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A Marine with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, loads an electronic M2 .50-caliber machine gun in a Combat Convoy Simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 2, 2016. The CCS at first glance looks like an expensive, high-tech video game, but its primary use is preparing Marines for real-world combat missions with simulations of realistic scenarios. - A Marine with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, loads an electronic M2 .50-caliber machine gun in a Combat Convoy Simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 2, 2016. The CCS at first glance looks like an expensive, high-tech video game, but its primary use is preparing Marines for real-world combat missions with simulations of realistic scenarios.

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

Petty Officer 2nd Class Mark Skaggs teaches Marines how to properly lift and carry casualties during a simulated causality evacuation scenario at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 27 2016. This training was part of the newly formed combat operation medical emergency transport training. COMETT exposes the aircrew to medical emergencies and procedures they may encounter in combat and non-combat environments. Skaggs, a Pensacola native, is an aeromedical safety corpsman with Marine Aircraft Group 29. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Mark Skaggs teaches Marines how to properly lift and carry casualties during a simulated causality evacuation scenario at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 27 2016. This training was part of the newly formed combat operation medical emergency transport training. COMETT exposes the aircrew to medical emergencies and procedures they may encounter in combat and non-combat environments. Skaggs, a Pensacola native, is an aeromedical safety corpsman with Marine Aircraft Group 29.

Pfc. Nathan Murdock, rifleman, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, fires his M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle at a target during the Designated Marksman Course’s culminating event at Range 113, Jan. 28, 2016. - Pfc. Nathan Murdock, rifleman, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, fires his M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle at a target during the Designated Marksman Course’s culminating event at Range 113, Jan. 28, 2016.

Cpl. Immanuel Friddle, guide for Combat Logistics Battalion 252, prepares for a hike in Bridgeport, California, during Mountain Exercise 1-16, a cold weather training exercise, on Jan. 11, 2016. The training is a prerequisite for a large, multi-national exercise called Cold Response 16 that will take place in Norway, March of this year. Cold Response will challenge 12 NATO allies’ and partners’ abilities to work together and respond in the case of a crisis. - Cpl. Immanuel Friddle, guide for Combat Logistics Battalion 252, prepares for a hike in Bridgeport, California, during Mountain Exercise 1-16, a cold weather training exercise, on Jan. 11, 2016. The training is a prerequisite for a large, multi-national exercise called Cold Response 16 that will take place in Norway, March of this year. Cold Response will challenge 12 NATO allies’ and partners’ abilities to work together and respond in the case of a crisis.

First Sgt. Shonor Burton runs through a non-lethal weapons course while blinded by the effects of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, Jan. 26, 2016. Burton is the company first sergeant for Company B, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. - First Sgt. Shonor Burton runs through a non-lethal weapons course while blinded by the effects of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, Jan. 26, 2016. Burton is the company first sergeant for Company B, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California.

Pfc. Merrick Martius, a Light Armored Vehicle crewman, provides maintenance for an infrared light on an LAV-25 during a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. The qualification test consisted of gunnery training, communication between the vehicle commander and the driver, and cooperation between the crewmembers of the LAV and the command tower. This allows Marines to fire accurately when aiming on targets down range. Martius is an LAV crewman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Pfc. Merrick Martius, a Light Armored Vehicle crewman, provides maintenance for an infrared light on an LAV-25 during a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. The qualification test consisted of gunnery training, communication between the vehicle commander and the driver, and cooperation between the crewmembers of the LAV and the command tower. This allows Marines to fire accurately when aiming on targets down range. Martius is an LAV crewman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

COMBINED ARMS TRAINING CENTER, GOTEMBA, Japan — Marines’ tents stand in below Mt. Fuji during Exercise Fuji Samurai at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Gotemba, Japan, Jan. 7, 2016. Exercise Fuji Samurai is held at CATC Fuji during the month of January and includes countless fire and maneuver drills and other combat-based training evolutions that take place over a period of approximately two weeks. During this time, Marines must face the chill and challenge of Mt. Fuji, as they spend night after night subject to the winter elements. The tents provided Marines with shelter from the unforgiving Mt. Fuji chill as they rested between training events. - COMBINED ARMS TRAINING CENTER, GOTEMBA, Japan — Marines’ tents stand in below Mt. Fuji during Exercise Fuji Samurai at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Gotemba, Japan, Jan. 7, 2016. Exercise Fuji Samurai is held at CATC Fuji during the month of January and includes countless fire and maneuver drills and other combat-based training evolutions that take place over a period of approximately two weeks. During this time, Marines must face the chill and challenge of Mt. Fuji, as they spend night after night subject to the winter elements. The tents provided Marines with shelter from the unforgiving Mt. Fuji chill as they rested between training events.

Jody W. Nesbitt (right), project officer, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, officially hands-off three restored combat vehicles to Kater Miller, assistant ordnance curator, National Museum of the Marine Corps, during a ceremony held at the MDMC in Albany, Ga., Jan. 7. The vehicles restored consisted of an M60A1 Main Battle Tank, an Assault Amphibious Vehicle and a Humvee, which are scheduled to be displayed in the NMMC November 2018. Restoration of the equipment began at MDMC in July 2014. - Jody W. Nesbitt (right), project officer, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, officially hands-off three restored combat vehicles to Kater Miller, assistant ordnance curator, National Museum of the Marine Corps, during a ceremony held at the MDMC in Albany, Ga., Jan. 7. The vehicles restored consisted of an M60A1 Main Battle Tank, an Assault Amphibious Vehicle and a Humvee, which are scheduled to be displayed in the NMMC November 2018. Restoration of the equipment began at MDMC in July 2014.

Marines with the 1st Expeditionary Operations Training wait to reach the proper altitude before a free fall jump at 10,000 feet above Drop Zone Basilone, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec.21. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 supported the 1st EOTG in their parachute-operations training. This training is intended to improve the Marines’ skill for future uses of this knowledge, such as a deployment situation. Units like the 1st EOTG deploy often and this training allows the Marines to be ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. - Marines with the 1st Expeditionary Operations Training wait to reach the proper altitude before a free fall jump at 10,000 feet above Drop Zone Basilone, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec.21. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 supported the 1st EOTG in their parachute-operations training. This training is intended to improve the Marines’ skill for future uses of this knowledge, such as a deployment situation. Units like the 1st EOTG deploy often and this training allows the Marines to be ready to deploy at a moment’s notice.

A Marine conceals himself under the obstruction of deployed smoke during the company supported, live-fire assault portion of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 6, 2015. The purpose of a MCCRE is to evaluate Marines’ collective performance in specific mission requirements that will prepare them for their upcoming deployment rotation. The Marine is with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. - A Marine conceals himself under the obstruction of deployed smoke during the company supported, live-fire assault portion of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 6, 2015. The purpose of a MCCRE is to evaluate Marines’ collective performance in specific mission requirements that will prepare them for their upcoming deployment rotation. The Marine is with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.

U.S. Marines with 1st Reconnaisance Battalion board a HUMVEE during Steel Knight 16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 11, 2015. Steel Knight is an annual field training exercise that enables 1st Marine Division to test and refine its command and control capabilities by acting as the headquarters element for a forward-deployed Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marines with 1st Reconnaisance Battalion board a HUMVEE during Steel Knight 16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 11, 2015. Steel Knight is an annual field training exercise that enables 1st Marine Division to test and refine its command and control capabilities by acting as the headquarters element for a forward-deployed Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 5 attach a simulated cargo of 1,400 pounds to an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 16, 2015. Daytime external lift training prepares the Marines with VMM-363 to attach cargo to the aircraft which helps qualify more air crew in the mission-essential task of rapid insertion and extraction for the squadron. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 5 attach a simulated cargo of 1,400 pounds to an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Dec. 16, 2015. Daytime external lift training prepares the Marines with VMM-363 to attach cargo to the aircraft which helps qualify more air crew in the mission-essential task of rapid insertion and extraction for the squadron.

Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 perform post-flight checks on an MV-22B Osprey after an aerial refueling training event at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Dec. 16. The squadron conducts this annual training once every two months to maintain their proficiency with the maneuvers. - Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 perform post-flight checks on an MV-22B Osprey after an aerial refueling training event at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Dec. 16. The squadron conducts this annual training once every two months to maintain their proficiency with the maneuvers.

Lance Cpl. Roderick Jacquote, a combat photographer with Headquarters Company, Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, edits photos during a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear drill aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 13, 2015. The Marines and Sailors with 5th Marine Regiment conducted the gas drill as part of Steel Knight 2016, a division-led exercise which prepares Marines and Sailors with the 1st Marine Division and adjacent I Marine Expeditionary Force units with the skill sets necessary to operate as a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force. - Lance Cpl. Roderick Jacquote, a combat photographer with Headquarters Company, Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, edits photos during a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear drill aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 13, 2015. The Marines and Sailors with 5th Marine Regiment conducted the gas drill as part of Steel Knight 2016, a division-led exercise which prepares Marines and Sailors with the 1st Marine Division and adjacent I Marine Expeditionary Force units with the skill sets necessary to operate as a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force.

Cpl. Candice Lopez, a U.S. Marine with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, scans the identification bands of evacuees, preparing them to be flown to a safe haven during a simulated noncombatant evacuation as part of Certification Exercise, Dec. 8, 2015. Noncombatant evacuations are one of the MEU's mission essential tasks, which it is specially trained to complete anywhere in the world within hours of notification. CERTEX is the final evaluation of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer ARG prior to deployment and is intended to certify their readiness to conduct integrated missions across the full spectrum of military operations. - Cpl. Candice Lopez, a U.S. Marine with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, scans the identification bands of evacuees, preparing them to be flown to a safe haven during a simulated noncombatant evacuation as part of Certification Exercise, Dec. 8, 2015. Noncombatant evacuations are one of the MEU's mission essential tasks, which it is specially trained to complete anywhere in the world within hours of notification. CERTEX is the final evaluation of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer ARG prior to deployment and is intended to certify their readiness to conduct integrated missions across the full spectrum of military operations.

A Marine escorts an ambulatory HMMWV to a Shock Trauma Platoon during Exercise Steel Night’s mass casualty drill at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 12, 2015. The drill tested the 1st Marine Division’s ability to react to a large influx of injuries and wounds from battling the enemy. Steel Knight provides tough, realistic training for the Marines and sailors of 1st Marine Division. - A Marine escorts an ambulatory HMMWV to a Shock Trauma Platoon during Exercise Steel Night’s mass casualty drill at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 12, 2015. The drill tested the 1st Marine Division’s ability to react to a large influx of injuries and wounds from battling the enemy. Steel Knight provides tough, realistic training for the Marines and sailors of 1st Marine Division.

Marines perform a weapons functional test on an F-35B Lightning II aircraft during Exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 10, 2015. The F-35B is a single seat, single engine stealth multi-role fighter bringing the Marine Corps into a whole new generation of aircraft. Exercise Steel Knight allowed for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 and Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 to train on integrating the F-35B and find its place in the Marine Air Ground Task Force, while giving the ground forces of 1st Marine Division the ability to become familiar with it. - Marines perform a weapons functional test on an F-35B Lightning II aircraft during Exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 10, 2015. The F-35B is a single seat, single engine stealth multi-role fighter bringing the Marine Corps into a whole new generation of aircraft. Exercise Steel Knight allowed for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 and Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 to train on integrating the F-35B and find its place in the Marine Air Ground Task Force, while giving the ground forces of 1st Marine Division the ability to become familiar with it.

Marines and sailors with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit transport a simulated causality during a mass-casualty drill on the flight deck of the USS Essex (LHD 2).The Marines and Sailors honed their skills to become quicker and more efficient should a situation arise where medical attention is needed. The 15th MEU is currently deployed in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to promote regional stability and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. - Marines and sailors with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit transport a simulated causality during a mass-casualty drill on the flight deck of the USS Essex (LHD 2).The Marines and Sailors honed their skills to become quicker and more efficient should a situation arise where medical attention is needed. The 15th MEU is currently deployed in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to promote regional stability and security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

Cpl. Joseph Giordano, a team leader with Alpha Battery, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, carries a FIM-92 stinger weapons system during the National Training Center Rotation 16-01 on Fort Irwin, Calif., Oct. 20. This was the first time in more than 10 years that a Marine LAAD unit participated in this exercise. - Cpl. Joseph Giordano, a team leader with Alpha Battery, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, carries a FIM-92 stinger weapons system during the National Training Center Rotation 16-01 on Fort Irwin, Calif., Oct. 20. This was the first time in more than 10 years that a Marine LAAD unit participated in this exercise.

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.

Brig. Gen. David W. Coffman, the deputy commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, speaks at the senior leadership seminar as part of San Francisco Fleet Week 2015, Oct. 7. The seminars brought together leaders from local, regional, and federal agencies, as well as political and diplomatic leaders to broaden working relationships and encourage cooperative emergency planning in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts. SFFW 15’ is a weeklong event that blends a unique training and education program, bringing together key civilian emergency responders and Naval crisis-response forces to exchange best practices on humanitarian assistance disaster relief with particular emphasis on defense support to civil authorities. - Brig. Gen. David W. Coffman, the deputy commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, speaks at the senior leadership seminar as part of San Francisco Fleet Week 2015, Oct. 7. The seminars brought together leaders from local, regional, and federal agencies, as well as political and diplomatic leaders to broaden working relationships and encourage cooperative emergency planning in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts. SFFW 15’ is a weeklong event that blends a unique training and education program, bringing together key civilian emergency responders and Naval crisis-response forces to exchange best practices on humanitarian assistance disaster relief with particular emphasis on defense support to civil authorities.

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

U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform aeriel manuevers at the 2015 MCAS Miramar Air Show at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Oct. 2. Sixteen pilots volunteer to fly in the formation of F/A-18 Hornets to show audiences around the world the capabilities of the armed forces’ aircraft. - U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform aeriel manuevers at the 2015 MCAS Miramar Air Show at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Oct. 2. Sixteen pilots volunteer to fly in the formation of F/A-18 Hornets to show audiences around the world the capabilities of the armed forces’ aircraft.

Staff Sgt. Joshua K. Crabtree, explosive ordnance disposal technician, 3rd EOD, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, performs a sweep with a metal detector during a post-blast analysis training scenario at Emerson Lake training area, Sept. 19, 2015. While aboard the Combat Center, EOD technicians received experience in working with a wider variety of ordnance than is usually available to the unit. - Staff Sgt. Joshua K. Crabtree, explosive ordnance disposal technician, 3rd EOD, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, performs a sweep with a metal detector during a post-blast analysis training scenario at Emerson Lake training area, Sept. 19, 2015. While aboard the Combat Center, EOD technicians received experience in working with a wider variety of ordnance than is usually available to the unit.

Marines with the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab observe as an Internally Transported Vehicle (ITV) is loaded on to a Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter in preparation for an experimental field exercise at Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., Aug. 31, 2015. The exercise allows the warfighting lab to assess the capabilities of the ITVs and determine new recommendations for the design of ITVs to come. - Marines with the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab observe as an Internally Transported Vehicle (ITV) is loaded on to a Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter in preparation for an experimental field exercise at Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., Aug. 31, 2015. The exercise allows the warfighting lab to assess the capabilities of the ITVs and determine new recommendations for the design of ITVs to come.

An explosive ordnance disposal Marine explains how a metal detector works to an onlooker during San Diego Fleet Week 2015 at Naval Base Coronado, Calif., Sept. 20, 2015. Thirty-seven Marines from 7th ESB presented static displays during the event to demonstrate the quality of military assets to the citizens of San Diego. - An explosive ordnance disposal Marine explains how a metal detector works to an onlooker during San Diego Fleet Week 2015 at Naval Base Coronado, Calif., Sept. 20, 2015. Thirty-seven Marines from 7th ESB presented static displays during the event to demonstrate the quality of military assets to the citizens of San Diego.

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

Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment provide security on the beach following an amphibious landing as part of Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational, amphibious training exercise designed to hone the amphibious landing skills of I Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Expeditionary Strike Group Three and allies of the United States. - Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment provide security on the beach following an amphibious landing as part of Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational, amphibious training exercise designed to hone the amphibious landing skills of I Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Expeditionary Strike Group Three and allies of the United States.

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 Bulk Fuel Company, 1st Marine Logistics Group, team up with sailors from Amphibious Construction Battalion 1 to perform a beach unloading exercise using the Beach Termination Unit, in Coronado, California, Aug. 1-4, 2015. Approximately 30 Marines with Bulk Fuel Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, teamed up with sailors from Amphibious Construction Battalion 1 to conduct a beach unloading exercise. What made the training unique was the use of the BTU, which allows Marines to transfer fuel from a ship out in the ocean to Marines on land. - Marines with Bulk Fuel Company, 1st Marine Logistics Group, team up with sailors from Amphibious Construction Battalion 1 to perform a beach unloading exercise using the Beach Termination Unit, in Coronado, California, Aug. 1-4, 2015. Approximately 30 Marines with Bulk Fuel Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, teamed up with sailors from Amphibious Construction Battalion 1 to conduct a beach unloading exercise. What made the training unique was the use of the BTU, which allows Marines to transfer fuel from a ship out in the ocean to Marines on land.

A CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 366 descends to a secured landing zone during a simulated casualty evacuation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 10, 2015. The simulation gave Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 1, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group an opportunity to prepare for casualty response during future operations. - A CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 366 descends to a secured landing zone during a simulated casualty evacuation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 10, 2015. The simulation gave Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 1, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group an opportunity to prepare for casualty response during future 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. - 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. Navy Landing Craft Air Cushioned (LCAC) vehicle from Assault Craft Unit 5 lands on Red Beach as part of a loading exercise along side Combat Logistics Battalion 11, Headquarters Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 23, 2015. This loading exercise reinforces the Marine Corps role as an amphibious force in readiness by maintaining capabilities through realistic training. - U.S. Navy Landing Craft Air Cushioned (LCAC) vehicle from Assault Craft Unit 5 lands on Red Beach as part of a loading exercise along side Combat Logistics Battalion 11, Headquarters Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 23, 2015. This loading exercise reinforces the Marine Corps role as an amphibious force in readiness by maintaining capabilities through realistic training.

Ken Asato, a corporal with the Uruma City Police Department, exits his vehicle as an “intruder” on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, June 11, 2015 during bilateral training between service members and the UCPD. The training ensured the camp guard, and the Provost Marshal’s Office are proficient in communicating with the UCPD to mitigate security threats involving service members and Okinawa residents. During the training event, Asato posed as an Okinawa resident entering the base without authorization. Camp guard Marines patrolling the perimeter of the base apprehended the intruder and rehearsed turnover procedures with PMO Marines. - Ken Asato, a corporal with the Uruma City Police Department, exits his vehicle as an “intruder” on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, June 11, 2015 during bilateral training between service members and the UCPD. The training ensured the camp guard, and the Provost Marshal’s Office are proficient in communicating with the UCPD to mitigate security threats involving service members and Okinawa residents. During the training event, Asato posed as an Okinawa resident entering the base without authorization. Camp guard Marines patrolling the perimeter of the base apprehended the intruder and rehearsed turnover procedures with PMO Marines.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Guillermo Lopez, with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provides medical attention to a distressed mariner aboard the USS Rushmore (LSD 47) at sea in the Pacific Ocean, June 10, 2015. Rushmore rendered assistance to the distressed mariners in the waters between the Indonesian islands of Kalimantan and Sulawesi. Once on board, evacuees were provided food and medical attention by Marines and sailors of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Essex Amphibious Ready Group. - U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Guillermo Lopez, with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provides medical attention to a distressed mariner aboard the USS Rushmore (LSD 47) at sea in the Pacific Ocean, June 10, 2015. Rushmore rendered assistance to the distressed mariners in the waters between the Indonesian islands of Kalimantan and Sulawesi. Once on board, evacuees were provided food and medical attention by Marines and sailors of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Essex Amphibious Ready Group.

An explosive ordnance disposal technician undergoes the decontamination process after leak, seal, package and decontamination training April 21 at the gas chamber on Camp Hansen, Okinawa. Explosive ordnance disposal technicians and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense specialists placed a leaking ordnance package in the gas chamber, using chlorobenzylidene malonitrile, also known as tear gas, to simulate the emission of harmful gases. - An explosive ordnance disposal technician undergoes the decontamination process after leak, seal, package and decontamination training April 21 at the gas chamber on Camp Hansen, Okinawa. Explosive ordnance disposal technicians and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense specialists placed a leaking ordnance package in the gas chamber, using chlorobenzylidene malonitrile, also known as tear gas, to simulate the emission of harmful gases.

Lance Corporal Brandon Renteria fires simulation rounds from a M32A1 multi-shot grenade launcher during a live-fire training event alongside Australian soldiers with 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, Australian Defence Force, May 15 at Kangaroo Flats Training Area, Victoria, Northern Territory, Australia. The Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, and Australian soldiers brushed up on squad attack tactics, basic point man skills and explosives to refine basic infantry skills. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies and improves interoperability between the two forces. Renteria is a rifleman with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, MRF-D. - Lance Corporal Brandon Renteria fires simulation rounds from a M32A1 multi-shot grenade launcher during a live-fire training event alongside Australian soldiers with 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, Australian Defence Force, May 15 at Kangaroo Flats Training Area, Victoria, Northern Territory, Australia. The Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, and Australian soldiers brushed up on squad attack tactics, basic point man skills and explosives to refine basic infantry skills. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies and improves interoperability between the two forces. Renteria is a rifleman with Company A, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, MRF-D.

Two chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense specialists ensure gas masks are properly fitted prior to leak, seal, package and decontamination training April 21 at the gas chamber on Camp Hansen, Okinawa. The CBRN defense specialists assisted in familiarizing explosive ordnance disposal technicians with decontamination procedures following the leak, seal, package process used to mitigate CBRN-related hazards. The EOD technicians and CBRN defense specialists used protective equipment to perform general decontamination of the affected area and prepare the leaking ordnance for safe containment and transport before completing the decontamination process. The training instilled the Marines’ confidence in their safety equipment and procedures used to mitigate CBRN-related hazards. The Marines are with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, and Marine Logistics Group Headquarters Regiment, 3rd MLG, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Two chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense specialists ensure gas masks are properly fitted prior to leak, seal, package and decontamination training April 21 at the gas chamber on Camp Hansen, Okinawa. The CBRN defense specialists assisted in familiarizing explosive ordnance disposal technicians with decontamination procedures following the leak, seal, package process used to mitigate CBRN-related hazards. The EOD technicians and CBRN defense specialists used protective equipment to perform general decontamination of the affected area and prepare the leaking ordnance for safe containment and transport before completing the decontamination process. The training instilled the Marines’ confidence in their safety equipment and procedures used to mitigate CBRN-related hazards. The Marines are with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, and Marine Logistics Group Headquarters Regiment, 3rd MLG, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines with 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion traverse the desert on the way to set up a forward combat operations center during Exercise Desert Scimitar, April 12, 2015, aboard the Combat Center. Division-level exercises, such as Desert Scimitar, allow division units to train in order to maintain mission readiness. - Marines with 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion traverse the desert on the way to set up a forward combat operations center during Exercise Desert Scimitar, April 12, 2015, aboard the Combat Center. Division-level exercises, such as Desert Scimitar, allow division units to train in order to maintain mission readiness.

Marines from Company I, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment depart from an MV-22B Osprey to conduct a simulated embassy reinforcement training exercise at Joint Reserve Training Center Los Alamitos, California, April 11, 2015. The embassy reinforcement operation was a part of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s certification exercise, the last training exercise the MEU conducts before deployment. - Marines from Company I, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment depart from an MV-22B Osprey to conduct a simulated embassy reinforcement training exercise at Joint Reserve Training Center Los Alamitos, California, April 11, 2015. The embassy reinforcement operation was a part of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s certification exercise, the last training exercise the MEU conducts before deployment.

A U.S. Marine fast-ropes out of an MV-22B Osprey during an exercise on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard, at sea, Feb. 18, 2015. Each Marine had a chance to go down the rope multiple times. After fast-roping, the Marines practiced rappelling from the Osprey. The Marines are with Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and the Osprey is from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262. The Marines are currently participating in the MEU’s annually-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - A U.S. Marine fast-ropes out of an MV-22B Osprey during an exercise on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard, at sea, Feb. 18, 2015. Each Marine had a chance to go down the rope multiple times. After fast-roping, the Marines practiced rappelling from the Osprey. The Marines are with Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and the Osprey is from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262. The Marines are currently participating in the MEU’s annually-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

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The QRF security element posts up four-corner security around an objective site during a Quick Reaction Force drill, as part of Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 2015 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 22, 2015. Marines with 1st Law Enforcement Battalion employed a QRF to combat imminent “enemy threats” during MEFEX-15. - The QRF security element posts up four-corner security around an objective site during a Quick Reaction Force drill, as part of Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 2015 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 22, 2015. Marines with 1st Law Enforcement Battalion employed a QRF to combat imminent “enemy threats” during MEFEX-15.

An assault breacher vehicle races towards the objective as artillery provides suppressing fire Feb. 9 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, during the battalion assault course at Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. ABV’s are used to clear areas of mines and other ordinance for ground troops and vehicles to move through. During the BAC the ABV’s fire a mine-clearing line charge to simulate destroying enemy ordinance. The Marines operating the ABV are with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force. - An assault breacher vehicle races towards the objective as artillery provides suppressing fire Feb. 9 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, during the battalion assault course at Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. ABV’s are used to clear areas of mines and other ordinance for ground troops and vehicles to move through. During the BAC the ABV’s fire a mine-clearing line charge to simulate destroying enemy ordinance. The Marines operating the ABV are with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force.

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

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

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

Motor Transport Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Battalion 26, Headquarters Regiment, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, conduct a simulated convoy throughout the hills aboard Bridgeport, California, Jan. 14, 2015. The Marines learned how to operate the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and the small unit support vehicles in mountainous terrain during classroom instruction and practical application. - Motor Transport Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Battalion 26, Headquarters Regiment, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, conduct a simulated convoy throughout the hills aboard Bridgeport, California, Jan. 14, 2015. The Marines learned how to operate the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and the small unit support vehicles in mountainous terrain during classroom instruction and practical application.