News

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.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Sean M. Stephenson poses for a photo in front of his AV-8B Harrier on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) March 17, 2015. Stephenson started out his career as an enlisted band member and then persued his dream of becoming a pilot. Stehenson is a Harrier pilot with Marine Attack Squadron 231, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Sean M. Stephenson poses for a photo in front of his AV-8B Harrier on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) March 17, 2015. Stephenson started out his career as an enlisted band member and then persued his dream of becoming a pilot. Stehenson is a Harrier pilot with Marine Attack Squadron 231, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Gen. Joseph Dunford, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks with Marines on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, March 26. Dunford traveled to the Marine bases on Okinawa from March 24 to the 26 to talk with Marines about his expectations for the Marines and the Corps. “My priorities are to make sure we have the warfighting capabilities we need, to address the maturity of our leaders and to make sure they have the training, education and the experience that they need to be successful on the battlefield,” said Dunford. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Thor J. Larson/Released) - Gen. Joseph Dunford, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks with Marines on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, March 26. Dunford traveled to the Marine bases on Okinawa from March 24 to the 26 to talk with Marines about his expectations for the Marines and the Corps. “My priorities are to make sure we have the warfighting capabilities we need, to address the maturity of our leaders and to make sure they have the training, education and the experience that they need to be successful on the battlefield,” said Dunford. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Thor J. Larson/Released)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Thomas Harding shows a Republic of Korea Marine his M27 infantry automatic rifle during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15 in the vicinity of Pohang, South Korea, March 29, 2015. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in KMEP 15. The overall objective of KMEPs are to enhance amphibious operations between ROK and U.S. forces that contributes to security and stability on the Korean Peninsula as well as the entire Asia-Pacific region. The ROK Marines are with 33rd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division, and the U.S. Marines are with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 31st MEU. - U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Thomas Harding shows a Republic of Korea Marine his M27 infantry automatic rifle during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15 in the vicinity of Pohang, South Korea, March 29, 2015. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in KMEP 15. The overall objective of KMEPs are to enhance amphibious operations between ROK and U.S. forces that contributes to security and stability on the Korean Peninsula as well as the entire Asia-Pacific region. The ROK Marines are with 33rd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division, and the U.S. Marines are with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 31st MEU.

Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Joseph F. Dunford addresses Okinawa-based personnel during a town hall meeting March 25 at the Camp Foster Theater. Dunford traveled to Okinawa to speak about his planning guidance, which outlines his vision for the Marine Corps. Dunford also answered questions, touching on topics such as women in the infantry, the growing field of cyber warfare and the Corps’ tattoo policy. - Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Joseph F. Dunford addresses Okinawa-based personnel during a town hall meeting March 25 at the Camp Foster Theater. Dunford traveled to Okinawa to speak about his planning guidance, which outlines his vision for the Marine Corps. Dunford also answered questions, touching on topics such as women in the infantry, the growing field of cyber warfare and the Corps’ tattoo policy.

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.

A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey flies away from the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), at sea, March 19, 2015. The Osprey is transporting Marines to execute a vertical assault exercise on Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan. The Ospreys are with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Marines are with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 31st MEU, and are currently on the MEU’s annually-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey flies away from the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), at sea, March 19, 2015. The Osprey is transporting Marines to execute a vertical assault exercise on Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan. The Ospreys are with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Marines are with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 31st MEU, and are currently on the MEU’s annually-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

Cpl. Connor G. Reap inspects the final bolt put in a Humvee that made Marine Air Control Squadron 4 100-percent equipment ready March 13 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. “Marine Corps wide no one is at 100 percent readiness, except us right now,” said Reap. “There are some Marines who have been in for 20 plus years and they didn’t believe it. It made me feel like a rock star to know that we are the only unit in the Marine Corps to be 100 percent ready.” Reap, from Wanaque, New Jersey, is a quality control non-commissioned officer with MACS-4, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Connor G. Reap inspects the final bolt put in a Humvee that made Marine Air Control Squadron 4 100-percent equipment ready March 13 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. “Marine Corps wide no one is at 100 percent readiness, except us right now,” said Reap. “There are some Marines who have been in for 20 plus years and they didn’t believe it. It made me feel like a rock star to know that we are the only unit in the Marine Corps to be 100 percent ready.” Reap, from Wanaque, New Jersey, is a quality control non-commissioned officer with MACS-4, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force 1st Lt. Ryota Hasebe attached to 3rd Battalion 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force for two months starting Jan. 11 and ending March 13 poses for a photo at Camp Hansen, Okinawa. During those two months Hasebe learned about U.S. Marine Corps artillery and went to Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California for Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. Hasebe, 28, studied Chinese Literature and graduated from Kokugakuin University in Tokyo before joining the JGSDF in 2011. Hasebe is now the battalion fire direction control officer for 1st Battalion, 4th Field Artillery Regiment in Fukuoka Japan. - Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force 1st Lt. Ryota Hasebe attached to 3rd Battalion 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force for two months starting Jan. 11 and ending March 13 poses for a photo at Camp Hansen, Okinawa. During those two months Hasebe learned about U.S. Marine Corps artillery and went to Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California for Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. Hasebe, 28, studied Chinese Literature and graduated from Kokugakuin University in Tokyo before joining the JGSDF in 2011. Hasebe is now the battalion fire direction control officer for 1st Battalion, 4th Field Artillery Regiment in Fukuoka Japan.

1st Lt. Catherine Nuar, left, and 1st Lt. Rachel Cline, right, have a discussion while observing an energy-efficient advanced power system after an energy efficiency briefing Feb. 26 outside the Camp Foster Theater on Okinawa. The technology provides alternative power options for energizing communications equipment, computers and other electronic equipment in an expeditionary environment. Nuar is a native of Manassas, Virginia, and logistics officer with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Cline is a native of Denver, Colorado and a logistics officer with Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF. - 1st Lt. Catherine Nuar, left, and 1st Lt. Rachel Cline, right, have a discussion while observing an energy-efficient advanced power system after an energy efficiency briefing Feb. 26 outside the Camp Foster Theater on Okinawa. The technology provides alternative power options for energizing communications equipment, computers and other electronic equipment in an expeditionary environment. Nuar is a native of Manassas, Virginia, and logistics officer with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Cline is a native of Denver, Colorado and a logistics officer with Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III MEF.

A member of the Malaysian Armed Forces watches as an MV-22B Osprey loaded with U.S. Marines approaches a landing zone Feb. 27 during a theater security cooperation event. The Marines are with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, and Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently conducting the annual Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - A member of the Malaysian Armed Forces watches as an MV-22B Osprey loaded with U.S. Marines approaches a landing zone Feb. 27 during a theater security cooperation event. The Marines are with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, and Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently conducting the annual Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

Republic of Korea and U.S. Marines clear a building during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-17 Feb. 9 at the Cham Sae Mi Close-Quarters Battle Training Facility in Pohang, Republic of Korea. KMEP 15-17 is a regularly-scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps forces. The ROK Marines are with Company 5, 32nd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - Republic of Korea and U.S. Marines clear a building during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-17 Feb. 9 at the Cham Sae Mi Close-Quarters Battle Training Facility in Pohang, Republic of Korea. KMEP 15-17 is a regularly-scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps forces. The ROK Marines are with Company 5, 32nd Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

Cpl. Kyleigh M. Porter, from Montross, Va., eats a scorpion Feb. 8 in Ban Chan Krem, Thailand, during exercise Cobra Gold 2015. The Royal Thai Marines demonstrated several jungle survival tactics and asked for U.S. Marine volunteers to participate. Porter is a radio operator with Marine Air Support Squadron 2, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Kyleigh M. Porter, from Montross, Va., eats a scorpion Feb. 8 in Ban Chan Krem, Thailand, during exercise Cobra Gold 2015. The Royal Thai Marines demonstrated several jungle survival tactics and asked for U.S. Marine volunteers to participate. Porter is a radio operator with Marine Air Support Squadron 2, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Landing support specialists attach a load of tires to a UH-1Y Huey attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, during a helicopter support team exercise Feb. 6 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. The Marines used a MK-105 cable, also known as the Q-tip, to hook the load onto the bottom of the Huey. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st MEU, and are currently deployed in support of the annually-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - Landing support specialists attach a load of tires to a UH-1Y Huey attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, during a helicopter support team exercise Feb. 6 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. The Marines used a MK-105 cable, also known as the Q-tip, to hook the load onto the bottom of the Huey. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st MEU, and are currently deployed in support of the annually-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Alex S. Rankin, center, digs a hiding position alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK recon Marines specialize in stealth and scouting, so this training teaches the Marines how to survive without getting caught and still accomplishing the mission. This exercise highlights the two countries’ combined commitment to the defense of the ROK and peace and security in the region. Rankin, a Secane, Pennsylvania, native, is an intelligence specialist with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Alex S. Rankin, center, digs a hiding position alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK recon Marines specialize in stealth and scouting, so this training teaches the Marines how to survive without getting caught and still accomplishing the mission. This exercise highlights the two countries’ combined commitment to the defense of the ROK and peace and security in the region. Rankin, a Secane, Pennsylvania, native, is an intelligence specialist with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division.

Republic of Korea Marines demonstrate their combat tactics for U.S. Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. Sharing cultures is a significant factor in gaining a better understanding of the combat tactics of the two forces despite the language barrier, according to ROK Marine Capt. Moon Jung Hwan. KMEP is a regularly scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps’ forces. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Cedric R. Haller II/Released) - Republic of Korea Marines demonstrate their combat tactics for U.S. Marines during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-4 Feb. 4 at the Pyeongchang Winter Training Facility, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. Sharing cultures is a significant factor in gaining a better understanding of the combat tactics of the two forces despite the language barrier, according to ROK Marine Capt. Moon Jung Hwan. KMEP is a regularly scheduled, bilateral, small-unit training exercise, which enhances the combat readiness and interoperability of ROK and U.S. Marine Corps’ forces. The ROK Marines are with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st ROK Marine Division. The U.S. Marines are with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Cedric R. Haller II/Released)

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

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)

U.S. Marines shoot their M16 rifles during a live-fire exercise Feb. 4 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. Each Marine fired 30 rounds during multiple drills. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently underway as part of the regularly scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released) - U.S. Marines shoot their M16 rifles during a live-fire exercise Feb. 4 on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard. Each Marine fired 30 rounds during multiple drills. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and are currently underway as part of the regularly scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Mains/Released)

Lance Cpl. Ronald Summerlin prepares to reset equipment following the landing of an FA-18D Hornet Jan. 9 during arrested landing safety training on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Arrested landings are the use of equipment, such as a safety barrier or an arresting wire, to rapidly slow down aircraft and ensure the landing path is straight and clear. During the training, Marines demonstrated proficiency in the use of arresting equipment while ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment on the airstrip. Summerlin is a Virginia Beach, Virginia, native and an expeditionary airfield systems technician with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Summerlin prepares to reset equipment following the landing of an FA-18D Hornet Jan. 9 during arrested landing safety training on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Arrested landings are the use of equipment, such as a safety barrier or an arresting wire, to rapidly slow down aircraft and ensure the landing path is straight and clear. During the training, Marines demonstrated proficiency in the use of arresting equipment while ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment on the airstrip. Summerlin is a Virginia Beach, Virginia, native and an expeditionary airfield systems technician with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan.

Marines with Headquarters Regiment stand with their maintenance readiness awards from all four quarters and the overall 2014 fiscal year on Camp Kinser, Dec. 31. Headquarters Regiment, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force maintained an overall maintenance readiness of 90% or higher throughout the entire year of 2014. “My success comes from the success of my Marines,” said Col. Edmund J. Bowen, the regiment’s commanding officer, from Staten Island, New York. - Marines with Headquarters Regiment stand with their maintenance readiness awards from all four quarters and the overall 2014 fiscal year on Camp Kinser, Dec. 31. Headquarters Regiment, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force maintained an overall maintenance readiness of 90% or higher throughout the entire year of 2014. “My success comes from the success of my Marines,” said Col. Edmund J. Bowen, the regiment’s commanding officer, from Staten Island, New York.

Master Gunnery Sgt. Alex C. Cabero Jr., center, explains an upcoming event Dec. 9 to a group of Marines at Camp Kinser during a Truck Rodeo. The rodeo increased camaraderie and refreshed basic motor transportation skills for Marines stationed across Okinawa. Cabero, from Vista, California, is the unit movement control chief with 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Master Gunnery Sgt. Alex C. Cabero Jr., center, explains an upcoming event Dec. 9 to a group of Marines at Camp Kinser during a Truck Rodeo. The rodeo increased camaraderie and refreshed basic motor transportation skills for Marines stationed across Okinawa. Cabero, from Vista, California, is the unit movement control chief with 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members with the Special Weapons Protection Unit remove clothing from a casualty during an exercise Dec. 1 at Camp Naha, Okinawa. The casualty went through an immediate evacuation from the area prior to being treated. Participating U.S. Marine chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense specialists then wrapped the casualty in a blanket and went through the full decontamination process. The JGSDF personnel are with the Nuclear Biological Chemical Unit, 15th Brigade. - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members with the Special Weapons Protection Unit remove clothing from a casualty during an exercise Dec. 1 at Camp Naha, Okinawa. The casualty went through an immediate evacuation from the area prior to being treated. Participating U.S. Marine chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense specialists then wrapped the casualty in a blanket and went through the full decontamination process. The JGSDF personnel are with the Nuclear Biological Chemical Unit, 15th Brigade.

Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program. - Marines check the GPS coordinates of their M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzers Oct. 30 during a command post exercise for Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. “Camp Fuji provides that cold weather training environment that artillery units need to be familiar with,” said Sgt. Maj. Marvin M. Magcale, the battalion sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines. “The Marines and sailors in this battalion will be better prepared to accomplish the mission involving cold weather. Austere conditions obviously affect not only the Marines and sailors, but their equipment as well.” The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Bn., 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the unit deployment program.

Sgt. Gerry Pratama, from Anahuac, Texas, climbs up the latter after performing the helocasting practical application Nov. 4 during the scout swimmers course at White Beach Naval Facility. Marines rehearsed the procedures they will be doing on the aircraft on pier beforehand hand to ensure readiness. Pratama is a student of the course with Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF. - Sgt. Gerry Pratama, from Anahuac, Texas, climbs up the latter after performing the helocasting practical application Nov. 4 during the scout swimmers course at White Beach Naval Facility. Marines rehearsed the procedures they will be doing on the aircraft on pier beforehand hand to ensure readiness. Pratama is a student of the course with Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF.

Lance Cpl. Ronald Hinson from Heath Springs, South Carolina, competes in the push up challenge portion of the Shanghai Commanders’ Cup Nov. 14 at Camp Schwab. The meet tested the Marines in nine categories, ranging from fun events like softball and sumo wrestling to pull-up and push-up competitions. Every event was performed in a team setting further reinforcing camaraderie and cohesion. Hinson is a cyber-network operator with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Hinson from Heath Springs, South Carolina, competes in the push up challenge portion of the Shanghai Commanders’ Cup Nov. 14 at Camp Schwab. The meet tested the Marines in nine categories, ranging from fun events like softball and sumo wrestling to pull-up and push-up competitions. Every event was performed in a team setting further reinforcing camaraderie and cohesion. Hinson is a cyber-network operator with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program.

Military policemen approach a barricaded suspect during an active shooter reaction drill Nov. 20 at Camp Courtney’s Commissary. The military policemen had the opportunity to use the exchange and the commissary to train in a setting where they could potentially to operate. The Marines are with the Special Reaction Team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Isaac Ibarra/Released) - Military policemen approach a barricaded suspect during an active shooter reaction drill Nov. 20 at Camp Courtney’s Commissary. The military policemen had the opportunity to use the exchange and the commissary to train in a setting where they could potentially to operate. The Marines are with the Special Reaction Team, Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Isaac Ibarra/Released)

Cpl. Caleb Owens, from Melbourne, Iowa, prepares to fast-rope out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft with his military working dog, Dixie, Oct. 27 at Camp Hansen. After familiarizing themselves with fast-roping techniques by executing them with no gear, the Marines worked their way up to wearing full gear and then with their military working dogs as well. Owens is a military policeman, and a working dog handler. He and Dixie are with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF. - Cpl. Caleb Owens, from Melbourne, Iowa, prepares to fast-rope out of an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft with his military working dog, Dixie, Oct. 27 at Camp Hansen. After familiarizing themselves with fast-roping techniques by executing them with no gear, the Marines worked their way up to wearing full gear and then with their military working dogs as well. Owens is a military policeman, and a working dog handler. He and Dixie are with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF.

A CH-53E Super Stallion prepares to land Nov. 5 during a simulated tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise as part of exercise Blue Chromite 15 at LZ Dodo in the Central Training Area. The landing zone was near combat town, the last known location of the downed aircraft crew members. Upon arriving in combat town, the Marines had to engage opposing forces and track the crew members’ location. The CH-53E is with HMH-XXX, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - A CH-53E Super Stallion prepares to land Nov. 5 during a simulated tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise as part of exercise Blue Chromite 15 at LZ Dodo in the Central Training Area. The landing zone was near combat town, the last known location of the downed aircraft crew members. Upon arriving in combat town, the Marines had to engage opposing forces and track the crew members’ location. The CH-53E is with HMH-XXX, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines attack their objective Nov. 2 during exercise Blue Chromite 15 in the Central Training Area. Blue Chromite demonstrates the Navy and Marine Corps’ expeditionary capabilities from the sea. Marines rode in assault amphibious vehicles in a ship-to-shore assault from the USS Germantown to Oura Wan Beach. After securing their first objective Marines advanced inland to the CTA. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marines Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Abbey Perria/Released) - Marines attack their objective Nov. 2 during exercise Blue Chromite 15 in the Central Training Area. Blue Chromite demonstrates the Navy and Marine Corps’ expeditionary capabilities from the sea. Marines rode in assault amphibious vehicles in a ship-to-shore assault from the USS Germantown to Oura Wan Beach. After securing their first objective Marines advanced inland to the CTA. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, currently assigned to 4th Marines Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Abbey Perria/Released)

U.S. Navy Lt. Yonatan Warren explains the history of the Bataan Death March at the memorial wall during Amphibious Landing Exercise 15, Oct. 8, 2014. More then 100 Marines visited the memorial over two days to learn more about the events of World War II that occurred in the Philippines. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marine and Navy Forces focused on strengthening the partnership and relationships between the two nations across a range of military operations including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations. Warren is the chaplain for Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - U.S. Navy Lt. Yonatan Warren explains the history of the Bataan Death March at the memorial wall during Amphibious Landing Exercise 15, Oct. 8, 2014. More then 100 Marines visited the memorial over two days to learn more about the events of World War II that occurred in the Philippines. PHIBLEX is an annual, bilateral training exercise conducted by members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines alongside U.S. Marine and Navy Forces focused on strengthening the partnership and relationships between the two nations across a range of military operations including disaster relief and complex expeditionary operations. Warren is the chaplain for Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6. - Two Navy MH-60S Seahawk helicopters with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific land on Echo Field, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, during the first day of Forager Fury III on Sept. 24, 2014. Echo Field is a 7,000 by 500 foot runway cleared by Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 heavy equipment operators. An estimated 1300 personnel are participating in FF III, which is a Marine Corps led exercise involving a full spectrum of fixed wing and rotary aircraft operations between Guam and Tinian. FF III began Sept. 24, and is scheduled to continue through Oct. 6.

Marines load a diver propulsion device into a combat rubber raiding craft Sept. 20 at U.S. Naval Base Guam during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The device aids the Marines conducting night infiltration. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities, which provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are reconnaissance men with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines load a diver propulsion device into a combat rubber raiding craft Sept. 20 at U.S. Naval Base Guam during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014. The device aids the Marines conducting night infiltration. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities, which provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners. The Marines are reconnaissance men with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines load into the MV-22B Osprey to prepare to fast rope during the Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques course Aug. 20 at the Central Training Area. The students finalized their practical applications portion by performing rappels out of the aircraft. The Marines are with various units across III Marine Expeditionary Force. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF. - Marines load into the MV-22B Osprey to prepare to fast rope during the Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques course Aug. 20 at the Central Training Area. The students finalized their practical applications portion by performing rappels out of the aircraft. The Marines are with various units across III Marine Expeditionary Force. The Osprey is with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF.