Soldiers in Training Exercises

Active duty soldiers engaged in training exercises, focusing on weapon handling, medical skills, and tactical operations in various environments.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Travis Hunt, right, 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.

Soldiers from Charlie Company, 2-116th Combined Arms Battalion, practiced weapons handling, fast loading, and engagement skills during the first week of annual training.The 2022 annual training exercises for the Idaho Army National Guard are the last mass field exercises for the 2-116th Combined Arms Battalion, 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team before deploying in support of Operation Spartan Shield.

U.S. Army Sgt. Spencer Fayles, a combat medic with the 144th Area Support Medical Company, representing the Utah National Guard in the All Guard National Best Warrior Competition, practices skills in equipment waterproofing during a mystery event in Milan, Tennessee, July 26, 2022. Fourteen of the nations best National Guard junior enlisted Soldiers and noncommissioned officers participate in an intensive, six-day competition throughout Tennessee to determine who will be named the Army National Guard's best-of-the-best.

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 1st Squadron, 102nd Cavalry Regiment, 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New Jersey Army National Guard prepare live mortar ammunition rounds on a range during a Mortar live fire training exercise as part of the eXportable Combat Training Capability (XCTC) exercise on July 24, 2022 at Ft. Drum, N.Y. More than 2,500 Soldiers are participating in the training event, which enables brigade combat teams to achieve the trained platoon readiness necessary to deploy, fight, and win.

120131-N-ZX920-555NORFOLK (Jan. 31, 2012) Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) participate in a mass casualty exercise as part of Bold Alligator 2012. Exercise Bold Alligator 2012, the largest amphibious exercise in the past 10 years, represents the Navy and Marine Corps' revitalization of the full range of amphibious operations. The exercise focuses on today's fight with today's forces, while showcasing the advantages of seabasing. #BA12

Soldiers with 1st Platoon, B Dog” Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), conduct a platoon live fire on a range at Fort Knox, KY, April 27, 2022.The purpose of this training is to execute a decentralized division training density from dispersed field environments in order to enhance readiness, while stressing communications and sustainment systems across extended distances.

British Army Officer Cadets with The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst conduct a simulated assault during training at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Nov. 15, 2022. The simulation is one of the many training challenges that lie between an Officer Cadet and their commissioning as an Army officer from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

During annual training, Infantry Soldiers of the Minnesota National Guards 1st Combined Arms Battalion - 194th Armor are air inserted into a narrow landing zone on Camp Ripley August 19, 2022 by CH-47 Chinook aircrews of Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion - 126th Aviation Regiment out of the Maryland National Guard Soldiers.

Army National Guard officer candidates with the 205th Regimental Training Institute Officer Candidate School Phase III coordinate their offensive strategy during movement to contact training lanes on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., July 18, 2022. Candidates learn to plan and execute time-sensitive operations in a demanding environment, and afterwards receive feedback from experienced instructors.

Members of the Idaho Army National Guards Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st of the 148th Field Artillery Regiment conducted air medical evacuation and casualty treatment, along with members of Detachment 1, Company Golf, 1st of the 168th General Support Aviation Battalion at the Orchard Combat Training Center, May 17.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Travis Hunt, right, 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.

Lithuanian Lt. Col. Darius Žūkas, commander of the Lithuanian Armed Forces Algirdas Battalion, delivers a speech during the closing ceremony of Exercise Iron Wolf 22 at Pabradė Training Area, Lithuania, Oct. 28, 2022. Lithuania proudly works alongside 1st Infantry Division, NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, prepare a M119A3 Howitzer for a live fire exercise during an airborne operation at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, July 7, 2022.

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 66th Military Intelligence Brigade make their way towards a UH-60 Blackhawk during a medical lane at the U.S. Army Europe and Africa Best Squad Competition in Grafenwoehr, Germany, on August 10, 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. Soldiers with 30th Medical Brigade, 21st Theater Sustainment Command participate in Best Squad Competition at Local Training Area Oberdachstetten, Ansbach, Germany, Army

U.S. Air Force Maj. Stephen Parsons (left), an air mobility liaison officer, assigned to Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy and U.S. Air Force Maj. Luke Stinson, an air mobility liaison officer assigned to the 621st Mobility Support Operations Squadron, Lucius D. Clay Kaserne, Wiesbaden, Germany, use communication equipment during exercise Swift Response, May 10, 2022, near a drop zone on a frozen lake in Bardu, Norway. Swift Response is an annual USAREUR-AF led multinational training exercise taking place throughout Eastern Europe, including the Arctic, Baltic Sea, and the Balkan Peninsula regions and is designed to enhance readiness and airborne interoperability with allies and partners.

A disciplined and specialized military unit, donned in camouflage, strategically patrolling and maintaining control in a high-stakes environment, showcasing their precision, unity, and readiness for special operations A disciplined and specialized military unit, donned in camouflage, strategically patrolling and maintaining control in a high-stakes environment, showcasing their precision, unity, and readiness for special operations. ,model released, Symbolfoto Copyright: xZoonar.com/BENISxARAPOVICx 21280426 ,model released, Symbolfoto ,property released

Today the 10th Mountain Division honored the Soldiers from Task Force 2-14 by participating in the Mogadishu Mile. The original mile was a route taken by Soldiers from a Blackhawk helicopter crash site to a rally point held by the 10th MTN DIV on National Street during the Battle of Mogadishu on October 4, 1993.

U.S. Air Force security forces trainees put on their appropriate protective equipment before clearing buildings during the field operations block of training at 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.

Army advisors assigned to 1st Security Force Assistance Brigade participate in a validation exercise, Jan. 29, at Ft. Benning, Ga. The validation exercise certifies the advisors ability to support foreign military partners in conflict. U.S. Army photo by Maj. Jason Elmore.

Soldier fighters standing together with guns. Group portrait of US army elite members, private military company servicemen, anti terrorist squad Soldier fighters standing together with guns. Group portrait of US army elite members, private military company servicemen, anti terrorist squad. ,model released, Symbolfoto Copyright: xZoonar.com/BENISxARAPOVICx 21245180 ,model released, Symbolfoto ,property released

British Army Officer Cadets with The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst areevaluated on their leadership skills during a simulated assault atGrafenwoehr Training Area, Grafenwoehr, Germany, July 12, 2022. The simulation was part of exercise Dynamic Victory, one of the many trainingchallenges that lie between an Officer Cadet and their commissioning as anArmy officer from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

U.S. Army Sgt. George Babbage, left, and Spc. Liam Welch, right, assigned to Viper Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), respond to enemy contact during a live fire exercise at Rovaniemi, Finland, Aug. 10, 2022. The 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) trained in Finland to strengthen relations and build interoperability between the two partner nations.

Engineers from 84th Engineer Battalion, 130th Engineer Brigade erected partially notional obstacles as defense against a possible counter attack by opposing forces during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 23 (JPMRC-23) at Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA) on Big Island, Hawaii Nov. 3, 2022. All obstacles are partially notional on PTA due to restrictions on digging and cutting off roadways.

Senior Airman Caleb Roland, a member of the 4th Combat Camera Squadron conducts close-quarter battle (CQB) training July 12, 2022, at the Naval Weapons Station, Joint Base Base Charleston, SC. During this event airmen conducted refresher training on effective room-clearing techniques, designed to ensure team members are capable of integrating with combat teams while providing combat camera capabilities.4th Combat Camera Squadron's mission is to provide senior Department of Defense and joint leaders with a directed imagery capability in support of strategic, operational and planning requirements during wartime operations, worldwide crises, contingencies, joint exercises and humanitarian operations.Photos by Technical Sgt. Christopher S Muncy

Members of the Lithuanian Special Operations Forces, Latvian Special Operations Forces, and U.S. Air Force Combat Controllers assigned to the 352d Special Operations Wing control a landing aircraft during special operations air-land integration training near Daugavpils, Latvia, June 28, 2023. Operational readiness is paramount to partnerships, crisis response, deterrence and support to Allies and partners. Todays global environment requires the ability to rapidly deploy and sustain operations from great distances. Through collaborative efforts with our Allies and Partners, the U.S. works to provide our forces with the capabilities they need to combat current and future threats. (Capt. Kaitlyn Danner)

Airmen with the 4th Combat Camera Squadron conduct close-quarter battle (CQB) training July 12, 2022, at the Naval Weapons Station, Joint Base Base Charleston, SC. During this event airmen conducted refresher training on effective room-clearing techniques, designed to ensure team members are capable of integrating with combat teams while providing combat camera capabilities.4th Combat Camera Squadron's mission is to provide senior Department of Defense and joint leaders with a directed imagery capability in support of strategic, operational and planning requirements during wartime operations, worldwide crises, contingencies, joint exercises and humanitarian operations.Photos by Technical Sgt. Christopher S Muncy

Paratroopers from 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment conduct a training patrol alongside British paratroopers of 2PARA, 16 Air Assault Brigade on November 28, 2018 in Kenya, Africa. The training scenario was part of Operation Askari Storm, a multinational training exercise occurring in Kenya, Africa between U.S., British and other partner-nation forces. The training focuses on increasing the readiness and interoperability of the participating forces while placing them in tough, realistic scenarios against simulated near-peer adversaries.

Pennsylvania Air National Guardsmen with the 171st Air Refueling Wings Security Forces Squadron make their way through brush while on a reconnaissance patrol during a large-scale readiness exercise at the base in Pittsburgh, March 10, 2023. The multi-day large-scale readiness exercise involved Guardsmen from multiple sections on base working together to build skills needed to maintain readiness.

BABADAG TRAINING AREA, Romania-- An Airman assigned to the U.K. 140th Expeditionary Air Wing conducts area security during personnel recovery training with 3-227 AHB, July 12, 2022.Regular interoperability training with NATO partners and allies builds trust and readiness, increasing the capacity for deterrence and defense.

U.S. Army Col. John B. Gilliam, commander of 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team joins conducts pass and review with the outgoing commander U.S. Army Lt. Col. Derek Drouin and U.S. Army Lt. Col. Levi Thompson, the new commander of 6-9 Cavalry Regiment at a ceremony in Poland, Sept. 12, 2022. The change of command ceremony is a tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility from the outgoing commander to the incoming commander.

U.S. Army First Sgt. Joseph Keienburg, assigned to the 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, leads paratroopers assaulting an objective during a combined arms live fire exercise on a maneuver range at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Sept. 22, 2022. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army's Contingency Response Force in Europe, providing rapidly deployable forces to the United States European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. Forward deployed across Italy and Germany, the brigade routinely trains alongside NATO allies and partners to build partnerships and strengthen the alliance.

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), and the Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington, participate in the MDW Best Squad Competition at Fort A.P. Hill, Va. and Fort McNair, Washington, D.C., July 31 to Aug. 5, 2022. Soldiers were tested on patrol lanes, weapons lanes, medical lanes, and a board over the course of the five-day competition.

U.S. Army Sgt. George Babbage and his team member, Spc. Liam Welch, assigned to Viper Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), take tactical positions during a live fire exercise at Rovaniemi, Finland, Aug. 10, 2022. The 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) trained in Finland to strengthen relations and build interoperability between the two partner nations.

U.S. Air Force Special Tactics operators assigned to the 24th Special Operations Wing discuss mission planning during Emerald Warrior 22.1 at Eglin Range, Florida, May 02, 2022. Emerald Warrior provides annual, realistic pre-deployment training encompassing multiple joint operating areas. The exercise prepares special operations forces conventional force enablers, partner nations and interagency elements, to integrate and execute full-spectrum special operations in any environment climate, sharpening U.S. forces abilities to operate around the globe.

Medics from Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 181st Infantry Regiment, 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team prepare to transport a Soldier role-playing an enemy prisoner of war during the eXportable Combat Training Capability (XCTC) exercise at Fort Drum, N.Y. on July 19, 2022.More than 2,500 Soldiers are participating in the training event, which enables brigade combat teams to achieve the trained platoon readiness necessary to deploy, fight, and win. The Soldiers from the 181st are part of the Massachusetts Army National Guard and the rest of the 44th Infantry Brigade is composed of units from New Jersey.

U.S. Army Soldiers with 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division (3/4 ABCT) execute a combined arms rehearsal (CAR) as a part of the brigade command post exercise, Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, April 25, 2022. The CAR is an essential pre-mission rehearsal that allows brigade leadership and key staff to walk through operations to synchronize and refine courses of action. The 3/4th ABCT is among other units assigned to V Corps, America's forward-deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces in the European theater.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. William Haglan, and Sgt. Cameron Wilkins advance to their next firing lane during the European Best Sniper Team Competition at the Hohenfels Training Area, Germany, Aug. 7, 2022. The annual European Best Sniper Team Competition is a U.S. mental agility while developing relationships and sharing skills between sniper teams across Europe.

U.S. Marines assigned to Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/6, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), and Swedish soldiers, assigned to Fifth Company, South Scania Regiment P7, assault a target building during a raid exercise near Kristianstad, Sweden, Aug. 28, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and 22nd MEU, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Anthony Warner, a Pathfinder squad leader assigned to Viper Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), discusses exit procedures unique to the CH-47 Chinook with Norwegian Army 1st Lt. Andreas Voith, a platoon leader assigned to 2nd Armored Squadron, 1st Armored Battalion, at Sodankyla, Finland, July 24, 2022. U.S. Soldiers conducted the training alongside Finnish and Norwegian soldiers in preparation for Exercise Ryske 2022, a combined joint training exercise that aims to improve the tactics, techniques, and procedures of its participants and strengthen relations between partner nations.

Members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, demonstrate F-2 guided training to U.S. Marines with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, June 6, 2022, on Camp Yufuin, Japan. Marines with 5th ANGLICO and members of the JGSDF ARDB gave Bilateral Fires Support Coordination Center instructions as part of a subject matter expert exchange between the two groups June 6-8. 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.

A competitor assigned to the 44th Medical Brigade performs some Tactical Field Care tasks during the Expert Field Medic Badge competition at Fort Bragg, N.C., Oct 25, 2022. More than 100 Soldiers are currently testing on a variety of medical skills in an effort to earn the coveted EFMB. The EFMB is a United States Army decoration first created on June 18, 1965. This badge is the non-combat equivalent of the Combat Medical Badge and consists of a Physical Fitness Assessment , Written Test, Day and Night Land Navigation, Three Combat Testing Lanes, and a 12 Mile Foot March. The EFMB is awarded to soldiers who demonstrate the highest standard of qualification during a weeklong evaluation of medical and warrior tasks.

Soldiers standing together on muddy terrain.

British Army Soldiers with 255 (Somerset Yeomanry) Battery, Royal Artillery, discuss the target area during a live-fire, close-air support exercise at Barry M. Goldwater Range, Gila Bend, Arizona, July 25, 2022. 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marines Expeditionary Force Information Group trains with 255 Battery to enhance proficiency in CAS and expand digital communications capabilities.

U.S. Air Force tactical air control party specialists assigned to Detachment 1, 3rd Air Support Operations Squadron, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, conduct mountaineering training at Sunshine Ridge, Alaska, July 22, 2022. The 3rd ASOS special warfare Airmen utilize Alaskas varied and austere training locations to prepare for conditions they may face on deployment.

Paratroopers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division (Airborne) took part in a Norwegian Foot March during Exercise Swift Response 2022, May 15, 2022, Lake Altevatnet, Norway.The Norwegian Foot March is an 18.6 mile foot march completed while carrying a 25 pound rucksack. The Paratroopershad to get to the finish line in 4 hours. For those who completed the event they earned the Norwegian Foot March pin.Exercise Swift Response 2022 is an annual multinational training exercise, which takes place in Eastern Europe, the Arctic High North, Baltic and Balkans from May 2-20. The purpose of the exercise is 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 partnership.

British soldier with the reflection of UK flag in glasses looking forward.

An Airman from the 423d Security Forces Squadron adjusts his ear protection during a proficiency course at RAF Molesworth, England, Aug. 19, 2022. During the course instructors from the 820th Base Defense Group and 435th Contingency Response Group provided oversight and guidance to help critique and advance the combat arms skills of the defenders from the 423d SFS.

U.S. Army Sfc. Melendez, a fire support specialist, assigned to the Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division, speaks to his soldiers about the upcoming call for fire exercise in Grafenwöhr, Germany, Nov. 21, 2022. The Combat Aviation Brigade participated in a live call for fire exercise to increase the lethality and capability of our fire support teams.

U.S. Army Infantrymen assigned to the East Africa Response Force (EARF) in support of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), expend mortar rounds during a mortar range training, Djibouti, May 31, 2022. The EARF serves as part of U.S. Africa Commands crisis response capability, and is tasked with responding to emergency situations at U.S. Embassies in the East African region or in countries around the CJTF-HOA area of interest.

A Hungarian joint terminal attack controller observes U.S. Air Force HH-60G Pave Hawks, assigned to the 56th Rescue Generation Squadron, take off during exercise Jolly Vihar near Pápa Air Base, Hungary, July 15, 2022. Jolly Vihar is a bilateral training exercise aimed to enhance U.S. and Hungarian forces ability to conduct integrated combat search and rescue scenarios and maintenance operations and marks the first time U.S. HH-60Gs have operated out of Pápa AB and incorporated bilateral ground and air operations.

U.S. Army Soldiers with 3rd Battalion, 67th Armored Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, demonstrate U.S. Army equipment to Lithuanian Speaker of Parliament Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen during a tour of Camp Herkus, Lithuania, Jan. 4, 2024. The 3rd Infantry Divisions mission in Europe is to engage in multinational training and exercises across the continent, working alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, Americas forward deployed corps in Europe.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to Ares Company, 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade, 4th Infantry Division (3-4 ABCT) conducts vehicle maintenance on an M88A2 Hercules recovery vehicle 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.

NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Poland Soldiers assigned to Chaos Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division (3-1 ABCT), alongside the Polish Armed Forces 5th Mazovian Brigade of Territorial Defense rehearse shooting techniques from the kneeling position during an urban operations training in Komorowo, Poland, Oct. 26, 2022. The 3-1 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.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to Palehorse Troop, 4th Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment learn how to operate an End User Device during Sergeants Time Training at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Oct. 13, 2022. The end user device is a component of the Integrated Tactical Network that provides situational awareness and enables fast decision-making during tactical operations.

Tactical Response Force members from the 341st Missile Security Operations Squadron pose for a photo during the Police Week 2022 static display May 18, 2022, at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont. TRF members presented weapons and equipment used to defend the missile field in case of an emergency situation and answered questions from the public on the scope of their law enforcement mission.

A squad of soldiers from the 730th Area Support Medical Company, South Dakota Army National Guard, prepare range cards during the 152nd Combat Sustainment Support Battalions first annual Best Squad Competition at Dakota Nature Park in Brookings, S.D., Sept. 11, 2022. The competition challenged seven squads of soldiers from each of the 152nd's associated units mentally, physically and technically using multiple tasks focused on core-level soldier skills.

A service member of the British 4th Armoured Brigade conducts a brief prior to conducting Military Operations on Urban Terrain (MOUT) at the MOUT town on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 17, 2022. MCB Camp Lejeune hosted the Royal Bermuda Regiment during Exercise Island Warrior. The exercise strengthened the partnership between the two forces and the training and resources provided by the base enhanced the warfighting skills and readiness of the Royal Bermuda Regiment.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Matthew Glinski, a tactical air control party specialist assigned to Detachment 1, 3rd Air support Operations Squadron, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, stands atop the cliff summit during mountaineering training at Sunshine Ridge, Alaska, July 22, 2022. 3rd ASOS Airmen utilize Alaskas varied and austere training locations to prepare for conditions that may be faced on deployment.

British army Sgt. Thomas Sharp, assigned to the 1st Armoured Medical Regiment, Royal Army Medical Corps, listens to a brief before commencing a multinational ambulance exchange point training during Defender 22 at Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, May 26, 2022. Defender Europe 22 is a series of U.S. Army Europe and Africa multinational training exercises in Eastern Europe. The exercise demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africas ability to conduct large-scale ground combat operations across multiple theaters in support of NATO.

Soldiers assigned to 16th Combat Aviation Brigade recover equipment from the Port of Tacoma, Wash., and perform preventative maintenance checks and services prior to movement back to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., on October 5, 2022.

A disciplined and specialized military unit, donned in camouflage, strategically patrolling and maintaining control in a high-stakes environment, showcasing their precision, unity, and readiness for special operations A disciplined and specialized military unit, donned in camouflage, strategically patrolling and maintaining control in a high-stakes environment, showcasing their precision, unity, and readiness for special operations. ,model released, Symbolfoto Copyright: xZoonar.com/BENISxARAPOVICx 21280262 ,model released, Symbolfoto ,property released

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Steven Hawkins, a paratrooper assigned to the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division (Arctic Angels) recovers his parachute after airborne operations at Malemute Drop Zone, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, August 24, 2022. The Arctic Angels stay proficient at their primary function of being a Joint Forcible Entry unit, able to respond and project power across the Pacific within 18 hours.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment (1/2CR) familiarize themselves with a German Army anti tank weapon during a Schuetzenschnur (German weapons proficiency test) event with the German partner unit of 1/2CR, the Panzergrenadierbataillon 112, at Regen, Germany, Sept. 29, 2022. 1/2CR provided an opportunity for exemplary Soldiers to earn a foreign award and to build camaraderie with German Army counterparts in order to strengthen NATO and multinational partnerships.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jordan White, an expeditionary communications team lead, walks back to gather more supplies for a Mission Sustainment Team field exercise at Austere Field #6, Florida, Sept. 12, 2022. All members of the MST apply specialized skills to work most efficiently as a team.

Cadets receive instructions before their next event during Sandhurst 2022, April 29, 2022, at the U.S. Military Academy, West Point, N.Y.The annual Sandhurst Military Skills Competition takes place at the U.S. Military Academy (USMA) on April 29 and 30. Sandhurst is a two-day competition featuring teams from West Point, Army ROTC units across the U.S., all service academies, and 16 international teams from across the globe.

Nijkerk; 12APR2002 © Cavdkm / Rob Gieling Zestien Trainees, engaged in the final exercise Enemy Quest from the practical training to officer of Marines (Potom).

A Polish military class cadet looks through the sight of a displayed U.S. Army M24 sniper weapon system assigned to 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at the 5th Annual Ogolnopolskie Mistrzostwa Klas Mundurowych Award ceremony, Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, June 2, 2022. The 3/4th ABCT 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.

U.S Army paratroopers assigned to the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division (Arctic Angels) observe airborne operations at Malemute Drop Zone, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, August 24, 2022. The Arctic Angels stay proficient at their primary function of being a Joint Forcible Entry unit, able to respond and project power across the Pacific within 18 hours.

U.S. Army Soldiers conduct a casualty movement lane during the International Sniper Competition 2022, April 5, 2022, on Fort Benning, GA. Organized by the U.S. Army Sniper School, the competition drew 30 three-man teams from both U.S. and foreign militaries, including competitors from the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Israel. This was the first year that the competition tested three-man teams instead of the usual two-man teams.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Christian Martin, 435th Contingency Response Support Squadron survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist, teaches 435th Contingency Response Group Airmen knot tying skills during exercise Agile Wolf 22 at Koszalin, Poland, Sept. 13, 2022. Exercise Agile Wolf puts Airmen into a combat employment environment where they are required to utilize problem-solving techniques and put their knowledge to the test, which enables them to hone their skills and increase readiness for real-world events when they arise.

Soldiers with 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, conduct a combined arms live fire exercise (CALFEX) on Fort Drum, N.Y., Aug. 3-5, 2022. The exercise consisted of a footmarch, breaching obstacles, and a clearing operation with supporting fire from 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th MTN DIV, and 1st Battalion, 10th Combat Aviation Brigade, 10th MTN DIV.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Sean M. Castilla, commander of Battlegroup Poland and the commander of the 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division (3-1 ABCT), addresses the outgoing commander team of the Romanian Transylvanian Gepards, during the Romanian Army contingent Hand Over, Take Over ceremony in Bemowo Piskie, Poland, Oct. 18, 2022. The 3-1 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.

Cadet Jesus Hernandez, University of Central Florida, throws a grenade at a target using the alternate prone throwing position during the Hand Grenade Assault Course on April 29 at the Sandhurst Military Skills Competition. Day one at Sandhurst saw 48 teams pushing their limits through 12 events held across the West Point grounds and rucking a total of 30 miles. 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 best military program in the world. | Photo by Sarah Windmueller, U.S. Army Cadet Command Public Affairs

U.S. Soldiers assigned to 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment maneuver to an objective during a squad live fire iteration at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Oct. 15, 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.

XII Raid Cataluña 2018, Barbastro, Huesca, Spain.

031015-M-9382M-021. US Marine Corps (USMC) Corporal (CPL) McBride, left and USMC Lance Corporal (LCPL) Terrelle, with the 10th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, are busy ram a round into the tube of an M198 Towed Howitzer, during Exercise ROLLING THUNDER 2003, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

LEEUWARDEN, THE NETHERLANDS - JUNE 9, 2016; Military guard walking at the runway during the Royal Netherlands Air Force Days.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jose Molestina, 204th Airlift Squadron loadmaster, marshals U.S. Marines driving Joint Light Tactical Vehicles onto an U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, during the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 23-01, Oct. 31, 2022. Bilateral and multilateral exercises, such as JPMRC 23-01, strengthen relationships and enhance interoperability with allies and partners through shared experiences and realistic training.

A U.S. Army paratrooper assigned to 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment provides medical care during a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) attack at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany as part of Exercise Saber Junction 22, Sept. 12, 2022.Saber Junction 22 is a multinational rotational exercise designed to assess the readiness of the U.S. Army's 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. Army's Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels training areas from August 29 to September 20, 2022. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army's Contingency Response Force in Europe, providing rapidly deployable forces to the United States European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. Forward deployed across Italy and Germany, the brigade routinely trains alongside

U.S. Army Sgt. Hudson Cogswell, Assault Breacher Vehicle (ABV) commander assigned to Alpha Company, 588th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, verifies an inert mine clearing line charges rope after a demolition range as part of Defender 22 at Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, May 12, 2022. Defender Europe 22 is a series of U.S. Army Europe and Africa multinational training exercises taking place in Eastern Europe. The exercise demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africas ability to conduct large scale ground combat operations across multiple theaters in support of NATO.

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 35th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) water and fuel system, set up the connection for a new water pipe during the annual Prime Base Engineer Emergency Force training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, June 14, 2022. The 35th CES Water and Fuels Systems Maintenance is responsible for the upkeep of Misawas water, sewer, and gas lines as well as all facilities with water and fuel infrastructure.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Kevin Hackman, a Joint Terminal Attack Controller, with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 (CLB-6), Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, writes down the distance to his mortar fire location during a Finnish mortar range in Syndalen, Finland Nov. 1 2022. Task Force Red Cloud, headquartered by elements of CLB-6, is deployed to Finland in support of Exercises SYD 2022 and Freezing Winds 2022 to enhance U.S. and Finnish select interdependence in the maritime domain; solidify bilateral maritime maneuver within the Finnish littoral environment; and foster strong relationships between U.S. Marine Corps and Finnish Defense Force sustainment units. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl Jackson Kirkiewicz)

Markus Rauchenberger, right, assigned to Training Support Activity Europe, documents U.S Soldiers with C Battery, Field Artillery Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment during a Table XV Battery Certification live fire exercise at the 7th Army Training Command's Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Nov. 7, 2022. 2nd Cavalry Regiment, assigned to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe, works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces capable of rapid deployment throughout the European theater to defend the NATO alliance.

Sgt. Noelia Moreira, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) plots down her points for a daytime land navigation course during the ESB (Expert Soldier Badge) training in Asiago, Italy, Oct. 31, 2022.The ESB is a United States Army special skills badge that is awarded to U.S. military personnel and North Atlantic Treaty Organization military personnel who successfully complete a set of qualification tests, including both written and performance portions.

041214-M-2353F-007. Base: Camp Fallujah State: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

Students practice making knots to prepare for harness training during the International Special Training Centers Urban Sniper Course, May 4, 2022, in Hohenfels Germany. Seven countries participated in the event including Belgium, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, and Romania. The course is designed to enhance sniper skills in urban environments through precision fire, engaging targets through glass, urban tactical movement, day and night marksmanship, planning, and stalking in urban terrain.

U.S. Army Capt. Andrew D. Kennedy General Dentist with Dental Activity Bavaria, overcome an obstacle during the Medical Readiness Command-Europe, Best Medic Competition Tactical Combat Casualty Care portion at Baumholder, Germany, Dec. 1, 2022. The competition served to test the Soldiers knowledge and warfighting capabilities through a variety of test like weapon qualifications, land navigation, Tactical Combat Casualty Care assessment and more. The winners will compete at the Army level BMC which will be held at Fort Polk, ID in January 2023.

Soldiers assigned to 46th Aviation Support Battalion, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, laugh while preparing a fighting position at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. on Jan. 26, 2022. The unit was training collective tasks aimed at improving survivability during combat operations. (U.S. Army Photo by Capt. Kyle Abraham, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade)

U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Phillip Cole, Operations Sergeant Major of 41st Field Artillery Brigade, salutes in front of the formation during an assumption of responsibility ceremony at Tower Barracks, Grafenwoehr, Germany, Jan. 24, 2024. Command Sgt. Maj. Caleb Webster was welcomed as the new Senior Enlisted Advisor of 41st FAB. The 41st FAB is the only European based Fires brigade. The "Rail Gunners!" Brigade provides strategic, operational, and tactical-level fires and support throughout the U.S. European Command.

A Soldier completes the 12-mile ruck march event Tuesday during the Best Warrior Competition hosted by the 80th Training Command this week at Ft. Lee, Va. Soldiers from multiple divisions have gathered here to complete the 2023 Best Warrior Competition and compete for the German Army Fitness Proficiency Badge.

Col. Stephen Capehart, commander of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division and Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Chaney the senior enlisted advisor assigned to 3/4th ABCT uncase the 3/4th ABCT colors during a transfere of authority ceremony between the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division and 3/4th ABCT, Zagan, Poland, June 23, 2022. The 3/4th ABCT 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.

A French soldier with the 35th Parachute Artillery Regiment observes U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to A Battery, 4th Battalion, 319th Field Artillery Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, plot target points during an artillery training exercise at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, July 7, 2022.

Paratroopers assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division march to Sainte-Mère-Église following the Airborne Memorial Ceremony in Normandy, France, June 6, 2022. Paratroopers come to Normandy to celebrate the triumph and victory of the 82nd Airborne Division in liberating Normandy from Nazi rule.

A soldier with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force rides a Type 96 Wheeled Armored Personnel Carrier, serving as an improvised ambulance, during a mass casualty drill during exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Kamifurano Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 6, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

Crow Valley, Philippines (Oct. 3, 2022) Senior Chief Utilitiesman Darryn Nelson and Seabees with Naval Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4, catch a ride with Pilipino Naval Engineering officers during Exercise Kamandag. NMCB-4 is forward deployed throughout the Indo-Pacific region and United States territories to support and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. As the stand in, crisis response, naval engineering force, NMCB-4 maintains a ready posture to deliver in-theater expeditionary logistics via expeditionary shore infrastructure, forward damage repair, and mobile construction. (U.S Navy Photo by Construction Electrician 3rd Class Reese Teafatiller /Released)

The Commanding General of U.S. Army Pacific, Gen. Charles A. Flynn, speaks to reporters during the U.S. Army Pacific and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force press conference at Camp Amami, Kagoshima, Japan, Sept. 8. Gen. Flynn and the Gen. Yoshihide Yoshida, the JGSDF chief of staff, discussed the U.S.-Japan alliance, the partnership and interoperability between the JGSDF and the U.S. Army, and regional security.

Spc. Aaron Fiscelli of Saint Claire, Michigan, a Health Care Specialist with the Michigan National Guards 1171st Medical Company Area Support Company strides through the 12-mile ruck on May 15, 2022 during the Region IV Best Warrior Competition. 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 Cadet from the Royal Royal Danish Military Academy waits for the next event during Sandhurst 2022, April 29, 2022, at the U.S. Military Academy, West Point, N.Y.The annual Sandhurst Military Skills Competition takes place at the U.S. Military Academy (USMA) on April 29 and 30. Sandhurst is a two-day competition featuring teams from West Point, Army ROTC units across the U.S., all service academies, and 16 international teams from across the globe.

U.S. Army Sgt. Cristian Monreal, a desk sergeant assigned to the Provost Marshall Office, Directorate of Emergency Services, USAG Benelux suggests improvements during an Action Report following an Active Shooter Response training, on Chièvres Air Base, Belgium, Nov. 30, 2022. AARs are the last but not least part of any training, during which feedback is shared and annotated, in order to improve future trainings and real life missions.

U.S. Army Sgt. Quentin A. Mendez, left, and Spc. Isaiah J. Rood, right, both combat medics assigned to Ares Company, 1st Battalion, 66th Armored Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade, 4th Infantry Division (3-4 ABCT) simulate care on a casualty during Exercise Iron Wolf 22 at Pabradė Training Area, Lithuania, Oct. 23, 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.

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