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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.

A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey flies over the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force warships, near Tokyo Bay, during the 28th iteration of the JMSDF Fleet Review, Oct. 18, 2015. Approximately 28 aircraft from the JMSDF, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps flew above the warship. The fleet review allowed the JMSDF to assess its readiness and demonstrated the Japanese and the U.S. commitment to enduring prosperity and security in the Asia-Pacific region. - A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey flies over the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force warships, near Tokyo Bay, during the 28th iteration of the JMSDF Fleet Review, Oct. 18, 2015. Approximately 28 aircraft from the JMSDF, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps flew above the warship. The fleet review allowed the JMSDF to assess its readiness and demonstrated the Japanese and the U.S. commitment to enduring prosperity and security in the Asia-Pacific region.

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.

A Marine with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment tests out the instant messaging function on a tablet device at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Oct. 14, 2015. The tablets are wirelessly connected through an encrypted internal Wi-Fi network allowing Marines to coordinate and maneuver more efficiently in a tactical environment while securely using various applications on the devices. - A Marine with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment tests out the instant messaging function on a tablet device at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Oct. 14, 2015. The tablets are wirelessly connected through an encrypted internal Wi-Fi network allowing Marines to coordinate and maneuver more efficiently in a tactical environment while securely using various applications on the devices.

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 13 attach a 6,200 pound steel girder to a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 166, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, during external lift training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Oct. 14. The squadron conducted the training to maintain proficiency in transporting external cargo. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 13 attach a 6,200 pound steel girder to a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 166, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, during external lift training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Oct. 14. The squadron conducted the training to maintain proficiency in transporting external cargo.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Josh J. Neahusan, right, applies camouflage paint during a sniper training exchange exercise between Marines of the Republic of Korea and the U.S. at Baengnyeongdo, Republic of Korea, Sept. 11, 2015. Marines from both countries exchanged weapon systems, methods of concealment, and capabilities throughout the training. The exercise was part of Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-13, a bilateral training exercise that enhances the ROK and U.S. alliance, promotes stability on the Korean Peninsula, and strengthens ROK and U.S. military capabilities. Neahusan, from Middletown, Maryland, is a scout sniper attached to Echo Company, 2nd 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 6th Force Recon Company, 6th Brigade, 2nd ROK Marine Corps Division. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Josh J. Neahusan, right, applies camouflage paint during a sniper training exchange exercise between Marines of the Republic of Korea and the U.S. at Baengnyeongdo, Republic of Korea, Sept. 11, 2015. Marines from both countries exchanged weapon systems, methods of concealment, and capabilities throughout the training. The exercise was part of Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-13, a bilateral training exercise that enhances the ROK and U.S. alliance, promotes stability on the Korean Peninsula, and strengthens ROK and U.S. military capabilities. Neahusan, from Middletown, Maryland, is a scout sniper attached to Echo Company, 2nd 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 6th Force Recon Company, 6th Brigade, 2nd ROK Marine Corps Division.

Marine Corps Capt. Paul Keller, a pilot with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, assesses the firmness of the expeditionary safety equipment that he flawlessly landed an MV-22 Osprey on after the aircraft experienced a technical malfunction with its landing gear, Oct. 9, 2015 in Southwest Asia. - Marine Corps Capt. Paul Keller, a pilot with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, assesses the firmness of the expeditionary safety equipment that he flawlessly landed an MV-22 Osprey on after the aircraft experienced a technical malfunction with its landing gear, Oct. 9, 2015 in Southwest Asia.

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.

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.

U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Eric Alabiso, right, a military information operations advisor with Task Force Al Asad, helps an Iraqi soldier with the 7th Iraqi Army Division set up a Radio in a Box at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Sept. 28, 2015. The RIAB was provided by Iraq’s Ministry of Defense through the Iraq Train and Equip Fund. The fund was established by Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, a part of the multinational coalition force that helps improve the Iraqi military’s ability to fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant by providing training and advice to its soldiers and officers. - U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Eric Alabiso, right, a military information operations advisor with Task Force Al Asad, helps an Iraqi soldier with the 7th Iraqi Army Division set up a Radio in a Box at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Sept. 28, 2015. The RIAB was provided by Iraq’s Ministry of Defense through the Iraq Train and Equip Fund. The fund was established by Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, a part of the multinational coalition force that helps improve the Iraqi military’s ability to fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant by providing training and advice to its soldiers and officers.

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.

Marines conducted a Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration during the 2015 MCAS Miramar Air Show aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Oct. 2. This year's air show theme honored veterans and their families. - Marines conducted a Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration during the 2015 MCAS Miramar Air Show aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Oct. 2. This year's air show theme honored veterans and their families.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Paul J. Kennedy, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, commanding general, left, speaks with Philippine Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Alexander F. Balutan, Armed Force Philippines, Naval Inspector General, during the opening ceremony for Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (PHIBLEX 15) at the Philippine Marine Corps Base in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 1, 2015. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by U.S. Marine and Navy Forces with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across the range of military operations from disaster relief, to complex expeditionary operations. - U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Paul J. Kennedy, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, commanding general, left, speaks with Philippine Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Alexander F. Balutan, Armed Force Philippines, Naval Inspector General, during the opening ceremony for Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (PHIBLEX 15) at the Philippine Marine Corps Base in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Philippines, Oct. 1, 2015. PHIBLEX 15 is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by U.S. Marine and Navy Forces with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across the range of military operations from disaster relief, to complex expeditionary operations.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Carlson, right, dismounts the rappel rope during a company competition for Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-12 at Yooghuk Dae, Munseu San Mountain, Republic of Korea, Sept. 11, 2015. The U.S. and ROK Marines participated in a race of the fastest company to complete rappelling, rock climbing and rope climbing before a sprint to the finish line. KMEP 15-12 is a bilateral training exercise that enhances the ROK and U.S. alliance, promotes stability on the Korean Peninsula and strengthens ROK and U.S. military capabilities and interoperability. Carlson, from Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a rifleman with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Division and attached through the Unit Deployment Program to III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are with 11th Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ROK Headquarters Marine Corps. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Carlson, right, dismounts the rappel rope during a company competition for Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-12 at Yooghuk Dae, Munseu San Mountain, Republic of Korea, Sept. 11, 2015. The U.S. and ROK Marines participated in a race of the fastest company to complete rappelling, rock climbing and rope climbing before a sprint to the finish line. KMEP 15-12 is a bilateral training exercise that enhances the ROK and U.S. alliance, promotes stability on the Korean Peninsula and strengthens ROK and U.S. military capabilities and interoperability. Carlson, from Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a rifleman with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Division and attached through the Unit Deployment Program to III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are with 11th Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, ROK Headquarters Marine Corps.

Cpl. Seth Dixon (left), a field radio operator with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and Blue Ridge, Georgia, native, speaks to Cpl. Terry Summerfield (center), a technician with 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, and San Diego native, and Cpl. John Boyd (right), a field radio operator with 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, and Lagrange, Georgia, native, at the Boondocker Training Area aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii during training exercise Island Viper, Sept. 22, 2015. The purpose of Island Viper was to help companies within the battalion ensure their service members have been properly trained and have met all training requirements before deployment. - Cpl. Seth Dixon (left), a field radio operator with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and Blue Ridge, Georgia, native, speaks to Cpl. Terry Summerfield (center), a technician with 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, and San Diego native, and Cpl. John Boyd (right), a field radio operator with 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines, and Lagrange, Georgia, native, at the Boondocker Training Area aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii during training exercise Island Viper, Sept. 22, 2015. The purpose of Island Viper was to help companies within the battalion ensure their service members have been properly trained and have met all training requirements before deployment.

Maj. Gen. Burke Whitman, Headquarters Marine Corps director of Marine and family readiness, presents the American flag to the family of 1st Lt. Alexander Bonnyman Jr. at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery in Knoxville, Tenn., Sept. 27, 2015. Bonnyman joined Marine Forces Reserve in July 1942 and was killed while fighting in the battle of Tarawa in 1943. Bonnyman’s remains were discovered in Tarawa 72 years after he was buried there. - Maj. Gen. Burke Whitman, Headquarters Marine Corps director of Marine and family readiness, presents the American flag to the family of 1st Lt. Alexander Bonnyman Jr. at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery in Knoxville, Tenn., Sept. 27, 2015. Bonnyman joined Marine Forces Reserve in July 1942 and was killed while fighting in the battle of Tarawa in 1943. Bonnyman’s remains were discovered in Tarawa 72 years after he was buried there.

Second Lt. Aaron Burtner, security cooperation team leader, poses for a photo with Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commandos after completing their final exercise with U.S. service members in Dakar, Senegal, September 17, 2015. The Marines and Coast Guardsmen with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa spent four weeks training the COFUMACO on basic infantry tactics and small-boat operations as a part of a Maritime Security Force Assistance mission to increase interoperability with Senegal’s and strengthen the bond between the partner nations. - Second Lt. Aaron Burtner, security cooperation team leader, poses for a photo with Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commandos after completing their final exercise with U.S. service members in Dakar, Senegal, September 17, 2015. The Marines and Coast Guardsmen with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa spent four weeks training the COFUMACO on basic infantry tactics and small-boat operations as a part of a Maritime Security Force Assistance mission to increase interoperability with Senegal’s and strengthen the bond between the partner nations.

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.

Gen. Robert B. Neller, the 37th and new Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks during his passage of command ceremony at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, D.C., Sept. 24, 2015. Gen. Dunford relinquished the position to Gen. Robert B. Neller after being confirmed to succeed U.S. Army Gen. Martin Dempsey as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. - Gen. Robert B. Neller, the 37th and new Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks during his passage of command ceremony at Marine Corps Barracks Washington, D.C., Sept. 24, 2015. Gen. Dunford relinquished the position to Gen. Robert B. Neller after being confirmed to succeed U.S. Army Gen. Martin Dempsey as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

September is the month of Suicide Prevention. Suicide Prevention Month aims to spread information about suicide awareness, decrease stigmatization regarding suicide and raise awareness that suicide is preventable. - September is the month of Suicide Prevention. Suicide Prevention Month aims to spread information about suicide awareness, decrease stigmatization regarding suicide and raise awareness that suicide is preventable.

Lance Cpl. Trent Meade, a rifleman with Security Cooperation Team-4, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, instructs a Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando on supporting his buddy during an immediate action practical application exercise led by Marines in Toubacouta, Senegal, Sept. 1, 2015. Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen with SCT-4 are in Senegal training with the COFUMACO on infantry tactics and small-boat operations to continue building a strong relationship between the partner nations and improve the interoperability of the Senegalese military. - Lance Cpl. Trent Meade, a rifleman with Security Cooperation Team-4, Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, instructs a Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando on supporting his buddy during an immediate action practical application exercise led by Marines in Toubacouta, Senegal, Sept. 1, 2015. Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen with SCT-4 are in Senegal training with the COFUMACO on infantry tactics and small-boat operations to continue building a strong relationship between the partner nations and improve the interoperability of the Senegalese military.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. Akito Yagi attaches vegetation to his sniper rifle while performing stalking drills during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 10, 2015. The Marines sat up on a high embankment, trying to catch the JGSDF stalking the target with binoculars. Forest Light is a semiannual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events, conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. Yagi is a sniper with 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. Akito Yagi attaches vegetation to his sniper rifle while performing stalking drills during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 10, 2015. The Marines sat up on a high embankment, trying to catch the JGSDF stalking the target with binoculars. Forest Light is a semiannual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events, conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. Yagi is a sniper with 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade.

Sgt. Sugimoto Yoshitaka fires the Type 01 LMAT Anti-Tank Missile System during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marines shared knowledge about different anti-tank missile systems. After giving specifications of their respective weapon systems, the two forces used practice rounds to demonstrate how well the weapon systems work. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points training, helicopter borne skills and combined arms procedures. Sugimoto is an anti-tank missile man with 50th infantry regiment, 14th Brigade. - Sgt. Sugimoto Yoshitaka fires the Type 01 LMAT Anti-Tank Missile System during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 7, 2015. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marines shared knowledge about different anti-tank missile systems. After giving specifications of their respective weapon systems, the two forces used practice rounds to demonstrate how well the weapon systems work. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points training, helicopter borne skills and combined arms procedures. Sugimoto is an anti-tank missile man with 50th infantry regiment, 14th Brigade.

U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members salute as each nations’ national anthem plays marking the beginning of Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of combined mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points, combined helicopter borne skills and combined-arms training. The JGSDF members are from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self Defense Force members salute as each nations’ national anthem plays marking the beginning of Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. Forest Light will take place Sept. 7-18 with approximately 240 Marines working next to 350 JGSDF members. The exercise will consist of combined mortar live fire, establishing forward arming and refueling points, combined helicopter borne skills and combined-arms training. The JGSDF members are from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. The Marines are with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force member prepares to fire a 120mm mortar during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. The JGSDF and U.S. Marines took turns calling fire missions, prepping the mortar for fire, and firing the mortar. Forest Light is a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. The JGSDF member is from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade. - A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force member prepares to fire a 120mm mortar during Forest Light 16-1 at Camp Imazu, Takashima, Japan, Sept. 6, 2015. The JGSDF and U.S. Marines took turns calling fire missions, prepping the mortar for fire, and firing the mortar. Forest Light is a semi-annual, bilateral exercise consisting of a command post exercise and multiple field training events conducted by elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force and the JGSDF. The JGSDF member is from 50th Infantry Regiment, 14th Brigade.

Mexican Navy sailors stand in formation on the deck of Mexican ship ARM Usumacinta during a media visit held in conjunction with Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 6. Mexican Naval Forces are participating as observers in Exercise Dawn Blitz for the first time in 2015, with the hope of developing a stronger and more effective amphibious presence. - Mexican Navy sailors stand in formation on the deck of Mexican ship ARM Usumacinta during a media visit held in conjunction with Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 6. Mexican Naval Forces are participating as observers in Exercise Dawn Blitz for the first time in 2015, with the hope of developing a stronger and more effective amphibious presence.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division use a compass to determine their left and right lateral limits on the beaches of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-based operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division use a compass to determine their left and right lateral limits on the beaches of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-based operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand.

Two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Landing Craft Air Cushion vessels maneuver past Japanese ship Hyuga during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 3, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside coalition forces. - Two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Landing Craft Air Cushion vessels maneuver past Japanese ship Hyuga during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 off the coast of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 3, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside coalition forces.

A Marine with 3rd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company and a Japanese soldier shake hands prior to the start of a live-fire shoot together during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 at San Clemente Island, California, Sept. 1, 2015. ANGLICO Marines and Japanese soldiers conducted a combined arms shoot with naval gunfire, attack rotary aircraft and 120mm mortars. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand. - A Marine with 3rd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company and a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force soldier shake hands prior to the start of a live-fire shoot together during Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 at San Clemente Island, California, Sept. 1, 2015. ANGLICO Marines and the JGSDF conducted a combined arms shoot with naval gunfire, attack rotary aircraft and 120mm mortars. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-basing operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand.

A Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando demonstrates his swimming technique during a swim assessment by personnel with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, during a swim assessment in Dakar, Senegal, Aug. 28, 2015. The assessment was conducted to ensure the COFUMACO are capable and confident in the water before they conduct small-boat operations training together in the following weeks. - A Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commando demonstrates his swimming technique during a swim assessment by personnel with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, during a swim assessment in Dakar, Senegal, Aug. 28, 2015. The assessment was conducted to ensure the COFUMACO are capable and confident in the water before they conduct small-boat operations training together in the following weeks.

Sgt. Dashien R. Pettigrew runs through the OC Spray Performance Evaluation Course on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, during the Non-Lethal Weapons Instructor Course, Aug. 27, 2015. This inter-service course is only offered once a year on Okinawa. Pettigrew, from Moncks Corner, South Carolina, is an ammunition technician with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, and will have the collateral duty of non-lethal weapons instructor upon completion of the course. - Sgt. Dashien R. Pettigrew runs through the OC Spray Performance Evaluation Course on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, during the Non-Lethal Weapons Instructor Course, Aug. 27, 2015. This inter-service course is only offered once a year on Okinawa. Pettigrew, from Moncks Corner, South Carolina, is an ammunition technician with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, and will have the collateral duty of non-lethal weapons instructor upon completion of the course.

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U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Riley Remoket, with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fills a water bull at a water distribution site during typhoon relief efforts in Saipan, Aug. 19, 2015. The Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and CLB 31, 31st MEU, assisted the locals of Saipan by producing and distributing potable water. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU were conducting training near the Mariana Islands when they were redirected to Saipan after the island was struck by Typhoon Soudelor Aug. 2-3. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Riley Remoket, with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fills a water bull at a water distribution site during typhoon relief efforts in Saipan, Aug. 19, 2015. The Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and CLB 31, 31st MEU, assisted the locals of Saipan by producing and distributing potable water. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU were conducting training near the Mariana Islands when they were redirected to Saipan after the island was struck by Typhoon Soudelor Aug. 2-3.

A Marine with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment sights in on a target in a preparatory exercise for Large Scale Exercise 15 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 11, 2015. LSE-15 is a combined U.S. Marine Corps, Canadian Band British Exercise conducted at the brigade level, designed to enable live, virtual and constructive training for participating forces. - A Marine with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment sights in on a target in a preparatory exercise for Large Scale Exercise 15 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 11, 2015. LSE-15 is a combined U.S. Marine Corps, Canadian Band British Exercise conducted at the brigade level, designed to enable live, virtual and constructive training for participating forces.

Marines with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, and 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, practice handling a simulated enraged enemy during the culminating event of 1st Marine Division Schools’ Urban Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 12, 2015. The course is a 15-day period of instruction that includes classwork, combat marksmanship and physical training in a simulated urban combat environment. - Marines with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, and 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, practice handling a simulated enraged enemy during the culminating event of 1st Marine Division Schools’ Urban Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 12, 2015. The course is a 15-day period of instruction that includes classwork, combat marksmanship and physical training in a simulated urban combat environment.

Marines with Company C, 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve drive an assault amphibious vehicle from land into the water during a basic operations exercise at the Galveston Marine Corps Reserve, Home Training Center, Aug. 8, 2015. The exercise served as a refresher for the Marines on how to perform basic AAV operations. During the exercise, the Marines drove the AAVs from land to water and performed basic water operations such as left and right turns, forward and reverse, circles and tactic formations. - Marines with Company C, 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve drive an assault amphibious vehicle from land into the water during a basic operations exercise at the Galveston Marine Corps Reserve, Home Training Center, Aug. 8, 2015. The exercise served as a refresher for the Marines on how to perform basic AAV operations. During the exercise, the Marines drove the AAVs from land to water and performed basic water operations such as left and right turns, forward and reverse, circles and tactic formations.

Marines of Battery M, 3rd Battalion 14th Marine Regiment, Marine Forces Reserve, march together at the Methodist Church in Hixson, Tennessee, July 24, 2015. The Marines attended the funeral of their fallen brother, Staff Sgt. David A. Wyatt, one of five service members killed by a gunman at the Naval Operational Support Center and Marine Corps Reserve Center on July 16, 2015. Wyatt was taken to the Chattanooga National Cemetery after the church service to be laid to rest with full military honors. - Marines of Battery M, 3rd Battalion 14th Marine Regiment, Marine Forces Reserve, march together at the Methodist Church in Hixson, Tennessee, July 24, 2015. The Marines attended the funeral of their fallen brother, Staff Sgt. David A. Wyatt, one of five service members killed by a gunman at the Naval Operational Support Center and Marine Corps Reserve Center on July 16, 2015. Wyatt was taken to the Chattanooga National Cemetery after the church service to be laid to rest with full military honors.

Marines with Truck Company, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, standby for explosive ordnance disposal to arrive while keeping vigilant for possible enemy combatants during a motorized operations course aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 30. The Marines performed the exercise to better themselves in the event of a real-life scenario. - Marines with Truck Company, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, standby for explosive ordnance disposal to arrive while keeping vigilant for possible enemy combatants during a motorized operations course aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 30. The Marines performed the exercise to better themselves in the event of a real-life scenario.

Service members, veterans and civilians hold American flags as they stand outside the First Baptist Church of Woodstock entrance, waiting for Lance Cpl. Squire “Skip” Wells’ casket to arrive July 26, 2015 in Woodstock, Georgia. Wells was one of five service members killed during a shooting at the Naval Operational Support Center and Marine Corps Reserve Center on July 16, 2015. More than a thousand people attended the funeral service to pay their respects and show support to Wells and his family. - Service members, veterans and civilians hold American flags as they stand outside the First Baptist Church of Woodstock entrance, waiting for Lance Cpl. Squire “Skip” Wells’ casket to arrive July 26, 2015 in Woodstock, Georgia. Wells was one of five service members killed during a shooting at the Naval Operational Support Center and Marine Corps Reserve Center on July 16, 2015. More than a thousand people attended the funeral service to pay their respects and show support to Wells and his family.

Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Daniel Valerio, left, Hospital Corpsman Mc Joe Evans Bautista, center, and Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Trevor A. Tisby, right, stationed with Combat Logistics Company 36 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, place Sgt. Kendrick Moore, a motor transport operator with CLC-36, onto the stretcher during Exercise Dragon Fire 2015 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, July 20, 2015. Moore simulated an unexpected injury during this training scenario that allowed the corpsmen to respond as if there was a real emergency. Dragon Fire reinforces Marines’ and Sailors’ combat mindset to prepare them for the mental and physical stresses of a combat zone. - Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Daniel Valerio, left, Hospital Corpsman Mc Joe Evans Bautista, center, and Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Trevor A. Tisby, right, stationed with Combat Logistics Company 36 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, place Sgt. Kendrick Moore, a motor transport operator with CLC-36, onto the stretcher during Exercise Dragon Fire 2015 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, July 20, 2015. Moore simulated an unexpected injury during this training scenario that allowed the corpsmen to respond as if there was a real emergency. Dragon Fire reinforces Marines’ and Sailors’ combat mindset to prepare them for the mental and physical stresses of a combat zone.

Sgt. William G. Byington performs a parachute landing fall June 19 as part of the basic airborne refresher at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, before conducting a rehearsal for Talisman Sabre 15. Prior to a live jump, all service members are required to practice parachute landing falls. U.S. Marines, Soldiers, Airmen and Australian soldiers trained June 9 through July 5 in preparation for a mass airborne attack during Talisman Sabre 15. Talisman Sabre is an exercise designed to improve U.S. and Australian combat training, readiness and interoperability. The service members are a part of the Pacific Command’s Combined Task Force 660 for Talisman Sabre. - Sgt. William G. Byington performs a parachute landing fall June 19 as part of the basic airborne refresher at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, before conducting a rehearsal for Talisman Sabre 15. Prior to a live jump, all service members are required to practice parachute landing falls. U.S. Marines, Soldiers, Airmen and Australian soldiers trained June 9 through July 5 in preparation for a mass airborne attack during Talisman Sabre 15. Talisman Sabre is an exercise designed to improve U.S. and Australian combat training, readiness and interoperability. The service members are a part of the Pacific Command’s Combined Task Force 660 for Talisman Sabre.

Marines with 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, drive assault amphibious vehicles to shore from the USS Whidbey Island during amphibious training operations in the waters off the coast of Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 16, 2015. The exercise allowed Marines to fulfill their required ship operations and gave sailors aboard the Whidbey Island the opportunity to work with Marines during their own amphibious training. - Marines with 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, drive assault amphibious vehicles to shore from the USS Whidbey Island during amphibious training operations in the waters off the coast of Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 16, 2015. The exercise allowed Marines to fulfill their required ship operations and gave sailors aboard the Whidbey Island the opportunity to work with Marines during their own amphibious training.

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.

The ramp on the Landing Craft Utility 2000 is lowered and unloading of vehicles begins at Anmyeon Beach, Republic of Korea. CJLOTS 2015 is an exercise designed to train U.S. and ROK service members to accomplish vital logistical measures in a strategic area while strengthening communication and cooperation in the U.S. - ROK Alliance. - The ramp on the Landing Craft Utility 2000 is lowered and unloading of vehicles begins at Anmyeon Beach, Republic of Korea. CJLOTS 2015 is an exercise designed to train U.S. and ROK service members to accomplish vital logistical measures in a strategic area while strengthening communication and cooperation in the U.S. - ROK Alliance.

Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion and 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, measure detonation cord and create breaching charges during the urban breaching portion of a demolition package at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 10, 2015. The demolition package was conducted in preparation for an upcoming deployment, where the two units will be working together in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response- Africa. - Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion and 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, measure detonation cord and create breaching charges during the urban breaching portion of a demolition package at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 10, 2015. The demolition package was conducted in preparation for an upcoming deployment, where the two units will be working together in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response- Africa.

U.S. Marines and Australian service members move into defensive positions for the night after conducting an amphibious assault at Fog Bay, Australia, July 11, 2015. The Marines with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Australians with Combat Team Bravo, 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, assaulted the beach and moved inland to secure additional objectives as part of Talisman Sabre 2015. Talisman Sabre is a biennial exercise designed to improve the interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. The 31st MEU is taking part in the exercise while deployed on its regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines and Australian service members move into defensive positions for the night after conducting an amphibious assault at Fog Bay, Australia, July 11, 2015. The Marines with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Australians with Combat Team Bravo, 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, assaulted the beach and moved inland to secure additional objectives as part of Talisman Sabre 2015. Talisman Sabre is a biennial exercise designed to improve the interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. The 31st MEU is taking part in the exercise while deployed on its regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

1st Lt. Carson Fletcher, assigned to Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, speaks with an Australian Army Soldier, assigned to 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, during an amphibious assault for Talisman Sabre 2015 at Fog Bay, Australia, July 11, 2015. Talisman Sabre is a biennial exercise that provides an invaluable opportunity for nearly 30,000 U.S. and Australian defense forces to conduct operations in a combined, joint and interagency environment that will increase both countries’ ability to plan and execute a full range of operations from combat missions to humanitarian assistance efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel M. Young/Released) - 1st Lt. Carson Fletcher, assigned to Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, speaks with an Australian Army Soldier, assigned to 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, during an amphibious assault for Talisman Sabre 2015 at Fog Bay, Australia, July 11, 2015. Talisman Sabre is a biennial exercise that provides an invaluable opportunity for nearly 30,000 U.S. and Australian defense forces to conduct operations in a combined, joint and interagency environment that will increase both countries’ ability to plan and execute a full range of operations from combat missions to humanitarian assistance efforts.

Marines, sailors and coast guardsmen assigned to Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa and members of the Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commandos pose for a picture after a graduation ceremony in St. Louis, Senegal, July 9, 2015. More than 30 members of the Fusilier Marins graduated a nearly six-week long maritime security force assistance training course, where the U.S. service members taught the Senegalese small-boat operations and light infantry skills. - Marines, sailors and coast guardsmen assigned to Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa and members of the Compagnie Fusilier de Marin Commandos pose for a picture after a graduation ceremony in St. Louis, Senegal, July 9, 2015. More than 30 members of the Fusilier Marins graduated a nearly six-week long maritime security force assistance training course, where the U.S. service members taught the Senegalese small-boat operations and light infantry skills.

Lance Cpl. Ali J. Mohammed poses for a photo with a Humvee aboard Al Taqaddum Air Base, Iraq, July 4, 2015. Mohammed is originally from Baghdad and is now serving in the U.S. Marine Corps as a supply Marine. He is currently deployed as an Arabic interpreter for Task Force Al Taqaddum. - Lance Cpl. Ali J. Mohammed poses for a photo with a Humvee aboard Al Taqaddum Air Base, Iraq, July 4, 2015. Mohammed is originally from Baghdad and is now serving in the U.S. Marine Corps as a supply Marine. He is currently deployed as an Arabic interpreter for Task Force Al Taqaddum.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Bruce Beard escorts a high profile target to a detainee retention center during the culminating event of Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-11 in Pohang, Republic of Korea, May 16, 2015. KMEP 15-11 is focused on exchanging law enforcement techniques, tactics and procedures while enhancing relations across the Korean Peninsula. Beard is a military policeman with Alpha Company, 3rd Law Enforcement, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Bruce Beard escorts a high profile target to a detainee retention center during the culminating event of Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-11 in Pohang, Republic of Korea, May 16, 2015. KMEP 15-11 is focused on exchanging law enforcement techniques, tactics and procedures while enhancing relations across the Korean Peninsula. Beard is a military policeman with Alpha Company, 3rd Law Enforcement, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF.