Marine Corps Awards and Recognition

Marine Corps personnel receiving awards and medals in formal settings, focusing on leadership, teamwork, and military achievements, with a professional atmosphere.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. George Markert, chief of staff for 2nd Marine Logistics Group, and Master Sgt. Ronald Himsworth, an explosive ordnance disposal specialist (EOD), with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, present two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals to the innovation challenge winners at the II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) Innovation Campus during its grand opening on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 1, 2022. The II MEF Innovation Campus will be used to develop planning, cross-functional team building, creative problem-solving techniques, agile methodologies, idea generation frameworks, and 365/24/7 collaboration on a global scale in physical and virtual environments to maximize idea sharing, cross-domain collaboration, communication, and connectivity. (U.S. Marine Corps video created by Lance Cpl. Jessica J. Mazzamuto)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Bryan Alfaro, sergeant major, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, speaks with Marines after an awards ceremony at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Jan. 19, 2024. This ceremony was held to award Cpl. Jarret Determan, military working dog handler, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), MCAS Beaufort, and Lance Cpl. Isabella Jones, military working dog handler, H&HS, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Determan and Jones provided immediate medical attention to a fellow patron due to an accidental gunshot wound.

U.S. Marines with 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division and Col. Robert Hallett, right, the assistant division commander of 2d Marine Division, inspect tools used to maintain the light armored vehicle (LAVs) on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 26, 2024. The inspection of the LAVs is to ensure all components are properly functioning for future operations. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Col. George Markert, chief of staff with 2nd Marine Logistics Group, presents a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal to one of the innovation challenge winners Lance Cpl. Ryan Andrews, an automotive maintenance technician with 2nd Maintenance Battalion, at the II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) Innovation Campus during its grand opening on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 1, 2022. The II MEF Innovation Campus is used to develop planning, cross-functional team building, creative problem-solving techniques, agile methodologies, idea generation frameworks, and 365/24/7 collaboration on a global scale in physical and virtual environments to maximize idea sharing, cross-domain collaboration, communication, and connectivity. (U.S. Marine Corps video created by Lance Cpl. Jessica J. Mazzamuto)

U.S. Marine Corps Col. George Markert, chief of staff for 2nd Marine Logistics Group, and Master Sgt. Ronald Himsworth, an explosive ordnance disposal specialist (EOD), with 8th Engineer Support Battalion, present two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals to the innovation challenge winners at the II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) Innovation Campus during its grand opening on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 1, 2022. The II MEF Innovation Campus will be used to develop planning, cross-functional team building, creative problem-solving techniques, agile methodologies, idea generation frameworks, and 365/24/7 collaboration on a global scale in physical and virtual environments to maximize idea sharing, cross-domain collaboration, communication, and connectivity. (U.S. Marine Corps video created by Lance Cpl. Jessica J. Mazzamuto)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Freddie Martinez, the commanding officer for 3rd Maintenance Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Group (Experimental) gives his remarks during an activation ceremony, Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 23, 2022. The ceremony officially redesignated Materiel Readiness Company-North to Regional Maintenance Operations Company, improving 3rd SGXs ability to provide efficient and effective maintenance, in line with Marine Corps Force Design 2030. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Forces comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Gregg Olson, director, Marine Corps Staff, is greeted by Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort leadership during a tour at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Jan. 10, 2024. After arriving, Olson and his spouse, Mrs. Dawn Olson, the F-35 simulator, Laurel Bay Military Housing, and other areas around the base. Marines were given the opportunity to dine and speak with Olson.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Eric Austin, the commanding general of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, commends Sgt. Elmon Walters Jr., a data systems administrator with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, for his superior work throughout the patrol aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 13, 2024. Austin oversaw the training and welfare of the Marines from 1st MAW attached to the 31st MEU. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations, the U.S. Navys largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Andrew Ezell, the comptroller of 4th Marine Corps District (4MCD), stands at attention during his promotion ceremony at 4MCD headquarters, New Cumberland, Pa., Sept. 1, 2022. Promotion ceremonies are a significant achievement in a service members career and are a testament to their commitment, mastery of duties and skills, and leadership capabilities.

Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict, Christopher Maier meets with Marines, Sailors, and civilians from Marine Forces Special Operations Command on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 16, 2024. During his visit, Maier had the opportunity to learn about MARSOCs current and future operations as well as the programs they use to keep Marine Raiders in the fight.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Albert J. Goldberg, off-going commander of 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division, gives his remarks during a battalion change of command ceremony on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, on May 27, 2022. The ceremony represented the transfer of responsibility, authority and accountability from Lt. Col. Albert J. Goldberg to Lt. Col. Brian T. Spillane.

220619-N-PW480-0452 GREAT LAKES, Ill. (June 19, 2022) - Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) New Student Indoctrination (NSI) staff members examine the uniforms of NROTC NSI midshipman candidates during a uniform inspection at Recruit Training Command (RTC), June 19. Upon completion of NSI, the candidates will start their freshman year of the NROTC program at colleges and universities nationwide this fall. NSI is an indoctrination program hosted at RTC, and provides midshipmen with a common military training orientation. NSI provides basic training in five warfighting fundamentals - firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding and small arms handling and marksmanship - to begin creating basically trained and smartly disciplined future Navy and Marine Corps officers. NROTC is overseen by Commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC), Rear Adm. Jennifer S. Couture, which supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navys new officers and enlisted Sailor

U.S. Navy hospital corpsman 3rd class Jonathon Kazarian, a platoon corpsman assigned to Golf Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, left, receives a certificate and coin from U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew C. Danner, the commanding officer of the 31st MEU after a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program ground fighting tournament aboard the Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 23, 2022. The tournament was held to test the skills of the Marines and Sailors and to build camaraderie through competition. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. David Potter, sergeant major of 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, prepares torelinquish the sword of office to Lt. Col. Marcus Gillett, commanding officer of 9th ESB, during a relief ceremony at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 1, 2022. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

221003-N-YG104-0005 PEARL HARBOR (October 03, 2022) Chief Petty Officer selectees join U.S. Pacific Fleet Master Chief James Smitty Tocorzic for an all hands call. He spoke to them about the importance of warfighting readiness, resilience, and their role toward that end.

220711-N-ZW825-0083 GREAT LAKES, Ill. (July 11, 2022) A Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) New Student Indoctrination (NSI) instructor inspects a midshipman candidates cover during a working uniform inspection at Recruit Training Command (RTC), July 11. Upon completion of NSI, the candidates will start their freshman year of the NROTC program at colleges and universities nationwide this fall. NSI is an indoctrination program hosted at RTC, and provides midshipmen with a common military training orientation. NSI provides basic training in five warfighting fundamentals - firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding and small arms handling and marksmanship - to begin creating basically trained and smartly disciplined future Navy and Marine Corps officers. NROTC is overseen by Commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC), Rear Adm. Jennifer S. Couture, which supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navys new officers and enlisted Sailors.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Fridrik Fridriksson, deputy commanding general, III Marine Expeditionary Force, receives a gift from Japan Ground Self-Defense (JGSDF) Force Maj. Gen. Ryuji Toyota, commanding general, Bilateral Coordination Department, Ground Component Command, at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 13, 2022. The BCD and III MEF leadership used this time to strengthen and coordinate bilateral exercises.

NEWPORT, R.I. (Sept. 12, 2022) Master Chief Aviation Maintenance Administrationman Courtney Barber, MyNavy Coaching senior enlisted leader, back right, provides guidance during mock coaching sessions at a MyNavy Coaching training event at the Senior Enlisted Academy on Naval Station Newport, Sept. 12, 2022. A part of Navy Personnel Commands Talent Management Task Force, MyNavy Coaching is a Chief of Naval Personnel-led initiative to build and sustain a peer-to-peer coaching culture within the Navy.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Brent R. Sheets, left, a Concord, North Carolina native and the incoming sergeant major of 2d Reconnaissance (Recon) Battalion, 2d Marine Division, receives a noncommissioned officer sword from Lt. Col. Damon Doykos, a Sacramento, California native and the commanding officer of 2d Recon Battalion during a relief and appointment ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 11, 2024. During the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Nathaniel J. Dreyer relinquished his role as the sergeant major of 2d Recon Battalion to Sheets.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith, the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, awards Gunnery Sgt. Jason Miller, a Marine Military Entrance Processing Station Liaison, Marine Corps Recruiting Station Montgomery, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama, Feb. 10, 2023. Miller received this award for enlisting five individuals into the Marine Corps during a one month period. Smith visited the Marines of Marine Corps RS Montgomery and Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion 23rd Marines in order to address questions and concerns in order to work to improve the force.

220730-N-VJ326-1372 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 30, 2022) - Sailors assigned the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), participate in a mass casualty drill aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), July 30, 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.

