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Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, set up communication equipment in a tent city located in the Grouse Meadows training area during Mountain Training Exercise 1-17 in the vicinity of the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Bridgeport, Calif., Jan, 18, 2016. MCMWTC is one of the Marine Corps’ most secluded posts, comprised of approximately 46,000 acres of terrain with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 11,000 feet. During this iteration of MTX, the inclusion of the Artic Tent, designed to house up to 15 personnel, enabled the “Warlords” to be truly immersed in the frigid landscape throughout the full duration of the training. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, set up communication equipment in a tent city located in the Grouse Meadows training area during Mountain Training Exercise 1-17 in the vicinity of the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Bridgeport, Calif., Jan, 18, 2016. MCMWTC is one of the Marine Corps’ most secluded posts, comprised of approximately 46,000 acres of terrain with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 11,000 feet. During this iteration of MTX, the inclusion of the Artic Tent, designed to house up to 15 personnel, enabled the “Warlords” to be truly immersed in the frigid landscape throughout the full duration of the training.

An F-35B lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 prepares to take off aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Jan. 9, 2017, as it transits the Pacific en route to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. VMFA-121 is the first operational F-35B squadron in the Marine Corps, with its relocation to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing at Iwakuni. The F-35B was developed to replace the Marine Corps’ F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Harrier and EA- 6B Prowler. The Short Take-off Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft is a true force multiplier. The unique combination of stealth, cutting-edge radar and sensor technology, and electronic warfare systems bring all of the access and lethality capabilities of a fifth-generation fighter, a modern bomber, and an adverse-weather, all-threat environment air support platform. - An F-35B lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 prepares to take off aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Jan. 9, 2017, as it transits the Pacific en route to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. VMFA-121 is the first operational F-35B squadron in the Marine Corps, with its relocation to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing at Iwakuni. The F-35B was developed to replace the Marine Corps’ F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Harrier and EA- 6B Prowler. The Short Take-off Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft is a true force multiplier. The unique combination of stealth, cutting-edge radar and sensor technology, and electronic warfare systems bring all of the access and lethality capabilities of a fifth-generation fighter, a modern bomber, and an adverse-weather, all-threat environment air support platform.

U.S. Marines and U.S. Airmen work together during a simulated contamination control area in preparation of Vigilant Ace 17-1 at Osan Air Base, Korea, Nov. 17, 2016. Vigilant Ace is a biannual, bilateral training event that exercises U.S. military and Republic of Korea Air Force interoperability through simulated wartime tasking. - U.S. Marines and U.S. Airmen work together during a simulated contamination control area in preparation of Vigilant Ace 17-1 at Osan Air Base, Korea, Nov. 17, 2016. Vigilant Ace is a biannual, bilateral training event that exercises U.S. military and Republic of Korea Air Force interoperability through simulated wartime tasking.

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225 taxis down the flight line during exercise Cope West 17 at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Indonesia, Nov. 10, 2016. This fighter-focused, bilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Indonesian Air Force is designed to enhance the readiness of combined interoperability between the two nations. - A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225 taxis down the flight line during exercise Cope West 17 at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Indonesia, Nov. 10, 2016. This fighter-focused, bilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Indonesian Air Force is designed to enhance the readiness of combined interoperability between the two nations.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Meagan Baker, a heavy equipment operator with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, interacts with Sekolah Menengah Eben Haezar Manado High School students in Manado, Indonesia, Nov. 9, 2016. As part of a community relations event, the visit offered service members the opportunity to engage in cultural exchanges and build relationships within the local community. The students were afforded the opportunity to ask the Marines and Sailors questions. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Meagan Baker, a heavy equipment operator with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, interacts with Sekolah Menengah Eben Haezar Manado High School students in Manado, Indonesia, Nov. 9, 2016. As part of a community relations event, the visit offered service members the opportunity to engage in cultural exchanges and build relationships within the local community. The students were afforded the opportunity to ask the Marines and Sailors questions.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Raymond Spencer a team leader with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 7, prepares to depart the Afghan Uniform Police station during Operation Eagle in Delaram city, Helmand province, Afghanistan, April 8, 2013. Spencer was part of the security force detail for the 4th Brigade, 215th Corps Brigade Advisor Team that was conducting Operation Eagle, an Afghan-led clearing operation. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Raymond Spencer a team leader with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 7, prepares to depart the Afghan Uniform Police station during Operation Eagle in Delaram city, Helmand province, Afghanistan, April 8, 2013. Spencer was part of the security force detail for the 4th Brigade, 215th Corps Brigade Advisor Team that was conducting Operation Eagle, an Afghan-led clearing operation.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, wait by a 500-gallon drum of water to conduct a Helicopter Support Team drill at Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, Oct. 25, 2016. The drum was taken into the Sierra Mesa Mountains to support Marines who are conducting field operations during Mountain Exercise 6-16. - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, wait by a 500-gallon drum of water to conduct a Helicopter Support Team drill at Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, Oct. 25, 2016. The drum was taken into the Sierra Mesa Mountains to support Marines who are conducting field operations during Mountain Exercise 6-16.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Donald Shrewsbury, a KC-130J Hercules representative with Marine Aviation Training System Site Iwakuni, directs a Japan Air Self-Defense Force aviation cadet with the 12th Flight Training Wing from JASDF Hōfu-kita Air Base while flying a KC-130J simulator during a Japanese officer engagement program at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 19, 2016. The engagement program aims to enhance the understanding and working relationships between U.S. and Japanese pilots. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Donald Shrewsbury, a KC-130J Hercules representative with Marine Aviation Training System Site Iwakuni, directs a Japan Air Self-Defense Force aviation cadet with the 12th Flight Training Wing from JASDF Hōfu-kita Air Base while flying a KC-130J simulator during a Japanese officer engagement program at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 19, 2016. The engagement program aims to enhance the understanding and working relationships between U.S. and Japanese pilots.

Two Marines use chainsaws to cut their most recently felled tree into more manageable pieces, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 13, 2016. Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion took part in a chainsaw licensing class where they received hands-on experience in proper cutting techniques and chainsaw safety. The class ensures that the unit always has Marines available who can help cut away various obstructions threatening mission accomplishment. - Two Marines use chainsaws to cut their most recently felled tree into more manageable pieces, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 13, 2016. Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion took part in a chainsaw licensing class where they received hands-on experience in proper cutting techniques and chainsaw safety. The class ensures that the unit always has Marines available who can help cut away various obstructions threatening mission accomplishment.

U.S. Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, prepare to fire 81mm mortars at a live-fire range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 29, 2016. The supporting indirect-fire element will play an important role during coalition exercises with North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies around Eastern Europe. - U.S. Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, prepare to fire 81mm mortars at a live-fire range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 29, 2016. The supporting indirect-fire element will play an important role during coalition exercises with North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies around Eastern Europe.

Pfc. Lucas Smith asks Gen. Robert B. Neller a question during his visit to Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, October 13, 2016. Neller is visiting III Marine Expeditionary Force to reinforce the importance of every Marine and Sailor and their role in continuing the mission of the ‘Fight Tonight’ MEF. Whether responding to a crisis or natural disaster, III MEF continues to train to ensure its capabilities in keeping peace and security throughout the region. “I’m not looking to pick a fight with anybody, but you need to be ready to go,” said Neller. Neller, from East Lansing, Michigan, is the commandant of Marine Corps. Smith, from Cleveland, Ohio is a warehouse clerk at 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Supply Company, III Marine Logistics Group, III MEF. - Pfc. Lucas Smith asks Gen. Robert B. Neller a question during his visit to Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, October 13, 2016. Neller is visiting III Marine Expeditionary Force to reinforce the importance of every Marine and Sailor and their role in continuing the mission of the ‘Fight Tonight’ MEF. Whether responding to a crisis or natural disaster, III MEF continues to train to ensure its capabilities in keeping peace and security throughout the region. “I’m not looking to pick a fight with anybody, but you need to be ready to go,” said Neller. Neller, from East Lansing, Michigan, is the commandant of Marine Corps. Smith, from Cleveland, Ohio is a warehouse clerk at 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Supply Company, III Marine Logistics Group, III MEF.

Marines rehearse salvaging an aircraft during a field exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Camp Davis, N.C., Sept. 22, 2016. Support squadrons across the Marine Corps conduct these exercises to remain ready for any challenge they may face in forward deployed environments. This exercise featured training that included auxiliary airfield construction, ground security and airfield damage repair. The squadron's capabilities contribute to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing's role in the Marine Air Ground Task Force's mission accomplishment. The Marines participating in the exercise are assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd MAW. - Marines rehearse salvaging an aircraft during a field exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Camp Davis, N.C., Sept. 22, 2016. Support squadrons across the Marine Corps conduct these exercises to remain ready for any challenge they may face in forward deployed environments. This exercise featured training that included auxiliary airfield construction, ground security and airfield damage repair. The squadron's capabilities contribute to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing's role in the Marine Air Ground Task Force's mission accomplishment. The Marines participating in the exercise are assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd MAW.

Powerliners assigned to Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 perform maintenance on an F/A-18D Hornet after a flight mission during Exercise Valiant Shield 16 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Sept. 18, 2016. Powerliners, airframes mechanics, communication navigation, and ordnance technicians, work around the clock to ensure flight schedules are met for aviation operations during the exercise. During this U.S.-only, biennial field training exercise, F/A-18D Hornets flew in a plethora of missions that emphasize joint integration, interoperability and expeditionary readiness. - Powerliners assigned to Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 perform maintenance on an F/A-18D Hornet after a flight mission during Exercise Valiant Shield 16 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Sept. 18, 2016. Powerliners, airframes mechanics, communication navigation, and ordnance technicians, work around the clock to ensure flight schedules are met for aviation operations during the exercise. During this U.S.-only, biennial field training exercise, F/A-18D Hornets flew in a plethora of missions that emphasize joint integration, interoperability and expeditionary readiness.

U.S. Army Cpl. Gregory McLellan and U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Clinton Smith, Joint Corporals Leadership Development Course students, plot grid points during the land navigation portion of Camp Lemonnier's Joint Corporal’s Leadership Development Course at Arta, Djibouti, March 3, 2016. During the evaluation ‎Soldiers, ‎Sailors, ‎Airmen, and ‎Marines had to find eight different points and navigate to those points in a timed event. - U.S. Army Cpl. Gregory McLellan and U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Clinton Smith, Joint Corporals Leadership Development Course students, plot grid points during the land navigation portion of Camp Lemonnier's Joint Corporal’s Leadership Development Course at Arta, Djibouti, March 3, 2016. During the evaluation ‎Soldiers, ‎Sailors, ‎Airmen, and ‎Marines had to find eight different points and navigate to those points in a timed event.

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U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group man the rails aboard the USS Boxer, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickman Pier, August 29, 2016. The 13th MEU, embarked on the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Pacific region. - U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group man the rails aboard the USS Boxer, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickman Pier, August 29, 2016. The 13th MEU, embarked on the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Pacific region.

Lance Cpl. Hector Coronado tightens the stabilizing line to a Tactical Elevated Antenna Mast System during a field exercise conducted by Alpha Company, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., August 23, 2016. The two-week exercise occurs annually to satisfy training and readiness requirements and serve as an opportunity for Marines to reaffirm previously learned skill sets. Coronado is a field radio operator with MWCS-28. - Lance Cpl. Hector Coronado tightens the stabilizing line to a Tactical Elevated Antenna Mast System during a field exercise conducted by Alpha Company, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., August 23, 2016. The two-week exercise occurs annually to satisfy training and readiness requirements and serve as an opportunity for Marines to reaffirm previously learned skill sets. Coronado is a field radio operator with MWCS-28.

(Left to right) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, the commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 2, speaks with Brig. Gen. Robert F. Castellvi, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, during a rehearsal of concepts drill as part of Bold Alligator 2016 in Norfolk, Virginia, Aug. 13, 2016. BA16 focuses on improving Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Allied and partner nations as an investment in the current and future readiness of naval forces. BA16 is taking place Aug. 15-26, 2016, along the eastern seaboard. - (Left to right) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, the commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 2, speaks with Brig. Gen. Robert F. Castellvi, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, during a rehearsal of concepts drill as part of Bold Alligator 2016 in Norfolk, Virginia, Aug. 13, 2016. BA16 focuses on improving Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Allied and partner nations as an investment in the current and future readiness of naval forces. BA16 is taking place Aug. 15-26, 2016, along the eastern seaboard.

Marines with Company A, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, fire a M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 19, 2016. Marines fired the tanks to adjust their battle sight zero before the main event of their annual training. - Marines with Company A, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, fire a M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank during their annual training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 19, 2016. Marines fired the tanks to adjust their battle sight zero before the main event of their annual training.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Daniel Lane, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 pilot, conducts a preflight check on an F/A-18C Hornet during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 1, 2016. Pitch Black 16 is a biennial, three week, multinational, large-force training exercise hosted by RAAF Tindal. As the training progresses, the U.S. pilots will also get the opportunity to fly with Canada, France, Germany, Indonesia, Netherlands, New Zealand and Thailand. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Daniel Lane, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 pilot, conducts a preflight check on an F/A-18C Hornet during Exercise Pitch Black 2016 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, August 1, 2016. Pitch Black 16 is a biennial, three week, multinational, large-force training exercise hosted by RAAF Tindal. As the training progresses, the U.S. pilots will also get the opportunity to fly with Canada, France, Germany, Indonesia, Netherlands, New Zealand and Thailand.

Cpl. Christopher Neumann reviews his objectives during a close air support exercise at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 19, 2016. Neumann is participating in Rim of the Pacific 2016, a multinational military exercise, from June 29 to Aug. 8 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. RIMPAC offers the U.S. military the opportunity to train with partners and allies in the Pacific region. Neumann, a native of Wells, Maine, is a UH-1Y Huey crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, which supports III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Christopher Neumann reviews his objectives during a close air support exercise at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 19, 2016. Neumann is participating in Rim of the Pacific 2016, a multinational military exercise, from June 29 to Aug. 8 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. RIMPAC offers the U.S. military the opportunity to train with partners and allies in the Pacific region. Neumann, a native of Wells, Maine, is a UH-1Y Huey crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, which supports III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Gunnery Sgt. Brandon Watson (center), project coordinator for Innovative Readiness Training Old Harbor, Alaska, briefs a group of distinguished visitors from different military branches and civilian agencies July 11, 2016. IRT Old Harbor is part of a civil and joint military program to improve military readiness while simultaneously providing quality services to underserved communities throughout the United States. - Gunnery Sgt. Brandon Watson (center), project coordinator for Innovative Readiness Training Old Harbor, Alaska, briefs a group of distinguished visitors from different military branches and civilian agencies July 11, 2016. IRT Old Harbor is part of a civil and joint military program to improve military readiness while simultaneously providing quality services to underserved communities throughout the United States.

A Marine student with the Tactical Air Control Party course, conducted by Expeditionary Warfare Training Group-Atlantic, determines the range of enemy targets during a two-day live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 20-21, 2016. The five-week course certifies Marines in safely and efficiently employing fixed and rotor-wing aircraft in close proximity to friendly forces. - A Marine student with the Tactical Air Control Party course, conducted by Expeditionary Warfare Training Group-Atlantic, determines the range of enemy targets during a two-day live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 20-21, 2016. The five-week course certifies Marines in safely and efficiently employing fixed and rotor-wing aircraft in close proximity to friendly forces.

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A Marine with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment uses the cover of smoke from a simulation artillery round to move into the tree-line during the battalions' Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 10, 2016. The MCCRE, a pre deployment exercise, tests the Marines on operational readiness and their ability to operate as a whole. - A Marine with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment uses the cover of smoke from a simulation artillery round to move into the tree-line during the battalions' Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 10, 2016. The MCCRE, a pre deployment exercise, tests the Marines on operational readiness and their ability to operate as a whole.

A mortar team with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, adjusts the mortar to the measurements provided to hit their targets during a training exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 6, 2016. Marines underwent mortar familiarization and proficiency training in preparation for their upcoming deployment in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force. - A mortar team with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, adjusts the mortar to the measurements provided to hit their targets during a training exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 6, 2016. Marines underwent mortar familiarization and proficiency training in preparation for their upcoming deployment in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

Maintainers from Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 perform after-flight inspections and repairs to the squadron’s F/A-18D aircraft in preparation for exercise Red Flag-Alaska 16-2 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 4, 2016. Exercise Red Flag-Alaska 16-2 provides VMFA-314 and Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242, based out of Marine Corps Station Iwakuni, Japan, the opportunity to train with joint and international units, increasing their combat skills by participating simulated combat situations in a realistic threat environment. - Maintainers from Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 perform after-flight inspections and repairs to the squadron’s F/A-18D aircraft in preparation for exercise Red Flag-Alaska 16-2 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 4, 2016. Exercise Red Flag-Alaska 16-2 provides VMFA-314 and Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242, based out of Marine Corps Station Iwakuni, Japan, the opportunity to train with joint and international units, increasing their combat skills by participating simulated combat situations in a realistic threat environment.

Mongolian Armed Forces Lt. Col. B. Baasaadorj practices the steps of launching an unmanned aerial vehicle during the UAV training portion of Khaan Quest 2016 at Five Hills Training Area near Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, May 27. The training equipped MAF members with a deeper understanding of the purpose and operations of UAVs and how they can be used during peacekeeping missions. Khaan Quest 2016 is an annual, multinational peacekeeping operations exercise hosted by the Mongolian Armed Forces, co-sponsored by U.S. Pacific Command, and supported by U.S. Army Pacific and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. Khaan Quest, in its 14th iteration, is the capstone exercise for this year’s Global Peace Operations Initiative program. The exercise focuses on training activities to enhance international interoperability, develop peacekeeping capabilities, build to mil-to-mil relationships, and enhance military readiness. - Mongolian Armed Forces Lt. Col. B. Baasaadorj practices the steps of launching an unmanned aerial vehicle during the UAV training portion of Khaan Quest 2016 at Five Hills Training Area near Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, May 27. The training equipped MAF members with a deeper understanding of the purpose and operations of UAVs and how they can be used during peacekeeping missions. Khaan Quest 2016 is an annual, multinational peacekeeping operations exercise hosted by the Mongolian Armed Forces, co-sponsored by U.S. Pacific Command, and supported by U.S. Army Pacific and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. Khaan Quest, in its 14th iteration, is the capstone exercise for this year’s Global Peace Operations Initiative program. The exercise focuses on training activities to enhance international interoperability, develop peacekeeping capabilities, build to mil-to-mil relationships, and enhance military readiness.

Lt. Col. Regina Gustavsson and Sgt. Peter Apiag discuss reporting requirements for their section for a simulated mishap during II Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 16 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., May 11, 2016. MEFEX 16 is a command and control exercise conducted in a deployed environment designed to synchronize and bring to bear the full spectrum of II Marine Expeditionary Force's C2 capabilities in support of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force. - Lt. Col. Regina Gustavsson and Sgt. Peter Apiag discuss reporting requirements for their section for a simulated mishap during II Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 16 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., May 11, 2016. MEFEX 16 is a command and control exercise conducted in a deployed environment designed to synchronize and bring to bear the full spectrum of II Marine Expeditionary Force's C2 capabilities in support of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

Download the Historic Half App through any smartphone to view both the Historic Half and Semper five course maps, event weekend schedule including the Healthy Lifestyle Expo, parking and shuttle information and important event-day news such as weather updates, road closures, Family Link Up location, runner tracking and runner results. Both the Historic Half App and Track A Runner programs are available free of charge. - Download the Historic Half App through any smartphone to view both the Historic Half and Semper five course maps, event weekend schedule including the Healthy Lifestyle Expo, parking and shuttle information and important event-day news such as weather updates, road closures, Family Link Up location, runner tracking and runner results. Both the Historic Half App and Track A Runner programs are available free of charge.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Nicholas Bouvia, a heavy equipment operator with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, builds a berm for security in Djibouti, Apr. 9, 2016. The 13th MEU is conducting sustainment training to maintain proficiency and combat readiness while deployed with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group during Western Pacific Deployment 16-1. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Nicholas Bouvia, a heavy equipment operator with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, builds a berm for security in Djibouti, Apr. 9, 2016. The 13th MEU is conducting sustainment training to maintain proficiency and combat readiness while deployed with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group during Western Pacific Deployment 16-1.

Sgt. Chris Piette secures a transom of a Bailey bridge at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 13, 2016. Piette is a combat engineer with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, I Marine Logistics Group, and is a De Pere, Wisconsin native. The bridge provides mobility during times of flooding and severe rain. - Sgt. Chris Piette secures a transom of a Bailey bridge at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 13, 2016. Piette is a combat engineer with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, I Marine Logistics Group, and is a De Pere, Wisconsin native. The bridge provides mobility during times of flooding and severe rain.

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An Amphibious Assault Vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion engages simulated enemy targets during a qualification course during Heavy Brigade Combat Team training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 5, 2016. The training allows the unit to strengthen their working relationship and maintain weapons proficiency to remain being a reliable asset for amphibious operations. - An Amphibious Assault Vehicle with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion engages simulated enemy targets during a qualification course during Heavy Brigade Combat Team training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 5, 2016. The training allows the unit to strengthen their working relationship and maintain weapons proficiency to remain being a reliable asset for amphibious operations.

Marines coordinate fires for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during an M142 HIMARS live fire exercise at Camp Pendleton March 16, 2016. During the exercise, Marines coordinated fires based on hypothetical combat situations they might encounter while deployed. The HIMARS rounds are aided by Global Positioning System (GPS) technology and can travel to altitudes up to 75 kilometers and can precisely engage targets up to 40 miles away. The Marines are with Battery S, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines coordinate fires for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during an M142 HIMARS live fire exercise at Camp Pendleton March 16, 2016. During the exercise, Marines coordinated fires based on hypothetical combat situations they might encounter while deployed. The HIMARS rounds are aided by Global Positioning System (GPS) technology and can travel to altitudes up to 75 kilometers and can precisely engage targets up to 40 miles away. The Marines are with Battery S, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

A pilot greets his family at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, March 15, 2016. More than 180 Marines and 10 F/A-18D Hornet aircraft have been deployed to the Western Pacific since October 2015 as part of the Unit Deployment Program. The pilot is with VMFA(AW)-224. - A pilot greets his family at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, March 15, 2016. More than 180 Marines and 10 F/A-18D Hornet aircraft have been deployed to the Western Pacific since October 2015 as part of the Unit Deployment Program. The pilot is with VMFA(AW)-224.

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Members of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 and Japan Air Self-Defense pose for a photo in front of an F/A-18A and two F-15s at Komatsu Air Base, Japan, during the Komatsu Aviation Training Relocation exercise March 17, 2016. VMFA-314, home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, temporarily deployed to MCAS Iwakuni for a six month rotation with the unit deployment program, is forward deployed to Komatsu, Japan for the ATR. - Members of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 and Japan Air Self-Defense pose for a photo in front of an F/A-18A and two F-15s at Komatsu Air Base, Japan, during the Komatsu Aviation Training Relocation exercise March 17, 2016. VMFA-314, home based out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, temporarily deployed to MCAS Iwakuni for a six month rotation with the unit deployment program, is forward deployed to Komatsu, Japan for the ATR.

1st Lt. Grant McCloskey, a Light Armored Reconnaissance platoon commander with Black Sea Rotational Force, plans the next reconnaissance mission during Exercise Cold Response 16 near Namsos, Norway, March 4, 2016. The exercise is a Norwegian invitational previously-scheduled exercise that involves approximately 16,000 troops from 13 NATO and partner countries. - 1st Lt. Grant McCloskey, a Light Armored Reconnaissance platoon commander with Black Sea Rotational Force, plans the next reconnaissance mission during Exercise Cold Response 16 near Namsos, Norway, March 4, 2016. The exercise is a Norwegian invitational previously-scheduled exercise that involves approximately 16,000 troops from 13 NATO and partner countries.

Norwegian Minister of Defense Ine Marie Eriksen Søreide talks with Lt. Col. Justin Ansel, the commander of Task Force 1/8, at a training location near Steinkjer, Norway, March 2, 2016. Exercise Cold Response 16 is a multi-national exercise combining the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 15,000 troops taking place across Norway. - Norwegian Minister of Defense Ine Marie Eriksen Søreide talks with Lt. Col. Justin Ansel, the commander of Task Force 1/8, at a training location near Steinkjer, Norway, March 2, 2016. Exercise Cold Response 16 is a multi-national exercise combining the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 15,000 troops taking place across Norway.

Norwegian Leopard tank crews from the Telemark Battalion prepare for a live-fire exercise in Rena, Norway, Feb. 18, 2016. The U.S. Marines and Norwegians are preparing for Exercise Cold Response 16, which will bring together 12 NATO Allied and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops in order to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments. The Norwegian Telemark Battalion instructed various U.S. Marine units on cold weather survival techniques to driving armored vehicles on ice-covered roads in the weeks leading up to exercise Cold Response 16 beginning at the end of the month. The two nations along with the other participating countries will conduct multi-lateral training to improve U.S. Marine Corps capability to operate in cold-weather environments. - Norwegian Leopard tank crews from the Telemark Battalion prepare for a live-fire exercise in Rena, Norway, Feb. 18, 2016. The U.S. Marines and Norwegians are preparing for Exercise Cold Response 16, which will bring together 12 NATO Allied and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops in order to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments. The Norwegian Telemark Battalion instructed various U.S. Marine units on cold weather survival techniques to driving armored vehicles on ice-covered roads in the weeks leading up to exercise Cold Response 16 beginning at the end of the month. The two nations along with the other participating countries will conduct multi-lateral training to improve U.S. Marine Corps capability to operate in cold-weather environments.

A U.S. Marine with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade fires the Stinger missile system during a live-fire event in Ørland, Norway, Feb. 24, 2016. The live-fire event was held in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, featuring 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops. - A U.S. Marine with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade fires the Stinger missile system during a live-fire event in Ørland, Norway, Feb. 24, 2016. The live-fire event was held in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, featuring 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops.

Lance Cpl. Joany Echeverry, cannoneer with Combined Arms Company, assists other team members in collecting the ammunition for a live-fire shoot in Rena, Norway, Feb. 23, 2016, in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16. The exercise will include 12 NATO allies and partner nations, and approximately 16,000 troops. The Marines will provide indirect fire support for infantry units during the exercise. - Lance Cpl. Joany Echeverry, cannoneer with Combined Arms Company, assists other team members in collecting the ammunition for a live-fire shoot in Rena, Norway, Feb. 23, 2016, in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16. The exercise will include 12 NATO allies and partner nations, and approximately 16,000 troops. The Marines will provide indirect fire support for infantry units during the exercise.

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Capt. Jonathan Blankenship, a company commander with Black Sea Rotational Force, confirms the assault on the enemy objective is complete during the final exercise of cold-weather training aboard Porsangmoen, Norway, Feb. 16-20, 2016. Arctic training was conducted by U.K. Royal Marine Commando Mountain Leaders and hosted by the Norwegian military to improve the U.S. Marine Corps’ capability to support their NATO Allies in extreme environments. - Capt. Jonathan Blankenship, a company commander with Black Sea Rotational Force, confirms the assault on the enemy objective is complete during the final exercise of cold-weather training aboard Porsangmoen, Norway, Feb. 16-20, 2016. Arctic training was conducted by U.K. Royal Marine Commando Mountain Leaders and hosted by the Norwegian military to improve the U.S. Marine Corps’ capability to support their NATO Allies in extreme environments.

Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, head back to sea Feb. 17 , 2016, in Combat Rubber Raiding Craft after conducting a successful boat raid the night before. The Marines conducted the boat raid as part of the 31st MEU's amphibious integration training with the Navy ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed to the Asia-Pacific region. - Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, head back to sea Feb. 17 , 2016, in Combat Rubber Raiding Craft after conducting a successful boat raid the night before. The Marines conducted the boat raid as part of the 31st MEU's amphibious integration training with the Navy ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU are currently deployed to the Asia-Pacific region.

A Norwegian recovery vehicle hooks up to a U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Assault Vehicle prior to the start of a live-fire range in Rena, Norway, as part of their pre-exercise training Feb. 17, 2016. The Marines and Norwegian Army are working together as part of Exercise Cold Response, a joint NATO and allied country exercise comprised of 12 countries and approximately 16,000 troops. The U.S. European Command appreciates the opportunity for taking part in such a large multinational exercise at the invitation of our Norwegian Allies; and we are especially thankful for the chance to put our skills to the test in unique cold weather conditions. - A Norwegian recovery vehicle hooks up to a U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Assault Vehicle prior to the start of a live-fire range in Rena, Norway, as part of their pre-exercise training Feb. 17, 2016. The Marines and Norwegian Army are working together as part of Exercise Cold Response, a joint NATO and allied country exercise comprised of 12 countries and approximately 16,000 troops. The U.S. European Command appreciates the opportunity for taking part in such a large multinational exercise at the invitation of our Norwegian Allies; and we are especially thankful for the chance to put our skills to the test in unique cold weather conditions.

Lt. J.G. Eric Lopez, a physician assistant with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, checks the heart rate of a notional Norwegian soldier casualty during combat casualty care training in Rena, Norway, Feb. 17, 2016. More than ten Marines and sailors with the unit conducted simulated medical treatment onto their Norwegian counterparts in order to enhance and compare their field medical care capabilities. The two countries are coming together for Exercise Cold Response 16 in March, which combines the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments. - Lt. J.G. Eric Lopez, a physician assistant with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, checks the heart rate of a notional Norwegian soldier casualty during combat casualty care training in Rena, Norway, Feb. 17, 2016. More than ten Marines and sailors with the unit conducted simulated medical treatment onto their Norwegian counterparts in order to enhance and compare their field medical care capabilities. The two countries are coming together for Exercise Cold Response 16 in March, which combines the efforts of 12 NATO allies and partner nations to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments.

A member of the Norwegian Army looks at the down range area as U.S. Marines conduct a live-fire exercise in Rena, Norway, Feb. 17, 2016. The Marines are preparing themselves for Exercise Cold Response 16, which will bring together 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops in order to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments. - A member of the Norwegian Army looks at the down range area as U.S. Marines conduct a live-fire exercise in Rena, Norway, Feb. 17, 2016. The Marines are preparing themselves for Exercise Cold Response 16, which will bring together 12 NATO allies and partner nations and approximately 16,000 troops in order to enhance joint crisis response capabilities in cold weather environments.