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Lithuanian forces are teamed with U.S. Marines from the Black Sea Rotational Force during Exercise Saber Strike at the Pabrade Training Area, Lithuania, June 9, 2015. The exercise brings NATO allies and other partner nations together in eastern Europe for a multilateral training event designed to promote regional stability and security, strengthen partnerships, and foster trust. - Lithuanian forces are teamed with U.S. Marines from the Black Sea Rotational Force during Exercise Saber Strike at the Pabrade Training Area, Lithuania, June 9, 2015. The exercise brings NATO allies and other partner nations together in eastern Europe for a multilateral training event designed to promote regional stability and security, strengthen partnerships, and foster trust.

Sgt. Cody Leifheit, a Marine recruiter in Lewiston, Idaho, responded to a 19-year-old man hanging himself from a tree outside his house June 7, 2015. Without hesitation, the 28-year-old infantry Marine from Ferndale, Washington climbed up the tree 25 feet and took hold of the man, who wasn’t breathing and lacked a pulse. Leifheit worked to keep him alive until first responders arrived, continuously performing chest compressions as the man faded in and out. Despite spending 48 hours in a coma, the man survived. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Reece Lodder) - Sgt. Cody Leifheit, a Marine recruiter in Lewiston, Idaho, responded to a 19-year-old man hanging himself from a tree outside his house June 7, 2015. Without hesitation, the 28-year-old infantry Marine from Ferndale, Washington climbed up the tree 25 feet and took hold of the man, who wasn’t breathing and lacked a pulse. Leifheit worked to keep him alive until first responders arrived, continuously performing chest compressions as the man faded in and out. Despite spending 48 hours in a coma, the man survived. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Reece Lodder)

A Guard Marine with Marine Barracks Washington, shoots an M9 service pistol during a training exercise at Range 5, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 10, 2015. 1st platoon, Guard Company, traveled there to increase overall marksmanship with the M9 service pistol, the M4 service rifle and M1014 shotgun. - A Guard Marine with Marine Barracks Washington, shoots an M9 service pistol during a training exercise at Range 5, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 10, 2015. 1st platoon, Guard Company, traveled there to increase overall marksmanship with the M9 service pistol, the M4 service rifle and M1014 shotgun.

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to dive and perform underwater knot-tying in a Special Operation Command screener during a pre-dive course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 25 – June 5, 2015. The students had to tie five knots underwater; having only five separate breathing opportunities with only 30 seconds on the surface of the water between tying each knot. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to dive and perform underwater knot-tying in a Special Operation Command screener during a pre-dive course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 25 – June 5, 2015. The students had to tie five knots underwater; having only five separate breathing opportunities with only 30 seconds on the surface of the water between tying each knot.

Marines with Bravo Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, take a defensive position during a live-fire and maneuver exercise at a range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 6, 2015. The training simulated the Marine’s response to encountering an enemy attack while on patrol. “If we work together in this training we’ll already know our plans, call signs and signals,” said Sgt. Christian Sampson, a combat engineer with the company. “We’ll have a plan laid out already so when we get in a fight we’ll know what to do.” (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. David N. Hersey/Released) - Marines with Bravo Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, take a defensive position during a live-fire and maneuver exercise at a range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 6, 2015. The training simulated the Marine’s response to encountering an enemy attack while on patrol. “If we work together in this training we’ll already know our plans, call signs and signals,” said Sgt. Christian Sampson, a combat engineer with the company. “We’ll have a plan laid out already so when we get in a fight we’ll know what to do.” (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. David N. Hersey/Released)

A crew operating the M1A1 Abrams tank fires at a target during the 13th annual TIGERCOMP at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 5, 2015. The best tank gunner crews from 1st Tank Battalion, 2nd Tank Battalion and 4th Tank Battalion competed for top honors and the McCard trophy bringing the entire tank community, including tank battalion veterans, together for an entertaining display of the tanks force and powerful capabilities. - A crew operating the M1A1 Abrams tank fires at a target during the 13th annual TIGERCOMP at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 5, 2015. The best tank gunner crews from 1st Tank Battalion, 2nd Tank Battalion and 4th Tank Battalion competed for top honors and the McCard trophy bringing the entire tank community, including tank battalion veterans, together for an entertaining display of the tanks force and powerful capabilities.

U.S. Marines and a Navy corpsman with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provide first aid to a simulated patient during a mass casualty training exercise at Combat Town aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 3, 2015. Marines and sailors with CLB 26 performed casualty assessment, applied first aid and transported the simulated casualties to a landing zone. The training was conducted to prepare for the 26th MEU's deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year. - U.S. Marines and a Navy corpsman with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provide first aid to a simulated patient during a mass casualty training exercise at Combat Town aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 3, 2015. Marines and sailors with CLB 26 performed casualty assessment, applied first aid and transported the simulated casualties to a landing zone. The training was conducted to prepare for the 26th MEU's deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment participate in a section chief course learn to use every position in operating a howitzer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 18 – June 5. The howitzer is a towed 155 mm artillery piece that requires a minimum of five gun crewmembers to operate. During the course, students become familiarized with every aspect of the weapons system. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment participate in a section chief course learn to use every position in operating a howitzer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 18 – June 5. The howitzer is a towed 155 mm artillery piece that requires a minimum of five gun crewmembers to operate. During the course, students become familiarized with every aspect of the weapons system.

Marines and Sailors with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, escort a simulated casualty to an MV-22 Osprey during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel training exercise, May 29, 2015, in Southwest Asia. With U.S. and coalition forces conducting airstrikes in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the TRAP forces of the SPMAGTF provide an on-call force dedicated to the safe return of the U.S. and coalition service members. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Garrett D. White, CJTF-OIR Public Affairs) - Marines and Sailors with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, escort a simulated casualty to an MV-22 Osprey during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel training exercise, May 29, 2015, in Southwest Asia. With U.S. and coalition forces conducting airstrikes in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the TRAP forces of the SPMAGTF provide an on-call force dedicated to the safe return of the U.S. and coalition service members. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Garrett D. White, CJTF-OIR Public Affairs)

Marines and civilians attend a meeting hosted at ManTech Spaces in Stafford Va. June 2, 2015 to discuss Intelligence problems the Marine Corps faces. This is the second time this meeting was hosted. - Marines and civilians attend a meeting hosted at ManTech Spaces in Stafford Va. June 2, 2015 to discuss Intelligence problems the Marine Corps faces. This is the second time this meeting was hosted.

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An F-35B Lightning II takes off on the flight deck of USS Wasp (LHD-1) during routine daylight operations, as part of Operational Testing 1, May 22. Data and lessons learned during the operational test will lay the groundwork for future F-35B deployments aboard amphibious ships. - An F-35B Lightning II takes off on the flight deck of USS Wasp (LHD-1) during routine daylight operations, as part of Operational Testing 1, May 22. Data and lessons learned during the operational test will lay the groundwork for future F-35B deployments aboard amphibious ships.

Michelle Mummers, a retired Marine major and wounded warrior, swims at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia May 28, 2015 in preparation for the 2015 Department of Defense Warrior Games. This will be Mummer's second time competing in both the cycling and swimming portion of the games. - Michelle Mummers, a retired Marine major and wounded warrior, swims at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia May 28, 2015 in preparation for the 2015 Department of Defense Warrior Games. This will be Mummer's second time competing in both the cycling and swimming portion of the games.

Marines load ordnance onto an F-35B Lightning II during Operational Testing 1 aboard USS Wasp at sea, May 27. Marines and sailors have been working together since May 18 to assess the integration of the F-35B Lightning II, which is currently on track to replace the F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Prowler, and the AV-8B Harrier. By the end of the testing period on May 29, U.S. Marine pilots had flown 110 F-35B sorties from USS Wasp, racking up more than 85 flight hours. - Marines load ordnance onto an F-35B Lightning II during Operational Testing 1 aboard USS Wasp at sea, May 27. Marines and sailors have been working together since May 18 to assess the integration of the F-35B Lightning II, which is currently on track to replace the F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Prowler, and the AV-8B Harrier. By the end of the testing period on May 29, U.S. Marine pilots had flown 110 F-35B sorties from USS Wasp, racking up more than 85 flight hours.

U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa move toward an objective during a training exercise on Quartier Colonel de Chabrieres, France, May 29, 2015. Marines stationed at Moròn Air Base, Spain, conducted a seize and capture training exercise with service members from the French Foreign Legion’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to further improve interoperability between the two NATO forces as they concurrently deploy their service members to Africa. - U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa move toward an objective during a training exercise on Quartier Colonel de Chabrieres, France, May 29, 2015. Marines stationed at Moròn Air Base, Spain, conducted a seize and capture training exercise with service members from the French Foreign Legion’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to further improve interoperability between the two NATO forces as they concurrently deploy their service members to Africa.

A squad leader with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment calculates distance and elevation of a simulated target during emergency close air support training at the Supporting Arms Virtual Trainer facility aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 2, 2015. The training was conducted to ensure all of the squad leaders within the company are familiar with emergency CAS procedures so they can employ the tactics if the need arises while on deployment. - A squad leader with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment calculates distance and elevation of a simulated target during emergency close air support training at the Supporting Arms Virtual Trainer facility aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 2, 2015. The training was conducted to ensure all of the squad leaders within the company are familiar with emergency CAS procedures so they can employ the tactics if the need arises while on deployment.

Marines with 1st Marines Special Operations Support Battalion make their way to the ocean to swim through the surf zone during the Tactical Skills Package aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 15, 2015. The Tactical Skills Package was established to enhance enabler’s skills and qualifications before deploying. - Marines with 1st Marines Special Operations Support Battalion make their way to the ocean to swim through the surf zone during the Tactical Skills Package aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 15, 2015. The Tactical Skills Package was established to enhance enabler’s skills and qualifications before deploying.

Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting battle the blaze as part of monthly training to ensure they are always prepared in the event of an emergency on the flight line. The ARFF Marines are a part of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. - Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting battle the blaze as part of monthly training to ensure they are always prepared in the event of an emergency on the flight line. The ARFF Marines are a part of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, begin their patrol through a mock village during Infantry Immersion Training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 29, 2015. The immersion center is an indoor Military Operation on Urban Terrain environment that allows Marines to go through a life-like village and encounter role-players to better sharpen their MOUT skills. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Michael Dye/Released) - Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, begin their patrol through a mock village during Infantry Immersion Training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 29, 2015. The immersion center is an indoor Military Operation on Urban Terrain environment that allows Marines to go through a life-like village and encounter role-players to better sharpen their MOUT skills. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Michael Dye/Released)

A Marine with 1st Marine Division, 7th Marine Regiment participates in stalking training aboard Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, California May 27, 2015. The training was the last event during Division School’s 6-week-long Pre-Scout Sniper Course. - A Marine with 1st Marine Division, 7th Marine Regiment participates in stalking training aboard Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, California May 27, 2015. The training was the last event during Division School’s 6-week-long Pre-Scout Sniper Course.

A platoon of U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, MRF-D, sit with their gear inside of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during a refueling and transport operation May 22 at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. Two CH-53Es picked up and transported approximately 140 Marines from Robertson Barracks to MBTA to begin Exercise Predator Walk. The exercise is a three-week bilateral training evolution with the Australian Army and enables Marines to become familiar with and improve their knowledge of the Australians’ technical and tactical procedures and standard operating procedures to strengthen interoperability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released) - A platoon of U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, MRF-D, sit with their gear inside of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during a refueling and transport operation May 22 at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia. Two CH-53Es picked up and transported approximately 140 Marines from Robertson Barracks to MBTA to begin Exercise Predator Walk. The exercise is a three-week bilateral training evolution with the Australian Army and enables Marines to become familiar with and improve their knowledge of the Australians’ technical and tactical procedures and standard operating procedures to strengthen interoperability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released)

Brig. Gen Michael Groen, the director of Marine Corps Intelligence, tests the capabilities and functions of the new Tellus program to judge its effectiveness, May 29, 2015. Tellus can be used to instantly report new information to patrols and convoys without the use of radio. - Brig. Gen Michael Groen, the director of Marine Corps Intelligence, tests the capabilities and functions of the new Tellus program to judge its effectiveness, May 29, 2015. Tellus can be used to instantly report new information to patrols and convoys without the use of radio.

Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to board an assault amphibious vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion during an obstacle-breaching exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 20, 2015. The Marines used 2nd AA Bn. for communication, fire support and transport to and from their objectives throughout the exercise. - Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to board an assault amphibious vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion during an obstacle-breaching exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 20, 2015. The Marines used 2nd AA Bn. for communication, fire support and transport to and from their objectives throughout the exercise.

Maintenance is performed on an F-35B Lightning II on the flight deck of USS Wasp (LHD-1) during routine daylight operations, a part of Operational Testing 1, May 22. OT-1 is serving the purpose of evaluating the full spectrum of F-35B measures of suitability and effectiveness, as well as assessing the integration of the aircraft into the spectrum of flight operations. The F-35B is with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. - Maintenance is performed on an F-35B Lightning II on the flight deck of USS Wasp (LHD-1) during routine daylight operations, a part of Operational Testing 1, May 22. OT-1 is serving the purpose of evaluating the full spectrum of F-35B measures of suitability and effectiveness, as well as assessing the integration of the aircraft into the spectrum of flight operations. The F-35B is with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.

Master Sgt. David Jarvis, a reconnaissance Marine with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, and Capt. Patrick Zuber, a company commander for 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, are awarded for winning the 7th Annual Recon Challenge aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 15, 2015. The Marines received this honor from Col. Christopher J. Williams, the commanding officer of School of Infantry-West, and Master Gunnery Sgt. Brian Yarolem, the operations chief for Reconnaissance Training Company and event coordinator. - Master Sgt. David Jarvis, a reconnaissance Marine with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, and Capt. Patrick Zuber, a company commander for 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, are awarded for winning the 7th Annual Recon Challenge aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 15, 2015. The Marines received this honor from Col. Christopher J. Williams, the commanding officer of School of Infantry-West, and Master Gunnery Sgt. Brian Yarolem, the operations chief for Reconnaissance Training Company and event coordinator.

Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion demonstrate crowd control procedures against group of Moroccan, Dutch and Belgium soldiers acting as an unruly crowd May 20 in the Tifnit, Morocco, training area. Exercise African Lion 15 is an annually-scheduled, combined U.S.–Moroccan exercise designed to improve mutual understanding of each nation’s tactics, techniques and procedures while demonstrating the strong bond between the two nation’s militaries. The one-week exercise includes various types of military training, including a command post exercise; stability operations, such as nonlethal weapons training and crisis/disaster response training. Additionally, in February an intelligence capacity building seminar was conducted. - Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion demonstrate crowd control procedures against group of Moroccan, Dutch and Belgium soldiers acting as an unruly crowd May 20 in the Tifnit, Morocco, training area. Exercise African Lion 15 is an annually-scheduled, combined U.S.–Moroccan exercise designed to improve mutual understanding of each nation’s tactics, techniques and procedures while demonstrating the strong bond between the two nation’s militaries. The one-week exercise includes various types of military training, including a command post exercise; stability operations, such as nonlethal weapons training and crisis/disaster response training. Additionally, in February an intelligence capacity building seminar was conducted.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Edwin Soto, the team’s noncommissioned officer-in-charge, observes a Senegalese Gendarme during a vehicle search exercise with the National Gendarmerie near Diamniadio, Senegal, May 5, 2015. In a two-week-long course led by U.S. Marines, Senegal’s team of handpicked national policemen learned a systematic approach to personnel and vehicle searches to supplement their current procedures and strengthen their force. (Courtesy photo/Released) - U.S. Marine Sgt. Edwin Soto, the team’s noncommissioned officer-in-charge, observes a Senegalese Gendarme during a vehicle search exercise with the National Gendarmerie near Diamniadio, Senegal, May 5, 2015. In a two-week-long course led by U.S. Marines, Senegal’s team of handpicked national policemen learned a systematic approach to personnel and vehicle searches to supplement their current procedures and strengthen their force. (Courtesy photo/Released)

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An explosive ordnance disposal technician undergoes the decontamination process after leak, seal, package and decontamination training April 21 at the gas chamber on Camp Hansen, Okinawa. Explosive ordnance disposal technicians and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense specialists placed a leaking ordnance package in the gas chamber, using chlorobenzylidene malonitrile, also known as tear gas, to simulate the emission of harmful gases. - An explosive ordnance disposal technician undergoes the decontamination process after leak, seal, package and decontamination training April 21 at the gas chamber on Camp Hansen, Okinawa. Explosive ordnance disposal technicians and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense specialists placed a leaking ordnance package in the gas chamber, using chlorobenzylidene malonitrile, also known as tear gas, to simulate the emission of harmful gases.

An F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter taxies to be refueled on the flight deck of USS Wasp during night operations, a part of Operational Testing 1, May, 22. The F-35B is the future of Marine Corps aviation and will be replacing three legacy platforms; the AV-8B Harrier, the F/A Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler. The F-35B is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. - An F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter taxies to be refueled on the flight deck of USS Wasp during night operations, a part of Operational Testing 1, May, 22. The F-35B is the future of Marine Corps aviation and will be replacing three legacy platforms; the AV-8B Harrier, the F/A Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler. The F-35B is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Zane Harmon fast ropes from a tower aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 12, 2015. Harmon is part of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force security element. These Marines practice fast roping to ensure they are prepared for any type of mission during deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Zane Harmon fast ropes from a tower aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 12, 2015. Harmon is part of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force security element. These Marines practice fast roping to ensure they are prepared for any type of mission during deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)

U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force security element fast rope out of a CH-53E Super Stallion aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 12, 2015. Fast roping gives the MRF the ability to rapidly insert combat forces onto an objective. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force security element fast rope out of a CH-53E Super Stallion aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 12, 2015. Fast roping gives the MRF the ability to rapidly insert combat forces onto an objective. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)

Marines assigned to India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment show Moroccan Royal Armed Forces artillerymen their howitzer’s capabilities during Exercise African Lion 15, 2015, near Tan Tan, Morocco. - Marines assigned to India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment show Moroccan Royal Armed Forces artillerymen their howitzer’s capabilities during Exercise African Lion 15, 2015, near Tan Tan, Morocco.

A U.S. Marine from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fires downrange during the last live-fire event of Eager Lion 15 around Al Quweyrah, Jordan, May 19, 2015. Exercise Eager Lion 15 is a multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations, and enhance regional security and stability. Eager Lion takes place annually in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, with more than 10,000 military participants from 18 countries and NATO. - A U.S. Marine from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fires downrange during the last live-fire event of Eager Lion 15 around Al Quweyrah, Jordan, May 19, 2015. Exercise Eager Lion 15 is a multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations, and enhance regional security and stability. Eager Lion takes place annually in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, with more than 10,000 military participants from 18 countries and NATO.

Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps students recreate the flag raising on Mount Suribachi as part of their float during the 2015 Chicago Memorial Day Parade May 23, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois. The annual parade is considered one of the largest in the nation and attracts thousands of visitors each year to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for American freedom. - Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps students recreate the flag raising on Mount Suribachi as part of their float during the 2015 Chicago Memorial Day Parade May 23, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois. The annual parade is considered one of the largest in the nation and attracts thousands of visitors each year to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for American freedom.

The Marine Corps Band New Orleans performs an evening concert at Billings Senior High school in Billings, Mont. May 2, 2015. The band conducted their spring tour through Canada and the northern United States April 29 – May 11, 2015. The tour included combined concerts with the HMCS Tecumseh Royal Canadian Navy Reserve Band, as well as the University of Montana wind ensemble. The band performed concerts in Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Missoula and Billings, Mont.; Rapid City, S.D., and Cheyenne, Wyo., giving the Marines a chance to tell the Marine Corps’ story through music across North America. - The Marine Corps Band New Orleans performs an evening concert at Billings Senior High school in Billings, Mont. May 2, 2015. The band conducted their spring tour through Canada and the northern United States April 29 – May 11, 2015. The tour included combined concerts with the HMCS Tecumseh Royal Canadian Navy Reserve Band, as well as the University of Montana wind ensemble. The band performed concerts in Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Missoula and Billings, Mont.; Rapid City, S.D., and Cheyenne, Wyo., giving the Marines a chance to tell the Marine Corps’ story through music across North America.

A paratrooper approaches the landing zone after jumping out of a KC-130J from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa during Exercise Lone Paratrooper at Leόn Air Base, Spain, May 18, 2015. A multinational force from Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Italy, France, Poland, the Netherlands, and the United States came together to conduct the exercise as a way to increase interoperability. - A paratrooper approaches the landing zone after jumping out of a KC-130J from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa during Exercise Lone Paratrooper at Leόn Air Base, Spain, May 18, 2015. A multinational force from Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Italy, France, Poland, the Netherlands, and the United States came together to conduct the exercise as a way to increase interoperability.

Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion arrive to put their Light Armored Vehicle on display for the public to look at as a part of Marine Day at Bryant Park, New York City, May 21, 2015. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-New York showcase the capabilities of the Marine Corps both physically, mentally and technologically during Fleet Week New York. Fleet Week is an annual event that provides New York and surrounding area a chance to see the sea services capabilities. - Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion arrive to put their Light Armored Vehicle on display for the public to look at as a part of Marine Day at Bryant Park, New York City, May 21, 2015. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-New York showcase the capabilities of the Marine Corps both physically, mentally and technologically during Fleet Week New York. Fleet Week is an annual event that provides New York and surrounding area a chance to see the sea services capabilities.

A Chinook with the Royal Canadian Air Force waits as Soldiers from the Canadian Army enter to be transported during Exercise Maple Resolve 2015 aboard Canadian Manoeuvre Training Center, Camp Wainwright, Alberta, Canada, May 16, 2015. The multi-national exercise, conducted annually by the Canadian Army, is a three-week, high-readiness validation exercise for Canadian Army elements designated for domestic or international operations. This year, the 1st Canadian Army Division and the 5th Canadian Mechanized Battle Group are being supported by the British 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade, various U.S. Army elements, and for the first time, members of I MEF’s 1st ANGLICO who bring a unique capability to the table. (Photo by Cpl. Owen Kimbrel, U.S. Marine Corps) - A Chinook with the Royal Canadian Air Force waits as Soldiers from the Canadian Army enter to be transported during Exercise Maple Resolve 2015 aboard Canadian Manoeuvre Training Center, Camp Wainwright, Alberta, Canada, May 16, 2015. The multi-national exercise, conducted annually by the Canadian Army, is a three-week, high-readiness validation exercise for Canadian Army elements designated for domestic or international operations. This year, the 1st Canadian Army Division and the 5th Canadian Mechanized Battle Group are being supported by the British 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade, various U.S. Army elements, and for the first time, members of I MEF’s 1st ANGLICO who bring a unique capability to the table. (Photo by Cpl. Owen Kimbrel, U.S. Marine Corps)

Amphibious Assault Vehicles, launched from the USS Rushmore, demonstrated amphibious landings as part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s joint sea-basing exercise, Culebra Koa 15, May 19, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows. Observed by local-based military and representatives from 22 countries within the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, the landing was made in conjunction with the inaugural U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific-hosted U.S. Pacific Command Amphibious Leaders Symposium. - Amphibious Assault Vehicles, launched from the USS Rushmore, demonstrated amphibious landings as part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s joint sea-basing exercise, Culebra Koa 15, May 19, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows. Observed by local-based military and representatives from 22 countries within the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, the landing was made in conjunction with the inaugural U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific-hosted U.S. Pacific Command Amphibious Leaders Symposium.

Lance Cpl. Matthew J. Determan, of Maricopa Arizona died Tuesday of his injuries sustained during an MV-22B Osprey mishap while conducting training at Marine Corps Training Area – Bellows.(U.S. Marine Corps illustration by Lance Cpl. Julia Dagostino/Released) - Lance Cpl. Matthew J. Determan, of Ahwatukee, Arizona died Tuesday of his injuries sustained during an MV-22B Osprey mishap while conducting training at Marine Corps Training Area – Bellows.

A Spanish Navy Harrier flies over the water after departing Naval Station Rota, Spain, for an aerial-refueling exercise with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa May 15, 2015. The Harrier flew behind a U.S. Marine KC-130J, which extended two refueling lines to allow the pilots to test their ability to complete inflight-refueling procedures. - A Spanish Navy Harrier flies over the water after departing Naval Station Rota, Spain, for an aerial-refueling exercise with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa May 15, 2015. The Harrier flew behind a U.S. Marine KC-130J, which extended two refueling lines to allow the pilots to test their ability to complete inflight-refueling procedures.

Italian Marines exit an Amphibious Assault Vehicle from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during bilateral platoon attack drills as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 11, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - Italian Marines exit an Amphibious Assault Vehicle from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during bilateral platoon attack drills as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 11, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Christopher Corpus, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Detachment 1, Marine Rotational Force- Darwin, inspects his gear before departing with a convoy to Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, May 20, 2015. Marines with MRF-D wrap up final details in order to set out for Exercise Predator Walk. Predator Walk plays a role in MRF-D that exercises a competent expeditionary fighting force with Australian allies. Corpus is a native of Reno, Nevada. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Christopher Corpus, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Detachment 1, Marine Rotational Force- Darwin, inspects his gear before departing with a convoy to Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, May 20, 2015. Marines with MRF-D wrap up final details in order to set out for Exercise Predator Walk. Predator Walk plays a role in MRF-D that exercises a competent expeditionary fighting force with Australian allies. Corpus is a native of Reno, Nevada.

Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit drive their amphibious assault vehicles along the beach during the MARFORPAC-hosted U.S. Pacific Command Amphibious Leaders Symposium (PALS) at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii, May 19, 2015. PALS is designed to bring together senior leaders of allied and partner Marine Corps, naval infantries, and militaries spanning the Indo-Asia-Pacific region with interest in military amphibious capability development. This year, 22 nations sent representatives to observe the training. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Bragg) - Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit drive their amphibious assault vehicles along the beach during the MARFORPAC-hosted U.S. Pacific Command Amphibious Leaders Symposium (PALS) at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii, May 19, 2015. PALS is designed to bring together senior leaders of allied and partner Marine Corps, naval infantries, and militaries spanning the Indo-Asia-Pacific region with interest in military amphibious capability development. This year, 22 nations sent representatives to observe the training. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Bragg)

Lance Corporal Brandon Renteria fires simulation rounds from a M32A1 multi-shot grenade launcher during a live-fire training event alongside Australian soldiers with 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, Australian Defence Force, May 15 at Kangaroo Flats Training Area, Victoria, Northern Territory, Australia. The Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, and Australian soldiers brushed up on squad attack tactics, basic point man skills and explosives to refine basic infantry skills. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies and improves interoperability between the two forces. Renteria is a rifleman with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, MRF-D. - Lance Corporal Brandon Renteria fires simulation rounds from a M32A1 multi-shot grenade launcher during a live-fire training event alongside Australian soldiers with 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, Australian Defence Force, May 15 at Kangaroo Flats Training Area, Victoria, Northern Territory, Australia. The Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, and Australian soldiers brushed up on squad attack tactics, basic point man skills and explosives to refine basic infantry skills. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies and improves interoperability between the two forces. Renteria is a rifleman with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, MRF-D.

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Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineering Support Battalion, disassemble a 16-bay, double-story bridge during a bridge masters course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 15, 2015. The unit employs bridges capable of holding M1A1 Abrams tanks, and provides a key element in supporting operations in different terrain. - Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineering Support Battalion, disassemble a 16-bay, double-story bridge during a bridge masters course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 15, 2015. The unit employs bridges capable of holding M1A1 Abrams tanks, and provides a key element in supporting operations in different terrain.

Italian Marines exit an Amphibious Assault Vehicle from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during bilateral platoon attack drills as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 11, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - Italian Marines exit an Amphibious Assault Vehicle from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during bilateral platoon attack drills as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 11, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

A sailor aboard the USS Wasp (LHD-1) signals to the pilot of an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter to land as it arrives for the first phase of operational testing, May 18, 2015. The short take-off, vertical landing capabilities of the F-35B are crucial to the mission of the Marine Corps and necessary for operation aboard a Navy amphibious ship. The aircraft are stationed with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, Beaufort, South Carolina and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Yuma, Arizona. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Remington Hall/Released) - A sailor aboard the USS Wasp (LHD-1) signals to the pilot of an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter to land as it arrives for the first phase of operational testing, May 18, 2015. The short take-off, vertical landing capabilities of the F-35B are crucial to the mission of the Marine Corps and necessary for operation aboard a Navy amphibious ship. The aircraft are stationed with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, Beaufort, South Carolina and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Yuma, Arizona. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Remington Hall/Released)