Lance Cpl. Jacob A. Hudspeth, a native of Dickson, Tennessee, and a sergeant of the guard with Guard Company, Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal at a ceremony held at the Oldest Post of the Corps” on June 2, 2022. Hudspeth was recognized for swiftly organizing a response force, rendering aid, and coordinating a handoff with emergency services for a victim of a violent stabbing on May 18, 2022. Following the award ceremony, Hudspeth was meritoriously promoted to the rank of Cpl. by Col. Robert Sucher, commanding officer, Marine Barracks Washington.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew C. Danner, 31st Marine Expeditionary Units commanding officer, speaks to Marines attending Corporals Course aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 14, 2022. Corporals Course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become successful small-unit leaders as they enter the career into the non-commissioned officer ranks. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps leadership with 2d Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, attend a suicide prevention discussion and panel on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 6, 2022. Mental health support is always just a phone call away. For help, dial 998 and press 1 or call the crisis line at (800)273-8255 and press 1.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Leonard Rader III, left, religious program specialist with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, speaks with Royal Australian Army Maj. Matthew Stuart, a chaplain with 3rd Brigade, during a chaplaincy meeting to discuss community outreach opportunities at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville, Queensland, Australia, June 27, 2023. U.S. Marines and Australian Army Soldiers demonstrate and foster interoperability through community outreach as well as military training and exercises.

030417-M-9902V-082. Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Foster State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN) Scene Major Command Shown: HQMC

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Brian W. Cavanaugh, left, the commanding general of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command, congratulates newly promoted Sgt. Anissa Thompson, right, a data administrator with II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF), Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 1, 2023. Cavanaugh and respective leadership visited II MEF to tour subordinate commands, discuss capabilities, innovations and meet with Marines.

220915-N-UB993-1009VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Sept. 15, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea speaks with Sailors during an all-hands call at Naval Air Station Oceana, Sept. 15, 2022. Honea conducted his first fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

220915-N-UB993-1009VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Sept. 15, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea speaks with Sailors during an all-hands call at Naval Air Station Oceana, Sept. 15, 2022. Honea conducted his first fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

General (GEN) Michael W. Hagee, (left), Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC), and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Alford McMichael, (center), listen to Colonel (COL) Philip Newman, Assistant CHIEF of STAFF (AC/S), tell of adventures that Marines experienced while training at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Futenma. GEN Hagee visited III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) for the first time as the CMC. During his visit he toured the bases located on Okinawa, Japan. Base: Camp Courtney State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN) Scene Major Command Shown: HQMC

NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 14, 2022) Rear Adm. Michael Wettlaufer, Commander, Military Sealift Command, speaks with Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea, Sept. 14, 2022. Honea conducted his first fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (February 15, 2024) Sailors stationed aboard Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL) receive awards from NSGL Commanding Officer, Capt. Steve Yargosz, Feb. 15, 2024. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation. Navy

APRA HARBOR, Guam (Feb. 7, 2024) - Sailors assigned to the Emory S. Land-class submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) speaks with Rear Adm. Michael Van Poots, Deputy Commander Submarine Force Atlantic/Deputy Commander Submarine Force Pacific, Feb. 7, 2024. Frank Cable, forward-deployed to the island of Guam, repairs, rearms, and re-provisions submarines and surface vessels in the Indo-Pacific region. Navy

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Robert B. Sofge Jr., commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa, speaks to watch standers with the Marine Security Guard Detachment assigned to U.S. Embassy Accra, Ghana on Feb. 5, 2024. During the visit Sofge toured the facilities, engaging with the U.S. Marines and key leaders at the U.S. Embassy, where he addressed the importance of the U.S. Marines mission in Ghana and it's surrounding regions. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nathan Decker, a ground sensor platoon chief with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), participates in a guided discussion on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 19, 2022. The 26th MEU conducted an intelligence interoperability exercise to enhance understanding of multi-discipline intelligence functions across the Navy-Marine Corps enterprise. Intelligence interoperability is a part of pre-deployment training program facilitated by Expeditionary Operations Training Group. (U.S Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Nayelly Nieves-Nieves.)

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Robert OBrien, a Lake Worth, Florida native and motor transport operation chief with 2d Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, receives his citation during his promotion ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 3, 2023. OBrien was meritoriously promoted to gunnery sergeant for his superior performance and as recognition of his ability to assume positions of greater authority and responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Jay Bargeron, center, commanding general of 3d Marine Division, awards Marines with 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for placing first in the 3d Marine Division Squad Competition on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 6, 2022. The competition is a week-long event held regularly to test squads from across 3d Marine Division in their mastery of warfighting skills.

From left to right, U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Phillip Tate, the company commander of Bravo Company, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific; Staff Sgt. Nicholas Wagner, a ground electronics systems maintenance technician with H&S Battalion, MCIPAC; and Lance Cpl. Andrew Ambaoa, a distribution management specialist with H&S Battalion, MCIPAC, conduct a brief about the importance of duty on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, June 9, 2022. Tate assumed command of Bravo Co. on May 25 and prioritizes knowing and understanding Marines needs. He also strives to lead his company to mission success with the highest standards of the Marine Corps.

Vice Adm. Rick Cheeseman, Chief of Naval Personnel, speaks to Sasebo-area Sailors during the MyNavy HR Career Development Symposium (CDS) Japan at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) April 5, 2023. CDS Japan, conducted by Navy Personnel Command, visited CFAS to reach out to Sailors and inform them of the benefits available from the personnel modernization initiatives of the Sailor 2025 program.

Bureau of Medicine and Surgery Force Master Chief PatrickPaul Mangaran and Rear Adm. Rick Freedman, Navy Deputy Surgeon General and Deputy Chief, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, held an all hands call to speak to over 600 sailors assigned to the Navy Medicine Operational Training Command (NMOTC) both in person and via eletronic means for the outlying detachments and training sites, Feb. 7. Freedman and Mangaran answered questions and spoke to Sailors relating to the future of Navy Medicine, professional credentialing, Tactical Combat Casualty Care, mental health in the Navy, and how social media can be leveraged to share Sailor stories. NMOTC is comprised of six nationwide detachments that offer specialized medical training in the fields of aviation, aviation survival, surface and undersea warfare, expeditionary and special operations medicine. Navy

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Austen Robinson, an operations in the information environment (OIE) planner with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, speaks to Philippine service members and U.S. Marines at an OIE exchange during KAMANDAG 6 at Camp Rodolfo Punsalang, Palawan, Philippines, Oct. 8, 2022. 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 of shared experiences.

221007-N-UB993-1093SAN DIEGO (Oct. 7, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea shakes hands with Sailors before an all-hands call at the Naval Base Point Loma, Oct. 7, 2022. Honea conducted his second fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti (July 19, 2022) Selected U.S. Navy Reservist Chiefs forward deployed to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti (CLDJ) stand in the CLDJ Chiefs Mess, the Goat Locker, while be congratulated by CLDJ senior leadership via video call, as Master Chief Hospital Corpsman Gary A. Vivit, senior enlisted leader, Expeditionary Medical Facility (EMF), CLDJ, looks on. Annually, across the entire Navy, chief petty officers train petty officers 1st class who have been selected for promotion during an intensive summer-long training program.

NAVAL STATION GUAM (June 3, 2022) - Rear Admiral Benjamin Nicholson, the commander of U.S. Naval Forces Marianas, right, talks with Lieutenant Greg Miller, from Clarksville, Tennessee, during a tour in support of Pacific Partnership 2022 aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19). Now in its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.

221006-N-UB993-1078CAMP PENDLETON, Cali. (Oct. 6, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea listens to Hospital Corpsman First Class David Coffin ask a question during an all-hands call at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Oct. 6, 2022. Honea conducted his second fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

220409-N-HT014-0121 PEARL HARBOR (April 9, 2022) Navy Reserve Force Master Chief Petty Officer Tracy L. Hunt pins the Command Master Chief badge on Master Chief Ervin J. Kelly during his promotion ceremony at Pearl Harbor Memorial Chapel at the conclusion of Vice Adm. John B. Mustin, Chief of Navy Reserve and Commander, Navy Reserve Force, all-hands call.

United States Marine Corps Daniel Myers, an infantry unit leader and operations chief with Marine Corps Security Cooperation Training Detachment (MCSCTD), Marine Corps Intelligence Schools, Training Command, evaluates Marines engaged in an advisor skills immersive training scenario during the Marine Advisor Course (MAC) at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story, Virginia, 13 May, 2022. MCSCTD instructs the MAC to ensure students can effectively advise, support, assess and serve as a liaison officer overseas. Through formal instruction and immersive scenario training, students learn to implement foreign security force (FSF) objectives to build and maintain relationships with FSF counterparts while deployed.

U. S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jordan Espino (right) and Pfc. Dylan Weimer (left), both assigned to Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team Company Europe (FASTEUR), practice martial art moves in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program, Guadalajara, Spain, May 16, 2022. FASTEUR, under Task Force 61/2, is in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Marines with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force (CBIRF) graduate the Lance Corporal Leadership and Ethics Seminar at Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Maryland, April 26, 2022. The seminar is essential for a junior Marine to develop leadership skills.

ASAN, Guam (Sept. 13, 2022) - Yeoman 1st Class Arvin Alon, from Dededo, Guam, was the recipient of a Meritorious Advancement Program promotion ceremony at Joint Region Marianas, Sept. 13.

220721-N-XK809-1076 FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. (July 21, 2022) Rear Adm. Stephen Donald, left, Vice Commander, U.S. Fleet Cyber Command / U.S. 10th Fleet (FCC/C10F), speaks to U.S. Navy Reserve Sailors during Phase II of Operation Cyber Dragon. During Operation Cyber Dragon Reserve Sailors assigned FCC/C10F, conduct scanning of the Navy's unclassified network to identify, remediate and implement corrective actions to reduce vulnerabilities.

Colonel (COL) Yowell (left), USMC, Assistant CHIEF of STAFF, G-5, Marine Corps Base, briefs Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Alford McMichael, (center), and General (GEN) Michael W. Hagee, (right, out of frame), Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) during their visit to range 10 at Fuel Pits LZ located on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan. GEN Hagee visited III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) for the first time as the CMC. During his visit he will tour Marine bases located on Okinawa, Japan. Base: Camp Schwab Country: Japan (JPN) Scene Major Command Shown: HQMC

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, deputy commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs (M&RA), listens to a U.S. Marine with Wounded Warrior Battalion-East (WWBn-E) during a visit to WWBn-E on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Feb. 14, 2024. The deputy commandant for M&RA recognized WWBn-E staff members and met with recovering service members who will compete in the join 2024 Air Force and Marine Corps Trials in March 2024. Marine Corps

221024-N-AN659-1003 Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash. (Oct. 24, 2022) Cmdr. Frank Verducci, Commanding Officer of Patrol Squadron (VP) 46, the Grey Knights, awards Sailors attached to the squadron with Navy Achievement Medals while Command Master Chief Benjamin Faulise shakes their hand at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Oct. 24, 2022. Fifteen service members were awarded for their measurable achievements while assigned to VP-46.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Austin Renforth, commanding general of Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), pins the rank of brigadier general on newly promoted Brig. Gen. Fridrik Fridriksson, former director of Tactical Training and Exercise Control Group, during a promotion ceremony at MCAGCC, Twentynine Palms, California, June 3, 2022. Fridriksson will assume command of 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade and concurrently serve as the Deputy Commanding General of III Marine Expeditionary Force in Okinawa, Japan.

NMRTC Yokosuka's innovative Circuit Rider program demonstrates the ability to provide medical support and meet patients across all Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Units (NMRTUs) within the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marines with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, gives a presentation as a part of Corporals Course aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 16, 2022. Corporals Course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become successful small-unit leaders as they enter the career into the non-commissioned officer ranks. 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. Navy HM1 Johnathan Litvak, a hospital corpsman with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, receives a certificate of commendation aboard amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 28, 2022. Litvak, a native of Phoenix, was recognized for his life-saving actions while volunteering in Marine Corps Base Hawaii on May 14, 2022.

030416-M-9902V-032. Base: Camp Courtney State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN) Scene Major Command Shown: HQMC

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii (July 9, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Brent Logan , communications officer, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, briefs Republic of Korea Navy Rear Adm. An at Marine Corps Base Hawaii during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, July 9, 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

030402-M-5834A-123. Base: Naha State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN) Scene Major Command Shown: III MEF

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Feb. 16, 2024) Intelligence Specialist 1st Class John Shearhod, from Orlando, Florida, assigned to Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, performs daily operations aboard U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19). U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Navy

220711-N-ZW825-0178 GREAT LAKES, Ill. (July 11, 2022) A Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) New Student Indoctrination (NSI) midshipman candidate answers a professional military knowledge question during a working uniform inspection at Recruit Training Command (RTC), July 11. Upon completion of NSI, the candidates will start their freshman year of the NROTC program at colleges and universities nationwide this fall. NSI is an indoctrination program hosted at RTC, and provides midshipmen with a common military training orientation. NSI provides basic training in five warfighting fundamentals - firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding and small arms handling and marksmanship - to begin creating basically trained and smartly disciplined future Navy and Marine Corps officers. NROTC is overseen by Commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC), Rear Adm. Jennifer S. Couture, which supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navys new officers and enli

221024-N-AN659-1004 Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash. (Oct. 24, 2022) Cmdr. Frank Verducci, Commanding Officer of Patrol Squadron (VP) 46, the Grey Knights, awards Sailors attached to the squadron with Navy Achievement Medals at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Oct. 24, 2022. Fifteen service members were awarded for their measurable achievements while assigned to VP-46.

