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Francisco Ocegueda, the American Battle Monuments Commission Deputy Director of Cemetery Operations for the Pacific Region gives remarks during the 81st Anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal Ceremony at the Guadalcanal American Memorial in Honiara, Solomon Islands, August 7, 2023. The Battle of Guadalcanal, also known as Operation Watchtower, was a seven-month campaign that marked the first Allied land offensive in the Pacific theater in World War II. - Francisco Ocegueda, the American Battle Monuments Commission Deputy Director of Cemetery Operations for the Pacific Region gives remarks during the 81st Anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal Ceremony at the Guadalcanal American Memorial in Honiara, Solomon Islands, August 7, 2023. The Battle of Guadalcanal, also known as Operation Watchtower, was a seven-month campaign that marked the first Allied land offensive in the Pacific theater in World War II.

U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Randall W. Peck, right, the prospective commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, and U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, visit 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st MARDIV, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 9, 2023. The Marines and Sailors of ESG 3 and 1st MARDIV work together on a regular basis, and leaders from both commands met to further develop the Navy-Marine Corps relationship between the two units for future operations. - U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Randall W. Peck, right, the prospective commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, and U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, visit 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st MARDIV, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 9, 2023. The Marines and Sailors of ESG 3 and 1st MARDIV work together on a regular basis, and leaders from both commands met to further develop the Navy-Marine Corps relationship between the two units for future operations.

U.S. Marines with 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, and members of the 2nd Intai Amfibi Battalion, Indonesian Korps Marinir, paddle back to shore on a combat rubber raiding craft during a reconnaissance exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 15, 2023. The Marines of 1st Recon Bn. host the bilateral training exercise annually to foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between Indonesian service members and 1st MARDIV Marines and promote cultural exchange and understanding. - U.S. Marines with 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, and members of the 2nd Intai Amfibi Battalion, Indonesian Korps Marinir, paddle back to shore on a combat rubber raiding craft during a reconnaissance exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 15, 2023. The Marines of 1st Recon Bn. host the bilateral training exercise annually to foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between Indonesian service members and 1st MARDIV Marines and promote cultural exchange and understanding.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Favio Cuero, a Middletown, New York, native and an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 24, 2nd Marine Division, conducts reconnaissance during a scout course on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 19, 2023. The purpose of the scout course is to enhance lethality and increase long range weapon proficiency. - U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Favio Cuero, a Middletown, New York, native and an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 24, 2nd Marine Division, conducts reconnaissance during a scout course on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 19, 2023. The purpose of the scout course is to enhance lethality and increase long range weapon proficiency.

U.S. Marines training in the desert - U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, determine the distance of targets during the simultaneous ground assault portion of Marine Air Ground Task Force Distributed Maneuver Exercise (MDMX) on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Feb. 14, 2023. MDMX is a maneuver exercise that incorporates air, ground, and logistics operations to create favorable conditions for the Joint Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Armando Elizalde)

U.S. Marines with the 1st Marine Division Band pose for an annual group photo at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 16, 2022. - U.S. Marines with the 1st Marine Division Band pose for an annual group photo at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 16, 2022.

U.S. Marine Capt. Kyle King, the assistant operations officer with 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, and Hope Sweetnam, King’s partner, pose for a photo after an evening run in Yucca Valley, California, Nov. 8, 2022. King is the first active-duty Marine to win the Marine Corps Marathon since 1983. The Marine Corps Marathon promotes physical fitness, generates community goodwill, and showcases the organizational skills of the Marine Corps. - U.S. Marine Capt. Kyle King, the assistant operations officer with 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, and Hope Sweetnam, King’s partner, pose for a photo after an evening run in Yucca Valley, California, Nov. 8, 2022. King is the first active-duty Marine to win the Marine Corps Marathon since 1983. The Marine Corps Marathon promotes physical fitness, generates community goodwill, and showcases the organizational skills of the Marine Corps.

U.S. Marines wait to withdraw from the Chosin Reservoir area circa, Dec. 1950. - U.S. Marines wait to withdraw from the Chosin Reservoir area circa, Dec. 1950.

What it Takes to Move a Mountain: The Regimental Air Assault - Four MV-22B Osprey’s with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) are staged in preparation for the loading of Marines from 1st Marine Division during exercise Steel Knight aboard Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 10, 2019. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that integrates 3rd MAW’s combat power and capabilities with those of 1st Marine Division. This exercise provides the Marines and sailors of 3rd MAW with realistic and relevant training, which enhances their skills, tactics and combat readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Warrant Officer Justin M. Pack)

U.S. Marines with Sierra Battery, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, fire an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during Summer Fire Exercise 19 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 23, 2019. The Marines are conducting Summer FIREX, a live-fire regimental-level exercise, from July 22 to Aug. 1. The exercise is designed to bring the entire regiment together and maximize the training areas available on Camp Pendleton to enhance their ability to conduct real-world operations. - U.S. Marines with Sierra Battery, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, fire an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during Summer Fire Exercise 19 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 23, 2019. The Marines are conducting Summer FIREX, a live-fire regimental-level exercise, from July 22 to Aug. 1. The exercise is designed to bring the entire regiment together and maximize the training areas available on Camp Pendleton to enhance their ability to conduct real-world operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Trevor M. Banks, fireteam leader, Company I, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, moves through a breach to attack an objective during a squad attack at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 15, 2019. The training was conducted to validate the squad leaders capabilities to lead and control their squads while integrating supporting arms in a deliberate attack. - U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Trevor M. Banks, fireteam leader, Company I, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, moves through a breach to attack an objective during a squad attack at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 15, 2019. The training was conducted to validate the squad leaders capabilities to lead and control their squads while integrating supporting arms in a deliberate attack.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Ryan McCormic, the motor transport officer with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, showcases 3D printing capabilities at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Feb. 19, 2018. - U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Ryan McCormic, the motor transport officer with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, showcases 3D printing capabilities at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Feb. 19, 2018. 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment is the first infantry battalion on the west coast to implement 3D printing at their unit. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Prado)

The photo depicts the 1st Marine Division Headquarters Building on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 17, 2018. - The photo depicts the 1st Marine Division Headquarters Building on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 17, 2018. The building, commonly referred to as the white house, has been the workspace for numerous commanding generals and special staff of the 1st Marine Division. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Prado)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Captain, boxing team co-captain, 1st Marine Division. The Marines are scheduled to compete in boxing contests against the Royal Marines May 3, 2018 at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines in Lympstone, England, and May 8, 2018 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, England. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Captain, boxing team co-captain, 1st Marine Division. The Marines are scheduled to compete in boxing contests against the Royal Marines May 3, 2018 at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines in Lympstone, England, and May 8, 2018 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, England.

Two UH-1Y Hueys with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 hover above the ground while Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conduct fast-rope training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 3, 2016. Fast roping was part of a larger event called a Marine Air-Ground Task Force integration exercise, which enabled air and ground units to come together and cooperate in various training missions prior to their deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Two UH-1Y Hueys with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 hover above the ground while Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conduct fast-rope training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 3, 2016. Fast roping was part of a larger event called a Marine Air-Ground Task Force integration exercise, which enabled air and ground units to come together and cooperate in various training missions prior to their deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Cpl. Reid Ohala, team leader, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, advances during a live-fire exercise as part of Tactical Small-Unit Leadership Course at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, July 18, 2016. The purpose of the course was to focus on the training of small-unit leadership within “Darkside.” - Cpl. Reid Ohala, team leader, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, advances during a live-fire exercise as part of Tactical Small-Unit Leadership Course at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, July 18, 2016. The purpose of the course was to focus on the training of small-unit leadership within “Darkside.”

Cpl. Raymond Buckley, right, a reconnaissance man with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, prepares for an amphibious operations training exercise during an Expeditionary Operations Training Group course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 21, 2016. Buckley said the importance of rehearsing amphibious operations ahead of time is because it serves as the foundation for the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployment and future operations. - Cpl. Raymond Buckley, right, a reconnaissance man with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, prepares for an amphibious operations training exercise during an Expeditionary Operations Training Group course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 21, 2016. Buckley said the importance of rehearsing amphibious operations ahead of time is because it serves as the foundation for the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployment and future operations.

A Marine with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, I Marine Expeditionary Force, guides a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launcher during Spring Fire Exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 31, 2016. The regiment, comprised of four artillery battalions and a headquarters battalion, put their skills to the test during a large-scale, combined-arms training evolution in preparation for future deployments and operations. - A Marine with Battery Q, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, I Marine Expeditionary Force, guides a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launcher during Spring Fire Exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 31, 2016. The regiment, comprised of four artillery battalions and a headquarters battalion, put their skills to the test during a large-scale, combined-arms training evolution in preparation for future deployments and operations.

Cpl. Richard Nedlic (Right), Light Armored Vehicle crewman and Cpl. Nicholas Guiles, rifleman, both with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and students in the Urban Leaders Course, fire their weapons from the supine position during a combat marksmanship program range at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 31, 2016. This firing drill is meant to train Marines to safely and accurately return fire if they fall backward while moving or are knocked down. - Cpl. Richard Nedlic (Right), Light Armored Vehicle crewman and Cpl. Nicholas Guiles, rifleman, both with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and students in the Urban Leaders Course, fire their weapons from the supine position during a combat marksmanship program range at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 31, 2016. This firing drill is meant to train Marines to safely and accurately return fire if they fall backward while moving or are knocked down.

Marines with provide security for the simulated Forward Control Center during an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System live fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 16, 2016. During the exercise, Marines coordinated fires based on hypothetical combat situations they might encounter while deployed. HIMARS is one of the most advanced artillery systems the Marine Corps has to offer, accurately engaging long-range targets under any weather condition. The Marines are with Battery S, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines with provide security for the simulated Forward Control Center during an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System live fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 16, 2016. During the exercise, Marines coordinated fires based on hypothetical combat situations they might encounter while deployed. HIMARS is one of the most advanced artillery systems the Marine Corps has to offer, accurately engaging long-range targets under any weather condition. The Marines are with Battery S, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion stand on line and perform rifle drills during a combat marksmanship program led by Expeditionary Operations Training Group March 17, 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. The shooting package helps to better prepare these Marines for an upcoming deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit. - Marines with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion stand on line and perform rifle drills during a combat marksmanship program led by Expeditionary Operations Training Group March 17, 2016 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. The shooting package helps to better prepare these Marines for an upcoming deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Jesse Kimble, an instructor with Training Cell, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, demonstrates a sniper’s standing firing position to snipers of the Special Operations Battalion, Brazilian Marine Corps, during a subject matter expert exchange at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 16, 2016. Snipers from both countries gathered to exchange knowledge and experiences regarding techniques and procedures used by snipers from their respective militaries. - U.S. Marine Sgt. Jesse Kimble, an instructor with Training Cell, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, demonstrates a sniper’s standing firing position to snipers of the Special Operations Battalion, Brazilian Marine Corps, during a subject matter expert exchange at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 16, 2016. Snipers from both countries gathered to exchange knowledge and experiences regarding techniques and procedures used by snipers from their respective militaries.

A M1A1 Abram tank attached to Delta Company 1st Tank Battalion, 1st U.S. Marine Division is lifted by two pier side cranes onto amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) at Gwangyang, South Korea to prepare for the Assault Follow-On Echelon portion of Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 March 14, 2016. Ashland is assigned to the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group and is participating in SY16, a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations-from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. - A M1A1 Abram tank attached to Delta Company 1st Tank Battalion, 1st U.S. Marine Division is lifted by two pier side cranes onto amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) at Gwangyang, South Korea to prepare for the Assault Follow-On Echelon portion of Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 March 14, 2016. Ashland is assigned to the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group and is participating in SY16, a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army Forces in order to strengthen our interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations-from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations.

