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Japan Ground Self-Defense members with Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, 2nd Shore Underwater Obstacle Disposal Unit, prepare to advance during a simulated patrol in support of Iron Fist 25, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 26, 2025. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Raul Sotovilla)

Japan Ground Self-Defense members with Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, 2nd Shore Underwater Obstacle Disposal Unit, prepare to advance during a simulated patrol in support of Iron Fist 25, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 26, 2025. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Raul Sotovilla)

Photo by Lance Cpl. Raul Sotovilla

A U.S. Marine, left, with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force soldier, right, with the 1st Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment, prepare to conduct simulated integrated squad attacks at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 24, 2025. The training was conducted to strengthen cohesion between partner forces and to share tactics, techniques, and procedures during Iron Fist 25. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the JGSDF, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan)

A U.S. Marine, left, with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force soldier, right, with the 1st Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment, prepare to conduct simulated integrated squad attacks at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 24, 2025. The training was conducted to strengthen cohesion between partner forces and to share tactics, techniques, and procedures during Iron Fist 25. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the JGSDF, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan)

Photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Quentin Kennell, a tiltrotor crew chief, MV-22, with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, right, and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members with 1st Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment, prepare to embark U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys assigned to VMM-262 (Rein.), during a bilateral insert exercise in support of Iron Fist 25, at JGSDF Camp Ainoura, Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan, Feb. 23, 2025. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. 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. Kennell is a native of California. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews)

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Quentin Kennell, a tiltrotor crew chief, MV-22, with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, right, and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members with 1st Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment, prepare to embark U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys assigned to VMM-262 (Rein.), during a bilateral insert exercise in support of Iron Fist 25, at JGSDF Camp Ainoura, Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan, Feb. 23, 2025. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. 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. Kennell is a native of California. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews)

Photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force soldier with the 1st Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment, set security during a bilateral urban breaching range at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 22, 2025. The exercise was conducted to strengthen cohesion between partner forces and to share tactics, techniques, and procedures during Iron Fist 25. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the JGSDF, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan)

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force soldier with the 1st Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment, set security during a bilateral urban breaching range at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 22, 2025. The exercise was conducted to strengthen cohesion between partner forces and to share tactics, techniques, and procedures during Iron Fist 25. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the JGSDF, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan)

Photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Japan Ground Self Defense Force soldiers with 1st Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment conduct a bilateral live-fire range during Iron Fist 25, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 22, 2025. The Marines and JGSDF members trained in a tactical environment to enhance bilateral interoperability and sustain weapons skills. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the Japan Ground Self Force, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by LCpl. Trevor BishopWilliams)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Japan Ground Self Defense Force soldiers with 1st Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment conduct a bilateral live-fire range during Iron Fist 25, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 22, 2025. The Marines and JGSDF members trained in a tactical environment to enhance bilateral interoperability and sustain weapons skills. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the Japan Ground Self Force, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by LCpl. Trevor BishopWilliams)

Photo by Lance Cpl. Trevor BishopWilliams

U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy corpsmen with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observe a notional lift during an external lift exercise in support of Iron Fist 25, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 22, 2025. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 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. Wharton is a native of Texas. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Raul Sotovilla)

U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy corpsmen with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, observe a notional lift during an external lift exercise in support of Iron Fist 25, at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 22, 2025. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 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. Wharton is a native of Texas. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Raul Sotovilla)

Photo by Lance Cpl. Raul Sotovilla

U.S. Marine Corps pilots with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, receive a refuel in an MV-22B Osprey assigned to VMM-262 (Rein.) from a C-130H, during aerial refuel operations in support of Iron Fist 25, off the coast of Japan, Feb. 21, 2025. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews)

U.S. Marine Corps pilots with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, receive a refuel in an MV-22B Osprey assigned to VMM-262 (Rein.) from a C-130H, during aerial refuel operations in support of Iron Fist 25, off the coast of Japan, Feb. 21, 2025. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews)

Photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force conduct bilateral flight operations in a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey assigned to VMM-262 (Rein.), and a V-22 Osprey assigned to 108th Aviation, Transport Aviation Group, during Iron Fist 25, above Nagasaki, Japan, Feb. 21, 2025. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews)

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force conduct bilateral flight operations in a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey assigned to VMM-262 (Rein.), and a V-22 Osprey assigned to 108th Aviation, Transport Aviation Group, during Iron Fist 25, above Nagasaki, Japan, Feb. 21, 2025. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews)

Photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Cade Astrin, an infantry Marine with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, sets security during a bilateral urban operations force-on-force training exercise at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 21, 2025. The exercise was conducted to strengthen cohesion between partner forces and to share tactics, techniques, and procedures during Iron Fist 25. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. 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. Astrin is a native of Virginia. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Cade Astrin, an infantry Marine with Echo Company, Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, sets security during a bilateral urban operations force-on-force training exercise at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 21, 2025. The exercise was conducted to strengthen cohesion between partner forces and to share tactics, techniques, and procedures during Iron Fist 25. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. 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. Astrin is a native of Virginia. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan)

Photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigate in a wedge boat formation during a simulated boat raid in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 1, 2025. This training was conducted in order for the Marines to increase their proficiency conducting boat raids with the newly fielded enhanced combat rubber reconnaissance craft. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the USS America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations, 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Angel Diaz Montes De Oca)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigate in a wedge boat formation during a simulated boat raid in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 1, 2025. This training was conducted in order for the Marines to increase their proficiency conducting boat raids with the newly fielded enhanced combat rubber reconnaissance craft. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the USS America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations, 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Angel Diaz Montes De Oca)

Photo by Cpl. Angel Diaz Montes De Oca

U.S. Navy surgeons brief the surgery plan for a simulated casualty during a medical drill aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 1, 2025. The drill was conducted to evaluate corpsmen and ship surgeons’ response-and-triage tactics while providing medical care in a variety of simulated scenarios while underway. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), compromising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operators with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Skilah Sanchez)

U.S. Navy surgeons brief the surgery plan for a simulated casualty during a medical drill aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 1, 2025. The drill was conducted to evaluate corpsmen and ship surgeons’ response-and-triage tactics while providing medical care in a variety of simulated scenarios while underway. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), compromising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operators with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Skilah Sanchez)

Photo by Pfc. Skilah Sanchez

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embark an U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.) aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 31, 2025. The TRAP exercise showcased advanced trauma life support capabilities and evaluated the platoon’s rapid response and recovery tactics of downed aircraft, personnel and equipment in isolated locations. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), comprising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet are of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embark an U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.) aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 31, 2025. The TRAP exercise showcased advanced trauma life support capabilities and evaluated the platoon’s rapid response and recovery tactics of downed aircraft, personnel and equipment in isolated locations. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), comprising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet are of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews)

Photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews

A U.S. Marine with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fast ropes off an U.S. Navy MH-60 Seahawk assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), during fast rope training in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 30, 2025. Marines conducted fast rope sustainment to maintain qualifications for future training scenarios. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), comprising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet are of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A U.S. Marine with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fast ropes off an U.S. Navy MH-60 Seahawk assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), during fast rope training in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 30, 2025. Marines conducted fast rope sustainment to maintain qualifications for future training scenarios. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), comprising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet are of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Trevor BishopWilliams

A U.S. Marine with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, jumps out of a CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.) during parachute operations exercise above Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 29, 2025. The purpose of the training was to maintain and improve the Marines’ aerial insertion skills. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), compromising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operators with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A U.S. Marine with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, jumps out of a CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.) during parachute operations exercise above Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 29, 2025. The purpose of the training was to maintain and improve the Marines’ aerial insertion skills. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), compromising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operators with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Photo by Pfc. Skilah Sanchez

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, paddle away from the stern gate in an enhanced combat rubber reconnaissance craft (E-CRRC) during a launch and recovery sustainment training aboard amphibious transport dock USS San Diego (LPD 22), in the Philippine Sea on Jan. 29, 2025. This training was conducted in order to rehearse and improve launch and recovery procedures during small boat operations. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the USS America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations, 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Gerardo Mendez)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, paddle away from the stern gate in an enhanced combat rubber reconnaissance craft (E-CRRC) during a launch and recovery sustainment training aboard amphibious transport dock USS San Diego (LPD 22), in the Philippine Sea on Jan. 29, 2025. This training was conducted in order to rehearse and improve launch and recovery procedures during small boat operations. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the USS America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations, 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Gerardo Mendez)

Photo by Lance Cpl. Gerardo Mendez

A U.S. Navy landing craft, air cushion assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, approaches the well deck of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) during off-loading and onloading rehearsals in preparation for a ship to shore movement, in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 29, 2025. The Marines and Navy sailors executed off-loading and onloading operations to certify joint operations between weaponized and amphibious units for the USS Rushmore (LSD 47) in support of Marine and Navy personnel. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), comprising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan)

A U.S. Navy landing craft, air cushion assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, approaches the well deck of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) during off-loading and onloading rehearsals in preparation for a ship to shore movement, in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 29, 2025. The Marines and Navy sailors executed off-loading and onloading operations to certify joint operations between weaponized and amphibious units for the USS Rushmore (LSD 47) in support of Marine and Navy personnel. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), comprising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan)

Photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan

U.S. Marines and Navy sailors with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, unload 60 pallets of dry and frozen goods during resupply operations on the USS Rushmore, at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 27, 2025. The Marines and sailors executed resupply operations for the USS Rushmore in support of Marine and Navy personnel. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), comprising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan)

U.S. Marines and Navy sailors with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, unload 60 pallets of dry and frozen goods during resupply operations on the USS Rushmore, at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 27, 2025. The Marines and sailors executed resupply operations for the USS Rushmore in support of Marine and Navy personnel. The America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), comprising amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are underway conducting routine integrated operations in U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan)

Photo by Cpl. Alora Finigan

A U.S. Marine with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, jumps from a CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.) during helocast training at Kin Blue Beach Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 17, 2025. This training enhances airborne techniques and enables Marines to insert personnel into a body of water from an aircraft. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Skilah Sanchez)

A U.S. Marine with Force Reconnaissance Platoon, Maritime Raid Force, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, jumps from a CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Rein.) during helocast training at Kin Blue Beach Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 17, 2025. This training enhances airborne techniques and enables Marines to insert personnel into a body of water from an aircraft. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Skilah Sanchez)

Photo by Pfc. Skilah Sanchez

U.S. Marines with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to load High Mobility Artillery Rocket System ammunition onto an U.S. Navy landing craft, air cushion during onload operations at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 17, 2025. The purpose of these operations are to ensure that all necessary gear and personnel are embarked on ship prior to each patrol. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews)

U.S. Marines with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepare to load High Mobility Artillery Rocket System ammunition onto an U.S. Navy landing craft, air cushion during onload operations at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 17, 2025. The purpose of these operations are to ensure that all necessary gear and personnel are embarked on ship prior to each patrol. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews)

Photo by Sgt. Tyler Andrews

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct fast rope training from MV-22 Ospreys assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor 262 (Rein.) at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, January 15th 2025. Marines participated in fast rope training to enhance air-to-ground insertion capabilities. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. BishopWilliams.)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct fast rope training from MV-22 Ospreys assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor 262 (Rein.) at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, January 15th 2025. Marines participated in fast rope training to enhance air-to-ground insertion capabilities. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. BishopWilliams.)

Photo by Lance Cpl. Trevor BishopWilliams