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Sgt. Andrew Sturgress, a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft crew chief assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, walks past Mr. Norio Tomonaga, the Mayor of Sasebo, and the Assemblymen of Defense for Sasebo City during take-off preparation from Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan, Nov. 18, 2016. The aircraft flew from the island of Okinawa, conducted simulated humanitarian aid with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force at multiple locations and was refueled by JMSDF personnel before returning to Okinawa. - Sgt. Andrew Sturgress, a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft crew chief assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, walks past Mr. Norio Tomonaga, the Mayor of Sasebo, and the Assemblymen of Defense for Sasebo City during take-off preparation from Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan, Nov. 18, 2016. The aircraft flew from the island of Okinawa, conducted simulated humanitarian aid with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force at multiple locations and was refueled by JMSDF personnel before returning to Okinawa.

U.S. Marines and U.S. Airmen work together during a simulated contamination control area in preparation of Vigilant Ace 17-1 at Osan Air Base, Korea, Nov. 17, 2016. Vigilant Ace is a biannual, bilateral training event that exercises U.S. military and Republic of Korea Air Force interoperability through simulated wartime tasking. - U.S. Marines and U.S. Airmen work together during a simulated contamination control area in preparation of Vigilant Ace 17-1 at Osan Air Base, Korea, Nov. 17, 2016. Vigilant Ace is a biannual, bilateral training event that exercises U.S. military and Republic of Korea Air Force interoperability through simulated wartime tasking.

Dr. Ernest James Harris, Jr. smiles after receiving the Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony in Honolulu Nov. 12, 2016. Harris was awarded his Congressional Gold Medal for his service as a Montford Point Marine. - Dr. Ernest James Harris, Jr. smiles after receiving the Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony in Honolulu Nov. 12, 2016. Harris was awarded his Congressional Gold Medal for his service as a Montford Point Marine.

A Marine from 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion exits an aircraft at Skydive Paraclete XP in Raeford, N.C., Nov. 3, 2016. The unit participated in jump training as part of a Tandem Offset Resupply Delivery System Course, which certifies Marines to jump with personnel and equipment. - A Marine from 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion exits an aircraft at Skydive Paraclete XP in Raeford, N.C., Nov. 3, 2016. The unit participated in jump training as part of a Tandem Offset Resupply Delivery System Course, which certifies Marines to jump with personnel and equipment.

Cpl. Aaron Rayburn speaks to Marines during a water survival advanced course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 25, 2016. Rayburn, originally an air framer with Marine Transport Squadron 1, volunteered to become a search and rescue swimmer with the squadron. After the search and rescue mission for VMR-1 ended, he took his aquatic skills and applied them as a Marine Combat Instructor of Water Survival. Rayburn is a MCIWS with VMR-1. - Cpl. Aaron Rayburn speaks to Marines during a water survival advanced course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 25, 2016. Rayburn, originally an air framer with Marine Transport Squadron 1, volunteered to become a search and rescue swimmer with the squadron. After the search and rescue mission for VMR-1 ended, he took his aquatic skills and applied them as a Marine Combat Instructor of Water Survival. Rayburn is a MCIWS with VMR-1.

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225 taxis down the flight line during exercise Cope West 17 at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Indonesia, Nov. 10, 2016. This fighter-focused, bilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Indonesian Air Force is designed to enhance the readiness of combined interoperability between the two nations. - A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225 taxis down the flight line during exercise Cope West 17 at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Indonesia, Nov. 10, 2016. This fighter-focused, bilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Indonesian Air Force is designed to enhance the readiness of combined interoperability between the two nations.

U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region. - U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region.

Marines watch Sgt. Sasha McFadden as he explains a buddy rescue drill during an advanced water survival course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 8, 2016. The course was aimed toward qualifying Marines as advanced swimmers, the highest level in the Marine Corps Water Survival Training Program. - Marines watch Sgt. Sasha McFadden as he explains a buddy rescue drill during an advanced water survival course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 8, 2016. The course was aimed toward qualifying Marines as advanced swimmers, the highest level in the Marine Corps Water Survival Training Program.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Meagan Baker, a heavy equipment operator with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, interacts with Sekolah Menengah Eben Haezar Manado High School students in Manado, Indonesia, Nov. 9, 2016. As part of a community relations event, the visit offered service members the opportunity to engage in cultural exchanges and build relationships within the local community. The students were afforded the opportunity to ask the Marines and Sailors questions. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Meagan Baker, a heavy equipment operator with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, interacts with Sekolah Menengah Eben Haezar Manado High School students in Manado, Indonesia, Nov. 9, 2016. As part of a community relations event, the visit offered service members the opportunity to engage in cultural exchanges and build relationships within the local community. The students were afforded the opportunity to ask the Marines and Sailors questions.

U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region. - U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members executed exercise Active Shield at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 9, 2016. Active Shield is an annual exercise designed to test the abilities of U.S. and Japanese forces to work alongside each other to protect and defend Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and other U.S. assets in the region.

Lance Cpl. Zackary W. Rippin, infantry assaultman, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, operates a weaponized Multi-Utility Tactical Transport vehicle (MUTT) during a company assault on Range 400 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Nov. 7, 2016, as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-17. The 28-day exercise is currently the longest-lasting activity that occurs at the installation and involves a series of progressive live-fire exercises that assesses the ability and adaptability of a force of more than 3,500 Marines and sailors. Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Robert B. Neller has designated the battalion as the Marine Corps’ experimental force. - Lance Cpl. Zackary W. Rippin, infantry assaultman, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, operates a weaponized Multi-Utility Tactical Transport vehicle (MUTT) during a company assault on Range 400 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Nov. 7, 2016, as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-17. The 28-day exercise is currently the longest-lasting activity that occurs at the installation and involves a series of progressive live-fire exercises that assesses the ability and adaptability of a force of more than 3,500 Marines and sailors. Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Robert B. Neller has designated the battalion as the Marine Corps’ experimental force.

Marines and sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 close a tent to be packed away during a command post exercise at Bogue Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field, N.C., Nov. 3, 2016. Combat Logistics Battalion 6 conducted the training in preparation for their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation. - Marines and sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 close a tent to be packed away during a command post exercise at Bogue Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field, N.C., Nov. 3, 2016. Combat Logistics Battalion 6 conducted the training in preparation for their Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation.

Major Gen. James W. Lukeman, the commanding general of the Marine Corps Training and Education Command, addresses the audience of the first Force Fitness Instructor Course on Marine Corps Base Quantico,Virginia Nov. 4, 2016. The graduates will now return to their respective units and apply all that they’ve learned over the five-week course. - Major Gen. James W. Lukeman, the commanding general of the Marine Corps Training and Education Command, addresses the audience of the first Force Fitness Instructor Course on Marine Corps Base Quantico,Virginia Nov. 4, 2016. The graduates will now return to their respective units and apply all that they’ve learned over the five-week course.

Military policemen from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit's law enforcement detachment patrol through an urban environment Nov. 2, 2016. The Marines received advanced training in tactics, techniques and procedures in urban patrolling and combat skills during the MEU's Realistic Urban Training exercise from critical skills operators from Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command. - Military policemen from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit's law enforcement detachment patrol through an urban environment Nov. 2, 2016. The Marines received advanced training in tactics, techniques and procedures in urban patrolling and combat skills during the MEU's Realistic Urban Training exercise from critical skills operators from Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command.

Theater Medical Information Program-Marine Corps, the Corps’ version of the joint medical software that supports medical providers in tactical environments, was put to the test this summer during the largest military medical exercise, called the Global Medic Exercise, at Fort McCoy, Wis. TMIP-MC is a service-wide medical software suite used to support complete clinical care documentation, medical supply and equipment tracking, and patient movement in remote communications environments, giving medical units the tools they need to better locate, diagnosis and provide individualized care through each step of the medical process. - Theater Medical Information Program-Marine Corps, the Corps’ version of the joint medical software that supports medical providers in tactical environments, was put to the test this summer during the largest military medical exercise, called the Global Medic Exercise, at Fort McCoy, Wis. TMIP-MC is a service-wide medical software suite used to support complete clinical care documentation, medical supply and equipment tracking, and patient movement in remote communications environments, giving medical units the tools they need to better locate, diagnosis and provide individualized care through each step of the medical process.

Marine veterans Jaclyn Halsey, Kasey Miller and Molly Zimmer pose for a photo after completing the 41st Marine Corps Marathon on Oct. 30, 2016 in Arlington, Va. The three girls went to boot camp together in 2009 and finished their service in 2012. They have been training virtually together over the past year to prepare for the marathon, where they met for the first time since 2012. - Marine veterans Jaclyn Halsey, Kasey Miller and Molly Zimmer pose for a photo after completing the 41st Marine Corps Marathon on Oct. 30, 2016 in Arlington, Va. The three girls went to boot camp together in 2009 and finished their service in 2012. They have been training virtually together over the past year to prepare for the marathon, where they met for the first time since 2012.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, wait by a 500-gallon drum of water to conduct a Helicopter Support Team drill at Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, Oct. 25, 2016. The drum was taken into the Sierra Mesa Mountains to support Marines who are conducting field operations during Mountain Exercise 6-16. - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, wait by a 500-gallon drum of water to conduct a Helicopter Support Team drill at Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, Oct. 25, 2016. The drum was taken into the Sierra Mesa Mountains to support Marines who are conducting field operations during Mountain Exercise 6-16.

Sgt. Mateusz Kaczynski, a maintenance management chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, addresses a class of non-commissioned officers from the Benin Navy at Benin Naval Forces Headquarters, Cotonou, Benin, October 24, 2016. The U.S. Marine Corps theater security cooperation team with SPMAGTF-CR-AF spent two weeks teaching an NCO development and maintenance management course during their time training with the Benin Navy. - Sgt. Mateusz Kaczynski, a maintenance management chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, addresses a class of non-commissioned officers from the Benin Navy at Benin Naval Forces Headquarters, Cotonou, Benin, October 24, 2016. The U.S. Marine Corps theater security cooperation team with SPMAGTF-CR-AF spent two weeks teaching an NCO development and maintenance management course during their time training with the Benin Navy.

Marines guide a tractor up the railhead ramp onto a railcar during railhead operation training at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 26, 2016. 2nd Transportation Support Battalion participated in the training to get Marines certified to conduct railhead operations in the future. These Marines are with 2nd TSB. - Marines guide a tractor up the railhead ramp onto a railcar during railhead operation training at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 26, 2016. 2nd Transportation Support Battalion participated in the training to get Marines certified to conduct railhead operations in the future. These Marines are with 2nd TSB.

Marines with 1st Platoon, Bridge Company, 8th Electronic Support Battalion, check the security ropes holding a piece of an improvised ribbon raft during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 26, 2016. The MCCRE is where various units are evaluated in the performance of all tasks, as they pertain to combat readiness. - Marines with 1st Platoon, Bridge Company, 8th Electronic Support Battalion, check the security ropes holding a piece of an improvised ribbon raft during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 26, 2016. The MCCRE is where various units are evaluated in the performance of all tasks, as they pertain to combat readiness.

The Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion detach a zodiac boat from a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter before jumping into ocean waters during a helocasting exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2016. Helocasting is a means of insertion for sea to shore reconnaissance operations. - The Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion detach a zodiac boat from a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter before jumping into ocean waters during a helocasting exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2016. Helocasting is a means of insertion for sea to shore reconnaissance operations.

A Force Fitness Instructor (FFI) student executes box jumps as part of the physical training portion of the course at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, October 5, 2016. The FFI course is made up of physical training, classroom instruction and practical application to provide the students with a holistic approach to fitness. Upon completion, the Marines will serve as unit FFIs, capable of designing individual and unit-level holistic fitness programs. - A Force Fitness Instructor (FFI) student executes box jumps as part of the physical training portion of the course at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, October 5, 2016. The FFI course is made up of physical training, classroom instruction and practical application to provide the students with a holistic approach to fitness. Upon completion, the Marines will serve as unit FFIs, capable of designing individual and unit-level holistic fitness programs.

U.S. Marines fire a M777 lightweight Howitzer during a Tactical Air Control Party exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose behind the exercise was to train Joint Terminal Attack Control Marines for Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic. - U.S. Marines fire a M777 lightweight Howitzer during a Tactical Air Control Party exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2016. The purpose behind the exercise was to train Joint Terminal Attack Control Marines for Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic.

U.S. Marines wait aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard before going ashore after returning from their Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region, Oct. 28, 2016. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is prepared to respond to a wide range of military operations, from humanitarian assistance missions to limited combat operations, at a moment’s notice. As a balanced air-ground-logistics team, the 31st MEU is ready to respond throughout the Asia-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines wait aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard before going ashore after returning from their Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region, Oct. 28, 2016. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is prepared to respond to a wide range of military operations, from humanitarian assistance missions to limited combat operations, at a moment’s notice. As a balanced air-ground-logistics team, the 31st MEU is ready to respond throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Yoshihiko Fukuda, left, mayor of Iwakuni, Japan, meets with Lt. Gen. Jon Davis, deputy commandant of aviation, Headquarters Marine Corps, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Oct. 24, 2016. Fukuda visited the air station to speak with Marine Corps aviation officials, observe the capabilities of the F-35B Lightning II and expand his knowledge of the aircraft before Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 relocates to MCAS Iwakuni next year. - Yoshihiko Fukuda, left, mayor of Iwakuni, Japan, meets with Lt. Gen. Jon Davis, deputy commandant of aviation, Headquarters Marine Corps, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Oct. 24, 2016. Fukuda visited the air station to speak with Marine Corps aviation officials, observe the capabilities of the F-35B Lightning II and expand his knowledge of the aircraft before Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 relocates to MCAS Iwakuni next year.

Marines with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment’s “Black Sheep,” prepare their M777 Lightweight Towed Howitzer by digging and burying the gun’s rear spades during a direct fire training exercise as part of Lava Viper 17.1, a staple in the battalion pre-deployment training on Oct. 16, 2016, at Range 13 aboard Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii. Lava Viper Provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical, integrating combined arms exercises. - Marines with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment’s “Black Sheep,” prepare their M777 Lightweight Towed Howitzer by digging and burying the gun’s rear spades during a direct fire training exercise as part of Lava Viper 17.1, a staple in the battalion pre-deployment training on Oct. 16, 2016, at Range 13 aboard Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii. Lava Viper Provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical, integrating combined arms exercises.

U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mathew Wright, a motor transportation maintenance officer with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, conducts maintenance on an Invent3D printer during a 3-D printer integration exercise at site 50 training area, Wellton, Arizona, Oct. 18, 2016. Wright used the additive manufacturing equipment to make objects from 3-D model data throughout Weapons Tactics Instructors course 1-17. Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One cadre host WTI which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions of Marine Corps aviation in support of a Marine Air Ground Task Force. MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. - U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mathew Wright, a motor transportation maintenance officer with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, conducts maintenance on an Invent3D printer during a 3-D printer integration exercise at site 50 training area, Wellton, Arizona, Oct. 18, 2016. Wright used the additive manufacturing equipment to make objects from 3-D model data throughout Weapons Tactics Instructors course 1-17. Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One cadre host WTI which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions of Marine Corps aviation in support of a Marine Air Ground Task Force. MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

U.S. Marines and Airmen work together to properly secure the M-88A2 HERCULES and pallets in the C-17 Globemaster III at March Air Force Reserves Base, Calif., Oct. 14, 2016. Marines and Airmen checked all chains and pallets before flying to Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. - U.S. Marines and Airmen work together to properly secure the M-88A2 HERCULES and pallets in the C-17 Globemaster III at March Air Force Reserves Base, Calif., Oct. 14, 2016. Marines and Airmen checked all chains and pallets before flying to Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Donald Shrewsbury, a KC-130J Hercules representative with Marine Aviation Training System Site Iwakuni, directs a Japan Air Self-Defense Force aviation cadet with the 12th Flight Training Wing from JASDF Hōfu-kita Air Base while flying a KC-130J simulator during a Japanese officer engagement program at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 19, 2016. The engagement program aims to enhance the understanding and working relationships between U.S. and Japanese pilots. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Donald Shrewsbury, a KC-130J Hercules representative with Marine Aviation Training System Site Iwakuni, directs a Japan Air Self-Defense Force aviation cadet with the 12th Flight Training Wing from JASDF Hōfu-kita Air Base while flying a KC-130J simulator during a Japanese officer engagement program at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 19, 2016. The engagement program aims to enhance the understanding and working relationships between U.S. and Japanese pilots.

Two Marines use chainsaws to cut their most recently felled tree into more manageable pieces, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 13, 2016. Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion took part in a chainsaw licensing class where they received hands-on experience in proper cutting techniques and chainsaw safety. The class ensures that the unit always has Marines available who can help cut away various obstructions threatening mission accomplishment. - Two Marines use chainsaws to cut their most recently felled tree into more manageable pieces, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 13, 2016. Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion took part in a chainsaw licensing class where they received hands-on experience in proper cutting techniques and chainsaw safety. The class ensures that the unit always has Marines available who can help cut away various obstructions threatening mission accomplishment.

Two Marine Corps installations were recognized for the excellence of their drug awareness and educations programs this week at the Community Drug Awareness Awards ceremony in the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes Oct. 13. - Two Marine Corps installations were recognized for the excellence of their drug awareness and educations programs this week at the Community Drug Awareness Awards ceremony in the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes Oct. 13.

U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen speaks during the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 closing ceremony at Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 11, 2016. PHIBLEX is an annual U.S.-Philippine military bilateral exercise that combines amphibious capabilities and live-fire training with humanitarian civic assistance efforts to strengthen interoperability and working relationships. Jansen is the commanding general of 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade. - U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. John M. Jansen speaks during the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise 33 closing ceremony at Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 11, 2016. PHIBLEX is an annual U.S.-Philippine military bilateral exercise that combines amphibious capabilities and live-fire training with humanitarian civic assistance efforts to strengthen interoperability and working relationships. Jansen is the commanding general of 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

U.S. Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, prepare to fire 81mm mortars at a live-fire range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 29, 2016. The supporting indirect-fire element will play an important role during coalition exercises with North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies around Eastern Europe. - U.S. Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, prepare to fire 81mm mortars at a live-fire range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 29, 2016. The supporting indirect-fire element will play an important role during coalition exercises with North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies around Eastern Europe.

Pfc. Lucas Smith asks Gen. Robert B. Neller a question during his visit to Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, October 13, 2016. Neller is visiting III Marine Expeditionary Force to reinforce the importance of every Marine and Sailor and their role in continuing the mission of the ‘Fight Tonight’ MEF. Whether responding to a crisis or natural disaster, III MEF continues to train to ensure its capabilities in keeping peace and security throughout the region. “I’m not looking to pick a fight with anybody, but you need to be ready to go,” said Neller. Neller, from East Lansing, Michigan, is the commandant of Marine Corps. Smith, from Cleveland, Ohio is a warehouse clerk at 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Supply Company, III Marine Logistics Group, III MEF. - Pfc. Lucas Smith asks Gen. Robert B. Neller a question during his visit to Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, October 13, 2016. Neller is visiting III Marine Expeditionary Force to reinforce the importance of every Marine and Sailor and their role in continuing the mission of the ‘Fight Tonight’ MEF. Whether responding to a crisis or natural disaster, III MEF continues to train to ensure its capabilities in keeping peace and security throughout the region. “I’m not looking to pick a fight with anybody, but you need to be ready to go,” said Neller. Neller, from East Lansing, Michigan, is the commandant of Marine Corps. Smith, from Cleveland, Ohio is a warehouse clerk at 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Supply Company, III Marine Logistics Group, III MEF.

Crash fire and rescue Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, based out of Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma, Arizona, douse a car fire on U.S. Interstate 8, Oct. 7, 2016. The Marines noticed a compact car bellowing smoke on the westbound side of the interstate near exit 36 while in route to provide crash fire and rescue support at an auxiliary landing exercise for C-130 aircraft at Stoval Airfield, located approximately 50 miles east of Yuma. - Crash fire and rescue Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, based out of Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma, Arizona, douse a car fire on U.S. Interstate 8, Oct. 7, 2016. The Marines noticed a compact car bellowing smoke on the westbound side of the interstate near exit 36 while in route to provide crash fire and rescue support at an auxiliary landing exercise for C-130 aircraft at Stoval Airfield, located approximately 50 miles east of Yuma.

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A UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 prepares to land after Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, finished a fast-rope drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 6, 2016. The fast-rope training was part of a larger event called a Marine Air-Ground Task Force integration exercise, which enabled air and ground units to come together and cooperate in various training missions prior to their deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - A UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 prepares to land after Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, finished a fast-rope drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 6, 2016. The fast-rope training was part of a larger event called a Marine Air-Ground Task Force integration exercise, which enabled air and ground units to come together and cooperate in various training missions prior to their deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Lance Cpl. Jeffrey McCarn connects cables to the front of a CH-53 helicopter at the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training on Marine Corps Air Station New River, Oct. 3, 2016. CNATT trains Marines and Sailors in operational maintenance and repair of aeronautical equipment at the air station. McCarn is a student at CNATT. - Lance Cpl. Jeffrey McCarn connects cables to the front of a CH-53 helicopter at the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training on Marine Corps Air Station New River, Oct. 3, 2016. CNATT trains Marines and Sailors in operational maintenance and repair of aeronautical equipment at the air station. McCarn is a student at CNATT.

Marines with various Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalions conduct the first-ever Bushmaster Challenge at range SR-7 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2016. The competition consists of four light-armored vehicles, or LAV-25’s, shooting at targets with an M242 Bushmaster, which is a 25 mm chain-driven autocannon used extensively by the U.S. military, and the M240 coaxial machine gun. - Marines with various Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalions conduct the first-ever Bushmaster Challenge at range SR-7 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2016. The competition consists of four light-armored vehicles, or LAV-25’s, shooting at targets with an M242 Bushmaster, which is a 25 mm chain-driven autocannon used extensively by the U.S. military, and the M240 coaxial machine gun.

Marines from I Marine Expeditionary Force joined firefighters from the San Francisco area to learn about urban search and rescue techniques Oct. 5, 2016 at building 600 on Treasure Island. The service members learned how to cut through concrete and metal bars, reinforce structures, and move 3-5,000 pounds of concrete with wooden sticks. 161005-M-KA224-212 - Marines from I Marine Expeditionary Force joined firefighters from the San Francisco area to learn about urban search and rescue techniques Oct. 5, 2016 at building 600 on Treasure Island. The service members learned how to cut through concrete and metal bars, reinforce structures, and move 3-5,000 pounds of concrete with wooden sticks. 161005-M-KA224-212

A Marine with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin stands under the Southern Cross star constellation during Exercise Koolendong 16 at Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Aug. 16, 2016. Koolendong is a trilateral exercise between the Australian Defence Force, U.S. Marine Corps and French Armed Forces New Caledonia. - A Marine with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin stands under the Southern Cross star constellation during Exercise Koolendong 16 at Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Aug. 16, 2016. Koolendong is a trilateral exercise between the Australian Defence Force, U.S. Marine Corps and French Armed Forces New Caledonia.

Pfc. Alex Renschler, a rifleman with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and an Evansville, Indiana native, provides security during a patrol part of Exercise Island Viper aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Sept. 29, 2016. Exercise Island Viper is a 3-week-long battalion level training evolution workup that focuses on sharpening the infantry skills of the individual, team and squad. - Pfc. Alex Renschler, a rifleman with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and an Evansville, Indiana native, provides security during a patrol part of Exercise Island Viper aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Sept. 29, 2016. Exercise Island Viper is a 3-week-long battalion level training evolution workup that focuses on sharpening the infantry skills of the individual, team and squad.

Sgt. Gregory Stewart looks on as a fellow Marine learns proper underwater breathing techniques during a training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 26, 2016. The Modular Amphibious Egress Training, also known as the Helo Dunker, teaches Marines survival techniques to use if a helicopter lands in the water. Stewart is a crewman with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. - Sgt. Gregory Stewart looks on as a fellow Marine learns proper underwater breathing techniques during a training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 26, 2016. The Modular Amphibious Egress Training, also known as the Helo Dunker, teaches Marines survival techniques to use if a helicopter lands in the water. Stewart is a crewman with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion.

An AH-1Z Super Cobra with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron flies over Range 220, the Combat Center’s largest military operations on urbanized terrain facility, Sept. 23, 2016, as part of Exercise Talon Reach. Officers awaiting training at Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School and Marine Corps Intelligence School also participated in the exercise, for the first time, to create a mutually beneficial learning environment. - An AH-1Z Super Cobra with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron flies over Range 220, the Combat Center’s largest military operations on urbanized terrain facility, Sept. 23, 2016, as part of Exercise Talon Reach. Officers awaiting training at Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School and Marine Corps Intelligence School also participated in the exercise, for the first time, to create a mutually beneficial learning environment.

Marines rehearse salvaging an aircraft during a field exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Camp Davis, N.C., Sept. 22, 2016. Support squadrons across the Marine Corps conduct these exercises to remain ready for any challenge they may face in forward deployed environments. This exercise featured training that included auxiliary airfield construction, ground security and airfield damage repair. The squadron's capabilities contribute to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing's role in the Marine Air Ground Task Force's mission accomplishment. The Marines participating in the exercise are assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd MAW. - Marines rehearse salvaging an aircraft during a field exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Camp Davis, N.C., Sept. 22, 2016. Support squadrons across the Marine Corps conduct these exercises to remain ready for any challenge they may face in forward deployed environments. This exercise featured training that included auxiliary airfield construction, ground security and airfield damage repair. The squadron's capabilities contribute to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing's role in the Marine Air Ground Task Force's mission accomplishment. The Marines participating in the exercise are assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd MAW.

A Marine provides security during a patrol as part of a training exercise at the Kahuku Training Facility, Hawaii, Sept. 20, 2016. The exercise is part of a 7-week-long training event known as the Advance Infantry Course. The Advance Infantry Course, which is conducted by the Advance Infantry Battalion, Detachment Hawaii, is an advanced 0311 rifleman Military Occupational Specialty course for squad leaders who are currently serving in the operating field. - A Marine provides security during a patrol as part of a training exercise at the Kahuku Training Facility, Hawaii, Sept. 20, 2016. The exercise is part of a 7-week-long training event known as the Advance Infantry Course. The Advance Infantry Course, which is conducted by the Advance Infantry Battalion, Detachment Hawaii, is an advanced 0311 rifleman Military Occupational Specialty course for squad leaders who are currently serving in the operating field.

A Marine with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion rides a Light Armored Vehicle Anti-Tank onto a range during a combined weapons range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 20-21, 2016. The LAV-AT uses Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided missiles to fight tanks during battle. The training increased the Marines’ proficiency on various weapons platforms and improved their tactical mindset. Instead of focusing on one skill, this training combined multiple weapon systems and vehicles to show the Marines how to use each asset effectively and accomplish the mission. - A Marine with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion rides a Light Armored Vehicle Anti-Tank onto a range during a combined weapons range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 20-21, 2016. The LAV-AT uses Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided missiles to fight tanks during battle. The training increased the Marines’ proficiency on various weapons platforms and improved their tactical mindset. Instead of focusing on one skill, this training combined multiple weapon systems and vehicles to show the Marines how to use each asset effectively and accomplish the mission.

Mongolian Armed Forces soldiers push through a simulated riot during Non-Lethal Executive Seminar 2016 at the Five Hills Training Area, Mongolia, Sept. 19, 2016. Mongolian soldiers and Mongolian National Police learned various riot control formations where they can implement non-lethal weapons tactics learned through the exercise. NOLES is a regularly scheduled field training exercise and leadership seminar hosted annually by various nations throughout Asia Pacific. - Mongolian Armed Forces soldiers push through a simulated riot during Non-Lethal Executive Seminar 2016 at the Five Hills Training Area, Mongolia, Sept. 19, 2016. Mongolian soldiers and Mongolian National Police learned various riot control formations where they can implement non-lethal weapons tactics learned through the exercise. NOLES is a regularly scheduled field training exercise and leadership seminar hosted annually by various nations throughout Asia Pacific.

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, conduct the first ever hot load on the F-35B Lightning II in support of Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 1-17 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Sept. 22, 2016. The exercise is part of WTI 1-17, a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One cadre. MAWTS-1 provides standardized tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. - U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, conduct the first ever hot load on the F-35B Lightning II in support of Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 1-17 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Sept. 22, 2016. The exercise is part of WTI 1-17, a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One cadre. MAWTS-1 provides standardized tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Buley, Tropospheric Scatter Microwave Radio Terminal operator with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18 adjusts the radio terminal’s trajectory allowing it to receive and transmit data during Valiant Shield 16 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Sept. 18, 2016. The radio terminal provided uninterruptable communications between Guam and Tinian. VS16 is a biennial, U.S.-only, field training exercise that focuses on joint training with U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force to increase interoperability and working relationships. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Buley, Tropospheric Scatter Microwave Radio Terminal operator with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18 adjusts the radio terminal’s trajectory allowing it to receive and transmit data during Valiant Shield 16 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Sept. 18, 2016. The radio terminal provided uninterruptable communications between Guam and Tinian. VS16 is a biennial, U.S.-only, field training exercise that focuses on joint training with U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force to increase interoperability and working relationships.