News

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

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

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

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

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

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

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

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

Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion and 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, measure detonation cord and create breaching charges during the urban breaching portion of a demolition package at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 10, 2015. The demolition package was conducted in preparation for an upcoming deployment, where the two units will be working together in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response- Africa. - Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion and 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, measure detonation cord and create breaching charges during the urban breaching portion of a demolition package at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 10, 2015. The demolition package was conducted in preparation for an upcoming deployment, where the two units will be working together in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response- Africa.

ATU.S. Marine Corps AAV-P7/A1 Amphibious Assault Vehicles disembark from the USS Ashland (LSD 48) during splash and recovery training June 10, 2015. The AAV's are with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Marines with BLT 2/5 and the rest of the 31st MEU are currently deployed on the regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - ATU.S. Marine Corps AAV-P7/A1 Amphibious Assault Vehicles disembark from the USS Ashland (LSD 48) during splash and recovery training June 10, 2015. The AAV's are with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Marines with BLT 2/5 and the rest of the 31st MEU are currently deployed on the regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

Maj. Gen. Greg Charles Bilton, the deputy commanding general of operations for U.S. Army Pacific, delivers remarks at the closing ceremony of Khaan Quest 2015 at the Five Hills Training Area in Tavantolgoi, Mongolia, July 1, 2015. Khaan Quest is a regularly scheduled, multinational exercise hosted annually by Mongolian Armed Forces and co-sponsored by U.S. Army, Pacific, and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. This year marks the 13th iteration of Khaan Quest. - Maj. Gen. Greg Charles Bilton, the deputy commanding general of operations for U.S. Army Pacific, delivers remarks at the closing ceremony of Khaan Quest 2015 at the Five Hills Training Area in Tavantolgoi, Mongolia, July 1, 2015. Khaan Quest is a regularly scheduled, multinational exercise hosted annually by Mongolian Armed Forces and co-sponsored by U.S. Army, Pacific, and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. This year marks the 13th iteration of Khaan Quest.

Pilots in Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, use Full Mission Simulators as part of their training with F-35s. The F-35 simulators can also be found at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, where Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 trains. The F-35 Full Mission Simulator accurately replicates all sensors and weapons to provide a realistic mission rehearsal and training environment. - Pilots in Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, use Full Mission Simulators as part of their training with F-35s. The F-35 simulators can also be found at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, where Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 trains. The F-35 Full Mission Simulator accurately replicates all sensors and weapons to provide a realistic mission rehearsal and training environment.

A U.S. Marine participates in a combat marksmanship program range on the flight deck of the USS Ashland June 12, 2015. The Marines honed their skills by executing different shooting drills. The Marines are with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary. The 31st MEU is currently deployed on the regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region - A U.S. Marine participates in a combat marksmanship program range on the flight deck of the USS Ashland June 12, 2015. The Marines honed their skills by executing different shooting drills. The Marines are with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary. The 31st MEU is currently deployed on the regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment patrol a beach off the shores of Sweden during BALTOPS 2015, June 9. In its 43rd iteration, BALTOPS is a multinational exercise designed to enhance the operational familiarity of NATO allied and partner nations and demonstrate their collective capability to defend the Baltic region. - U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment patrol a beach off the shores of Sweden during BALTOPS 2015, June 9. In its 43rd iteration, BALTOPS is a multinational exercise designed to enhance the operational familiarity of NATO allied and partner nations and demonstrate their collective capability to defend the Baltic region.

U.S. Marines and a Navy corpsman with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provide first aid to a simulated patient during a mass casualty training exercise at Combat Town aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 3, 2015. Marines and sailors with CLB 26 performed casualty assessment, applied first aid and transported the simulated casualties to a landing zone. The training was conducted to prepare for the 26th MEU's deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year. - U.S. Marines and a Navy corpsman with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provide first aid to a simulated patient during a mass casualty training exercise at Combat Town aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 3, 2015. Marines and sailors with CLB 26 performed casualty assessment, applied first aid and transported the simulated casualties to a landing zone. The training was conducted to prepare for the 26th MEU's deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year.

Marines and Sailors with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, escort a simulated casualty to an MV-22 Osprey during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel training exercise, May 29, 2015, in Southwest Asia. With U.S. and coalition forces conducting airstrikes in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the TRAP forces of the SPMAGTF provide an on-call force dedicated to the safe return of the U.S. and coalition service members. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Garrett D. White, CJTF-OIR Public Affairs) - Marines and Sailors with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command, escort a simulated casualty to an MV-22 Osprey during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel training exercise, May 29, 2015, in Southwest Asia. With U.S. and coalition forces conducting airstrikes in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the TRAP forces of the SPMAGTF provide an on-call force dedicated to the safe return of the U.S. and coalition service members. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Garrett D. White, CJTF-OIR Public Affairs)

Marines and civilians attend a meeting hosted at ManTech Spaces in Stafford Va. June 2, 2015 to discuss Intelligence problems the Marine Corps faces. This is the second time this meeting was hosted. - Marines and civilians attend a meeting hosted at ManTech Spaces in Stafford Va. June 2, 2015 to discuss Intelligence problems the Marine Corps faces. This is the second time this meeting was hosted.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

An F-35B Lightning II takes off on the flight deck of USS Wasp (LHD-1) during routine daylight operations, as part of Operational Testing 1, May 22. Data and lessons learned during the operational test will lay the groundwork for future F-35B deployments aboard amphibious ships. - An F-35B Lightning II takes off on the flight deck of USS Wasp (LHD-1) during routine daylight operations, as part of Operational Testing 1, May 22. Data and lessons learned during the operational test will lay the groundwork for future F-35B deployments aboard amphibious ships.

U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa move toward an objective during a training exercise on Quartier Colonel de Chabrieres, France, May 29, 2015. Marines stationed at Moròn Air Base, Spain, conducted a seize and capture training exercise with service members from the French Foreign Legion’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to further improve interoperability between the two NATO forces as they concurrently deploy their service members to Africa. - U.S. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa move toward an objective during a training exercise on Quartier Colonel de Chabrieres, France, May 29, 2015. Marines stationed at Moròn Air Base, Spain, conducted a seize and capture training exercise with service members from the French Foreign Legion’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to further improve interoperability between the two NATO forces as they concurrently deploy their service members to Africa.

Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting battle the blaze as part of monthly training to ensure they are always prepared in the event of an emergency on the flight line. The ARFF Marines are a part of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. - Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting battle the blaze as part of monthly training to ensure they are always prepared in the event of an emergency on the flight line. The ARFF Marines are a part of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

Brig. Gen Michael Groen, the director of Marine Corps Intelligence, tests the capabilities and functions of the new Tellus program to judge its effectiveness, May 29, 2015. Tellus can be used to instantly report new information to patrols and convoys without the use of radio. - Brig. Gen Michael Groen, the director of Marine Corps Intelligence, tests the capabilities and functions of the new Tellus program to judge its effectiveness, May 29, 2015. Tellus can be used to instantly report new information to patrols and convoys without the use of radio.

An F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter taxies to be refueled on the flight deck of USS Wasp during night operations, a part of Operational Testing 1, May, 22. The F-35B is the future of Marine Corps aviation and will be replacing three legacy platforms; the AV-8B Harrier, the F/A Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler. The F-35B is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. - An F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter taxies to be refueled on the flight deck of USS Wasp during night operations, a part of Operational Testing 1, May, 22. The F-35B is the future of Marine Corps aviation and will be replacing three legacy platforms; the AV-8B Harrier, the F/A Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler. The F-35B is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

A U.S. Marine from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fires downrange during the last live-fire event of Eager Lion 15 around Al Quweyrah, Jordan, May 19, 2015. Exercise Eager Lion 15 is a multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations, and enhance regional security and stability. Eager Lion takes place annually in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, with more than 10,000 military participants from 18 countries and NATO. - A U.S. Marine from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, fires downrange during the last live-fire event of Eager Lion 15 around Al Quweyrah, Jordan, May 19, 2015. Exercise Eager Lion 15 is a multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, increase interoperability between partner nations, and enhance regional security and stability. Eager Lion takes place annually in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, with more than 10,000 military participants from 18 countries and NATO.

A Spanish Navy Harrier flies over the water after departing Naval Station Rota, Spain, for an aerial-refueling exercise with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa May 15, 2015. The Harrier flew behind a U.S. Marine KC-130J, which extended two refueling lines to allow the pilots to test their ability to complete inflight-refueling procedures. - A Spanish Navy Harrier flies over the water after departing Naval Station Rota, Spain, for an aerial-refueling exercise with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa May 15, 2015. The Harrier flew behind a U.S. Marine KC-130J, which extended two refueling lines to allow the pilots to test their ability to complete inflight-refueling procedures.

Italian Marines exit an Amphibious Assault Vehicle from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during bilateral platoon attack drills as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 11, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. - Italian Marines exit an Amphibious Assault Vehicle from Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during bilateral platoon attack drills as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2015 in Jordan, May 11, 2015. Eager Lion is a recurring multinational exercise designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships, between partner nations and enhance regional security and stability. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Christopher Corpus, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Detachment 1, Marine Rotational Force- Darwin, inspects his gear before departing with a convoy to Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, May 20, 2015. Marines with MRF-D wrap up final details in order to set out for Exercise Predator Walk. Predator Walk plays a role in MRF-D that exercises a competent expeditionary fighting force with Australian allies. Corpus is a native of Reno, Nevada. - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Christopher Corpus, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Detachment 1, Marine Rotational Force- Darwin, inspects his gear before departing with a convoy to Mount Bundey Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, May 20, 2015. Marines with MRF-D wrap up final details in order to set out for Exercise Predator Walk. Predator Walk plays a role in MRF-D that exercises a competent expeditionary fighting force with Australian allies. Corpus is a native of Reno, Nevada.

U.S. Service members from Joint Task Force 505 prepare to load relief supplies from Samaritan’s Purse International Relief Organization onto a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal, May 16. JTF 505 along with other multinational forces and humanitarian relief organizations are currently in Nepal providing aid after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the country, April 25 and a 7.3 earthquake on May 12. At Nepal’s request the U.S. government ordered JTF 505 to provide unique capabilities to assist Nepal. - U.S. Service members from Joint Task Force 505 prepare to load relief supplies from Samaritan’s Purse International Relief Organization onto a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal, May 16. JTF 505 along with other multinational forces and humanitarian relief organizations are currently in Nepal providing aid after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the country, April 25 and a 7.3 earthquake on May 12. At Nepal’s request the U.S. government ordered JTF 505 to provide unique capabilities to assist Nepal.

A Marine with 2nd Ground Sensor Platoon, 2nd Intelligence Battalion sights in on targets during a live fire range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 14, 2015. Marines with the platoon conducted fire-team competitions, fire-team rushes, and squad rushes at range K-509 to touch up on proficiency in infantry tactics. - A Marine with 2nd Ground Sensor Platoon, 2nd Intelligence Battalion sights in on targets during a live fire range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 14, 2015. Marines with the platoon conducted fire-team competitions, fire-team rushes, and squad rushes at range K-509 to touch up on proficiency in infantry tactics.

Corporal Justin Gill fires his M-16 rifle during training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 13, 2015. The training exercice focused on Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28's ability to build and maintain a communications network while in a field environment. Gill is a cyber-network operator with MWCS-28. - Corporal Justin Gill fires his M-16 rifle during training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 13, 2015. The training exercice focused on Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28's ability to build and maintain a communications network while in a field environment. Gill is a cyber-network operator with MWCS-28.

United States Marines from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment partnered with members of the Jordanian Armed Forces to complete a close-quarters marksmanship range May 6, 2015, during exercise Eager Lion 15. Eager Lion is an annual, multinational training exercise designed to build interoperability, promote partnerships and exchange military expertise with 16 partner nations and NATO. Eager Lion 15 takes place in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan from May 5-19. - United States Marines from Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment partnered with members of the Jordanian Armed Forces to complete a close-quarters marksmanship range May 6, 2015, during exercise Eager Lion 15. Eager Lion is an annual, multinational training exercise designed to build interoperability, promote partnerships and exchange military expertise with 16 partner nations and NATO. Eager Lion 15 takes place in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan from May 5-19.

Sergeant Peter Gentry III, left, an anti-tank missileman with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Mineman 2nd Class Christopher Dunham, assigned to the mine countermeasures ship USS Sentry, identify terrain features of an island they will be passing during the ship’s transit through the Strait of Bab al Mandeb, April 28, 2015. The 24th MEU provided additional small caliber action team capabilities to the USS Sentry during the transit. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of operations. ( - Sergeant Peter Gentry III, left, an anti-tank missileman with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Mineman 2nd Class Christopher Dunham, assigned to the mine countermeasures ship USS Sentry, identify terrain features of an island they will be passing during the ship’s transit through the Strait of Bab al Mandeb, April 28, 2015. The 24th MEU provided additional small caliber action team capabilities to the USS Sentry during the transit. The 24th MEU is embarked on the ships of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and is deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of operations. (

A Marine with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion shoots the M2 .50-caliber heavy machine gun at targets placed at unknown distances at range SR-7 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 7, 2015. Approximately 30 Marines from the battalion conducted a two-day, machine-gun range in which they shot the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, M240 Bravo medium machine gun, and the .50-caliber heavy machine gun from both the mounted and un-mounted positions at targets placed at unknown distances. - A Marine with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion shoots the M2 .50-caliber heavy machine gun at targets placed at unknown distances at range SR-7 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 7, 2015. Approximately 30 Marines from the battalion conducted a two-day, machine-gun range in which they shot the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, M240 Bravo medium machine gun, and the .50-caliber heavy machine gun from both the mounted and un-mounted positions at targets placed at unknown distances.

A student with Kilo Company, Marine Combat Training Battalion aims her M16-A4 service rifle at targets from an unknown distance during a fire and movement range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 24, 2015. The fire and movement range was the first time students were equipped with live ammunition and allowed to move across a field as a team, engaging targets and providing suppressive fire for their peers. - A student with Kilo Company, Marine Combat Training Battalion aims her M16-A4 service rifle at targets from an unknown distance during a fire and movement range aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 24, 2015. The fire and movement range was the first time students were equipped with live ammunition and allowed to move across a field as a team, engaging targets and providing suppressive fire for their peers.

U.S. Marines with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to assault a simulated objective during Exercise Eagle Resolve 2015 with service members from Kuwait, Qatar, Turkey and Saudi Arabia at Failaka Island, Kuwait, March 23, 2015. Eagle Resolve is the premiere Arabian Peninsula/gulf region exercise among the United States, Gulf Cooperation Council nations, and international partners. It serves to address regional challenges associated with asymmetric/unconventional warfare in a multi-national environment. - U.S. Marines with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to assault a simulated objective during Exercise Eagle Resolve 2015 with service members from Kuwait, Qatar, Turkey and Saudi Arabia at Failaka Island, Kuwait, March 23, 2015. Eagle Resolve is the premiere Arabian Peninsula/gulf region exercise among the United States, Gulf Cooperation Council nations, and international partners. It serves to address regional challenges associated with asymmetric/unconventional warfare in a multi-national environment.

Marines with Force Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conduct a structural integrity check on an Internally Transportable Vehicle during a training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 16, 2015. Insertion with ITVs is only one of many methods reconnaissance Marines can be inserted when conducting a mission. - Marines with Force Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conduct a structural integrity check on an Internally Transportable Vehicle during a training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 16, 2015. Insertion with ITVs is only one of many methods reconnaissance Marines can be inserted when conducting a mission.

Sgt. Brenton A. Slover, squad leader, Engineer Platoon, Headquarters and Service Company, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, observes the detonation of M1A2 Bangalores during a Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity assessment at Range 107, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, March 22, 2015. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards-based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks. - Sgt. Brenton A. Slover, squad leader, Engineer Platoon, Headquarters and Service Company, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, observes the detonation of M1A2 Bangalores during a Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity assessment at Range 107, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, March 22, 2015. From October 2014 to July 2015, the GCEITF will conduct individual and collective level skills training in designated ground combat arms occupational specialties in order to facilitate the standards-based assessment of the physical performance of Marines in a simulated operating environment performing specific ground combat arms tasks.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

Marines with Fox battery, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division place a round inside a howitzer preparing to fire during Exercise Rolling Thunder aboard Fort Bragg, N.C., March 7, 2015. The importance of Rolling Thunder is training Marines to execute effective fire missions during combat operations. - Marines with Fox battery, 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division place a round inside a howitzer preparing to fire during Exercise Rolling Thunder aboard Fort Bragg, N.C., March 7, 2015. The importance of Rolling Thunder is training Marines to execute effective fire missions during combat operations.

Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division reach their designated turning point during an amphibious beach exercise at Onslow beach, aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 19, 2015. The training started with basic boat manipulations teaching Marines how to operate the Zodiac F470 Combat Rubber Raiding Craft in various formations and went over emergency procedures, such as man overboard drills. - Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division reach their designated turning point during an amphibious beach exercise at Onslow beach, aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 19, 2015. The training started with basic boat manipulations teaching Marines how to operate the Zodiac F470 Combat Rubber Raiding Craft in various formations and went over emergency procedures, such as man overboard drills.

Marines with Bulk Fuel Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, engage targets during a table-three shooting qualification aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 19, 2015. The table is a yearly requirement for Marines in certain units, and it assists in teaching them how to fire on targets while maneuvering. - Marines with Bulk Fuel Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, engage targets during a table-three shooting qualification aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 19, 2015. The table is a yearly requirement for Marines in certain units, and it assists in teaching them how to fire on targets while maneuvering.

Sailors with 2nd Dental Battalion patrol a road during a counter improvised explosive device course in Holly Ridge, N.C., March 20, 2015. The sailors looked for possible IEDs on and around the dirt road, and then instructors exposed to them the IEDs placed prior to the patrol to give them a better understanding of how devices can be hidden. - Sailors with 2nd Dental Battalion patrol a road during a counter improvised explosive device course in Holly Ridge, N.C., March 20, 2015. The sailors looked for possible IEDs on and around the dirt road, and then instructors exposed to them the IEDs placed prior to the patrol to give them a better understanding of how devices can be hidden.

U.S. Marine 1st Lt. Nathaniel Kaine, left, the officer in charge of the Theater Security Cooperation team with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, receives an AKM assault rifle from aTanzanian park ranger at the Selous Game Reserve in Matambwe, Tanzania, March 2, 2015. Kaine was one of more than 15 Marines and Sailors to help teach weapons safety and marksmanship techniques to the park rangers. - U.S. Marine 1st Lt. Nathaniel Kaine, left, the officer in charge of the Theater Security Cooperation team with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, receives an AKM assault rifle from aTanzanian park ranger at the Selous Game Reserve in Matambwe, Tanzania, March 2, 2015. Kaine was one of more than 15 Marines and Sailors to help teach weapons safety and marksmanship techniques to the park rangers.

Marines with Bridge Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, march to their training site for a rafting exercise on the Colorado River in Laughlin, Nev., March 17-21, 2014. More than 60 Marines trained in moving heavy equipment, to include 7-tons and Humvees, across a flowing body of water using Bridge Erection Boats and an Improved Ribbon Bridge. The IRB is a multi-piece floating bridge that can function as a raft. Despite being accustomed to training in a bay with little to no current, these Marines managed to transport two 7-tons up the river at the same time. - Marines with Bridge Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, march to their training site for a rafting exercise on the Colorado River in Laughlin, Nev., March 17-21, 2014. More than 60 Marines trained in moving heavy equipment, to include 7-tons and Humvees, across a flowing body of water using Bridge Erection Boats and an Improved Ribbon Bridge. The IRB is a multi-piece floating bridge that can function as a raft. Despite being accustomed to training in a bay with little to no current, these Marines managed to transport two 7-tons up the river at the same time.

Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Gold shooters aim modified M16s at targets during the 7th Regiment Midrange Rifle Competition aboard the Combat Center, March 14, 2015. During the two day event, participants competed as individuals and as four man teams. - Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Gold shooters aim modified M16s at targets during the 7th Regiment Midrange Rifle Competition aboard the Combat Center, March 14, 2015. During the two day event, participants competed as individuals and as four man teams.

Lance Cpl. Dwayne Adams, a marksmanship instructor attached to II MEF Headquarters Group and Bronx, N.Y., native, provides security during the practical application portion of a class on combat formations during a MHG field exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 12-19, 2015. The purpose of the FEX was to allow the Marines the opportunity to test their skill sets and find areas of improvement. - Lance Cpl. Dwayne Adams, a marksmanship instructor attached to II MEF Headquarters Group and Bronx, N.Y., native, provides security during the practical application portion of a class on combat formations during a MHG field exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 12-19, 2015. The purpose of the FEX was to allow the Marines the opportunity to test their skill sets and find areas of improvement.

A U.S. Army Special Forces team assaults a building during a close quarters battle demonstration for Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa in Baumholder, Germany, March 9, 2015. The ability to rapidly secure buildings allows Special Forces teams to complete a variety of missions ranging from hostage rescue to the suppression of enemy forces in an urban environment. - A U.S. Army Special Forces team assaults a building during a close quarters battle demonstration for Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa in Baumholder, Germany, March 9, 2015. The ability to rapidly secure buildings allows Special Forces teams to complete a variety of missions ranging from hostage rescue to the suppression of enemy forces in an urban environment.

Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, communicate between buildings through windows during a military operations on urban terrain training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 11, 2015. Constant communications between squads and platoons was vital to completing the mission of clearing the MOUT town of enemy role players with minimal friendly casualties. - Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, communicate between buildings through windows during a military operations on urban terrain training exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 11, 2015. Constant communications between squads and platoons was vital to completing the mission of clearing the MOUT town of enemy role players with minimal friendly casualties.