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Combat engineers with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, shoot the Benelli M4 Super 90 shotgun at Engineer Training Area 1 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 12, 2015. Before breaching with the shotgun, Marines took their time simply familiarizing themselves with the weapon in order to find a comfort level with it, before moving on to entering doorways with it. - Combat engineers with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, shoot the Benelli M4 Super 90 shotgun at Engineer Training Area 1 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 12, 2015. Before breaching with the shotgun, Marines took their time simply familiarizing themselves with the weapon in order to find a comfort level with it, before moving on to entering doorways with it.

Cpl. Abraham Ostosmendoza, from Staten Island, New York, and Lance Cpl. Jamie Neal, from Houma, Louisiana, purify pond water Feb. 11 during exercise Cobra Gold 2015 at Ban Chan Krem, Thailand. The U.S. Marines utilized the Light Weight Water Purification System, and consistently checked the gauges, temperature, and pressure to ensure it was efficiently supplied to the Royal Thai Marines and the ranges. Ostosmendoza is water support technician with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Neal is a water support technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd MLG. - Cpl. Abraham Ostosmendoza, from Staten Island, New York, and Lance Cpl. Jamie Neal, from Houma, Louisiana, purify pond water Feb. 11 during exercise Cobra Gold 2015 at Ban Chan Krem, Thailand. The U.S. Marines utilized the Light Weight Water Purification System, and consistently checked the gauges, temperature, and pressure to ensure it was efficiently supplied to the Royal Thai Marines and the ranges. Ostosmendoza is water support technician with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Neal is a water support technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd MLG.

A Marine greets his son during a homecoming event aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 14, 2015. Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion-2 returned from a six-month deployment in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa. - A Marine greets his son during a homecoming event aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 14, 2015. Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion-2 returned from a six-month deployment in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa.

Capt. Don E. Pigott, captain of the Maritime Prepositioning Force ship, USNS Pililaau, welcomes Brig. Gen. Steven Rudder, the commanding general for 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, aboard the ship. Rudder received a tour of the supplies and equipment onboard the ship to be used during Exercise Cobra Gold 2015. - Capt. Don E. Pigott, captain of the Maritime Prepositioning Force ship, USNS Pililaau, welcomes Brig. Gen. Steven Rudder, the commanding general for 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, aboard the ship. Rudder received a tour of the supplies and equipment onboard the ship to be used during Exercise Cobra Gold 2015.

U.S. Marines shoot their M16 rifles during a live-fire exercise Feb. 4 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. Each Marine fired 30 rounds during multiple drills. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently underway as part of the regularly scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released) - U.S. Marines shoot their M16 rifles during a live-fire exercise Feb. 4 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. Each Marine fired 30 rounds during multiple drills. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently underway as part of the regularly scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released)

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

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

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

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

First Lt. Joe A. Bosnick, a platoon commander with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires an M16-A4 service rifle during a weapons calibration shoot at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 7, 2014. The Marines conducted the training to ensure all weapon systems are working properly and are ready for the upcoming deployment at the end of the year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Austin A. Lewis) - First Lt. Joe A. Bosnick, a platoon commander with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires an M16-A4 service rifle during a weapons calibration shoot at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 7, 2014. The Marines conducted the training to ensure all weapon systems are working properly and are ready for the upcoming deployment at the end of the year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Austin A. Lewis)

Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Wilson, a hospital corpsman with Truck Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, supported Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Wilson has worked with Navy units and Marine units, caring diligently for service members during field exercises like Steel Knight, back at the barracks of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and while deployed. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operations and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher J. Moore/Released) - Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Wilson, a hospital corpsman with Truck Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, supported Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Wilson has worked with Navy units and Marine units, caring diligently for service members during field exercises like Steel Knight, back at the barracks of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and while deployed. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operations and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher J. Moore/Released)

U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response – Africa and Police with Mobile Gendarmeries Armored Group and practice crowd and riot control techniques on National Center for Training of Police Forces of France, St. Astier, France, Dec 2, 2014. The training enhanced mission readiness and help build relationships between the two militaries. - U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response – Africa and Police with Mobile Gendarmeries Armored Group and practice crowd and riot control techniques on National Center for Training of Police Forces of France, St. Astier, France, Dec 2, 2014. The training enhanced mission readiness and help build relationships between the two militaries.

U.S Marine Sgt. Eric Maehler holds security while conducting a raid during realistic urban training at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles Dec. 8, 2014. Maehler is a team leader with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills in environments they may encounter in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S Marine Sgt. Eric Maehler holds security while conducting a raid during realistic urban training at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles Dec. 8, 2014. Maehler is a team leader with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills in environments they may encounter in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)

Three MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 landed aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 6, 2014, to refuel and begin planning for support of Exercise Forest Light in Kumamoto Prefecture. Forest Light is a routine, semiannual training exercise that enhances the readiness of the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and is in accordance with the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. - Three MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 landed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 6, 2014, to refuel and begin planning for support of Exercise Forest Light in Kumamoto Prefecture. Forest Light is a routine, semiannual training exercise that enhances the readiness of the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and is in accordance with the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security.

U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys with SPMAGTF - Crisis Response - Africa prepare to fly at night as part of required training standards in order for pilots to continue to be qualified to carry passengers at night. while in support of Operation United Assistance in Monrovia, Liberia, Nov. 16, 2014. United Assistance is a Department of Defense operation to provide command and control, logistics, training and engineering support to U.S. Agency for International Development- led efforts to contain the Ebola virus outbreak in West African nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andre Dakis/SP-MAGTF Crisis Response Africa Combat Camera/Released) - U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys with SPMAGTF - Crisis Response - Africa prepare to fly at night as part of required training standards in order for pilots to continue to be qualified to carry passengers at night. while in support of Operation United Assistance in Monrovia, Liberia, Nov. 16, 2014. United Assistance is a Department of Defense operation to provide command and control, logistics, training and engineering support to U.S. Agency for International Development- led efforts to contain the Ebola virus outbreak in West African nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andre Dakis/SP-MAGTF Crisis Response Africa Combat Camera/Released)

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Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response - Africa and Spanish soldiers with Transport Helicopter Battalion 5, prepare to sling a truck to the bottom of the Spanish Army CH-47 Chinook, at Colmenar de Viejo, Spain, Nov. 19, 2014. The long distance transportation of vehicles by air can be used when conducting a disaster relief mission where vehicles are needed but key road and bridges are destroyed. The training conducted by the Marines and soldiers enhanced mission readiness and help build relationships between the two militaries. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl Jeraco Jenkins/Released). - U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response - Africa and Spanish soldiers with Transport Helicopter Battalion 5, prepare to sling a truck to the bottom of the Spanish Army CH-47 Chinook, at Colmenar de Viejo, Spain, Nov. 19, 2014. The long distance transportation of vehicles by air can be used when conducting a disaster relief mission where vehicles are needed but key road and bridges are destroyed. The training conducted by the Marines and soldiers enhanced mission readiness and help build relationships between the two militaries. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl Jeraco Jenkins/Released).

Capt. Karlo Landrau, a Cleveland native, looks out over the Australian Outback as he flies a Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 KC-130J “Hercules” from Darwin to Brisbane Nov 10. Marines and aircraft from VMGR-152, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 and VMM-262 flew approximately 4,700 miles from Okinawa, Japan to Brisbane to provide aerial support for President Barack Obama while he attended the G20 Summit. With an area of operations spanning 105 million square miles, the Hercules and MV-22 “Osprey” team are vital to commanders needing to get Marines and equipment to far flung locations quickly. Landrau is a pilot with VMGR-152. - Capt. Karlo Landrau, a Cleveland native, looks out over the Australian Outback as he flies a Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 KC-130J “Hercules” from Darwin to Brisbane Nov 10. Marines and aircraft from VMGR-152, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 and VMM-262 flew approximately 4,700 miles from Okinawa, Japan to Brisbane to provide aerial support for President Barack Obama while he attended the G20 Summit. With an area of operations spanning 105 million square miles, the Hercules and MV-22 “Osprey” team are vital to commanders needing to get Marines and equipment to far flung locations quickly. Landrau is a pilot with VMGR-152.

A Japanese volunteer from the Oshima Fire Department and U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Robert C. Austin quickly offload humanitarian aid and disaster relief supplies from an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft Nov. 8 during Tomodachi relief exercise 15.2 near Izu Oshima Island, Tokyo Metropolis Prefecture, Japan. TREX 15.2 is an annual, bilateral training exercise that simulates humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in the Japan while strengthening U.S. and Japanese alliance. During the offload, approximately 600 pounds of food, water, blankets, and medical supplies were transported from the Osprey to a waiting truck in less than eight minutes. Austin, from Grand Ledge, Michigan, is an Osprey crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - A Japanese volunteer from the Oshima Fire Department and U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Robert C. Austin quickly offload humanitarian aid and disaster relief supplies from an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft Nov. 8 during Tomodachi relief exercise 15.2 near Izu Oshima Island, Tokyo Metropolis Prefecture, Japan. TREX 15.2 is an annual, bilateral training exercise that simulates humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in the Japan while strengthening U.S. and Japanese alliance. During the offload, approximately 600 pounds of food, water, blankets, and medical supplies were transported from the Osprey to a waiting truck in less than eight minutes. Austin, from Grand Ledge, Michigan, is an Osprey crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

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Lance Cpl. Tyler Clinton, a tiltrotor airframe mechanic with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, uses a blow dryer to dry a carbon fiber patch on an MV-22B Osprey in the hangar bay of the USS Iwo Jima, Oct. 31, 2014. Maintenance on 24th MEU aircraft is near constant in order to maintain a high state of flight readiness. The 24th MEU is participating in Bold Alligator, an exercise intended to improve Navy and Marine Corps amphibious core competencies. - Lance Cpl. Tyler Clinton, a tiltrotor airframe mechanic with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, uses a blow dryer to dry a carbon fiber patch on an MV-22B Osprey in the hangar bay of the USS Iwo Jima, Oct. 31, 2014. Maintenance on 24th MEU aircraft is near constant in order to maintain a high state of flight readiness. The 24th MEU is participating in Bold Alligator, an exercise intended to improve Navy and Marine Corps amphibious core competencies.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Marines and sailors visited patients of the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Palo Alto, Calif., Oct. 7. They spent time with wounded servicemembers and imparted them with words of support and enthusiasm. The visit was held during San Francisco Fleet Week 2014, which focuses on interoperability training between civil and military agencies to improve cooperation and coordination, as well as increase readiness through a range of humanitarian assistance operations. - Marines and sailors visited patients of the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Palo Alto, Calif., Oct. 7. They spent time with wounded servicemembers and imparted them with words of support and enthusiasm. The visit was held during San Francisco Fleet Week 2014, which focuses on interoperability training between civil and military agencies to improve cooperation and coordination, as well as increase readiness through a range of humanitarian assistance operations.

Beginning in 2015, Marines conducting civil-military operations will have the ability to collect, process, analyze and share information using software from a smartphone. The mobile application, called MARCIMS, was developed by Marine Corps Systems Command and through science and technology funding from the Office of Naval Research. - Beginning in 2015, Marines conducting civil-military operations will have the ability to collect, process, analyze and share information using software from a smartphone. The mobile application, called MARCIMS, was developed by Marine Corps Systems Command and through science and technology funding from the Office of Naval Research.

U.S. Marines and Sailors man the rails aboard the USS America in route to San Francisco Fleet Week on Oct. 6, 2014. San Francisco Fleet Week hosted Marines and Sailors that showcased the capabilities of natural disaster relief that the military offers in case of emergencies. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Leah Agler/ Released) - U.S. Marines and Sailors man the rails aboard the USS America in route to San Francisco Fleet Week on Oct. 6, 2014. San Francisco Fleet Week hosted Marines and Sailors that showcased the capabilities of natural disaster relief that the military offers in case of emergencies. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Leah Agler/ Released)

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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.

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.

Governor Hirokazu Nakaima, left, shakes hands with Col. Christopher B. Snyder,Sept. 6 during a day of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training on and around Miyako Island. The drills marked the first time members of the Okinawa Prefectural Government hosted a series of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills with full-fledged participation by the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marines. Nakaima is the Governor of Okinawa Prefecture and Snyder is the deputy commander with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. - Governor Hirokazu Nakaima, left, shakes hands with Col. Christopher B. Snyder,Sept. 6 during a day of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training on and around Miyako Island. The drills marked the first time members of the Okinawa Prefectural Government hosted a series of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills with full-fledged participation by the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marines. Nakaima is the Governor of Okinawa Prefecture and Snyder is the deputy commander with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific.

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)

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)

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)