Marines of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, observe fellow Marines conducting close quarter marksmanship drills during close quarter battle training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 8, 2016. The training focused on room clearing procedures along with close quarter marksmanship in a series of challenging drills. - Marines of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, observe fellow Marines conducting close quarter marksmanship drills during close quarter battle training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 8, 2016. The training focused on room clearing procedures along with close quarter marksmanship in a series of challenging drills.

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A Marine with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, loads an electronic M2 .50-caliber machine gun in a Combat Convoy Simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 2, 2016. The CCS at first glance looks like an expensive, high-tech video game, but its primary use is preparing Marines for real-world combat missions with simulations of realistic scenarios. - A Marine with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, loads an electronic M2 .50-caliber machine gun in a Combat Convoy Simulator at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 2, 2016. The CCS at first glance looks like an expensive, high-tech video game, but its primary use is preparing Marines for real-world combat missions with simulations of realistic scenarios.

Captain Scott Williams, company commander of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, dives out of a rigid-hulled inflatable boat to conduct underwater search operations training off the coast of California, Jan. 28, 2016. The Marines and Sailors of Co. A will use their dive ability to give the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit a valuable underwater search tool when it deploys later this year. - Captain Scott Williams, company commander of Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, dives out of a rigid-hulled inflatable boat to conduct underwater search operations training off the coast of California, Jan. 28, 2016. The Marines and Sailors of Co. A will use their dive ability to give the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit a valuable underwater search tool when it deploys later this year.

A light armored vehicle takes position for a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. Live-fire tests like these allow the Marines of 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force to train for how they will execute their mission when they are deployed in a combat zone. - A light armored vehicle takes position for a live-fire gunnery qualification test at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms,California, Jan. 22, 2016. Live-fire tests like these allow the Marines of 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force to train for how they will execute their mission when they are deployed in a combat zone.

A Marine squad leader assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security during a company-level assault, as part of combined arms live-fire, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin exercise, aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Training Center Twentynine Palms, California, Jan. 18, 2016. Infantry squad leaders holding the rank of corporal or sergeant can apply now for the recently updated Squad Leader Development Program, and earn the new military occupational specialty of 0365 - Infantry Squad Leader if selected from the pool of applicants. - A Marine squad leader assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security during a company-level assault, as part of combined arms live-fire, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin exercise, aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Training Center Twentynine Palms, California, Jan. 18, 2016. Infantry squad leaders holding the rank of corporal or sergeant can apply now for the recently updated Squad Leader Development Program, and earn the new military occupational specialty of 0365 - Infantry Squad Leader if selected from the pool of applicants.

Marines and Sailors practice clearing rooms as a part of the Raid Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 12, 2016. The three-week course is designed to teach Marines all of the skills and tactics necessary to successfully conduct raids in urban operations. The Marines participating in the training course are with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Corps Regiment. The Raid Leaders Course is run by Expeditionary Operations Training Group, I Marine Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines and Sailors practice clearing rooms as a part of the Raid Leaders Course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 12, 2016. The three-week course is designed to teach Marines all of the skills and tactics necessary to successfully conduct raids in urban operations. The Marines participating in the training course are with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Corps Regiment. The Raid Leaders Course is run by Expeditionary Operations Training Group, I Marine Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Marine conceals himself under the obstruction of deployed smoke during the company supported, live-fire assault portion of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 6, 2015. The purpose of a MCCRE is to evaluate Marines’ collective performance in specific mission requirements that will prepare them for their upcoming deployment rotation. The Marine is with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. - A Marine conceals himself under the obstruction of deployed smoke during the company supported, live-fire assault portion of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 6, 2015. The purpose of a MCCRE is to evaluate Marines’ collective performance in specific mission requirements that will prepare them for their upcoming deployment rotation. The Marine is with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.

U.S. Marines with 1st Reconnaisance Battalion board a HUMVEE during Steel Knight 16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 11, 2015. Steel Knight is an annual field training exercise that enables 1st Marine Division to test and refine its command and control capabilities by acting as the headquarters element for a forward-deployed Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marines with 1st Reconnaisance Battalion board a HUMVEE during Steel Knight 16 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 11, 2015. Steel Knight is an annual field training exercise that enables 1st Marine Division to test and refine its command and control capabilities by acting as the headquarters element for a forward-deployed Marine Expeditionary Force.

Marines set up a perimeter around an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission as part of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 3, 2015. TRAP’s placement in a MCCRE is meant to evaluate Marines on this mission set which is performed for the specific purpose of the recovery of personnel, equipment, and/or aircraft by the insertion of a TRAP force. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. - Marines set up a perimeter around an MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel mission as part of a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 3, 2015. TRAP’s placement in a MCCRE is meant to evaluate Marines on this mission set which is performed for the specific purpose of the recovery of personnel, equipment, and/or aircraft by the insertion of a TRAP force. The Marines are with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.

A Marine with 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, checks the perimeter of the combat operations center during a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear drill designed to familiarize the Marines with immediate actions aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 13, 2015. The Marines and Sailors with 5th Marine Regiment conducted the gas drill as part of Steel Knight 2016, a division-led exercise which prepares Marines and Sailors with the 1st Marine Division and adjacent I Marine Expeditionary Force units with the skill sets necessary to operate as a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force. - A Marine with 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, checks the perimeter of the combat operations center during a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear drill designed to familiarize the Marines with immediate actions aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 13, 2015. The Marines and Sailors with 5th Marine Regiment conducted the gas drill as part of Steel Knight 2016, a division-led exercise which prepares Marines and Sailors with the 1st Marine Division and adjacent I Marine Expeditionary Force units with the skill sets necessary to operate as a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force.

Corporal William Hastings, an intelligence analyst with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, talks over the radio before deploying the Raven unmanned aerial system aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, California, Dec. 10, 2015. The Marines employed the Raven UAS as part of Steel Knight to gain a better understanding of it and develop a higher proficiency as the ground combat element of the I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Corporal William Hastings, an intelligence analyst with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, talks over the radio before deploying the Raven unmanned aerial system aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, California, Dec. 10, 2015. The Marines employed the Raven UAS as part of Steel Knight to gain a better understanding of it and develop a higher proficiency as the ground combat element of the I Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Navy hospital corpsman assesses a simulated casualty during Exercise Steel Night’s mass casualty drill at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 12, 2015. The drill tested the 1st Marine Division’s ability to react to a large influx of injuries and wounds from battling the enemy. Steel Knight provides tough, realistic training for the Marines and sailors of 1st Marine Division. - A Navy hospital corpsman assesses a simulated casualty during Exercise Steel Night’s mass casualty drill at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 12, 2015. The drill tested the 1st Marine Division’s ability to react to a large influx of injuries and wounds from battling the enemy. Steel Knight provides tough, realistic training for the Marines and sailors of 1st Marine Division.

Two F-35B Lightning II aircrafts stand ready for flight operations during Exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 10, 2015. The F-35B is a single seat, single engine stealth multi-role fighter bringing the Marine Corps into a whole new generation of aircraft. Exercise Steel Knight allowed for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 and Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 to train on integrating the F-35B and find its place in the Marine Air Ground Task Force, while giving the ground forces of 1st Marine Division the ability to become familiar with it. - Two F-35B Lightning II aircrafts stand ready for flight operations during Exercise Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 10, 2015. The F-35B is a single seat, single engine stealth multi-role fighter bringing the Marine Corps into a whole new generation of aircraft. Exercise Steel Knight allowed for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 and Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 to train on integrating the F-35B and find its place in the Marine Air Ground Task Force, while giving the ground forces of 1st Marine Division the ability to become familiar with it.

Marines with Battery I, 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, fire an M777 Howitzer¬ during the opening day of live-fire operations for Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, on Dec. 10, 2015. The tough, realistic training is intended to develop combat skills necessary to operate as the ground combat element of the I Marine Expeditionary Force. - Marines with Battery I, 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, fire an M777 Howitzer¬ during the opening day of live-fire operations for Steel Knight at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, on Dec. 10, 2015. The tough, realistic training is intended to develop combat skills necessary to operate as the ground combat element of the I Marine Expeditionary Force.

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Lance Cpl. Anthony Sarmiento, a rifleman assigned to Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security while establishing a defensive position during Talon Exercise 1-16 at Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma, Ariz., Oct. 12, 2015. The training took place at Baker’s Peak, a rugged desert training area located on the approximately 1,700,000 acre Barry M. Goldwater Range and was part of a larger event called Talon Exercise, which focused on offensive and defensive operations in desert and urban environments. - Lance Cpl. Anthony Sarmiento, a rifleman assigned to Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security while establishing a defensive position during Talon Exercise 1-16 at Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma, Ariz., Oct. 12, 2015. The training took place at Baker’s Peak, a rugged desert training area located on the approximately 1,700,000 acre Barry M. Goldwater Range and was part of a larger event called Talon Exercise, which focused on offensive and defensive operations in desert and urban environments.

Marines assigned to the Urban Leaders Course at 1st Marine Division Schools, I Marine Expeditionary Force, prepare to clear a building during a live-fire training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 25, 2015. The class teaches fire team and squad leaders skills and tactics to be successful in urban environments, which they can share with the Marines they lead and the leadership of their entire unit. - Marines assigned to the Urban Leaders Course at 1st Marine Division Schools, I Marine Expeditionary Force, prepare to clear a building during a live-fire training exercise aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 25, 2015. The class teaches fire team and squad leaders skills and tactics to be successful in urban environments, which they can share with the Marines they lead and the leadership of their entire unit.

Engineers from Bridge Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group and 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division as well as members of British 54 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers stand atop a medium girder bridge they built at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 23, 2015. Marines from 7th ESB and 1st CEB are conducting various engineer training events alongside their British counterparts in coming weeks as part of annual large-scale exercise Black Alligator. - Engineers from Bridge Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group and 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division as well as members of British 54 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers stand atop a medium girder bridge they built at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 23, 2015. Marines from 7th ESB and 1st CEB are conducting various engineer training events alongside their British counterparts in coming weeks as part of annual large-scale exercise Black Alligator.

U.S. Marine Corps amphibious assault vehicles assigned to 3rd Assault Amphibious Battalion come ashore on the beaches of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., during an amphibious landing in support of Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-based operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand. - U.S. Marine Corps amphibious assault vehicles assigned to 3rd Assault Amphibious Battalion come ashore on the beaches of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., during an amphibious landing in support of Exercise Dawn Blitz 2015, Sept. 5, 2015. Dawn Blitz is a multinational training exercise designed to enhance Expeditionary Strike Group Three and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s ability to conduct sea-based operations, amphibious landings, and command and control capabilities alongside Japan, Mexico and New Zealand.

Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, conducted a raid demonstration in a simulated town and practiced the proper procedures of apprehending detainees during an amphibious raid demonstration in conjunction with a visit from the secretary of defense, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27, 2015. The Marines were transported to shore in amphibious assault vehicles with 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion, after exiting the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) while 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion provided additional security. - Marines with Company A, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, conducted a raid demonstration in a simulated town and practiced the proper procedures of apprehending detainees during an amphibious raid demonstration in conjunction with a visit from the secretary of defense, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 27, 2015. The Marines were transported to shore in amphibious assault vehicles with 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion, after exiting the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) while 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion provided additional security.

Marines with 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, establish security during a helicopter raid, as part of the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation (MCCRE), aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 4, 2015. The MCCRE is used evaluate the operational readiness of a designated unit. - Marines with 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, establish security during a helicopter raid, as part of the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation (MCCRE), aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 4, 2015. The MCCRE is used evaluate the operational readiness of a designated unit.

Lance Cpl. Ali J. Mohammed poses for a photo with a Humvee aboard Al Taqaddum Air Base, Iraq, July 4, 2015. Mohammed is originally from Baghdad and is now serving in the U.S. Marine Corps as a supply Marine. He is currently deployed as an Arabic interpreter for Task Force Al Taqaddum. - Lance Cpl. Ali J. Mohammed poses for a photo with a Humvee aboard Al Taqaddum Air Base, Iraq, July 4, 2015. Mohammed is originally from Baghdad and is now serving in the U.S. Marine Corps as a supply Marine. He is currently deployed as an Arabic interpreter for Task Force Al Taqaddum.

Lance Cpl. Patrick Murphy, a rifleman assigned to Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, identifies a target through his rifle combat optic during a patrol as part of the 1st Marine Division Super Squad Competition aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 30, 2015. The Marines and Sailors tested their abilities to conduct infantry operations for the title of super squad. - Lance Cpl. Patrick Murphy, a rifleman assigned to Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, identifies a target through his rifle combat optic during a patrol as part of the 1st Marine Division Super Squad Competition aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 30, 2015. The Marines and Sailors tested their abilities to conduct infantry operations for the title of super squad.

U.S. Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, participate in a conditioning hike during Exercise Southern Jackaroo 2015 June 14 at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia. SJ15 was a combined training opportunity for the Marines with their Australian allies that helped to improve interoperability between the two forces. The U.S. Marine Corps and the Australian Defence Forces are committed to continuing their tradition of more than 100 years of global partnership and security cooperation between Australia and the United States of America. - U.S. Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, participate in a conditioning hike during Exercise Southern Jackaroo 2015 June 14 at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia. SJ15 was a combined training opportunity for the Marines with their Australian allies that helped to improve interoperability between the two forces. The U.S. Marine Corps and the Australian Defence Forces are committed to continuing their tradition of more than 100 years of global partnership and security cooperation between Australia and the United States of America.

Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, commence Exercise Southern Jackaroo with soldiers with Company A, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, Australian Defence Force, May 3 at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia. SJ15 is a bilateral training exercise between soldiers from Company A, 3RAR, and the Marines with MRF-D. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines in Australia affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies and improves interoperability between the two forces. - Marines with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, commence Exercise Southern Jackaroo with soldiers with Company A, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, Australian Defence Force, May 3 at Townsville Field Training Area, Queensland, Australia. SJ15 is a bilateral training exercise between soldiers from Company A, 3RAR, and the Marines with MRF-D. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines in Australia affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies and improves interoperability between the two forces.

Clockwise from top left, 1st Lieutenant John Neail, tank commander, Cpl. Christian Bills, gunner, Lance Cpl. Robert Benaridez driver, Lance Cpl. Patrick Bellinger, loader, the crew for the M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank named “Star Lord” participated in Desert Scimitar aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. Desert Scimitar enables 1st Marine Division to test and refine its command and control capabilities and ensures 1st Marine Division units remain committed to consistently improving the quality of their training efforts and their resultant warfighting capabilities. - Clockwise from top left, 1st Lieutenant John Neail, tank commander, Cpl. Christian Bills, gunner, Lance Cpl. Robert Benaridez driver, Lance Cpl. Patrick Bellinger, loader, the crew for the M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank named “Star Lord” participated in Desert Scimitar aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. Desert Scimitar enables 1st Marine Division to test and refine its command and control capabilities and ensures 1st Marine Division units remain committed to consistently improving the quality of their training efforts and their resultant warfighting capabilities.