Military Training Activities

This cluster features various military training events, including grappling, casualty transport, and physical proficiency tests, showcasing teamwork and physical challenges.

Members with the 90th Security Forces Group perform pushups during the Crow Creek Challenge, July 8th, 2022, at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo. The crow creek challenge pushed Airmen to test their physcial and mental readiness.

U.S. Marines compete in a grappling event 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.

Soldiers assigned to the 332nd Med Log Detachment and 330th Medical Brigade practice transporting casualties to cover and evac during a Combat Lifesaver (CLS) course at Camp Rapid, South Dakota, June 19, 2022. CLS was one of the many exercises conducted in support of the Golden Coyote Training Exercise.

040816-F-1601R-003. Base: Mcchord Air Force Base State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Staff Sgt. Alex Jobe, tank commander, and Sgt. Fernando Medina, gunner, carry tank track at the track block shuffle station during the physical proficiency test at Stewart Field, Fort Benning, Georgia. This part of the competition tasked competitors to complete five stations: an ammunition lift, tow cable crawl, track block shuffle, road wheel roll, and one mile run.

U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM), Headquarters and Service Battalion (HQSVCBN), compete in tug-of-war during a field meet at Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, Virginia, Sept. 22, 2022. Marines with FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM, and their respective HQSVCBN, competed in a dessert bake off, polyvinyl chloride pipe construction contest, musical chairs, football throwing competition and tug-of-war in order to win the unit trophy. FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM, and their respective HQSVCBN, hold quarterly field meets to sustain camaraderie and boost morale within the unit through friendly competitions.

Pvt. Sead Berisha, a psychological operations soldier with the Kosovo Security Force, runs alongside fellow Air Assault candidate, Cpl. Charles Wood-Shelhamer, a satellite communication systems operator-maintainer with the 302d Signal Battalion, 21st Signal Brigade, Fort Detrick, Maryland, while navigating the Confidence Course at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, on Aug. 30, 2022. Berisha and Wood-Shelhamer were among 200 Soldiers and Airmen who participated in a 12-day U.S. Army Air Assault course held at Camp Dodge, which trains service members in sling-load operations and rappelling as well as being a test of grit. The National Guards State Partnership Program joins Kosovo and Iowa in military-to-military engagements in support of defense security goals and cooperation objectives that foster cultural exchange.

U.S. Army Sgt. Steven Holt, assigned to the Public Health Command-Central at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas, faces off against Staff Sgt. Zachary Myers, assigned to the Moncrief Army Health Clinic at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, during the bracket-style combatives tournament of the 2022 Regional Health Command-Central Best Leader Competition in Fort Bliss, Texas, April 10, 2022. The competition promotes esprit de corps throughout the Army while recognizing soldiers, noncommissioned officers, and officers who demonstrate commitment to the Army values and embody the warrior ethos. The competition challenges the Armys best leaders in a demanding, continuous, and realistic simulated operational environment.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to 55th Signal Company (Combat Camera), 21st Signal Brigade, conduct Modern Army Combatives training at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, July 22, 2022. Combatives is the term for hand-to-hand combat training and techniques within the Army branch of the United States military.

Members with the 90th Security Forces Group perform pushups during the Crow Creek Challenge, July 8th, 2022, at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo. The crow creek challenge pushed Airmen to test their physcial and mental readiness.

A U.S. Marine with 2d Assault Amphibian Battalion (AAbn), 2d Marine Division competes in a shackle toss during Gator Week on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 4, 2023. Gator Week is an annual field meet held to commemorate the unit's traditions and past accomplishments in order to increase camaraderie and esprit de corps.

040319-M-7514K-006. Base: Camp H. M. Smith State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, grapple on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, April. 14, 2022. Marines hiked and competed in Marine Corps Martial Arts Program competitions between companies to increase morale and esprit de corps. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Forces comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Golf Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, squat as a team during log drills at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, July 18, 2022. Recruits carried a 250 pound log, executing various exercises to strengthen their bodies, minds, and teamwork.

CAMP BONDSTEEL, Kosovo - U.S. Army Spc. Zackary T. Maddox (right), an infantryman with Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry Regiment, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 29th Infantry Division, Kentucky National Guard, performs a plank during the Army Combat Fitness Test portion of the Kosovo Force, Regional Command East Best Warrior Competition at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, Sept. 29, 2022. Four noncommissioned officers and three junior enlisted Soldiers competed for the title of Best Warrior during the three-day event.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jeromy Rodrigues and Cpl. Dylan Coombs grapple 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.

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 386th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron do four-man push-ups while wearing vests and helmets as part of a Battle of the Badges competition at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, May 18, 2022. Battle of the Badges is an annual competition held during Police Week where first responders go head-to-head in a number of exercises, showcasing the strength, knowledge, and teamwork it takes to get the mission accomplished.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 432nd Wing/432nd Air Expeditionary Wing, watch a volunteer get tased during police week at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, May 18, 2022. Police week occurs annually to honor the law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, and to the officers who serve and protect their community.

Sgt. 1st Class Jacob Groves, a Soldier from the 4th Infantry Division Combatives Team, fights an opponent during the Lacerda Cup All-Army Combatives Championships semi-final round at Fort Benning, Georgia, on April 11, 2023. Combatives competitions enhance unit combat readiness by building Soldiers' personal courage, confidence, and resiliency as well as their situational responsiveness to close-quarters threats in the operational environment.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS) 1, Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 172, and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron (MALS) 36, grapple during a field meet at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 9, 2024. Marines with MWHS-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

Lightning Challenge 2022 competitor pulls a weight during an obstacle course Nov. 3, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. In addition to the obstacle course, competitors participated in 1,500-meter swim, road marches, marksmanship and other events that tested their mettle and acumen.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Michael Smith, Martial Arts Instructor (MAI) Trainer, conducts a class on the obstacle course at Ellis Field, Courthouse Bay on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, April 7, 2022. The three-week course develops Marines as MAIs to teach and instruct the fundamentals of hand-to-hand combat to other Marines stationed on MCB Camp Lejeune.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, ground fight during a unit competition on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, April. 14, 2022. Marines hiked and competed in Marine Corps Martial Arts Program competitions between companies to increase morale and esprit de corps. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Forces comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

Airman 1st Class Jalyn Cash, 31st Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department firefighter, drags a fire hose during the annual Guns and Hoses obstacle course in honor of Police Week at Aviano Air Base, Italy, May 18, 2022. The 31st CES competed against the 31st Security Forces in an obstacle course consisted of a hose pull, dummy drag, tire flip, jerry can carry, sledge hammer strike, Humvee pull and more. Police Week recognizes the service and sacrifice of U.S. law enforcement members, paying special tribute to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

U.S. Army Sgt. Keith Locklear, assigned to 2nd Cavalry Regiment, performs the Army Combat Fitness Test portion of the 7ATC/V Corps-level Best Squad Competition at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, July 11, 2022. Teams from across U.S. Army Europe and Africa test their tactical proficiency, communication, and overall cohesion as they compete for the title of Best Squad. Winning U.S. Army squads will meet at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, to compete for the title of U.S. Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF) Best Squad from August 8-12.

U.S. Army Soldiers with Task Force Sinai, participate in a Best Squad Competition at South Camp, Egypt, April 11-12, 2022; culminating in an awards ceremony April 14, 2022. The Soldiers conducted a series of events to measure their physical fitness, military discipline and team cohesion to include an Army Combat Fitness Test, stress shoot, medical lane, forced march, obstacle course and squad board.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Vincent Scott, 375th Security Forces flight sergeant, motivates Airmen as they push a Humvee during a section of an obstacle course at Warrior Park on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, May 18, 2022. These Airmen and other first responders from around Scott and the local community competed against each other in various activities during Police Week.

Hawaii Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (MPAD), 103rd Troop Command render a salute in formation during a deployment ceremony at Pearl City, Hawaii, Aug. 7, 2022. The 117th MPAD is being mobilized in support of the European Deterrence Initiative and will provide direct public affairs coverage to contingency operations abroad.

Army Reserve Spc. Sebastian Borges, assigned to the 1st Mission Support Command, performs a push-up during the Best Squad Competition at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, on May 16, 2022. Approximately 40 Soldiers from across the nation travelled to Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, to compete in the 2022 U.S. Best Warrior Best Squad Competition from May 14-21, 2022. The 2022 BWBSC is an annual competition that brings together the best Soldiers from across the U.S. Army Reserve to earn the title of NCO of the Year, Soldier of the Year and Best Squad among their peers. Competitors are evaluated on their individual and collective ability to adapt to and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-focused events that test their technical and tactical abilities under stress and extreme fatigue.

