Marksmanship and Shooting Drills

Visuals of soldiers practicing marksmanship with firearms, illustrating training sessions, competitions, and skills assessments across military installations.

Spc. Michael Wallace of Springfield, Illinois, a Signal Support Systems Specialist with the Illinois National Guards Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment shoots the .50 caliber machine gun as part of the the stress shoot event during the Region IV Best Warrior Competition on May 12, 2022. He is one of twelve National Guard Soldiers competing in the Region IV Best Warrior Competition May 11-15, 2022, at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from the Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio National Guards. The winners will move on to compete in the National Guards competition on July 20-30, 2022, at Camp Smyrna, Tennessee. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sydney Mariette.)

U.S. Army soldier, assigned to the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, fires their M4A1 Carbine. Regular range visits allow soldiers to hone their marksmanship and ensure their weapon is functional.

Spc. Michael Wallace of Springfield, Illinois, a Signal Support Systems Specialist with the Illinois National Guards Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment shoots the .50 caliber machine gun as part of the the stress shoot event during the Region IV Best Warrior Competition on May 12, 2022. He is one of twelve National Guard Soldiers competing in the Region IV Best Warrior Competition May 11-15, 2022, at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from the Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio National Guards. The winners will move on to compete in the National Guards competition on July 20-30, 2022, at Camp Smyrna, Tennessee. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sydney Mariette.)

A U.S Marine Corps recruit with Golf Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, looks through his rifle combat optic while shooting the first course of fire on 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.

Spc. Samuel Alverez of Squad 1, representing U.S. Army Forces Command in the Armys first-ever Best Squad Competition, fires his M4A1 carbine during the weapon qualification course on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2022. The Army Best Squad Competition tests squads physical, technical and tactical abilities under stress and fatigue as they complete land navigation, marksmanship, a ruck march, weapon operations and tactical operations.

A U.S. Army Soldier from the 10th Mountain Division fires at a target during the International Sniper Competition 2022, April 6, 2022, on Fort Benning, G.A.Not only were their shooting abilities tested on their rifles and pistols, at both stationary and moving targets, but they also had to demonstrate their ability to maintain information under stress and their ability to communicate as a team.

U.S. Army Spc. Cristian Rodriguez, a corrections and detention specialist with the 42nd Military Police Brigade, I Corps, fires an M4 rifle at a target during a 3-gun marksmanship competition for the I Corps Best Squad Competition, June 21, 2022, at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. Eleven squads competed over five competition days in events including marksmanship, fitness tests, field exercises, obstacle courses, a ruck march and a review board.

An Australian Soldier and a U.S. Army Soldier, assigned to the 25th Infantry Division, conducts Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUNT) training during Exercise Super Garuda Shield on Dodiklatpur Rindam V, East Java, Indonesia., September 1, 2023. Super Garuda Shield 2023 is an annual exercise that has significantly grown in scope and size since 2009. SGS2023 is the second consecutive time this exercise has grown into a combined and joint event, highlighting the 6 participating and 12 observing nations' commitment to partnership and a free and open indo-pacific.

Spc. Dakota Van Brocklin, a health care specialist with the Iowa Army National Guards 134th Medical Ground Ambulance Company, engages targets with an M4 carbine while negotiating an assault course as part of the 2016 Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition at Joint Base Cape Cod, Mass., Tuesday, June 21, 2016. The competition is a mentally and physically challenging three-day event that tests Soldiers on a variety of tactical and technical skills to determine the Army Guards Soldier and noncommissioned of the year. The winners move on to compete in the Department of the Army Best Warrior Competition, battling it out with Soldiers from throughout the Army to be named the Armys Soldier and NCO of the year.

A Jordanian Soldier assigned to the Quick Response Force Brigade fires her weapon during an all-female marksmanship subject matter expert exchange between U.S. Marines and Jordanian Soldiers in Zarqa, Jordan, Feb. 20, 2024. U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command and the Jordanian Armed Forces developed the exchange to highlight the similarities in marksmanship training and the impacts that inclusivity has within our militaries. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Gustavo Mondragonaquino, a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, posts security 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.

A Soldier assigned to 2nd Infantry Division shoots at the Bayonet Blitz range during the 7ID Best Warrior Competition at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., April 21, 2022. The three-day competition was held to recognize the best Soldier and noncommissioned officer in the division through various tests including a ruck march, obstacle course, land navigation, R2 performance test and a board.

A Marine with the 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines (2/24) completes M4 rifle qualification requirements July 26, 2022, on Range 18 on North Post at Fort McCoy, Wis. The 2/24 is an infantry battalion based out of Chicago consisting of approximately 1,000 Marines and Sailors. The battalion falls under the 24th Marine Regiment and the 4th Marine Division. The 2/24 was holding annual training at Fort McCoy.

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

modern warfare american marines soldier in action while sneaking and aiming on laseer sight optics in combat position and searching for target in battle

220718-N-EE352-2077 BELLOWS AIR FORCE STATION, Hawaii (July 18, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Clayton Mendes, a native of Lancaster, Calif., sights down the barrel of his weapon during a simulated urban terrain warfare exercise with the Malaysian Army near Bellows Beach as part of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Tyler Vallin, a combat engineer with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 172, posts security around a construction site during a squadron field exercise (FEX) at Camp Schwab training grounds, Okinawa, Japan, October 2, 2022. MWSS-172 conducted the squadron FEX to emphasize tactics, techniques and procedures in an Expeditionary Advanced Base Operation (EABO) environment in preparation for the Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation (MCCRE).

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. William Bozzello, a Deer Park, New York, native and combat engineer with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, sets security during the Sapper Leaders Course on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 7, 2022. The Sapper Leaders Course provides combat engineer squad leaders with the technical and tactical proficiency required to provide mobility, counter mobility and survivability to infantry company commanders.

U.S. Air Force Airman First Class Dillon Mills, Lightweight Machine Gun Course student, checks his surroundings prior to firing a M240B medium machine gun during a live-fire exercise at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis Military Training Reservation, Texas, Oct. 4, 2022. The two-week LMGC culminates in a three-day live-fire weapons familiarization designed to prepare students for day-one mission demands at future assignment locations where this training is not available.

Pvt. Teddy Johnson, a Unit Supply Specialist with Headquarters Support Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), qualifies on the M2 Browning Machine Gun, Jan. 26, 2022 at Fort Campbell, Ky. (U.S. Army Photo by Pfc. Jayden Woods)

U.S. Marine Corps recruit Justin Camey with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion fires at his target during a table one live fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 19, 2022. The table I course of fire is the beginning of the Marine Corps Combat Rifle Program that uses a building block approach toward developing recruits into proficient combat marksmen.

Students with the U.S. Navy Senior Amphibious Warfare Course (SAWOC) receive capability briefs on various technologies and vehicles from U.S. Marines with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 22-23, 2022. II Marine Expeditionary Force showcased its capabilities to SAWOC students in order to familiarize them with the landward environment, planning considerations and exposure to all elements of the Fleet Marine Force.

U.S. Soldier assigned to the 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team-Airborne (173rd IBCT ABN) scan sector of fire during Exercise Saber Junction 22 at Hohenfels Training Area, Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) in Hohenfels, Germany, Sept. 13, 2022. Saber Junction 22 is a multinational rotational exercise designed to assess the readiness of the U.S. Armys 173rd Airborne Brigade to execute unified land operations in a joint, combined environment and to promote interoperability with more than 4,500 participants from the U.S. and Allied and partner nations at the U.S. Armys Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels training areas.

U.S. Army First Sgt. Michael Solley, a cavalry scout assigned to the 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, teaches operations on an M249 squad automatic weapon to a Finnish soldier assigned to the Guard Jaeger Regiment at Huovinrinne, Finland, July 8, 2022. The 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and the Pori Brigade of the Finnish army began summer training in Finland to strengthen relations and help build interoperability between the two nations.

U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, engage a cutout of a target in a concrete room with their M4 Carbine loaded with simulation rounds, while conducting close quarters combat (CQC) training during exercise Tradewinds 2022 (TW22) at Hattieville, Belize, on May 14, 2022. CQC is a tactic used within a very short range of enemy combatants that involves a firefight. TW22 is a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored Caribbean-focused multi-dimensional exercise conducted in the ground, air, sea, and cyber domains, designed to provide participating nations opportunities to conduct joint, combined, and interagency training focused on increasing regional cooperation and interoperability in complex multinational security operations.

A U.S. Marine with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, switch security posts during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation (MCCRE) on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 12, 2022. The purpose of a MCCRE is to formally evaluate the units combat readiness in preparation for deployment.

Capt. Bryson McElyea, assigned to 24th Military Intelligence Battalion in Wiesbaden, Germany, fires the M16 rifle during U.S. Army Europe's Best Junior Officer Competition in Grafenwoehr, Germany, July 24, 2012. The BJOC, unique to the U.S. Army in Europe, is a training event for company-grade officers ranking from second lieutenant to captain meant to challenge and refine competitors' leadership and cognitive decision-making skills in a high-intensity environment.

U.S. Army Capt. Carla L. Bender, a human resources officer with the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), pulls security during a battle drill on Forward Operating Base Lightning, Afghanistan, Oct. 3, 2013.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Brantley Smith, a fire support Marine with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, fires an M240B machine gun at simulated targets during weapons training as part of ANGLICO Basic Course 1-22 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 6, 2022. This basic training enhances the capabilities of ANGLICO Marines to plan and execute liaison missions in support of joint, interagency, intergovernmental and multinational operations.

A U.S. Soldier with Task Force Americal from the 1st Battalion, 182nd Infantry Regiment, trains with an M4 carbine at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Sept. 24, 2022. The U.S. Air Forces 378th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron facilitate and occasionally conduct Joint Force training with the U.S. Army on PSABs firing range. Soldiers and Airmen must undergo routine weapons qualification training to ensure safety and proficiency standards. (U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Noah J. Tancer)

A Green Beret assigned to 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) fires a M4 carbine during a stress fire training as part of a joint combined exchange training (JCET) near Tirana, Albania, Feb. 27, 2024. Albania special operations forces and the 10th SFG(A) conducted JCET to enhance interoperability and strengthen military readiness, teamwork, and joint confidence while promoting peace and stability in Europe. Army

U.S. Army soldiers assigned to the East Africa Response Force (EARF), Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, (CJTF-HOA), run through several courses of fire at the Djiboutian Range Complex, Djibouti, May 25 2022. The EARF provides support for any contingency, including crisis response, humanitarian assistance, non-combatant evacuation operations, disaster relief operations, support to U.S. embassies, recovery capabilities of aircraft and personnel, and other missions as directed. (U.S. Air Force photos by Staff Sgt. Joel Pfiester)

U.S. Army Spc. Kaylie Ocampo, assigned to 56th Artillery Command, fires an M4 carbine rifle during the U.S. Army Europe and Africa Best Squad Competition at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Aug. 11, 2022. Teams from across U.S. Army Europe and Africa test their tactical proficiency, communication, and overall cohesion as they compete for the title of Best Squad. Winners of this competition will advance to represent U.S. Army Europe and Africa at the U.S. Army Best Squad Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina later this year.

U.S. Marines fire a M240B machine gun during a military bilateral training engagement, July 9, 2014, Camp des Garrigues, France. Marines with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response from Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment and Legionnaires from 2nd Foreign Infantry Regiment of France's 6th Light Armored Brigade trained together between 7 and 11 July in a series of training events that ranged from foreign weapons familiarization, live fire ranges, ordinance familiarization and military operations in urban terrain.

JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Alaska Air National Guard Senior Airman Hunter Demonche, 176th Force Support Squadron, transitions between courses of fire, June 4, 2022, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson during the 2022 The Adjutant General Match. Teams of four service members competed throughout the week in a series of combat pistol and rifle marksmanship tests for a spot on the Governors Twenty marksmanship team. (Alaska National Guard photo by Capt. David Bedard)

U.S. Army soldier Spc. Aiden Gallo-Murphy with the 412th Alpha Company qualifies with his m4 at the qualification course, during Operation Viking at Joint Base Cape Cod, Mass., July 23, 2022. Operation Viking is an intense joint task force exercise designed to prepare Soliders with realistic training simulating deployment of civil affairs units in direct support of a contingency operation in Africa.

Providers assigned to the Special Troops Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division conduct security operations on Fort Bragg, NC, March 29, 2022. The Field Training Exercise ensures Paratroopers stand ready to fight, win, and meet the 18 hour deployment standard.

Sergeant Dale Kelm, 114th Combat Support Hospital laundry and shower technician, uses binoculars to detect movement in front of his defensive position on the unit's perimeter during Operation GOLDEN MEDIC 2001, in anticipation of a simulated attack, while Private First Class Matt Catlin, also of the 114th CSH, covers Kelm's left. Reserve forces from all over the nation are participating in GOLDEN MEDIC , a multi-unit, medical, field training exercise held at Parks Reserve Forces Training Area, Dublin, California. Attached to the helmet, upper body and M-16A2 rifle is the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) gear to simulate combat. When hit by a laser emiter a loud tone .... Sergeant Dale Kelm, 114th Combat Support Hospital laundry and shower technician, uses binoculars to detect movement in front of his defensive position on the unit's perimeter during Operation GOLDEN MEDIC 2001, in anticipation of a simulated attack, while Private First Class Matt Catlin, also of the

A Soldier assigned to the 4th Infantry Division sends bullets down range during a M240B machine gun competition during Ivy Week 2022, May 24, 2022, Fort Carson, Colorado. Events at Ivy Week made each Soldier show their true loyalty, team effort and dedication to not just each other but to their dedication to lethality at the Mountain Post.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Yaret Garcia Hernandez, a machine gunner with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division fires an M240B machine gun during Resolute Dragon 22 at Shikaribetsu Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 5, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains. Yaret is a native of Oakland, California.

Twelve National Guard Soldiers are competing in the Region IV Best Warrior Competition May 11-15, 2022, at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from the Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio National Guards. The winners will move on to compete in the National Guards competition on July 20-30, 2022, at Camp Smyrna, Tennessee. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Sgt. Bob Brown.)

U.S. Army Pvt. Dylan Fonterot, assigned to Delta Battery, 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artillery, 1 Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, fires his M4 Carbine at FOS Adazi, Latvia, April 25, 2022. The 1st Infantry Division is among other units assigned to V Corps, Americas forward-deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces; execute joint, bilateral, and multinational training exercises.

A Soldier from Squad 11, representing the U.S. Army Materiel Command during the Armys first-ever Best Squad Competition, fires his M4A1 carbine at the weapon qualification range on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2022. The week-long competition assessed each squad on their technical and tactical proficiency, as well as their ability to work as a disciplined and cohesive team, featuring a multitude of fitness, knowledge and combat-related events.

Two U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) specialist take part in the marksmanship portion of the TACP Lightning Challenge 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Texas, Nov. 4, 2022. Lightning Challenge tests United States Air Force TACP Airmen through competition in agile combat employment, physical ability and marksmanship in order to identify the most outstanding multi-capable Airman in the world, prepared to fight and win on the all-domain battlefields of the future.

A U.S. Army National Guard Soldier assigned to the 340th Military Police company readies a M240B machine gun as part of a situational tactical exercise on Joint Base McGuire-Dix Lakehurst, N.J., July 27, 2022. Soldiers from the 333rd MP Brigade, 340th MP Battalion gathered here for Gotham Justice, a four-week exercise that trained, challenged and improved Soldiers primary skill sets and core MP competencies required in detention operations and security and mobility support operations.

A U.S. Army Ranger from the 75th Ranger Regiment pull security during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb 12, 2024. JPMRC 24-02 depends on joint, multi-component and multinational partners to succeed, including U.S. Air Force air and ground crews, U.S. Marines, and international military participants from more than five countries, a testament to the realism and authenticity of its world-class training capability. Army

Cpl. Matthew Sena, Reserve Marine and a scout sniper assigned to Scout Sniper Platoon, 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, fires an M40A6 sniper rifle during an unknown distance range at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, May 18, 2022. Marines from the Scout Sniper Platoon convened with other units from 3/23 at Fort Campbell for a mission rehearsal exercise to prepare for the upcoming Integrated Training Exercise 4-22 in the summer of 2022. The Marines conducted specific long-range precision fire training with multiple weapons systems to hone marksmanship skills.

Portrait of United States airborne infantry corporal with machine gun.

110426-N-TH989-090 FORT DIX, New Jersey. (April 26, 2011) Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic Raymond Vasquez fires his M4 rifle during the U.S. Navy Individual Augmentee Combat Training course. The four-week training is designed to outfit, equip, and prepare Sailors for upcoming deployments in support of overseas contingency operations.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 24th Special Operations Wing, participate in a Combat Arms and Maintenance training at Hurlburt Field, Fla., March 23, 2023. CATM traditionally tests an Airmans ability to operate an M18 pistol and an M4A1 rifle.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nico Garcia, a motor vehicle operator with 3rd Maintenance Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Group (Experimental), 3rd Marine Logistics Group, fires an M16A4 service rifle during a table three through six and combat marksmanship program range at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 15, 2022. The purpose of the range was to improve the battalion's organic combat marksmanship capabilities and to train the core position safety officers for subsequent company ranges. 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.

A U.S. Army Ranger from the 10th Mountain Division, Sgt. Jeremy Ronzo, completes a weapons lane during the Best Ranger Competition 2022, April 9, 2022, on Fort Benning, G.A.The competition has evolved over the past thirty-eight years from once that was originally created to salute the best two-man "buddy" team in the Ranger Department at Fort Benning, G.A. to determine the best two-man team from the entire United States Armed Forces.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Terrell Turner-Cunningham, 822nd Base Defense Squadron heavy gunner, conducts surveillance and security during exercise Agile Flag 22-2 at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, July 23, 2022. The Base Defense Group Airmen, assigned under the 93rd Air Ground Operations Wing, provided base and airfield security throughout the exercise. Agile Flag 22-2 is Air Combat Commands first lead-wing certification event designed to demonstrate the 23rd Wings capability to generate combat air power while continuing to move, maneuver, and sustain the Wing and subordinate force elements in a dynamic and contested environment.

U.S. Army Spc. Faith Hicks, an air defense battle management system operator, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, pulls security with her M4A1 carbine rifle while on a dismounted patrol during an improvised explosive device (IED) training course at Camp Grayling, Michigan, Aug. 23, 2022. Overseen by U.S. Army Combat Engineers, the training lane put Soldiers through a realistic training environment, allowing them to find and understand the weapons and technology used by enemy forces, increasing their readiness, lethality, and unit cohesion.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Christopher Sorensen, a rifleman with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Division, posts security during a patrol at Nimes, France, May, 26, 2022. This was part of a bilateral training event with the French Foreign Legion that challenged the forces with physical and tactical training, as well as provided the opportunity to exchange knowledge and strengthen bonds..

A U.S. Army Soldier shoots at a target during the U.S. Army Forces Command Best Squad Competition, at Fort Hood, Texas, August 14, 2022. The Best Squad Competition promotes esprit-de-corps and recognizes Soldiers who demonstrate commitment to Army Values and embody the Warrior Ethos.

A U.S. Marine with 8th Communication Battalion (8th Comm), II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, fires a M16A4 service rifle during simulated force-on-force training in a urban terrain town on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 27, 2022. 8th Comm establishes, maintains and defends communication networks in order to facilitate II Marine Expeditionary Force's ability to command and control forces.

Staff Sgt. Joshua Mubarak, a fire support specialist assigned to 25th Infantry Division stationed at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, clears a M240B machine gun June 8 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, at the multiple weapon scenario-based marksmanship event during the 2022 USARPACs Best Warrior Competition. The USARPAC BWC 2022 is an annual week-long competition consisting of competitors from multiple USARPAC units across the Indo-Pacific. The noncommissioned officers and junior enlisted Soldiers are evaluated in several categories such as general military knowledge, basic Soldier skills, and physical fitness.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Travis Hunt, a tactical air control party specialist and commanding officer of Detachment 1, 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron, fires the M4 carbine during small arms live-fire training at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Aug. 22, 2022. The special warfare Airmen conducted shooting drills that honed reaction time, speed reloading and clearing weapon malfunctions utilizing the M18 Modular Handgun System and the M4 carbine.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire an M240B machine gun during a squad attack exercise at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, July 12, 2022. Squad attack exercises reinforce infantry tactics and combined arms lethality. 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 Staff Sgt. Sung Shin, a fires and effects integrator, with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, fires a M18 service pistol during a Combat Marksmanship Program range as part of 2nd Brigade Platoons field exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 14, 2024. CMP allows Marines to maintain weapon proficiency by engaging targets in a competitive environment with primary and secondary weapon systems. 5th ANGLICO Marines refined their shooting fundamentals through advanced marksmanship training, enhancing their lethality. Shin is a native of Duluth, GA. Marine Corps

Spc. Arthur Potas, a Combat Medic with the 330th Medical Brigade, Sheridan, Illinois, participates in a weapons qualification at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin on April 3, 2022.

A U.S. Marine with 3d Battalion, 2nd Marines conducts a live fire range in Okinawa, Japan, May 12, 2022. This range integrates raiding and demolition tactics to enhance the Marines' ability to breach obstructions and perform combat operations in an urban environment. 3/2 is forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division.

U.S Air Force Major Jeffrey Robertson, 161st Security Forces Squadron commander, instructs defenders from the 161st and 162nd Security Forces Squadrons on effective ways to hand the M4 carbine at Kirtland AFB, July 11, 2022. The 161st conducted their annual training alongside the 162nd Security Forces Squadron to share ideas, tactics and techniques, equipment uses.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Gabe Caudell a machine gunner with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, instructs a Marine to fire an M240B machine guns during a live fire deck shoot aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 28, 2022. Marines and Sailors conducted weapons training to further educate their Marines on different weapons platforms. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Hannah Allison, an embarkation specialist assigned to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires an M16A4 rifle during a battlesight zero range at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 16, 2022. The purpose of the training was to improve weapons familiarity and to ensure 15th MEU Marines have a properly zeroed weapon, in preparation for follow-on operations.

020821-M-0175R-043. Base: Fort Benning State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 24 MEU

Senior Airman Daniel Tumminello, 4th Operations Support Squadron air traffic control specialist, participates in a shoot, move and communicate training during a Multi-Capable Airman exercise at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Sept. 20, 2022. SMC training focuses on situational awareness, performing under pressure and team communication.

U.S. Army National Guard Spc. Robert Hanshaw of the 1069th Military Police Company, lies prone and ready to fire an M249 light machine gun during weapons qualification at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa. July 13.

Staff Sgt. Jon Anderson provides cover fire while conducting a danger crossing training scenario Sept. 7, 2010, at Stanford Training Area, England. When not supporting the Royal Air Force Regiment in the field, more than 20 100th SFS Airmen held their own scenarios while they had access to the 30,000-acre training area. These Airmen were here to embed with British servicemembers who are about to deploy to Afghanistan to serve with U.S. Marines. This gave the regiment troops an idea of what it is like to work with U.S. forces. Sergeant Anderson is assigned to the 100th Security Forces Squadron at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Alexander Obremski, a forward air controller officer, with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, fires a M18 service pistol during a Marine Corps Combat Marksmanship Program range as part of 2nd Brigade Platoons field exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 14, 2024. CMP allows Marines to maintain weapon proficiency by engaging targets in a competitive environment with primary and secondary weapon systems. 5th ANGLICO Marines refined their shooting fundamentals through advanced marksmanship training, enhancing their lethality. Obremski is a native of Long Island, NY. Marine Corps

U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Control Party specialists from the 18th Air Support Operations Group compete in Dragon Challenge 2022 at Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina. The annual competition is designed to identify the best Joint Terminal Attack Controller teams within the group by testing the competitors steadfast physical, technical, tactical, and field-knowledge skills under mocked combat conditions.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Justin Teague, a Dallastown, Pennsylvania, native and rifleman with 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, fires his rifle during a Combat Marksmanship Competition on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 27, 2022. The purpose of this course of fire is to test the limit of the Marines shooting capabilities under physical exertion in order to develop proficiency in their individual skills and increase the lethality of the unit.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Trevor Turcotte, an infantry Marine with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, clears a corner of a concrete room with his M27 Infantry Assault Rifle, while conducting close quarters combat (CQC) training during exercise Tradewinds 2022 (TW22) at Hattieville, Belize, on May 14, 2022. CQC is a tactic used within a very short range of enemy combatants that involves a firefight. TW22 is a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored Caribbean-focused multi-dimensional exercise conducted in the ground, air, sea, and cyber domains, designed to provide participating nations opportunities to conduct joint, combined, and interagency training focused on increasing regional cooperation and interoperability in complex multinational security operations.

A Marine with the 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines (2/24) completes M4 rifle qualification requirements July 26, 2022, on Range 18 on North Post at Fort McCoy, Wis. The 2/24 is an infantry battalion based out of Chicago consisting of approximately 1,000 Marines and Sailors. The battalion falls under the 24th Marine Regiment and the 4th Marine Division. The 2/24 was holding annual training at Fort McCoy.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Romig Beley, a Low Altitude Air Defense (LAAD) Gunner, 2nd LAAD Battalion, Air Combat Element, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) searches and scans for aircraft aboard U.S. Coast Guard Famous Class Medium Cutter 911, Jan. 22, 2022. The 22nd MEU and Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) Six are underway for Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in preparation for and upcoming deployment. COMPTUEX is the final step before the ARG/MEU team is certified for deployment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Mason Roy)

040217-M-6795S-007. Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Fuji State: Honshu Country: Japan (JPN)

United States Army ranger during a military operation.

A U.S. Soldier, assigned to the 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team-Airborne (173rd IBCT ABN), fires a M249 light machine gun during Exercise Saber Junction 22 at Hohenfels Training Area, Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany, Sept. 16, 2022. Saber Junction 22 is a multinational rotational exercise designed to assess the readiness of the U.S. Armys 173rd Airborne Brigade to execute unified land operations in a joint, combined environment and to promote interoperability with more than 4,500 participants from the U.S. and Allied and partner nations at the U.S. Armys Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels training areas.

Private military contractor during a river raid in the jungle.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), maneuver through the tree line during a boat sustainment enabler integration exercise at Kin Blue, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2022. This exercise was to integrate enablers into the BLT and teach them the foundations of using the combat rubber raiding crafts. 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 Lance Cpl. Matthew Stanford, a gunner with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion (CEB), 2d Marine Division (MARDIV), sets security during the SAPPER Squad Competition on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 10, 2022. During this exercise, Marines from 1st CEB, 1st MARDIV, and 2d CEB conducted urban demolition training during the annual SAPPER Squad Competition. The competition consisted of a wide array of mission essential tasks under a stressful environment and recognized top talent within the Marine Corps combat engineer community.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt Benjamin Holley, a Army Sniper assigned to Headquarters, Headquqrters Company, 2nd Battalion, 153rd Infantry Regiment, 39th Brigade, Arkansas National Guard, fires his M110 Sniper Rifle at his assigned targets during the "Mystery Box" event on Burroughs Range, Fort Benning Ga., April 4, 2022. These snipers are the best from their home Units and have come to prove they are the best. (U.S. Army Reserve photos by Staff Sgt Austin Berner)

A U.S. Marine with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, engages simulated enemy forces at the Jungle Warfare Training Center, Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, May 26, 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.

U. S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Michael Kenny, assigned to Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team Company Europe (FASTEUR), lowers to the ground to take a defensive position during a weapons training event with members of the Spanish National Police's Grupo Especial de Operaciones (GEO), May 17, 2022. FASTEUR, under Task Force 61/2, is in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Soldiers from the 4th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) are competing in the 2022 U.S. Army Reserve Small Arms Championship from Sept. 11 thru Sept. 17 on Camp Robinson, N. Little Rock, Arkansas.ARROWS FORWARD to 1st Lt. Chance Hernandez, Master Sgt. Jason Lee, and Sgt. Robert Flores from San Antonio, Texas, and Staff Sgt. Cameron L. MacDonnell from Huntsville, Texas.The competition is a live-fire training event that tests Soldiers ability to employ both primary and secondary weapon systems. The program is designed to develop marksmanship skills at the entry and intermediate level.If shooting weapons, building relationships that can last a lifetime, and getting paid sounds good to you, click the link to sign up and learn more.https://armyreservemarksman.info/newsletter/BIG THANKS to the 143rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) for helping with coverage.

U.S. Army Sgt. Spencer Fayles, a combat medic with Utah National Guards 144th Area Support Medical Company, shoots targets through smoke during the 2022 ARNG National Best Warrior Competition at the Volunteer Training Site in Tullahoma, Tenn., July 28, 2022. Fayles, along with seven other Noncommissioned Officers from across the country, competes for the national title of NCO of the Year.

DN-ST-88-00621. Country: Unknown

Norwegian Rapid reaction special forces FSK soldier reloading weapon.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Cornell McClure, a data systems administrator, Communications and Information Systems, practices room clearing during a Field Exercise, Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, May 25, 2022. The purpose of the FEX was to increase readiness and proficiency on military operations in urban terrain and increase esprit de corps with friendly competition.

A U.S. Navy Sailor with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares to fire an M240B machine gun during a live fire deck shoot aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 28, 2022. Marines and Sailors conducted weapons training to further educate their Marines on different weapons platforms. 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.

A British Royal Marine Commando Sniper Fires A High Power Rifle

FORT HOOD, Texas - U.S. Army Spc. Christopher Cruz, an air defense artillery crew member assigned to Delta Company, 5-5 Air Defense Artillery, fires the M4A1 carbine during the range portion of the FORSCOM Best Squad Competition 2022 at Fort Hood, Texas, Aug. 15, 2022. The Best Squad Competition promotes esprit de corps and recognizes Soldiers who demonstrate commitment to Army Values and embody the Warrior Ethos.

Soldiers kneeling in grass, aiming assault rifle with collimator sight as they observe enemy territory.

U.S. Army Soldiers from the 35th Infantry Division conduct M17 and M4 individual weapons qualification ranges at Udairi Ranges, Kuwait, Sept. 22, 2022.

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