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U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force and Security Element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, ride in a CH-53 Super Stallion during interoperability training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 20, 2014. Interop gives the 15th MEU’s MRF and Security Element an opportunity to work together and support each other in preparation for a deployment in the spring. - U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force and Security Element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, ride in a CH-53 Super Stallion during interoperability training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 20, 2014. Interop gives the 15th MEU’s MRF and Security Element an opportunity to work together and support each other in preparation for a deployment in the spring.

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Cpl. Tyler Raffaele, an entry team breecher with the Special Reaction Team, Marine Corps Police Department, Security Emergency Services Battalion, performs a scan of his surroundings immediately following a course of fire during a quarterly SRT qualification at Range 300, Nov. 20. The scan is a tactic used to remain aware of your surroundings and break tunnel vision in combat. - Cpl. Tyler Raffaele, an entry team breecher with the Special Reaction Team, Marine Corps Police Department, Security Emergency Services Battalion, performs a scan of his surroundings immediately following a course of fire during a quarterly SRT qualification at Range 300, Nov. 20. The scan is a tactic used to remain aware of your surroundings and break tunnel vision in combat.

Lance Cpl. Ronald Hinson from Heath Springs, South Carolina, competes in the push up challenge portion of the Shanghai Commanders’ Cup Nov. 14 at Camp Schwab. The meet tested the Marines in nine categories, ranging from fun events like softball and sumo wrestling to pull-up and push-up competitions. Every event was performed in a team setting further reinforcing camaraderie and cohesion. Hinson is a cyber-network operator with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Hinson from Heath Springs, South Carolina, competes in the push up challenge portion of the Shanghai Commanders’ Cup Nov. 14 at Camp Schwab. The meet tested the Marines in nine categories, ranging from fun events like softball and sumo wrestling to pull-up and push-up competitions. Every event was performed in a team setting further reinforcing camaraderie and cohesion. Hinson is a cyber-network operator with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program.

Sergeant Jay Schenkel II speaks with soldiers with the Burundi National Defense Force (BNDF) after conducting practical application drills for improvised explosive device sweeping while patrolling in Bujumbura, Burundi, Nov. 6, 2014. Schenkel is an explosive ordnance disposal technician with SPMAGTF-Crisis Response-Africa training alongside the BNDF, teaching basic infantry tactics, engineering, logistical support, countering-IED, lifesaving techniques and convoy operations to prepare them for an upcoming deployment in support of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin) - Sergeant Jay Schenkel II speaks with soldiers with the Burundi National Defense Force (BNDF) after conducting practical application drills for improvised explosive device sweeping while patrolling in Bujumbura, Burundi, Nov. 6, 2014. Schenkel is an explosive ordnance disposal technician with SPMAGTF-Crisis Response-Africa training alongside the BNDF, teaching basic infantry tactics, engineering, logistical support, countering-IED, lifesaving techniques and convoy operations to prepare them for an upcoming deployment in support of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shawn Valosin)

Military policemen approach a barricaded suspect during an active shooter reaction drill Nov. 20 at Camp Courtney’s Commissary. The military policemen had the opportunity to use the exchange and the commissary to train in a setting where they could potentially to operate. The Marines are with the Special Reaction Team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Isaac Ibarra/Released) - Military policemen approach a barricaded suspect during an active shooter reaction drill Nov. 20 at Camp Courtney’s Commissary. The military policemen had the opportunity to use the exchange and the commissary to train in a setting where they could potentially to operate. The Marines are with the Special Reaction Team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Isaac Ibarra/Released)

While teaching a counter-IED class, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician points out a simulated IED hidden in a tree to soldiers with the Uganda People’s Defense Force in Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 4, 2014. EOD Technicians with SPMAGTF-Crisis Response-Africa are working alongside the UPDF, helping hone their skills in countering-improvised explosive devices during a logistics and engineering training engagement. - While teaching a counter-IED class, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician points out a simulated IED hidden in a tree to soldiers with the Uganda People’s Defense Force in Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 4, 2014. EOD Technicians with SPMAGTF-Crisis Response-Africa are working alongside the UPDF, helping hone their skills in countering-improvised explosive devices during a logistics and engineering training engagement.

U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response - Africa and Spanish soldiers with Transport Helicopter Battalion 5, prepare to sling a truck to the bottom of the Spanish Army CH-47 Chinook, at Colmenar de Viejo, Spain, Nov. 19, 2014. The long distance transportation of vehicles by air can be used when conducting a disaster relief mission where vehicles are needed but key road and bridges are destroyed. The training conducted by the Marines and soldiers enhanced mission readiness and help build relationships between the two militaries. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl Jeraco Jenkins/Released). - U.S. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response - Africa and Spanish soldiers with Transport Helicopter Battalion 5, prepare to sling a truck to the bottom of the Spanish Army CH-47 Chinook, at Colmenar de Viejo, Spain, Nov. 19, 2014. The long distance transportation of vehicles by air can be used when conducting a disaster relief mission where vehicles are needed but key road and bridges are destroyed. The training conducted by the Marines and soldiers enhanced mission readiness and help build relationships between the two militaries. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl Jeraco Jenkins/Released).

Marines with 2nd Platoon, Force Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force, conduct helocast operations off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 19, 2014. Helocast operations allow recon Marines to move from air to land in a quick and stealthy manner. - Marines with 2nd Platoon, Force Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force, conduct helocast operations off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 19, 2014. Helocast operations allow recon Marines to move from air to land in a quick and stealthy manner.

Marines with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, install the deck portion of a 12-bay, double-story, medium-girder bridge at Landing Zone Dove on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 19, 2014. Marines finished the construction in less than six hours. The training reinforced Marines skills in building a bridge that can support the weight of a tank. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Kirstin Merrimarahajara/released) - Marines with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, install the deck portion of a 12-bay, double-story, medium-girder bridge at Landing Zone Dove on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 19, 2014. Marines finished the construction in less than six hours. The training reinforced Marines skills in building a bridge that can support the weight of a tank. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Kirstin Merrimarahajara/released)

A Multi-Purpose Canine handler, with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, fast-ropes with his canine aboard Stone Bay, Oct. 1, 2014. As MARSOC continues to demonstrate their capabilities and versatilities, MPC handlers with the command are preparing themselves and their canines for new areas of operation, they’ll be deploying to. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Steven Fox/Released) - A Multi-Purpose Canine handler, with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, fast-ropes with his canine aboard Stone Bay, Oct. 1, 2014. As MARSOC continues to demonstrate their capabilities and versatilities, MPC handlers with the command are preparing themselves and their canines for new areas of operation, they’ll be deploying to. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Steven Fox/Released)

U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, prepare to board MV-22B Ospreys from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363, SPMAGTF-CR-CC, during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel rehearsal drill in the U.S. Central Command area of operations, Oct. 25, 2014. The Marines and sailors of SPMAGTF-CR-CC serve as an expeditionary, crisis-response force tasked with supporting operations, contingencies and security cooperation in Marine Corps Forces Central Command and CENTCOM. - U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, prepare to board MV-22B Ospreys from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363, SPMAGTF-CR-CC, during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel rehearsal drill in the U.S. Central Command area of operations, Oct. 25, 2014. The Marines and sailors of SPMAGTF-CR-CC serve as an expeditionary, crisis-response force tasked with supporting operations, contingencies and security cooperation in Marine Corps Forces Central Command and CENTCOM.

Marines load an M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzer Nov. 4 at the North Fuji Maneuver Area during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. ARTP is a regularly scheduled training event that strengthens combat readiness of U.S. Marine forces, and supports the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the Unit Deployment Program. - Marines load an M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzer Nov. 4 at the North Fuji Maneuver Area during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. ARTP is a regularly scheduled training event that strengthens combat readiness of U.S. Marine forces, and supports the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the Unit Deployment Program.

Greeley Wells Jr., Barbara Kenney and Elizabeth Wells display letters and challenge coins they received from Maj. Sung Kim, the commanding officer of Marine Corps Recruiting Station Seattle, on behalf of 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James Amos following a memorial service for their father, 1st Lt. George Greeley Wells, in Bellevue, Washington, Oct. 25, 2014. Greeley served as the adjutant of 2nd Battalion, 28th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division, during World War II’s famed Battle of Iwo Jima. He carried the first flag that was raised on Mt. Suribachi, a moment later captured by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal in the war’s most famous photo. In the 1990s and early 2000s, he was featured in James Bradley’s best-selling book “Flags of Our Fathers” and “War Stories with Oliver North,” produced by the retired Marine and Fox News correspondent. Greeley, a native of Lake Forest, Illinois, moved with his family from Harding Township, New Jersey, to Bellevue in the early 2000s. At 94, he passed away in his sleep here Sept. 22, 2014. - Greeley Wells Jr., Barbara Kenney and Elizabeth Wells display letters and challenge coins they received from Maj. Sung Kim, the commanding officer of Marine Corps Recruiting Station Seattle, on behalf of 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James Amos following a memorial service for their father, 1st Lt. George Greeley Wells, in Bellevue, Washington, Oct. 25, 2014. Greeley served as the adjutant of 2nd Battalion, 28th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division, during World War II’s famed Battle of Iwo Jima. He carried the first flag that was raised on Mt. Suribachi, a moment later captured by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal in the war’s most famous photo. In the 1990s and early 2000s, he was featured in James Bradley’s best-selling book “Flags of Our Fathers” and “War Stories with Oliver North,” produced by the retired Marine and Fox News correspondent. Greeley, a native of Lake Forest, Illinois, moved with his family from Harding Township, New Jersey, to Bellevue in the early 2000s. At 94, he passed away in his sleep here Sept. 22, 2014.

Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel prepares to give his coin to Cpl. Janelle A. Lopez, assaultman with the Anti-Armor Section, Weapons Company, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, after observing the Marines conduct a Mk-153 shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapon live-fire during his visit to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 18, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Alicia R. Leaders/Released) - Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel prepares to give his coin to Cpl. Janelle A. Lopez, assaultman with the Anti-Armor Section, Weapons Company, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, after observing the Marines conduct a Mk-153 shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapon live-fire during his visit to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 18, 2014. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Alicia R. Leaders/Released)

Marines with Company A, 1st Tank Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conduct a convoy to a staging area in preparation for the Tank Mechanized Assault Course during Integrated Training Exercise 1-15 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 2, 2014. Company A Marines worked with infantry, mortars and air support during their assault. - Marines with Company A, 1st Tank Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conduct a convoy to a staging area in preparation for the Tank Mechanized Assault Course during Integrated Training Exercise 1-15 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 2, 2014. Company A Marines worked with infantry, mortars and air support during their assault.

Sgt. Mike Saephanh, a field radio operator with Headquarters Battery, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment from Sacramento, Calif., inserts an M-67 fragmentation grenade into his grenade pouch during a hand grenade training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 18, 2014. The event helped Marines of 5/11 refresh their basic combat skills and maintain their combat mindsets. - Sgt. Mike Saephanh, a field radio operator with Headquarters Battery, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment from Sacramento, Calif., inserts an M-67 fragmentation grenade into his grenade pouch during a hand grenade training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 18, 2014. The event helped Marines of 5/11 refresh their basic combat skills and maintain their combat mindsets.

U.S. Marines, assigned to 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, Echo Company, and Royal Brunei Land Forces conduct Military Operations in Urban Terrain training during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei 2014 at Camp Penanjong. In its 20th year, CARAT is an annual, bilateral exercise series with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the armed forces of nine partner nations including, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Timor-Leste. - U.S. Marines, assigned to 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, Echo Company, and Royal Brunei Land Forces conduct Military Operations in Urban Terrain training during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei 2014 at Camp Penanjong. In its 20th year, CARAT is an annual, bilateral exercise series with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the armed forces of nine partner nations including, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Timor-Leste.

Cpl. Caleb Owens, from Melbourne, Iowa, prepares to fast-rope out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft with his military working dog, Dixie, Oct. 27 at Camp Hansen. After familiarizing themselves with fast-roping techniques by executing them with no gear, the Marines worked their way up to wearing full gear and then with their military working dogs as well. Owens is a military policeman, and a working dog handler. He and Dixie are with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF. - Cpl. Caleb Owens, from Melbourne, Iowa, prepares to fast-rope out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft with his military working dog, Dixie, Oct. 27 at Camp Hansen. After familiarizing themselves with fast-roping techniques by executing them with no gear, the Marines worked their way up to wearing full gear and then with their military working dogs as well. Owens is a military policeman, and a working dog handler. He and Dixie are with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF.

A Japanese volunteer from the Oshima Fire Department and U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Robert C. Austin quickly offload humanitarian aid and disaster relief supplies from an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft Nov. 8 during Tomodachi relief exercise 15.2 near Izu Oshima Island, Tokyo Metropolis Prefecture, Japan. TREX 15.2 is an annual, bilateral training exercise that simulates humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in the Japan while strengthening U.S. and Japanese alliance. During the offload, approximately 600 pounds of food, water, blankets, and medical supplies were transported from the Osprey to a waiting truck in less than eight minutes. Austin, from Grand Ledge, Michigan, is an Osprey crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - A Japanese volunteer from the Oshima Fire Department and U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Robert C. Austin quickly offload humanitarian aid and disaster relief supplies from an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft Nov. 8 during Tomodachi relief exercise 15.2 near Izu Oshima Island, Tokyo Metropolis Prefecture, Japan. TREX 15.2 is an annual, bilateral training exercise that simulates humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in the Japan while strengthening U.S. and Japanese alliance. During the offload, approximately 600 pounds of food, water, blankets, and medical supplies were transported from the Osprey to a waiting truck in less than eight minutes. Austin, from Grand Ledge, Michigan, is an Osprey crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Almost 70 years later families, friends, service members and the Honorable Senator Mark R. Warner gathered at the National Museum of the Marine Corps to remember fallen Montford Marine, Cpl. Julius B. Foxx, by awarding his family with the Congressional Gold Medal, Nov. 14. Nearly seven decades ago, as our Nation was at war, more than 2,000 African-American men enlisted in the United States Marine Corps with Foxx being one of many Marines who served with distinction during some of World War II’s bloodiest struggles after completing arduous and segregated basic training at Montford Point Camp. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Sgt. Jose D. Lujano/Released) - Almost 70 years later families, friends, service members and the Honorable Senator Mark R. Warner gathered at the National Museum of the Marine Corps to remember fallen Montford Marine, Cpl. Julius B. Foxx, by awarding his family with the Congressional Gold Medal, Nov. 14. Nearly seven decades ago, as our Nation was at war, more than 2,000 African-American men enlisted in the United States Marine Corps with Foxx being one of many Marines who served with distinction during some of World War II’s bloodiest struggles after completing arduous and segregated basic training at Montford Point Camp. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Sgt. Jose D. Lujano/Released)

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1st Lt. Julian D’orsaneo (rear center) begins his class on in-depth communications planning. Communications Marines from Black Sea Rotational Force held a two-day military-to-military training exercise Nov. 12-13 in Constanta, Romania with members of the Romanian Armed Forces to discuss communication tactics, techniques, and procedures. - 1st Lt. Julian D’orsaneo (rear center) begins his class on in-depth communications planning. Communications Marines from Black Sea Rotational Force held a two-day military-to-military training exercise Nov. 12-13 in Constanta, Romania with members of the Romanian Armed Forces to discuss communication tactics, techniques, and procedures.

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An F/A-18 hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 awaits maintenance during Exercise Max Thunder 14-2, aboard Kunsan Air Base, Republic Of Korea, Nov. 14, 2014. Max Thunder is a semi-annual training event consisting of composite and coalition flight training between the U.S. military and the ROK Force with a main focus on air combat tactics, close air support, and combat search and rescue. - An F/A-18 hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 awaits maintenance during Exercise Max Thunder 14-2, aboard Kunsan Air Base, Republic Of Korea, Nov. 14, 2014. Max Thunder is a semi-annual training event consisting of composite and coalition flight training between the U.S. military and the ROK Force with a main focus on air combat tactics, close air support, and combat search and rescue.

Service members and civilians attended a sunset ceremony honoring the CH-46E Sea Knight at the Pacific Aviation Museum aboard Ford Island, Nov. 6, 2014. The Marine Corps will finish phasing out the Sea Knight by next year. The aircraft at the ceremony is now part of the museum’s aircraft collection. - Service members and civilians attended a sunset ceremony honoring the CH-46E Sea Knight at the Pacific Aviation Museum aboard Ford Island, Nov. 6, 2014. The Marine Corps will finish phasing out the Sea Knight by next year. The aircraft at the ceremony is now part of the museum’s aircraft collection.

Marines with Tank Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, conduct a casualty evacuation drill on the outside trails of Landing Zone Hawk at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 13, 2014. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Marines with Tank Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, conduct a casualty evacuation drill on the outside trails of Landing Zone Hawk at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 13, 2014. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

Royal Netherlands Korps Mariniers wait for orders to assault a combat town in Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina on Nov. 7, 2014. This was one of the many training events of Bold Alligator 2014. A large-scale amphibious exercise on the East Coast designed to improve U.S. and allied forces response to a myriad of different crises. - Royal Netherlands Korps Mariniers wait for orders to assault a combat town in Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina on Nov. 7, 2014. This was one of the many training events of Bold Alligator 2014. A large-scale amphibious exercise on the East Coast designed to improve U.S. and allied forces response to a myriad of different crises.

A Marine with Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, guards his post during a full-ship security drill aboard the cargo and ammunition ship USNS Medgar Evers, Nov. 4, 2014. The Marines worked in concert with civilians aboard the ship to test expeditionary resupply capabilities during exercise Bold Alligator 14, a training operation designed to test the Navy-Marine Corps team’s ability to conduct crisis response operations. - A Marine with Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, guards his post during a full-ship security drill aboard the cargo and ammunition ship USNS Medgar Evers, Nov. 4, 2014. The Marines worked in concert with civilians aboard the ship to test expeditionary resupply capabilities during exercise Bold Alligator 14, a training operation designed to test the Navy-Marine Corps team’s ability to conduct crisis response operations.

Corporal James Lafrance, a Reconnaissance Marine with Force Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, shoots targets with a shotgun during a physical training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 7, 2014. The eight-mile hike had multiple events along the route to test the Marines’ proficiency with various weapon systems. - Corporal James Lafrance, a Reconnaissance Marine with Force Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, shoots targets with a shotgun during a physical training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 7, 2014. The eight-mile hike had multiple events along the route to test the Marines’ proficiency with various weapon systems.

A Marine from Black Sea Rotational Force 14 explains how to use an AT4 to Romanian soldiers during Platinum Lynx 15.3. Marines and Sailors on BSRF 14 worked hand-in-hand with Romanian Land Forces during exercise Platinum Lynx 15.3 in Focsani, Romania. Training included weapons familiarization classes, live-fire ranges and call-for-fire ranges, among more. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Young/released) - A Marine from Black Sea Rotational Force 14 explains how to use an AT4 to Romanian soldiers during Platinum Lynx 15.3. Marines and Sailors on BSRF 14 worked hand-in-hand with Romanian Land Forces during exercise Platinum Lynx 15.3 in Focsani, Romania. Training included weapons familiarization classes, live-fire ranges and call-for-fire ranges, among more. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Young/released)

A CH-53E Super Stallion prepares to land Nov. 5 during a simulated tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise as part of exercise Blue Chromite 15 at LZ Dodo in the Central Training Area. The landing zone was near combat town, the last known location of the downed aircraft crew members. Upon arriving in combat town, the Marines had to engage opposing forces and track the crew members’ location. The CH-53E is with HMH-XXX, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - A CH-53E Super Stallion prepares to land Nov. 5 during a simulated tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise as part of exercise Blue Chromite 15 at LZ Dodo in the Central Training Area. The landing zone was near combat town, the last known location of the downed aircraft crew members. Upon arriving in combat town, the Marines had to engage opposing forces and track the crew members’ location. The CH-53E is with HMH-XXX, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Assault amphibious vehicles with 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division drive ashore at Onslow Beach, N.C., during beach operations training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 4, 2014, as part of Exercise Bold Alligator 14. Bold Alligator 14 is a scenario-driven exercise designed to improve naval amphibious core competence, increase proficiency in operations ranging from foreign disaster relief to limited force entry, and help grow interoperability with coalition forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. James R. Smith/Released) - Assault amphibious vehicles with 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division drive ashore at Onslow Beach, N.C., during beach operations training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 4, 2014, as part of Exercise Bold Alligator 14. Bold Alligator 14 is a scenario-driven exercise designed to improve naval amphibious core competence, increase proficiency in operations ranging from foreign disaster relief to limited force entry, and help grow interoperability with coalition forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. James R. Smith/Released)

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, detain a protester during a crisis-response training event Nov. 4 at Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, Indiana as part of Exercise Bold Alligator 2014. During the event, protestors gathered outside the embassy's gates, picketing and rioting, to cause a heighten state of alertness for the Marines proving security at the site. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, detain a protester during a crisis-response training event Nov. 4 at Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, Indiana as part of Exercise Bold Alligator 2014. During the event, protestors gathered outside the embassy's gates, picketing and rioting, to cause a heighten state of alertness for the Marines proving security at the site.

U.S. Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), celebrate the 239th birthday of the United States Marine Corps during sustainment training in D'Arta Plage, Djibouti, Nov. 10. The 11th MEU is deployed as a theater reserve and crisis response force throughout U.S. Central Command and 5th Fleet area of responsibility. - U.S. Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), celebrate the 239th birthday of the United States Marine Corps during sustainment training in D'Arta Plage, Djibouti, Nov. 10. The 11th MEU is deployed as a theater reserve and crisis response force throughout U.S. Central Command and 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

Lance Cpl. Tyler Clinton, a tiltrotor airframe mechanic with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, uses a blow dryer to dry a carbon fiber patch on an MV-22B Osprey in the hangar bay of the USS Iwo Jima, Oct. 31, 2014. Maintenance on 24th MEU aircraft is near constant in order to maintain a high state of flight readiness. The 24th MEU is participating in Bold Alligator, an exercise intended to improve Navy and Marine Corps amphibious core competencies. - Lance Cpl. Tyler Clinton, a tiltrotor airframe mechanic with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, uses a blow dryer to dry a carbon fiber patch on an MV-22B Osprey in the hangar bay of the USS Iwo Jima, Oct. 31, 2014. Maintenance on 24th MEU aircraft is near constant in order to maintain a high state of flight readiness. The 24th MEU is participating in Bold Alligator, an exercise intended to improve Navy and Marine Corps amphibious core competencies.

Marines with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, conduct a direct fire exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 3, 2014. The training re-established specific close-quarters firing skills with the Marines, ensuring successful future combat operations. - Marines with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, conduct a direct fire exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 3, 2014. The training re-established specific close-quarters firing skills with the Marines, ensuring successful future combat operations.

Marines practice manuevering through a course during the 4th Annual Quantico Combat Shooting Match Oct. 29, at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. The competition was hosted by the Combat Shooting Team, Weapons Training Battalion as part of a developing program to encourage commands throughout the Marine Corps to support marksmanship competitions. - Marines practice manuevering through a course during the 4th Annual Quantico Combat Shooting Match Oct. 29, at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. The competition was hosted by the Combat Shooting Team, Weapons Training Battalion as part of a developing program to encourage commands throughout the Marine Corps to support marksmanship competitions.

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Role players protest outside of a simulated embassy while a Marine with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division stands guard at a Military Operations on Urban Terrain town aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 30, 2014. The Marines provided security for the embassy as part of an embassy reinforcement operation in conjunction with Exercise Bold Alligator 2014. Bold Alligator is a scenario-driven, simulation-supported, amphibious assault exercise and is the largest exercise held on the East Coast. The exercise is scheduled to be conducted through Nov. 10. The battalion is participating in the exercise to prepare for the unit’s upcoming deployment as the ground combat element for the Black Sea Rotational Force. - Role players protest outside of a simulated embassy while a Marine with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division stands guard at a Military Operations on Urban Terrain town aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 30, 2014. The Marines provided security for the embassy as part of an embassy reinforcement operation in conjunction with Exercise Bold Alligator 2014. Bold Alligator is a scenario-driven, simulation-supported, amphibious assault exercise and is the largest exercise held on the East Coast. The exercise is scheduled to be conducted through Nov. 10. The battalion is participating in the exercise to prepare for the unit’s upcoming deployment as the ground combat element for the Black Sea Rotational Force.

Two Combat Rubber Raiding Craft drop out the back of a KC-130J Super Hercules during an aerial delivery mission at near Hurlburt Air Force Base, Fla., Oct. 24, 2014. The training was conducted in support of United States Special Operations Command. The Hercules belongs to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252. - Two Combat Rubber Raiding Craft drop out the back of a KC-130J Super Hercules during an aerial delivery mission at near Hurlburt Air Force Base, Fla., Oct. 24, 2014. The training was conducted in support of United States Special Operations Command. The Hercules belongs to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252.

U.S. Marines with Lima Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, boost a Marine over a wall during a vertical-assault raid course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 29, 2014. The course teaches vertical assault techniques and the importance of working together as a cohesive unit during a raid. - U.S. Marines with Lima Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, boost a Marine over a wall during a vertical-assault raid course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 29, 2014. The course teaches vertical assault techniques and the importance of working together as a cohesive unit during a raid.

Marines from Scout Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, participated in a training and readiness exercise to true their rifles aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 22-24, 2014. The three-day training event helped prepare Marines for upcoming combined arms exercises and potential combat operations abroad. - Marines from Scout Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, participated in a training and readiness exercise to true their rifles aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 22-24, 2014. The three-day training event helped prepare Marines for upcoming combined arms exercises and potential combat operations abroad.

Marines attack their objective Nov. 2 during exercise Blue Chromite 15 in the Central Training Area. Blue Chromite demonstrates the Navy and Marine Corps’ expeditionary capabilities from the sea. Marines rode in assault amphibious vehicles in a ship-to-shore assault from the USS Germantown to Oura Wan Beach. After securing their first objective Marines advanced inland to the CTA. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marines Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Abbey Perria/Released) - Marines attack their objective Nov. 2 during exercise Blue Chromite 15 in the Central Training Area. Blue Chromite demonstrates the Navy and Marine Corps’ expeditionary capabilities from the sea. Marines rode in assault amphibious vehicles in a ship-to-shore assault from the USS Germantown to Oura Wan Beach. After securing their first objective Marines advanced inland to the CTA. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marines Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Abbey Perria/Released)

Capt. Orlando R. Samudio, left, and Capt. Mike A. Jordan pilot a KC-130J Super Hercules during tactical navigation training above Hunter Army Airfield, Ga., Oct. 23, 2014. The training allows pilots to hone skills through disparate terrain to avoid ground threats. Samudio and Jordan are both naval aviators with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252. Samudio is a native of Austin, Texas and Jordan is a native to Decatur, Texas. - Capt. Orlando R. Samudio, left, and Capt. Mike A. Jordan pilot a KC-130J Super Hercules during tactical navigation training above Hunter Army Airfield, Ga., Oct. 23, 2014. The training allows pilots to hone skills through disparate terrain to avoid ground threats. Samudio and Jordan are both naval aviators with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252. Samudio is a native of Austin, Texas and Jordan is a native to Decatur, Texas.

Marines, veterans and their families gathered at the Yemassee train station for the 2nd Annual Yemassee Train Depot Reunion Oct. 16. Yemassee was the first stop for eager recruits seeking to earn the title United States Marine before reaching Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island from 1915 to 1965. Many Marines that fought in wars and conflicts spanning WWI through Vietnam began their transformation at the train station. - Marines, veterans and their families gathered at the Yemassee train station for the 2nd Annual Yemassee Train Depot Reunion Oct. 16. Yemassee was the first stop for eager recruits seeking to earn the title United States Marine before reaching Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island from 1915 to 1965. Many Marines that fought in wars and conflicts spanning WWI through Vietnam began their transformation at the train station.

Artillery Marines with Gun 3, Battery A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, prepare to send a round down range during a fire mission at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 29, 2014. Marines of Battery A conducted a live-fire artillery shoot, Oct. 28-30, 2014. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Artillery Marines with Gun 3, Battery A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, prepare to send a round down range during a fire mission at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 29, 2014. Marines of Battery A conducted a live-fire artillery shoot, Oct. 28-30, 2014. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

Lance Cpl. James Whearry, a field artilleryman with 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fires the M777A2 Lightweight Howitzer at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., during exercise Twisted Sister, a battalion fire exercise at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., Oct. 25, 2014. Field artillerymen receive various call for fire scenarios, some requiring them to fire a certain number of rounds in a given time, others require precision shooting involving each gun in the battery as well as other batteries combined. - Lance Cpl. James Whearry, a field artilleryman with 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fires the M777A2 Lightweight Howitzer at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., during exercise Twisted Sister, a battalion fire exercise at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., Oct. 25, 2014. Field artillerymen receive various call for fire scenarios, some requiring them to fire a certain number of rounds in a given time, others require precision shooting involving each gun in the battery as well as other batteries combined.

Marines with 3rd Marine Air Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, used the remains of a CH-46E Sea Knight to represent a crashed UH-1Y Huey during a mishap drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27, 2014. The drill provided first responders the opportunity to practice every step of responding to a disabled aircraft including coordinating military and civilian agencies and rescuing the crew of the aircraft. - Marines with 3rd Marine Air Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, used the remains of a CH-46E Sea Knight to represent a crashed UH-1Y Huey during a mishap drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27, 2014. The drill provided first responders the opportunity to practice every step of responding to a disabled aircraft including coordinating military and civilian agencies and rescuing the crew of the aircraft.