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Reconnaissance, surveillance and decontamination Marines don mission-oriented protective postures four gear during a simulated chemical attack at the Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 motor transportation at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 18, 2015. As part of an operational decontamination exercise, this is just a glimpse of MWSS-171s annual unit level chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense training that enables combat proactivity and readiness. - Reconnaissance, surveillance and decontamination Marines don mission-oriented protective postures four gear during a simulated chemical attack at the Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 motor transportation at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 18, 2015. As part of an operational decontamination exercise, this is just a glimpse of MWSS-171s annual unit level chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense training that enables combat proactivity and readiness.

Spanish Brig. Gen. Juan Cifuentes Álvarez gives a ‘thumbs-up’ to a young paratrooper during bilateral training with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, Nov. 13, 2015 in Zaragoza, Spain. More than 25 Spanish paratroopers with Spanish Parachute Brigade jumped out of a KC-130J Hercules, reinforcing mutual defense relationships between U.S. and Spain. - Spanish Brig. Gen. Juan Cifuentes Álvarez gives a ‘thumbs-up’ to a young paratrooper during bilateral training with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, Nov. 13, 2015 in Zaragoza, Spain. More than 25 Spanish paratroopers with Spanish Parachute Brigade jumped out of a KC-130J Hercules, reinforcing mutual defense relationships between U.S. and Spain.

Sergeant James Norman, an instructor 10th Marine Regiment’s Artillery Assistant Gunners and Gunners Course, teaches the functions of a gunner’s quadrant Nov. 6, 2015, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. The month-long course trains Marines to transition from basic field artillery cannoneers to assistant gunners and gunners within their gun sections. - Sergeant James Norman, an instructor 10th Marine Regiment’s Artillery Assistant Gunners and Gunners Course, teaches the functions of a gunner’s quadrant Nov. 6, 2015, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. The month-long course trains Marines to transition from basic field artillery cannoneers to assistant gunners and gunners within their gun sections.

Marines with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment engage the enemy during a counterattack as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Nov. 11, 2015. The counterattack was part of the Battalion Assault Course, a three-day culminating event at the end of ITX. - Marines with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment engage the enemy during a counterattack as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Nov. 11, 2015. The counterattack was part of the Battalion Assault Course, a three-day culminating event at the end of ITX.

Explosive ordinance disposal U.S. Marines and Cambodian Mine Action Center technicians pose for a picture in front of exploding ordinance at Kampong Chhnang, in the Kingdom of Cambodia, Nov. 5, 2015. U.S Marine EOD trained CMAC in support of the Humanitarian Mine Action program. The program focuses on assisting selected countries in relieving human suffering and in developing an indigenous mine action capability to help with explosive remnants of war. - Explosive ordinance disposal U.S. Marines and Cambodian Mine Action Center technicians pose for a picture in front of exploding ordinance at Kampong Chhnang, in the Kingdom of Cambodia, Nov. 5, 2015. U.S Marine EOD trained CMAC in support of the Humanitarian Mine Action program. The program focuses on assisting selected countries in relieving human suffering and in developing an indigenous mine action capability to help with explosive remnants of war.

Cpl. Mark McNulty provides security while his fire team searches a Marine from the opposing side in Central Training Area’s Combat Town in Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 6, 2015. A fire team of Marines entered and cleared a building with special effect small-arms marking system rounds with an opposing force hiding a hostage. The scenario was conducted on the final day of a three day training event aimed at improving skills clearing buildings. McNulty is from Scranton, Pennsylvania, and is a military policeman with Military Police Detachment, Combat Logistic Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Cpl. Mark McNulty provides security while his fire team searches a Marine from the opposing side in Central Training Area’s Combat Town in Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 6, 2015. A fire team of Marines entered and cleared a building with special effect small-arms marking system rounds with an opposing force hiding a hostage. The scenario was conducted on the final day of a three day training event aimed at improving skills clearing buildings. McNulty is from Scranton, Pennsylvania, and is a military policeman with Military Police Detachment, Combat Logistic Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

A Marine with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment prepares to fire during the counterattack of the Battalion Assault Course, the culminating event for Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 6, 2015. The BAC integrates all elements of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force in order to defeat a large simulated enemy force. - A Marine with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment prepares to fire during the counterattack of the Battalion Assault Course, the culminating event for Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 6, 2015. The BAC integrates all elements of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force in order to defeat a large simulated enemy force.

Cpl. Renatto Aguilar, administrative clerk for KOA MOANA 15-3, takes a break after hiking in the jungle during a training exercise in Namosi Province, Fiji, Oct. 13. Marines also helped build up the local communities during the evolution. - Cpl. Renatto Aguilar, administrative clerk for KOA MOANA 15-3, takes a break after hiking in the jungle during a training exercise in Namosi Province, Fiji, Oct. 13. Marines also helped build up the local communities during the evolution.

U.S. Marines with the Combined Arms Company prepare an Anti-Personnel Obstacle Breaching System, creating a lane for Bulgarian dismounts to continue towards the objective during the final exercise of Platinum Lion 16-1 at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, Nov. 7, 2015. Platinum Lion, the first multinational live-fire engagement in which the Combined Arms Company participated, is a NATO-led exercise designed to increase readiness and build partner capacity through realistic combat scenarios and objective-focused training. - U.S. Marines with the Combined Arms Company prepare an Anti-Personnel Obstacle Breaching System, creating a lane for Bulgarian dismounts to continue towards the objective during the final exercise of Platinum Lion 16-1 at Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, Nov. 7, 2015. Platinum Lion, the first multinational live-fire engagement in which the Combined Arms Company participated, is a NATO-led exercise designed to increase readiness and build partner capacity through realistic combat scenarios and objective-focused training.

U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, train members of the Uganda People’s Defense Force on Mine-Resistant, Ambushed-Protected Vehicles, or MRAPs, at Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 3, 2015. Marines and sailors with SPMAGTF-CR-AF are training with the UPDF to increase engineering and logistical capabilities while strengthening the bonds between the partner countries. - U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, train members of the Uganda People’s Defense Force on Mine-Resistant, Ambushed-Protected Vehicles, or MRAPs, at Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 3, 2015. Marines and sailors with SPMAGTF-CR-AF are training with the UPDF to increase engineering and logistical capabilities while strengthening the bonds between the partner countries.

A UH-1Y helicopter lands in preparation for the boarding of Lt. Gen. Michael G. Dana Nov. 5 on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan. Dana boarded the helicopter for an air tour of various strategic access points as well as Marine Corps bases on Okinawa from the air. After the air tour, Dana visited bases on Okinawa to assess and discuss manpower and financial needs. Dana is the deputy commandant for installations and logistics. - A UH-1Y helicopter lands in preparation for the boarding of Lt. Gen. Michael G. Dana Nov. 5 on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan. Dana boarded the helicopter for an air tour of various strategic access points as well as Marine Corps bases on Okinawa from the air. After the air tour, Dana visited bases on Okinawa to assess and discuss manpower and financial needs. Dana is the deputy commandant for installations and logistics.

Marines with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company observe impacts from an M777 A2 Howitzer during an ANGLICO Basic Course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27, 2015. The ANGLICO Basic Course, also known as ABC, is a six-week course divided into three sections implementing motor transportation, communications and call-for-fire techniques. - Marines with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company observe impacts from an M777 A2 Howitzer during an ANGLICO Basic Course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27, 2015. The ANGLICO Basic Course, also known as ABC, is a six-week course divided into three sections implementing motor transportation, communications and call-for-fire techniques.

A U.S. Marine Corps rifleman with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, fires rounds at an enemy as his fire team prepares to push towards their next objective in a mechanized assault course during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 30, 2015. Marines participate in a month-long field exercise demonstrating core mission essential tasks by conducting offensive, defensive and stability operations using combined arms, air integration, and battalion-level infantry tactics in order to strengthen operational readiness as they prepare for world-wide deployment. - A U.S. Marine Corps rifleman with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, fires rounds at an enemy as his fire team prepares to push towards their next objective in a mechanized assault course during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 30, 2015. Marines participate in a month-long field exercise demonstrating core mission essential tasks by conducting offensive, defensive and stability operations using combined arms, air integration, and battalion-level infantry tactics in order to strengthen operational readiness as they prepare for world-wide deployment.

