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

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A Marine with 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade guides a Humvee onto a railcar in Hell, Norway, Feb. 12, 2016. The rail operations moved vehicles and equipment prepositioned in caves here to the training area in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, comprised of 13 allied and partner nations, and over 16,000 troops, starting later this month. - A Marine with 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade guides a Humvee onto a railcar in Hell, Norway, Feb. 12, 2016. The rail operations moved vehicles and equipment prepositioned in caves here to the training area in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, comprised of 13 allied and partner nations, and over 16,000 troops, starting later this month.

Captains Calum Ramm, left, and Daniel Cartica, right, cross a finish line during the World Marathon Challenge Jan. 23 at Union Glacier, Antarctica. The World Marathon Challenge is a seven-day event that encompasses seven marathons run on every continent. Cartica won the event with a cumulative time of 24 hours, 46 minutes and 56 seconds. - Captains Calum Ramm, left, and Daniel Cartica, right, cross a finish line during the World Marathon Challenge Jan. 23 at Union Glacier, Antarctica. The World Marathon Challenge is a seven-day event that encompasses seven marathons run on every continent. Cartica won the event with a cumulative time of 24 hours, 46 minutes and 56 seconds.

A Japan Ground Self Defense Force member provides security for a CH-47 Chinook during Forest Light 16-2 in Yausubetsu Training Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Feb. 1, 2016. The exercise strengthens military partnership, solidifies regional security agreements and improves individual and unit-level skills. The JGSDF soldiers are with the 27th Infantry Regiment, 5th Brigade, Northern Army. The Marines are with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - A Japan Ground Self Defense Force member provides security for a CH-47 Chinook during Forest Light 16-2 in Yausubetsu Training Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Feb. 1, 2016. The exercise strengthens military partnership, solidifies regional security agreements and improves individual and unit-level skills. The JGSDF soldiers are with the 27th Infantry Regiment, 5th Brigade, Northern Army. The Marines are with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Sgt. Benjamin Hebert, a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469 based out of Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., performs maintenance on a UH-1Y “Venom” helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Friday, Feb. 5, 2016. - Sgt. Benjamin Hebert, a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469 based out of Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., performs maintenance on a UH-1Y “Venom” helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Friday, Feb. 5, 2016.

Marines plot objective points on a map to reach during a combat endurance challenge Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Feb. 5, 2016. The challenge consisted of hiking nearly seven miles, testing weapons systems, combat lifesaving skills, land navigation and simulated casualty evacuation. The Marines with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment conducted the training aboard MCB Camp Pendleton. - Marines plot objective points on a map to reach during a combat endurance challenge Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Feb. 5, 2016. The challenge consisted of hiking nearly seven miles, testing weapons systems, combat lifesaving skills, land navigation and simulated casualty evacuation. The Marines with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment conducted the training aboard MCB Camp Pendleton.

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Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, roll an M1A1 Abrams tank off of a seven-bay raft system after being transported across New River during a water-crossing operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 4, 2016. The company specializes in allowing units to travel over bodies of water, which in turn increases the mobility of the unit being transported. - Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, roll an M1A1 Abrams tank off of a seven-bay raft system after being transported across New River during a water-crossing operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 4, 2016. The company specializes in allowing units to travel over bodies of water, which in turn increases the mobility of the unit being transported.

Marines breach a house during hostage scenario training aboard Laurel Bay Feb. 4. Each section had a specific role to play in the field. It is necessary for Marines to train under realistic circumstances should a security threat arise on Laurel Bay. The Marines are with the Provost Marshal’s Office aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. - Marines breach a house during hostage scenario training aboard Laurel Bay Feb. 4. Each section had a specific role to play in the field. It is necessary for Marines to train under realistic circumstances should a security threat arise on Laurel Bay. The Marines are with the Provost Marshal’s Office aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

Lieutenant Gen. Jon M. Davis, right, salutes the casket of Lt. Gen. William H. Fitch (ret.) at Quantico National Cemetery, Feb. 4, 2016, in Triangle, Virginia. Fitch died Jan. 19, 2016. He served as the Deputy Commandant for Aviation before he retired in 1984 after 32 years as a Marine Corps officer. - Lieutenant Gen. Jon M. Davis, right, salutes the casket of Lt. Gen. William H. Fitch (ret.) at Quantico National Cemetery, Feb. 4, 2016, in Triangle, Virginia. Fitch died Jan. 19, 2016. He served as the Deputy Commandant for Aviation before he retired in 1984 after 32 years as a Marine Corps officer.

Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 land a UH-1Y Huey during exercise Scorpion Fire 1-16 aboard Navy Air Facility El Centro, Calif. Jan. 25, 2016. HMLA-267 supported the exercise with close air support and live-fire capabilities, Jan. 25 to Feb. 5, 2016. - Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 land a UH-1Y Huey during exercise Scorpion Fire 1-16 aboard Navy Air Facility El Centro, Calif. Jan. 25, 2016. HMLA-267 supported the exercise with close air support and live-fire capabilities, Jan. 25 to Feb. 5, 2016.

Staff Sgt. William Ford supervises an aircraft suspension during an aircraft recovery training exercise at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Feb. 2, 2016. Aircraft rescue and firefighting Marines, heavy equipment operators, bulk fuels specialists, motor transportation Marines and combat engineers with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 worked hand-in-hand to retrieve a simulated downed aircraft. They were given a scenario and were tasked to provide a security perimeter around the aircraft while securing and transporting the aircraft in a safe and effective manner. The ability to retrieve aircraft without the aid of outside resources increases the unit’s effectiveness and their expeditionary capabilities. Ford is the motor transportation operations chieff with MWSS-274. - Staff Sgt. William Ford supervises an aircraft suspension during an aircraft recovery training exercise at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Feb. 2, 2016. Aircraft rescue and firefighting Marines, heavy equipment operators, bulk fuels specialists, motor transportation Marines and combat engineers with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 worked hand-in-hand to retrieve a simulated downed aircraft. They were given a scenario and were tasked to provide a security perimeter around the aircraft while securing and transporting the aircraft in a safe and effective manner. The ability to retrieve aircraft without the aid of outside resources increases the unit’s effectiveness and their expeditionary capabilities. Ford is the motor transportation operations chieff with MWSS-274.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Mark Skaggs teaches Marines how to properly lift and carry casualties during a simulated causality evacuation scenario at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 27 2016. This training was part of the newly formed combat operation medical emergency transport training. COMETT exposes the aircrew to medical emergencies and procedures they may encounter in combat and non-combat environments. Skaggs, a Pensacola native, is an aeromedical safety corpsman with Marine Aircraft Group 29. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Mark Skaggs teaches Marines how to properly lift and carry casualties during a simulated causality evacuation scenario at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 27 2016. This training was part of the newly formed combat operation medical emergency transport training. COMETT exposes the aircrew to medical emergencies and procedures they may encounter in combat and non-combat environments. Skaggs, a Pensacola native, is an aeromedical safety corpsman with Marine Aircraft Group 29.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Forward Observers, call out targets to their mortar teams during an Exercise Iron Fist 2016 training event, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 1, 2016 Exercise Iron Fist is the largest bilateral exercise conducted by I Marine Expeditionary Force and is aimed at improving the combined amphibious operation capabilities of the U.S. and Japan. - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Forward Observers, call out targets to their mortar teams during an Exercise Iron Fist 2016 training event, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 1, 2016 Exercise Iron Fist is the largest bilateral exercise conducted by I Marine Expeditionary Force and is aimed at improving the combined amphibious operation capabilities of the U.S. and Japan.

United States Marine Corps Sgt. Mason Wilhelmy, a scout sniper instructor with 1st Marine Division Schools, tries on a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, Western Army Infantry Regiment soldier’s flak jacket during a scout sniper course at Exercise Iron Fist 2016 on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 1, 2016. Iron Fist affords the Marines and JGSDF soldiers the opportunity to share their experience and knowledge while increasing camaraderie between the U.S. Marine Corps and JGSDF. - United States Marine Corps Sgt. Mason Wilhelmy, a scout sniper instructor with 1st Marine Division Schools, tries on a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, Western Army Infantry Regiment soldier’s flak jacket during a scout sniper course at Exercise Iron Fist 2016 on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 1, 2016. Iron Fist affords the Marines and JGSDF soldiers the opportunity to share their experience and knowledge while increasing camaraderie between the U.S. Marine Corps and JGSDF.

