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U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, fly over a U.S. Navy Submarine during Advanced Naval Basing evolution of Summer Fury 21 at San Clemente, California, July 20, 2021. Advanced Naval Basing offering forward logistics and support, as well as sensor and strike capabilities that make a significant contribution to undersea warfare campaigns in the Indo-Pacific region. Summer Fury is an exercise conducted by 3rd MAW in order to maintain and build capability, strength and trust within its units to generate the readiness and lethality needed to deter and defeat adversaries during combat operations as the U.S. Marine Corps refines tactics and equipment in accordance with Force Design 2030. - U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, fly over a U.S. Navy Submarine during Advanced Naval Basing evolution of Summer Fury 21 at San Clemente, California, July 20, 2021. Advanced Naval Basing offering forward logistics and support, as well as sensor and strike capabilities that make a significant contribution to undersea warfare campaigns in the Indo-Pacific region. Summer Fury is an exercise conducted by 3rd MAW in order to maintain and build capability, strength and trust within its units to generate the readiness and lethality needed to deter and defeat adversaries during combat operations as the U.S. Marine Corps refines tactics and equipment in accordance with Force Design 2030.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Alexander Hermann, a native of San Antonio, Texas, a joint tactical air controller with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, participates in a night mission during Exercise Caribbean Coastal Warrior on Savaneta Kamp, Aruba, June 27, 2021. The exercise allows 2nd Recon to expand its knowledge and proficiency when operating in littoral and coastal regions while increasing global interoperability with 32nd Raiding Squadron, Netherlands Marine Corps. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Alexander Hermann, a native of San Antonio, Texas, a joint tactical air controller with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, participates in a night mission during Exercise Caribbean Coastal Warrior on Savaneta Kamp, Aruba, June 27, 2021. The exercise allows 2nd Recon to expand its knowledge and proficiency when operating in littoral and coastal regions while increasing global interoperability with 32nd Raiding Squadron, Netherlands Marine Corps.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, unload a joint light tactical vehicle from a U.S. Army logistics support vessel attached to 8th Special Troops Battalion, 8th Theater Sustainment Command, during the Spartan Fury 21.1 training exercise, March 3, 2021, Major's Bay, Pacific Missile Range Facility, Kauai, Hawaii. Exercise Spartan Fury demonstrates 1/12's ability to conduct distributed operations inside an adversary's sensors and weapons engagement zone, attain and defend key maritime terrain, and conduct sea denial in support of fleet operations. - U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, unload a joint light tactical vehicle from a U.S. Army logistics support vessel attached to 8th Special Troops Battalion, 8th Theater Sustainment Command, during the Spartan Fury 21.1 training exercise, March 3, 2021, Major's Bay, Pacific Missile Range Facility, Kauai, Hawaii. Exercise Spartan Fury demonstrates 1/12's ability to conduct distributed operations inside an adversary's sensors and weapons engagement zone, attain and defend key maritime terrain, and conduct sea denial in support of fleet operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Elias Munoz, a launcher chief with Bravo Battery, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System for a simulated long-range strike mission at San Clemente Island, Calif., May 20, 2021. The Battery went ashore in support of an expeditionary advanced basing exercise, targeting simulated enemy on the island, and enemy vessels nearby. The Marines and Sailors of the 11th MEU and Essex Amphibious Ready Group are conducting routine training off the coast of southern California. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Elias Munoz, a launcher chief with Bravo Battery, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System for a simulated long-range strike mission at San Clemente Island, Calif., May 20, 2021. The Battery went ashore in support of an expeditionary advanced basing exercise, targeting simulated enemy on the island, and enemy vessels nearby. The Marines and Sailors of the 11th MEU and Essex Amphibious Ready Group are conducting routine training off the coast of southern California.

U.S. Marines and sailors observe as Marines assigned to Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch, Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity, maneuver an amphibious combat vehicle onto the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Somerset (LPD 25) as part of the vehicle’s developmental testing off the shore of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 28, 2020. The Marines of AVTB are currently testing the Marine Corps’ newest amphibious vehicle, which will replace the current amphibious assault vehicle. The testing consisted of entering and departing a naval vessel to assess and verify how well the ACV can integrate with naval shipping. This was the first time Marines have operated the new vehicle while boarding and departing a ship. - U.S. Marines and sailors observe as Marines assigned to Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch, Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity, maneuver an amphibious combat vehicle onto the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Somerset (LPD 25) as part of the vehicle’s developmental testing off the shore of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 28, 2020. The Marines of AVTB are currently testing the Marine Corps’ newest amphibious vehicle, which will replace the current amphibious assault vehicle. The testing consisted of entering and departing a naval vessel to assess and verify how well the ACV can integrate with naval shipping. This was the first time Marines have operated the new vehicle while boarding and departing a ship.

Australian Army soldiers carry their gear off a landing zone during exercise Crocodile Response at Point Fawcett, NT, Australia, May 24, 2021. Exercise Crocodile Response tested the ability of MRF-D and the Australian Defence Force to provide disaster relief in the Indo-Pacific region. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines affords a combined training opportunity with Australia and improves cooperation and integration between the two country’s forces. - Australian Army soldiers carry their gear off a landing zone during exercise Crocodile Response at Point Fawcett, NT, Australia, May 24, 2021. Exercise Crocodile Response tested the ability of MRF-D and the Australian Defence Force to provide disaster relief in the Indo-Pacific region. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines affords a combined training opportunity with Australia and improves cooperation and integration between the two country’s forces.

General Robert B. Neller, 37th Commandant of the Marine Corps, passes the Marine Corps Battle Color to Gen. David H. Berger, 38th Commandant of the Marine Corps during a passage of command ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., July 11, 2019. General Neller relieved his duties as commandant of the Marine Corps to Gen. Berger. - General Robert B. Neller, 37th Commandant of the Marine Corps, passes the Marine Corps Battle Color to Gen. David H. Berger, 38th Commandant of the Marine Corps during a passage of command ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., July 11, 2019. General Neller relieved his duties as commandant of the Marine Corps to Gen. Berger.

A U.S. Navy landing craft, air cushion is marshaled into the USS Arlington carrying tactical vehicles during Defense Support of Civil Authorities mission rehearsals at Naval Base Norfolk, Virginia, July 21, 2021. Marines and Sailors with the II Marine Expeditionary Force Maritime DSCA Task Force, commanded by Combat Logistics Battalion 22, and Sailors aboard the USS Arlington conducted a destructive weather mission rehearsal loading exercise to prepare and rehearse for a future DSCA mission during the 2021 hurricane season. - A U.S. Navy landing craft, air cushion is marshaled into the USS Arlington carrying tactical vehicles during Defense Support of Civil Authorities mission rehearsals at Naval Base Norfolk, Virginia, July 21, 2021. Marines and Sailors with the II Marine Expeditionary Force Maritime DSCA Task Force, commanded by Combat Logistics Battalion 22, and Sailors aboard the USS Arlington conducted a destructive weather mission rehearsal loading exercise to prepare and rehearse for a future DSCA mission during the 2021 hurricane season.

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U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Dustin Nguyen, a Richmond, Va., native and a transmissions systems operator with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, sets up an AN/PRC-160(V) radio as part of the 2nd MARDIV High-Frequency Competition on Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., July 12, 2021. The competition enhanced HF transmission proficiency and capabilities to prepare Marines for future expeditionary conflicts where the area is either contested or degraded. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Dustin Nguyen, a Richmond, Va., native and a transmissions systems operator with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, sets up an AN/PRC-160(V) radio as part of the 2nd MARDIV High-Frequency Competition on Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., July 12, 2021. The competition enhanced HF transmission proficiency and capabilities to prepare Marines for future expeditionary conflicts where the area is either contested or degraded.

Staff Sgt. Gustavo Lopez, a Plane Captain assigned to the “Vipers” of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, guides an UH-1Y Venom as it arrives at Naval Air Facility Misawa. HMLA-169 is at NAF Misawa to conduct Tilt Rotor/Rotary Wing training exercises and reduce the training activity impact on Okinawa. - Staff Sgt. Gustavo Lopez, a Plane Captain assigned to the “Vipers” of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, guides an UH-1Y Venom as it arrives at Naval Air Facility Misawa. HMLA-169 is at NAF Misawa to conduct Tilt Rotor/Rotary Wing training exercises and reduce the training activity impact on Okinawa.

U.S. Marines with 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, adjust a Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar system at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 10, 2020. The G/ATOR provides an air defense and surveillance capability and is used to locate enemy weapon systems. Having these capabilities further enhances Marines’ missions and increases lethality. G/ATOR is one of the Corps’ key capabilities supporting Force Design 2030. - U.S. Marines with 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, adjust a Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar system at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 10, 2020. The G/ATOR provides an air defense and surveillance capability and is used to locate enemy weapon systems. Having these capabilities further enhances Marines’ missions and increases lethality. G/ATOR is one of the Corps’ key capabilities supporting Force Design 2030.

Japanese government officials and U.S. Marines come together for discussions during the Artillery Relocation Training Program Annual Planning Conference on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 22, 2021. The ARTP Annual Conference allows Japanese and U.S. officials to develop a better understanding of the goals of the program, as well as solidify bilateral objectives related to the training, the continued usage of training areas and the modernization of both forces. - Japanese government officials and U.S. Marines come together for discussions during the Artillery Relocation Training Program Annual Planning Conference on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 22, 2021. The ARTP Annual Conference allows Japanese and U.S. officials to develop a better understanding of the goals of the program, as well as solidify bilateral objectives related to the training, the continued usage of training areas and the modernization of both forces.

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Breaking new ground: Corps’ wargaming center ready for construction - Deputy Commandant, Combat Development and Integration Lt. Gen. Eric Smith addresses the crowd during a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Marine Corps Wargaming and Analysis Center May 12 aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. The state-of-the-art facility will enable the Marine Corps to better visualize the threat environment, gain competitive advantages and simulate future operating environments. Marine Corps Systems Command will provide acquisition support for the facility throughout its lifecycle.

Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher Walters, a hospital corpsman with 3rd Medical Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, conducts a rifle swim during the water survival advanced course on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 17, 2021. WSA is the highest swim qualification Marines and sailors can obtain before moving onto the next echelon of becoming a Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival. The week-long course kicks off with a water survival pre screening event, and the remainder of the course consists of numerous endurance swims, life-saving techniques and applications, physical and mental conditioning, and countless swimming drills to ensure students have the confidence to not only maintain themselves but others’ lives while in the water. Walters is a native of Upland, California. - Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher Walters, a hospital corpsman with 3rd Medical Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, conducts a rifle swim during the water survival advanced course on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 17, 2021. WSA is the highest swim qualification Marines and sailors can obtain before moving onto the next echelon of becoming a Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival. The week-long course kicks off with a water survival pre screening event, and the remainder of the course consists of numerous endurance swims, life-saving techniques and applications, physical and mental conditioning, and countless swimming drills to ensure students have the confidence to not only maintain themselves but others’ lives while in the water. Walters is a native of Upland, California.

U.S. Marines, Sailors, civilians and their families pose for a photo after surviving a flash flood at Ta-Taki Falls, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 13, 2020. The members of the group found themselves in a life-threatening situation and assisted each other and local nationals to return safely. - U.S. Marines, Sailors, civilians and their families pose for a photo after surviving a flash flood at Ta-Taki Falls, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 13, 2020. The members of the group found themselves in a life-threatening situation and assisted each other and local nationals to return safely.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Timonthy P. Gensitskiy, an ordnance team member with Marine Light Attack Squadron 269, signals to pilots that a UH-1Y Venom helicopter’s weaponry has been disarmed after a flight at Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, April 28, 2021. HMLA-269 and other squadrons assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 29 are training to integrate with and support various Marine ground units as part of Service Level Training Exercise 3-21. SLTE is a series of exercises designed to prepare Marines for operations around the globe by increasing their ability to operate and conduct offensive and defensive combat operations. MAG-29 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Timonthy P. Gensitskiy, an ordnance team member with Marine Light Attack Squadron 269, signals to pilots that a UH-1Y Venom helicopter’s weaponry has been disarmed after a flight at Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, April 28, 2021. HMLA-269 and other squadrons assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 29 are training to integrate with and support various Marine ground units as part of Service Level Training Exercise 3-21. SLTE is a series of exercises designed to prepare Marines for operations around the globe by increasing their ability to operate and conduct offensive and defensive combat operations. MAG-29 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 4 Benjamin Barron, the chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense officer with the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, Cpl. Dominick Bonner, a CBRN defense specialist, and Gunnery Sgt. Joshua Malchow, the CBRN defense operations coordinator, pose for a group photo on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2021. Bonner, a native of Parkville, Maryland, was enjoying breakfast at a restaurant to celebrate his wife’s birthday when he was made aware of a restaurant employee who required medical attention. After entering the kitchen area and locating the man, lying motionless without a pulse, Bonner laid the man on his back and began chest compressions, taking over for a fatigued employee. Bonner continued to provide lifesaving aid for over ten minutes, sustaining the man’s life, until relieved by Japanese paramedics who evacuated the man to a local medical facility. - U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 4 Benjamin Barron, the chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense officer with the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, Cpl. Dominick Bonner, a CBRN defense specialist, and Gunnery Sgt. Joshua Malchow, the CBRN defense operations coordinator, pose for a group photo on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2021. Bonner, a native of Parkville, Maryland, was enjoying breakfast at a restaurant to celebrate his wife’s birthday when he was made aware of a restaurant employee who required medical attention. After entering the kitchen area and locating the man, lying motionless without a pulse, Bonner laid the man on his back and began chest compressions, taking over for a fatigued employee. Bonner continued to provide lifesaving aid for over ten minutes, sustaining the man’s life, until relieved by Japanese paramedics who evacuated the man to a local medical facility.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kyle Cook, a rifleman with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, prepares for an ambush during Jungle Warfare Exercise in the Northern Training Area on Okinawa, Japan, May 25, 2021. This unscripted force-on-force exercise tested and strengthened the Marines’ ability to operate within distributed jungle and littoral environments, while adapting to a thinking peer-level adversary. 3/3 is forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, as a part of the Unit Deployment Program. Cook is a native of Arlington, Texas. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kyle Cook, a rifleman with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, prepares for an ambush during Jungle Warfare Exercise in the Northern Training Area on Okinawa, Japan, May 25, 2021. This unscripted force-on-force exercise tested and strengthened the Marines’ ability to operate within distributed jungle and littoral environments, while adapting to a thinking peer-level adversary. 3/3 is forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, as a part of the Unit Deployment Program. Cook is a native of Arlington, Texas.

VT-86 training squadron poses for an official class photo following their winging ceremony at Naval Air Station Pensacola, May 27, 2021. This Winging Ceremony marks the official completion of the training required to become a weapon systems officer. U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Brenda McCarthy is the last female to receive her wings. - VT-86 training squadron poses for an official class photo following their winging ceremony at Naval Air Station Pensacola, May 27, 2021. This Winging Ceremony marks the official completion of the training required to become a weapon systems officer. U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Brenda McCarthy is the last female to receive her wings.

U.S. Navy ET2 Paul Saldana, left, electronics technician, and CM2 Adam Long, construction mechanic, both with Naval Beach Unit 7, conduct ramp marshall duties to guide a Landing Craft Air Cushion into port on Naval Base White Beach, Okinawa, Japan, June 1, 2021. Marines from 3d MLG and Sailors from NBU-7 integrated to load and transport personnel and equipment in support of exercise Poseidon’s Watchtower. NBU-7 is an operational, forward deployed unit that directly contributes to the core capabilities of U.S. Maritime Sea Power by facilitating the movement of troops, equipment, vehicles and supplies from amphibious shipping across the beach. 3d MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III MEF’s comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. Saldana is a native of Miramar, Florida, and Long is a native of Sanford, North Carolina. - U.S. Navy ET2 Paul Saldana, left, electronics technician, and CM2 Adam Long, construction mechanic, both with Naval Beach Unit 7, conduct ramp marshall duties to guide a Landing Craft Air Cushion into port on Naval Base White Beach, Okinawa, Japan, June 1, 2021. Marines from 3d MLG and Sailors from NBU-7 integrated to load and transport personnel and equipment in support of exercise Poseidon’s Watchtower. NBU-7 is an operational, forward deployed unit that directly contributes to the core capabilities of U.S. Maritime Sea Power by facilitating the movement of troops, equipment, vehicles and supplies from amphibious shipping across the beach. 3d MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III MEF’s comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. Saldana is a native of Miramar, Florida, and Long is a native of Sanford, North Carolina.

U.S. Marines with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, suppress targets on a company battle course on range G-36, Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 23, 2021. Echo Company was the first company to execute the battle course as a night live-fire event. The event is the culmination of their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation, certifying the unit as an apex battalion. - U.S. Marines with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, suppress targets on a company battle course on range G-36, Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 23, 2021. Echo Company was the first company to execute the battle course as a night live-fire event. The event is the culmination of their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation, certifying the unit as an apex battalion.

A U.S. Marine with 1st Marine Division provides suppressive fire during Marine Air Ground Task Force Warfighting Exercise 3-21 on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, May 7, 2021. MWX is the culminating event of the Service Level Training Exercise, challenging the MAGTF to fight against a free thinking adversary with similar capabilities in a force on force environment. - A U.S. Marine with 1st Marine Division provides suppressive fire during Marine Air Ground Task Force Warfighting Exercise 3-21 on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, May 7, 2021. MWX is the culminating event of the Service Level Training Exercise, challenging the MAGTF to fight against a free thinking adversary with similar capabilities in a force on force environment.

U.S. Marines load lumber and cement into the back of a CH-53 in preparation to send it to Camp Paumalu Girl Scout camp where a joint-service effort is being made to renovate and improve the camp here May 18. - U.S. Marines load lumber and cement into the back of a CH-53 in preparation to send it to Camp Paumalu Girl Scout camp where a joint-service effort is being made to renovate and improve the camp here May 18.

