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A Landing Craft Air Cushion splashes onto San Clemente Island, Calif., during Supporting Arms Coordination Center Exercise on Sept. 24, 2015. This exercise is the first the Marines and Sailors will work together at sea as they prepare for deployment to the Pacific and Central Command areas of responsibility in early 2016. - A Landing Craft Air Cushion splashes onto San Clemente Island, Calif., during Supporting Arms Coordination Center Exercise on Sept. 24, 2015. This exercise is the first the Marines and Sailors will work together at sea as they prepare for deployment to the Pacific and Central Command areas of responsibility in early 2016.

A Marine with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, applies a tourniquet to a simulated casualty at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 23, 2015. The battalion conducted the training, which simulates vehicle rollovers and how to react, in order to hone their skills prior to deploying. - A Marine with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, applies a tourniquet to a simulated casualty at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 23, 2015. The battalion conducted the training, which simulates vehicle rollovers and how to react, in order to hone their skills prior to deploying.

U.S. Marines participate in an opening ceremony for the Combined Arms Company at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, Sept. 23, 2015. The first rotation of CAC brings advanced mechanized capabilities to training exercises with NATO allies in the region. - U.S. Marines participate in an opening ceremony for the Combined Arms Company at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, Sept. 23, 2015. The first rotation of CAC brings advanced mechanized capabilities to training exercises with NATO allies in the region.

A firefighter with Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, battles a structure fire as part of a mutual aid response to the Butte Fire in Northern California. More than 3,300 fire crews from all over the state assisted in containing the huge blaze. - A firefighter with Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, battles a structure fire as part of a mutual aid response to the Butte Fire in Northern California. More than 3,300 fire crews from all over the state assisted in containing the huge blaze.

Pedro helicopter “02” lifts off to join Marine Transport Squadron 1’s other two HH-46 helicopters on their final flight at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 25, 2015. The three search and rescue aircraft have been the last flying “phrogs” in the Department of Defense since Aug. 1. Today’s final flight marks the end of an era in combat aviation. These aircraft will be turned over to the U.S. Navy by Oct. 1. They leave behind a legacy of Cherry Point’s support to the local community in eastern North Carolina, which began in 1957. - Pedro helicopter “02” lifts off to join Marine Transport Squadron 1’s other two HH-46 helicopters on their final flight at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 25, 2015. The three search and rescue aircraft have been the last flying “phrogs” in the Department of Defense since Aug. 1. Today’s final flight marks the end of an era in combat aviation. These aircraft will be turned over to the U.S. Navy by Oct. 1. They leave behind a legacy of Cherry Point’s support to the local community in eastern North Carolina, which began in 1957.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment rush to a wire trap to set up a Bangalore charge to destroy the trap during a demolitions exercise with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion at Engineer Training Area 7 on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 22, 2015. Marines with 2/2 increased their proficiency and knowledge with various charges and techniques with the help of 2nd CEB. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment rush to a wire trap to set up a Bangalore charge to destroy the trap during a demolitions exercise with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion at Engineer Training Area 7 on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 22, 2015. Marines with 2/2 increased their proficiency and knowledge with various charges and techniques with the help of 2nd CEB.

Staff Sgt. Joshua K. Crabtree, explosive ordnance disposal technician, 3rd EOD, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, performs a sweep with a metal detector during a post-blast analysis training scenario at Emerson Lake training area, Sept. 19, 2015. While aboard the Combat Center, EOD technicians received experience in working with a wider variety of ordnance than is usually available to the unit. - Staff Sgt. Joshua K. Crabtree, explosive ordnance disposal technician, 3rd EOD, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, performs a sweep with a metal detector during a post-blast analysis training scenario at Emerson Lake training area, Sept. 19, 2015. While aboard the Combat Center, EOD technicians received experience in working with a wider variety of ordnance than is usually available to the unit.

Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa bow their heads in prayer during a September 11th remembrance ceremony in Nissoria, Italy, Sept. 22, 2015. The local priest offered a prayer as Americans and Nissorians remembered the shared pain of the lives lost that day 14 years ago. - Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa bow their heads in prayer during a September 11th remembrance ceremony in Nissoria, Italy, Sept. 22, 2015. The local priest offered a prayer as Americans and Nissorians remembered the shared pain of the lives lost that day 14 years ago.

During the month of September and throughout the year, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs officials want to share a simple message with veterans, service members, their families and friends: free, confidential crisis support from the veterans crisis line is available 24/7, 365 days a year for veterans and service members. - During the month of September and throughout the year, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs officials want to share a simple message with veterans, service members, their families and friends: free, confidential crisis support from the veterans crisis line is available 24/7, 365 days a year for veterans and service members.

U.S. Marines and sailors accompanied Benin’s National Surveillance Police to Jesu Jro, Benin, Sept. 24, 2015, to conduct a combined border surveillance training exercise. The Marines and sailors with the Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa came to Benin for a monthlong theater security cooperation mission to build the NSP’s capacity to counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders. - U.S. Marines and sailors accompanied Benin’s National Surveillance Police to Jesu Jro, Benin, Sept. 24, 2015, to conduct a combined border surveillance training exercise. The Marines and sailors with the Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa came to Benin for a monthlong theater security cooperation mission to build the NSP’s capacity to counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders.

Gen. Robert B. Neller, the 37th and new Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks during his passage of command ceremony at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, D.C., Sept. 24, 2015. Gen. Dunford relinquished the position to Gen. Robert B. Neller after being confirmed to succeed U.S. Army Gen. Martin Dempsey as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. - Gen. Robert B. Neller, the 37th and new Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks during his passage of command ceremony at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, D.C., Sept. 24, 2015. Gen. Dunford relinquished the position to Gen. Robert B. Neller after being confirmed to succeed U.S. Army Gen. Martin Dempsey as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 inspect the hooks in a CH-53E Super Stallion at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Sept. 16. Marines with HMH-466 prepared to conduct nighttime external-lift training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. - Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 inspect the hooks in a CH-53E Super Stallion at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Sept. 16. Marines with HMH-466 prepared to conduct nighttime external-lift training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Marines and civilian guests listen to the first panel discussion during the first day ofday of the 2015 Modern Day Marine Military Expo at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Sept. 22, 2015. The expo 2015 Modern Day Marine Military Expo is focusing on enhanced capabilities for expeditionary forces and is happening Sept. 22-24. - Marines and civilian guests listen to the first panel discussion during the first day ofday of the 2015 Modern Day Marine Military Expo at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Sept. 22, 2015. The expo 2015 Modern Day Marine Military Expo is focusing on enhanced capabilities for expeditionary forces and is happening Sept. 22-24.

Engineers from Bridge Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group and 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division as well as members of British 54 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers stand atop a medium girder bridge they built at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 23, 2015. Marines from 7th ESB and 1st CEB are conducting various engineer training events alongside their British counterparts in coming weeks as part of annual large-scale exercise Black Alligator. - Engineers from Bridge Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group and 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division as well as members of British 54 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers stand atop a medium girder bridge they built at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 23, 2015. Marines from 7th ESB and 1st CEB are conducting various engineer training events alongside their British counterparts in coming weeks as part of annual large-scale exercise Black Alligator.

Marines with the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab observe as an Internally Transported Vehicle (ITV) is loaded on to a Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter in preparation for an experimental field exercise at Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., Aug. 31, 2015. The exercise allows the warfighting lab to assess the capabilities of the ITVs and determine new recommendations for the design of ITVs to come. - Marines with the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab observe as an Internally Transported Vehicle (ITV) is loaded on to a Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter in preparation for an experimental field exercise at Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., Aug. 31, 2015. The exercise allows the warfighting lab to assess the capabilities of the ITVs and determine new recommendations for the design of ITVs to come.

Lance Cpl. Cody Conlon, a fireteam leader with 2nd Marine Regiment, watches Marines with his unit set up defenses from his fighting position during a battalion deployment for training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 16, 2015. The defensive training took place during a nine-day deployment for training exercise designed to prepare for a variety of combat scenarios, including defensive, offensive, and urban operations. - Lance Cpl. Cody Conlon, a fireteam leader with 2nd Marine Regiment, watches Marines with his unit set up defenses from his fighting position during a battalion deployment for training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 16, 2015. The defensive training took place during a nine-day deployment for training exercise designed to prepare for a variety of combat scenarios, including defensive, offensive, and urban operations.

A Marine with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division lands at his designated drop zone following a High Altitude – High Opening insertion event at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 17, 2015. The goal of the training was to sharpen a skill set that is of great advantage to expeditionary forces, allowing the jumpers to infiltrate locations where access would be too difficult for vehicles. - A Marine with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division lands at his designated drop zone following a High Altitude – High Opening insertion event at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 17, 2015. The goal of the training was to sharpen a skill set that is of great advantage to expeditionary forces, allowing the jumpers to infiltrate locations where access would be too difficult for vehicles.

Capt. Thomas Haynes, a fire direction officer with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, is part of the fire support coordination center for the fire support training conducted on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 17, 2015. After the FST leaders decide what they would like to use as a killing asset, the call goes through the fire support coordination center for approval. - Capt. Thomas Haynes, a fire direction officer with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, is part of the fire support coordination center for the fire support training conducted on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 17, 2015. After the FST leaders decide what they would like to use as a killing asset, the call goes through the fire support coordination center for approval.

Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, depart the training area in an M1 Abrams tank following a vehicle breaching exercise aboard Engineer Training Area 2, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 17, 2015. The exercise brought together mechanized crews with 2nd Tanks and 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion to breach through and over a high berm. - Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, depart the training area in an M1 Abrams tank following a vehicle breaching exercise aboard Engineer Training Area 2, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 17, 2015. The exercise brought together mechanized crews with 2nd Tanks and 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion to breach through and over a high berm.

Captain Guy Lee, the I Marine Expeditionary Force chaplain introduces a panel of subject matter experts that were present during the second battle for Fallujah, Iraq. Navy Chaplains and Religious Program Specialists gathered Sept. 18, 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., to discuss the roles of religious personnel during times of heavy combat; specifically revisiting the events of the second battle of Fallujah during Operation Phantom Fury. - Captain Guy Lee, the I Marine Expeditionary Force chaplain introduces a panel of subject matter experts that were present during the second battle for Fallujah, Iraq. Navy Chaplains and Religious Program Specialists gathered Sept. 18, 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., to discuss the roles of religious personnel during times of heavy combat; specifically revisiting the events of the second battle of Fallujah during Operation Phantom Fury.

Donnelly, Idaho, native, Sgt. Elizabeth Azcuenaga, an enlisted aircrew training manager with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169 (HMLA-169), Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, fires a GAU-17 machine gun from the door of a UH-1Y Huey while the pilot simultaneously launches a rocket aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 17, 2015. Azcuenaga fired the weapon during a weapons proficiency range designed to help new pilots and crew chiefs become more effective with their respective weapons systems. - Donnelly, Idaho, native, Sgt. Elizabeth Azcuenaga, an enlisted aircrew training manager with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169 (HMLA-169), Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, fires a GAU-17 machine gun from the door of a UH-1Y Huey while the pilot simultaneously launches a rocket aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 17, 2015. Azcuenaga fired the weapon during a weapons proficiency range designed to help new pilots and crew chiefs become more effective with their respective weapons systems.

A Marine with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, fires behind cover at simulated targets during immediate action drills aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 9, 2015. The drills were part of a 2-week training schedule used to build on basic infantry skills for an upcoming deployment with a Marine Expeditionary Unit. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tony Simmons/RELEASED) - A Marine with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, fires behind cover at simulated targets during immediate action drills aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 9, 2015. The drills were part of a 2-week training schedule used to build on basic infantry skills for an upcoming deployment with a Marine Expeditionary Unit. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tony Simmons/RELEASED)

A U.S. Air Force C-5 Galaxy arrives to Dakar, Senegal with U.S. Marines and equipment from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, based out of Morón, Spain, to establish a cooperative security location, or CSL, Sept. 14. The CSL allows SPMAGTF-CR-AF to temporarily locate forces in areas where they can quickly respond to developing crises. - A U.S. Air Force C-5 Galaxy arrives to Dakar, Senegal with U.S. Marines and equipment from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, based out of Morón, Spain, to establish a cooperative security location, or CSL, Sept. 14. The CSL allows SPMAGTF-CR-AF to temporarily locate forces in areas where they can quickly respond to developing crises.

Marines, sailors and members of the Canadian Army conduct an amphibious landing at Evangola State Park, New York, Sept. 11, 2015. The landing was part of exercise Lake Effect, which was a joint exercise focusing on patrolling and strengthening the interoperability between each service. The Marines are with Charlie Co, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, the Canadians are with the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, Wentworth Regiment and the sailors are with full time service support staff in Buffalo, U.S. Navy mid Atlantic Reserve Component Command. - Marines, sailors and members of the Canadian Army conduct an amphibious landing at Evangola State Park, New York, Sept. 11, 2015. The landing was part of exercise Lake Effect, which was a joint exercise focusing on patrolling and strengthening the interoperability between each service. The Marines are with Charlie Co, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, the Canadians are with the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, Wentworth Regiment and the sailors are with full time service support staff in Buffalo, U.S. Navy mid Atlantic Reserve Component Command.

An explosive ordnance disposal Marine explains how a metal detector works to an onlooker during San Diego Fleet Week 2015 at Naval Base Coronado, Calif., Sept. 20, 2015. Thirty-seven Marines from 7th ESB presented static displays during the event to demonstrate the quality of military assets to the citizens of San Diego. - An explosive ordnance disposal Marine explains how a metal detector works to an onlooker during San Diego Fleet Week 2015 at Naval Base Coronado, Calif., Sept. 20, 2015. Thirty-seven Marines from 7th ESB presented static displays during the event to demonstrate the quality of military assets to the citizens of San Diego.

Marines with 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, look over a map of the surrounding area during Operation Firestorm, and exercise to prepare the unit for their upcoming exercise, Rolling Thunder, at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 15, 2015. The operation is a week-long field operation and is designed to ensure that communication and logistics capabilities are up to par before pushing out to Fort Bragg for Rolling Thunder. - Marines with 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, look over a map of the surrounding area during Operation Firestorm, and exercise to prepare the unit for their upcoming exercise, Rolling Thunder, at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 15, 2015. The operation is a week-long field operation and is designed to ensure that communication and logistics capabilities are up to par before pushing out to Fort Bragg for Rolling Thunder.

Marines from Battery M, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fire the M240 machine gun at targets down range at Pelham Range in Anniston, Ala., on Sept. 19, 2015. The Marines attended training to hone skills and increase their proficiency in crew-served weapons systems. - Marines from Battery M, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fire the M240 machine gun at targets down range at Pelham Range in Anniston, Ala., on Sept. 19, 2015. The Marines attended training to hone skills and increase their proficiency in crew-served weapons systems.

Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, stationed aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, settles in at Camp Aibano, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015, in support of Exercise Forest Light 16-1. MWSS-171’s main purpose during this exercise is to provide aviation fuel support for Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, who will have two CH-53 Super Stallions coming in for hot fuel in an area far away from any airport or fuel line. - Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, stationed aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, settles in at Camp Aibano, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015, in support of Exercise Forest Light 16-1. MWSS-171’s main purpose during this exercise is to provide aviation fuel support for Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, who will have two CH-53 Super Stallions coming in for hot fuel in an area far away from any airport or fuel line.

September is the month of Suicide Prevention. Suicide Prevention Month aims to spread information about suicide awareness, decrease stigmatization regarding suicide and raise awareness that suicide is preventable. - September is the month of Suicide Prevention. Suicide Prevention Month aims to spread information about suicide awareness, decrease stigmatization regarding suicide and raise awareness that suicide is preventable.

U.S. Marines with Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, conduct patrol-based operations and engage in platoon-level attacks with troops from His Majesty’s Armed Forces of Tonga, the New Zealand Defence Force, the French Army of New Caledonia and the Tongan Royal Guards during their culminating event for Exercise Tafakula 15 Sept. 9-11 on Tongatapu Island, Tonga. Each military force split into integrated platoons for the event that comprised of 72 hours of patrolling, land navigation and attacking mock enemy positions. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines in Darwin affords unprecedented combined training opportunities such as Exercise Tafakula and improves interoperability between the involved forces. - U.S. Marines with Company B, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, conduct patrol-based operations and engage in platoon-level attacks with troops from His Majesty’s Armed Forces of Tonga, the New Zealand Defence Force, the French Army of New Caledonia and the Tongan Royal Guards during their culminating event for Exercise Tafakula 15 Sept. 9-11 on Tongatapu Island, Tonga. Each military force split into integrated platoons for the event that comprised of 72 hours of patrolling, land navigation and attacking mock enemy positions. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines in Darwin affords unprecedented combined training opportunities such as Exercise Tafakula and improves interoperability between the involved forces.