U.S. Marines with Headquarters and Service Battalion, participate in a running 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.

U.S. Army Soldiers attending the Advanced Leaders Course at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Noncommissioned Officer Academy - Fort Eustis demonstrate learned leadership knowledge and skills during the Commandant's Challenge May 19, 2022 at Fort Eustis, Virginia. The Commandant's Challenge is focused on developing leaders of character through an emphasis on the warrior ethos and teamwork in a simulated combat environment.

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

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Conrad Sheldon, an infantryman assigned to the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment, Connecticut Army National Guard, performs a plank during the Army Combat Fitness Test portion of the 2023 Connecticut Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition, at Camp Nett, Niantic, Connecticut, March 23, 2023. The competition drew soldiers from across the Connecticut Army National Guard and over the course of three days these competitors faced off against one another in a variety of events testing their physical fitness, land navigation skills, marksmanship skills and warrior task competencies.

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.

A Soldier assigned to the 3rd Brigade Combat Team Rakkasans, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) performs the three repetition maximum deadlift portion of the Army Combat Fitness test during Eagle Fit during Week of the Eagles on May 25, 2022 at Fort Campbell, Ky. This team bested 22 other teams in the three day event that included activities to push them mentally and physically. (U.S. Army photos by Spc. Kendall Lewis, 40th Public Affairs Detachment.)

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Austin Cherry, 355th Security Forces Squadron defender, supervises Davis-Monthans first tactical response teams selection at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, April 9, 2022. During this exercise Airmen did physical training, close quarters combat drills, as well as building clearing procedures.

Marines and Sailors stretching prior to competing in the Warrior Athlete Readiness and Resilience (WARR) Installation Challenge on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 7, 2022. The WARR Challenge is designed to be physically demanding, and tactically relevant to promote physical and mental readiness as a warfighter.

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 with Sergeants School 4-22, observe a demonstration during the Sergeants School Directors Cup, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 30, 2022. The Directors Cup is a squad competition conducted the day prior to graduation in order to boost morale, promote team building and reinforce esprit de corps.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jeanfranco Chiriboga, left, and Sgt. Aaron Borgens, military police officers with Provost Marshals Office, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, use a flexi cuff while demonstrating law enforcement apprehension procedures to members with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force during Exercise Keen Sword 2023 on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 11, 2022. Keen Sword exercises the combined command and control capabilities and lethality developed between MCIPAC, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and the Japan Self-Defense Force. This bilateral field-training demonstrates the U.S. military and JSDF interoperability and combat readiness of the U.S.-Japan Alliance.

U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM), compete in tug-of-war 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. Marine Corps Pfc. Luciano Giannuzzi, an intelligence specialist with Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck and Pfc. Joshua Yum, a data system administrator with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM), 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. FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM holds field meets regularly to sustain camaraderie and healthy work relations.

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

U.S. Marine Corps Recruits with Delta Company, First Recruit Training Battalion, traverse an obstacle during an Obstacle Course event at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, May 26, 2022. During the course recruits must strive to overcome each obstacle to overcome fear and increase confidence among themselves.

030512-M-4711R-012. Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Foster State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN)

U.S. Army Spc. Aldo Neto (kneeling), an emergency care specialist with the New York Army National Guard's 369th Special Troops Battalion, demonstrates a tactical casual care lifting technique on Pfc. Antonio Mejia, an ambulance aide with the battalion, during annual training at Fort Indiantown Gap National Guard National Training Center, Jonestown, PA, July 13, 2022. The 369th Special Troops Battalion staff is a small battalion staff that operates with efficiency and effectiveness as a team, controlling a variety of units based on the operational situation.

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.

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

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rosemarie Gonzalez, an ammo technician with 1st Supply Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, competes in a burpee race during a battalion field meet on Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 22, 2022. Marines and Sailors from different companies competed head-to-head in pugil sticks, burpee race, push-up race, tug-of-war, and tire flip race in order to win the battalion trophy. 1st Supply Battalion holds field meets to sustain camaraderie and healthy work relations.

Gunnery Sgt. Bryan Williams, the drum major with the 2d Marine Division Band, watches the band perform at Goettge Memorial Field on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 19, 2022. The performance acted as a rehearsal for the bands upcoming trip abroad.

031007-M-3843B-109. Base: Combat Readiness Training Center State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Military and civilian personnel participating in Tropic Care 2022 conduct Tactical Combat Casualty Care training in Lihue, Hawai'i, on June 16 2022. Tropicare 2022 provides real world training in a joint civil and military environment while strengthening community relationships by providing medical, dental, and optometry services to the people of Hawai'i.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Preston Charles-Merrill, a combat engineer and SAPPER with 1st Battalion, 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, attempts to arm lock his opponent on day 1 of the 2022 All Army Combatives Championship, Lacerda Cup, at Fort Benning, Georgia, April 5. The combatives competition is named in honor of the late Staff. Sgt. Pedro Lacerda of the 75th Ranger Regiment, and recognizes outstanding performance in hand-to-hand fighting skills known in the Army as combatives.

221006-M-VR919-2084 (October 7, 2022) U.S. Marines with Recruiters Station San Francisco, hold a pull-up bar challenge for individuals during San Francisco Fleet Week 2022 at Marina Green, California, Oct. 7, 2022. SFFW is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience Americas sea services. During fleet week, service members participate in various community service events, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community, and enjoy the hospitality of the city and its surrounding areas.

U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence (MEDCoE) Best Warrior Competition (BWC) competitor, Staff Sgt. Kyle Thompson, assigned to the 232nd Medical Battalion, left, performs a standing power throw during the Army Combat Fitness Test portion of the Army Futures Command BWC day one events at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Texas, June 6, 2022. The Best Squad Competition and Best Warrior Competition are events used to select the U.S. Army Best Squad of the Year, Noncommissioned Officer of the Year, Soldier of the Year and MEDCoEs Drill Sergeant of the Year.

Israeli Defense Forces Sgt. Roi Albik assigned to the Israel Defense Forces Combat Camera Unit, conducts a pull-up while competing in the 2022 Spc. Hilda I. Clayton Best Combat Camera Competition at Fort A.P Hill, Virginia, May 19, 2022. The annual multi-day competition tests the physical, tactical and technical proficiency of visual information and public affairs specialists across the DOD and participating international competitors.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, navigate the weaver obstacle 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. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), grapple during a safety brief on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 27, 2022. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Joshua Somero, electronic intelligence analyst, Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One, bench presses 185 lbs during the annual Super Squadron competition at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Jan. 26, 2024. The Super Squadron was a friendly competition between various units on the air station, designed to help strengthen teamwork as well as boost station morale.

A Tactical Air Control Party Airman executes a casualty evacuation exercise during Lightning Challenge 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Chapman Annex, Texas, Nov. 3, 2022. The Lightning Challenge is an annual service-level TACP competition to identify the best TACP Airmen in the Air Force.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, compete in a pugil stick bout during a field meet on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, May 13, 2022. Marines from across CLR-37 competed in a competitive field meet to increase morale and foster esprit de corps. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Forces comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Control Party specialist executes a casualty evacuation exercise during the TACP Lightning Challenge 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Texas, Nov. 3, 2022. Lightning Challenge tests United States Air Force TACP Airmen through competition in agile combat employment, physical ability and marksmanship in order to identify the most outstanding multi-capable Airman in the world, prepared to fight and win on the all-domain battlefields of the future.

U.S. Marines compete in a grappling event 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. 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.

U.S. Marines with Marine Air Control Group (MACG) 18 set up a modular extendable rigid wall shelter, part of a Tactical Air Command Center, at Andersen Air Force Base Guam, June 4, 2022, in support of Valiant Shield 2022. Exercise Valiant Shield gives units like MACG-18 the opportunity to integrate with forces across the Indo-Pacific to train in successful employment and operations that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Force.

U.S. Army Capt. Ogechukwu Erinne, assigned to the Weed Army Community Hospital at Fort Irwin, California, competes with 1st Lt. Godin, assigned to the Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley, Kansas, during the bracket-style combatives tournament of the 2022 Regional Health Command-Central Best Leader Competition in Fort Bliss, Texas, April 10, 2022. The competition promotes esprit de corps throughout the Army while recognizing soldiers, noncommissioned officers, and officers who demonstrate commitment to the Army values and embody the warrior ethos. The competition challenges the Armys best leaders in a demanding, continuous, and realistic simulated operational environment.

U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Control Party specialists from the 18th Air Support Operations Group compete in Dragon Challenge 2022 at Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina. The annual competition is designed to identify the best Joint Terminal Attack Controller teams within the group by testing the competitors steadfast physical, technical, tactical, and field-knowledge skills under mocked combat conditions.

Riley Green joined Soldiers at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Noncommissioned Officer Academy - Fort Rucker in conducting the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) Aug. 30, 2022.

Soldiers lift weights at the Multinational Division Baghdad and 4th Infantry Division gym on Camp Liberty, Iraq, May 21, 2008. Army Sgt. Jared Bargas, a Houston native who serves as the training noncommissioned officer in charge with the 4th Infantry Division Band, received the Army Achievement Medal for the hard work and initiative he displayed during the gyms renovation.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Intelligence Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, pull a Humvee as part of a timed event during 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.

2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division host the Week of the Warrior Competition, Camp Casey, Republic of Korea, May 2, 2022. The competition began with the Army Combat Fitness Test, measuring the fitness and mental rigor of the soldiers.

U.S. Army Sgt. Daniel Hernandez, a visual information specialist assigned to 3rd Psychological Operations Battalion (Airborne), 8th Psychological Operation Group (Airborne) attends a weapon familiarization lane during Day 0 of the 2022 Spc. Hilda I. Clayton Best Combat Camera Competition at Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia, May 18, 2022. The annual multi-day competition tests the tactical and technical proficiency of visual information and public affairs specialists across the DOD and participating international competitors.

U.S. Army Spc. Zachary Nicholson, an infantryman with 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, attempts to arm lock his opponent on day 1 of the 2022 All Army Combatives Championship, Lacerda Cup, at Fort Benning, Georgia, April 5. The combatives competition is named in honor of the late Staff. Sgt. Pedro Lacerda of the 75th Ranger Regiment, and recognizes outstanding performance in hand-to-hand fighting skills known in the Army as combatives.

U.S. Marines with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct dynamic warm-up exercises during a motivational run at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego, Oct. 20, 2022. The motivational run was the last physical fitness event conducted in recruit training.

Soldiers in 524th Division Sustainment Support Battalion, 25th DSB are heading to the field to support our ground allies over at 2IBCT for Nakoa Fleek here in Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.(U.S. Army Photos By: Sgt. Kenyel Jones)

Captain Adrian Mateos, 150th Special Operations Wing, New Mexico Air National Guard, instructs a Combatives course designed to teach service members taking part in Tropic Care Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) 2022 basic self defense skills. This is just one of many additional trainings IRT service members can participate in to bolster their skills outside of their usual speciality along with building joint service cohesion.

Recruits with Fox Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct the Combat Fitness Test on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., Feb. 10, 2024. The CFT is an annual fitness test that measures a Marines combat readiness. Marine Corps

U.S. Marines with Headquarters Service Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force, flip tires during a field meet on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, July 28, 2022. The Marines competed in various activities such as pull-ups, sprints, and fireman carries to boost camaraderie and morale in the unit.

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.

221102-N-HG389-0040 SINGAPORE (Nov. 2, 2022) - Command Master Chief Jonathon Carter, assigned to Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC/CTF73) performs an ammo can lift along side U.S. Marines in Singapore during a Marine hosted Combat Fitness Test at the Moral, Welfare and Recreation soccer field, Nov. 2.

Spc. Matthew Orth, assigned to the 601st Quartermaster Company, 173rd Brigade Support Battalion, 173rd Airborne Brigade, completes the Six Vault obstacle during the first U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Best Squad Competition held at Caserme Del Din, Vicenza, Italy on May 25, 2022. The competition spans four physically and mentally demanding days where competitors are tested on tactical, technical and leadership skills as they vie to be named the Best Squad. Six squads and eight individual Soldiers from nine units are competing for the title Best Warrior and Best Squad.

A Cadet from Virginia Tech competes in the Commanders Challenge - the final event of 1st Brigades Army ROTC Ranger Challenge - on October 29 at Fort Knox, Ky. The Ranger Challenge runs October 26-29, and the top two teams go on to compete in the Sandhurst Military Skills Competition at West Point Military Academy in April 2023. | Photo by Sarah Windmueller, U.S. Army Cadet Command Public Affairs

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, low crawl 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.

Soldiers perform leg-tucks for the physical fitness event during the Ohio Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition at Camp James A. Garfield Joint Military Training Center in Ravenna, Ohio on April 1, 2022. The winners of the BWC will move on to represent the Ohio Army National Guard at the regional level competition this summer. The BWC recognizes Soldiers who demonstrate commitment to the Army values, embody the warrior Ethos, and represent the Force of the future. (Photo by Sgt Katelin Uhinck, 196TH Mobile Public Affairs Detachment/RELEASED)

Army Pfc. Jacob Hobbs and Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Justin Walker, 88th Security Forces Squadron, participate in the squadrons Ruck to Remember, May 20, 2022, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. The three-mile march was in honor of Air Force Defenders who died in the line of duty and marked the end of National Police Week.

U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy Corpsman with the Chemical Biological Incident Response Force participate in a battalion run at Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Maryland, February 15, 2024. The run was conducted to boost morale. Marine Corps

U.S. Army squads from across III Armored Corps compete for the title of the corps Best Squad during head-to-head competition at the III Armored Corps Best Squad Competition at Fort Hood, Texas, Jun. 22, 2022. The Soldiers kicked off the week-long events with the Army Combat Fitness Test, or ACFT, a test that challenges Soldiers both physically and mentally through various events. The III Armored Corps pulled only the best from across its divisions and separate brigades to compete in this years inaugural competition. The best squad goes on to compete in the U.S. Army Forces Command competition at Fort Hood in August.

A 2nd Battalion recruit stretches his hamstrings with the rest of his platoon during physical training. Base: Usmc Recruit Depot,Parris Island State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Control Party specialists from the 18th Air Support Operations Group compete in Dragon Challenge 2022 at Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina. The annual competition is designed to identify the best Joint Terminal Attack Controller teams within the group by testing the competitors steadfast physical, technical, tactical, and field-knowledge skills under mocked combat conditions.

Cpl. Cade Shadarian, squad member assigned to 7th Transportation Brigade - Expeditionary, performs the plank as part of the Army Combat Fitness Test during the XVIII Airborne Corps Best Squad Competition for Corp Separates on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, June 7, 2022. The competition tested Soldiers on their physical and mental readiness using a multitude of events requiring leadership, teamwork, grit, and basic Soldier skills.

Soldiers assigned to the 35th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion exit a gas chamber during a training event at the Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, June 23, 2022. More than 60 Soldiers participated in the training, as part of a larger effort to increase readiness in the battalion.

U.S. Army soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 113th Infantry Regiment, New Jersey Army National Guard, participate in the Expert Infantry Badge certification training, February 10, 2024, Riverdale, NJ. The Expert Infantry Badge (EIB) is awarded to soldiers whose military occupational specialties are in the Infantry or Special Forces. To be awarded the EIB, soldiers must complete a number of prerequisites and pass a series of tests on basic infantry skills such as first aid care under fire, treating wounded soldiers, weapons qualification and a 12 mile road march. (New Jersey National Guard

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Justin Rigling, a field artillery fire controller with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, tightens wrist straps during a weightlifting meet aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 4, 2022. The 1000 Pound Club is a weightlifting event where participants must lift a cumulative one thousand pounds in squat, bench, and deadlift. 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 drill instructors with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, motivate a recruit during the Combat Fitness Test (CFT) at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, May 20, 2022. The CFT was conducted to test the level of combat readiness within the company.

Infantrymen undergo physical training at the Army Air Assault School. Base: Fort Campbell State: Kentucky (KY) Country: United States Of America (USA)

308th Rescue Squadron Airmen participate in a tribute workout and teambuilding event at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, Sept. 11, 2022. Embracing the Multi-Capable Airmen concept, support Airmen worked in teams alongside pararescuemen to perform operations and physical fitness together to learn tasks outside of their primary specialty in order to reduce the overall personnel footprint in a deployed environment.

U.S. Marines with Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry-East, compete in M18 pistol team relays during the Intramural Marksmanship Competition on Stone Bay, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 7, 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.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct the pull-up portion of their initial strength test at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Jan. 12, 2023. The IST is a baseline fitness test for the new recruits to ensure they meet the physical requirements to begin the 13-week transformation to earn the title United States Marine.

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