Combat engineers and assaultmen with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, march toward a Bangalore torpedo impact zone during a Deployment for Training exercise at Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Jan 28, 2016. The range was intended to ensure Marines maintain weapon systems proficiency while preparing them for their upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan. - Combat engineers and assaultmen with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, march toward a Bangalore torpedo impact zone during a Deployment for Training exercise at Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Jan 28, 2016. The range was intended to ensure Marines maintain weapon systems proficiency while preparing them for their upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan.

Corporal Jared Ingerson, rifleman, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, 7th Marine Regiment, fires his M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle at a target during the Designated Marksman Course’s culminating event at Range 113, Jan. 28, 2016. - Corporal Jared Ingerson, rifleman, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, 7th Marine Regiment, fires his M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle at a target during the Designated Marksman Course’s culminating event at Range 113, Jan. 28, 2016.

Marines with 7th Engineer Support Battalion from Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., test Improved Ribbon Bridge components with representatives from Marine Corps Systems Command, and Marine Corps Engineer School, at Production Plant Barstow's test pond aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow’s Yermo Annex, Calif., Jan. 25, 2016 - Marines with 7th Engineer Support Battalion from Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., test Improved Ribbon Bridge components with representatives from Marine Corps Systems Command, and Marine Corps Engineer School, at Production Plant Barstow's test pond aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow’s Yermo Annex, Calif., Jan. 25, 2016

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

Pfc. Merrick Martius, a Light Armored Vehicle crewman, provides maintenance for an infrared light on an LAV-25 during a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. The qualification test consisted of gunnery training, communication between the vehicle commander and the driver, and cooperation between the crewmembers of the LAV and the command tower. This allows Marines to fire accurately when aiming on targets down range. Martius is an LAV crewman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Pfc. Merrick Martius, a Light Armored Vehicle crewman, provides maintenance for an infrared light on an LAV-25 during a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. The qualification test consisted of gunnery training, communication between the vehicle commander and the driver, and cooperation between the crewmembers of the LAV and the command tower. This allows Marines to fire accurately when aiming on targets down range. Martius is an LAV crewman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion prepare to dive in the pool during the Dive Supervisor Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2016. The course certifies Marines as dive supervisors whose mission is to oversee dives and ensure that operations are conducted safely and effectively. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion prepare to dive in the pool during the Dive Supervisor Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2016. The course certifies Marines as dive supervisors whose mission is to oversee dives and ensure that operations are conducted safely and effectively.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, launch a round during a live-fire mortar exercise with 81 mm mortar systems in preparation for the unit’s upcoming deployment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 21,2016. The Marines worked with the mortar systems until the late evening, sending more than 350 rounds downrange, and accomplished their goal of having more than 90 percent of their rounds impact on their designated targets. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, launch a round during a live-fire mortar exercise with 81 mm mortar systems in preparation for the unit’s upcoming deployment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 21,2016. The Marines worked with the mortar systems until the late evening, sending more than 350 rounds downrange, and accomplished their goal of having more than 90 percent of their rounds impact on their designated targets.

Sgt. Chris Fitzpatrick, an Explosive Ordinance Disposal technician with EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, briefs his team before participating in a simulated raid during a breaching course at Camp Lejeune N.C., Jan. 14, 2016. Marines switch leadership positions throughout the entire course to keep the unit proficient. - Sgt. Chris Fitzpatrick, an Explosive Ordinance Disposal technician with EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, briefs his team before participating in a simulated raid during a breaching course at Camp Lejeune N.C., Jan. 14, 2016. Marines switch leadership positions throughout the entire course to keep the unit proficient.

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274’s Engineer Company, Heavy Equipment Platoon set their pace count before beginning a land navigation course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Jan. 13, 2016. During the 19-point course, 20 Marines headed to the field to re-experience the basic land navigation process. The course was a refresher for most of the Marines, who have not used land navigation since Marine Combat Training. - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274’s Engineer Company, Heavy Equipment Platoon set their pace count before beginning a land navigation course at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Jan. 13, 2016. During the 19-point course, 20 Marines headed to the field to re-experience the basic land navigation process. The course was a refresher for most of the Marines, who have not used land navigation since Marine Combat Training.

Cpl. Malynn Ochsner shows Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Officer Candidate Ayako Yukawa how to operate a MK19 machine gun, MOD 3 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 15. Three hundred and sixty JGSDF officer candidates visited Combat Logistics Regiment 35 to complete joint and combined operation requirements. The cadets watched Marine Corps Martial Art Program demonstrations, learned the capabilities of various machine guns the Marine Corps uses, and observed a static display of motor transportation vehicles. Ochsner, from Pflugerville, Texas, is a distribution management specialist with 3rd Supply Battalion, CLR-35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Malynn Ochsner shows Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Officer Candidate Ayako Yukawa how to operate a MK19 machine gun, MOD 3 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 15. Three hundred and sixty JGSDF officer candidates visited Combat Logistics Regiment 35 to complete joint and combined operation requirements. The cadets watched Marine Corps Martial Art Program demonstrations, learned the capabilities of various machine guns the Marine Corps uses, and observed a static display of motor transportation vehicles. Ochsner, from Pflugerville, Texas, is a distribution management specialist with 3rd Supply Battalion, CLR-35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Gen. John F. Kelly relinquished command of United States Southern Command Jan. 14, 2016. He will soon retire after more than 45 years of service. - Gen. John F. Kelly relinquished command of United States Southern Command Jan. 14, 2016. He will soon retire after more than 45 years of service.

A Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224, F/A-18D Hornet descends to Chitose Air Base in Hokkaido, Japan, after traveling from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Jan. 12, 2016. VMFA (AW)-224, homebased at MCAS Beaufort, S.C., is temporarily based in Iwakuni on a unit deployment program and deployed to Northern Japan to participate in the Chitose Aviation Training Relocation Exercise, Jan. 12-22. During the exercise, the squadron conducted dissimilar air combat training with and against the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to further support combined interoperability and Pacific theater security cooperation. - A Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 224, F/A-18D Hornet descends to Chitose Air Base in Hokkaido, Japan, after traveling from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Jan. 12, 2016. VMFA (AW)-224, homebased at MCAS Beaufort, S.C., is temporarily based in Iwakuni on a unit deployment program and deployed to Northern Japan to participate in the Chitose Aviation Training Relocation Exercise, Jan. 12-22. During the exercise, the squadron conducted dissimilar air combat training with and against the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to further support combined interoperability and Pacific theater security cooperation.

Sgt. Caleb Renner, the chief chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear instructor with II Marine Headquarters Group, gives an hour-long class on how to properly wear and function in a M50 gas mask at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 8, 2016. The chamber is a routine exercise to ensure the durability of each Marines gear while exposed to chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, or CS gas, which is a bi-annual qualification requirement for Marines. - Sgt. Caleb Renner, the chief chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear instructor with II Marine Headquarters Group, gives an hour-long class on how to properly wear and function in a M50 gas mask at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 8, 2016. The chamber is a routine exercise to ensure the durability of each Marines gear while exposed to chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, or CS gas, which is a bi-annual qualification requirement for Marines.

A CH-53E from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465 hovers above as Marines with Combat Logistic Battalion 11 rush in to attach 6,200-pound weight to the helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 7. Marines with CLB-11 support HMH-465 during daytime external lift training to prepare for future deployments. - A CH-53E from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465 hovers above as Marines with Combat Logistic Battalion 11 rush in to attach 6,200-pound weight to the helicopter aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Jan. 7. Marines with CLB-11 support HMH-465 during daytime external lift training to prepare for future deployments.

CH-53E Super Stallion hovers over the landing zone prior to conducting external lifts in conjunction with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 6, 2016. The CH-53E is the go to aircraft in the Marine Corps for lifting heavy loads of cargo of up to 16 tons for 50 miles and back. - CH-53E Super Stallion hovers over the landing zone prior to conducting external lifts in conjunction with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 6, 2016. The CH-53E is the go to aircraft in the Marine Corps for lifting heavy loads of cargo of up to 16 tons for 50 miles and back.

Marines with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, depart from a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 7, 2015. The purpose of the training was to teach the Marines about the dangers during Humvee rollovers and how to properly react in case they ever faced it. - Marines with 2nd Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 25, depart from a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 7, 2015. The purpose of the training was to teach the Marines about the dangers during Humvee rollovers and how to properly react in case they ever faced it.

Jody W. Nesbitt (right), project officer, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, officially hands-off three restored combat vehicles to Kater Miller, assistant ordnance curator, National Museum of the Marine Corps, during a ceremony held at the MDMC in Albany, Ga., Jan. 7. The vehicles restored consisted of an M60A1 Main Battle Tank, an Assault Amphibious Vehicle and a Humvee, which are scheduled to be displayed in the NMMC November 2018. Restoration of the equipment began at MDMC in July 2014. - Jody W. Nesbitt (right), project officer, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, officially hands-off three restored combat vehicles to Kater Miller, assistant ordnance curator, National Museum of the Marine Corps, during a ceremony held at the MDMC in Albany, Ga., Jan. 7. The vehicles restored consisted of an M60A1 Main Battle Tank, an Assault Amphibious Vehicle and a Humvee, which are scheduled to be displayed in the NMMC November 2018. Restoration of the equipment began at MDMC in July 2014.

A Spanish soldier shows parts of a machine gun during a week-long bilateral exercise between U.S. Marines and Spanish Legionnaires in Almeria, Spain, Dec. 14-18, 2015. The combined urban and mountain warfare training is another bilateral training opportunity strengthening the U.S. and Spanish military relationship. - A Spanish soldier shows parts of a machine gun during a week-long bilateral exercise between U.S. Marines and Spanish Legionnaires in Almeria, Spain, Dec. 14-18, 2015. The combined urban and mountain warfare training is another bilateral training opportunity strengthening the U.S. and Spanish military relationship.

Lance Cpl. Loren Cluff sets up satellite communications for Marines with Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, while they conduct a raid Dec. 10, 2015, on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The raid was part of Interoperability Exercise 16-1, an exercise used to build a working bond between the MRF and the rest of the MEU quickly and effectively. Cluff, from Snowflake, Arizona, is a field radio operator with the Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company Detachment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Lance Cpl. Loren Cluff sets up satellite communications for Marines with Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, while they conduct a raid Dec. 10, 2015, on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The raid was part of Interoperability Exercise 16-1, an exercise used to build a working bond between the MRF and the rest of the MEU quickly and effectively. Cluff, from Snowflake, Arizona, is a field radio operator with the Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company Detachment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Cpl. James R. Beck, a Fixed-Wing Aircraft Power Plants Mechanic from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, fires on his target during the Far East Division Marksmanship Match Dec. 17 aboard Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The shots were fired from various shooting positions and distances. Only Marines stationed throughout Japan competed in the match. - Cpl. James R. Beck, a Fixed-Wing Aircraft Power Plants Mechanic from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, fires on his target during the Far East Division Marksmanship Match Dec. 17 aboard Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The shots were fired from various shooting positions and distances. Only Marines stationed throughout Japan competed in the match.

Cpl. Jordan Canchola, an artillery gunner with Golf Battery, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, takes a knee to shield himself from the rotor wash of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter at Camp Courtney in Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 15, 2015. The battery was training to distribute food and water as part of a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operation when the crowd, played by other Marines, became unruly. A quick reaction force was called to help restore order and continue to distribute supplies. The HADR training was conducted as part of the 31st MEU’s Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise. Cpl. Canchola is from Hollister, California. - Cpl. Jordan Canchola, an artillery gunner with Golf Battery, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, takes a knee to shield himself from the rotor wash of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter at Camp Courtney in Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 15, 2015. The battery was training to distribute food and water as part of a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operation when the crowd, played by other Marines, became unruly. A quick reaction force was called to help restore order and continue to distribute supplies. The HADR training was conducted as part of the 31st MEU’s Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise. Cpl. Canchola is from Hollister, California.

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Cpl. Dustin Deloris relays orders over the radio during the mechanized assault portion of the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 8, 2015. The purpose of a MCCRE is to evaluate Marines’ collective performance in specific mission requirements that will prepare them for their upcoming deployment rotation. Deloris is a team leader with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. - Cpl. Dustin Deloris relays orders over the radio during the mechanized assault portion of the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 8, 2015. The purpose of a MCCRE is to evaluate Marines’ collective performance in specific mission requirements that will prepare them for their upcoming deployment rotation. Deloris is a team leader with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 5 attach a simulated cargo of 1,400 pounds to an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 16, 2015. Daytime external lift training prepares the Marines with VMM-363 to attach cargo to the aircraft which helps qualify more air crew in the mission-essential task of rapid insertion and extraction for the squadron. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 5 attach a simulated cargo of 1,400 pounds to an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 16, 2015. Daytime external lift training prepares the Marines with VMM-363 to attach cargo to the aircraft which helps qualify more air crew in the mission-essential task of rapid insertion and extraction for the squadron.

A Marine with 2nd Supply Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group puts on knee pads before a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer class at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 17, 2015. The HEAT class is designed to show Marines what to do if a vehicle rolls over during low visibility, no visibility, or experiences sideways or 180-degree rollovers. - A Marine with 2nd Supply Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group puts on knee pads before a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer class at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 17, 2015. The HEAT class is designed to show Marines what to do if a vehicle rolls over during low visibility, no visibility, or experiences sideways or 180-degree rollovers.

(Left) Captain Jerald Feehery, a project officer for Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory, discusses tactics with Capt. Patrick Parks, the Lima Company commander with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, prior to entering the Military Operation in Urban Terrain during a limited objective experiment at Marine Corps Base Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 8, 2015. The Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory worked with 3rd Bn., 6th Marines, and 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, to test artillery and infantry integration tactics. During the experiment, the company landing team attacked from near the Onslow Beach landing site towards the objective of the Military Operation in Urban Terrain training center. - (Left) Captain Jerald Feehery, a project officer for Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory, discusses tactics with Capt. Patrick Parks, the Lima Company commander with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, prior to entering the Military Operation in Urban Terrain during a limited objective experiment at Marine Corps Base Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 8, 2015. The Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory worked with 3rd Bn., 6th Marines, and 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, to test artillery and infantry integration tactics. During the experiment, the company landing team attacked from near the Onslow Beach landing site towards the objective of the Military Operation in Urban Terrain training center.

U.S. service members recently completed the second module of Tactical Intelligence Support to Maritime Operations course for the Ghanaian Navy and Maritime Police Force, Dec. 7-18, at Ghana’s Eastern Naval Command Headquarters here. This course has already paid dividends, according to Foster Kotoku, the Ghanaian Maritime Police Force assistant superintendent. During the two-week course, students from the Ghanaian Maritime Police Force seized an undisclosed amount of illicit drugs from a smuggler on a ferry. With follow-on questioning, the police forces were led to a higher connection in the drug trade. - U.S. service members recently completed the second module of Tactical Intelligence Support to Maritime Operations course for the Ghanaian Navy and Maritime Police Force, Dec. 7-18, at Ghana’s Eastern Naval Command Headquarters here. This course has already paid dividends, according to Foster Kotoku, the Ghanaian Maritime Police Force assistant superintendent. During the two-week course, students from the Ghanaian Maritime Police Force seized an undisclosed amount of illicit drugs from a smuggler on a ferry. With follow-on questioning, the police forces were led to a higher connection in the drug trade.

On Dec. 18, 2015 Lt. Col. Jonathan Morel became the first Marine to fly the CH-53K helicopter, during a test flight over Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation's Development Flight Center at West Palms Beach. The flight test ran for 1.5 hours and now marks the sixth flight for the aircraft. - On Dec. 18, 2015 Lt. Col. Jonathan Morel became the first Marine to fly the CH-53K helicopter, during a test flight over Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation's Development Flight Center at West Palms Beach. The flight test ran for 1.5 hours and now marks the sixth flight for the aircraft.

A Marine with 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, dons his gas mask during a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear drill designed to familiarize the Marines with immediate actions aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 13, 2015. The Marines and Sailors with 5th Marine Regiment conducted the gas drill as part of Steel Knight 2016, a division-led exercise which prepares Marines and Sailors with the 1st Marine Division and adjacent I Marine Expeditionary Force units with the skill sets necessary to operate as a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force. - A Marine with 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, dons his gas mask during a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear drill designed to familiarize the Marines with immediate actions aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 13, 2015. The Marines and Sailors with 5th Marine Regiment conducted the gas drill as part of Steel Knight 2016, a division-led exercise which prepares Marines and Sailors with the 1st Marine Division and adjacent I Marine Expeditionary Force units with the skill sets necessary to operate as a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force.

Lance Cpl. Cary Chafton, a rifleman with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion gives directions to his squad during a patrolling exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec 15, 2015. The unit practiced patrolling techniques and set up patrol bases to maintain readiness. - Lance Cpl. Cary Chafton, a rifleman with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion gives directions to his squad during a patrolling exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec 15, 2015. The unit practiced patrolling techniques and set up patrol bases to maintain readiness.

Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment fire downrange with an M240B Machinegun during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 26, 2015. During ITX, Marines demonstrate core infantry mission essential tasks while conducting offensive and defensive stability operations. - Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment fire downrange with an M240B Machinegun during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 26, 2015. During ITX, Marines demonstrate core infantry mission essential tasks while conducting offensive and defensive stability operations.

High Mobility Artillery Rocket System crewmen assigned to Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, prepare their launcher for live-fire operations after debarking a KC-130J aircraft, supporting their raid operations at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, Dec. 4, 2015. “We were essentially trying to test the capability of the HIMARS to launch an air raid from any position,” said Sgt. Garrett S. Zurich, HIMARS launcher section chief, 1st platoon, Battery D. - High Mobility Artillery Rocket System crewmen assigned to Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, prepare their launcher for live-fire operations after debarking a KC-130J aircraft, supporting their raid operations at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, Dec. 4, 2015. “We were essentially trying to test the capability of the HIMARS to launch an air raid from any position,” said Sgt. Garrett S. Zurich, HIMARS launcher section chief, 1st platoon, Battery D.

Marines with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, survey a named area of interest during reconnaissance and surveillance training, Nov. 19-21, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii. The Marines conducted insertion, infiltration, execution, exfiltration, and extraction in terrain unfamiliar to what is usually found at their home base in California. The Hawaiian terrain ranged from beach shores, to dense jungle and open valleys during pouring rains - Marines with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, survey a named area of interest during reconnaissance and surveillance training, Nov. 19-21, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii. The Marines conducted insertion, infiltration, execution, exfiltration, and extraction in terrain unfamiliar to what is usually found at their home base in California. The Hawaiian terrain ranged from beach shores, to dense jungle and open valleys during pouring rains

An MV-22B Osprey, operated by a crew with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Training Squadron 204, carries cargo during a night time external lifts operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 14, 2015. Marines with 2nd TSB supported the exercise to facilitate the required flight hours for student pilots, and practice their own skills as a helicopter support team securing transportation of resources for Marines that would need it in a real-world operation. - An MV-22B Osprey, operated by a crew with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Training Squadron 204, carries cargo during a night time external lifts operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 14, 2015. Marines with 2nd TSB supported the exercise to facilitate the required flight hours for student pilots, and practice their own skills as a helicopter support team securing transportation of resources for Marines that would need it in a real-world operation.