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Capt. Don E. Pigott, captain of the Maritime Prepositioning Force ship, USNS Pililaau, welcomes Brig. Gen. Steven Rudder, the commanding general for 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, aboard the ship. Rudder received a tour of the supplies and equipment onboard the ship to be used during Exercise Cobra Gold 2015. - Capt. Don E. Pigott, captain of the Maritime Prepositioning Force ship, USNS Pililaau, welcomes Brig. Gen. Steven Rudder, the commanding general for 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, aboard the ship. Rudder received a tour of the supplies and equipment onboard the ship to be used during Exercise Cobra Gold 2015.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Alex S. Rankin, center, digs a hiding position alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK recon Marines specialize in stealth and scouting, so this training teaches the Marines how to survive without getting caught and still accomplishing the mission. This exercise highlights the two countries’ combined commitment to the defense of the ROK and peace and security in the region. Rankin, a Secane, Pennsylvania, native, is an intelligence specialist with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Alex S. Rankin, center, digs a hiding position alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK recon Marines specialize in stealth and scouting, so this training teaches the Marines how to survive without getting caught and still accomplishing the mission. This exercise highlights the two countries’ combined commitment to the defense of the ROK and peace and security in the region. Rankin, a Secane, Pennsylvania, native, is an intelligence specialist with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division.

Republic of Korea Marines demonstrate their combat tactics for U.S. Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. Sharing cultures is a significant factor in gaining a better understanding of the combat tactics of the two forces despite the language barrier, according to ROK Marine Capt. Moon Jung Hwan. KMEP is a regularly scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps’ forces. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Cedric R. Haller II/Released) - Republic of Korea Marines demonstrate their combat tactics for U.S. Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. Sharing cultures is a significant factor in gaining a better understanding of the combat tactics of the two forces despite the language barrier, according to ROK Marine Capt. Moon Jung Hwan. KMEP is a regularly scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps’ forces. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Cedric R. Haller II/Released)

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Lance Cpl. Christian J. Hernandez (left) and Lance Cpl. Giovonni Mejia fire the M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzer Jan. 31 to support units engaged in the mechanized assault course at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms during Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. “Fighting with combined arms is on of the most important parts of the (Marine Air-Ground Task Force),” said Lt. Col. Neil J. Owens. Giovonni, a Dallas, Texas native and Hernandez, a Buford, Georgia, native are both cannoneers with 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force for ITX 2-15, as part of the ground combat element for SPMAGTF-4. Owens, a Medford, Massechusetts, native, is the commanding officer for 3rd Bn., 12th Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. William Hester/ Released) - Lance Cpl. Christian J. Hernandez (left) and Lance Cpl. Giovonni Mejia fire the M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzer Jan. 31 to support units engaged in the mechanized assault course at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms during Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. “Fighting with combined arms is on of the most important parts of the (Marine Air-Ground Task Force),” said Lt. Col. Neil J. Owens. Giovonni, a Dallas, Texas native and Hernandez, a Buford, Georgia, native are both cannoneers with 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force for ITX 2-15, as part of the ground combat element for SPMAGTF-4. Owens, a Medford, Massechusetts, native, is the commanding officer for 3rd Bn., 12th Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. William Hester/ Released)

U.S. Marines shoot their M16 rifles during a live-fire exercise Feb. 4 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. Each Marine fired 30 rounds during multiple drills. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently underway as part of the regularly scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released) - U.S. Marines shoot their M16 rifles during a live-fire exercise Feb. 4 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. Each Marine fired 30 rounds during multiple drills. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently underway as part of the regularly scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released)

A Philippine Marine posts security after fast-roping out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft Jan. 22 at Basa Air Field. Fast-roping is just one of the multiple training events conducted during Aviation Assault Support Exercise 15.1. AASE expands and promotes cooperative training opportunities with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to enhance core skill proficiency and to increase operational readiness. The Philippine Marines are with various units and the U.S. Marines are with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released). - A Philippine Marine posts security after fast-roping out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft Jan. 22 at Basa Air Field. Fast-roping is just one of the multiple training events conducted during Aviation Assault Support Exercise 15.1. AASE expands and promotes cooperative training opportunities with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to enhance core skill proficiency and to increase operational readiness. The Philippine Marines are with various units and the U.S. Marines are with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released).

Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, and members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force conduct amphibious raids and military operations on urban terrain during Exercise Iron Fist 15 aboard Camp Pendleton on Feb. 3, 2015. Exercise Iron Fist 15 is an annual bilateral training exercise between U.S. and Japanese military forces that builds their combined ability to conduct amphibious and land-based contingency operations. IF15, currently in its tenth iteration, is scheduled from Jan. 26 to Feb. 27, 2015, in southern California. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Angel Serna/Released) - Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, and members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force conduct amphibious raids and military operations on urban terrain during Exercise Iron Fist 15 aboard Camp Pendleton on Feb. 3, 2015. Exercise Iron Fist 15 is an annual bilateral training exercise between U.S. and Japanese military forces that builds their combined ability to conduct amphibious and land-based contingency operations. IF15, currently in its tenth iteration, is scheduled from Jan. 26 to Feb. 27, 2015, in southern California. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Angel Serna/Released)

U.S. Marine Pfc. Cody Dunlap throws a simulated grenade during squad tactics and maneuver training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 26, 2015. Dunlap is an automatic rifleman with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. As the ground combat element for the 15th MEU, BLT 3/1 is preparing for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills and learning to work as a cohesive unit. - U.S. Marine Pfc. Cody Dunlap throws a simulated grenade during squad tactics and maneuver training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 26, 2015. Dunlap is an automatic rifleman with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. As the ground combat element for the 15th MEU, BLT 3/1 is preparing for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills and learning to work as a cohesive unit.

A Marine with 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion scans for enemy troops after a simulated attack during a week-long field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 24, 2015. Maintaining amphibious units is vital to the naval expeditionary nature of the Marine Corps, and maintaining the readiness and standards of every Marine ensures high performance and fast deployment capabilities. - A Marine with 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion scans for enemy troops after a simulated attack during a week-long field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 24, 2015. Maintaining amphibious units is vital to the naval expeditionary nature of the Marine Corps, and maintaining the readiness and standards of every Marine ensures high performance and fast deployment capabilities.

Cpl. Sierra K. Tilson, rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, fires the M203 grenade launcher during a live-fire range at the Verona Loop training area, near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2015. Marines with Co. A conducted live-fire training, squad attacks, and patrolling in preparation for their upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Cpl. Sierra K. Tilson, rifleman with 3rd Platoon, Company A, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, fires the M203 grenade launcher during a live-fire range at the Verona Loop training area, near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 14, 2015. Marines with Co. A conducted live-fire training, squad attacks, and patrolling in preparation for their upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

Cpl. Nick A. Buenviaje, left, tank gunner, and Sgt. Michelle A. Svec, tank crewman, both with Tank Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, tighten a bolt on the track pad of an M1A1 Abrams tank during vehicle maintenance at Range SR-10, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 9, 2015. Marines with Tank Platoon conducted offensive and defensive engagements to prepare for an upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Cpl. Nick A. Buenviaje, left, tank gunner, and Sgt. Michelle A. Svec, tank crewman, both with Tank Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, tighten a bolt on the track pad of an M1A1 Abrams tank during vehicle maintenance at Range SR-10, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 9, 2015. Marines with Tank Platoon conducted offensive and defensive engagements to prepare for an upcoming assessment at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

Marines with Headquarters Regiment stand with their maintenance readiness awards from all four quarters and the overall 2014 fiscal year on Camp Kinser, Dec. 31. Headquarters Regiment, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force maintained an overall maintenance readiness of 90% or higher throughout the entire year of 2014. “My success comes from the success of my Marines,” said Col. Edmund J. Bowen, the regiment’s commanding officer, from Staten Island, New York. - Marines with Headquarters Regiment stand with their maintenance readiness awards from all four quarters and the overall 2014 fiscal year on Camp Kinser, Dec. 31. Headquarters Regiment, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force maintained an overall maintenance readiness of 90% or higher throughout the entire year of 2014. “My success comes from the success of my Marines,” said Col. Edmund J. Bowen, the regiment’s commanding officer, from Staten Island, New York.

Arabic-speaking role-players simulate a riot outside the gates of a combat simulation town aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 7, 2015. The role-players dressed for the part and spoke the language to create a cultural and language barrier for Marines of 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division during a training exercise. - Arabic-speaking role-players simulate a riot outside the gates of a combat simulation town aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 7, 2015. The role-players dressed for the part and spoke the language to create a cultural and language barrier for Marines of 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division during a training exercise.

U.S. Marine Pfc. Jacob Piazza, right, fires a .50-caliber machine gun at targets during realistic urban training aboard Camp Roberts, Calif., Dec. 14, 2014. Piazza is a rifleman with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The training prepares the 15th MEU’s Marines for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions. - U.S. Marine Pfc. Jacob Piazza, right, fires a .50-caliber machine gun at targets during realistic urban training aboard Camp Roberts, Calif., Dec. 14, 2014. Piazza is a rifleman with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The training prepares the 15th MEU’s Marines for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions.

An explosive ordnance disposal technician conducts a breaching class with a soldier with the Ugandan People’s Defense Force in Camp Singo, Uganda, Dec. 2, 2014. Marines and Sailors with SPMAGTF Crisis Response-Africa were in Uganda from Oct. - Dec., training alongside the UPDF, focusing on countering improvised explosive devices, land navigation and logistics. - An explosive ordnance disposal technician conducts a breaching class with a soldier with the Ugandan People’s Defense Force in Camp Singo, Uganda, Dec. 2, 2014. Marines and Sailors with SPMAGTF Crisis Response-Africa were in Uganda from Oct. - Dec., training alongside the UPDF, focusing on countering improvised explosive devices, land navigation and logistics.

A service member with the Togolese Armed Forces conducts a personnel search on 1st Lt. Kyle Faherty during a armed sentry training engagement with U.S. Marines in Lome, Togo, Dec. 4, 2014. In Togo, the Marines trained alongside 20 students from the Togoloese Army, Air Force, Navy and the Gendarmerie forces. Training in both regions focused on weapons safety and handling, rules of engagement, escalation of force, personnel and vehicle searches, vehicle entry points as well as entry control points—ending with a final exercise that tested the collective tactical knowledge learned over the course of the training engagement. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response-Africa conducted the theater security cooperation engagement to help develop and enhance armed sentry skills sharing tactics, techniques and procedures with the Togolese Armed Forces. - A service member with the Togolese Armed Forces conducts a personnel search on 1st Lt. Kyle Faherty during a armed sentry training engagement with U.S. Marines in Lome, Togo, Dec. 4, 2014. In Togo, the Marines trained alongside 20 students from the Togoloese Army, Air Force, Navy and the Gendarmerie forces. Training in both regions focused on weapons safety and handling, rules of engagement, escalation of force, personnel and vehicle searches, vehicle entry points as well as entry control points—ending with a final exercise that tested the collective tactical knowledge learned over the course of the training engagement. Marines with SPMAGTF Crisis Response-Africa conducted the theater security cooperation engagement to help develop and enhance armed sentry skills sharing tactics, techniques and procedures with the Togolese Armed Forces.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members with the Special Weapons Protection Unit remove clothing from a casualty during an exercise Dec. 1 at Camp Naha, Okinawa. The casualty went through an immediate evacuation from the area prior to being treated. Participating U.S. Marine chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense specialists then wrapped the casualty in a blanket and went through the full decontamination process. The JGSDF personnel are with the Nuclear Biological Chemical Unit, 15th Brigade. - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members with the Special Weapons Protection Unit remove clothing from a casualty during an exercise Dec. 1 at Camp Naha, Okinawa. The casualty went through an immediate evacuation from the area prior to being treated. Participating U.S. Marine chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense specialists then wrapped the casualty in a blanket and went through the full decontamination process. The JGSDF personnel are with the Nuclear Biological Chemical Unit, 15th Brigade.

Soldiers with 7th Singapore Infantry Brigade and Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment devise a reaction strategy in case of simulated Improvised Explosive Device attacks during exercise Valiant Mark aboard Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 6, 2014. Valiant Mark enhances U.S. and Singaporean forces’ combined combat readiness through live-fire and urban terrain training as well as amphibious operations familiarization. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Danielle Rodrigues) - Soldiers with 7th Singapore Infantry Brigade and Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment devise a reaction strategy in case of simulated Improvised Explosive Device attacks during exercise Valiant Mark aboard Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 6, 2014. Valiant Mark enhances U.S. and Singaporean forces’ combined combat readiness through live-fire and urban terrain training as well as amphibious operations familiarization. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Danielle Rodrigues)

U.S Marine Sgt. Eric Maehler holds security while conducting a raid during realistic urban training at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles Dec. 8, 2014. Maehler is a team leader with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills in environments they may encounter in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S Marine Sgt. Eric Maehler holds security while conducting a raid during realistic urban training at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles Dec. 8, 2014. Maehler is a team leader with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills in environments they may encounter in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)

U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force conduct a raid during realistic urban training aboard Camp San Luis Obispo, Calif., Dec. 5, 2014. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force conduct a raid during realistic urban training aboard Camp San Luis Obispo, Calif., Dec. 5, 2014. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)

Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

Sgt. Gerry Pratama, from Anahuac, Texas, climbs up the latter after performing the helocasting practical application Nov. 4 during the scout swimmers course at White Beach Naval Facility. Marines rehearsed the procedures they will be doing on the aircraft on pier beforehand hand to ensure readiness. Pratama is a student of the course with Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF. - Sgt. Gerry Pratama, from Anahuac, Texas, climbs up the latter after performing the helocasting practical application Nov. 4 during the scout swimmers course at White Beach Naval Facility. Marines rehearsed the procedures they will be doing on the aircraft on pier beforehand hand to ensure readiness. Pratama is a student of the course with Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF.

Lance Cpl. Ronald Hinson from Heath Springs, South Carolina, competes in the push up challenge portion of the Shanghai Commanders’ Cup Nov. 14 at Camp Schwab. The meet tested the Marines in nine categories, ranging from fun events like softball and sumo wrestling to pull-up and push-up competitions. Every event was performed in a team setting further reinforcing camaraderie and cohesion. Hinson is a cyber-network operator with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Hinson from Heath Springs, South Carolina, competes in the push up challenge portion of the Shanghai Commanders’ Cup Nov. 14 at Camp Schwab. The meet tested the Marines in nine categories, ranging from fun events like softball and sumo wrestling to pull-up and push-up competitions. Every event was performed in a team setting further reinforcing camaraderie and cohesion. Hinson is a cyber-network operator with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program.

Cpl. Caleb Owens, from Melbourne, Iowa, prepares to fast-rope out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft with his military working dog, Dixie, Oct. 27 at Camp Hansen. After familiarizing themselves with fast-roping techniques by executing them with no gear, the Marines worked their way up to wearing full gear and then with their military working dogs as well. Owens is a military policeman, and a working dog handler. He and Dixie are with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF. - Cpl. Caleb Owens, from Melbourne, Iowa, prepares to fast-rope out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft with his military working dog, Dixie, Oct. 27 at Camp Hansen. After familiarizing themselves with fast-roping techniques by executing them with no gear, the Marines worked their way up to wearing full gear and then with their military working dogs as well. Owens is a military policeman, and a working dog handler. He and Dixie are with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF.

Guest of Honor Gen. John F. Kelly, Commander of U.S. Southern Command, speaks during the opening ceremony of New York City's annual Veterans Day Parade at Madison Square Park November 11, 2014. The parade, also known as America's Parade, highlights a different service each year. This year, the Marines were showcased for their legacy and traditions, which date back 239 years. - Guest of Honor Gen. John F. Kelly, Commander of U.S. Southern Command, speaks during the opening ceremony of New York City's annual Veterans Day Parade at Madison Square Park November 11, 2014. The parade, also known as America's Parade, highlights a different service each year. This year, the Marines were showcased for their legacy and traditions, which date back 239 years.

A Marine with Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, guards his post during a full-ship security drill aboard the cargo and ammunition ship USNS Medgar Evers, Nov. 4, 2014. The Marines worked in concert with civilians aboard the ship to test expeditionary resupply capabilities during exercise Bold Alligator 14, a training operation designed to test the Navy-Marine Corps team’s ability to conduct crisis response operations. - A Marine with Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, guards his post during a full-ship security drill aboard the cargo and ammunition ship USNS Medgar Evers, Nov. 4, 2014. The Marines worked in concert with civilians aboard the ship to test expeditionary resupply capabilities during exercise Bold Alligator 14, a training operation designed to test the Navy-Marine Corps team’s ability to conduct crisis response operations.

A CH-53E Super Stallion prepares to land Nov. 5 during a simulated tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise as part of exercise Blue Chromite 15 at LZ Dodo in the Central Training Area. The landing zone was near combat town, the last known location of the downed aircraft crew members. Upon arriving in combat town, the Marines had to engage opposing forces and track the crew members’ location. The CH-53E is with HMH-XXX, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - A CH-53E Super Stallion prepares to land Nov. 5 during a simulated tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise as part of exercise Blue Chromite 15 at LZ Dodo in the Central Training Area. The landing zone was near combat town, the last known location of the downed aircraft crew members. Upon arriving in combat town, the Marines had to engage opposing forces and track the crew members’ location. The CH-53E is with HMH-XXX, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

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U.S. Navy Lt. Yonatan Warren explains the history of the Bataan Death March at the memorial wall during Amphibious Landing Exercise 15, Oct. 8, 2014. More then 100 Marines visited the memorial over two days to learn more about the events of World War II that occurred in the Philippines. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marine and Navy Forces focused on strengthening the partnership and relationships between the two nations across a range of military operations including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations. Warren is the chaplain for Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - U.S. Navy Lt. Yonatan Warren explains the history of the Bataan Death March at the memorial wall during Amphibious Landing Exercise 15, Oct. 8, 2014. More then 100 Marines visited the memorial over two days to learn more about the events of World War II that occurred in the Philippines. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marine and Navy Forces focused on strengthening the partnership and relationships between the two nations across a range of military operations including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations. Warren is the chaplain for Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

The Blue Angels fly over Marina Green, San Francisco, during the San Francisco Fleet Week 2014 Air Show, Oct. 11. In partnership with the U.S. Navy, the Marine Corps is a force perfectly designed and suited for both crisis response and maritime security. No forces are more suitable to addressing emerging humanitarian assistance and disaster relief needs than naval amphibious forces. - The Blue Angels fly over Marina Green, San Francisco, during the San Francisco Fleet Week 2014 Air Show, Oct. 11. In partnership with the U.S. Navy, the Marine Corps is a force perfectly designed and suited for both crisis response and maritime security. No forces are more suitable to addressing emerging humanitarian assistance and disaster relief needs than naval amphibious forces.

A CH-53E Super Stallion lowers a M777 Howitzer and its ammunition onto a landing zone aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., as part of a reactionary combat training exercise Sept. 30, 2014. The purpose of the exercise was to build cohesion between and the aircraft’s crew and the Marines on the ground handling the equipment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Olivia C. McDonald/Released) - A CH-53E Super Stallion lowers a M777 Howitzer and its ammunition onto a landing zone aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., as part of a reactionary combat training exercise Sept. 30, 2014. The purpose of the exercise was to build cohesion between and the aircraft’s crew and the Marines on the ground handling the equipment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Olivia C. McDonald/Released)

A F-35B Lightning II with Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 taxies under a canopy aboard Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., Oct. 9. This is the squadron’s first F-35 Lightning II. - A F-35B Lightning II with Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 taxies under a canopy aboard Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., Oct. 9. This is the squadron’s first F-35 Lightning II.

New Orleans - John Zimmer, a security specialist at Headquarters Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, stands in the octagon minutes before his fight at the Caged Warrior Championship V on Oct. 4th, 2014, in Patterson, La. This was Zimmer’s first time competing in a mixed martial arts fight. - New Orleans - John Zimmer, a security specialist at Headquarters Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, stands in the octagon minutes before his fight at the Caged Warrior Championship V on Oct. 4th, 2014, in Patterson, La. This was Zimmer’s first time competing in a mixed martial arts fight.

An F/A-18 Hornet takes off from Andersen Air Force Base Oct. 1 during Forager Fury III. The overarching training exercise,which emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability while training within the Marianas Island range complex. The aircraft is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - An F/A-18 Hornet takes off from Andersen Air Force Base Oct. 1 during Forager Fury III. The overarching training exercise,which emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability while training within the Marianas Island range complex. The aircraft is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets are parked during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base Sept. 30. The aircraft are from multiple squadrons and were used in close air support, forward air controller training, air interdiction, air-to-air missions, defensive counter-air and offensive counter-air training events. The overarching training exercise involving 1,300 personnel emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground support on a unit level to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability within the Marianas Island range complex. - Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets are parked during Forager Fury III on Andersen Air Force Base Sept. 30. The aircraft are from multiple squadrons and were used in close air support, forward air controller training, air interdiction, air-to-air missions, defensive counter-air and offensive counter-air training events. The overarching training exercise involving 1,300 personnel emphasizes tactical aviation and aviation ground support on a unit level to further develop a distributed, expeditionary combat capability within the Marianas Island range complex.

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

A rifleman with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, hikes to his company objective during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 23, 2014. The MCCRE is designed to be a final evaluation to ensure the Marines are prepared to be deployed. The battalion is slated to deploy as the ground combat element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit next year. - A rifleman with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, hikes to his company objective during the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 23, 2014. The MCCRE is designed to be a final evaluation to ensure the Marines are prepared to be deployed. The battalion is slated to deploy as the ground combat element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit next year.

Marines purchase food and drinks from a local vendor Sept. 20 during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 at a compound near Tinian’s North Field, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei) - Marines purchase food and drinks from a local vendor Sept. 20 during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 at a compound near Tinian’s North Field, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei)

Marines load a diver propulsion device into a combat rubber raiding craft Sept. 20 at U.S. Naval Base Guam during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The device aids the Marines conducting night infiltration. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities, which provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are reconnaissance men with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines load a diver propulsion device into a combat rubber raiding craft Sept. 20 at U.S. Naval Base Guam during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The device aids the Marines conducting night infiltration. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities, which provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are reconnaissance men with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines load into the MV-22B Osprey to prepare to fast rope during the Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques course Aug. 20 at the Central Training Area. The students finalized their practical applications portion by performing rappels out of the aircraft. The Marines are with various units across III Marine Expeditionary Force. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF. - Marines load into the MV-22B Osprey to prepare to fast rope during the Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques course Aug. 20 at the Central Training Area. The students finalized their practical applications portion by performing rappels out of the aircraft. The Marines are with various units across III Marine Expeditionary Force. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF.

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

Manti Te’o, a San Diego Chargers’ linebacker, signs an autograph for a child during a military appreciation day aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 27. The Chargers practiced with the MCAS Miramar Falcons before socializing with fans. - Manti Te’o, a San Diego Chargers’ linebacker, signs an autograph for a child during a military appreciation day aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Aug. 27. The Chargers practiced with the MCAS Miramar Falcons before socializing with fans.

The 6th Annual Feds Feed Families Campaign began June 18, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. The campaign, which runs through August, is a voluntary effort undertaken by federal employees to bring nonperishable food items to their offices for distribution to local food banks. The food is used to support food insecure households in the surrounding communities. Donation boxes are located at the Marine Corps Exchanges on MCAS Beaufort and Laurel Bay and the Station Chapel. - The 6th Annual Feds Feed Families Campaign began June 18, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. The campaign, which runs through August, is a voluntary effort undertaken by federal employees to bring nonperishable food items to their offices for distribution to local food banks. The food is used to support food insecure households in the surrounding communities. Donation boxes are located at the Marine Corps Exchanges on MCAS Beaufort and Laurel Bay and the Station Chapel.

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