Marine Corps Training and Operations

Images of U.S. Marines engaged in training exercises, re-enlistment ceremonies, and leadership activities, focusing on teamwork and mission readiness.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Cody Torres, a geographic intelligence specialist assigned to Task Force 61/2 (TF-61/2), is promoted to sergeant 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 Chief Warrant Officer 2 Michael Castillamartinez, the company commander for Regional Maintenance Operations Company, gives his remarks during an activation ceremony, Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 23, 2022. The ceremony officially redesignated Materiel Readiness Company-North to Regional Maintenance Operations Company, improving 3rd SGXs ability to provide efficient and effective maintenance, in line with Marine Corps Force Design 2030. 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 Cpl. Marc Lues, a radio operator, right, briefs Capt. Josh Ingram, the foreign humanitarian aid mission commander, both with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, during an FHA exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Dec. 5, 2022. FHA training affords Marines the opportunity to prepare for emergency situations in which they may be called upon to provide support to a foreign nation after a natural disaster. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a ready and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Calvert Worth, commanding general of 2d Marine Division, congratulates Cpl. Marco Hernandez, a Ridgecrest, California, native and cannon section chief with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2d MARDIV, during a re-enlistment ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 7, 2022. Hernandez was identified as a Follow Me" Marine in efforts to share the stories of 2d MARDIV Marines who have decided to re-enlist.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Bryan Alfaro, sergeant major, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, reads Lance Cpl. Isabella Jones, military working dog handler, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), citation during an awards ceremony at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Jan. 19, 2024. This ceremony was held to award Cpl. Jarret Determan, military working dog handler, H&HS, and Jones the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Determan and Jones provided immediate medical attention to a fellow patron due to an accidental gunshot wound.

U.S. Marines with Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 14 salute Maj. Gen. Scott F. Benedict, commanding general of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), left, during a change of command ceremony for MAG 14 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, July 15, 2022. The ceremony represented a transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Col. Marlin D. Williams to Col. James T. Bardo. MAG-14 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew Tracy, left, commanding officer of 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division awards the Battle of Soochow Creek Bravery and Valor Medal to Cpl. Mike Esparza Jr., an intelligence surveillance reconnaissance systems engineer, Headquarters Battalion, 3d Marine Division, during an award ceremony at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, June 1, 2022. The Marines received the award for their superior performance supporting 4th Marines during Service Level Training Exercise 1-21. The first Soochow Creek Medal originated in early 1932 and honors the legacy of 4th Marines service in China from 1927-1941.

(220610-N-OI810-0156) GULFPORT, Mississippi (June 10, 2022) Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 14 conduct morning formation during fiscal year 2022, quarter three, Regional Training Platform (RTP-3) at Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport, June 10, 2022. RTP-3 provided NMCB-14 Seabees hands-on training opportunities in tactical combat casualty care; maintenance and material management; civil engineering support equipment operations; convoy operations; and Seabee combat warfare and expeditionary skills. NMCB-14 provides advance base construction, battle damage repair, contingency engineering, humanitarian assistance and disaster recovery support to our fleet and unified commanders.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Edward Shaffer (right), the outgoing sergeant major of Marine Corps Recruiting Station Pittsburgh, prepares to pass a noncommissioned officers sword to the commanding officer during a relief and appointment ceremony in Pittsburgh, Jul. 1, 2022. The passing of the NCO sword represents the passing of authority. During this ceremony, Shaffer relinquished his duties as sergeant major of RS Pittsburgh to Sgt. Maj. Jose Cabrera.

U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, take a tour of the Command Museum at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, June 1, 2022. The museums focus is the history of the Marine Corps in the 20th and 21st centuries, as well as the history of the Marines in Southern California.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Cody Torres, a geographic intelligence specialist assigned to Task Force 61/2 (TF-61/2), is promoted to sergeant 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 Lt. Gen. Stephen Sklenka, deputy commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), interacts with U.S. Marines and Sailors with the Logistics Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, at Robertson Barracks, NT, Australia, Aug. 25, 2022. U.S. INDOPACOM and Marine Corps Forces Pacific deputy commanders toured Robertson Barracks to observe the capabilities of the rotation and reinforce the U.S.-Australia alliance.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Mario Ramirezvelez, a data systems administrator with Headquarters Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, is promoted to corporal during a promotion and awards ceremony at Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans, Oct. 3, 2022. Ramirezvelez was appointed a Non-Commissioned Officer alongside three other Marines in front of a battalion formation in order to recognize hard work and dedication to the Marine Corps, as well as celebrate his promotion from lance corporal to corporal.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Clifford P. Fincham (left), the incoming battalion sergeant major of Headquarters Battalion (HQBN), 2d Marine Division, salutes Col. Kemper A. Jones, the commanding officer of HQBN, 2d MARDIV, at a relief and appointment ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 4, 2022. During the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Keith D. Hoge, the outgoing sergeant major, relinquished his role of battalion sergeant major to Fincham.

221023-N-CM110-1013 OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 23, 2022) - U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) pose for a photo in the hangar bay aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Oct. 23, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Steven McGettrick, the Headquarters Company Commander, II Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, commands the staff during the II MSB change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 8, 2022. During the ceremony, U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Robert Fairley relinquished command of II MSB to Lt. Col. Brian Carthon.

U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Richard Marshall Jr., the outgoing commanding officer of Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, shakes hands with Col. Nathan Marvel, the commanding officer of MAG-39, 3rd MAW, during a change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 25, 2022. Marshall transferred command of the squadron to Lt. Col. Kristofer Skidmore. Marshall is a native of Cleveland, and Skidmore is a native of Lake Ridge, Virginia.

230409-N-LN782-1135 (Apr. 09, 2023) Recruits attend an Easter service at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois, Apr. 9, 2023. Boot camp is approximately 10 weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes five warfighting competencies of firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms handling and marksmanship along with physical fitness and lessons in Navy heritage and core values, Warrior Toughness, Life Skills, teamwork and discipline. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navys only boot camp.

221003-N-YG104-0016 PEARL HARBOR (October 03, 2022) U.S. Pacific Fleet Master Chief James Smitty Tocorzic shakes hands with Chief Petty Officer selectees after an all hands call. He spoke to them about the importance of warfighting readiness, resilience, and their role toward that end.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Thomas W. Tabisz (left), the outgoing sergeant major of 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, and Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Moore (right), the oncoming sergeant major of 7th COMM Bn., III MIG, sit together during a relief and appointment ceremony on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 9, 2022. Sgt. Maj. Thomas W. Tabisz transferred the office of the sergeant major to Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Moore. III MIG functions as the vanguard of III MEF, operating in the Indo-Pacific regions information environment, and supports Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations with communications, intelligence, and supporting arms liaison capabilities.

220708-N-PI330-1040 NAVAL STATION ROTA, Spain (July 8, 2022) Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Dylan Nosekabel, left, and Utilitiesman Constructionman Apprentice Nathan Walker, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133, conduct personnel decontamination on Construction Machanic 3rd Class Zachary Dostalek during a chemical, biological and radiological decontamination exercise on Naval Station Rota, Spain, July 8, 2022. NMCB 133 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Adam Chalkley, the commanding general of 3rd Marine Logistics Group, speaks with Cpl. Esther M. Wood, a data systems administrator with Communications Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd MLG, about tactical utilization of a Mobile Broadband and Shout Nano kit on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 12, 2022. Wood, a native of St. Croix, Virgin Islands, enlisted out of Recruiting Substation Puerto Rico in 2020. Communications Marines from across 3rd MLG conducted a Single Channel Radio Exercise to train for tactical employment of their communications equipment.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct close order drill on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., March 30, 2023. Drill formations instill confidence, teamwork and discipline within recruits.

U.S. Marine Corps Combat Skills Program (CSP) participants plot their shots on a target point on Camp Devil Dog in Jacksonville, North Carolina, June 9, 2022. The CSP included training in convoy operations, patrolling, creating skirmish holes, and live fire ranges to reinstate the combat mindset that every Marine is a rifleman.

040609-M-3843C-057. Base: Marine Corps Air Station,Iwakuni Country: Japan (JPN)

A Republic of Georgia Army Soldier assigned to the 16th Mountain Battalion, gets a handshake and congratulation from US Marine Corps (USMC) Major (MAJ) Scott Campbell, Commanding Officer, Task Force Georgia Train and Equip Program (GTEP), after completing the third tactical training phase of the program, during a Certification Ceremony held at the Krtsanisi Training Area, Rock City, Georgia. GETEP is a phased training initiative that enhances operational capabilities of select Georgian units to increase security of Georgia's borders and promote stability within the region. Subject Operation/Series: GETEP Base: Rock City Country: Georgia (The Country) (GEO)

2nd Lt. Kaleb Smith was commissioned during a ceremony at Fort Sill April 1. Smith, a former instructor at the at the USMC Artillery Detachment - Fort Sill, was pinned by his fellow instructors.

U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Installations Pacific, Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, stand at parade rest while in formation during a change of command ceremony outside of MCIPACs headquarters building on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, June 24, 2022. Change of command ceremonies allow individuals to witness the official passing of authority change between officers. During the ceremony, the outgoing commander passes the units guidon to the incoming commander, symbolizing the transfer of authority, responsibility, and total commitment to all Marines and Sailors.

U.S. Marine Corps corporals recite the non-commissioned officer creed during the graduation ceremony aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 17, 2022. Corporals Course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become successful small-unit leaders as they enter the career into the non-commissioned officer ranks. 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.

220405-N-EE352-1022 SAN DIEGO (April 5, 2022) Rear Adm. Stephen D. Barnett, middle, commander, Navy Region Southwest, meets with leadership on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) during a Naval Security Force training exercise, April 5. Vinson is currently pier-side in its homeport of San Diego.

U.S. Navy Command Master Chief PatrickPaul Mangaran (right), with 1st Marine Division (1st MARDIV), transfers the noncommissioned officer sword to U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Roger B. Turner (left), the commanding general of 1st MARDIV, during a change of charge ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 22, 2022. During the ceremony, Mangaran relinquished his post to Command Master Chief Richard Bolton.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Mark Bortnem, commanding officer, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, speaks with Marines after an awards ceremony at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Jan. 19, 2024. This ceremony was held to award Cpl. Jarret Determan, military working dog handler, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), MCAS Beaufort, and Lance Cpl. Isabella Jones, military working dog handler, H&HS, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Determan and Jones provided immediate medical attention to a fellow patron due to an accidental gunshot wound.

Recruits with Bravo Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, meet their Drill Instructors for the first time on Parris Island, S.C., Nov. 4, 2022. This training cycle marked the first time every company to be integrated on Parris Island.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Irma Aganovic, 6th Marine Corps District supply officer, congratulates Sgt. Darnell A. Cabbagestalk, a supply clerk at 6MCD, during his promotion ceremony held at Traditions, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, Nov. 1, 2022. This ceremony serves to publicly recognize those who have proven themselves worthy of the next enlisted rank in the U.S. Marine Corps.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. NaTasha M. Everly, right, outgoing commanding officer, relinquishes command to Lt. Col. James M. Geiger, left, incoming commanding officer, both with Weapons Training Battalion (WTBN) Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, during the WTBN change of command ceremony on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 1, 2022. WTBN Camp Lejeune serves to provide facilities and support for marksmanship training, re-qualification, and competition shooting for the Marines of Marine Forces, Atlantic and Marines that visit from throughout the world.

PEARL HARBOR (Sept. 21, 2022) - Pacific Partnership 2022 (PP22) and Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) leaders welcome Rear Adm. Blake Converse, U.S. Pacific Fleet Deputy Commander, left, aboard Mercy during a tour in support of the conclusion of PP22. Now in its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.

