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From left to right, U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Christopher Krivenko, acting senior enlisted advisor of Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Senator Chris Dueñas, the Honorable Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero, Governor of Guam and U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard D. Marshall Jr., commanding officer of MCB Camp Blaz, pose for a photo at the new highway sign during the Brig. Gen. Ben Blaz Memorial Highway renaming ceremony in Dededo, Guam, July 28, 2025. The naming of Brig. Gen. Ben Blaz Memorial Highway is a heartfelt tribute to a distinguished individual who represents the dedication to service, professionalism, and local pride that Camp Blaz aspires to uphold. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Afton Smiley) - From left to right, U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Christopher Krivenko, acting senior enlisted advisor of Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Senator Chris Dueñas, the Honorable Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero, Governor of Guam and U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard D. Marshall Jr., commanding officer of MCB Camp Blaz, pose for a photo at the new highway sign during the Brig. Gen. Ben Blaz Memorial Highway renaming ceremony in Dededo, Guam, July 28, 2025. The naming of Brig. Gen. Ben Blaz Memorial Highway is a heartfelt tribute to a distinguished individual who represents the dedication to service, professionalism, and local pride that Camp Blaz aspires to uphold. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Afton Smiley)

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, salute the colors during the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Peleliu ceremony as part of exercise Koa Moana 24, at Peleliu, Republic of Palau, Sept. 15, 2024. The ceremony, led and planned by U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific and supported by Koa Moana 24, paid tribute to the Battle of Peleliu, a pivotal World War II conflict fought from Sept. 15 to Nov. 27, 1944, where U.S. forces endured intense combat to secure the island from Japanese forces, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. During Koa Moana’s deployment throughout the Indo-Pacific region, U.S. Marines and Sailors from I Marine Expeditionary Force work to strengthen alliances and partnerships with development of interoperable capabilities, combined operations, theater security cooperation, and capacity-building efforts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Daniel Childs) - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, salute the colors during the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Peleliu ceremony as part of exercise Koa Moana 24, at Peleliu, Republic of Palau, Sept. 15, 2024. The ceremony, led and planned by U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific and supported by Koa Moana 24, paid tribute to the Battle of Peleliu, a pivotal World War II conflict fought from Sept. 15 to Nov. 27, 1944, where U.S. forces endured intense combat to secure the island from Japanese forces, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. During Koa Moana’s deployment throughout the Indo-Pacific region, U.S. Marines and Sailors from I Marine Expeditionary Force work to strengthen alliances and partnerships with development of interoperable capabilities, combined operations, theater security cooperation, and capacity-building efforts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Daniel Childs)

A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Super Hercules assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 352, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing prepares for takeoff at Guam International Airport, Sept. 7, 2024. VMGR-352 stopped in Guam while flying from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, to deliver essential personnel, supplies and equipment to 3rd MAW squadrons deployed in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn Africa. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emeline Swyers) - A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Super Hercules assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 352, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing prepares for takeoff at Guam International Airport, Sept. 7, 2024. VMGR-352 stopped in Guam while flying from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, to deliver essential personnel, supplies and equipment to 3rd MAW squadrons deployed in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn Africa. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emeline Swyers)

From Two Nations: USMC 1st Lt. Francisderick Corpuz Bridging Cultures through Service in the Philippines - U.S. Marine Corps 1stLt Francisderick Corpuz, center, an air intelligence officer with Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, speaks to a Philippine Marine during Marine Aviation Support Activity 24 at Fort Bonifacio, Manila, Philippines, June 18, 2024.Corpuz’s background as a Filipino native enabled him to deploy as a cultural liaison during MASA 24, bridging communication gaps and providing mutual cooperation between U.S. Marine Corps and Philippine Marines. MASA is an annual Philippine-U.S. military exercise focused on mutual defense, strengthening relationships, and rehearsing emerging aviation concepts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jennifer Sanchez)

A Marine camouflaged in a lush jungle. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Dustin Miles, a rifleman with the Ground Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force - Darwin, conducts a patrol during Jungle Warfare Training, Tully, Australia, April 15, 2019. Jungle warfare training is conducted to condition service members to thrive in hectic tropic environments and gives them the opportunity to prepare for arduous jungle warfare scenarios. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Nicholas Filca)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Tylerruben Salas, small arms repair technician for Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, conducts rifle, pre-fire inspections before shooting on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam, Sept. 25, 2023. The Marine Corps’ Program Manager for Training Systems will conduct target calibration from Sept. 25 to Oct. 27 and testing from Dec. 4-15. Two of four ranges at the Live Fire Training Range Complex will be equipped with new technology that provide more efficient and effective combat marksmanship training to support combat readiness. The live-fire location of miss and hit or LOMAH technology, replaces the human element of observing and marking targets. The calibration and testing are to ensure that the LOMAH system is working properly. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Garrett Gillespie) - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Tylerruben Salas, small arms repair technician for Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, conducts rifle, pre-fire inspections before shooting on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam, Sept. 25, 2023. The Marine Corps’ Program Manager for Training Systems will conduct target calibration from Sept. 25 to Oct. 27 and testing from Dec. 4-15. Two of four ranges at the Live Fire Training Range Complex will be equipped with new technology that provide more efficient and effective combat marksmanship training to support combat readiness. The live-fire location of miss and hit or LOMAH technology, replaces the human element of observing and marking targets. The calibration and testing are to ensure that the LOMAH system is working properly. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Garrett Gillespie)

Members of the Chaney family carry U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. John Henry Chaney to his final resting place at John Wesley United Methodist Church Cemetery in Clarksburg, Maryland, Feb. 8, 2024. Chaney was drafted in the Marine Corps in 1943, becoming one of the legendary Montford Point Marines, the first Black Americans to earn the title. Chaney served in World War II and fought at the harrowing Battle of Iwo Jima. In 2012, Chaney and other Montford Point Marines, were presented the Congressional Gold Medal. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Kelsey Dornfeld) - Members of the Chaney family carry U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. John Henry Chaney to his final resting place at John Wesley United Methodist Church Cemetery in Clarksburg, Maryland, Feb. 8, 2024. Chaney was drafted in the Marine Corps in 1943, becoming one of the legendary Montford Point Marines, the first Black Americans to earn the title. Chaney served in World War II and fought at the harrowing Battle of Iwo Jima. In 2012, Chaney and other Montford Point Marines, were presented the Congressional Gold Medal. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Kelsey Dornfeld)

U.S. Marines with Task Force Koa Moana 23 pose for a photograph at the conclusion of a promotion ceremony for Cpl. Trent Henry, a native of El Paso, Texas and a combat photographer with the task force, atop Bloody Nose Ridge in Peleliu, Palau, Sept. 1, 2023. Task Force Koa Moana 23, composed of U.S. Marines and Sailors from I Marine Expeditionary Force, deployed to the Indo-Pacific to strengthen relationships with Pacific Island partners through bilateral and multilateral security cooperation and community engagements. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Courtney G. White) - U.S. Marines with Task Force Koa Moana 23 pose for a photograph at the conclusion of a promotion ceremony for Cpl. Trent Henry, a native of El Paso, Texas and a combat photographer with the task force, atop Bloody Nose Ridge in Peleliu, Palau, Sept. 1, 2023. Task Force Koa Moana 23, composed of U.S. Marines and Sailors from I Marine Expeditionary Force, deployed to the Indo-Pacific to strengthen relationships with Pacific Island partners through bilateral and multilateral security cooperation and community engagements. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Courtney G. White)

U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class Alexiander Sigrah, a Kosrae native and an automotive maintenance technician with Task Force Koa Moana 23, is promoted to the rank of Private First Class in Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia, July 4, 2023. “I am excited to be able to go back home and fix a lot of stuff that I’ve always wanted to be involved in helping with,” said Sigrah. Task Force Koa Moana deployed to the Indo-Pacific to strengthen relationships with Pacific Island partners through bilateral and multilateral security cooperation and community engagements. - U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class Alexiander Sigrah, a Kosrae native and an automotive maintenance technician with Task Force Koa Moana 23, is promoted to the rank of Private First Class in Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia, July 4, 2023. “I am excited to be able to go back home and fix a lot of stuff that I’ve always wanted to be involved in helping with,” said Sigrah. Task Force Koa Moana deployed to the Indo-Pacific to strengthen relationships with Pacific Island partners through bilateral and multilateral security cooperation and community engagements.

Theissen Training System target holding mechanisms are shown on the known distance range at the Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz Live-Fire Training Range Complex on Guam, May 9, 2023. The systems will be used for the Marine Corps Annual Rifle Qualification and have the capability to provide users with a moving target. Once operable, the LFTRC will be available to be utilized by local government agencies, the Department of Defense and their partners. - Theissen Training System target holding mechanisms are shown on the known distance range at the Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz Live-Fire Training Range Complex on Guam, May 9, 2023. The systems will be used for the Marine Corps Annual Rifle Qualification and have the capability to provide users with a moving target. Once operable, the LFTRC will be available to be utilized by local government agencies, the Department of Defense and their partners.

A mature Serianthes Nelsonii is shown during a site assessment at Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz following typhoon Mawar on June 7, 2023. A Combined Joint Task Force led by U.S. Army Pacific and Task Force West are the DoD representatives supporting FEMA and the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands as we continue recovery efforts in the wake of Typhoon Mawar. Commander Task Force West Rear Adm. Benjamin Nicholson, and all military installation commanding officers in Guam are diligently working to restore steady state to the bases, and dedicate resources to all FEMA mission assignments. Typhoon Mawar moved through the area as a Category 4 storm on May 24, bringing hurricane-force winds, heavy rain and high seas marking the strongest storm to affect the island since Typhoon Pongsona in 2002. - A mature Serianthes Nelsonii is shown during a site assessment at Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz following typhoon Mawar on June 7, 2023. A Combined Joint Task Force led by U.S. Army Pacific and Task Force West are the DoD representatives supporting FEMA and the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands as we continue recovery efforts in the wake of Typhoon Mawar. Commander Task Force West Rear Adm. Benjamin Nicholson, and all military installation commanding officers in Guam are diligently working to restore steady state to the bases, and dedicate resources to all FEMA mission assignments. Typhoon Mawar moved through the area as a Category 4 storm on May 24, bringing hurricane-force winds, heavy rain and high seas marking the strongest storm to affect the island since Typhoon Pongsona in 2002.

The high-speed transport vessel USNS Guam (T-HST 1) departs Naha Military Port, Okinawa, Japan, March 3, 2023. The USNS Guam will transport the Marines to the Republic of Korea for exercise Freedom Shield 23. Freedom Shield is a defense-oriented exercise designed to strengthen the ROK-U.S. Alliance, enhance our combined defense posture, and strengthen security and stability on the Korean peninsula. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Andrews) - The high-speed transport vessel USNS Guam (T-HST 1) departs Naha Military Port, Okinawa, Japan, March 3, 2023. The USNS Guam will transport the Marines to the Republic of Korea for exercise Freedom Shield 23. Freedom Shield is a defense-oriented exercise designed to strengthen the ROK-U.S. Alliance, enhance our combined defense posture, and strengthen security and stability on the Korean peninsula. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Andrews)

The 27th Regiment, 2nd Battalion (USMC), lands on Iwo Jima. - The 27th Regiment, 2nd Battalion (USMC), lands on Iwo Jima. (Photo by Bob Campbell, National Archives Identifier 148727708) // 230223-M-CG311-001

Ms. Yoshikawa Yuumi, parliamentary vice-minister of foreign affairs from the Government of Japan, speaks at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the Sabånan Fadang Memorial on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam, Jan. 25, 2023. During the ceremony Maj. Gen. Stephen E. Liszewski, Commanding General of Marine Corps Installations Pacific, presented the memorial to Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, Guam Governor, to symbolize the transfer of the memorial to the people of Guam. While Camp Blaz will continue to care of the site, the memorial will be available for future, public access. The Sabånan Fadang Burial Site was constructed as part of the base’s commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Guam. The monument has a dedicative plaque featuring a large engraving of a “trongkon nunu,” a banyan tree said to serve as a home for “taotaomo-na,” ancestral Chamoru spirits. The plaque is nestled between two ancient Chamoru lusongs, mortars used for pounding seeds or roots into processed food. - Ms. Yoshikawa Yuumi, parliamentary vice-minister of foreign affairs from the Government of Japan, speaks at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the Sabånan Fadang Memorial on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam, Jan. 25, 2023. During the ceremony Maj. Gen. Stephen E. Liszewski, Commanding General of Marine Corps Installations Pacific, presented the memorial to Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, Guam Governor, to symbolize the transfer of the memorial to the people of Guam. While Camp Blaz will continue to care of the site, the memorial will be available for future, public access. The Sabånan Fadang Burial Site was constructed as part of the base’s commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Guam. The monument has a dedicative plaque featuring a large engraving of a “trongkon nunu,” a banyan tree said to serve as a home for “taotaomo-na,” ancestral Chamoru spirits. The plaque is nestled between two ancient Chamoru lusongs, mortars used for pounding seeds or roots into processed food.

U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Division pass in review during a battle colors rededication ceremony rehearsal on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 13, 2022. - U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Division pass in review during a battle colors rededication ceremony rehearsal on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 13, 2022. The ceremony will commemorate the Division’s 80th Anniversary and its legacy of valor, honor, and fidelity. The 3d Marine Division was activated at Camp Elliot, San Diego, Sept. 16, 1942 and has taken part in combat operations from World War II and Vietnam through Iraq and Afghanistan. The current Marines of 3d Marine Division continue to build on this legacy today as a critical part of the stand-in force within the first island chain of the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Michael Taggart)

CWO4 Hershel “Woody” Williams, the last living Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, was honored at Memorial services in Charleston, W. Va. Family, friends, fellow Marines, and people from all over the country came to pay respects to Woody while he lay in state at the State Capitol Rotunda, July 2 and 3. A State Memorial Service in Woody’s honor was held at the State Culture Center Theater the afternoon of July 3. The service included several tributes, to include special remarks by the Commandant of the Marine Corps, General David. H. Berger, and the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black. - CWO4 Hershel “Woody” Williams, the last living Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, was honored at Memorial services in Charleston, W. Va. Family, friends, fellow Marines, and people from all over the country came to pay respects to Woody while he lay in state at the State Capitol Rotunda, July 2 and 3. A State Memorial Service in Woody’s honor was held at the State Culture Center Theater the afternoon of July 3. The service included several tributes, to include special remarks by the Commandant of the Marine Corps, General David. H. Berger, and the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black.

A U.S. Marine Corps High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, launches a M28A1, reduced range practice rocket, in support of exercise Valiant Shield 2022 on Angaur, Palau, June 8, 2022. Exercise such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Forces the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. - A U.S. Marine Corps High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, launches a M28A1, reduced range practice rocket, in support of exercise Valiant Shield 2022 on Angaur, Palau, June 8, 2022. Exercise such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Forces the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Various seeds undergo cleaning and processing at the seed laboratory on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam, April 19, 2022. The laboratory is a part of the nursery on base that is home to native plants and trees found on Guam. The overall end goal of the nursery is to rebuild populations of numerous species while also reintroducing native plants into the base’s two forest enhancement sites. - Various seeds undergo cleaning and processing at the seed laboratory on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam, April 19, 2022. The laboratory is a part of the nursery on base that is home to native plants and trees found on Guam. The overall end goal of the nursery is to rebuild populations of numerous species while also reintroducing native plants into the base’s two forest enhancement sites.

A memorial at the Sabånan Fadang burial site displays a plaque and ancient CHamoru lusongs, mortars used for pounding or husking rice, on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam Jan. 29, 2022. Four grave pits were initially found in 2020, with an additional three grave pits found during the construction of the monument between Oct. 29, 2021 and Nov. 2, 2021. the monument was proposed by the Guam State Historic Preservation office and supports MCB Camp Blaz's commitment to preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Guam. - A memorial at the Sabånan Fadang burial site displays a plaque and ancient CHamoru lusongs, mortars used for pounding or husking rice, on Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam Jan. 29, 2022. Four grave pits were initially found in 2020, with an additional three grave pits found during the construction of the monument between Oct. 29, 2021 and Nov. 2, 2021. the monument was proposed by the Guam State Historic Preservation office and supports MCB Camp Blaz's commitment to preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Guam.

U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division, march during the deactivation of 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Hawaii, Jan. 21, 2022. The battalion is deactivating in accordance with Force Design 2030 as 3rd Marines modernizes to become the Corps’ inaugural Marine Littoral Regiment. - U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division, march during the deactivation of 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Hawaii, Jan. 21, 2022. The battalion is deactivating in accordance with Force Design 2030 as 3rd Marines modernizes to become the Corps’ inaugural Marine Littoral Regiment.

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz and local community members pose for a group photo during a Toys for Tots toy transfer event to local charities on Guam, Dec. 17, 2021. This year marks the 74th year of the national Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots campaign and its 12th year on Guam. The mission of the Toys for Tots program is to collect new, unwrapped toys and distribute those toys to less fortunate children during Christmas. - U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz and local community members pose for a group photo during a Toys for Tots toy transfer event to local charities on Guam, Dec. 17, 2021. This year marks the 74th year of the national Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots campaign and its 12th year on Guam. The mission of the Toys for Tots program is to collect new, unwrapped toys and distribute those toys to less fortunate children during Christmas.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Christopher Bopp, the Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz commanding officer, left, poses for a photograph with Government of Guam officials and archaeologists with Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Marianas during a cultural ritual at the Sabånan Fadang burial site on MCB Camp Blaz, Nov. 23, 2021. The burial site includes seven grave pits comprised of multiple individuals, with the final overall number of individuals still pending analysis. The ritual is the first of its kind as the ceremonies are typically held later, as required under Guam law, when monuments are erected for reburial ceremonies. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Christopher Bopp, the Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz commanding officer, left, poses for a photograph with Government of Guam officials and archaeologists with Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Marianas during a cultural ritual at the Sabånan Fadang burial site on MCB Camp Blaz, Nov. 23, 2021. The burial site includes seven grave pits comprised of multiple individuals, with the final overall number of individuals still pending analysis. The ritual is the first of its kind as the ceremonies are typically held later, as required under Guam law, when monuments are erected for reburial ceremonies.

University of Guam faculty and graduate students study a sinkhole and karst terrain at Tarague Well 4 at Andersen Air Force Base Oct. 8. Navy environmental specialists escorted John Jensen, University of Guam chief hydrogeologist and professor of environmental geology, and Water & Environmental Research Institute Western Pacific director, and his graduate students to the area to study the unique karst at the Air Force Base. - University of Guam faculty and graduate students study a sinkhole and karst terrain at Tarague Well 4 at Andersen Air Force Base Oct. 8. Navy environmental specialists escorted John Jensen, University of Guam chief hydrogeologist and professor of environmental geology, and Water & Environmental Research Institute Western Pacific director, and his graduate students to the area to study the unique karst at the Air Force Base.

US Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 load a Guided Bomb Unit 49 onto an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter in the Western Pacific Ocean on September 12th, 2021. The GBU-49 is a laser and GPS-guided bomb effective across various conditions and against many types of moving or stationary target. VMFA-211, deployed aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth as part of the United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group 21, became the first fleet squadron to employ the GBU-49 in a training exercise. - US Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 load a Guided Bomb Unit 49 onto an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter in the Western Pacific Ocean on September 12th, 2021. The GBU-49 is a laser and GPS-guided bomb effective across various conditions and against many types of moving or stationary target. VMFA-211, deployed aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth as part of the United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group 21, became the first fleet squadron to employ the GBU-49 in a training exercise.

Mr. Paul Williamson, the Command Advisor at the U.S. Marine Corps’ Wounded Warrior Regiment, poses for a photo in front of memorabilia he’s collected throughout his 51-year-long career at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., April 4, 2020. Williamson served in the U.S. Navy for 31 years before joining the then newly established Wounded Warrior Regiment in 2007. - Mr. Paul Williamson, the Command Advisor at the U.S. Marine Corps’ Wounded Warrior Regiment, poses for a photo in front of memorabilia he’s collected throughout his 51-year-long career at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., April 4, 2020. Williamson served in the U.S. Navy for 31 years before joining the then newly established Wounded Warrior Regiment in 2007.

Dr. James McConnell, left, and Dr. Rachel Jolley from the University of Guam’s Guam Plant Extinction Prevention Program highlight the danger of Antigonon leptopus, also known as cadena de amor, to native plant life. Characterized by bright pink or white flowers, Antigonon leptopus vines spread aggressively until they completely enshroud surrounding plant life. The vines also serve as food and shelter for invasive ungulates. Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz and the UoG are collaborating to restore and enhance 1,000 acres of Guam’s forests at enhancement sites as part of our commitment to a responsible military buildup process. - Dr. James McConnell, left, and Dr. Rachel Jolley from the University of Guam’s Guam Plant Extinction Prevention Program highlight the danger of Antigonon leptopus, also known as cadena de amor, to native plant life. Characterized by bright pink or white flowers, Antigonon leptopus vines spread aggressively until they completely enshroud surrounding plant life. The vines also serve as food and shelter for invasive ungulates. Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz and the UoG are collaborating to restore and enhance 1,000 acres of Guam’s forests at enhancement sites as part of our commitment to a responsible military buildup process.

U.S. Marines and Navy Sailors conduct external lifts for a vertical replenishment of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, Naval Base Guam, Feb. 25. - U.S. Marines and Navy Sailors conduct external lifts for a vertical replenishment of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, Naval Base Guam, Feb. 25.

A U.S. Marine salutes the battalion colors during the unit’s activation ceremony on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 2. - A U.S. Marine salutes the battalion colors during the unit’s activation ceremony on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 2.

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A U.S. Marine delivers donation boxes to the Guam Chamber of Commerce to commence the 2020 Toys for Tots Campaign on Oct. 14. - A U.S. Marine delivers donation boxes to the Guam Chamber of Commerce to commence the 2020 Toys for Tots Campaign on Oct. 14.

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Blaz conduct the first flag raising of the new command, marking the initial operation capability of the base in Dededo, Guam, Oct. 1, 2020. MCB Camp Blaz is the first Marine Corps base activated since the commissioning of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Georgia on March 1, 1952. - U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Blaz conduct the first flag raising of the new command, marking the initial operation capability of the base in Dededo, Guam, Oct. 1, 2020. MCB Camp Blaz is the first Marine Corps base activated since the commissioning of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Georgia on March 1, 1952. The Marine Corps plans to hold a formal activation ceremony for the new base in the spring of 2021. MCB Camp Blaz, named after Brig. Gen. Vicente Tomas Garrido Blaz, a Marine officer of 29 years and former Guam delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives, symbolizes Guam’s contributions to national security and the continued partnership between the Marine Corps and the Government of Guam. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Andrew King)

Photo provided by U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Marquez. - Photo provided by U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Marquez.

A Marine fires an M240B medium machine gun during a full mission profile defense of the amphibious task force exercise aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). - A Marine fires an M240B medium machine gun during a full mission profile defense of the amphibious task force exercise aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6).

A U.S. Marine drives an amphibious assault vehicle onto the Watson-class vehicle cargo ship USNS Dahl during an operation to onload and offload equipment for construction of an Expeditionary Medical Facility April, 16. - A U.S. Marine drives an amphibious assault vehicle onto the Watson-class vehicle cargo ship USNS Dahl during an operation to onload and offload equipment for construction of an Expeditionary Medical Facility, April 16.

A U.S. Marine wires load-studs during exercise Northern Viper on Yausubetsu Training Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Jan. 16. - A U.S. Marine wires load-studs during exercise Northern Viper on Yausubetsu Training Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Jan. 16.

Naval Base Guam - A U.S. Sailor with 3rd Medical Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, tests a USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Sailor for symptoms of COVID-19, on Naval Base Guam, Guam, April 8, 2020. Theodore Roosevelt is in Guam for a scheduled port visit for resupply and crew rest during their scheduled deployment to the Indo-Pacific. - Naval Base Guam - A U.S. Sailor with 3rd Medical Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, tests a USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Sailor for symptoms of COVID-19, on Naval Base Guam, Guam, April 8, 2020. Theodore Roosevelt is in Guam for a scheduled port visit for resupply and crew rest during their scheduled deployment to the Indo-Pacific.

A graphic in support of content about the Secretary of the Navy. - A graphic in support of content about the Secretary of the Navy.

A U.S. Navy sailor ground guides a Kalmar Lidhults Mekaniska Verkstad container forklift truck down the ramp during a Maritime Prepositioning Force exercise at U.S. Naval Base Guam, Feb. 27. - A U.S. Navy sailor ground guides a Kalmar Lidhults Mekaniska Verkstad container forklift truck down the ramp during a Maritime Prepositioning Force exercise at U.S. Naval Base Guam, Feb. 27.

Private Wilson “Doug” Watson was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry S. Truman at the White House Oct. 5, 1945, for his actions on Feb. 26-27, 1945. - Private Wilson “Doug” Watson was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry S. Truman at the White House Oct. 5, 1945, for his actions on Feb. 26-27, 1945.

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Appearing in authentic 1945-1948 Marine Corps dress blues with original regalia, 96-year-old World War II veteran and Marine Raider Cpl. Leonard B. Turner, oldest Marine present, stands next to 19-year-old Pfc. Ivan K. Lopez, the youngest Marine present, during the Marine Forces Special Operations Command’s 244th Marine Corps Birthday Ball in Wilmington, N.C., Nov. 2, 2019. Every year, each Marine Corps unit comes together and hosts a Marine Corps Birthday cake cutting to celebrate one more year since the birth of their Corps. This celebration is an event that brings together Marines, old and young - enlisted and retired, and allows them to celebrate their commitment and dedication to the Marine Corps and strengthen their camaraderie and organizational esprit de corps. This connection between the past and present can be seen throughout many traditions during the Marine Corps ball and is the foundation of this event each year. One such tradition is the passing of birthday cake from the oldest Marine to the youngest Marine, which represents the passing of experience and knowledge from older generations to the newest generation of Marines. The birthday cake is traditionally cut with the Mameluke sword, to honor Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon’s assault of Derna, Tripoli in 1805, as a reminder that Marines are a band of warriors, committed to carrying the sword, so that the nation may live in peace. - Appearing in authentic 1945-1948 Marine Corps dress blues with original regalia, 96-year-old World War II veteran and Marine Raider Cpl. Leonard B. Turner, oldest Marine present, stands next to 19-year-old Pfc. Ivan K. Lopez, the youngest Marine present, during the Marine Forces Special Operations Command’s 244th Marine Corps Birthday Ball in Wilmington, N.C., Nov. 2, 2019. Every year, each Marine Corps unit comes together and hosts a Marine Corps Birthday cake cutting to celebrate one more year since the birth of their Corps. This celebration is an event that brings together Marines, old and young - enlisted and retired, and allows them to celebrate their commitment and dedication to the Marine Corps and strengthen their camaraderie and organizational esprit de corps. This connection between the past and present can be seen throughout many traditions during the Marine Corps ball and is the foundation of this event each year. One such tradition is the passing of birthday cake from the oldest Marine to the youngest Marine, which represents the passing of experience and knowledge from older generations to the newest generation of Marines. The birthday cake is traditionally cut with the Mameluke sword, to honor Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon’s assault of Derna, Tripoli in 1805, as a reminder that Marines are a band of warriors, committed to carrying the sword, so that the nation may live in peace.

The dock landing ship USS Ashland sits idle off the coast during the U.S. Defense Support of Civil Authorities relief effort in response to Super Typhoon Yutu, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Nov. 3, 2018. Businesses, government buildings, homes and schools were heavily damaged by Super Typhoon Yutu, which made a direct hit with devastating effect on Tinian Oct. 25 packing 170 MPH winds – it is the second strongest storm to ever hit U.S. soil and the strongest storm of 2018. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and CLB-31 have been leading a multi-service contingent since Oct. 29 as part of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency-directed DSCA mission here. The Ashland arrived today to deliver a larger contingent of Marines and Seabees to further assist the people of Tinian. The Marines arrived at the request of CNMI officials and FEMA to assist relief efforts in the wake of Yutu, the largest typhoon to ever hit a U.S. territory. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations across the Indo-Pacific region. - The dock landing ship USS Ashland sits idle off the coast during the U.S. Defense Support of Civil Authorities relief effort in response to Super Typhoon Yutu, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Nov. 3, 2018. Businesses, government buildings, homes and schools were heavily damaged by Super Typhoon Yutu, which made a direct hit with devastating effect on Tinian Oct. 25 packing 170 MPH winds – it is the second strongest storm to ever hit U.S. soil and the strongest storm of 2018. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and CLB-31 have been leading a multi-service contingent since Oct. 29 as part of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency-directed DSCA mission here. The Ashland arrived today to deliver a larger contingent of Marines and Seabees to further assist the people of Tinian. The Marines arrived at the request of CNMI officials and FEMA to assist relief efforts in the wake of Yutu, the largest typhoon to ever hit a U.S. territory. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations across the Indo-Pacific region.

Gunnery Sgt. Angel Ignacio, the battalion gunnery sergeant with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, catches a package of bottled water from a coastguardsman aboard the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Washington (WPB-1331) while delivering food and supplies to citizens of Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands during relief efforts in the wake of Super Typhoon Yutu, Oct. 29, 2018. Ignacio, a communications chief, is a native of Guam, CNMI, which was also affected by Yutu. The Marines arrived on Tinian in the wake of Super Typhoon Yutu as part of the U.S. Defense Support of Civil Authorities here. The Marines arrived at the request of CNMI officials and the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency to assist relief efforts in the wake of Yutu, the largest typhoon to ever hit a U.S. territory. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations across the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. T. T. Parish/Released) - Gunnery Sgt. Angel Ignacio, the battalion gunnery sergeant with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, catches a package of bottled water from a coastguardsman aboard the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Washington (WPB-1331) while delivering food and supplies to citizens of Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands during relief efforts in the wake of Super Typhoon Yutu, Oct. 29, 2018. Ignacio, a communications chief, is a native of Guam, CNMI, which was also affected by Yutu. The Marines arrived on Tinian in the wake of Super Typhoon Yutu as part of the U.S. Defense Support of Civil Authorities here. The Marines arrived at the request of CNMI officials and the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency to assist relief efforts in the wake of Yutu, the largest typhoon to ever hit a U.S. territory. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations across the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. T. T. Parish/Released)

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)

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Vivianlee Aguero is a lance corporal in the United States Marine Corps. At 17 she enlisted as an embarkation specialist from her home in Guam. - Vivianlee Aguero is a lance corporal in the United States Marine Corps. At 17 she enlisted as an embarkation specialist from her home in Guam. She is currently attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, the 31st MEU provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance, throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Capt. Joseph Raines, a pilot training officer with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, nicknamed the “Red Dragons,” wears his unit patch after completing a trans-Pacific flight from Australia, Marine Corps Base Hawaii , Sept. 19, 2017. - Capt. Joseph Raines, a pilot training officer with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, nicknamed the “Red Dragons,” wears his unit patch after completing a trans-Pacific flight from Australia, Marine Corps Base Hawaii , Sept. 19, 2017. The “Red Dragons” supported the Australian Defence Force as the aviation combat element for the Marine Air-Ground Task Force with Marine Rotational Force Darwin, Australia. These are the first Trans-Pacific flights the MV-22 Ospreys have conducted from Hawaii to Australia. This movement demonstrates that the unfueled range of our MV-22s combined with our refueling capabilities allow us to reach across the entire Pacific Ocean. The U.S. Marine Corps can get it's aircraft and personnel to a crisis on the other side of the world in a matter of days.

31st MEU completes deployment, returns to Okinawa - 170722-N-OY799-618 CORAL SEA (July 22, 2017) U.S. and Australian naval ships, including ships from the USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group, USS Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group, and Australian amphibious, combatant, support and advance force ships, sail in formation during Talisman Saber 2017. Talisman Saber 2017 is a realistic and challenging exercise that improves both U.S. and Australia’s ability to work together in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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. - Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, clear an abandoned house during Military Operations in Urbanized Terrain (MOUT) training at Andersen South Air Force Base, Guam, August 30, 2017. Marines with BLT 3/5 train regularly in different environments to maintain their readiness as the Ground Combat Element of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. 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.

Damaso Sutis and Gene E. Bell reminisce about their experiences during World War II. Camp Pendleton hosted a tour for Iwo Jima veterans, commemorating the 72nd anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. - Damaso Sutis and Gene E. Bell reminisce about their experiences during World War II. Camp Pendleton hosted a tour for Iwo Jima veterans, commemorating the 72nd anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima.