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Cpl. Kira R. Lavine with Marine Air Support Squadron 3, Marine Air Control Group 38, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, breaks two Warrior Games’ records including both the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle swim events. The Warrior Games took place June 1-9 at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado. Competitors ranged from a Paralympic-style competition for wounded to injured service members from all U.S. branches of service, and this year includes teams from the United Kingdom Armed Forces, Australian Defence Force and Canadian Armed Forces. Armed Forces. - Cpl. Kira R. Lavine with Marine Air Support Squadron 3, Marine Air Control Group 38, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, breaks two Warrior Games’ records including both the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle swim events. The Warrior Games took place June 1-9 at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado. Competitors ranged from a Paralympic-style competition for wounded to injured service members from all U.S. branches of service, and this year includes teams from the United Kingdom Armed Forces, Australian Defence Force and Canadian Armed Forces. Armed Forces.

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 11, 1st Marine Logistics Group, prepare to attach an external load to a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 during helicopter support team operations aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., July 19. HST operations are conducted to deliver supplies to service members who need the supplies quickly or are in difficult areas to reach via land. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 11, 1st Marine Logistics Group, prepare to attach an external load to a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 during helicopter support team operations aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., July 19. HST operations are conducted to deliver supplies to service members who need the supplies quickly or are in difficult areas to reach via land.

Harvested HMMWV parts will save Corps millions, increase survivability of JLTV - Logisticians and equipment specialists from Marine Corps Systems Command and Program Executive Officer Land Systems install a Marine Corps Transparent Armor Gun Shield on a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle May 1. The installation is part of a cost-savings plan to harvest Gunner’s Protection Kits and other equipment from older High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and increase the JLTV’s survivability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Kristen Murphy)

Cpl. Tyler J. Beard, center-left, instructs Marines on the sampling and testing of chemicals during a reconnaissance, surveillance and decontamination course conducted by chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group July 18, 2018 at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. - Cpl. Tyler J. Beard, center-left, instructs Marines on the sampling and testing of chemicals during a reconnaissance, surveillance and decontamination course conducted by chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group July 18, 2018 at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. The RSD course ensures that Marines can effectively detect and decontaminate a CBRN environment and save lives of contaminated Marines in an area. Beard, a native of Pearland, Texas, is a CBRN defense specialist with CLR-35.

A U.S. Marine with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, provides overwatch during an integrated squad exercise with Mexican marines assigned to the Amphibious Marine Infantry Brigade as they navigate the infantry immersion trainer during Rim of the Pacific exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 9, 2018. The IIT provided the Marines with “hands on” practical application of tactical skills and decision making in an immersive, scenario-based training environment. RIMPAC demonstrates the value of amphibious forces and provides high-value training for task-organized, highly capable Marine Air-Ground Task Forces enhancing the critical crisis response capability of U.S. forces and partners globally. Twenty-five nations, 46 ships, five submarines, about 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 27 to Aug. 2 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. - A U.S. Marine with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, provides overwatch during an integrated squad exercise with Mexican marines assigned to the Amphibious Marine Infantry Brigade as they navigate the infantry immersion trainer during Rim of the Pacific exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 9, 2018. The IIT provided the Marines with “hands on” practical application of tactical skills and decision making in an immersive, scenario-based training environment. RIMPAC demonstrates the value of amphibious forces and provides high-value training for task-organized, highly capable Marine Air-Ground Task Forces enhancing the critical crisis response capability of U.S. forces and partners globally. Twenty-five nations, 46 ships, five submarines, about 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 27 to Aug. 2 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California.

3rd MAW supports firefighting operations at Camp Pendleton - Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 267 and HMLA-169, Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, conduct water bucket drops over a brush fire in support of firefighting operations at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 6. The “Pendleton Complex,” consisting of three separate fires, burned nearly 2,000 acres. In all, six aircraft from 3rd MAW conducted nearly 250 water drops over two separate fires in 30 hours. (Courtesy Photo)

Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, riding Assault Amphibious Vehicles, head toward the shore during a mechanized assault as part of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s MEU Exercise, near Ginoza Village, Okinawa, Japan, June 28, 2018. Marines and Sailors with Echo Company performed the final training event of MEUEX, an assault launched from Camp Schwab and targeting Combat Town, part of Okinawa’s Central Training Area. Marines with Echo Company, the mechanized assault element with BLT 2/5, partner with AAV crews to perform raids and assaults launched from the sea. MEUEX is the first in a series of three pre-deployment training events that prepare the 31st MEU to deploy at a moment’s notice. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations. - Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, riding Assault Amphibious Vehicles, head toward the shore during a mechanized assault as part of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s MEU Exercise, near Ginoza Village, Okinawa, Japan, June 28, 2018. Marines and Sailors with Echo Company performed the final training event of MEUEX, an assault launched from Camp Schwab and targeting Combat Town, part of Okinawa’s Central Training Area. Marines with Echo Company, the mechanized assault element with BLT 2/5, partner with AAV crews to perform raids and assaults launched from the sea. MEUEX is the first in a series of three pre-deployment training events that prepare the 31st MEU to deploy at a moment’s notice. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations.

Marine Corps Systems Command awarded a contract to BAE Systems to produce and deliver the Amphibious Combat Vehicle. Following a successful Milestone C decision by the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development, and Acquisition, the contract options worth $198 million will allow BAE Systems to build 30 low rate production vehicles, which will start delivering in the fall of next year. - Marine Corps Systems Command awarded a contract to BAE Systems to produce and deliver the Amphibious Combat Vehicle. Following a successful Milestone C decision by the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development, and Acquisition, the contract options worth $198 million will allow BAE Systems to build 30 low rate production vehicles, which will start delivering in the fall of next year.

A CH-47 Chinook Helicopter from 3-82nd General Support Aviation Battalion, Fort Bragg extracts a group of Marines with Bravo Company, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry – East, during a joint exercise on Landing Zone Parrot on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, June 7, 2018. The Marines extracted from LZ Parrot to LZ-15 on Camp Geiger. - A CH-47 Chinook Helicopter from 3-82nd General Support Aviation Battalion, Fort Bragg extracts a group of Marines with Bravo Company, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry – East, during a joint exercise on Landing Zone Parrot on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, June 7, 2018. The Marines extracted from LZ Parrot to LZ-15 on Camp Geiger.

Noncommissioned officers with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit toss medicine balls during a Force Fitness Instructor led High Intensity Tactical Training session at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2018. The 31st MEU is adopting an NCO-led FFI program to improve overall physical fitness while reducing injury and building unit morale. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations. - Noncommissioned officers with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit toss medicine balls during a Force Fitness Instructor led High Intensity Tactical Training session at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2018. The 31st MEU is adopting an NCO-led FFI program to improve overall physical fitness while reducing injury and building unit morale. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations.

U.S. Marine Col. Maria McMillen places a flower on the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing Memorial Monument during a memorial ceremony at Pohang City Battle Monument and 1st MAW Memorial Monument in Pohang, South Korea, June 6, 2018. One at a time, each guest placed a flower on the memorial. McMillen, a Craig, Colorado native, is the G-5 assistance chief of staff with 1st MAW. - U.S. Marine Col. Maria McMillen places a flower on the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing Memorial Monument during a memorial ceremony at Pohang City Battle Monument and 1st MAW Memorial Monument in Pohang, South Korea, June 6, 2018. One at a time, each guest placed a flower on the memorial. McMillen, a Craig, Colorado native, is the G-5 assistance chief of staff with 1st MAW.

Clement E. Hill holds the Congressional Gold Medal posthumously awarded to his father Pfc. Burnie W. Hill, a Montford Point Marine May 31, 2018 at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. In 1942, African Americans were given the opportunity to enlist in the United States Marine Corps. Nearly 20,000 African Americans from 1942-1949 were trained separately from their white counterparts at Montford Point, a facility at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. - Clement E. Hill holds the Congressional Gold Medal posthumously awarded to his father Pfc. Burnie W. Hill, a Montford Point Marine May 31, 2018 at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. In 1942, African Americans were given the opportunity to enlist in the United States Marine Corps. Nearly 20,000 African Americans from 1942-1949 were trained separately from their white counterparts at Montford Point, a facility at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

160916-M-PJ332-519.JPG - A MV-22B Osprey belonging to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced) prepares to land on Farallon de Medinilla Range, Commonwealth Northern Mariana Islands, Sept. 16, 2016. Valiant Shield is a biennial U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps exercise held in Guam, focusing on real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces at sea, in the air, on land and in cyberspace. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. T.T. Parish)

2018 Marine Corps Trials cycling competition - U.S. Marine Corps veteran Danielle Pothoof leads a group of cyclists during the 2018 Marine Corps Trials cycling competition at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 18, 2018. Pothoof is a member of the 2018 Marine Corps Trials Wounded Warrior Battalion-West Team. The Marine Corps Trials promotes recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sport participation and develops camaraderie among recovering service members (RSMs) and veterans. It is an opportunity for RSMs to demonstrate their achievements and serves as the primary venue to select Marine Corps participants for the DoD Warrior Games. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Drew Tech)

Pilots sit in the cockpit during a training flight from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma to Yokota Air Base May 22, 2018. Training flights are a way for Marine pilots to get flight hours to help maintain their proficiency. They are also used to prepare pilots to fly in harsher weather, if needed. - Pilots sit in the cockpit during a training flight from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma to Yokota Air Base May 22, 2018. Training flights are a way for Marine pilots to get flight hours to help maintain their proficiency. They are also used to prepare pilots to fly in harsher weather, if needed.

Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, load onto busses headed to Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 18, 2018. BLT 2/5 will be taking up the role as the Ground Combat Element of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide range of military operations. - Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, load onto busses headed to Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 18, 2018. BLT 2/5 will be taking up the role as the Ground Combat Element of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide range of military operations.

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Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen. Carlito G. Galvez Jr., chief of staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines, delivers his remarks during the Exercise Balikatan opening ceremony held at Tejeros Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Manila, Philippines, May 7, 2018. The ceremony represented the official commencement of Exercise Balikatan and the continued partnership between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines. Exercise Balikatan, in its 34th iteration, is an annual U.S.-Philippine military training focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations held from May 7 to May 18. - Armed Forces of the Philippines Lt. Gen. Carlito G. Galvez Jr., chief of staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines, delivers his remarks during the Exercise Balikatan opening ceremony held at Tejeros Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Manila, Philippines, May 7, 2018. The ceremony represented the official commencement of Exercise Balikatan and the continued partnership between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines. Exercise Balikatan, in its 34th iteration, is an annual U.S.-Philippine military training focused on a variety of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counterterrorism, and other combined military operations held from May 7 to May 18.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Captain, boxing team co-captain, 1st Marine Division. The Marines are scheduled to compete in boxing contests against the Royal Marines May 3, 2018 at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines in Lympstone, England, and May 8, 2018 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, England. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Captain, boxing team co-captain, 1st Marine Division. The Marines are scheduled to compete in boxing contests against the Royal Marines May 3, 2018 at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines in Lympstone, England, and May 8, 2018 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, England.

Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, salute as the National Anthem plays during the regimental change of command ceremony May 1, 2018 at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. Col. Forrest C. Poole relinquished command of CLR-35 to Lt. Col. Kenric D. Stevenson. Poole is a native of Sharpesburg, Georgia. Stevenson is a native of DeRidder, Louisiana. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jamin M. Powell) - Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, salute as the National Anthem plays during the regimental change of command ceremony May 1, 2018 at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. Col. Forrest C. Poole relinquished command of CLR-35 to Lt. Col. Kenric D. Stevenson. Poole is a native of Sharpesburg, Georgia. Stevenson is a native of DeRidder, Louisiana. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jamin M. Powell)

“We are very honored to know that he is not forgotten, and to know the Marines remember him,” said Joe Braunschweig, center, nephew of Medal of Honor recipient Cpl. Louis J. Hauge, Jr. Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, dedicated their headquarters building in memory of Hauge for his heroic actions during the Battle of Okinawa, April 30, 2018 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. Braunschweig is a native of Browns point, Washington. - “We are very honored to know that he is not forgotten, and to know the Marines remember him,” said Joe Braunschweig, center, nephew of Medal of Honor recipient Cpl. Louis J. Hauge, Jr. Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, dedicated their headquarters building in memory of Hauge for his heroic actions during the Battle of Okinawa, April 30, 2018 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. Braunschweig is a native of Browns point, Washington.