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, prepares for takeoff during an Alert Contingency Marine Air Ground Task Force drill at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, May 20, 2021. The ACM exercise is a simulated crisis response drill that must be executed within 24 hours to prepare the Marines of 1st MAW to mitigate emergencies, provide humanitarian aid, and/ or counter threats to U.S. national interests within the Indo-Pacific region. - A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, prepares for takeoff during an Alert Contingency Marine Air Ground Task Force drill at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, May 20, 2021. The ACM exercise is a simulated crisis response drill that must be executed within 24 hours to prepare the Marines of 1st MAW to mitigate emergencies, provide humanitarian aid, and/ or counter threats to U.S. national interests within the Indo-Pacific region.

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U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Calvin Gravette III, a bulk fuel specialist with Bulk Fuel Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, instructs Marines on the Expeditionary Mobile Fuel Additization on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 12, 2021. Gravette is a graduate from the EMFAC New Equipment Training, and is the lead EMFAC training instructor for III Marine Expeditionary Force. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III MEF’s comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Calvin Gravette III, a bulk fuel specialist with Bulk Fuel Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, instructs Marines on the Expeditionary Mobile Fuel Additization on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 12, 2021. Gravette is a graduate from the EMFAC New Equipment Training, and is the lead EMFAC training instructor for III Marine Expeditionary Force. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III MEF’s comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

15th Marine Expeditionary Unit Marines and Sailors and Cold Bay Airport aircraft rescue firefighters pose for a photo in front of an Oshkosh Striker T3000 firetruck following a training event at Cold Bay Airport, Alaska in support of Northern Edge 2021. U.S. service members are participating in a joint training exercise hosted by U.S. Pacific Air Forces May 3-14, 2021, on and above the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, the Gulf of Alaska, and temporary maritime activities area. NE21 is one in a series of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command exercises designed to sharpen the joint forces’ skills; to practice tactics, techniques, and procedures; to improve command, control and communication relationships; and to develop cooperative plans and programs. - 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit Marines and Sailors and Cold Bay Airport aircraft rescue firefighters pose for a photo in front of an Oshkosh Striker T3000 firetruck following a training event at Cold Bay Airport, Alaska in support of Northern Edge 2021. U.S. service members are participating in a joint training exercise hosted by U.S. Pacific Air Forces May 3-14, 2021, on and above the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, the Gulf of Alaska, and temporary maritime activities area. NE21 is one in a series of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command exercises designed to sharpen the joint forces’ skills; to practice tactics, techniques, and procedures; to improve command, control and communication relationships; and to develop cooperative plans and programs.

A Marine with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211, Carrier Strike Group 21, launches an F-35B Lightning II aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth at sea, May 6, 2021. VMFA-211 was conducting night carrier qualifications to safely reintegrate back into the CSG. VMFA-211 will form part of the largest 5th-generation carrier air group in the world. This deployment highlights the global reach of the U.S. and UK armed forces and their interoperability, and enhances the deterrence and defense capabilities of the NATO Alliance. - A Marine with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211, Carrier Strike Group 21, launches an F-35B Lightning II aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth at sea, May 6, 2021. VMFA-211 was conducting night carrier qualifications to safely reintegrate back into the CSG. VMFA-211 will form part of the largest 5th-generation carrier air group in the world. This deployment highlights the global reach of the U.S. and UK armed forces and their interoperability, and enhances the deterrence and defense capabilities of the NATO Alliance.

U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Alexander Teegarden, a platoon commander with Alpha Company, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry - West, gives a safety brief to students before a fire and movement exercise on Range 215A as part of the sixth week of the Infantry Marine Course on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 3, 2021. IMC is a 14-week pilot course designed to create better trained and more lethal entry-level infantry Marines prepared for near-peer conflicts. The course uses a redesigned learning model for students intended to develop their capabilities for independent and adaptive thought and action. The program of instruction for IMC has been in development for a year and follows guidance from the 2019 Commandant's Planning Guidance and Force Design 2030. - U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Alexander Teegarden, a platoon commander with Alpha Company, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry - West, gives a safety brief to students before a fire and movement exercise on Range 215A as part of the sixth week of the Infantry Marine Course on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 3, 2021. IMC is a 14-week pilot course designed to create better trained and more lethal entry-level infantry Marines prepared for near-peer conflicts. The course uses a redesigned learning model for students intended to develop their capabilities for independent and adaptive thought and action. The program of instruction for IMC has been in development for a year and follows guidance from the 2019 Commandant's Planning Guidance and Force Design 2030.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Kaleb, a crew chief with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 Clark sits on the CH-53E Super Stallion’s ramp as the aircraft leaves the USNS D. T. Williams, April 5, 2021. 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing is participating in Dynamic Cape 21.1, an operational logistics exercise simulating a Marine expeditionary force’s ability to exercise command and control in a contested environment as well as exercising naval integration in a joint environment. 2nd CEB is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Division, the ground combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. HMH-461 is a subordinate unit to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, which is the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Kaleb, a crew chief with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 Clark sits on the CH-53E Super Stallion’s ramp as the aircraft leaves the USNS D. T. Williams, April 5, 2021. 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing is participating in Dynamic Cape 21.1, an operational logistics exercise simulating a Marine expeditionary force’s ability to exercise command and control in a contested environment as well as exercising naval integration in a joint environment. 2nd CEB is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Division, the ground combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. HMH-461 is a subordinate unit to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, which is the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

Mr. Paul Williamson, the Command Advisor at the U.S. Marine Corps’ Wounded Warrior Regiment, poses for a photo in front of memorabilia he’s collected throughout his 51-year-long career at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., April 4, 2020. Williamson served in the U.S. Navy for 31 years before joining the then newly established Wounded Warrior Regiment in 2007. - Mr. Paul Williamson, the Command Advisor at the U.S. Marine Corps’ Wounded Warrior Regiment, poses for a photo in front of memorabilia he’s collected throughout his 51-year-long career at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., April 4, 2020. Williamson served in the U.S. Navy for 31 years before joining the then newly established Wounded Warrior Regiment in 2007.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kamerin Hervey, an administrative law clerk with the Legal Services Support Section, Headquarters and Support Battalion, conducts a stationary bike exercise during his physical therapy appointment in the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, March 26, 2021. Hervey was a wheelchair-bound, active-duty Marine due to his bilateral, tibia-stress fractures in both shins. However, his shins have completely healed bilaterally, and with direction from his doctor, he no longer needs to utilize a wheelchair. Hervey is a Longmont, Colorado, native. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kamerin Hervey, an administrative law clerk with the Legal Services Support Section, Headquarters and Support Battalion, conducts a stationary bike exercise during his physical therapy appointment in the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, March 26, 2021. Hervey was a wheelchair-bound, active-duty Marine due to his bilateral, tibia-stress fractures in both shins. However, his shins have completely healed bilaterally, and with direction from his doctor, he no longer needs to utilize a wheelchair. Hervey is a Longmont, Colorado, native.

Lance Cpl. Anthony Bryan, a water support technician with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, reviews recently purified water’s chlorine level during the command post exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 8, 2020. Water support technician Marines used lightweight water purification systems to purify water before providing it to the combat engineer Marines working at another site. The CPX increases readiness and challenges SPMAGTF-SC command and control, communications and timely decision-making capabilities through simulated real-world scenarios. SPMAGTF-SC will be deployed into the Southern Command area of operation to provide crisis response preparedness efforts, security cooperation training and engineering events to help strengthen relations with partner nations throughout Central and South America. Bryan is a native of Eugene, Oregon. - Lance Cpl. Anthony Bryan, a water support technician with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, reviews recently purified water’s chlorine level during the command post exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 8, 2020. Water support technician Marines used lightweight water purification systems to purify water before providing it to the combat engineer Marines working at another site. The CPX increases readiness and challenges SPMAGTF-SC command and control, communications and timely decision-making capabilities through simulated real-world scenarios. SPMAGTF-SC will be deployed into the Southern Command area of operation to provide crisis response preparedness efforts, security cooperation training and engineering events to help strengthen relations with partner nations throughout Central and South America. Bryan is a native of Eugene, Oregon.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, fire a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during Exercise Rolling Thunder 21.2 on Fort Bragg, N.C., April 26, 2021. This is a live-fire artillery exercise where 10th Marines employed distributed fires via simulated Expeditionary Advanced Bases. The training increased 2nd MARDIV’s combat readiness against a peer competitor. HIMARS are an advanced long-range and mobile rocket system that allows 2nd MARDIV to employ precision fires onto a target. - U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, fire a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during Exercise Rolling Thunder 21.2 on Fort Bragg, N.C., April 26, 2021. This is a live-fire artillery exercise where 10th Marines employed distributed fires via simulated Expeditionary Advanced Bases. The training increased 2nd MARDIV’s combat readiness against a peer competitor. HIMARS are an advanced long-range and mobile rocket system that allows 2nd MARDIV to employ precision fires onto a target.

Ms. Vicki Mullen (seated at center), the Supervisory Transition Program Manager for the U.S. Marine Corps’ Wounded Warrior Regiment, poses for a photo alongside her then coworkers at the U.S. Army’s Recovery Care Program in Alexandria, Va., 2016. Mullen has dedicated 41 years of service towards assisting wounded, ill and injured service members. - Ms. Vicki Mullen (seated at center), the Supervisory Transition Program Manager for the U.S. Marine Corps’ Wounded Warrior Regiment, poses for a photo alongside her then coworkers at the U.S. Army’s Recovery Care Program in Alexandria, Va., 2016. Mullen has dedicated 41 years of service towards assisting wounded, ill and injured service members.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jacob Maurer, a native of Warwick, Pennsylvania and explosive ordnance technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 22 (CLB-22), poses for a portrait at the state-run, federally-supported Community Vaccination Center at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Pa., April 27, 2021. U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy Sailors with CLB-22, from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, are deployed in support of the federal vaccine response. U.S. Northern Command, through U.S. Army North, remains committed to providing continued, flexible Department of Defense support to the Federal Emergency Management Agency as part of the whole-of-government response to COVID-19. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jacob Maurer, a native of Warwick, Pennsylvania and explosive ordnance technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 22 (CLB-22), poses for a portrait at the state-run, federally-supported Community Vaccination Center at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Pa., April 27, 2021. U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy Sailors with CLB-22, from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, are deployed in support of the federal vaccine response. U.S. Northern Command, through U.S. Army North, remains committed to providing continued, flexible Department of Defense support to the Federal Emergency Management Agency as part of the whole-of-government response to COVID-19.

U.S. Marines with Marine Air Control Squadron 2 monitor simulated aircraft communications during exercise MISTEX-20 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., July 28, 2020. During the exercise, Marines practiced setting up communication between squadrons in Marine Air Control Group 28 while also exercising aircraft control skills necessary for successful combat flights in an expeditionary setting. - U.S. Marines with Marine Air Control Squadron 2 monitor simulated aircraft communications during exercise MISTEX-20 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., July 28, 2020. During the exercise, Marines practiced setting up communication between squadrons in Marine Air Control Group 28 while also exercising aircraft control skills necessary for successful combat flights in an expeditionary setting.

Former first sergeant, Alberto Andino, marches during his graduation ceremony at Officer Candidate School in Quantico, Va., March 31, 2021. Andino became the fourth first sergeant in Marine Corps history to complete the Corps’ officer candidate school and commission as an officer through the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program. - Former first sergeant, Alberto Andino, marches during his graduation ceremony at Officer Candidate School in Quantico, Va., March 31, 2021. Andino became the fourth first sergeant in Marine Corps history to complete the Corps’ officer candidate school and commission as an officer through the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program.

U.S. Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion and Navy Seabees with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4 load a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle onto an improved ribbon bridge during exercise Pacific Pioneer, Naha Port, April 21, 2021. Pacific Pioneer serves as 9th ESB’s Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation as well as an opportunity to demonstrate the ability to sustain expeditionary advanced bases with survivable force protection, practice naval integration, and position long range precision fires and tactical logistics nodes across littoral regions in support of naval operations. - U.S. Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion and Navy Seabees with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4 load a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle onto an improved ribbon bridge during exercise Pacific Pioneer, Naha Port, April 21, 2021. Pacific Pioneer serves as 9th ESB’s Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation as well as an opportunity to demonstrate the ability to sustain expeditionary advanced bases with survivable force protection, practice naval integration, and position long range precision fires and tactical logistics nodes across littoral regions in support of naval operations.

U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 fly during a mission rehearsal exercise over Okinawa, Japan, April 16, 2021. The MRX served as a culminating event for HMLA-267 as they near the end of their time in Okinawa as part of the Unit Deployment Program. - U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 fly during a mission rehearsal exercise over Okinawa, Japan, April 16, 2021. The MRX served as a culminating event for HMLA-267 as they near the end of their time in Okinawa as part of the Unit Deployment Program.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172 prepare to refuel a UH-1Y Venom helicopter assigned to Marine Light Helicopter Squadron 267 during a forward arming and refueling point training event as part of a Marine Corps combat readiness evaluation held by MWSS-172 at the Ie Shima training facility, Okinawa, Japan, April 15, 2021. The MCCRE creates a challenging, realistic training environment that produces combat-ready forces capable of operating as a deployed unit at any time. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172 prepare to refuel a UH-1Y Venom helicopter assigned to Marine Light Helicopter Squadron 267 during a forward arming and refueling point training event as part of a Marine Corps combat readiness evaluation held by MWSS-172 at the Ie Shima training facility, Okinawa, Japan, April 15, 2021. The MCCRE creates a challenging, realistic training environment that produces combat-ready forces capable of operating as a deployed unit at any time.