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An anti-tank missileman with Combined Anti-Armor Team (CAAT) Red within Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 2/1, the ground combat element for the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, perfoms pre-fire inspections on a Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided (TOW) Missile before he and fellow Marines practice hunter-killer techniques on Aug. 21, 2015. The CAAT, composed of heavy machine gunners and anti-tank missilemen, is used to combat hardened targets as well as provide security. - An anti-tank missileman with Combined Anti-Armor Team (CAAT) Red within Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 2/1, the ground combat element for the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, perfoms pre-fire inspections on a Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided (TOW) Missile before he and fellow Marines practice hunter-killer techniques on Aug. 21, 2015. The CAAT, composed of heavy machine gunners and anti-tank missilemen, is used to combat hardened targets as well as provide security.

"Spot", a quadruped prototype robot, walks down a hill during a demonstration at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va.,Sept. 16, 2015. Employees of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency trained Marines from the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab how to operate “Spot”. - "Spot", a quadruped prototype robot, walks down a hill during a demonstration at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va.,Sept. 16, 2015. Employees of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency trained Marines from the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab how to operate “Spot”.

Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 make impact on targets utilizing the GAU-16 .50 caliber machine gun in an MV-22B Osprey in the skies above Piney Island bombing range, North Carolina, Sept. 15, 2015. The crew flew over training area Bombing Target 11 to assault targets resembling a convoy, barge and landing craft. - Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 make impact on targets utilizing the GAU-16 .50 caliber machine gun in an MV-22B Osprey in the skies above Piney Island bombing range, North Carolina, Sept. 15, 2015. The crew flew over training area Bombing Target 11 to assault targets resembling a convoy, barge and landing craft.

Modern Day Marine Military Exposition offers vendors, manufacturers, and industry the opportunity to showcase their products and services to the Marine Corps to evaluate how to apply these goods and technologies in their duties and missions. - Modern Day Marine Military Exposition offers vendors, manufacturers, and industry the opportunity to showcase their products and services to the Marine Corps to evaluate how to apply these goods and technologies in their duties and missions.

Cpl. Jacob Gomez, a rifleman with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment and a Lubbock, Texas native, walks across a log while running through the obstacle course at Boondocker Training Area aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 15, 2015. Marines from Bravo Co. 1st Bn., 3rd Marines conducted sustainment training to ensure they keep their combat mindset sharp and intact before embarking on their upcoming Unit Deployment Program. Training like this supports the mission of Marine Corps Base Hawaii by enhancing and sustaining combat readiness. - Cpl. Jacob Gomez, a rifleman with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment and a Lubbock, Texas native, walks across a log while running through the obstacle course at Boondocker Training Area aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 15, 2015. Marines from Bravo Co. 1st Bn., 3rd Marines conducted sustainment training to ensure they keep their combat mindset sharp and intact before embarking on their upcoming Unit Deployment Program. Training like this supports the mission of Marine Corps Base Hawaii by enhancing and sustaining combat readiness.

Marines with Co. C, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, and members of the Canadian Army Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, Wentworth Regiment, conduct patrols at Evangola State Park, New York, during exercise Lake Effect, Sept. 12, 2015. The Canadians divided up among the Marine platoons to strengthen the interoperability amongst the services and learn new training techniques and tactics. - Marines with Co. C, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, and members of the Canadian Army Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, Wentworth Regiment, conduct patrols at Evangola State Park, New York, during exercise Lake Effect, Sept. 12, 2015. The Canadians divided up among the Marine platoons to strengthen the interoperability amongst the services and learn new training techniques and tactics.

Lance Cpl. Trent Meade, a rifleman with Security Cooperation Team-4, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, instructs a Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando on supporting his buddy during an immediate action practical application exercise led by Marines in Toubacouta, Senegal, Sept. 1, 2015. Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen with SCT-4 are in Senegal training with the COFUMACO on infantry tactics and small-boat operations to continue building a strong relationship between the partner nations and improve the interoperability of the Senegalese military. - Lance Cpl. Trent Meade, a rifleman with Security Cooperation Team-4, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, instructs a Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando on supporting his buddy during an immediate action practical application exercise led by Marines in Toubacouta, Senegal, Sept. 1, 2015. Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen with SCT-4 are in Senegal training with the COFUMACO on infantry tactics and small-boat operations to continue building a strong relationship between the partner nations and improve the interoperability of the Senegalese military.

An Australian Army soldier wears the Exercise Kowari 2015 patch after the exercise’s closing ceremony Sept. 12 at Larrakeyah Barracks, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, Sept. 16, 2015. In its second iteration, Kowari 15 was a trilateral environmental survival training opportunity hosted by Australia and included forces from the U.S., Australia and China simultaneously. - An Australian Army soldier wears the Exercise Kowari 2015 patch after the exercise’s closing ceremony Sept. 12 at Larrakeyah Barracks, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, Sept. 16, 2015. In its second iteration, Kowari 15 was a trilateral environmental survival training opportunity hosted by Australia and included forces from the U.S., Australia and China simultaneously.

Pfc. William K. Blackwood communicates with members of his convoy during a combat convoy simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 9, 2015. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion tested their combat skills and decision making as they maneuvered through a simulated desert, mimicking the possible scenarios they could encounter while in a real-life scenario. The training simulator allowed the Marines to efficiently train in a controlled environment without sacrificing safety or accuracy. Blackwood is a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd LAAD based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. - Pfc. William K. Blackwood communicates with members of his convoy during a combat convoy simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 9, 2015. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion tested their combat skills and decision making as they maneuvered through a simulated desert, mimicking the possible scenarios they could encounter while in a real-life scenario. The training simulator allowed the Marines to efficiently train in a controlled environment without sacrificing safety or accuracy. Blackwood is a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd LAAD based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C.

Lance Cpl. Aaron Philson fires a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allows them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters. Philson is an aviation communications technician with MASS-1. - Lance Cpl. Aaron Philson fires a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allows them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters. Philson is an aviation communications technician with MASS-1.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. Akito Yagi attaches vegetation to his sniper rifle while performing stalking drills during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 10, 2015. The Marines sat up on a high embankment, trying to catch the JGSDF stalking the target with binoculars. Forest Light is a semiannual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events, conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. Yagi is a sniper with 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. Akito Yagi attaches vegetation to his sniper rifle while performing stalking drills during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 10, 2015. The Marines sat up on a high embankment, trying to catch the JGSDF stalking the target with binoculars. Forest Light is a semiannual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events, conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. Yagi is a sniper with 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade.

An MV-22B Osprey practiced landing on the Spanish amphibious assault ship Juan Carlos I (L-61) during deck landing qualifications, Sept. 9 near the coast of Spain. The DLQs are part of the Allied Maritime Basing Initiative, which seeks to provide the U.S. and allies with a year-round maritime-based crisis response force in the Mediterranean Sea or the Gulf of Guinea by leveraging the significant amphibious capabilities already residing in Europe. - An MV-22B Osprey practiced landing on the Spanish amphibious assault ship Juan Carlos I (L-61) during deck landing qualifications, Sept. 9 near the coast of Spain. The DLQs are part of the Allied Maritime Basing Initiative, which seeks to provide the U.S. and allies with a year-round maritime-based crisis response force in the Mediterranean Sea or the Gulf of Guinea by leveraging the significant amphibious capabilities already residing in Europe.

Betsy Fowler, widow of Col. James Fowler founder of the Marine Corps Marathon, speaks at the Marine Corps Marathon building dedication at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 14, 2015. James Fowler founded the Marine Corps Marathon in 1975, while still serving at Headquarters Marine Corps, to help create a community of goodwill between the Marine Corps and the civilian populace. - Betsy Fowler, widow of Col. James Fowler founder of the Marine Corps Marathon, speaks at the Marine Corps Marathon building dedication at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 14, 2015. James Fowler founded the Marine Corps Marathon in 1975, while still serving at Headquarters Marine Corps, to help create a community of goodwill between the Marine Corps and the civilian populace.

Benin National Surveillance Police commemorated the Sept. 11, 2001, anniversary attacks with U.S. Marines and sailors at the National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin, today. The Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa are in Benin for a month-long training mission with the National Surveillance Police to help counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders. During a break in the training, NPS students stood alongside Marines and sailors in formation for a brief ceremony to remember the day when more than 3,000 lives perished from the heinous terrorist attack. The ceremony began with the playing of taps, followed by three smoke cans, releasing colors of the Benin flag, symbolizing the partnership between the U.S. and Benin. - Benin National Surveillance Police commemorated the Sept. 11, 2001, anniversary attacks with U.S. Marines and sailors at the National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin, today. The Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa are in Benin for a month-long training mission with the National Surveillance Police to help counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders. During a break in the training, NPS students stood alongside Marines and sailors in formation for a brief ceremony to remember the day when more than 3,000 lives perished from the heinous terrorist attack. The ceremony began with the playing of taps, followed by three smoke cans, releasing colors of the Benin flag, symbolizing the partnership between the U.S. and Benin.

Marines retire the American flag for the last time in the city of Phoenix at Civic Space Park Sept. 13, 2015. More than 800 Marines participated in Marine Week Phoenix to give the citizens of the Valley of the Sun the opportunity to meet the individual Marines and celebrate community, country and Corps. - Marines retire the American flag for the last time in the city of Phoenix at Civic Space Park Sept. 13, 2015. More than 800 Marines participated in Marine Week Phoenix to give the citizens of the Valley of the Sun the opportunity to meet the individual Marines and celebrate community, country and Corps.

A wreath is laid beside the silhouette of a combat videographer following the unveiling of the Marine Week Phoenix mural in Scottsdale, Ariz., Sept. 12, 2015. The silhouette memorializes Lance Cpl. Jacob Hug, a Scottsdale native, who perished in a helicopter crash while the Corps was providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to Nepal. - A wreath is laid beside the silhouette of a combat videographer following the unveiling of the Marine Week Phoenix mural in Scottsdale, Ariz., Sept. 12, 2015. The silhouette memorializes Lance Cpl. Jacob Hug, a Scottsdale native, who perished in a helicopter crash while the Corps was providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to Nepal.

Brig. Gen. Daniel Yoo, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, speaks during the Marine Corps Leadership Seminar at Arizona State University at Tempe, Arizona, Sept. 11, 2015. The seminar was an event supporting Marine Week Phoenix, which aims to connect the Corps with the people of Arizona. - Brig. Gen. Daniel Yoo, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, speaks during the Marine Corps Leadership Seminar at Arizona State University at Tempe, Arizona, Sept. 11, 2015. The seminar was an event supporting Marine Week Phoenix, which aims to connect the Corps with the people of Arizona.

A UH-1Y Huey lands at Arizona State University Tempe Campus, Sept. 10, 2015, as part of Marine Week Phoenix. Marine Week Phoenix allows the Marine Corps to showcase its capabilities to the people of Phoenix who may not know about the Marine Corps. - A UH-1Y Huey lands at Arizona State University Tempe Campus, Sept. 10, 2015, as part of Marine Week Phoenix. Marine Week Phoenix allows the Marine Corps to showcase its capabilities to the people of Phoenix who may not know about the Marine Corps.

Sgt. Sugimoto Yoshitaka fires the Type 01 LMAT Anti-Tank Missile System during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marines shared knowledge about different anti-tank missile systems. After giving specifications of their respective weapon systems, the two forces used practice rounds to demonstrate how well the weapon systems work. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points training, helicopter borne skills and combined arms procedures. Sugimoto is an anti-tank missile man with 50th infantry regiment, 14th Brigade. - Sgt. Sugimoto Yoshitaka fires the Type 01 LMAT Anti-Tank Missile System during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marines shared knowledge about different anti-tank missile systems. After giving specifications of their respective weapon systems, the two forces used practice rounds to demonstrate how well the weapon systems work. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points training, helicopter borne skills and combined arms procedures. Sugimoto is an anti-tank missile man with 50th infantry regiment, 14th Brigade.