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Marines with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin box during a French Armed Forces Nautical Commando Course at Quartier Gribeauval, New Caledonia, August 16, 2016. The course is a part of Exercise AmeriCal 16, a bilateral training exercise designed to enhance mutual combat capabilities and improve relations with our partners by exchanging a U.S. Marine Corps and French Armed Forces infantry platoon. While the U.S. Marines are in New Caledonia, the French infantry platoon traveled to Australia to participate in Exercise Koolendong 16 with U.S. and Australian forces. - Marines with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin box during a French Armed Forces Nautical Commando Course at Quartier Gribeauval, New Caledonia, August 16, 2016. The course is a part of Exercise AmeriCal 16, a bilateral training exercise designed to enhance mutual combat capabilities and improve relations with our partners by exchanging a U.S. Marine Corps and French Armed Forces infantry platoon. While the U.S. Marines are in New Caledonia, the French infantry platoon traveled to Australia to participate in Exercise Koolendong 16 with U.S. and Australian forces.

Marines with Company A, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, fire a M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 19, 2016. Marines fired the tanks to adjust their battle sight zero before the main event of their annual training. - Marines with Company A, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, fire a M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 19, 2016. Marines fired the tanks to adjust their battle sight zero before the main event of their annual training.

Sgt. Juan Gonzalez, paraloft chief for Company C, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, checks the distance left before a jump during Exercise Northern Strike 2016 at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, Mich., Aug. 16, 2016. Reserve Recon Marines practice jumping from the back of C-130s to meet their requirements and perfect their skills. Exercise Northern Strike 16 is a National Guard Bureau-sponsored exercise uniting approximately 5,000 Army, Air Force, Marine, and Special Forces service members from 20 states and three coalition countries. The exercise strives to provide accessible, readiness-building opportunities for military units from all service branches to achieve and sustain proficiency in conducting mission command, air, sea, and ground maneuver integration, and the synchronization of fires in a joint, multinational, decisive action environment. - Sgt. Juan Gonzalez, paraloft chief for Company C, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, checks the distance left before a jump during Exercise Northern Strike 2016 at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, Mich., Aug. 16, 2016. Reserve Recon Marines practice jumping from the back of C-130s to meet their requirements and perfect their skills. Exercise Northern Strike 16 is a National Guard Bureau-sponsored exercise uniting approximately 5,000 Army, Air Force, Marine, and Special Forces service members from 20 states and three coalition countries. The exercise strives to provide accessible, readiness-building opportunities for military units from all service branches to achieve and sustain proficiency in conducting mission command, air, sea, and ground maneuver integration, and the synchronization of fires in a joint, multinational, decisive action environment.

Lance Cpl. Vicente C. Spence, right, a motor transport operator with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, receives a challenge coin from Rear Adm. Christina M. Alavarado, commander, reserve component expeditionary medicine, during Exercise Global Medic at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, August 19, 2016. Spence was presented the coin for the continuous hard work he did throughout the course of the exercise and for constantly maintaining a positive and upbeat attitude. - Lance Cpl. Vicente C. Spence, right, a motor transport operator with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, receives a challenge coin from Rear Adm. Christina M. Alavarado, commander, reserve component expeditionary medicine, during Exercise Global Medic at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, August 19, 2016. Spence was presented the coin for the continuous hard work he did throughout the course of the exercise and for constantly maintaining a positive and upbeat attitude.

Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force and sailors with 553 Cyber Protection Team, monitor network activity during I MEF Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug 22, 2016. The overall purpose of the exercise was to practice the deployment of a fighting force of more than 50,000 military personnel to a partner nation and incorporate both live-fire and simulated combat scenarios against a near-peer enemy force. 553-CPT is a team of cyber defense specialists with Fleet Cyber Command. The team advised I MEF while setting up the command element’s networks. - Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force and sailors with 553 Cyber Protection Team, monitor network activity during I MEF Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug 22, 2016. The overall purpose of the exercise was to practice the deployment of a fighting force of more than 50,000 military personnel to a partner nation and incorporate both live-fire and simulated combat scenarios against a near-peer enemy force. 553-CPT is a team of cyber defense specialists with Fleet Cyber Command. The team advised I MEF while setting up the command element’s networks.

Second Lieutenant Trevor Weaser (third from the left), rows at a 2014 competition at Northeastern University in Boston, Mass. Weaser was commissioned a Marine Corps officer August 7th, 2016. - Second Lieutenant Trevor Weaser (third from the left), rows at a 2014 competition at Northeastern University in Boston, Mass. Weaser was commissioned a Marine Corps officer August 7th, 2016.

An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 taxis to the runway for a night flight during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 17, 2016. The flying squadron executed large force close air support, air interdiction, armed reconnaissance, and strike coordination and reconnaissance missions over the three week training evolution. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region. - An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 taxis to the runway for a night flight during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 17, 2016. The flying squadron executed large force close air support, air interdiction, armed reconnaissance, and strike coordination and reconnaissance missions over the three week training evolution. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region.

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U.S. Marines with Company A, Law Enforcement Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, practice weapons tactics training during I Marine Expeditionary Force Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 17, 2016. LSE-16 is designed to enhance the command and control and interoperability between I MEF command element staff and its higher, adjacent and subordinate command headquarters. The exercise includes cyber and electronic warfare, information support operations, and simulated and live-fire events. - U.S. Marines with Company A, Law Enforcement Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, practice weapons tactics training during I Marine Expeditionary Force Large Scale Exercise 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 17, 2016. LSE-16 is designed to enhance the command and control and interoperability between I MEF command element staff and its higher, adjacent and subordinate command headquarters. The exercise includes cyber and electronic warfare, information support operations, and simulated and live-fire events.

The aviation logistics support ship SS Wright is playing an important support role during Bold Alligator 16, Aug 15-26. In addition to serving in its traditional role providing intermediate aircraft maintenance, the Wright is involved in limited objective experimentation to expose participants to new technologies, applications and concepts that will inform future warfighting capabilities.The experiment will test the ship’s suitability as a potential command and control platform, providing integrated air and ground logistics support, and as a possible hub for unmanned air and maritime vehicles providing support to the landing force. - The aviation logistics support ship SS Wright is playing an important support role during Bold Alligator 16, Aug 15-26. In addition to serving in its traditional role providing intermediate aircraft maintenance, the Wright is involved in limited objective experimentation to expose participants to new technologies, applications and concepts that will inform future warfighting capabilities.The experiment will test the ship’s suitability as a potential command and control platform, providing integrated air and ground logistics support, and as a possible hub for unmanned air and maritime vehicles providing support to the landing force.

Lance Cpl. Samuel L. Posey, a rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company I, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, sights in through his rifle while conducting room clearing drills during exercise Arctic Eagle at Camp Grayling, Mich., April 7, 2016. Posey overcame a rough childhood to become a Marine and serve his country. - Lance Cpl. Samuel L. Posey, a rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company I, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, sights in through his rifle while conducting room clearing drills during exercise Arctic Eagle at Camp Grayling, Mich., April 7, 2016. Posey overcame a rough childhood to become a Marine and serve his country.

A range safety officer spreads CS gas during a live fire range August 18, 2016, to simulate a chemical attack at Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. The range was the final training evolution of Exercise Koolendong 16, a trilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps, Australian Defence Force and French Armed Forces New Caledonia. Marines held a defensive position while engaging targets and working through the CS gas. - A range safety officer spreads CS gas during a live fire range August 18, 2016, to simulate a chemical attack at Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. The range was the final training evolution of Exercise Koolendong 16, a trilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps, Australian Defence Force and French Armed Forces New Caledonia. Marines held a defensive position while engaging targets and working through the CS gas.

A Sikorsky S76A++ Search and Rescue helicopter hovers during SAR training at Exercise Pitch Black 2016, Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 16, 2016. The SAR team trains with local and international forces during exercises like Pitch Black to ensure all medical personnel that can respond to an aircraft emergency are capable of carrying out the same procedures. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region. - A Sikorsky S76A++ Search and Rescue helicopter hovers during SAR training at Exercise Pitch Black 2016, Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 16, 2016. The SAR team trains with local and international forces during exercises like Pitch Black to ensure all medical personnel that can respond to an aircraft emergency are capable of carrying out the same procedures. The biennial, multinational exercise involves approximately 10 allied nations and prepares these forces for possible real-world scenarios. The bilateral effort amongst Exercise Pitch Black 2016 furthermore showcases the strength amongst various militaries and solidifies the relationship across the Pacific region.

An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 takes off from a simulated combat zone during a casualty evacuation exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, August 17, 2016. Marines with VMM-161 conducted the exercise in support of 5th Battalion, 11th Marines, in order to increase proficiency in conducting CAS EVACS. - An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 takes off from a simulated combat zone during a casualty evacuation exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, August 17, 2016. Marines with VMM-161 conducted the exercise in support of 5th Battalion, 11th Marines, in order to increase proficiency in conducting CAS EVACS.

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Marines with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit intelligence section assemble a tent in the field during an Intelligence Interoperability Course, Dec. 13, 2010. The Marines and sailors of the 22nd MEU recently began an aggressive series of progressively, more complex pre-deployment exercises designed to train and test the MEU's ability to operate as a cohesive and effective fighting force. - Marines with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit intelligence section assemble a tent in the field during an Intelligence Interoperability Course, Dec. 13, 2010. The Marines and sailors of the 22nd MEU recently began an aggressive series of progressively, more complex pre-deployment exercises designed to train and test the MEU's ability to operate as a cohesive and effective fighting force.

Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion participated in a Beretta M9 pistol shoot during a weeklong weapon training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 9, 2016. Marines practiced handling and firing pistols in several unconventional style drills, helping enhance their skills with the weapon. - Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion participated in a Beretta M9 pistol shoot during a weeklong weapon training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 9, 2016. Marines practiced handling and firing pistols in several unconventional style drills, helping enhance their skills with the weapon.

A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier with Marine Attack Squadron 542 performs a vertical landing while using the lights on the mobile Expeditionary Hover Position Indicator to adjust its position at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 9, 2016. VMA-542 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., and is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, as part of the unit deployment program. The Harrier pilots used the mobile EHPI in coordination with Aircraft Recovery assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron to recertify on boat-deck landings to prepare for other future operations in the Pacific. - A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier with Marine Attack Squadron 542 performs a vertical landing while using the lights on the mobile Expeditionary Hover Position Indicator to adjust its position at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 9, 2016. VMA-542 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., and is forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, as part of the unit deployment program. The Harrier pilots used the mobile EHPI in coordination with Aircraft Recovery assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron to recertify on boat-deck landings to prepare for other future operations in the Pacific.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Company 36 don their M50 Joint Service General Purpose Masks during chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, August 10, 2016. Marines, already in mission oriented protective posture gear, were evaluated on their ability to effectively detect, report, respond and operate in a simulated CBRN environment. When given the signal “gas, gas, gas,” Marines scrambled to don their M50 Joint Service General Purpose Masks before returning to work as if everything was normal. Conducting this training helps Marines refresh their tactical skill sets specific to CBRN response, maintain situational readiness and ensures the safety of personnel. - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Company 36 don their M50 Joint Service General Purpose Masks during chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, August 10, 2016. Marines, already in mission oriented protective posture gear, were evaluated on their ability to effectively detect, report, respond and operate in a simulated CBRN environment. When given the signal “gas, gas, gas,” Marines scrambled to don their M50 Joint Service General Purpose Masks before returning to work as if everything was normal. Conducting this training helps Marines refresh their tactical skill sets specific to CBRN response, maintain situational readiness and ensures the safety of personnel.

Col. Jay R. Vargas, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, waves at the camera after speaking to service members about the importance of finding help for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder May 12, 2015, at the Chaplain Joseph W. Estabrook Chapel aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii. - Col. Jay R. Vargas, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, waves at the camera after speaking to service members about the importance of finding help for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder May 12, 2015, at the Chaplain Joseph W. Estabrook Chapel aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

The “Helo Dunker” is a mock helicopter that is used to provide the safest way of simulating an actual invent of an aircraft crashing into the water without actually crashing a helicopter, it is used by submerging the Marines completely under the water to train them to egress from the vehicle at the Water Survival training facility on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune Aug. 5, 2016. The Marines undertook the training which is designed as a lifesaving course that provides service members with the skills and confidence too successfully and safely egress out of a helicopter that has suffered a controlled or uncontrolled landing within a body of water. - The “Helo Dunker” is a mock helicopter that is used to provide the safest way of simulating an actual invent of an aircraft crashing into the water without actually crashing a helicopter, it is used by submerging the Marines completely under the water to train them to egress from the vehicle at the Water Survival training facility on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune Aug. 5, 2016. The Marines undertook the training which is designed as a lifesaving course that provides service members with the skills and confidence too successfully and safely egress out of a helicopter that has suffered a controlled or uncontrolled landing within a body of water.

An F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 moves in to catch the basket during an aerial refueling mission with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia during Exercise Pitch Black 2016, Aug. 9, 2016. VMGR-152 provides aerial refueling and assault support during expeditionary and joint or combined operations like Pitch Black. This exercise is a biennial, three week, multinational, large-force training exercise hosted by RAAF Tindal. - An F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 moves in to catch the basket during an aerial refueling mission with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia during Exercise Pitch Black 2016, Aug. 9, 2016. VMGR-152 provides aerial refueling and assault support during expeditionary and joint or combined operations like Pitch Black. This exercise is a biennial, three week, multinational, large-force training exercise hosted by RAAF Tindal.

Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Installations - West, conducts Exercise Citadel Rumble, Aug. 2-5. Exercise Citadel Rumble is an integrated disaster response and recovery exercise for emergency response plans, polices, and procedures as they pertain to an all-hazards event. This scenario encompassed a 6.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Southern California. - Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Installations - West, conducts Exercise Citadel Rumble, Aug. 2-5. Exercise Citadel Rumble is an integrated disaster response and recovery exercise for emergency response plans, polices, and procedures as they pertain to an all-hazards event. This scenario encompassed a 6.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Southern California.

A group of Marines with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment attacking the oppositional force headquarters during the Marine Air Ground Task Force Integrated Experiment 2016 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. as part of the final course of action for the exercise. July 31, 2016. The Marines used everything they learn throughout the course of the exercise to secure the enemy headquarters. - A group of Marines with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment attacking the oppositional force headquarters during the Marine Air Ground Task Force Integrated Experiment 2016 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. as part of the final course of action for the exercise. July 31, 2016. The Marines used everything they learn throughout the course of the exercise to secure the enemy headquarters.

A CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 takes off to conduct a troop lift exercise with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., The CH-53E Super Stallion is the largest helicopter in the United States military, and able to carry a 26,000-pound Light Armored Vehicle, 16 tons of cargo, or enough combat-loaded Marines to lead an assault or humanitarian operation. The capabilities provided by the CH-53E strengthen the expeditionary capabilities of Marines Corps units and make this aircraft one of the most useful in the Marine Corps. HMH-461 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. - A CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 takes off to conduct a troop lift exercise with 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., The CH-53E Super Stallion is the largest helicopter in the United States military, and able to carry a 26,000-pound Light Armored Vehicle, 16 tons of cargo, or enough combat-loaded Marines to lead an assault or humanitarian operation. The capabilities provided by the CH-53E strengthen the expeditionary capabilities of Marines Corps units and make this aircraft one of the most useful in the Marine Corps. HMH-461 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.

Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment line up to board an aircraft during a training exercise, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 28. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 462 and the Royal Canadian Air Force supported 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2016. - Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment line up to board an aircraft during a training exercise, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 28. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 462 and the Royal Canadian Air Force supported 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2016.

U.S. service members and guests attend the Montford Point Marine Memorial dedication ceremony held at Jacksonville, North Carolina, July 29, 2016. The memorial was built in honor of the 20,000 African-Americans who attended training at Montford Point. - U.S. service members and guests attend the Montford Point Marine Memorial dedication ceremony held at Jacksonville, North Carolina, July 29, 2016. The memorial was built in honor of the 20,000 African-Americans who attended training at Montford Point.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Christian Marin, a heavy equipment mechanic with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, radios-in a simulated casualty during Exercise Eagle Wrath 2016 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji,Japan, July 28, 2016. During the culminating event, Marines established a mock air base including a landing zone and refueling point, constructed defensive and machine-gun positions, and conducted convoys and patrols over the course of four days. MWSS-171 conducts this exercise once a year in order to train all the Marines within the squadron, enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Christian Marin, a heavy equipment mechanic with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, radios-in a simulated casualty during Exercise Eagle Wrath 2016 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji,Japan, July 28, 2016. During the culminating event, Marines established a mock air base including a landing zone and refueling point, constructed defensive and machine-gun positions, and conducted convoys and patrols over the course of four days. MWSS-171 conducts this exercise once a year in order to train all the Marines within the squadron, enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability.

An explosive ordnance disposal truck stands on a range during standoff munitions disruption training, July 28, 2016, at Marine Corps Base Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan. The training ensured explosive ordnance disposal technicians were proficient in the safe long-distance detonation of explosives, using the SASR-M107 sniper rifle. During the training, the EOD technicians were coached in marksmanship by reconnaissance Marines. The EOD technicians are with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan and Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The reconnaissance Marines are with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF. - An explosive ordnance disposal truck stands on a range during standoff munitions disruption training, July 28, 2016, at Marine Corps Base Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan. The training ensured explosive ordnance disposal technicians were proficient in the safe long-distance detonation of explosives, using the SASR-M107 sniper rifle. During the training, the EOD technicians were coached in marksmanship by reconnaissance Marines. The EOD technicians are with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan and Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The reconnaissance Marines are with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Daniel Lane, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 pilot, conducts a preflight check on an F/A-18C Hornet during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 1, 2016. Pitch Black 16 is a biennial, three week, multinational, large-force training exercise hosted by RAAF Tindal. As the training progresses, the U.S. pilots will also get the opportunity to fly with Canada, France, Germany, Indonesia, Netherlands, New Zealand and Thailand. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Daniel Lane, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 pilot, conducts a preflight check on an F/A-18C Hornet during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 1, 2016. Pitch Black 16 is a biennial, three week, multinational, large-force training exercise hosted by RAAF Tindal. As the training progresses, the U.S. pilots will also get the opportunity to fly with Canada, France, Germany, Indonesia, Netherlands, New Zealand and Thailand.

Cpl. Ryan T. Fry and Lance Cpl. Fabian J. Villegas, combat engineers with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, assemble a linear breaching charge with detonation cord at Camp Pendleton, California, July 26, 2016. A live-fire training exercise was conducted to give assaultmen and riflemen an opportunity to integrate with combat engineers and learn to build improvised breaching charges. - Cpl. Ryan T. Fry and Lance Cpl. Fabian J. Villegas, combat engineers with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, assemble a linear breaching charge with detonation cord at Camp Pendleton, California, July 26, 2016. A live-fire training exercise was conducted to give assaultmen and riflemen an opportunity to integrate with combat engineers and learn to build improvised breaching charges.

Lance Cpl. Trevor Serenelli, an aviation ordnance technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, unloads high explosive ordnance during exercise Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, July 28, 2016. Southern Frontier is three weeks of unit level training helping the squadron gain experience and qualifications in low altitude, air-ground, high explosive ordnance delivery at the unit level. VMFA-122 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina and are currently assigned to MAG-12 at MCAS Iwakuni under the Unit Deployment Program. Australia is the last stop on the squadron’s deployment before heading back home. - Lance Cpl. Trevor Serenelli, an aviation ordnance technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, unloads high explosive ordnance during exercise Southern Frontier at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, July 28, 2016. Southern Frontier is three weeks of unit level training helping the squadron gain experience and qualifications in low altitude, air-ground, high explosive ordnance delivery at the unit level. VMFA-122 is home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina and are currently assigned to MAG-12 at MCAS Iwakuni under the Unit Deployment Program. Australia is the last stop on the squadron’s deployment before heading back home.

U.S. Marines with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, assault a beach during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. - U.S. Marines with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, assault a beach during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California.

A Marine Sniper prepares to fire a 7.62mm NATO through a M40A6 rifle with a chronograph attached during a market research caliber study July 13, at Fort A.P. Hill, Va. Marine Corps Systems Command’s Infantry Weapons Systems conducted the study to inform Marine Corps acquisition leaders about future Marine sniper weapon system requirements. - A Marine Sniper prepares to fire a 7.62mm NATO through a M40A6 rifle with a chronograph attached during a market research caliber study July 13, at Fort A.P. Hill, Va. Marine Corps Systems Command’s Infantry Weapons Systems conducted the study to inform Marine Corps acquisition leaders about future Marine sniper weapon system requirements.

An amphibious assault vehicle crewman with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, loads simulation rounds into a mounted MK-19 40mm grenade launcher during a live-fire gunnery range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 27, 2016. Marines with the battalion spent the day refining their marksmanship skill as individuals and their ability to work as a crew. - An amphibious assault vehicle crewman with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, loads simulation rounds into a mounted MK-19 40mm grenade launcher during a live-fire gunnery range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 27, 2016. Marines with the battalion spent the day refining their marksmanship skill as individuals and their ability to work as a crew.

Marines with engineer platoon, Chemical Biological Incident Response Force set up a mobile air-conditioning unit at the local chow hall aboard Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Maryland, July 22, 2016. Providing air-conditioning to the chow hall gave the Marines hands-on training that further sharpens their skills needed to conduct expeditionary operations. - Marines with engineer platoon, Chemical Biological Incident Response Force set up a mobile air-conditioning unit at the local chow hall aboard Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Maryland, July 22, 2016. Providing air-conditioning to the chow hall gave the Marines hands-on training that further sharpens their skills needed to conduct expeditionary operations.

Second Lieutenant David Higgins shoots his rifle in the World Championships in Granada, Spain, in September 2014. Higgins attended the United States Air Force Academy, and then decided to cross-commission into the United States Marine Corps. Higgins has qualified for the Olympics this year, and will be going to Rio to represent Team USA as well as the U.S. Marine Corps on the rifle shooting team. - Second Lieutenant David Higgins shoots his rifle in the World Championships in Granada, Spain, in September 2014. Higgins attended the United States Air Force Academy, and then decided to cross-commission into the United States Marine Corps. Higgins has qualified for the Olympics this year, and will be going to Rio to represent Team USA as well as the U.S. Marine Corps on the rifle shooting team.

Marines with Company A., 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, return from patrolling in M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 17, 2016. The annual training exercise displayed the Marines ability to execute heavily armored, large scale attacks while working with their active duty counterparts. - Marines with Company A., 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, return from patrolling in M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 17, 2016. The annual training exercise displayed the Marines ability to execute heavily armored, large scale attacks while working with their active duty counterparts.

A Marine with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command rappels off the ramp of a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 on Landing Zone Parrot at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 20, 2016. The exercise was a part of a two weeklong Helicopter Insertion and Extraction Techniques Course. The CH-53 provided for the training evolution was assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. - A Marine with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command rappels off the ramp of a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 on Landing Zone Parrot at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 20, 2016. The exercise was a part of a two weeklong Helicopter Insertion and Extraction Techniques Course. The CH-53 provided for the training evolution was assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.

Lance Cpl. Skyler Schopf, team leader, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, fires a M136 AT4 anti-tank weapon during a live-fire training exercise as part of Tactical Small-Unit Leadership Course at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, July 18, 2016. The purpose of the course was to focus on the training of small-unit leadership within “Darkside.” - Lance Cpl. Skyler Schopf, team leader, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, fires a M136 AT4 anti-tank weapon during a live-fire training exercise as part of Tactical Small-Unit Leadership Course at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, July 18, 2016. The purpose of the course was to focus on the training of small-unit leadership within “Darkside.”

An F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, forward deployed to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, taxis into an ordnance loading area after landing at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, July 21, 2016. VMFA-122 traveled to RAAF Base Tindal for the first time to participate in Pitch Black 2016 and unit level training known as Southern Frontier. Pitch Black affords Marines with VMFA-122 the opportunity to integrate and increase interoperability with regional joint and coalition partners, while developing operational concepts for conducting sustained combat operations. Southern Frontier will help the squadron gain experience and qualifications in low altitude, air-ground, high explosive ordnance delivery at the unit level. - An F/A-18C Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, forward deployed to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, taxis into an ordnance loading area after landing at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, July 21, 2016. VMFA-122 traveled to RAAF Base Tindal for the first time to participate in Pitch Black 2016 and unit level training known as Southern Frontier. Pitch Black affords Marines with VMFA-122 the opportunity to integrate and increase interoperability with regional joint and coalition partners, while developing operational concepts for conducting sustained combat operations. Southern Frontier will help the squadron gain experience and qualifications in low altitude, air-ground, high explosive ordnance delivery at the unit level.

Marines with Engineer Services Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 23, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, add soffit sheathing to the roof of a building used by the U.S. Forest Service, helping to mitigate the waste produce by birds flying in and out of the roofing area during Exercise Forest Rattler in Bend, Ore., July 20, 2016. The exercise allowed Marines to work with the U.S. Forest service to complete various projects while honing their skills and giving back to the community. - Marines with Engineer Services Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 23, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, add soffit sheathing to the roof of a building used by the U.S. Forest Service, helping to mitigate the waste produce by birds flying in and out of the roofing area during Exercise Forest Rattler in Bend, Ore., July 20, 2016. The exercise allowed Marines to work with the U.S. Forest service to complete various projects while honing their skills and giving back to the community.

U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit clear a water treatment facility at Koror, Palau, July 21, 2016. The Marines are conducting training in Palau to ensure familiarity with Palau's complex urban environment. The training events were planned out with local authorities to provide an opportunity for realistic training with minimal inconvenience to the community and environment. - U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit clear a water treatment facility at Koror, Palau, July 21, 2016. The Marines are conducting training in Palau to ensure familiarity with Palau's complex urban environment. The training events were planned out with local authorities to provide an opportunity for realistic training with minimal inconvenience to the community and environment.

Ed Maziarski (left) and Jake Feeney of Reconnaissance and Amphibious Raids at Marine Corps Systems Command prepare a diver propulsion device for testing July 18 at Lake Anna in Spotsylvania, Virginia. The team worked with Marine combatant divers to conduct tests of potential upgrades to the DPD to improve its speed and controllability. - Ed Maziarski (left) and Jake Feeney of Reconnaissance and Amphibious Raids at Marine Corps Systems Command prepare a diver propulsion device for testing July 18 at Lake Anna in Spotsylvania, Virginia. The team worked with Marine combatant divers to conduct tests of potential upgrades to the DPD to improve its speed and controllability.

U.S. Marines with Fuels platoon and Headquarters and Service Company, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, carry a simulated casualty to an evacuation point while conducting company level training during exercise Eagle Wrath 2016 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, July 21, 2016. MWSS-171 conducts this exercise once a year in order to train all the Marines within the squadron, enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. During this training, the company commanders have the opportunity to train their personnel and prepare for the final culminating event where Marines will construct and defend a landing zone and refueling point. - U.S. Marines with Fuels platoon and Headquarters and Service Company, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, carry a simulated casualty to an evacuation point while conducting company level training during exercise Eagle Wrath 2016 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, July 21, 2016. MWSS-171 conducts this exercise once a year in order to train all the Marines within the squadron, enhance their technical skills, field experience and military occupational specialty capability. During this training, the company commanders have the opportunity to train their personnel and prepare for the final culminating event where Marines will construct and defend a landing zone and refueling point.

Cpl. Christopher Neumann reviews his objectives during a close air support exercise at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 19, 2016. Neumann is participating in Rim of the Pacific 2016, a multinational military exercise, from June 29 to Aug. 8 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. RIMPAC offers the U.S. military the opportunity to train with partners and allies in the Pacific region. Neumann, a native of Wells, Maine, is a UH-1Y Huey crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, which supports III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Christopher Neumann reviews his objectives during a close air support exercise at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 19, 2016. Neumann is participating in Rim of the Pacific 2016, a multinational military exercise, from June 29 to Aug. 8 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. RIMPAC offers the U.S. military the opportunity to train with partners and allies in the Pacific region. Neumann, a native of Wells, Maine, is a UH-1Y Huey crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, which supports III Marine Expeditionary Force.

An M1A1 Abrams battle tank with Fox Company, 4th Tank Battalion, drives to an objective as a part of a combined arms breaching exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune N.C., July 22, 2016. Elements from a Marine engineer unit worked with 4th Tanks to clear obstacles to make way for the infantry. - An M1A1 Abrams battle tank with Fox Company, 4th Tank Battalion, drives to an objective as a part of a combined arms breaching exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune N.C., July 22, 2016. Elements from a Marine engineer unit worked with 4th Tanks to clear obstacles to make way for the infantry.

1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program. - 1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program.

Pilots with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 exit F-35B Lightning II’s after conducting training during exercise Red Flag 16-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 20, 2016. This is the first time that the fifth generation fighter has participated in the multiservice air-to-air combat training exercise. - Pilots with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 exit F-35B Lightning II’s after conducting training during exercise Red Flag 16-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 20, 2016. This is the first time that the fifth generation fighter has participated in the multiservice air-to-air combat training exercise.

Lance Cpl. Thomas Devito, a boat operator with Bridge Company Bravo, 6th Engineer Support Company, guides an M977 heavy expanded mobility tactical truck across the continuous span bridge during Exercise River Assault on Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, July 19, 2016. The Marines spent two weeks operating Mk3 bridge erection boats, and practicing connecting all the IRBs in preparation for the final exercise, which was a continuous IRB span across the Arkansas River. - Lance Cpl. Thomas Devito, a boat operator with Bridge Company Bravo, 6th Engineer Support Company, guides an M977 heavy expanded mobility tactical truck across the continuous span bridge during Exercise River Assault on Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, July 19, 2016. The Marines spent two weeks operating Mk3 bridge erection boats, and practicing connecting all the IRBs in preparation for the final exercise, which was a continuous IRB span across the Arkansas River.