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Armed Forces of the Philippines Maj. Gen. Herminigildo Aquino, left, AFP Gen. Eduardo M. Año, the Honorable Ambassador Sung Y. Kim, Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, Under Secretary Ariel Y. Abadilla, AFP Lt. Gen. Oscar T. Lactao, and U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Brian Cavanaugh stand “shoulder-to-shoulder” and shake hands during the Balikatan 2017 closing ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, May 19, 2017. Aquino is the Philippine assistance exercise director. Año is the Chief of Staff of the AFP. Kim is the U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines. Lorenzana is the Philippine Secretary of National Defense. Abadilla is the Philippine Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Concerns. Lactao is the Philippine exercise director for Balikatan. Cavanaugh is the deputy commander of Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations. ( - Armed Forces of the Philippines Maj. Gen. Herminigildo Aquino, left, AFP Gen. Eduardo M. Año, the Honorable Ambassador Sung Y. Kim, Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, Under Secretary Ariel Y. Abadilla, AFP Lt. Gen. Oscar T. Lactao, and U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Brian Cavanaugh stand “shoulder-to-shoulder” and shake hands during the Balikatan 2017 closing ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, May 19, 2017. Aquino is the Philippine assistance exercise director. Año is the Chief of Staff of the AFP. Kim is the U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines. Lorenzana is the Philippine Secretary of National Defense. Abadilla is the Philippine Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Concerns. Lactao is the Philippine exercise director for Balikatan. Cavanaugh is the deputy commander of Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations. (

Philippine Army Capt. Armando Moncayo, Jr., left, and U.S. Marine Sgt. Lance Escobar discuss construction progress during an engineering civic assistance project in support of Balikatan 2017 in Ormoc City, Leyte, May 14, 2017. Philippine and U.S. service members worked together to build new classrooms for students at Don Carlos Elementary School. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations. - Philippine Army Capt. Armando Moncayo, Jr., left, and U.S. Marine Sgt. Lance Escobar discuss construction progress during an engineering civic assistance project in support of Balikatan 2017 in Ormoc City, Leyte, May 14, 2017. Philippine and U.S. service members worked together to build new classrooms for students at Don Carlos Elementary School. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine bilateral military exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations.

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Sgt. Travis R. Dipiazza, center, teaches room clearing techniques to role players during General Exercise 2 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 3, 2017. The Marines conducted the final rehearsal exercise of the Marine Advisor Course in order to assess their readiness to train foreign security forces during their upcoming deployment to Central America. Dipiazza is a tactics instructor with the Ground Combat Element, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command. The Marine Advisor Course is taught by the Marine Corps Security Cooperation Group. - CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Sgt. Travis R. Dipiazza, center, teaches room clearing techniques to role players during General Exercise 2 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 3, 2017. The Marines conducted the final rehearsal exercise of the Marine Advisor Course in order to assess their readiness to train foreign security forces during their upcoming deployment to Central America. Dipiazza is a tactics instructor with the Ground Combat Element, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command. The Marine Advisor Course is taught by the Marine Corps Security Cooperation Group.

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Capt. Erin Demchko portrays a convoy commander engaged in a firefight during the filming of "Battle Up," a new commercial published by the Marine Corps Recruiting Command May 12, 2017. "Battle Up," like the other work in the recently-launched campaign, is aimed at the recruitable population and their influencers – parents, teachers, coaches and community leaders. - Capt. Erin Demchko portrays a convoy commander engaged in a firefight during the filming of "Battle Up," a new commercial published by the Marine Corps Recruiting Command May 12, 2017. "Battle Up," like the other work in the recently-launched campaign, is aimed at the recruitable population and their influencers – parents, teachers, coaches and community leaders.

Rear Adm. Brent W. Scott gives closing remarks during the Chaplain’s Professional Development Workshop at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, May 8, 2017. Scott’s guided discussions were centered on the topic of targeted and interpersonal violence. Chaplains are an indispensable asset to these types of instances. Scott is the chaplain of the Marine Corps. - Rear Adm. Brent W. Scott gives closing remarks during the Chaplain’s Professional Development Workshop at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, May 8, 2017. Scott’s guided discussions were centered on the topic of targeted and interpersonal violence. Chaplains are an indispensable asset to these types of instances. Scott is the chaplain of the Marine Corps.

A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 conducts a level III flight demonstration during the 41st Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force – Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Friendship Day at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, May 5, 2017. Since 1973, MCAS Iwakuni has held a single-day air show designed to foster positive relationships and offer an elevating experience that displays the communal support between the U.S. and Japan. The air show also encompassed various U.S. and Japanese static aircraft displays, aerial performances and demonstrations, food and entertainment. - A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 conducts a level III flight demonstration during the 41st Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force – Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Friendship Day at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, May 5, 2017. Since 1973, MCAS Iwakuni has held a single-day air show designed to foster positive relationships and offer an elevating experience that displays the communal support between the U.S. and Japan. The air show also encompassed various U.S. and Japanese static aircraft displays, aerial performances and demonstrations, food and entertainment.

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft assigned to the 13th Fighter Squadron, Misawa Air Base, Japan, taxis out during Exercise Northern Edge 2017, at Eileson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 4, 2017. Northern Edge is Alaska’s largest and premier joint training exercise designed to practice operations, techniques and procedures as well as enhance interoperability among the services. Thousands of participants from all the services—Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Coast Guard personnel from active duty, Reserve and National Guard units—are involved. - A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft assigned to the 13th Fighter Squadron, Misawa Air Base, Japan, taxis out during Exercise Northern Edge 2017, at Eileson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 4, 2017. Northern Edge is Alaska’s largest and premier joint training exercise designed to practice operations, techniques and procedures as well as enhance interoperability among the services. Thousands of participants from all the services—Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Coast Guard personnel from active duty, Reserve and National Guard units—are involved.

Helicopters fill up with water from Lake O’Neill to assist Camp Pendleton Firefighters during the Roblar Fire on Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 22, 2016. The Roblar Fire has burned 2,000 acres and currently at 30% containment. - Helicopters fill up with water from Lake O’Neill to assist Camp Pendleton Firefighters during the Roblar Fire on Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 22, 2016. The Roblar Fire has burned 2,000 acres and currently at 30% containment.

A Marine assumes an alternative shooting position at the end of a timed sniper course exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 19, 2017. The Expeditionary Operations Training Group ran the course to teach long-range precision marksmanship to Marines from different units. The students are with the 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion and the battalion landing team with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - A Marine assumes an alternative shooting position at the end of a timed sniper course exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 19, 2017. The Expeditionary Operations Training Group ran the course to teach long-range precision marksmanship to Marines from different units. The students are with the 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion and the battalion landing team with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Pfc. Benjamin Kelly, machinegunner, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, provides security as a CH-53 ‘Super Stallion’ helicopter lands at Del Valle Field during a non-combatant Evacuation Operation exercise as part of Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-17 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., April 21, 2017. NEO exercises simulate real-life scenarios where non-combatants are evacuated from a potentially hostile area. - Pfc. Benjamin Kelly, machinegunner, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, provides security as a CH-53 ‘Super Stallion’ helicopter lands at Del Valle Field during a non-combatant Evacuation Operation exercise as part of Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-17 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., April 21, 2017. NEO exercises simulate real-life scenarios where non-combatants are evacuated from a potentially hostile area.

U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Alexander Davis adjusts a satellite communication antenna during Balikatan 2017 at Camp Lapulapu, Cebu, April 25, 2017. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine military bilateral exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and counterterrorism. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Corey Pettis) - U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Alexander Davis adjusts a satellite communication antenna during Balikatan 2017 at Camp Lapulapu, Cebu, April 25, 2017. Balikatan is an annual U.S.-Philippine military bilateral exercise focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and counterterrorism. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Corey Pettis)

Lance Cpl. Vincent A. Smyth, Marine Air-Ground Task Force planning specialist with the Command Element, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, calibrates a three-dimensional printer during the 3-D Printing Training Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 20, 2017. Marines from various sections of SPMAGTF-SC attended the two-day training hosted by General Support Maintenance Company, 2nd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, in order to gain hands-on experience with 3-D printers and receive instruction in computer-aided design, file creation and manufacturing. - Lance Cpl. Vincent A. Smyth, Marine Air-Ground Task Force planning specialist with the Command Element, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command, calibrates a three-dimensional printer during the 3-D Printing Training Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 20, 2017. Marines from various sections of SPMAGTF-SC attended the two-day training hosted by General Support Maintenance Company, 2nd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, in order to gain hands-on experience with 3-D printers and receive instruction in computer-aided design, file creation and manufacturing.

A role player seeks medical attention during Assault Support Tactics 3, supporting Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron during the semiannual Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-17 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, April 21. Lasting seven weeks, WTI is a training evolution hosted by MAWTS-1 which provides standardized advanced and tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness. The AST-3 training focused on conducting noncombatant evacuation operations in an urban environment while providing foreign humanitarian assistance to the simulated host nation. - A role player seeks medical attention during Assault Support Tactics 3, supporting Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron during the semiannual Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-17 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, April 21. Lasting seven weeks, WTI is a training evolution hosted by MAWTS-1 which provides standardized advanced and tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness. The AST-3 training focused on conducting noncombatant evacuation operations in an urban environment while providing foreign humanitarian assistance to the simulated host nation.

U.S. Special Operations Forces personnel take part in a military freefall jumpmaster course on Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, April 19, 2017. This marked the first time in history that the course was delivered outside of the continental United States. Hosted by the U.S. Marines Corps 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion and administered by a Mobile Training Team, the course qualified 27 Marines, Soldiers and Airmen as military freefall jumpmasters in Okinawa. - U.S. Special Operations Forces personnel take part in a military freefall jumpmaster course on Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, April 19, 2017. This marked the first time in history that the course was delivered outside of the continental United States. Hosted by the U.S. Marines Corps 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion and administered by a Mobile Training Team, the course qualified 27 Marines, Soldiers and Airmen as military freefall jumpmasters in Okinawa.

Ordnance Marines move toward an AH-1Z Viper as it lands during operations that are a part of Assault Support Training 1 in support of the semiannual Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-17, at the Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range, California, April 17. Lasting seven weeks, WTI is a training evolution hosted by MAWTS-1 which provides standardized advanced and tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness. - Ordnance Marines move toward an AH-1Z Viper as it lands during operations that are a part of Assault Support Training 1 in support of the semiannual Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-17, at the Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range, California, April 17. Lasting seven weeks, WTI is a training evolution hosted by MAWTS-1 which provides standardized advanced and tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jeffrey Aceti, a combat engineer with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, maintains equipment used during airfield damage and repair training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 19, 2017. The ADR training required Marines to utilize their skill set to tactically and proficiently fix any anomalies to a simulated damaged airfield. The training focused on becoming more efficient in situations that may require Marines to act in real-world scenarios to maintain the tempo of aircraft operations. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jeffrey Aceti, a combat engineer with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, maintains equipment used during airfield damage and repair training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 19, 2017. The ADR training required Marines to utilize their skill set to tactically and proficiently fix any anomalies to a simulated damaged airfield. The training focused on becoming more efficient in situations that may require Marines to act in real-world scenarios to maintain the tempo of aircraft operations.

A MK-58 Hawker Hunter prepares to take off at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, June 27, 2017. The aircraft is visiting Fightertown to participate in training operations with tenant squadrons. The Hawker Hunter is with the Airborne Tactical Advantage Company. Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron utilized ATAC to train their pilots in anti-aircraft warfare. ATAC provided the adversary air presentation for VMFAT-501. The Hawker is with ATAC. - A MK-58 Hawker Hunter prepares to take off at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, June 27, 2017. The aircraft is visiting Fightertown to participate in training operations with tenant squadrons. The Hawker Hunter is with the Airborne Tactical Advantage Company. Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron utilized ATAC to train their pilots in anti-aircraft warfare. ATAC provided the adversary air presentation for VMFAT-501. The Hawker is with ATAC.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jonathan Myrick, from Montgomery, Alabama, conducts electrical maintenance checks with Sgt. Levi Torres from Shepheard, Texas, avionics technicians deployed in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, assigned to Marine Attack Squadron 231, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, March 2, 2017. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jonathan Myrick, from Montgomery, Alabama, conducts electrical maintenance checks with Sgt. Levi Torres from Shepheard, Texas, avionics technicians deployed in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, assigned to Marine Attack Squadron 231, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, March 2, 2017.

U.S. Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 311 board a C-130 Hercules during an exercise to Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 12, 2017. VMA 311 is participating in Exercise MAX THUNDER 17, an operational readiness exercise built to promote interoperability between U.S. and ROK forces. This annual exercise helps to promote stability in the Asia-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 311 board a C-130 Hercules during an exercise to Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 12, 2017. VMA 311 is participating in Exercise MAX THUNDER 17, an operational readiness exercise built to promote interoperability between U.S. and ROK forces. This annual exercise helps to promote stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

Marines of Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Continuing Promise 2010 walk up the hill where on July 14, 1898, Sgt. John H. Quick and Pvt. John Fitzgerald performed heroic actions that earned them both the Medal of Honor. The 30 Marines had the unique opportunity to visit the Spanish American War battle site, Aug. 5, while the USS Iwo Jima made a port stop at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The USS Iwo Jima is currently underway to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief across Latin America and the Caribbean. - Marines of Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Continuing Promise 2010 walk up the hill where on July 14, 1898, Sgt. John H. Quick and Pvt. John Fitzgerald performed heroic actions that earned them both the Medal of Honor. The 30 Marines had the unique opportunity to visit the Spanish American War battle site, Aug. 5, while the USS Iwo Jima made a port stop at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The USS Iwo Jima is currently underway to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief across Latin America and the Caribbean.

Col. Ricardo Player (center), the Force Headquarters Group chief of staff, Marine Forces Reserve, speaks to the family of Cpl. Nathan Bryson (left), a Marine Corps veteran who most recently served as a motor transport operator for Headquarters and Support Battalion, School of Infantry East, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, after he was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal in Brook Park, Ohio, April 13, 2017. Bryson was awarded the medal for his actions in 2014 when he and a fellow Marine saved a man from a burning vehicle. The medal is considered the highest medal one can achieve outside of combat and is often times given for daring and selfless acts that put a person in harm’s way. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Dallas Johnson/Released) - Col. Ricardo Player (center), the Force Headquarters Group chief of staff, Marine Forces Reserve, speaks to the family of Cpl. Nathan Bryson (left), a Marine Corps veteran who most recently served as a motor transport operator for Headquarters and Support Battalion, School of Infantry East, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, after he was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal in Brook Park, Ohio, April 13, 2017. Bryson was awarded the medal for his actions in 2014 when he and a fellow Marine saved a man from a burning vehicle. The medal is considered the highest medal one can achieve outside of combat and is often times given for daring and selfless acts that put a person in harm’s way. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Dallas Johnson/Released)

Marines with Echo Company 2nd Battalion 6th marines return from conducting fast rope training in support of Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron 1 during the semiannual Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-17, at Auxiliary Airfield II, Yuma, Arizona, April 7, 2017. Lasting seven weeks, WTI is a training evolution hosted by MAWTS-1 which provides standardized advanced and tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness. - Marines with Echo Company 2nd Battalion 6th marines return from conducting fast rope training in support of Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron 1 during the semiannual Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-17, at Auxiliary Airfield II, Yuma, Arizona, April 7, 2017. Lasting seven weeks, WTI is a training evolution hosted by MAWTS-1 which provides standardized advanced and tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness.

Marines with the School of Infantry West observe a UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Training Squadron 303 during an aerial demonstration at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 11. Marines with HMLAT-303 conducted basic flight maneuvers during the demonstration to build cohesion between air and ground Marines. - Marines with the School of Infantry West observe a UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Training Squadron 303 during an aerial demonstration at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 11. Marines with HMLAT-303 conducted basic flight maneuvers during the demonstration to build cohesion between air and ground Marines.

Second lieutenant Lillian Polatchek poses in front of an M1A1 Abrams tank at Fort Benning, Georgia. Polatchek is the first female Marine Tank Officer after graduating as the distinguished honor graduate of her Army’s Armor Basic Officer Leaders Course on April 12, 2017. - Second lieutenant Lillian Polatchek poses in front of an M1A1 Abrams tank at Fort Benning, Georgia. Polatchek is the first female Marine Tank Officer after graduating as the distinguished honor graduate of her Army’s Armor Basic Officer Leaders Course on April 12, 2017.

Sgt. 1st Class Midsru Miyazaki, center, coordinates with Marines assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 204 during a pre-flight brief at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., April 7, 2017. Miyazaki has been training to become the first Japanese MV-22 Osprey crew chief. VMMT-204’s mission is to provide training to Osprey pilots, crew chiefs and units in the use and maintenance of the MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. VMMT-204 is assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. - Sgt. 1st Class Midsru Miyazaki, center, coordinates with Marines assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 204 during a pre-flight brief at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., April 7, 2017. Miyazaki has been training to become the first Japanese MV-22 Osprey crew chief. VMMT-204’s mission is to provide training to Osprey pilots, crew chiefs and units in the use and maintenance of the MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. VMMT-204 is assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.

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A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, taxis to the flight line during aviation delivered ground refueling training with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 11, 2017. The ADGR marked the first evolution of this form of refueling for VMFA-121’s F-35B Lightning II aircraft, and it increases the squadron’s ability to refuel by C-130 aircraft in austere locations when other resources may not be available. - A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, taxis to the flight line during aviation delivered ground refueling training with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 11, 2017. The ADGR marked the first evolution of this form of refueling for VMFA-121’s F-35B Lightning II aircraft, and it increases the squadron’s ability to refuel by C-130 aircraft in austere locations when other resources may not be available.

A Marine prepares for a 600 meter conditioning swim during Water Survival-Advanced training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 4, 2017. WSA is a week-long course that tests Marines on rescues, strokes and distance swimming. The Marine is a student in the course, which is run by 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion. - A Marine prepares for a 600 meter conditioning swim during Water Survival-Advanced training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 4, 2017. WSA is a week-long course that tests Marines on rescues, strokes and distance swimming. The Marine is a student in the course, which is run by 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion.

Marines conduct a timed 20 kilometer ruck run during a scout sniper screener at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 3, 2017. The screener tested the Marines physical and mental limits through rigorous training. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division. - Marines conduct a timed 20 kilometer ruck run during a scout sniper screener at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 3, 2017. The screener tested the Marines physical and mental limits through rigorous training. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division.

A Marine throws an M67 fragmentation grenade during a grenade range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 31, 2017. The training helped Marines build trust and confidence in each other by refining the skills needed to operate in a combat environment. The Marines are with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion. - A Marine throws an M67 fragmentation grenade during a grenade range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 31, 2017. The training helped Marines build trust and confidence in each other by refining the skills needed to operate in a combat environment. The Marines are with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion.

Gunnery Sgt. Joseph A. Purdy tightens the straps on a parachute before an air-drop delivery jump at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., March 27, 2017. The training was part of field exercise Bold Bronco 17, which demonstrated the units ability to provide transportation support via air, land or sea. Purdy is a jumpmaster with 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group. - Gunnery Sgt. Joseph A. Purdy tightens the straps on a parachute before an air-drop delivery jump at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., March 27, 2017. The training was part of field exercise Bold Bronco 17, which demonstrated the units ability to provide transportation support via air, land or sea. Purdy is a jumpmaster with 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group.

Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 load ordnance on an F-35B Lightning II aircraft during hot-reload training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 6, 2017. This signified the first time the squadron loaded ordnance onto a running F-35B Lightning II aircraft at the air station in order to prepare for real-world scenarios. - Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 load ordnance on an F-35B Lightning II aircraft during hot-reload training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 6, 2017. This signified the first time the squadron loaded ordnance onto a running F-35B Lightning II aircraft at the air station in order to prepare for real-world scenarios.

Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 prepare to conduct a hot load on an F-35B Lightning II at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., April 4. Marines with VMFA-211 along with Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron (MAWTS) 1, conducted hot loads during the semiannual Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course (WTI) 2-17. Lasting seven weeks, WTI is a training event hosted by MAWTS-1 that provides standardized advanced and tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness. - Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 prepare to conduct a hot load on an F-35B Lightning II at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., April 4. Marines with VMFA-211 along with Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron (MAWTS) 1, conducted hot loads during the semiannual Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course (WTI) 2-17. Lasting seven weeks, WTI is a training event hosted by MAWTS-1 that provides standardized advanced and tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness.

Cpl. Zachary Taylor instructs a Marine on how to use an M2 Browning .50-caliber machine gun at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 30, 2017. The Marines conducted a live-fire from the turrets of Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement trucks, as part of a culminating event for the Combat Logistics Regiment 25 Command Post Exercise. Taylor is with the Battle Skills Training School, 2nd Marine Logistics Group. - Cpl. Zachary Taylor instructs a Marine on how to use an M2 Browning .50-caliber machine gun at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 30, 2017. The Marines conducted a live-fire from the turrets of Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement trucks, as part of a culminating event for the Combat Logistics Regiment 25 Command Post Exercise. Taylor is with the Battle Skills Training School, 2nd Marine Logistics Group.

U.S Marine Pfc. Brad A. Clark inspects the rigged aerial delivery systems of Joint Precision Airdrops during a Weapons and Training Instructor Course March 30, 2017, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz. Clark is an airborne delivery specialist with 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group. The JPADS uses a GPS system and a modular autonomous guidance unit to get to their targeted drop zones. - U.S Marine Pfc. Brad A. Clark inspects the rigged aerial delivery systems of Joint Precision Airdrops during a Weapons and Training Instructor Course March 30, 2017, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz. Clark is an airborne delivery specialist with 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group. The JPADS uses a GPS system and a modular autonomous guidance unit to get to their targeted drop zones.

A Japanese MCH-101 airborne mine countermeasures helicopter lands on a heliport designated by Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment B during a cross-training exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 30, 2017. The purpose of the exercise was to simulate a forward arming and refueling points operation, where Marines communicated with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter pilots to perform austere landings on a heliport that acted as an expeditionary runway. - A Japanese MCH-101 airborne mine countermeasures helicopter lands on a heliport designated by Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment B during a cross-training exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 30, 2017. The purpose of the exercise was to simulate a forward arming and refueling points operation, where Marines communicated with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter pilots to perform austere landings on a heliport that acted as an expeditionary runway.

Marines with Engineer Platoon, Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, carve wood at Guardian Centers in Perry, Georgia, March 23, 2017, during Exercise Scarlet Response 2017. During a 36-hour field operation, the Marines with CBIRF were tested on their ability to perform their skills during nighttime scenarios. Engineering Platoon used wooden planks to support collapsed structures. - Marines with Engineer Platoon, Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, carve wood at Guardian Centers in Perry, Georgia, March 23, 2017, during Exercise Scarlet Response 2017. During a 36-hour field operation, the Marines with CBIRF were tested on their ability to perform their skills during nighttime scenarios. Engineering Platoon used wooden planks to support collapsed structures.

A Marine posts security March 15 in the Central Training Area, Okinawa, Japan. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in amphibious assault training in order to hone their amphibious capabilities. - A Marine posts security March 15 in the Central Training Area, Okinawa, Japan. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in amphibious assault training in order to hone their amphibious capabilities.

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A member of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, 30th Infantry Regiment, 12th Brigade, Eastern Army practices fast roping out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft during Forest Light 17-1 at Camp Soumagahara, Japan, on March 9, 2017. Forest Light is a routine, semi-annual exercise conducted by U.S. and Japan forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and combined capabilities in defense of the U.S.-Japan alliance. - A member of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, 30th Infantry Regiment, 12th Brigade, Eastern Army practices fast roping out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft during Forest Light 17-1 at Camp Soumagahara, Japan, on March 9, 2017. Forest Light is a routine, semi-annual exercise conducted by U.S. and Japan forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and combined capabilities in defense of the U.S.-Japan alliance.

A Marine launches a Raven small unmanned aircraft system into the air at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 27, 2017. Marines conducted aerial training exercises at Tactical Landing Zone Dove to demonstrate the capabilities and build familiarization with the SUAS. The Marines are intelligence specialists with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. - A Marine launches a Raven small unmanned aircraft system into the air at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 27, 2017. Marines conducted aerial training exercises at Tactical Landing Zone Dove to demonstrate the capabilities and build familiarization with the SUAS. The Marines are intelligence specialists with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.

Marines with 3rd Force Reconnaissance Company enter the water during a ship-to-shore diving operation exercise at Pensacola, Fla., March 23, 2017. The exercise focused on performing sustainment training on Marine combative dive tactics. The training will enhance the company’s capability conduct specialized insertion and extraction tasks. - Marines with 3rd Force Reconnaissance Company enter the water during a ship-to-shore diving operation exercise at Pensacola, Fla., March 23, 2017. The exercise focused on performing sustainment training on Marine combative dive tactics. The training will enhance the company’s capability conduct specialized insertion and extraction tasks.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Ysac Perez, the air base ground defense staff non-commissioned officer in charge for Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, observes how Marines deal with the set objectives during exercise Tanuki Wrath on Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 22, 2017. MWSS-171 conducted the exercise to help train Marines to set up security around a downed aircraft and how to control a riot. - U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Ysac Perez, the air base ground defense staff non-commissioned officer in charge for Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, observes how Marines deal with the set objectives during exercise Tanuki Wrath on Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 22, 2017. MWSS-171 conducted the exercise to help train Marines to set up security around a downed aircraft and how to control a riot.

Dutch Marines prepare to breach a building while training with U.S. Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 23, 2017. During the integrated training exercise, Dutch and U.S. Marines worked with canine units, coordinated air assets and exchanged tactics between services in order to strengthen cohesion and interoperability between the partner two allied nations. - Dutch Marines prepare to breach a building while training with U.S. Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 23, 2017. During the integrated training exercise, Dutch and U.S. Marines worked with canine units, coordinated air assets and exchanged tactics between services in order to strengthen cohesion and interoperability between the partner two allied nations.

U.S. Marine Corps Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 conducted exercise Tanuki Wrath on Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 22, 2017. MWSS-171 conducted the exercise to help train Marines to set up security around a downed aircraft and how to control a riot. - U.S. Marine Corps Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 conducted exercise Tanuki Wrath on Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 22, 2017. MWSS-171 conducted the exercise to help train Marines to set up security around a downed aircraft and how to control a riot.

Landing signal officers communicate with a pilot preparing to land on a simulated aircraft carrier aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, March 22, 2017. The LSOs analyze the glide slope path and the movement of the carrier to decide whether the aircraft can land. The LSOs are with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312, Marine Aircraft Group 31. - Landing signal officers communicate with a pilot preparing to land on a simulated aircraft carrier aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, March 22, 2017. The LSOs analyze the glide slope path and the movement of the carrier to decide whether the aircraft can land. The LSOs are with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312, Marine Aircraft Group 31.

Lance Cpl. Milton Torres, a Marine with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, prepares a hose for a decontamination drill at Guardian Centers in Perry, Ga., March 20, 2017, during Exercise Scarlet Response 2017. The exercise, which goes from March 20 – 25, is the largest annual event for CBIRF, and it tests the unit’s capabilities to react and respond to threats and disasters such as nuclear detonations. - Lance Cpl. Milton Torres, a Marine with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, prepares a hose for a decontamination drill at Guardian Centers in Perry, Ga., March 20, 2017, during Exercise Scarlet Response 2017. The exercise, which goes from March 20 – 25, is the largest annual event for CBIRF, and it tests the unit’s capabilities to react and respond to threats and disasters such as nuclear detonations.

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