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Lance Cpl. Jeremy R. Everett, an automotive maintenance technician with 8th Communication Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, practices driving a Humvee to gain his operator’s license during 8th Comm.’s field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 12, 2015. During the Humvee licensing course, motor transportation Marines participated in a class followed by a practice course and a set amount of miles driven on the road. - Lance Cpl. Jeremy R. Everett, an automotive maintenance technician with 8th Communication Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, practices driving a Humvee to gain his operator’s license during 8th Comm.’s field exercise aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 12, 2015. During the Humvee licensing course, motor transportation Marines participated in a class followed by a practice course and a set amount of miles driven on the road.

Cpl. Larry W. Danley prepares to shut down equipment following live-burn training Feb. 21 at the training pit on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Bulk fuel specialists dispensed fuel into the pit, and a Marine with Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting ignited the fluid. ARFF and bulk fuel specialist Marines then worked together to contain and extinguish the fire while enhancing communication and teamwork. Danley is a Houston, Texas, native and a truck master with Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma. - Cpl. Larry W. Danley prepares to shut down equipment following live-burn training Feb. 21 at the training pit on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Bulk fuel specialists dispensed fuel into the pit, and a Marine with Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting ignited the fluid. ARFF and bulk fuel specialist Marines then worked together to contain and extinguish the fire while enhancing communication and teamwork. Danley is a Houston, Texas, native and a truck master with Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma.

A 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion Marine cleans off excess dirt from a Light-Armored Vehicle equipped with a new Anti-Tank weapons system at the 3rd LAR ramp prior to operational testing on range 500 aboard the Combat Center, Feb. 10, 2015. 3rd LAR has been training alongside 1st Tank Battalion and 1st LAR during operational testing of the new system. - A 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion Marine cleans off excess dirt from a Light-Armored Vehicle equipped with a new Anti-Tank weapons system at the 3rd LAR ramp prior to operational testing on range 500 aboard the Combat Center, Feb. 10, 2015. 3rd LAR has been training alongside 1st Tank Battalion and 1st LAR during operational testing of the new system.

Republic of Korea Marines hike a 35- km path up a mountain Jan. 15 during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-3 in Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK Marines were training for mountain warfare and snow mobility warfare alongside their U.S. counterparts from Alpha Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are force reconnaissance men with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Division. - Republic of Korea Marines hike a 35- km path up a mountain Jan. 15 during Korean Marine Exchange Program 15-3 in Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea. The ROK Marines were training for mountain warfare and snow mobility warfare alongside their U.S. counterparts from Alpha Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. The ROK Marines are force reconnaissance men with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Division.

Staff Sgt. Absalon A. Cabrera uses a radio to communicate with the 4th Marine Regiment’s combat operations center while transporting the commanding officer across the battle space Feb. 12 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, during the battalion assault course as part of Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. “I am very proud of all of my Marines,” said Cabrera. “They have accomplished a lot and it has been seen at different levels out here.” ITX 2-15 is designed to integrate combined arms and improve war fighting capabilities. Cabrera, a Los Angeles, California, native and an infantry unit leader, is the jump team commander for Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Four with Headquarters Company, 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Staff Sgt. Absalon A. Cabrera uses a radio to communicate with the 4th Marine Regiment’s combat operations center while transporting the commanding officer across the battle space Feb. 12 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, during the battalion assault course as part of Integrated Training Exercise 2-15. “I am very proud of all of my Marines,” said Cabrera. “They have accomplished a lot and it has been seen at different levels out here.” ITX 2-15 is designed to integrate combined arms and improve war fighting capabilities. Cabrera, a Los Angeles, California, native and an infantry unit leader, is the jump team commander for Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Four with Headquarters Company, 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Critical Skills Operator with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, teaches Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, shooting techniques before firing M4 carbine rifles and M9 service pistols at a range here, Feb. 10, 2015. Marines with 3rd MSOB participated in RAVEN 15-03, a 10-day realistic military training exercise to enhance the battalion’s readiness for worldwide support to global security. Marines with 2nd CEB played the role of a partner nation force during the exercise. - A Critical Skills Operator with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, teaches Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, shooting techniques before firing M4 carbine rifles and M9 service pistols at a range here, Feb. 10, 2015. Marines with 3rd MSOB participated in RAVEN 15-03, a 10-day realistic military training exercise to enhance the battalion’s readiness for worldwide support to global security. Marines with 2nd CEB played the role of a partner nation force during the exercise.

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

Marine captures role-playing protester during Special Marine Air Ground Task Force embassy reinforcement exercise, Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif.,Feb.10. Marines participating in the exercise came from Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, both in Southern California. - Marine captures role-playing protester during Special Marine Air Ground Task Force embassy reinforcement exercise, Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif.,Feb.10. Marines participating in the exercise came from Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, both in Southern California.

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)

Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, teach Basic Maneuver Techniques for the Combat Rubber Raiding Craft to members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force aboard Camp Pendleton on Jan. 28, 2015, during Exercise Iron Fist 2015 to help develop the Self-Defense Force’s understanding of amphibious operations. Exercise Iron Fist 15 is an annual bilateral training exercise between U.S. and Japanese military forces that builds their combined ability to conduct amphibious and land-based contingency operations. IF15, currently in its tenth iteration, is scheduled from Jan. 26 to Feb. 27, 2015, in southern California. - Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, teach Basic Maneuver Techniques for the Combat Rubber Raiding Craft to members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force aboard Camp Pendleton on Jan. 28, 2015, during Exercise Iron Fist 2015 to help develop the Self-Defense Force’s understanding of amphibious operations. Exercise Iron Fist 15 is an annual bilateral training exercise between U.S. and Japanese military forces that builds their combined ability to conduct amphibious and land-based contingency operations. IF15, currently in its tenth iteration, is scheduled from Jan. 26 to Feb. 27, 2015, in southern California.

Marines with Amphibious Assault Vehicle Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, assault targets downrange during a live-fire exercise at Range SR-10 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 20, 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. - Marines with Amphibious Assault Vehicle Platoon, Company B, Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force, assault targets downrange during a live-fire exercise at Range SR-10 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 20, 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.

Members of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines provide security during convoy operations training, Jan. 14, 2015, at Penny Lake Fields aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. The training is part of combined arms training focused on improving unit cohesion and combat readiness. - Members of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines provide security during convoy operations training, Jan. 14, 2015, at Penny Lake Fields aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. The training is part of combined arms training focused on improving unit cohesion and combat readiness.

Participants prepare to shoot during the Combat Center DieSeL Classic at the base Qualification Range, Jan. 17, 2015. This is one of several competitions that the Combat Center shooting team participates in each year. - Participants prepare to shoot during the Combat Center DieSeL Classic at the base Qualification Range, Jan. 17, 2015. This is one of several competitions that the Combat Center shooting team participates in each year.

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U.S. Marine Cpl. Gilbert B. Heath, a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Battery, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion and Security Forces, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, does a tactical reload during a live fire and maneuver exercise on Jan. 11, 2015, in the Central Command area of operations. The live fire exercise was conducted to prepare for a future, larger-scale range to help keep SPMAGTF-CR-CC’s Security Forces primed and ready if called to action. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Gilbert B. Heath, a low altitude air defense gunner with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Battery, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion and Security Forces, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, does a tactical reload during a live fire and maneuver exercise on Jan. 11, 2015, in the Central Command area of operations. The live fire exercise was conducted to prepare for a future, larger-scale range to help keep SPMAGTF-CR-CC’s Security Forces primed and ready if called to action.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Michael Bumanglag (left) and Lance Cpl. Erik Delgadillo (right), with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, Task Force Al Asad, search for the impact site of a 122 mm rocket aboard Al Asad Airbase, Iraq, Jan. 4, 2015. Soldiers and Marines are taking prudent measures to protect the members of Task Force Al Asad from the threat of indirect fire. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Michael Bumanglag (left) and Lance Cpl. Erik Delgadillo (right), with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, Task Force Al Asad, search for the impact site of a 122 mm rocket aboard Al Asad Airbase, Iraq, Jan. 4, 2015. Soldiers and Marines are taking prudent measures to protect the members of Task Force Al Asad from the threat of indirect fire.

1st Lt. William Tidd, center, from Angola, Indiana, confers with other members of the Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team after responding to a natural disaster scenario Jan. 13 at Camp Hansen. The HAST responds to areas that have been struck by natural disasters and determine how much supply and resources are required to assist the affected area. Tidd is the assistant officer in charge of the HAST, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - 1st Lt. William Tidd, center, from Angola, Indiana, confers with other members of the Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team after responding to a natural disaster scenario Jan. 13 at Camp Hansen. The HAST responds to areas that have been struck by natural disasters and determine how much supply and resources are required to assist the affected area. Tidd is the assistant officer in charge of the HAST, Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Brigadier Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commanding general of Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan speaks at a deactivation ceremony for MEB-A aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 9; symbolically closing another chapter in Marine Corps history following the 13-year conflict known as Operation Enduring Freedom. Marine Expeditionary Brigade - Afghanistan officially took authority of Regional Command (Southwest) from II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Feb. 5, 2014, and assumed the responsibility to lead coalition operations in Helmand and Nimroz provinces. The Marines completed operations and departed Afghanistan Oct. 27, 2014. “Ultimately the real end state was responsible transitioning and I think we did that in good order, and we should be proud of that,” added Yoo to his remarks. - Brigadier Gen. Daniel D. Yoo, commanding general of Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan speaks at a deactivation ceremony for MEB-A aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 9; symbolically closing another chapter in Marine Corps history following the 13-year conflict known as Operation Enduring Freedom. Marine Expeditionary Brigade - Afghanistan officially took authority of Regional Command (Southwest) from II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Feb. 5, 2014, and assumed the responsibility to lead coalition operations in Helmand and Nimroz provinces. The Marines completed operations and departed Afghanistan Oct. 27, 2014. “Ultimately the real end state was responsible transitioning and I think we did that in good order, and we should be proud of that,” added Yoo to his remarks.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division fire a FGM-148 Javelin at a firing range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 6, 2015. The Javelin missile system is most often used by teams of two, a gunner and assistant gunner, although it can be used by one person if necessary. While the gunner aims and fires the missile itself, the assistant gunner remains on the lookout for potential targets and threats, and ensures the back blast area of the missile launcher is clear of obstructions and personnel. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division fire a FGM-148 Javelin at a firing range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 6, 2015. The Javelin missile system is most often used by teams of two, a gunner and assistant gunner, although it can be used by one person if necessary. While the gunner aims and fires the missile itself, the assistant gunner remains on the lookout for potential targets and threats, and ensures the back blast area of the missile launcher is clear of obstructions and personnel.

Sgt. Maj. Devon A. Lee, center, salutes Lt. Col. Larry G. Brown and Sgt. Maj. Timonthy J. Rudd during a post and relief ceremony Jan. 8 at hangar 525 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. . Sgt. Maj. Devon A. Lee passes on his reponsibilities as the squadron sergeant major to Sgt. Maj. Timonthy J. Rudd. Marines are with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Sgt. Maj. Devon A. Lee, center, salutes Lt. Col. Larry G. Brown and Sgt. Maj. Timonthy J. Rudd during a post and relief ceremony Jan. 8 at hangar 525 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. . Sgt. Maj. Devon A. Lee passes on his reponsibilities as the squadron sergeant major to Sgt. Maj. Timonthy J. Rudd. Marines are with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, work with the Marines and sailors of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit as they guide a Navy landing craft air cushion onto Onslow Beach aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 16, 2014. Marines loaded vehicles, personnel and ammunition aboard the LCACs to be transported to the USS Fort McHenry. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, work with the Marines and sailors of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit as they guide a Navy landing craft air cushion onto Onslow Beach aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 16, 2014. Marines loaded vehicles, personnel and ammunition aboard the LCACs to be transported to the USS Fort McHenry.

Gunnery Sgt. Gabriel Machado, left, Master Sgt. Raul Argumedo, center, and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Bateman jump in tandem from a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft Nov. 20, 2014 over Ie Shima Training Facility, off the northwest coast of Okinawa, Japan. The Marines jumped from an altitude of 10,000 feet during the high speed training. Machado, from New York, New York, is an air delivery specialist with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Argumedo, from Los Angeles, California, is an air delivery specialist with the battalion. Bateman, from Gaithersburg, Maryland, is a reconnaissance man with the battalion. - Gunnery Sgt. Gabriel Machado, left, Master Sgt. Raul Argumedo, center, and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Bateman jump in tandem from a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft Nov. 20, 2014 over Ie Shima Training Facility, off the northwest coast of Okinawa, Japan. The Marines jumped from an altitude of 10,000 feet during the high speed training. Machado, from New York, New York, is an air delivery specialist with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Argumedo, from Los Angeles, California, is an air delivery specialist with the battalion. Bateman, from Gaithersburg, Maryland, is a reconnaissance man with the battalion.

Kenny R. White, Marine veteran, native of San Diego, Calif., listens as Mathieu Brundige, tank crewman, 1st Tank Battalion, explains the functionalities of the M1A1 Abrams on the units tank ramp, Dec. 22, 2014. White served as a tank crewman for 17 years as a reservist in 4th Tank Battalion. - Kenny R. White, Marine veteran, native of San Diego, Calif., listens as Mathieu Brundige, tank crewman, 1st Tank Battalion, explains the functionalities of the M1A1 Abrams on the units tank ramp, Dec. 22, 2014. White served as a tank crewman for 17 years as a reservist in 4th Tank Battalion.

U.S. Marine Capt. Nathan D. Bedle, with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response – Africa, and a Spanish soldier with 1st Mountain Troops Command conduct a trail recon a during mountain warfare training in Candanchu, Spain, Dec. 16, 2014. The exercise, which was conducted with the Spanish, allowed the Marines to gain greater knowledge of mountain warfare tactics, techniques and procedures while enhancing interoperability with the Spanish and strengthening the U.S. partnership with Spain. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-mobile crisis response force that conducts missions to protect U.S. personnel, property, and interests in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility. - U.S. Marine Capt. Nathan D. Bedle, with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response – Africa, and a Spanish soldier with 1st Mountain Troops Command conduct a trail recon a during mountain warfare training in Candanchu, Spain, Dec. 16, 2014. The exercise, which was conducted with the Spanish, allowed the Marines to gain greater knowledge of mountain warfare tactics, techniques and procedures while enhancing interoperability with the Spanish and strengthening the U.S. partnership with Spain. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-mobile crisis response force that conducts missions to protect U.S. personnel, property, and interests in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility.

Lance Cpl. Homero Campos, left, and Lance Cpl. Chara J. Savoey, set up a hasty communications tower at Bombing Target Range 11, Piney Island, N.C., Dec. 18, 2014. Campos is an unmanned aerial vehicle maintainer with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2 and native of Kingston, N.Y. Savoey is a field radio operator with the squadron and is native of Oakland, Calif. - Lance Cpl. Homero Campos, left, and Lance Cpl. Chara J. Savoey, set up a hasty communications tower at Bombing Target Range 11, Piney Island, N.C., Dec. 18, 2014. Campos is an unmanned aerial vehicle maintainer with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2 and native of Kingston, N.Y. Savoey is a field radio operator with the squadron and is native of Oakland, Calif.

Marines exit a Modular Amphibious Egress Trainer during Underwater Egress Training Dec. 9 at the Hansen Aquatics Center. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and they are conducting pre-deployment preparations for the regularly-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - Marines exit a Modular Amphibious Egress Trainer during Underwater Egress Training Dec. 9 at the Hansen Aquatics Center. The Marines are with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and they are conducting pre-deployment preparations for the regularly-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Janneh Felix conducts classroom training on outboard engines with members of the Beninese Navy in Cotonou, Benin, Nov. 18, 2014. Felix, a New York, N.Y., native, is part of a team of Marines and Coast Guardsmen from SPMAGTF Crisis Response-Africa, working alongside the Beninese Navy, trading knowledge of mechanical tactics, techniques and procedural skills while conducting engine maintenance on Honda BF225 outboard engines. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Janneh Felix conducts classroom training on outboard engines with members of the Beninese Navy in Cotonou, Benin, Nov. 18, 2014. Felix, a New York, N.Y., native, is part of a team of Marines and Coast Guardsmen from SPMAGTF Crisis Response-Africa, working alongside the Beninese Navy, trading knowledge of mechanical tactics, techniques and procedural skills while conducting engine maintenance on Honda BF225 outboard engines.

Minister of Defense Valerin Troenco shakes hands with Lt. Col. Joel Schmidt, the commanding officer of Black Sea Rotational Force 14, during the closing ceremony of the Anti-Armor Workshop between U.S. Marines and Moldovan soldiers in Balti, Moldova, Dec. 12. The Marines and Moldovans built a mutual understanding of firing procedures and characteristics on advanced anti-armor weapons systems, including: Moldova’s Rocket Propelled Grenade system and 70mm Recoiless Rifle (SPG), and America’s FGM-148 Javelin man-portable anti-tank missile, AT-4 Anti-Tank Weapon, and the Shoulder-launched Multipupose Assault Weapon, Dec. 8-12. - Minister of Defense Valerin Troenco shakes hands with Lt. Col. Joel Schmidt, the commanding officer of Black Sea Rotational Force 14, during the closing ceremony of the Anti-Armor Workshop between U.S. Marines and Moldovan soldiers in Balti, Moldova, Dec. 12. The Marines and Moldovans built a mutual understanding of firing procedures and characteristics on advanced anti-armor weapons systems, including: Moldova’s Rocket Propelled Grenade system and 70mm Recoiless Rifle (SPG), and America’s FGM-148 Javelin man-portable anti-tank missile, AT-4 Anti-Tank Weapon, and the Shoulder-launched Multipupose Assault Weapon, Dec. 8-12.

Maj. Matthew A. Seavitte guides an AV-8B Harrier during field carrier landing practice sustainment training at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Dec. 5, 2014. Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 231 honed their skills in preparation for an upcoming deployment with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Seavitte is a landing signal officer with the squadron. - Maj. Matthew A. Seavitte guides an AV-8B Harrier during field carrier landing practice sustainment training at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., Dec. 5, 2014. Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 231 honed their skills in preparation for an upcoming deployment with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Seavitte is a landing signal officer with the squadron.

Cpl. Jose Peralta, a Marine with Company B, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, guides a tank into a lane after conducting breaching exercises aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 8. Marines with 2nd Tank Battalion along with 2nd CEB worked together to conduct breaching exercises in which they provided support fire while Assault Breacher Vehicles eliminated tank pits and created a lane in which tanks may safely travel, aboard Camp Lejeune, Dec. 8-10. - Cpl. Jose Peralta, a Marine with Company B, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, guides a tank into a lane after conducting breaching exercises aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 8. Marines with 2nd Tank Battalion along with 2nd CEB worked together to conduct breaching exercises in which they provided support fire while Assault Breacher Vehicles eliminated tank pits and created a lane in which tanks may safely travel, aboard Camp Lejeune, Dec. 8-10.

U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force and Security Element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, ride in a CH-53 Super Stallion during interoperability training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 20, 2014. Interop gives the 15th MEU’s MRF and Security Element an opportunity to work together and support each other in preparation for a deployment in the spring. - U.S. Marines with the Maritime Raid Force and Security Element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, ride in a CH-53 Super Stallion during interoperability training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 20, 2014. Interop gives the 15th MEU’s MRF and Security Element an opportunity to work together and support each other in preparation for a deployment in the spring.

While teaching a counter-IED class, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician points out a simulated IED hidden in a tree to soldiers with the Uganda People’s Defense Force in Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 4, 2014. EOD Technicians with SPMAGTF-Crisis Response-Africa are working alongside the UPDF, helping hone their skills in countering-improvised explosive devices during a logistics and engineering training engagement. - While teaching a counter-IED class, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician points out a simulated IED hidden in a tree to soldiers with the Uganda People’s Defense Force in Camp Singo, Uganda, Nov. 4, 2014. EOD Technicians with SPMAGTF-Crisis Response-Africa are working alongside the UPDF, helping hone their skills in countering-improvised explosive devices during a logistics and engineering training engagement.

U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, prepare to board MV-22B Ospreys from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363, SPMAGTF-CR-CC, during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel rehearsal drill in the U.S. Central Command area of operations, Oct. 25, 2014. The Marines and sailors of SPMAGTF-CR-CC serve as an expeditionary, crisis-response force tasked with supporting operations, contingencies and security cooperation in Marine Corps Forces Central Command and CENTCOM. - U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Crisis Response - Central Command, prepare to board MV-22B Ospreys from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363, SPMAGTF-CR-CC, during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel rehearsal drill in the U.S. Central Command area of operations, Oct. 25, 2014. The Marines and sailors of SPMAGTF-CR-CC serve as an expeditionary, crisis-response force tasked with supporting operations, contingencies and security cooperation in Marine Corps Forces Central Command and CENTCOM.

Marines load an M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzer Nov. 4 at the North Fuji Maneuver Area during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. ARTP is a regularly scheduled training event that strengthens combat readiness of U.S. Marine forces, and supports the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the Unit Deployment Program. - Marines load an M777A2 lightweight 155 mm howitzer Nov. 4 at the North Fuji Maneuver Area during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-3. ARTP is a regularly scheduled training event that strengthens combat readiness of U.S. Marine forces, and supports the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. The Marines are with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment based out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, and are currently assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force under the Unit Deployment Program.

Sgt. Mike Saephanh, a field radio operator with Headquarters Battery, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment from Sacramento, Calif., inserts an M-67 fragmentation grenade into his grenade pouch during a hand grenade training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 18, 2014. The event helped Marines of 5/11 refresh their basic combat skills and maintain their combat mindsets. - Sgt. Mike Saephanh, a field radio operator with Headquarters Battery, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment from Sacramento, Calif., inserts an M-67 fragmentation grenade into his grenade pouch during a hand grenade training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 18, 2014. The event helped Marines of 5/11 refresh their basic combat skills and maintain their combat mindsets.

U.S. Marines, assigned to 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, Echo Company, and Royal Brunei Land Forces conduct Military Operations in Urban Terrain training during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei 2014 at Camp Penanjong. In its 20th year, CARAT is an annual, bilateral exercise series with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the armed forces of nine partner nations including, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Timor-Leste. - U.S. Marines, assigned to 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, Echo Company, and Royal Brunei Land Forces conduct Military Operations in Urban Terrain training during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei 2014 at Camp Penanjong. In its 20th year, CARAT is an annual, bilateral exercise series with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the armed forces of nine partner nations including, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Timor-Leste.

U.S. Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), celebrate the 239th birthday of the United States Marine Corps during sustainment training in D'Arta Plage, Djibouti, Nov. 10. The 11th MEU is deployed as a theater reserve and crisis response force throughout U.S. Central Command and 5th Fleet area of responsibility. - U.S. Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), celebrate the 239th birthday of the United States Marine Corps during sustainment training in D'Arta Plage, Djibouti, Nov. 10. The 11th MEU is deployed as a theater reserve and crisis response force throughout U.S. Central Command and 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

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U.S. Marines with Lima Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, boost a Marine over a wall during a vertical-assault raid course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 29, 2014. The course teaches vertical assault techniques and the importance of working together as a cohesive unit during a raid. - U.S. Marines with Lima Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, boost a Marine over a wall during a vertical-assault raid course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 29, 2014. The course teaches vertical assault techniques and the importance of working together as a cohesive unit during a raid.

Marines from Scout Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, participated in a training and readiness exercise to true their rifles aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 22-24, 2014. The three-day training event helped prepare Marines for upcoming combined arms exercises and potential combat operations abroad. - Marines from Scout Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, participated in a training and readiness exercise to true their rifles aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 22-24, 2014. The three-day training event helped prepare Marines for upcoming combined arms exercises and potential combat operations abroad.

Lance Cpl. James Whearry, a field artilleryman with 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fires the M777A2 Lightweight Howitzer at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., during exercise Twisted Sister, a battalion fire exercise at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., Oct. 25, 2014. Field artillerymen receive various call for fire scenarios, some requiring them to fire a certain number of rounds in a given time, others require precision shooting involving each gun in the battery as well as other batteries combined. - Lance Cpl. James Whearry, a field artilleryman with 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fires the M777A2 Lightweight Howitzer at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., during exercise Twisted Sister, a battalion fire exercise at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., Oct. 25, 2014. Field artillerymen receive various call for fire scenarios, some requiring them to fire a certain number of rounds in a given time, others require precision shooting involving each gun in the battery as well as other batteries combined.

Marines with 3rd Marine Air Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, used the remains of a CH-46E Sea Knight to represent a crashed UH-1Y Huey during a mishap drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27, 2014. The drill provided first responders the opportunity to practice every step of responding to a disabled aircraft including coordinating military and civilian agencies and rescuing the crew of the aircraft. - Marines with 3rd Marine Air Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, used the remains of a CH-46E Sea Knight to represent a crashed UH-1Y Huey during a mishap drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 27, 2014. The drill provided first responders the opportunity to practice every step of responding to a disabled aircraft including coordinating military and civilian agencies and rescuing the crew of the aircraft.

A Marine with 1st Marine Division Schools, pre-scout sniper course snaps in before engaging his target. Division schools recently began the second week of training for Marines attending the pre-scout sniper course aboard Camp Pendleton California, Oct. 27 2014. - A Marine with 1st Marine Division Schools, pre-scout sniper course snaps in before engaging his target. Division schools recently began the second week of training for Marines attending the pre-scout sniper course aboard Camp Pendleton California, Oct. 27 2014.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Matthew Miller clears a malfunction while blindfolded during a security element course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 23, 2014. Miller is a radio operator with Force Reconnaissance Detachment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Marines in this course are preparing for the 15th MEU’s deployment in the spring. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Matthew Miller clears a malfunction while blindfolded during a security element course aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 23, 2014. Miller is a radio operator with Force Reconnaissance Detachment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Marines in this course are preparing for the 15th MEU’s deployment in the spring.

The Provost Marshall Office Special Reaction Team conducts the avalanche drill at Range 300, Oct. 23. The avalanche drill is a technique to tactically withdraw in the event the team is overrun by an enemy. - The Provost Marshall Office Special Reaction Team conducts the avalanche drill at Range 300, Oct. 23. The avalanche drill is a technique to tactically withdraw in the event the team is overrun by an enemy.

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force practice clearing rooms during a training exercise at MOC-3 range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 21, 2014. The Marines conducted the Military Operations on Urban Terrain training with live rounds and live grenades to expand their level of readiness. - Marines with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force practice clearing rooms during a training exercise at MOC-3 range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 21, 2014. The Marines conducted the Military Operations on Urban Terrain training with live rounds and live grenades to expand their level of readiness.

A Sailor with Beach Master Unit 1 guides heavy machinery off a Landing Craft, Air Cushions while performing a ship-to-shore drill during exercise Pacific Horizon 2015 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct 23, 2014. PH 15 is a scenario driven, simulation supported crisis response exercise designed to improve 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's and Expeditionary Strike Group 3's interoperability and strengthen Navy-Marine Corps relations by conducting an in-stream Maritime Prepositioning Force offload of equipment by providing host country civil-military security assistance, and by conducting infrastructure restoration support from Oct. 20-28. - A Sailor with Beach Master Unit 1 guides heavy machinery off a Landing Craft, Air Cushions while performing a ship-to-shore drill during exercise Pacific Horizon 2015 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct 23, 2014. PH 15 is a scenario driven, simulation supported crisis response exercise designed to improve 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade's and Expeditionary Strike Group 3's interoperability and strengthen Navy-Marine Corps relations by conducting an in-stream Maritime Prepositioning Force offload of equipment by providing host country civil-military security assistance, and by conducting infrastructure restoration support from Oct. 20-28.

Marines and Sailors on Black Sea Rotational Force 14, with members of the Romanian Land Forces, worked together during Platinum Lynx at the Carpathian Mountains, Romania. Marines and Romanians fostered knowledge through weapons familiarization classes and mountain warfare training. - Marines and Sailors on Black Sea Rotational Force 14, with members of the Romanian Land Forces, worked together during Platinum Lynx at the Carpathian Mountains, Romania. Marines and Romanians fostered knowledge through weapons familiarization classes and mountain warfare training.

Marines with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, communicate with pilots of an F/A-18 Hornet before take-off during the Korean Marine Exchange Program 14-13, Oct. 13, 2014, on Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea. KMEP 14-13 is a multinational exercise that focuses on the integration of aviation and ground assets within the construct of a traditional Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise. Supporting units include, but are not limited to, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 and Marine Wing Support Squadron 171. - Marines with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, communicate with pilots of an F/A-18 Hornet before take-off during the Korean Marine Exchange Program 14-13, Oct. 13, 2014, on Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea. KMEP 14-13 is a multinational exercise that focuses on the integration of aviation and ground assets within the construct of a traditional Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise. Supporting units include, but are not limited to, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 and Marine Wing Support Squadron 171.