Cpl. Steele Hartmann, left, and Lance Cpl. Daniel Lark, stand their post, sighting down the entry control point during an airbase ground defense field operation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, Aug. 19, 2015. Nearly 300 Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 were involved in the field operation by providing security for ground operations during portrayed enemy attacks. Hartmann is a combat engineer and Lark is an aircraft rescue and firefighting specialist, both with MWSS-271. - Cpl. Steele Hartmann, left, and Lance Cpl. Daniel Lark, stand their post, sighting down the entry control point during an airbase ground defense field operation at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, North Carolina, Aug. 19, 2015. Nearly 300 Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 were involved in the field operation by providing security for ground operations during portrayed enemy attacks. Hartmann is a combat engineer and Lark is an aircraft rescue and firefighting specialist, both with MWSS-271.
A graphic illustration of the new F-35B Lightning II hangar slated to be completed October 2016 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Aug. 20. The construction project includes aircraft parking near the hangars and an aircraft access apron. A three-level parking garage is being constructed adjacent to the brand new facility. - A graphic illustration of the new F-35B Lightning II hangar slated to be completed October 2016 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Aug. 20. The construction project includes aircraft parking near the hangars and an aircraft access apron. A three-level parking garage is being constructed adjacent to the brand new facility.
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Rear Adm. Cynthia Thebaud, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group Two takes the shooter stance while she launches an F-35B Lightning II off the flight deck of USS Wasp, on the Atlantic Ocean, May 26, 2015. Wasp, with VMFA-121 and VMFAT-501 embarked, is underway conducting the first phase of operational testing for the F-35B aircraft, which will evaluate the full spectrum of F-35B measures of suitability and effectiveness in an at-sea environment. - Rear Adm. Cynthia Thebaud, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group Two takes the shooter stance while she launches an F-35B Lightning II off the flight deck of USS Wasp, on the Atlantic Ocean, May 26, 2015. Wasp, with VMFA-121 and VMFAT-501 embarked, is underway conducting the first phase of operational testing for the F-35B aircraft, which will evaluate the full spectrum of F-35B measures of suitability and effectiveness in an at-sea environment.
Corporal Chris Stewart, the senior crew chief aboard an MV-22B Osprey aircraft with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), communicates with pilots during a para-operations training with an 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 6, 2015. Reconnaissance Marines, rigged with parachutes, jumped from an altitude of 13,000 feet with the assistance of Marines with VMM-365 (Rein) to practice the airborne insertion. - Corporal Chris Stewart, the senior crew chief aboard an MV-22B Osprey aircraft with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), communicates with pilots during a para-operations training with an 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 6, 2015. Reconnaissance Marines, rigged with parachutes, jumped from an altitude of 13,000 feet with the assistance of Marines with VMM-365 (Rein) to practice the airborne insertion.
A UH-1Y Huey takes off alongside an AH-1W Super Cobra during a training exercise testing a digital interoperability system at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., July 24, 2015. Digital interoperability is the technology capable of increasing prowess on the battlefield. The exercise included Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 467, Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2, and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, testing a LINK 16 conversion system for one of the first times within an explicitly rotary-wing exercise. - A UH-1Y Huey takes off alongside an AH-1W Super Cobra during a training exercise testing a digital interoperability system at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., July 24, 2015. Digital interoperability is the technology capable of increasing prowess on the battlefield. The exercise included Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 467, Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2, and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, testing a LINK 16 conversion system for one of the first times within an explicitly rotary-wing exercise.
Two MV-22 Osprey aircraft with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365, Marine Air Group 26, approach Landing Zone Bat during a confined landing area exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 4, 2015 Marines with VMM-365 rehearsed different drop off and extraction scenarios at Landing Zone Bluebird and Landing Zone Bat at Camp Lejeune to maintain skills and standards within the squadron. - Two MV-22 Osprey aircraft with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365, Marine Air Group 26, approach Landing Zone Bat during a confined landing area exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 4, 2015 Marines with VMM-365 rehearsed different drop off and extraction scenarios at Landing Zone Bluebird and Landing Zone Bat at Camp Lejeune to maintain skills and standards within the squadron.
Two Marines with 1st Intelligence Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group and sailors take pictures of the Blue Angels C-130T Hercules, known as “Fat Albert,” prior to flying as the aircraft’s passengers in Seattle, August 2. Blue Angels pilots and crew members accepted active-duty service members as passengers for the Boeing Seafair Air Show August 1-2, 2015. - Two Marines with 1st Intelligence Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group and sailors take pictures of the Blue Angels C-130T Hercules, known as “Fat Albert,” prior to flying as the aircraft’s passengers in Seattle, August 2. Blue Angels pilots and crew members accepted active-duty service members as passengers for the Boeing Seafair Air Show August 1-2, 2015.
Marines with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 774 stand ready for the playing of Anchors Aweigh and the Marines Hymn Aug. 1, 2015 during the CH-46 Last Flight Retirement Ceremony at the Smithsonian Institution Nation Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia. The CH-46’s main mission has been to provide combat support, however, the aircraft also flew resupply missions, medical evacuations and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel. - Marines with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 774 stand ready for the playing of Anchors Aweigh and the Marines Hymn Aug. 1, 2015 during the CH-46 Last Flight Retirement Ceremony at the Smithsonian Institution National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia. The CH-46’s main mission has been to provide combat support, however, the aircraft also flew resupply missions, medical evacuations and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel.
Marines with Company B, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, prepare to load onto a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 366 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 26. The Marines were inserted into an urban terrain to cordon and search the area for possible threats. - Marines with Company B, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, prepare to load onto a CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 366 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 26. The Marines were inserted into an urban terrain to cordon and search the area for possible threats.
U.S. Marines of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, pose for a photo with a ceremonially decorated MV-22 Osprey, in Southwest Asia, July 17, 2015. The Marines of VMM – 165 celebrate the unit’s 50th anniversary while deployed with the SPMAGTF; providing long range assault support, troop transport and cargo delivery in the Central Command Area of Operations, as well as support to the Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel. - U.S. Marines of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, pose for a photo with a ceremonially decorated MV-22 Osprey, in Southwest Asia, July 17, 2015. The Marines of VMM – 165 celebrate the unit’s 50th anniversary while deployed with the SPMAGTF; providing long range assault support, troop transport and cargo delivery in the Central Command Area of Operations, as well as support to the Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel.
“More than seven decades have passed since 10 July 1941 when [2nd Marine Aircraft Wing] was activated in San Diego, [California]. Wars in the Pacific, in the Middle East and operations around the world have added to your battle colors, but have not dulled your spirit … As we continue to confront those who would do us harm, take pride in knowing you continue to add to the storied history of our Corps, and pause to remember those who have sacrificed so much in the defense of our nation.” - “More than seven decades have passed since 10 July 1941 when [2nd Marine Aircraft Wing] was activated in San Diego, [California]. Wars in the Pacific, in the Middle East and operations around the world have added to your battle colors, but have not dulled your spirit … As we continue to confront those who would do us harm, take pride in knowing you continue to add to the storied history of our Corps, and pause to remember those who have sacrificed so much in the defense of our nation.”
An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 prepares to touch down aboard Edwards Air Force Base, California, Oct. 9, 2014. This is the squadron’s first F-35 Lightning II. - An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Operational and Test Evaluation Squadron 22 prepares to touch down aboard Edwards Air Force Base, California, Oct. 9, 2014. This is the squadron’s first F-35 Lightning II.
Pilots in Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, use Full Mission Simulators as part of their training with F-35s. The F-35 simulators can also be found at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, where Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 trains. The F-35 Full Mission Simulator accurately replicates all sensors and weapons to provide a realistic mission rehearsal and training environment. - Pilots in Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, use Full Mission Simulators as part of their training with F-35s. The F-35 simulators can also be found at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, where Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 trains. The F-35 Full Mission Simulator accurately replicates all sensors and weapons to provide a realistic mission rehearsal and training environment.
Maj. Gen. Michael Rocco, commanding general of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, awards Master Gunnery Sgt. Kevin Anderson, a maintenance chief with Marine Tiltrotor Squadron 166, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal inside Hangar 6 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., June 25, 2015. A team of twenty-four Marines from VMM-166, VMM-268 and VMM-364 received awards for playing a role in returning a grounded MV-22 Osprey to operational flight status. - Maj. Gen. Michael Rocco, commanding general of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, awards Master Gunnery Sgt. Kevin Anderson, a maintenance chief with Marine Tiltrotor Squadron 166, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal inside Hangar 6 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., June 25, 2015. A team of twenty-four Marines from VMM-166, VMM-268 and VMM-364 received awards for playing a role in returning a grounded MV-22 Osprey to operational flight status.
An MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261 prepares to land onto the Karel Doorman, a Dutch warship, during an interoperability test near Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., June 12, 2015. The unit worked jointly with the Royal Netherlands Navy to perform the first MV-22 Osprey carrier landing aboard a Dutch warship and strengthened the existing partnership between the two countries. - An MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261 prepares to land onto the Karel Doorman, a Dutch warship, during an interoperability test near Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., June 12, 2015. The unit worked jointly with the Royal Netherlands Navy to perform the first MV-22 Osprey carrier landing aboard a Dutch warship and strengthened the existing partnership between the two countries.
Marines load ordnance onto an F-35B Lightning II during Operational Testing 1 aboard USS Wasp at sea, May 27. Marines and sailors have been working together since May 18 to assess the integration of the F-35B Lightning II, which is currently on track to replace the F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Prowler, and the AV-8B Harrier. By the end of the testing period on May 29, U.S. Marine pilots had flown 110 F-35B sorties from USS Wasp, racking up more than 85 flight hours. - Marines load ordnance onto an F-35B Lightning II during Operational Testing 1 aboard USS Wasp at sea, May 27. Marines and sailors have been working together since May 18 to assess the integration of the F-35B Lightning II, which is currently on track to replace the F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Prowler, and the AV-8B Harrier. By the end of the testing period on May 29, U.S. Marine pilots had flown 110 F-35B sorties from USS Wasp, racking up more than 85 flight hours.
One of the pilots of an MV-22 Osprey straps Secretary of Defense Ash Carter into his seat before surveying the Straits of Malacca off the coast of Singapore, May 29, 2015. - One of the pilots of an MV-22 Osprey straps Secretary of Defense Ash Carter into his seat before surveying the Straits of Malacca off the coast of Singapore, May 29, 2015.
Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting battle the blaze as part of monthly training to ensure they are always prepared in the event of an emergency on the flight line. The ARFF Marines are a part of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. - Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting battle the blaze as part of monthly training to ensure they are always prepared in the event of an emergency on the flight line. The ARFF Marines are a part of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.
An F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter taxies to be refueled on the flight deck of USS Wasp during night operations, a part of Operational Testing 1, May, 22. The F-35B is the future of Marine Corps aviation and will be replacing three legacy platforms; the AV-8B Harrier, the F/A Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler. The F-35B is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. - An F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter taxies to be refueled on the flight deck of USS Wasp during night operations, a part of Operational Testing 1, May, 22. The F-35B is the future of Marine Corps aviation and will be replacing three legacy platforms; the AV-8B Harrier, the F/A Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler. The F-35B is with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.
U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew Kelly, military assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition, provides background on the Marine Corps’ F-35B program to Air Marshall Bollam, Chief of Defence Material Air, United Kingdom, aboard USS Wasp while embarked in the Atlantic Ocean May 20, 2015. The current Marine Corps operational test, scheduled to continue through the end of May, will assess the integration of the F-35B while operating across a wide array of flight and deck operations, maintenance operations and logistical supply chain support in an at-sea environment. A former test pilot and career Marine aviator, Kelly participated in the earlier shipboard developmental tests of the F-35B. Royal Navy and Royal Air Force pilots are scheduled to begin flying the F-35B from the UK in 2018, and are on track to operate from the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers in 2020. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew Kelly, military assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition, provides background on the Marine Corps’ F-35B program to Air Marshall Bollam, Chief of Defence Material Air, United Kingdom, aboard USS Wasp while embarked in the Atlantic Ocean May 20, 2015. The current Marine Corps operational test, scheduled to continue through the end of May, will assess the integration of the F-35B while operating across a wide array of flight and deck operations, maintenance operations and logistical supply chain support in an at-sea environment. A former test pilot and career Marine aviator, Kelly participated in the earlier shipboard developmental tests of the F-35B. Royal Navy and Royal Air Force pilots are scheduled to begin flying the F-35B from the UK in 2018, and are on track to operate from the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers in 2020.
A Spanish Navy Harrier flies over the water after departing Naval Station Rota, Spain, for an aerial-refueling exercise with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa May 15, 2015. The Harrier flew behind a U.S. Marine KC-130J, which extended two refueling lines to allow the pilots to test their ability to complete inflight-refueling procedures. - A Spanish Navy Harrier flies over the water after departing Naval Station Rota, Spain, for an aerial-refueling exercise with U.S. Marines from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa May 15, 2015. The Harrier flew behind a U.S. Marine KC-130J, which extended two refueling lines to allow the pilots to test their ability to complete inflight-refueling procedures.
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.
A sailor aboard the USS Wasp (LHD-1) signals to the pilot of an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter to land as it arrives for the first phase of operational testing, May 18, 2015. The short take-off, vertical landing capabilities of the F-35B are crucial to the mission of the Marine Corps and necessary for operation aboard a Navy amphibious ship. The aircraft are stationed with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, Beaufort, South Carolina and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Yuma, Arizona. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Remington Hall/Released) - A sailor aboard the USS Wasp (LHD-1) signals to the pilot of an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter to land as it arrives for the first phase of operational testing, May 18, 2015. The short take-off, vertical landing capabilities of the F-35B are crucial to the mission of the Marine Corps and necessary for operation aboard a Navy amphibious ship. The aircraft are stationed with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, Beaufort, South Carolina and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Yuma, Arizona. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Remington Hall/Released)
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 U.S. Navy sailor with Amphibious Squadron 4 (PHIBRON) signals an MV-22B Osprey assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, while conducting flight operations aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), in the Atlantic Ocean, May 9, 2015, during PHIBRON-MEU Integrated Training. PMINT is a joint training event the 26th MEU, supporting elements and PHIBRON 4 are conducting in preparation for their deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andre Dakis/26th MEU Combat Camera/Released) - A U.S. Navy sailor with Amphibious Squadron 4 (PHIBRON) signals an MV-22B Osprey assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, while conducting flight operations aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), in the Atlantic Ocean, May 9, 2015, during PHIBRON-MEU Integrated Training. PMINT is a joint training event the 26th MEU, supporting elements and PHIBRON 4 are conducting in preparation for their deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility later this year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andre Dakis/26th MEU Combat Camera/Released)
U.S. Marine MV-22 Osprey with Joint Task Force 505 departs for a search and rescue mission out of the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal May 13. The Osprey, which is assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, carries JTF personnel in search of a UH-1Y Huey helicopter carrying six Marines and two Nepalese soldiers. The Huey, assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, went missing while conducting humanitarian assistance after a 7.3 magnitude earthquake May 12. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Thor Larson) - U.S. Marine MV-22 Osprey with Joint Task Force 505 departs for a search and rescue mission out of the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal May 13. The Osprey, which is assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262, carries JTF personnel in search of a UH-1Y Huey helicopter carrying six Marines and two Nepalese soldiers. The Huey, assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, went missing while conducting humanitarian assistance after a 7.3 magnitude earthquake May 12. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Thor Larson)
The “Ott Box” is an invention that was created by Gunnery Sgt. Michael Ott, the navigational aids chief for Marine Air Control Squadron 4, Detachment Alpha. Over time, Ott plans to gather additional parts for the Ott Box in order to perfect the idea of a solar powered Tactical Air Navigation system. - The “Ott Box” is an invention that was created by Gunnery Sgt. Michael Ott, the navigational aids chief for Marine Air Control Squadron 4, Detachment Alpha. Over time, Ott plans to gather additional parts for the Ott Box in order to perfect the idea of a solar powered Tactical Air Navigation system.
Marine Capt. Katie Higgins, the first female pilot with the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, or Blue Angels, speaks with media aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, April 9, 2015. The Severna Park, Maryland native is now the newest pilot of "Fat Albert," a C-130 Hercules flown by the Blue Angels. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Olivia G. Ortiz/Released) - Marine Capt. Katie Higgins, the first female pilot with the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, or Blue Angels, speaks with media aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, April 9, 2015. The Severna Park, Maryland native is now the newest pilot of "Fat Albert," a C-130 Hercules flown by the Blue Angels. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Olivia G. Ortiz/Released)
An aircraft mechanic Marine with Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron 1 wipes down the tail of an AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter during a routine maintenance inspection during Weapons and Tactics Instructor course 2-15 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, April 22, 2015. The maintenance that they provide ensures all pilot candidates complete every mission safely. WTI is a seven-week course hosted by MAWTS-1 that provides advanced tactical training to certify Marine pilots as weapons and tactics instructors, preparing them to return to the fleet and serve in key training officer billets. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Cody Haas) - An aircraft mechanic Marine with Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron 1 wipes down the tail of an AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter during a routine maintenance inspection during Weapons and Tactics Instructor course 2-15 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, April 22, 2015. The maintenance that they provide ensures all pilot candidates complete every mission safely. WTI is a seven-week course hosted by MAWTS-1 that provides advanced tactical training to certify Marine pilots as weapons and tactics instructors, preparing them to return to the fleet and serve in key training officer billets. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Cody Haas)
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. Marines, students attending Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 1-15, are given a check-in brief by 1st Lt. Richard Hayek, Adjutant, Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One, Aug. 31, 2014.The course is a seven-week training event hosted by the squadron's cadre. The squadron provides standardized tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. - U.S. Marines, students attending Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 1-15, are given a check-in brief by 1st Lt. Richard Hayek, Adjutant, Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One, Aug. 31, 2014.The course is a seven-week training event hosted by the squadron's cadre. The squadron provides standardized tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.
Cpl. Martin Quevedo-Chirinos, a joint fires observer with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, reviews gridded reference graphics of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, during simulated close air support training April 12-13, 2015. The training allowed Marines to receive valuable training with various types of equipment. - Cpl. Martin Quevedo-Chirinos, a joint fires observer with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, reviews gridded reference graphics of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, during simulated close air support training April 12-13, 2015. The training allowed Marines to receive valuable training with various types of equipment.
An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron 22, prepares to take off while on top of a mountain during a flight aboard Kirtland Air Force Base, Albuquerque, New Mexico, April 2, 2015. During the flight the Marines conducted low visibility landing, flew through mountainous terrain and at low altitudes. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Andy J. Orozco/Released) - An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron 22, prepares to take off while on top of a mountain during a flight aboard Kirtland Air Force Base, Albuquerque, New Mexico, April 2, 2015. During the flight the Marines conducted low visibility landing, flew through mountainous terrain and at low altitudes. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Andy J. Orozco/Released)
Plane captain Lance Cpl. Joseph Crescenzo, of Ocala, Fla., signals stand clear to maintainers while directing an AV-8B Harrier assigned to the Bulldogs of Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 223 at Key West, Florida March 24. Naval Air Station Key West is a state-of-the-art facility for air-to-air combat fighter aircraft of all military services and provides world-class pierside support to U.S. and foreign naval vessels. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brian Morales/ Released) - Plane captain Lance Cpl. Joseph Crescenzo, of Ocala, Fla., signals stand clear to maintainers while directing an AV-8B Harrier assigned to the Bulldogs of Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 223 at Key West, Florida March 24. Naval Air Station Key West is a state-of-the-art facility for air-to-air combat fighter aircraft of all military services and provides world-class pierside support to U.S. and foreign naval vessels. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brian Morales/ Released)
Robert “Bob” Klingman flew his F4U Corsair with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312 in support of the Battle of Okinawa near the close of World War II. During operations he flew into Marine Corps history when he used his propellor to chop off the tail of Japanese aircraft. - Robert “Bob” Klingman flew his F4U Corsair with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312 in support of the Battle of Okinawa near the close of World War II. During operations he flew into Marine Corps history when he used his propellor to chop off the tail of Japanese aircraft.
Maj. Paul Holst, an instructor pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, flies into Beaufort skies to conduct an F-35B Lightning II night flight for the first time in Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort and VMFAT- 501 history, March 2. Pilots conducted the night flights throughout the week to determine how to teach new pilots. - Maj. Paul Holst, an instructor pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, flies into Beaufort skies to conduct an F-35B Lightning II night flight for the first time in Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort and VMFAT- 501 history, March 2. Pilots conducted the night flights throughout the week to determine how to teach new pilots.
Lance Cpl. Ronald Summerlin prepares to reset equipment following the landing of an FA-18D Hornet Jan. 9 during arrested landing safety training on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Arrested landings are the use of equipment, such as a safety barrier or an arresting wire, to rapidly slow down aircraft and ensure the landing path is straight and clear. During the training, Marines demonstrated proficiency in the use of arresting equipment while ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment on the airstrip. Summerlin is a Virginia Beach, Virginia, native and an expeditionary airfield systems technician with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. - Lance Cpl. Ronald Summerlin prepares to reset equipment following the landing of an FA-18D Hornet Jan. 9 during arrested landing safety training on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Arrested landings are the use of equipment, such as a safety barrier or an arresting wire, to rapidly slow down aircraft and ensure the landing path is straight and clear. During the training, Marines demonstrated proficiency in the use of arresting equipment while ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment on the airstrip. Summerlin is a Virginia Beach, Virginia, native and an expeditionary airfield systems technician with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan.
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.
A CH-53E Super Stallion hovers over an M777 Howitzer where Marines with Landing Support Platoon, Truck Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, prepare to attach an M777 Howitzer to a CH-53E Super Stallion as it hovered over the gun during Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty-nine Palms, Calif., Dec. 9, 2014. The exercise gave the Marines the opportunity to refine and rehearse essential skills needed in a combat environment. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operation and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations. - A CH-53E Super Stallion hovers over an M777 Howitzer where Marines with Landing Support Platoon, Truck Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 5, prepare to attach an M777 Howitzer to a CH-53E Super Stallion as it hovered over the gun during Exercise Steel Knight 2015 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty-nine Palms, Calif., Dec. 9, 2014. The exercise gave the Marines the opportunity to refine and rehearse essential skills needed in a combat environment. Steel Knight is an annual exercise that includes elements from the entire I Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise focuses on conventional operation and provides realistic training that prepares Marine for overseas operations.
A UH-1Y Venom helicopter with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., flies overhead during a week-long deployment-for-training exercise conducted at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Dec. 9, 2014. - A UH-1Y Venom helicopter with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., flies overhead during a week-long deployment-for-training exercise conducted at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Dec. 9, 2014.
The final nine Marines representing the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing’s involvement in Afghanistan walk down the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Dec. 6, 2014. The Marines belong to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 467 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., and served more than seven months in Afghanistan. - The final nine Marines representing the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing’s involvement in Afghanistan walk down the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Dec. 6, 2014. The Marines belong to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 467 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., and served more than seven months in Afghanistan.
An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 764 is displayed at the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing during the 2012 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show, Oct, 13. The 4th Marine Aircraft Wing is searching for pilots to join them in flight.† - An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 764 is displayed at the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing during the 2012 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show, Oct, 13. The 4th Marine Aircraft Wing is searching for pilots to join them in flight.†
An F/A-18 hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 awaits maintenance during Exercise Max Thunder 14-2, aboard Kunsan Air Base, Republic Of Korea, Nov. 14, 2014. Max Thunder is a semi-annual training event consisting of composite and coalition flight training between the U.S. military and the ROK Force with a main focus on air combat tactics, close air support, and combat search and rescue. - An F/A-18 hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 awaits maintenance during Exercise Max Thunder 14-2, aboard Kunsan Air Base, Republic Of Korea, Nov. 14, 2014. Max Thunder is a semi-annual training event consisting of composite and coalition flight training between the U.S. military and the ROK Force with a main focus on air combat tactics, close air support, and combat search and rescue.
9/30/2025 - https://www.jdnews.com/news/local/camp-lejeune-hosts-multinational-maritime-exercise/article_86303c83-50fa-5581-b5c1-346b52d5ea36.html
9/24/2025 - https://defence-blog.com/u-s-marines-and-swedes-train-for-island-warfare/
9/18/2025 - https://news.usni.org/2025/09/05/u-s-marines-train-with-nmesis-anti-ship-launcher-in-japan-for-first-time
9/11/2025 - https://defence-blog.com/u-s-army-marines-test-joint-beach-landings-in-hawaii/
9/08/2025 - https://www.fox29.com/news/philly-honor-250th-birthday-u-s-navy-marine-corps-week-festivities