220818-N-VI040-1032 NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan (Aug. 18, 2022) Naval Air Crewman (Mechanical) 2nd Class Greg Shaw, from San Diego, hands an emergency evacuation program packet to a Sailor during a Noncombatant Evacuation Operations (NEO) training exercise held onboard Naval Air Facility Atsugi for Citadel Pacific 2022. Citadel Pacific is an annual exercise designed to evaluate command and control capabilities, and to ensure the readiness and effectiveness of antiterrorism and emergency response programs throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

220914-N-PC065-2079 KLAIPEDA, Lithuania (Sept. 14, 2022) - U.S. Navy Ensign Vladimir Stadnik, assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), presents a unit patch to a student at a Lithuanian cadet school during a community relations event, Sept. 14, 2022. The Arlington is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, 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.

ASAN, Guam (Sept. 22, 2022) - Capt. Michael R. Baker, a Navy Chaplain, receives an ovation for his dedicated service from military and civilian personnel from Joint Region Marianas, Sept. 22. Chaplain Baker is continuing his service at U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, Ft. Meade, MD.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Michael E. McWilliams, the commanding officer of 2nd Marine Logistics Group, walks with MajGen Lars S. Lervik, Chief of the Norwegian Army, during Lerviks distinguished visit on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 14, 2022. While meeting with II Marine Expeditionary Force key personnel, Lervik was briefed on force capabilities, Force Design 2030, an opportunity to strengthen relationships and understanding between Norwegian Army and U.S. Marine Corps Leaders.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander, U.S. Africa Command, and Sgt. Maj. Richard Thresher, command senior enlisted leader, U.S. Africa Command, speak with Sgt. Jeffrey Powell, Marine Security Guard Detachment Djibouti, Aug. 28, 2022, as part of a troop engagement for Langleys first visit to Africa as U.S. Africa Commands commanding general. The visit came as part of a four-day trip to Djibouti, Somalia, and Manda Bay, Kenya, from August 28-31, 2022, to meet with host nation leaders, senior interagency officials, and deployed troops to better understand the political and military situation in East Africa, discuss shared concerns and priorities, and see ongoing operations firsthand. (Department of Defense photo by U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Daryl Knee)

030416-M-9902V-031. Base: Camp Courtney State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN) Scene Major Command Shown: HQMC

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Christopher Myette, executive officer of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), receives a gift from soldiers with the Swedish Armed Forces at the conclusion of a ship tour aboard San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), Aug. 29, 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.

Rear Adm. Jim Aiken, commander of U.S. Naval Southern Forces Command/U.S. 4th Fleet and Brig. Gen. Kevin G. Collins, Deputy Commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South and Marine Forces Reserve meet with senior leaders from partner nations during the UNITAS LXIII closing ceremony, Sept. 22, 2022. Hosted this year by Brazil, UNITAS brought together multinational forces from Brazil, Cameroon, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Namibia, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, South Korea, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Uruguay to conduct operations in and off the coast of Rio de Janeiro. The exercise 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 navy and marine forces.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Derek Brannon, commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group 12, left, speaks with Marines with Marine Wing Communication Squadron 18 during exercise Pitch Black 22 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 29, 2022. Exercise Pitch Black is the Royal Australian Air Forces largest and most complex Large Force Employment exercise. Pitch Black 2022 is being conducted at RAAF Bases Darwin, Tindal, and Amberley from 19 August to 8 September 2022. This Years exercise will host up to 2500 personnel and around 100 aircraft from 17 participating nations from around the globe.Activities such as Exercise Pitch Black recognize Australias strong relationships and the high value we place on regional security and fostering closer ties throughout the Indo-Pacific region.Exercise Pitch Black features a range of realistic, simulated threats which can be found in a modern battle-space environment and is an opportunity to test and improve our force integration utilizi

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Jacob M. Reiff, outgoing sergeant major of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), speaks to the audience during his relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, July 11, 2022. The ceremony represented a transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Reiff to Sgt. Maj. Joy M. Kitashima. 2nd MAW is the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Jeffery R. Kenney, commanding officer for 6th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, presents a gift to French Foreign Legionnaire Lt. Col.. Sebastien Guillot, executive officer for 2nd Regiment at Nimes, France, May, 25, 2022. This was part of a bilateral training event with the French Foreign Legion that challenged the forces with physical and tactical training, as well as provided the opportunity to exchange knowledge and strengthen bonds.

Chief Hospital Corpsman Victor Suanier,left, Naval Medical Forces Support Command lead instructor, teaches a blood transfer training course at Rattlesnake Point U.S. Army Reserve Center, Tampa, Florida, during Operation Blue Horizon, Feb. 2, 2023. Suanier showed the class how to use your surroundings to hang a bag of blood for distribution. The course covered training on tactical casualty combat care, trauma nursing, K-9 first aid and aeromedical evacuation.

Rear Adm. Pete Garvin, right, commander, Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), shakes hands with Mineman 1st Class Juan-Gabrielle Brucelas, Mine Warfare Training Centers mineman of the year, as part of a visit to San Diego area NETC commands, Nov. 2, 2022. NETCs mission is to recruit, train and deliver those who serve our nation, taking them from street-to-fleet by transforming civilians into highly skilled, operational and combat ready warfighters.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Aug. 24, 2022) - Capt. Les Sobol, Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY), speaks with community members about their concerns during the 'Cup o' Joe with the CO' event at Ikego Housing Detachment. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th fleet's forward deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Dennis W. Sampson, commanding officer of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) meets with Combat Logistics Battalion 22 leaders during a 26th MEU field exercise on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 24, 2022. The exercise is running concurrently to CLB-22s Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation. The MEU FEX is focused on the rapid deployment of troops and the MEUs ability to exercise command and control in a distributed environment. This FEX is the culminating exercise for the 26th MEU prior to the MAGTFs composite.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Joshua Smith, 31st Marine Expeditionary Units senior enlisted advisor, speaks to Marines attending Corporals Course aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 14, 2022. Corporals Course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become successful small-unit leaders as they enter the career into the non-commissioned officer ranks. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Ryan Sweet, a North Carolina native and the outgoing command senior enlisted leader of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 252, gives a speech during a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Feb. 2, 2024. The ceremony represented a transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Sweet to Sgt. Maj. Kevin Tucei, a Mississippi native and the incoming command senior enlisted leader of VMGR-252. VMGR-252 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Alexander Nelson, a cyberspace warfare operator with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), participates in a Gigamon training course to employ defensive cyber tactics on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 28, 2022. The course supported the 26th MEUs pre-deployment training through instructor-led discussion, alongside the Defensive Cyberspace Operations Internal Defensive Measures Company, in order to fulfill capability requirements for operating cyber equipment.

U.S. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit , attend a knot tying class during a training aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 14, 2024. The training reinforces Marines by providing them a method to hasty repel while retaining rope. 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. Marine Corps

220831-N-ZS023-1004 SAN DIEGO (Aug 31, 2022) Cmdr. Wayne Gehman, right, commanding officer of Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Kansas City (LCS 22), greets Col. Timothy Brady Jr., commanding officer of 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, in the ships mission bay. Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One and 3d MLR are focused on improving mutual capability, capacity, and lethality by exploring new ways to operate in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. LCS support forward-presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around the globe.

U.S. Navy Lt. Derek Vande Slunt, a Navy chaplain with 2d Marine Division (MARDIV), gives the invocation at a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 23, 2022. During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Christopher R. Richadella, the outgoing commanding officer of 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2d MARDIV, relinquished his role as commanding officer to Lt. Col. William T. Kerrigan.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George Smith Jr., left, commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, prepares to pin rank on the collar U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Arturo Mares, a staff secretary chief with I Marine Expeditionary Force, from Anahuac, Texas , during a meritorious promotion ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 3, 2023. Meritorious promotions are awarded to Marines who demonstrate outstanding performance and are entrusted to assume positions of further responsibility. Mares has been meritoriously promoted to the ranks of lance corporal, corporal, sergeant and now staff sergeant.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George W. Smith, commanding general for I Marine Expeditionary Force, left, is given an orientation brief by Mr. Donald Baldwin, the chief of staff for Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Blaz, right, while visiting MCB Camp Blaz, Guam, on June 10, 2022. Guam is home to three military installations including Andersen Air Force Base, Naval Base Guam, and MCB Camp Blaz.

U.S. Navy Capt. Randy L. Panke, the outgoing commanding officer of 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, gives a speech during a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 5, 2022. During the ceremony, Capt. Dean Goad, the commanding officer of 2nd Medical Battalion, assumed command of 2nd Medical Battalion from Capt. Randy L. Panke.

U.S. Marines and Indonesian National Armed Forces service members conduct medical training as part of exercise Super Garuda Shield 2023, 5th Marine Training Center Puslatpur, Indonesia, Sept. 1, 2023. Super Garuda Shield 2023 is an annual exercise that has significantly grown in scope and size since 2009. SGS2023 is the second consecutive time this exercise has grown into a combined and joint event, highlighting the 7 participating and 12 observing nations' commitment to partnership and a free and open Indo-Pacific.

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (Oct. 06, 2022) Vice Adm. Yancy B. Lindsey, commander, Navy Installations Command, left, speaks with recruits at "Pizza Night" during a visit to Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes, Illinois, Oct. 06, 2022. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy's only boot camp.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (July 22, 2022) Rear. Adm. Brian Davies, commander, Submarine Group Two and deputy commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, speaks with Capt. Milciades Then, Commodore, Destroyer Squadron 22 during a command-and-control exercise of surface and undersea assets in the Atlantic Ocean, July 22. These exercises provide a ready and credible force in response to adversary operations in the Atlantic Ocean.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Eric Austin, left, commanding general, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, speaks to Marine Corps Base Hawaii leadership during a visit to MCBH, Sept. 27, 2022. The purpose of the visit was to inform Austin on the bases progression toward Force Design 2030.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Olaolu Ogunyemi assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) is pinned by his family during his promotion ceremony, Nov. 1, 2022, on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Ogunyemi was promoted TO major by Col. Ryan M. Hoyle, commanding officer of the 24th MEU.

SHREVEPORT, Louisiana (May 15, 2022) - Navy Reserve Region Readiness and Mobilization Command Fort Worth Commander Capt. Mark Hofmann presents the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal to Electricians Mate 1st Class Patrick Martin. Martin is one of five Navy Reserve Center Shreveport Sailors involved in saving the life of their distressed shipmate, who experienced cardiac arrest shortly after performing the Navy physical readiness test.

041214-M-0173F-021. Base: Camp Ar Ramadi State: Ar Ramadi Country: Iraq (IRQ)

Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune's leaders and staff got to visit with Rear Admiral Eric Peterson during his visit to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune on June 3. Peterson serves as the deputy commander of Naval Medical Forces Atlantic and director of the Navy Nurse Corps (Reserve).RDML Peterson received a tour of NMCCL's Labor and Delivery and Trauma Departments. Department heads and staff from each department briefed the specific processes here at NMCCL which are pertinent to the regional mission at Naval Medical Forces Atlantic.

221014-N-LY160-1046 PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 14, 2022) - Hospital Corpsman 1st Class James Haire, from Alvord, Texas, conducts training on tactical combat casualty care aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Oct. 14, 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.

CAMP LEMONNIER, DJIBOUTI (June 17, 2022) - A U.S. Navy Hospitalman assigned to Camp Lemonnier Expeditionary Medical Facility reads a letter from the Chief of Bureau of Medicine during the 124th Navy Hospital Corpsman Birthday ceremony held at Camp Lemonnier June 17, 2022.

U.S. Marine Corps colonel Rory D. Kent, commanding officer of Marine Corps Information Operations Center, speaks to the joint force service members of the Warfighter Exercise (IWX) at Camp Upshur on Quantico, VA, Sept. 12, 2022. The IWX is a training event that focuses on implementing all Information Related Capability requirements with the joint force, government agencies and partnering nations that provides accurate subject matter expertise to all Marine Corps operations. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo taken by Sgt. Miranda C. DeKorte)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Joseph Caputo, sergeant major, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, passes out trays during Chef of the Quarter, MCBH, Sept. 23, 2022. Chef of the Quarter competitions allow an opportunity for food service specialists to hone their craft, while fostering competition and esprit de corps.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Dylan Cox, a maintenance technician with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, repairs a target during the Intramural Marksmanship Competition at Stone Bay on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 2, 2022. The Marine Corps Intramural Marksmanship Competition inspires unit cohesion and mission readiness by allowing Marines to compete and improve lethality with both rifle and pistol weapons.

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