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A non-lethal weapons instructor sprays a Marine with Black Sea Rotational Force 14 with Oleoresin Capsicum spray during a non-lethal weapons course on Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, Romania, Sept. 3. Marines receive their non-lethal weapons certifications to better share the responsible and effective employment of these tactics during theater security cooperation events with their Eastern European partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Young/released) - A non-lethal weapons instructor sprays a Marine with Black Sea Rotational Force 14 with Oleoresin Capsicum spray during a non-lethal weapons course on Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, Romania, Sept. 3. Marines receive their non-lethal weapons certifications to better share the responsible and effective employment of these tactics during theater security cooperation events with their Eastern European partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Young/released)

Sgt. Maj. Robin Fortner, left, sergeant major of the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, speaks with Sgt. Jason McMullen, light armored vehicle crewman, Company B, GCEITF, during a limited technical inspection at the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion ramp, Sept. 9, 2014. Each vehicle came with dozens of tools and upkeep equipment. 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. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released) - Sgt. Maj. Robin Fortner, left, sergeant major of the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, speaks with Sgt. Jason McMullen, light armored vehicle crewman, Company B, GCEITF, during a limited technical inspection at the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion ramp, Sept. 9, 2014. Each vehicle came with dozens of tools and upkeep equipment. 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. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released)

First Sgt. Brian Moody, first sergeant, Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, patrols through southern Helmand province, Afghanistan, Sept. 3, 2014. The operation was designed to deter enemy insurgents from operating in the southern area of Helmand province. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cody Haas/ Released) - First Sgt. Brian Moody, first sergeant, Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, patrols through southern Helmand province, Afghanistan, Sept. 3, 2014. The operation was designed to deter enemy insurgents from operating in the southern area of Helmand province. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cody Haas/ Released)

The President's Own Marine Band brass section takes center stage during the band's performance at Butler University in Indianapolis Sep. 7. The Band performed for more than 1,500 people at Clowes Memorial Hall during their 30-day fall concert tour across the United States. - The President's Own Marine Band brass section takes center stage during the band's performance at Butler University in Indianapolis Sep. 7. The Band performed for more than 1,500 people at Clowes Memorial Hall during their 30-day fall concert tour across the United States.

Marines, sailors and coalition partners with Regional Command (Southwest) bow their heads during a moment of silence at the 9/11 memorial ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 11, 2014. “That moment of silence gave us an opportunity to reflect and reminds us of why we are here today in Afghanistan in Helmand province,” said Brig. Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commander, RC(SW) and Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan. - Marines, sailors and coalition partners with Regional Command (Southwest) bow their heads during a moment of silence at the 9/11 memorial ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 11, 2014. “That moment of silence gave us an opportunity to reflect and reminds us of why we are here today in Afghanistan in Helmand province,” said Brig. Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commander, RC(SW) and Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan.

Sergeant Maj. James Roberts (left) and Gunnery Sgt. Jason M. Whipkey stand on the flight deck of the USS Peleliu (LHA-5) September 10. The Marines were embarked on the ship 13 years ago when it was diverted from Darwin, Australia to Afghanistan in response to the terror attacks on September 11, 2001. Roberts is the Sergeant Major of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and is from Dallas. Whipkey is the platoon sergeant for Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and is from Carneys Point, New Jersey. The 31st MEU/Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group is currently conducting Amphibious Integration Training in preparation for the regularly schedule Fall Patrol ’14. The 31st MEU is the only continuously forward-deployed expeditionary unit. - Sergeant Maj. James Roberts (left) and Gunnery Sgt. Jason M. Whipkey stand on the flight deck of the USS Peleliu (LHA-5) September 10. The Marines were embarked on the ship 13 years ago when it was diverted from Darwin, Australia to Afghanistan in response to the terror attacks on September 11, 2001. Roberts is the Sergeant Major of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and is from Dallas. Whipkey is the platoon sergeant for Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and is from Carneys Point, New Jersey. The 31st MEU/Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group is currently conducting Amphibious Integration Training in preparation for the regularly schedule Fall Patrol ’14. The 31st MEU is the only continuously forward-deployed expeditionary unit.

Marines with Marine Corps Institute in Washington, D.C., traveled to Manassas, Va., in early August for a battle study on the Civil War’s Battle of Bull Run. - Marines with Marine Corps Institute in Washington, D.C., traveled to Manassas, Va., in early August for a battle study on the Civil War’s Battle of Bull Run.

General James F. Amos, left, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett, the 17th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, speak to Marines and sailors with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment; 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment; and 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 6, 2014. Gen. Amos and Sgt. Maj. Barrett visited Marines and sailors serving with Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan in Helmand province for the final time, thanking them for their service and sacrifice. - General James F. Amos, left, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett, the 17th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, speak to Marines and sailors with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment; 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment; and 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 6, 2014. Gen. Amos and Sgt. Maj. Barrett visited Marines and sailors serving with Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan in Helmand province for the final time, thanking them for their service and sacrifice.

John Morgenstern poses in front of a CH-46 helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico, Virginia before the last helicopters left the air facility forever, July 16, 2014. Morgenstern has been the technical representative at Marine Helicopter Squadron One for 47 years. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Aaron Hostutler/released) - John Morgenstern poses in front of a CH-46 helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico, Virginia before the last helicopters left the air facility forever, July 16, 2014. Morgenstern has been the technical representative at Marine Helicopter Squadron One for 47 years. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Aaron Hostutler/released)

Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, use levers to raise the rear ramp after picking up two M1A1 Abrams tanks from 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, to cross New River aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 4, 2014. During the training exercise, the Marines transported 22 tanks across the river, totaling approximately 1,540 tons. (U.S. Marine Corps photo taken by Lance Cpl. Alex W. Mitchell/released) - Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, use levers to raise the rear ramp after picking up two M1A1 Abrams tanks from 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, to cross New River aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 4, 2014. During the training exercise, the Marines transported 22 tanks across the river, totaling approximately 1,540 tons. (U.S. Marine Corps photo taken by Lance Cpl. Alex W. Mitchell/released)

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Lance Cpl. Joshua Byer, left, and Lance Cpl. Justin Goodchild use a Defense Advanced GPS Receiver to check a heading during a land navigation test at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 3, 2014. Byer and Goodchild are both gunners with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, practicing their land navigation skills during team leaders course. Byer is a native of Columbus, Ohio and Goodchild is a native of Longwood, Fla. - Lance Cpl. Joshua Byer, left, and Lance Cpl. Justin Goodchild use a Defense Advanced GPS Receiver to check a heading during a land navigation test at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 3, 2014. Byer and Goodchild are both gunners with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, practicing their land navigation skills during team leaders course. Byer is a native of Columbus, Ohio and Goodchild is a native of Longwood, Fla.

Capt. Mike Jordan, left, and Capt. Craig Fitzhugh operate the Harvest Hercules Airborne Weapons Kit system in a modified KC-130J Super Hercules at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 2, 2014. The Harvest HAWK comes equipped with both Hellfire and Griffin missiles to provide close-air support for Marines on the ground. Jordan and Fitzhugh are both KC-130J pilots with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252. - Capt. Mike Jordan, left, and Capt. Craig Fitzhugh operate the Harvest Hercules Airborne Weapons Kit system in a modified KC-130J Super Hercules at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 2, 2014. The Harvest HAWK comes equipped with both Hellfire and Griffin missiles to provide close-air support for Marines on the ground. Jordan and Fitzhugh are both KC-130J pilots with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252.

Sgt. Richard Flavell, (left), and Lance Cpl. Michael Ciavirella (right rear), lead the Senegalese Companie de Fusilier Marine Commandos, or COFUMACO, in a fire and movement drill in Toubacouta, Senegal, Aug. 28, 2014. During the drill, the man bounding has to catch a ball and throw it back, forcing him to maintain situational awareness while bounding. The drill was part of a joint training engagement between U.S. Marines, Coast Guard, and the COFUMACO. (Courtesy Photo by Lance Cpl. Jonathan Neumann) - Sgt. Richard Flavell, (left), and Lance Cpl. Michael Ciavirella (right rear), lead the Senegalese Companie de Fusilier Marine Commandos, or COFUMACO, in a fire and movement drill in Toubacouta, Senegal, Aug. 28, 2014. During the drill, the man bounding has to catch a ball and throw it back, forcing him to maintain situational awareness while bounding. The drill was part of a joint training engagement between U.S. Marines, Coast Guard, and the COFUMACO. (Courtesy Photo by Lance Cpl. Jonathan Neumann)

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII - Sgt. Rafael Cervantes Jr., a combat-injured Marine with Wounded Warrior Battalion West-Detachment Hawaii, raises his hand during his re-enlistment ceremony at the Pacific War Memorial aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Aug. 25, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Suzanna Knotts) - MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII - Sgt. Rafael Cervantes Jr., a combat-injured Marine with Wounded Warrior Battalion West-Detachment Hawaii, raises his hand during his re-enlistment ceremony at the Pacific War Memorial aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Aug. 25, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Suzanna Knotts)

Lance Cpl. Johnny Alston (right), a personnel retrieval and processing specialist with PRP Company, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, and Sgt. 1st Class Matevz Scheicher, a weapons specialist with the Slovenian army, inspect and document simulated remains during the culminating event of exercie Immediate Response 2014 here, Aug. 25-27, 2014 PRP’s mission is to process the physical remains of deceased Marines, including other service members and civilians, ensuring everything they arrived at the disaster site with, he or she returns home with. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Codey Underwood) - Lance Cpl. Johnny Alston (right), a personnel retrieval and processing specialist with PRP Company, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, and Sgt. 1st Class Matevz Scheicher, a weapons specialist with the Slovenian army, inspect and document simulated remains during the culminating event of exercise Immediate Response 2014, Aug. 25-27, 2014 PRP’s mission is to process the physical remains of deceased Marines, including other service members and civilians, ensuring everything they arrived at the disaster site with, he or she returns home with. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Codey Underwood)

Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel and Georgian Minister of Defense Irakli Alasania hold a joint press conference at the Georgian Ministry of Defense in Tbilisi, Georgia, Sept. 7, 2014. Hagel and Irakli gave remarks emphasizing the importance of the relationship of their two nations and answered questions from an international pool of reporters. DoD Photo by Glenn Fawcett - Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel and Georgian Minister of Defense Irakli Alasania hold a joint press conference at the Georgian Ministry of Defense in Tbilisi, Georgia, Sept. 7, 2014. Hagel and Irakli gave remarks emphasizing the importance of the relationship of their two nations and answered questions from an international pool of reporters. DoD Photo by Glenn Fawcett

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey answers a question during a town hall meeting with Marines, sailors and former service members aboard Naval Station Great Lakes, Ill., Sept. 5. Dempsey discussed a wide range of topics including involvement in the Middle East, and how budget cuts affect service members worldwide. - Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey answers a question during a town hall meeting with Marines, sailors and former service members aboard Naval Station Great Lakes, Ill., Sept. 5. Dempsey discussed a wide range of topics including involvement in the Middle East, and how budget cuts affect service members worldwide.

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Marines stand guard at a warehouse during exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian Aug. 22 at Camp Kinser. The Marines are training for real combat situations in the Asia-Pacific region by checking for security badges, security access levels and searching all bags entering the grounds. The Marines are with 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines stand guard at a warehouse during exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian Aug. 22 at Camp Kinser. The Marines are training for real combat situations in the Asia-Pacific region by checking for security badges, security access levels and searching all bags entering the grounds. The Marines are with 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Pvt. Tyler Knotts, 19, from Kingwood, W.V., grips a ledge as he navigates his way up a cliff during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Sept. 1, 2014. Rice is an infantry rifleman with 1st Platoon, Lima 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 Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released) - U.S. Marine Pvt. Tyler Knotts, 19, from Kingwood, W.V., grips a ledge as he navigates his way up a cliff during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Sept. 1, 2014. Rice is an infantry rifleman with 1st Platoon, Lima 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 Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released)

