Marine Corps Training and Competitions

Dynamic images of U.S. Marines engaging in physical training, competitions, and demonstrating teamwork and resilience during various exercises.

U.S Marine Corps Sgt. Francisco Martinez, a drill instructor with Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, supervises recruits during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 12, 2022. MCMAP aims to strengthen the mental and moral resiliency of individual Marines through realistic combative training, warrior ethos studies, and physical hardening.

U.S. Marines with Marine Air Support Squadron (MASS) 2 participate in a tug of war competition during a field meet at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Jan. 19, 2024. The field meet was held in celebration of MASS-2's 81st Anniversary.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct the reverse climb during the confidence course at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Oct. 11, 2022. The confidence course challenges recruits to face their fears and overcome them.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, execute Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques during the combat conditioning course at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Jan. 3, 2024. The combat conditioning course was designed to increase recruits stamina and ability to perform Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques.

Sgt. Zachary Kleinfelder, an infantryman with Detachment 1 of the Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Squadron of the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment takes a breather after finishing the 18.6 mile Norwegian Foot March in the Region 3 Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition held at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, FL, on May 13, 2022. (U.S. Army National Guard photo Spc. Mathias Gentry.)

U.S. Marine 1st Lt. Cole Patton (bottom) and 1st Lt. Alexander Vergara (top), both platoon commanders with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, grapple during the Trinity Games at Camp Hansen, Japan, June 30, 2022. The Trinity Games were held to foster the spirit of competition and comradery within the unit. 3/3 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. Patton is a native of Des Moines, Iowa and Vergara is a native of Pasco, Washington.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Logan Harris, a rifleman with Marine Corps Security Force Regiment and Pfc. Miguel Santos, an aviation mechanic with Center for Naval Air Technical Training Unit Oceana, compete in a pugil stick match during a regional field meet at Captain Slade Cutter Park, Virginia, August 5, 2022. Marines across various units competed head-to-head in pugil sticks, ground fighting, PVC pipe construction, flag football, resupply runs, rowing, kickball, and tug-o-war in order to win the command trophy. Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command holds field meets regularly to sustain camaraderie and healthy work relations.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, carry logs at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Aug. 1, 2022. Recruits carried a 250 pound log, executing various exercises to strengthen their bodies, minds, and teamwork.

U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM), and their respective Headquarters and Service Battalion (HQSVCBN), Marine Corps Security Force Regiment, Center for Naval Air Technical Training Unit Oceana, Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads Northwest Annex, Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck, Marine Corps Intelligence School Dam Neck, participate in a regional field meet at Captain Slade Cutter Park, Virginia, August 5, 2022. Marines across various units competed head-to-head in pugil sticks, ground fighting, PVC pipe construction, flag football, resupply runs, rowing, kickball, and tug-o-war in order to win the command trophy. FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM holds field meets regularly to sustain camaraderie and healthy work relations.

Cpl. James Tewell, an administrative specialist with Headquarters Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, performs a hip throw during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) course at Marine Corps Support Facility, New Orleans, Sept. 16, 2022. MCMAP aims to strengthen the mental and moral resiliency of individual Marines through combative training, ethos studies, and physical hardening.

U.S Marine Corps Sgt. Francisco Martinez, a drill instructor with Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, supervises recruits during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 12, 2022. MCMAP aims to strengthen the mental and moral resiliency of individual Marines through realistic combative training, warrior ethos studies, and physical hardening.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, practice Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques after pugil stick training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Nov. 1, 2022. Pugil sticks are designed to simulate fighting with fixed bayonets and provide practical application of Marine Corps Martial Arts techniques.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Seth Kangas, a supply administrator with 3rd Transportation Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, grapples during a field meet at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, April 5, 2022. 3rd TB conducted a competitive field meet in order to boost morale amongst their Marines. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM), and their respective Headquarters and Service Battalion (HQSVCBN), Marine Corps Security Force Regiment, Center for Naval Air Technical Training Unit Oceana, Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads Northwest Annex, Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck, Marine Corps Intelligence School Dam Neck, participate in a regional field meet at Captain Slade Cutter Park, Virginia, August 5, 2022. Marines across various units competed head-to-head in pugil sticks, ground fighting, PVC pipe construction, flag football, resupply runs, rowing, kickball, and tug-o-war in order to win the command trophy. FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM holds field meets regularly to sustain camaraderie and healthy work relations.

U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM), and their respective Headquarters and Service Battalion (HQSVCBN), Marine Corps Security Force Regiment, Center for Naval Air Technical Training Unit Oceana, Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads Northwest Annex, Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck, Marine Corps Intelligence School Dam Neck, participate in a regional field meet at Captain Slade Cutter Park, Virginia, August 5, 2022. Marines across various units competed head-to-head in pugil sticks, ground fighting, PVC pipe construction, flag football, resupply runs, rowing, kickball, and tug-o-war in order to win the command trophy. FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM holds field meets regularly to sustain camaraderie and healthy work relations.

U.S. Marines with Marine Air Support Squadron (MASS) 2 celebrate victory in a field meet at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Jan. 19, 2024. The field meet was held in celebration of MASS-2's 81st Anniversary.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, hold their logs during log drills at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 25, 2022. Recruits carried a 250 pound log, executing various exercises to strengthen their bodies, minds, and teamwork.

Airman 1st Class Kaleb Gissendanner, 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels distribution operator, does push-ups while Forward Area Refueling Point members and fellow competitors motivate him to finish during a FARP tryout event at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Oct. 21, 2022. The Airmen were tasked with conducting a timed FARP set-up and break-down, followed by a set of endurance exercises.

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

U.S. Marines with Headquarters and Service Battalion, recover from an event during the Atlas Games at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 22, 2022. The Atlas Games is a battalion field meet that incorporates the full spectrum of leadership skills and teamwork to enhance individual readiness and unit cohesion.

US Air Force (USAF) Security Police (SP) from the 50th Space Wing (SW), Schriever Air Force Base (AFB), Colorado (CO), are congratulated by USAF Colonel (COL) Diann Latham (center), 50th Space Wing Competition Commander, after completing the Obstacle Course competition at Vandenberg Air Force Base (AFB) California (CA), during Exercise GUARDIAN CHALLENGE 2002. Guardian Challenge, a four-day space and missile competition, is hosted annually at Vandenberg AFB, CA to test the wartime readiness of Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) professionals. US Air Force (USAF) Security Police (SP) from the 50th Space Wing (SW), Schriever Air Force Base (AFB), Colorado (CO), are congratulated by USAF Colonel (COL) Diann Latham (center), 50th Space Wing Competition Commander, after completing the Obstacle Course competition at Vandenberg Air Force Base (AFB) California (CA), during Exercise GUARDIAN CHALLENGE 2002. Guardian Challenge, a four-day space and missile competition, is hosted annually at Vandenb

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Joshua Grant, a squad leader with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS LXIII participates in a push-up competition with a Mexican marine during exercise UNITAS LXIII in Marambaia, Brazil, Sept. 11, 2022. UNITAS, which is Latin for unity, was conceived in 1959 and has taken place annually since first conducted in 1960. This year marks the 63rd iteration of the worlds longest-running annual multi-national maritime exercise. Additionally, this year Brazil celebrated its bicentennial, a historical milestone commemorating 200 years of the countrys independence. Grant is a native of Chillicothe, Ohio.

U.S. service members with Headquarters Battalion, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, receive a class on close-quarter battle drills, Pyramid Rock Training Area, MCBH, Jan. 10, 2024. The class was held during the battalions first field training exercise of 2024 in order to increase combat readiness, unit morale and camaraderie.

U.S. Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructors demonstrate Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques for attendees of Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego's Educators Workshop at MCRD San Diego, June 27, 2023. The Educators Workshop is an opportunity for MCRD San Diego to welcome academic faculty onto the base to gain insight into what recruit training looks like, how the Marine Corps functions, and the type of person the Marine Corps is looking to attract through conversations with currently commissioned and non-commissioned Marines.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, execute a forward shoulder roll during a combat conditioning course (CCX) at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 14, 2022. The CCX was designed to increase recruits' stamina and ability to perform Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques.

020514-M-1621H-001. Subject Operation/Series: TRUEX 2002 Base: Warner Robins Air Force Base State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 24 MEU

U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command, participate in a tug-o-war competition during a field meet at Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, Virginia, March 16, 2023. Marines with FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM, and their respective Headquarters and Service Battalion, competed in physical fitness relays, ground fighting, and tug-o-war in order to win a day of liberty. The unit holds quarterly field meets to increase command networking and boost morale.

U.S. Marines with 2d Battalion, 2d Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, compete in a game of tug-of-war during the Warlord Games on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 1, 2022. The Warlord Games is a quarterly event where Marines from 2/2 compete in various competitions to strengthen the unit's esprit de corps.

U.S. Marines participante in the tire flipping challenge during a Security Battalion field meet on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, September 16, 2022. Field meets are held to test Marines on their physical fitness while also bringing the battalion closer together and boosting unit camaraderie. The meet included an ammo can relay race, tire flip challenge, and grappling. First place was Motor Transport Services, second place was Marine Corps Base Quantico Food Services, and third place was Installation Personnel Administration Center team two.

220617-N-EJ241-1395DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (June 17, 2022) - Builder 3rd Class Dylan Nikoley, assigned to Naval Facilities Engineering Command Far East, Public Works Department, Detachment Diego Garcia, participates in oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray training for Auxiliary Security Forces (ASF) Academy at U.S. Navy Support Facility (NSF) Diego Garcia. ASF personnel are active duty service members that augment base security personnel during contingencies, terrorist attacks, natural disasters, civil disturbances, exercises and special events that require heightened levels of security.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Donald Couttie, a range safety specialist with Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, engages targets during the 9th ESB Shooting Team Competition and Tryouts on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 25, 2022. The 9th ESB Shooting Team Competition and Tryouts was a four-day event that involved firing the M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System, M18 service pistol, and the M16A4 Armalite Rifle in timed events to test speed and accuracy. The events top performers will compete in the Far East Shooting Competition scheduled in December.

U.S. Marines with Marine Air Support Squadron (MASS) 2 participate in a tire flipping competition during a field meet at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Jan. 19, 2024. The field meet was held in celebration of MASS-2's 81st Anniversary.

U.S. Marines with 2d Battalion, 2d Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, play corn hole during Bring Your Kid to Work Day on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 24, 2022. Bring Your Kid to Work Day is an immersion experience that allows family members to engage in activities their service member performs on a daily basis. The purpose of the event was to promote unit cohesion, morale, esprit de corps and strengthen bonds with family members of service members within the unit.

060615-F-7234P-207. Base: Fort Jackson State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

040319-M-7514K-004. Base: Camp H. M. Smith State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Zachary Faull and Hospital Corpsman Nicholas Towne, both with 3d Battalion, 2d Marines, treat a simulated casualty during Exercise Shinka 22.1 at Combined Arms Training Center, Camp Fuji, Japan, June 24, 2022. Shinka exemplifies a shared commitment to realistic training that produces lethal, ready, and adaptable forces capable of decentralized operations across a wide range of missions. 3/2 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Andreu Kempis, right, a motor vehicle operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group teaches Marines how to operate an M240B machine gun in the Central Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 13, 2022. The Marines fired the M240B machine gun and the Browning M2 .50 caliber machine gun to increase their lethality and proficiency with the weapon systems. 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.

A 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) Soldier conducts proper field care procedures with Guatemalan soldiers during CENTAM Guardian 2023 in Guatemala, Mar 14. 2023. CENTAM Guardian 23 (CG23) is an annual multi-national partnership-building exercise designed to build capacity and capabilities with Central American partner nations.

Recruits with Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, practice close order drill aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., April 13, 2022. Close order drill is an essential element of recruit training as it serves to instill discipline and bearing into the recruits.

A U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to the 23rd Wing, shoots his final rounds during a Combat Arms Training and Maintenance class at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, March 21, 2023.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 172 and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron (MALS) 36 participate in a pugil stick fight during a field meet at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 9, 2024. Marines with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 1, MWSS-172, and MALS-36 held the field meet to foster a sense of comradery, healthy competition, and esprit de corps between the three squadrons. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Lima Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, execute Marine Corps Martial Arts techniques during a confidence course event at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, March. 27, 2023. The Confidence Course challenges recruits physically, mentally, and spiritually through obstacles that require confidence in their strength, balance, and determination.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Oscar Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, conduct Table 1, on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., April 5, 2023. During Table 1, Recruits practice the fundamentals of marksmanship and weapons safety.

Recruits with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, practive techniques from the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, Oct. 20, 2022. Recruits are taught MCMAP to learn when and how to perform armed and unarmed techniques when using lethal and non-lethal force.

BEAUMONT, Texas (Sept. 3, 2017) U.S. Army Soldiers and U.S. Navy Sailors load bottled water onto a U.S. Navy MH-60S Sea Hawk assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21, for delivery to victims of Hurricane Harvey, Sept. 3, 2017. Harvey formed in the Gulf of Mexico and made landfall in southeastern Texas, bringing record flooding and destruction to the region. U.S. military assets supported FEMA as well as state and local authorities in rescue and relief efforts.

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

U.S. Marine Corps Pvt. Geoffery Grado prepares to take off in an ammo can relay race during the Security Battalion Field Meet on Sept. 16, 2022. Field meets are held to test Marines on their physical fitness while also bringing the battalion closer together and boosting unit camaraderie. The meet included an ammo can relay race, tire flip challenge, and grappling. Motor Transport Services finished in first place, followed by Marine Corps Base Quantico Food Services and Installation Personnel Administration Center team two.

U.S. Navy hospital corpsmen with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, tend to a simulated victim during a Base Recovery After Attack and Airfield Damage Repair training exercise on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Feb. 4, 2024. This training event simulated how the joint-force would operate in the event of a foreign attack on U.S. military-owned airfields in Okinawa. MWSS-172 employed the use of explosive ordnance disposal, engineer, maintenance, and communication teams within their squadron for damage assessment and recovery. Marine Corps

DN-ST-85-07138. Subject Operation/Series: SOLID SHIELD '83 Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Air Force Reserve Maj. Sterling Broadhead, 82nd Aerial Support Squadron, throws a practice grenade during a CIOR practice throwing near Hammelburg, Germany on July 28th 2022. The Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers Military Competition (CIOR MILCOMP) is a three-day team competition consisting of NATO and Partnership for Peace nations in Europe. It has been around since 1957. The competition is open to all reserve components for both NCO and officer. It is now run on a volunteer basis and funded by former competitors through an alumni association.

040921-F-5759C-007. Base: Shaw Air Force Base State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 2d Marines conduct gear inspections during Alert Contingency Marine Air-Ground Task Force Exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 9, 2022. III Marine Expeditionary Force executed these actions as part of a series of integrated no-notice drills to maintain a high state of readiness and demonstrate U.S. resolve to maintain regional security. 3/2 is forward-deployed under 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division as a part of the Unit Deployment Program.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, execute choke techniques during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, April 10, 2023. MCMAP is an integrated, weapons-based system that incorporates the full spectrum of the force continuum on the battlefield, and contributes to the mental, character, and physical development of Marines.

U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort grapple in shallow water during the Corporals Course culminating event at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Sept. 1, 2023. The culminating event consisted of an improvised explosive device lane, shallow-water grappling and completing the obstacle course with gear. Corporals Course is a month-long professional military education program that develops Marines small unit leadership skills and continues to prepare them to lead Marines.

Trainees from the 324th Training Squadron exit the Mask Confidence Training facility on its reopening, Aug. 15, 2022, on Joint Base San Antonio-Chapman Training Annex, Texas. The "gas chamber" training falls under the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Defense Course and trainees go through the training during week four of BMT.

U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort transport gear on the obstacle course during the Corporals Course culminating event at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Sept. 1, 2023. The culminating event consisted of an improvised explosive device lane, shallow-water grappling and completing the obstacle course with gear. Corporals Course is a month-long professional military education program that develops Marines small unit leadership skills and continues to prepare them to lead Marines.

U.S. Marines with Headquarters and Service Battalion, participate in a tire flipping event during the Atlas Games at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 22, 2022. The Atlas Games is a battalion field meet that incorporates the full spectrum of leadership skills and teamwork to enhance individual readiness and unit cohesion.

Sgt. Hunter D. Sackewitz, a Primary Marksmanship Instructor (PMI) with Weapons and Field Training Battalion, teaches technicalities of various shooting positions during grass week on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island S.C., July 14, 2022. A PMI is a subject matter expert on the fundamentals of marksmanship and will be assigned to a platoon for the entire duration of their marksmanship training.

U.S. Marine Corps Recruits with Bravo Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, execute Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) techniques during a MCMAP test at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 1, 2022. The purpose of the MCMAP test is to ensure recruits' accuracy and proficiency in tan belt techniques - the first of five belts a Marine can earn.

Recruits with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, participate in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., on June 28, 2022. Recruits must complete the tan belt requirements to graduate recruit training.

U.S. Airmen work together to build a decontamination structure at Fire Station 2 at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, May 22, 2022. The 386th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department conducted a certification evaluation for hazardous materials incident commanders and technicians on base. The hands-on portion of the certification consisted of three simulated scenarios: stopping a one-ton container, typically used for storage, from leaking chlorine from its fusible plugs; the transportation of hazardous materials by rail; and bolting down an unstable cylinder, which contained nitrogen.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Aaron Colling, sergeant major of III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, addresses Marines before a field meet on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 16, 2022. Units with III MIG competed against each other in various athletic events during a field meet for the commanders cup. 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.

010720-M-5834A-002. Base: Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, carry logs during log drills at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, June 27, 2022. Recruits carried a 250 pound log, executing various exercises to strengthen their bodies, minds, and teamwork.

U.S. Marine Corps Recruits with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, run to their next station during the confidence course at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 20, 2022. The confidence course is made up of different obstacles used to instill confidence in recruits.

SEATTLE (April 9, 2022) - University of Washington Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) midshipmen participate in a Tug-of-War on the University of Washington campus during the 2022 Northwest Navy competition, April 9. More than 250 NROTC students and staff members from the Universities of Idaho/Washington State, Oregon State, Utah and Washington competed in military drill, academic and athletic events at the one-day contest. Northwest Navy has been held on a rotating basis between the schools since 1957. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, this was the first time all units were able to compete in person since 2019.

Country artist Drake White, right, advances to a simulated battlefield causality lane along with Soldiers attending the U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence Command Tactical Combat Medical Care course at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, July 20, 2022. The course teaches Soldiers a wide variety of areas within a five-day timeframe to include trauma and wound care. White visited the post to film an upcoming docuseries called Inside the Base, which follows leading country artists as they tour U.S. military bases across the nation.

U.S. Army and Marine Servicemembers perform medical training during Subject Matter Expert exchanges training in support of Exercise Super Garuda Shield 2023 on Dodiklatpur Rindam V, East Java, 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Adrian Smith, center, a martial arts instructor trainer with 1st Intelligence Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, leads lower body stretches after a martial arts instructor course physical training session at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 6, 2022. MAI courses certify Marines to instruct and monitor Marine Corps Martial Arts Program training and advance Marines in the program, distinguishing their levels of experience with different colored belts.

Sgt. 1st. Class Mk-Ada-Quet Genereaux and Spc. Darquiarean Jones, assigned to the 703rd Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, carry a tire during a mystery event as part of 3rd IDs Best Squad Competition on Fort Stewart, Georgia, May 26, 2022. Competition events, like the Best Squad Competition, are a test of grit and toughness, foster readiness and esprit de corps, and are a fundamental part of the Divisions method of building lethal, cohesive teams and expert leaders.

U.S. Marines with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct tactical combat casualty care on simulated casualties during a combat lifesaver course aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 7, 2022. The combat lifesaver course is a five day course designed to reinforce the basics of tactical combat casualty care. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of Amphibious Assault Ship USS 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 recruits with Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, execute a leg-sweep during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Oct. 3, 2022. The MCMAP belt system incorporates a building-block approach, while progressively increasing the difficulty of the techniques and advancing the skill proficiency and leadership abilities of the individual Marine.

Recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, complete the Crucible aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., April 7, 2022.The Crucible serves as the 54-hour culminating event of recruit training and offers recruits the ultimate challenge to persevere through a variety of obstacles and events.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, starts an engine during a boat raid training exercise on Kin Blue, Okinawa, Japan, June 29, 2022.The exercise was conducted to improve communication between the ground combat element and additional supporting units that may assist them in potential rea-world situations fostering a more efficient and cohesive unit.The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

040605-M-5555L-073. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Camp Hurricane Point State: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Oscar Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, conduct Table 1, on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., April 5, 2023. During Table 1, Recruits practice the fundamentals of marksmanship and weapons safety.

U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, take a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) test at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, June 2, 2022. Recruits tested out in MCMAP to earn their tan belts and complete a graduation requirement.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain (April 28, 2022) - Marine Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) assigned to Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (TF 51/5) conduct a combat conditioning physical training event aboard Naval Support Activity, Bahrain, April 28. The training was conducted to build camaraderie amongst the NCOs of TF 51/5 as well as test the physical readiness of the Marines. TF 51/5 responds to crises and contingencies; coordinates, plans, and executes operations; conducts theater security cooperation; and advances emerging Naval concepts at sea, from the sea, and ashore in order to support U.S. Central Command, 5th Fleet, and Marine Corps Forces Central Command theater objectives.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, hold up their rifle cleaning kits during M16A4 service rifle issue at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Aug. 22, 2022. These cleaning kits are the only authorized weapon cleaning gear the recruits will use to ensure that their M16A4 service rifle is in working order. Regardless of their military occupational specialty, recruits are indoctrinated in the traditional relationship between a Marine and their rifle, and are thoroughly briefed on their responsibilities regarding rifle security, safety and handling.

U.S. Army Spc. Pricsilla Defreitas, a combat medic specialist assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division Artillery, 3rd ID, performs the hand release pushup during the Army Combat Fitness Test portion of 3rd ID's Best Squad Competition at Fort Stewart, Georgia, May 25, 2022. Competition events, like the Best Squad Competition, are a test of grit and toughness, foster readiness and esprit de corps, and are a fundamental part of the Division's method of building lethal, cohesive teams and expert leaders.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Conner Fiero, a drill instructor with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, encourages a recruit during the confidence course at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, June 21, 2022. Recruits navigated through obstacles in the course to gain confidence in themselves and their abilities to complete the tasks.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Thomas Helms, bulk fuel specialist, Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 273, Marine Air Group 28, helps his children learn techniques from the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program during a Bring your Mini-Marine to Work Day at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, April 10, 2023. MWSS-273 held this event to kick off spring break and to show the children what their parents do on a daily basis.

Utah Army National Guard Sgt. Daniel Tuttle, representing the Recruiting and Retention Battalion, sprints during the physical readiness portion of the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge conducted during the Utah National Guard Best Warrior Competition at Camp Williams, Utah, Oct. 17, 2022. This years competition offers an opportunity for competitors to earn the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge. The Utah National Guard Best Warrior Competition is an annual event that brings together Soldiers and Airmen from the major commands to compete for the title of Soldier/Airman-of-the-Year, Noncommissioned Officer-of-the-Year and Senior NCO-of-the-Year. The Army winners of this competition will represent the Utah Army National Guard at the Region VII Best Warrior Competition next spring.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Bryan Mendoza, a motor transport mechanic with 3rd Transportation Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, performs pull ups during a field meet at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, April 5, 2022. 3rd TB conducted a competitive field meet in order to boost morale amongst their Marines. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Kilo Company, Third Recruit Training Battalion, conducts a pugil sticks bout at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego Oct. 13, 2022. Pugil sticks is designed to simulate fighting with fixed bayonets and provide practical application of Marine Corps Martial Arts techniques.

Louisiana Civil Air Patrol cadets participate in an obstacle course at Harrison Central High School at Gulfport, Mississippi, July 22, 2022. More than 50 cadets attended the Louisiana Wing Encampment at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, from July 14-24.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Joseph C. Iadarola, right, company gunnery sergeant, Headquarters Company, Headquarters and Service Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific participates in hand-to-hand combat training with a member of the Marine Infantry Regiment in French Polynesia, French Armed Forces during the Aito Course in Taravao, Tahiti, French Polynesia, Sept. 6, 2022. The event provided a bilateral training opportunity between the French Armed Forces and Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. The nine Marines and Sailor from HQSVCBN participated in the bilateral training with the French Armed Forces in order to strengthen relationships with the region. The courses name comes from the Tahitian word aito, which means warrior.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Daniel Harper, a fire support Marine with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group drags Lance Cpl. Tirell Diggs, an administrative specialist with 1st ANGLICO for a tactical combat casualty care class during ANGLICO Basic Course 1-22 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 4, 2022. This basic training enhances the capabilities of ANGLICO Marines to plan and execute liaison missions in support of joint, interagency, intergovernmental and multinational operations.

This morning, company, battery and troop commanders assigned to 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division compete in teams against each other during morning physical training on Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, Nov. 17, 2022. Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will. -Mahatma Gandhi

U.S. Marine Corps Pvt. Gage Dillon with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, sings the Marines' Hymn during the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 27, 2022. The crucible was a 54- hour long culminating event at recruit training which finalized the transformation from recruit to Marine.

030916-M-3843B-004. Base: Mcas, Beaufort State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Patrick Krone with Mike Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, executes the plank portion of the physical fitness test (PFT) at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Oct. 3, 2022. The PFT is a test all recruits must pass and sets the standards that all marines must maintain once a year. Recruit Krone was recruited out of Recruiting Station Denver, Colorado.

U.S. Marines with Marine Air Support Squadron (MASS) 2 participate in a pugil stick battle during a field meet at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Jan. 19, 2024. The field meet was held in celebration of MASS-2's 81st Anniversary.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, hold up logs during log drills at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, June 27, 2022. Recruits carried a 250 pound log, executing various exercises to strengthen their bodies, minds, and teamwork.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Brian Berling , commander of Alpha Company, 3rd Transportation Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, performs pull ups during a field meet at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, April 5, 2022. 3rd TB conducted a competitive field meet in order to boost morale amongst their Marines. 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.

Soldiers from the 870th Military Police Company conduct nonlethal weapons training in Concord, CA June 11-12, 2022. The M39 Individual Riot Control Agent Dispenser (IRCAD) is used to subdue combatants without causing permanent damage. Military Police Soldiers are certified to react if the OC blows back and contaminants them while engaged in stopping a combatant. The Human Electromuscular Incapacitation (HEMI) device luanches an electrode to stun and override the central nervous system of a combatant. The X26 has two barbed projectiles that penetrate up to 2 inches and give an electrical charge to the victim. The electrical charge will make the combatant have involuntary muscle contractions. the effective range for the equipment the 870th MP Company used today was 25 feet. (U.S. Army National Guard photos by Sgt. John Stephens, 49th MP Brigade, CAANG)

221015-N-IL330-1021 PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 15, 2022) - U.S. Marines participate in the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Savage Games in the hanger bay aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Oct. 15, 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jordy Montelongo, center, administrative specialist, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Yuma, takes a kick from a cadet with the Basha High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps during their visit to MCAS Yuma, Arizona, Nov. 30, 2022. Marine Corps Community Services provides opportunities for Marines on MCAS Yuma to educate and inform students from nearby schools about their careers in the Marine Corps.

U.S. Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, function check their M50 joint service general purpose mask during an annual Individual Protective Equipment Confidence Exercise (IPECE) qualification on Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 5, 2023. IPECE is an annual requirement for Marines to familiarize themselves with the protective equipment used against a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear attack.

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