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Two MV-22B Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 (Reinforced) prepare for a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 18. Marines conducted casualty evacuation drills as part of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit predeployment training. - Two MV-22B Ospreys with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 (Reinforced) prepare for a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 18. Marines conducted casualty evacuation drills as part of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit predeployment training.

Marine air crew with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 oversees ground Marines from within a CH-53E Super Stallion during an external lift exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. The air crew within carefully observed the ground team to ensure they securely attached their 8,500-pound high beam to a pintle hook below. - Marine air crew with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 oversees ground Marines from within a CH-53E Super Stallion during an external lift exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. The air crew within carefully observed the ground team to ensure they securely attached their 8,500-pound high beam to a pintle hook below.

Sgt. Jason Hunter, the training noncommissioned officer in charge of Headquarters Company, 3rd Marine Regiment and a Murrieta, Calif., native, keeps his head low as he low crawls along Fort Hase Beach aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii during Sergeants Course, Aug. 19, 2015. Hunter, along with the other sergeants in the course, were low crawling in a tricky scenario where they were outnumbered four to one, and needed to repair a broken down vehicle. Sergeants Course is a vital part of professional military education for any Marine and helps to maintain the standards amongst the NCOs of the Marine Corps. The course supports MCB Hawaii’s mission, which is to provide facilities, programs and services in direct support of units, individuals and families to enhance and sustain combat readiness for all operating forces and tenant organizations aboard the installation. - Sgt. Jason Hunter, the training noncommissioned officer in charge of Headquarters Company, 3rd Marine Regiment and a Murrieta, Calif., native, keeps his head low as he low crawls along Fort Hase Beach aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii during Sergeants Course, Aug. 19, 2015. Hunter, along with the other sergeants in the course, were low crawling in a tricky scenario where they were outnumbered four to one, and needed to repair a broken down vehicle. Sergeants Course is a vital part of professional military education for any Marine and helps to maintain the standards amongst the NCOs of the Marine Corps. The course supports MCB Hawaii’s mission, which is to provide facilities, programs and services in direct support of units, individuals and families to enhance and sustain combat readiness for all operating forces and tenant organizations aboard the installation.

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion conduct the 1,000 meter open water fin training for a pre-dive course conducted aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. Aug. 18, 2015. During the course the Marines are critiqued on both their capabilities in a pool setting and in open water. After completion of the course, Marines who pass the final evaluation will go on to the Marine Combatant Diver Course at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, Panama City, Fla. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion conduct the 1,000 meter open water fin training for a pre-dive course conducted aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. Aug. 18, 2015. During the course the Marines are critiqued on both their capabilities in a pool setting and in open water. After completion of the course, Marines who pass the final evaluation will go on to the Marine Combatant Diver Course at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, Panama City, Fla.

Marines prepare F/A-18C Hornets to take off from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort to during Exercise Sentry Savannah 2015, Aug. 21. Several squadrons from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, including Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 flew training exercises for Sentry Savannah. The Marines are with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115, Marine Aircraft Group 31. - Marines prepare F/A-18C Hornets to take off from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort to during Exercise Sentry Savannah 2015, Aug. 21. Several squadrons from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, including Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 flew training exercises for Sentry Savannah. The Marines are with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115, Marine Aircraft Group 31.

Marines from Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Divison, I Marine Expeditionary Force, are suspended from a UH-1Y Huey helicopter during an exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 18, 2015. Utilizing both fast-roping and Special Patrol Insertion and Extraction rigging methods, the purpose of the training exercise was to integrate operational coordination between the I MEF Ground Combat Element and Air Combat Element. - Marines from Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Divison, I Marine Expeditionary Force, are suspended from a UH-1Y Huey helicopter during an exercise on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 18, 2015. Utilizing both fast-roping and Special Patrol Insertion and Extraction rigging methods, the purpose of the training exercise was to integrate operational coordination between the I MEF Ground Combat Element and Air Combat Element.

Cpl. Mason Stone, left, a KC-130J crewmaster, Staff Sgt. David Hoyt, middle, a KC-130J loadmaster, and Cpl. Greg Gambrell, right, a KC-130J crewmaster, set up the refueling site for air delivery ground refueling training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 21, 2015. Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 uses this training to make sure their Marines are able to proficiently use all of the KC-130J’s assets. - Cpl. Mason Stone, left, a KC-130J crewmaster, Staff Sgt. David Hoyt, middle, a KC-130J loadmaster, and Cpl. Greg Gambrell, right, a KC-130J crewmaster, set up the refueling site for air delivery ground refueling training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 21, 2015. Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 uses this training to make sure their Marines are able to proficiently use all of the KC-130J’s assets.

Cpl. Steele Hartmann, left, and Lance Cpl. Daniel Lark, stand their post, sighting down the entry control point during an airbase ground defense field operation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, Aug. 19, 2015. Nearly 300 Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 were involved in the field operation by providing security for ground operations during portrayed enemy attacks. Hartmann is a combat engineer and Lark is an aircraft rescue and firefighting specialist, both with MWSS-271. - Cpl. Steele Hartmann, left, and Lance Cpl. Daniel Lark, stand their post, sighting down the entry control point during an airbase ground defense field operation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, Aug. 19, 2015. Nearly 300 Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 were involved in the field operation by providing security for ground operations during portrayed enemy attacks. Hartmann is a combat engineer and Lark is an aircraft rescue and firefighting specialist, both with MWSS-271.

A graphic illustration of the new F-35B Lightning II hangar slated to be completed October 2016 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Aug. 20. The construction project includes aircraft parking near the hangars and an aircraft access apron. A three-level parking garage is being constructed adjacent to the brand new facility. - A graphic illustration of the new F-35B Lightning II hangar slated to be completed October 2016 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Aug. 20. The construction project includes aircraft parking near the hangars and an aircraft access apron. A three-level parking garage is being constructed adjacent to the brand new facility.

A Marine with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, sights in during a maneuver exercise in support of Large Scale Exercise 15 in the vicinity of the Blacktop Training Area aboard the Combat Center, Aug. 15, 2015. The ground maneuver element, consisting of fire support teams transported by Amphibious Assault Vehicles, was tasked with assaulting two objectives. - A Marine with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, sights in during a maneuver exercise in support of Large Scale Exercise 15 in the vicinity of the Blacktop Training Area aboard the Combat Center, Aug. 15, 2015. The ground maneuver element, consisting of fire support teams transported by Amphibious Assault Vehicles, was tasked with assaulting two objectives.

A Japanese security guard executes a knee strike during nonlethal weapons and level one oleoresin capsicum spray training aboard Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 14. According to Delekto, the security augmentation force instructor and staff noncommissioned officer with mobile training team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, nonlethal weapons training includes all weapons and techniques that are not inherently deadly, such as batons, defensive tactics, pepper-based spray, and mechanical-advantage control holds. - A Japanese security guard executes a knee strike during nonlethal weapons and level one oleoresin capsicum spray training aboard Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 14. According to Delekto, the security augmentation force instructor and staff noncommissioned officer with mobile training team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, nonlethal weapons training includes all weapons and techniques that are not inherently deadly, such as batons, defensive tactics, pepper-based spray, and mechanical-advantage control holds.

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Marines with 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion wait for the final check of their amphibious assault vehicles and then go ahead to conduct their training exercise on Onslow Beach aboard Camp Lejeune N.C. Aug. 17, 2015. Doing a double check of the AAVs is paramount for safety in making sure everything is in working order. - Marines with 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion wait for the final check of their assault amphibious vehicles and then go ahead to conduct their training exercise on Onslow Beach at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune N.C. Aug. 17, 2015. Doing a double check of the AAVs is paramount for safety in making sure everything is in working order.

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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.

Ishikawa police officers Chikae Higa, left, Satoshi Goto, center, and Hisakazu Higa detain a simulated aggressive trespasser, Takao Agarijo, during a bilateral scenario-based training exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 5, 2015. The training increased teamwork between Ishikawa Police Station and the Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler Provost Marshal's Office, Precinct North, Camp Hansen. - Ishikawa police officers Chikae Higa, left, Satoshi Goto, center, and Hisakazu Higa detain a simulated aggressive trespasser, Takao Agarijo, during a bilateral scenario-based training exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 5, 2015. The training increased teamwork between Ishikawa Police Station and the Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler Provost Marshal's Office, Precinct North, Camp Hansen.

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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.

Lance Cpl. Gentry Osborne, an anti-tank missile man with Combined Anti-Armor Team Platoon, Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, operates a simulated M41A4 Saber missile system during a simulated anti-armor exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 8, 2015. The simulated Saber challenged Marines with its inclusion of friendly and enemy targets, testing their judgement before firing. - Lance Cpl. Gentry Osborne, an anti-tank missile man with Combined Anti-Armor Team Platoon, Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, operates a simulated M41A4 Saber missile system during a simulated anti-armor exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., August 8, 2015. The simulated Saber challenged Marines with its inclusion of friendly and enemy targets, testing their judgement before firing.

Rear Adm. Cynthia Thebaud, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group Two takes the shooter stance while she launches an F-35B Lightning II off the flight deck of USS Wasp, on the Atlantic Ocean, May 26, 2015. Wasp, with VMFA-121 and VMFAT-501 embarked, is underway conducting the first phase of operational testing for the F-35B aircraft, which will evaluate the full spectrum of F-35B measures of suitability and effectiveness in an at-sea environment. - Rear Adm. Cynthia Thebaud, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group Two takes the shooter stance while she launches an F-35B Lightning II off the flight deck of USS Wasp, on the Atlantic Ocean, May 26, 2015. Wasp, with VMFA-121 and VMFAT-501 embarked, is underway conducting the first phase of operational testing for the F-35B aircraft, which will evaluate the full spectrum of F-35B measures of suitability and effectiveness in an at-sea environment.

Corporal Chris Stewart, the senior crew chief aboard an MV-22B Osprey aircraft with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), communicates with pilots during a para-operations training with an 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 6, 2015. Reconnaissance Marines, rigged with parachutes, jumped from an altitude of 13,000 feet with the assistance of Marines with VMM-365 (Rein) to practice the airborne insertion. - Corporal Chris Stewart, the senior crew chief aboard an MV-22B Osprey aircraft with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), communicates with pilots during a para-operations training with an 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 6, 2015. Reconnaissance Marines, rigged with parachutes, jumped from an altitude of 13,000 feet with the assistance of Marines with VMM-365 (Rein) to practice the airborne insertion.

A UH-1Y Huey takes off alongside an AH-1W Super Cobra during a training exercise testing a digital interoperability system at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., July 24, 2015. Digital interoperability is the technology capable of increasing prowess on the battlefield. The exercise included Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 467, Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2, and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, testing a LINK 16 conversion system for one of the first times within an explicitly rotary-wing exercise. - A UH-1Y Huey takes off alongside an AH-1W Super Cobra during a training exercise testing a digital interoperability system at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., July 24, 2015. Digital interoperability is the technology capable of increasing prowess on the battlefield. The exercise included Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 467, Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2, and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, testing a LINK 16 conversion system for one of the first times within an explicitly rotary-wing exercise.

Marines, veterans and civilians gathered at Waterfront Park in downtown Beaufort, S.C. for a Vietnam Veterans Tribute, Aug 8. The event was organized by veteran services to give Vietnam War veterans the welcome that many of them never received. - Marines, veterans and civilians gathered at Waterfront Park in downtown Beaufort, S.C. for a Vietnam Veterans Tribute, Aug 8. The event was organized by veteran services to give Vietnam War veterans the welcome that many of them never received.

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Brazilian Major Rafael Pires Ferreira, an artillery officer with Corpo de Fuzileiros Navais, observes the tactical capabilities of 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment’s M142 High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 9, 2015. The two Brazilian officers visited to share and discuss information on military operations, unit structure and different weapons systems. - Brazilian Major Rafael Pires Ferreira, an artillery officer with Corpo de Fuzileiros Navais, observes the tactical capabilities of 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment’s M142 High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 9, 2015. The two Brazilian officers visited to share and discuss information on military operations, unit structure and different weapons systems.

U.S. Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the USS Ashland offload relief supplies from the ship for typhoon recovery efforts in Saipan, Aug. 8, 2015. The MEU and the ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group will assist the Federal Emergency Management Agency in delivering the supplies to the victims of Typhoon Soudelor in Saipan. The island, part of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, was struck by the typhoon Aug. 2-3. - U.S. Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the USS Ashland offload relief supplies from the ship for typhoon recovery efforts in Saipan, Aug. 8, 2015. The MEU and the ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group will assist the Federal Emergency Management Agency in delivering the supplies to the victims of Typhoon Soudelor in Saipan. The island, part of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, was struck by the typhoon Aug. 2-3.

Marines with 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion (LAAD) fire stinger missiles during a live shoot in Fort Irwin, California, Aug. 10. Marines also fired the 50 Caliber sniper rifle and the M240B machine gun during the five-day annual training. - Marines with 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion (LAAD) fire stinger missiles during a live shoot in Fort Irwin, California, Aug. 10. Marines also fired the 50 Caliber sniper rifle and the M240B machine gun during the five-day annual training.

A Marine onboard a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 directs movement during an external lift exercise with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 5, 2015. Two student pilots onboard the helicopter performed external lifts for the first time, an operation essential to deployed operations, and part of their pilot certification. - A Marine onboard a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 directs movement during an external lift exercise with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 5, 2015. Two student pilots onboard the helicopter performed external lifts for the first time, an operation essential to deployed operations, and part of their pilot certification.

A Marine with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, motivates another member of his platoon to keep firing during training at the Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 5, 2015. Marines with the unit conducted training on the virtual range to improve weapon proficiency without leaving a large logistical footprint. - A Marine with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, motivates another member of his platoon to keep firing during training at the Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 5, 2015. Marines with the unit conducted training on the virtual range to improve weapon proficiency without leaving a large logistical footprint.

Cpl. Kenneth Hack, a field radio operator with Combat Logistics Company 36, climbs over the high wall during Exercise Dragon Fire 2015 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, July 12. This physical training plays a vital role in developing a combat mindset, which is being prepared for the mental and physical stresses adhered to a combat environment. This annual exercise is used to enhance the service members’ tactical skill sets taught to them in their initial training as well as develop a combat mindset. - Cpl. Kenneth Hack, a field radio operator with Combat Logistics Company 36, climbs over the high wall during Exercise Dragon Fire 2015 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, July 12. This physical training plays a vital role in developing a combat mindset, which is being prepared for the mental and physical stresses adhered to a combat environment. This annual exercise is used to enhance the service members’ tactical skill sets taught to them in their initial training as well as develop a combat mindset.

Marines with Support Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, fire M240B Machine Guns and M2 Browning .50-Caliber Machine Guns at targets of an unknown distance from the turrets of armored Humvees as part of a convoy live-fire range at Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia, Aug. 4, 2015. The company conducted the five vehicle convoy in order to increase their proficiency with the weapons systems and to improve their communication skills. - Marines with Support Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, fire M240B Machine Guns and M2 Browning .50-Caliber Machine Guns at targets of an unknown distance from the turrets of armored Humvees as part of a convoy live-fire range at Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia, Aug. 4, 2015. The company conducted the five vehicle convoy in order to increase their proficiency with the weapons systems and to improve their communication skills.

A U.S. Navy corpsman, assigned to the 1st Marine Division, conducts tactical combat casualty care training during the Combat Trauma Management Course, taught by instructors from the 1st Mar. Div. Navy Education and Training Office, at the Strategic Operations facility, San Diego, July 30, 2015. The course, held once a month for 40 students, combines simulated injuries on role players and chaotic battlefield environments to prepare corpsmen and Marine combat life savers for the stress of saving lives in a real world operations. - A U.S. Navy corpsman, assigned to the 1st Marine Division, conducts tactical combat casualty care training during the Combat Trauma Management Course, taught by instructors from the 1st Mar. Div. Navy Education and Training Office, at the Strategic Operations facility, San Diego, July 30, 2015. The course, held once a month for 40 students, combines simulated injuries on role players and chaotic battlefield environments to prepare corpsmen and Marine combat life savers for the stress of saving lives in a real world operations.

Marines from 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division, take a few seconds to rest as Ospreys practice landing for a casualty evacuation during a battalion-level Fire Support Coordination Exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 14-24. The combat engineers' main role is to build, repair and maintain buildings, roads and power supplies. During the FSCEX, the Marines constructed trenches and tank traps. - Marines from 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division, take a few seconds to rest as Ospreys practice landing for a casualty evacuation during a battalion-level Fire Support Coordination Exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 14-24. The combat engineers' main role is to build, repair and maintain buildings, roads and power supplies. During the FSCEX, the Marines constructed trenches and tank traps.

A Marine with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, checks the line of sight on an 81mm Mortar during a training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. July 30, 2015. Marines with the unit conducted “hip shoots” to better prepare them on the go. A “hip shoot” is where mortar teams receive a call for fire on the move and use their leadership and teamwork to set-up the mortars and begin supporting the unit. - A Marine with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, checks the line of sight on an 81mm Mortar during a training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. July 30, 2015. Marines with the unit conducted “hip shoots” to better prepare them on the go. A “hip shoot” is where mortar teams receive a call for fire on the move and use their leadership and teamwork to set-up the mortars and begin supporting the unit.

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.

Two F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters complete vertical landings aboard the USS Wasp (LHD-1) during the opening day of the first session of operational testing, May 18, 2015. As the future of Marine Corps aviation, the F-35B will eventually replace all aircraft from three legacy Marine Corps platforms; th AV-8B Harrier, the F/A-18 Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler. The aircraft are stationed with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, Beaufort, South Carolina and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Yuma, Arizona. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Remington Hall/Released) - Two F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters complete vertical landings aboard the USS Wasp (LHD-1) during the opening day of the first session of operational testing, May 18, 2015. As the future of Marine Corps aviation, the F-35B will eventually replace all aircraft from three legacy Marine Corps platforms; th AV-8B Harrier, the F/A-18 Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler. The aircraft are stationed with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, Beaufort, South Carolina and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Yuma, Arizona. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Remington Hall/Released)

U.S. Marines with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, make their way toward an objective before conducting a squad attack exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 28. Approximately 50 Marines with the unit participated in the training, which helped build unit cohesion and fire and maneuver skills. - U.S. Marines with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, make their way toward an objective before conducting a squad attack exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 28. Approximately 50 Marines with the unit participated in the training, which helped build unit cohesion and fire and maneuver skills.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division used riot shields and batons to protect themselves against role-players acting as local villagers during infantry immersion training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 24, 2015. During the training exercise the Marines encountered the role-players in a simulated foreign country, who used various objects and weaponry to intimidate the Marines. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division used riot shields and batons to protect themselves against role-players acting as local villagers during infantry immersion training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 24, 2015. During the training exercise the Marines encountered the role-players in a simulated foreign country, who used various objects and weaponry to intimidate the Marines.

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.

An M1A1 Abrams tank with 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, crosses a medium girder bridge constructed by Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 24, 2015. The bridge is designed to hold up to the weight of a tank, approximately 72 tons, and is an essential component in providing the Marine Expeditionary Forces with increased mobility. - An M1A1 Abrams tank with 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, crosses a medium girder bridge constructed by Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 24, 2015. The bridge is designed to hold up to the weight of a tank, approximately 72 tons, and is an essential component in providing the Marine Expeditionary Forces with increased mobility.

Lance Cpl. Erik Hedrick posts security during a training exercise at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, July 23, 2015. Marines with MWHS-2, Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 and Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28 gathered at the airfield for a training exercise to simulate a deployed environment. Hedrick is a special intelligence systems communicator with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2. - Lance Cpl. Erik Hedrick posts security during a training exercise at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, July 23, 2015. Marines with MWHS-2, Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 and Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28 gathered at the airfield for a training exercise to simulate a deployed environment. Hedrick is a special intelligence systems communicator with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2.

The Honor Guard stands at ceremonial at ease after an honors ceremony at the Home of the Commandants in Washington, D.C., July 27, 2015. During the ceremony Congressman Robert Wittman from the 1st Congressional District of Virginia, was named an Honorary Marine by Gen. Joseph Dunford Jr., commandant of the Marine Corps, for his extensive support of wounded warriors and his contributions to ensuring the readiness and care of active duty Marines and their families. We wanted to recognize Congressman Wittman tonight because of what he’s done for our wounded warriors behind the scenes, said Dunford. It hasn’t been with fanfare, it’s been because of his compassionate leadership. - The Honor Guard stands at ceremonial at ease after an honors ceremony at the Home of the Commandants in Washington, D.C., July 27, 2015. During the ceremony Congressman Robert Wittman from the 1st Congressional District of Virginia, was named an Honorary Marine by Gen. Joseph Dunford Jr., commandant of the Marine Corps, for his extensive support of wounded warriors and his contributions to ensuring the readiness and care of active duty Marines and their families. We wanted to recognize Congressman Wittman tonight because of what he’s done for our wounded warriors behind the scenes, said Dunford. It hasn’t been with fanfare, it’s been because of his compassionate leadership.

Marines with Company B, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, prepare to load onto a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 366 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 26. The Marines were inserted into an urban terrain to cordon and search the area for possible threats. - Marines with Company B, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, prepare to load onto a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 366 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 26. The Marines were inserted into an urban terrain to cordon and search the area for possible threats.

Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, discuss the findings of an area search during a field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 22, 2015. The Marines faced various scenarios during the exercise, which included IEDs located in buildings, sports stadiums, and explosives used in hostage situations, each of which prepared the EOD technicians to face threats found on deployments and at home. - Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, discuss the findings of an area search during a field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 22, 2015. The Marines faced various scenarios during the exercise, which included IEDs located in buildings, sports stadiums, and explosives used in hostage situations, each of which prepared the EOD technicians to face threats found on deployments and at home.

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Lance Cpl. Steven Hoggand, a machine gunner and section leader with 1st Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, directs his Marines’ fire while suppressing an enemy position during platoon attack drills, July 24, aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Training began for the Marines of Company C with a combined arms fire and maneuver exercise as part of their Integrated Training Exercise in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response Central Command 16.1 scheduled to depart later this year. - Lance Cpl. Steven Hoggand, a machine gunner and section leader with 1st Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, directs his Marines’ fire while suppressing an enemy position during platoon attack drills, July 24, aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Training began for the Marines of Company C with a combined arms fire and maneuver exercise as part of their Integrated Training Exercise in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response Central Command 16.1 scheduled to depart later this year.

Romanian and Georgian soldiers stand alongside Latvian, Lithuanian and Bulgarian soldiers and U.S. Marines during the Exercise Agile Spirit closing ceremony July 22, 2015, at Vaziani Training Area, Georgia. Exercise Agile Spirit 15 involved a NATO Response Force level combined operation that incorporated a wide range of planning and execution challenges during a command post exercise and a field training exercise. The U.S. Marines with Black Sea Rotational Force and 10th Marine Regiment supported the exercise. - Romanian and Georgian soldiers stand alongside Latvian, Lithuanian and Bulgarian soldiers and U.S. Marines during the Exercise Agile Spirit closing ceremony July 22, 2015, at Vaziani Training Area, Georgia. Exercise Agile Spirit 15 involved a NATO Response Force level combined operation that incorporated a wide range of planning and execution challenges during a command post exercise and a field training exercise. The U.S. Marines with Black Sea Rotational Force and 10th Marine Regiment supported the exercise.

Sergeant Austen Clark, the hot zone controller for the Search and Extraction Platoon, helps one of his Marines fasten and secure his gas mask before completing the final exercise of the afternoon during Exercise Scarlet Response 2015 at Guardian Centers in Perry, Georgia, July 21. The hot zone is the area where an incident occurs. Clark makes sure he keeps accountability of everything that goes on when his Marines go in and search a building, such as their gear, if there are any casualties inside or if there are any further issues besides what they already know. - Sergeant Austen Clark, the hot zone controller for the Search and Extraction Platoon, helps one of his Marines fasten and secure his gas mask before completing the final exercise of the afternoon during Exercise Scarlet Response 2015 at Guardian Centers in Perry, Georgia, July 21. The hot zone is the area where an incident occurs. Clark makes sure he keeps accountability of everything that goes on when his Marines go in and search a building, such as their gear, if there are any casualties inside or if there are any further issues besides what they already know.

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.