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION KANEOHE BAY - U.S. Marines with Aircraft Rescue Firefighting, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, carry a simulated casualty from an aircraft during Exercise Lethal Breeze on MCB Hawaii, Sept. 6, 2012. Base personnel and local emergency services worked together to perform crisis response following a simulated mass casualty incident and an aircraft mishap, testing their communication, command and control, and rescue and mass casualty measures. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Reece Lodder) - MARINE CORPS AIR STATION KANEOHE BAY - U.S. Marines with Aircraft Rescue Firefighting, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, carry a simulated casualty from an aircraft during Exercise Lethal Breeze on MCB Hawaii, Sept. 6, 2012. Base personnel and local emergency services worked together to perform crisis response following a simulated mass casualty incident and an aircraft mishap, testing their communication, command and control, and rescue and mass casualty measures. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Reece Lodder)

Gunnery Sgt. Jhimelle Sepulveda, training chief with a fire fighting unit here, emerges from a fire training facility during an exercise conducted by the Camp Pendleton Fire Department and the Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton’s Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting unit on a controlled burn training facility at the 25 Area here.The training was designed to teach firefighters how to prevent rapid combustion of burned materials in rooms and structures."This is good training because we don't normally get to experience this type of situation when dealing with burning aircraft," said Sepulveda. - Gunnery Sgt. Jhimelle Sepulveda, training chief with a fire fighting unit here, emerges from a fire training facility during an exercise conducted by the Camp Pendleton Fire Department and the Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton’s Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting unit on a controlled burn training facility at the 25 Area here. The training was designed to teach firefighters how to prevent rapid combustion of burned materials in rooms and structures. "This is good training because we don't normally get to experience this type of situation when dealing with burning aircraft," said Sepulveda.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 conducted Fleet Carrier Landing Practice training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Sept. 2. The valuable training prepares pilots for situations and landings they will face while deployed aboard an aircraft carrier. - Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 conducted Fleet Carrier Landing Practice training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Sept. 2. The valuable training prepares pilots for situations and landings they will face while deployed aboard an aircraft carrier.

Marines load into the MV-22B Osprey to prepare to fast rope during the Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques course Aug. 20 at the Central Training Area. The students finalized their practical applications portion by performing rappels out of the aircraft. The Marines are with various units across III Marine Expeditionary Force. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF. - Marines load into the MV-22B Osprey to prepare to fast rope during the Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques course Aug. 20 at the Central Training Area. The students finalized their practical applications portion by performing rappels out of the aircraft. The Marines are with various units across III Marine Expeditionary Force. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF.

Recruit Axe T. Buffington, Platton 1003, Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, balances himself on a chain bridge during the 12 Stalls event at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27. The 12 Stalls event is a part of the Crucible, which is a 54-hour test of endurance where recruits must conquer more than 30 different obstacles while they experience food and sleep deprivation. During the Crucible, recruits utilize small unit leadership skills they’ve acquired throughout training. Buffington is a native of Princeton, Minn., and was recruited out of Recruiting Substation St. Cloud, Minn. - Recruit Axe T. Buffington, Platton 1003, Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, balances himself on a chain bridge during the 12 Stalls event at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27. The 12 Stalls event is a part of the Crucible, which is a 54-hour test of endurance where recruits must conquer more than 30 different obstacles while they experience food and sleep deprivation. During the Crucible, recruits utilize small unit leadership skills they’ve acquired throughout training. Buffington is a native of Princeton, Minn., and was recruited out of Recruiting Substation St. Cloud, Minn.

Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force practice loading and unloading inert rounds into the Non-Lethal, Tube-Launched Munitions System during their practical application training at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 14, 2014. 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. Its intended use is for military checkpoints. - Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force practice loading and unloading inert rounds into the Non-Lethal, Tube-Launched Munitions System during their practical application training at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 14, 2014. 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. Its intended use is for military checkpoints.

A Marine works on a generator Sept. 1 on Tinian during preparation for Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The squadron’s mission during the exercise is to prepare an airstrip and provide support for all participating units. Valiant Shield is a biennial exercise which focuses on the integration of joint training among U.S. forces. The Marine is with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - A Marine works on a generator Sept. 1 on Tinian during preparation for Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The squadron’s mission during the exercise is to prepare an airstrip and provide support for all participating units. Valiant Shield is a biennial exercise which focuses on the integration of joint training among U.S. forces. The Marine is with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Service members and their families, who feel desperate, alone or hopeless, can receive immediate help. Suicide is not the answer. For assistance, call the Military Crisis line at 800-273-8255 and press 1; online chat, send a text message to 838255 or visit the website, www.militarycrisisline.net. - Service members and their families who feel desperate, alone or hopeless, can receive immediate help. Suicide is not the answer. For assistance, call the Military Crisis line at 800-273-8255 and press 1; online chat, send a text message to 838255 or visit the website, www.militarycrisisline.net.

A Marine with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, descends a rope from an MV-22B Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th MEU, during Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System qualification at Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 22, 2014. Marines spent two days fast-roping from a tower and an MV-22B Osprey in preparation for their scheduled deployment at the end of the year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Nichols) - A Marine with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, descends a rope from an MV-22B Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th MEU, during Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System qualification at Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 22, 2014. Marines spent two days fast-roping from a tower and an MV-22B Osprey in preparation for their scheduled deployment at the end of the year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Nichols)

Lt. Gen. John Toolan, commander, U. S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, addresses the Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit following the culminating joint amphibious demonstration of Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2014 at Kg Tanduo Beach, Malaysia, Sept. 2. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Rome M. Lazarus/Released) - Lt. Gen. John Toolan, commander, U. S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, addresses the Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit following the culminating joint amphibious demonstration of Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2014 at Kg Tanduo Beach, Malaysia, Sept. 2. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Rome M. Lazarus/Released)

Col. Scott Benedict straps into an AV-8B Harrier at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Aug. 26, 2014. Benedict flew with Capt. Chris Tchinski, a Harrier instructor pilot with Marine Attack Training Squadron 203, to better understand the capabilities of the different aircraft within the Aviation Combat Element of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Benedict is the commanding officer of the 24th MEU. - Col. Scott Benedict straps into an AV-8B Harrier at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Aug. 26, 2014. Benedict flew with Capt. Chris Tchinski, a Harrier instructor pilot with Marine Attack Training Squadron 203, to better understand the capabilities of the different aircraft within the Aviation Combat Element of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Benedict is the commanding officer of the 24th MEU.

Service members and their families, who feel desperate, alone or hopeless, can receive immediate help. Suicide is not the answer. For assistance, call the Military Crisis line at 800-273-8255 and press 1; online chat, send a text message to 838255 or visit the website, www.militarycrisisline.net. - Service members and their families, who feel desperate, alone or hopeless, can receive immediate help. Suicide is not the answer. For assistance, call the Military Crisis line at 800-273-8255 and press 1; online chat, send a text message to 838255 or visit the website, www.militarycrisisline.net.

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Pop-up thunderstorms can be hazardous to those working or playing outdoors. Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany officials urge people to pay attention to the weather when planning activities. - Pop-up thunderstorms can be hazardous to those working or playing outdoors. Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany officials urge people to pay attention to the weather when planning activities.

David Balla, supply systems analyst, Logistics Capabilities Center, Marine Corps Logistics Command, and retired Marine, takes advantage of the Auto Skills Center as he performs routine maintenance on his vehicle, Aug. 28. - David Balla, supply systems analyst, Logistics Capabilities Center, Marine Corps Logistics Command, and retired Marine, takes advantage of the Auto Skills Center as he performs routine maintenance on his vehicle, Aug. 28.

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Civilian-Marine, Margaret Henry, management and program analyst, Supply Chain Management Center, Marine Corps Logistics Command, recently retires after devoting 31 years, three months of federal service. - Civilian-Marine, Margaret Henry, management and program analyst, Supply Chain Management Center, Marine Corps Logistics Command, recently retires after devoting 31 years, three months of federal service.

The Missfits, a men’s softball team combined of active-duty and retired Marines and one Department of Defense civilian, participated in the Military World’s Softball Tournament held in Panama City, Florida, Aug. 14-18. The team played five games, placing sixth in the tournament out of 27 teams, with a 3-2 record. - The Missfits, a men’s softball team combined of active-duty and retired Marines and one Department of Defense civilian, participated in the Military World’s Softball Tournament held in Panama City, Florida, Aug. 14-18. The team played five games, placing sixth in the tournament out of 27 teams, with a 3-2 record.

Sergeant Maj. Irvin Howard (center left), the sergeant major of 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, and Lt. Col. Corey Collier (center right), the battalion commanding officer, roll and case the battalion’s colors one final time during the unit’s deactivation ceremony aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 29, 2014. The colors will be stored at Headquarters Marine Corps until the battalion answer’s the Nation’s call to active service. - Sergeant Maj. Irvin Howard (center left), the sergeant major of 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, and Lt. Col. Corey Collier (center right), the battalion commanding officer, roll and case the battalion’s colors one final time during the unit’s deactivation ceremony aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 29, 2014. The colors will be stored at Headquarters Marine Corps until the battalion answer’s the Nation’s call to active service.

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Jay Cutler, professional bodybuilder, autographs a fan’s dumbbell at a promotional appearance at the GNC in the Main Exchange, Aug. 28, 2014. - Jay Cutler, professional bodybuilder, autographs a fan’s dumbbell at a promotional appearance at the GNC in the Main Exchange, Aug. 28, 2014.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 374 and Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School go head-to-head for the first time during the Preseason Jamboree at Felix Field, Aug. 27, 2014. Intramural tackle football is scheduled to be hosted every Wednesday at the same field. - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 374 and Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School go head-to-head for the first time during the Preseason Jamboree at Felix Field, Aug. 27, 2014. Intramural tackle football is scheduled to be hosted every Wednesday at the same field.

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The UH-1N Huey (Right) escorts a UH-1Y Venom (Left) during the final flight of the UH-1N Huey for Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 773, Marine Aircraft Group 49, aboard Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, New Orleans, Aug. 28, 2014. The escort symbolizes the stepping aside of one helicopter platform to allow for an improved version to takes its place. - The UH-1N Huey (Right) escorts a UH-1Y Venom (Left) during the final flight of the UH-1N Huey for Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 773, Marine Aircraft Group 49, aboard Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, New Orleans, Aug. 28, 2014. The escort symbolizes the stepping aside of one helicopter platform to allow for an improved version to takes its place.

Brigadier Gen. Joaquin F. Malavet, the commanding general of 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, inspects Marines passing in review during the 1st MEB change of command ceremony aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 29, 2014. Malavet was previously assigned as the principal director, South and Southeast Asia for the Office of the Secretary of Defense-Policy at Washington, D.C. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carson Gramley) - Brigadier Gen. Joaquin F. Malavet, the commanding general of 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, inspects Marines passing in review during the 1st MEB change of command ceremony aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 29, 2014. Malavet was previously assigned as the principal director, South and Southeast Asia for the Office of the Secretary of Defense-Policy at Washington, D.C. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carson Gramley)

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jona Moore tactically makes his way through the mountainous terrain with his squad during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 29, 2014. Moore is a team leader with 3rd Platoon, Lima 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 Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released) - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jona Moore tactically makes his way through the mountainous terrain with his squad during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 29, 2014. Moore is a team leader with 3rd Platoon, Lima 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 Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released)

U.S. Marine Pfc. Ryan Iglesias, left, and Lance Cpl. Jonathan Ripoyla strategize on improving their survival shelter during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 28, 2014. Iglesias and Ripoyla are both infantry riflemen assigned to 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 Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released) - U.S. Marine Pfc. Ryan Iglesias, left, and Lance Cpl. Jonathan Ripoyla strategize on improving their survival shelter during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 28, 2014. Iglesias and Ripoyla are both infantry riflemen assigned to 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 Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released)

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.