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The Honorable James F. Geurts, acting Under Secretary of the Navy, visited Camp Lejeune, N.C., on April 9 to observe emerging technologies being demonstrated at the Naval Integration in Contested Environments Advanced Naval Technology Exercise 2021. Lt. Gen. Eric Smith, U.S. Marine Corps deputy commandant for Combat Development and Integration, and Vice Adm. James Kilby, deputy chief of naval operations for Warfighting Requirements and Capabilities accompanied Geurts during the visit. NICE ANTX 2021, which runs through April 15, brings together private industry, academia and government labs to showcase technologies that incorporate new concepts in naval warfare, such as Distributed Maritime Operations and Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations. The exercise also provides an avenue for the military to assess capabilities and technology owners to receive feedback on their product’s efficacy. - The Honorable James F. Geurts, acting Under Secretary of the Navy, visited Camp Lejeune, N.C., on April 9 to observe emerging technologies being demonstrated at the Naval Integration in Contested Environments Advanced Naval Technology Exercise 2021. Lt. Gen. Eric Smith, U.S. Marine Corps deputy commandant for Combat Development and Integration, and Vice Adm. James Kilby, deputy chief of naval operations for Warfighting Requirements and Capabilities accompanied Geurts during the visit. NICE ANTX 2021, which runs through April 15, brings together private industry, academia and government labs to showcase technologies that incorporate new concepts in naval warfare, such as Distributed Maritime Operations and Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations. The exercise also provides an avenue for the military to assess capabilities and technology owners to receive feedback on their product’s efficacy.

The Marine Corps’ first MQ-9A at an undisclosed location in the Central Command area of responsibility. The MQ-9A completed 10,000 flight hours in support of Marine Corps Forces, Central Command operations on March 31, 2021. - The Marine Corps’ first MQ-9A at an undisclosed location in the Central Command area of responsibility. The MQ-9A completed 10,000 flight hours in support of Marine Corps Forces, Central Command operations on March 31, 2021.

Gunnery Sgt. Evan Fancher, a project officer for Air and Amphibious Systems at Marine Corps Systems Command, demonstrates a prototype version of the new Physical Training Uniform. On April 13, MCSC awarded four contracts to manufacture prototypes for an updated PTU, which will then be tested and evaluated by MCSC. The uniform will provide a more athletic fit that aligns with today’s commercial clothing trends. - Gunnery Sgt. Evan Fancher, a project officer for Air and Amphibious Systems at Marine Corps Systems Command, demonstrates a prototype version of the new Physical Training Uniform. On April 13, MCSC awarded four contracts to manufacture prototypes for an updated PTU, which will then be tested and evaluated by MCSC. The uniform will provide a more athletic fit that aligns with today’s commercial clothing trends.

U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force Europe 21.1, Marine Forces Europe and Africa, conduct a combat patrol during a company live-fire attack as part of Exercise Arctic Littoral Strike in Blåtind, Norway, March 30, 2021. Exercise Arctic Littoral Strike improved MRF-E’s ability to confront the challenges of anti-access, area denial capabilities posed by a notional peer adversary in a contested littoral environment. MRF-E demonstrated the ability to support joint fleet operations by providing over watch to a Norwegian submarine and destroying a notional adversary integrated air defense system. MRF-E focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, arctic cold-weather and mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements, which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners. - U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force Europe 21.1, Marine Forces Europe and Africa, conduct a combat patrol during a company live-fire attack as part of Exercise Arctic Littoral Strike in Blåtind, Norway, March 30, 2021. Exercise Arctic Littoral Strike improved MRF-E’s ability to confront the challenges of anti-access, area denial capabilities posed by a notional peer adversary in a contested littoral environment. MRF-E demonstrated the ability to support joint fleet operations by providing over watch to a Norwegian submarine and destroying a notional adversary integrated air defense system. MRF-E focuses on regional engagements throughout Europe by conducting various exercises, arctic cold-weather and mountain warfare training, and military-to-military engagements, which enhance overall interoperability of the U.S. Marine Corps with allies and partners.

Maj. Calleen Kinney provides her assessment of the Marine Corps’ modified maternity uniform items aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va, March 4, 2021. In April 2021, MCSC will begin gradually releasing a series of updated maternity items in response to concerns about fit, comfort and appearance. - Maj. Calleen Kinney provides her assessment of the Marine Corps’ modified maternity uniform items aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va, March 4, 2021. In April 2021, MCSC will begin gradually releasing a series of updated maternity items in response to concerns about fit, comfort and appearance.