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U.S. Marines, veterans and families pose in front an AV-8B Harrier during a dedication ceremony at the open air museum on Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Aug. 19, 2021. Marines from 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and across the Marine Corps participated in a ceremony unveiling and dedicating an AV-8B Harrier at the museum to the late Lt. Col. Christopher “Otis” Raible and Sgt. Bradley Atwell, whom gave their lives defending the aircraft as well as surrounding Marines during an attack on Camp Bastion, Afghanistan in 2012. - U.S. Marines, veterans and families pose in front an AV-8B Harrier during a dedication ceremony at the open air museum on Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Aug. 19, 2021. Marines from 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and across the Marine Corps participated in a ceremony unveiling and dedicating an AV-8B Harrier at the museum to the late Lt. Col. Christopher “Otis” Raible and Sgt. Bradley Atwell, whom gave their lives defending the aircraft as well as surrounding Marines during an attack on Camp Bastion, Afghanistan in 2012.

Marines assigned to 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Bravo Company, disembark a landing craft, utility, in the well deck of the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), Aug. 18, 2021. Arlington is deployed to U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts in Haiti following a 7.2-magnitude earthquake Aug. 14, 2021. - Marines assigned to 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Bravo Company, disembark a landing craft, utility, in the well deck of the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), Aug. 18, 2021. Arlington is deployed to U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts in Haiti following a 7.2-magnitude earthquake Aug. 14, 2021.

Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher Walters, a hospital corpsman with 3rd Medical Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, conducts a rifle swim during the water survival advanced course on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 17, 2021. WSA is the highest swim qualification Marines and sailors can obtain before moving onto the next echelon of becoming a Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival. The week-long course kicks off with a water survival pre screening event, and the remainder of the course consists of numerous endurance swims, life-saving techniques and applications, physical and mental conditioning, and countless swimming drills to ensure students have the confidence to not only maintain themselves but others’ lives while in the water. Walters is a native of Upland, California. - Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher Walters, a hospital corpsman with 3rd Medical Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, conducts a rifle swim during the water survival advanced course on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 17, 2021. WSA is the highest swim qualification Marines and sailors can obtain before moving onto the next echelon of becoming a Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival. The week-long course kicks off with a water survival pre screening event, and the remainder of the course consists of numerous endurance swims, life-saving techniques and applications, physical and mental conditioning, and countless swimming drills to ensure students have the confidence to not only maintain themselves but others’ lives while in the water. Walters is a native of Upland, California.

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U.S. Navy sailor prepares a Marine for their first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, Gotemba, Japan, Feb. 18. - U.S. Navy sailor prepares a Marine for their first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, Gotemba, Japan, Feb. 18.

A U.S. Navy corpsman administers a U.S. Marine with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 15. - A U.S. Navy corpsman administers a U.S. Marine with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 15.

U.S. Marines work together to pour cement into the foundation of the Republica de Cuba School in Puerto Lempira, Honduras, Aug. 17. - U.S. Marines work together to pour cement into the foundation of the Republica de Cuba School in Puerto Lempira, Honduras, Aug. 17.

U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, brace for an explosion on range Golf-36, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 12, 2020. Range G-36 is the newest addition to the Camp Lejeune training environment. This range is designed to accommodate company-size assaults and evolutions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jacqueline Parsons) - U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, brace for an explosion on range Golf-36, Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 12, 2020. Range G-36 is the newest addition to the Camp Lejeune training environment. This range is designed to accommodate company-size assaults and evolutions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jacqueline Parsons)

The Department of the Navy Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office congratulates the United States Navy and United States Marine Corps 2020 Exceptional Sexual Assault Response Coordinators of the Year: Mrs. Raquel Hernandez with the Fleet and Family Support Center Naval Air Station Lemoore as well as Ms. Shirley D. Stephens, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. - The Department of the Navy Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office congratulates the United States Navy and United States Marine Corps 2020 Exceptional Sexual Assault Response Coordinators of the Year: Mrs. Raquel Hernandez with the Fleet and Family Support Center Naval Air Station Lemoore as well as Ms. Shirley D. Stephens, Marine Corps Installations Pacific.

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A U.S. Navy MH-60 Seahawk pilot returns to the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island during ongoing search and rescue operations following an AAV-P7/A1 assault amphibious vehicle mishap off the coast of Southern California, July 30, 2020. Assisting in the search and rescue operations are the guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn, multiple U.S. Navy MH-60 helicopters and small boats from USS Makin Island, the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset, the amphibious transport dock USS San Diego, as well as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Forrest Rednour and a Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Coast Guard Sector San Diego. - A U.S. Navy MH-60 Seahawk pilot returns to the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island during ongoing search and rescue operations following an AAV-P7/A1 assault amphibious vehicle mishap off the coast of Southern California, July 30, 2020. Assisting in the search and rescue operations are the guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn, multiple U.S. Navy MH-60 helicopters and small boats from USS Makin Island, the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset, the amphibious transport dock USS San Diego, as well as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Forrest Rednour and a Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Coast Guard Sector San Diego.

U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Stefani Mochisaki stands for a photo inside the COVID response cell office at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, July 24. - U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Stefani Mochisaki stands for a photo inside the COVID response cell office at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, July 24.

A welcoming signed is posted on the door of the Hopkins Gymnasium during an Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP) blood drive on Camp Elmore, Norfolk, Virginia, May 28. - A welcoming signed is posted on the door of the Hopkins Gymnasium during an Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP) blood drive on Camp Elmore, Norfolk, Virginia, May 28.

A U.S. Marine operates a skid steer during a command post exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 8. - A U.S. Marine operates a skid steer during a command post exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 8.

Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Liz Thompson receives an Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist pin. - Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Liz Thompson receives an Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist pin.

Single Marine Program representatives conduct a SMP council meeting at the Roadhouse, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Oct. 24. - Single Marine Program representatives conduct a SMP council meeting at the Roadhouse, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Oct. 24.

the commanding officer of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), cuts a cake during a 244th Marine Corps birthday celebration - 191110-M-EC058-1038 PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 10, 2019) U.S. Marine Corps Col. Fridrik Fridriksson, the commanding officer of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), cuts a cake during a 244th Marine Corps birthday celebration aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). The Marines and Sailors of the 11th MEU are conducting routine operations as part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in the eastern Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dalton S. Swanbeck)

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Zachary Scalzo participates in a combat marksmanship range during exercise Fuji Viper 20.1 in Camp Fuji, Japan, Oct. 16, 2019. Fuji Viper is a regularly scheduled training evolution for infantry units assigned to 3rd Marine Division as part of the unit deployment program. The training allows units to maintain their lethality and proficiency in infantry and combined arms tactics. Scalzo is assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division. - U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Zachary Scalzo participates in a combat marksmanship range during exercise Fuji Viper 20.1 in Camp Fuji, Japan, Oct. 16, 2019. Fuji Viper is a regularly scheduled training evolution for infantry units assigned to 3rd Marine Division as part of the unit deployment program. The training allows units to maintain their lethality and proficiency in infantry and combined arms tactics. Scalzo is assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kimberly Ortiz Marrero, a native of Lancaster, N.Y. and the hazardous material and safety representative for 3rd Transportation Support Battalion, stands while being decontaminated during the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response course at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 19, 2019. After completing an exercise, all the students who wore hazardous material suits had to undergo a mock-decontamination procedure where they entered a tent and were sprayed with water. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kimberly Ortiz Marrero, a native of Lancaster, N.Y. and the hazardous material and safety representative for 3rd Transportation Support Battalion, stands while being decontaminated during the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response course at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 19, 2019. After completing an exercise, all the students who wore hazardous material suits had to undergo a mock-decontamination procedure where they entered a tent and were sprayed with water.

U.S Marines with 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, run aboard a Navy improved navy lighterage system during exercise Resolute Sun at Fort Story, Virginia, June 17, 2019. Marines participated in the exercise to increase combat operational readiness in amphibious and prepositioning operations while conducting joint training with U.S. Army during a joint logistics over the shore scenario. - U.S Marines with 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, run aboard a Navy improved navy lighterage system during exercise Resolute Sun at Fort Story, Virginia, June 17, 2019. Marines participated in the exercise to increase combat operational readiness in amphibious and prepositioning operations while conducting joint training with U.S. Army during a joint logistics over the shore scenario.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (MLG), pose with a photo with their 1st place trophy after an awards ceremony at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 15, 2019. Brig. Gen. Kevin J. Stewart, commanding officer of 2nd MLG, presented awards to the first, second, and third place winners of 2nd MLG's annual squad competition. - U.S. Marines and Sailors with 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (MLG), pose with a photo with their 1st place trophy after an awards ceremony at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 15, 2019. Brig. Gen. Kevin J. Stewart, commanding officer of 2nd MLG, presented awards to the first, second, and third place winners of 2nd MLG's annual squad competition. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Bethanie C. Sahms)

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U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Mark Hanford and Sgt. Nicholas Elston, U.S. Navy Lt. Maundo Lee and Brian Bonzo, and Philippine Marine Corps Capt. Rodilson Malic, pose for a photo with Philippine local, Bryan S. Rodriguez, who they assisted after a motorcycle crash in Ternate, Cavite, Philippines, Oct. 2, 2018. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Mark Hanford and Sgt. Nicholas Elston, U.S. Navy Lt. Maundo Lee and Brian Bonzo, and Philippine Marine Corps Capt. Rodilson Malic, pose for a photo with Philippine local, Bryan S. Rodriguez, who they assisted after a motorcycle crash in Ternate, Cavite, Philippines, Oct. 2, 2018.

Noncommissioned officers with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit toss medicine balls during a Force Fitness Instructor led High Intensity Tactical Training session at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2018. The 31st MEU is adopting an NCO-led FFI program to improve overall physical fitness while reducing injury and building unit morale. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations. - Noncommissioned officers with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit toss medicine balls during a Force Fitness Instructor led High Intensity Tactical Training session at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2018. The 31st MEU is adopting an NCO-led FFI program to improve overall physical fitness while reducing injury and building unit morale. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations.

180402-M-WP334-0064 ARTA BEACH, Djibouti (April 2, 2018) U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Bailey Quinn, left, and Cpl. Ryan Rowe, both MV-22B Osprey crew chiefs assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to board an MV-22B Osprey during Alligator Dagger in Arta Range, Djibouti, April 2, 2018. Led by Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Alligator Dagger integrates U.S. Navy and Marine Corps assets to practice and rehearse a range of critical capabilities available to U.S. Central Command both afloat and ashore to promote stability and security in the region. - 180402-M-WP334-0064 ARTA BEACH, Djibouti (April 2, 2018) U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Bailey Quinn, left, and Cpl. Ryan Rowe, both MV-22B Osprey crew chiefs assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to board an MV-22B Osprey during Alligator Dagger in Arta Range, Djibouti, April 2, 2018. Led by Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Alligator Dagger integrates U.S. Navy and Marine Corps assets to practice and rehearse a range of critical capabilities available to U.S. Central Command both afloat and ashore to promote stability and security in the region.

A service member running the 42nd Marine Corps Marathon Forward approaches the 10-mile mark of the 26.2-mile race while deployed in the Middle East Oct. 22, 2017. The Marine Corps Marathon Forward gave Marines deployed with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command the opportunity to run the ‘Peoples Marathon’ while far from home. The Marine Corps Marathon is one of the largest marathons in the world and hosts the event in forward locations to allow service members outside the United States an opportunity to compete. - A service member running the 42nd Marine Corps Marathon Forward approaches the 10-mile mark of the 26.2-mile race while deployed in the Middle East Oct. 22, 2017. The Marine Corps Marathon Forward gave Marines deployed with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command the opportunity to run the ‘Peoples Marathon’ while far from home. The Marine Corps Marathon is one of the largest marathons in the world and hosts the event in forward locations to allow service members outside the United States an opportunity to compete.

Marines and Sailors hand out water to the public in Key West Fl., Sept. 12, 2017. Marines and Sailors with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) distributed water in support of the Federal Emergency Management Agency in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. - Marines and Sailors hand out water to the public in Key West Fl., Sept. 12, 2017. Marines and Sailors with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) distributed water in support of the Federal Emergency Management Agency in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma.

Four EA-6B Prowlers belonging to each Prowler squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point conducted a "Final Four" division flight aboard the air station March 1, 2016. The "Final Four" flight is the last time the Prowler squadrons will be flying together before the official retirement of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Training Squadron 1 at the end of Fiscal Year 16 and the eventual transition to "MAGTF EW". MAGTF EW is a more distributed strategy where every platform contributes to the EW mission, enabling relevant tactical information to move throughout the electromagnetic spectrum and across the battlefield faster than ever before. - Four EA-6B Prowlers belonging to each Prowler squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point conducted a "Final Four" division flight aboard the air station March 1, 2016. The "Final Four" flight is the last time the Prowler squadrons will be flying together before the official retirement of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Training Squadron 1 at the end of Fiscal Year 16 and the eventual transition to "MAGTF EW". MAGTF EW is a more distributed strategy where every platform contributes to the EW mission, enabling relevant tactical information to move throughout the electromagnetic spectrum and across the battlefield faster than ever before.

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Cpl. Robert Schmitt sews an Arctic camouflage net during cold weather training at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, California, Jan. 21, 2016. The cold weather training done in the Sierra Mountains is a warm-up to Exercise Cold Response 1-16 in Norway. Nearly 80 Marines with 2nd LAAD Bn. participated in the two-weeklong exercise that taught basic mobility in snow, defensive and offensive tactics as well as basic cold weather and high altitude conditions training. - Cpl. Robert Schmitt sews an Arctic camouflage net during cold weather training at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, California, Jan. 21, 2016. The cold weather training done in the Sierra Mountains is a warm-up to Exercise Cold Response 1-16 in Norway. Nearly 80 Marines with 2nd LAAD Bn. participated in the two-weeklong exercise that taught basic mobility in snow, defensive and offensive tactics as well as basic cold weather and high altitude conditions training.

Caroline B. Kennedy, U.S. ambassador to Japan, speaks to Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152) at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 28, 2016. This is Ambassador Kennedy’s first official visit to MCAS Iwakuni. While at the squadron’s hangar, Kennedy viewed a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft, gaining an understanding on the multiple capabilities of the aircraft in the Pacific theater. This visit also helped the ambassador better understand MCAS Iwakuni’s community and witness the ongoing transformation of the air station through the multitude of construction projects. - Caroline B. Kennedy, U.S. ambassador to Japan, speaks to Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152) at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 28, 2016. This is Ambassador Kennedy’s first official visit to MCAS Iwakuni. While at the squadron’s hangar, Kennedy viewed a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft, gaining an understanding on the multiple capabilities of the aircraft in the Pacific theater. This visit also helped the ambassador better understand MCAS Iwakuni’s community and witness the ongoing transformation of the air station through the multitude of construction projects.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Master Sgt. Donald Johnson prepares M67 fragmentation grenades during a grenade and MK-19 Grenade Launcher range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2015. More than 70 Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion took turns handling the MK19 and handheld grenades during the familiarization range. The range offered Marines the opportunity to build confidence and proficiency skills on some of the crew-served weapons they operate while providing security in a deployed environment. Johnson is the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Detachment staff noncommissioned officer in charge with the battalion. - Master Sgt. Donald Johnson prepares M67 fragmentation grenades during a grenade and MK-19 Grenade Launcher range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2015. More than 70 Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion took turns handling the MK19 and handheld grenades during the familiarization range. The range offered Marines the opportunity to build confidence and proficiency skills on some of the crew-served weapons they operate while providing security in a deployed environment. Johnson is the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Detachment staff noncommissioned officer in charge with the battalion.

A landing craft air cushion-class hovercraft approaches Kin Blue, Okinawa, Japan, for a beach landing exercise, Oct. 27, 2015, during Blue Chromite 2016. Blue Chromite is a large-scale, cost effective on-island training event lead by 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - A landing craft air cushion-class hovercraft approaches Kin Blue, Okinawa, Japan, for a beach landing exercise, Oct. 27, 2015, during Blue Chromite 2016. Blue Chromite is a large-scale, cost effective on-island training event lead by 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

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.

U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the French 5th Overseas Combined Arms Regiment (RIAOM) perform crunches as part of indoctrination prior to participating in a desert survival course. Elements of the 15th MEU are training with the 5th RIAOM in Djibouti in order to improve interoperability between the MEU and the French military. - U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the French 5th Overseas Combined Arms Regiment (RIAOM) perform crunches as part of indoctrination prior to participating in a desert survival course. Elements of the 15th MEU are training with the 5th RIAOM in Djibouti in order to improve interoperability between the MEU and the French military.

A member of the San Francisco Fire Department gives a sticker to a young young boy during a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief static display at Marina Green Park, San Francisco, Oct. 9, 2015, as part of San Francisco Fleet Week 2015. SFFW 15’ is a week-long event that blends a unique training and education program, bringing together key civilian emergency responders and Naval crisis-response forces to exchange best practices focused on humanitarian assistance disaster relief with particular emphasis on defense support to civil authorities. - A member of the San Francisco Fire Department gives a sticker to a young young boy during a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief static display at Marina Green Park, San Francisco, Oct. 9, 2015, as part of San Francisco Fleet Week 2015. SFFW 15’ is a week-long event that blends a unique training and education program, bringing together key civilian emergency responders and Naval crisis-response forces to exchange best practices focused on humanitarian assistance disaster relief with particular emphasis on defense support to civil authorities.

Marines cut through concrete slabs with a jackhammer during urban search and rescue training at Treasure Island, Oct. 7, 2015, as part of San Francisco Fleet Week 2015. The event featured demonstrations and hands-on training with tools commonly used for rescue missions during disaster relief. - Marines cut through concrete slabs with a jackhammer during urban search and rescue training at Treasure Island, Oct. 7, 2015, as part of San Francisco Fleet Week 2015. The event featured demonstrations and hands-on training with tools commonly used for rescue missions during disaster relief.

Lance Cpl. Tyler, Shiels, right, conducts a search of Cpl. Kyle Lamprich during a security forces training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 30, 2015. More than 30 Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion participated in the week-long training, covering a full spectrum of scenarios they may encounter while deployed. Shiels and Lamprich are both low altitude air defense gunners with the squadron. - Lance Cpl. Tyler, Shiels, right, conducts a search of Cpl. Kyle Lamprich during a security forces training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 30, 2015. More than 30 Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion participated in the week-long training, covering a full spectrum of scenarios they may encounter while deployed. Shiels and Lamprich are both low altitude air defense gunners with the squadron.

A Marine fires an FIM-92 Stinger Missile at a target during a stinger simulation training range at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Sept. 24, 2015. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion sharpened their proficiency skills by simulating the weight transfer felt when firing the 34.2 pound missile. The weapon is a personal and portable infrared, homing, surface-to-air missile capable of tracking and engaging aircraft up to an altitude of 10,000 feet and covering distances up to eight kilometers. 2nd LAAD utilizes the stinger missile to provide ground-to-air defense to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and Marine Air-Ground Task Force elements. - A Marine fires an FIM-92 Stinger Missile at a target during a stinger simulation training range at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Sept. 24, 2015. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion sharpened their proficiency skills by simulating the weight transfer felt when firing the 34.2 pound missile. The weapon is a personal and portable infrared, homing, surface-to-air missile capable of tracking and engaging aircraft up to an altitude of 10,000 feet and covering distances up to eight kilometers. 2nd LAAD utilizes the stinger missile to provide ground-to-air defense to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and Marine Air-Ground Task Force elements.

Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa bow their heads in prayer during a September 11th remembrance ceremony in Nissoria, Italy, Sept. 22, 2015. The local priest offered a prayer as Americans and Nissorians remembered the shared pain of the lives lost that day 14 years ago. - Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa bow their heads in prayer during a September 11th remembrance ceremony in Nissoria, Italy, Sept. 22, 2015. The local priest offered a prayer as Americans and Nissorians remembered the shared pain of the lives lost that day 14 years ago.

Pfc. William K. Blackwood communicates with members of his convoy during a combat convoy simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 9, 2015. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion tested their combat skills and decision making as they maneuvered through a simulated desert, mimicking the possible scenarios they could encounter while in a real-life scenario. The training simulator allowed the Marines to efficiently train in a controlled environment without sacrificing safety or accuracy. Blackwood is a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd LAAD based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. - Pfc. William K. Blackwood communicates with members of his convoy during a combat convoy simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 9, 2015. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion tested their combat skills and decision making as they maneuvered through a simulated desert, mimicking the possible scenarios they could encounter while in a real-life scenario. The training simulator allowed the Marines to efficiently train in a controlled environment without sacrificing safety or accuracy. Blackwood is a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd LAAD based out of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C.

An active shooter response exercise participant simulates firing a handgun during an active shooter response exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Sept. 2. The station also participated in an aircraft mishap response exercise the next day as part of required annual safety training for the installation. - An active shooter response exercise participant simulates firing a handgun during an active shooter response exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Sept. 2. The station also participated in an aircraft mishap response exercise the next day as part of required annual safety training for the installation.

Marines set up a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun prior to a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allowed them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters. - Marines set up a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun prior to a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allowed them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters.

Battle crosses are mounted on stage at the Mckenzie Arena at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Aug. 15, 2015. The battle crosses are symbolic replacements for crosses for service members who have fallen in the line of duty. Four Marines and one sailor died during a shooting in Chattanooga, Tennessee, July 16, 2015. - Battle crosses are mounted on stage at the McKenzie Arena at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Aug. 15, 2015. The battle crosses are symbolic replacements for crosses for service members who have fallen in the line of duty. Four Marines and one sailor died during a shooting in Chattanooga, Tennessee, July 16, 2015.

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U.S. Marine Sgt. Erik Maehler, left, demonstrates loading a M9 Beretta pistol to Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Sunshine Padilla aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Maehler is a member of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force and Padilla is a hospital corpsman with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 (Reinforced), 15th MEU. The Marines practice marksmanship fundamentals dry to ensure safety and accuracy when shooting. The 15th MEU is embarked on the Essex Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Erik Maehler, left, demonstrates loading a M9 Beretta pistol to Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Sunshine Padilla aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Maehler is a member of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force and Padilla is a hospital corpsman with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 (Reinforced), 15th MEU. The Marines practice marksmanship fundamentals dry to ensure safety and accuracy when shooting. The 15th MEU is embarked on the Essex Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.