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Beginning in 2015, Marines conducting civil-military operations will have the ability to collect, process, analyze and share information using software from a smartphone. The mobile application, called MARCIMS, was developed by Marine Corps Systems Command and through science and technology funding from the Office of Naval Research. - Beginning in 2015, Marines conducting civil-military operations will have the ability to collect, process, analyze and share information using software from a smartphone. The mobile application, called MARCIMS, was developed by Marine Corps Systems Command and through science and technology funding from the Office of Naval Research.

An F/A-18 Hornet takes off from Andersen Air Force Base Oct. 1 during Forager Fury III. The overarching training exercise,which emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability while training within the Marianas Island range complex. The aircraft is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - An F/A-18 Hornet takes off from Andersen Air Force Base Oct. 1 during Forager Fury III. The overarching training exercise,which emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability while training within the Marianas Island range complex. The aircraft is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

Philippine and U.S. Marines assault their objective during a mechanized assault as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 at Naval Education Training Command, Zambales, Luzon, Philippines, Oct. 5. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S Marine and Navy forces focused on strengthening the partnership and relationships between the two nations across a range of military operations including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations.. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade. The Philippine Marines are with 4th Marine Company, Battalion Landing Team - 9. - Philippine and U.S. Marines assault their objective during a mechanized assault as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 at Naval Education Training Command, Zambales, Luzon, Philippines, Oct. 5. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S Marine and Navy forces focused on strengthening the partnership and relationships between the two nations across a range of military operations including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations.. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade. The Philippine Marines are with 4th Marine Company, Battalion Landing Team - 9.

Critical skills operators with Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command exit the back of a KC-130J Super Hercules during bilateral static-line jump training over a drop zone near Memphis, Tenn., Sept. 29, 2014. Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 supported the MARSOC Marines who were conducting long-range raid training. - Critical skills operators with Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command exit the back of a KC-130J Super Hercules during bilateral static-line jump training over a drop zone near Memphis, Tenn., Sept. 29, 2014. Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 supported the MARSOC Marines who were conducting long-range raid training.

U.S. Marines and Sailors man the rails aboard the USS America in route to San Francisco Fleet Week on Oct. 6, 2014. San Francisco Fleet Week hosted Marines and Sailors that showcased the capabilities of natural disaster relief that the military offers in case of emergencies. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Leah Agler/ Released) - U.S. Marines and Sailors man the rails aboard the USS America in route to San Francisco Fleet Week on Oct. 6, 2014. San Francisco Fleet Week hosted Marines and Sailors that showcased the capabilities of natural disaster relief that the military offers in case of emergencies. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Leah Agler/ Released)

Staff Sgt. Milton Donatus, center left, and Lance Cpl. Dale A. Lane, center right, supervise Palau national law enforcement officers during live-fire training with the M9A1 9 mm service pistol Sept. 16 in Irai, Palau. The training gave the Palauan police officers a chance to learn Marine Corps marksmanship fundamentals and familiarized them with the weapon. The training is part of exercise T-AKE 14-2, a maritime pre-positioned force, multi-country theater security cooperation event that deploys from Okinawa aboard the USNS Sacagawea to conduct training exercises. Donatus is from Ngaraard, Palau, and is the training chief with Combat Logistics Detachment 379, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Lane is from Newton Falls, Ohio, and is a military policeman with the detachment. - Staff Sgt. Milton Donatus, center left, and Lance Cpl. Dale A. Lane, center right, supervise Palau national law enforcement officers during live-fire training with the M9A1 9 mm service pistol Sept. 16 in Irai, Palau. The training gave the Palauan police officers a chance to learn Marine Corps marksmanship fundamentals and familiarized them with the weapon. The training is part of exercise T-AKE 14-2, a maritime pre-positioned force, multi-country theater security cooperation event that deploys from Okinawa aboard the USNS Sacagawea to conduct training exercises. Donatus is from Ngaraard, Palau, and is the training chief with Combat Logistics Detachment 379, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Lane is from Newton Falls, Ohio, and is a military policeman with the detachment.

1st Lt. William D. Comiskey (left) with brother Barrett O. Comiskey, sister-in-law JoJo and nieces Tara and Sora pose for a photo during a surprise family reunion at a mechanized assault that was part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 here, Oct. 5. Barrett traveled with his family from Taipei, Taiwan to the Philippines to surprise his brother after they had not seen each other for over a year. William is an Amphibious Assault Vehicle platoon commander with Company I, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S Marine and Navy forces. - 1st Lt. William D. Comiskey (left) with brother Barrett O. Comiskey, sister-in-law JoJo and nieces Tara and Sora pose for a photo during a surprise family reunion at a mechanized assault that was part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 here, Oct. 5. Barrett traveled with his family from Taipei, Taiwan to the Philippines to surprise his brother after they had not seen each other for over a year. William is an Amphibious Assault Vehicle platoon commander with Company I, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S Marine and Navy forces.

A tank with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division cruises through the muddy field of Landing Zone Flacon aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., during a breaching exercise Oct. 1, 2014. The tanks moved past an obstacle in order to assault a simulated enemy on the other side of that obstacle. The purpose of the three-day field exercise was for the Marines to work on tank fundamentals in the offense and defense. - A tank with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division cruises through the muddy field of Landing Zone Flacon aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., during a breaching exercise Oct. 1, 2014. The tanks moved past an obstacle in order to assault a simulated enemy on the other side of that obstacle. The purpose of the three-day field exercise was for the Marines to work on tank fundamentals in the offense and defense.

U. S. Marines with Co. K, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, attached to 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit walk toward an MV-22B Osprey, belonging to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), during Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 aboard the USS Peleliu, at sea, Oct. 2, 2014. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities to include disaster relief and contingency operations. - U. S. Marines with Co. K, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, attached to 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit walk toward an MV-22B Osprey, belonging to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), during Amphibious Landing Exercise 15 aboard the USS Peleliu, at sea, Oct. 2, 2014. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities to include disaster relief and contingency operations.

Philippine and U.S. Marines simulate a beach landing from combat rubber raiding crafts onto a small island off the coast of Palawan, Philippines, Oct. 2, 2014 during Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. The amphibious assault and boat raids were conducted by U.S. Marines to complete a certification exercise being held in conjunction with PHIBLEX 15. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. The AFP Marines are with 12th Marine Battalion, Philippine Marine Corps, and the U.S. Marines are with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Philippine and U.S. Marines simulate a beach landing from combat rubber raiding crafts onto a small island off the coast of Palawan, Philippines, Oct. 2, 2014 during Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. The amphibious assault and boat raids were conducted by U.S. Marines to complete a certification exercise being held in conjunction with PHIBLEX 15. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. The AFP Marines are with 12th Marine Battalion, Philippine Marine Corps, and the U.S. Marines are with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

A Marine with 2nd Maintenance Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, drives an M88A2 Hercules Recovery Vehicle during a vehicle recovery training operation aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 29, 2014. Approximately 20 Marines conducted a training operation to recover an immobilized Hercules using a pulley and winch system. Marines and sailors with the battalion conducted a field exercise Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2014, to reinforce their capability to accomplish battalion-level, mission essential tasks. - A Marine with 2nd Maintenance Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, drives an M88A2 Hercules Recovery Vehicle during a vehicle recovery training operation aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 29, 2014. Approximately 20 Marines conducted a training operation to recover an immobilized Hercules using a pulley and winch system. Marines and sailors with the battalion conducted a field exercise Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2014, to reinforce their capability to accomplish battalion-level, mission essential tasks.

Marines with Combat Logistics Detachment 379 march in the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Peleliu ceremony Sept. 15 at Peleliu Elementary School in the Republic of Palau. The event brought together members of the Palau community, World War II veterans who served in the Battle of Peleliu, elected officials of Palau and representatives the U.S. military to remember the landing that took place 70 years earlier. The Marines with CLD-379 came to the Republic of Palau aboard the USNS Sacagawea as part of T-AKE 14-2, a maritime pre-positioned force, multi-country theater security cooperation event that deploys from Okinawa to conduct training exercises and TSC events. The Marines are from CLD-379, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines with Combat Logistics Detachment 379 march in the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Peleliu ceremony Sept. 15 at Peleliu Elementary School in the Republic of Palau. The event brought together members of the Palau community, World War II veterans who served in the Battle of Peleliu, elected officials of Palau and representatives the U.S. military to remember the landing that took place 70 years earlier. The Marines with CLD-379 came to the Republic of Palau aboard the USNS Sacagawea as part of T-AKE 14-2, a maritime pre-positioned force, multi-country theater security cooperation event that deploys from Okinawa to conduct training exercises and TSC events. The Marines are from CLD-379, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

A film crew from Marine Corps Recruiting Command record an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter landing aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Oct. 1 to highlight the newest addition to the Marine Corps’ arsenal. The Pilot Training Center and Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 are slated to kick off the first F-35B pilot training course, also known as the F-35B Safe for Solo course, aboard Fightertown, Oct. 6. - A film crew from Marine Corps Recruiting Command record an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter landing aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Oct. 1 to highlight the newest addition to the Marine Corps’ arsenal. The Pilot Training Center and Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 are slated to kick off the first F-35B pilot training course, also known as the F-35B Safe for Solo course, aboard Fightertown, Oct. 6.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 8, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Fwd.) travel in a convoy to the wreckage of a downed French F-2000 Mirage aircraft for a recovery operation northwest of Forward Operating Base Delaram in Helmand province, Afghanistan, May 27, 2011. Marines with the unit assisted French forces in support of International Security Assistance Force operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jeff Kaus/Released) - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 8, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Fwd.) travel in a convoy to the wreckage of a downed French F-2000 Mirage aircraft for a recovery operation northwest of Forward Operating Base Delaram in Helmand province, Afghanistan, May 27, 2011. Marines with the unit assisted French forces in support of International Security Assistance Force operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jeff Kaus/Released)

Marines with Black Sea Rotational Force 14 look on as Romanian armored vehicles engage targets downrange during a live-fire range at Cincu-14 September 25. The exercise was designed to promote interoperability between both countries with military-to-military training, live-fire ranges, fire support coordination training and sharing tactics, techniques and procedures. - Marines with Black Sea Rotational Force 14 look on as Romanian armored vehicles engage targets downrange during a live-fire range at Cincu-14 September 25. The exercise was designed to promote interoperability between both countries with military-to-military training, live-fire ranges, fire support coordination training and sharing tactics, techniques and procedures.

Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets are parked during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base Sept. 30. The aircraft are from multiple squadrons and were used in close air support, forward air controller training, air interdiction, air-to-air missions, defensive counter-air and offensive counter-air training events. The overarching training exercise involving 1,300 personnel emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground support on a unit level to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability within the Marianas Island range complex. - Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets are parked during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base Sept. 30. The aircraft are from multiple squadrons and were used in close air support, forward air controller training, air interdiction, air-to-air missions, defensive counter-air and offensive counter-air training events. The overarching training exercise involving 1,300 personnel emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground support on a unit level to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability within the Marianas Island range complex.

Marines with Charley Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, render honors to Brig. Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commander, Regional Command and Marine Expeditionary Brigade–Afghanistan, during the battalion’s transfer of authority ceremony aboard Tactical Base Dwyer, Afghanistan, Oct. 1, 2014. The ceremony signified the battalion’s transfer of authority of the base and their area of responsibility to 3rd Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, a U.S. Army command based out of Fort Hood, Texas. The ceremony also meant the end of combat operations for 7th Marines – a regiment which has been actively supporting Operation Enduring Freedom for several years. - Marines with Charley Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, render honors to Brig. Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commander, Regional Command and Marine Expeditionary Brigade–Afghanistan, during the battalion’s transfer of authority ceremony aboard Tactical Base Dwyer, Afghanistan, Oct. 1, 2014. The ceremony signified the battalion’s transfer of authority of the base and their area of responsibility to 3rd Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, a U.S. Army command based out of Fort Hood, Texas. The ceremony also meant the end of combat operations for 7th Marines – a regiment which has been actively supporting Operation Enduring Freedom for several years.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Andy Muller aims in during a dry-fire drill at a close-quarters tactics course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 25, 2014. Muller is a receiver-transmitter operator with Bravo Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. These Marines are enhancing their skills before compositing with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in October. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Andy Muller aims in during a dry-fire drill at a close-quarters tactics course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 25, 2014. Muller is a receiver-transmitter operator with Bravo Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. These Marines are enhancing their skills before compositing with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in October.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyrone Kimbrough, a corpsman with Alpha Company, 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, checks a simulated casualty for injuries during a medical exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 24, 2014. During the exercise, the corpsmen practiced stabilizing casualties for evacuation under stressful conditions to imitate situations they may experience in combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Olivia C. McDonald/Released) - Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyrone Kimbrough, a corpsman with Alpha Company, 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, checks a simulated casualty for injuries during a medical exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 24, 2014. During the exercise, the corpsmen practiced stabilizing casualties for evacuation under stressful conditions to imitate situations they may experience in combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Olivia C. McDonald/Released)

Cpl. Michael P. Hinds, from Queens, N.Y., works on an FA-18 Hornet Sept. 29 during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base. He is doing routine maintenance to ensure the safety of the pilot. Hinds is an airframes mechanic with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released) - Cpl. Michael P. Hinds, from Queens, N.Y., works on an FA-18 Hornet Sept. 29 during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base. He is doing routine maintenance to ensure the safety of the pilot. Hinds is an airframes mechanic with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released)

Eric Rodriguez [bottom right], from the Marine Corps volleyball team, tips the ball to teammate Jorge Salazar [middle left] during the Marine Corps vs Air Force volleyball game at the 2014 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., Sept. 29. The Marines won the first out of three matches with a final of 25-23. - Eric Rodriguez [bottom right], from the Marine Corps volleyball team, tips the ball to teammate Jorge Salazar [middle left] during the Marine Corps vs Air Force volleyball game at the 2014 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., Sept. 29. The Marines won the first out of three matches with a final of 25-23.

Lance Corporal Colin Stegal, an ammo technician with Ammo Company, 1st Supply Battalion, fires a M1014 shotgun aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 15, 2014. The range required Marines to demonstrate proficiency with the M1014 shotgun. The live-fire ranges were part of an annual training package to keep the Marines confident and proficient with each weapon system. - Lance Corporal Colin Stegal, an ammo technician with Ammo Company, 1st Supply Battalion, fires a M1014 shotgun aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 15, 2014. The range required Marines to demonstrate proficiency with the M1014 shotgun. The live-fire ranges were part of an annual training package to keep the Marines confident and proficient with each weapon system.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Maj. Howard Kreamer, right, talks with Philippine Marine Sgt. Maj. Jamie Ardiente in Puerto Princesa, Palawan Sept. 29 after the opening ceremony for Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. Kreamer is the sergeant major of 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, 3rd MEB, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Ardiente is the 3rd Marine Brigade Sergeant Major, Armed Forces of the Philippines. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Maj. Howard Kreamer, right, talks with Philippine Marine Sgt. Maj. Jamie Ardiente in Puerto Princesa, Palawan Sept. 29 after the opening ceremony for Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. Kreamer is the sergeant major of 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, 3rd MEB, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Ardiente is the 3rd Marine Brigade Sergeant Major, Armed Forces of the Philippines.

A Marine with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment recites a practical phrase used to simulate the time it takes to send a burst of live fire at KR-5 live-fire range aboard Schofield Barracks, Sept. 19, 2014 as part of the Island Viper exercise. The exercise is meant to prepare Marines for real-world combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Harley Thomas) - A Marine with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment recites a practical phrase used to simulate the time it takes to send a burst of live fire at KR-5 live-fire range aboard Schofield Barracks, Sept. 19, 2014 as part of the Island Viper exercise. The exercise is meant to prepare Marines for real-world combat. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Harley Thomas)

Entry-level Marines with Company A, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry-West completed their culminating event at Range 408 here, Sept. 25. The range includes and implements the different infantry occupational specialties at the company level. Medium/light machine guns and mortars suppress the enemy first, providing the supporting fire for a squad size element of riflemen and assaultmen to assault the enemies’ position. - Entry-level Marines with Company A, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry-West completed their culminating event at Range 408 here, Sept. 25. The range includes and implements the different infantry occupational specialties at the company level. Medium/light machine guns and mortars suppress the enemy first, providing the supporting fire for a squad size element of riflemen and assaultmen to assault the enemies’ position.

Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6. - Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6.

A rifleman with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, hikes to his company objective during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 23, 2014. The MCCRE is designed to be a final evaluation to ensure the Marines are prepared to be deployed. The battalion is slated to deploy as the ground combat element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit next year. - A rifleman with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, hikes to his company objective during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 23, 2014. The MCCRE is designed to be a final evaluation to ensure the Marines are prepared to be deployed. The battalion is slated to deploy as the ground combat element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit next year.

Marine Infantry Officer Course students await a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter fast rope drill on the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Auxiliary Landing Field 2, Wednesday, August 18, 2014. The fast rope training instilled in these Marines the skills necessary to complete IOC’s final exercise, Talon Reach IV. - Marine Infantry Officer Course students await a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter fast rope drill on the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Auxiliary Landing Field 2, Wednesday, August 18, 2014. The fast rope training instilled in these Marines the skills necessary to complete IOC’s final exercise, Talon Reach IV.

Private Sarah Trull, a fiscal clerk with Marine Air Group 39, puts together an Arctic shelter Aug. 29, 2014, aboard Camp Pendleton, California. The system is an ultra-lightweight, rapidly deployable shelter that offers military forces the necessary infrastructure to operate in austere cold-weather locations. The system is being used for training exercises in Bridgeport, California, and is slated to be integrated into exercises early next year. - Private Sarah Trull, a fiscal clerk with Marine Air Group 39, puts together an Arctic shelter Aug. 29, 2014, aboard Camp Pendleton, California. The system is an ultra-lightweight, rapidly deployable shelter that offers military forces the necessary infrastructure to operate in austere cold-weather locations. The system is being used for training exercises in Bridgeport, California, and is slated to be integrated into exercises early next year.

A U.S. Marine Critical Skills Operator with 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, releases his ruck sack from his body, preparing to land during a double-bag static line parachute training course , Aug 26, 2014, in rural Arizona. The course was an introduction to the High Altitude, High Opening insertion method utilized by Special Operations Forces. - A U.S. Marine Critical Skills Operator with 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, releases his ruck sack from his body, preparing to land during a double-bag static line parachute training course , Aug 26, 2014, in rural Arizona. The course was an introduction to the High Altitude, High Opening insertion method utilized by Special Operations Forces.

British soldiers of the 5, 6, and 7 Military Intelligence Battalions, 1 Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Brigade, board buses to return to the barracks at the conclusion of Exercise Phoenix Odyssey on Sept. 17, 2014. The week-long field exercise, conducted alongside Marines of 2nd Intelligence Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, provided scenario driven tests of their ability to integrate intelligence practices. The two forces have been training in a Military Operations in Urban Terrain facility on Camp Lejeune since the field portion began Sept 11, 2014. - British soldiers of the 5, 6, and 7 Military Intelligence Battalions, 1 Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Brigade, board buses to return to the barracks at the conclusion of Exercise Phoenix Odyssey on Sept. 17, 2014. The week-long field exercise, conducted alongside Marines of 2nd Intelligence Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, provided scenario driven tests of their ability to integrate intelligence practices. The two forces have been training in a Military Operations in Urban Terrain facility on Camp Lejeune since the field portion began Sept 11, 2014.

Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, conduct a Gator Square after disembarking the USS Whidbey Island off the coast of Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. A Gator Square is completed when the assault amphibious vehicles form a square out at sea and maneuver back onto the ship. - Marines with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, conduct a Gator Square after disembarking the USS Whidbey Island off the coast of Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. A Gator Square is completed when the assault amphibious vehicles form a square out at sea and maneuver back onto the ship.

Marines with Charlie Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, shoot at pop-up targets during a course of fire aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Sept. 2, 2014. The Marines spent the entire day shooting an unknown distance range with the M4 Carbine and the M249 squad automatic weapon to better themselves at estimating distances and eliminating a target. - Marines with Charlie Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, shoot at pop-up targets during a course of fire aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia, Sept. 2, 2014. The Marines spent the entire day shooting an unknown distance range with the M4 Carbine and the M249 squad automatic weapon to better themselves at estimating distances and eliminating a target.

Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1 Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise. - Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California, Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise.

Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise. - Marines from 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force recently conducted training aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 18 to Sept. 17, 2014. The month-long exercise trained Marines in many facets all centered on mountaineering skills and high-altitude warfare. Assault climbing, rappelling, horse and mule packing, and small unit movements were all included during the exercise.

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Marines load a diver propulsion device into a combat rubber raiding craft Sept. 20 at U.S. Naval Base Guam during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The device aids the Marines conducting night infiltration. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities, which provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are reconnaissance men with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines load a diver propulsion device into a combat rubber raiding craft Sept. 20 at U.S. Naval Base Guam during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The device aids the Marines conducting night infiltration. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities, which provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are reconnaissance men with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marine infantrymen make their way to a compound held by Guam Army National Guard who are acting as an opposing force Sept. 20 during the island seizure portion of Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian’s North Field. The Marines were transported from Okinawa to Guam and from there to Tinian. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are with Company A, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. D. A. Walters/ Released) - Marine infantrymen make their way to a compound held by Guam Army National Guard who are acting as an opposing force Sept. 20 during the island seizure portion of Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian’s North Field. The Marines were transported from Okinawa to Guam and from there to Tinian. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are with Company A, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. D. A. Walters/ Released)

Two Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fire an AT4-Rocket Launcher at a target during a live-fire training exercise on Range P28 aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Sept. 5. The range was built specifically for the unit as a training aid to increase overall unit readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jorden M. Wells / Released) - Two Marines with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fire an AT4-Rocket Launcher at a target during a live-fire training exercise on Range P28 aboard Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Sept. 5. The range was built specifically for the unit as a training aid to increase overall unit readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jorden M. Wells / Released)

Brigadier Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, left, commander, Regional Command and Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan, awards Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Van Horn, a corpsman with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device during an award ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 17, 2014. Van Horn received the award for heroic achievement while being a first responder to Marine casualties after their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. - Brigadier Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, left, commander, Regional Command and Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan, awards Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Van Horn, a corpsman with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device during an award ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 17, 2014. Van Horn received the award for heroic achievement while being a first responder to Marine casualties after their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device.

Lance Cpl. Carlos Morris, admin specialist, Headquarters Battalion, helps camper, Chase Neiberger learn how to shoot an archery bow at Camp Ronald McDonald in Mountain Center, Calif. on Sept. 13, 2014. Desert Arc has provided disabled adults with care and life skills for approximately 55 years. - Lance Cpl. Carlos Morris, admin specialist, Headquarters Battalion, helps camper, Chase Neiberger learn how to shoot an archery bow at Camp Ronald McDonald in Mountain Center, Calif. on Sept. 13, 2014. Desert Arc has provided disabled adults with care and life skills for approximately 55 years.

Recruits of India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, stand at parade rest as they await the senior drill Instructor’s inspection at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 5. During the inspection it was crucial for the recruits to remain calm, keep their eyes forward while at attention and answer the questions they were asked. It was a sign of confidence and bearing - two traits drill instructors were seeking. - Recruits of India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, stand at parade rest as they await the senior drill Instructor’s inspection at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 5. During the inspection it was crucial for the recruits to remain calm, keep their eyes forward while at attention and answer the questions they were asked. It was a sign of confidence and bearing - two traits drill instructors were seeking.

Marines set up concertina wire around a weather observation compound in preparation of Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian, North Marianas Islands. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released) - Marines set up concertina wire around a weather observation compound in preparation of Valiant Shield 2014 at Tinian, North Marianas Islands. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released)

Cpls. Daniel R. Roca, left, and Jarrod R. Allen check the oil on a 7-ton truck Aug. 30 during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-2 at the Yausubetsu Maneuver Area in Hokkaido, Japan. Marines working at the administrative logistics ordnance command maintained vehicles and equipment for three batteries during ARTP 14-2. Roca is from Germantown, Maryland, and an automotive organizational mechanic with 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Allen is from Amarillo, Texas, and a motor vehicle operator with the battalion. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Manning/Released) - Cpls. Daniel R. Roca, left, and Jarrod R. Allen check the oil on a 7-ton truck Aug. 30 during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-2 at the Yausubetsu Maneuver Area in Hokkaido, Japan. Marines working at the administrative logistics ordnance command maintained vehicles and equipment for three batteries during ARTP 14-2. Roca is from Germantown, Maryland, and an automotive organizational mechanic with 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Allen is from Amarillo, Texas, and a motor vehicle operator with the battalion. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Manning/Released)

Sgt. Rico L. Rose clears the back-blast area during a simulated PL-87 Stinger missile shoot during a 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion’s section leader course and team leader course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 11, 2014. Rose is a gunner with the battalion and a native of Appomattox, Va. - Sgt. Rico L. Rose clears the back-blast area during a simulated PL-87 Stinger missile shoot during a 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion’s section leader course and team leader course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 11, 2014. Rose is a gunner with the battalion and a native of Appomattox, Va.

Sgt. Steven Johnson (wearing woodland gortex jacket), a quality assurance representative with Marine Fighter Attacks Squadron 122 and Fairbanks, Alaska native, assists a maintenance Marine with pre-flight turning of one of the squadron's F/A-18C Hornets, Sept. 11, 2014, aboard Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 is conducting unit level training in Alaska as part of Exercise Distant Frontier. - Sgt. Steven Johnson (wearing woodland gortex jacket), a quality assurance representative with Marine Fighter Attacks Squadron 122 and Fairbanks, Alaska native, assists a maintenance Marine with pre-flight turning of one of the squadron's F/A-18C Hornets, Sept. 11, 2014, aboard Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 is conducting unit level training in Alaska as part of Exercise Distant Frontier.

Lance Cpl. Alexander Stensland, left, signals good to go to Lt. Col. Roger T. McDuffie who is piloting an AV-8B Harrier on the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. Stensland is an aircraft powerline mechanic and McDuffie is the commanding officer of Marine Attack Squadron 223. Stensland is a native of Hastings, Minn. - Lance Cpl. Alexander Stensland, left, signals good to go to Lt. Col. Roger T. McDuffie who is piloting an AV-8B Harrier on the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 10, 2014. Stensland is an aircraft powerline mechanic and McDuffie is the commanding officer of Marine Attack Squadron 223. Stensland is a native of Hastings, Minn.

Major Gen. Vincent A. Coglianese, 1st Marine Logistics Group Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Leonardo Pinto Morales, commander of the 7th Division of the Colombian Army, Maj. Gen. Lawrence D. Nicholson, 1st Marine Division commanding general, Col. Phil Frietze, G-3 operations officer, 1st MLG, and other leaders within the Colombian Armed Forces pose for a picture as part of the Colombian Observance Exchange Program Sept. 2, 2014 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif. More than thirty officers of the Colombian School of Advanced Warfighting visited 1st MLG to allow members of both the U.S. Marine Corps and Colombian Armed Forces to build an understanding of services, share best practices and strengthen camaraderie and interoperability. - Major Gen. Vincent A. Coglianese, 1st Marine Logistics Group Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Leonardo Pinto Morales, commander of the 7th Division of the Colombian Army, Maj. Gen. Lawrence D. Nicholson, 1st Marine Division commanding general, Col. Phil Frietze, G-3 operations officer, 1st MLG, and other leaders within the Colombian Armed Forces pose for a picture as part of the Colombian Observance Exchange Program Sept. 2, 2014 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif. More than thirty officers of the Colombian School of Advanced Warfighting visited 1st MLG to allow members of both the U.S. Marine Corps and Colombian Armed Forces to build an understanding of services, share best practices and strengthen camaraderie and interoperability.

Lance Corporal Antonio C. Galloway (center), an aircraft communications, navigation, electrical and weapon systems technician with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron [VMM 264], poses for a photo with General James F. Amos (right center), 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps and Sgt. Maj. Micheal P. Barrett, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps (center left) and other service members with VMM 264 aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, Sept. 3, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin) - Lance Corporal Antonio C. Galloway (center), an aircraft communications, navigation, electrical and weapon systems technician with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron [VMM 264], poses for a photo with General James F. Amos (right center), 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps and Sgt. Maj. Micheal P. Barrett, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps (center left) and other service members with VMM 264 aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, Sept. 3, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin)

Governor Hirokazu Nakaima, left, shakes hands with Col. Christopher B. Snyder,Sept. 6 during a day of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training on and around Miyako Island. The drills marked the first time members of the Okinawa Prefectural Government hosted a series of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills with full-fledged participation by the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marines. Nakaima is the Governor of Okinawa Prefecture and Snyder is the deputy commander with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. - Governor Hirokazu Nakaima, left, shakes hands with Col. Christopher B. Snyder,Sept. 6 during a day of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training on and around Miyako Island. The drills marked the first time members of the Okinawa Prefectural Government hosted a series of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills with full-fledged participation by the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marines. Nakaima is the Governor of Okinawa Prefecture and Snyder is the deputy commander with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific.