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U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Kevin Collins, commanding general of 3rd Marine Logistics Group, center, and members of his command staff tour an ammunition supply warehouse with members of the Western Army Logistics Support Unit at the Kyushu District Depot on Camp Metabaru, Japan, Jan. 27, 2025. Collins met and toured logistics commands and installations of the JGSDF’s Western Army to better understand their capabilities and to discuss better integration with 3rd MLG for upcoming bilateral exercises and preparedness training for any humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. - U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Kevin Collins, commanding general of 3rd Marine Logistics Group, center, and members of his command staff tour an ammunition supply warehouse with members of the Western Army Logistics Support Unit at the Kyushu District Depot on Camp Metabaru, Japan, Jan. 27, 2025. Collins met and toured logistics commands and installations of the JGSDF’s Western Army to better understand their capabilities and to discuss better integration with 3rd MLG for upcoming bilateral exercises and preparedness training for any humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.

RD 24 is an annual bilateral exercise in Japan that strengthens the command, control, and multi-domain maneuver capabilities of U.S. Marines in the III Marine Expeditionary Force and Japan Self-Defense Force personnel, with a focus on controlling and defending key maritime terrain. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew Morales) - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Roger Turner, commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force, communicates with Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Lt. Gen. Masayoshi Arai, commanding general of the Western Army, during exercise Resolute Dragon 24 at JGSDF Camp Yonaguni, Okinawa, Japan, August 4, 2024. RD 24 is an annual bilateral exercise in Japan that strengthens the command, control, and multi-domain maneuver capabilities of U.S. Marines in the III Marine Expeditionary Force and Japan Self-Defense Force personnel, with a focus on controlling and defending key maritime terrain. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew Morales)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Yasmine Huley-Morris, the station station captain of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF), Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, and a native of Virginia, stands in front of a fire truck for a picture at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, June 4, 2024. Huley-Morris recently received the Military Firefighter of the Year award for all military services. The award recognizes the firefighters accomplishments of the preceding year for setting the example of professional activities and career development goals. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dahkareo Pritchett) - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Yasmine Huley-Morris, the station station captain of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF), Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, and a native of Virginia, stands in front of a fire truck for a picture at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, June 4, 2024. Huley-Morris recently received the Military Firefighter of the Year award for all military services. The award recognizes the firefighters accomplishments of the preceding year for setting the example of professional activities and career development goals. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dahkareo Pritchett)

Corina Gonzalez and her family pose for a group photo in front of a U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Gonzalez is a Marine Corps veteran and loving mother who volunteers at numerous organizations throughout MCAS Iwakuni, and has proven to be a diligent and dedicated member of the community. - Corina Gonzalez and her family pose for a group photo in front of a U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. Gonzalez is a Marine Corps veteran and loving mother who volunteers at numerous organizations throughout MCAS Iwakuni, and has proven to be a diligent and dedicated member of the community.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542 launches an F-35B Lightning II at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, May 31, 2023. VMFA-542 received its first F-35B Lightning II jets and is the Marine Corps’ first East Coast operational F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter squadron. The arrival of the aircraft marks the beginning of F-35 deliveries to MCAS Cherry Point, continuing 2nd MAW’s operational transition from legacy fixed-wing tactical aircraft to the F-35. VMFA-542 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542 launches an F-35B Lightning II at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, May 31, 2023. VMFA-542 received its first F-35B Lightning II jets and is the Marine Corps’ first East Coast operational F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter squadron. The arrival of the aircraft marks the beginning of F-35 deliveries to MCAS Cherry Point, continuing 2nd MAW’s operational transition from legacy fixed-wing tactical aircraft to the F-35. VMFA-542 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Derek M. Wolford, battery gunnery sergeant with India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, left, and Gunnery Sgt. Jeremy J. Toteno, battery gunnery sergeant with Golf Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, conduct a mock inspection of hazard identification during the Ground Safety for Marines Course on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 24, 2023. GSM is a course for Marines and Sailors that provided occupational safety and health training to military and Department of Defense civilian personnel assigned to duties regarding ground safety. - U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Derek M. Wolford, battery gunnery sergeant with India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, left, and Gunnery Sgt. Jeremy J. Toteno, battery gunnery sergeant with Golf Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, conduct a mock inspection of hazard identification during the Ground Safety for Marines Course on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 24, 2023. GSM is a course for Marines and Sailors that provided occupational safety and health training to military and Department of Defense civilian personnel assigned to duties regarding ground safety.

An explosive charge detonates during ordnance training in preparation for Friendship Day 2023, at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 26, 2023. The MCAS Iwakuni Explosive Ordnance Disposal team has been conducting various controlled explosions since December 2022 in preparation for Friendship Day 2023. - An explosive charge detonates during ordnance training in preparation for Friendship Day 2023, at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 26, 2023. The MCAS Iwakuni Explosive Ordnance Disposal team has been conducting various controlled explosions since December 2022 in preparation for Friendship Day 2023.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Sgt. Daniel Best, company first sergeant of Headquarters Service Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force, instructs Marines during a field meet on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, July 28, 2022. The Marines competed in various activities such as pull-ups, sprints, and fireman carries to boost camaraderie and morale in the unit. - U.S. Marine Corps 1st Sgt. Daniel Best, company first sergeant of Headquarters Service Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force, instructs Marines during a field meet on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, July 28, 2022. The Marines competed in various activities such as pull-ups, sprints, and fireman carries to boost camaraderie and morale in the unit.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Brooke Thompson, an avionics technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, poses for a photo in front of an F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station, Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 20,2022. Thompson was awarded the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medal for her meritorious service since her arrival to MCAS Iwakuni in 2018, where she held multiple billets, and supported multiple exercises and operations across the Indo-Pacific. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Brooke Thompson, an avionics technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, poses for a photo in front of an F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station, Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 20,2022. Thompson was awarded the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medal for her meritorious service since her arrival to MCAS Iwakuni in 2018, where she held multiple billets, and supported multiple exercises and operations across the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nahla Beard, an Air Traffic Controller with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, attempts a Guinness world record at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, August 7, 2021. Cpl. Beard won the Guinness world record for most chest-to-ground burpees in one minute. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nahla Beard, an Air Traffic Controller with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, attempts a Guinness world record at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, August 7, 2021. Cpl. Beard won the Guinness world record for most chest-to-ground burpees in one minute.

Members of the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Fire Department pose for a group photo in front of Fire Station 1 at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 29, 2022. The fire department safeguards property and personnel from emergency situations by providing all-hazard response services. To increase the community’s knowledge on fire prevention and education, the fire station hosts open houses and teaches classes throughout the year. - Members of the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Fire Department pose for a group photo in front of Fire Station 1 at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 29, 2022. The fire department safeguards property and personnel from emergency situations by providing all-hazard response services. To increase the community’s knowledge on fire prevention and education, the fire station hosts open houses and teaches classes throughout the year.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Xinxin Dai, an air traffic control communications technician, attaches a harness to a radio tower in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, May 17, 2022. Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni’s radio towers are maintained weekly because of their vital role in the communication and safety between several units at the air station. Due to the geographic scope of the Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility MCAS Iwakuni serves as a vital link between multiple countries in the Western Pacific theater. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Xinxin Dai, an air traffic control communications technician, attaches a harness to a radio tower in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, May 17, 2022. Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni’s radio towers are maintained weekly because of their vital role in the communication and safety between several units at the air station. Due to the geographic scope of the Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility MCAS Iwakuni serves as a vital link between multiple countries in the Western Pacific theater.

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U.S. Marines with the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Special Reaction Team, and the air station’s Provost Marshal’s Office conduct a barricaded suspect exercise at the Iwakuni Naval Family Branch Clinic at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, April 8, 2022. SRT and PMO work side-by-side to conduct emergency drills in order to maintain their proficiencies and prepare for potential real-world contingencies on the installation. - U.S. Marines with the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Special Reaction Team, and the air station’s Provost Marshal’s Office conduct a barricaded suspect exercise at the Iwakuni Naval Family Branch Clinic at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, April 8, 2022. SRT and PMO work side-by-side to conduct emergency drills in order to maintain their proficiencies and prepare for potential real-world contingencies on the installation.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer Third Class Eric Hansen, a boatswain’s mate with Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni’s harbor operation department, pulls in an oil boom at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Feb. 25, 2022. Boom reels are preventative equipment used to catch oil that may leak from vessels into the water. MCAS Iwakuni’s deep-water harbor plays an essential part in helping supply units on the air station with necessary equipment and helping support different vessels traveling through the Indo-Pacific region. - U.S. Navy Petty Officer Third Class Eric Hansen, a boatswain’s mate with Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni’s harbor operation department, pulls in an oil boom at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Feb. 25, 2022. Boom reels are preventative equipment used to catch oil that may leak from vessels into the water. MCAS Iwakuni’s deep-water harbor plays an essential part in helping supply units on the air station with necessary equipment and helping support different vessels traveling through the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Joshua Wilson, front, a joint terminal attack controller instructor with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, and U.S. Army Special Forces operators with 1st Special Forces Group, conduct simulated close air support using handheld Link 16 radios at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Feb. 15, 2022. The training focused on the joint force’s ability to integrate and refine tactics of CAS, which requires detailed planning and careful coordination between pilots and forces on the ground. - U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Joshua Wilson, front, a joint terminal attack controller instructor with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, and U.S. Army Special Forces operators with 1st Special Forces Group, conduct simulated close air support using handheld Link 16 radios at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Feb. 15, 2022. The training focused on the joint force’s ability to integrate and refine tactics of CAS, which requires detailed planning and careful coordination between pilots and forces on the ground.

Ships of the America and Essex Amphibious Ready Groups, and Carrier Strike Group 3, sail in formation with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force during exercise Noble Fusion. Left to right: USS Dewey (DDG 105), USS Ashland (LSD 48), JS Kongō (DDG 173), USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5), USS America (LHA 6), USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), USS Spruance (DDG 111), USS Essex (LHD 2), landing crafts, air cushion from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5. Noble Fusion demonstrates that Navy and Marine Corps forward-deployed stand-in naval expeditionary forces can rapidly aggregate Marine Expeditionary Unit/Amphibious Ready Group teams at sea, along with a carrier strike group, as well as other joint force elements and allies, in order to conduct lethal sea-denial operations, seize key maritime terrain, guarantee freedom of movement, and create advantage for U.S., partner and allied forces. Naval Expeditionary forces conduct training throughout the year, in the Indo-Pacific, to maintain readiness. - Ships of the America and Essex Amphibious Ready Groups, and Carrier Strike Group 3, sail in formation with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force during exercise Noble Fusion. Left to right: USS Dewey (DDG 105), USS Ashland (LSD 48), JS Kongō (DDG 173), USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5), USS America (LHA 6), USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), USS Spruance (DDG 111), USS Essex (LHD 2), landing crafts, air cushion from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5. Noble Fusion demonstrates that Navy and Marine Corps forward-deployed stand-in naval expeditionary forces can rapidly aggregate Marine Expeditionary Unit/Amphibious Ready Group teams at sea, along with a carrier strike group, as well as other joint force elements and allies, in order to conduct lethal sea-denial operations, seize key maritime terrain, guarantee freedom of movement, and create advantage for U.S., partner and allied forces. Naval Expeditionary forces conduct training throughout the year, in the Indo-Pacific, to maintain readiness.

An F-35B Lightning II from the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 gets refueled by a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 909th Air Refueling Squadron in support of Exercise Noble Fusion over the Pacific Ocean Feb. 4, 2022. Noble Fusion demonstrates that Navy and Marine Corps forward-deployed stand-in naval expeditionary forces can rapidly aggregate Marine Expeditionary Unit/Amphibious Ready Group teams at sea, along with a carrier strike group, joint forces and allies in order to conduct lethal sea-denial operations, seize key maritime terrain, guarantee freedom of movement, and create advantage for U.S., partner and allied forces. Naval Expeditionary forces conduct training in the Indo-Pacific throughout the year to maintain readiness. - An F-35B Lightning II from the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 gets refueled by a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 909th Air Refueling Squadron in support of Exercise Noble Fusion over the Pacific Ocean Feb. 4, 2022. Noble Fusion demonstrates that Navy and Marine Corps forward-deployed stand-in naval expeditionary forces can rapidly aggregate Marine Expeditionary Unit/Amphibious Ready Group teams at sea, along with a carrier strike group, joint forces and allies in order to conduct lethal sea-denial operations, seize key maritime terrain, guarantee freedom of movement, and create advantage for U.S., partner and allied forces. Naval Expeditionary forces conduct training in the Indo-Pacific throughout the year to maintain readiness.

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A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18C Hornet aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 takes off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 18, 2021. VMFA-112 participated in a joint maritime strike rehearsal with the U.S. Navy off the coast of Okinawa, Nov 19, 2021. U.S. Marines with VMFA-112 routinely train and rehearse joint maritime mission sets in order to maintain readiness to carry out a wide range of operational tasks in a region characterized by vast oceans, seas, and waterways. - A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18C Hornet aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 takes off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 18, 2021. VMFA-112 participated in a joint maritime strike rehearsal with the U.S. Navy off the coast of Okinawa, Nov 19, 2021. U.S. Marines with VMFA-112 routinely train and rehearse joint maritime mission sets in order to maintain readiness to carry out a wide range of operational tasks in a region characterized by vast oceans, seas, and waterways.

A U.S. Navy Sailor directs a Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 aboard the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS Izumo (DDH-183) off the coast of Japan, Oct. 3, 2021. Marines and Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) embarked aboard Izumo to support the first ever F-35B Lightning II operations aboard a Japanese vessel. The U.S. and Japan continue to work closely together to broaden their operational capabilities, support the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. - A U.S. Navy Sailor directs a Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 aboard the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS Izumo (DDH-183) off the coast of Japan, Oct. 3, 2021. Marines and Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) embarked aboard Izumo to support the first ever F-35B Lightning II operations aboard a Japanese vessel. The U.S. and Japan continue to work closely together to broaden their operational capabilities, support the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jake Castro, (left), and Sgt. Anthony Negrete, (right), Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians with Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni EOD, conduct a improvised explosive device exercise aboard MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, May 19, 2021. This particular exercise was designed to allow EOD to utilize a robot in their arsenal, which allows them to engage explosives at a greater distance with no harm to Marines. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jake Castro, (left), and Sgt. Anthony Negrete, (right), Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians with Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni EOD, conduct a improvised explosive device exercise aboard MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, May 19, 2021. This particular exercise was designed to allow EOD to utilize a robot in their arsenal, which allows them to engage explosives at a greater distance with no harm to Marines.

A Japan Air Self-Defense Force UH-60J helicopter with Ashiya Air Rescue Squadron recovers U.S. Marine Corps pilots as part of a bilateral search and rescue exercise at Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Yufuin, Japan, April 27, 2021. The exercise allows U.S. and Japanese forces to quickly and effectively conduct search and rescue operations while strengthening the partnership between Marines and Japan Self-Defense Force personnel. - A Japan Air Self-Defense Force UH-60J helicopter with Ashiya Air Rescue Squadron recovers U.S. Marine Corps pilots as part of a bilateral search and rescue exercise at Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Yufuin, Japan, April 27, 2021. The exercise allows U.S. and Japanese forces to quickly and effectively conduct search and rescue operations while strengthening the partnership between Marines and Japan Self-Defense Force personnel.

U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 fly during a mission rehearsal exercise over Okinawa, Japan, April 16, 2021. The MRX served as a culminating event for HMLA-267 as they near the end of their time in Okinawa as part of the Unit Deployment Program. - U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 fly during a mission rehearsal exercise over Okinawa, Japan, April 16, 2021. The MRX served as a culminating event for HMLA-267 as they near the end of their time in Okinawa as part of the Unit Deployment Program.

U.S. Marines rehearse distributed operations in mainland Japan, Jan. 31. - U.S. Marines rehearse distributed operations in mainland Japan, Jan. 31.

A U.S. Marine provides security with an M2 Browning .50 Caliber machine gun during Exercise Reindeer II in Setermoen, Norway, Nov. 25. - A U.S. Marine provides security with an M2 Browning .50 Caliber machine gun during Exercise Reindeer II in Setermoen, Norway, Nov. 25.

A U.S. Marine fires a M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle during a live fire exercise aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), Oct. 3. - A U.S. Marine fires a M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle during a live fire exercise aboard amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), Oct. 3.

U.S. Marines present colors during the change of command and re-designation of VMFA(AW)-242 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 16. - U.S. Marines present colors during the change of command and re-designation of VMFA(AW)-242 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 16.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Micheal Mendoza, a joint terminal attack controller with Command Element, Marine Rotational Force - Darwin, left, and Australian Defence Force Sgt. Aaron Costas, with 102nd Coral Battery, communicate to a B-1B Lancer pilot at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Aug. 14, 2020. The combined training allowed both Marines and Australian Defence Force members to learn how to communicate effectively to be ready to work together to to contribute to regional security. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Sarah Marshall) - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Micheal Mendoza, a joint terminal attack controller with Command Element, Marine Rotational Force - Darwin, left, and Australian Defence Force Sgt. Aaron Costas, with 102nd Coral Battery, communicate to a B-1B Lancer pilot at Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Aug. 14, 2020. The combined training allowed both Marines and Australian Defence Force members to learn how to communicate effectively to be ready to work together to to contribute to regional security. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Sarah Marshall)

U.S. Marines fire an M2 .50 caliber machine gun on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 26. - U.S. Marines fire an M2 .50 caliber machine gun on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 26.

Capt. Meleah Martin smiles from the cockpit of an F/A-18C Hornet at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., May 2. - Capt. Meleah Martin smiles from the cockpit of an F/A-18C Hornet at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., May 2.

U.S. Marines pilots fly new F-35B 's out of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma to be delivered to Forward Deployed Naval Forces, Japan on March 26. - U.S. Marines pilots fly new F-35B 's out of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma to be delivered to Forward Deployed Naval Forces, Japan on March 26.

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.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Service Members disembark from an MV-22B Osprey with U.S. Marines while conducting Vertical Assault training during exercise Forest Light Western Army at Camp Takayubaru, Kumamoto, Japan, Jan. 28. - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Service Members disembark from an MV-22B Osprey with U.S. Marines while conducting Vertical Assault training during exercise Forest Light Western Army at Camp Takayubaru, Kumamoto, Japan, Jan. 28.

U.S. Marines and Sailors from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, take part in the 244th Marine Corps birthday uniform pageant at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 4, 2019. The annual ceremony was held in honor of the 244th Marine Corps birthday. It included a historical uniform pageant to honor Marines of the past, present and future while signifying the passing of traditions from one generation to the next. - U.S. Marines and Sailors from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, take part in the 244th Marine Corps birthday uniform pageant at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 4, 2019. The annual ceremony was held in honor of the 244th Marine Corps birthday. It included a historical uniform pageant to honor Marines of the past, present and future while signifying the passing of traditions from one generation to the next.

U.S. Marines and JMSDF Soldiers conduct MWD detection training exercises - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Adam Cook, left, the kennel master for the Provost Marshal Office with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, conducts military working dog detection training at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, Nov. 20, 2019. The training was part of a joint force detection exercise with Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) soldiers. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Triton Lai)

Roasted chestnuts are set out for participants of the Chestnut Festival to try in Miwa Town, Japan, Oct. 18, 2019. The Miwa Town Chestnut Festival is held every year to symbolize the end of the chestnut harvest. - Roasted chestnuts are set out for participants of the Chestnut Festival to try in Miwa Town, Japan, Oct. 18, 2019. The Miwa Town Chestnut Festival is held every year to symbolize the end of the chestnut harvest.

U.S. Marines and families from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni participate in a community cultural exchange with local Japanese children at Tsuzu Elementary School, Iwakuni City, Japan, Aug. 29. - U.S. Marines and families from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni participate in a community cultural exchange with local Japanese children at Tsuzu Elementary School, Iwakuni City, Japan, Aug. 29.

U.S. Marine Gunnery Sgt. Andre Adams, the quality assurance evaluator with Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, folds the U.S. flag during the 77th Anniversary Evening Colors Ceremony at the Pacific Views Event Center on Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 24, 2019. The ceremony was held in honor of the official dedication of MCB Camp Joseph H. Pendleton, which took place Sept. 25, 1942. - U.S. Marine Gunnery Sgt. Andre Adams, the quality assurance evaluator with Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, folds the U.S. flag during the 77th Anniversary Evening Colors Ceremony at the Pacific Views Event Center on Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 24, 2019. The ceremony was held in honor of the official dedication of MCB Camp Joseph H. Pendleton, which took place Sept. 25, 1942.

Sgt. Miguel Aguirre, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., competes in the fourth challenge of the High Intensity Tactical Training Championship at Butler Stadium aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Sep. 10, 2019. The fourth challenge consisted of going over the BeaverFit Assault Rig, and race through an obstacle course that has various sprints, crawls, tire flips, sled drags, farmer’s carries, and others totaling over six-hundred yards. - Sgt. Miguel Aguirre, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., competes in the fourth challenge of the High Intensity Tactical Training Championship at Butler Stadium aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Sep. 10, 2019. The fourth challenge consisted of going over the BeaverFit Assault Rig, and race through an obstacle course that has various sprints, crawls, tire flips, sled drags, farmer’s carries, and others totaling over six-hundred yards.

Capt. Anneliese Satz conducts pre-flight checks prior to a training flight aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, March 11. Satz graduated the F-35B Lighting II Pilot Training Program June and will be assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 in Iwakuni, Japan. - Capt. Anneliese Satz conducts pre-flight checks prior to a training flight aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, March 11. Satz graduated the F-35B Lighting II Pilot Training Program June and will be assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 in Iwakuni, Japan.

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History in the making: “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band visits Japan for first time - U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Sara Sheffield, left, a mezzo soprano vocalist, and Col. Jason Fettig, the 28th Director, both with "The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, perform at the Yamaguchi Prefectural Culture Hall Sinfonia Iwakuni in Iwakuni City, Japan, May 19, 2019. Nearly 1,200 Japanese locals and Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni residents attended the concert. The centuries-old musical group rarely travels outside of the United States and has never before visited Japan. The last time the band performed internationally was 2001 in Switzerland, making this trip truly historic and unique. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Andrew Jones)

JMSDF, MCAS Iwakuni take Friendship Day 2019 to new altitudes - Japanese guests view various U.S. and Japanese static display aircraft during the 43rd Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force – Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Friendship Day at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, May 5, 2019. Since 1973, MCAS Iwakuni has held a single-day air show designed to foster positive relationships and offer an exciting experience that displays the communal support between the U.S. and Japan. The air show encompassed various U.S. and Japanese static display aircraft, aerial performances, food and entertainment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Timothy Valero)

26.2 miles of farmland and fighter jets - A local Japanese resident runs through the finish line during the 52nd Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni Marathon and Half Marathon at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, April 7, 2019. The event was held by Marine Corps Community Services Iwakuni in order to strengthen the bond between the local Japanese community and the air station. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Andrew Jones)

Walking together in unity - From left to right, Yoshihiko Fukuda, the mayor of Iwakuni City; Masahiro Akase, the director general of Chugoku Shikoku Defense Bureau; Yasutake Lida, the director of the Yamaguchi Prefectural Iwakuni Citizen Affairs Bureau; and U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard Fuerst, commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, came together to participate in the 10th Joint Leadership Walk in Iwakuni City, Japan, March 15, 2019. The walk consisted of touring popular local areas where they spoke to business owners as well as Japanese and American customers. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Stephen Campbell)

Marine earns award for lifesaving actions in Bali - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Jason P. Kaufmann, left, commanding officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, presents Cpl. Diego Marmolejo, an air traffic controller with H&HS, with a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 21, 2018. Marmolejo was awarded this medal for lifesaving actions that he took while on leave in Bali, Indonesia. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Akeel Austin)

U.S. service members stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni pose for a photo after completing the Iwakuni Driving School class in Iwakuni City, Japan, June 23, 2018. The class, promoted through the city of Iwakuni, was held in order to educate Status of Forces Agreement drivers on common driving errors that are made in the city and how to correct them. - U.S. service members stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni pose for a photo after completing the Iwakuni Driving School class in Iwakuni City, Japan, June 23, 2018. The class, promoted through the city of Iwakuni, was held in order to educate Status of Forces Agreement drivers on common driving errors that are made in the city and how to correct them.

Americans, Japanese compete in softball tournament - U.S. Marines from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and Japanese nationals play a softball game in Iwakuni City, Japan, April 28, 2018. The softball game was part of a tournament hosted by Marine Corps Community Services intramural sports division as a way for service members and air station residents to bond over a sport that people from both cultures play. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andrew Jones)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Joseph S. Gregory was appointed sergeant major of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni during a post ceremony at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, March 30, 2018. - Senior ranking leadership from Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni and their families stand in observance of the “Marines Hymn” and “Anchors Away” during Sgt. Maj. Joseph S. Gregory’s post ceremony at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, March 30, 2018. During the ceremony Gregory was appointed as the new sergeant major of MCAS Iwakuni.