Contemporary Military Training

Images of modern military personnel engaged in training exercises and operations, highlighting teamwork and readiness in diverse environments.

U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division support 2nd Air-Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) Information Group with call for fire missions using M224 60mm mortars during Exercise Mjolnir Strike on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 18, 2022. Exercise Mjolnir Strike is a fire support-focused training opportunity for Joint Tactical Air Controllers across II MEF to increase proficiency while incorporating multiple fire support capabilities, such as ground-based indirect fires and close air support.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Maintenance Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Group (Experimental), 3rd Marine Logistics Group, listen to a safety brief during an Intermediate Maintenance Activity Field Exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 25, 2024. 3rd Maint. Bn. held a FEX to enhance Marine Corps common skills and foster force readiness while conducting higher echelons of maintenance.

Soldiers from the 960th Brigade Support Battalion, Wyoming Army National Guard, work along side the Tunisian Army in Sheridan, Wyoming, May 17, 2022, during a State Partnership Program visit. The purpose of the SPP is to enhance military ties and strengthen partnerships with countries worldwide. The Wyoming National Guard partnered with the African nation of Tunisia in 2004 and continues to further their relationship with educational exchanges like these.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. John Harvey, an automotive maintenance technician with Headquarters and Service Company, 3rd Transportation Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, dons his flak during an Alert Contingency Marine Air-Ground Task Force (ACM) drill on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 1, 2022. The ACM exercise was conducted to prepare III MEF personnel to react quickly to a crisis, counter potential threats, and assist allies and partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region in maintaining regional stability. Harvey, a native of Katy, Texas, graduated from Katy High School in 2021 and enlisted out of Recruiting Station Katy.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Shyheim Winters and Cpl. Gabriel Price, both signals intelligence operators with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, stage aboard the the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47), during Noble Odyssey in the Miyako Strait, Aug. 26, 2022. Noble Odyssey consists of infantry and signals intelligence Marines helping to sustain a landing craft, utility (LCU) in open waters for prolonged periods by providing warnings, force protections, and electronic attacks against adversaries. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Mohammed Ameen, a motor vehicle operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, rides in a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement during Exercise Shinka 22.1, Camp Fuji, Japan, June 13, 2022. Shinka exemplifies a shared commitment to realistic training that produces lethal, ready, and adaptable forces capable of decentralized operations across a wide range of missions.

A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force member with 1st Mechanized Battalion, scans the area during Exercise Shinka 22.1 at the North Fuji Maneuver Area, Japan, June 29 2022. Shinka exemplifies a shared commitment to realistic training that produces lethal, ready, and adaptable forces capable of decentralized operations across a wide range of missions.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Pierce Ratliff, left, a heavy equipment operator with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 27, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, and U.S. Navy Steel Worker 3rd Class Alejandro Calderon, with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 1, communicate coordinates over a radio during Summer Pioneer 2022 at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic Oak Grove, Atlantic, North Carolina, July 23, 2022. Summer Pioneer 2022 is a naval engineering exercise demonstrating integrated U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy formations to establish and sustain Expeditionary Advanced Bases and Maritime Domain Awareness.

U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division support 2nd Air-Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) Information Group with call for fire missions using M224 60mm mortars during Exercise Mjolnir Strike on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 18, 2022. Exercise Mjolnir Strike is a fire support-focused training opportunity for Joint Tactical Air Controllers across II MEF to increase proficiency while incorporating multiple fire support capabilities, such as ground-based indirect fires and close air support.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jake Monks, a parachute rigger with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, dons an MC-6 main canopy parachute for an air delivery exercise at Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, June 7, 2022. The purpose of the exercise was to maintain training and readiness qualifications as well as simulate a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System ammunition resupply via air delivery. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Force's comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Braden Hill, engineer equipment operator, with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 273, Marine Aircraft Group 31, simulates a casualty during a casualty evacuation drill, which tests Marines ability to rapidly respond to injuries at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Aug. 24, 2022. MWSS-273 conducted a demolition range at Fort Stewart to provide Marines with the necessary training to safely employ different types of charges for different scenarios they may encounter.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Kevin Galeana, a data systems administrator with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS), 1 constructs an entry control point using wooden pallets during a field exercise at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 18, 2023. MWHS-1 conducted rear area security combat readiness rehearsals, which allowed Marines the opportunity to assess their readiness in a field environment and engage in team-based training exercises.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Cody Torres, a geographic intelligence specialist assigned to Task Force 61/2 (TF-61/2), is promoted to sergeant by Sgt. Thomas Sharkus, left, an imagery analyst assigned to TF-61/2, and Staff Sgt. Shawn Murphy, TF-61/2 geographic intelligence chief, during a ceremony in Naples, Italy, Sept 1, 2022. Torres is a native of Thurmont, Maryland. TF-61/2 provides command and control amphibious and expeditionary capabilities within the U.S. European Command (EUCOM) and U.S. Africa Commands (AFRICOM) area of operations (AOO) to protect U.S. interests, reassure Allies and Partners, and enable integrated deterrence of adversaries.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Eardley, a combat engineer with Combat Logistics Battalion 6, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, exits a Jehu 700 class landing craft in Syndalen, Finland, Sept. 28, 2022. Task Force Red Cloud, headquartered by elements of CLB-6, CLR-2, 2nd MLG, is deployed to Finland in support of Exercises SYD 2022 and Freezing Winds 2022 to enhance U.S. and Finnish select interdependence in the maritime domain; solidify bilateral maritime maneuver within the Finnish littoral environment; and foster strong relationships between U.S. Marine Corps and Finnish Defense Force sustainment units.

U.S. Marines with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) participate in a straights transit during Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), aboard amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Jan. 28, 2022. COMPTUEX is the last at-sea period of the ARG/MEU Predeployment Training Program. COMPTUEX is the final certifying step before the ARG/MEU team demonstrate its readiness to deploy. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Yvonna Guyette)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Elijah Stoker, left, a military working dog handler assigned to the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni Provost Marshals Office, holds an IV for a K-9 training mannequin to mimic responding to a simulated dog causality during Exercise Active Shield 22 at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 14, 2022. Exercise Active Shield is a bilateral exercise conducted annually with the Japan Self-Defense Force to better prepare the air stations incident response procedures during base defense operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jacob Mastrostefano, left, inspects Lance Cpl. Nicholas OConnels empty magazines during a live-fire exercise aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), June 27, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

030311-M-0175R-028. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: USS Nassau (LHA 4)

Recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, maneuver through the Day Movement Course aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., November 16, 2022. Recruits are tested on moving as a fireteam under simulated combat conditions.

Recruits with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, execute drill movements aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island S.C., Oct. 18, 2022. Close order drill helps to instill self-discipline in recruits as they become U.S. Marines.

U.S. Marine Corps combat engineers with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division (MARDIV) construct a detonation cord linear charge during a live-fire demolition range as part of the Division Leaders Assessment Program (DLAP) on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 24, 2024. DLAP is a rigorous course that tests and improves the warfighting abilities of leaders across 2d MARDIV. Marine Corps

ARE WE THERE YETU.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Julia Valley, crew chief, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, plots the starting point for the headquarters team during a land navigation competition at MCAS Beaufort, S.C., June 29, 2022. H&HS held the competition as the first event for the Summer Showdown Challenge to test Marines practical knowledge of Marine Corps basic skills.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Joshua Roland, a corpsman with 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, evacuates a simulated casualty in a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force UH-1N Twin Huey as a part of a medical evacuation drill during Artillery Relocation Training Program 22.3 at Ojojihara Maneuver Area, Miyagi, Japan, Nov. 28, 2022. The skills developed at ARTP 22.3 increase the proficiency and readiness of the only permanently forward-deployed artillery unit in the Marine Corps, enabling them to provide precision indirect fires.

BELLOWS AIR FORCE FIELD, Hawaii (July 14, 2022) Malaysian Army Paratroopers, assigned to 10th Brigade Paratrooper from the 18th Royal Malaysian Regiment, Malaysian Army, conduct pre-flight safety equipment checks at Bellows Air Force Station, Hawaii during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (Photo by Royal Australian Air Force Corporal John Solomon)

Staff Sgt. Chloe England, 436th Security Forces Squadron base defense operations center controller, carries a sandbag at a simulated forward operating base during Liberty Eagle Readiness Exercise 2022 at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, July 12, 2022. The 436th and 512th Airlift Wings tested their ability to generate, employ and sustain airpower across the world in a simulated contested and degraded operational environment.

Honor guardsmen practice live-firing party movements Feb. 9, 2015, at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D. The firing party ceremonial tradition dates back to the Civil War, and consists of firing three rounds to symbolize the removal of fallen Soldiers from the battlefield.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Kevin Aguilar, the unit movement control center chief with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, notifies range control that live fire is beginning shortly on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, May 11, 2022. 3rd LSB conducted an M240B medium machine gun range to foster force readiness and to refine skills using mounted weaponry. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Forces comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Ronaldo Hodge, a supply chain and materiel management specialist with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, pulls a fuse during a basic demolition range on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 13, 2024. The training exposed 2nd MLG and 2nd Marine Division Marines to the EOD program, enhancing their baseline understanding of EOD and generate interest as potential lateral move candidates . Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Ryan Cassidy, executive officer of Charlie Battery, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, Marine Air Control Group 38 salutes during the battery activation ceremony on Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 18, 2022. The activation of Charlie Battery increases 3rd Marine Aircraft Wings capabilities in ground-based air defense. Charlie Battery will be equipped with new and emerging technologies to combat unmanned aerial systems, and fixed and rotary-wing aircraft. Cassidy is a native of Pearl River, New York.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Alex Camacho, a motor vehicle operator with 9th Engineer Support Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3d Marine Logistics Group, loads a magazine of 9mm rounds on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Sep. 23, 2022. The range was held as a tryout for III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Installations Pacific Marines to represent their individual units at the upcoming Far East Division Matches shooting competition. 3d MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

Recruits from India company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, participate in the initial drill inspection on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., Sept. 26, 2022. Initial Drill is the first marker of the recruits' discipline and unit cohesion.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, loads ammunition in preparation for a live fire range on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, July 6, 2022. Infantry Marines train with various weapon systems, including machine guns, grenade launchers, and rockets, making them more flexible on a battlefield. 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 premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marines with Foxtrot Co., 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, establish security in a field at exercise Gunslinger 22 in Riley, Kansas, June 22, 2022. Exercise Gunslinger 22 is a joint exercise with the Kansas Air National Guard and U.S. Marine Corps designed to increase aircraft control and training for potential real-world contingencies.

Vice Adm. Kelly Aeschbach, commander, Naval Information Forces, presents Cryptologic Technician Maintenance First Class Petty Officer William Shaw the NAVIFOR domain Shore Sailor of the Year award. In 2020, the Chief of Naval Operations expanded the Sailor of the Year program to recognize 18 Sailors that will be meritoriously advanced to the rank of chief petty officer.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires his rifle during a deck shoot aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 10, 2022. The Combat Marksmanship Program is designed to sustain a units lethality. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jasmin Davila, an administrative specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, and Nashville, Tennessee resident, is recognized for commendable administrative support to fellow Marines, civilians and other service personnel at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, June 9, 2022. Davila was awarded with a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, named as the Marine Corps Manpower, Personnel, and Administration Awards Program (MCMPAAP) Marine of the Year, and was given an award from the Marine Corps Association in recognition of high endeavor, superior accomplishment, and leadership.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, participate in a M16A4 service rifle issue at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California, Feb. 26, 2024. Recruits were issued rifles and briefed on their responsibilities regarding rifle security, safety and handling. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Alexander Aymond, an infantry unit leader with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, re-enlists during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 14, 2022. The purpose of a MCCRE is to formally evaluate the units combat readiness in preparation for deployment.

U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Joshua Bradstreet, the commanding officer of Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, holds the flag cases during the squadron's deactivation ceremony in 64 Area on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 15, 2022. VMU-4 was reactivated in February 2011, and operated the RQ-21A Blackjack. The squadron was deactivated following the commandants guidance in Force Design 2030.

U.S. Marines with 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, receive a brief about their mission before conducting a convoy during 1st Radio Battalion Field Exercise at Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, on August 18, 2022. The three week long FEX reinforced the Marines deployment capabilities and unit readiness within I MIG by conducting distributed operations and specific military occupational specialty training.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Adrian Rameriz, combat engineer, Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 273, Marine Air Control Group 28, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, evacuates a simulated casualty during a base recovery after attack training (BRAAT) exercise at Guardian Center, Georgia, Nov. 6, 2022. The BRAAT drill provided MWSS-273 with a realistic training environment that enhanced their ability to provide triage care in a mass casualty event and coordinate casualty evacuation.

Infanteria de Marina Soldado Garcia with Tactical Group Fox communicates with Infanteria de Marina during Spanish FLOTEX-22 near Rota, Spain, June 20, 2022. This exercise features tactical level actions ashore, combined with joint training and planning, aimed at increasing overall bilateral interoperability between nations.

110808-N-XP477-007ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Aug. 8, 2011) Plebes in the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 2015 practice for platoon drill competition during the sixth week of Plebe Summer. Plebe Summer is a 6-week training regimen intended to develop the 4th class midshipmen physically and mentally with various academic, athletic, and technical challenges.

A U.S. service member with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) dons ceremonial gloves in preparation for a disinterment ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu, Hawaii, August 11, 2022. The disinterred remains were transferred to the DPAA laboratory for identification. DPAAs mission is to achieve the fullest possible accounting for missing and unaccounted-for U.S. personnel to their families and our Nation.

A U.S. Marine with 2d Marine Division disassembles an M27 infantry automatic rifle during the Division Leader Assessment Program 4-22 on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 9, 2022. The assessment program provides Marines with learning and mentorship opportunities, which helps train and develop Marines that demonstrate an apex level of lethality, endurance and comprehensive warfighting ability.

Staff Sgt. Cyndi Pearl Auza, the safety program manager for the Counterdrug Task Force, practices shooting techniques prior to the handgun qualification during the task forces ground tactical training at Camp Roberts March 16. The weeklong training included tactical combat casualty care, range operations, land navigation, small unit tactics and helicopter operations.

Rct. Shane B. Stackhouse with Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, are taught tactical casualty combat care and field skills during basic warrior training on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island S.C., Aug 29, 2022. Stackhouse is from Pensacola, Fl.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Liam Montgomery, a team leader assigned to Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a Texas native, ties a Royal Thai Marine sleeping hammock to a tree during jungle survival training as part of Exercise Cobra Gold in Chanthaburi province, Kingdom of Thailand, Feb. 28, 2024. Cobra Gold, now in its 43rd year, is a Thai-U.S. co-sponsored training event that builds on the longstanding friendship between the two allied nations and brings together a robust multinational force to promote regional peace and security in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. Marine Corps

U.S> Marine Corps recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct Basic Warrior Training, on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., March 29, 2023. During BWT, recruits run through a day movement course that simulates combat scenarions.

Airman 1st Class Yaimelie Arroyo Morales, 4th Force Support Squadron personnelist, gives out food to Airmen during a food festival event in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Oct. 14, 2022. The observation started as a week of celebration in 1968, under President Lyndon Johnson, and was later expanded under President Ronald Reagan, in 1988, to cover a 30-day period.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Vincent Vasquez, an infantry Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, waits for instructions during a deck shoot aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 10, 2022. The Combat Marksmanship Program is designed to sustain a units lethality. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

021001-F-9032T-011. Base: RAF Lakenheath Country: United Kingdom (GBR)

Recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, maneuver through the Day Movement Course aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., November 16, 2022. Recruits are tested on moving as a fireteam under simulated combat conditions.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 273, Marine Air Control Group 28, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing evacuate a simulated casualty during a base recovery after attack training (BRAAT) exercise at Guardian Center, Georgia, Nov. 6, 2022. The BRAAT drill provided MWSS-273 with a realistic training environment that enhanced their ability to provide triage care in a mass casualty event and coordinate casualty evacuation.

U.S. Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) listen to UH-1Y Venom helicopter crew chiefs give a PAX brief during a Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques (HRST) Master Course at Landing Zone Sterling, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 14, 2022. Fast rope and helicopter rope suspension training teach Marines proper knots, rappelling techniques and build confidence for maneuvering from air to ground.

U.S. Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, function check their M50 joint service general purpose mask during an annual Individual Protective Equipment Confidence Exercise (IPECE) qualification on Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 5, 2023. IPECE is an annual requirement for Marines to familiarize themselves with the protective equipment used against a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear attack.

U.S. Navy Lt. Kenneth Orsburn, the chaplain of 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division, comforts simulated casualties during a mass casualty drill during exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Kamifurano Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 6, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, secure quadcons onto a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement with chains at Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 24, 2022. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marines 1st Lt. Daniel Patman, left, an artillery officer, and Sgt. Patrick Theis, center, a fire direction control Marine with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, III Marine Expeditionary Force, coordinate fires on an Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System for a simulated fire mission at Ie Shima Training Facility, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 21, 2022. This training is part of Task Force 76/3s Noble Fusion 22.2 campaign of learning and experimentation designed to improve naval integration within the newly created organization comprising of the U.S. Navys Task Force 76 and III MEFs 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Ruth Polancorivera, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic native, legal services specialist, Headquarters and Support (H&S) Battalion, Marine Corps Installations East (MCIEAST) - Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, checks common access cards during Exercise Urgent Response on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 15, 2022. H&S Battalion Marines conducted identification checks and established vehicle control points in support of Exercise Urgent Response, an installation-wide exercise that plans for and executes anti-terrorism response procedures.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Ricardo Saldivar with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), refuels a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) during a vehicle swap at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 14, 2022. The MEU replaced its High Mobility Multi-purpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWV) with JLTVs to improve tactical vehicle capabilities for future deployments. The JLTVs offer better communication abilities, mobility and protection than the HMMWVs. Saldivar is a ground electronics systems maintenance Marine.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Cole Kitchin, an infantry Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, cleans his rife on Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan Aug. 5 2022. BLT 2/5 acted as the security element during a forward arming and refueling point exercise, securing the area of operation to ensure operational safety and mission success. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Janel Tracy, a tank commander with the 2-12 Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, participates in a gear layout prior to the start of the Sullivan Cup at Fort Benning, Ga., April 25, 2022. The Sullivan Cup is a biennial competition that tests the best tank crews from the Armor Branch, the U.S. Marine Corps and international partners.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Lima Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, participate in a 5-kilometer hike during grass week at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 17, 2022. A progressive hike program of increasing distances and pace improves the recruits' mental and physical conditioning, sustains field conditioning and provides overall preparation for Marine Combat Training.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Zebulon Philpott (left), the outgoing commanding officer, and Lt. Col. Scott Stewart, the incoming commanding officer of 3d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion (3d LAR), 1st Marine Division, salute a light armored vehicle during the pass and review portion of their change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, May 26, 2022. During the ceremony Philpott relinquished command to Stewart.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Aira Zepeda, a motor vehicle operator, with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, uses a compass while participating in a land navigation course during Warrior Shield 24 at U.S. Army Garrison Casey, South Korea, Feb. 28, 2024. Warrior Shield 24 is an annual joint, combined exercise in South Korea that strengthens the combined defensive capabilities of ROK-U.S. Forces. This routine, regularly scheduled field training exercise provides the ROK-U.S. Marines the opportunity to rehearse combined operations, exchange knowledge, and demonstrate the strength and capability of the ROK-U.S. Alliance. Zepeda is a native of Illinois. Marine Corps

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 174, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense practice detecting and identifying simulated Radiological Dispersal Devices and Improvised Nuclear Devices at Pyramid Rock Training Area, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, February 26, 2024. Federal Bureau of Investigation personnel visited EOD to familiarize Marines with X-ray interpretation effects in the vicinity of a radiological source. Marine Corps

U.S. Navy HM3 Shridat Parsuram with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force (CBIRF) receives their Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Warfare Specialist Insignia (FMF) award at Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Maryland, May 4th, 2022. The FMF award is given to Navy enlisted personnel who are attached to deployable U.S. Marine Corps units and pass verbal and written exams qualifying the individual adept in Marine Corps history, and knowledge.

041207-M-5573S-104. Base: Camp Johnson State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A U.S. Marine with Echo Battery, 2d Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, prepares to fire an M777 howitzer during Exercise Rolling Thunder 22-2 on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, March 30, 2022. This exercise is a 10th Marines-led live fire artillery event that tested the units abilities to operate in a simulated littoral environment against a peer threat in a dynamic and multi-domain scenario.

Joint Terminal Attack Controller and infantry Marines assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division trained during exercise Garnet Rattler at Idaho's premier Orchard Combat Training Center and Saylor Creek ranges April 11-29, 2022. The exercise is a joint mission between the U.S. Marines, Idaho Army National Guard Soldiers, 124th Fighter Wing Guardsmen and 366th Fighter Wing Airmen from Mountain Home Air Force Base to train and qualify Marine JTACs to be more efficient and lethal in a realistic training environment. Idaho's ranges support this realistic environment. OCTC's 143,000-acre training area, located 18 miles south of Boise, is the Idaho National Guards largest training complex and includes nearly two dozen ranges to prepare units for combat operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Ty Fitzgerald, a machine gunner assigned to Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a California native, monitors the surrounding waters while posting security as the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset (LPD 25) transits the Basilan Strait Feb. 18, 2024. Somerset and embarked elements of the 15th MEU are conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Colton Dexter, a fire support Marine with command element, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, discusses the different types of artillery missiles and fire support techniques during an expeditionary advance base operation exercise at W-174, Okinawa, Japan on Feb. 9, 2023. The EAB exercise reinforced Marines and Sailors abilities to gather maritime and airspace intelligence by employing radars and relaying the information back to commanders aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA-6). The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of USS America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. William Shaw, a platoon commander with Battalion Landing Team (BLT), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) speaks during a rehearsal of concepts walk on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 16, 2022. The Marines did this in preparation for a motorized raid training exercise to enhance combat readiness. 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 premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

A U.S. Marine with 1st Marine Division opens a shipping container while building a combined command post in preparation for Freedom Shield 24 in Pohang, South Korea, Feb. 25, 2024. FS 24 is a defense-oriented exercise designed to strengthen the ROK-U.S. Alliance, enhance the combined defense posture, and further strengthen security and stability on the Korean peninsula. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Christian N. Blair, top, a machine gunner, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, spars with a fellow Marine during the culminating event of a Martial Arts Instructor (MAI) course on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 5, 2022. MAI courses certify Marines to instruct and monitor Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) training and advance Marines in belt levels. MCMAP is a synergy of mental, character, and physical disciplines, and in concert with Marine Corps leadership principles, training in these three disciplines enhances the Marine both on and off the battlefield.

New U.S. Marines with Lima Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, grab their rope before rappel training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 30, 2022. Rappel training was conducted to build confidence in Marines and prepare them for possible circumstances they may encounter.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Daniel Villegasgarcia, an auto maintenance technician with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, participates in a leadership reaction simulated resupply course during exercise Atlantic Dragon on Camp Blanding, Florida, United States, March 31, 2022. Atlantic Dragon is a force generation exercise pushing Combat Logistics Regiment 37 as an arrival assembly operations group to provide tactical logistics support to III Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise consists of an experimental maritime prepositioned force's offload tactics of military equipment that will support the field exercise training to increase combat readiness and efficiency. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Force Reconnaissance Company, 4th Marine division, and Colombian Marines practice interdiction drills during exercise Tradewinds 2022 (TW22), at Cocoyal outpost, Mexico, May 11, 2022. TW22 is a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored Caribbean-focused multi-dimensional exercise conducted in the ground, air, sea, and cyber domains, designed to provide participating nations opportunities to conduct joint, combined, and interagency training focused on increasing regional cooperation and interoperability in complex multinational security operations.

A U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Lee Plourde, a drill instructor with Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, motivates a recruit during a bayonet assault course at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Feb. 21, 2023. The recruits performed the course in groups of four, called a fire team, to simulate how to attack an enemy in a combat environment.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Makenna Holden, a motor vehicle operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 (CLB-6), Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, faces up range before firing on a table 5 range in preparation for exercise Freezing Winds 22 in Syndalen, Finland, Oct. 10, 2022. Task Force Red Cloud, headquartered by elements of CLB-6, is deployed to Finland in support of Exercises SYD 2022 and Freezing Winds 2022 to enhance U.S. and Finnish select interdependence in the maritime domain; solidify bilateral maritime maneuver within the Finnish littoral environment; and foster strong relationships between U.S. Marine Corps and Finnish Defense Force sustainment units.

040304-M-5455N-001. Base: Mcas, Cherry Point State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: H&HS

U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman, arrive at the Marine Corps obstacle course and martial arts instruction at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 13, 2022. The Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps midshipmen, as part of the First class Marine Option, visit different Marine bases and units over a six-week period for training.

A U.S. Marine with 2d Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2d Marine Division, packs a wound as a part of a combat lifesaver class during a deployment for training (DFT) at Joint Forces Training Center Camp Shelby, Mississippi, June 6, 2022. The purpose of this DFT is to validate the battalion's ability to conduct force deployments in support of contingency operations and tactically improve warfighting proficiency in preparation for major combat operations.

U.S. Navy Master Chief Christopher Rebana, Command Master Chief of II Marine Expeditionary Force, takes part in the 124th Corpsmen Birthday celebration at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 10, 2022. Since the establishment of the Navy Hospital Corps in 1898, U.S. Marines and Sailors have worked side-by-side, daily, to ensure readiness and enhance the capabilities of the Marine Corps and the Navy.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jourdon Winterstein, an operations chief with Combat Skills Training School, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, observes impacts during a live-fire training exercise on Camp Pendleton, California, March. 31, 2022. This range was conducted to cross-train combat skills instructors on mortar and call-for-fire skills in order to teach future call-for-fire courses.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, holds a defensive fighting position during a combined amphibious operation with the Philippine Marine Corps alongside the Republic of Korea Marine Corps and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force as part of KAMANDAG 6, Zambales, Philippines, Oct. 7, 2022. KAMANDAG is an annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Marcus Parker, a motor transportation operator with 7th Communication Battalion, ground guides during a road repair on the Kin Blue range on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan April 7, 2023. Marines with Service Company, 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, conducted route improvements to the Kin Blue Range in order to maintain proficiency in their military occupational skills.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Jason Delgadosalmeron, Raleigh, North Carolina native, distribution management specialist, Headquarters and Support (H&S) Battalion, Marine Corps Installations East (MCIEAST) - Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, poses for a portrait during Exercise Urgent Response on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 15, 2022. H&S Battalion Marines conducted identification checks and established vehicle control points in support of Exercise Urgent Response, an installation-wide exercise that plans for and executes anti-terrorism response procedures.

040330-M-8096K-007. Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Butler State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Joey Lupardus, an explosive ordnance technician with 3rd EOD Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, diffuses a simulated explosive vest during Jungle Crab 22 at Jungle Warfare Training Center, Okinawa, Japan, June 24, 2022. During Jungle Crab 22 EOD Marines prepared to support Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations by practicing survival methods in areas where logistical support may not be available. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Forces comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. David E. Rosenbrock, the district recruiting operations officer for 6th Marine Corps District, has his insignia pinned by Col. Lance J. Langfeldt, the commanding officer for 6MCD, Ashley Rosenbrock, his wife, and his daughter, Evelyn Rosenbrock, at 6MCD Headquarters, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, Aug. 1, 2022. This ceremony serves to publicly recognize those who have proven themselves worthy of the next officer rank in the U.S. Marine Corps.

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Montana Lugo, assigned to 1st Medical Battalion, Task Force Los Angeles, places a flag on the grave of a U.S. Marine Corps veteran at Green Hills Memorial Park in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, to commemorate Memorial Day during Los Angeles Fleet Week, May 28, 2022. The purpose of Fleet Week is to showcase the capabilities of the Navy-Marine Corps team and give back to the community with events, static displays, and personal interactions between service members and the public.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Ramon Felipe, radio operator, with 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division ground guides a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle to establish a combat operations center at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, Oct. 25, 2022. 3d Marine Littoral Regiment established the Alpha command node which provides the commander the ability to direct, plan, and coordinate within the assigned Zone of Action. Bougainville II is a field exercise that allows the MLR and its subordinate units to conduct expeditionary advanced base operations across the island of Oahu. BVII displays the MLRs ability to rapidly establish and displace EABs while executing command and control in a dispersed environment.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Matthew Wallace, a Mason, Tennessee, native and a mortarman with 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion (LAR), 2d Marine Division, evaluates Marines during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation (MCCRE) on Fort Pickett, Virginia, Aug. 8, 2022. The importance of me being at this MCCRE is to supervise safety and evaluate the combat readiness of the 81mm mortar section for Alpha Company, said Wallace.The MCCRE evaluates the combat readiness of 2d LAR in preparation for their future deployment with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen respond to their instructor during an obstacle course event at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., July 13, 2022. NROTC Midshipmen Summer Training develops and trains Midshipmen in order to provide the Fleet a competent and professional Naval Service Commissioned Officer.

A U.S. Marine with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division, prepares to board an MV-22 Osprey at Landing Zone Falcon, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 5, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms and maneuver across multiple domains.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jonathan Perez, a motor vehicle operator with I Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force, picks up a log during a martial arts instructor course physical training session at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 2, 2022. MAI courses certify Marines to instruct and monitor Marine Corps Martial Arts Program training and advance Marines in the program, distinguishing their levels of experience with different colored belts.

220817-N-NA571-1423 NAVAL AMPHIBIOUS BASE CORONADO, Calif. (Aug. 17, 2022) Logitistics Specialist Seaman Dylan Caceci, attached to Amphibious Construction Battalion 1 (ACB 1), leads a company as guide on during a training march on Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, Aug 17, 2022. ACB 1 conducts ship-to-shore transportation and construction support as a part of joint amphibious operations around the world.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Rondel Frederick a Corpsman with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, treats a mock casualty while participating in mass casualty response training at Rodriguez Live Fire Complex during Freedom Shield 24, Republic of Korea, Feb. 26, 2024. FS 24 is an annual joint, combined, and inter-agency exercise in the ROK that strengthens the combined command and control capabilities of U.S. and ROK forces. This exercise provides the U.S. and ROK Marines the opportunity to rehearse combined operations, exchange knowledge, and demonstrate the strength and capability of the U.S.-ROK alliance. Frederick is a native of Queens, New York. Marine Corps

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