Marine Corps Training and Readiness

U.S. Marines participating in combat readiness evaluations, weapons training, and physical conditioning exercises in diverse environments.

Recruits with Bravo Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, participate in the Crucible on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, Sep. 28, 2022. The Crucible is the culmination of the knowledge and skills recruits learn throughout recruit training.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, communicate with a field radio during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 4, 2022. The purpose of a MCCRE is to formally evaluate the units combat readiness in preparation for deployment.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jonathan Sutchen, a network administrator with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, prepares to fire his M16A4 service rifle during a table five and six range at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug 28, 2022. Sutchen, a native of Brooklyn, New York, graduated from Williamsburg High School of Architecture and Design in 2020 and enlisted out of Recruiting Substation Brooklyn in 2020. The purpose of the training was to improve the Marines ability to operate their rifles at close quarters and in low-visibility environments more effectively. 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. Marine Corps recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, execute a forward slash during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Aug. 29, 2022. MCMAP is an integrated, weapons-based system that incorporates the full spectrum of the force continuum on the battlefield, and contributes to the mental, character and physical development of Marines.

A U.S. Marine with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division, sits aboard an MV-22 Osprey at Landing Zone Falcon, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 6, 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.

A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, prepares to secure a load onto a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement for a bilateral convoy during Keen Sword, at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 15, 2022. Keen Sword exercises the combined capabilities and lethality developed between the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and the Japan Self Defense Force (JSDF). This bilateral field-training exercise between the U.S. military and JSDF strengthens interoperability and combat readiness of the U.S.-Japan Alliance.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Kyle Jia (left), a combat photographer with Communication Strategy and Operations Company (COMMSTRAT Co.), II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group (II MIG), executes a technique on Sgt. Joshua Davis, a combat videographer, with COMMSTRAT Co., II MIG, during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) course on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 18, 2022. The intent of MCMAP is to develop the moral, mental and physical resiliency of individual Marines and ultimately the unit as a whole.

Recruits with Bravo Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, participate in the Crucible on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, Sep. 28, 2022. The Crucible is the culmination of the knowledge and skills recruits learn throughout recruit training.

041207-M-5573S-006. Base: Camp Johnson State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Emmanuel Ortiz, motor vehicle operator with Headquarters company, 6th Marine Regiment, reviews a vehicle inspection checklist with two Marines on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 11, 2022. "You cant base your Marine Corps experience off just your first duty station, Ortiz says. One of my old staff NCOs had a really big impact on all of us and at the time. I didn't really have a good concept or idea of the Marine Corps. He kinda switched my mind around, got my motivation up and basically showed me how a top tier SNCO should be like. How he cared for us, sharing his knowledge, or just outside of the work space how a decent human being should be. And all that he did inspired me to be the same that he was to me and give it back. Ortiz was identified as a Follow Me" Marine in efforts to share the stories of 2d MARDIV Marines who have recently re-enlisted.

041213-M-0053C-012. Base: Mcbh, Kaneohe Bay State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Dylan Sillero with 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, draws blood as part of Valkyrie training from a simulated casualty during an Expeditionary Medical Integration Course (EMIC) on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 25, 2022. This is the third iteration of EMIC which validates the Marines of 1st Battalion, 4th Marines ability to provide a higher level of health service support capability in any operational environment.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, squat as a team with a log during log drills at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, May 23, 2022. Recruits carried a 250 pound log, executing various exercises to strengthen their bodies, minds, and team work.

221024-N-PI330-1015 Gulfport, Mississippi (October 24, 2022) Chief Hospital Corpsman Daniel Greer, top, and Construction Mechanic Constructionman Patrick Lowrimore, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 (NMCB 133), demonstrate drags and carries during medical training as part of a command post exercise on Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport, Mississippi, October 24, 2022. NMCB 133 is at homeport in Gulfport, Mississippi conducting training cycles.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Matthew Schoneweis, with the Marine Corps Shooting Team, loads ammunition into a magazine during the 2022 National Matches on Camp Perry, Ohio, Aug. 3, 2022. Participants compete in six-man-teams, each shooter firing a timed 100-point aggregate using national match M-16 A4 service rifles. Rifles are fired from the 200, 300 and 600 yard lines in both sitting and standing positions. The National Matches, also called the World Series of Shooting Sports, have been a tradition on Camp Perry since 1907; more than 4,500 participants compete annually.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jason Kelleher, 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. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 174, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, set up M2 .50-caliber machine guns at the Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay range, Hawaii, Jan. 16, 2024. The training provided an opportunity for Marines with MWSS-174 to get hands-on training and familiarization with the employment of crew-served weapons.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 171 load magazines for the M110 semi-automatic sniper system the explosive ordnance disposal team used to detonate explosives from a safe distance during exercise Eagle Wrath 22 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, May 9, 2022. Eagle Wrath is an annual MWSS-171 exercise at CATC Camp Fuji, Japan, designed to increase squadron proficiency in conducting real-world contingency missions while in a forward operating environment.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Caden Phillips, a combat videographer with Security Battalion, has peers place corporal chevrons on his collar during his promotion to corporal on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Oct. 7, 2022. 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. Marines take on greater responsibilities as Non-Commissioned Officers after showing exemplary leadership skills. Phillips requested to be promoted to corporal in the Potomac River, following the Marine Corps' traditions.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Shane Cooke, left, an engineer equipment operator, and Lance Cpl. Ryan Yazzie, a combat engineer, both with Task Force Koa Moana 22, I Marine Expeditionary Force, set up targets during construction of the Joint Range Complex in Ngatpang, Republic of Palau, July 5, 2022. The Joint Range Complex will provide the U.S. military and Palauan law enforcement agencies a place to sharpen their skills and improve marksmanship capabilities, strengthening readiness and interoperability in support of U.S. Indo-Pacific Commands strategic and operational objectives.

Recruits with Fox Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, receive their Eagle, Globe, and Anchor on Marine Corps Depot Parris Island, S.C., Feb. 24, 2024. Following a culminating 15k hike to the parade deck, recruits are given their EGA and officially become United States Marines. Marine Corps

Recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, complete the Crucible aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., April 7, 2022.The Crucible serves as the 54-hour culminating event of recruit training and offers recruits the ultimate challenge to persevere through a variety of obstacles and events.

U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Eliezer Gomez, left, and Recruit Noah M. Smith with Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, perform a show clear and transfer during grass week at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 12, 2022. Recruits shoot at a variety of distances on several targets as part of their marksmanship assessment during recruit training. Gomez was recruited out of Racine, Wis., with Recruiting Substation Kenosha. Smith was recruited out of Huntington, Ind., with Recruiting Substation Fort Wayne.

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.

220729-N-IL330-1060 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 29, 2022) - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jose Macias, from Upland, California, right, helps Cpl. James George, from Stockton, California, prepare for a pilot rescue training exercise aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), July 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Nicholas Downing, a motor vehicle operator, left, and Gunnery Sgt. Gerardo Rodriguez, a motor transport operations chief, right, with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, discuss possible routes they can use at the Combined Arms Training Center 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Santiago Alires, a vehicle commander assigned to Light Armored Reconnaissance Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a New Mexico native, inspects a PVS-31A night vision goggle in preparation for a company-level reinforcement rehearsal aboard the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset (LPD 25) in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 14, 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 Cpl. Anthony Salazar, left, and Cpl. Edward Pena, both radio operators with Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare radio communications for a visit, board, search, and seizure exercise on the USS Miguel Keith (ESB-5) in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 11, 2023. The VBSS exercise refined Marines skills in maritime interdiction operations by incorporating real world scenarios. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the 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.

Marines fire rounds downrange during Combat Pistol Program qualification training and firing at the Puuloa Range Training Facility in Ewa Beach, Hawaii, April 30. The new pistol program will replace annual pistol training and is more combat-oriented than the pistol qualification previously implemented.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Andrew M. Niebel, commanding general, Marine Corps Installations East, talks to Marines at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island (MCRD PI), South Carolina, April 19, 2022. Niebel visited MCRD PI to present Staff Sgt. David Jarvis, drill instructor, MCRD PI, the Noncommissioned Officer of the Year Award and a Navy Achievement Medal.

U.S. Navy HN Andrea Davis a corpsman with 3rd Medical Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, and Keller, Texas native, removes a catheter during Valkyrie training in support of exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Kamifurano Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, 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.

Corporal Brayan A. Majano, a rifleman with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, leads a security patrol as part of a battalion field exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 20, 2016. The initial week of the field exercise entailed infantry fundamentals such as patrolling, cross-training among sections and squad rehearsals.

A U.S. Marine with 2d Assault Amphibian Battalion (AAbn), 2d Marine Division competes in a weapon disassembly and assembly relay during Gator Week on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 4, 2023. Gator Week is an annual field meet held to commemorate the unit's traditions and past accomplishments in order to increase camaraderie and esprit de corps.

U.S. Marine Corps Recruits with Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, perform a show clear and transfer” during grass week at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 12, 2022. Recruits shoot at a variety of distances on several targets as part of their marksmanship assessment during recruit training.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Darien Degregorio, a motor transportation operator with 3rd Transportation Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, and Barkhamsted, Connecticut native, attaches a Multi-Use Adapter to a Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement during a bilateral vehicle recovery training during exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Kamifurano Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 5, 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 Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, prepare to breach a house during an Air Assault Course at Camp Pendleton, California, on July 11, 2022. The Air Assault Course creates a challenging, realistic training environment that produces combat-ready forces capable of successfully operating as part of a Marine Expeditionary Unit.

U.S. Marines with 2nd Air-Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, toss a simulated grenade in a building while participating in urban terrain training during Warfighter Week, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 15, 2022. Warfighter Week provides the opportunity to train to specific objectives that enhance lethality and sustain readiness.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Steven Scher, from North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a logistics officer assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 272, Marine Air Control Group 28, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, utilizes a jackhammer to break through concrete during an airfield damage repair exercise as part of the Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) 1-23 course, at Canon Air Defense Complex (P111), near Yuma, Arizona, on Oct. 1, 2022. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One, providing standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness, and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

U.S. Marines with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, look through their compasses during land navigation at the Jungle Warfare Training Center , Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, May 25, 2022. Marines with 7th Comm. Bn took part in a Basic Jungle Survival Skills course conducted May 22-27 to prepare for jungle operations. 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.

221024-N-PI330-1066 Gulfport, Mississippi (October 24, 2022) Utilitiesman 1st Class Jedediah Jones, left, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 (NMCB 133), uses a tourniquet on Construction Mechanic Constructionman Patrick Lowrimore during medical training as part of a command post exercise on Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport, Mississippi, October 24, 2022. NMCB 133 is at homeport in Gulfport, Mississippi conducting training cycles.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Nielsen Rivera, a Marine Corps foreign area officer to Latin America, assigned to the U.S. Consulate, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil listens to a speech from Brazilian Marine Corps Vice Admiral Carlos Chagas, Commanding General of the Brazilian Fleet Marine Force, during a formation held during Exercise Formosa in Goias, Brazil, Aug. 05, 2022. The formation hosted 3,100 Brazilian Marines, about 20% of the total force. Exercise Formosa focuses on strengthening relations and interoperability between U.S. and Brazilian Forces, conveying the enduring promise to be a trustworthy neighbor.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Nick Freeman, commanding officer of 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (left), takes the noncommissioned officer's sword from Sgt. Maj. Roland McGinnis, the outgoing sergeant major of 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, during a relief ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 24, 2022. During the ceremony, McGinnis ended his tour as the battalion sergeant major.

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, prepare a U.S. Marine Corps RQ-21A Blackjack for launch during Weapons and Tactics Instructors (WTI) course 1-23 at Canon Air Defense Complex (P111), near Yuma, Arizona, Sept. 21, 2022. The Weapons and Tactics Instructor course is a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One, providing standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness, and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

U.S. Marines with the 2nd Marine Division Band perform for the Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM) change of command ceremony at the Naval Station Norfolk Pennsylvania House, Virginia, Aug. 30, 2022. FMFLANT, MARFORCOM and MARFOR NORTHCOM provide support to the combatant commander by representing Marine Corps capabilities and interests over all assigned and attached Marine Corps forces. The unit also coordinates Marine Corps-Navy integration of operational initiatives and advises Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command on support to Marine Corps forces assigned to U.S. Navy ships, bases and installations.

U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Eric Peterson, commander of the Navy Region Southwest Reserve Component, San Diego, Calif., holds coin during a medical mission at Rhea County Middle School in Evansville, Tenn., June 9, 2022. Birchwood Cares, Innovative Readiness Training is a Department of Defense sponsored training event that links community partners with joint force partners to provide medical care for surrounding communities. The clinics offer dental, medical, optometry, physical and mental health services while simultaneously providing hands-on training to joint force partners.

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Dylan Sillero, left, with 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, draws blood as part of Valkyrie training from U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Kenneth Hale during an Expeditionary Medical Integration Course (EMIC) on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 25, 2022. This is the third iteration of EMIC which validates the Marines of 1st Battalion, 4th Marines ability to provide a higher level of health service support capability in any operational environment.

U.S. Marines with 1st Transportation Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, practice green belt techniques during exercise Native Fury 22 at a Logistics Support Area established in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Aug. 12, 2022. Native Fury 22 is a biennial exercise focused on the demonstration of the rapid offload and integration of a Maritime Prepositioned Force in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in support of regional security, crisis response, and contingency operations.

Recruits with Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, aim at a practice target during grass week aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., October 18, 2022. Recruits will spend numerous hours over the week mastering the fundamentals of marksmanship before moving on to live fire drills

U.S. Marines with Marine Air Support Squadron (MASS) 2 participate in a JLTV push during a field meet at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Jan. 19, 2024. The field meet was held in celebration of MASS-2's 81st Anniversary.

U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 3 Bryan Morel, a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defense officer with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, conducts a safety brief 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 CBRN attack.

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines conduct squad attacks during a live-fire range at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, July 28, 2022. This training improved the Marines proficiency at the tactical level and developed small-unit leadership. 3/3 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. John Manthei, a drill instructor with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, oversees a rifle issue at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Dec. 12, 2022. Recruits were issued rifles and briefed on their responsibilities regarding rifle security, safety and handling.

U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. John Haggerdy, a flight surgeon, right, and hospital corpsman third class Chase Eisenmann with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct an operation to create an airway during an en route care exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 8, 2022. Casualty evacuation exercises prepares corpsmen for extracting injured personnel while out at sea. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, practice tactical combat casualty care (TCCC) scenarios at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Aug. 16, 2022. Recruits learned rapid casualty assessment, tourniquet application, wound packing and pressure bandage, and airway maneuvers.

U.S. Navy hospital corpsman 3rd class Gavin Knowles, right, and hospital corpsman Brian McKinley, left, both, platoon corpsmen with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, monitor a blood transfer during a blood transfusion drill aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 14, 2022. The blood transfusion exercise was designed to hone lifesaving skills and techniques. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of Amphibious Assault Ship USS 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 Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Sullivan, the ammo chief of the command element, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, briefs a platoon during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel rehearsal aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 30, 2024. The TRAP rehearsal was conducted to evaluate the platoons rapid respond and recovery tactics of downed aircraft personnel while working with their U.S. Navy counterparts. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the 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 recruits with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, receive their name tapes during their first uniform fitting at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Dec. 14, 2022. Recruits are fitted several times throughout recruit training to ensure their uniforms are ready to be worn as Marines.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Sean Ryan, a machine gunner with 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division, demonstrates how to operate an M240B machine gun during exercise Eagle Wrath 22 at Combined Arms Training Center (CATC) Camp Fuji, Japan, May 6, 2022. Eagle Wrath is an annual MWSS-171 exercise at CATC Camp Fuji designed to increase squadron proficiency in conducting real-world contingency missions in a forward operating environment.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Makayla Longbrake, a tactical air defense controller with Air Control Battery, 3d Littoral Anti-Air Battalion, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, presents arms during the activation ceremony of Air Control Battery at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 24, 2022. Air Control Battery is the second of four batteries to be activated under 3d Littoral Anti-Air Battalion.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Christine M. Houser, the commanding officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar and Sgt. Maj. Lacey J. Lewis, the Sergeant Major of H&HS MCAS Miramar, lead a squadron hike on MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, June 2, 2022. The squadron conducted a five-mile conditioning hike to enhance combat fitness, build cohesion, and promote unit camaraderie throughout the squadron.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Tucker Chestney, radio operator, with 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division conducts communication checks during exercise Bougainville II at Puuloa Range, Hawaii, Oct. 28, 2022. To adapt to developing battlefield conditions, alpha command conducted battle turnover and displaced. 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 expeditionary advanced bases while executing command and control in a dispersed environment.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Natalie Marino, a maintenance management office specialist with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, stands at attention during the opening ceremony of Iron Fist 24, on Camp Ainoura, Sasebo, Japan, Feb. 25, 2024. The opening ceremony initiated training between the Japan Ground Self Defense Forces 2nd Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment and the 31st MEU with remarks from their commanding officers. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force, and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Shawn Smith Jr., air traffic controller, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, and Cpl. Ian Douglas, reconfigurable transportable consolidated automated support system technician, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, grapple during a culminating event at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Feb. 2, 2024. Corporals Course is a month-long professional military education program that develops Marines small unit leadership skills and continues to prepare them to lead Marines. The culminating event consisted of land navigation, an improvised explosive device lane, tug-of-war, grappling and completing the obstacle course with gear. Marine Corps

Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Troy E. Black speaks with Marines from 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division (MARDIV), at Camp Lejeune, July 27, 2022. Sgt. Maj. Black visited Camp Lejeune to meet with Marines within 2d MARDIV.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Christopher Haar, commanding officer of Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, speaks with the Marines of 3rd Landing Support Battalion, CLR-3, during exercise Winter Workhorse, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 9, 2022. Winter Workhorse is an annual exercise for CLR-3 to train to carry out mission essential tasks in forward-deployed, austere environments.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Tais Guzman, left, and Cpl. Reina Martinez, both parachute riggers with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, prepare their gear for an air delivery exercise at Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 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 thec-130 Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, check a simulated casualty for wounds during a night casualty evacuation exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 11, 2022. This integrated training establishes confidence and familiarity between the Marines and Sailors for in-flight medical treatment. 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.

Second Lieutenant Kevin Luna-Torres assembles an M240B machine gun during a weapons familiarization with 1st Theater Sustainment Soldiers on August 10, 2022. The Framingham, Massachusetts native recently completed Cadet Summer Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

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, shares words of advice to his Marines during his reenlistment ceremony 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.

230403-N-LK647-1581 NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (April 3, 2023) Students from the Virginia Military Institute take pictures on the missile deck of the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), as the ship hosts a tour while in home port with the Ford Carrier Strike Group, April 3, 2023. The Ford Carrier Strike Group returned to home port after completing its Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), an intense, multi-week exercise designed to fully integrate a carrier strike group as a cohesive, multi-mission fighting force and to test their ability to carry out sustained combat operations from the sea. As the first-in-class ship of the Ford-class aircraft carriers, CVN 78 represents a generational leap in the U.S. Navys capacity to project power on a global scale.

MARINE CORPS BASE, HAWAII (July 8, 2022) A United States Marine shows an Australian Army soldier from 1st Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment a U.S. Marine Corps sniper rifle during a multi-national weapon familiarization during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. The event included an aircraft familiarization with the Sea Stallion CH-53E and a display of participating nations weapons to increase combined integration. 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

Recruits with Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, execute the day movement course during Basic Warrior Training (BWT) on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island S.C., July 13, 2022. BWT is a week long training event that teaches recruits the basics of combat survival, field skills, and rifle maneuvers.

U.S. Marines assigned to Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, unload personnel and gear off the USS Harpers Ferry in support of Valiant Shield 2022 on Palau, May 31, 2022. Exercises such as Valiant Shield enable real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces through detecting, locating, tracking and engaging units at sea, in the air, on land and in cyberspace in response to a range of mission areas.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducts a radio check prior to a Persistence Exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 15, 2022. BLT 2/5 practiced signature management by camouflaging, information collection, and movement in the harsh environment of the jungle. 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. Marine Corps Cpl. Derek Robertson, a section leader assigned to Light Armored Reconnaissance Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a California native, monitors the surrounding area with his squad posting security during jungle tactics training at Exercise Cobra Gold in Chanthaburi 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

221005-N-OC394-1116 SAN FRANCISCO (Oct. 5, 2022) Chief Boatswain Mate Brandon Gano, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) participates in an interoperability training hosted by the San Francisco Fire Department at the Treasure Island Training Facility in support of San Francisco Fleet Week (SFFW) 2022. SFFW is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience America's sea services. During Fleet Week, service members participate in various community service events, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community, and enjoy the hospitality of the city and its surrounding areas.

U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class Carissa Kassing, a Marine with Golf Campany, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, stands at parade rest after receiving her Eagle, Globe, and Anchor at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 24, 2022. Kassing was recruited out of Phoenix, Ariz., with Recruiting Station Phoenix.

041106-M-0036Y-014. Base: Camp Korean Village State: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 273, Marine Air Control Group 28, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), and Combat Logistics Company (CLC) 23, 2nd Maintenance Battalion, hand out ear protection before conducting a M240B machine gun range at Ft. Stewart, Georgia, Nov. 4 2022. Marines with MWSS-273 and CLC-23 exercised their proficiency with the M240B machine gun and practiced remedial actions, enhancing 2nd MAWs overall combat capability. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Kyle Baskin)

U.S. Marines assigned to II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) take a tactical combat causality care evaluation test aboard the Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS Trenton (T-EPF 5) in Greece, November 28, 2022. Marines assigned to II MEF, based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, embarked aboard USNS Trenton (T-EPF 5) to improve interoperability while refining the U.S. capability to rapidly deploy forces aboard U.S. Navy expeditionary fast transport vessels.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Lima Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, carry logs during a log drill exercise at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Aug. 15, 2022. Recruits carried a 250 pound log, executing various exercises to strengthen their bodies, minds, and teamwork.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, steps forward and prepares to fire their 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 Lance Cpl. Kameron Hardy, a motor transport operator with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, chops down trees with a hatchet for concealment training during exercise Winter Workhorse, at Central Training Area, Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 5, 2022. Winter Workhorse is an annual exercise for CLR-3 to train to carry out mission essential tasks in forward-deployed, austere environments.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Edgar Soto Angel, an exercise-specific sergeant of the guard with 3rd Amphibious Assault Battalion, 1st Marine Division, connects strands of concertina wire together 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. Soto Angel is a native of California. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. John LaFleur left, and Lance Cpl. D'Angelo Williams, both parachute riggers with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, prepare a 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.

A U.S. Marine and a firefighter with Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego participate in a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives (CBRNE) training exercise at MCRD San Diego, July 27, 2022. MCRD conducted an Anti-Terrorism Force Protection exercise that dealt with the notional denotation of a radiological device during a simulated recruit graduation event in order to evaluate emergency response plans, policies, and procedures.

A cadet of the Philippine Army, poses for a photo on a U.S. Army Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle during a tour of Camp Agnew, Casigueran, Philippines in preparation for Balikatan 23 on April 3, 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Rct. Alexandro Fernandez, a recruit with India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, participates in a log drill exercise at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, May 23, 2022. Recruits carried a 250 pound log to strengthen their bodies, minds, and team work.

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), prepare ammunition at a forward arming and refueling point as part of Realistic Urban Training (RUT) on Fort Barfoot, Virginia, Jan. 14, 2024. RUT provides the 24th MEU the opportunity to operate in unfamiliar environments, integrate the units of the Marine Air Ground Task Force, and train towards being designated as special operations capable.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Luis AlvosGuzman, a Water Support Technician assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, conducts water testing during an expeditionary water purification competition at U.S. Army Garrison, Okinawa, Japan, on June 22, 2022. The event was a collaborative event within the III MEF engineer utilities community to foster competition and improve tactics, techniques, and procedures in alignment with force design.

Marines and Sailors celebrate and spread awareness for environmental causes during an Earth Day celebration aboard Marine Corps Recruit Deopt Parris Island, S.C., April 20, 2022. Earth Day has been celebrated every year since 1970 and was created to help spread continual awareness to the health and preservation of the planet.

221130-N-LM220-1064 PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov, 30 2022) U.S. Marine Sgt. Sebastian Cruz, right, from Orlando, Fla., gives training on chocking and chaining to Lance Cpl. Damian Castillo, middle, from Los Angeles, and Marine Sgt. Ian Rineer, from Lancaster, Pa., in the hangar bay of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

U.S. Marine Corps GySgt. Paul Middaugh, a Kearny, Arizona, native and an infantry unit leader with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, plots a call for a fire mission during the Adversary Force Exercise (AFX) at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, April 16, 2022. The purpose of AFX is to create a credible, realistic threat for the exercise forces participating in the Integrated Training Exercise to engage against during the upcoming MAGTF Warfighting Exercise in a force-on-force, unscripted wargame.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Devon Tortorili, an infantry Marine, with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, applies gauze to a simulated casualty during the final test of a combat lifesaver course aboard the Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 10, 2022. During the final test a high stress environment was simulated while U.S Navy Corpsmen evaluated the participants. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of Amphibious Assault Ship USS 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.

An Airman bounds over a barrier during part of the Defender Challenge event May 17 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. Teams competed in various timed challenges related to the security forces experience. The Challenge was part the 96th Security Forces Squadrons Police Week activities. (U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.)

220817-N-NA571-1067 NAVAL AMPHIBIOUS BASE CORONADO, Calif. (Aug. 17, 2022) A Sailor, attached to Amphibious Construction Battalion 1, (ACB 1) leads a company as guide on during a command 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. Marine Corps Capt. Cruz Ashe, a production and engagements officer with Communication Strategy and Operations Company, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group fires his M9 pistol during a live fire pistol range at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 11, 2022. Marines must have the versatility, flexibility, and skills to deal with any situation at any level across the entire range of military operations.

220730-M-TD494-049 MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii (July 30, 2022) U.S. Navy Corpsmen with 3d Marine Division transport a simulated casualty during a mass casualty exercise as part of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, July 30. 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. Marine Corps Sgt. Frankie Cameron, a transmissions systems operator with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, assesses communications equipment during a field training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 13, 2022. 1st ANGLICO is responsible to conduct missions such as planning, coordinating, and conducting terminal control of fires in support of joint, allied, and coalition forces in the battlespace.

Paratroopers assigned to Charlie Troop, 1-73 Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division conduct Land Navigation for the XVIII Airborne Corps Best Squad Competition on Fort Stewart, GA, July 26, 2022. The Land Navigation Event was one of several events during the XVIII Airborne Corps Best Squad Competition that tested each squads proficiency in small-unit tactics and technical expertise.

Guardsmen with the 35th Infantry Division, with elements in both Missouri and Kansas, conduct a deployment ceremony, at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Mo., April 28, 2017. About 200 members of the 35th, headquartered in Fort Leavenworth, Kan., prepare for a year deployment in Jordan and Kuwait. Family, friends and supporters attended the ceremony to see their loved ones off.

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