030206-M-5753Q-140. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Camp Coyote Country: Kuwait (KWT) Scene Major Command Shown: 7th Marines

U.S. Navy Command Master Chief Scottie Cox, command master chief of 2d Marine Division (2dMARDIV), receives the Fleet Marine Force device from Maj. Gen. Francis Donovan, former commanding general of 2d MARDIV, on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 7, 2022. The FMF pin signifies U.S. Naval officers and sailors who are trained and qualified to perform duties in support of the U.S. Marine Corps.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Christopher Haar, commanding officer of Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, left, awards Sgt. Brianna Batchellor, an administrative specialist with CLR-3, 3rd MLG, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, during Exercise Maltese Dragon, at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 25, 2022. Exercise Maltese Dragon is a training exercise, hosted by Marine Corps Logistics Operation Group, where logistics staffs train in an exercise-controlled environment undergoing different Combat Operations Center simulated stressors used to train and educate well-rounded Marine Air Ground-Task Force logisticians. 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. Learlin J. Lejeune III, operations officer, 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, speaks the oath of office after his promotion ceremony at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2022. Lejeune was promoted from major to lieutenant colonel.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 (CLB-6), stand at attention during the U.S. Marine Corps 247th birthday celebration in Dragsvik, Finland, Nov. 10, 2022. U.S. Marines with CLB-6 invited Finnish soldiers to participate in the U.S. Marine Corps 247th birthday celebration and cake cutting ceremony.

U.S. Marines with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, plank while waiting to grapple during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) belt advancement in Setermoen, Norway March 22, 2023. martial arts instructors are responsible for training, mentoring, and leading students through a challenging curriculum that includes moral development, hand-to-hand combat, physical and mental fitness.

U.S. Marines participate in the Winning within Suicide Prevention and resiliency fair on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 22, 2022. The fair was used to help equip and connect Marines, Sailors, and Civilians to suicide prevention and resilience resources in a relaxed and interactive environment.

220711-N-EE352-1503 BELLOWS AIR FORCE STATION, Hawaii (July 11, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Connor Smithson, right, Force Reconnaissance company commander, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, and Sgt. Maj. Idris N. Turay, assigned to 7th Marine Regiment, greet Mexican Naval Infantry Commander Maj. Roman Lazaro Raul Ixcoatl during an amphibious operations training with the Australian Army, Sailors from the Republic of Korea, and U.S. Marine Corps on Bellows Beach at 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

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Sael Garcia, left, sergeant major of Marine Aircraft Group 24, passes the organizational colors to Col. Brian Koch, center, outgoing commanding officer, during a change of command ceremony, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 17, 2022. Koch relinquished command to Col. Manlee Herrington.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Joy M. Kitashima reports to Maj. Gen. William J. Bowers during an award ceremony in front of building one, Marine Corps Installations Pacific headquarters building, Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, on June 23, 2022. Kitashima was awarded the Legion of Merit award for her performance and accomplishments while serving as the sergeant major of MCIPAC. Bowers is the commanding officer of MCIPAC.

040726-M-3843C-064. Base: Marine Corps Air Station,Iwakuni Country: Japan (JPN)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Michael Jones, the executive officer of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducts a rehearsal of concept walk aboard the amphibious assault ship the USS America (LHA-6) for a helicopter raid in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 30, 2023. The ROC walk was performed to review the roles and responsibilities of all the units participating in the helicopter raid. 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 Staff Sgt. Peter Yurkovich, a musician with the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band, conducts during a relief and appointment ceremony for 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 17, 2024. The relief and appointment ceremony represented the official passing of responsibilities from the previous battalion sergeant major, Sgt. Maj. Eric Smack, to the new battalion sergeant major, Sgt. Maj. Christophe Stoudemayer.

EAGLE LAKE, Texas Cadets at the Texas ChalleNGe Academy talk to a female chief warrant officer pilot for the UH-72 Lakota helicopter during a visit to the school Sept. 9, 2022 in Eagle Lake, Texas. The Texas National Guard Joint Counterdrug Task Force continues its more than 30 year tradition of supporting the TCAs cadets and cadre in many ways, including a helicopter visit where the cadets get to check out the aircraft and talk with Texas National Guardsmen for motivation, mentorship and comraderie. The Texas ChalleNGe Academy is a 5 1/2 month quasi-military residential academy sponsored by the Texas National Guard where it is the mission to reclaim the potential of at-risk youth through education, training, mentoring and service to community. (National Guard photo by Army Sgt. Christina Clardy)

PACIFIC MISSILE RANGE FACILITY, Barking Sands, Hawaii, (July 28, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Jay Bargeron, 3rd Marine Division Commanding General, gives a coin to Sgt. Chase Emmert, a radar crew chief with 3d Littoral Anti-Air Battalion, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, at Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, Hawaii, July 28, 2022, during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three 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.

U.S. Marines attached to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit graduate from Lance Corporal Seminar aboard San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), April 25, 2022. Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and 22MEU are on a scheduled deployment under the command and control of Task Force 61/2 while operating in U.S. 6th Fleet in support of U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. John F. Kelliher III, center, the outgoing commander of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM), receives the unit's colors from Sgt. Maj. Michael J. Pritchard, right, the FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM sergeant major, during a change of command ceremony at the Naval Station Norfolk Pennsylvania House, Virginia, Aug. 30, 2022. During the ceremony Kelliher relinquished his duties to the incoming commander, Lt. Gen. Brian W. Cavanaugh. The change of command ceremony is a military tradition that signifies all responsibilities and authorities being transferred from one commander to another.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Benjamin Decosta, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal response element leader assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, right, shakes hands with a Marine after an award ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, July 27, 2022. Decosta was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for providing invaluable direction to his team in the conduct of non-combatant evacuation operations and for providing explosive emergency response on numerous occasions.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Courtland Mabe, a Douglasville, Georgia, native and anti-tank missile gunner with 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, stands at attention during the reading of his re-enlist warrant on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 6, 2022. Mabe was selected for reenlistment through the Commandants Retention Program which allows Marines that embody the whole Marine concept and represent the top echelon of Marines to bypass the twenty-step reenlistment process.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Roy J. Nicka, center, incoming commanding officer, Marine Aircraft Group 13, transfers the unit colors to Sgt. Maj. Cyprian Johnson, sergeant major, MAG-13, during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, June 28, 2023. The ceremony signified the passing of responsibility of the squadron from Col. Chad A. Vaughn to Nicka.

030820-M-7837W-037. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Al Kut State: Wasit Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Christine Henning, out-going sergeant major, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, shakes hands with Lt. Col. Benjamin Fiala, commanding officer, H&HS, after receiving the Meritorious Service Medal during a relief and appointment ceremony at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, March 23, 2023. Sgt. Maj. Christine Henning relinquished the sword of office to Sgt. Maj. Joe Stewart, sergeant major, H&HS, MCAS Beaufort.

NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. (Oct. 6, 2022) - Vice Adm. Jim Kilby, commander of Task Force 80 and deputy commander of U.S. Fleet Forces, talks with Capt. Mark Haney, commander of Surface Division 21, left, and Cmdr. Scott Whitworth, commanding officer of the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Sioux City (LCS 11), following the ship's historic deployment to the 5th Fleet and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. Sioux City is one of four ships assigned to Commander, Surface Division 21.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jason Stewart, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Central Command G-6 operations officer, speaks at a ceremony honoring his late father at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 1, 2022. J. Stewarts father, Rector Stewart, was an Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft crew chief during the Vietnam War era. On Sept. 1, 2021, J. Stewart held his fathers hand during his final moments and promised to take his ashes on a C-130 for one last flight. On Sept. 1, 2022, one year after his fathers passing, J. Stewart fulfilled his promise by taking his fathers ashes on an HC-130J Combat King II assigned to the 920th Rescue Wing, Patrick Air Force Base, Florida, that took off from MacDill AFB.

NAWA, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan - More than 200 Marines of Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, stand in formation during a memorial ceremony Jan. 19 for Lance Cpl. Mark D. Juarez and British journalist Rupert Hamer at Forward Operating Geronimo. Juarez, 23, of San Antonio, and Hamer, 39, were killed Jan. 9 while Marines were conducting combat operations in Afghanistans Helmand province.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. David E. Rosenbrock, the district recruiting operations officer for 6th Marine Corps District, recites the Oath of Office during his promotion ceremony held 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. Marine Corps Capt. Rebecca Serrano, adjutant for 4th Marine Regiment, reads the 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. John A. Lejuene's Birthday Message on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 2, 2022. The regiment celebrated the U.S. Marine Corps 247th Birthday with a customary cake cutting and a 17.75 km hike. Serrano is a native of Miami, Florida.

U.S. Marines with 2d Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment (2/10), 2d Marine Division, conduct a relief and appointment for the battalion sergeant major during a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 10, 2022. During the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Kelvin Avelar, the outgoing sergeant major of 2/10, relinquished his role as the battalion sergeant major to Sgt. Maj. Zachary Doty.

U.S. Navy Capt. Mike Aiena, commanding officer of Naval Surface Warfare Center, Corona Division, and Capt. Christopher Follin, commodore of Afloat Training Group Pacific, speak during a tour of the warfare center in Norco, California, July 28, 2022. As part of his visit to the warfare center, Follin was given an overview of the command and its role in Live, Virtual, Constructive training exercises.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (May 13, 2022) Chief Electrician's Mate Corbett Corbe receives a Navy Commendation Medal from Capt. Jason J. Williamson, Naval Station Great Lakes' commanding officer. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

A U.S. Marine with Company B, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, holds a Kevlar containing Eagle, Globe and Anchor insignias in front of educators during the Educators' Workshop at Edson Range, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 15, 2022. The Educators' Workshop is a five-day program designed to better inform teachers, coaches, counselors and influencers about the benefits and opportunities available during service in the Marine Corps. This allows attendees to return home and provide firsthand experience and knowledge to individuals interested in military service.

POLARIS POINT, Guam (Oct. 18, 2022) - Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Christopher Dodge, assigned to the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39), center, looks inside the Emergent Repair Facilitys dive chamber as he explains its capabilities to members of the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) during the 4th RSN and U.S. Navy Submarine Force Staff Talks, Oct. 18. Since 2017, these submarine staff talks have brought together leaders of both the U.S. and RSN submarine forces to discuss increased interoperability and relationship building.

ASAN, Guam (Sept. 13, 2022) - Yeoman 1st Class Arvin Alon, from Dededo, Guam, was the recipient of a Meritorious Advancement Program promotion ceremony at Joint Region Marianas, Sept. 13.

U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Base Quantico color guard present the colors during the opening ceremony for the Marine Corps Marathon Kids Run at Long Bridge Park in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 29, 2022. The one mile fun run offered children ages 5-12 the opportunity to run with Marines; finishing at Camp Miles where families were able to enjoy activities, entertainment, and games.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Michael Meermans, a Light Armored Vehicle mechanic with 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, bows his head during a prayer prior to his retirement ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 26, 2022. Meermans honorably retired after 21 years of service in the United States Marine Corps.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Arturo Derryberry, outgoing Marine Corps Detachment commanding officer, receives the Meritorious Service Medal, during the MCD change of command at Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, June 24, 2022. Derryberry served as MCDs commanding officer for two years.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. David C. Emmel, left, the commanding officer of School of Infantry East (SOI-East), awards Lt. Col. Leron E. Lane, right, the outgoing commanding officer of Headquarters and Support (H&S) Battalion, School of Infantry SOI-East, the Meritorious Service Medal during the H&S Battalion change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Air Station New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, July 15, 2022. H&S Battalion provides essential services to SOI-East by training units and personnel in order to facilitate the development of entry-level students.

220629-N-IL330-2115 EAST CHINA SEA (June 29, 2022) - Capt. Joel Lang, commanding officer of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), salutes a Sailor during a frocking ceremony on the flight deck, June 29, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

221024-N-AN659-1006 Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash. (Oct. 24, 2022) Cmdr. Frank Verducci, Commanding Officer, and Command Master Chief Benjamin Faulise, Command Master Chief of Patrol Squadron (VP) 46, the Grey Knights, awards Sailors attached to the squadron with Navy Achievement Medals at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Oct. 24, 2022. Fifteen service members were awarded for their measurable achievements while assigned to VP-46.

U.S. Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS LXIII, receive a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, at Ilha do Governador, Rio de Janeiro, during exercise UNITAS LXIII, Sept. 18, 2022. These awards were given to show superior performance in their duties during the execution of exercise UNITAS. UNITAS, which is Latin for unity, was conceived in 1959 and has taken place annually since first conducted in 1960. This year marks the 63rd iteration of the worlds longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise. Additionally, this year Brazil will celebrate its bicentennial, a historical milestone commemorating 200 years of the countrys independence.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Christopher A. Ashinhurst, the commanding officer of 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment, addresses the friends and family of Kilo Company during a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 9, 2022. Graduation took place at the completion of the 12- week transformation including training for drill, marksmanship, basic combat skills, and Marine Corps customs and traditions. Graduation ceremonies are held indoors when there is inclement weather.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Cody Torres, a geographic intelligence specialist assigned to Task Force 61/2 (TF-61/2), reads the Noncommissioned Officer Creed after being promoted to sergeant 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.

A U.S. Army soldier with Army Logistic Support Vessel 4 gives a brief before loading cargo during exercise Bougainville III at Kamuela, Hawaii Feb. 14, 2024. Bougainville III is a 3d Littoral Combat Team live-fire exercise focused on decentralized operations to prepare the battalion to command and control forces from dispersed locations. Marine Corps

221007-N-UB993-1093SAN DIEGO (Oct. 7, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea shakes hands with Sailors before an all-hands call at the Naval Base Point Loma, Oct. 7, 2022. Honea conducted his second fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Joshua Smith, 31st Marine Expeditionary Units senior enlisted advisor, speaks to Marines attending Corporals Course aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 14, 2022. Corporals Course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become successful small-unit leaders as they enter the career into the non-commissioned officer ranks. 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.

240117-N-SJ665-1002 WASHINGTON (Jan. 17, 2024) Musician 1st Class Thomas Eby, South Bend, Ind., and Chief Musician Jonathon Yanik, Simsbury, Conn., re-enlist with the Navy. The ceremony was led by Captain Ken Collins, Reno, Nev., commanding officer of Navy Band.

Leadership with Naval Support Element reviews the days events during a leadership meeting on the United States Naval Ship Dahl (T-AKR 312) during exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Kushiro Port, on Oct. 2, 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. Marine Corps Col. Sean Dynan, right, commanding officer of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Capt. Jongkol Homchan, left, deputy commander of Marine division, Royal Thai Marine Corps, converse after a classroom training during Exercise Cobra Gold at Camp Jessada, Chonburi province, Thailand, Feb. 29, 2024. Cobra Gold, now in its 43rd year, is a Thai-U.S. co-sponsored training event that builds on the long-standing 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 Col. Christopher M. Haar, the outgoing commanding officer of Combat Logistics Regiment 3, is presented the Legion of Merit, given for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements, by Brig. Gen. Adam L. Chalkley, the commanding general of 3rd Marine Logistics Group, center, during a change of command ceremony at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, June 28, 2023. Marines and Sailors with CLR-3 celebrated Col. Christopher M. Haars successful years commanding the unit and welcome the incoming commander, Col. Jason B. Berg.

U.S. Marines with Headquarters and Service Battalion, participate in a ground-fighting event as a part of the Atlas Games at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California, Feb. 29, 2024. The Atlas Games is an annual battalion field meet that incorporates leadership skills and teamwork to enhance individual readiness, unit cohesion, boost morale, and foster esprit de corps among Marines. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jonathan Robinson (right), a squad leader and Cpl. Jacob Obney, (center), a team leader, both with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (1/8), 2d Marine Division, pin Lance Cpl. Cayden Kennon, a rifleman with 1/8,during Spanish FLOTEX-22 aboard the Juan Carlos I near Rota, Spain, June 16, 2022. This exercise features tactical level actions ashore, combined with joint training and planning, aimed at increasing overall bilateral interoperability between nations.

A U.S. Marine with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, holds a 3D replica of a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement during a rehearsal of concept brief in preparation for Balikatan 23 at Camp Agnew, Casiguran, Philippines on April 4, 2023. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades shared experiences.

240117-N-SJ665-1003 WASHINGTON (Jan. 17, 2024) Musician 1st Class Thomas Eby, South Bend, Ind., and Chief Musician Jonathon Yanik, Simsbury, Conn., re-enlist with the Navy. The ceremony was led by Captain Ken Collins, Reno, Nev., commanding officer of Navy Band.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Scott F. Benedict, left, commanding general of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), passes the ceremonial sword to Sgt. Maj. Joy M. Kitashima, incoming sergeant major of 2nd MAW, during a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, July 11, 2022. The ceremony represented a transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Sgt. Maj. Jacob M. Reiff to Kitashima. 2nd MAW is the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Kevin M. Iiams, commanding general of Training and Education Command (TECOM), presents the Navy Achievement Medal to Sgt. Maj. Peter Siaw, sergeant major of TECOM, during a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, April 7, 2022. A relief and appointment ceremony signifies a formal transfer of responsibility from the unit's senior enlisted advisor to another.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. John F. Kelliher III, right, the outgoing commander of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM), shakes hands with Lt. Gen. Brian W. Cavanaugh, left, the incoming FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM commanding general, during a change of command ceremony at the Naval Station Norfolk Pennsylvania House, Virginia, Aug. 30, 2022. During the ceremony Kelliher relinquished his duties to Cavanaugh. The commander is responsible for proper employment and support of Marine Corps Forces and executing developmental procedures to fulfill the Service-retained operating forces in support of the combatant commander.

031027-M-5590R-023. Base: Marine Corps Base, Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. John Watts, a Marine Corps Engineer School Instructor with II Marine Expeditionary Force, leads a class for Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen during their Summer Training Program at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, August 1, 2022. NROTC Midshipman Summer Training develops and trains Midshipmen in order to provide the Fleet a competent and professional Naval Service Commissioned Officer.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Marcus Gillett, the commanding officer of Bridge Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, passes off the colors during the deactivation ceremony for Bridge Co. at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 29, 2022. Bridge Companys deactivation is in accordance with Force Design 2030 as the Marine Corps modernizes to maintain its position as the nations force in readiness. 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 recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, execute a drill movement during close order drill at Marine Recruit Depot San Diego, June 28, 2022. Close order drill is an important means by which a recruit develops a high state of discipline, confidence, respect for authority, teamwork, and instant willingness to obey orders.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Reid Kirk, a CBRN defense specialist with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is pinned to his current rank during a ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Apr. 30, 2023. Promotion ceremonies are a significant achievement in a service members career and are a testament to their commitment, mastery of duties and skills, and leadership capabilities.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Anthony Henderson presents a Navy Commendation Medal to 1st. Lt. Vadim Ivanov on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 18, 2022. Henderson is the commanding general for 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Ivanov is the 2d MEB aide-de-camp.

NG Chee Wee, ST Engineering, delivers a demonstration brief to Rear Adm. Lorin Selby, center, chief of naval research, Brig. Gen. Joseph Clearfield, right, deputy commander, U.S. Marine Forces Pacific, and distinguished visitors during a capabilities demonstration of an Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) featuring the AUTONOMAST system at Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH), Oct. 26, 2022. U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Science and Technology Office hosted the Singapore Ministry of Defense, Future Systems and Technology Directorate sponsored demonstration. The AUTONOMAST system developed by ST Engineering, a global technology, defense and engineering group headquartered in Singapore, is designed to convert any manned vessel into a USV, with all-round situational awareness capabilities for tracking stationary or moving surface obstacles for safe autonomous navigation. The demonstration, with support from MCBH Waterfront Operations, focused on autonomous navigation in congested waters and force protec

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Christopher T. Steele, the commanding officer of Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 22, briefs U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment (3/5), 1st Marine Division, during a Reception, Staging, Onward movement, and Integration brief as part of exercise Koolendong 22 at Robertson Barracks, NT, Australia, July 23, 2022. 3/5 deployed a rifle company from Southern California to Darwin during the battalions readiness exercise, increasing their readiness to serve as part of I Marine Expeditionary Forces crisis response within the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Jason L. Morris, left, Commanding General Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, presents Cpl. Joshua Jacobs with his reenlistment certificate during a reenlistment ceremony at Camp Pendleton, California, July 26, 2022. Cpl. Jacobs was selected for the Commandant's Retention Program which is focused on retaining the most talented First Term Marines by streamlining the reenlistment process and offering meaningful incentives to reenlist.

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