U.S. Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force--Crisis Response--Central Command, rush with their weapons system as they conduct live-fire training on the new M252A2 81mm mortar system at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Oct. 24, 2015. The training allowed the Marines, who are charged with providing security of Al Asad, an opportunity to hone their tactics, techniques and procedures in employment of the system, further reinforcing their ability to provide protection to their coalition and Iraqi Security Force partners as part of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve’s building partner capacity mission. - U.S. Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force--Crisis Response--Central Command, rush with their weapons system as they conduct live-fire training on the new M252A2 81mm mortar system at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Oct. 24, 2015. The training allowed the Marines, who are charged with providing security of Al Asad, an opportunity to hone their tactics, techniques and procedures in employment of the system, further reinforcing their ability to provide protection to their coalition and Iraqi Security Force partners as part of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve’s building partner capacity mission.

Marines and sailors with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit transport a simulated causality during a mass-casualty drill on the flight deck of the USS Essex (LHD 2).The Marines and Sailors honed their skills to become quicker and more efficient should a situation arise where medical attention is needed. The 15th MEU is currently deployed in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to promote regional stability and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. - Marines and sailors with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit transport a simulated causality during a mass-casualty drill on the flight deck of the USS Essex (LHD 2).The Marines and Sailors honed their skills to become quicker and more efficient should a situation arise where medical attention is needed. The 15th MEU is currently deployed in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to promote regional stability and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

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Marines with Amphibious Assault Platoon, Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, practice amphibious embarking and debarking drills during routine training in the Mediterranean Sea, Oct. 28. The sustainment drills allowed the unit to practice launch and recovery procedures from aboard the USS Oak Hill. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is deployed to the 6th fleet area of responsibility in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. - Marines with Amphibious Assault Platoon, Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, practice amphibious embarking and debarking drills during routine training in the Mediterranean Sea, Oct. 28. The sustainment drills allowed the unit to practice launch and recovery procedures from aboard the USS Oak Hill. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is deployed to the 6th fleet area of responsibility in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

A Marine with Transportation Services Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, carries a simulated casualty to an MV-22 Osprey for a medical evacuation during a live-fire vehicle recovery exercise as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 4, 2015. The training tested the Marines’ ability to effectively recover a downed vehicle while engaging the enemy in a live-fire scenario. - A Marine with Transportation Services Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, carries a simulated casualty to an MV-22 Osprey for a medical evacuation during a live-fire vehicle recovery exercise as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 4, 2015. The training tested the Marines’ ability to effectively recover a downed vehicle while engaging the enemy in a live-fire scenario.

U.S. Marines with Engineer Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 1, and Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, currently deployed in support of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command 16.1, prepare the hook block of a MAC-50 Crane to move Alaskan walls at Al Taqaddum Air Base, Iraq, Oct. 25, 2015. The 12-ton T-walls are placed around key structures to provide protection from shrapnel. - U.S. Marines with Engineer Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 1, and Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, currently deployed in support of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command 16.1, prepare the hook block of a MAC-50 Crane to move Alaskan walls at Al Taqaddum Air Base, Iraq, Oct. 25, 2015. The 12-ton T-walls are placed around key structures to provide protection from shrapnel.

After being gassed, a Marine with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, guides Marines through concertina wire during training exercise Lava Viper, a staple of their pre-deployment training, at Range 10 at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Nov. 4, 2015. The purpose of the training was to provide Marines within the company with an opportunity to utilize various tactics and weapons while organizing within the platoons to accomplish a common mission. Lava Viper provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical training before departing for Integrated Training Exercise aboard Marine Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., where the battalion will train and be evaluated as a whole. - After being gassed, a Marine with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, guides Marines through concertina wire during training exercise Lava Viper, a staple of their pre-deployment training, at Range 10 at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Nov. 4, 2015. The purpose of the training was to provide Marines within the company with an opportunity to utilize various tactics and weapons while organizing within the platoons to accomplish a common mission. Lava Viper provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical training before departing for Integrated Training Exercise aboard Marine Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., where the battalion will train and be evaluated as a whole.

Marines with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, board an MV-22 Osprey after recovering a downed pilot during a tactical recovery of aircraft personnel mission as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 5, 2015. Marines with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, are participating in a wide variety of exercises throughout ITX to prepare for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa. - Marines with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, board an MV-22 Osprey after recovering a downed pilot during a tactical recovery of aircraft personnel mission as part of Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 5, 2015. Marines with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, are participating in a wide variety of exercises throughout ITX to prepare for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa.

U.S. Marines with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted a long range raid on PDL Combat Town, Nov. 3, 2015, as part of Composite Training Unit Exercise. COMPTUEX provides the MEU ARG the opportunity to integrate naval training while also allowing focused, mission-specific training and evaluation for the Marines and their Navy counter parts. - U.S. Marines with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted a long range raid on PDL Combat Town, Nov. 3, 2015, as part of Composite Training Unit Exercise. COMPTUEX provides the MEU ARG the opportunity to integrate naval training while also allowing focused, mission-specific training and evaluation for the Marines and their Navy counter parts.

Marines and civilians use a boom to contain a simulated oil spill at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C., Nov. 4, 2015. The boom is towed behind the boats and acts as a large net, trapping the oil to be collected by a skimmer boat. The Marines and civilians are with the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort fuels sections and the Natural Resources Environmental Affairs Office. - Marines and civilians use a boom to contain a simulated oil spill at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C., Nov. 4, 2015. The boom is towed behind the boats and acts as a large net, trapping the oil to be collected by a skimmer boat. The Marines and civilians are with the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort fuels sections and the Natural Resources Environmental Affairs Office.

A Marine deploys a sea dye marker during a search and rescue exercise off the coast of Charleston, Nov. 3. Sea dye markers contain a fluorescent green dye that spreads over the surface of the water to signal rescue pilots. The Marine is a pilot is with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, Marine Aircraft Group 31. - A Marine deploys a sea dye marker during a search and rescue exercise off the coast of Charleston, Nov. 3. Sea dye markers contain a fluorescent green dye that spreads over the surface of the water to signal rescue pilots. The Marine is a pilot is with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, Marine Aircraft Group 31.

Marine students in the 8th Engineer Support Battalion Bridge Master’s Course lift a bridge bay during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 4, 2015. The course teaches Marines to lead the bridge building process, and is hosting Marines from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, based in Camp Hansen, Okinawa. During the exercise, Marines constructed and deconstructed a bridge 11 bays in length. - Marine students in the 8th Engineer Support Battalion Bridge Master’s Course lift a bridge bay during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 4, 2015. The course teaches Marines to lead the bridge building process, and is hosting Marines from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, based in Camp Hansen, Okinawa. During the exercise, Marines constructed and deconstructed a bridge 11 bays in length.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Kyle Bailey, left, and 1st Lt. Conn Wiseman, center, discuss possible routes with a British soldier while trying to complete a three-mile conditioning hike during Exercise Phoenix Odyssey II near Edinburgh, U.K., Oct. 30, 2015. Bailey is an intelligence specialist, and Wiseman is an air intelligence officer, both with 2nd Intelligence Battalion. The exercise is designed to enhance joint intelligence operations, while also building military skills in preparation for potential real-world crises. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Kyle Bailey, left, and 1st Lt. Conn Wiseman, center, discuss possible routes with a British soldier while trying to complete a three-mile conditioning hike during Exercise Phoenix Odyssey II near Edinburgh, U.K., Oct. 30, 2015. Bailey is an intelligence specialist, and Wiseman is an air intelligence officer, both with 2nd Intelligence Battalion. The exercise is designed to enhance joint intelligence operations, while also building military skills in preparation for potential real-world crises.

A Marine shoots an M9 Beretta down range on Stage 6 of the 2015 Combat Shooting Match on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Oct. 26-30. The Quantico Shooting Team invited Marines from all over the east coast to attend this combat shooting match which required the Marines to plan, think and react quickly with several different weapons on each of the six combat stages. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kathy Nunez) - A Marine shoots an M9 Beretta down range on Stage 6 of the 2015 Combat Shooting Match on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Oct. 26-30. The Quantico Shooting Team invited Marines from all over the east coast to attend this combat shooting match which required the Marines to plan, think and react quickly with several different weapons on each of the six combat stages. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kathy Nunez)

Lance Cpl. Breeann Rogers is sprayed with oleoresin capsicum aboard the USS Essex on the Indian Ocean, Oct. 31, 2015 during a non-lethal weapons course. Rogers is a motor transportation operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and is a member of the combat cargo platoon. U.S. Marines and Sailors were sprayed across the face with OC spray and went through a series of exercises as their final event of the course. - Lance Cpl. Breeann Rogers is sprayed with oleoresin capsicum aboard the USS Essex on the Indian Ocean, Oct. 31, 2015 during a non-lethal weapons course. Rogers is a motor transportation operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and is a member of the combat cargo platoon. U.S. Marines and Sailors were sprayed across the face with OC spray and went through a series of exercises as their final event of the course.

A student driver performs a driving test in a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All-Terrain Vehicle during a licensing course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2015. The course trains Marines how to drive various tactical vehicles used within the Marine Corps. - A student driver performs a driving test in a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All-Terrain Vehicle during a licensing course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2015. The course trains Marines how to drive various tactical vehicles used within the Marine Corps.

A Light Armored Vehicle attached to 4th LAV Battalion, 4th Marine Division, sits on the horizon during exercise Trident Juncture 2015 in Almería, Spain, Oct. 30, 2015. The exercise provided an opportunity for Reserve Marines to gain experience within their military occupational specialty and demonstrates their readiness in conjunction with other foreign nationals. - A Light Armored Vehicle attached to 4th LAV Battalion, 4th Marine Division, sits on the horizon during exercise Trident Juncture 2015 in Almería, Spain, Oct. 30, 2015. The exercise provided an opportunity for Reserve Marines to gain experience within their military occupational specialty and demonstrates their readiness in conjunction with other foreign nationals.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, assault an objective during a platoon-reinforced attack at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2015. “What I truly hope my Marines take from this training is that they build that implicit communication and that mutual trust between each other. I want them to know the Marines on the support by fire position are covering them so the Marines in the assault know they are able to lean into those fires in order to stay covered while destroying the enemy on the objective,” said 1st Lt. Mark Dela Pena, a platoon commander with the unit. The battalion is conducting this training in order to prepare for their upcoming deployment on the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit next year. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, assault an objective during a platoon-reinforced attack at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2015. “What I truly hope my Marines take from this training is that they build that implicit communication and that mutual trust between each other. I want them to know the Marines on the support by fire position are covering them so the Marines in the assault know they are able to lean into those fires in order to stay covered while destroying the enemy on the objective,” said 1st Lt. Mark Dela Pena, a platoon commander with the unit. The battalion is conducting this training in order to prepare for their upcoming deployment on the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit next year.

From across the U.S. Military and International Armies, two-man teams compete during the 2015 International Sniper Competition, Oct. 21, 2015, at Fort Benning, Ga. The competition was hosted by the United States Army and consisted of 37 two-man sniper teams from around the world. - From across the U.S. Military and International Armies, two-man teams compete during the 2015 International Sniper Competition, Oct. 21, 2015, at Fort Benning, Ga. The competition was hosted by the United States Army and consisted of 37 two-man sniper teams from around the world.

Lance Cpl. Garrett Wonnacott, a Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided missile gunner with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and St. Marys, Ga., native, prepares to fire the BGM-71 TOW missile during exercise Lava Viper, one of the staples of their pre-deployment training, at Range 20 at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Oct. 24, 2015. Lava Viper provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical training before departing for Integrated Training Exercise aboard Marine Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., where the battalion will train and be evaluated as a whole. "Trinity" strives to fight and win on both the tactical and ethical battlefield, always cultivating the values of honor, courage, and commitment, ultimately producing morally guided citizens whose obligations and responsibilities supersede rights and privileges. - Lance Cpl. Garrett Wonnacott, a Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided missile gunner with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and St. Marys, Ga., native, prepares to fire the BGM-71 TOW missile during exercise Lava Viper, one of the staples of their pre-deployment training, at Range 20 at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Oct. 24, 2015. Lava Viper provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical training before departing for Integrated Training Exercise aboard Marine Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., where the battalion will train and be evaluated as a whole. "Trinity" strives to fight and win on both the tactical and ethical battlefield, always cultivating the values of honor, courage, and commitment, ultimately producing morally guided citizens whose obligations and responsibilities supersede rights and privileges.

Two Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment maintain security during the Basic Urban Skills Training course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 30, 2015. The BUST Course trains Marines to perform multiple combat operations on urban environments. - Two Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment maintain security during the Basic Urban Skills Training course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 30, 2015. The BUST Course trains Marines to perform multiple combat operations on urban environments.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Nathaniel Kragel, maintenance officer, Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron 38, explains setting up the Common Aviation Command and Control System on a ‘Shellback’ mounted on a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle, used as a part of the Tactical Air Command Center for Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 1-16, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Oct. 20, 2015. The single ‘Shellback’ houses the electronic equipment and software in a deployed environment. - Chief Warrant Officer 3 Nathaniel Kragel, maintenance officer, Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron 38, explains setting up the Common Aviation Command and Control System on a ‘Shellback’ mounted on a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle, used as a part of the Tactical Air Command Center for Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 1-16, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Oct. 20, 2015. The single ‘Shellback’ houses the electronic equipment and software in a deployed environment.

An instructor with the Marine Corps Engineer Society teaches Marines with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, how to inspect for hazardous chemicals during searchers and site exploitation training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27-29, 2015. The three-day training period provided 1/5 personnel with instruction on how to identify threats within a designated area and conduct systematic searches using appropriate detection equipment. - An instructor with the Marine Corps Engineer Society teaches Marines with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, how to inspect for hazardous chemicals during searchers and site exploitation training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27-29, 2015. The three-day training period provided 1/5 personnel with instruction on how to identify threats within a designated area and conduct systematic searches using appropriate detection equipment.

A Marine with 1st Marine Raider Battalion fires a .50 caliber Special Application Scoped Rifle during a Company Collective Exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 7, 2015. Marine Special Operations Company C, 1st Marine Raider Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command spent the first phase of their three-phase Company Collective Exercise practicing Foreign Internal Defense aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 5-8. - A Marine with 1st Marine Raider Battalion fires a .50 caliber Special Application Scoped Rifle during a Company Collective Exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 7, 2015. Marine Special Operations Company C, 1st Marine Raider Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command spent the first phase of their three-phase Company Collective Exercise practicing Foreign Internal Defense aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 5-8.

An infantryman with Assault Amphibian Vehicle Platoon, Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2/1, the ground combat element for the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires from behind cover as an Assault Amphibian Vehicle moves into position to provide supporting fire during amphibious assault training as part of Composite Training Unit Exercise, Oct. 23, 2015. COMPTUEX provides the MEU ARG the opportunity to integrate naval training while also allowing focused, mission-specific training and evaluation for the Navy-Marine Corps team. - An infantryman with Assault Amphibian Vehicle Platoon, Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2/1, the ground combat element for the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires from behind cover as an Assault Amphibian Vehicle moves into position to provide supporting fire during amphibious assault training as part of Composite Training Unit Exercise, Oct. 23, 2015. COMPTUEX provides the MEU ARG the opportunity to integrate naval training while also allowing focused, mission-specific training and evaluation for the Navy-Marine Corps team.

Lance Cpl. Devan D. Johnson a military police officer with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit role-plays, as a patrol/explosive detector dog with the MEU executes an attack command on Oct. 26, 2015 at Doganbey, Turkey as part of a military working dogs demonstration for Turkish Marines and sailors during Exercise Egemen. The exercise is a Turkish-led and hosted amphibious exercise designed to increase tactical proficiencies and interoperability among participants. - Lance Cpl. Devan D. Johnson a military police officer with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit role-plays, as a patrol/explosive detector dog with the MEU executes an attack command on Oct. 26, 2015 at Doganbey, Turkey as part of a military working dogs demonstration for Turkish Marines and sailors during Exercise Egemen. The exercise is a Turkish-led and hosted amphibious exercise designed to increase tactical proficiencies and interoperability among participants.

A Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, the logistics combat element for the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, checks passports and identification at the orientation station of the evacuee collection center during non-combatant evacuation operations at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California as part of as part of Composite Training Unit Exercise, Oct. 23, 2015. COMPTUEX provides the MEU ARG the opportunity to integrate naval training while also allowing focused, mission-specific training and evaluation for the Navy-Marine Corps team. - A Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, the logistics combat element for the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, checks passports and identification at the orientation station of the evacuee collection center during non-combatant evacuation operations at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California as part of as part of Composite Training Unit Exercise, Oct. 23, 2015. COMPTUEX provides the MEU ARG the opportunity to integrate naval training while also allowing focused, mission-specific training and evaluation for the Navy-Marine Corps team.

A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, checks a role-player's information and enters it into an electronic database as part of a non-combatant evacuation operation training exercise during Exercise Egemen 2015 Oct. 26. Egemen is a Turkish-led and hosted amphibious exercise designed to increase tactical proficiencies and interoperability among participants. Turkish Marines and sailors acted as non-combatants to enhance the training and experience it first-hand. - A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, checks a role-player's information and enters it into an electronic database as part of a non-combatant evacuation operation training exercise during Exercise Egemen 2015 Oct. 26. Egemen is a Turkish-led and hosted amphibious exercise designed to increase tactical proficiencies and interoperability among participants. Turkish Marines and sailors acted as non-combatants to enhance the training and experience it first-hand.

Lance Corporal John Roan, left, a squad leader with E Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment positively identified an improvised explosive device just before speaking with one of the instructors during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 29, 2015. Marines at ITX demonstrate core infantry mission essential tasks while conducting offensive and defensive operations. - Lance Corporal John Roan, left, a squad leader with E Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment positively identified an improvised explosive device just before speaking with one of the instructors during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 29, 2015. Marines at ITX demonstrate core infantry mission essential tasks while conducting offensive and defensive operations.

Royal Danish Army Sgt. 1st Class Martin, left, a primary shooting instructor, marks shot groups during a live-fire range at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Oct. 26, 2015. The training was a part of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve building partner capacity mission to teach the Iraqi soldiers proper marksmanship techniques to improve their effectiveness on the battlefield against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. - Royal Danish Army Sgt. 1st Class Martin, left, a primary shooting instructor, marks shot groups during a live-fire range at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Oct. 26, 2015. The training was a part of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve building partner capacity mission to teach the Iraqi soldiers proper marksmanship techniques to improve their effectiveness on the battlefield against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.

Royal Marines with 45 Commando and U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa discuss tactics and techniques for patrols during Trident Juncture 15, Oct. 21, 2015. Trident Juncture is one of many exercises ensuring that NATO is ready to deal with any emerging crisis from any direction, and that the Alliance is able to work effectively with partner nations. - Royal Marines with 45 Commando and U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa discuss tactics and techniques for patrols during Trident Juncture 15, Oct. 21, 2015. Trident Juncture is one of many exercises ensuring that NATO is ready to deal with any emerging crisis from any direction, and that the Alliance is able to work effectively with partner nations.

A landing craft air cushion-class hovercraft approaches Kin Blue, Okinawa, Japan, for a beach landing exercise, Oct. 27, 2015, during Blue Chromite 2016. Blue Chromite is a large-scale, cost effective on-island training event lead by 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - A landing craft air cushion-class hovercraft approaches Kin Blue, Okinawa, Japan, for a beach landing exercise, Oct. 27, 2015, during Blue Chromite 2016. Blue Chromite is a large-scale, cost effective on-island training event lead by 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Capt. Jeremy Phillips, the intelligence security cooperation Officer with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, discuss intelligence gathering with Ghanaia Navy intelligence at Ghana’s Navy Trade Training School in Sekondi, Ghana, Oct. 19. U.S. forces completed a Tactical Intelligence Support To Maritime Operations Centers “train-the-trainer” course for the Ghanaian Navy from Oct. 12-23. This two-week introduction to intelligence was the first of four planned for the fiscal year. U.S. Navy and Marine Corps service members taught Sixteen Ghanaian sailors, along with two senior members of Ghana’s Marine Police Unit of the Ghana Police Service. The course was designed as both an introduction to the intelligence process, particularly in support of their MOCs, and to prepare the students to become intelligence instructors for the Ghanaian Navy’s internal intelligence courses. - U.S. Marine Capt. Jeremy Phillips, the intelligence security cooperation Officer with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, discuss intelligence gathering with Ghanaia Navy intelligence at Ghana’s Navy Trade Training School in Sekondi, Ghana, Oct. 19. U.S. forces completed a Tactical Intelligence Support To Maritime Operations Centers “train-the-trainer” course for the Ghanaian Navy from Oct. 12-23. This two-week introduction to intelligence was the first of four planned for the fiscal year. U.S. Navy and Marine Corps service members taught Sixteen Ghanaian sailors, along with two senior members of Ghana’s Marine Police Unit of the Ghana Police Service. The course was designed as both an introduction to the intelligence process, particularly in support of their MOCs, and to prepare the students to become intelligence instructors for the Ghanaian Navy’s internal intelligence courses.

Master Sgt. Donald Johnson prepares M67 fragmentation grenades during a grenade and MK-19 Grenade Launcher range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2015. More than 70 Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion took turns handling the MK19 and handheld grenades during the familiarization range. The range offered Marines the opportunity to build confidence and proficiency skills on some of the crew-served weapons they operate while providing security in a deployed environment. Johnson is the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Detachment staff noncommissioned officer in charge with the battalion. - Master Sgt. Donald Johnson prepares M67 fragmentation grenades during a grenade and MK-19 Grenade Launcher range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2015. More than 70 Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion took turns handling the MK19 and handheld grenades during the familiarization range. The range offered Marines the opportunity to build confidence and proficiency skills on some of the crew-served weapons they operate while providing security in a deployed environment. Johnson is the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Detachment staff noncommissioned officer in charge with the battalion.

An instructor lays out a plan of attack during first responder's training with Marines from General Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 25, 2015. Marines demonstrate core essential tasks and conduct offensive and defensive stability operations throughout ITX. - An instructor lays out a plan of attack during first responder's training with Marines from General Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 25, 2015. Marines demonstrate core essential tasks and conduct offensive and defensive stability operations throughout ITX.

A Marine with 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, conducts live fire drills during exercise Trident Juncture 2015 in Almeria, Spain, Oct. 27, 2015. Trident Juncture is the largest exercise NATO has held in the past 10 years with more than 30 nations and more than 5,000 U.S. service members participating. NATO is showing the world how they operate as a global response force with multiple nations in the mix. - A Marine with 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, conducts live fire drills during exercise Trident Juncture 2015 in Almeria, Spain, Oct. 27, 2015. Trident Juncture is the largest exercise NATO has held in the past 10 years with more than 30 nations and more than 5,000 U.S. service members participating. NATO is showing the world how they operate as a global response force with multiple nations in the mix.

Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment hike out to a live fire and maneuver exercise course during the Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Oct. 23-24. During ITX, Marines demonstrate core infantry mission essential tasks while conducting offensive and defensive stability operations. - Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment hike out to a live fire and maneuver exercise course during the Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Oct. 23-24. During ITX, Marines demonstrate core infantry mission essential tasks while conducting offensive and defensive stability operations.