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Marines with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, conduct a direct fire exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 3, 2014. The training re-established specific close-quarters firing skills with the Marines, ensuring successful future combat operations. - Marines with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, conduct a direct fire exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 3, 2014. The training re-established specific close-quarters firing skills with the Marines, ensuring successful future combat operations.

Maj. Jason P. Quinter, future plans officer with I Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Expeditionary Brigade—Afghanistan, reunites with his children after returning home from a deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 6, 2014. The Marines and Sailors of MEB-A recently completed a transfer of authority with Afghan National Security Forces in Helmand province, marking the end of nine years of Marine operations in the area. - Maj. Jason P. Quinter, future plans officer with I Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Expeditionary Brigade—Afghanistan, reunites with his children after returning home from a deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 6, 2014. The Marines and Sailors of MEB-A recently completed a transfer of authority with Afghan National Security Forces in Helmand province, marking the end of nine years of Marine operations in the area.

Marines attack their objective Nov. 2 during exercise Blue Chromite 15 in the Central Training Area. Blue Chromite demonstrates the Navy and Marine Corps’ expeditionary capabilities from the sea. Marines rode in assault amphibious vehicles in a ship-to-shore assault from the USS Germantown to Oura Wan Beach. After securing their first objective Marines advanced inland to the CTA. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marines Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Abbey Perria/Released) - Marines attack their objective Nov. 2 during exercise Blue Chromite 15 in the Central Training Area. Blue Chromite demonstrates the Navy and Marine Corps’ expeditionary capabilities from the sea. Marines rode in assault amphibious vehicles in a ship-to-shore assault from the USS Germantown to Oura Wan Beach. After securing their first objective Marines advanced inland to the CTA. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marines Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Abbey Perria/Released)

Capt. Orlando R. Samudio, left, and Capt. Mike A. Jordan pilot a KC-130J Super Hercules during tactical navigation training above Hunter Army Airfield, Ga., Oct. 23, 2014. The training allows pilots to hone skills through disparate terrain to avoid ground threats. Samudio and Jordan are both naval aviators with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252. Samudio is a native of Austin, Texas and Jordan is a native to Decatur, Texas. - Capt. Orlando R. Samudio, left, and Capt. Mike A. Jordan pilot a KC-130J Super Hercules during tactical navigation training above Hunter Army Airfield, Ga., Oct. 23, 2014. The training allows pilots to hone skills through disparate terrain to avoid ground threats. Samudio and Jordan are both naval aviators with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252. Samudio is a native of Austin, Texas and Jordan is a native to Decatur, Texas.

Marines, veterans and their families gathered at the Yemassee train station for the 2nd Annual Yemassee Train Depot Reunion Oct. 16. Yemassee was the first stop for eager recruits seeking to earn the title United States Marine before reaching Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island from 1915 to 1965. Many Marines that fought in wars and conflicts spanning WWI through Vietnam began their transformation at the train station. - Marines, veterans and their families gathered at the Yemassee train station for the 2nd Annual Yemassee Train Depot Reunion Oct. 16. Yemassee was the first stop for eager recruits seeking to earn the title United States Marine before reaching Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island from 1915 to 1965. Many Marines that fought in wars and conflicts spanning WWI through Vietnam began their transformation at the train station.

Sergeant Tyler W. Envall, an H-1 avionics technician with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Aviation Combat Element, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365, conducts 90-degree gear box wiring of a UH-1Y Huey aboard the USS Iwo Jima, Oct. 27, 2014. Marines conduct flight maintenance around the clock to maintain mission readiness for all MEU aircraft. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Nichols) - Sergeant Tyler W. Envall, an H-1 avionics technician with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Aviation Combat Element, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365, conducts 90-degree gear box wiring of a UH-1Y Huey aboard the USS Iwo Jima, Oct. 27, 2014. Marines conduct flight maintenance around the clock to maintain mission readiness for all MEU aircraft. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin Nichols)

Artillery Marines with Gun 3, Battery A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, prepare to send a round down range during a fire mission at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 29, 2014. Marines of Battery A conducted a live-fire artillery shoot, Oct. 28-30, 2014. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Artillery Marines with Gun 3, Battery A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, prepare to send a round down range during a fire mission at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 29, 2014. Marines of Battery A conducted a live-fire artillery shoot, Oct. 28-30, 2014. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

A Marine with 1st Marine Division Schools, pre-scout sniper course snaps in before engaging his target. Division schools recently began the second week of training for Marines attending the pre-scout sniper course aboard Camp Pendleton California, Oct. 27 2014. - A Marine with 1st Marine Division Schools, pre-scout sniper course snaps in before engaging his target. Division schools recently began the second week of training for Marines attending the pre-scout sniper course aboard Camp Pendleton California, Oct. 27 2014.

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This photo illustration depicts Lance Cpl. Benjamin Ferry and his Grandfather, Richard T. Ferry, side-by-side while each was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. Coincidentally, both Benjamin and Richard were assigned the same unit with more than 60 years’ difference in service time. Richard served with 3/5 during the Korean War, fighting in Inchon and at the Chosin Reservoir before being evacuated with two wounds suffered in combat. Benjamin is an automatic rifleman and is currently deployed aboard the USS Peleliu with India Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit - This photo illustration depicts Lance Cpl. Benjamin Ferry and his Grandfather, Richard T. Ferry, side-by-side while each was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. Coincidentally, both Benjamin and Richard were assigned the same unit with more than 60 years’ difference in service time. Richard served with 3/5 during the Korean War, fighting in Inchon and at the Chosin Reservoir before being evacuated with two wounds suffered in combat. Benjamin is an automatic rifleman and is currently deployed aboard the USS Peleliu with India Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit

Marines and Sailors on Black Sea Rotational Force 14, with members of the Romanian Land Forces, worked together during Platinum Lynx at the Carpathian Mountains, Romania. Marines and Romanians fostered knowledge through weapons familiarization classes and mountain warfare training. - Marines and Sailors on Black Sea Rotational Force 14, with members of the Romanian Land Forces, worked together during Platinum Lynx at the Carpathian Mountains, Romania. Marines and Romanians fostered knowledge through weapons familiarization classes and mountain warfare training.

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Gen. James F. Amos, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, passes the colors to Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., during the change of command and subsequent retirement ceremony Oct. 17, 2014 at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, at 8th & I. After more than 44 years of military service, Amos passed the duties as senior-ranking officer of the Marine Corps to Dunford, who has now become the 36th Commandant of the Marine Corps. - Gen. James F. Amos, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, passes the colors to Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., during the change of command and subsequent retirement ceremony Oct. 17, 2014 at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C. After more than 44 years of military service, Amos passed the duties as senior-ranking officer of the Marine Corps to Dunford, who has now become the 36th Commandant of the Marine Corps.

Gunnery Sgt. Robert V. Mendoza, company gunnery sergeant, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, is the most recent recipient of the Gunnery Sgt. Carlos N. Hathcock II Award for his performance while serving as marksmanship training unit instructor and assault amphibian vehicle gunnery training coordinator for Headquarters and Service Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, from Feb. 25, 2013 to Jan. 1, 2014. From October 2014 to July 2015, the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force will conduct individual and collective skills training in designated combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released) - Gunnery Sgt. Robert V. Mendoza, company gunnery sergeant, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, is the most recent recipient of the Gunnery Sgt. Carlos N. Hathcock II Award for his performance while serving as marksmanship training unit instructor and assault amphibian vehicle gunnery training coordinator for Headquarters and Service Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, from Feb. 25, 2013 to Jan. 1, 2014. From October 2014 to July 2015, the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force will conduct individual and collective skills training in designated combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released)

The Navy Blue Angels fly in formation during the 2014 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show, Oct. 3. The Blue Angels is comprised of 16 officers who serve voluntarily. - The Navy Blue Angels fly in formation during the 2014 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show, Oct. 3. The Blue Angels is comprised of 16 officers who serve voluntarily.

Staff Sgt. Milton Donatus, center left, and Lance Cpl. Dale A. Lane, center right, supervise Palau national law enforcement officers during live-fire training with the M9A1 9 mm service pistol Sept. 16 in Irai, Palau. The training gave the Palauan police officers a chance to learn Marine Corps marksmanship fundamentals and familiarized them with the weapon. The training is part of exercise T-AKE 14-2, a maritime pre-positioned force, multi-country theater security cooperation event that deploys from Okinawa aboard the USNS Sacagawea to conduct training exercises. Donatus is from Ngaraard, Palau, and is the training chief with Combat Logistics Detachment 379, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Lane is from Newton Falls, Ohio, and is a military policeman with the detachment. - Staff Sgt. Milton Donatus, center left, and Lance Cpl. Dale A. Lane, center right, supervise Palau national law enforcement officers during live-fire training with the M9A1 9 mm service pistol Sept. 16 in Irai, Palau. The training gave the Palauan police officers a chance to learn Marine Corps marksmanship fundamentals and familiarized them with the weapon. The training is part of exercise T-AKE 14-2, a maritime pre-positioned force, multi-country theater security cooperation event that deploys from Okinawa aboard the USNS Sacagawea to conduct training exercises. Donatus is from Ngaraard, Palau, and is the training chief with Combat Logistics Detachment 379, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Lane is from Newton Falls, Ohio, and is a military policeman with the detachment.

A tank with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division cruises through the muddy field of Landing Zone Flacon aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., during a breaching exercise Oct. 1, 2014. The tanks moved past an obstacle in order to assault a simulated enemy on the other side of that obstacle. The purpose of the three-day field exercise was for the Marines to work on tank fundamentals in the offense and defense. - A tank with Alpha Company, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division cruises through the muddy field of Landing Zone Flacon aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., during a breaching exercise Oct. 1, 2014. The tanks moved past an obstacle in order to assault a simulated enemy on the other side of that obstacle. The purpose of the three-day field exercise was for the Marines to work on tank fundamentals in the offense and defense.

Philippine and U.S. Marines simulate a beach landing from combat rubber raiding crafts onto a small island off the coast of Palawan, Philippines, Oct. 2, 2014 during Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. The amphibious assault and boat raids were conducted by U.S. Marines to complete a certification exercise being held in conjunction with PHIBLEX 15. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. The AFP Marines are with 12th Marine Battalion, Philippine Marine Corps, and the U.S. Marines are with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Philippine and U.S. Marines simulate a beach landing from combat rubber raiding crafts onto a small island off the coast of Palawan, Philippines, Oct. 2, 2014 during Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. The amphibious assault and boat raids were conducted by U.S. Marines to complete a certification exercise being held in conjunction with PHIBLEX 15. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities, including disaster relief and contingency operations. The AFP Marines are with 12th Marine Battalion, Philippine Marine Corps, and the U.S. Marines are with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

As the final days in his Marine Corps career end, Lt. Gen. Robert E. Milstead Jr. Reflects on his past experiences and how he has molded his career to guide and inspire younger Marines. - As the final days in his Marine Corps career end, Lt. Gen. Robert E. Milstead Jr. Reflects on his past experiences and how he has molded his career to guide and inspire younger Marines.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 8, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Fwd.) travel in a convoy to the wreckage of a downed French F-2000 Mirage aircraft for a recovery operation northwest of Forward Operating Base Delaram in Helmand province, Afghanistan, May 27, 2011. Marines with the unit assisted French forces in support of International Security Assistance Force operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jeff Kaus/Released) - U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 8, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Fwd.) travel in a convoy to the wreckage of a downed French F-2000 Mirage aircraft for a recovery operation northwest of Forward Operating Base Delaram in Helmand province, Afghanistan, May 27, 2011. Marines with the unit assisted French forces in support of International Security Assistance Force operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jeff Kaus/Released)

U.S. Marine Sgt. Andy Muller aims in during a dry-fire drill at a close-quarters tactics course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 25, 2014. Muller is a receiver-transmitter operator with Bravo Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. These Marines are enhancing their skills before compositing with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in October. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Andy Muller aims in during a dry-fire drill at a close-quarters tactics course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 25, 2014. Muller is a receiver-transmitter operator with Bravo Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. These Marines are enhancing their skills before compositing with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in October.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Jacob Rich prepares to practice for the 100m Men's Wheel event for the 2014 Invictus Games at Mayesbrooks Training Center in London, Sept. 10, 2014. The Invictus Games is an opportunity for wounded, ill, and injured service members from around the world to recover and rehabilitate through competing in adaptive sports. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Jacob Rich, an adaptive athlete,prepares to practice for the 100m Men's Wheel event for the 2014 Invictus Games at Mayesbrooks Training Center in London, Sept. 10, 2014. The Invictus Games is an opportunity for wounded, ill, and injured service members from around the world to recover and rehabilitate through competing in adaptive sports.

Entry-level Marines with Company A, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry-West completed their culminating event at Range 408 here, Sept. 25. The range includes and implements the different infantry occupational specialties at the company level. Medium/light machine guns and mortars suppress the enemy first, providing the supporting fire for a squad size element of riflemen and assaultmen to assault the enemies’ position. - Entry-level Marines with Company A, Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry-West completed their culminating event at Range 408 here, Sept. 25. The range includes and implements the different infantry occupational specialties at the company level. Medium/light machine guns and mortars suppress the enemy first, providing the supporting fire for a squad size element of riflemen and assaultmen to assault the enemies’ position.

Lance Cpl. Edward Manibusan, Jr., from Koblerville, Saipan, stands outside of his tent Sept. 26 during Exercise Forager Fury III. He was raised in Saipan, located near Tinian, and joined the Marine Corps shortly after graduating high school. Manibusan is a field wireman with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released) - Lance Cpl. Edward Manibusan, Jr., from Koblerville, Saipan, stands outside of his tent Sept. 26 during Exercise Forager Fury III. He was raised in Saipan, located near Tinian, and joined the Marine Corps shortly after graduating high school. Manibusan is a field wireman with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei/ Released)

Hospitalman First Class Jamie Sclater, a native to Annandale, Virginia, aims down range with other shooters during shooting practice for the Marine team, September 24, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team has been training since September 15 in order to build team cohesion and acclimate to the above 6,000 ft. altitude of Colorado Springs. The Marine team is comprised of both active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines. - Hospitalman First Class Jamie Sclater, a native to Annandale, Virginia, aims down range with other shooters during shooting practice for the Marine team, September 24, in preparation for the 2014 Warrior Games. The Marine team has been training since September 15 in order to build team cohesion and acclimate to the above 6,000 ft. altitude of Colorado Springs. The Marine team is comprised of both active duty and veteran wounded, ill and injured Marines who are attached to or supported by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, the official unit of the Marine Corps charged with providing comprehensive non-medical recovery care to wounded, ill and injured Marines.

Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6. - Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6.

Marines and sailors with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, patrol with Afghan National Army counterparts during a security operation in Helmand province, Sept. 9, 2014. During the 72-hour operation, Marines and ANA soldiers conducted dismounted patrols on foot to search nearby compounds for weapons and lethal aid. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cody Haas/ Released) - Marines and sailors with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, patrol with Afghan National Army counterparts during a security operation in Helmand province, Sept. 9, 2014. During the 72-hour operation, Marines and ANA soldiers conducted dismounted patrols on foot to search nearby compounds for weapons and lethal aid. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cody Haas/ Released)

Sgt. Steven Johnson (wearing woodland gortex jacket), a quality assurance representative with Marine Fighter Attacks Squadron 122 and Fairbanks, Alaska native, assists a maintenance Marine with pre-flight turning of one of the squadron's F/A-18C Hornets, Sept. 11, 2014, aboard Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 is conducting unit level training in Alaska as part of Exercise Distant Frontier. - Sgt. Steven Johnson (wearing woodland gortex jacket), a quality assurance representative with Marine Fighter Attacks Squadron 122 and Fairbanks, Alaska native, assists a maintenance Marine with pre-flight turning of one of the squadron's F/A-18C Hornets, Sept. 11, 2014, aboard Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 is conducting unit level training in Alaska as part of Exercise Distant Frontier.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadrons 171 and 172, both currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, use a jackhammer to drive a stake into the ground as part of the M31 Marine Corps expeditionary arresting gear system installation in preparation for Valiant Shield 2014. Arresting gear is used to stop aircraft quickly in case they land on a short runway or experience an emergency. Valiant Shield is a biennial exercise which focuses on training that enables real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces. - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadrons 171 and 172, both currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, use a jackhammer to drive a stake into the ground as part of the M31 Marine Corps expeditionary arresting gear system installation in preparation for Valiant Shield 2014. Arresting gear is used to stop aircraft quickly in case they land on a short runway or experience an emergency. Valiant Shield is a biennial exercise which focuses on training that enables real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces.

Sergeant Maj. James Roberts (left) and Gunnery Sgt. Jason M. Whipkey stand on the flight deck of the USS Peleliu (LHA-5) September 10. The Marines were embarked on the ship 13 years ago when it was diverted from Darwin, Australia to Afghanistan in response to the terror attacks on September 11, 2001. Roberts is the Sergeant Major of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and is from Dallas. Whipkey is the platoon sergeant for Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and is from Carneys Point, New Jersey. The 31st MEU/Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group is currently conducting Amphibious Integration Training in preparation for the regularly schedule Fall Patrol ’14. The 31st MEU is the only continuously forward-deployed expeditionary unit. - Sergeant Maj. James Roberts (left) and Gunnery Sgt. Jason M. Whipkey stand on the flight deck of the USS Peleliu (LHA-5) September 10. The Marines were embarked on the ship 13 years ago when it was diverted from Darwin, Australia to Afghanistan in response to the terror attacks on September 11, 2001. Roberts is the Sergeant Major of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and is from Dallas. Whipkey is the platoon sergeant for Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and is from Carneys Point, New Jersey. The 31st MEU/Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group is currently conducting Amphibious Integration Training in preparation for the regularly schedule Fall Patrol ’14. The 31st MEU is the only continuously forward-deployed expeditionary unit.

General James F. Amos, left, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett, the 17th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, speak to Marines and sailors with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment; 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment; and 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 6, 2014. Gen. Amos and Sgt. Maj. Barrett visited Marines and sailors serving with Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan in Helmand province for the final time, thanking them for their service and sacrifice. - General James F. Amos, left, the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett, the 17th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, speak to Marines and sailors with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment; 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment; and 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Sept. 6, 2014. Gen. Amos and Sgt. Maj. Barrett visited Marines and sailors serving with Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan in Helmand province for the final time, thanking them for their service and sacrifice.

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

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Lance Cpl. Johnny Alston (right), a personnel retrieval and processing specialist with PRP Company, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, and Sgt. 1st Class Matevz Scheicher, a weapons specialist with the Slovenian army, inspect and document simulated remains during the culminating event of exercie Immediate Response 2014 here, Aug. 25-27, 2014 PRP’s mission is to process the physical remains of deceased Marines, including other service members and civilians, ensuring everything they arrived at the disaster site with, he or she returns home with. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Codey Underwood) - Lance Cpl. Johnny Alston (right), a personnel retrieval and processing specialist with PRP Company, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, and Sgt. 1st Class Matevz Scheicher, a weapons specialist with the Slovenian army, inspect and document simulated remains during the culminating event of exercise Immediate Response 2014, Aug. 25-27, 2014 PRP’s mission is to process the physical remains of deceased Marines, including other service members and civilians, ensuring everything they arrived at the disaster site with, he or she returns home with. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Codey Underwood)

Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force practice loading and unloading inert rounds into the Non-Lethal, Tube-Launched Munitions System during their practical application training at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 14, 2014. Marine Corps Systems Command Optics and Non-Lethal Systems is fielding the system that sends non-lethal munitions out as far as 500 meters and uses an audible bang to deter a crowd or a person with mal-intent. Its intended use is for military checkpoints. - Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force practice loading and unloading inert rounds into the Non-Lethal, Tube-Launched Munitions System during their practical application training at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 14, 2014. Marine Corps Systems Command Optics and Non-Lethal Systems is fielding the system that sends non-lethal munitions out as far as 500 meters and uses an audible bang to deter a crowd or a person with mal-intent. Its intended use is for military checkpoints.

Lt. Gen. John Toolan, commander, U. S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, addresses the Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit following the culminating joint amphibious demonstration of Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2014 at Kg Tanduo Beach, Malaysia, Sept. 2. MALUS AMPHEX 14 is a bilateral exercise between the 11th MEU and Malaysian Armed Forces that includes operational and tactical level training in planning, command and control, and combat service support using both ground and sea assets. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Rome M. Lazarus/Released) - Lt. Gen. John Toolan, commander, U. S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, addresses the Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit following the culminating joint amphibious demonstration of Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2014 at Kg Tanduo Beach, Malaysia, Sept. 2. MALUS AMPHEX 14 is a bilateral exercise between the 11th MEU and Malaysian Armed Forces that includes operational and tactical level training in planning, command and control, and combat service support using both ground and sea assets. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Rome M. Lazarus/Released)

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Brigadier Gen. Joaquin F. Malavet, the commanding general of 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, inspects Marines passing in review during the 1st MEB change of command ceremony aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 29, 2014. Malavet was previously assigned as the principal director, South and Southeast Asia for the Office of the Secretary of Defense-Policy at Washington, D.C. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carson Gramley) - Brigadier Gen. Joaquin F. Malavet, the commanding general of 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, inspects Marines passing in review during the 1st MEB change of command ceremony aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 29, 2014. Malavet was previously assigned as the principal director, South and Southeast Asia for the Office of the Secretary of Defense-Policy at Washington, D.C. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carson Gramley)

U.S. Marine Pfc. Ryan Iglesias, left, and Lance Cpl. Jonathan Ripoyla strategize on improving their survival shelter during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 28, 2014. Iglesias and Ripoyla are both infantry riflemen assigned to 2nd Platoon, India Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment will become the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s ground combat element in October. Mountain Exercise 2014 develops critical skills the battalion will need during deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released) - U.S. Marine Pfc. Ryan Iglesias, left, and Lance Cpl. Jonathan Ripoyla strategize on improving their survival shelter during Mountain Exercise 2014 aboard Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Aug. 28, 2014. Iglesias and Ripoyla are both infantry riflemen assigned to 2nd Platoon, India Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment will become the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s ground combat element in October. Mountain Exercise 2014 develops critical skills the battalion will need during deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released)

Sergeants Philip Kelly (Near) and Derrek Cardinale (Far), receive Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals from Lt. Gen. Richard P. Mills, commander of Marine Forces Reserve, for their work as Lance Corporal Leadership Ethics Seminar trainers after educating senior enlisted advisors in the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans auditorium, Aug. 27, 2014. The train-the-trainer course was designed to inform senior enlisted advisors on the new Lance Corporal Leadership Ethics Seminar implemented throughout the Marine Corps. The seminar was implemented to inform lance corporals of the resources available to them, as well as motivate them to succeed and strive for the next rank. - Sergeants Philip Kelly (Near) and Derrek Cardinale (Far), receive Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals from Lt. Gen. Richard P. Mills, commander of Marine Forces Reserve, for their work as Lance Corporal Leadership Ethics Seminar trainers after educating senior enlisted advisors in the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans auditorium, Aug. 27, 2014. The train-the-trainer course was designed to inform senior enlisted advisors on the new Lance Corporal Leadership Ethics Seminar implemented throughout the Marine Corps. The seminar was implemented to inform lance corporals of the resources available to them, as well as motivate them to succeed and strive for the next rank.

Pvt. Joel A. Lopez, Platoon 3263, Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, performs buddy push-ups with his platoon during the Crucible at Marine Corps BaseCamp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 20. Lopez graduates recruit training today, and will then attend Marine Combat Training at Camp Pendleton. Upon completion of MCT, he willcontinue training for his military occupational specialty as a field artillery cannoneer. - Pvt. Joel A. Lopez, Platoon 3263, Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, performs buddy push-ups with his platoon during the Crucible at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 20. Lopez graduates recruit training today, and will then attend Marine Combat Training at Camp Pendleton. Upon completion of MCT, he will continue training for his military occupational specialty as a field artillery cannoneer.

A mock victim lies on the floor before an active shooter exercise called “Operation Social Fury” aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 27. The exercise allowed first responders to react to the threat of an active shooter in a safe and controlled manner while observers judged their reactions. - A mock victim lies on the floor before an active shooter exercise called “Operation Social Fury” aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 27. The exercise allowed first responders to react to the threat of an active shooter in a safe and controlled manner while observers judged their reactions.

Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force fire the Non-Lethal, Tube-Launched Munitions System from a vehicle at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 14, 2014. The live fire showcased the versatility and shock and awe effect of the NLTLMS and how effective it can be at a vehicle checkpoint. Marine Corps Systems Command Optics and Non-Lethal Systems is fielding the system that sends non-lethal munitions out as far as 500 meters and uses an audible bang to deter a crowd or a person with mal-intent. - Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force fire the Non-Lethal, Tube-Launched Munitions System from a vehicle at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 14, 2014. The live fire showcased the versatility and shock and awe effect of the NLTLMS and how effective it can be at a vehicle checkpoint. Marine Corps Systems Command Optics and Non-Lethal Systems is fielding the system that sends non-lethal munitions out as far as 500 meters and uses an audible bang to deter a crowd or a person with mal-intent.

Pfc. Dalton Hubbard, freight specialist, Distribution Management Office, unloads a double pallet of coffee for chaplains and Marines to redistribute at a loading dock for Operation Coffee Giveaway with donated Keurig cups and ground coffee from Holy Joe’s Café, Aug. 21, 2014. - Pfc. Dalton Hubbard, freight specialist, Distribution Management Office, unloads a double pallet of coffee for chaplains and Marines to redistribute at a loading dock for Operation Coffee Giveaway with donated Keurig cups and ground coffee from Holy Joe’s Café, Aug. 21, 2014.

In 1986, Richard Burris took the challenge of going through the rigorous 13-week training that is Marine Corps boot camp. Nearly three decades later, Burris’ son followed in those same yellow footsteps that transform young adults into Marines.Now a master gunnery sergeant in the Marine Corps, Burris is known throughout the field of correctional specialists by name and by reputation. His position as the technical advisor at the Naval Consolidated Brig Charleston, speaks well of his experience as a leader. Leadership that spans not only through the enlisted ranks but carries over to officers he has trained while they were junior enlisted. Naturally, his leadership transferred over to his family of five. - In 1986, Richard Burris took the challenge of going through the rigorous 13-week training that is Marine Corps boot camp. Nearly three decades later, Burris’ son followed in those same yellow footsteps that transform young adults into Marines. Now a master gunnery sergeant in the Marine Corps, Burris is known throughout the field of correctional specialists by name and by reputation. His position as the technical advisor at the Naval Consolidated Brig Charleston, speaks well of his experience as a leader. Leadership that spans not only through the enlisted ranks but carries over to officers he has trained while they were junior enlisted. Naturally, his leadership transferred over to his family of five.

Luis Morales, No. 31, crouches with his daughter after completing the Quantico Tri on Marine Corps Base Quantico in 1 hour, 14 minutes, 50 seconds on Sunday. Morales was featured in the Aug. 21 editoin of the Quantico Sentry. - Luis Morales, No. 31, crouches with his daughter after completing the Quantico Tri on Marine Corps Base Quantico in 1 hour, 14 minutes, 50 seconds on Sunday. Morales was featured in the Aug. 21 editoin of the Quantico Sentry.

Marines from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Gold Company, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment prepare to fire the Expeditionary Fire Support System from Marine Corps Base Quantico's Weapons Range 3 on Aug. 20. - Marines from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Gold Company, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment prepare to fire the Expeditionary Fire Support System from Marine Corps Base Quantico's Weapons Range 3 on Aug. 20.

Carletha Windom accepts a proclamation honoring her late husband, Pfc. James Windom - an original Montford Point Marine - from Col. Don Davis, commanding officer, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, during a ceremony at the Chapel of the Good Shepherd, here, Aug. 22. - Carletha Windom accepts a proclamation honoring her late husband, Pfc. James Windom - an original Montford Point Marine - from Col. Don Davis, commanding officer, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, during a ceremony at the Chapel of the Good Shepherd, here, Aug. 22.

Marines and a sailor, with a sea services color guard, observe the “Undaunted in Battle” memorial in Bladensburg, Maryland Aug. 23, 2014. The monument was dedicated as a part of the 200 Year Commemoration of the Battle of Bladensburg. - Marines and a sailor, with a sea services color guard, observe the “Undaunted in Battle” memorial in Bladensburg, Maryland Aug. 23, 2014. The monument was dedicated as a part of the 200 Year Commemoration of the Battle of Bladensburg.

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus addresses the Marines and Sailors of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South and the future amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during an all hands call held aboard the ship, Aug. 19, 2014. During the meeting, Mabus addressed the Marines and Sailors of America and Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South. Visits like this remind the Marines and Sailors with America and the SPMAGTF of the significance of the work they are doing. SPMAGTF-South is embarked aboard America in support of her maiden transit, “America Visits the Americas.” Through partner-nation activities, theater security events and key leader engagements, the transit aims to demonstrate the flexibility, utility and unparalleled expeditionary capability the Navy-Marine Corps team provides our nation and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Donald Holbert/ Released) - Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus addresses the Marines and Sailors of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South and the future amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during an all hands call held aboard the ship, Aug. 19, 2014. During the meeting, Mabus addressed the Marines and Sailors of America and Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South. Visits like this remind the Marines and Sailors with America and the SPMAGTF of the significance of the work they are doing. SPMAGTF-South is embarked aboard America in support of her maiden transit, “America Visits the Americas.” Through partner-nation activities, theater security events and key leader engagements, the transit aims to demonstrate the flexibility, utility and unparalleled expeditionary capability the Navy-Marine Corps team provides our nation and partners. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Donald Holbert/ Released)