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U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Yasmine Huley-Morris, the station station captain of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF), Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, and a native of Virginia, stands in front of a fire truck for a picture at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, June 4, 2024. Huley-Morris recently received the Military Firefighter of the Year award for all military services. The award recognizes the firefighters accomplishments of the preceding year for setting the example of professional activities and career development goals. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dahkareo Pritchett) - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Yasmine Huley-Morris, the station station captain of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF), Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, and a native of Virginia, stands in front of a fire truck for a picture at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, June 4, 2024. Huley-Morris recently received the Military Firefighter of the Year award for all military services. The award recognizes the firefighters accomplishments of the preceding year for setting the example of professional activities and career development goals. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dahkareo Pritchett)

U.S. and Japanese national flags are presented during the opening ceremony for the field training exercise portion of Resolute Dragon 23 held at Camp Kengun, Kumamoto, Japan, Oct. 14, 2023. - U.S. and Japanese national flags are presented during the opening ceremony for the field training exercise portion of Resolute Dragon 23 held at Camp Kengun, Kumamoto, Japan, Oct. 14, 2023. RD 23 is an annual bilateral exercise in Japan that strengthens the command, control, and multi-domain maneuver capabilities of Marines in III Marine Expeditionary Force and allied Japan Self-Defense Force personnel. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Robert G. Gavaldon)

A sign on display during English Camp weekend, reads “English Camp,” in colorful letters. - A sign on display during English Camp weekend. CATC Camp Fuji Marines mentored Japanese children through English Camp emersion course hosted by the National Chuo Youth Friendship Center in Gotemba, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Song Jordan)

Members of the III MEF band rehearsed together with students at the last hour of the clinic. - Members of the III MEF band rehearsed together with students at the last hour of the clinic.

Japan U.S. Military Program Visits Camp Lejeune - U.S. Marines and local Japanese and Okinawan community members gather at the Paradise Point All Hands Club to participate in the Japan U.S. Military Program on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 8, 2023. The mission of JUMP is to create a platform to connect retired and active-duty service members, families, and government civilians, who have served in Japan through social networks and grassroots events. (U.S Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jennifer E. Douds)

The U.S. Marine Corps III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion color guard and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force color guard members participate in the 2022 Reunion of Honor on Iwo To, Japan, Dec. 10, 2022. The Reunion of Honor is an annual ceremony that commemorates the sacrifices made by both Japanese and American service members who fought during World War II on Iwo To. - The U.S. Marine Corps III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion color guard and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force color guard members participate in the 2022 Reunion of Honor on Iwo To, Japan, Dec. 10, 2022. The Reunion of Honor is an annual ceremony that commemorates the sacrifices made by both Japanese and American service members who fought during World War II on Iwo To.

Firefighters with Marine Corps Installations Pacific Fire and Emergency Services participate in embankment rope training on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 28, 2022. The firefighters utilized roping techniques to rescue and provide care to a simulated victim located at the bottom of a steep embankment. MCIPAC F&ES is a regional fire department that operates eight fire stations across Japan and provides services to installations including fire suppression, technical rescue, hazardous material disposal, emergency medical care, fire protection and prevention. - Firefighters with Marine Corps Installations Pacific Fire and Emergency Services participate in embankment rope training on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 28, 2022. The firefighters utilized roping techniques to rescue and provide care to a simulated victim located at the bottom of a steep embankment. MCIPAC F&ES is a regional fire department that operates eight fire stations across Japan and provides services to installations including fire suppression, technical rescue, hazardous material disposal, emergency medical care, fire protection and prevention.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nahla Beard, an Air Traffic Controller with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, attempts a Guinness world record at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, August 7, 2021. Cpl. Beard won the Guinness world record for most chest-to-ground burpees in one minute. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nahla Beard, an Air Traffic Controller with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, attempts a Guinness world record at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, August 7, 2021. Cpl. Beard won the Guinness world record for most chest-to-ground burpees in one minute.

Members of the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Fire Department pose for a group photo in front of Fire Station 1 at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 29, 2022. The fire department safeguards property and personnel from emergency situations by providing all-hazard response services. To increase the community’s knowledge on fire prevention and education, the fire station hosts open houses and teaches classes throughout the year. - Members of the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Fire Department pose for a group photo in front of Fire Station 1 at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 29, 2022. The fire department safeguards property and personnel from emergency situations by providing all-hazard response services. To increase the community’s knowledge on fire prevention and education, the fire station hosts open houses and teaches classes throughout the year.

U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Division pass in review during a battle colors rededication ceremony rehearsal on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 13, 2022. - U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Division pass in review during a battle colors rededication ceremony rehearsal on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 13, 2022. The ceremony will commemorate the Division’s 80th Anniversary and its legacy of valor, honor, and fidelity. The 3d Marine Division was activated at Camp Elliot, San Diego, Sept. 16, 1942 and has taken part in combat operations from World War II and Vietnam through Iraq and Afghanistan. The current Marines of 3d Marine Division continue to build on this legacy today as a critical part of the stand-in force within the first island chain of the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Michael Taggart)

U.S. Marine Corps Instructors of Water Survival and graduates of the Water Survival Advanced course pose for a group photo on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, July 22, 2022. WSA is the highest swim qualification that Marines can obtain before becoming Marine Corps Instructors of Water Survival. Throughout the course, students endured aquatic conditioning, endurance swimming, and underwater rescue training. - U.S. Marine Corps Instructors of Water Survival and graduates of the Water Survival Advanced course pose for a group photo on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, July 22, 2022. WSA is the highest swim qualification that Marines can obtain before becoming Marine Corps Instructors of Water Survival. Throughout the course, students endured aquatic conditioning, endurance swimming, and underwater rescue training.

U.S. Marines with the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Special Reaction Team, and the air station’s Provost Marshal’s Office conduct a barricaded suspect exercise at the Iwakuni Naval Family Branch Clinic at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, April 8, 2022. SRT and PMO work side-by-side to conduct emergency drills in order to maintain their proficiencies and prepare for potential real-world contingencies on the installation. - U.S. Marines with the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Special Reaction Team, and the air station’s Provost Marshal’s Office conduct a barricaded suspect exercise at the Iwakuni Naval Family Branch Clinic at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, April 8, 2022. SRT and PMO work side-by-side to conduct emergency drills in order to maintain their proficiencies and prepare for potential real-world contingencies on the installation.

A firefighter with Marine Corps Installations Pacific Fire and Emergency Services expels excess water from a hose after bilateral live-fire training on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, March 25, 2022. MCIPAC F&ES and the Naha City Fire Department assembled and conducted live-fire training to compare the different firefighting techniques and methods each department uses to accomplish the same mission. - A firefighter with Marine Corps Installations Pacific Fire and Emergency Services expels excess water from a hose after bilateral live-fire training on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, March 25, 2022. MCIPAC F&ES and the Naha City Fire Department assembled and conducted live-fire training to compare the different firefighting techniques and methods each department uses to accomplish the same mission.

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U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and soldiers with Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, conduct integrated coordination of an air assault training exercise, on Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, March 9, 2022. The training exercise was conducted to build proficiency in rapidly seizing and defending key terrain. Maritime Defense Exercise Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade is a bilateral exercise meant to increase interoperability and strengthen ties between U.S. and Japanese forces for the defense of Japan. - U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and soldiers with Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, conduct integrated coordination of an air assault training exercise, on Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, March 9, 2022. The training exercise was conducted to build proficiency in rapidly seizing and defending key terrain. Maritime Defense Exercise Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade is a bilateral exercise meant to increase interoperability and strengthen ties between U.S. and Japanese forces for the defense of Japan.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Seth McAnally, an infantry platoon commander, with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, conducts a patrol during Jungle Warfare Exercise 22 in the Northern Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 16th, 2022. JWX 22 is large-scale field training exercise focused on leveraging the integrated capabilities of joint and allied partners to strengthen all-domain awareness, maneuver, and fires across a distributed maritime environment. 2/7 is forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division as a part of the Unit Deployment Program. - U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Seth McAnally, an infantry platoon commander, with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, conducts a patrol during Jungle Warfare Exercise 22 in the Northern Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 16th, 2022. JWX 22 is large-scale field training exercise focused on leveraging the integrated capabilities of joint and allied partners to strengthen all-domain awareness, maneuver, and fires across a distributed maritime environment. 2/7 is forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division as a part of the Unit Deployment Program.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James W. Bierman, the III Marine Expeditionary Force Commanding General, and Japan Self-Defense Force LTG Ryoji Takemoto, the Western Army Commanding General, collaboratively lead a virtual bilateral operations confirmation brief during exercise Keen Edge 22, Feb. 2, 2022. Keen Edge 22 was a bilateral command post exercise conducted Jan. 27 through Feb. 3, 2022. The exercise is an annual event that improves interagency coordination, combat readiness and interoperability of all participants. This U.S.-Japan exercise series alternates between field training exercises (i.e., Keen Sword) and command post exercises (i.e., Keen Edge). - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James W. Bierman, the III Marine Expeditionary Force Commanding General, and Japan Self-Defense Force LTG Ryoji Takemoto, the Western Army Commanding General, collaboratively lead a virtual bilateral operations confirmation brief during exercise Keen Edge 22, Feb. 2, 2022. Keen Edge 22 was a bilateral command post exercise conducted Jan. 27 through Feb. 3, 2022. The exercise is an annual event that improves interagency coordination, combat readiness and interoperability of all participants. This U.S.-Japan exercise series alternates between field training exercises (i.e., Keen Sword) and command post exercises (i.e., Keen Edge).

Cpl. Jacob Wright, a scout sniper, with Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit captures imagery of key road terrain during a two-day route reconnaissance mission at the Jungle Warfare Training Center in Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 12, 2022. Scout snipers play an integral part in the Stand in Force Concept operating as the eyes and ears of the ground force commander, allowing for a more efficient decision making process. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region. - Cpl. Jacob Wright, a scout sniper, with Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit captures imagery of key road terrain during a two-day route reconnaissance mission at the Jungle Warfare Training Center in Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 12, 2022. Scout snipers play an integral part in the Stand in Force Concept operating as the eyes and ears of the ground force commander, allowing for a more efficient decision making process. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Benjamin Crayton, a motor vehicle operator with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, observes the motor pool during an inspection of a Humvee on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 10, 2022. Crayton was born in Monrovia, Liberia during the First Liberian Civil War, and immigrated to Europe as a refugee. When he was 17 years old he moved to the U.S. and in 2021 he enlisted in the Marine Corps. - U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Benjamin Crayton, a motor vehicle operator with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, observes the motor pool during an inspection of a Humvee on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 10, 2022. Crayton was born in Monrovia, Liberia during the First Liberian Civil War, and immigrated to Europe as a refugee. When he was 17 years old he moved to the U.S. and in 2021 he enlisted in the Marine Corps.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, board a U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Dec. 6, 2021. Marines with CLR-3 are providing support services such as field expedient showers and laundry facilities to the residents of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam affected by the ongoing water issue. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III MEF’s comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. - U.S. Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, board a U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Dec. 6, 2021. Marines with CLR-3 are providing support services such as field expedient showers and laundry facilities to the residents of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam affected by the ongoing water issue. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III MEF’s comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172 refuel an MV-22B Osprey at a forward arming and refueling point in preparation for exercise Resolute Dragon 21, Dec. 3, 2021 at Ojojihara Proving Grounds, Japan. RD21 is the largest bilateral field training exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Self-Defense Force in 2021. RD21 is designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains. - U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172 refuel an MV-22B Osprey at a forward arming and refueling point in preparation for exercise Resolute Dragon 21, Dec. 3, 2021 at Ojojihara Proving Grounds, Japan. RD21 is the largest bilateral field training exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Self-Defense Force in 2021. RD21 is designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

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U.S. Marine Capt. Shane Kim, Logistics Officer for Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division conducts a Beach Landing Site survey alongside Maj. Laurence Medina, Operations Officer for the Philippine Marine Corps’ Coastal Defense Regiment as part of Exercise KAMANDAG 5-21 in Claveria, Philippines, Oct. 3, 2021. BLS surveys provide vital information in support of amphibious operations, enabling rapid, bilateral response to crisis when required. - U.S. Marine Capt. Shane Kim, Logistics Officer for Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division conducts a Beach Landing Site survey alongside Maj. Laurence Medina, Operations Officer for the Philippine Marine Corps’ Coastal Defense Regiment as part of Exercise KAMANDAG 5-21 in Claveria, Philippines, Oct. 3, 2021. BLS surveys provide vital information in support of amphibious operations, enabling rapid, bilateral response to crisis when required.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Morelia Capuchino Diaz, a food service specialist with Camp Courtney Mess Hall, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, places on a kevlar as she walks to the firing line during the new Annual Rifle Qualification on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 5, 2021. The ARQ is a three-day, combat-centric course of fire that tests Marines’ marksmanship skills in a dynamic-shooting environment. Shooters utilize artificial support, engage moving targets as well as engage targets while on the move. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Morelia Capuchino Diaz, a food service specialist with Camp Courtney Mess Hall, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, places on a kevlar as she walks to the firing line during the new Annual Rifle Qualification on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 5, 2021. The ARQ is a three-day, combat-centric course of fire that tests Marines’ marksmanship skills in a dynamic-shooting environment. Shooters utilize artificial support, engage moving targets as well as engage targets while on the move.

A U.S. Navy Sailor directs a Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 aboard the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS Izumo (DDH-183) off the coast of Japan, Oct. 3, 2021. Marines and Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) embarked aboard Izumo to support the first ever F-35B Lightning II operations aboard a Japanese vessel. The U.S. and Japan continue to work closely together to broaden their operational capabilities, support the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. - A U.S. Navy Sailor directs a Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 aboard the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS Izumo (DDH-183) off the coast of Japan, Oct. 3, 2021. Marines and Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) embarked aboard Izumo to support the first ever F-35B Lightning II operations aboard a Japanese vessel. The U.S. and Japan continue to work closely together to broaden their operational capabilities, support the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems with 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines conduct a fire mission during Exercise Noble Jaguar 2021 within the Central Training Area on Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 30, 2021. The Marine Corps and Navy leveraged integrated command and control and joint sensors to expand battlefield awareness, share targeting data, and conduct long-range precision strikes in support of sea control and sea denial in contested maritime environments. III Marine Expeditionary Force executed these actions as a part of an integrated operation with 7th Fleet to maintain readiness and demonstrate U.S. resolve to preserve regional security. - U.S. Marine Corps High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems with 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines conduct a fire mission during Exercise Noble Jaguar 2021 within the Central Training Area on Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 30, 2021. The Marine Corps and Navy leveraged integrated command and control and joint sensors to expand battlefield awareness, share targeting data, and conduct long-range precision strikes in support of sea control and sea denial in contested maritime environments. III Marine Expeditionary Force executed these actions as a part of an integrated operation with 7th Fleet to maintain readiness and demonstrate U.S. resolve to preserve regional security.

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Japanese government officials and U.S. Marines come together for discussions during the Artillery Relocation Training Program Annual Planning Conference on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 22, 2021. The ARTP Annual Conference allows Japanese and U.S. officials to develop a better understanding of the goals of the program, as well as solidify bilateral objectives related to the training, the continued usage of training areas and the modernization of both forces. - Japanese government officials and U.S. Marines come together for discussions during the Artillery Relocation Training Program Annual Planning Conference on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 22, 2021. The ARTP Annual Conference allows Japanese and U.S. officials to develop a better understanding of the goals of the program, as well as solidify bilateral objectives related to the training, the continued usage of training areas and the modernization of both forces.

A U.S. Marine with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, provides security with his M240B medium machine gun during Crisis Response Exercise II in Kuwait, June 19, 2021. CRX II is a long range assault in which Marines simulate taking over and occupying a forward operations base in a hostile environment. The SPMAGTF-CR-CC is a crisis response force, prepared to deploy a variety of capabilities across the region. - A U.S. Marine with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, provides security with his M240B medium machine gun during Crisis Response Exercise II in Kuwait, June 19, 2021. CRX II is a long range assault in which Marines simulate taking over and occupying a forward operations base in a hostile environment. The SPMAGTF-CR-CC is a crisis response force, prepared to deploy a variety of capabilities across the region.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jonathan Fico, a fire support Marine with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, assists in establishing an observation post during an exercise near Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 21, 2021. The training allowed 15th Brigade forces to study tactical communication, maneuver and fires increasing interoperability between the two countries. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jonathan Fico, a fire support Marine with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, assists in establishing an observation post during an exercise near Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 21, 2021. The training allowed 15th Brigade forces to study tactical communication, maneuver and fires increasing interoperability between the two countries.

A U.S. Marine with 1st Marine Division provides suppressive fire during Marine Air Ground Task Force Warfighting Exercise 3-21 on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, May 7, 2021. MWX is the culminating event of the Service Level Training Exercise, challenging the MAGTF to fight against a free thinking adversary with similar capabilities in a force on force environment. - A U.S. Marine with 1st Marine Division provides suppressive fire during Marine Air Ground Task Force Warfighting Exercise 3-21 on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, May 7, 2021. MWX is the culminating event of the Service Level Training Exercise, challenging the MAGTF to fight against a free thinking adversary with similar capabilities in a force on force environment.

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, prepares for takeoff during an Alert Contingency Marine Air Ground Task Force drill at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, May 20, 2021. The ACM exercise is a simulated crisis response drill that must be executed within 24 hours to prepare the Marines of 1st MAW to mitigate emergencies, provide humanitarian aid, and/ or counter threats to U.S. national interests within the Indo-Pacific region. - A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, prepares for takeoff during an Alert Contingency Marine Air Ground Task Force drill at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, May 20, 2021. The ACM exercise is a simulated crisis response drill that must be executed within 24 hours to prepare the Marines of 1st MAW to mitigate emergencies, provide humanitarian aid, and/ or counter threats to U.S. national interests within the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marines with the III Marine Expeditionary Force and members of the Japan Ground-Self Defense Force 15th Brigade bands pose for a photo at Tedako Hall in Urasoe, Okinawa, Japan, April 16, 2021. The bands' harmonious performance was a display of the III MEF and 15th Brigade bands' alliance and unity within the musical arts. The annual concert was performed virtually and the recording will debut on social media platforms within the coming weeks. - U.S. Marines with the III Marine Expeditionary Force and members of the Japan Ground-Self Defense Force 15th Brigade bands pose for a photo at Tedako Hall in Urasoe, Okinawa, Japan, April 16, 2021. The bands' harmonious performance was a display of the III MEF and 15th Brigade bands' alliance and unity within the musical arts. The annual concert was performed virtually and the recording will debut on social media platforms within the coming weeks.

(From left) U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Thomas Diffley, Pfc. Elijah Stewart and Lance Cpl. Nicklas Martin, expeditionary firefighting and rescue specialists with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, pose for an environmental photo on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 7, 2021. EFR specialist Marines with H&HS provide aircraft rescue and firefighting services in support of airfield operations and respond to any fire-related emergencies and situations with a maximum response time of five minutes. Stewart is a native of Independence, Missouri, Diffley is a native of Dallas, Texas and Corkern is a native of Seattle, Washington. - (From left) U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Thomas Diffley, Pfc. Elijah Stewart and Lance Cpl. Nicklas Martin, expeditionary firefighting and rescue specialists with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, pose for an environmental photo on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 7, 2021. EFR specialist Marines with H&HS provide aircraft rescue and firefighting services in support of airfield operations and respond to any fire-related emergencies and situations with a maximum response time of five minutes. Stewart is a native of Independence, Missouri, Diffley is a native of Dallas, Texas and Corkern is a native of Seattle, Washington.

Lt. Col. Sally Ann Falco holds photos of two of her female Marine mentors, retired Sgt. Maj. Tammy Fodey and retired Sgt. Maj. Sarah Thornton, the first woman Marine to retire after 30 consecutive years of active service. Falco served as an enlisted Marine for 14 years before her acceptance to the Meritorious Commissioning Program. She commissioned in August 2001 and will soon retire after 34 fruitful years in the Marine Corps. “I’ve just been privileged to be allowed to be a Marine,” Falco said. “I still love it as much as the day I came in, and I would stay in forever, but I want to make room for others to climb the ladder and at the same time, contribute to society in another capacity.” - Lt. Col. Sally Ann Falco holds photos of two of her female Marine mentors, retired Sgt. Maj. Tammy Fodey and retired Sgt. Maj. Sarah Thornton, the first woman Marine to retire after 30 consecutive years of active service. Falco served as an enlisted Marine for 14 years before her acceptance to the Meritorious Commissioning Program. She commissioned in August 2001 and will soon retire after 34 fruitful years in the Marine Corps. “I’ve just been privileged to be allowed to be a Marine,” Falco said. “I still love it as much as the day I came in, and I would stay in forever, but I want to make room for others to climb the ladder and at the same time, contribute to society in another capacity.”

U.S. Marines with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division conduct a military freefall infiltration as a part of exercise Castaway 21.1 on Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, March 9, 2021. The exercise demonstrated the Marine Corps’ ability to integrate with the joint force to seize and defend key maritime terrain, provide low-signature sustainment, and execute long-range precision fires in support of naval operations from an expeditionary advanced base. - U.S. Marines with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division conduct a military freefall infiltration as a part of exercise Castaway 21.1 on Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, March 9, 2021. The exercise demonstrated the Marine Corps’ ability to integrate with the joint force to seize and defend key maritime terrain, provide low-signature sustainment, and execute long-range precision fires in support of naval operations from an expeditionary advanced base.

On March 7, Marines from the U.S. Embassy Tokyo and 3D Marine Expeditionary Brigade attended the Oshima Island 10-year anniversary of the 3-11 Great East Japan Earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster and subsequent US response Operation Tomodachi. The people of the island unveiled a memorial inscribed with “Friendship Forever,” honoring the strong relationship between themselves and Okinawa Marines. Attendees included city officials and citizens who survived the disaster and worked with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit which conducted extensive humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the area. The work underscored the importance of interoperability with our Japan Self-Defense Force partners in support of the Japan/US alliance. 3D MEB also responded to the disaster, working in Sendai area, and remains resilient, ready and relevant to work with our Japanese friends to respond to crisis in the future. - On March 7, Marines from the U.S. Embassy Tokyo and 3D Marine Expeditionary Brigade attended the Oshima Island 10-year anniversary of the 3-11 Great East Japan Earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster and subsequent US response Operation Tomodachi. The people of the island unveiled a memorial inscribed with “Friendship Forever,” honoring the strong relationship between themselves and Okinawa Marines. Attendees included city officials and citizens who survived the disaster and worked with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit which conducted extensive humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the area. The work underscored the importance of interoperability with our Japan Self-Defense Force partners in support of the Japan/US alliance. 3D MEB also responded to the disaster, working in Sendai area, and remains resilient, ready and relevant to work with our Japanese friends to respond to crisis in the future.

U.S. Marines rehearse distributed operations in mainland Japan, Jan. 31. - U.S. Marines rehearse distributed operations in mainland Japan, Jan. 31.

U.S. Marine Corps and Navy medical personnel and first responders complete an initial screening to receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 29, 2020. The Department of Defense’s (DOD) COVID-19 vaccination plan is phase driven and designed to protect members within the DOD fromCOVID-19 as quickly and safely as possible in order to bolster mission readiness and enhance capabilities of DOD members worldwide. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alex Fairchild) - U.S. Marine Corps and Navy medical personnel and first responders complete an initial screening to receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 29, 2020. The Department of Defense’s (DOD) COVID-19 vaccination plan is phase driven and designed to protect members within the DOD fromCOVID-19 as quickly and safely as possible in order to bolster mission readiness and enhance capabilities of DOD members worldwide. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alex Fairchild)

Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji Marines and Sailors clean up trash and ocean debris from Numazu Beach Training Area, Shizuoka, Japan, Dec. 30, 2020. Service members cleared over 2700 liters of trash and other ocean debris from the beach, which is used by joint U.S. forces and the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force for air ground and amphibious training. - Lance Cpl. Christopher Mauney, a Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji range control operator, cleans ocean debris from Numazu Beach Training Area, Shizuoka, Japan, Dec. 30, 2020. Service members cleared over 2700 liters of trash and other ocean debris from the beach, which is used by joint U.S. forces and the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force for air ground and amphibious training.

A member of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force looks out the back of a CH-47JA Chinook helicopter during exercise Forest Light Eastern Army at Camp Soumagahara, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, Dec. 9. - A member of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force looks out the back of a CH-47JA Chinook helicopter during exercise Forest Light Eastern Army at Camp Soumagahara, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, Dec. 9.

U.S. Marines and troops from the 30th Infantry Regiment, 12th Brigade, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force are briefed on upcoming integrated defensive tactics training during exercise Forest Light 21 in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, Dec. 10. - U.S. Marines and troops from the 30th Infantry Regiment, 12th Brigade, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force are briefed on upcoming integrated defensive tactics training during exercise Forest Light 21 in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, Dec. 10.

A U.S. Marine provides security with an M2 Browning .50 Caliber machine gun during Exercise Reindeer II in Setermoen, Norway, Nov. 25. - A U.S. Marine provides security with an M2 Browning .50 Caliber machine gun during Exercise Reindeer II in Setermoen, Norway, Nov. 25.

A U.S. Marine talks with a child during an English activity at the National Chuo Youth Friendship Center’s fourth annual English camp Nov. 21 to Nov. 22. - A U.S. Marine talks with a child during an English activity at the National Chuo Youth Friendship Center’s fourth annual English camp Nov. 21 to Nov. 22.

Explosive ordnance disposal technicians across Okinawa participate in an “ordnance exploitation proof of concept range” at Camp Schwab, Japan, Nov. 16 - 25. - Explosive ordnance disposal technicians across Okinawa participate in an “ordnance exploitation proof of concept range” at Camp Schwab, Japan, Nov. 16 - 25.

A U.S. Marine launched the first Big Ideas Challenge last August to unleash the creativity and ingenuity of III MEF Marines and sailors against the most pressing challenges facing the Marine Corps. Marines are currently reviewing the submissions along with making recommendations on how to implement them. - A U.S. Marine launched the first Big Ideas Challenge last August to unleash the creativity and ingenuity of III MEF Marines and sailors against the most pressing challenges facing the Marine Corps. Marines are currently reviewing the submissions along with making recommendations on how to implement them.

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Blaz conduct the first flag raising of the new command, marking the initial operation capability of the base in Dededo, Guam, Oct. 1, 2020. MCB Camp Blaz is the first Marine Corps base activated since the commissioning of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Georgia on March 1, 1952. - U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Blaz conduct the first flag raising of the new command, marking the initial operation capability of the base in Dededo, Guam, Oct. 1, 2020. MCB Camp Blaz is the first Marine Corps base activated since the commissioning of Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Georgia on March 1, 1952. The Marine Corps plans to hold a formal activation ceremony for the new base in the spring of 2021. MCB Camp Blaz, named after Brig. Gen. Vicente Tomas Garrido Blaz, a Marine officer of 29 years and former Guam delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives, symbolizes Guam’s contributions to national security and the continued partnership between the Marine Corps and the Government of Guam. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Andrew King)

U.S. Marines conduct a fire mission during a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System rapid infiltration exercise at Ie Shima, Japan, Sept. 24. - U.S. Marines conduct a fire mission during a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System rapid infiltration exercise at Ie Shima, Japan, Sept. 24.

U.S. Marines fire an M2 .50 caliber machine gun on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 26. - U.S. Marines fire an M2 .50 caliber machine gun on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 26.

U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade board an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, during a flyaway drill on the flight line of Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 18, 2020. The MEB continues to conduct essential, realistic training while adhering to strict COVID-19 safety protocols to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and are prepared to deploy in support of our allies and partners throughout the region. 3d MEB is structured to rapidly respond to crisis around the globe immediately, effectively, and efficiently, whether they are humanitarian or combat-related. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Hannah Hall) - U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade board an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, during a flyaway drill on the flight line of Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 18, 2020. The MEB continues to conduct essential, realistic training while adhering to strict COVID-19 safety protocols to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and are prepared to deploy in support of our allies and partners throughout the region. 3d MEB is structured to rapidly respond to crisis around the globe immediately, effectively, and efficiently, whether they are humanitarian or combat-related. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Hannah Hall)