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Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, perform last minute checks to their equipment aboard a C130J during intentional water training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina June 24, 2015. The training prepared the Marines for situations that require them to dive in an aquatic environment. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, perform last minute checks to their equipment aboard a C130J during intentional water training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina June 24, 2015. The training prepared the Marines for situations that require them to dive in an aquatic environment.

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 secure a beam, which is intended to simulate a 6,000 pound cargo load, to a CH-53E Super Stallion operated by Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 16, 2015. HMHT-302 teamed up with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 to give pilots and landing support specialists familiarization with operating equipment and performing external operations, skills that allow them to deliver and recover supplies and gear quickly and efficiently in deployed settings. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Fatmeh Saad/Released) - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 secure a beam, which is intended to simulate a 6,000 pound cargo load, to a CH-53E Super Stallion operated by Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 16, 2015. HMHT-302 teamed up with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 to give pilots and landing support specialists familiarization with operating equipment and performing external operations, skills that allow them to deliver and recover supplies and gear quickly and efficiently in deployed settings. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Fatmeh Saad/Released)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hospitalman Dante Johnson, a hospital corpsman with Headquarters and Support Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin and a native of Chicago, Illinois, removes an adult patient from an overturned car during a Remote Pre-Hospital Trauma and Disaster Course May 13 at the Marrara Fire Department, Northern Territory, Australia. The course refreshed the corpsmen’s basic casualty care response skills and provided them with lectures, skills labs and real world practical application addressing mass casualty care in remote areas. The MRF-D deployment enables Marines and sailors to effectively train, exercise and operate with partner to enhance regional security and build the capacity to respond more rapidly to natural disasters and crises throughout the region (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released) - Hospitalman Dante Johnson, a hospital corpsman with Headquarters and Support Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin and a native of Chicago, Illinois, removes an adult patient from an overturned car during a Remote Pre-Hospital Trauma and Disaster Course May 13 at the Marrara Fire Department, Northern Territory, Australia. The course refreshed the corpsmen’s basic casualty care response skills and provided them with lectures, skills labs and real world practical application addressing mass casualty care in remote areas. The MRF-D deployment enables Marines and sailors to effectively train, exercise and operate with partner to enhance regional security and build the capacity to respond more rapidly to natural disasters and crises throughout the region (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Reba James/Released)

Head Quarters Marine Corps Special Duty Assignments Screening Team infographic and flow chart. - Head Quarters Marine Corps Special Duty Assignments Screening Team infographic and flow chart.

Marines with the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force depart the gorge crossing area during a Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity assessment aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Bridgeport, California, May 5, 2015. 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 the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force depart the gorge crossing area during a Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity assessment aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Bridgeport, California, May 5, 2015. 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.

A critical skills operator with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command searches the horizon for the objective zone from the ramp of a KC-130J Super Hercules during parachute training above Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 6, 2015. CSOs were supported by Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. Aerial deliveries are one of the mission essential skills VMGR-252 provides in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force. - A critical skills operator with U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command searches the horizon for the objective zone from the ramp of a KC-130J Super Hercules during parachute training above Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 6, 2015. CSOs were supported by Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. Aerial deliveries are one of the mission essential skills VMGR-252 provides in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy Sailors with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit and the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp man the rails of the Wasp as it leaves Port Everglades, Fla., May 10 at the conclusion of Fleet Week 2015. Marines and Sailors of the MEU, from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, participated in Fleet Week Port Everglades May 4-10. The purpose of Fleet Week was to showcase the strength and capabilities of the Navy and Marine Corps team through tours, static displays and community relations events, and to provide the public the opportunity to meet and interact with Marines and Sailors. - U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy Sailors with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit and the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp man the rails of the Wasp as it leaves Port Everglades, Fla., May 10 at the conclusion of Fleet Week 2015. Marines and Sailors of the MEU, from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, participated in Fleet Week Port Everglades May 4-10. The purpose of Fleet Week was to showcase the strength and capabilities of the Navy and Marine Corps team through tours, static displays and community relations events, and to provide the public the opportunity to meet and interact with Marines and Sailors.

Spanish, U.S. and British Royal Marines pose for a group photo aboard the USNS Spearhead, March 22, 2015. This multinational group of Marines spent three months traveling to four different African countries working with the militaries of Ghana, Angola, Cameroon and Gabon on basic infantry skills, marksmanship, small-boat operations and search and seizure techniques. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Kenan O'Connor/Released) - Spanish, U.S. and British Royal Marines pose for a group photo aboard the USNS Spearhead, March 22, 2015. This multinational group of Marines spent three months traveling to four different African countries working with the militaries of Ghana, Angola, Cameroon and Gabon on basic infantry skills, marksmanship, small-boat operations and search and seizure techniques. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Kenan O'Connor/Released)

Two Marines from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, sight in on their targets during a Designated Marksman Course with the Division Combat Skills Center, April 6-17, 2015, aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. The Marines learned range calls, wind estimation, and other basics of long range marksmanship. - Two Marines from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, sight in on their targets during a Designated Marksman Course with the Division Combat Skills Center, April 6-17, 2015, aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. The Marines learned range calls, wind estimation, and other basics of long range marksmanship.

Private First Class Brenen Tischner, left, a motor transportation operator, with 1st Transport Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, attaches a fuel hose to an AMK-23 Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement with the help of two other Marines during routine refueling maintenance on the outskirts of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, April 10, 2015. Tischner inspects vehicles like this each day to ensure optimum reliability for logistic units supporting the bi-annual, seven-week long Weapons Tactics and Instructor course at MCAS Yuma and the surrounding area. WTI, hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron 1, provides advanced tactical training to certify Marine pilots as weapons and tactics instructors, preparing them to serve in key training officer billets in the fleet Marine force. (Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Cody Haas/Released) - Private First Class Brenen Tischner, left, a motor transportation operator, with 1st Transport Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, attaches a fuel hose to an AMK-23 Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement with the help of two other Marines during routine refueling maintenance on the outskirts of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, April 10, 2015. Tischner inspects vehicles like this each day to ensure optimum reliability for logistic units supporting the bi-annual, seven-week long Weapons Tactics and Instructor course at MCAS Yuma and the surrounding area. WTI, hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron 1, provides advanced tactical training to certify Marine pilots as weapons and tactics instructors, preparing them to serve in key training officer billets in the fleet Marine force. (Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Cody Haas/Released)

Marines with Company C, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, provide security for their team during a simulated casualty evacuation aboard Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, April 10, 2015. Marines with the company operated in remote locations of the wilderness and provided surveillance of the surrounding area to paint the commander a picture of the battlefield. During the patrol, the reconnaissance men navigated through several kilometers of thick brush and provided surveillance on numerous named areas of interest. The patrol was one of many exercises the company will complete as part of a combat readiness evaluation in preparation for an upcoming deployment.(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Joseph Scanlan / released) - Marines with Company C, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, provide security for their team during a simulated casualty evacuation aboard Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, April 10, 2015. Marines with the company operated in remote locations of the wilderness and provided surveillance of the surrounding area to paint the commander a picture of the battlefield. During the patrol, the reconnaissance men navigated through several kilometers of thick brush and provided surveillance on numerous named areas of interest. The patrol was one of many exercises the company will complete as part of a combat readiness evaluation in preparation for an upcoming deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Joseph Scanlan / released)

Plane captain Lance Cpl. Joseph Crescenzo, of Ocala, Fla., signals stand clear to maintainers while directing an AV-8B Harrier assigned to the Bulldogs of Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 223 at Key West, Florida March 24. Naval Air Station Key West is a state-of-the-art facility for air-to-air combat fighter aircraft of all military services and provides world-class pierside support to U.S. and foreign naval vessels. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brian Morales/ Released) - Plane captain Lance Cpl. Joseph Crescenzo, of Ocala, Fla., signals stand clear to maintainers while directing an AV-8B Harrier assigned to the Bulldogs of Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 223 at Key West, Florida March 24. Naval Air Station Key West is a state-of-the-art facility for air-to-air combat fighter aircraft of all military services and provides world-class pierside support to U.S. and foreign naval vessels. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brian Morales/ Released)

More than 5,000 marchers participated the Bataan Memorial Death March at White Sand Missile Range, New Mexico March 22. The event is the 73rd commemoration of the Bataan Death March when more than 60,000 American and Filipino prisoners of war endured a 60-mile forced march. These men endured severe physical abuse at the hands of their captors the Japanese Imperial army, many succumbing to the wounds and abuse they endured on the trek. - More than 5,000 marchers participated the Bataan Memorial Death March at White Sand Missile Range, New Mexico March 22. The event is the 73rd commemoration of the Bataan Death March when more than 60,000 American and Filipino prisoners of war endured a 60-mile forced march. These men endured severe physical abuse at the hands of their captors the Japanese Imperial army, many succumbing to the wounds and abuse they endured on the trek.

A 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion critical skills operator waits to enter a pool at the Army Special Forces Underwater Operations Training School, Feb. 16, 2015, in Key West, Fla. The operator’s team spent a week in Key West practicing various maritime operations skill sets, further solidifying the development of their techniques, tactics and procedures and their standard operating procedures. - A 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion critical skills operator waits to enter a pool at the Army Special Forces Underwater Operations Training School, Feb. 16, 2015, in Key West, Fla. The operator’s team spent a week in Key West practicing various maritime operations skill sets, further solidifying the development of their techniques, tactics and procedures and their standard operating procedures.

James "Jim" Krodel, a Marine veteran and survivor of the battle for Iwo Jima from Quitman, Texas, poses for a photo during the Iwo Jima Battle Survivors and Family Association 70th anniversary reunion at Wichita Falls, Texas, February 14, 2015. Krodel served in the Marines 1944-1946. - James "Jim" Krodel, a Marine veteran and survivor of the battle for Iwo Jima from Quitman, Texas, poses for a photo during the Iwo Jima Battle Survivors and Family Association 70th anniversary reunion at Wichita Falls, Texas, February 14, 2015. Krodel served in the Marines 1944-1946.

Marines work through the night to move the forward command element March 5 during Dragon Fire Exercise 15-2 at Pohakuloa Training Area, Kona, Hawaii. Night movement provides an edge over the enemy, and provides Marines with cover and concealment during their move. The Marines are with Headquarters Battery, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines work through the night to move the forward command element March 5 during Dragon Fire Exercise 15-2 at Pohakuloa Training Area, Kona, Hawaii. Night movement provides an edge over the enemy, and provides Marines with cover and concealment during their move. The Marines are with Headquarters Battery, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Two crew chiefs refuel their Bell UH-1Y Venom during Marine Wing Support Squadron 272’s forward arming and refueling point in Engelhard, N.C., Feb. 12, 2015. The squadron’s FARP exercise is designed to get the Marines to refuel landed helicopters as quickly as possible, so the aircrafts can quickly take off after filling up. - Two crew chiefs refuel their Bell UH-1Y Venom during Marine Wing Support Squadron 272’s forward arming and refueling point in Engelhard, N.C., Feb. 12, 2015. The squadron’s FARP exercise is designed to get the Marines to refuel landed helicopters as quickly as possible, so the aircrafts can quickly take off after filling up.

Lance Cpl. Christian J. Hernandez (left) and Lance Cpl. Giovonni Mejia fire the M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzer Jan. 31 to support units engaged in the mechanized assault course at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms during Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. “Fighting with combined arms is on of the most important parts of the (Marine Air-Ground Task Force),” said Lt. Col. Neil J. Owens. Giovonni, a Dallas, Texas native and Hernandez, a Buford, Georgia, native are both cannoneers with 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force for ITX 2-15, as part of the ground combat element for SPMAGTF-4. Owens, a Medford, Massechusetts, native, is the commanding officer for 3rd Bn., 12th Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. William Hester/ Released) - Lance Cpl. Christian J. Hernandez (left) and Lance Cpl. Giovonni Mejia fire the M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzer Jan. 31 to support units engaged in the mechanized assault course at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms during Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. “Fighting with combined arms is on of the most important parts of the (Marine Air-Ground Task Force),” said Lt. Col. Neil J. Owens. Giovonni, a Dallas, Texas native and Hernandez, a Buford, Georgia, native are both cannoneers with 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force for ITX 2-15, as part of the ground combat element for SPMAGTF-4. Owens, a Medford, Massechusetts, native, is the commanding officer for 3rd Bn., 12th Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. William Hester/ Released)

Marines and Sailors with the Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, II Marine Expeditionary Force practice their decontamination skills on a volunteer during a training evolution at the Guardian Center in Perry, Ga. on February 4, 2015. The training aims to provide the Marines and Sailors with realistic crisis response scenarios. (Photo by: Sgt. Fareeza Ali/USMC) - Marines and Sailors with the Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, II Marine Expeditionary Force practice their decontamination skills on a volunteer during a training evolution at the Guardian Center in Perry, Ga. on February 4, 2015. The training aims to provide the Marines and Sailors with realistic crisis response scenarios. (Photo by: Sgt. Fareeza Ali/USMC)

Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., speaks to Marines of Company A and Weapons Company during their final field exercise at Range G6 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 3, 2015. Dunford visited GCEITF Marines to observe their training and discuss the future of the Corps, and how the Marines are helping shape a better Marine Corps. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Alicia R. Leaders/Released) - Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., speaks to Marines of Company A and Weapons Company during their final field exercise at Range G6 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 3, 2015. Dunford visited GCEITF Marines to observe their training and discuss the future of the Corps, and how the Marines are helping shape a better Marine Corps. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Alicia R. Leaders/Released)

Lance Cpl. Louis Bardel, a mortarman with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis-Response, Detachment A dusts a chandelier inside the Church of San Nicolo in Catania, Italy, Jan. 31. More than 20 Marines and Sailors assigned to SPMAGTF-CR-AF travelled from Naval Air Station Sigonella to Catania to help beautify the nearly 1,000-year-old church. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Lucas J. Hopkins/Released) - Lance Cpl. Louis Bardel, a mortarman with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis-Response, Detachment A dusts a chandelier inside the Church of San Nicolo in Catania, Italy, Jan. 31. More than 20 Marines and Sailors assigned to SPMAGTF-CR-AF travelled from Naval Air Station Sigonella to Catania to help beautify the nearly 1,000-year-old church. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Lucas J. Hopkins/Released)

Motor Transport Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Battalion 26, Headquarters Regiment, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, conduct a simulated convoy throughout the hills aboard Bridgeport, California, Jan. 14, 2015. The Marines learned how to operate the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and the small unit support vehicles in mountainous terrain during classroom instruction and practical application. - Motor Transport Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Battalion 26, Headquarters Regiment, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, conduct a simulated convoy throughout the hills aboard Bridgeport, California, Jan. 14, 2015. The Marines learned how to operate the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and the small unit support vehicles in mountainous terrain during classroom instruction and practical application.

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Chuck Hagel, secretary of defense, speaks to Marines and Sailors aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 13. Marines and Sailors also had the opportunity to ask questions, take photos with Hagel and receive coins. - Chuck Hagel, secretary of defense, speaks to Marines and Sailors aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 13. Marines and Sailors also had the opportunity to ask questions, take photos with Hagel and receive coins.

Gunnery Sgt. Michael Woods, electronic key management system manager with Marine Wing Communications Squadron (MWCS) 38, shoots an M16A4 rifle on Range 109 during Back in the Saddle training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 7. Marines practiced marksmanship skills all while in full combat gear including Kevlar and flak jacket to make the training seem as real as possible. - Gunnery Sgt. Michael Woods, electronic key management system manager with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 38, shoots an M16A4 rifle on Range 109 during Back in the Saddle training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 7. Marines practiced marksmanship skills all while in full combat gear including Kevlar and flak jacket to make the training seem as real as possible.

U.S. Marine Capt. Erich Lloyd, 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company forward air controller deployed from Camp Pendleton, Calif., directs team movements during an exercise urban combat scenario during exercise Mountain Roundup 2013 at Juniper Butte Range, about 70 miles from Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, Oct. 8, 2013. Lloyd, a prior-enlisted crew chief, used U.S. Navy AV-8B Harriers and Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15SG Strike Eagles air assets to neutralize enemy forces. - U.S. Marine Capt. Erich Lloyd, 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company forward air controller deployed from Camp Pendleton, Calif., directs team movements during an exercise urban combat scenario during exercise Mountain Roundup 2013 at Juniper Butte Range, about 70 miles from Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, Oct. 8, 2013. Lloyd, a prior-enlisted crew chief, used U.S. Navy AV-8B Harriers and Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15SG Strike Eagles air assets to neutralize enemy forces.

A service member with the Togolese Armed Forces conducts a personnel search on 1st Lt. Kyle Faherty during a armed sentry training engagement with U.S. Marines in Lome, Togo, Dec. 4, 2014. In Togo, the Marines trained alongside 20 students from the Togoloese Army, Air Force, Navy and the Gendarmerie forces. Training in both regions focused on weapons safety and handling, rules of engagement, escalation of force, personnel and vehicle searches, vehicle entry points as well as entry control points—ending with a final exercise that tested the collective tactical knowledge learned over the course of the training engagement. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response-Africa conducted the theater security cooperation engagement to help develop and enhance armed sentry skills sharing tactics, techniques and procedures with the Togolese Armed Forces. - A service member with the Togolese Armed Forces conducts a personnel search on 1st Lt. Kyle Faherty during a armed sentry training engagement with U.S. Marines in Lome, Togo, Dec. 4, 2014. In Togo, the Marines trained alongside 20 students from the Togoloese Army, Air Force, Navy and the Gendarmerie forces. Training in both regions focused on weapons safety and handling, rules of engagement, escalation of force, personnel and vehicle searches, vehicle entry points as well as entry control points—ending with a final exercise that tested the collective tactical knowledge learned over the course of the training engagement. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response-Africa conducted the theater security cooperation engagement to help develop and enhance armed sentry skills sharing tactics, techniques and procedures with the Togolese Armed Forces.

A convoy attached to Truck Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, enters a mock enemy town where Marines acting as enemy soldiers waited to ambush the vehicles during convoy training in support of Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 5, 2014. The exercise gave the Marines the opportunity to refine and rehearse essential combat skills needed in a combat environment. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operations and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher J. Moore/Released) - A convoy attached to Truck Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, enters a mock enemy town where Marines acting as enemy soldiers waited to ambush the vehicles during convoy training in support of Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 5, 2014. The exercise gave the Marines the opportunity to refine and rehearse essential combat skills needed in a combat environment. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operations and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher J. Moore/Released)

Cpl. Jose Peralta, a Marine with Company B, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, guides a tank into a lane after conducting breaching exercises aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 8. Marines with 2nd Tank Battalion along with 2nd CEB worked together to conduct breaching exercises in which they provided support fire while Assault Breacher Vehicles eliminated tank pits and created a lane in which tanks may safely travel, aboard Camp Lejeune, Dec. 8-10. - Cpl. Jose Peralta, a Marine with Company B, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, guides a tank into a lane after conducting breaching exercises aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 8. Marines with 2nd Tank Battalion along with 2nd CEB worked together to conduct breaching exercises in which they provided support fire while Assault Breacher Vehicles eliminated tank pits and created a lane in which tanks may safely travel, aboard Camp Lejeune, Dec. 8-10.

U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys with SPMAGTF - Crisis Response - Africa prepare to fly at night as part of required training standards in order for pilots to continue to be qualified to carry passengers at night. while in support of Operation United Assistance in Monrovia, Liberia, Nov. 16, 2014. United Assistance is a Department of Defense operation to provide command and control, logistics, training and engineering support to U.S. Agency for International Development- led efforts to contain the Ebola virus outbreak in West African nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andre Dakis/SP-MAGTF Crisis Response Africa Combat Camera/Released) - U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys with SPMAGTF - Crisis Response - Africa prepare to fly at night as part of required training standards in order for pilots to continue to be qualified to carry passengers at night. while in support of Operation United Assistance in Monrovia, Liberia, Nov. 16, 2014. United Assistance is a Department of Defense operation to provide command and control, logistics, training and engineering support to U.S. Agency for International Development- led efforts to contain the Ebola virus outbreak in West African nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andre Dakis/SP-MAGTF Crisis Response Africa Combat Camera/Released)

The Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon performs during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., Aug. 22. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Larry Babilya/Released) - The Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon performs during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., Aug. 22. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Larry Babilya/Released)

Master Chief Jody Fletcher, the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command command master chief, receives an Operation One Voice branded coin from Bill Stevens, the founder of OOV, during a ceremony at the Fallen Heroes Memorial at the Gwinnett Justice Center in Lawrenceville, Ga., Sept. 11, 2014. Fletcher, Stevens and other Marines, sailors and OOV volunteers embarked on a 465-mile bike ride from North Carolina to Florida to honor Master Sgt. Aaron Torian, an explosive ordinance disposal technician and team chief with 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion, who was killed in action Jan. 29, 2014, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Donovan Lee/released) - Master Chief Jody Fletcher, the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command command master chief, receives an Operation One Voice branded coin from Bill Stevens, the founder of OOV, during a ceremony at the Fallen Heroes Memorial at the Gwinnett Justice Center in Lawrenceville, Ga., Sept. 11, 2014. Fletcher, Stevens and other Marines, sailors and OOV volunteers embarked on a 465-mile bike ride from North Carolina to Florida to honor Master Sgt. Aaron Torian, an explosive ordinance disposal technician and team chief with 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion, who was killed in action Jan. 29, 2014, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Donovan Lee/released)

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Capt. Karlo Landrau, a Cleveland native, looks out over the Australian Outback as he flies a Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 KC-130J “Hercules” from Darwin to Brisbane Nov 10. Marines and aircraft from VMGR-152, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 and VMM-262 flew approximately 4,700 miles from Okinawa, Japan to Brisbane to provide aerial support for President Barack Obama while he attended the G20 Summit. With an area of operations spanning 105 million square miles, the Hercules and MV-22 “Osprey” team are vital to commanders needing to get Marines and equipment to far flung locations quickly. Landrau is a pilot with VMGR-152. - Capt. Karlo Landrau, a Cleveland native, looks out over the Australian Outback as he flies a Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 KC-130J “Hercules” from Darwin to Brisbane Nov 10. Marines and aircraft from VMGR-152, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 and VMM-262 flew approximately 4,700 miles from Okinawa, Japan to Brisbane to provide aerial support for President Barack Obama while he attended the G20 Summit. With an area of operations spanning 105 million square miles, the Hercules and MV-22 “Osprey” team are vital to commanders needing to get Marines and equipment to far flung locations quickly. Landrau is a pilot with VMGR-152.

Sgt. Jason Pena, a bugler with The Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps, plays taps after a wreath was placed at the grave site of Gen. Thomas Holcomb, the 17th commandant of the Marine Corps, in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, November 10, 2014. Holcomb served as the commandant of the Marine Corps from 1936 to 1943. - Sgt. Jason Pena, a bugler with The Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps, plays taps after a wreath was placed at the grave site of Gen. Thomas Holcomb, the 17th commandant of the Marine Corps, in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, November 10, 2014. Holcomb served as the commandant of the Marine Corps from 1936 to 1943.

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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.

Retired Marine Lt. Gen. John F. Sattler, retired Marine Lt. Gen. Richard F. Natonski, Commanding General of 1st Marine Division from August 2004 to August 2006 Commanding General of I MEF from September 2004 to August 2005, retired Marine Lt. Gen. Keith J. Stalder, Commanding General of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing from May 2004 to August 2005 and retired Marine Lt. Gen. Richard S. Kramlich, Commanding General of 1st Force Service Support Group from June 2003 to August 2005 participate in The General Graves B. Erskine Distinguished Lecture Series at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., on October 30, 2014. The leaders of Operation al-Fajr shared their experiences in a panel discussion with service members of all ranks and some from different countries. - Retired Marine Lt. Gen. John F. Sattler, retired Marine Lt. Gen. Richard F. Natonski, Commanding General of 1st Marine Division from August 2004 to August 2006 Commanding General of I MEF from September 2004 to August 2005, retired Marine Lt. Gen. Keith J. Stalder, Commanding General of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing from May 2004 to August 2005 and retired Marine Lt. Gen. Richard S. Kramlich, Commanding General of 1st Force Service Support Group from June 2003 to August 2005 participate in The General Graves B. Erskine Distinguished Lecture Series at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., on October 30, 2014. The leaders of Operation al-Fajr shared their experiences in a panel discussion with service members of all ranks and some from different countries.

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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.

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.