News

Master Sgt. Berle Sigman, a student in the Faculty Advisors Course at the Quantico Staff Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, completes a High Intensity Tactical Training physical training session aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, June 27, with Master Gunnery Sgt. Amber Hecht, a lead instructor in the FAC. Sigman, whose original Military Occupational Specialty was 0369 Infantryman, will teach warfighting classes at the SNCO Academy after he gradutes from the course on June 29. He was injured in Ramadi, Iraq in 2004, leading to the loss of his leg. - Master Sgt. Berle Sigman, a student in the Faculty Advisors Course at the Quantico Staff Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, completes a High Intensity Tactical Training physical training session aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, June 27, with Master Gunnery Sgt. Amber Hecht, a lead instructor in the FAC. Sigman, whose original Military Occupational Specialty was 0369 Infantryman, will teach warfighting classes at the SNCO Academy after he gradutes from the course on June 29. He was injured in Ramadi, Iraq in 2004, leading to the loss of his leg.

Brig. Gen. Christopher J. Mahoney, left, and Bill A. Miller cut a cake during the Diplomatic Security Service Centennial ceremony at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, Virginia, June 29, 2016. The ceremony also celebrated the 70th Anniversary of the Marine Corps Embassy Security Group, which has been working alongside the DSS since 1946. Miller is the director of DSS and Mahoney is the director of Strategy and Plans Division, Plans, Policies and Operations, Headquarters Marine Corps. - Brig. Gen. Christopher J. Mahoney, left, and Bill A. Miller cut a cake during the Diplomatic Security Service Centennial ceremony at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, Virginia, June 29, 2016. The ceremony also celebrated the 70th Anniversary of the Marine Corps Embassy Security Group, which has been working alongside the DSS since 1946. Miller is the director of DSS and Mahoney is the director of Strategy and Plans Division, Plans, Policies and Operations, Headquarters Marine Corps.

Papua New Guinea soldiers and U.S. Marines and Sailors stand in formation during the opening remarks for Exercise Koa Moana, June 18, 2016, at Taurama Barracks, Papua New Guinea. The multi-national, bilateral exercise is designed to improve interoperability and relations through mil-to-mil training and by sharing infantry, engineering, medical and law enforcement skills. - Papua New Guinea soldiers and U.S. Marines and Sailors stand in formation during the opening remarks for Exercise Koa Moana, June 18, 2016, at Taurama Barracks, Papua New Guinea. The multi-national, bilateral exercise is designed to improve interoperability and relations through mil-to-mil training and by sharing infantry, engineering, medical and law enforcement skills.

U.S. Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa form a wall of shields to protect a simulated U.S. Embassy during a riot-control exercise at the National Gendarmerie Training Center in St. Astier, France, May 13, 2016. The Marines trained alongside the French National Gendarmerie to operate through dense smoke and CS gas while maintaining tightly organized formations. - U.S. Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa form a wall of shields to protect a simulated U.S. Embassy during a riot-control exercise at the National Gendarmerie Training Center in St. Astier, France, May 13, 2016. The Marines trained alongside the French National Gendarmerie to operate through dense smoke and CS gas while maintaining tightly organized formations.

Cpl. John C. Fisher, squad leader, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, leads his Marines through Range 410 while participating in Integrated Training Exercise 3-16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, May 9, 2016. 2/8 came from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to participate in ITX 3-16. (Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dave Flores/Released) - Cpl. John C. Fisher, squad leader, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, leads his Marines through Range 410 while participating in Integrated Training Exercise 3-16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, May 9, 2016. 2/8 came from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to participate in ITX 3-16. (Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dave Flores/Released)

Top performing Marines from throughout the Corps stand at attention after being awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal at the Commandant of the Marine Corps Combined Awards Ceremony May 11, 2016 at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. The ceremony recognized top performing Marine recruiters, drill instructors, combat instructors, career planners, security guards and athletes. - Top performing Marines from throughout the Corps stand at attention after being awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal at the Commandant of the Marine Corps Combined Awards Ceremony May 11, 2016 at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. The ceremony recognized top performing Marine recruiters, drill instructors, combat instructors, career planners, security guards and athletes.

U.S. Marines and Tunisian Groupement des Forces Speciales conduct convoy night operation training during an exercise in Bizerte, Tunisia, Mar. 21- Apr. 8, 2016. The Marine vehicle maintenance and assistance team trained with their Tunisian counterparts to increase the counter terrorism capabilities of the GFS. - U.S. Marines and Tunisian Groupement des Forces Speciales conduct convoy night operation training during an exercise in Bizerte, Tunisia, Mar. 21- Apr. 8, 2016. The Marine vehicle maintenance and assistance team trained with their Tunisian counterparts to increase the counter terrorism capabilities of the GFS.

U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988. - U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Phil Mayer, and explosive ordnance disposal technician with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, listens to Moroccan soldiers as they conduct ordnance reconnaissance on an inert mortar during a training exercise in Kenitra, Morocco, March 15, 2016. Students from across the Moroccan military branches are working together with U.S. Marine and Utah Air National Guard explosive ordnance disposal technicians and Utah National Guard engineers to build up Morocco’s demining capabilities. The training is part of the U.S. Humanitarian Mine Action Program which has been assisting partner nations in developing their mine action capacity since 1988.

Senegalese soldiers completed a month-long training exercise with U.S. Marines, March 18, at a military training facility in Thies, Senegal. U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, trained their counterparts with Senegal’s Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando, or COFUMACO, in infantry tactics, making this the 10th training engagement the forces. In an effort to combat illicit trafficking in the region, the Marines were in Senegal at the request of the host nation government in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. The Marines trained with the COFUMACO in Toubacouta in the southern part of the country for two weeks before moving up to Thies. - Senegalese soldiers completed a month-long training exercise with U.S. Marines, March 18, at a military training facility in Thies, Senegal. U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, trained their counterparts with Senegal’s Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando, or COFUMACO, in infantry tactics, making this the 10th training engagement the forces. In an effort to combat illicit trafficking in the region, the Marines were in Senegal at the request of the host nation government in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. The Marines trained with the COFUMACO in Toubacouta in the southern part of the country for two weeks before moving up to Thies.

Senegalese soldiers learn how to use a pulley system and rope to remove an inert mortar round from the ground and move it safely to another spot in Bargny, Senegal March 8, 2016. The intent wasn’t to actually move the ordnance, rather to get the students familiar with different types of tools. Since Feb. 15, a group of explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, began assisting Senegalese engineers as part of the Humanitarian Mine Action Program through what is called a train-the-trainer course. - Senegalese soldiers learn how to use a pulley system and rope to remove an inert mortar round from the ground and move it safely to another spot in Bargny, Senegal March 8, 2016. The intent wasn’t to actually move the ordnance, rather to get the students familiar with different types of tools. Since Feb. 15, a group of explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, began assisting Senegalese engineers as part of the Humanitarian Mine Action Program through what is called a train-the-trainer course.

Lance Cpl. Ronald Hester, a combat engineer with, provides security for a casualty evacuation exercise at Landing Zone Penguin at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 10, 2016. The training allowed Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 and 2nd CEB to work together in order to be well prepared to conduct a successful CASEVAC in any situation they may encounter while deployed, to ultimately saves lives. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Hester, a combat engineer with, provides security for a casualty evacuation exercise at Landing Zone Penguin at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 10, 2016. The training allowed Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 and 2nd CEB to work together in order to be well prepared to conduct a successful CASEVAC in any situation they may encounter while deployed, to ultimately saves lives.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Noah S. Scalish, (right), automatic rifleman, 2nd platoon Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa escorts a simulated suspect during an active shooter exercise at U.S. Embassy, Lisbon, Portugal, Feb. 9, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF conducts a scaled embassy reinforcement exercise at American Embassy Lisbon in coordination with the Regional Security Office and host nation security forces in order to enhance mission essential task proficiency and build relationships. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Noah S. Scalish, (right), automatic rifleman, 2nd platoon Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa escorts a simulated suspect during an active shooter exercise at U.S. Embassy, Lisbon, Portugal, Feb. 9, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF conducts a scaled embassy reinforcement exercise at American Embassy Lisbon in coordination with the Regional Security Office and host nation security forces in order to enhance mission essential task proficiency and build relationships.

U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct live-fire training with the Kuwait Ministry of the Interior VIP Protection Unit, Female Division during an exchange with the 26th MEU’s Female Engagement Team Jan. 31 to Feb. 11, 2016, in Kuwait City, Kuwait. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conduct live-fire training with the Kuwait Ministry of the Interior VIP Protection Unit, Female Division during an exchange with the 26th MEU’s Female Engagement Team Jan. 31 to Feb. 11, 2016, in Kuwait City, Kuwait. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

U.S. Marines and sailors are working with Cameroon’s Fusiliers Marins and Compagnie des Palmeurs de Combat to increase their capabilities to combat illicit activity and increase security in the waterways and borders of Cameroon. At the request of the Cameroonian government and through coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde, Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, are teaching their military counterparts in infantry tactics to help build their maritime security force capabilities. - U.S. Marines and sailors are working with Cameroon’s Fusiliers Marins and Compagnie des Palmeurs de Combat to increase their capabilities to combat illicit activity and increase security in the waterways and borders of Cameroon. At the request of the Cameroonian government and through coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde, Marines and sailors with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, are teaching their military counterparts in infantry tactics to help build their maritime security force capabilities.

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.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

Marines engage riot targets during nonlethal weapons training Feb. 11, 2016, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. The Marines, with 1st Law Enforcement Battalion, used this training as preparation for their upcoming deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit this summer. - Marines engage riot targets during nonlethal weapons training Feb. 11, 2016, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. The Marines, with 1st Law Enforcement Battalion, used this training as preparation for their upcoming deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit this summer.

Japanese observers tour and examine a MV-22 Osprey during a noncombatant evacuation demonstration as part of exercise Cobra Gold 16 at Utapao, Thailand, February 17, 2016. U.S. Marines put an Osprey on static display during the demonstration while partner nations exercised their own evacuation capabilities. The Osprey provides a longer flight range and a bigger capacity for supplies compared to traditional helicopters, but allows service members to access smaller areas compared to traditional fixed-wing aircraft. Cobra Gold, in its 35th iteration, is a multi-national exercise designed to advance regional security and ensure effective responses to regional crises by bringing together a robust combined task force from partner nations sharing common goals and security commitments in the Asia-Pacific region. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Japanese observers tour and examine a MV-22 Osprey during a noncombatant evacuation demonstration as part of exercise Cobra Gold 16 at Utapao, Thailand, February 17, 2016. U.S. Marines put an Osprey on static display during the demonstration while partner nations exercised their own evacuation capabilities. The Osprey provides a longer flight range and a bigger capacity for supplies compared to traditional helicopters, but allows service members to access smaller areas compared to traditional fixed-wing aircraft. Cobra Gold, in its 35th iteration, is a multi-national exercise designed to advance regional security and ensure effective responses to regional crises by bringing together a robust combined task force from partner nations sharing common goals and security commitments in the Asia-Pacific region. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

First Sgt. Shonor Burton runs through a non-lethal weapons course while blinded by the effects of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, Jan. 26, 2016. Burton is the company first sergeant for Company B, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. - First Sgt. Shonor Burton runs through a non-lethal weapons course while blinded by the effects of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, Jan. 26, 2016. Burton is the company first sergeant for Company B, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California.

Caroline B. Kennedy, U.S. ambassador to Japan, speaks to Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152) at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 28, 2016. This is Ambassador Kennedy’s first official visit to MCAS Iwakuni. While at the squadron’s hangar, Kennedy viewed a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft, gaining an understanding on the multiple capabilities of the aircraft in the Pacific theater. This visit also helped the ambassador better understand MCAS Iwakuni’s community and witness the ongoing transformation of the air station through the multitude of construction projects. - Caroline B. Kennedy, U.S. ambassador to Japan, speaks to Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152) at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 28, 2016. This is Ambassador Kennedy’s first official visit to MCAS Iwakuni. While at the squadron’s hangar, Kennedy viewed a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft, gaining an understanding on the multiple capabilities of the aircraft in the Pacific theater. This visit also helped the ambassador better understand MCAS Iwakuni’s community and witness the ongoing transformation of the air station through the multitude of construction projects.

U.S. Marines with the Ground Combat Element, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, run toward an MV-22B Osprey after recovering a simulated casualty during an alert-force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, January 23, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-sustaining crisis-response force prepared for the protection of American personnel and facilities on the African continent when directed. - U.S. Marines with the Ground Combat Element, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, run toward an MV-22B Osprey after recovering a simulated casualty during an alert-force drill at Naval Station Rota, Spain, January 23, 2016. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-sustaining crisis-response force prepared for the protection of American personnel and facilities on the African continent when directed.

A Marine with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment sights in during the defensive phase of the Battalion Assault Course, the culminating event for Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 6, 2015. The BAC assessed a battalion’s ability to conduct offensive and defensive operations integrating elements from the Air Combat Element and Logistics Combat Element. - A Marine with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment sights in during the defensive phase of the Battalion Assault Course, the culminating event for Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 6, 2015. The BAC assessed a battalion’s ability to conduct offensive and defensive operations integrating elements from the Air Combat Element and Logistics Combat Element.

Cpl. Candice Lopez, a U.S. Marine with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, scans the identification bands of evacuees, preparing them to be flown to a safe haven during a simulated noncombatant evacuation as part of Certification Exercise, Dec. 8, 2015. Noncombatant evacuations are one of the MEU's mission essential tasks, which it is specially trained to complete anywhere in the world within hours of notification. CERTEX is the final evaluation of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer ARG prior to deployment and is intended to certify their readiness to conduct integrated missions across the full spectrum of military operations. - Cpl. Candice Lopez, a U.S. Marine with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, scans the identification bands of evacuees, preparing them to be flown to a safe haven during a simulated noncombatant evacuation as part of Certification Exercise, Dec. 8, 2015. Noncombatant evacuations are one of the MEU's mission essential tasks, which it is specially trained to complete anywhere in the world within hours of notification. CERTEX is the final evaluation of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer ARG prior to deployment and is intended to certify their readiness to conduct integrated missions across the full spectrum of military operations.

A Uganda People’s Defense Force soldier detonates an "oval charge" on desired entry point during a breaching exercise at Camp Singo, Dec. 8, 2015. The Marines and UPDF improved breaching capabilities as they prepare for their African Union Mission in Somalia. - A Uganda People’s Defense Force soldier detonates an "oval charge" on desired entry point during a breaching exercise at Camp Singo, Dec. 8, 2015. The Marines and UPDF improved breaching capabilities as they prepare for their African Union Mission in Somalia.

Marines with the Ground Combat Element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force post security on a simulated casualty as part of a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct 23-Nov. 15, 2015. The GCE provides a fighting force capable of executing a wide range of mission sets for the MAGTF. - Marines with the Ground Combat Element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force post security on a simulated casualty as part of a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct 23-Nov. 15, 2015. The GCE provides a fighting force capable of executing a wide range of mission sets for the MAGTF.

A Marine with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment prepares to fire during the counterattack of the Battalion Assault Course, the culminating event for Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 6, 2015. The BAC integrates all elements of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force in order to defeat a large simulated enemy force. - A Marine with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment prepares to fire during the counterattack of the Battalion Assault Course, the culminating event for Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 6, 2015. The BAC integrates all elements of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force in order to defeat a large simulated enemy force.

Capt. Dustin R. Lukasiewicz, 29, of Harlan County, Neb., was honored Nov. 6, 2015, at the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal. Lukasiewicz lost his life in a helicopter mishap during Operation Sahayogi Haat, a humanitarian assistance disaster relief mission in Nepal following multiple earthquakes in April and May. In the ceremony, U.S. Ambassador to Nepal the Honorable Alaina B. Teplitz, Brig. Gen. Tracy W. King, commanding general, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, and the Marine Security Guard Detachment dedicated the Heritage Room in the Marine House on the embassy grounds officially naming it ‘Vengeance Hall’.‘Vengeance Hall’ will be named after the call sign of the UH-1Y Huey – ‘Vengeance 01’. The four aircrew Marines and helicopter belonged to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, from Camp Pendleton, Calif. The two other Marines on board were from Combat Camera, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, Okinawa, Japan. - Capt. Dustin R. Lukasiewicz, 29, of Harlan County, Neb., was honored Nov. 6, 2015, at the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal. Lukasiewicz lost his life in a helicopter mishap during Operation Sahayogi Haat, a humanitarian assistance disaster relief mission in Nepal following multiple earthquakes in April and May. In the ceremony, U.S. Ambassador to Nepal the Honorable Alaina B. Teplitz, Brig. Gen. Tracy W. King, commanding general, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, and the Marine Security Guard Detachment dedicated the Heritage Room in the Marine House on the embassy grounds officially naming it ‘Vengeance Hall’.‘Vengeance Hall’ will be named after the call sign of the UH-1Y Huey – ‘Vengeance 01’. The four aircrew Marines and helicopter belonged to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, from Camp Pendleton, Calif. The two other Marines on board were from Combat Camera, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, Okinawa, Japan.

Two MV-22B Ospreys with Joint Task Force 505 return from delivering relief supplies to Jiri Village during the dignified transfer of six U.S. Marines and two Nepalese soldiers at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, May 17, 2015. JTF 505 conducting Operation Sahayogi Haat continues to honor their fallen service members by carrying on with their original humanitarian aid mission to help Nepalese civilians still suffering from 7.8 and 7.3 magnitude earthquakes that struck the region April 25 and May 12, respectively. - Two MV-22B Ospreys with Joint Task Force 505 return from delivering relief supplies to Jiri Village during the dignified transfer of six U.S. Marines and two Nepalese soldiers at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, May 17, 2015. JTF 505 conducting Operation Sahayogi Haat continues to honor their fallen service members by carrying on with their original humanitarian aid mission to help Nepalese civilians still suffering from 7.8 and 7.3 magnitude earthquakes that struck the region April 25 and May 12, respectively.

A Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, the logistics combat element for the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, checks passports and identification at the orientation station of the evacuee collection center during non-combatant evacuation operations at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California as part of as part of Composite Training Unit Exercise, Oct. 23, 2015. COMPTUEX provides the MEU ARG the opportunity to integrate naval training while also allowing focused, mission-specific training and evaluation for the Navy-Marine Corps team. - A Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, the logistics combat element for the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, checks passports and identification at the orientation station of the evacuee collection center during non-combatant evacuation operations at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California as part of as part of Composite Training Unit Exercise, Oct. 23, 2015. COMPTUEX provides the MEU ARG the opportunity to integrate naval training while also allowing focused, mission-specific training and evaluation for the Navy-Marine Corps team.

Warrant Officer George V. Lampman, USMC (Ret), met with MSG Detachment Seoul to share his experiences from standing watch at US Embassy Seoul on the morning North Korea attacked the Republic of Korea, Oct. 6. Lampman made the trip despite the passing of his wife, Sook Ei Lampman, last week. He spoke at length with Marines. - Warrant Officer George V. Lampman, USMC (Ret), met with MSG Detachment Seoul to share his experiences from standing watch at US Embassy Seoul on the morning North Korea attacked the Republic of Korea, Oct. 6. Lampman made the trip despite the passing of his wife, Sook Ei Lampman, last week. He spoke at length with Marines.

U.S. Marines stand guard during a simulated civilian evacuation at the National Gendarmerie Tactical Training Center in Saint-Astier, France, Oct. 9. The exercise marks the third rotation of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa Marines training alongside the Gendarmerie. - U.S. Marines stand guard during a simulated civilian evacuation at the National Gendarmerie Tactical Training Center in Saint-Astier, France, Oct. 9. The exercise marks the third rotation of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa Marines training alongside the Gendarmerie.

U.S. Marines and Senegalese military members search a vehicle during a two-day training event aboard Bel-Air military base, Sept. 21-22 in Dakar, Senegal. The Marines, based out of Morón Air Base, Spain, are currently validating forward-staging capabilities in Dakar, Senegal, while building partnerships with their Senegalese counterparts. - U.S. Marines and Senegalese military members search a vehicle during a two-day training event aboard Bel-Air military base, Sept. 21-22 in Dakar, Senegal. The Marines, based out of Morón Air Base, Spain, are currently validating forward-staging capabilities in Dakar, Senegal, while building partnerships with their Senegalese counterparts.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, enter a fake village to conduct essential training at the Infantry Immersion Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 30, 2015. The training is designed to better prepare them for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Logistical Command Element Africa. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Michael Dye/Released)  - Marines with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, enter a fake village to conduct essential training at the Infantry Immersion Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 30, 2015. The training is designed to better prepare them for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Logistical Command Element Africa. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Michael Dye/Released) 

Benin National Surveillance Police students capture their intended target during an early morning raid exercise, Sept. 25, 2015, at Benin's Military Officer Academy in Toffo, Benin. More than 150 National Surveillance Police students graduated from a monthlong U.S. Marine Corps training evolution that included weapons handling, combat marksmanship, patrolling, close-quarters combat, tactical site exploitation, tactical questioning and the operations order process. - Benin National Surveillance Police students capture their intended target during an early morning raid exercise, Sept. 25, 2015, at Benin's Military Officer Academy in Toffo, Benin. More than 150 National Surveillance Police students graduated from a monthlong U.S. Marine Corps training evolution that included weapons handling, combat marksmanship, patrolling, close-quarters combat, tactical site exploitation, tactical questioning and the operations order process.

U.S. Marines and sailors accompanied Benin’s National Surveillance Police to Jesu Jro, Benin, Sept. 24, 2015, to conduct a combined border surveillance training exercise. The Marines and sailors with the Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa came to Benin for a monthlong theater security cooperation mission to build the NSP’s capacity to counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders. - U.S. Marines and sailors accompanied Benin’s National Surveillance Police to Jesu Jro, Benin, Sept. 24, 2015, to conduct a combined border surveillance training exercise. The Marines and sailors with the Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa came to Benin for a monthlong theater security cooperation mission to build the NSP’s capacity to counter illicit trafficking along the country’s borders.

U.S. and Benin officials take time to pose for a photos, Aug. 31, 2015, after the opening ceremony that officially started training between U.S. Marines and sailors and Benin's National Surveillance Police at Benin's National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin. Today’s ceremony marks a new milestone of the partnership between Benin and the U.S. This training is the first time in the Nation Surveillance Police’s 10-year history a foreign military has come to train and mentor the specialized unit. - U.S. and Benin officials take time to pose for a photos, Aug. 31, 2015, after the opening ceremony that officially started training between U.S. Marines and sailors and Benin's National Surveillance Police at Benin's National Police Academy in Cotonou, Benin. Today’s ceremony marks a new milestone of the partnership between Benin and the U.S. This training is the first time in the Nation Surveillance Police’s 10-year history a foreign military has come to train and mentor the specialized unit.

Corporal Tyler Jameson, a crew chief with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, looks out the back of an MV-22B Osprey while traveling from Morón Air Base to Naval Station Rota, Spain, during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise, August 3. The Marines flew approximately 60 miles from Morón Air Base to NS Rota to accomplish the TRAP mission. - Corporal Tyler Jameson, a crew chief with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, looks out the back of an MV-22B Osprey while traveling from Morón Air Base to Naval Station Rota, Spain, during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise, August 3. The Marines flew approximately 60 miles from Morón Air Base to NS Rota to accomplish the TRAP mission.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division used riot shields and batons to protect themselves against role-players acting as local villagers during infantry immersion training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 24, 2015. During the training exercise the Marines encountered the role-players in a simulated foreign country, who used various objects and weaponry to intimidate the Marines. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division used riot shields and batons to protect themselves against role-players acting as local villagers during infantry immersion training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 24, 2015. During the training exercise the Marines encountered the role-players in a simulated foreign country, who used various objects and weaponry to intimidate the Marines.

U.S. Marines of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, pose for a photo with a ceremonially decorated MV-22 Osprey, in Southwest Asia, July 17, 2015. The Marines of VMM – 165 celebrate the unit’s 50th anniversary while deployed with the SPMAGTF; providing long range assault support, troop transport and cargo delivery in the Central Command Area of Operations, as well as support to the Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel. - U.S. Marines of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, pose for a photo with a ceremonially decorated MV-22 Osprey, in Southwest Asia, July 17, 2015. The Marines of VMM – 165 celebrate the unit’s 50th anniversary while deployed with the SPMAGTF; providing long range assault support, troop transport and cargo delivery in the Central Command Area of Operations, as well as support to the Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel.

Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion and 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, measure detonation cord and create breaching charges during the urban breaching portion of a demolition package at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 10, 2015. The demolition package was conducted in preparation for an upcoming deployment, where the two units will be working together in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response- Africa. - Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion and 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, measure detonation cord and create breaching charges during the urban breaching portion of a demolition package at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 10, 2015. The demolition package was conducted in preparation for an upcoming deployment, where the two units will be working together in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response- Africa.

A U.S. Marine with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa emplaces a machine gun on the roof of a notional American Embassy during a training exercise in the urban training facility in Baumholder, Germany, July 6, 2015. More than 78 Marines and sailors conducted the full-mission rehearsal, which demonstrated the unit’s ability to rapidly deploy and conduct embassy reinforcement. - A U.S. Marine with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa emplaces a machine gun on the roof of a notional American Embassy during a training exercise in the urban training facility in Baumholder, Germany, July 6, 2015. More than 78 Marines and sailors conducted the full-mission rehearsal, which demonstrated the unit’s ability to rapidly deploy and conduct embassy reinforcement.

Lance Cpl. Ali J. Mohammed poses for a photo with a Humvee aboard Al Taqaddum Air Base, Iraq, July 4, 2015. Mohammed is originally from Baghdad and is now serving in the U.S. Marine Corps as a supply Marine. He is currently deployed as an Arabic interpreter for Task Force Al Taqaddum. - Lance Cpl. Ali J. Mohammed poses for a photo with a Humvee aboard Al Taqaddum Air Base, Iraq, July 4, 2015. Mohammed is originally from Baghdad and is now serving in the U.S. Marine Corps as a supply Marine. He is currently deployed as an Arabic interpreter for Task Force Al Taqaddum.

Gabonese Gendarmerie service members practice non-lethal compliance techniques at a Cooperative Security Location established by U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa in Libreville, Gabon, June 24, 2015. The Gendarmerie service members first completed a physically challenging circuit course to test their ability to remain calm and put their training to the test under fatigue and stress. The Marines, who are based out of Morón Air Base, Spain, are currently validating their forward-staging capabilities aboard the CSL while building partnerships with their Gabonese counterparts. - Gabonese Gendarmerie service members practice non-lethal compliance techniques at a Cooperative Security Location established by U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa in Libreville, Gabon, June 24, 2015. The Gendarmerie service members first completed a physically challenging circuit course to test their ability to remain calm and put their training to the test under fatigue and stress. The Marines, who are based out of Morón Air Base, Spain, are currently validating their forward-staging capabilities aboard the CSL while building partnerships with their Gabonese counterparts.

ATU.S. Marine Corps AAV-P7/A1 Amphibious Assault Vehicles disembark from the USS Ashland (LSD 48) during splash and recovery training June 10, 2015. The AAV's are with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Marines with BLT 2/5 and the rest of the 31st MEU are currently deployed on the regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - ATU.S. Marine Corps AAV-P7/A1 Amphibious Assault Vehicles disembark from the USS Ashland (LSD 48) during splash and recovery training June 10, 2015. The AAV's are with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Marines with BLT 2/5 and the rest of the 31st MEU are currently deployed on the regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

Marines with 1st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 1st Marine Logistics Group, remove ordnance from a downed UH-1 Huey helicopter during a training exercise at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., where they were tasked with sanitizing a wreckage site of any intelligence or ordnance an enemy force could use to their advantage, June 17, 2015. The Marines of 1st EOD Co. are preparing for an upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground – Crisis Response – Central Command where they will participate in a fast reaction force role. - Marines with 1st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 1st Marine Logistics Group, remove ordnance from a downed UH-1 Huey helicopter during a training exercise at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., where they were tasked with sanitizing a wreckage site of any intelligence or ordnance an enemy force could use to their advantage, June 17, 2015. The Marines of 1st EOD Co. are preparing for an upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground – Crisis Response – Central Command where they will participate in a fast reaction force role.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Charles Carlile, left, a member of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, holds a defensive line at the National Gendarmerie Training Center in St. Astier, France, June 19, 2015. The Marines trained to respond to a host of urban disturbances and maneuvered their teams without verbal communication. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Charles Carlile, left, a member of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, holds a defensive line at the National Gendarmerie Training Center in St. Astier, France, June 19, 2015. The Marines trained to respond to a host of urban disturbances and maneuvered their teams without verbal communication.

An MV-22 Osprey with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa conducts a routine flight near Libreville, Gabon, June 16, 2015. The Osprey recently joined two KC-130J Hercules tankers and traveled from Moròn Air Base, Spain, to establish a Cooperative Security Location, similar to a forward-staging base, in order to validate the unit’s capabilities and train with Gabonese forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photograph by Lance Cpl. Christopher Mendoza/Released) - An MV-22 Osprey with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa conducts a routine flight near Libreville, Gabon, June 16, 2015. The Osprey recently joined two KC-130J Hercules tankers and traveled from Moròn Air Base, Spain, to establish a Cooperative Security Location, similar to a forward-staging base, in order to validate the unit’s capabilities and train with Gabonese forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photograph by Lance Cpl. Christopher Mendoza/Released)

U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa move toward an objective during a training exercise on Quartier Colonel de Chabrieres, France, May 29, 2015. Marines stationed at Moròn Air Base, Spain, conducted a seize and capture training exercise with service members from the French Foreign Legion’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to further improve interoperability between the two NATO forces as they concurrently deploy their service members to Africa. - U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa move toward an objective during a training exercise on Quartier Colonel de Chabrieres, France, May 29, 2015. Marines stationed at Moròn Air Base, Spain, conducted a seize and capture training exercise with service members from the French Foreign Legion’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to further improve interoperability between the two NATO forces as they concurrently deploy their service members to Africa.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail