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Appearing in authentic 1945-1948 Marine Corps dress blues with original regalia, 96-year-old World War II veteran and Marine Raider Cpl. Leonard B. Turner, oldest Marine present, stands next to 19-year-old Pfc. Ivan K. Lopez, the youngest Marine present, during the Marine Forces Special Operations Command’s 244th Marine Corps Birthday Ball in Wilmington, N.C., Nov. 2, 2019. Every year, each Marine Corps unit comes together and hosts a Marine Corps Birthday cake cutting to celebrate one more year since the birth of their Corps. This celebration is an event that brings together Marines, old and young - enlisted and retired, and allows them to celebrate their commitment and dedication to the Marine Corps and strengthen their camaraderie and organizational esprit de corps. This connection between the past and present can be seen throughout many traditions during the Marine Corps ball and is the foundation of this event each year. One such tradition is the passing of birthday cake from the oldest Marine to the youngest Marine, which represents the passing of experience and knowledge from older generations to the newest generation of Marines. The birthday cake is traditionally cut with the Mameluke sword, to honor Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon’s assault of Derna, Tripoli in 1805, as a reminder that Marines are a band of warriors, committed to carrying the sword, so that the nation may live in peace. - Appearing in authentic 1945-1948 Marine Corps dress blues with original regalia, 96-year-old World War II veteran and Marine Raider Cpl. Leonard B. Turner, oldest Marine present, stands next to 19-year-old Pfc. Ivan K. Lopez, the youngest Marine present, during the Marine Forces Special Operations Command’s 244th Marine Corps Birthday Ball in Wilmington, N.C., Nov. 2, 2019. Every year, each Marine Corps unit comes together and hosts a Marine Corps Birthday cake cutting to celebrate one more year since the birth of their Corps. This celebration is an event that brings together Marines, old and young - enlisted and retired, and allows them to celebrate their commitment and dedication to the Marine Corps and strengthen their camaraderie and organizational esprit de corps. This connection between the past and present can be seen throughout many traditions during the Marine Corps ball and is the foundation of this event each year. One such tradition is the passing of birthday cake from the oldest Marine to the youngest Marine, which represents the passing of experience and knowledge from older generations to the newest generation of Marines. The birthday cake is traditionally cut with the Mameluke sword, to honor Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon’s assault of Derna, Tripoli in 1805, as a reminder that Marines are a band of warriors, committed to carrying the sword, so that the nation may live in peace.

U.S. Marines with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, depart from an MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 (Reinforced), 11th MEU, after returning to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, from a seven-month deployment. The 11th MEU is returning home after being deployed aboard the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, having completed operations and exercises in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility. - U.S. Marines with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, depart from an MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 (Reinforced), 11th MEU, after returning to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, from a seven-month deployment. The 11th MEU is returning home after being deployed aboard the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, having completed operations and exercises in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Marines and JMSDF Soldiers conduct MWD detection training exercises - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Adam Cook, left, the kennel master for the Provost Marshal Office with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, conducts military working dog detection training at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, Nov. 20, 2019. The training was part of a joint force detection exercise with Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) soldiers. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Triton Lai)

President Donald J. Trump participates in the National Medal of Arts and National Humanities Medal presentations in the East Room of the White House, Nov. 21, 2019. - President Donald J. Trump participates in the National Medal of Arts and National Humanities Medal presentations in the East Room of the White House, Nov. 21, 2019.

Marines with 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion from 1st Marine Division participated in Marine Forces Special Operations Command's unit readiness exercise, RAVEN. The training conducted provides exposure to small unit tactics they might not otherwise receive, particularly units like 3rd AABN, whose day-to-day responsibilities are focused on amphibious assault vehicle readiness, basic formations and water ops, and terrain driving. The exercise serves as the certification exercise for a soon-to-be deploying Marine Special Operations Company. It has evolved into a multilevel venue to integrate the various command structures and capabilities deployed by MARSOC. Each level of command, down to the team, is challenged in planning and executing, and command and controlling activities in urban environments. It is also an opportunity to enhance collaboration and strengthen our operational relationships between members of the SOF community, conventional Marine Corps units and other partners with whom Marine Raiders work closely, ensuring MARSOC provides the nation with an agile, adaptive force to meet the complex demands of the future operating environment. - Marines with 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion from 1st Marine Division participated in Marine Forces Special Operations Command's unit readiness exercise, RAVEN. The training conducted provides exposure to small unit tactics they might not otherwise receive, particularly units like 3rd AABN, whose day-to-day responsibilities are focused on amphibious assault vehicle readiness, basic formations and water ops, and terrain driving. The exercise serves as the certification exercise for a soon-to-be deploying Marine Special Operations Company. It has evolved into a multilevel venue to integrate the various command structures and capabilities deployed by MARSOC. Each level of command, down to the team, is challenged in planning and executing, and command and controlling activities in urban environments. It is also an opportunity to enhance collaboration and strengthen our operational relationships between members of the SOF community, conventional Marine Corps units and other partners with whom Marine Raiders work closely, ensuring MARSOC provides the nation with an agile, adaptive force to meet the complex demands of the future operating environment.

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April Mitchell, entrepreneur, speaks with Marines at Wounded Warriors Battalion - West on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 15, 2019. Mitchell, a military spouse, created a new door hook in hopes of giving individuals with less mobility more independence. Mitchell is a native of Lake Mills, Wisconsin. - April Mitchell, entrepreneur, speaks with Marines at Wounded Warriors Battalion - West on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 15, 2019. Mitchell, a military spouse, created a new door hook in hopes of giving individuals with less mobility more independence. Mitchell is a native of Lake Mills, Wisconsin.

Three Marines receive The Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal Wednesday, November 13, 2019. NCM is a decoration presented by the United States Department of the Navy to service members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps who have performed an exceedingly heroic act, exceptional achievement, or commendable service that has not been recognized by a higher award - Three Marines receive The Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal Wednesday, November 13, 2019. NCM is a decoration presented by the United States Department of the Navy to service members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps who have performed an exceedingly heroic act, exceptional achievement, or commendable service that has not been recognized by a higher award

Noah Furbush, 24, a Marine Corps Officer Candidate, participates in physical training at Marine Corps Officer Candidates School in Quantico, Virginia, October 31, 2019. The exercise challenges candidates’ ability to navigate on land, give orders and execute the mission effectively. The mission of Officer Candidates School is to educate and train officer candidates in Marine Corps knowledge and skills within a controlled and challenging environment in order to evaluate and screen individuals for the leadership, moral and physical qualities required for commissioning as a Marine Officer. - Noah Furbush, 24, a Marine Corps Officer Candidate, participates in physical training at Marine Corps Officer Candidates School in Quantico, Virginia, October 31, 2019. The exercise challenges candidates’ ability to navigate on land, give orders and execute the mission effectively. The mission of Officer Candidates School is to educate and train officer candidates in Marine Corps knowledge and skills within a controlled and challenging environment in order to evaluate and screen individuals for the leadership, moral and physical qualities required for commissioning as a Marine Officer. Furbush, a former linebacker at the University of Michigan, is training to become a commissioned officer in the United States Marine Corps. Furbush was a four-year Academic All-Big Ten honoree and the recipient of the 2018 Dr. Arthur D. Robinson Scholarship Award, given to the top UM football student athlete. He graduated in 2018 with a degree in aerospace engineering and then graduated with a master’s degree in space engineering in 2019. Furbush is scheduled to graduate from the 10-week officer candidate course November 16 at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia where he will subsequently commission as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Bryan Nygaard)

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Masakatsu Kamiyama, vice mayor of Chatan Town, speaks to during a closing ceremony as part of a Tsunami Evacuation Drill, Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 9, 2019. The drill was held to convey the readiness and capabilities of the camp to members of the U.S. and local communities in the event of an emergency. - Masakatsu Kamiyama, vice mayor of Chatan Town, speaks to during a closing ceremony as part of a Tsunami Evacuation Drill, Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 9, 2019. The drill was held to convey the readiness and capabilities of the camp to members of the U.S. and local communities in the event of an emergency.

Earnest B. Freeman receives a brick from building four during his retirement luncheon at the Paradise Point Officers Club on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 30, 2019. Freeman retired as the evidence custodian, Criminal Investigation Division, Provost Marshals Office, Marine Corps Installations East-MCB Camp Lejeune, with 45 years of combined active duty Marine Corps service and civilian service. - Earnest B. Freeman receives a brick from building four during his retirement luncheon at the Paradise Point Officers Club on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 30, 2019. Freeman retired as the evidence custodian, Criminal Investigation Division, Provost Marshals Office, Marine Corps Installations East-MCB Camp Lejeune, with 45 years of combined active duty Marine Corps service and civilian service.

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Skip Curtis served from January 1965 to July 1996 as a pilot. Curtis deployed to South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Throughout his time in Vietnam, Curtis, a Temple, Pennsylvania, native, said what kept him going was letters from his wife, which at the time took 10 days to receive. During his last flight in Vietnam he earned his second Purple Heart after he and his crew we shot down. - Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Skip Curtis served from January 1965 to July 1996 as a pilot. Curtis deployed to South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Throughout his time in Vietnam, Curtis, a Temple, Pennsylvania, native, said what kept him going was letters from his wife, which at the time took 10 days to receive. During his last flight in Vietnam he earned his second Purple Heart after he and his crew we shot down.

the commanding officer of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), cuts a cake during a 244th Marine Corps birthday celebration - 191110-M-EC058-1038 PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 10, 2019) U.S. Marine Corps Col. Fridrik Fridriksson, the commanding officer of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), cuts a cake during a 244th Marine Corps birthday celebration aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). The Marines and Sailors of the 11th MEU are conducting routine operations as part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in the eastern Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dalton S. Swanbeck)

Marines with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing marching band fill the streets during the 2019 annual Carteret County Veterans Day Parade in Morehead City, North Carolina, Nov. 9, 2019. The Carteret County Veterans Day Parade has grown from only a handful of participants to over 2,000 participants honoring our veterans and is now the largest Veterans Day Parade in North Carolina. The parade was established to allow veterans, veterans’ service organizations, individuals, and any other group/organization the opportunity to remember and to honor our nation’s veterans who have proudly served this country. - Marines with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing marching band fill the streets during the 2019 annual Carteret County Veterans Day Parade in Morehead City, North Carolina, Nov. 9, 2019. The Carteret County Veterans Day Parade has grown from only a handful of participants to over 2,000 participants honoring our veterans and is now the largest Veterans Day Parade in North Carolina. The parade was established to allow veterans, veterans’ service organizations, individuals, and any other group/organization the opportunity to remember and to honor our nation’s veterans who have proudly served this country.

Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black, right, and Sgt. Maj. Adrian L. Tagliere salute after placing a wreath on the grave of Master Sgt. Catherine Grace Murray during a private ceremony Nov. 8 at Arlington National Cemetery. Murray, the first woman to retire from the Marine Corps, was one of three veterans who were remembered during the annual wreath-laying ceremony. - Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black, right, and Sgt. Maj. Adrian L. Tagliere salute after placing a wreath on the grave of Master Sgt. Catherine Grace Murray during a private ceremony Nov. 8 at Arlington National Cemetery. Murray, the first woman to retire from the Marine Corps, was one of three veterans who were remembered during the annual wreath-laying ceremony.

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U.S. Marine Cpl. Alexandra Nowak, an administrative specialist with Alpha Company, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, listens to Brig. Gen. Dan Conley, the commanding general for MCI-West, MCB Camp Pendleton, speak after he awarded her the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal on Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 6, 2019. Nowak received the award for her actions to save a family after a car crash on Interstate Highway 15. Nowak is a native of Forney, Texas. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Alexandra Nowak, an administrative specialist with Alpha Company, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, listens to Brig. Gen. Dan Conley, the commanding general for MCI-West, MCB Camp Pendleton, speak after he awarded her the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal on Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 6, 2019. Nowak received the award for her actions to save a family after a car crash on Interstate Highway 15. Nowak is a native of Forney, Texas.

Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black lead a motivational run on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Nov. 5. The run was held in celebration of the Marine Corps’ upcoming 244th birthday. - Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black lead a motivational run on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Nov. 5. The run was held in celebration of the Marine Corps’ upcoming 244th birthday.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Garrett Burn, an engineer platoon sergeant with 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, participates in a rugby ball-handling relay competition during the 46th Annual Henoko District Citizen’s Track and Field Meet Sports Day in Henoko, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 3, 2019. Personnel from Camp Schwab have been included in the track and field meet since 1973 and will carry on the tradition of good will and togetherness with the people of Henoko. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Garrett Burn, an engineer platoon sergeant with 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, participates in a rugby ball-handling relay competition during the 46th Annual Henoko District Citizen’s Track and Field Meet Sports Day in Henoko, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 3, 2019. Personnel from Camp Schwab have been included in the track and field meet since 1973 and will carry on the tradition of good will and togetherness with the people of Henoko.

Change of Charge - Leaders of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), salute the colors as they pass during a change of charge ceremony on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Oct. 30, 2019. The ceremony recognized U.S. Navy Command Master Chief Donald L. Davis' service, leadership and dedication to 3rd MAW. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jaime Reyes)

Representatives from Program Manager Advanced Amphibious Assault at Program Executive Officer Land Systems, Marine Corps Combat Development Command, Combat Development and Integration and 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion pose in front of an unfinished Amphibious Combat Vehicle with the manufacturing workforce in York, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 16, 2019. - Representatives from Program Manager Advanced Amphibious Assault at Program Executive Officer Land Systems, Marine Corps Combat Development Command, Combat Development and Integration and 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion pose in front of an unfinished Amphibious Combat Vehicle with the manufacturing workforce in York, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 16, 2019.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with 8th Engineer Support Battalion and 2nd Transportation Support Battalion (TSB), Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, worked with Sailors from Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) 69 and 53, assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4, during Type Commander Amphibious Training (TCAT) 20.1 on Onslow Beach, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 21-26, 2019. TCAT is a mobility exercise ashore in order to gain the requisite skills and experience to integrate with the U.S. Navy in follow on exercises and real-world operations. - U.S. Marines and Sailors with 8th Engineer Support Battalion and 2nd Transportation Support Battalion (TSB), Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, executed Type Commander Amphibious Training (TCAT) 20.1 on Onslow Beach, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 21-26, 2019. TCAT is a mobility exercise ashore in order to gain the requisite skills and experience to integrate with the U.S. Navy in follow on exercises and real-world operations.

Marines with Marine Corps Air Station Yuma remove an old structure as part of a cleanup effort Oct. 22, 2019 on the Barry M. Goldwater Range West. The BMGR consists of about 1.7 million acres of land and MCAS Yuma manages over 650,000 of those acres. - Marines with Marine Corps Air Station Yuma remove an old structure as part of a cleanup effort Oct. 22, 2019 on the Barry M. Goldwater Range West. The BMGR consists of about 1.7 million acres of land and MCAS Yuma manages over 650,000 of those acres.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force board a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during a rapid deployment exercise conducted by 1st MAW, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 25, 2019. Marines with 1st MAW conducted a rapid deployment exercise to increase the confidence of III MEF’s ability to rapidly deploy and maintain a secure Indo-Pacific region. As the only forward-deployed MEF, III MEF is strategically postured to quickly and effectively respond to any crisis within the Indo-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force board a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during a rapid deployment exercise conducted by 1st MAW, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 25, 2019. Marines with 1st MAW conducted a rapid deployment exercise to increase the confidence of III MEF’s ability to rapidly deploy and maintain a secure Indo-Pacific region. As the only forward-deployed MEF, III MEF is strategically postured to quickly and effectively respond to any crisis within the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Zachary Scalzo participates in a combat marksmanship range during exercise Fuji Viper 20.1 in Camp Fuji, Japan, Oct. 16, 2019. Fuji Viper is a regularly scheduled training evolution for infantry units assigned to 3rd Marine Division as part of the unit deployment program. The training allows units to maintain their lethality and proficiency in infantry and combined arms tactics. Scalzo is assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division. - U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Zachary Scalzo participates in a combat marksmanship range during exercise Fuji Viper 20.1 in Camp Fuji, Japan, Oct. 16, 2019. Fuji Viper is a regularly scheduled training evolution for infantry units assigned to 3rd Marine Division as part of the unit deployment program. The training allows units to maintain their lethality and proficiency in infantry and combined arms tactics. Scalzo is assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division.

Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black addresses Marines at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 21, 2019. Black visited MCAS Iwakuni during a tour of Marine Corps installations around the globe. The visit was conducted in order to provide guidance to Marines after the appointment of a new commandant and sergeant major. - Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black addresses Marines at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 21, 2019. Black visited MCAS Iwakuni during a tour of Marine Corps installations around the globe. The visit was conducted in order to provide guidance to Marines after the appointment of a new commandant and sergeant major.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Mario Marquez, the III Marine Expeditionary Force sergeant major, left, and Mari Gregory speaks on their radio show with AFN May 14, 2019, on Plaza Housing. Gregory and Marquez have partnered up since July 2017 to provide time and space for the shared Okinawan community to understand each other and exchange friendship. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Mario Marquez, the III Marine Expeditionary Force sergeant major, left, and Mari Gregory speaks on their radio show with AFN May 14, 2019, on Plaza Housing. Gregory and Marquez have partnered up since July 2017 to provide time and space for the shared Okinawan community to understand each other and exchange friendship.

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Roasted chestnuts are set out for participants of the Chestnut Festival to try in Miwa Town, Japan, Oct. 18, 2019. The Miwa Town Chestnut Festival is held every year to symbolize the end of the chestnut harvest. - Roasted chestnuts are set out for participants of the Chestnut Festival to try in Miwa Town, Japan, Oct. 18, 2019. The Miwa Town Chestnut Festival is held every year to symbolize the end of the chestnut harvest.

U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Maj. Troy L. Black, sergeant major of the Marine Corps, speaks at the annual Sergeants Major of the Marine Corps Symposium at The Clubs of Quantico aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Oct. 17, 2019. Sergeants Major of the Marine Corps, Sergeants Major, Master Gunnery Sergeants, and Master Chiefs gather to brief and plan the needs of the present and future of the Marine Corps. - U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Maj. Troy L. Black, sergeant major of the Marine Corps, speaks at the annual Sergeants Major of the Marine Corps Symposium at The Clubs of Quantico aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Oct. 17, 2019. Sergeants Major of the Marine Corps, Sergeants Major, Master Gunnery Sergeants, and Master Chiefs gather to brief and plan the needs of the present and future of the Marine Corps.

Joint Light Tactical Vehicles are staged prior to the I Marine Expeditionary Force JLTV Operator New Equipment Training course in 13 Area on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 17, 2019. The JLTV OPNET course is an eight day training evolution teaching students the vehicle’s characteristics, operations, operator maintenance and safety. - Joint Light Tactical Vehicles are staged prior to the I Marine Expeditionary Force JLTV Operator New Equipment Training course in 13 Area on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 17, 2019. The JLTV OPNET course is an eight day training evolution teaching students the vehicle’s characteristics, operations, operator maintenance and safety.

Naval ships from Brazil, Peru, Argentina and the United States conduct naval formations during a training exercise for UNITAS LX in Brazil Aug. 24, 2019. The exercise was done to test interoperability and communication between the partner nations. UNITAS is the world's longest-running, annual exercise and brings together multinational forces from 11 countries to include Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay, Mexico, Great Britain and the United States. The exercise focuses in strengthening the existing regional partnerships and encourages establishing new relationships through the exchange of maritime mission-focused knowledge and expertise during multinational training operations. - Naval ships from Brazil, Peru, Argentina and the United States conduct naval formations during a training exercise for UNITAS LX in Brazil Aug. 24, 2019. The exercise was done to test interoperability and communication between the partner nations. UNITAS is the world's longest-running, annual exercise and brings together multinational forces from 11 countries to include Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay, Mexico, Great Britain and the United States. The exercise focuses in strengthening the existing regional partnerships and encourages establishing new relationships through the exchange of maritime mission-focused knowledge and expertise during multinational training operations.

U.S. Marines prepare to fire an M777 Howitzer during exercise KAMANDAG 3 at Colonel Ernesto P. Ravina Air Base, Philippines, Oct. 13. - U.S. Marines prepare to fire an M777 Howitzer during exercise KAMANDAG 3 at Colonel Ernesto P. Ravina Air Base, Philippines, Oct. 13.

U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, conduct a simulated air assault on Landing Zone Eagle from a CH-53E Super Stallion with Heavy Marine Helicopter Squadron 463, part of exercise Island Marauder on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, Sept. 25, 2019. The Island Marauder exercise is a training event during which Marines conducted different scenarios while testing new technology on the battlefield. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Ashley Calingo) - U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, conduct a simulated air assault on Landing Zone Eagle from a CH-53E Super Stallion with Heavy Marine Helicopter Squadron 463, part of exercise Island Marauder on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, Sept. 25, 2019. The Island Marauder exercise is a training event during which Marines conducted different scenarios while testing new technology on the battlefield. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Ashley Calingo)

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Kyle Padilla, the company commander with Lima Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3/5, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, receives a plaque from a member of the Malaysian Armed Forces. U.S. Marines and Sailors joined Malaysian Armed Forces for exercise Tiger Strike 2019 where both forces participated in jungle survival, amphibious assault, aerial raids, and combat service support training and cultural exchanges - U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Kyle Padilla, the company commander with Lima Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3/5, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, receives a plaque from a member of the Malaysian Armed Forces. U.S. Marines and Sailors joined Malaysian Armed Forces for exercise Tiger Strike 2019 where both forces participated in jungle survival, amphibious assault, aerial raids, and combat service support training and cultural exchanges

From left to right, U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. William L. Koeppe, career planner, Staff Sgt. Nils A. Aylor II, motor vehicle operator, U.S. Navy Hospitalman third class Josh A. Johnson, 8th Marine Regiment, lay wreaths during the 35th Beirut Memorial Observance Ceremony at the Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, N.C., Oct. 23, 2018. A memorial observance is held on Oct. 23 of each year to remember those lives lost during the terrorist attacks at U.S. Marine Barracks, Beirut, Lebanon and Grenada. - From left to right, U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. William L. Koeppe, career planner, Staff Sgt. Nils A. Aylor II, motor vehicle operator, U.S. Navy Hospitalman third class Josh A. Johnson, 8th Marine Regiment, lay wreaths during the 35th Beirut Memorial Observance Ceremony at the Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, N.C., Oct. 23, 2018. A memorial observance is held on Oct. 23 of each year to remember those lives lost during the terrorist attacks at U.S. Marine Barracks, Beirut, Lebanon and Grenada.

Gina Ferrer, right, a family medicine nurse with U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, and her daughter greet attendees at Camp Foster Fieldhouse during Comic Con Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 13, 2019. This annual event began in 2011 and is catered to comic book fans, movie fans, artists, and video gamers to meet and greet with comic industry professionals and celebrities.The event was open to members of the U.S. and local communities. - Gina Ferrer, right, a family medicine nurse with U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, and her daughter greet attendees at Camp Foster Fieldhouse during Comic Con Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 13, 2019. This annual event began in 2011 and is catered to comic book fans, movie fans, artists, and video gamers to meet and greet with comic industry professionals and celebrities.The event was open to members of the U.S. and local communities.

U.S. Marine, Philippine Marine and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members assault amphibious vehicles line up along the shore following an amphibious exercise as part of KAMANDAG 3 at Katungkulan Beach, Marine Barracks Gregorio Lim, Philippines, Oct. 12. - U.S. Marine, Philippine Marine and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members assault amphibious vehicles line up along the shore following an amphibious exercise as part of KAMANDAG 3 at Katungkulan Beach, Marine Barracks Gregorio Lim, Philippines, Oct. 12.

A festival attendee pulls the 200-meter-long, 43-ton rope during the 49th annual Naha Great Tug-of-War Festival, Oct. 13, 2019 at Naha City, Okinawa, Japan. The event symbolizes a struggle between warring factions during the reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom on Okinawa. The event is considered the world’s largest tug-of-war. - A festival attendee pulls the 200-meter-long, 43-ton rope during the 49th annual Naha Great Tug-of-War Festival, Oct. 13, 2019 at Naha City, Okinawa, Japan. The event symbolizes a struggle between warring factions during the reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom on Okinawa. The event is considered the world’s largest tug-of-war.

U.S. Marines from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar spar in the ocean during Marine Corps martial arts instructor course 224-19 at Naval Air Station North Island, Calif., Oct. 9. 2019. The three-week MAI course trains marines to become martial arts instructors. - U.S. Marines from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar spar in the ocean during Marine Corps martial arts instructor course 224-19 at Naval Air Station North Island, Calif., Oct. 9. 2019. The three-week MAI course trains marines to become martial arts instructors.

U.S. Marines and Philippine Airmen compare different methods on how to set up a range card during a subject matter expert exchange as part of exercise KAMANDAG 3 at Colonel Ernesto P. Ravina Air Base, Philippines, Oct. 9. - U.S. Marines and Philippine Airmen compare different methods on how to set up a range card during a subject matter expert exchange as part of exercise KAMANDAG 3 at Colonel Ernesto P. Ravina Air Base, Philippines, Oct. 9.

U.S. service members discuss a land mine scenario during an explosive ordnance disposal exercise at Kin Blue Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 19, 2019. The EODEX was designed to simulate conventional warfare and the use of conventional ordnance and involved the participation of three U.S. military branches and over 43 different military occupational specialties within III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. service members discuss a land mine scenario during an explosive ordnance disposal exercise at Kin Blue Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 19, 2019. The EODEX was designed to simulate conventional warfare and the use of conventional ordnance and involved the participation of three U.S. military branches and over 43 different military occupational specialties within III Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marines with 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, participates in the 12th Marine Regiment 92nd Anniversary Battle Colors Rededication Ceremony on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 4, 2019. The ceremony is an opportunity for Marines to remember warriors past and to recognize contributions of service members and families to current operations. - U.S. Marines with 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, participates in the 12th Marine Regiment 92nd Anniversary Battle Colors Rededication Ceremony on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 4, 2019. The ceremony is an opportunity for Marines to remember warriors past and to recognize contributions of service members and families to current operations.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Scott Veck, a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter crew chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, observes flight operations in Coveñas, Colombia, Sept. 30, 2019, during a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief rehearsal. The exercise will test and strengthen the interoperability and responsiveness between these countries, preparing for real-world disaster scenarios in the region. The task force is conducting training and engineering projects hand-in-hand with partner nation military members in Latin America and the Caribbean during their deployment to the region, which coincides with hurricane season. Veck is a native of Parker, Colorado. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Scott Veck, a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter crew chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, observes flight operations in Coveñas, Colombia, Sept. 30, 2019, during a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief rehearsal. The exercise will test and strengthen the interoperability and responsiveness between these countries, preparing for real-world disaster scenarios in the region. The task force is conducting training and engineering projects hand-in-hand with partner nation military members in Latin America and the Caribbean during their deployment to the region, which coincides with hurricane season. Veck is a native of Parker, Colorado.

A U.S. Marine observers an illumination round fired from an 81mm mortar system during a call for fire exercise, Oct. 4. - A U.S. Marine observers an illumination round fired from an 81mm mortar system during a call for fire exercise, Oct. 4.

A U.S. Marine and a member of the local community converse during the monthly Friendship Cleanup in Uruma City, Okinawa, Japan on Oct. 5. - A U.S. Marine and a member of the local community converse during the monthly Friendship Cleanup in Uruma City, Okinawa, Japan on Oct. 5.

U.S. Marines and families from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni participate in a community cultural exchange with local Japanese children at Tsuzu Elementary School, Iwakuni City, Japan, Aug. 29. - U.S. Marines and families from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni participate in a community cultural exchange with local Japanese children at Tsuzu Elementary School, Iwakuni City, Japan, Aug. 29.

Fine-tuning the Corps’ ACV in preparation for IOT&E - Marines from Delta Company, 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, examine the Common Remotely Operated Weapons System on the Amphibious Combat Vehicle for the first time Sept. 11, 2019, at the Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch aboard Camp Pendleton, California. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Ashley Calingo)