Modern Military Exercises

Images show U.S. Army and Marine Corps troops in tactical exercises, focusing on teamwork, strategy, and real-time operational scenarios in various environments.

Low angle view of special forces soldiers in field uniforms with weapons.

A U.S. Air Force 509th Bomb Wing Security Forces member, secures the exercise area during a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear exercise at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, Sept. 14, 2022. Airmen participate in a CBRN exercise to deter and win against adversaries.

Low angle view of U.S. Army Rangers pointing weapons to the camera.

U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Antonio Gonzalez with Golf Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, hikes up a hill during the crucible at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 15, 2022. The crucible is a 54-hour exercise where recruits apply the knowledge they learned throughout recruit training to earn the title United States Marines.

U.S. Marines with The Basic School demonstrate how to operate an M777 towed 155 mm howitzer to train newly commissioned officers at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 29, 2024. Students at TBS are trained to be a rifle platoon commander equipped with high standards of professional knowledge, technical expertise and leadership. Marine Corps

U.S. Air Force security forces trainees practice clearing rooms as part of the field operations block of training during the U.S. Air Force security forces apprentice course at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Texas, Oct. 23, 2022. The field operations course is part of a six-week course designed to teach the basic skills necessary to new security forces Airmen.

Two Dutch Paratroopers walk off the Drop Zone with their assigned parachute, combat equipment, and weapon during Exercise Falcon Leap at Hechtselse Heide Drop Zone, Hechtel-Eksel, Belgium., Sep. 15, 2022. More than 1000 Paratroopers from all over the world, 13 different nationalities, multiple airdrops per day, and training with each other equipment for two weeks. this is NATO's largest technical airborne exercise.

Members from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, 1st Airborne Brigade, don their gear on the flightline at Yokota Air Base, Japan, prior to a static-line jump, Jan. 25, 2022, as part of Airborne 22. During the exercise, C-130J Super Hercules from Yokota are planned to airdrop approximately 500 JGSDF personnel and 100 container delivery system bundles. Training events like this increase effective interoperability to gain advantages whenever both countries work together during bi-lateral operations. (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Gustavo Castillo)

POHANG, Republic of South Korea (March 28, 2023) - U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Jared Hancock and U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Kainen Johnson, a combat engineer, both with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, clear a room alongside Republic of Korea Marines during Military Operations on Urbanized Terrain training during Ssang Yong 23. Celebrating the 70th anniversary of the U.S.-ROK Alliance, Ssang Yong 2023 strengthens the Alliance through bilateral, joint training, contributing toward the ROKs combined defense of the Korean Peninsula and increasing the readiness of the U.S.-ROK Alliance.

GULFPORT, Miss. (Jan 9, 2013) Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 15 form a protective circle to practice teamwork and movement during crowd control training. NMCB-15 is mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and is an expeditionary element of U.S. Naval Forces that support various units worldwide through national force readiness, humanitarian assistance, and building and maintaining infrastructure.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Jun. 28, 2022)- Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 2 look at the central processing unit (CPU) screen for the VR Defender remotely operated vehicle (ROV) in search of a simulated maritime improvised explosive device (IED). CRABEx is a training exercise that certifies Navy EOD units of action under Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 2, ensuring a ready and more lethal EOD force.

220718-N-HB628-1001BELLOWS AIR FORCE STATION, Hawaii (July 18, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Connor Smithson, Force Reconnaissance company commander, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, from Raleigh, N.C., and Mexican Naval Infantry Marine Sgt. Maj. Jose Fuentes prepare to conduct small boat training with a combat rubber raiding craft during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The worlds 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 worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

A U.S. Air Force Special Tactics operator with the 24th Special Operations Wing, Hurlburt Field, Florida, searches for simulated injured civilians during Emerald Warrior 22.1 at Guardian Center, Georgia, May 9, 2022. The ST team responded to a mass casualty event at the site of a reported explosion and used their rescue and medical expertise to extricate and treat wounded civilians.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), discuss evacuating reconnaissance personnel during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel (TRAP) exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 26, 2022. Simulating events like personnel recovery allows the MEU to remain consistent as a quick-response force in readiness. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of 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 photo by Lance Cpl. Cesar Ronaldo Alarcon)

1st Air Cavalry Brigade conducts battalion-sized air assault raining operation with the Italian Paratrooper Brigade "FOLGORE" during Swift Response 2022, Skopje, North Macedonia, May 17, 2022. Exercise Swift Response 2022 is an annual multinational training exercise, which takes place in Eastern Europe, the Arctic High North, Baltics, and Balkans from May 2-20, 2022. It aims to present combat credible Army forces in Europe and Africa and enhance readiness by building airborne interoperability with Allies and Partners and the integration of joint service partnerships.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) leave the Guided-Missel Destroyer U.S.S. Hopper (DDG 70) near Oahu, Hawaii, Oct. 26, 2022. U.S.S. Hopper and crew are participating in Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) rotation 23-01, alongside the 25th Infantry Division, and elements from the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne). JPMRC rotations allow Army forces to rehearse strategic movements and maneuvers, integrate with allies and partners, and increase the readiness of the Joint Force in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Ethan Daum, assigned to Bull Troop, 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, stands atop a Stryker while operating an End User Devise during a live support by fire exercise at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Oct. 16, 2022. 2nd Cavalry Regiment provides V Corps, Americas forward-deployed corps in Europe, with combat-credible forces capable of rapid deployment throughout the European theater to defend the NATO alliance.

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 49 parade march as part of a change of command ceremony on July 16, 2022 at Joint Base McGuire Dix Lakehurst. The change of command ceremony is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit from one officer to another. The mission of MAG 49 is to organize, train, and equip combat ready squadrons to augment and reinforce the active Marine forces in time of war, national emergency, or contingency operations, and to provide personnel and assault support capabilities to relieve operational tempo for active duty forces.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Edward Roller, a fires advisor with 1st battalion, 54th Security Forces Assistance Brigade talks with an interpreter about tactical positioning after a defensive posture training exercise during Noble Partner at the Vaziani Training Area, Georgia, Sep. 1, 2022. Exercise Noble Partner is designed to enhance regional partnerships and increase U.S. force readiness and interoperability in a realistic, multinational training environment. The exercise allows participants to conduct situational training exercises, live-fire exercises, and combined mechanized maneuvers.

U.S. Army Sgt. David Johnson, a scout assigned to 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, demonstrates how to ensure a weapon is clear during preliminary marksmanship instruction for the M4A1 carbine at Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, July 13, 2022. The 3/4 ABCT is among other units assigned to V Corps, Americas forward deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners.

Close-up shot of soldier on phone in the desert.

FORT HOOD, Texas - 2nd Squad, Red Platoon, based out of Fort Hood, Texas, compete in Patrol Lane 2 for the U.S. Army Forces Command Best Squad Competition at Fort Hood, Texas, August 18, 2022. These Soldiers represent the best the in U.S. Army Forces Command.

A group of U.S. Army Paratroopers, and European Paratroopers waits in formation to board the aircraft with their T-11 parachute during Exrcise Falcon Leap on Eindhoven Air Base, Eindhoven, Netherlands., Sep. 13, 2022. More than 1000 Paratroopers from all over the world, 13 different nationalities, multiple airdrops per day, and training with each other equipment for two weeks. this is NATO's largest technical airborne exercise

220921-N-TT639-1103 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sep. 21, 2022) - U.S. Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) participate in a small arms qualification shoot aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 21, 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.

A Marine with the Marine Corps Shooting Team prepares to shoot his rifle in 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.

Idahos 145th Brigade Support Battalion spent the past two weeks refining their field training at the Orchard Combat Training Center focusing on day and nighttime mission essential tasks on July 9-18, 2022. Some of the missions included small arms fire, grenade launching, convoy training, land navigation, weapons qualifications, perimeter defense, survivability exercises, medical field training and counter IED actions.

Georgian Defense Forces scan their sectors of fire for a defensive position training scenario held during Noble Partner located in the Vaziani Training Area, Georgia. Noble Partner is designed to enhance regional partnerships and increase U.S. force readiness and interoperability in a realistic, multinational training environment. The exercise allows participants to conduct situational training exercises, and combined mechanized maneuvers.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nico Orona, a radio operator with 2d Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, conducts a radio check during Exercise Manticore in France Sept. 17, 2022. Exercise Manticore is a French Army-led large scale exercise that integrated the Marines into a platoon-sized maneuver element to conduct offensive and defensive operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Austin Purvis, a section chief with 2d Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division adjusts the M777 howitzer at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 18, 2023. This training helped improve the Marines' effectiveness and lethality with the M777 howitzer.

