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U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew Kelly, military assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition, provides background on the Marine Corps’ F-35B program to Air Marshall Bollam, Chief of Defence Material Air, United Kingdom, aboard USS Wasp while embarked in the Atlantic Ocean May 20, 2015. The current Marine Corps operational test, scheduled to continue through the end of May, will assess the integration of the F-35B while operating across a wide array of flight and deck operations, maintenance operations and logistical supply chain support in an at-sea environment. A former test pilot and career Marine aviator, Kelly participated in the earlier shipboard developmental tests of the F-35B. Royal Navy and Royal Air Force pilots are scheduled to begin flying the F-35B from the UK in 2018, and are on track to operate from the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers in 2020. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew Kelly, military assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition, provides background on the Marine Corps’ F-35B program to Air Marshall Bollam, Chief of Defence Material Air, United Kingdom, aboard USS Wasp while embarked in the Atlantic Ocean May 20, 2015. The current Marine Corps operational test, scheduled to continue through the end of May, will assess the integration of the F-35B while operating across a wide array of flight and deck operations, maintenance operations and logistical supply chain support in an at-sea environment. A former test pilot and career Marine aviator, Kelly participated in the earlier shipboard developmental tests of the F-35B. Royal Navy and Royal Air Force pilots are scheduled to begin flying the F-35B from the UK in 2018, and are on track to operate from the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers in 2020.

A Chinook with the Royal Canadian Air Force waits as Soldiers from the Canadian Army enter to be transported during Exercise Maple Resolve 2015 aboard Canadian Manoeuvre Training Center, Camp Wainwright, Alberta, Canada, May 16, 2015. The multi-national exercise, conducted annually by the Canadian Army, is a three-week, high-readiness validation exercise for Canadian Army elements designated for domestic or international operations. This year, the 1st Canadian Army Division and the 5th Canadian Mechanized Battle Group are being supported by the British 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade, various U.S. Army elements, and for the first time, members of I MEF’s 1st ANGLICO who bring a unique capability to the table. (Photo by Cpl. Owen Kimbrel, U.S. Marine Corps) - A Chinook with the Royal Canadian Air Force waits as Soldiers from the Canadian Army enter to be transported during Exercise Maple Resolve 2015 aboard Canadian Manoeuvre Training Center, Camp Wainwright, Alberta, Canada, May 16, 2015. The multi-national exercise, conducted annually by the Canadian Army, is a three-week, high-readiness validation exercise for Canadian Army elements designated for domestic or international operations. This year, the 1st Canadian Army Division and the 5th Canadian Mechanized Battle Group are being supported by the British 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade, various U.S. Army elements, and for the first time, members of I MEF’s 1st ANGLICO who bring a unique capability to the table. (Photo by Cpl. Owen Kimbrel, U.S. Marine Corps)

Sgt. Maj. Ronald Green, the 18th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, introduces Nicole Spaid the 2015 Armed Forces Insurance Marine Corps Spouse of the Year, at the 8th Annual Awards Luncheon at Joint Base Myer- Henderson Hall, May 8, 2015.Spaid has overcome many obstacles in her life, including cancer, but has yet to stop reaching out to local spouses to encourage them to thrive. - Sgt. Maj. Ronald Green, the 18th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, introduces Nicole Spaid the 2015 Armed Forces Insurance Marine Corps Spouse of the Year, at the 8th Annual Awards Luncheon at Joint Base Myer- Henderson Hall, May 8, 2015. Spaid has overcome many obstacles in her life, including cancer, but has yet to stop reaching out to local spouses to encourage them to thrive.

The “Ott Box” is an invention that was created by Gunnery Sgt. Michael Ott, the navigational aids chief for Marine Air Control Squadron 4, Detachment Alpha. Over time, Ott plans to gather additional parts for the Ott Box in order to perfect the idea of a solar powered Tactical Air Navigation system. - The “Ott Box” is an invention that was created by Gunnery Sgt. Michael Ott, the navigational aids chief for Marine Air Control Squadron 4, Detachment Alpha. Over time, Ott plans to gather additional parts for the Ott Box in order to perfect the idea of a solar powered Tactical Air Navigation system.

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)

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division reach their designated turning point during an amphibious beach exercise at Onslow beach, aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 19, 2015. The training started with basic boat manipulations teaching Marines how to operate the Zodiac F470 Combat Rubber Raiding Craft in various formations and went over emergency procedures, such as man overboard drills. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division reach their designated turning point during an amphibious beach exercise at Onslow beach, aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 19, 2015. The training started with basic boat manipulations teaching Marines how to operate the Zodiac F470 Combat Rubber Raiding Craft in various formations and went over emergency procedures, such as man overboard drills.

Lance Cpl. Zackary Bowen, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261, scans a field for anything that could damage the MV-22B Osprey he is in while landing. As a crew chief, Bowen and another crew chief constantly monitor the aircraft’s components and make changes as necessary to ensure the safety of the crew and personnel within. - Lance Cpl. Zackary Bowen, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261, scans a field for anything that could damage the MV-22B Osprey he is in while landing. As a crew chief, Bowen and another crew chief constantly monitor the aircraft’s components and make changes as necessary to ensure the safety of the crew and personnel within.

Snow falls over the command operations center during an entire day of a 2nd Marine Logistics Group command post exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 24, 2015. The Marines involved in the CPX battled multiple weather conditions such as snow, sleet and rain during the exercise designed to ensure logistical readiness and identify areas in need of improvement. - Snow falls over the command operations center during an entire day of a 2nd Marine Logistics Group command post exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 24, 2015. The Marines involved in the CPX battled multiple weather conditions such as snow, sleet and rain during the exercise designed to ensure logistical readiness and identify areas in need of improvement.

A U.S. Marine pilot enters the cockpit of an F/A-18 Hornet, Feb. 16. U.S. Marines attached to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and the Royal Thai Air Force train together to maintain readiness and interoperability in support of peace and security in the region as part of Exercise Cobra Gold 2015. Exercise Cobra Gold 2015 has provided an opportunity for U.S. Marines and the Royal Thai Air Force to train together. - A U.S. Marine pilot enters the cockpit of an F/A-18 Hornet, Feb. 16. U.S. Marines attached to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and the Royal Thai Air Force train together to maintain readiness and interoperability in support of peace and security in the region as part of Exercise Cobra Gold 2015. Exercise Cobra Gold 2015 has provided an opportunity for U.S. Marines and the Royal Thai Air Force to train together.

Republic of Korea and U.S. Marines clear a building during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-17 Feb. 9 at the Cham Sae Mi Close-Quarters Battle Training Facility in Pohang, Republic of Korea. KMEP 15-17 is a regularly-scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps forces. The ROK Marines are with Company 5, 32nd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - Republic of Korea and U.S. Marines clear a building during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-17 Feb. 9 at the Cham Sae Mi Close-Quarters Battle Training Facility in Pohang, Republic of Korea. KMEP 15-17 is a regularly-scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps forces. The ROK Marines are with Company 5, 32nd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

Lance Cpl. Nicholas Chieu, a crew chief with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 464, brushes snow and ice off of a CH-53 Super Stallion during a deployment for training exercise aboard Camp Dawson, West Virginia, Jan. 30, 2015. Inclement weather caused the Marines to take extra steps in preparing the helicopters for flight. - Lance Cpl. Nicholas Chieu, a crew chief with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 464, brushes snow and ice off of a CH-53 Super Stallion during a deployment for training exercise aboard Camp Dawson, West Virginia, Jan. 30, 2015. Inclement weather caused the Marines to take extra steps in preparing the helicopters for flight.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Alex S. Rankin, center, digs a hiding position alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK recon Marines specialize in stealth and scouting, so this training teaches the Marines how to survive without getting caught and still accomplishing the mission. This exercise highlights the two countries’ combined commitment to the defense of the ROK and peace and security in the region. Rankin, a Secane, Pennsylvania, native, is an intelligence specialist with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Alex S. Rankin, center, digs a hiding position alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK recon Marines specialize in stealth and scouting, so this training teaches the Marines how to survive without getting caught and still accomplishing the mission. This exercise highlights the two countries’ combined commitment to the defense of the ROK and peace and security in the region. Rankin, a Secane, Pennsylvania, native, is an intelligence specialist with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division.

Republic of Korea Marines demonstrate their combat tactics for U.S. Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. Sharing cultures is a significant factor in gaining a better understanding of the combat tactics of the two forces despite the language barrier, according to ROK Marine Capt. Moon Jung Hwan. KMEP is a regularly scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps’ forces. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Cedric R. Haller II/Released) - Republic of Korea Marines demonstrate their combat tactics for U.S. Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. Sharing cultures is a significant factor in gaining a better understanding of the combat tactics of the two forces despite the language barrier, according to ROK Marine Capt. Moon Jung Hwan. KMEP is a regularly scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps’ forces. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Cedric R. Haller II/Released)

Sgt. Sloan Seiler, Winter Mountain Leaders Course 1-15, student, Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, and 1st Lt. Mancelino Figueroa, WMLC 1-15, class commander, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, lead a line of Marines pulling a block of ice back into Levitt Lake at the MCMWTC, Bridgeport Calif., Jan. 30, 2015. The blocks of ice that were cut out of the lake were returned after the Marines concluded training. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Charles Santamaria/Released) - Sgt. Sloan Seiler, Winter Mountain Leaders Course 1-15, student, Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, and 1st Lt. Mancelino Figueroa, WMLC 1-15, class commander, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, lead a line of Marines pulling a block of ice back into Levitt Lake at the MCMWTC, Bridgeport Calif., Jan. 30, 2015. The blocks of ice that were cut out of the lake were returned after the Marines concluded training. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Charles Santamaria/Released)

A Marine with 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion scans for enemy troops after a simulated attack during a week-long field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 24, 2015. Maintaining amphibious units is vital to the naval expeditionary nature of the Marine Corps, and maintaining the readiness and standards of every Marine ensures high performance and fast deployment capabilities. - A Marine with 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion scans for enemy troops after a simulated attack during a week-long field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 24, 2015. Maintaining amphibious units is vital to the naval expeditionary nature of the Marine Corps, and maintaining the readiness and standards of every Marine ensures high performance and fast deployment capabilities.

Master Sgt. Richard Thomas, operations chief with Engineer Company, Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, instructs one of his Marines on the proper procedures for felling a tree with a chainsaw, Jan. 28, 2015. The MWSS-274 engineers were clearing and preparing an undeveloped piece of land aboard Marine Corps Air Station New River for a forward arming and refueling point to be utilized as a future training area. - Master Sgt. Richard Thomas, operations chief with Engineer Company, Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, instructs one of his Marines on the proper procedures for felling a tree with a chainsaw, Jan. 28, 2015. The MWSS-274 engineers were clearing and preparing an undeveloped piece of land aboard Marine Corps Air Station New River for a forward arming and refueling point to be utilized as a future training area.

Cpl. Sierra K. Tilson, rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, fires the M203 grenade launcher during a live-fire range at the Verona Loop training area, near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2015. Marines with Co. A conducted live-fire training, squad attacks, and patrolling in preparation for their upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. 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. - Cpl. Sierra K. Tilson, rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, fires the M203 grenade launcher during a live-fire range at the Verona Loop training area, near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2015. Marines with Co. A conducted live-fire training, squad attacks, and patrolling in preparation for their upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. 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.

Gunnery Sgt. Gabriel Machado, left, Master Sgt. Raul Argumedo, center, and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Bateman jump in tandem from a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft Nov. 20, 2014 over Ie Shima Training Facility, off the northwest coast of Okinawa, Japan. The Marines jumped from an altitude of 10,000 feet during the high speed training. Machado, from New York, New York, is an air delivery specialist with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Argumedo, from Los Angeles, California, is an air delivery specialist with the battalion. Bateman, from Gaithersburg, Maryland, is a reconnaissance man with the battalion. - Gunnery Sgt. Gabriel Machado, left, Master Sgt. Raul Argumedo, center, and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Bateman jump in tandem from a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft Nov. 20, 2014 over Ie Shima Training Facility, off the northwest coast of Okinawa, Japan. The Marines jumped from an altitude of 10,000 feet during the high speed training. Machado, from New York, New York, is an air delivery specialist with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Argumedo, from Los Angeles, California, is an air delivery specialist with the battalion. Bateman, from Gaithersburg, Maryland, is a reconnaissance man with the battalion.

U.S. Marine Capt. Nathan D. Bedle, with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response – Africa, and a Spanish soldier with 1st Mountain Troops Command conduct a trail recon a during mountain warfare training in Candanchu, Spain, Dec. 16, 2014. The exercise, which was conducted with the Spanish, allowed the Marines to gain greater knowledge of mountain warfare tactics, techniques and procedures while enhancing interoperability with the Spanish and strengthening the U.S. partnership with Spain. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-mobile crisis response force that conducts missions to protect U.S. personnel, property, and interests in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility. - U.S. Marine Capt. Nathan D. Bedle, with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response – Africa, and a Spanish soldier with 1st Mountain Troops Command conduct a trail recon a during mountain warfare training in Candanchu, Spain, Dec. 16, 2014. The exercise, which was conducted with the Spanish, allowed the Marines to gain greater knowledge of mountain warfare tactics, techniques and procedures while enhancing interoperability with the Spanish and strengthening the U.S. partnership with Spain. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-mobile crisis response force that conducts missions to protect U.S. personnel, property, and interests in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility.

A CH-53E Super Stallion hovers over an M777 Howitzer where Marines with Landing Support Platoon, Truck Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, prepare to attach an M777 Howitzer to a CH-53E Super Stallion as it hovered over the gun during Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty-nine Palms, Calif., Dec. 9, 2014. The exercise gave the Marines the opportunity to refine and rehearse essential 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 operation and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. - A CH-53E Super Stallion hovers over an M777 Howitzer where Marines with Landing Support Platoon, Truck Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, prepare to attach an M777 Howitzer to a CH-53E Super Stallion as it hovered over the gun during Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty-nine Palms, Calif., Dec. 9, 2014. The exercise gave the Marines the opportunity to refine and rehearse essential 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 operation and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations.

A UH-1Y Venom helicopter with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., flies overhead during a week-long deployment-for-training exercise conducted at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Dec. 9, 2014. - A UH-1Y Venom helicopter with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., flies overhead during a week-long deployment-for-training exercise conducted at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Dec. 9, 2014.

Rear Admiral Brent Scott, the 19th Chaplain of the United States Marine Corps and the Deputy Chief of Navy Chaplains and the guest of honor for the 239th United States Navy Chaplain Corps Birthday Ball, speaks to the audience at the Pacific Views Event Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., December 1, 2014. Navy Captain Guy M. Lee, the command chaplain of I MEF, hosted the ball. - Rear Admiral Brent Scott, the 19th Chaplain of the United States Marine Corps and the Deputy Chief of Navy Chaplains and the guest of honor for the 239th United States Navy Chaplain Corps Birthday Ball, speaks to the audience at the Pacific Views Event Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., December 1, 2014. Navy Captain Guy M. Lee, the command chaplain of I MEF, hosted the ball.

Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

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)

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.

Guest of Honor Gen. John F. Kelly, Commander of U.S. Southern Command, speaks during the opening ceremony of New York City's annual Veterans Day Parade at Madison Square Park November 11, 2014. The parade, also known as America's Parade, highlights a different service each year. This year, the Marines were showcased for their legacy and traditions, which date back 239 years. - Guest of Honor Gen. John F. Kelly, Commander of U.S. Southern Command, speaks during the opening ceremony of New York City's annual Veterans Day Parade at Madison Square Park November 11, 2014. The parade, also known as America's Parade, highlights a different service each year. This year, the Marines were showcased for their legacy and traditions, which date back 239 years.

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 Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, communicate with pilots of an F/A-18 Hornet before take-off during the Korean Marine Exchange Program 14-13, Oct. 13, 2014, on Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea. KMEP 14-13 is a multinational exercise that focuses on the integration of aviation and ground assets within the construct of a traditional Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise. Supporting units include, but are not limited to, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 and Marine Wing Support Squadron 171. - Marines with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, communicate with pilots of an F/A-18 Hornet before take-off during the Korean Marine Exchange Program 14-13, Oct. 13, 2014, on Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea. KMEP 14-13 is a multinational exercise that focuses on the integration of aviation and ground assets within the construct of a traditional Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise. Supporting units include, but are not limited to, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 and Marine Wing Support Squadron 171.

A UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 “Gunfighters,” prepares to land during a familiarization flight aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 16. Pilots and crews practiced basic flight operations like landings and take offs several times in succession to hone their skills. - A UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 “Gunfighters,” prepares to land during a familiarization flight aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 16. Pilots and crews practiced basic flight operations like landings and take offs several times in succession to hone their skills.

A CH-53E Super Stallion lowers a M777 Howitzer and its ammunition onto a landing zone aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., as part of a reactionary combat training exercise Sept. 30, 2014. The purpose of the exercise was to build cohesion between and the aircraft’s crew and the Marines on the ground handling the equipment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Olivia C. McDonald/Released) - A CH-53E Super Stallion lowers a M777 Howitzer and its ammunition onto a landing zone aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., as part of a reactionary combat training exercise Sept. 30, 2014. The purpose of the exercise was to build cohesion between and the aircraft’s crew and the Marines on the ground handling the equipment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Olivia C. McDonald/Released)

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

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

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

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

A Marine wearing Rugged All Terrain boots disembarks from a helicopter in Afghanistan. Two pairs of RAT boots, a temperate variant and hot variant, like the ones pictured above, will be issued to Marine Corps recruits and officer candidates in their sea bags starting Dec. 1, 2014. - A Marine wearing Rugged All Terrain boots disembarks from a helicopter in Afghanistan. Two pairs of RAT boots, a temperate variant and hot variant, like the ones pictured above, will be issued to Marine Corps recruits and officer candidates in their sea bags starting Dec. 1, 2014.

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

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

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

Marines with Marine Corps Institute in Washington, D.C., traveled to Manassas, Va., in early August for a battle study on the Civil War’s Battle of Bull Run. - Marines with Marine Corps Institute in Washington, D.C., traveled to Manassas, Va., in early August for a battle study on the Civil War’s Battle of Bull Run.

John Morgenstern poses in front of a CH-46 helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico, Virginia before the last helicopters left the air facility forever, July 16, 2014. Morgenstern has been the technical representative at Marine Helicopter Squadron One for 47 years. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Aaron Hostutler/released) - John Morgenstern poses in front of a CH-46 helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico, Virginia before the last helicopters left the air facility forever, July 16, 2014. Morgenstern has been the technical representative at Marine Helicopter Squadron One for 47 years. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Aaron Hostutler/released)

U.S. Marine Pvt. Tyler Knotts, 19, from Kingwood, W.V., grips a ledge as he navigates his way up a cliff during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Sept. 1, 2014. Rice is an infantry rifleman with 1st Platoon, Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment will become the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s ground combat element in October. Mountain Exercise 2014 develops critical skills the battalion will need during deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released) - U.S. Marine Pvt. Tyler Knotts, 19, from Kingwood, W.V., grips a ledge as he navigates his way up a cliff during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Sept. 1, 2014. Rice is an infantry rifleman with 1st Platoon, Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment will become the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s ground combat element in October. Mountain Exercise 2014 develops critical skills the battalion will need during deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released)

A Marine with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, descends a rope from an MV-22B Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th MEU, during Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System qualification at Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 22, 2014. Marines spent two days fast-roping from a tower and an MV-22B Osprey in preparation for their scheduled deployment at the end of the year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Nichols) - A Marine with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, descends a rope from an MV-22B Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th MEU, during Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System qualification at Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 22, 2014. Marines spent two days fast-roping from a tower and an MV-22B Osprey in preparation for their scheduled deployment at the end of the year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Nichols)

Pop-up thunderstorms can be hazardous to those working or playing outdoors. Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany officials urge people to pay attention to the weather when planning activities. - Pop-up thunderstorms can be hazardous to those working or playing outdoors. Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany officials urge people to pay attention to the weather when planning activities.