News

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 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.

Lance Cpl. Zackary Bowen, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261, scans a field for anything that could damage the MV-22B Osprey he is in while landing. As a crew chief, Bowen and another crew chief constantly monitor the aircraft’s components and make changes as necessary to ensure the safety of the crew and personnel within. - Lance Cpl. Zackary Bowen, a crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261, scans a field for anything that could damage the MV-22B Osprey he is in while landing. As a crew chief, Bowen and another crew chief constantly monitor the aircraft’s components and make changes as necessary to ensure the safety of the crew and personnel within.

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.

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.

News Rollup Default Thumbnail - News Rollup Default Thumbnail

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.