A U.S. Marine with 2d Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, counts his rounds for a Dutch Marine with Marine Squadron Carib, Netherlands Marine Corps, during Exercise Tres Kolos in Savaneta, Aruba, Oct. 21, 2022. This exercise promotes partnerships, shares knowledge, and enhances interoperability between the forces in order to strengthen our common defense, foster stability and defeat threats.

A joint terminal attack controller with Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), coordinates simulated close air support with U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons from 31st Fighter Wing, Aviano AB, Italy, alongside U.S. Special Operations Command Europe JTACs assigned to the 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in a bilateral training event in BiH, Jan. 8, 2024.

POHANG, Republic of South Korea (March 28, 2023) -U.S. Marines and a U.S. Navy Corpsman with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, with a Republic of Korea Marine moves up a staircase during Military Operations on Urbanized Terrain training during Ssang Yong 23. Celebrating the 70th anniversary of the U.S.-ROK Alliance, Ssang Yong 2023 strengthens the Alliance through bilateral, joint training, contributing toward the ROKs combined defense of the Korean Peninsula and increasing the readiness of the U.S.-ROK Alliance.

Soldiers of the U.S. Army, Australian Army, and TNI Angkatan Darat conduct a mission brief and rehearsal prior to their field training exercise as part of Super Garuda Shield 22 in Baturaja, Indonesia on Aug. 6, 2022. Super Garuda Shield, a part of Operation Pathways and a longstanding annual, bilateral military exercise conducted between the U.S. military and Indonesia National Armed Forces, reinforces the U.S. commitments to our allies, and regional partners, joint readiness, and the interoperability to fight and win together.

PORT HUENEME, Calif. (Aug. 10, 2022) Builder 2nd Class Jesus Ramos yells instructions to his fire team during Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 18s Field Training Exercise (FTX). FTX is designed to analyze a battalions construction capability, expeditionary logistics, and combat operations to support major combat operations, disaster response, and humanitarian assistance.

Members of the 31st Security Forces Squadron conducted a recapture and recovery routine training exercise at Aviano Air Base, Italy, July 11, 2022. Deborah G. Rosenblum, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Programs toured a variety of Aviano AB facilities and observed routine programs such as the 31st SFS responding forces training. During their training, 31st SFS demonstrated a denial of hostile access to a facility, and recovery of the facility if hostiles gained access. (U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Jessica Blair)

Airmen with the 914th Security Forces Squadron participate in a Fallen Defenders ceremony and ruck march May 14, 2022 on Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, New York. The mission of the ceremony and 8.4-mile march was to honor their fallen brothers and sisters. Airmen added non-perishable food items in their ruck pack to add weight; items were later donated to a local veterans non-profit organization.

Spc. Ashraf Fanidi, an intelligence analyst assigned to 2-158th Attack Helicopter Battalion, 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Anthony D. Bailey, an infantry unit leader for Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 1/8, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), and North Carolina native, poses for a photo after conducting patrol base operations during Realistic Urban Training (RUT) on Fort Barfoot, Virginia, Jan. 12, 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.

During Annual Training 2022, Idaho Army National Guard Soldiers from Charlie Company trained extensively in tactical movements. At the core of those skills is the buddy rush” where infantry soldiers practice the most basic skills of combat. According to U.S.Army Field Manual for The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squads; Every Infantryman, from the private enlisted Soldier, to the general officer, is first a rifleman. As such, he must be a master of his basic skills: shoot, move, communicate, survive, and sustain. These basic skills provide the Soldier’s ability to fight. When collectively applied by the fire team, squad, and platoon, these skills translate into combat power. Of all branches in the U.S. Army, the Infantry is unique because its core competency is founded on the individual Soldier — the Infantry rifleman. While other branches tend to focus on weapon systems and platforms to accomplish their mission, the Infantry alone relies almost exclusively on the human dimension of

Sgt. Malik Seaton, walks down a road during land navigation, an event part of Best Warrior at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin on May 15, 2022. Approximately 40 Soldiers from across the nation travelled to Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, to compete in the 2022 U.S. Best Warrior Best Squad Competition from May 14-21, 2022. The 2022 BWBSC is an annual competition that brings together the best Soldiers from across the U.S. Army Reserve to earn the title of NCO of the Year”, Soldier of the Year” and Best Squad” among their peers. Competitors are evaluated on their individual and collective ability to adapt to and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-focused events that test their technical and tactical abilities under stress and extreme fatigue.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force 1st Airborne Brigade soldiers don their equipment on the flightline at Yokota Air Base, Japan, during a bilateral jump training with the 36th Airlift Squadron, April 19, 2022. The goal of this event is to improve interoperability between the USAF and JGSDF by defense and information exchanges to deepen mutual understanding of each unit, and to further cement the U.S. and Japanese alliance.

Soldiers with the Minnesota National Guard's 34th Infantry Division "Red Bulls" travel to Texas, February 4, 2024. The Red Bulls are preparing for a deployment to the Middle East later this year. (Minnesota National Guard

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire an M240B machine gun and observe shots on target during a defense of the amphibious task force live-fire aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 2, 2022. DATF scenarios focus Navy and Marine Corps forces on defending ARG shipping and the drills allowed the ARG-MEU team to improve their proficiency when integrating fires. 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 U.S. Marine crimps a non-electric blasting cap in preparation for a demolition range at the Central Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 18, 2024. At the demolition range, Marines practiced clearing, removing, and breaching obstacles within a combat scenario to facilitate the movement of maneuver forces. The Marines is with 2d Battalion, 7th Marines. 2/7 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program.

U.S. Marine Corps recruit Blaze Meador with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, shoots the table one course of fire at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton California, July 12, 2022. Table one covers the basic fundamentals of marksmanship and rifle safety in all shooting positions sitting, kneeling, standing, and prone. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl Jacob Hutchinson)

U.S. Army Sgt. Matthew Roberts, along with fellow members of Company B, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, patrols the Korengal valley in Afghanistans Kunar province, during the early morning hours of Aug. 13. Roberts is a native of Houston, and stationed at Fort Carson, Colo. International Security Assistance Force Service members across Afghanistan have increased operations in recent months in order to ensure safety and security during the nations second national election, scheduled for late August.

A U.S. Soldier, assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, pushes forward through a forest during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, Feb. 17, 2024. A company of soldiers moved uphill through the woods toward an exercise objective with possible simulated enemy forces in the area. JPMRC 24-02, executed in Alaska with its world-class training facilities and its harsh Arctic environment, builds Soldiers and leaders into a cohesive team of skilled, tough, alert, and adaptive warriors capable of fighting and winning anywhere in the world. Army

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jorgen Larsen, an infantry platoon sergeant with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observes from a Philippine Marine truck in the Philippines, Oct. 2, 2022, during a troop movement. KAMANDAG is an annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades shared experiences.

Military police with the Kosovo Security Force coordinate with Staff Sgt. Jordan Dowell, a squad leader in the 186th Military Police Company at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, on July 9, 2022. Kosovo Security Force MPs were working together with the 186th MP Company to train and share professional knowledge and experience through the State Partnership Program.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Brian Wu, left, with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Marine Forces Reserve, in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS LXIII, gives a thumbs up to Terceio-Sargento (Sergeant Brazilian Marine Corps) Igor Aleixo, a forward observer with the Brazilian Marine Corps, during call for fire drills as part of exercise UNITAS LXIII at Sío Pedro da Aldeia, Brazil, Sept. 5, 2022. Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773 and 4th ANGLICO cross trained with the Brazilian Marine Corps by conducting simulated close air support drills, which consists of locating targets from the ground and relaying coordinates to assets in the sky to destroy. UNITAS trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations through the execution of anti-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air, amphibious and electronic warfare operations that enhance warfighting proficiency and increase interoperability among participating naval and marine forces.

U.S. Marines with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, set up concertina wire 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.

A U.S. Army Pacific Soldier assigned to 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division mans the Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided (TOW) missile launcher mounted atop an up-armored High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) while proceeding to their next objective point during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) training rotation 23-01 at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Oct. 31, 2022. JPMRC uses training scenarios specific to a jungle environment to train the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division with joint, allied and partnered forces in conditions in which they would fight.

050226-F-8584G-023. Base: Al Iskandariyah Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Army Spc. Zachary Royka, military police assigned to the 143rd Military Police Company, 192nd Military Police Battalion, Connecticut Army National Guard, mans the turret of an High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), or Humvee, at Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia, June 27th, 2022. Soldiers from the 143rd Military Police Company, one of the 192nds two military police companies, participated in vehicle live fires, manning the turrets of their Humvees and Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles to engage stationary and moving targets during their annual training.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/1, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit recover a simulated personnel of interest during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise at Shoalwater Bay Military Training Area, Australia, June 27, 2023. TRAP provides overland rescue and recovery of downed aircraft personnel and equipment, as well as advanced trauma life support in isolated locations during deployment. 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. Army Sgt. 1st Class Daniel Navarro, first sergeant of Ares Company, 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade, 4th Infantry Division (3-4 ABCT) surveys the engagement area during Exercise Iron Wolf 22 at Pabradė Training Area, Lithuania, Oct. 27, 2022. The 3-4 ABCT is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

120729-N-BB534-864 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 29, 2012) Marine Pvt. Seth Stites fires an M-240B machine gun during a live-fire exercise aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). Green Bay is part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group and is underway conducting a composite training unit exercise in the Pacific Ocean.

Navy SEALs fighter sitting on the bow of a speed boat with service rifle in hand.

U.S Marines with 2d Combat Engineer Battalion, 2d Marine Division, apply camouflage paint during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 1, 2022. The purpose of a MCCRE is to formally evaluate the units combat readiness in preparation for deployment.

Today, Charlie Company, 524th DSSB, celebrated our Assumption of Responsibility Ceremony for 1st Sgt. Sean McGilvrey. This Assumption of Responsibility ceremony marks the next chapter in the renowned history of willing and able soldiers. Your leadership will continue moving us forward as we face new challenges. Congratulations 1st Sgt. McGilvrey, always forward. U.S. Army Photos By: Sgt. Kenyel Jones

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, put on life preserving units aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 03, 2022. The Marines are preparing for a helicopter raid exercise where BLT 2/5 intends to secure an objective, defend it, and create a forward arming and refueling point. 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. Marines Corps Sgt. Austin Mobley, an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launcher chief assigned to Kilo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, Marine Forces Reserve, prepares to fire a HIMARS launcher while conducting rapid insertion training at Avon Park Air Force Range, Florida, May 10, 2022. Mobley, who has been with Kilo Battery since 2015, works as a Acquisition Analyst supporting the Missile Defense Agency in his day to day job. His civilian job offers training and skills which increase his knowledge and capability within his military occupational specialty and serves as a key example of talent management in the Marine Forces Reserve.

U.S. Marines assigned to the maritime raid force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to clear a compartment on the USAV Calaboza (LCU 2009) during a visit, board, search and seizure training off the coast of Kin, Okinawa, Dec. 7, 2022. VBSS training consists of boarding a vessel, systematically checking all compartments for enemy personnel, weapons or contraband. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a ready and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific.

Army soldier with homemade improvised explosive device on the floor.

U.S. Airmen from Misawa Air Base and Andersen Air Force Base cover a mock chemical weapon during a field training exercise at Draughon Range near Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 21, 2022. The three-day exercise consisted of day and night, hands-on field training, using real combat scenarios and explosive detonations to mimic the effects of live ordnance to provide the most realistic training possible.

Member of Navy SEAL Team with weapons in action.

U.S. Army Spc Parker McClerren with Bull Troop, 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment provides security the troops situational training exercise at the 7th Army Training Command's Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Oct. 18, 2022. 2CR provides V Corps with a lethal and agile force capable of rapid deployment throughout the European theater in order to assure allies, deter adversaries, and when ordered, defend the NATO alliance.

U.S. Marine Corps machine gunners with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, load a Mk-19 Grenade Launcher into a turret attachment on a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle for a machine gun range during exercise Winter Workhorse 23 at the Central Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 6, 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. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, set security as Staff Sgt. Nicholas Rhoades, an infantry platoon sergeant, relays commands during a defense of the amphibious task force live-fire aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 2, 2022. DATF scenarios focus Navy and Marine Corps forces on defending ARG shipping and the drills allowed the ARG-MEU team to improve their proficiency when integrating fires. 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.

Providers assigned to the Special Troops Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division discuss and prepare for convoy on Fort Bragg, NC, March 28, 2022. The Field Training Exercise ensures Paratroopers stand ready to fight, win, and meet the 18 hour deployment standard.

A German soldier with the 6th Battery, 345th Artillery Battalion, tracks a U.S. Air Force A-10C Thunderbolt II with 74th Attack Squadron, 23rd Fighter Group, 23rd Wing, during close-air support training at Townsend Bombing Range, Georgia, Feb. 21, 2024. Joint branch training with NATO allies ensures personnel utilize similar procedures and can operate together. Marine Corps

Key leadership from the Idaho National Guard and several other U.S. states joined partner nations on June 30, 2022 in Morocco to see the capabilities of multinational armies working together simultaneously in a combined arms live-fire mission. During the exercise, Marines called in air strikes simultaneously as Idaho's 1st Battalion of the 148th Field Artillery Regiment fired the M795 high explosive rounds from the M109A6 howitzers as ground support with Oregon, Utah and Wisconsin Army National Guards, a Marine Corps Reserve unit based in California and active-duty Soldiers from Fort Hood, Texas, with preparatory and destructive fires and obscuration using M825 white smoke rounds.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Wiljohn Santos of the 749th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 224th Sustainment Brigade, 40th Infantry Division, California Army National Guard, focuses on his target between rounds in the Marksmanship Advisory Council Region VII National Excellence in Competition Pistol event from 50-yards at Camp San Luis Obispo, California, Sept. 18, 2018. The competition was facilitated by the California Military Department's Office of Competitive Programs.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares his gear during a boat raid debarkation aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 2, 2022. The 31st MEU is operating aboard the 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. Joseph Flowers (left), an intelligence specialist, and Sgt. Andrew Licea (right), a mortar section leader, both with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, load an M224 60 mm mortar system while conducting 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. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 174, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, prepare to fire M240-B and 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.

Recruits with India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Batallion, conduct the rappel tower, November 14, 2022. The rappel tower test recruits fears of heights and builds confidence in their gear. (US Marine Corps Photos by Lance Cpl. Keegan Jones).

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, California (Sept. 2, 2022) - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Deether Edralin, a searching NCO with Combat Logistic Battalion 13, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, sets up engineer tape in preparation for an Evacuation Control Center exercise. A force in readiness, the 13th MEU trains to rapidly respond to crises across all domains. Marines and Sailors of the 13th MEU are embarked aboard the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) conducting integrated training operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

U.S. Army Spc. Zach Torres, a cannoncrew member assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 25th Infantry Division Artillery, 25th Infantry Division, speaks to his counterparts from the 15th Unit Field Artillery Battalion, Tentara Nasional Indonesia, during sling load training at Super Garuda Shield 2022 on Aug. 4, 2022 at Baturaja Training Area, Indonesia. Super Garuda Shield 2022, a part of Operation Pathways and a longstanding annual, bilateral military exercise conducted between the U.S. Military and Indonesian National Armed Forces, reinforces U.S. commitments to our allies and regional partners, joint readiness, and the interoperability to fight and win together.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Tristan DeGonia, a scout sniper with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31 Marine Expeditionary Unit fires on a target out of a SH-60 Sea Hawk during an aerial live fire exercise in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 20, 2022. The scout snipers conducted the live fire to hone their skills and maintain proficiency in any environment. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli ARG 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. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare for a boat launch rehearsal aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the South China Sea, Sept. 20, 2022. 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.

Pfc. Nolan Murray, a nodal network systems operator-maintainer assigned to Eighth Army and a native from Walpole, Massachusetts, throws a simulated grenade at the multiple weapon scenario-based marksmanship event during the 2022 U.S. Army Pacific's Best Warrior Competition at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, June 8, 2022. 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.

Arizona Army National Guard Soldiers, assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 297th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, conduct a situational report during Exportable Combat Training Capability (XCTC) at Camp Roberts, California, July 17, 2022. XCTC is a series of training exercises between an active-duty U.S. Army brigade and an Army National Guard brigade, intended to increase the skills and readiness of National Guard units.

040304-F-2828D-039. Base: Port-Au-Prince Country: Haiti (HTI)

220730-N-LI768-1081MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii (July 30, 2022) Republic of Korea Marines secure their position at Pyramid Rock Beach during an amphibious raid for a multinational littoral operations exercise as part of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The worlds 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 worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Trevon Lewis, a motor transport operator with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, waits with a support pole for the combat operation center during company field exercise 1-23 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 11, 2022. 1st ANGLICO conducted COFEX 1-23 to develop, sustain, and enhance core competencies required to support I Marine Expeditionary Force across the companys Training and Readiness standards and the Warfighting Functions.

111207-N-PC102-050FORT EUSTIS, Va. (Dec. 7, 2011) Sailors aboard Riverine Command Boat 803, assigned to Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 1, man their positions as gunners while being observed by command training team members during patrol and interdiction operations. Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 4 and Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 1 are participating in a Navy Expeditionary Combat Command integrated exercise as part of their pre-deployment certification process.

U.S. Soldiers with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team prepare for combat in a situational training exercise at Camp McGregor, New Mexico, Jan. 24, 2024. They are training at Camp McGregor as they prepare for a deployment to the Horn of Africa.

U.S. Marines assigned to Reconnaissance Company, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, walk across the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) in the Pacific Ocean before departing for a precision raid, Jan. 10, 2024. During the training, Marines used simulated munitions requiring the wear of special protective equipment. The 15th MEU is currently embarked aboard the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group conducting integrated training and routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Christopher Nelson, a mortar section leader with Viper Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), waits to be cleared by a Finnish range control officer as part of a fire mission during a multinational live-fire exercise held at Rovaniemi Training Area, Finland, Aug. 11, 2022. The LFX was part of the Finnish Summer Exercise, where U.S. and Finnish troops had the opportunity to train together to amplify and strengthen the partnership and interoperability between the two nations.

Republic of Korea Marines patrol as part of amphibious operations during KAMANDAG 6 at Naval Education, Training, and Doctrine Command, Zambales, Philippines, Oct. 7, 2022. This combined interoperability event involved members of the U.S. Marine Corps, Philippine Marine Corps, and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. KAMANDAG is an annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades shared experiences.

Texas Military Department Soldiers, Airmen, and State Guardsmen guard the Texas-Mexico border as part of Operation Lonestar. The Texas Military Department is working with other Texas agencies to deter illegal entry and stop the trafficking of illicit substances into the United States.

United States Army ranger in the mountains. Army ranger in the mountains

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Zachary Hicks, a rifleman with Marine Rotational Force Europe 17.1, fires an AT-4 missile launcher while 1st Lt. Stefan Tuel observes at a live-fire range during Exercise Platinum Eagle 17.2, at Babadag Training Area, Romania, May 3, 2017. Platinum Eagle allowed Marines to improve and maintain proficiency with various weapons systems while working with NATO Allies and partner nations. A rotational U.S. presence in the Black Sea region significantly increases the level of cooperation between militaries in training activities and exercises through which they develop their capabilities and interoperability.

Explosive ordinance disposal technicians and Soldiers with 71st Ordnance Group, as well as Navy and Air Force EOD personnel, participated in an electronic countermeasures (ECM) training event to provide in depth instruction on the science behind the systems as well as instill confidence with their equipment, Fort Carson, Colorado, June 2, 2022.

Trinity Marines fire the BGM-71 missile during exercise Lava Viper, one of the staples of their pre-deployment training, at Range 20 aboard Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Oct. 24, 2015. Lava Viper provides the Hawaii-based Marines with an opportunity to conduct various movements, live-fire and tactical training.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, stands by for orders 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. Marines assigned to Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, prepare to conduct Range 800 during a battalion field exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 20, 2022. Range 800 improved Alpha Companys efficiency in independent platoon operations and basic fire support team skills during the larger FEX, intended to increase the battalions combat readiness.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Byron De La Cruz, a machine gunner with 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, progresses to an objective before an urban assault at Saylor Creek Range in Grasmere, Idaho during Exercise Garnet Rattler April 22, 2022. Garnet Rattler is a joint training event between Marines, Soldiers and Airmen to train and qualify Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) to be more efficient and lethal in a realistic training environment.

Joint Terminal Attack Controllers from the 124th Air Support Operations Squadron prepare to mount a US Army CH-47 Chinook helicopter during Operation Mountain Fury, the squadrons official annual training exercise being held this year in the Idaho Sawtooth National Forest, July 13.

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.

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