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U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Christopher Lisle, Regional Expeditionary Firefighting and Rescue Chief with Marine Aircraft Control Group-28, left, and Lance Cpl. Devin Lisle, firefighter with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron 751, father and son, pose for a photo on Marine Corps Air Station New River, in Jacksonville, North Carolina, May 12, 2023. This marked Master Sgt. Lisle’s last live fire training of his career, putting out the fire with his son by his side. - U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Christopher Lisle, Regional Expeditionary Firefighting and Rescue Chief with Marine Aircraft Control Group-28, left, and Lance Cpl. Devin Lisle, firefighter with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron 751, father and son, pose for a photo on Marine Corps Air Station New River, in Jacksonville, North Carolina, May 12, 2023. This marked Master Sgt. Lisle’s last live fire training of his career, putting out the fire with his son by his side.

An aerial view of Lunga Park, a Marine Corps Community Services Outdoor Recreation site on the west side of Marine Corps Base Quantico. Lunga Park, a portion of the original Lunga Recreation Area, is scheduled to reopen May 26 after being closed since 2012 due to the discovery of unexploded ordnance. - An aerial view of Lunga Park, a Marine Corps Community Services Outdoor Recreation site on the west side of Marine Corps Base Quantico. Lunga Park, a portion of the original Lunga Recreation Area, is scheduled to reopen May 26 after being closed since 2012 due to the discovery of unexploded ordnance.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Alan Martinezbenegas, a satellite transmissions system operator with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, monitors network status during Exercise Vanguard on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2023. III MIG functions as the vanguard of III MEF, operating in the Indo-Pacific regions information environment, and supports Marine Air Ground Task Force operations with communications, intelligence, and supporting arms liaison capabilities. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Alan Martinezbenegas, a satellite transmissions system operator with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, monitors network status during Exercise Vanguard on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2023. III MIG functions as the vanguard of III MEF, operating in the Indo-Pacific regions information environment, and supports Marine Air Ground Task Force operations with communications, intelligence, and supporting arms liaison capabilities.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542 launches an F-35B Lightning II at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, May 31, 2023. VMFA-542 received its first F-35B Lightning II jets and is the Marine Corps’ first East Coast operational F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter squadron. The arrival of the aircraft marks the beginning of F-35 deliveries to MCAS Cherry Point, continuing 2nd MAW’s operational transition from legacy fixed-wing tactical aircraft to the F-35. VMFA-542 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542 launches an F-35B Lightning II at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, May 31, 2023. VMFA-542 received its first F-35B Lightning II jets and is the Marine Corps’ first East Coast operational F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter squadron. The arrival of the aircraft marks the beginning of F-35 deliveries to MCAS Cherry Point, continuing 2nd MAW’s operational transition from legacy fixed-wing tactical aircraft to the F-35. VMFA-542 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marines with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, salute Maj. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, the commanding general for 1st MARDIV, after being awarded for winning the 2023 Bushmaster Challenge during the division’s morning colors ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 2, 2023. The division holds the ceremony every quarter to recognize Marines and Sailors for outstanding performance. - U.S. Marines with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, salute Maj. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, the commanding general for 1st MARDIV, after being awarded for winning the 2023 Bushmaster Challenge during the division’s morning colors ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 2, 2023. The division holds the ceremony every quarter to recognize Marines and Sailors for outstanding performance.

U.S. Marines with the Individual Mobilization Augmentee reserves, participate in their annual training as part of the Marine for Life Network on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 7, 2023. IMA reserve Marines come together once a year to complete the required training and be reserve ready. - U.S. Marines with the Individual Mobilization Augmentee reserves, participate in their annual training as part of the Marine for Life Network on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 7, 2023. IMA reserve Marines come together once a year to complete the required training and be reserve ready.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Mark Bernal, a landing support specialist with 3d Littoral Logistics Battalion, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, receives a package from a TRV-50 Tactical Resupply Unmanned Aircraft System as it lands to resupply U.S. Marines in the field during Balikatan 23 in Cerab, Philippines, April 21, 2023. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Bernal is a native of San Antonio, Texas. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Mark Bernal, a landing support specialist with 3d Littoral Logistics Battalion, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, receives a package from a TRV-50 Tactical Resupply Unmanned Aircraft System as it lands to resupply U.S. Marines in the field during Balikatan 23 in Cerab, Philippines, April 21, 2023. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Bernal is a native of San Antonio, Texas.

A U.S. Marine Corps Light Armored Vehicle with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit provides security for aerial insertion while executing an amphibious assault during Composite Training Unit Exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 2, 2023. The amphibious assault rehearsed the utilization of Marines to move from ship to shore and secure objectives for follow-on actions. C2X is the last exercise in the pre-deployment training program for the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group. - A U.S. Marine Corps Light Armored Vehicle with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit provides security for aerial insertion while executing an amphibious assault during Composite Training Unit Exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 2, 2023. The amphibious assault rehearsed the utilization of Marines to move from ship to shore and secure objectives for follow-on actions. C2X is the last exercise in the pre-deployment training program for the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group.

U.S. Marine Corps 2nd Lt. Nkundimana Claude, a fire team leader assigned to Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, is pinned as a 2nd Lt. during his commissioning ceremony at the Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, June 17, 2023. Claude moved to the United States from Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa and enlisted in the Marine Corps to become a U.S. citizen. He then graduated from Texas State University and commissioned as an officer. - U.S. Marine Corps 2nd Lt. Nkundimana Claude, a fire team leader assigned to Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, is pinned as a 2nd Lt. during his commissioning ceremony at the Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, June 17, 2023. Claude moved to the United States from Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa and enlisted in the Marine Corps to become a U.S. citizen. He then graduated from Texas State University and commissioned as an officer.

U.S. Marine Corps GySgt. David A. Waterfield Jr., Training Chief, Marine Corps Aircraft Rescue and Firefighter Specialist, Aircraft Rescue Firefighting, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay leads a period of instruction during the culminating event of a Martial Arts Instructor course on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 9, 2023. MAI courses certify Marines to instruct and monitor Marine Corps Martial Arts Program training and advance Marines in belt levels. MCMAP is a synergy of mental, character, and physical disciplines, and in concert with Marine Corps leadership principles, training in these three disciplines enhances the Marine both on and off the battlefield. - U.S. Marine Corps GySgt. David A. Waterfield Jr., Training Chief, Marine Corps Aircraft Rescue and Firefighter Specialist, Aircraft Rescue Firefighting, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay leads a period of instruction during the culminating event of a Martial Arts Instructor course on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 9, 2023. MAI courses certify Marines to instruct and monitor Marine Corps Martial Arts Program training and advance Marines in belt levels. MCMAP is a synergy of mental, character, and physical disciplines, and in concert with Marine Corps leadership principles, training in these three disciplines enhances the Marine both on and off the battlefield.

A U.S. Marine C-130 with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, takes off at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, June 9, 2023. 3rd Landing Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group is conducting Combined Distribution Exercise 23 in South Korea alongside the Republic of Korea Navy, the ROK Army, the U.S. Army, the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Navy. 3rd LSB is providing fuel, water, ground and air transportation to enable the sustainment and distribution of the CDEX force. - A U.S. Marine C-130 with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, takes off at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, June 9, 2023. 3rd Landing Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group is conducting Combined Distribution Exercise 23 in South Korea alongside the Republic of Korea Navy, the ROK Army, the U.S. Army, the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Navy. 3rd LSB is providing fuel, water, ground and air transportation to enable the sustainment and distribution of the CDEX force.

U.S Marine Corps Capt. Quinton Boyed, field artillery officer, 2d Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, provides security with Norwegian Armed Forces at the Outdoor Infantry Immersion Trainer on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 18, 2023. The OIIT provided Marines and international partners with scenario based realistic training, creating a fully immersive environment using role players, pyrotechnics, subject matter experts, and sound and smell generators. - U.S Marine Corps Capt. Quinton Boyed, field artillery officer, 2d Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, provides security with Norwegian Armed Forces at the Outdoor Infantry Immersion Trainer on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 18, 2023. The OIIT provided Marines and international partners with scenario based realistic training, creating a fully immersive environment using role players, pyrotechnics, subject matter experts, and sound and smell generators.

Staff Sgt. Michael Torres, left, a data systems administrator for Defensive Cyberspace Operations-Internal Defensive Measures Company A, 6th Communication Battalion, discusses his network hacking plans during Cyber Yankee 23 at Camp Nett, Connecticut, May 25, 2023. Reserve Marines with DCO-IDM Company B, and the newly created Marine Innovation Unit, participated in Cyber Yankee as the "red team," simulating a cyberspace attack against a power utility grid. This exercise allowed Reserve Marines to integrate with their active-duty counterparts and joint partners to help develop practices in defense against cyber-attacks. - Staff Sgt. Michael Torres, left, a data systems administrator for Defensive Cyberspace Operations-Internal Defensive Measures Company A, 6th Communication Battalion, discusses his network hacking plans during Cyber Yankee 23 at Camp Nett, Connecticut, May 25, 2023. Reserve Marines with DCO-IDM Company B, and the newly created Marine Innovation Unit, participated in Cyber Yankee as the "red team," simulating a cyberspace attack against a power utility grid. This exercise allowed Reserve Marines to integrate with their active-duty counterparts and joint partners to help develop practices in defense against cyber-attacks.

Sergeant Major Carlos A. Ruiz has been selected to serve as the 20th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps. Sgt. Maj. Ruiz is currently serving as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve and U.S. Marines Corps Forces South. He will replace Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Troy E. Black during a relief and appointment ceremony slated for Aug. 8, 2023. - Sergeant Major Carlos A. Ruiz has been selected to serve as the 20th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps. Sgt. Maj. Ruiz is currently serving as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve and U.S. Marines Corps Forces South. He will replace Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Troy E. Black during a relief and appointment ceremony slated for Aug. 8, 2023.

U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit load into a CH-53E Super Stallion aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) prior to conducting a scenario-driven foreign humanitarian assistance (FHA) during Composite Training Unit Exercise, Atlantic Ocean, May 24, 2023. FHA consists of Department of Defense activities conducted outside of the U.S. and its territories to directly relieve or reduce human suffering, disease, hunger, or privation. FHA is intended to supplement or complement efforts of host nation civil authorities or agencies with the primary responsibility for providing assistance. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit serves as one of the Nation’s premier crisis response forces capable of conducting amphibious operations, crisis response, and limited contingency operations, to include enabling follow-on forces and special operations. - U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit load into a CH-53E Super Stallion aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) prior to conducting a scenario-driven foreign humanitarian assistance (FHA) during Composite Training Unit Exercise, Atlantic Ocean, May 24, 2023. FHA consists of Department of Defense activities conducted outside of the U.S. and its territories to directly relieve or reduce human suffering, disease, hunger, or privation. FHA is intended to supplement or complement efforts of host nation civil authorities or agencies with the primary responsibility for providing assistance. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit serves as one of the Nation’s premier crisis response forces capable of conducting amphibious operations, crisis response, and limited contingency operations, to include enabling follow-on forces and special operations.

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U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class Tashaun Eldridge, a Louisville, KY native and rifleman with Task Force 61/2.3 Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Europe, inspects the application of a tourniquet with a Gabonese Republican soldier, during Judicious Activation 2023 in Libreville, Gabon, Apr. 27, 2023. Task Force 61/2.3 provides capabilities such as rapid response expeditionary anti-terrorism and security operations in support of Commanders, United States European Command and as directed by Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet in order to protect vital naval and national assets. - U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class Tashaun Eldridge, a Louisville, KY native and rifleman with Task Force 61/2.3 Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Europe, inspects the application of a tourniquet with a Gabonese Republican soldier, during Judicious Activation 2023 in Libreville, Gabon, Apr. 27, 2023. Task Force 61/2.3 provides capabilities such as rapid response expeditionary anti-terrorism and security operations in support of Commanders, United States European Command and as directed by Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet in order to protect vital naval and national assets.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Aiden Morey, an unmanned aerial system operator, left, Lance Cpl. Colton Allen, a reconnaissance Marine, middle, and Lance Cpl. Christopher Butemeyer, a reconnaissance Marine, right, with Task Force 61/2.4 pose for a group photo after being awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medal in Tallinn, Estonia on May 15, 2023. The Marines were awarded for their fast thinking and direct involvement with saving an Estonian man’s life, while out on liberty. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Aiden Morey, an unmanned aerial system operator, left, Lance Cpl. Colton Allen, a reconnaissance Marine, middle, and Lance Cpl. Christopher Butemeyer, a reconnaissance Marine, right, with Task Force 61/2.4 pose for a group photo after being awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medal in Tallinn, Estonia on May 15, 2023. The Marines were awarded for their fast thinking and direct involvement with saving an Estonian man’s life, while out on liberty.

U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Jason Krumrie, the 0311 monitor with Manpower Management Enlisted Assignments 22, speaks to Marines with 1st Battalion, 7th Marines about retention and reenlistment opportunities as part of the MMEA Roadshow in the Central Training Area on Okinawa, Japan, April 26, 2023. During the MMEA Roadshow, career monitors met with members of the Fleet Marine Force to discuss continuing their careers with the new initiatives available under Talent Management 2030. 1st Battalion, 7th Marines is forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific with 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. Krumrie is a native of Manteno, Illinois. - U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Jason Krumrie, the 0311 monitor with Manpower Management Enlisted Assignments 22, speaks to Marines with 1st Battalion, 7th Marines about retention and reenlistment opportunities as part of the MMEA Roadshow in the Central Training Area on Okinawa, Japan, April 26, 2023. During the MMEA Roadshow, career monitors met with members of the Fleet Marine Force to discuss continuing their careers with the new initiatives available under Talent Management 2030. 1st Battalion, 7th Marines is forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific with 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. Krumrie is a native of Manteno, Illinois.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines provide security for a platoon attack during Stand-in Force Exercise on Okinawa, Japan, Dec.11, 2022. SiF-EX is a Division-level exercise involving all elements of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force focused on strengthening multi-domain awareness, maneuver, and fires across a distributed maritime environment. This exercise serves as a rehearsal for rapidly projecting combat power in defense of allies and partners in the region. - U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines provide security for a platoon attack during Stand-in Force Exercise on Okinawa, Japan, Dec.11, 2022. SiF-EX is a Division-level exercise involving all elements of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force focused on strengthening multi-domain awareness, maneuver, and fires across a distributed maritime environment. This exercise serves as a rehearsal for rapidly projecting combat power in defense of allies and partners in the region.

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U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Randall W. Peck, right, the prospective commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, and U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, visit 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st MARDIV, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 9, 2023. The Marines and Sailors of ESG 3 and 1st MARDIV work together on a regular basis, and leaders from both commands met to further develop the Navy-Marine Corps relationship between the two units for future operations. - U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Randall W. Peck, right, the prospective commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, and U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, visit 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st MARDIV, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 9, 2023. The Marines and Sailors of ESG 3 and 1st MARDIV work together on a regular basis, and leaders from both commands met to further develop the Navy-Marine Corps relationship between the two units for future operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Derek M. Wolford, battery gunnery sergeant with India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, left, and Gunnery Sgt. Jeremy J. Toteno, battery gunnery sergeant with Golf Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, conduct a mock inspection of hazard identification during the Ground Safety for Marines Course on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 24, 2023. GSM is a course for Marines and Sailors that provided occupational safety and health training to military and Department of Defense civilian personnel assigned to duties regarding ground safety. - U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Derek M. Wolford, battery gunnery sergeant with India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, left, and Gunnery Sgt. Jeremy J. Toteno, battery gunnery sergeant with Golf Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, conduct a mock inspection of hazard identification during the Ground Safety for Marines Course on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 24, 2023. GSM is a course for Marines and Sailors that provided occupational safety and health training to military and Department of Defense civilian personnel assigned to duties regarding ground safety.

U.S. Marines, with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), pose for a photo aboard the SS Curtis (T-AVB-4) during Balikatan 23 off the coast of the Philippines, April 18, 2023. Balikatan 23 is the 38th iteration of the annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military. The exercise includes three weeks of training focused on amphibious operations, command and control, humanitarian assistance, urban operations and counterterrorism skills throughout northern and western Luzon. Coastal defense training figures prominently in the Balikatan 23 training schedule. - U.S. Marines, with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, pose for a photo aboard the SS Curtis (T-AVB-4) during Balikatan 23 off the coast of the Philippines, April 18, 2023. Balikatan 23 is the 38th iteration of the annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military. The exercise includes three weeks of training focused on amphibious operations, command and control, humanitarian assistance, urban operations and counterterrorism skills throughout northern and western Luzon. Coastal defense training figures prominently in the Balikatan 23 training schedule.

A U.S. Marine Corps M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System assigned to Kilo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, Marine Forces Reserve, fires a rocket while conducting a HIMARS rapid insertion training event during Weapons and Tactics Instructor course 2-22, Dugway Proving Ground, Utah, April 6, 2022. Kilo Battery conducted their annual training with WTI 2-22, enabling their Marines, and the aircrew training with WTI, to conduct a complex training evolution and certify that they are fully mission capable. - A U.S. Marine Corps M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System assigned to Kilo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, Marine Forces Reserve, fires a rocket while conducting a HIMARS rapid insertion training event during Weapons and Tactics Instructor course 2-22, Dugway Proving Ground, Utah, April 6, 2022. Kilo Battery conducted their annual training with WTI 2-22, enabling their Marines, and the aircrew training with WTI, to conduct a complex training evolution and certify that they are fully mission capable.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Karl Arbogast, commanding officer, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Jad Daley, president and chief executive officer, American Forests, Karnig Ohannessian, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy of Environment and Mission Readiness, and Gary Herndon, natural and cultural resources manager, MCAS Beaufort, plant a tree during a commemorative tree planting ceremony in celebration of Earth Day at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, April 19, 2023. American Forests gifted an estimated 1,008,625 pine tree seedlings that will be planted at Townsend Bombing Range, Georgia. This reforestation effort will cover over 1600 acres. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Karl Arbogast, commanding officer, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Jad Daley, president and chief executive officer, American Forests, Karnig Ohannessian, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy of Environment and Mission Readiness, and Gary Herndon, natural and cultural resources manager, MCAS Beaufort, plant a tree during a commemorative tree planting ceremony in celebration of Earth Day at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, April 19, 2023. American Forests gifted an estimated 1,008,625 pine tree seedlings that will be planted at Townsend Bombing Range, Georgia. This reforestation effort will cover over 1600 acres.

U.S. Marines from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, pose for a group photo with Gen. David Berger, Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Troy Black, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, during the annual Marine Corps rifle squad competition awards ceremony in the Hawkins Room at The Basic School on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, April 27, 2023.The annual Marine Corps rifle squad competition is a service-recognized competitive environment to determine, under simulated combat conditions, which Marine rifle squad most effectively demonstrates their combat capabilities and operational proficiency. - U.S. Marines from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, pose for a group photo with Gen. David Berger, Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Troy Black, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, during the annual Marine Corps rifle squad competition awards ceremony in the Hawkins Room at The Basic School on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, April 27, 2023.The annual Marine Corps rifle squad competition is a service-recognized competitive environment to determine, under simulated combat conditions, which Marine rifle squad most effectively demonstrates their combat capabilities and operational proficiency.

U.S. Marines with 1st Marine Division locate their target points during exercise Garnet Rattler on Saylor Creek Range in Grasmere, Idaho, April 18, 2023. Garnet Rattler is a joint exercise between Marines and airmen to train Joint Terminal Attack Controllers to be more efficient and lethal in a realistic training environment. - U.S. Marines with 1st Marine Division locate their target points during exercise Garnet Rattler on Saylor Creek Range in Grasmere, Idaho, April 18, 2023. Garnet Rattler is a joint exercise between Marines and airmen to train Joint Terminal Attack Controllers to be more efficient and lethal in a realistic training environment.

U.S. Marines with 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, and members of the 2nd Intai Amfibi Battalion, Indonesian Korps Marinir, paddle back to shore on a combat rubber raiding craft during a reconnaissance exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 15, 2023. The Marines of 1st Recon Bn. host the bilateral training exercise annually to foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between Indonesian service members and 1st MARDIV Marines and promote cultural exchange and understanding. - U.S. Marines with 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, and members of the 2nd Intai Amfibi Battalion, Indonesian Korps Marinir, paddle back to shore on a combat rubber raiding craft during a reconnaissance exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 15, 2023. The Marines of 1st Recon Bn. host the bilateral training exercise annually to foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between Indonesian service members and 1st MARDIV Marines and promote cultural exchange and understanding.

A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II flies above U.S. Coast Guard fast response cutters, April 28, 2023, in the Arabian Gulf during joint training. - A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II flies above U.S. Coast Guard fast response cutters, April 28, 2023, in the Arabian Gulf during joint training.

U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit utilize crowd control techniques during a Noncombatant Evacuation Operation as part of Amphibious Ready Group/MEU Exercise at Stone Bay, North Carolina, April 25, 2023. NEOs assist the U.S. Department of State with the evacuation of citizens and approved personnel from a foreign nation to an appropriate safe haven. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is underway with the Bataan ARG conducting ARGMEUEX. - U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit utilize crowd control techniques during a Noncombatant Evacuation Operation as part of Amphibious Ready Group/MEU Exercise at Stone Bay, North Carolina, April 25, 2023. NEOs assist the U.S. Department of State with the evacuation of citizens and approved personnel from a foreign nation to an appropriate safe haven. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is underway with the Bataan ARG conducting ARGMEUEX.

A U.S. Army High Mobility Artillery Rocket System fires during a littoral live fire event during Balikatan 23 at the Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command, Philippines, April 26, 2023. Balikatan 2023 is the 38th iteration of the annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military. The exercise includes three weeks of training focused on amphibious operations, command and control, humanitarian assistance, urban operations and counterterrorism skills throughout northern and western Luzon. Coastal defense training figures prominently in the Balikatan 23 training schedule. - A U.S. Army High Mobility Artillery Rocket System fires during a littoral live fire event during Balikatan 23 at the Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command, Philippines, April 26, 2023. Balikatan 2023 is the 38th iteration of the annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military. The exercise includes three weeks of training focused on amphibious operations, command and control, humanitarian assistance, urban operations and counterterrorism skills throughout northern and western Luzon. Coastal defense training figures prominently in the Balikatan 23 training schedule.

U.S. Marines with India company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, conduct training at the Infantry Immersion Trainer site on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 4, 2023. The IIT is designed to provide Marines with a realistic combat environment using sound, smell, atmospherics and role-players to increase combat efficiency. - U.S. Marines with India company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, conduct training at the Infantry Immersion Trainer site on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 4, 2023. The IIT is designed to provide Marines with a realistic combat environment using sound, smell, atmospherics and role-players to increase combat efficiency.

Soldiers assigned to Task Force Spartan, U.S. Army Central Command’s Crisis Response Task Force and Marines and Sailors assigned to Naval Amphibious Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade conduct deck landing qualifications aboard the Expeditionary Sea Base USS Lewis B. Puller (ESB-3), April 20. Joint training between Task Force 51/5 and Task Force Spartan creates flexibility for crisis response in the U.S. CENTCOM area of operations. TF 51/5 is a Joint Task Force-capable headquarters that responds to crises and contingencies; coordinates, plans, and executes operations; conducts theater security cooperation; and advances emerging Naval concepts at sea, from the sea, and ashore. - Soldiers assigned to Task Force Spartan, U.S. Army Central Command’s Crisis Response Task Force and Marines and Sailors assigned to Naval Amphibious Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade conduct deck landing qualifications aboard the Expeditionary Sea Base USS Lewis B. Puller (ESB-3), April 20. Joint training between Task Force 51/5 and Task Force Spartan creates flexibility for crisis response in the U.S. CENTCOM area of operations. TF 51/5 is a Joint Task Force-capable headquarters that responds to crises and contingencies; coordinates, plans, and executes operations; conducts theater security cooperation; and advances emerging Naval concepts at sea, from the sea, and ashore.

U.S. Marine Sgt Jonathan Alvarez, an evaluator with the Amphibious Combat Vehicle Transition Training Unit, watches an ACV at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Apr. 11, 2023. The ACV TTU is composed of a cadre of experienced assault amphibian Marines working to create a standardized program to certify Marines to operate and maintain ACVs. As part of a Headquarters Marine Corps initiative, once operational, the ACV TTU will certify ACV crewmembers, vehicle commanders, maintainers, and unit leadership on the safe operation, maintenance, supervision, and employment of the ACV. - U.S. Marine Sgt Jonathan Alvarez, an evaluator with the Amphibious Combat Vehicle Transition Training Unit, watches an ACV at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Apr. 11, 2023. The ACV TTU is composed of a cadre of experienced assault amphibian Marines working to create a standardized program to certify Marines to operate and maintain ACVs. As part of a Headquarters Marine Corps initiative, once operational, the ACV TTU will certify ACV crewmembers, vehicle commanders, maintainers, and unit leadership on the safe operation, maintenance, supervision, and employment of the ACV.

U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command, and their respective Headquarters and Service Battalion (HQSVCBN), compete in a tug-o-war competition during a regional field meet at Captain Slade Cutter Park, Virginia, August 5, 2022. Marines, across various units competed head-to-head in pugil sticks, ground fighting, PVC pipe construction, flag football, resupply runs, rowing, kickball, and tug-o-war in order to win the command trophy. FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM holds field meets regularly to sustain camaraderie and healthy work relations. - U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command, and their respective Headquarters and Service Battalion (HQSVCBN), compete in a tug-o-war competition during a regional field meet at Captain Slade Cutter Park, Virginia, August 5, 2022. Marines, across various units competed head-to-head in pugil sticks, ground fighting, PVC pipe construction, flag football, resupply runs, rowing, kickball, and tug-o-war in order to win the command trophy. FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM holds field meets regularly to sustain camaraderie and healthy work relations.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Favio Cuero, a Middletown, New York, native and an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 24, 2nd Marine Division, conducts reconnaissance during a scout course on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 19, 2023. The purpose of the scout course is to enhance lethality and increase long range weapon proficiency. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Favio Cuero, a Middletown, New York, native and an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 24, 2nd Marine Division, conducts reconnaissance during a scout course on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 19, 2023. The purpose of the scout course is to enhance lethality and increase long range weapon proficiency.

U.S. Marines stationed on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, pose for a group photo to commemorate 29 Marines becoming certified wildland firefighters on MCAS Miramar, March 24, 2023. These Marines have trained to become wildland firefighters to form the first hand crew composed primarily of U.S. Marines. - U.S. Marines stationed on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, pose for a group photo to commemorate 29 Marines becoming certified wildland firefighters on MCAS Miramar, March 24, 2023. These Marines have trained to become wildland firefighters to form the first hand crew composed primarily of U.S. Marines.

Pvt. Joshua Kaza, a Marine with Hotel Comapny, was awarded his Eagle, Globe and Anchor by his dad Lt. Col. Babu Kaza at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, April 8, 2023. The date of April 8 is providential to the family. Babu's friend, 1st Lt. Joshua Palmer, was killed in Al Anbar, Iraq on this day in 2004 and is the very person for who he named his son after. - Pvt. Joshua Kaza, a Marine with Hotel Comapny, was awarded his Eagle, Globe and Anchor by his dad Lt. Col. Babu Kaza at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, April 8, 2023. The date of April 8 is providential to the family. Babu's friend, 1st Lt. Joshua Palmer, was killed in Al Anbar, Iraq on this day in 2004 and is the very person for who he named his son after.

Service members from the Royal Thai Marine Corps, Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, and the U.S. Marine Corps finish the reconstruction of a new roof for Miss Bunnam Inprom’s home during Exercise Cobra Gold 23 at Chanthaburi, Kingdom of Thailand, March 2, 2023. U.S. Marines and partner nations teamed up to build a new roof for Inprom’s home, which was destroyed by termites. Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 and MWSS-172 participated in the 42nd iteration of the Cobra Gold series of exercises, where they lended their engineering expertise to multilateral humanitarian efforts. - Service members from the Royal Thai Marine Corps, Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, and the U.S. Marine Corps finish the reconstruction of a new roof for Miss Bunnam Inprom’s home during Exercise Cobra Gold 23 at Chanthaburi, Kingdom of Thailand, March 2, 2023. U.S. Marines and partner nations teamed up to build a new roof for Inprom’s home, which was destroyed by termites. Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 and MWSS-172 participated in the 42nd iteration of the Cobra Gold series of exercises, where they lended their engineering expertise to multilateral humanitarian efforts.

U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Christopher D. Genualdi, capabilities integration officer, Logistical Combat Element Integration Division, Capabilities Development Directorate, Combat Development and Integration, speaks during a demonstration at DZ Cockatoo on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, March 29, 2023. Combat Development and Integration demonstrated the Tactical Resupply Unmanned Aircraft System, programming the Unmanned Logistics Systems-Air to carry a payload over a short distance, drop it at a specified location in the landing zone and return to its staring point. The TRUAS has a 9-mile range and maximum payload of 150 pounds, which is sufficient to fly in ammunition, food, medical supplies, and batteries, among other supplies. This small system only requires two Marines to operate and will be a game-changing capability for our distributed forces. Fielding this capability is a critical step in setting conditions for the development of the ULS-A Medium system, which is the required capability for large-scale tactical distribution in a contested space. - U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Christopher D. Genualdi, capabilities integration officer, Logistical Combat Element Integration Division, Capabilities Development Directorate, Combat Development and Integration, speaks during a demonstration at DZ Cockatoo on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, March 29, 2023. Combat Development and Integration demonstrated the Tactical Resupply Unmanned Aircraft System, programming the Unmanned Logistics Systems-Air to carry a payload over a short distance, drop it at a specified location in the landing zone and return to its staring point. The TRUAS has a 9-mile range and maximum payload of 150 pounds, which is sufficient to fly in ammunition, food, medical supplies, and batteries, among other supplies. This small system only requires two Marines to operate and will be a game-changing capability for our distributed forces. Fielding this capability is a critical step in setting conditions for the development of the ULS-A Medium system, which is the required capability for large-scale tactical distribution in a contested space.

An explosive charge detonates during ordnance training in preparation for Friendship Day 2023, at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 26, 2023. The MCAS Iwakuni Explosive Ordnance Disposal team has been conducting various controlled explosions since December 2022 in preparation for Friendship Day 2023. - An explosive charge detonates during ordnance training in preparation for Friendship Day 2023, at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 26, 2023. The MCAS Iwakuni Explosive Ordnance Disposal team has been conducting various controlled explosions since December 2022 in preparation for Friendship Day 2023.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Alexander H. Miller, senior watch officer, Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, far right, gives the 'Commander's Update Brief' to U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Kevin J. Killea, commanding general, MCIWEST-MCB, Camp Pendleton, during exercise Semper Durus 17 on Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 13, 2017. Semper Durus is a regional command post exercise and is comprised of a series of field training scenarios designed to improve regional command and control, enhance interagency coordination, and improve installation capabilities to respond to, and recover from, a crisis event and validate the installation mission assurance all-hazard plan. - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Alexander H. Miller, senior watch officer, Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, far right, gives the 'Commander's Update Brief' to U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Kevin J. Killea, commanding general, MCIWEST-MCB, Camp Pendleton, during exercise Semper Durus 17 on Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 13, 2017. Semper Durus is a regional command post exercise and is comprised of a series of field training scenarios designed to improve regional command and control, enhance interagency coordination, and improve installation capabilities to respond to, and recover from, a crisis event and validate the installation mission assurance all-hazard plan.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Brandon Garton, a student taking the Joint Humanitarian Operations Course, presents for a group exercise during the course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2023. The course trains and prepares the II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element to become a Joint Task Force–Capable headquarters; able to rapidly organize and establish command and control of joint forces to effectively execute potential humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions in joint and multinational environments. - U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Brandon Garton, a student taking the Joint Humanitarian Operations Course, presents for a group exercise during the course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2023. The course trains and prepares the II Marine Expeditionary Force Command Element to become a Joint Task Force–Capable headquarters; able to rapidly organize and establish command and control of joint forces to effectively execute potential humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions in joint and multinational environments.

Republic of Korea Marines and U.S. Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct a simulated amphibious assault during Ssang Young 23. Celebrating the 70th anniversary of the U.S.-ROK Alliance, Ssang Young 2023 strengthens the Alliance through bilateral, joint training, contributing toward the ROK’s combined defense of the Korean Peninsula and increasing the readiness of the U.S.-ROK Alliance. - Republic of Korea Marines and U.S. Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct a simulated amphibious assault during Ssang Young 23. Celebrating the 70th anniversary of the U.S.-ROK Alliance, Ssang Young 2023 strengthens the Alliance through bilateral, joint training, contributing toward the ROK’s combined defense of the Korean Peninsula and increasing the readiness of the U.S.-ROK Alliance.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Trent Holton, a transmissions system operator with 9th Communication Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, sights into the common laser range finder-integrated capability system as part of a call-for-fire practical application class during the ANGLICO Basic Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 8, 2023. ABC graduates will depart as technically and tactically proficient Marines capable of making sound decisions in complex operational situations and with a baseline understanding of ANGLICO mission-specific skill sets, regardless of military occupational specialty. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Trent Holton, a transmissions system operator with 9th Communication Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, sights into the common laser range finder-integrated capability system as part of a call-for-fire practical application class during the ANGLICO Basic Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 8, 2023. ABC graduates will depart as technically and tactically proficient Marines capable of making sound decisions in complex operational situations and with a baseline understanding of ANGLICO mission-specific skill sets, regardless of military occupational specialty.

U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, in Fallujah, 7 April 2004. - U.S. Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Marine Captain Philip Treglia calls in a danger close airstrike while his Marines fire against terrorists operating in Fallujah, Iraq. Marines Corporal Philip Dennis (kneeling), Corporal Butterfield , LCpl Buskard, Cpl Justin Smith April 7, 2004. U.S. Marines suspended offensive operations after isolating and systematically clearing portions of the city. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Apprendi)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George W. Smith, Jr., commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, discusses the current state of I MEF with I MEF Command Element Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans and current personnel during the 20th anniversary OIF commemoration at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 20-21, 2023. The event commemorated this chapter of I MEF’s lineage and accomplishments, provided OIF veterans an opportunity to reflect on the past 20 years, and to re-connect at the home of I MEF with currently serving command element personnel. - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George W. Smith, Jr., commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, discusses the current state of I MEF with I MEF Command Element Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans and current personnel during the 20th anniversary OIF commemoration at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 20-21, 2023. The event commemorated this chapter of I MEF’s lineage and accomplishments, provided OIF veterans an opportunity to reflect on the past 20 years, and to re-connect at the home of I MEF with currently serving command element personnel.

U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct boat patrols during a littoral movement as part of MEU Exercise III on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 11, 2023. BLT 1/6 continues to enhance rigid-hulled inflatable boat readiness through conducting on and off and shore to shore drills prior to deployment. The 11m RHIBs provide a high-speed, long –range, low-signature combatant craft capable of projecting and recovering Marines for a variety of missions - U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct boat patrols during a littoral movement as part of MEU Exercise III on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 11, 2023. BLT 1/6 continues to enhance rigid-hulled inflatable boat readiness through conducting on and off and shore to shore drills prior to deployment. The 11m RHIBs provide a high-speed, long –range, low-signature combatant craft capable of projecting and recovering Marines for a variety of missions.

U.S. Marines pose for a photo with the 2023 Marine Corps Marksmanship Competition East pistol match trophy at the Base Theater on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 17, 2023. The winners of this year’s pistol match were Marine Corps Security Forces Training Company Team 1. - U.S. Marines pose for a photo with the 2023 Marine Corps Marksmanship Competition East pistol match trophy at the Base Theater on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 17, 2023. The winners of this year’s pistol match were Marine Corps Security Forces Training Company Team 1.