Military Air and Ground Operations

Images of U.S. military personnel engaged in security operations and training demonstrations, highlighting tactical teamwork and effectiveness.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion 5th Infantry provide ground security during the Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration of the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 23, 2022. The MAGTF Demo displays the coordinated use of close-air support, artillery and infantry forces, and provides a visual representation of how the Marine Corps operates. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion 5th Infantry provide ground security during the Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration of the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 23, 2022. The MAGTF Demo displays the coordinated use of close-air support, artillery and infantry forces, and provides a visual representation of how the Marine Corps operates. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion 5th Infantry provide ground security during the Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration of the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 23, 2022. The MAGTF Demo displays the coordinated use of close-air support, artillery and infantry forces, and provides a visual representation of how the Marine Corps operates. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. James R. Camp, Ohio assistant adjutant general for Air, speaks to Airmen from the 123rd Air Control Squadron and the 269th Combat Communications Squadron on the flight line June 8, 2022 during Agile Rage 22 at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center in Michigan. Agile Combat Employment is not a specific mission, but a universal application to all combat Air Force operations; it's the ability to project combat power anytime and anywhere, while remaining operationally unpredictable to complicate an adversary's decision-making process.

U.S. Airmen from the 633d Security Forces Squadron perform an ammo carry run during the defenders challenge, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, May 18, 2022. These Airmen performed multiple exercises during this event in honor of Police Week and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, receive feedback from drill instructors and Marital Arts Instructors during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, April 10, 2023. 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.

Various University and Colleges ROTC Units were here at Fort Dix, New Jersey competing in the 2022 ROTC Ranger Challenge. There were various competitions and challenges to compete in during the 3-day event held in various locations on Fort Dix. (Images are provided by the Fort Dix (TSC) Training Support Center / Daniel Amburg)

U.S. Army Paratroopers participate in Initial Manifest Call (IMC) to prepare for an airborne jump from UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters at Fort Bragg, N.C. on Apr. 27, 2022. The purpose of IMC is to gather a manifest of people who will be participating in an airborne jump.

Port dawgs with the 72nd Aerial Port Squadron at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma compete in their annual rodeo April 2, 2022, to determine who has the best aerial porting skills in the squadron.

U.S. Marines with Corporals Course, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, compete in tug-of-war 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

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, execute a left break fall during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Oct. 3, 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.

U.S. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) receive a safety brief before a live-fire exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 13, 2022. Marines applied their knowledge of M249 light machine gun and the M240B weapon systems on the range in order to maintain proficiency and 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.

051218-A-5011J-006. Base: Fort Stewart State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, fire M4 carbines and M16A4 service rifles during a table five and six range at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Aug 28, 2022. 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. Marines with the Security Augmentation Force, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort,standby with their gear during Exercise STRATMOBEX on MCAS Beaufort, May 19, 2022. STRATMOBEX allowed key personnel to practice their role in evacuating and manning the air station in cases of extreme weather.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Robert Barbaree, right, commanding officer, right, speaks following the meritorious promotion ceremony of Sgt. Aaron Kinshaw, center, a bulk fuel specialist, both with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River, on MCAS New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Nov. 2, 2022. Kinshaw competed for meritorious promotion against other corporals across the Marine Corps Installations East region. The rank of sergeant is tasked with taking on even more leadership roles and holds the responsibility of shaping the next generation of Marines.

040920-M-4213L-002. Base: USMC Recruit Depot,Parris Island State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Lance Corporal Collin Coppock, Lance Corporal Robert King, and Corporal Joshua Semideyortega, with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, salute Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Fontanetta during a promotion ceremony at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, on April 3, 2023. The 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit is a Marine Air-Ground Task Force that provides strategic speed and agility, ensuring Marines are forward deployed and prepared to respond and protect U.S. national security interests around the globe.

Soldiers of the 578th Brigade Engineer Battalion participate in the change responsibility for Command Sgt. Maj. Alexandre Santana, incoming CSM of the 578 BEB, at Kearny Mesa Recreation Park, Calif., on June 4, 2022. The change of responsibility ceremony is a traditional event meant to reinforce noncommissioned officer authority in the U.S. Army and highlights their support to the chain of command.

U.S. Marines with Golf Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, march in formation during a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 2, 2022. Graduation took place at the completion of the 12- week transformation including training for drill, marksminship, basic combat skills, and Marine Corps customs and traditions.

Instructors assigned to the 421st Combat Training Squadron prepare students for an M4 carbine training during the Advanced Ready Training - Outside the Wire course at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, Feb. 7, 2024. The ART-OTW course is a pre-deployment requirement to gain experience in specialized tactics and techniques through strenuous training scenarios. Air Force

U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. James A. Ryans, right, the assistant division commander of 1st Marine Division, discusses a mass casualty drill as part of Steel Knight 23 with U.S. Navy leaders at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 7, 2022. Steel Knight is an annual combined arms live-fire exercise which ensures 1st MARDIV is optimized for naval expeditionary warfare in contested spaces, and is purpose-built to facilitate future operations afloat and ashore.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Matt Alderman, a combat engineer with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, sprints toward his targets during the 9th ESB Shooting Team Competition and Tryouts on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 25, 2022. The 9th ESB Shooting Team Competition and Tryouts was a four-day event that involved firing the M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System, M18 service pistol, and the M16A4 Armalite Rifle in timed events to test speed and accuracy. The events top performers will compete in the Far East Shooting Competition scheduled in December.

U.S. Army Paratroopers assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division conduct Sustained Airborne Training (SAT) during Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) Rotation 23-01 on Fort Polk, Louisiana, Nov. 2, 2022. JRTC provides Paratroopers an opportunity to conduct real-world scenarios while showcasing global interoperability with allied forces from the Dutch and Japanese militaries.

040701-M-5607G-001. Base: Mcas, Cherry Point State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Miachel Hicks, the commanding officer of Marine Air Control Group (MACG) 18, speaks to his Marines during a field meet at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Feb. 16, 2024. MACG-18 held the field meet to foster comradery and healthy competition among members of the squadron. Marine Corps

U.S. Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are awarded for their superior achievement during the Commanding General Readiness Inspection during a safety brief on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 22, 2022. 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 Lt. Col. Joshua Bradstreet, the commanding officer of Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, salutes the commander of troops during the squadron's deactivation ceremony in 64 Area on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 15, 2022. VMU-4 was reactivated in February 2011, and operated the RQ-21A Blackjack. The squadron was deactivated following the commandants guidance in Force Design 2030.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. David S. Rainey, commanding officer, Security Battalion, briefs Marines with Headquarters Company and Service Company at Butler Stadium, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, May 25, 2022. This is the first battalion-wide formation held by Security Battalion since the Covid-19 pandemic began and was held to brief future events regarding the battalion.

Cadet Squad Leader Alexander Jimenez, Brigham Young University, crawls ahead of his team during The Crucible” event on April 30 at the Sandhurst Military Skills Competition. Cadet teams were tasked with physical and mental obstacles while relocating heavy gear and rescuing two combat casualties. The Sandhurst Military Skills Competition is an annual event hosted by the United States Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., featuring colleges from around the United States and world fighting for the title of being the best military program in the world. | Photo by Sarah Windmueller, U.S. Army Cadet Command Public Affairs

U.S. Marines and Sailors with 3rd Marine Logistics Group carry a litter loaded with weight while competing in the Corpsman Cup at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 28, 2022. The Corpsman Cup is an annual five-event challenge hosted by 3d Medical Battalion where Marines and Sailors build camaraderie and practice essential life-saving skills.

Participants in the three-mile combat run begin the race during Combat Lightning '92, a world-wide competition of tactical air combat control teams. The men are armed with M-16 rifles. Subject Operation/Series: COMBAT LIGHTNING '92 Base: Hurlburt Field State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The Rhode Island National Guard hosted members of the Young Marines for an orientation and open house on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, on Camp Fogarty, East Greenwich. These Young Marines traversed the obstacle course, set up a rope bridge, got an orientation flight in a Blackhawk, were turned upside down in the rollover trainer, and more. The Young Marines is a national non-profit youth education and service program for boys and girls that promotes the mental, moral and physical development of its members.

U. S. Marine Corps recruits with Bravo company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, do dynamic warmups before Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) at Marine Corps Recruit Depo San Diego, Aug 1, 2022. MCMAP is a synergy of mental, character, and physical disciplines. In concert with Marine Corps leadership principles, training in these three disciplines enhances the Marine both on and off the battlefield.

U.S. Marines conduct squad push-ups during the culminating event of a Martial Arts Instructor (MAI) course on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, May 5, 2022. MAI courses certify Marines to instruct and monitor Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) training and advance Marines in belt levels. MCMAP is a synergy of mental, character, and physical disciplines, and in concert with Marine Corps leadership principles, training in these three disciplines enhances the Marine both on and off the battlefield.

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, practice tactical casualty combat care during an Expeditionary Medical Integration Course on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 24, 2022. Tactical casualty combat care training gives Marines the required skills to provide a higher level of health service capability in any operational environment.

U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico and Chemical Biological Incident Response Force from Indian Head, Maryland participate in the Firemans Carry Race for the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighter Rodeo at MCAF on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Sep. 2, 2022. The ARFF Rodeo is a competition for Marines to showcase their operational knowledge of firefighting tactics, techniques, and procedures.

U.S. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), grapple during a safety brief on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 27, 2022. 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.

(Left to Right) 1st Lt. Jesse D. Backman, an armor officer, and Cpl. Bryan D. Russell, Sgt. Patrick J. Sisler and Staff Sgt. Daniel E. Brun, cavalry scouts with B Troop, 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, exit a CS gas chamber, Jan. 9, during quarterly Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear training on Fort Stewart, Ga. Bushmaster” soldiers received refresher training on the proper wear of the field protective mask and the Joint Service Lightweight Integrated Suit Technology protective garment, and gained confidence in their equipment by unmasking in the gas chamber.

U.S. Marines with Headquarters and Service Battalion, compete in the tug-of-war event during 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 recruits with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct team over head presses during a log drill exercise at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 26, 2022. Recruits carried a 250-pound log, executing various exercises to strengthen their bodies, minds, and teamwork.

A U.S. Marine with Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/8, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fast-ropes during a fast rope qualification course as part of Realistic Urban Training (RUT) on Fort Barfoot, Virginia, Jan. 14, 2023. 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.

Keesler Marines and Airmen attend the POW/MIA Retreat Ceremony at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, Sept. 16, 2022. The event, hosted by the Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter 652, is held annually to raise awareness and pay tribute to all prisoners of war and the military members still missing in action.

U.S. Soldiers competing in the Army Best Squad Competition participate in a night land navigation test on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Sept. 29, 2022. The Army Best Squad Competition tests Soldiers on their individual and collective ability to adapt to and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-readiness events that test their physical and mental endurance, technical and tactical abilities, and under stress and extreme fatigue.

U.S. Army Soldiers competing in the Sullivan Cup receive instruction on how to perform the Road-Wheel Roll portion of the Starry Physical Proficiency Test on Fort Benning, Georgia, May 5, 2022. The Sullivan Cup requires mastery of individual tasks, technical and tactical competence, and the ability to demonstrate an array of maneuver, sustainment and gunnery skills.

Recruits with Oscar Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, wait their turn to fire their rifles at the Table 1 Range on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., April 5, 2023. When not firing, recruits are responsible for tracking their partners' scores.

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 Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, commanding general, II Marine Expeditionary Force, addresses II MEF Marines after a rehearsal in preparation for the change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, August 17, 2022. Lt. Gen. Jurney relinquished command to Lt. Gen. David A. Ottignon on August 18, 2022.

U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Division conduct a rehearsal for a battle colors rededication ceremony at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan Sept. 13, 2022. The ceremony commemorates the Divisions 80th Anniversary and its legacy of valor, honor, and fidelity. The 3d Marine Division was activated at Camp Elliot, San Diego, Sept. 16, 1942 and has taken part in combat operations from World War II and Vietnam through Iraq and Afghanistan. The current Marines of 3d Marine Division continue to build on this legacy today as a critical part of the stand-in force within the first island chain of the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Recruits with Golf Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, receive instructions on how to safely execute the fireman carry during the combat conditioning course (CCX) at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 28, 2022. The CCX was designed to increase recruits stamina and ability to perform Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques.

Recruiters across the 8th Marine Corps District (8MCD) compete to build camaraderie during the Pipehitter Training Conference Galveston, Texas, Feb. 2, 2023. Top performing recruiters across 8MCD gathered for a week to share tactics, techniques and procedures in what contributes to their success.

A senior drill instructor with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion commands his recruits as they execute drill movements during Final Drill practice at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., Sept. 12, 2022. Final Drill tests drill instructors on their ability to give drill commands and tests recruits on their ability to execute the movements properly.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 20th Security Forces Squadron (20th SFS) approach a building in formation while conducting an active shooter exercise at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., Sep. 26, 2022. 20th SFS Airmen demonstrated their knowledge and proficiency during a real world active shooter exercise.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Julian D. Alford, the outgoing commanding general of Training Command, speaks during the units change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., July 28, 2022. Training Command consistently produces entry-level military occupational specialty, career progression, and career enhancement skills to all officers and enlisted Marines in order to meet force generation and operating force requirements.

220928-N-PI330-1091 Gulfport, Mississippi (September 28, 2022) Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 (NMCB 133) assemble the base of a bridge during a bridge building trainer course on Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport, Mississippi, September 28, 2022. NMCB 133 is at homeport in Gulfport, Mississippi conducting training cycles.

Defenders assigned to the 171st Security Forces Squadron practice hand-to-hand combat with instruction from former professional boxer Josh Himes, Sept. 18, 2022, near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The U.S. Army Reserves 200th Military Police Command welcomed Brig. Gen. Cary Cowan Jr. as its new commanding general during a change-of-command ceremony Aug. 26 on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. Cowan assumed command from Maj. Gen. John Hussey during the ceremony, which was presided over by Maj. Gen. Gregory Mosser, U.S. Army Reserve Command deputy commanding general.

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

040722-M-8703S-025. Base: Mcagcc, Twentynine Palms State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets sped a week at Fort Jackson, S.C., for a week-long leadership challenge. Roughly 750 cadets from high schools across North Carolina attended the challenge and completed a series of events that mimic training found during Basic Combat Training.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, grapple on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, April. 14, 2022. Marines hiked and competed in Marine Corps Martial Arts Program competitions between companies to increase morale and esprit de corps. 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. Holden Mesimer, a Marine Air-Ground Task Force planning specialist with Plans, Policy and Operations South, sprints to his teammate during a field meet at Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, Virginia, March 16, 2023. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command, and their respective Headquarters and Service Battalion, competed in physical fitness relays, ground fighting, and tug-o-war in order to win a day of liberty. The unit holds quarterly field meets to increase command networking and boost morale.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Brian W. Cavanaugh, the incoming commander of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command salutes colors during the change of command ceremony at the Naval Station Norfolk Pennsylvania House, Virginia, Aug. 30, 2022. During the ceremony Brig. Gen. John F. Kelliher III relinquished his duties to the incoming commander, 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.

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 15th Airlift Squadron rehearse different methods to radio for assistance during an Air Force Force Generation certification event at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Dec. 5th 2022. Developed to reinforce rapid global mobility capabilities, this training event tested the squadrons ability to communicate, navigate and maneuver in a contested environment.

Soldiers of the 838th Military Police Company out of Youngstown, Ohio dress-right-dress during the Platinum Wolf opening ceremony June 3 at South Base in Serbia. The international exercise aims to enhance interoperability and mutual understanding among the members of partner and allied nations' armed forces for peace support operations. About 500 Soldiers are involved in the 2019 Platinum Wolf exercise.

Paratroopers assigned to Charlie Troop, 1-73 Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division conduct an Air Assault and run the "Last 100 Yards" lane for the XVIII Airborne Corps Best Squad Competition on Fort Stewart, GA, July 28, 2022. During the Best Squad Competition, competitors were tested on a wide range of subjects including land navigation, marksmanship, casualty care, physical fitness, small-unit tactics and endurance.

U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force generals receive Gen. Yoshihide Yoshida, the chief of staff of the JGSDF, to 3rd MLG Headquarters, during a bilateral key leader engagement for exercise Keen Sword 23 on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan Nov. 10, 2022. Keen Sword is a biennial training event that exercises the combined capabilities and lethality developed between 3rd MLG, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and the Japan Self-Defense Force. 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 Sgt. Maj. Ryan A. Gnecco, battalion sergeant major of 2nd Supply Battalion, transfers the battalion colors to Col. Michael Castellano, outgoing commanding officer with 2nd Supply Battalion, during a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 17, 2022. During the ceremony, Col. Michael Castellano relinquished command to Col. Karin R. Fitzgerald.

990505-F-9629J-009. Subject Operation/Series: GUARDIAN CHALLENGE 99 Base: Vandenberg Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Airmen with multiple Air National Guard security forces units learn squad tactics pulling an ahkio sled Jan. 18, 2023, as part of a 16-day Cold-Weather Operations Course led by the Air Force at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than 50 Airmen were participating in the training from across the Air Force. Besides learning about use of snowshoes and moving as a squad over terrain pulling an ahkio sled in a cold-weather environment, the Airmen also learned about cold-weather shelters, survival techniques, cold-weather uniform wear, and more. Fort McCoy has a long history of supporting cold-weather training. Eighty years prior to this training, in January 1943, the installation hosted winter training for the Army's 76th Division prior to the Division deploying to Europe to fight in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.

U.S. Army Spur candidates assigned to the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, do push-ups during an Army physical fitness test as part of the Spur Ride at Drawsko Pomorskie Training Area, Poland, June 25, 2022. A Spur Ride is generally an event held over multiple days during which a Trooper must pass a series of physical and mental tests relevant to the Cavalry.

U.S. Marines with Bravo Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, carry lumber to build a non-standard bridge at Camp Rodriguez, Republic of Korea, July 12, 2022. Marines with 9th ESB are participating in a large-scale field training exercise focused on leveraging the integrated capabilities of joint and allied partners to strengthen all-domain awareness, maneuver, and fires across a distributed mountainous environment.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Erik C. Quist, right, outgoing commanding officer, passes the Warfighting Instructor Battalions colors to Lt. Col. Christopher D. Upton, left, on-coming commanding officer, during the Warfighting Instructor Battalions change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 10, 2022. Lt. Col. Erik C. Quist relinquished command to Lt. Col. Christopher D. Upton.

Sgt. Maj. Sigrid Rivera, former 4th Battalion Sergeant Major, relinquishes command to Sgt. Maj. Jesabel Cuadro in a change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island S.C., July 8, 2022. Rivera also retired after having served in the Marine Corps for 22 years.

U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico and Chemical Biological Incident Response Force from Indian Head, Maryland participate in the Hose Drill Race for the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighter Rodeo at MCAF on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Sep. 2, 2022. The ARFF Rodeo is a competition for Marines to showcase their operational knowledge of firefighting tactics, techniques, and procedures.

U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 65th Civil Engineer Squadron honor those killed on 9/11 during a remembrance ceremony Sept. 11, 2013, at Lajes Field, Azores. The 65th Air Base Wing honored those killed on 9/11 with a boots and utes” memorial run that was led by Lajes Airmen first responders.

Competitors participate in the 12 mile ruck march event during the 2022 National Guard Bureau Region 2 Best Warrior Competition, held May 17-20, 2022, at Camp Dawson, Kingwood, West Virginia. The Best Warrior Competition is a physically and mentally challenging three-day competition that tests competitors on a wide range of technical and tactical skills relevant to todays combat operating environment. Region 2 consists of competitors from Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional winners from across the nation will advance to compete at the national-level this summer.

020326-M-3022S-003. Base: Fort A. P. Hill State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 24 MEU

Capt. Megan Hower, assigned to the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, prepares to deadlift during the Army Combat Fitness Test of a brigade level best leader competition Feb. 26, 2024, at Fort Cavazos, TX. Soldiers are competing in the best leader competition for an opportunity to be selected for a spot on a team consisting of a junior officer, two noncommissioned officers, and three junior enlisted Soldiers, who will compete at the Medical Readiness Command, West: Best Leader Competition in April 2024. Army

Members of the 335th Training Squadron freestyle drill team perform during the 81st Training Group drill down on the Levitow Training Support Facility drill pad at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., March 8, 2019. Airmen from the 81st TRG competed in a quarterly open ranks inspection, regulation drill routine and freestyle drill routine. Keesler AFB trains more than 30,000 students each year. While in training, Airmen are given the opportunity to volunteer to learn and execute drill down routines.

070121-A-8359B-003. Base: Fort Buchanan State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Marines with the 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines (2/24) complete 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. Marines with 2nd Marine Logistics Group, work together as a team to complete an obstacle during the Leadership Response Course (LRC) on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 26, 2022. All the obstacles in the LRC required a great amount of teamwork and initiative, building the Marines leadership skills and confidence in each others leadership capabilities.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct dynamic warmups before a log drill exercise at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 26, 2022. Recruits carried a 250-pound log, executing various exercises to strengthen their bodies, minds, and teamwork.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Zachary Allen, a radio operator with 2nd Landing Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (MLG), gets promoted to sergeant while participating in the 2nd MLG command post exercise (CPX) on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 1, 2022. During the CPX Marines were familiarized in the setup and usage of a combat operations center, while also certifying all gear was accounted for and functional.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, execute a column right during close order drill at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 13, 2022. Recruits learned and performed drill movements as a platoon throughout recruit training to eliminate individualism and create discipline.

U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM), aim and fire water balloons at a target while attending a command field meet, Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, Norfolk, Virginia, June 10, 2022. Water balloon catapult, grappling and tug-of-war were played for score with the winning team awarded a trophy. FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM holds regular field meets to sustain camaraderie and healthy work relations.

U.S. Marines with Alpha Company, Marine Corps Security Force Regiment (MCSFR), pull a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle during the first annual MCSFR Day field meet at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, Virginia, Aug. 19, 2022. The Marines competed head-to-head in High-Intensity Interval Training challenges, tug-of-war, pugil sticks and various other categories to test their teamwork capabilities and determination. MCSFR Day was established to strengthen cohesion and camaraderie amongst the Marines to increase unit readiness.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 273, Marine Air Control Group 28, demonstrate how to do proper pushups to kids during a Bring your Mini-Marine to Work Day at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, April 10, 2023. MWSS-273 held this event to kick off spring break and to show the children what their parents do on a daily basis.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Golf Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, run to their next exercise during the combat conditioning course (CCX) at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 28, 2022. The CCX was designed to increase recruits stamina and ability to perform Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques.

050305-A-5560M-004. Base: Fort Buchanan State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: SOUTHEAST

U.S. Army Soldiers from Fort Bragg, N.C., prepare to file onto a U.S. Air Force C-130 during this year's Operation Toy Drop, Dec. 6, 2009. Operation Toy Drop is an annual Airborne jump held at Fort Bragg, N.C., and is hosted by the U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne), and supported by Fort Bragg's XVIII Airborne Corps and Pope Air Force Base's 43rd Airlift Wing. Over 3,000 Soldiers are expected to donate a toy for a lottery ticket and the chance to jump under an international jumpmaster in order to earn foreign jump wings. The operation gives Soldiers and Airmen the opportunity to help local families in need over the holidays while boosting morale and incorporating valuable training. Since its inception, Operation Toy Drop has collected and distributed more than 30,000 toys for families of Soldiers as well as orphanages in the local community.

Memorial Day attendees come together for a Memorial Day Ceremony held at Hancock Field Air National Guard base, on May 25, 2022 . Remembrance and honor was given to all the men and women for their sacrifices they had made throughout history.

230331-N-OG286-1125 NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan (Mar. 31, 2023) Aviation Electronics Technician Airman Lopera Sanchez, from Cali, Columbia, performs strikes with a baton in an Auxiliary Security Force Academy Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Spray training course provided by the Security Department onboard Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi. NAF Atsugi supports the combat readiness of Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE (CVW 5), Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron FIVE ONE (HSM-51) and 30 other tenant commands and provides logistic support, coordination, and services to units assigned to the Western Pacific.

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 develops and sustains relationships that improve the capacity of our reemerging and enduring maritime partners to achieve common objectives. Additionally, the military-to-military exchanges foster friendly, mutual cooperation and understanding among participating navies and marine corps.

Soldiers of Squad 6, representing the U.S. Army National Guard, conduct hot load training with a UH-60 Black Hawk during the Army's first-ever Best Squad Competition held on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2022. The Army Best Squad Competition tests Soldiers on their individual and collective ability to adapt to and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-readiness events, evaluating their physical endurance, technical skills, and tactical abilities under stress and extreme fatigue.

U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen conduct a pull-up competition during Professional Training of Midshipmen (PROTRAMID) at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 20, 2022. PROTRAMID is an eight-week program during the summer months that provides in-depth training to midshipmen in the various communities within the Navy and Marine Corps.

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), participate in an aircraft familiarization class during Weapons and Tactics Instructors (WTI) course 1-23, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, on Sept. 24, 2022. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by MAWTS-1, 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.

060106-M-2697B-001. Base: Marine Corps Air Base Beaufort State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MCAS BEAUFORT

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