds on Sunday. Morales was featured in the Aug. 21 editoin of the Quantico Sentry.

Marines from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Gold Company, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment prepare to fire the Expeditionary Fire Support System from Marine Corps Base Quantico's Weapons Range 3 on Aug. 20. - Marines from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Gold Company, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment prepare to fire the Expeditionary Fire Support System from Marine Corps Base Quantico's Weapons Range 3 on Aug. 20.

Col. Clifford Weinstein, commanding officer, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., left, and Col. Darren Richardson, deputy commander of the 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve in New Orleans, and Col. Gerard Wynn, assistant chief of staff for operations and plans at the Marine Corps Forces Command Individual Mobilization Augmentee, engage in a discussion during the “Senior Planners Course” on Aug. 20 at Marine Corps University aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. - Col. Clifford Weinstein, commanding officer, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., left, and Col. Darren Richardson, deputy commander of the 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve in New Orleans, and Col. Gerard Wynn, assistant chief of staff for operations and plans at the Marine Corps Forces Command Individual Mobilization Augmentee, engage in a discussion during the “Senior Planners Course” on Aug. 20 at Marine Corps University aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico.

Carletha Windom accepts a proclamation honoring her late husband, Pfc. James Windom - an original Montford Point Marine - from Col. Don Davis, commanding officer, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, during a ceremony at the Chapel of the Good Shepherd, here, Aug. 22. - Carletha Windom accepts a proclamation honoring her late husband, Pfc. James Windom - an original Montford Point Marine - from Col. Don Davis, commanding officer, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, during a ceremony at the Chapel of the Good Shepherd, here, Aug. 22.

Members of the Malaysian Armed Forces observe as a landing craft air cushion carrying Marines and sailors from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron Five arrives on a beach during Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2014. MALUS AMPHEX 14 is a bilateral exercise between the 11th MEU and Malaysian Armed Forces that includes operational and tactical level training in planning, command and control, and combat service support using both ground and sea assets. - Members of the Malaysian Armed Forces observe as a landing craft air cushion carrying Marines and sailors from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron Five arrives on a beach during Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2014. MALUS AMPHEX 14 is a bilateral exercise between the 11th MEU and Malaysian Armed Forces that includes operational and tactical level training in planning, command and control, and combat service support using both ground and sea assets.

Marines and a sailor, with a sea services color guard, observe the “Undaunted in Battle” memorial in Bladensburg, Maryland Aug. 23, 2014. The monument was dedicated as a part of the 200 Year Commemoration of the Battle of Bladensburg. - Marines and a sailor, with a sea services color guard, observe the “Undaunted in Battle” memorial in Bladensburg, Maryland Aug. 23, 2014. The monument was dedicated as a part of the 200 Year Commemoration of the Battle of Bladensburg.

A Bulgarian soldier stands at the alert during a humanitarian scenario while participating in the final exercise of Platinum Lion 14-2, Aug. 11, 2014 at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria. During the seven-hour exercise, an escalating conflict between two socially-divided urban towns resulted in the deployment of peacekeeping entities. Platinum Lion 14-2 is an annually-scheduled training engagement that promotes and strengthens interoperability between regional partners, allies and U.S. forces through multilateral familiarization and training. Exercise Platinum Lion 14-2 includes U.S. Marines and sailors from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, as well as soldiers from Bulgaria, Romania and Serbia. - A Bulgarian soldier stands at the alert during a humanitarian scenario while participating in the final exercise of Platinum Lion 14-2, Aug. 11, 2014 at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria. During the seven-hour exercise, an escalating conflict between two socially-divided urban towns resulted in the deployment of peacekeeping entities. Platinum Lion 14-2 is an annually-scheduled training engagement that promotes and strengthens interoperability between regional partners, allies and U.S. forces through multilateral familiarization and training. Exercise Platinum Lion 14-2 includes U.S. Marines and sailors from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, as well as soldiers from Bulgaria, Romania and Serbia.

Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Michael Barrett presents the game ball to Washington Nationals pitcher Tanner Roark at the start of the Marine Corps Day game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., August 20, 2014. Marines lined the foul lines to watch their commandant and to salute the flag during the national anthem played by the Marine Corps Base Quantico Band. Marine Corps Day game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., August 20, 2014. Marines lined the foul lines to watch their commandant and to salute the flag during the national anthem played by the Marine Corps Base Quantico Band. - Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Michael Barrett presents the game ball to Washington Nationals pitcher Tanner Roark at the start of the Marine Corps Day game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., August 20, 2014. Marines lined the foul lines to watch their commandant and to salute the flag during the national anthem played by the Marine Corps Base Quantico Band. Marine Corps Day game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., August 20, 2014. Marines lined the foul lines to watch their commandant and to salute the flag during the national anthem played by the Marine Corps Base Quantico Band.

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus addresses the Marines and Sailors of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South and the future amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during an all hands call held aboard the ship, Aug. 19, 2014. During the meeting, Mabus addressed the Marines and Sailors of America and Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South. Visits like this remind the Marines and Sailors with America and the SPMAGTF of the significance of the work they are doing. SPMAGTF-South is embarked aboard America in support of her maiden transit, “America Visits the Americas.” Through partner-nation activities, theater security events and key leader engagements, the transit aims to demonstrate the flexibility, utility and unparalleled expeditionary capability the Navy-Marine Corps team provides our nation and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Donald Holbert/ Released) - Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus addresses the Marines and Sailors of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South and the future amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during an all hands call held aboard the ship, Aug. 19, 2014. During the meeting, Mabus addressed the Marines and Sailors of America and Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South. Visits like this remind the Marines and Sailors with America and the SPMAGTF of the significance of the work they are doing. SPMAGTF-South is embarked aboard America in support of her maiden transit, “America Visits the Americas.” Through partner-nation activities, theater security events and key leader engagements, the transit aims to demonstrate the flexibility, utility and unparalleled expeditionary capability the Navy-Marine Corps team provides our nation and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Donald Holbert/ Released)

BLUEMONT, Virginia — Retired Maj. Jennifer Marino, the executive director for Boulder Crest Retreat for Military and Veteran Wellness, dedicates her life to serving others after 15 years of service as a CH-46 pilot in the Marine Corps. The nonprofit organization provides service members, with combat-stress related injuries, and their families a place to go for the physical, mental, financial and spiritual recovery. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Jose D. Lujano/Released) - BLUEMONT, Virginia — Retired Maj. Jennifer Marino, the executive director for Boulder Crest Retreat for Military and Veteran Wellness, dedicates her life to serving others after 15 years of service as a CH-46 pilot in the Marine Corps. The nonprofit organization provides service members, with combat-stress related injuries, and their families a place to go for the physical, mental, financial and spiritual recovery. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Jose D. Lujano/Released)

Vehicles and equipment are staged at the designated offload pier during a pre-planned Single Ship Movement and offload of military equipment from a Maritime Prepositioning Force ship in the Trøndelag region of Norway. U.S. Marines from 2nd Marine Logistics Group out of Camp Lejeune, NC, in coordination with their Norwegian counterparts, are modernizing some of the equipment currently stored within six caves as a part of the Marine Corps Prepositioning Program-Norway by placing approximately 350 containers of gear and nearly 400 pieces of heavy rolling stock into the storage caves. 

Specific equipment which will greatly increase the program’s readiness includes M1A1 Main Battle Tanks, Tank Retrievers, Armored Breeching Vehicles, Amphibious Assault Vehicles, Expanded Capacity Vehicle (ECV) Gun Trucks and several variants of the MTVR 7 ½ ton trucks. Planning for this equipment refresh began in the spring of 2010. Marines and contractors from Blount Island Command in Jacksonville, Fla. and Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa are also in Norway to ensure the operation is conducted in a safe and timely manner. - Vehicles and equipment are staged at the designated offload pier during a pre-planned Single Ship Movement and offload of military equipment from a Maritime Prepositioning Force ship in the Trøndelag region of Norway. U.S. Marines from 2nd Marine Logistics Group out of Camp Lejeune, NC, in coordination with their Norwegian counterparts, are modernizing some of the equipment currently stored within six caves as a part of the Marine Corps Prepositioning Program-Norway by placing approximately 350 containers of gear and nearly 400 pieces of heavy rolling stock into the storage caves. 

Specific equipment which will greatly increase the program’s readiness includes M1A1 Main Battle Tanks, Tank Retrievers, Armored Breeching Vehicles, Amphibious Assault Vehicles, Expanded Capacity Vehicle (ECV) Gun Trucks and several variants of the MTVR 7 ½ ton trucks. Planning for this equipment refresh began in the spring of 2010. Marines and contractors from Blount Island Command in Jacksonville, Fla. and Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa are also in Norway to ensure the operation is conducted in a safe and timely manner.

The Marine Corps Uniform Board released a survey seeking input about three proposed uniform changes from active duty and reserve Marines Aug. 8 - The Marine Corps Uniform Board released a survey seeking input about three proposed uniform changes from active duty and reserve Marines Aug. 8

Marines with Golf Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, load onto MV-22B Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 163 (Reinforced), 11th MEU, for training Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii Aug 1.. The 11th MEU and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group are deployed as a sea-based, expeditionary crisis response force capable of conducting amphibious missions across the full range of military operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Laura Y. Raga/Released) - Marines with Golf Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, load onto MV-22B Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 163 (Reinforced), 11th MEU, for training Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii Aug 1.. The 11th MEU and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group are deployed as a sea-based, expeditionary crisis response force capable of conducting amphibious missions across the full range of military operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Laura Y. Raga/Released)

Changes to special duty assignment rates are slated to take effect Oct., 1. - Changes to special duty assignment rates are slated to take effect Oct., 1.