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

A Japan Air Self-Defense Force UH-60J helicopter with Ashiya Air Rescue Squadron recovers U.S. Marine Corps pilots as part of a bilateral search and rescue exercise at Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Yufuin, Japan, April 27, 2021. The exercise allows U.S. and Japanese forces to quickly and effectively conduct search and rescue operations while strengthening the partnership between Marines and Japan Self-Defense Force personnel. - A Japan Air Self-Defense Force UH-60J helicopter with Ashiya Air Rescue Squadron recovers U.S. Marine Corps pilots as part of a bilateral search and rescue exercise at Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Yufuin, Japan, April 27, 2021. The exercise allows U.S. and Japanese forces to quickly and effectively conduct search and rescue operations while strengthening the partnership between Marines and Japan Self-Defense Force personnel.

A U.S. Marine with Aircraft, Rescue and Firefighting Marine, uses a Holmatro brand hydraulic separator during a training event on Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., April 23, 2021. The training introduced new Marine Corps standardized weapons to Cherry Point and a Holmatro representative demonstrated efficient rescue techniques. - A U.S. Marine with Aircraft, Rescue and Firefighting Marine, uses a Holmatro brand hydraulic separator during a training event on Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., April 23, 2021. The training introduced new Marine Corps standardized weapons to Cherry Point and a Holmatro representative demonstrated efficient rescue techniques.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A pair of gloves are placed outside the boxing ring during a training session for U.S. Marine Corps boxers with the II Marine Expeditionary Force Martial Arts Center of Excellence boxing program on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 20, 2021. The boxing program prepares II MEF Marines to compete in professional level matches through rigorous physical exercise and mental training. As a pilot program, it has already showcased four of its boxers in 2021 at the U.S.A. National Boxing Championship as well as more upcoming matches. - A pair of gloves are placed outside the boxing ring during a training session for U.S. Marine Corps boxers with the II Marine Expeditionary Force Martial Arts Center of Excellence boxing program on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 20, 2021. The boxing program prepares II MEF Marines to compete in professional level matches through rigorous physical exercise and mental training. As a pilot program, it has already showcased four of its boxers in 2021 at the U.S.A. National Boxing Championship as well as more upcoming matches.

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

Col. Perry makes closing remarks in Japanese to the people from the local communities at the 38th Camp Schwab/USO Christmas Children’s Day in Camp Schwab USO Dec. 7, 2019. - Col. Perry makes closing remarks in Japanese to the people from the local communities at the 38th Camp Schwab/USO Christmas Children’s Day in Camp Schwab USO Dec. 7, 2019.

A completed art piece by HM1 Teresa Perkins, 17A Bravo Company, 1st Medical Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, is showcased to bring awareness to Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. April is SAAPM, and Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, is hosting a Chalk the Walk competition from April 1st- 20th, promoting the ongoing theme: Protecting Our People Protects Our Mission. - A completed art piece by HM1 Teresa Perkins, 17A Bravo Company, 1st Medical Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, is showcased to bring awareness to Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. April is SAAPM, and Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, is hosting a Chalk the Walk competition from April 1st- 20th, promoting the ongoing theme: Protecting Our People Protects Our Mission.

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

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning IIs assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, land on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 15th MEU are operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. - U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning IIs assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, land on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 15th MEU are operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

(From left) U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Thomas Diffley, Pfc. Elijah Stewart and Lance Cpl. Nicklas Martin, expeditionary firefighting and rescue specialists with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, pose for an environmental photo on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 7, 2021. EFR specialist Marines with H&HS provide aircraft rescue and firefighting services in support of airfield operations and respond to any fire-related emergencies and situations with a maximum response time of five minutes. Stewart is a native of Independence, Missouri, Diffley is a native of Dallas, Texas and Corkern is a native of Seattle, Washington. - (From left) U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Thomas Diffley, Pfc. Elijah Stewart and Lance Cpl. Nicklas Martin, expeditionary firefighting and rescue specialists with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, pose for an environmental photo on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 7, 2021. EFR specialist Marines with H&HS provide aircraft rescue and firefighting services in support of airfield operations and respond to any fire-related emergencies and situations with a maximum response time of five minutes. Stewart is a native of Independence, Missouri, Diffley is a native of Dallas, Texas and Corkern is a native of Seattle, Washington.

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

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

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, takes off from the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) during a U.S. Air Forces Central Agile Combat Employment event, March 1, 2021. AFCENT’s ACE capstone event enhances theater airpower competencies, validating operational capabilities and command and control while simultaneously strengthening regional partnerships. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and the 15th MEU are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. - A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 164 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, takes off from the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) during a U.S. Air Forces Central Agile Combat Employment event, March 1, 2021. AFCENT’s ACE capstone event enhances theater airpower competencies, validating operational capabilities and command and control while simultaneously strengthening regional partnerships. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and the 15th MEU are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points.

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U.S. Marines with Echo Battery, Battalion Landing Team 3/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, advance during a force on force exercise at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, March 4, 2021. The Marines from both platoons in Echo Battery competed against each other to enhance their capabilities as provisional infantry. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines with Echo Battery, Battalion Landing Team 3/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, advance during a force on force exercise at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, March 4, 2021. The Marines from both platoons in Echo Battery competed against each other to enhance their capabilities as provisional infantry. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marines and Department of Defense contractors with G-4, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, discuss logistics operations with their Royal Thai Marine Corps counterparts during a video-teleconference on Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii, March 25, 2021. Logistics talks between members of MARFORPAC G-4 and the Royal Thai Marine Corps are held annually to foster a logistics partnership that enhances regional stability. The discussions are usually conducted in Thailand but this year’s talks were conducted via video-teleconference to comply with COVID-19 mitigation efforts. - U.S. Marines and Department of Defense contractors with G-4, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, discuss logistics operations with their Royal Thai Marine Corps counterparts during a video-teleconference on Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii, March 25, 2021. Logistics talks between members of MARFORPAC G-4 and the Royal Thai Marine Corps are held annually to foster a logistics partnership that enhances regional stability. The discussions are usually conducted in Thailand but this year’s talks were conducted via video-teleconference to comply with COVID-19 mitigation efforts.

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Foreign liaison officers pose for a group photo at Range 36 on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Mar. 17. - Foreign liaison officers pose for a group photo at Range 36 on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Mar. 17.

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Lt. Col. Sally Ann Falco holds photos of two of her female Marine mentors, retired Sgt. Maj. Tammy Fodey and retired Sgt. Maj. Sarah Thornton, the first woman Marine to retire after 30 consecutive years of active service. Falco served as an enlisted Marine for 14 years before her acceptance to the Meritorious Commissioning Program. She commissioned in August 2001 and will soon retire after 34 fruitful years in the Marine Corps. “I’ve just been privileged to be allowed to be a Marine,” Falco said. “I still love it as much as the day I came in, and I would stay in forever, but I want to make room for others to climb the ladder and at the same time, contribute to society in another capacity.” - Lt. Col. Sally Ann Falco holds photos of two of her female Marine mentors, retired Sgt. Maj. Tammy Fodey and retired Sgt. Maj. Sarah Thornton, the first woman Marine to retire after 30 consecutive years of active service. Falco served as an enlisted Marine for 14 years before her acceptance to the Meritorious Commissioning Program. She commissioned in August 2001 and will soon retire after 34 fruitful years in the Marine Corps. “I’ve just been privileged to be allowed to be a Marine,” Falco said. “I still love it as much as the day I came in, and I would stay in forever, but I want to make room for others to climb the ladder and at the same time, contribute to society in another capacity.”

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Salvatore Naimo, a Korean War Veteran, answers questions from local news agencies after being awarded the Silver Star in Sarasota, Florida on March 17, 2021. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Salvatore Naimo, a Korean War Veteran, answers questions from local news agencies after being awarded the Silver Star in Sarasota, Florida on March 17, 2021.

U.S. Marines with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division conduct a military freefall infiltration as a part of exercise Castaway 21.1 on Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, March 9, 2021. The exercise demonstrated the Marine Corps’ ability to integrate with the joint force to seize and defend key maritime terrain, provide low-signature sustainment, and execute long-range precision fires in support of naval operations from an expeditionary advanced base. - U.S. Marines with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division conduct a military freefall infiltration as a part of exercise Castaway 21.1 on Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, March 9, 2021. The exercise demonstrated the Marine Corps’ ability to integrate with the joint force to seize and defend key maritime terrain, provide low-signature sustainment, and execute long-range precision fires in support of naval operations from an expeditionary advanced base.

II MEF Marines receive training on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 12-14, 2021. - II MEF Marines receive training on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 12-14, 2021.

Norwegian Army Soldiers and U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force Europe 21.1, Marine Forces Europe and Africa, conduct a Joint Terminal Attack Controller training event in Setermoen, Norway, March 8, 2021. - Norwegian Army Soldiers and U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force Europe 21.1, Marine Forces Europe and Africa, conduct a Joint Terminal Attack Controller training event in Setermoen, Norway, March 8, 2021.

A Simulator Integration Center and Range Control Operations Complex employee helps set up a convoy simulator for Israeli Defense Forces leaders during a tour from II Marine Expeditionary Force personnel which showcased various simulation and training facilities on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Mar. 10, 2021. - A Simulator Integration Center and Range Control Operations Complex employee helps set up a convoy simulator for Israeli Defense Forces leaders during a tour from II Marine Expeditionary Force personnel which showcased various simulation and training facilities on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Mar. 10, 2021.

Marine Corps Cpl. Justin Machado, left, and Lance Cpl. Losia V.A. Wilson, both riflemen assigned to Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provide security after completing a simulated assault for a company-sized live-fire attack exercise during a theater amphibious combat rehearsal at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Feb. 23. - Marine Corps Cpl. Justin Machado, left, and Lance Cpl. Losia V.A. Wilson, both riflemen assigned to Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provide security after completing a simulated assault for a company-sized live-fire attack exercise during a theater amphibious combat rehearsal at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Feb. 23.

Marine Raiders with 3rd Marine Raider Battalion train Marines with 1st Battalion, 8th Marines on close quarters battles tactics at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28, 2021 - Marine Raiders with 3rd Marine Raider Battalion train Marines with 1st Battalion, 8th Marines on close quarters battles tactics at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 28, 2021

Contestants participating in the Okinawa Spartan Race motivate each other before beginning the race on Chura Sun Beach, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 27. - Contestants participating in the Okinawa Spartan Race motivate each other before beginning the race on Chura Sun Beach, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 27.

U.S. Marines conduct a call for fire while participating in Tactical Air Control Party training as a part of a Close Air Support Exercise at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, Feb. 26. - U.S. Marines conduct a call for fire while participating in Tactical Air Control Party training as a part of a Close Air Support Exercise at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, Feb. 26.

U.S. Marines and Navy Sailors conduct external lifts for a vertical replenishment of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, Naval Base Guam, Feb. 25. - U.S. Marines and Navy Sailors conduct external lifts for a vertical replenishment of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, Naval Base Guam, Feb. 25.

Heavy Mobile Equipment mechanics work together with mechanics from the original equipment manufacturer, Flyer Defense, to learn every aspect of maintenance and repair of the Special Operations’ Ground Mobility Vehicle at Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, aboard the Yermo Annex of Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Feb. 24. - Heavy Mobile Equipment mechanics work together with mechanics from the original equipment manufacturer, Flyer Defense, to learn every aspect of maintenance and repair of the Special Operations’ Ground Mobility Vehicle at Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, aboard the Yermo Annex of Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Feb. 24.

A Marine checks and adjusts a thermal optic at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Feb. 17. - A Marine checks and adjusts a thermal optic at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Feb. 17.

Marine Forces Special Operations Command celebrates 15 years of commitment, diligence and professionalism as a component in support of Special Operations Command at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 22. - Marine Forces Special Operations Command celebrates 15 years of commitment, diligence and professionalism as a component in support of Special Operations Command at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 22.

Marines with Weapons Training Battalion conduct the Annual Rifle Qualification train-the-trainer course on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Feb. 17, 2021. - Marines with Weapons Training Battalion conduct the Annual Rifle Qualification train-the-trainer course on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Feb. 17, 2021. The ARQ is replacing the current Annual Rifle Training to increase lethality by creating a more operationally realistic training environment which will be implemented service-wide by fiscal year 2022.