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Capt. Joseph Raines, a pilot training officer with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, nicknamed the “Red Dragons,” wears his unit patch after completing a trans-Pacific flight from Australia, Marine Corps Base Hawaii , Sept. 19, 2017. - Capt. Joseph Raines, a pilot training officer with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, nicknamed the “Red Dragons,” wears his unit patch after completing a trans-Pacific flight from Australia, Marine Corps Base Hawaii , Sept. 19, 2017. The “Red Dragons” supported the Australian Defence Force as the aviation combat element for the Marine Air-Ground Task Force with Marine Rotational Force Darwin, Australia. These are the first Trans-Pacific flights the MV-22 Ospreys have conducted from Hawaii to Australia. This movement demonstrates that the unfueled range of our MV-22s combined with our refueling capabilities allow us to reach across the entire Pacific Ocean. The U.S. Marine Corps can get it's aircraft and personnel to a crisis on the other side of the world in a matter of days.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Kyler S. Barrett, a landing support specialist with Joint Task Force - Leeward Islands, assembles the Lightweight Water Purification System at Orient Beach, Saint Martin, Sept. 16, 2017. The Marines arrived to assess possible locations to set up their LWPS in order to produce potable water for communities on the island most affected by Hurricane Irma. At the request of partner nations, JTF-LI deployed aircraft and service members to areas in the eastern Caribbean Sea impacted by the storm. The task force is a U.S. military unit composed of Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen, and represents U.S. Southern Command’s primary response to Hurricane Irma. - U.S. Marine Cpl. Kyler S. Barrett, a landing support specialist with Joint Task Force - Leeward Islands, assembles the Lightweight Water Purification System at Orient Beach, Saint Martin, Sept. 16, 2017. The Marines arrived to assess possible locations to set up their LWPS in order to produce potable water for communities on the island most affected by Hurricane Irma. At the request of partner nations, JTF-LI deployed aircraft and service members to areas in the eastern Caribbean Sea impacted by the storm. The task force is a U.S. military unit composed of Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen, and represents U.S. Southern Command’s primary response to Hurricane Irma.

Northern Viper 17 comes to an end - A crew chief fires a Browning M2 .50-caliber machine gun from the back of a CH-53E Super Stallion above Draughon Range near Misawa Air Base, Japan, August 21, 2017, in support of exercise Northern Viper 17. This combined-joint exercise is held to enhance regional cooperation between participating nations to collectively deter security threats. The crew chief is assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently forward deployed under the Unit Deployment Program with Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st MAW, based out of Okinawa, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez)

VMGR-152 conducts division tactical navigation - A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Hercules aircraft with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 352, conducts division tactical navigation training with VMGR-152 as part of unit-level training Evergreen at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, Aug. 18, 2017. Division tactical navigation training allows the squadrons’ aircraft to perform gear drops in close proximity to a single location, which enhances operational efficiency. Evergreen will serve as VMGR-152’s 2017 Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation through tri-lateral training with the U.S. Army 160th Special operations Aviation Regiment and U.S. Army 1st Special Forces Group to gain valuable insight on the most recent Operation Inherent Resolve assault-support tactics. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Abrego)

Marine awarded Navy and Marine Corps Medal for heroic actions - U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen Austin E. Renforth, the commanding general of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island and Eastern Recruiting Region, applauds Cpl. Miles Hogan during a ceremony at Parris Island, S.C., Aug. 24, 2017. Hogan was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps medal for rescuing a man after a vehicle accident.

A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 152, conducts formation flights - A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 152, conducts formation flights while in transit to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, Aug. 13, 2017. VMGR-152 is participating in unit-level training Evergreen. The training consists of division formation flights with stateside-based VMGR squadrons and tri-lateral training with the U.S. Army 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment and U.S. Army 1st Special Forces Group to gain valuable insight on the most recent Operation Inherent Resolve assault support tactics.

Story - Pfc. James P. Gross, a radio and satellite communications operator, places barbed wire on the ground at Misawa Air Base, Japan, August 10, 2017, signifying the start of exercise Northern Viper 2017. This exercise tests the interoperability and bilateral capability of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marine Corps forces to work together and provides the opportunity to conduct realistic training in an unfamiliar environment. Gross, a Milwaukee native, is with Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Andy Martinez)

Lance Cpl. Jeanette E. Fernando and other Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, hike towards the Iwo Jima memorial site on Mt. Suribachi, Iwo Jima, Japan, July 26, 2017. Fernando and other Marines in her squadron were given the opportunity to revisit the battlegrounds at which Fernando's grandfather, a Navajo Code Talker, fought during World War II. Fernando is an airframe mechanic assigned to HMLA-169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently on a unit deployment program with 1st MAW based in Okinawa, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Laura Gauna) - Lance Cpl. Jeanette E. Fernando and other Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, hike towards the Iwo Jima memorial site on Mt. Suribachi, Iwo Jima, Japan, July 26, 2017. Fernando and other Marines in her squadron were given the opportunity to revisit the battlegrounds at which Fernando's grandfather, a Navajo Code Talker, fought during World War II. Fernando is an airframe mechanic assigned to HMLA-169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently on a unit deployment program with 1st MAW based in Okinawa, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Laura Gauna)

Two Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, walk away from the flight line after inspecting F-35B Lightning IIs at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 5. A total of 10 aircraft and more than 250 Marines with VMFA-211 will participate in Red Flag 17-3, a realistic combat training exercise involving the U.S. Air Force and its allies, to assess the squadron’s ability to deploy and support contingency operations using the F-35B. Red Flag 17-3 begins July 10 and ends July 28. - Two Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, walk away from the flight line after inspecting F-35B Lightning IIs at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 5. A total of 10 aircraft and more than 250 Marines with VMFA-211 will participate in Red Flag 17-3, a realistic combat training exercise involving the U.S. Air Force and its allies, to assess the squadron’s ability to deploy and support contingency operations using the F-35B. Red Flag 17-3 begins July 10 and ends July 28.

TONGATAPU ISLAND, Tonga — U.S. Marines and sailors with Task Force Koa Moana 17, Tonga’s His Majesty’s Armed Forces, French soldiers and members of the New Zealand Defense Force stand at attention as a Tongan flag is raised during the opening ceremony of Exercise TAFAKULA July 17 on Tongatapu Island, Tonga. The ceremony marks the start of two weeks of infantry and law enforcement training between the militaries. - TONGATAPU ISLAND, Tonga — U.S. Marines and sailors with Task Force Koa Moana 17, Tonga’s His Majesty’s Armed Forces, French soldiers and members of the New Zealand Defense Force stand at attention as a Tongan flag is raised during the opening ceremony of Exercise TAFAKULA July 17 on Tongatapu Island, Tonga. The ceremony marks the start of two weeks of infantry and law enforcement training between the militaries.

Christopher T. Kaag poses for a photo January 2016 at Corps Fitness in Reading, Pa. Kaag is a leader in his community and uses his drive and personal story to help those in the community overcome their own personal challenges. (Photo courtesy of Christopher T. Kaag/Released) - Christopher T. Kaag poses for a photo January 2016 at Corps Fitness in Reading, Pa. Kaag is a leader in his community and uses his drive and personal story to help those in the community overcome their own personal challenges. (Photo courtesy of Christopher T. Kaag/Released)

Col. Tye R. Wallace, left, Lt. Gen. Lawrence Nicholson, center, and U.S. Navy Capt. George Doyon, spend a few minutes speaking during the closing ceremony of Exercise Talisman Saber 17 aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), ported in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, July 25, 2017. Wallace is the commanding officer of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Nicholson is the commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Doyon is the commodore of Amphibious Squadron 11 and the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group. Talisman Saber is a biennial exercise designed to improve the interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. The 31st MEU is taking part in Talisman Saber 17 while deployed on a regularly-scheduled patrol of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. T. T. Parish/Released) - Col. Tye R. Wallace, left, Lt. Gen. Lawrence Nicholson, center, and U.S. Navy Capt. George Doyon, spend a few minutes speaking during the closing ceremony of Exercise Talisman Saber 17 aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), ported in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, July 25, 2017. Wallace is the commanding officer of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Nicholson is the commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Doyon is the commodore of Amphibious Squadron 11 and the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group. Talisman Saber is a biennial exercise designed to improve the interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. The 31st MEU is taking part in Talisman Saber 17 while deployed on a regularly-scheduled patrol of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. T. T. Parish/Released)

Explosive ordnance disposal Marines conducted emergency destruct training at Target Island, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 14, 2017. The island is located near the air station and is used as a training site for EOD Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carlos Jimenez) - Explosive ordnance disposal Marines conducted emergency destruct training at Target Island, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 14, 2017. The island is located near the air station and is used as a training site for EOD Marines. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carlos Jimenez)

Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, wait for pilots to walk to three F-35B Lightning IIs on the first day of Red Flag 17-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 10. Red Flag 17-3 is a realistic combat training exercise involving the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps and this iteration is the first to have both the Air Force’s F-35A Lightning II and the Marine Corps’ F-35B Lightning II, which is capable of short takeoff vertical landing. - Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 “Wake Island Avengers,” 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, wait for pilots to walk to three F-35B Lightning IIs on the first day of Red Flag 17-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 10. Red Flag 17-3 is a realistic combat training exercise involving the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps and this iteration is the first to have both the Air Force’s F-35A Lightning II and the Marine Corps’ F-35B Lightning II, which is capable of short takeoff vertical landing.

U.S. Marines with Task Force Koa Moana 17 hold striking pads for a member of the Kiribati National Police Maritime Unit while conducting striking drills on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Kiribati, June 13, 2017. Koa Moana 17 is designed to improve theater security, law enforcement, and infantry training in the Pacific region in order to enhance interoperability with partner nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by MCIPAC Combat Camera Lance Cpl. Juan C. Bustos) - U.S. Marines with Task Force Koa Moana 17 hold striking pads for a member of the Kiribati National Police Maritime Unit while conducting striking drills on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Kiribati, June 13, 2017. Koa Moana 17 is designed to improve theater security, law enforcement, and infantry training in the Pacific region in order to enhance interoperability with partner nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by MCIPAC Combat Camera Lance Cpl. Juan C. Bustos)

Marines assigned to Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, patrol through jungle terrain during Exercise Bougainville 1-17.2 at Training Area Kahukus, Hawaii, June 14, 2017. Bougainville is an exercise conducted to enhance the battalion's lethality and effectiveness as a force in readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alex Kouns) - Marines assigned to Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, patrol through jungle terrain during Exercise Bougainville 1-17.2 at Training Area Kahukus, Hawaii, June 14, 2017. Bougainville is an exercise conducted to enhance the battalion's lethality and effectiveness as a force in readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alex Kouns)

An MH-53 helicopter conducts practice flights aboard the USS Whidbey Island, June 13, 2017. Military personel all across the department of defense are making preparations for Sail Boston 2017 to showcase their vast cabailities to the public. The sailors conducted practice flights in preparation to display the capabilites of an MH-53 helicopter. The sailors are assigned to HM15. - An MH-53 helicopter conducts practice flights aboard the USS Whidbey Island, June 13, 2017. Military personel all across the department of defense are making preparations for Sail Boston 2017 to showcase their vast cabailities to the public. The sailors conducted practice flights in preparation to display the capabilites of an MH-53 helicopter. The sailors are assigned to HM15.

Sergeant Mike Stachowski greets Archibald Mosley, May 27, at the Colp Area Veterans Celebration, Dedication and Remembrance Ceremony, in Colp, Illinois. The ceremony honored fallen service members, Mosley and three other African American Marines from Colp, who were among the first black Americans to join Marine Corps during World War II. They became known as the Montford Point Marines. Nearly 20,000 African-Americans joined the Marine Corps in 1942, after President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued a “presidential directive giving African Americans an opportunity to be recruited in the Marine Corps,” according to the Montford Point Marines Association website. They didn’t receive recruit training at San Diego or Parris Island, however, but Camp Montford Point, N.C., a segregated training site for African American Marine recruits. For the next seven years, the camp remained opened until it became desegregated. The four Marines are Sol Griffin, Jr.; James L. Kirby, Early Taylor, Jr. and Archibald Mosley. These Marines, among many other Montford Point Marines across the country, were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest award that can be given to a civilian by Congress, in 2012. - Sergeant Mike Stachowski greets Archibald Mosley, May 27, at the Colp Area Veterans Celebration, Dedication and Remembrance Ceremony, in Colp, Illinois. The ceremony honored fallen service members, Mosley and three other African American Marines from Colp, who were among the first black Americans to join Marine Corps during World War II. They became known as the Montford Point Marines. Nearly 20,000 African-Americans joined the Marine Corps in 1942, after President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued a “presidential directive giving African Americans an opportunity to be recruited in the Marine Corps,” according to the Montford Point Marines Association website. They didn’t receive recruit training at San Diego or Parris Island, however, but Camp Montford Point, N.C., a segregated training site for African American Marine recruits. For the next seven years, the camp remained opened until it became desegregated. The four Marines are Sol Griffin, Jr.; James L. Kirby, Early Taylor, Jr. and Archibald Mosley. These Marines, among many other Montford Point Marines across the country, were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest award that can be given to a civilian by Congress, in 2012.

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U.S. Marines with 4th Marine Regiment pose for a photo with the Honorable Sung Y. Kim, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, after a ceremony to mark the 75th anniversary of the fall of Corregidor to the Japanese during World War II on Corregidor, Cavite, May 6, 2017. The ceremony was held to commemorate the Marines, Soldiers, Sailors and Filipinos who fought and sacrificed to defend the Philippines during World War II. - U.S. Marines with 4th Marine Regiment pose for a photo with the Honorable Sung Y. Kim, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, after a ceremony to mark the 75th anniversary of the fall of Corregidor to the Japanese during World War II on Corregidor, Cavite, May 6, 2017. The ceremony was held to commemorate the Marines, Soldiers, Sailors and Filipinos who fought and sacrificed to defend the Philippines during World War II.

Gunnery Sgt. Melvin G. Ashley, escort, Funeral Detail, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Ga., salutes as Marines carry the remains of fallen Marine Pfc. James O. Whitehurst to an awaiting hearse at the Tallahassee International Airport in Tallahassee, Fla., April 11. Whitehurst was killed in action at the battle of Tarawa during World War II, Nov. 20, 1943. In 2015 a private, non-profit organization known as History Flight excavated what is believed to be Cemetery 27 on the island of Betio, Tarawa, and recovered the remains of multiple individuals, one of them being Whitehurst. - Gunnery Sgt. Melvin G. Ashley, escort, Funeral Detail, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Ga., salutes as Marines carry the remains of fallen Marine Pfc. James O. Whitehurst to an awaiting hearse at the Tallahassee International Airport in Tallahassee, Fla., April 11. Whitehurst was killed in action at the battle of Tarawa during World War II, Nov. 20, 1943. In 2015 a private, non-profit organization known as History Flight excavated what is believed to be Cemetery 27 on the island of Betio, Tarawa, and recovered the remains of multiple individuals, one of them being Whitehurst.

Dutch Marines prepare to breach a building while training with U.S. Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 23, 2017. During the integrated training exercise, Dutch and U.S. Marines worked with canine units, coordinated air assets and exchanged tactics between services in order to strengthen cohesion and interoperability between the partner two allied nations. - Dutch Marines prepare to breach a building while training with U.S. Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 23, 2017. During the integrated training exercise, Dutch and U.S. Marines worked with canine units, coordinated air assets and exchanged tactics between services in order to strengthen cohesion and interoperability between the partner two allied nations.

Iwo Jima veteran Francis Jackson participates in the 72nd Reunion of Honor commemorative service on Iwo To, Japan March 25, 2017. Jackson was one of eight veterans in attendance alongside American and Japanese distinguished guests, both military and civilian. This event presented the opportunity for the U.S. and Japanese people to mutually remember and honor thousands of service members who fought and died on the hallowed grounds of Iwo Jima. - Iwo Jima veteran Francis Jackson participates in the 72nd Reunion of Honor commemorative service on Iwo To, Japan March 25, 2017. Jackson was one of eight veterans in attendance alongside American and Japanese distinguished guests, both military and civilian. This event presented the opportunity for the U.S. and Japanese people to mutually remember and honor thousands of service members who fought and died on the hallowed grounds of Iwo Jima.

Lance Cpl. Nicholas Powell, a Marine with 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, prepares to throw the Unmanned Aerial System at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii, March 8, 2017. The UAS is mainly used for aerial reconnaissance and can also be used for observation, local security, targeting, and prosecuting. - Lance Cpl. Nicholas Powell, a Marine with 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, prepares to throw the Unmanned Aerial System at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii, March 8, 2017. The UAS is mainly used for aerial reconnaissance and can also be used for observation, local security, targeting, and prosecuting.

Enjoying a little bit of sunshine, Shalisa Davis stands in front of the start/finish in Singapore Beach, Singapore after finishing lucky number two. - Enjoying a little bit of sunshine, Shalisa Davis stands in front of the start/finish in Singapore Beach, Singapore after finishing lucky number two.

Gunnery Sgt. Todd Groves and Bokusei Kinjo at Kinjo’s farm, near Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 23, 2017. Groves is a maintenance chief with Small Craft Repair Platoon, Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Kinjo is a local Japanese farmer. Groves, from Fulton, Missouri, was a pig farmer growing up and has now found a place he can call home on Kinjo’s farm. He has helped to take care of the land and the animals on Kinjo’s farm for the last two years. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Bernadette Wildes) - Gunnery Sgt. Todd Groves and Bokusei Kinjo at Kinjo’s farm, near Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 23, 2017. Groves is a maintenance chief with Small Craft Repair Platoon, Expeditionary Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Kinjo is a local Japanese farmer. Groves, from Fulton, Missouri, was a pig farmer growing up and has now found a place he can call home on Kinjo’s farm. He has helped to take care of the land and the animals on Kinjo’s farm for the last two years. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Bernadette Wildes)

SENOOR BEACH, Oman (Feb. 15, 2017) U.S. Marine Cpl. Johnathan Riethmann, a mortarman with Company A, Battalion Landing Team 1st Bn., 4th Marines, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, walks to a staging area at Senoor Beach, Oman, in preparation for Exercise Sea Soldier, Feb. 15. Sea Soldier 2017 is an annual, bilateral exercise conducted with the Royal Army of Oman designed to demonstrate the cooperative skill and will of U.S. and partner nations to work together in maintaining regional stability and security. USS Somerset, with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations designed to reassure allies and partners, preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce and enhance regional stability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Robert B. Brown Jr.) - SENOOR BEACH, Oman (Feb. 15, 2017) U.S. Marine Cpl. Johnathan Riethmann, a mortarman with Company A, Battalion Landing Team 1st Bn., 4th Marines, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, walks to a staging area at Senoor Beach, Oman, in preparation for Exercise Sea Soldier, Feb. 15. Sea Soldier 2017 is an annual, bilateral exercise conducted with the Royal Army of Oman designed to demonstrate the cooperative skill and will of U.S. and partner nations to work together in maintaining regional stability and security. USS Somerset, with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations designed to reassure allies and partners, preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce and enhance regional stability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Robert B. Brown Jr.)

Damaso Sutis and Gene E. Bell reminisce about their experiences during World War II. Camp Pendleton hosted a tour for Iwo Jima veterans, commemorating the 72nd anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. - Damaso Sutis and Gene E. Bell reminisce about their experiences during World War II. Camp Pendleton hosted a tour for Iwo Jima veterans, commemorating the 72nd anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima.

A member of the Special Response Team provides security during an anti-terrorism/force protection exercise on Parris Island, S.C., Feb. 2, 2017. The exercise simulated an active shooter and hostage situation and was designed to test various aspects of the depot’s emergency response capabilities. (NOTE: Faces of certain personnel have been blurred to protect their identity.) - A member of the Special Response Team provides security during an anti-terrorism/force protection exercise on Parris Island, S.C., Feb. 2, 2017. The exercise simulated an active shooter and hostage situation and was designed to test various aspects of the depot’s emergency response capabilities. (NOTE: Faces of certain personnel have been blurred to protect their identity.)

Retired 1st Lt. John J. O’Leary, a Marine veteran of World War II, looks at pictures on his dresser at the Evergreen Community of Johnson County, Olathe, Kan., Dec. 21, 2016. O’Leary fought on Guam and witnessed the bombardment of Iwo Jima as a member of 3rd Joint Assault Signal Company. He celebrated his 100th birthday on Dec. 23. - Retired 1st Lt. John J. O’Leary, a Marine veteran of World War II, looks at pictures on his dresser at the Evergreen Community of Johnson County, Olathe, Kan., Dec. 21, 2016. O’Leary fought on Guam and witnessed the bombardment of Iwo Jima as a member of 3rd Joint Assault Signal Company. He celebrated his 100th birthday on Dec. 23.

U.S. Marine MV-22 Ospreys, assigned to the Ridge Runners of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 163, prepare to takeoff from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island in support of a helo-borne raid during Exercise Alligator Dagger, in the Gulf of Aden, Dec. 21, 2016. The unilateral exercise provides an opportunity for the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit to train in amphibious operations within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. The 11th MEU is currently supporting U.S. 5th Fleet’s mission to promote and maintain stability and security in the region. - U.S. Marine MV-22 Ospreys, assigned to the Ridge Runners of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 163, prepare to takeoff from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island in support of a helo-borne raid during Exercise Alligator Dagger, in the Gulf of Aden, Dec. 21, 2016. The unilateral exercise provides an opportunity for the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit to train in amphibious operations within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. The 11th MEU is currently supporting U.S. 5th Fleet’s mission to promote and maintain stability and security in the region.

Japanese Minister of Defense Tomomi Inada makes opening remarks during the Northern Training Area Land Return Ceremony Dec. 22 in Nago City, Okinawa, Japan. Representatives from the United States government, U.S. Forces Japan and the Government of Japan gathered for the ceremony that represented the return of thousands of acres of land previously utilized as part of the Northern Training Area. The return included approximately 9,852 acres of land and marks the largest land return from U.S. Forces Japan since 1972. The return is one of the many U.S. Forces Japan efforts to consolidate U.S. presence on Okinawa and ensure minimal environmental impact on Okinawa’s natural resources. - Japanese Minister of Defense Tomomi Inada makes opening remarks during the Northern Training Area Land Return Ceremony Dec. 22 in Nago City, Okinawa, Japan. Representatives from the United States government, U.S. Forces Japan and the Government of Japan gathered for the ceremony that represented the return of thousands of acres of land previously utilized as part of the Northern Training Area. The return included approximately 9,852 acres of land and marks the largest land return from U.S. Forces Japan since 1972. The return is one of the many U.S. Forces Japan efforts to consolidate U.S. presence on Okinawa and ensure minimal environmental impact on Okinawa’s natural resources.

Col. Jeffrey J. Kenney, center, poses for a photo with his wife Lori Kenney, left, and mother Carmela Kenney, right, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 8, 2016. Kenney has served in the Marine Corps for 41 years and is scheduled to retire Dec. 21, 2016. Kenney is currently the officer-in-charge of Expeditionary Operations Training Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group. - Col. Jeffrey J. Kenney, center, poses for a photo with his wife Lori Kenney, left, and mother Carmela Kenney, right, at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 8, 2016. Kenney has served in the Marine Corps for 41 years and is scheduled to retire Dec. 21, 2016. Kenney is currently the officer-in-charge of Expeditionary Operations Training Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group.

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Irv Jennings, a 91-year-old resident of Veterans Home of California Barstow, explains the various medals, citations and awards he earned during the most destructive conflict in human history. He served aboard the destroyer USS Case, which supported the attack on the island of Iwo Jima. Jennings also helped build the airfield that launched the Enola Gay, the bomber that dropped the first and only atomic bomb used in modern warfare. - Irv Jennings, a 91-year-old resident of Veterans Home of California Barstow, explains the various medals, citations and awards he earned during the most destructive conflict in human history. He served aboard the destroyer USS Case, which supported the attack on the island of Iwo Jima. Jennings also helped build the airfield that launched the Enola Gay, the bomber that dropped the first and only atomic bomb used in modern warfare.

Maritime Raid Force Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit demonstrate how to conduct visit, board, search, and seizure of a vessel for Sri Lankan Navy Special Boat Squadron Sailors during a Theater Security Cooperation training event at Sri Lanka Naval Base, Trincomalee, Nov. 24, 2016. This bilateral training allows the two militaries to share tactics and procedures that help build and maintain military readiness, and increase humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness. The 11th MEU, part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet’s area of responsibility in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. - Maritime Raid Force Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit demonstrate how to conduct visit, board, search, and seizure of a vessel for Sri Lankan Navy Special Boat Squadron Sailors during a Theater Security Cooperation training event at Sri Lanka Naval Base, Trincomalee, Nov. 24, 2016. This bilateral training allows the two militaries to share tactics and procedures that help build and maintain military readiness, and increase humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness. The 11th MEU, part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet’s area of responsibility in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Soldiers with 7th Battalion, Royal Malay Regiment, set up landing zone security during the final exercise of Exercise Tiger Strike 2016, in Sabah Province, Malaysia, Nov. 13, 2016. During the initial training phases of TS16, RMR soldiers were able to participate in loading, offloading and security drills with MV-22 Osprey and CH-53E Super Stallion aircraft, allowing them to experience the aircraft firsthand prior to conducting FINEX. - Soldiers with 7th Battalion, Royal Malay Regiment, set up landing zone security during the final exercise of Exercise Tiger Strike 2016, in Sabah Province, Malaysia, Nov. 13, 2016. During the initial training phases of TS16, RMR soldiers were able to participate in loading, offloading and security drills with MV-22 Osprey and CH-53E Super Stallion aircraft, allowing them to experience the aircraft firsthand prior to conducting FINEX.

Marine veterans Jaclyn Halsey, Kasey Miller and Molly Zimmer pose for a photo after completing the 41st Marine Corps Marathon on Oct. 30, 2016 in Arlington, Va. The three girls went to boot camp together in 2009 and finished their service in 2012. They have been training virtually together over the past year to prepare for the marathon, where they met for the first time since 2012. - Marine veterans Jaclyn Halsey, Kasey Miller and Molly Zimmer pose for a photo after completing the 41st Marine Corps Marathon on Oct. 30, 2016 in Arlington, Va. The three girls went to boot camp together in 2009 and finished their service in 2012. They have been training virtually together over the past year to prepare for the marathon, where they met for the first time since 2012.

Marines with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment’s “Black Sheep,” prepare their M777 Lightweight Towed Howitzer by digging and burying the gun’s rear spades during a direct fire training exercise as part of Lava Viper 17.1, a staple in the battalion pre-deployment training on Oct. 16, 2016, at Range 13 aboard Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii. Lava Viper Provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical, integrating combined arms exercises. - Marines with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment’s “Black Sheep,” prepare their M777 Lightweight Towed Howitzer by digging and burying the gun’s rear spades during a direct fire training exercise as part of Lava Viper 17.1, a staple in the battalion pre-deployment training on Oct. 16, 2016, at Range 13 aboard Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii. Lava Viper Provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical, integrating combined arms exercises.

A UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 prepares to land after Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, finished a fast-rope drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 6, 2016. The fast-rope training 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. - A UH-1Y Huey with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 prepares to land after Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, finished a fast-rope drill at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 6, 2016. The fast-rope training 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.

Pfc. Alex Renschler, a rifleman with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and an Evansville, Indiana native, provides security during a patrol part of Exercise Island Viper aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Sept. 29, 2016. Exercise Island Viper is a 3-week-long battalion level training evolution workup that focuses on sharpening the infantry skills of the individual, team and squad. - Pfc. Alex Renschler, a rifleman with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and an Evansville, Indiana native, provides security during a patrol part of Exercise Island Viper aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Sept. 29, 2016. Exercise Island Viper is a 3-week-long battalion level training evolution workup that focuses on sharpening the infantry skills of the individual, team and squad.

Staff Sgt Craig W. Harriman, left, speaks to Cpl. Andrea N. Villacis about her career progression aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 12, 2016. Harriman was awarded Career Planner of the Year for fiscal year 2016 and has been recently selected to instruct at the Basic Career Planners Course at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, Calif. He attributes his success to the leadership and mentoring he received during his years in the Corps. Harriman is the staff noncommissioned officer in charge of career planners assigned to Marine Air Control Group 28, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Villacis is an administrative clerk with the unit. - Staff Sgt Craig W. Harriman, left, speaks to Cpl. Andrea N. Villacis about her career progression aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sept. 12, 2016. Harriman was awarded Career Planner of the Year for fiscal year 2016 and has been recently selected to instruct at the Basic Career Planners Course at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, Calif. He attributes his success to the leadership and mentoring he received during his years in the Corps. Harriman is the staff noncommissioned officer in charge of career planners assigned to Marine Air Control Group 28, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Villacis is an administrative clerk with the unit.

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U.S. Marines with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, assault a beach during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. - U.S. Marines with Company E, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, assault a beach during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California.

Cpl. Christopher Neumann reviews his objectives during a close air support exercise at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 19, 2016. Neumann is participating in Rim of the Pacific 2016, a multinational military exercise, from June 29 to Aug. 8 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. RIMPAC offers the U.S. military the opportunity to train with partners and allies in the Pacific region. Neumann, a native of Wells, Maine, is a UH-1Y Huey crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, which supports III Marine Expeditionary Force. - Cpl. Christopher Neumann reviews his objectives during a close air support exercise at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, July 19, 2016. Neumann is participating in Rim of the Pacific 2016, a multinational military exercise, from June 29 to Aug. 8 in and around the Hawaiian Islands. RIMPAC offers the U.S. military the opportunity to train with partners and allies in the Pacific region. Neumann, a native of Wells, Maine, is a UH-1Y Huey crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, which supports III Marine Expeditionary Force.

1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program. - 1st Lt. Molly Hurt approaches a CH-53E Super Stallion, Okinawa, Japan Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program, worked alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force and Okinawa emergency services in Chura-Shima Rescue 2016. The annual exercise hosted by the 15th Brigade, Western Army, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, trains humanitarian assistance and disaster relief-involved agencies for a swift reaction to a large-scale earthquake and tsunami in Okinawa. Hurt is a CH-53E pilot wit Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing currently deployed with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing as part of the unit deployment program.

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U.S. Marines with 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island, July 8, 2016. 22nd MEU, deployed with the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. - U.S. Marines with 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island, July 8, 2016. 22nd MEU, deployed with the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.