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U.S. Marines assigned to the Maritime Raid Force, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, brace while an entrance is breached during Eager Lion at the King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center, Jordan, April 18, 2018. As part of Eager Lion, U.S. Navy and Marine Corps assets practice and rehearse a range of critical capabilities available to U.S. Central Command both afloat and ashore to promote stability in the region. - U.S. Marines assigned to the Maritime Raid Force, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, brace while an entrance is breached during Eager Lion at the King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center, Jordan, April 18, 2018. As part of Eager Lion, U.S. Navy and Marine Corps assets practice and rehearse a range of critical capabilities available to U.S. Central Command both afloat and ashore to promote stability in the region.

Brig. Gen. Dimitri Henry, U.S. Marine Corps Director of Intelligence, (right) attends Larry Stratton's, former Deputy Director of Marine Corps Community Services, retirement ceremony at the Frontline Restaurant aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., March 29, 2018. Stratton, a retired Marine Corps master sergeant, was Henry's drill instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., in 1981. - Brig. Gen. Dimitri Henry, U.S. Marine Corps Director of Intelligence, (right) attends Larry Stratton's, former Deputy Director of Marine Corps Community Services, retirement ceremony at the Frontline Restaurant aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., March 29, 2018. Stratton, a retired Marine Corps master sergeant, was Henry's drill instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., in 1981.

Cpl. Oubigee Jones practices striking techniques aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, April 17. Jones fought in the Marine Corps and Chevrolet Freedom Fight exhibition aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune April 14. Jones is an Administrative Specialist with the Installation Personnel Administrative Center. - Cpl. Oubigee Jones practices striking techniques aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, April 17. Jones fought in the Marine Corps and Chevrolet Freedom Fight exhibition aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune April 14. Jones is an Administrative Specialist with the Installation Personnel Administrative Center.

An iRobot 310 Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle belonging to Combat Logistic Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, sits staged with 3-D printed lens covers aboard the USS Wasp while underway in the Pacific Ocean, April 17, 2018. Marines with CLB-31 are now capable of ‘additive manufacturing,’ also known as 3-D printing, which is the technique of replicating digital 3-D models as tangible objects. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit partners with the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 to form the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Pacific. - An iRobot 310 Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle belonging to Combat Logistic Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, sits staged with 3-D printed lens covers aboard the USS Wasp while underway in the Pacific Ocean, April 17, 2018. Marines with CLB-31 are now capable of ‘additive manufacturing,’ also known as 3-D printing, which is the technique of replicating digital 3-D models as tangible objects. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit partners with the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 to form the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Anthony Salas, a network administrator with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, installs a Hawkeye III Satellite in Iraq, Dec., 4, 2017. The communications team was deployed in support of the 15th MEU’s aviation combat element conducting missions in support of Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Anthony Salas, a network administrator with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, installs a Hawkeye III Satellite in Iraq, Dec., 4, 2017. The communications team was deployed in support of the 15th MEU’s aviation combat element conducting missions in support of Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve.

3rd Marine Division Commanding General Maj. Gen. Craig Q. Timberlake presents an appreciation coin to U.S. Marines and Sailors attached to 3rd Marine Division April 13, 2018, on Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan. The service members competed in the 2018 Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command Raider Games March 18-27. The four man team finished 2nd place out of nine other teams that competed. - 3rd Marine Division Commanding General Maj. Gen. Craig Q. Timberlake presents an appreciation coin to U.S. Marines and Sailors attached to 3rd Marine Division April 13, 2018, on Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan. The service members competed in the 2018 Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command Raider Games March 18-27. The four man team finished 2nd place out of nine other teams that competed.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Lauren Song, an air crewman with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, releases units of blood during an air delivery drop at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., March 28, 2018. There were five different packaging variations used for the air delivery. Each used materials from the Authorized Medical and Dental Allowance List and a special insulated box called a ‘Collins’ box; these variations also included numerous parachute configurations. The purpose of the exercise was to test the viability of blood samples being transported by air delivery. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Lauren Song, an air crewman with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, releases units of blood during an air delivery drop at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., March 28, 2018. There were five different packaging variations used for the air delivery. Each used materials from the Authorized Medical and Dental Allowance List and a special insulated box called a ‘Collins’ box; these variations also included numerous parachute configurations. The purpose of the exercise was to test the viability of blood samples being transported by air delivery.

A critical skills operator with 3rd Marine Raider Battalion, Marine Raider Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, receives the Silver Star aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 6, 2018. - A critical skills operator with 3rd Marine Raider Battalion, Marine Raider Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, receives the Silver Star aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 6, 2018. The Silver Star is awarded to service members who display conspicuous gallantry in action while serving the U.S. in operational environments and is the third highest award that can be given to a member of the U.S. armed forces. The Marine Raider received the award for outstanding leadership and acts of bravery while leading a small team to rescue over 170 hostages taken by a terrorist group in Mali in 2015. Their actions saved more than 150 lives and bolstered the relationship between the U.S. and the partner nation.

Cpl. Lexus Martinez, Marine Corps Installations Pacific Food Service Specialist of the Quarter, prepares to serve chow. - Cpl. Lexus Martinez, Marine Corps Installations Pacific Food Service Specialist of the Quarter, prepares to serve chow to Marines and Sailors at the Camp Kinser Mess Hall, Okinawa, Japan March 20, 2018. Martinez says that making food helps her keep her mind in a positive state. The Brooklyn native said she and her family lived a rough life and were even homeless at times. “Making food is music to me,” Martinez said. “It helps me realize exactly how far I’ve come from the bad times in my life, and I realize that I am blessed to be standing here today.” According to her, the help she received from friends, family and strangers during the worst times in her childhood inspired her to spend her life giving back to others. Martinez is a food service specialist with Headquarters Company, 3rd Marine Logistics Group.

1st Sgt. Jamie L. Byrd, left, and Lt. Col. Matthew J. Kessler, uncover the U.S. flag during the III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion activation ceremony, March 22, 2018 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. - 1st Sgt. Jamie L. Byrd, left, and Lt. Col. Matthew J. Kessler, uncover the U.S. flag during the III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion activation ceremony, March 22, 2018 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Kessler, III MSB’s first commanding officer, is from Kingsport, New York, and Byrd, III MSB’s acting sergeant major, is from Greenville, South Carolina. III MSB’s mission is to provide combat service support, security and administrative services to the command elements of III MEF, III Marine Expeditionary Brigade and III MEF Information Group.

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U.S. Marines from different units arm a breaching charge during an urban breaching range at Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 20, 2018. Marines performed urban breaching exercises to gain hands-on experience in conducting tactical maneuvers, as well as proper handling and making of explosive charges. The Marines are with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion and 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division. - U.S. Marines from different units arm a breaching charge during an urban breaching range at Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 20, 2018. Marines performed urban breaching exercises to gain hands-on experience in conducting tactical maneuvers, as well as proper handling and making of explosive charges. The Marines are with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion and 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunner Gilbert H. Bolton was born in Portsmouth, Ohio and enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1959. He served as an infantry Marine and officer until he retired in 1991 at the age of 50. During his time in the Marine Corps, Bolton rose through the ranks from private to an infantry weapons officer, also known as a Marine Gunner. A Marine Corps Gunner is a technical expert of all Marine Corps weapons systems, and their employment. - U.S. Marine Corps Gunner Gilbert H. Bolton was born in Portsmouth, Ohio and enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1959. He served as an infantry Marine and officer until he retired in 1991 at the age of 50. During his time in the Marine Corps, Bolton rose through the ranks from private to an infantry weapons officer, also known as a Marine Gunner. A Marine Corps Gunner is a technical expert of all Marine Corps weapons systems, and their employment.

Team Georgia moves to center stage during the 2018 Marine Corps Trials opening ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 17, 2018. The Marine Corps Trials promotes recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sport participation and develops camaraderie among recovering service members and veterans. It is as an opportunity for RSMs to demonstrate their achievements and serves as the primary venue to select Marine Corps participants for the DoD Warrior Games. - Team Georgia moves to center stage during the 2018 Marine Corps Trials opening ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 17, 2018. The Marine Corps Trials promotes recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sport participation and develops camaraderie among recovering service members and veterans. It is as an opportunity for RSMs to demonstrate their achievements and serves as the primary venue to select Marine Corps participants for the DoD Warrior Games.

Georgia Army Cpl. Alika Gitolendia, right, and Sgt. Vepkhvia Gelashvili, members of the 2018 Marine Corps Trials Georgian team pose with a small shark caught while fishing at Ocean Crest Pier in Oak Island, N.C., March 14, 2018, as part of the USO of North Carolina’s “American Experience Day.” The Marine Corps Trials promotes recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sport participation and develops camaraderie among recovering service members and veterans. It is as an opportunity for RSMs to demonstrate their achievements and serves as the primary venue to select Marine Corps participants for the DoD Warrior Games. - Georgia Army Cpl. Alika Gitolendia, right, and Sgt. Vepkhvia Gelashvili, members of the 2018 Marine Corps Trials Georgian team pose with a small shark caught while fishing at Ocean Crest Pier in Oak Island, N.C., March 14, 2018, as part of the USO of North Carolina’s “American Experience Day.” The Marine Corps Trials promotes recovery and rehabilitation through adaptive sport participation and develops camaraderie among recovering service members and veterans. It is as an opportunity for RSMs to demonstrate their achievements and serves as the primary venue to select Marine Corps participants for the DoD Warrior Games.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with the Basic Reconnaissance Course 2-18 conduct helocast insertion training aboard Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, March 8, 2018. Helocast training is a graduation requirement which provides flexibility and maneuverability and will prepare students for basic recon insertion. - U.S. Marines and Sailors with the Basic Reconnaissance Course 2-18 conduct helocast insertion training aboard Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, March 8, 2018. Helocast training is a graduation requirement which provides flexibility and maneuverability and will prepare students for basic recon insertion.

A fallen comrades table sits in the far corner of the room during 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment St. Barbara’s Day celebration, March 9, 2017. This table is used to represent and remind service members and their families of sacrifices that have been made. St. Barbara’s Day is celebrated by artillery Marines to recognize those who have given a lifetime of servitude to the artillery community. - A fallen comrades table sits in the far corner of the room during 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment St. Barbara’s Day celebration, March 9, 2017. This table is used to represent and remind service members and their families of sacrifices that have been made. St. Barbara’s Day is celebrated by artillery Marines to recognize those who have given a lifetime of servitude to the artillery community.

Staff Sgt. Cary Chase lifts a set of dumbbells during a workout in the gym aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) while underway in the Pacific Ocean, Aug. 27, 2017. Chase, who is from Bonire, Georgia, is the disbursing chief of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Combat Logistics Battalion 31. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy's Amphibious Squadron 11 to form the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group, providing a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. - Staff Sgt. Cary Chase lifts a set of dumbbells during a workout in the gym aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) while underway in the Pacific Ocean, Aug. 27, 2017. Chase, who is from Bonire, Georgia, is the disbursing chief of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Combat Logistics Battalion 31. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy's Amphibious Squadron 11 to form the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group, providing a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

U.S. Navy doctors and hospital corpsmen with 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, simulate opening the airway of a wounded service member during a certification exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 1, 2018. The exercise was designed for shock trauma platoons and forward resuscitation surgical units to ensure medical proficiency in handling emergencies in future deployments. - U.S. Navy doctors and hospital corpsmen with 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, simulate opening the airway of a wounded service member during a certification exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 1, 2018. The exercise was designed for shock trauma platoons and forward resuscitation surgical units to ensure medical proficiency in handling emergencies in future deployments.

Col. Joseph Clearfield, the commanding officer of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, thanks the Marines and Sailors of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 (Reinforced) for their professionalism and dedication throughout the deployment, March 5, 2018. The 15th MEU is one of seven Marine Expeditionary Units currently in existence in the United States Marine Corps. The MEU's mission is to provide a rapid-response force capable of conducting conventional amphibious and maritime operations from sea, surface or air. - Col. Joseph Clearfield, the commanding officer of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, thanks the Marines and Sailors of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 (Reinforced) for their professionalism and dedication throughout the deployment, March 5, 2018. The 15th MEU is one of seven Marine Expeditionary Units currently in existence in the United States Marine Corps. The MEU's mission is to provide a rapid-response force capable of conducting conventional amphibious and maritime operations from sea, surface or air.

U.S. Marines walk off the bus to start their check-in process for Marine Combat Training at the School of Infantry - West on Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 6, 2018. This marks the first male-female integrated Marine Combat Training company on the West Coast. - U.S. Marines walk off the bus to start their check-in process for Marine Combat Training at the School of Infantry - West on Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 6, 2018. This marks the first male-female integrated Marine Combat Training company on the West Coast.

Marines with 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division await orders to commence semi-annual qualifications as part of a deployment for training exercise at Fort Stewart, Ga., Feb. 13, 2018. The DFT provides the opportunity to overcome home station range limitations as well as exercise the battalion’s capability to deploy equipment and personnel. - Marines with 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division await orders to commence semi-annual qualifications as part of a deployment for training exercise at Fort Stewart, Ga., Feb. 13, 2018. The DFT provides the opportunity to overcome home station range limitations as well as exercise the battalion’s capability to deploy equipment and personnel.

The Marines of 1/2 conducted immediate remedial action drills and traversed, searched and engaged targets moving from one to another. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment wait for nightfall to conduct live-fire exercises on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 24, 2018. The Marines of 1/2 conducted immediate remedial action drills and traversed, searched and engaged targets moving from one to another.

Marines, veterans and family gather for the Iwo Jima Commemorative Banquet for the 73rd Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima at the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. - Marines, veterans and family gather for the Iwo Jima Commemorative Banquet for the 73rd Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima at the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., February 17, 2018. The evening included a sunset memorial, 21-gun salute and banquet. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Drake Nickels)

U.S. Marine Cpl. Jason Cheama posts security during Exercise Samurai Jan. 23, 2018, on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Marines with Headquarters and Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Division trained to refine their skills for Division operations in an expeditionary environment. Cheama, a native of Zuni, New Mexico, supported the exercise as an assistant team leader in a provisional rifle squad. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Jason Cheama posts security during Exercise Samurai Jan. 23, 2018, on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Marines with Headquarters and Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Division trained to refine their skills for Division operations in an expeditionary environment. Cheama, a native of Zuni, New Mexico, supported the exercise as an assistant team leader in a provisional rifle squad.

The exercise enabled Reserve Marines to spend two weeks working together, battling the elements to ensure that they are ready to fight tonight and respond to the nation’s calls. - Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 24th Marines, 4th Marine Division, navigate the route to their next checkpoint during the final exercise of exercise Nordic Frost on Camp Ethan Allen Training Site in Jericho, Vt., Jan. 22, 2018. The exercise allowed Marines to demonstrate their ability to operate in a cold weather mountainous environment, conducting land navigation, marksmanship training, demolitions, call for fire training and other core competencies.

During the exercise, Marines refine their skills to better support Division operations in an expeditionary environment. - U.S. Marines receive their final orders to establish a forward operations center Jan. 23, 2018 on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, for Exercise Samurai. During the exercise, Marines refine their skills to better support Division operations in an expeditionary environment. The Marines are assigned Headquarters and Service Battalion, 3rd Marine Division.