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An opposing force kneels in front of a riot control squad with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 during the unit’s non-lethal weapons training final exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 25, 2016. The battalion had to qualify through the Expeditionary Operations Training Group, in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa. - An opposing force kneels in front of a riot control squad with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 during the unit’s non-lethal weapons training final exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 25, 2016. The battalion had to qualify through the Expeditionary Operations Training Group, in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa.

Dutch Marines with 32nd Raiding Company provide security in a Mercedes-Benz G-class utility vehicle for a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement 7-ton during a casualty evacuation exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The Dutch Marines spent the past three weeks utilizing Camp Lejeune’s training facilities, as well as cross-trained with U.S. Marines to learn and share tactics, techniques and procedures. - Dutch Marines with 32nd Raiding Company provide security in a Mercedes-Benz G-class utility vehicle for a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement 7-ton during a casualty evacuation exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The Dutch Marines spent the past three weeks utilizing Camp Lejeune’s training facilities, as well as cross-trained with U.S. Marines to learn and share tactics, techniques and procedures.

A Marine with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion breaches a door with a Mossberg 500 shotgun during the assault breaching portion of the battalion’s sapper squad competition at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The competition was organized to determine the most proficient squads in the battalion while simultaneously challenging squads in the execution of combat engineer-based tasks. - A Marine with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion breaches a door with a Mossberg 500 shotgun during the assault breaching portion of the battalion’s sapper squad competition at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 22, 2016. The competition was organized to determine the most proficient squads in the battalion while simultaneously challenging squads in the execution of combat engineer-based tasks.

Inert grenades (dummy), non-exploding practice tools, sit on a table where Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion will pick them up before taking part in an assault course with grenade training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 16, 2016. This drill is part of an annual training event to prepare them for combat situations when they are called upon to deploy. Marines took turns providing cover fire for their partner, allowing them to throw a dummy grenade near the simulated enemy position. - Inert grenades (dummy), non-exploding practice tools, sit on a table where Marines with 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion will pick them up before taking part in an assault course with grenade training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 16, 2016. This drill is part of an annual training event to prepare them for combat situations when they are called upon to deploy. Marines took turns providing cover fire for their partner, allowing them to throw a dummy grenade near the simulated enemy position.

Artillery rounds fired by Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment make impact at Observation Post 3 during a battalion field exercise held by 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 15, 2016. The battalion coordinated with artillery, mortars and rotary-wing aircraft to direct fire support. - Artillery rounds fired by Marines with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment make impact at Observation Post 3 during a battalion field exercise held by 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 15, 2016. The battalion coordinated with artillery, mortars and rotary-wing aircraft to direct fire support.

Lance Cpl. Ronald Hester, a combat engineer with, provides security for a casualty evacuation exercise at Landing Zone Penguin at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 10, 2016. The training allowed Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 and 2nd CEB to work together in order to be well prepared to conduct a successful CASEVAC in any situation they may encounter while deployed, to ultimately saves lives. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Hester, a combat engineer with, provides security for a casualty evacuation exercise at Landing Zone Penguin at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 10, 2016. The training allowed Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 and 2nd CEB to work together in order to be well prepared to conduct a successful CASEVAC in any situation they may encounter while deployed, to ultimately saves lives.

15 Marines and three civilians start a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. The Marines, led by Raider Nathan Harris, do some ceremonial push-ups at the memorial dedicated to the Raider 7. Shortly after, they began their 770-mile journey. - 15 Marines and three civilians start a 770-mile ruck from Navarre, Florida, to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to honor 11 service members who died in a helicopter crash one year ago. The Marines, led by Raider Nathan Harris, do some ceremonial push-ups at the memorial dedicated to the Raider 7. Shortly after, they began their 770-mile journey.

Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, utilize a compact metal detector to sweep for improvised explosive devices during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 2, 2016. Marines utilized equipment such as compact metal detectors, bomb suits and a TALON robot to locate and handle ordnance, which took the form of a simulated IED, ammunition or artillery shell. - Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, utilize a compact metal detector to sweep for improvised explosive devices during a field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 2, 2016. Marines utilized equipment such as compact metal detectors, bomb suits and a TALON robot to locate and handle ordnance, which took the form of a simulated IED, ammunition or artillery shell.

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U.S. Navy Seaman Cameron Alexander, a hospitalman with 2nd Medical Battalion, conducts physical exercises before a tactical combat casualty care exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 12, 2016. Sailors were intentionally exhausted prior to beginning the simulation. - U.S. Navy Seaman Cameron Alexander, a hospitalman with 2nd Medical Battalion, conducts physical exercises before a tactical combat casualty care exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 12, 2016. Sailors were intentionally exhausted prior to beginning the simulation.

Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, prepare to unload two M1A1 Abrams tanks following their transport across New River by using a seven-bay raft system during a water-crossing operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 4, 2016. The unit boasts a wide range of raft systems and bridging that it is able to do to allow tactical vehicles to cross large bodies of water. - Marines with Bridge Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, prepare to unload two M1A1 Abrams tanks following their transport across New River by using a seven-bay raft system during a water-crossing operation at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 4, 2016. The unit boasts a wide range of raft systems and bridging that it is able to do to allow tactical vehicles to cross large bodies of water.

Combat engineers and assaultmen with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, march toward a Bangalore torpedo impact zone during a Deployment for Training exercise at Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Jan 28, 2016. The range was intended to ensure Marines maintain weapon systems proficiency while preparing them for their upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan. - Combat engineers and assaultmen with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, march toward a Bangalore torpedo impact zone during a Deployment for Training exercise at Fort A.P. Hill, Va., Jan 28, 2016. The range was intended to ensure Marines maintain weapon systems proficiency while preparing them for their upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan.

The MK-2 Mod 1 Talon, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot controlled by Marines with EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, is used instead of Marines to acquire initial visuals of an improvised explosive device during an IED access training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 29, 2016. During the exercise, evaluators assessed Marines on safely locating and disposing of an IED while suppressing the full capabilities of the threat. - The MK-2 Mod 1 Talon, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot controlled by Marines with EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, is used instead of Marines to acquire initial visuals of an improvised explosive device during an IED access training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 29, 2016. During the exercise, evaluators assessed Marines on safely locating and disposing of an IED while suppressing the full capabilities of the threat.

A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center’s Pre-Scout Sniper Course departs a field following a stalking exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 22, 2016. The DCSC offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines. - A Marine student undergoing the 2nd Marine Division Combat Skills Center’s Pre-Scout Sniper Course departs a field following a stalking exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 22, 2016. The DCSC offers several infantry-based courses to enhance the combat readiness of its Marines.

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion prepare to dive in the pool during the Dive Supervisor Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2016. The course certifies Marines as dive supervisors whose mission is to oversee dives and ensure that operations are conducted safely and effectively. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion prepare to dive in the pool during the Dive Supervisor Course at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 19, 2016. The course certifies Marines as dive supervisors whose mission is to oversee dives and ensure that operations are conducted safely and effectively.

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A Marine with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, looks a through compass during a 60mm mortar live-fire range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 19, 2015. Despite heavy rainfall and wind, the Marines completed the mortar shoot in order to retain and refine their skills with the weapons system and prove they could complete a fire mission under any conditions. - A Marine with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, looks a through compass during a 60mm mortar live-fire range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 19, 2015. Despite heavy rainfall and wind, the Marines completed the mortar shoot in order to retain and refine their skills with the weapons system and prove they could complete a fire mission under any conditions.

Glenn LaMarque, an underwater trainer instructor, briefs Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion on the safety regulations and precautions prior to conducting modular amphibious egress training at the Water Survival Training Facility at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 18, 2015. The Marines participated in the training, which is designed to be a lifesaving course that provides service members with skills and the confidence to successfully and safely exit a helicopter that is submersed in a body of water. - Glenn LaMarque, an underwater trainer instructor, briefs Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion on the safety regulations and precautions prior to conducting modular amphibious egress training at the Water Survival Training Facility at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 18, 2015. The Marines participated in the training, which is designed to be a lifesaving course that provides service members with skills and the confidence to successfully and safely exit a helicopter that is submersed in a body of water.

Marines with Combined Anti-Armor Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, conduct patrols during a patrol training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 16, 2015. The unit practiced patrolling techniques both on foot and mounted in Humvees in preparation for their upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan. - Marines with Combined Anti-Armor Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, conduct patrols during a patrol training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 16, 2015. The unit practiced patrolling techniques both on foot and mounted in Humvees in preparation for their upcoming deployment to Okinawa, Japan.

Staff Sgt. James Hohenstein, a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, mans a GAU-21 .50 caliber mounted machine gun during urban close air support training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 19, 2015. Marines with HMLA-167 flew in a UH-1Y Venom to Camp Lejeune to assist joint terminal air controllers conducting realistic training with air support. - Staff Sgt. James Hohenstein, a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, mans a GAU-21 .50 caliber mounted machine gun during urban close air support training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 19, 2015. Marines with HMLA-167 flew in a UH-1Y Venom to Camp Lejeune to assist joint terminal air controllers conducting realistic training with air support.

Brig. Gen David Jones, commander of the Belize Defence Force, and Maj. Gen. William Beydler, former commanding general of II Marine Expeditionary Force, meet during a visit to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 22, 2015. The purpose of the visit was to assess the capabilities of U.S. forces, discern opportunities for Belize forces to train alongside Marines and sustain enduring partnerships between the two countries in their efforts to counter transnational organized crime. - Brig. Gen David Jones, commander of the Belize Defence Force, and Maj. Gen. William Beydler, former commanding general of II Marine Expeditionary Force, meet during a visit to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 22, 2015. The purpose of the visit was to assess the capabilities of U.S. forces, discern opportunities for Belize forces to train alongside Marines and sustain enduring partnerships between the two countries in their efforts to counter transnational organized crime.

A Marine with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment fires the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon during a company sized combined-arms attack on range SR-9 at Marine corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 24, 2015. During the training, Alpha Company fired the M4 carbine, the M16 A4 service rifle, M249 Squad Automatic Weapons, M240B machine guns, M2 .50 caliber heavy machine guns, MK19 40mm grenade launchers and M224 60mm lightweight mortar systems. - A Marine with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment fires the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon during a company sized combined-arms attack on range SR-9 at Marine corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 24, 2015. During the training, Alpha Company fired the M4 carbine, the M16 A4 service rifle, M249 Squad Automatic Weapons, M240B machine guns, M2 .50 caliber heavy machine guns, MK19 40mm grenade launchers and M224 60mm lightweight mortar systems.

A Marine with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, prepares to submerge underwater while wearing a supplemental emergency breathing device at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 22, 2015. The company participated in the submerged vehicle egress training to gain confidence in their abilities to safely exit a sinking amphibious assault vehicle in preparation for their upcoming deployment with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - A Marine with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, prepares to submerge underwater while wearing a supplemental emergency breathing device at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 22, 2015. The company participated in the submerged vehicle egress training to gain confidence in their abilities to safely exit a sinking amphibious assault vehicle in preparation for their upcoming deployment with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment rush to a wire trap to set up a Bangalore charge to destroy the trap during a demolitions exercise with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion at Engineer Training Area 7 on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 22, 2015. Marines with 2/2 increased their proficiency and knowledge with various charges and techniques with the help of 2nd CEB. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment rush to a wire trap to set up a Bangalore charge to destroy the trap during a demolitions exercise with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion at Engineer Training Area 7 on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Sept. 22, 2015. Marines with 2/2 increased their proficiency and knowledge with various charges and techniques with the help of 2nd CEB.

Lance Cpl. Aaron Philson fires a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allows them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters. Philson is an aviation communications technician with MASS-1. - Lance Cpl. Aaron Philson fires a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a weapons familiarization range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 27, 2015. More than 100 Marines from Marine Air Support Squadron 1 honed their weapons skills with the M240B machine gun, Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun and the M1014 combat shotgun. Marines from various military job specialties received hands-on experience that allows them to improve crucial skills and become well-rounded war fighters. Philson is an aviation communications technician with MASS-1.

Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Regiment, advance on a simulated village during a field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. They assaulted a simulated town, set up a defensive position and waited to repel simulated attacks in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response. - Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Regiment, advance on a simulated village during a field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 25, 2015. They assaulted a simulated town, set up a defensive position and waited to repel simulated attacks in preparation for their upcoming deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response.

Marines with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, drive the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicle along all-terrain vehicle trails during an all-terrain vehicle course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 18, 2015. Marines drove the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicles through sand, mud, uneven terrain, and hills to gain experience with handling the vehicle. - Marines with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, drive the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicle along all-terrain vehicle trails during an all-terrain vehicle course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 18, 2015. Marines drove the Polaris Rzr tactical vehicles through sand, mud, uneven terrain, and hills to gain experience with handling the vehicle.

Lance Cpl. Dale Dibble, a mortarman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment looks through the sight on the M224 60 mm Mortar Lightweight Company Mortar System during a 10-day long 60 mm Mortar Lightweight Company Mortar System course under the direction of the Division Combat Skills Center at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 10, 2015. The course began with classroom instruction over the weapons system in which they learned how to boresight, misfire procedures and deflection changes for elevation before the unit moves into live-fire. - Lance Cpl. Dale Dibble, a mortarman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment looks through the sight on the M224 60 mm Mortar Lightweight Company Mortar System during a 10-day long 60 mm Mortar Lightweight Company Mortar System course under the direction of the Division Combat Skills Center at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 10, 2015. The course began with classroom instruction over the weapons system in which they learned how to boresight, misfire procedures and deflection changes for elevation before the unit moves into live-fire.

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.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment fire a 60mm mortar during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 25, 2015. The unit conducted the training to better prepare the Marines for the use of the direct lay method of fire. The direct lay method requires the Marines to make all their adjustments themselves and not rely on a Fire Direction Center. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment fire a 60mm mortar during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 25, 2015. The unit conducted the training to better prepare the Marines for the use of the direct lay method of fire. The direct lay method requires the Marines to make all their adjustments themselves and not rely on a Fire Direction Center.

Marines with Bravo Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, simulate returning fire during the Infantry Immersion Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 17, 2015. Marines were able to practice tactics, communication within the unit and combat readiness in a realistic training scenario, which better prepared them for a deployed environment. - Marines with Bravo Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, simulate returning fire during the Infantry Immersion Trainer at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 17, 2015. Marines were able to practice tactics, communication within the unit and combat readiness in a realistic training scenario, which better prepared them for a deployed environment.

Marines with the Fire Support Team for Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), observe ordnance from U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers during a combined arms live-fire event as part of exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 18, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multi-national exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - Marines with the Fire Support Team for Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), observe ordnance from U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers during a combined arms live-fire event as part of exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 18, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multi-national exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

A Marine with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, provides watch during a military operations on urban terrain exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 11, 2015. Safely practicing transitions in an urban combat environment increased Marines’ confidence and better prepared them for a combat situation. - A Marine with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, provides watch during a military operations on urban terrain exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 11, 2015. Safely practicing transitions in an urban combat environment increased Marines’ confidence and better prepared them for a combat situation.

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to dive and perform underwater knot-tying in a Special Operation Command screener during a pre-dive course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 25 – June 5, 2015. The students had to tie five knots underwater; having only five separate breathing opportunities with only 30 seconds on the surface of the water between tying each knot. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, prepare to dive and perform underwater knot-tying in a Special Operation Command screener during a pre-dive course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 25 – June 5, 2015. The students had to tie five knots underwater; having only five separate breathing opportunities with only 30 seconds on the surface of the water between tying each knot.

A crew operating the M1A1 Abrams tank fires at a target during the 13th annual TIGERCOMP at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 5, 2015. The best tank gunner crews from 1st Tank Battalion, 2nd Tank Battalion and 4th Tank Battalion competed for top honors and the McCard trophy bringing the entire tank community, including tank battalion veterans, together for an entertaining display of the tanks force and powerful capabilities. - A crew operating the M1A1 Abrams tank fires at a target during the 13th annual TIGERCOMP at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 5, 2015. The best tank gunner crews from 1st Tank Battalion, 2nd Tank Battalion and 4th Tank Battalion competed for top honors and the McCard trophy bringing the entire tank community, including tank battalion veterans, together for an entertaining display of the tanks force and powerful capabilities.

The photographs of 11 fallen service members line a theater stage, commemorating the individuals during their celebration of life ceremony, May 15, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The seven MARSOC Marines and four Louisiana Army National Guardsmen pictured were killed when a UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter crashed during amphibious operations involving helicopter and boat insertion and extraction training near Eglin, Fla., March 10. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Steven Fox/Released) - The photographs of 11 fallen service members line a theater stage, commemorating the individuals during their celebration of life ceremony, May 15, 2015, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The seven MARSOC Marines and four Louisiana Army National Guardsmen pictured were killed when a UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter crashed during amphibious operations involving helicopter and boat insertion and extraction training near Eglin, Fla., March 10. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Steven Fox/Released)

Explosive ordnance disposal technicians with 2nd EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, prepare to conduct a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear training operation during their pre-deployment training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 6, 2015. During the scenario, the Marines had to conduct reconnaissance on an explosive device, identify the agent in the device, and defuse it before it detonated. - Explosive ordnance disposal technicians with 2nd EOD Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, prepare to conduct a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear training operation during their pre-deployment training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 6, 2015. During the scenario, the Marines had to conduct reconnaissance on an explosive device, identify the agent in the device, and defuse it before it detonated.

U.S. Marine Corps vehicles are lined up for inspection May 9, 2015, at the port of Agadir, Morocco, following a Maritime Prepositioning Force offload in preparation for Exercise African Lion 15. An MPF is a strategic capability that provides commanders with a forward presence and rapid crisis response by offloading combat equipment and supplies from U.S. Military Sealift Command ships to support various units, and will be used to sustain the Marines and service members operating throughout the mission rehearsal. For the offload, Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, were joined with Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 453, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, as well as sailors with NMCB 11. Exercise African Lion 15 is a combined joint task force exercise conducted in accordance with UN-mandated peace operations with humanitarian assistance themes and emphasizes the strong military bond between U.S. and Moroccan Armed Forces. It creates a foundation for slated inter-military cooperation in the future and improves interoperability between nations, building relationships with this key strategic region within the AFRICOM area of responsibility. - U.S. Marine Corps vehicles are lined up for inspection May 9, 2015, at the port of Agadir, Morocco, following a Maritime Prepositioning Force offload in preparation for Exercise African Lion 15. An MPF is a strategic capability that provides commanders with a forward presence and rapid crisis response by offloading combat equipment and supplies from U.S. Military Sealift Command ships to support various units, and will be used to sustain the Marines and service members operating throughout the mission rehearsal. For the offload, Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, were joined with Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 453, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, as well as sailors with NMCB 11. Exercise African Lion 15 is a combined joint task force exercise conducted in accordance with UN-mandated peace operations with humanitarian assistance themes and emphasizes the strong military bond between U.S. and Moroccan Armed Forces. It creates a foundation for slated inter-military cooperation in the future and improves interoperability between nations, building relationships with this key strategic region within the AFRICOM area of responsibility.

A light armored vehicle crew with Charlie Company, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division moves from one battle position to another during a pre-qualification on the LAV weapon systems aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 1, 2015. During the exercise, the crew on the LAV moved from position to position to engage several targets and were evaluated on their accuracy, timeliness and effectiveness in identifying the target that presented the highest threat. - A light armored vehicle crew with Charlie Company, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division moves from one battle position to another during a pre-qualification on the LAV weapon systems aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 1, 2015. During the exercise, the crew on the LAV moved from position to position to engage several targets and were evaluated on their accuracy, timeliness and effectiveness in identifying the target that presented the highest threat.

Navy corpsmen from 2nd Medical Battalion, along with supplemental Health Services Augmented Personnel, practice loading and unloading of simulated patients into the search and rescue aircraft during a field training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 23, 2015. The purpose of the exercise was to train and prepare the HSAP’s for deployment to exercises African and Eager Lion. - Navy corpsmen from 2nd Medical Battalion, along with supplemental Health Services Augmented Personnel, practice loading and unloading of simulated patients into the search and rescue aircraft during a field training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 23, 2015. The purpose of the exercise was to train and prepare the HSAP’s for deployment to exercises African and Eager Lion.

Two Marines from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, sight in on their targets during a Designated Marksman Course with the Division Combat Skills Center, April 6-17, 2015, aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. The Marines learned range calls, wind estimation, and other basics of long range marksmanship. - Two Marines from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, sight in on their targets during a Designated Marksman Course with the Division Combat Skills Center, April 6-17, 2015, aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. The Marines learned range calls, wind estimation, and other basics of long range marksmanship.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, prepare to begin an assault on a simulated enemy base during movement to contact training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 9, 2015. Once the assault was completed, the Marines were required to prepare a defense in case of a counterattack. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, prepare to begin an assault on a simulated enemy base during movement to contact training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 9, 2015. Once the assault was completed, the Marines were required to prepare a defense in case of a counterattack.

Corporal Ryan Harney, a team leader with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, and St. Charles, Mo. native, fires at an oppositional force member in the offense during Military Operations in Urban Terrain, or MOUT, training aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 8, 2015. The training included Marines going out in squad-sized elements to attack an objective being held by Marines in the defensive position after the squad leaders built terrain models and informed their Marines on avenues of approach and objectives. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Krista James/Released) - Corporal Ryan Harney, a team leader with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, and St. Charles, Mo. native, fires at an oppositional force member in the offense during Military Operations in Urban Terrain, or MOUT, training aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 8, 2015. The training included Marines going out in squad-sized elements to attack an objective being held by Marines in the defensive position after the squad leaders built terrain models and informed their Marines on avenues of approach and objectives. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Krista James/Released)

Infantrymen with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and artillerymen with Echo Battery, 2/6, prepare to begin the live-fire portion of their non-lethal weapons training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 25, 2015. The Marines participated in a two-week NLW course that teaches various riot-control methods. - Infantrymen with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and artillerymen with Echo Battery, 2/6, prepare to begin the live-fire portion of their non-lethal weapons training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 25, 2015. The Marines participated in a two-week NLW course that teaches various riot-control methods.

Snow falls over the command operations center during an entire day of a 2nd Marine Logistics Group command post exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 24, 2015. The Marines involved in the CPX battled multiple weather conditions such as snow, sleet and rain during the exercise designed to ensure logistical readiness and identify areas in need of improvement. - Snow falls over the command operations center during an entire day of a 2nd Marine Logistics Group command post exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 24, 2015. The Marines involved in the CPX battled multiple weather conditions such as snow, sleet and rain during the exercise designed to ensure logistical readiness and identify areas in need of improvement.

Maj. Gen. Brian Beaudreault, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Division, thanks the Second Marine Division Association for being present to celebrate the unit’s birthday with the Marines of the division aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Beaudreault talked about what it meant to be in the unit, and how he was honored to be a part of the unit as they celebrate their past and future together. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Dalton Precht/Released) - Maj. Gen. Brian Beaudreault, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Division, thanks the Second Marine Division Association for being present to celebrate the unit’s birthday with the Marines of the division aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Beaudreault talked about what it meant to be in the unit, and how he was honored to be a part of the unit as they celebrate their past and future together. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Dalton Precht/Released)

Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment patrol alongside a road during an exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 22. The Marines conducted reconnaissance and security patrols to enhance their combat skills and readiness for future deployments. - Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment patrol alongside a road during an exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 22. The Marines conducted reconnaissance and security patrols to enhance their combat skills and readiness for future deployments.

Marines with Force Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division clear a room after conducting a mechanical breach during a breach and clear exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 15, 2015. Marines with Force Company conducted explosive and mechanical breaches and limited force raids in preparation for future deployments. - Marines with Force Company, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division clear a room after conducting a mechanical breach during a breach and clear exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 15, 2015. Marines with Force Company conducted explosive and mechanical breaches and limited force raids in preparation for future deployments.