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Oshana also explained why he decided to become an infantry first sergeant. - U.S. Marine 1st Sgt. Gilbert G. Oshana, Baker Company, 1st Marine Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment recounted why he believes in this country and the Marine Corps. Oshana also explained why he decided to become an infantry first sergeant.

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)

he Marines are with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. - A Marine clears an area after conducting an ambush on an opposing force during defensive operations training at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 31, 2017. The exercise is used by the battalion to improve proficiency with combat tactics and in preparation for future operations. The Marine is with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Holly Pernell)

Northern Viper 17 comes to an end - A crew chief fires a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun from the back of a CH-53E Super Stallion above Draughon Range near Misawa Air Base, Japan, August 21, 2017, in support of exercise Northern Viper 17. This combined-joint exercise is held to enhance regional cooperation between participating nations to collectively deter security threats. The crew chief is assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently forward deployed under the Unit Deployment Program with Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st MAW, based out of Okinawa, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez)

Pfc. Tyler J. Nye (left) and Cpl. Tyler D. Reed (right), both landing support specialist, prepare to attach a container to a CH-53E Super Stallion during external lift training at Draughon Range near Misawa Air Base, Japan, August 21, 2017, in support of exercise Northern Viper 17. This combined-joint exercise is held to enhance regional cooperation between participating nations to collectively deter security threats. Nye, a Lincoln, Nebraska native and Reed, a Waukesha, Wisconsin native, are assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 4, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistic Group. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez) - Pfc. Tyler J. Nye (left) and Cpl. Tyler D. Reed (right), both landing support specialist, prepare to attach a container to a CH-53E Super Stallion during external lift training at Draughon Range near Misawa Air Base, Japan, August 21, 2017, in support of exercise Northern Viper 17. This combined-joint exercise is held to enhance regional cooperation between participating nations to collectively deter security threats. Nye, a Lincoln, Nebraska native and Reed, a Waukesha, Wisconsin native, are assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 4, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistic Group. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez)

Marines with the Force Reconnaissance Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force stationed at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan jump out of the aircraft... - Marines with the Force Reconnaissance Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force stationed at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan jump out of the aircraft and make their descent towards the drop zone at IDIS-Corps facility in Parker, Ariz., from July 12 to August 1, 2017 The Marines conducted high altitude high opening (HAHO) sustainment training, while implementing the Joint Precision Air Drop System (JPADS).

Capt. Justin Griffis is a current operations and training officer with Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, whom assisted in the rescue of a 7-year old Japanese boy who almost drowned at Maeda Flats, Okinawa, Japan, July 23, 2017. - Capt. Justin Griffis is a current operations and training officer with Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, whom assisted in the rescue of a 7-year old Japanese boy who almost drowned at Maeda Flats, Okinawa, Japan, July 23, 2017.

Story - Pfc. James P. Gross, a radio and satellite communications operator, places barbed wire on the ground at Misawa Air Base, Japan, August 10, 2017, signifying the start of exercise Northern Viper 2017. This exercise tests the interoperability and bilateral capability of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marine Corps forces to work together and provides the opportunity to conduct realistic training in an unfamiliar environment. Gross, a Milwaukee native, is with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez)

Marines with the Force Reconnaissance Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force stationed at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan jump out of the aircraft and make their descent towards the drop zone at IDIS-Corps facility in Parker, Arizona, from July 12 to August 1, 2017 The Marines conducted high altitude high opening (HAHO) sustainment training, while implementing the Joint Precision Air Drop System (JPADS). - Marines with the Force Reconnaissance Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force stationed at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan jump out of the aircraft and make their descent towards the drop zone at IDIS-Corps facility in Parker, Arizona, from July 12 to August 1, 2017 The Marines conducted high altitude high opening (HAHO) sustainment training, while implementing the Joint Precision Air Drop System (JPADS).

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Lance Cpl. Jeanette E. Fernando and other Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, hike towards the Iwo Jima memorial site on Mt. Suribachi, Iwo Jima, Japan, July 26, 2017. Fernando and other Marines in her squadron were given the opportunity to revisit the battlegrounds at which Fernando's grandfather, a Navajo Code Talker, fought during World War II. Fernando is an airframe mechanic assigned to HMLA-169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently on a unit deployment program with 1st MAW based in Okinawa, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Laura Gauna) - Lance Cpl. Jeanette E. Fernando and other Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, hike towards the Iwo Jima memorial site on Mt. Suribachi, Iwo Jima, Japan, July 26, 2017. Fernando and other Marines in her squadron were given the opportunity to revisit the battlegrounds at which Fernando's grandfather, a Navajo Code Talker, fought during World War II. Fernando is an airframe mechanic assigned to HMLA-169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently on a unit deployment program with 1st MAW based in Okinawa, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Laura Gauna)

Sgt. Aenoi Luangxay, right, a squad leader with Combat Engineering Company, 3rd Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, receives a challenge coin July 7, 2017, in Okinawa, Japan, from Maj. Gen. Craig Timberlake, the 3rd Marine Division commanding officer, for winning the outstanding squad leader award while participating in the 2nd annual Marine Corps Combat Engineer Sapper competition held in Camp Pendleton, California. Luangxay was one of four squad leaders to be in the running for the award. - Sgt. Aenoi Luangxay, right, a squad leader with Combat Engineering Company, 3rd Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, receives a challenge coin July 7, 2017, in Okinawa, Japan, from Maj. Gen. Craig Timberlake, the 3rd Marine Division commanding officer, for winning the outstanding squad leader award while participating in the 2nd annual Marine Corps Combat Engineer Sapper competition held in Camp Pendleton, California. Luangxay was one of four squad leaders to be in the running for the award.

U.S. Marine Cpls. Otto Thiele (center left), Eric Goodman (center), and Christopher Ehms (far right) and Lance Cpls. Antonio Martinez (far left) and Avelardo Guevera Osuna (center right) came together to assist a local Japanese woman during their hike on Mount Fuji, Japan, July 3, 2017. The woman, Moe Oda, was found lying on the ground, hyperventilating and struggling to breathe when the Marines came to her assistance. Together, they created a makeshift stretcher to carry her down approximately two miles to get to medical assistance. The Marines are with Electronics Maintenance Company, 3d Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3d Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marine Cpls. Otto Thiele (center left), Eric Goodman (center), and Christopher Ehms (far right) and Lance Cpls. Antonio Martinez (far left) and Avelardo Guevera Osuna (center right) came together to assist a local Japanese woman during their hike on Mount Fuji, Japan, July 3, 2017. The woman, Moe Oda, was found lying on the ground, hyperventilating and struggling to breathe when the Marines came to her assistance. Together, they created a makeshift stretcher to carry her down approximately two miles to get to medical assistance. The Marines are with Electronics Maintenance Company, 3d Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3d Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marines with Fire Support Team, Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, direct artillery fire and close air support onto enemy positions, as apart of their Fire Support Coordination Exercise, a training event, during Integrated Training Exercise 4-17 at Camp Wilson, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California on June 26th, 2017. ITX prepares Marines to rapidly deploy forces to any place in the world. - U.S. Marines with Fire Support Team, Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, direct artillery fire and close air support onto enemy positions, as apart of their Fire Support Coordination Exercise, a training event, during Integrated Training Exercise 4-17 at Camp Wilson, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California on June 26th, 2017. ITX prepares Marines to rapidly deploy forces to any place in the world.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, conducted a training flight from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni to Kadena Air Force Base, Okinawa, Japan, June 26, 2017. The Marines with VMFA- 121 worked alongside Airmen with the 18th Wing. This event marked the first time an F-35B Lightning II landed in Okinawa. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Charles Plouffe) - A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, conducted a training flight from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni to Kadena Air Force Base, Okinawa, Japan, June 26, 2017. The Marines with VMFA- 121 worked alongside Airmen with the 18th Wing. This event marked the first time an F-35B Lightning II landed in Okinawa. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Charles Plouffe)

An MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft belonging to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 departs the USS Bonhomme Richard while underway in the Pacific Ocean, June 9, 2017. VMM-265 is the Aviation Combat Element of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and provides assault transport, close air support and aviation command and control for the 31st MEU. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 to form amphibious component of the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group. The 31st MEU and PHIBRON 11 combine to provide a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific. - An MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft belonging to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 departs the USS Bonhomme Richard while underway in the Pacific Ocean, June 9, 2017. VMM-265 is the Aviation Combat Element of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and provides assault transport, close air support and aviation command and control for the 31st MEU. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 to form amphibious component of the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group. The 31st MEU and PHIBRON 11 combine to provide a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific.

Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit move sea bags, packs and gear pier side at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, June 7, 2017. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 to form the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group – a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific. - Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit move sea bags, packs and gear pier side at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, June 7, 2017. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 to form the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group – a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific.

Sergeant Mike Stachowski greets Archibald Mosley, May 27, at the Colp Area Veterans Celebration, Dedication and Remembrance Ceremony, in Colp, Illinois. The ceremony honored fallen service members, Mosley and three other African American Marines from Colp, who were among the first black Americans to join Marine Corps during World War II. They became known as the Montford Point Marines. Nearly 20,000 African-Americans joined the Marine Corps in 1942, after President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued a “presidential directive giving African Americans an opportunity to be recruited in the Marine Corps,” according to the Montford Point Marines Association website. They didn’t receive recruit training at San Diego or Parris Island, however, but Camp Montford Point, N.C., a segregated training site for African American Marine recruits. For the next seven years, the camp remained opened until it became desegregated. The four Marines are Sol Griffin, Jr.; James L. Kirby, Early Taylor, Jr. and Archibald Mosley. These Marines, among many other Montford Point Marines across the country, were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest award that can be given to a civilian by Congress, in 2012. - Sergeant Mike Stachowski greets Archibald Mosley, May 27, at the Colp Area Veterans Celebration, Dedication and Remembrance Ceremony, in Colp, Illinois. The ceremony honored fallen service members, Mosley and three other African American Marines from Colp, who were among the first black Americans to join Marine Corps during World War II. They became known as the Montford Point Marines. Nearly 20,000 African-Americans joined the Marine Corps in 1942, after President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued a “presidential directive giving African Americans an opportunity to be recruited in the Marine Corps,” according to the Montford Point Marines Association website. They didn’t receive recruit training at San Diego or Parris Island, however, but Camp Montford Point, N.C., a segregated training site for African American Marine recruits. For the next seven years, the camp remained opened until it became desegregated. The four Marines are Sol Griffin, Jr.; James L. Kirby, Early Taylor, Jr. and Archibald Mosley. These Marines, among many other Montford Point Marines across the country, were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest award that can be given to a civilian by Congress, in 2012.

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Capt. Erin Demchko portrays a convoy commander engaged in a firefight during the filming of "Battle Up," a new commercial published by the Marine Corps Recruiting Command May 12, 2017. "Battle Up," like the other work in the recently-launched campaign, is aimed at the recruitable population and their influencers – parents, teachers, coaches and community leaders. - Capt. Erin Demchko portrays a convoy commander engaged in a firefight during the filming of "Battle Up," a new commercial published by the Marine Corps Recruiting Command May 12, 2017. "Battle Up," like the other work in the recently-launched campaign, is aimed at the recruitable population and their influencers – parents, teachers, coaches and community leaders.

Rear Adm. Brent W. Scott gives closing remarks during the Chaplain’s Professional Development Workshop at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, May 8, 2017. Scott’s guided discussions were centered on the topic of targeted and interpersonal violence. Chaplains are an indispensable asset to these types of instances. Scott is the chaplain of the Marine Corps. - Rear Adm. Brent W. Scott gives closing remarks during the Chaplain’s Professional Development Workshop at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, May 8, 2017. Scott’s guided discussions were centered on the topic of targeted and interpersonal violence. Chaplains are an indispensable asset to these types of instances. Scott is the chaplain of the Marine Corps.

U.S. Marines with 4th Marine Regiment pose for a photo with the Honorable Sung Y. Kim, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, after a ceremony to mark the 75th anniversary of the fall of Corregidor to the Japanese during World War II on Corregidor, Cavite, May 6, 2017. The ceremony was held to commemorate the Marines, Soldiers, Sailors and Filipinos who fought and sacrificed to defend the Philippines during World War II. - U.S. Marines with 4th Marine Regiment pose for a photo with the Honorable Sung Y. Kim, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, after a ceremony to mark the 75th anniversary of the fall of Corregidor to the Japanese during World War II on Corregidor, Cavite, May 6, 2017. The ceremony was held to commemorate the Marines, Soldiers, Sailors and Filipinos who fought and sacrificed to defend the Philippines during World War II.

A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 conducts a level III flight demonstration during the 41st Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force – Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Friendship Day at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, May 5, 2017. Since 1973, MCAS Iwakuni has held a single-day air show designed to foster positive relationships and offer an elevating experience that displays the communal support between the U.S. and Japan. The air show also encompassed various U.S. and Japanese static aircraft displays, aerial performances and demonstrations, food and entertainment. - A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 conducts a level III flight demonstration during the 41st Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force – Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Friendship Day at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, May 5, 2017. Since 1973, MCAS Iwakuni has held a single-day air show designed to foster positive relationships and offer an elevating experience that displays the communal support between the U.S. and Japan. The air show also encompassed various U.S. and Japanese static aircraft displays, aerial performances and demonstrations, food and entertainment.

U.S. Special Operations Forces personnel take part in a military freefall jumpmaster course on Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, April 19, 2017. This marked the first time in history that the course was delivered outside of the continental United States. Hosted by the U.S. Marines Corps 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion and administered by a Mobile Training Team, the course qualified 27 Marines, Soldiers and Airmen as military freefall jumpmasters in Okinawa. - U.S. Special Operations Forces personnel take part in a military freefall jumpmaster course on Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, April 19, 2017. This marked the first time in history that the course was delivered outside of the continental United States. Hosted by the U.S. Marines Corps 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion and administered by a Mobile Training Team, the course qualified 27 Marines, Soldiers and Airmen as military freefall jumpmasters in Okinawa.

Donald Irwin, a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, shakes Lance Cpl. Hui Xue’s hand, April 7, 2017, on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. Irwin, who served aboard a number of ships during World War II, fought at Midway and Guadalcanal and survived the sinking of the USS Colhoun during the Battle of Okinawa. Irwin returned to Okinawa and exchanged stories with the Marines and Sailors stationed on the island. Irwin is a San Jose, California native, and Xue, a native of New York, is an aviation life support system technician with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Donald Irwin, a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, shakes Lance Cpl. Hui Xue’s hand, April 7, 2017, on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. Irwin, who served aboard a number of ships during World War II, fought at Midway and Guadalcanal and survived the sinking of the USS Colhoun during the Battle of Okinawa. Irwin returned to Okinawa and exchanged stories with the Marines and Sailors stationed on the island. Irwin is a San Jose, California native, and Xue, a native of New York, is an aviation life support system technician with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Japanese MCH-101 airborne mine countermeasures helicopter lands on a heliport designated by Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment B during a cross-training exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 30, 2017. The purpose of the exercise was to simulate a forward arming and refueling points operation, where Marines communicated with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter pilots to perform austere landings on a heliport that acted as an expeditionary runway. - A Japanese MCH-101 airborne mine countermeasures helicopter lands on a heliport designated by Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment B during a cross-training exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 30, 2017. The purpose of the exercise was to simulate a forward arming and refueling points operation, where Marines communicated with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter pilots to perform austere landings on a heliport that acted as an expeditionary runway.

A Marine posts security March 15 in the Central Training Area, Okinawa, Japan. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in amphibious assault training in order to hone their amphibious capabilities. - A Marine posts security March 15 in the Central Training Area, Okinawa, Japan. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in amphibious assault training in order to hone their amphibious capabilities.

A member of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, 30th Infantry Regiment, 12th Brigade, Eastern Army practices fast roping out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft during Forest Light 17-1 at Camp Soumagahara, Japan, on March 9, 2017. Forest Light is a routine, semi-annual exercise conducted by U.S. and Japan forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and combined capabilities in defense of the U.S.-Japan alliance. - A member of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, 30th Infantry Regiment, 12th Brigade, Eastern Army practices fast roping out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft during Forest Light 17-1 at Camp Soumagahara, Japan, on March 9, 2017. Forest Light is a routine, semi-annual exercise conducted by U.S. and Japan forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and combined capabilities in defense of the U.S.-Japan alliance.

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Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom helicopters past Mount Fuji, Shizuoka, Japan, March 12, 2017. The squadron, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force through the unit deployment program, validated the long-range capability of auxiliary fuel tanks on their H-1 platform helicopters by flying 314 nautical miles during one leg of the four-day mission, March 10. - Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom helicopters past Mount Fuji, Shizuoka, Japan, March 12, 2017. The squadron, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force through the unit deployment program, validated the long-range capability of auxiliary fuel tanks on their H-1 platform helicopters by flying 314 nautical miles during one leg of the four-day mission, March 10.

Marines and sailors with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment and members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, 30th Infantry Regiment, 12th Brigade, Eastern Army practice casualty evacuation drills during Forest Light 17-1 at Camp Soumagahara, Mar. 9, 2017. Forest Light is a routine, semi-annual exercise conducted by U.S. and JGSDF in order to strengthen interoperability and combined capabilities in defense of the U.S.-Japan alliance. - Marines and sailors with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment and members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, 30th Infantry Regiment, 12th Brigade, Eastern Army practice casualty evacuation drills during Forest Light 17-1 at Camp Soumagahara, Mar. 9, 2017. Forest Light is a routine, semi-annual exercise conducted by U.S. and JGSDF in order to strengthen interoperability and combined capabilities in defense of the U.S.-Japan alliance.

Gunnery Sgt. Todd Groves and Bokusei Kinjo at Kinjo’s farm, near Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 23, 2017. Groves is a maintenance chief with Small Craft Repair Platoon, Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Kinjo is a local Japanese farmer. Groves, from Fulton, Missouri, was a pig farmer growing up and has now found a place he can call home on Kinjo’s farm. He has helped to take care of the land and the animals on Kinjo’s farm for the last two years. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Bernadette Wildes) - Gunnery Sgt. Todd Groves and Bokusei Kinjo at Kinjo’s farm, near Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 23, 2017. Groves is a maintenance chief with Small Craft Repair Platoon, Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Kinjo is a local Japanese farmer. Groves, from Fulton, Missouri, was a pig farmer growing up and has now found a place he can call home on Kinjo’s farm. He has helped to take care of the land and the animals on Kinjo’s farm for the last two years. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Bernadette Wildes)

U.S. Marine Cpl. Noah Vital, a motor transport mechanic with 3rd Transportation Support Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force plays a card game with Thai school children Feb. 15, 2017 at Ban Khok Wat School, Chanthaburi, Thailand. Thai, U.S. and partner nation service members participated in community relation projects at various locations throughout the Royal Kingdom of Thailand during Exercise Cobra Gold 2017. Similar to last year, Cobra Gold 17 emphasizes coordination on civic action, such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, seeking to expand regional cooperation and collaboration in these vital areas. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tiffany Edwards/Released) - U.S. Marine Cpl. Noah Vital, a motor transport mechanic with 3rd Transportation Support Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force plays a card game with Thai school children Feb. 15, 2017 at Ban Khok Wat School, Chanthaburi, Thailand. Thai, U.S. and partner nation service members participated in community relation projects at various locations throughout the Royal Kingdom of Thailand during Exercise Cobra Gold 2017. Similar to last year, Cobra Gold 17 emphasizes coordination on civic action, such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, seeking to expand regional cooperation and collaboration in these vital areas. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tiffany Edwards/Released)

Marine Corps F-35Bs from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, transit the Pacific Northwest from Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Jan. 9, 2017, its final destination being MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, to join 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. VMFA-121, originally an F/A-18 squadron, was redesignated as the Marine Corps’ first F-35 squadron in 2012. - Marine Corps F-35Bs from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, transit the Pacific Northwest from Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Jan. 9, 2017, its final destination being MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, to join 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. VMFA-121, originally an F/A-18 squadron, was redesignated as the Marine Corps’ first F-35 squadron in 2012.

A Marine with Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, rappels down a cliff at the Jungle Warfare Training Center, Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 24, 2017. JWTC exposes Marines to training situations and environments unique to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region which sustain operational readiness and enhance forward deployed capabilities. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia- Pacific region. - A Marine with Fox Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, rappels down a cliff at the Jungle Warfare Training Center, Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 24, 2017. JWTC exposes Marines to training situations and environments unique to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region which sustain operational readiness and enhance forward deployed capabilities. As the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed unit, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia- Pacific region.

The Marine Corps' Mounted Color Guard post for a portrait at the stables, aboard the Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow's Yermo Annex, Calif., Nov. 3. Left to right: Sgt. Monica Hilpisch, Sgt. Moses Machuca, Sgt. Terry Barker and Sgt. Jacob Cummins. - The Marine Corps' Mounted Color Guard post for a portrait at the stables, aboard the Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow's Yermo Annex, Calif., Nov. 3. Left to right: Sgt. Monica Hilpisch, Sgt. Moses Machuca, Sgt. Terry Barker and Sgt. Jacob Cummins.

Retired Lt. Col. Frederick Grant retired Jan. 27, 2017, after 54 years of continuous service to the Marine Corps. Grant served as the director of the Tactical Exercise Control Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, after 38 years of service as an enlisted Marine and officer. Grant, from Emporia, Virginia, enlisted Oct. 2, 1963, and served as an infantryman in Vietnam in addition to various other enlisted and officer billets. - Retired Lt. Col. Frederick Grant retired Jan. 27, 2017, after 54 years of continuous service to the Marine Corps. Grant served as the director of the Tactical Exercise Control Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, after 38 years of service as an enlisted Marine and officer. Grant, from Emporia, Virginia, enlisted Oct. 2, 1963, and served as an infantryman in Vietnam in addition to various other enlisted and officer billets.

Sgt. Tyler R. Woelmer, announces commands to shooters on the firing line when to engage their targets during table two of the annual rifle range qualification, Jan. 12, 2017, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The Marine Corps revised table two of the marksmanship program October 2016 to increase marksmanship skill and realism in a combat environment. The Corps requires Marines to annually qualify at the range to determine their marksmanship skill. Woelmer, an Ida Township, Michigan, native, is a rifle range pit noncommissioned officer attached with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Sgt. Tyler R. Woelmer, announces commands to shooters on the firing line when to engage their targets during table two of the annual rifle range qualification, Jan. 12, 2017, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The Marine Corps revised table two of the marksmanship program October 2016 to increase marksmanship skill and realism in a combat environment. The Corps requires Marines to annually qualify at the range to determine their marksmanship skill. Woelmer, an Ida Township, Michigan, native, is a rifle range pit noncommissioned officer attached with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Four U.S. Marines and two Sailors instinctively responded alongside local residents when a vehicle with five passengers fell from the fifth story of a parking garage in Yokosuka, Dec. 31, 2016. Once the Marines arrived on scene, the group collectively flipped the car in order to remove the passengers prior to Japanese Emergency Medical Services arriving. The Marines are assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment and forward deployed to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force based in Okinawa, Japan. The Sailors are assigned to Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka. Pictured left to right: Petty Officer 1st Class Garrett Osborne, Lance Cpl. James Flores, Lance Cpl. Manaure Arellano, Pfc. Jacob Boerner, Lance Cpl. Raheem Gilliam and Petty Officer 2nd Class Derhon Finch. - Four U.S. Marines and two Sailors instinctively responded alongside local residents when a vehicle with five passengers fell from the fifth story of a parking garage in Yokosuka, Dec. 31, 2016. Once the Marines arrived on scene, the group collectively flipped the car in order to remove the passengers prior to Japanese Emergency Medical Services arriving. The Marines are assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment and forward deployed to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force based in Okinawa, Japan. The Sailors are assigned to Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka. Pictured left to right: Petty Officer 1st Class Garrett Osborne, Lance Cpl. James Flores, Lance Cpl. Manaure Arellano, Pfc. Jacob Boerner, Lance Cpl. Raheem Gilliam and Petty Officer 2nd Class Derhon Finch.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. George Price, an Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team instructor with Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment Bravo, directs a KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 during a landing as part of aircraft landing zone training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 21, 2016. The training allows the Marines to gain experience, practice constructing an expeditionary airfield, and complete training and readiness requirements. The MMT Marines conduct this training every three to six months to refine the Marines’ skills, keeping them ready for expeditionary operations while in a garrison environment. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. George Price, an Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team instructor with Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment Bravo, directs a KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 during a landing as part of aircraft landing zone training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 21, 2016. The training allows the Marines to gain experience, practice constructing an expeditionary airfield, and complete training and readiness requirements. The MMT Marines conduct this training every three to six months to refine the Marines’ skills, keeping them ready for expeditionary operations while in a garrison environment.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. George Price, an Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team instructor with Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment Bravo, directs a KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 during a landing as part of aircraft landing zone training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 21, 2016. The training allows the Marines to gain experience, practice constructing an expeditionary airfield, and complete training and readiness requirements. The MMT Marines conduct this training every three to six months to refine the Marines’ skills, keeping them ready for expeditionary operations while in a garrison environment. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. George Price, an Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team instructor with Marine Air Control Squadron 4 Detachment Bravo, directs a KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 during a landing as part of aircraft landing zone training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 21, 2016. The training allows the Marines to gain experience, practice constructing an expeditionary airfield, and complete training and readiness requirements. The MMT Marines conduct this training every three to six months to refine the Marines’ skills, keeping them ready for expeditionary operations while in a garrison environment.

Japanese Minister of Defense Tomomi Inada makes opening remarks during the Northern Training Area Land Return Ceremony Dec. 22 in Nago City, Okinawa, Japan. Representatives from the United States government, U.S. Forces Japan and the Government of Japan gathered for the ceremony that represented the return of thousands of acres of land previously utilized as part of the Northern Training Area. The return included approximately 9,852 acres of land and marks the largest land return from U.S. Forces Japan since 1972. The return is one of the many U.S. Forces Japan efforts to consolidate U.S. presence on Okinawa and ensure minimal environmental impact on Okinawa’s natural resources. - Japanese Minister of Defense Tomomi Inada makes opening remarks during the Northern Training Area Land Return Ceremony Dec. 22 in Nago City, Okinawa, Japan. Representatives from the United States government, U.S. Forces Japan and the Government of Japan gathered for the ceremony that represented the return of thousands of acres of land previously utilized as part of the Northern Training Area. The return included approximately 9,852 acres of land and marks the largest land return from U.S. Forces Japan since 1972. The return is one of the many U.S. Forces Japan efforts to consolidate U.S. presence on Okinawa and ensure minimal environmental impact on Okinawa’s natural resources.

Marines with Camp Hansen Provost Marshal’s Office and camp guard carry a role player Dec. 12 during Exercise Constant Vigilance 2016 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Constant Vigilance is an annual exercise that sharpens MCIPAC emergency response skills on bases across Okinawa through rehearsals and drills in varying scenarios. During the casualty evacuation, Marines with Camp Hansen Marines cleared a mock collapsed building and removed simulated casualties. Upon removing the personnel inside the building, the Marines assessed casualties’ medical needs and escorted them to the landing zone to transport them out of the area to receive advanced medical care. - Marines with Camp Hansen Provost Marshal’s Office and camp guard carry a role player Dec. 12 during Exercise Constant Vigilance 2016 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Constant Vigilance is an annual exercise that sharpens MCIPAC emergency response skills on bases across Okinawa through rehearsals and drills in varying scenarios. During the casualty evacuation, Marines with Camp Hansen Marines cleared a mock collapsed building and removed simulated casualties. Upon removing the personnel inside the building, the Marines assessed casualties’ medical needs and escorted them to the landing zone to transport them out of the area to receive advanced medical care.

1st Lt. Laura Derouin, platoon commander, Landing Support Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observes landing support specialists connect a load to a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st MEU, as part of external lift operations training at Landing Zone Falcon, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 8, 2016. The units conducted the training to complete qualifications for the 31st MEU's upcoming spring deployment. As the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed unit, the 31st MEU air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. - 1st Lt. Laura Derouin, platoon commander, Landing Support Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observes landing support specialists connect a load to a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st MEU, as part of external lift operations training at Landing Zone Falcon, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 8, 2016. The units conducted the training to complete qualifications for the 31st MEU's upcoming spring deployment. As the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed unit, the 31st MEU air-ground-logistics team provides a flexible force, ready to perform a wide range of military operations, from limited combat to humanitarian assistance operations, throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

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U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade and service members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force salute the national colors of both nations at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, during the opening ceremony for Yama Sakura 71, Dec. 7, 2016,. The purpose of YS 71 is to enhance both nations’ combat readiness and interoperability while strengthening bilateral relationships and demonstrating U.S. resolve to support security interests of allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade and service members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force salute the national colors of both nations at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, during the opening ceremony for Yama Sakura 71, Dec. 7, 2016,. The purpose of YS 71 is to enhance both nations’ combat readiness and interoperability while strengthening bilateral relationships and demonstrating U.S. resolve to support security interests of allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

An AH-1Z Viper with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 is prepared to be transported on a C-17 Globemaster III aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 10, 2016. HMLA-267 deployed to MCAS Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, in November. - An AH-1Z Viper with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 is prepared to be transported on a C-17 Globemaster III aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 10, 2016. HMLA-267 deployed to MCAS Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, in November.

Sgt. Andrew Sturgress, a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft crew chief assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, walks past Mr. Norio Tomonaga, the Mayor of Sasebo, and the Assemblymen of Defense for Sasebo City during take-off preparation from Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan, Nov. 18, 2016. The aircraft flew from the island of Okinawa, conducted simulated humanitarian aid with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force at multiple locations and was refueled by JMSDF personnel before returning to Okinawa. - Sgt. Andrew Sturgress, a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft crew chief assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, walks past Mr. Norio Tomonaga, the Mayor of Sasebo, and the Assemblymen of Defense for Sasebo City during take-off preparation from Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan, Nov. 18, 2016. The aircraft flew from the island of Okinawa, conducted simulated humanitarian aid with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force at multiple locations and was refueled by JMSDF personnel before returning to Okinawa.

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225 taxis down the flight line during exercise Cope West 17 at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Indonesia, Nov. 10, 2016. This fighter-focused, bilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Indonesian Air Force is designed to enhance the readiness of combined interoperability between the two nations. - A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225 taxis down the flight line during exercise Cope West 17 at Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Indonesia, Nov. 10, 2016. This fighter-focused, bilateral exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Indonesian Air Force is designed to enhance the readiness of combined interoperability between the two nations.

Marines from Okinawa, Japan, stand at attention for a Purple Heart award ceremony in front of Secher Hall on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, October 28, 2016. The Purple Heart was presented to Lt. Col. Robert C. Sellers, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade Assistant Chief of Staff G-4. The ceremony was held in front of Secher Hall to remind those in attendance to remember the fallen. Sellers is from Belvidere, Illinois. - Marines from Okinawa, Japan, stand at attention for a Purple Heart award ceremony in front of Secher Hall on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, October 28, 2016. The Purple Heart was presented to Lt. Col. Robert C. Sellers, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade Assistant Chief of Staff G-4. The ceremony was held in front of Secher Hall to remind those in attendance to remember the fallen. Sellers is from Belvidere, Illinois.