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Cpl. Candice Lopez, a U.S. Marine with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, scans the identification bands of evacuees, preparing them to be flown to a safe haven during a simulated noncombatant evacuation as part of Certification Exercise, Dec. 8, 2015. Noncombatant evacuations are one of the MEU's mission essential tasks, which it is specially trained to complete anywhere in the world within hours of notification. CERTEX is the final evaluation of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer ARG prior to deployment and is intended to certify their readiness to conduct integrated missions across the full spectrum of military operations. - Cpl. Candice Lopez, a U.S. Marine with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, scans the identification bands of evacuees, preparing them to be flown to a safe haven during a simulated noncombatant evacuation as part of Certification Exercise, Dec. 8, 2015. Noncombatant evacuations are one of the MEU's mission essential tasks, which it is specially trained to complete anywhere in the world within hours of notification. CERTEX is the final evaluation of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer ARG prior to deployment and is intended to certify their readiness to conduct integrated missions across the full spectrum of military operations.

Cpl. Ryan Gilligan, a fire direction control man, with the 120mm Mortar Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), records information passed to him from the forward observers for a notional fire mission, during mission processing training in the Gulf of Aden, Dec. 8, 2015. The platoon conducts training while afloat in order to maintain readiness to support the 26th MEU. The MEU is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - Cpl. Ryan Gilligan, a fire direction control man, with the 120mm Mortar Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), records information passed to him from the forward observers for a notional fire mission, during mission processing training in the Gulf of Aden, Dec. 8, 2015. The platoon conducts training while afloat in order to maintain readiness to support the 26th MEU. The MEU is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

A Marine escorts an ambulatory HMMWV to a Shock Trauma Platoon during Exercise Steel Night’s mass casualty drill at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 12, 2015. The drill tested the 1st Marine Division’s ability to react to a large influx of injuries and wounds from battling the enemy. Steel Knight provides tough, realistic training for the Marines and sailors of 1st Marine Division. - A Marine escorts an ambulatory HMMWV to a Shock Trauma Platoon during Exercise Steel Night’s mass casualty drill at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 12, 2015. The drill tested the 1st Marine Division’s ability to react to a large influx of injuries and wounds from battling the enemy. Steel Knight provides tough, realistic training for the Marines and sailors of 1st Marine Division.

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Marines perform a weapons functional test on an F-35B Lightning II aircraft during Exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 10, 2015. The F-35B is a single seat, single engine stealth multi-role fighter bringing the Marine Corps into a whole new generation of aircraft. Exercise Steel Knight allowed for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 and Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 to train on integrating the F-35B and find its place in the Marine Air Ground Task Force, while giving the ground forces of 1st Marine Division the ability to become familiar with it. - Marines perform a weapons functional test on an F-35B Lightning II aircraft during Exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 10, 2015. The F-35B is a single seat, single engine stealth multi-role fighter bringing the Marine Corps into a whole new generation of aircraft. Exercise Steel Knight allowed for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 and Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 to train on integrating the F-35B and find its place in the Marine Air Ground Task Force, while giving the ground forces of 1st Marine Division the ability to become familiar with it.

A Marine holds security during a route clearance drill as a part of Exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 13, 2015. The Marine is with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion. During route clearance Marines use a variety of vehicles to search for improvised explosive devices, mines and other dangerous obstructions. Steel Knight is a 1st Marine Division led exercise, which enables the Marines and sailors to operate in a realistic environment to develop skill sets necessary to maintain a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force. - A Marine holds security during a route clearance drill as a part of Exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 13, 2015. The Marine is with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion. During route clearance Marines use a variety of vehicles to search for improvised explosive devices, mines and other dangerous obstructions. Steel Knight is a 1st Marine Division led exercise, which enables the Marines and sailors to operate in a realistic environment to develop skill sets necessary to maintain a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Peter A. Lawson, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, uses an EOD hook and line kit to maneuver an inert 82mm mortar shell replica during an EOD demonstration aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge in the Arabian Gulf Dec. 12, 2015. The EOD exploration event afforded Marines in other occupations the opportunity to learn about the equipment and responsibilities of EOD Marines. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Peter A. Lawson, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, uses an EOD hook and line kit to maneuver an inert 82mm mortar shell replica during an EOD demonstration aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge in the Arabian Gulf Dec. 12, 2015. The EOD exploration event afforded Marines in other occupations the opportunity to learn about the equipment and responsibilities of EOD Marines. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

Lance Cpl. Quentin J. Stallings, left, and Lance Cpl. Kyle H. Clemens, right, configure the settings on a water pump and filter at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Dec. 9, 2015. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271’s Engineer Company participated in a cantonment and capabilities field exercise to practice and improve their knowledge of their jobs while in a deployed environment. The week-long exercise featured events such as airfield damage repair, water purification, medium and heavy lifting missions, with the construction of an expedient road for a vertical take-off and landing aircraft pad. Stallings and Clemens are both water support technicians with MWSS-271. - Lance Cpl. Quentin J. Stallings, left, and Lance Cpl. Kyle H. Clemens, right, configure the settings on a water pump and filter at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Dec. 9, 2015. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271’s Engineer Company participated in a cantonment and capabilities field exercise to practice and improve their knowledge of their jobs while in a deployed environment. The week-long exercise featured events such as airfield damage repair, water purification, medium and heavy lifting missions, with the construction of an expedient road for a vertical take-off and landing aircraft pad. Stallings and Clemens are both water support technicians with MWSS-271.

Lance Cpl. Colten Corsetti, right, military working dog handler with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, escorts Cpl. Brendon Teague, military working dog handler with H&HS, while Corsetti’s K-9 provides security during night training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 9, 2015. To ensure the safety of personnel on the air station, this training is conducted to keep military working dogs familiarized with the installation as its landscape continues to develop with the Defense Policy Review Initiative. Military working dogs are trained in different abilities such as locating narcotics or explosives and conducting patrol work. - Lance Cpl. Colten Corsetti, right, military working dog handler with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, escorts Cpl. Brendon Teague, military working dog handler with H&HS, while Corsetti’s K-9 provides security during night training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 9, 2015. To ensure the safety of personnel on the air station, this training is conducted to keep military working dogs familiarized with the installation as its landscape continues to develop with the Defense Policy Review Initiative. Military working dogs are trained in different abilities such as locating narcotics or explosives and conducting patrol work.

Lt. Col. Robert B. Green runs football players through drills during practice Nov. 17, 2015, at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Green recently was appointed the outside linebacker coach of the team. Green is a Naval Academy graduate, and played on the football team as a defensive back during the 1993-1996 seasons. - Lt. Col. Robert B. Green runs football players through drills during practice Nov. 17, 2015, at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Green recently was appointed the outside linebacker coach of the team. Green is a Naval Academy graduate, and played on the football team as a defensive back during the 1993-1996 seasons.

A student in the Martial Arts Instructor Course grapples with Staff Sgt. Roger Nelson, the chief instructor of the course, during a training session at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 4, 2015. The three-week long course will qualify its students to be Martial Arts instructors. The course’s development of endurance, strength, fighting ability and knowledge will benefit Marines for future operations in any location. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released) - A student in the Martial Arts Instructor Course grapples with Staff Sgt. Roger Nelson, the chief instructor of the course, during a training session at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 4, 2015. The three-week long course will qualify its students to be Martial Arts instructors. The course’s development of endurance, strength, fighting ability and knowledge will benefit Marines for future operations in any location. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released)

A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, awaits the order to lock down the hatches as the unit prepares to conduct company-level beach operations on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. Dec. 5, 2015. During this exercise the unit conducted maneuvers as a mechanized infantry company in preparation for upcoming operations. - A Marine with Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, awaits the order to lock down the hatches as the unit prepares to conduct company-level beach operations on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. Dec. 5, 2015. During this exercise the unit conducted maneuvers as a mechanized infantry company in preparation for upcoming operations.

A Uganda People’s Defense Force soldier detonates an "oval charge" on desired entry point during a breaching exercise at Camp Singo, Dec. 8, 2015. The Marines and UPDF improved breaching capabilities as they prepare for their African Union Mission in Somalia. - A Uganda People’s Defense Force soldier detonates an "oval charge" on desired entry point during a breaching exercise at Camp Singo, Dec. 8, 2015. The Marines and UPDF improved breaching capabilities as they prepare for their African Union Mission in Somalia.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Dillon G. Gilmore, a light armored vehicle repairman with Light Armored Reconnaissance Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), wipes off his hands after cleaning an LAV engine aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge Dec. 4, 2015. Repairmen with the company serviced an LAV engine with an oil leak. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Dillon G. Gilmore, a light armored vehicle repairman with Light Armored Reconnaissance Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), wipes off his hands after cleaning an LAV engine aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge Dec. 4, 2015. Repairmen with the company serviced an LAV engine with an oil leak. The 26th MEU is embarked on the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment infantrymen tactically move from building to building in a simulated combat zone during Exercise Steel Knight 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 4, 2015. 1st Marine Division has conducted Steel Knight for the past three years, making this the fourth iteration of the exercise. Steel Knight will test I Marine Expeditionary Force’s amphibious capabilities through realistic, scenario-driven training. - 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment infantrymen tactically move from building to building in a simulated combat zone during Exercise Steel Knight 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 4, 2015. 1st Marine Division has conducted Steel Knight for the past three years, making this the fourth iteration of the exercise. Steel Knight will test I Marine Expeditionary Force’s amphibious capabilities through realistic, scenario-driven training.

The 26th Chief of Chaplains Rear Adm. Margaret G. Kibben presents the 33rd Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. John M. Paxton Jr., center, the Church Pennant flown on the USS ESSEX as part of the 240th Anniversary of the Navy Chaplain Corps at Crawford Hall in Marine Barracks Washington, Dec. 3, 2015. - The 26th Chief of Chaplains Rear Adm. Margaret G. Kibben presents the 33rd Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. John M. Paxton Jr., center, the Church Pennant flown on the USS ESSEX as part of the 240th Anniversary of the Navy Chaplain Corps at Crawford Hall in Marine Barracks Washington, Dec. 3, 2015.

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Lt. Col. David Morris (right) and Lt. Col. Lauren Edwards (left) review the battalion during the 8th Engineer Support Battalion change of command ceremony at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 30, 2015. Edwards took command of the battalion from Morris. Edwards’ new responsibility, as the first female commander of an ESB, will be to provide engineer support to II Marine Expeditionary Forces. - Lt. Col. David Morris (right) and Lt. Col. Lauren Edwards (left) review the battalion during the 8th Engineer Support Battalion change of command ceremony at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 30, 2015. Edwards took command of the battalion from Morris. Edwards’ new responsibility, as the first female commander of an ESB, will be to provide engineer support to II Marine Expeditionary Forces.

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A Marine Raider with 1st Marine Raider Battalion and two Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion prepare to clear a building during a night raid at the Combined Arms Collective Training Facility at Camp Shelby, Miss., Nov. 17. The raid was part of a 10-day exercise in the Gulf Coast region to maintain unit readiness. The 2nd CEB Marines participated in the U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command exercise to strengthen and enhance Special Operations Forces and Marine Air Ground Task Force interoperability. - A Marine Raider with 1st Marine Raider Battalion and two Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion prepare to clear a building during a night raid at the Combined Arms Collective Training Facility at Camp Shelby, Miss., Nov. 17. The raid was part of a 10-day exercise in the Gulf Coast region to maintain unit readiness. The 2nd CEB Marines participated in the U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command exercise to strengthen and enhance Special Operations Forces and Marine Air Ground Task Force interoperability.

Service members come together Nov. 19, 2015, to participate in a joint service event as part of Warrior Care Month. Warrior Care Month was created on Nov. 2, 2010 as a way to help wounded, ill or injured service members recover. This month, service members got the chance to compete in two different joint service events, the first being wheelchair rugby and the second being sitting volleyball. - Service members come together Nov. 19, 2015, to participate in a joint service event as part of Warrior Care Month. Warrior Care Month was created on Nov. 2, 2010 as a way to help wounded, ill or injured service members recover. This month, service members got the chance to compete in two different joint service events, the first being wheelchair rugby and the second being sitting volleyball.

U.S. Marine Pfc. Beto Chavarria sucks the blood from the head of a python in a jungle survival course during Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2015 in Tanduo, Malaysia on Nov. 11. Chavarria is an automatic rifleman with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. During the course, Marines learned how to trap, clean, and cook wild life. The purpose of the exercise was to strengthen military cooperation in the planning and execution of amphibious operations between Malaysian armed forces and U.S. Marines. The 15th MEU is currently deployed in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to promote regional stability and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. - U.S. Marine Pfc. Beto Chavarria sucks the blood from the head of a python in a jungle survival course during Malaysia-United States Amphibious Exercise 2015 in Tanduo, Malaysia on Nov. 11. Chavarria is an automatic rifleman with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. During the course, Marines learned how to trap, clean, and cook wild life. The purpose of the exercise was to strengthen military cooperation in the planning and execution of amphibious operations between Malaysian armed forces and U.S. Marines. The 15th MEU is currently deployed in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to promote regional stability and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

Bob Opett, a Hazardous Material Awareness and Operations course instructor, shows service members and firefighters how to properly seal the HazMat suit during the course at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 18, 2015. Provided by Bucks County Community College Department of Public Safety from Doylestown, Penn., the course is used to make individuals more aware of potential hazards and teach them initial response procedures. - Bob Opett, a Hazardous Material Awareness and Operations course instructor, shows service members and firefighters how to properly seal the HazMat suit during the course at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 18, 2015. Provided by Bucks County Community College Department of Public Safety from Doylestown, Penn., the course is used to make individuals more aware of potential hazards and teach them initial response procedures.

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Marine students attending the 8th Engineer Support Battalion Medium Girder Bridge Master’s Course lift a bridge part during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 18, 2015. The course, now in its final week, teaches Marines to lead the bridge building process, and is hosting Marines from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, based at Marine Corps Base Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. - Marine students attending the 8th Engineer Support Battalion Medium Girder Bridge Master’s Course lift a bridge part during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 18, 2015. The course, now in its final week, teaches Marines to lead the bridge building process, and is hosting Marines from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, based at Marine Corps Base Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan.

Spanish Brig. Gen. Juan Cifuentes Álvarez gives a ‘thumbs-up’ to a young paratrooper during bilateral training with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, Nov. 13, 2015 in Zaragoza, Spain. More than 25 Spanish paratroopers with Spanish Parachute Brigade jumped out of a KC-130J Hercules, reinforcing mutual defense relationships between U.S. and Spain. - Spanish Brig. Gen. Juan Cifuentes Álvarez gives a ‘thumbs-up’ to a young paratrooper during bilateral training with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, Nov. 13, 2015 in Zaragoza, Spain. More than 25 Spanish paratroopers with Spanish Parachute Brigade jumped out of a KC-130J Hercules, reinforcing mutual defense relationships between U.S. and Spain.

U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, train members of the Uganda People’s Defense Force on Mine-Resistant, Ambushed-Protected Vehicles, or MRAPs, at Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 3, 2015. Marines and sailors with SPMAGTF-CR-AF are training with the UPDF to increase engineering and logistical capabilities while strengthening the bonds between the partner countries. - U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, train members of the Uganda People’s Defense Force on Mine-Resistant, Ambushed-Protected Vehicles, or MRAPs, at Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 3, 2015. Marines and sailors with SPMAGTF-CR-AF are training with the UPDF to increase engineering and logistical capabilities while strengthening the bonds between the partner countries.

Marines with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company observe impacts from an M777 A2 Howitzer during an ANGLICO Basic Course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27, 2015. The ANGLICO Basic Course, also known as ABC, is a six-week course divided into three sections implementing motor transportation, communications and call-for-fire techniques. - Marines with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company observe impacts from an M777 A2 Howitzer during an ANGLICO Basic Course aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27, 2015. The ANGLICO Basic Course, also known as ABC, is a six-week course divided into three sections implementing motor transportation, communications and call-for-fire techniques.

A U.S. Marine Corps rifleman with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, fires rounds at an enemy as his fire team prepares to push towards their next objective in a mechanized assault course during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 30, 2015. Marines participate in a month-long field exercise demonstrating core mission essential tasks by conducting offensive, defensive and stability operations using combined arms, air integration, and battalion-level infantry tactics in order to strengthen operational readiness as they prepare for world-wide deployment. - A U.S. Marine Corps rifleman with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, fires rounds at an enemy as his fire team prepares to push towards their next objective in a mechanized assault course during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 30, 2015. Marines participate in a month-long field exercise demonstrating core mission essential tasks by conducting offensive, defensive and stability operations using combined arms, air integration, and battalion-level infantry tactics in order to strengthen operational readiness as they prepare for world-wide deployment.

Marines and sailors with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit transport a simulated causality during a mass-casualty drill on the flight deck of the USS Essex (LHD 2).The Marines and Sailors honed their skills to become quicker and more efficient should a situation arise where medical attention is needed. The 15th MEU is currently deployed in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to promote regional stability and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. - Marines and sailors with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit transport a simulated causality during a mass-casualty drill on the flight deck of the USS Essex (LHD 2).The Marines and Sailors honed their skills to become quicker and more efficient should a situation arise where medical attention is needed. The 15th MEU is currently deployed in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to promote regional stability and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

Marines with Amphibious Assault Platoon, Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, practice amphibious embarking and debarking drills during routine training in the Mediterranean Sea, Oct. 28. The sustainment drills allowed the unit to practice launch and recovery procedures from aboard the USS Oak Hill. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is deployed to the 6th fleet area of responsibility in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. - Marines with Amphibious Assault Platoon, Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, practice amphibious embarking and debarking drills during routine training in the Mediterranean Sea, Oct. 28. The sustainment drills allowed the unit to practice launch and recovery procedures from aboard the USS Oak Hill. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is deployed to the 6th fleet area of responsibility in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

Lance Cpl. Breeann Rogers is sprayed with oleoresin capsicum aboard the USS Essex on the Indian Ocean, Oct. 31, 2015 during a non-lethal weapons course. Rogers is a motor transportation operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and is a member of the combat cargo platoon. U.S. Marines and Sailors were sprayed across the face with OC spray and went through a series of exercises as their final event of the course. - Lance Cpl. Breeann Rogers is sprayed with oleoresin capsicum aboard the USS Essex on the Indian Ocean, Oct. 31, 2015 during a non-lethal weapons course. Rogers is a motor transportation operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and is a member of the combat cargo platoon. U.S. Marines and Sailors were sprayed across the face with OC spray and went through a series of exercises as their final event of the course.

A Light Armored Vehicle attached to 4th LAV Battalion, 4th Marine Division, sits on the horizon during exercise Trident Juncture 2015 in Almería, Spain, Oct. 30, 2015. The exercise provided an opportunity for Reserve Marines to gain experience within their military occupational specialty and demonstrates their readiness in conjunction with other foreign nationals. - A Light Armored Vehicle attached to 4th LAV Battalion, 4th Marine Division, sits on the horizon during exercise Trident Juncture 2015 in Almería, Spain, Oct. 30, 2015. The exercise provided an opportunity for Reserve Marines to gain experience within their military occupational specialty and demonstrates their readiness in conjunction with other foreign nationals.

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A Marine with 1st Marine Raider Battalion fires a .50 caliber Special Application Scoped Rifle during a Company Collective Exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 7, 2015. Marine Special Operations Company C, 1st Marine Raider Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command spent the first phase of their three-phase Company Collective Exercise practicing Foreign Internal Defense aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 5-8. - A Marine with 1st Marine Raider Battalion fires a .50 caliber Special Application Scoped Rifle during a Company Collective Exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 7, 2015. Marine Special Operations Company C, 1st Marine Raider Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command spent the first phase of their three-phase Company Collective Exercise practicing Foreign Internal Defense aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 5-8.

Lance Cpl. Devan D. Johnson a military police officer with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit role-plays, as a patrol/explosive detector dog with the MEU executes an attack command on Oct. 26, 2015 at Doganbey, Turkey as part of a military working dogs demonstration for Turkish Marines and sailors during Exercise Egemen. The exercise is a Turkish-led and hosted amphibious exercise designed to increase tactical proficiencies and interoperability among participants. - Lance Cpl. Devan D. Johnson a military police officer with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit role-plays, as a patrol/explosive detector dog with the MEU executes an attack command on Oct. 26, 2015 at Doganbey, Turkey as part of a military working dogs demonstration for Turkish Marines and sailors during Exercise Egemen. The exercise is a Turkish-led and hosted amphibious exercise designed to increase tactical proficiencies and interoperability among participants.

Royal Danish Army Sgt. 1st Class Martin, left, a primary shooting instructor, marks shot groups during a live-fire range at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Oct. 26, 2015. The training was a part of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve building partner capacity mission to teach the Iraqi soldiers proper marksmanship techniques to improve their effectiveness on the battlefield against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. - Royal Danish Army Sgt. 1st Class Martin, left, a primary shooting instructor, marks shot groups during a live-fire range at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Oct. 26, 2015. The training was a part of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve building partner capacity mission to teach the Iraqi soldiers proper marksmanship techniques to improve their effectiveness on the battlefield against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.

An instructor lays out a plan of attack during first responder's training with Marines from General Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 25, 2015. Marines demonstrate core essential tasks and conduct offensive and defensive stability operations throughout ITX. - An instructor lays out a plan of attack during first responder's training with Marines from General Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 25, 2015. Marines demonstrate core essential tasks and conduct offensive and defensive stability operations throughout ITX.

Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment hike out to a live fire and maneuver exercise course during the Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Oct. 23-24. During ITX, Marines demonstrate core infantry mission essential tasks while conducting offensive and defensive stability operations. - Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment hike out to a live fire and maneuver exercise course during the Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Oct. 23-24. During ITX, Marines demonstrate core infantry mission essential tasks while conducting offensive and defensive stability operations.

A Marine with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment maintains positive sighting of the range ahead during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine 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. - A Marine with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment maintains positive sighting of the range ahead during Integrated Training Exercise 1-16 aboard Marine 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 and Japan Ground Self-Defense soldiers assess possible casualties in a simulated improvised explosive device explosion during Exercise Guard and Protect at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 20-23, 2015. Guard and Protect is a joint security force operation that enables readiness in case the station has to make a defense posture. The exercise tested the abilities of the Marines and Japanese soldiers to respond effectively in real world situations. - Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense soldiers assess possible casualties in a simulated improvised explosive device explosion during Exercise Guard and Protect at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 20-23, 2015. Guard and Protect is a joint security force operation that enables readiness in case the station has to make a defense posture. The exercise tested the abilities of the Marines and Japanese soldiers to respond effectively in real world situations.

More than 30, 000 men and women from all over the world start the 40th Marine Corps Marathon in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 25. This year’s participants joined the 512,370 runners who have completed the “Peoples Marathon” since its inaugural event in 1976. - More than 30, 000 men and women from all over the world start the 40th Marine Corps Marathon in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 25. This year’s participants joined the 512,370 runners who have completed the “Peoples Marathon” since its inaugural event in 1976.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Justin Sabey, a rifleman with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires his M32 grenade launcher during live-fire training with Philippine Marines at Crow Valley, Philippines, Oct. 6, 2015. Philippine Marines with 31st Marine Company, Marine Battalion Landing Team 1, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the U.S. Marines with BLT 2/5, 31st MEU, are training side by side as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015, an annual bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marine and Navy Forces. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Justin Sabey, a rifleman with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires his M32 grenade launcher during live-fire training with Philippine Marines at Crow Valley, Philippines, Oct. 6, 2015. Philippine Marines with 31st Marine Company, Marine Battalion Landing Team 1, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the U.S. Marines with BLT 2/5, 31st MEU, are training side by side as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015, an annual bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marine and Navy Forces.

Scout sniper screener candidates with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment conduct a max set of pull-ups during a physical fitness assessment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2015. The screener aims to prepare candidates for the Scout Sniper Basic Course. - Scout sniper screener candidates with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment conduct a max set of pull-ups during a physical fitness assessment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 20, 2015. The screener aims to prepare candidates for the Scout Sniper Basic Course.

Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division conduct free fall jump training from a C-130 Hercules with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 16, 2015. 1st Recon conducted parachute operations in preparation for future deployments. - Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division conduct free fall jump training from a C-130 Hercules with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 16, 2015. 1st Recon conducted parachute operations in preparation for future deployments.

A Marine candidate with the Scout Sniper Screening Platoon, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, maneuvers over an obstacle as part of the Scout Sniper Physical Assessment Test at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 19, 2015. The obstacle course served as the final evolution for the assessment, requiring two consecutive completions from each candidate. - A Marine candidate with the Scout Sniper Screening Platoon, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, maneuvers over an obstacle as part of the Scout Sniper Physical Assessment Test at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 19, 2015. The obstacle course served as the final evolution for the assessment, requiring two consecutive completions from each candidate.

A Portuguese Marine holds security at Pinheiro Da Cruz, Praia Da Raposa beach, Portugal, while participating in a combined amphibious assault exercise, Oct. 20, 2015, during Trident Juncture 15. Trident Juncture is a NATO-led exercise designed to certify NATO response forces and develop interoperability among participating NATO and partner nations. - A Portuguese Marine holds security at Pinheiro Da Cruz, Praia Da Raposa beach, Portugal, while participating in a combined amphibious assault exercise, Oct. 20, 2015, during Trident Juncture 15. Trident Juncture is a NATO-led exercise designed to certify NATO response forces and develop interoperability among participating NATO and partner nations.

Flares from a C-130 Hercules transportation aircraft illuminate the landing zone for an incoming CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter during a fire support coordination exercise that kicked off Blue Chromite 2016, at Okinawa, Japan, today. Blue Chromite is large-scale air-ground training exercise that builds upon the Marine Corps’ sea-borne, rapid-reaction capabilities while maintaining the Corps’ strategic presence in the Pacific. The principle units involved in the ongoing exercise are 3rd Marine Division, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing and 3rd Marine Logistics Group, all subordinate commands of III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Flares from a C-130 Hercules transportation aircraft illuminate the landing zone for an incoming CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter during a fire support coordination exercise that kicked off Blue Chromite 2016, at Okinawa, Japan, today. Blue Chromite is large-scale air-ground training exercise that builds upon the Marine Corps’ sea-borne, rapid-reaction capabilities while maintaining the Corps’ strategic presence in the Pacific. The principle units involved in the ongoing exercise are 3rd Marine Division, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing and 3rd Marine Logistics Group, all subordinate commands of III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines assigned to Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, scan the area during a patrol as part of Talon Exercise 1-16 at Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma, Ariz., Oct. 14, 2015. The training took place at Baker’s Peak, a rugged desert training area located on the approximately 1,700,000 acre Barry M. Goldwater Range and was part of a larger event called Talon Exercise, which focused on offensive and defensive operations in desert and urban environments. - Marines assigned to Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, scan the area during a patrol as part of Talon Exercise 1-16 at Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma, Ariz., Oct. 14, 2015. The training took place at Baker’s Peak, a rugged desert training area located on the approximately 1,700,000 acre Barry M. Goldwater Range and was part of a larger event called Talon Exercise, which focused on offensive and defensive operations in desert and urban environments.

Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Marines tackle some of their first fuel fires at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 16, 2015. The training exercise taught the new Marines how to battle the heat and keep pushing until they annihilate the flames, as well as get used to the environment of a real fire. - Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Marines tackle some of their first fuel fires at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Oct. 16, 2015. The training exercise taught the new Marines how to battle the heat and keep pushing until they annihilate the flames, as well as get used to the environment of a real fire.