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U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class Tashaun Eldridge, a Louisville, KY native and rifleman with Task Force 61/2.3 Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Europe, inspects the application of a tourniquet with a Gabonese Republican soldier, during Judicious Activation 2023 in Libreville, Gabon, Apr. 27, 2023. Task Force 61/2.3 provides capabilities such as rapid response expeditionary anti-terrorism and security operations in support of Commanders, United States European Command and as directed by Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet in order to protect vital naval and national assets. - U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class Tashaun Eldridge, a Louisville, KY native and rifleman with Task Force 61/2.3 Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Europe, inspects the application of a tourniquet with a Gabonese Republican soldier, during Judicious Activation 2023 in Libreville, Gabon, Apr. 27, 2023. Task Force 61/2.3 provides capabilities such as rapid response expeditionary anti-terrorism and security operations in support of Commanders, United States European Command and as directed by Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet in order to protect vital naval and national assets.

U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit utilize crowd control techniques during a Noncombatant Evacuation Operation as part of Amphibious Ready Group/MEU Exercise at Stone Bay, North Carolina, April 25, 2023. NEOs assist the U.S. Department of State with the evacuation of citizens and approved personnel from a foreign nation to an appropriate safe haven. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is underway with the Bataan ARG conducting ARGMEUEX. - U.S. Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit utilize crowd control techniques during a Noncombatant Evacuation Operation as part of Amphibious Ready Group/MEU Exercise at Stone Bay, North Carolina, April 25, 2023. NEOs assist the U.S. Department of State with the evacuation of citizens and approved personnel from a foreign nation to an appropriate safe haven. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is underway with the Bataan ARG conducting ARGMEUEX.

U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harriers assigned to the Aviation Combat Element, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct a fly over after departing the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge, in the Atlantic Ocean, Oct. 7, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU, are operating in U.S. 2nd Fleet in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security across the Atlantic in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. - U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harriers assigned to the Aviation Combat Element, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct a fly over after departing the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge, in the Atlantic Ocean, Oct. 7, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU, are operating in U.S. 2nd Fleet in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security across the Atlantic in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 taxi in a CH-53K King Stallion after its first operational flight at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., April 13, 2022. The flight signified the beginning of HMH-461's modernization from the CH-53E Super Stallion to the CH-53K King Stallion. HMH-461 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. - U.S. Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 taxi in a CH-53K King Stallion after its first operational flight at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., April 13, 2022. The flight signified the beginning of HMH-461's modernization from the CH-53E Super Stallion to the CH-53K King Stallion. HMH-461 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps officers assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conduct a wargaming scenario aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Oct. 22, 2021. The wargame was an exercise used by the Marine officers to increase proficiency in real-time decision making during PHIBRON-MEU Integrated Training (PMINT). PMINT is the first at-sea period in the MEU’s Pre-deployment Training Program; it aims to increase interoperability and build relationships between Marines and Sailors. - U.S. Marine Corps officers assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conduct a wargaming scenario aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Oct. 22, 2021. The wargame was an exercise used by the Marine officers to increase proficiency in real-time decision making during PHIBRON-MEU Integrated Training (PMINT). PMINT is the first at-sea period in the MEU’s Pre-deployment Training Program; it aims to increase interoperability and build relationships between Marines and Sailors.

Sailors from Undersea Rescue Command deploy the Sibitzky Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) from the deck of the Military Sealift Command-chartered merchant vessel HOS Dominator. Undersea Rescue Command is aiding in recovery of the missing seven Marines and one Sailor from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. (U.S. Navy photo by LT Curtis Khol/Released) - Sailors from Undersea Rescue Command deploy the Sibitzky Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) from the deck of the Military Sealift Command-chartered merchant vessel HOS Dominator. Undersea Rescue Command is aiding in recovery of the missing seven Marines and one Sailor from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. (U.S. Navy photo by LT Curtis Khol/Released)

Landing Craft, Air Cushion 88 exits the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), May 27. - Landing Craft, Air Cushion 88 exits the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), May 27.

A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter lands on the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS America during flight operations, April 18. - A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter lands on the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS America during flight operations, April 18.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Service Members disembark from an MV-22B Osprey with U.S. Marines while conducting Vertical Assault training during exercise Forest Light Western Army at Camp Takayubaru, Kumamoto, Japan, Jan. 28. - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Service Members disembark from an MV-22B Osprey with U.S. Marines while conducting Vertical Assault training during exercise Forest Light Western Army at Camp Takayubaru, Kumamoto, Japan, Jan. 28.

U.S. Marines with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, depart from an MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 (Reinforced), 11th MEU, after returning to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, from a seven-month deployment. The 11th MEU is returning home after being deployed aboard the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, having completed operations and exercises in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility. - U.S. Marines with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, depart from an MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 (Reinforced), 11th MEU, after returning to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, from a seven-month deployment. The 11th MEU is returning home after being deployed aboard the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, having completed operations and exercises in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility.

MAG-16 Stands Ready - Twenty seven MV-22B Ospreys and 16 CH-53E Super Stallions with Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), line up as part of the mass flight at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., June 6, 2019. In a dynamic display of strength, the aircraft showcased the tactical capabilities and combat power the MAG-16 uses to defend the nation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Juan Anaya)

. - Lance Cpl. Allen Yang, a radio operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, assembles communications equipment during a simulated Humanitarian Assistance-Disaster Relief mission at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 1, 2019. Yang, a native of Riverside, California, graduated from Martin Luther King Jr. High School in June 2017 before enlisting December 2017. CLB-31 provides security, logistics, transportation, and HADR support as the Logistics Combat Element for the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU partnering with the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region. (Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Harrison C. Rakhshani/Released)

A Marine with Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, speaks into a handheld radio during a simulated helicopter raid as part of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s MEU Exercise at Ie Shima Training Facility, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 11, 2018. BLT 1/4 is the Ground Combat Element for the 31st MEU. MEUEX is the first in a series of pre-deployment training events that prepare the 31st MEU to deploy at a moment’s notice. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations across the Indo-Pacific region. - A Marine with Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, speaks into a handheld radio during a simulated helicopter raid as part of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s MEU Exercise at Ie Shima Training Facility, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 11, 2018. BLT 1/4 is the Ground Combat Element for the 31st MEU. MEUEX is the first in a series of pre-deployment training events that prepare the 31st MEU to deploy at a moment’s notice. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations across the Indo-Pacific region.

9 mm ammunition sits inside an ammunition canister during a live fire range at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 10, 2019. - 9 mm ammunition sits inside an ammunition canister during a live fire range at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 10, 2019. S-4 logisticians with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit ensure the proper caliber and quantity of ammunition is available for Marines to effectively train. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tanner D. Lambert)

U.S. Marines with Bravo Battery, Battalion Landing Team 3/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, pose for a photo in Djibouti during Theater Amphibious Combat Rehearsal, September 13, 2018. - U.S. Marines with Bravo Battery, Battalion Landing Team 3/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, pose for a photo in Djibouti during Theater Amphibious Combat Rehearsal, September 13, 2018.

Tinian residents sit inside a military vehicle after a ceremony marking the end of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s mission as part of the U.S. Defense Support of Civil Authorities relief efforts on Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Nov. 14, 2018. Marines and Sailors with the 31st MEU and Combat Logistics Battalion 31 assisted the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency and local and civil authorities on Tinian to deliver aid to Tinians affected by Super Typhoon Yutu, which struck here Oct. 25 as the second strongest storm to ever hit U.S. soil. Marines and Sailors with the 31st MEU and CLB-31 arrived on Tinian Oct. 29-31 to lead relief efforts on Tinian in response to Yutu as part of Task Force-West. TF-W is leading the Department of Defense’s efforts to assist CNMI’s local and civil authorities provide critical assistance for citizens devastated by Yutu. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations across the Indo-Pacific region. - Tinian residents sit inside a military vehicle after a ceremony marking the end of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s mission as part of the U.S. Defense Support of Civil Authorities relief efforts on Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Nov. 14, 2018. Marines and Sailors with the 31st MEU and Combat Logistics Battalion 31 assisted the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency and local and civil authorities on Tinian to deliver aid to Tinians affected by Super Typhoon Yutu, which struck here Oct. 25 as the second strongest storm to ever hit U.S. soil. Marines and Sailors with the 31st MEU and CLB-31 arrived on Tinian Oct. 29-31 to lead relief efforts on Tinian in response to Yutu as part of Task Force-West. TF-W is leading the Department of Defense’s efforts to assist CNMI’s local and civil authorities provide critical assistance for citizens devastated by Yutu. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations across the Indo-Pacific region.

A landing craft air cushion lands on Alvund Beach, Norway during an amphibious landing in support of Trident Juncture 18, Oct. 30, 2018. Trident Juncture provides a unique and challenging environment for Marines and Sailors to rehearse their amphibious capabilities which will result in a more ready and proficient fighting force. The LCACs originated from USS New York and showcased the ability of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit to rapidly project combat power ashore. - A landing craft air cushion lands on Alvund Beach, Norway during an amphibious landing in support of Trident Juncture 18, Oct. 30, 2018. Trident Juncture provides a unique and challenging environment for Marines and Sailors to rehearse their amphibious capabilities which will result in a more ready and proficient fighting force. The LCACs originated from USS New York and showcased the ability of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit to rapidly project combat power ashore.

The dock landing ship USS Ashland sits idle off the coast during the U.S. Defense Support of Civil Authorities relief effort in response to Super Typhoon Yutu, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Nov. 3, 2018. Businesses, government buildings, homes and schools were heavily damaged by Super Typhoon Yutu, which made a direct hit with devastating effect on Tinian Oct. 25 packing 170 MPH winds – it is the second strongest storm to ever hit U.S. soil and the strongest storm of 2018. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and CLB-31 have been leading a multi-service contingent since Oct. 29 as part of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency-directed DSCA mission here. The Ashland arrived today to deliver a larger contingent of Marines and Seabees to further assist the people of Tinian. The Marines arrived at the request of CNMI officials and FEMA to assist relief efforts in the wake of Yutu, the largest typhoon to ever hit a U.S. territory. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations across the Indo-Pacific region. - The dock landing ship USS Ashland sits idle off the coast during the U.S. Defense Support of Civil Authorities relief effort in response to Super Typhoon Yutu, Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Nov. 3, 2018. Businesses, government buildings, homes and schools were heavily damaged by Super Typhoon Yutu, which made a direct hit with devastating effect on Tinian Oct. 25 packing 170 MPH winds – it is the second strongest storm to ever hit U.S. soil and the strongest storm of 2018. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and CLB-31 have been leading a multi-service contingent since Oct. 29 as part of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency-directed DSCA mission here. The Ashland arrived today to deliver a larger contingent of Marines and Seabees to further assist the people of Tinian. The Marines arrived at the request of CNMI officials and FEMA to assist relief efforts in the wake of Yutu, the largest typhoon to ever hit a U.S. territory. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations across the Indo-Pacific region.

A CH-53E Sea Stallion prepares for take-off aboard USS Iwo Jima while conducting an air assault in Icelandic terrain Oct. 17, 2018. Iceland’s unique terrain and climate allows for Marines to be better prepared and rapidly deploy in support of NATO Allies and partners. - A CH-53E Sea Stallion prepares for take-off aboard USS Iwo Jima while conducting an air assault in Icelandic terrain Oct. 17, 2018. Iceland’s unique terrain and climate allows for Marines to be better prepared and rapidly deploy in support of NATO Allies and partners.

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 11, 1st Marine Logistics Group, prepare to attach an external load to a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 during helicopter support team operations aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., July 19. HST operations are conducted to deliver supplies to service members who need the supplies quickly or are in difficult areas to reach via land. - Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 11, 1st Marine Logistics Group, prepare to attach an external load to a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 during helicopter support team operations aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., July 19. HST operations are conducted to deliver supplies to service members who need the supplies quickly or are in difficult areas to reach via land.

A U.S. Marine with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, provides overwatch during an integrated squad exercise with Mexican marines assigned to the Amphibious Marine Infantry Brigade as they navigate the infantry immersion trainer during Rim of the Pacific exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 9, 2018. The IIT provided the Marines with “hands on” practical application of tactical skills and decision making in an immersive, scenario-based training environment. RIMPAC demonstrates the value of amphibious forces and provides high-value training for task-organized, highly capable Marine Air-Ground Task Forces enhancing the critical crisis response capability of U.S. forces and partners globally. Twenty-five nations, 46 ships, five submarines, about 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 27 to Aug. 2 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. - A U.S. Marine with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, provides overwatch during an integrated squad exercise with Mexican marines assigned to the Amphibious Marine Infantry Brigade as they navigate the infantry immersion trainer during Rim of the Pacific exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 9, 2018. The IIT provided the Marines with “hands on” practical application of tactical skills and decision making in an immersive, scenario-based training environment. RIMPAC demonstrates the value of amphibious forces and provides high-value training for task-organized, highly capable Marine Air-Ground Task Forces enhancing the critical crisis response capability of U.S. forces and partners globally. Twenty-five nations, 46 ships, five submarines, about 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 27 to Aug. 2 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California.

Noncommissioned officers with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit toss medicine balls during a Force Fitness Instructor led High Intensity Tactical Training session at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2018. The 31st MEU is adopting an NCO-led FFI program to improve overall physical fitness while reducing injury and building unit morale. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations. - Noncommissioned officers with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit toss medicine balls during a Force Fitness Instructor led High Intensity Tactical Training session at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2018. The 31st MEU is adopting an NCO-led FFI program to improve overall physical fitness while reducing injury and building unit morale. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide-range of military operations.

Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, load onto busses headed to Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 18, 2018. BLT 2/5 will be taking up the role as the Ground Combat Element of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide range of military operations. - Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, load onto busses headed to Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 18, 2018. BLT 2/5 will be taking up the role as the Ground Combat Element of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward deployed MEU, provides a flexible force ready to perform a wide range of military operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Anthony Salas, a network administrator with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, installs a Hawkeye III Satellite in Iraq, Dec., 4, 2017. The communications team was deployed in support of the 15th MEU’s aviation combat element conducting missions in support of Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Anthony Salas, a network administrator with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, installs a Hawkeye III Satellite in Iraq, Dec., 4, 2017. The communications team was deployed in support of the 15th MEU’s aviation combat element conducting missions in support of Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve.

An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 264 (Reinforced), 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), boards the USS Wasp (LHD-1), to bring Marines back from a tactical recovery of aircraft and personal mission May 19, 2016. The 22nd MEU and Amphibious Squadron Six (PHIBRON-6) are underway for composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX). - An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 264 (Reinforced), 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), boards the USS Wasp (LHD-1), to bring Marines back from a tactical recovery of aircraft and personal mission May 19, 2016. The 22nd MEU and Amphibious Squadron Six (PHIBRON-6) are underway for composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX).

Japan Ground Self Defense Force personnel carry supplies from a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), in Hakusui Sports Park, Kyushu island, Japan, April 22, 2016. The supplies are in support of the relief effort after a series of earthquakes struck the island of Kyushu. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps' force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region. - Japan Ground Self Defense Force personnel carry supplies from a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), in Hakusui Sports Park, Kyushu island, Japan, April 22, 2016. The supplies are in support of the relief effort after a series of earthquakes struck the island of Kyushu. The 31st MEU is the only continually forward-deployed MEU and remains the Marine Corps' force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region.

From left, U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dave Hermansen and Lance Cpl. Jabril Giannotti, mortarmen, and Sgt. Jack Williams, a squad leader, all assigned to Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire a 81mm training mortar with the M252A2 mortar system during Ssang Yong 16 at Suseongri, South Korea, March 15, 2016. Ssang Yong familiarizes American armed forces with the Korean Peninsula and contributes to the security and stability of the Asia-Pacific region. Hermansen is a native of Westbrook, Connecticut. Giannotti is a native of Highland Park, New Jersey. Williams is a native of Pilot Point, Texas. - From left, U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dave Hermansen and Lance Cpl. Jabril Giannotti, mortarmen, and Sgt. Jack Williams, a squad leader, all assigned to Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire a 81mm training mortar with the M252A2 mortar system during Ssang Yong 16 at Suseongri, South Korea, March 15, 2016. Ssang Yong familiarizes American armed forces with the Korean Peninsula and contributes to the security and stability of the Asia-Pacific region. Hermansen is a native of Westbrook, Connecticut. Giannotti is a native of Highland Park, New Jersey. Williams is a native of Pilot Point, Texas.

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U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Riley Remoket, with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fills a water bull at a water distribution site during typhoon relief efforts in Saipan, Aug. 19, 2015. The Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and CLB 31, 31st MEU, assisted the locals of Saipan by producing and distributing potable water. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU were conducting training near the Mariana Islands when they were redirected to Saipan after the island was struck by Typhoon Soudelor Aug. 2-3. - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Riley Remoket, with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fills a water bull at a water distribution site during typhoon relief efforts in Saipan, Aug. 19, 2015. The Marines with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st MEU and CLB 31, 31st MEU, assisted the locals of Saipan by producing and distributing potable water. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU were conducting training near the Mariana Islands when they were redirected to Saipan after the island was struck by Typhoon Soudelor Aug. 2-3.

U.S. Marines and Australian service members move into defensive positions for the night after conducting an amphibious assault at Fog Bay, Australia, July 11, 2015. The Marines with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Australians with Combat Team Bravo, 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, assaulted the beach and moved inland to secure additional objectives as part of Talisman Sabre 2015. Talisman Sabre is a biennial exercise designed to improve the interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. The 31st MEU is taking part in the exercise while deployed on its regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - U.S. Marines and Australian service members move into defensive positions for the night after conducting an amphibious assault at Fog Bay, Australia, July 11, 2015. The Marines with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Australians with Combat Team Bravo, 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, assaulted the beach and moved inland to secure additional objectives as part of Talisman Sabre 2015. Talisman Sabre is a biennial exercise designed to improve the interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. The 31st MEU is taking part in the exercise while deployed on its regularly scheduled Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Guillermo Lopez, with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provides medical attention to a distressed mariner aboard the USS Rushmore (LSD 47) at sea in the Pacific Ocean, June 10, 2015. Rushmore rendered assistance to the distressed mariners in the waters between the Indonesian islands of Kalimantan and Sulawesi. Once on board, evacuees were provided food and medical attention by Marines and sailors of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Essex Amphibious Ready Group. - U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Guillermo Lopez, with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, provides medical attention to a distressed mariner aboard the USS Rushmore (LSD 47) at sea in the Pacific Ocean, June 10, 2015. Rushmore rendered assistance to the distressed mariners in the waters between the Indonesian islands of Kalimantan and Sulawesi. Once on board, evacuees were provided food and medical attention by Marines and sailors of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Essex Amphibious Ready Group.

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

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

A U.S. Marine fast-ropes out of an MV-22B Osprey during an exercise on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard, at sea, Feb. 18, 2015. Each Marine had a chance to go down the rope multiple times. After fast-roping, the Marines practiced rappelling from the Osprey. The Marines are with Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and the Osprey is from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262. The Marines are currently participating in the MEU’s annually-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region. - A U.S. Marine fast-ropes out of an MV-22B Osprey during an exercise on the flight deck of the USS Bonhomme Richard, at sea, Feb. 18, 2015. Each Marine had a chance to go down the rope multiple times. After fast-roping, the Marines practiced rappelling from the Osprey. The Marines are with Weapons Co., Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and the Osprey is from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262. The Marines are currently participating in the MEU’s annually-scheduled Spring Patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

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

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

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

U.S. Marine Pfc. Cody Dunlap throws a simulated grenade during squad tactics and maneuver training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 26, 2015. Dunlap is an automatic rifleman with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. As the ground combat element for the 15th MEU, BLT 3/1 is preparing for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills and learning to work as a cohesive unit. - U.S. Marine Pfc. Cody Dunlap throws a simulated grenade during squad tactics and maneuver training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 26, 2015. Dunlap is an automatic rifleman with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. As the ground combat element for the 15th MEU, BLT 3/1 is preparing for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills and learning to work as a cohesive unit.

U.S Marine Sgt. Eric Maehler holds security while conducting a raid during realistic urban training at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles Dec. 8, 2014. Maehler is a team leader with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills in environments they may encounter in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S Marine Sgt. Eric Maehler holds security while conducting a raid during realistic urban training at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles Dec. 8, 2014. Maehler is a team leader with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment by enhancing their combat skills in environments they may encounter in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)

U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force conduct a raid during realistic urban training aboard Camp San Luis Obispo, Calif., Dec. 5, 2014. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released) - U.S. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Raid Force conduct a raid during realistic urban training aboard Camp San Luis Obispo, Calif., Dec. 5, 2014. RUT prepares the Marines of the 15th MEU for their upcoming deployment, enhancing their combat skills in environments similar to those they may find in future missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anna Albrecht/Released)