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Marines

News and Press Releases

Articles and Press Releases written by MARFORRES COMMSTRAT

Reserve Administration Noncommissioned Officer of the Year - Cover Photo

Sergeant Erick Volquezrodriguez: Reserve Administration Noncommissioned Officer of the Year

Erick Volquezrodriguez, a United States Marine Corps Reserve Sergeant assigned to III Marine

Press Release: Marine Corps Reserve Begins Pinnacle Training at Warfighting Center in California

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. – Approximately 4,279 Marines and Sailors from Marine Forces Reserve are

4th LE Battalion Provides Security During Exercise Native Fury

4th LE Battalion Provides Security During Exercise Native Fury

U.S. Marines with Delta Company, 4th Law Enforcement Battalion (4th LEB), Force Headquarters Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve, first deployed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in April 2024 to provide security to Marines, Sailors, Soldiers, and their assets participating in support of Exercise Native Fury 24. Delta Company’s mission is to provide inner perimeter security for initial staging and logistics areas in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in support of 2nd Distribution Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (MLG) and to provide security alongside Saudi and Emirati forces throughout the exercise as it progresses from Kingdom Saudi Arabia to the United Arab Emirates.

U.S. Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, pose alongside soldiers with the Philippine Army for a group photograph at the conclusion of a groundbreaking ceremony at Alannay Elementary School prior to the commencement of Exercise Balikatan 24 in Cagayan, Philippines, March 26, 2024. BK 24 is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Trent A. Henry)

Philippine, US forces conclude Balikatan humanitarian efforts

Service members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military successfully completed a series of humanitarian civic assistance efforts focused on community health engagements, engineering civic action projects, and civil-military engagements during Exercise Balikatan 24.

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Ruth 'Mama Lou' Keller receives her birthday cake during her 99th birthday celebration, March 30, 2024, in San Jose, CA. Mama Lou was stationed at the Pentagon during the height of WWII processing Purple Hearts.

U.S. Marines celebrate retired Marine Corps Cpl. Lou 'Mama Lou' Keller's 99th birthday

U.S. Marines with Headquarters Company, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division celebrated U.S.

Reserve Marines train for success in culminating event

Reserve Marines train for success in culminating event

Over 500 Marines assigned to 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment conducted a Mission Rehearsal Exercise at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, April 11-13 in preparation for Integrated Training Exercise 4-24.

New Orleans based Marine Corps Command receives new Commander – incumbent retires after 35 years

New Orleans based Marine Corps Command receives new Commander – incumbent retires after 35 years

Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces South held a change of command ceremony March 21, 2024, here. U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. David Bellon relinquished command to Lt. Gen. Leonard Anderson IV during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans. Later that day, Bellon retired from the Marine Corps after 35 years of faithful service at a separate ceremony at the National World War II Museum. Bellon, a native of Fort Polk, Louisiana, took command of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North in 2019. The latter command relocated to Norfolk, Virginia, in 2020. Bellon assumed command of Marine Forces South in 2022 when it relocated from Doral, Florida to here.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Ryan P. Allen, Commanding Officer, Marine Air Control Group 48, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, poses for a group photo with Marines with Marine Air Control Squadron (MACS) 24 at Fort Greely, Alaska, Feb. 10, 2024, in preparation for exercise ARCTIC EDGE 2024 (AE24). “Joint training opportunities like Arctic Edge 24 allow the Marines to cultivate proficiency and lethality, while developing the skills necessary to operate in the arctic environment,,” said Allen. AE24 is a U.S. Northern Command-led homeland defense exercise demonstrating the U.S. Military's capabilities in extreme cold weather, joint force readiness, and U.S. military commitment to mutual strategic security interests in the Arctic region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jestin Costa)

Any Clime and Place: Reserve Marines field test radar system in Alaska in support of Arctic Edge 2024

In the unforgiving cold of Alaska, U.S. Marines with Marine Air Control Squadron 24 (MACS-24), Marine Air Control Group (MACG) 48, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve field-tested an AN/TPS-80 Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR) in support of exercise Arctic Edge 2024 (AE24) at Fort Greely, Alaska, Feb. 10, 2024.

U.S. Marines with Fox Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 234, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve begin onloading a M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) onto a C-130J Hercules during a HIMARS Rapid Infiltration, also known as a HIRAIN, during exercise Arctic Edge 2024 at Eielson Air Force, Alaska, Feb. 24, 2024. The HIRAIN training demonstrated Marine Forces Reserve’s ability to rapidly deploy the HIMARS to meet and deter any threats in any environment, including harsh arctic environments. Arctic Edge 2024 (AE24) is a U.S. Northern Command-led homeland defense exercise demonstrating the U.S. military’s capabilities in extreme cold weather, joint force readiness, and U.S. military commitment to mutual strategic security interests in the arctic region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Madisyn Paschal)

Any Clime and Place: Fox 2/14 Marines fire HIMARS in subzero conditions during Arctic Edge 2024

Against the backdrop of a snowy landscape and amidst the gusts of a biting wind, U.S. Marines with Fox Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve prepare to unleash rockets from a M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) during a HIMARS Rapid Infiltration, known as a HIRAIN, as part of exercise Arctic Edge 2024 (AE24) at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Feb. 24, 2024.

USAG-KA COMMEMORATES OPERATION FLINTLOCK DURING 80TH ANNIVERSARY

USAG-KA commemorates Operation FLINTLOCK during 80th Anniversary

The community of U.S. Army Garrison Kwajalein Atoll paid tribute during Operation FLINTLOCK’s 80th Anniversary, Jan. 31 – Feb. 4, to honor those who served and assisted in liberating the Marshall Islands during World War II. Operation FLINTLOCK is considered the largest amphibious assault of WWII, directly contributing to the allied defeat of the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy.

Family in and out of the Corps; a Marine inspires a change in her family.

Family in and out of the Corps; a Marine inspires change in her family

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Astrid Ramos Roman, an administrative clerk with Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, (left) Pfc. Joel Mendoza, student at Logistic Operation School North Carolina, (middle) Cpl. Ashly Mendoza, a finance technician with Combat Logistics Regiment, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, (right) pose for a photo celebrating Joel’s Marine boot camp graduation in Hollywood, South Carolina, Oct 27, 2023. Ramos was the first in her family to enlist, inspiring her brother and sister to follow in her footsteps. (U.S. Marine Corps courtesy photo by Cpl. Astrid Ramos Roman)

Reserve Marine awarded fire department Medal of Honor

Reserve Marine awarded fire department Medal of Honor

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Sgt. Bobby Philips, motor vehicle operator, Deployment Processing Command - Reserve Support Unit East, Force Headquarters Group, was awarded the Columbia-Richland Fire Department Medal of Honor, Jan. 19, 2024. Philips, a fire captain at the Columbia-Richland Fire Department, took courageous actions, braving life-threatening conditions in the line of duty to save lives during a fire at Tropical Ridge Apartments, Columbia, South Carolina. The award is received by fire department members who have acted under life-threatening conditions to courageously save or protect others.

U.S. Marine Col. and Senator Daniel Sullivan retires after 30 years

U.S. Senator, U.S. Marine Retires from Marine Corps Reserve after 30 Years of Service

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Daniel S. Sullivan, the last actively serving Marine in the U.S. Senate,

Ribbon cutting for Brooklyn’s new Marine Reservist Home Training Center with community collaboration

Ribbon cutting for Brooklyn’s new Marine Reservist Home Training Center with community collaboration

The U.S. Marine Corps unveiled a brand-new Home Training Center in Brooklyn, New York on Jan. 6, 2024. This facility, equipped with modern training amenities, serves to enhance the readiness of Marine reservists with 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, while fostering stronger ties between the military and local community. The inauguration ceremony was attended by city officials, military leaders, and community representatives, highlighting collaborative efforts behind this initiative.

4th Marine Logistics Group hosts sergeant major relief and appointment ceremony

Gratitude in relief: A Franklin, Louisiana native, sergeant major expresses thanks as he passes on his legacy.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Christopher Thomas was replaced as the command senior enlisted leader of

U.S. Marines with the Marine Innovation Unit attend their Marine Corps' 248th birthday ball, Queens, New York, Nov. 5, 2023. Stood up in March 2022, MIU leverages existing Marine talent in order to: accelerate the adoption of advanced capabilities; transform Naval Service capacity for technology employment; and retain and invest in Total Force human capital. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. David Intriago)

Colonel Brooks D. Braden assumes command of Marine Innovation Unit

Col. Brooks D. Braden assumed command of the Marine Innovation Unit from Col. Matthew C. Swindle during a change of command ceremony and the unit’s first-ever Marine Corps Birthday Ball celebration hosted at Terrace On The Park here, November 5, 2023.

Automated additive construction demonstration at Camp Atterbury, Indiana

Marine Innovation Unit observes additive construction

A Marine Innovation Unit (MIU) representative observed a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers demonstration of automated additive construction techniques at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, October 19, 2023. Marine Corps Maj. Max Wineland, a special operations command liaison officer representing MIU, observed the technique used to build a concrete structure and perform blast testing conducted on a 3D printed structure. The event was held to help educate service members on this technology and create a new way to quickly build safe and reliable structures.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Ilya Glazunov, left, a data systems technician, and Gunnery Sgt. Joseph Soto, right, a communications chief, both with I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group reserve detachment, listen during an overview brief on the I MIG Individual Mobilization Augmentee unit at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Nov. 1, 2023. During their activation, the Individual Mobilization Augmentee detachment conducted annual training requirements to ensure the reservists can seamlessly transition into I MIG operations during any future activation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Macie Ross)

IMIG Reserve Detachment holds a familiarization training

11 Individual Mobilization Augmentee reserve Marines activated to participate in familiarization training at I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Nov. 1 - Nov. 5, 2023. The training included briefs, personal development, and unit comradery events designed to ensure reservists could seamlessly transition into I MIG operations during any future activation of the augmentee unit, which also emphasizes the benefits of the Direct Affiliation Program.

- Jack Lowe holds his Eagle Globe and Anchor out after becoming an “Honorary Marine,” during a ceremony at the Lowe family residence on November 1, 2023. Lowe was honored for his unwavering dedication and his remarkable resilience in the face of adversity through his ongoing fight with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. Lowe has a long familial history of military service and always dreamed of serving his country.

The Honorary Marine program officially began in 1992 under 30th Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Carl E. Mundy. The bestowment of the title “Honorary Marine” is “designed to reinforce the special bond between the American people and the Marine Corps by recognizing individuals in the civilian community who have made extraordinary contributions to the Marine Corps”. ”. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Warren Smith)

Jack Lowe designated as Honorary Marine

Since childhood, Jack Lowe always envisioned a future serving in the military.

VMFA-112 Pilots locate Crashed Aircraft

VMFA-112 Pilots locate Crashed Aircraft

Two pilots with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112(VMFA-112) successfully located a downed aircraft that led emergency response personnel to provide medical assistance to the injured. The incident unfolded on Sept. 23, 2023, near El Dorado, Arkansas.

Phyllis Taylor Donates Lt. Gen. Lejeune Statue to Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans

Phyllis Taylor Donates Lt. Gen. Lejeune Statue to Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans

A sea of green gather for the start of a ceremony in the large foyer illuminated by the sun shining through the large glass doors leading in. Small chatter booms and echoes through the hall while Marines stand waiting to see this historic event take place. As the audience shuffles into their places, a hush falls over Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans, Sept. 20, 2023.

Marine Forces Reserve band takes over Tennessee

Marine Forces Reserve Band visits Tennessee State University

The U.S. Marine Forces Reserve Band performed at Tennessee State University at the Poag Auditorium, Monday, Sept. 11, 2023. The U.S. Marine Forces Reserve Band was established in 1978, and is one of the 10 Marine Corps field bands that comprises active-duty Marines stationed aboard the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans. The band provides musical support for military ceremonies and other official functions, Marine Corps community relation events, and Marine Corps personnel procurement programs.

Diversity AIMED Officer Program 2023

Marines Get an Inside Look at Becoming an Officer

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Christian Carrasco, an environmental compliance officer with Combat Logistics Battalion 25 and native of Poteet, Texas has always dreamed of becoming a Marine Corps officer. “I feel like I have something to offer to the Marine Corps, seeing the officers in their uniforms at the ball and seeing the way they carry themselves… I would like to be that figure for my Marines one day.” Little did he know, a trip to the National Capital Region would allow him to see just how capable he is of embodying the very figure he hopes to be for his Marines.

Marine Innovation Unit Health Service Support Focuses on Healthcare Cybersecurity

Marine Innovation Unit Health Service Support Focuses on Healthcare Cybersecurity

Cyber attacks on the healthcare industry have become more frequent over the years as it ranks within the top three of the most vulnerable industries subjected to phishing schemes, ransomware and an increasing susceptibility to online crime. A recent U.S. Office for Civil Rights study has found more than 51 million records have been stolen online in 2022. Unfortunately, military medical records are not immune to this threat.

Tradewinds 23: Cyber Defense

Reserve Cyber Marines Support Tradewinds 23 after Winning Another USMC Cyber Games

NEW ORLEANS - Marines from 6th Communication Battalion (6th Comm Bn) reclaimed the first-place title

U.S. Marines Corps 1st Lt. David Powell, an assault amphibian vehicle commander with 4th Amphibious Assault Battalion, 4th Marine Division, guards the perimeter of a UH-1Y Venom landing zone during riverine operations training on the Río Sinú during UNITAS LXIV near Base de Entrenamiento de Infantería de Marina in Coveñas, Colombia, July 14, 2023. Through event-driven scenarios, UNITAS provides unique training opportunities both at sea and ashore in challenging and uncertain environments to conduct joint maritime operations through the execution of surface, air, amphibious and electronic warfare operations that enhance warfighting proficiency and increase interoperability among participating naval and marine forces.

SPMAGTF UNITAS Supports Total Force's Efforts to Modernize

Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force UNITAS completed the 64th iteration of the world’s longest-running multinational maritime exercise in the world here on July 21. Throughout the exercise’s history, the United States and its partner nations have worked to improve and adapt the exercise to the evolving security challenges the world faces. This year’s UNITAS was no different as the SPMAGTF worked side-by-side with the U.S. Navy and partner nations to experiment with new equipment and test Force Design 2030 concepts...

Lose to Win, A Marine's Journey to Serve

Lose to Win, A Marine's Journey to Serve

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jeffrey Stike, a heating, ventilation and air conditioner (HVAC) operator mechanic with 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division, enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve in 2021 and graduated boot camp in 2022. He is a native of White Hall, Maryland, and graduated North Harford High School in 2018.

Photo of U.S. Marines with woman thanking them for assisting her during rising flash flood waters

U.S. Marines Assist Vermont Woman During Flash Floods

Two U.S. Marines assist a woman with a flat tire during flash floods as the flood water rises near her vehicle.

Senior leaders from 20 partner nations pose for a photograph with the U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, at the Colombian Naval Museum, Cartagena, Colombia on the official opening day of exercise UNITAS LXIV, July 12, 2023. UNITAS, which is Latin for ‘unity,’ is the world's longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise that brings together forces from 20 countries to include Belize, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Spain, South Korea, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the United States. UNITAS is the world's longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise that focuses on enhancing interoperability among multiple nations and joint forces during littoral and amphibious operations in order to build on existing regional partnerships and create new enduring relationships that promote peace, stability and prosperity in the U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Maj. Jeremy Wheeler)

United in Purpose | 20 Nations Kick Off UNITAS LXIV in Colombia

UNITAS LXIV is officially underway. The opening ceremony of the world’s longest-running

UNITAS LXIV: Opening Ceremony

United in Purpose | 20 Nations Kick Off UNITAS LXIV in Colombia

UNITAS LXIV is officially underway. The opening ceremony of the world’s longest-running multinational maritime exercise formally launched this year’s iteration on July 12, 2023. Twenty nations are coming together to conduct the 64th iteration of UNITAS, which is Latin for unity. In concert with U. S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet, approximately 650 United States Marines from Marine Forces South (MARFORSOUTH), Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES), and II Marine Expeditionary Force will provide direct support to nautical, aerial and shore-based training events throughout the land and waters around Cartagena, Coveñas and Barranquilla, Colombia.

ITX 4-23: Commissioning Ceremony

From the Congo, to U.S. Citizen, Now Marine Officer

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nkundimana Binene Claude, a rifleman with 2nd Platoon, Alpha Company, 1st

Staff Sgt. Michael Torres, left, a data systems administrator for Defensive Cyberspace Operations-Internal Defensive Measures Company A, 6th Communication Battalion, discusses his network hacking plans during Cyber Yankee 23 at Camp Nett, Connecticut, May 25, 2023. Reserve Marines with DCO-IDM Company B, and the newly created Marine Innovation Unit, participated in Cyber Yankee as the "red team," simulating a cyberspace attack against a power utility grid. This exercise allowed Reserve Marines to integrate with their active-duty counterparts and joint partners to help develop practices in defense against cyber-attacks.

Red Team: Reserve Marines simulate cyberspace attackers in exercise Cyber Yankee 23

Reserve Marines with Defensive Cyberspace Operations-Internal Defensive Measures (DCO-IDM) Companies A and B, 6th Communication Battalion and Marine Innovation Unit (MIU) participated in Cyber Yankee at Camp Net, CT, May 14-28, 2023.Cyber Yankee is a force-on-force regional, joint-service exercise that simulates a nation launching a cyber-attack on public utilities. This exercise gave Reserve Marines a unique opportunity to act as an attacking force against the other the branches of service as well as advise and help increase the skill level of the opposing teams.

Marines with 1/12 talk about the Direct Affiliation Program

Active-Duty Marines join Marine Corps Reserve via Direct Affiliation Program

Fifteen Marines from 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, are joining the Reserve Component through the

Reserve Marine Foils DC-area Human Trafficking Ring Just Hours Before Fitness Test

Reserve Marine Foils DC-area Human Trafficking Ring Just Hours Before Fitness Test

What was supposed to be a normal Reserve drill weekend here turned a U.S. Marine lieutenant colonel into both a hero and a villain – a hero for finding and saving young teenage girls allegedly forced into sexual slavery, and a villain to the transnational criminal organization whose detestable operations were disrupted.

MIU PRESS RELEASE - Cover Photo

PRESS RELEASE: U.S. Marine Corps activates first-ever Marine Innovation Unit, hosts defense innovation roundtable

In accordance with the 38th Commandant’s Planning Guidance and Force Design 2030, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve formally activated the Marine Innovation Unit (MIU) during an activation ceremony at Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, New York, on Friday, May 5, 2023. The activation symbolizes the Marine Corps’ renewed focus on innovation and experimentation in support of the Total Force as it continues to modernize the service in preparation for the future fight.

U.S. Marine Corps to activate first-ever innovation unit, host innovation roundtable event

The U.S. Marine Corps is set to host the formal activation ceremony of the service’s first-ever Marine Innovation Unit and a co-located Defense Innovation Roundtable, to be held at Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, New York, on Friday, May 5, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. EST.

4th MLG Innovation Conference

4th Marine Logistics Group Hosts Innovation Conference

Marines with 4th Marine Logistics Group have developed an innovation strategy during a conference here that capitalizes on U.S. Marine Corps Reserve capabilities and human talent to better exploit emerging technologies.

Cpl. Roland Scarinci Celebrated on his 100th Birthday

Cpl. Roland Scarinci Celebrated on his 100th Birthday

Scarinci celebrated his 100th birthday on Feb. 18 with his family, friends and other guests gathered to celebrate his long life. During this celebration, a ceremony was held by Marines of 4th Marine Division that presented Scarinci with a Letter of Appreciation signed by the Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. David H. Berger, thanking him for his time and service to the Corps.

Sgt. Howard awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal

Answering the Call Reserve Marine Saves the Lives of Two in New York

“It’s just the right thing to do and I would expect the same from anyone else.”At the time, Lance

Missouri-based Comm Marines compete in Worldwide Competition Noble Skywave

Missouri-based Comm Marines Shoot Radio Frequency to Peru in Worldwide Competition Noble Skywave

Kansas City Marines, active and reserve, competed in Canadian Communications and Electronic Branch-hosted exercise Noble Skywave, a military-led, high-frequency (HF) competition. “Noble Skywave is a radio hybrid mission competition to determine who can most efficiently use HF radio technology,” said U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Michael R. McKenzie, Inspected Instructor Regimental Communications Chief, Combat Combat Logistics Regiment (CLR) 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve.

Marine Forces Reserve Eyes a New Small Craft Mission

Marine Forces Reserve Eyes a New Small Craft Mission

Aligned with its Campaign Plan 2030 strategic themes, “relevant, ready and responsive,” Marine Forces Reserve (MFR) is pursuing the rapid acquisition of small expeditionary watercraft to provide capacity and platforms in support of Service-level Force Design 2030 experimentation efforts.

U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Completes Marine Corps Civil Affairs Course

MARFORRES/MARFORSOUTH Environmental Health Officer Completes USMC Civil Affairs Course

A Marine Forces Reserve/Marine Forces South Navy officer recently expanded her Fleet Marine Forces credentials by completing a critical Marine Corps expeditionary course. Lt. Cmdr. Evelyn Palm, an environmental health officer attached to the commands’ combined Health Service Support staff, recently graduated from the Marine Corps Civil Affairs Course. Palm is the first Navy Global Health Engagement (GHE)/Force Health Protection Officer to complete the course.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Charisse Briguera, right, a rifle Marine with Delta Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS LXIII poses for a photo with Marina Milagros Correa (Private Uruguayan Marine Corps) during exercise UNITAS LXIII aboard the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Sept. 18, 2022. UNITAS trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations through the execution of anti-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air, amphibious, and electronic warfare operations that enhance warfighting proficiency and increase interoperability among participating navy and marine forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. David Intriago)

UNITAS LXIII – Women in Combat Arms

Modern successful militaries have one thing in common: each value the contributions of women in all occupational specialties. One military community seeing an increase of women within its ranks is combat arms. It is more common because courageous pioneers in this field have proven women can take the fight to the enemy.

Brazilian marines perform a simulated casualty evacuation during a surgical training event during exercise UNITAS LXIII in Marambaia, Brazil, Sept. 10, 2022. The training event consisted of a medical equipment presentation, a field surgery, and a CASEVAC via a Brazilian armored personnel carrier. UNITAS is the world’s longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise that brings together forces from 19 countries to include Brazil, Cameroon, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Namibia, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, South Korea, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Uruguay. The exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability among multiple nations and joint forces during littoral and amphibious operations in order to build on existing regional partnerships and create new enduring relationships that promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. David Intriago)

UNITAS 2022: US Marine Corps Forces, South puts the Tactical Scalable Surgical System to the Test

Tucked away in the coastal jungles of southeastern Brazil, the corpsmen and medical officers with 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group were hard at work testing and developing an innovative medical concept for a Role 2 light maneuver element organic to the Marine Corps.

Marines with the Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron – 773, Det. Alpha guide a Bell AH-1Z Viper helicopter onto a C-5M Super Galaxy aircraft at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Louisiana, Sept. 13, 2022. This was the first time the Marines from the HMLA-733 participated in the NATO days air show. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Monet Villacorte)

Reserve Citizen Airmen participate in NATO Days air show

Reserve Citizen Airmen with the 433rd Airlift Wing’s 68th Airlift Squadron, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, and the Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron – 773, Det. Alpha, Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Louisiana, participated in the 22nd annual NATO Days and 13th Czech Air Force Days air show Sept. 17-18.

Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jim Aiken, addresses participants during the UNITAS LXIII After Action Review (AAR) in Rio de Janeiro, Sept. 22, 2022. UNITAS is the world’s longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise that focuses on enhancing interoperability among multiple nations and joint forces during littoral and amphibious operations in order to build on existing regional partnerships and create new enduring relationships that promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility.

UNITAS Concludes After Successful Exercise

UNITAS LXIII (63), the world’s longest-running multinational maritime exercise concluded with a closing ceremony in Rio De Janeiro, Sept. 22, 2022.

RIO DE JANEIRO (Sept. 8, 2022) Brazilian Navy Adm. Marcos Sampaio Olsen, Commander Naval Operations, and U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro greet each other prior to the opening ceremony for UNITAS LXIII, Sept. 8, 2022. UNITAS is the world’s longest-running maritime exercise. Hosted this year by Brazil, it brings together multinational forces from Brazil, Cameroon, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Namibia, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, South Korea, Spain, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the United States conducting operations in and off the coast of Rio de Janeiro. The exercise trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations through the execution of anti-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air, amphibious and electronic warfare operations that enhance warfighting proficiency and increase interoperability among participating naval and marine forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Ethan Craw/Released)

U.S. Secretary of the Navy Kicks Off UNITAS LXIII in Rio De Janeiro

More than 5,500 military personnel from 19 partner nations kicked off UNITAS LXIII (63) during an opening ceremony Sept. 8, 2022.

A U.S. Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom helicopter assigned to Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773 hovers above the landing pad of the San Antonio class dock landing ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) in the North Atlantic Ocean, Aug. 16, 2022. HMLA 773 launched three UH-1Y Venom and two AH-1Z Viper helicopters from McGuire Air Force Base and embarked them aboard the USS Mesa Verde for transit to Brazil in support of exercise UNITAS LXIII hosted by the Brazilian Navy and Marine Corps. 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 world’s longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise. Additionally, this year Brazil will celebrate its bicentennial, a historical milestone commemorating 200 years of the country’s independence.

U.S. Maritime Forces Arrive for UNITAS LXIII hosted by Brazil

Navy and Marine forces are set to arrive in Rio de Janeiro in support of UNITAS LXIII, the world’s

Medal of Honor Recipient Pfc. Robert E. Simanek Laid to Rest

Medal of Honor Recipient Pfc. Robert E. Simanek Laid to Rest

Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipient Pfc. Robert Simanek was laid to rest alongside his wife Nancy Simanek at the Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, Michigan, on Aug. 12.

California Air National Guard MQ-9 Reaper supports Marine Corps Reserve's ITX

U.S. Marines provide aviation delivered ground refueling to U.S. Air Force MQ-9 Reaper drone

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 764 provided aviation delivered ground refueling to a remotely piloted MQ-9 Reaper drone from the 163rd Attack Wing of the California Air National Guard during Integrated Training Exercise 4-22 at Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 20 and 21, 2022.

Training Day One

PRESS RELEASE: Marine Corps Reserve Begins Pinnacle Training at Warfighting Center in California

More than 4,300 Marines and Sailors from Marine Forces Reserve are mobilizing from across the country as part of Marine Air-Ground Task Force 23 to conduct Integrated Training Exercise 4-22 at Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center here from 18 July to 2 August.

Marines From the Marine Innovation Unit Participate in Cyber Yankee 2022

Red Team: Reserve Marines simulate cyberspace attackers in exercise Cyber Yankee 22

Cyber warfare is defined as the use of computer technology to disrupt the activities of a state or

HMLA-773 at Exercise Gunslinger 22

PRESS RELEASE: MORE THAN 1,300 MARINES IN SALINA FOR EXERCISE AT ANG RANGE

The United States Marine Corps will conduct a joint forces combat search and rescue (CSAR) training as part of exercise Gunslinger 22, at the Smoky Hill Air National Guard Range on Thursday.

Reserve Marines Conduct Mission Rehearsal Exercise ahead of ITX 4-22

Reserve Marines Conduct Mission Rehearsal Exercise ahead of ITX 4-22

Approximately 700 Marines assigned to 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment conducted a Mission Rehearsal Exercise (MRX) at Fort Campbell, KY, May 17-22, in preparation for Integrated Training Exercise (ITX) 4-22 later this summer.

Shortening the Kill Chain | Reserve Marines Rollout, Train on new G/ATOR System

Shortening the Kill Chain | Reserve Marines Rollout, Train on new G/ATOR System

Force Design 2030 details Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David Berger’s vision for maintaining the relevance of the Corps in the new age of great power competition; with this strategy comes change. Marine Air Control Squadron 24 (MACS-24), Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES), is experiencing this change first hand with the introduction of the Ground/Air Task-Oriented Radar (G/ATOR), or AN/TPS-80.

Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command

Marine Corps Reserve Team Performs Impressively During Cyber Competition

The President’s Cup is a cybersecurity competition that was established in 2019 as mandated by Executive Order 13870, with the intent of identifying, challenging, and rewarding the U.S. government's top cybersecurity talent. This year, there were three sections of the contest: one for defensive security; one for offensive security; and one for teams. U.S. Marine Corps reservists were a part of this competition, and team “PWNIE Express” came in 5th place out of over 250 teams.

Welcome Home

Gone but not Forgotten; A Pearl Harbor Marine Laid to Rest in Perryton Texas

Waldean Black left his hometown of Perryton, Texas on May 23, 1941 to become a U.S. Marine. Pvt. Black returned home April 28, 2022 and was laid to rest at the Ochiltree Cemetery in Perryton, Texas.

SERGEANT TORRES RECEIVES TOP HONORS AT 2021 PRESIDENT'S CUP CYBERSECURITY COMPETITION

Sergeant Torres Receives Top Honors at 2021 President's Cup Cybersecurity Competition

The President’s Cup is a cybersecurity competition that was established in 2019 as mandated by Executive Order 13870, with the intent of identifying, challenging, and rewarding the U.S. government's top cybersecurity talent. This year, there were three sections of the contest: one for defensive security; one for offensive security; and one for teams. U.S. Marine Corps reservists were a part of this competition, and team “PWNIE Express” came in 5th place out of over 250 teams. One member of the team, Sgt. Michael Torres, even earned first place overall in the defense portion.

Reserve Marines with 2nd Battalion, 14th Marines Conduct a Live-fire HIMARS Training Event

Reserve Marines with 2nd Battalion, 14th Marines Conduct a Live-fire HIMARS Training Event

The Marines that operate M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launchers hold a vital role within the future of the Marine Corps. With their rockets red glare, the Reserve Marines with Kilo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, are able to provide rapid precision fire support anywhere in the world in coordination with Marine Corps, and U.S. Air Force, aircraft.

4th Marine Aircraft Wing Marine Becomes Marine Corps’ First C-40A Clipper Crew Chief

4th Marine Aircraft Wing Marine Becomes Marine Corps’ First C-40A Clipper Crew Chief

“Why did you join the Marine Corps?” A question that has been asked by generations of Marines, a question which the answer is already known, yet we still choose to ask anyways. “I wanted to do something more with my life.” Those are the words of Staff Sgt. Lauren Song, a native of Aurora, Colorado, now stationed with Marine Transport Squadron 1, Marine Aircraft Group 41, Marine Forces Reserve, in Fort Worth, Texas.

Highly Decorated Vietnam Era Marine Honored, Mourned, Laid to Rest in Arizona

Highly Decorated Vietnam Era Marine Honored, Mourned, Laid to Rest in Arizona

Honor, courage, and commitment are core values instilled within every United States Marine. The late Lt. Col David Althoff lived and served in accordance with these values and led by example in showing his fellow Marines what it meant to put these words into action throughout his impressive 22 year career. However, it is his leadership, and steadfast resiliency in combat, as well as his courage and unwavering calmness in the heat of battle, which cement his legacy in Marine Corps History.

In Times of Conflict, Marine Reserve Aviators Ensure Joint Force Commander has Access to and Information of Marine Air Combat Power

In Times of Conflict, Marine Reserve Aviators Ensure Joint Force Commander has Access to and Information of Marine Air Combat Power

As adversaries attempt to disrupt rules-based international order in the vast Indo-Pacific region, a small group of Reserve Marines were on station here as part of Exercise Keen Edge to hone air dominance by advising the Joint Force Commander on Marine Corps aviation capabilities that can be brought to bear. They are the Aviation Command and Control Team (AC2T), and this capability can only be found in the Marine Corps Reserve.

VMFA-112 Arrive at MCAS Iwakuni

‘If Anything were to Happen, We were Ready’ Texas-based Reserve Marines Return Home

“Work.” That’s how Active Reserve Marine, Sgt. Ernesto Camacho, aircraft electrical systems technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 112, Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES), described his experience while deployed to the Indo-Pacific region. Over the last six months, Marine fighter attack aircraft operated, trained, partnered, and literally maintained a deterrence check on adversary actions in the region. When asked why he thought he had to put in all that work, Camacho answered, “It was a flex. And I think we did it well. If anything were to happen, we were ready.”

New Orleans Celebrates Lundi Gras with arrival of Rex, Zulu

New Orleans commemorates Marine veteran as Rex, the King of Carnival

Lundi Gras is officially underway in the city of New Orleans, commemorated by the arrival of Rex and Zulu via the Mississippi River to the city center.

4th Civil Affairs Group Visits Iwo Jima Veteran

4th Civil Affairs Group Visits Iwo Jima Veteran

U.S. Marines with 4th Civil Affairs Group (CAG) visited Robert Riechman, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran from St. Louis, Missouri, to celebrate his early 98th birthday at the Madyson at Palm Beach Gardens in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, February 24, 2022.

https://marforres.usmc.afpims.mil/mcsf-nola/

TF McCoy Marine Teaches Sign Language to Deaf Afghan Child

Task Force McCoy and many Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO’s ) have been working to place Afghan families in the best possible places to support their needs — some of these needs are more special than others.

Black Belt Spartans

One Mind, Any Weapon: MCMAP at Fort Pickett

Marines from 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, deployed in support of Operation Allies Welcome (OAW), have been training day and night to increase their proficiency in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) on Fort Pickett, Virginia. MCMAP aims to produce Marines and units that are more lethal, exhibit greater resiliency, and are equipped to handle the rigors of combat.

TACP Primer Course on Fort Pickett

On Station: Marines conduct Tactical Air Control Party Training

Marines from 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, conducted a tactical air control party (TACP) primer course while deployed in support of Operation Allies Welcome (OAW) on Fort Pickett, Virginia, Feb. 2, 2022.

Medal of Honor recipient Pfc. Douglas T. Jacobson poses with the award given by then-president Harry S. Truman at the White House in Washington D.C., Oct. 5, 1945. Jacobson was awarded the medal for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima on Iwo To, Japan.

Major Douglas T. Jacobson - The Pursuit of Victory Amidst Unforeseen Adversity

“By the time we got into battle in World War II, the Regular was a rare creature and the Reserve

23rd Marines Conducts Corporals Course During Operation Allies Welcome

23rd Marines Conducts Corporals Course During Operation Allies Welcome

Marines from 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, and soldiers from the 919th Military Police Company, New Mexico National Guard, deployed in support of Operation Allies Welcome (OAW), are taking part in a Corporals Course at Fort Pickett, Va.

MARFORRES 4th MARDIV Graphic / 1920x1080

4th Marine Division Pair Recognized as Top Active Reserve Career Planners

Gunnery Sgt. Samuel W. Espinosa with 23rd Marine Regiment and Staff Sgt. Jose A. Gonzalez with 4th Reconnaissance Battalion were recognized as Fiscal Year 21 Staff Noncommissioned Officer in Charge (SNCOIC) Active Reserve Career Planner of the Year and Active Reserve Career Planner of the Year, respectively, according to MARADMIN 675/21.

“Alaska Marines” deliver toys across northwestern Alaska

In the Snow of Far-off Northern Lands U.S. Marines are on the Job with Toys for Tots

North of the Arctic Circle, where the sun doesn’t peek above the horizon, where the weather averages below freezing for over half the year, where no roads lead in or out of, children, just like nearly everywhere else, eagerly await a toy to arrive each December.

Plans for Marine Corps Reserve to Take On Expanded Role in Partnership with II MEF Underway

Plans for Marine Corps Reserve to Take on Expanded Role in Partnership with II MEF Underway

The Marine Corps Reserve will have a larger role in worldwide crisis response, according to ongoing operational planning currently underway here and at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, between Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES) and II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF).

USMC VMGR-234 Flies with French Mirage Fighters

North African Response Force Deployment

Operation Allied Refuge (OAR) was a United States military operation to airlift at-risk Afghan civilians including interpreters, U.S. embassy employees, and other prospective Special Immigrant Visa applicants from Afghanistan. U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron - 234 (VMGR-234) augmented an active-duty unit already deployed in Saudi Arabia. These reserve Marines helped train newer active-duty pilots during the augmentation.

Lt. Col. Alexis Santiago relinquished command of 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion (AAV) in a change of command ceremony on Dec. 4, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. Santiago was assigned to Headquarters and Support Company, 4th Amphibious Assault Battalion in 1994 and served the majority of his 29 year career in Tampa, Florida.

From Crewman to Commander | Marine Reservist Retires After Nearly 29 Years in the Same Unit

For many Marines, imagining a nearly 29-year career in the Marine Corps might be a stretch. Spending the majority of that career in the same unit then might seem impossible. While serving in the Corps’ ranks an individual Marine can typically expect to serve a minimum of two years at a duty station before transitioning to another unit. This was not the case for Lt. Col. Alexis Santiago who not only stayed with the same unit starting as an enlisted Marine, but also finished his career as the unit’s battalion commander, serving in nearly every billet in between.

U.S. Marines Compete in the 2021 Cyber Games

Marines with Marine Forces Reserve win Marine Corps Cyber Games 2021

Marine reservists assigned to 6th Communication Battalion, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Corps Forces Reserve win second straight Marine Corps “Capture the Flag” Cyber Games conducted Nov. 1-5, 2021.

MARFORCYBER, MARFORRES, NETWORK, NETACT-RES, MFR, MCCOG

Marine Corps Activates Newest Cyber Defense Unit to Secure, Defend Reserve Force in Cyberspace

The Marine Corps has activated a new unit of cyber warriors in New Orleans to combat the ever-increasing threats in cyberspace in an effort to unify all cyber operations across the Corps.

Redefining Marksmanship: Reserve Marines conduct new Annual Rifle Qualification

The Big Change

Marines attending the Combat Marksmanship Coaches Reserve Course Fiscal Year 21 participated in one of the first iterations of the Marine Corps’ new Annual Rifle Qualification (ARQ) to qualify as Combat Marksmanship Coaches, Sept. 20-25, 2021 at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia.

Enlisted Marines Experience What it Takes to Become a Marine Officer

Enlisted Marines Experience What it Takes to Become a Marine Officer

Enlisted Marines from Marine Forces Reserve participated in the Summer Officer Tour to gain insight into the journey of becoming a Marine Corps officer, Aug. 19-21, 2021. The tour included visits to Officer Candidates School (OCS), The Basic School (TBS), Marine Corps University, The National Museum of The Marine Corps, and Marine Barracks Washington to showcase significant milestones in a Marine Corps officer's career while allowing participants to engage in discussions with senior leaders, peers and recently commissioned Marines.

6th Communication Battalion 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

Honoring Heroes: 6th Communication Battalion remembers Reserve Marines who made the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11

Lt. Col. Stacie M. Piccinich (left) and Lt. Col. Ian M. Prater (right), Marines with 6th Communication Battalion, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, lay a wreath during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony at the Curtin Garvey Complex, Brooklyn, New York, Aug. 14, 2021.

Senator's office visits Pima County Roadwork

Pima County Roadwork IRT paves the way for future success

What do you do if you have a few miles of dusty, desert road which now resembles the surface of the

MARFORRES Marines Participate in Close Air Support Exercise

MARFORRES Participates In Close Air Support Exercise

Marines with Marine Forces Reserve await aircraft during Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) training as a part of a Close Air Support Exercise (CASEX) at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, Feb. 26, 2021. TACP members are responsible for accurately locating targets for fire missions, providing battle damage assessment, and aid in neutralizing enemies to meet the ground force commander's intent.

Marines Leading the Charge Against COVID-19

Marines Leading the Charge Against COVID-19

The Marines with 4th Marine Logistics Group (MLG) are standing on the front lines of a battle no one expected the Marine Corps to be involved in: the fight against COVID-19. Brig. Gen. Doug Pierson, Commanding General, 4th MLG, and Gunnery Sgt. Ian Watkins, the operations chief for Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 23, received their second and final round of injections as a part of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

Marine Gunner Charles “Elmer” Clark
USMCR

A Founding Reservist: Marine Gunner Charles “Elmer” E. Clark, USMCR

January of 1917, the United States was not officially involved in World War I. Hostilities were

Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command

DCO Reserve Marines Take Top Honors in “Live-Fire” DoD-wide Cyber Competition

The Marine Corps Reserves’ new Defensive Cyber Operations (DCO) Reserve members won 1st, 2nd and 4th

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4th Recon, E Co Participate in a Modified Mountain Training Exercise

Echo Company, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion Conducts Training at Mountain Warfare Training Center

U.S. Marines with Echo Company, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division will conduct

4th MAW Award Winners

4th Marine Aircraft Wing

Three Marines with 4th Marine Aircraft Wing (4th MAW) have been recognized by the Marine Corps

4th MAW Award

4th Marine Aircraft Wing

The U.S. Naval Safety Center awarded 4th Marine Aircraft Wing (4th MAW) the Naval Aviation Readiness

A U.S. Navy Corpsman attached to Scout Sniper Platoon, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, oversees scout sniper Marines at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.

Reserve Marines train at ITX 5-19 in preparation of deployment to Okinawa, Japan

Reserve U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, joined forces

Petty Officer 2nd Class Ryan Pyne, a hospital corpsman with Marine Forces Reserve at Innovative Readiness Training 2019 Puerto Rico

Petty Officer 2nd Class Ryan Pyne, a hospital corpsman with Marine Forces Reserve at Innovative Readiness Training 2019 Puerto Rico

Military service carries the promise of exciting opportunities to expand your horizons and meet

Lance Cpl. Caleb Eudy, with Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, is awarded a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal on Parris Island, S.C. April 26, 2019.

Power of a fighting spirit against cancer’s defeat in 956 days

Lance Cpl. Caleb Eudy, with Company C, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, became a Marine despite

Cpl. Freddy D. Calderon, an unmanned aircraft systems operators with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, sets the flight path for an RQ-7 Shadow to perform reconnaissance at Camp Wilson, Marine Air Ground Combat Center, 29 Palms, California, June 22, 2017 during Integrated Training Exercise 4-17. The Marines conducted reconnaissance missions in support of the 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, MARFORRES, final battalion exercise of ITX 4-17. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Stanley Moy)

Train like we fight: 4th Marine Aircraft Wing conducts simulated training

Maintaining a constant state of deployment readiness is a key ingredient for Reserve Marines to stay

Brig. Gen. Bradley S. James, commanding general of 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, reads a letter written by Gen. Robert B. Neller, Commandant of the Marine Corps, addressing retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel “Woody” Williams, the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from the Battle of Iwo Jima, for his 95th birthday at the National World War II Museum, Oct. 2, 2018. Part of the letter stated, “This is a remarkable milestone and I hope it will offer you the opportunity to reflect on a lifetime of achievements.” (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl Tessa D. Watts)

Man of Pure Heart and Honor

A birthday celebration was held at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans on Oct. 2, 2018 for retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel “Woody” Williams, the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from the Battle of Iwo Jima. A man with bright eyes and heartwarming laughter, 95 years old never looked so youthful.

Maj. Gen. Burke W. Whitman, left, incoming commander of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North receives the MARFORRES colors from Lt. Gen. Rex C. McMillian, outgoing commander of MARFORRES and MARFORNORTH during the change of command ceremony Sept. 8, 2018, at Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans. McMillian served as the commander from 2015-2018. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tessa D. Watts)

Lt. Gen. McMillian relinquishes Corps’ largest command to Maj. Gen. Whitman

Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony held at Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans, Sept. 8, 2018.

Lt. Gen. Brian D. Beaudreault, the deputy commandant of Plans, Policies, and Operations, congratulates the participating tank crews during his speech at the 15th annual Tiger Competition ceremony at Wilcox range in Fort Knox, Kentucky, Aug. 28, 2018. The best tank gunner crews from 1st, 2nd, and 4th battalions competed in the annual Tiger Competition to determine the top tank crew in the Marine Corps. The crew from 2nd Tank Bn. won the competition. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tessa D. Watts)

Marines compete in the 15th annual Tiger Competition

Marines with 1st, 2nd, and 4th Tank Battalions participated in the 15th annual Tiger Competition, Aug. 24–28, 2018 at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

Maj. Samuel Johnson, second from left, executive officer, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, presents the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award to his civilian employer Duke Energy at the Pentagon, Aug. 24, 2018. The Freedom award is presented annually to the nation's 15 most supportive employers who have demonstrated exceptional support. It is the highest recognition given by the U.S. government to civilian employers for their support of employees who serve in the Reserve or National Guard. (Courtesy photo)

Recognizing those who serve the Reserve component

Established in 1972, the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve program has promoted cooperation and understanding between Reserve component service members and their civilian employers. Taking the time to recognize civilian employers who actively show their support is essential to maintaining strong bonds with Reserve service members.

Cpl. Chandler Jones, a team leader with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, communicates with his Marines during a live-fire range at Camp Grayling, Mich., Aug. 8, 2018. Exercise Northern Strike is a National Guard Bureau-sponsored training exercise that unites service members from multiple branches, states and coalition countries to conduct combined ground and air combat operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Niles Lee)

Marines of 3/25 tackle Exercise Northern Strike 18

The hot Michigan sun is high in the sky as a Marine lays flat against the dry sand looking through his rifle optic at the battle space spread out in-front of him. Beside him, his fellow Marine fills sand bags and places them around their fighting positions. For the Marines of Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, this is the beginning of their final event during Exercise Northern Strike 18, ending their two week annual training.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. James Ellis, the 3rd squad leader representing 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, directs his Marines while setting up an ambush during the 4th Marine Division Super Squad Competition at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Aug. 4, 2018. During the competition, squads from 1st and 3rd Battalions, 23rd Marine Regiment and 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, exercised their technical and tactical proficiencies by competing in events that highlighted offensive/defensive operations, patrolling techniques, combat marksmanship, physical endurance and small unit leadership. Ellis is a native of Eldon, Mo. (U.S. Air Force photo by Alejandro Peña)

Faces of the Force: Sgt. James Ellis

Marine Forces Reserve consists of skilled warfighters who are not only prepared to serve their country at all times, but who are also prepared to support and provide in their local communities as well.

Lance Cpl. Dylan Hunt, a combat engineer with Engineer Services Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 23, Combat Logistics Regiment 4, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, helps prepare the foundation for an ATV storage shed during Exercise Forest Rattler in Bend, Ore., July 20, 2016. This opportunity to train with the U.S. Forest Service provides realistic, cost-effective training, and allows the Marine Corps to give back to the community. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Sara Graham/ Released)

MARFORRES builds bonds with U.S. Forest Service by serving community

Marines with Engineer Services Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 23, 4th Marine Logistics Group, teamed up with the U.S. Forest Service to participate in a two-week annual training event at the Willamette National Forest in Oregon, July 14-27, 2018.

Col. Charles Moses, the commanding officer of Marine Air Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing lands a C-130 onto the newly extended runway for the first time during Innovative Readiness Training Old Harbor, Alaska, Aug. 7, 2018. This year marks the completion of the 2,000-foot extension of Old Harbor’s runway. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tessa D. Watts)

IRT Old Harbor’s runway extension completed after six years

On a warm summer morning in Old Harbor, Alaska, on Aug. 7, 2018, six years of devotion from hundreds of Marines’ construction of a new 2,000-foot runway extension was unveiled to distinguished visitors and community members.

Lance Cpl. Joel Carrizales, with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, plots his shots at the 25-yard-line while zeroing his weapon, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Anchorage, Alaska, August 1, 2018. Super Squad Competitions were designed to evaluate a 14-man infantry squad throughout an extensive field and live-fire evolution. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Samantha Schwoch/released)

4th MarDiv returns to Super Squad Competition in Alaska

Fourth Marine Division is taking on Alaska’s arctic terrain for the third year in a row as they return for the Marine Corps’ Annual Rifle Squad or “Super Squad” Competition. The previously acclaimed division competitions, dating back to 1957, were put on hold for over 12 years after 9/11 while Marine manpower requirements were focused on supporting conflicts in two separate theaters.

Cpl. Joseph R. Manganaro, a Marine Corps Reserve mortarman and forward observer with 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, poses by a firetruck while on duty as a firefighter and paramedic with the Stoughton Fire Department in Stoughton, Massachusetts, June 29, 2018. On June 13, 2018, Manganaro was on his way to Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms to conduct training with his unit at Integrated Training Exercise 4-18, when he provided critical emergency medical care to a passenger aboard an American Airlines flight.

Hometown Heroes of ITX 4-18: Cpl. Joseph Manganaro

Cpl. Joseph R. Manganaro is a mortarman and forward observer with 81mm Mortar Platoon, Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division.

Lance Cpl. Victor Barrios, a food service Marine with Marine Wing Support Squadron 473, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, begins preparing food for The Major General W. P. T. Hill Memorial Awards competition for food service excellence on June 22, 2018 in Twentynine Palms, California, during Integrated Training Exercise 4-18. This competition encourages excellence in garrison and field food service. (United States Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexis B. Rocha/released)

Marines compete in Major General W. P. T. Hill Memorial awards competition for food service excellence

Food service Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 473, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, competed in the annual Major General W. P. T. Hill Memorial awards competition for food service excellence on June 22, 2018, during Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California.

Tech. Sgt. Andria Allmond, a 111th Attack Wing photojournalist, stares in confusion at her computer screen while working in the Defense Travel System (DTS) at Horsham Air Guard Station, Aug. 8, 2016.

Defense Travel System available to reserve Marines

Reserve Marine units will have more control and flexibility in travel planning with the launch of the Defense Travel System for Reservists beginning this summer.

Lance Cpl. Austin A. Haneline, an unmanned aerial vehicle operator with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, based in Camp Pendleton, California, not only flies UAVs with the Marine Corps, but also in his civilian career. UAVs are aircrafts operated without a human pilot aboard, and instead are operated by a ground-based controller and a system of communication between the two. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexis B. Rocha/released)

Hometown Heroes Lance Cpl. Austin Haneline

Lance Cpl. Austin A. Haneline, an unmanned aerial vehicle operator with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, based in Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, not only flies UAVs with the Marine Corps, but also in his civilian career.

Unmanned aerial vehicle operators, with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, in Camp Talega on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, were honored in VMU-4’s very first winging ceremony on June 17, 2018. This winging ceremony is historic for the Marine Corps, as it is the first time the Marine Corps has winged UAV operators. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexis B. Rocha/released)

VMU-4 holds first winging ceremony

Unmanned aerial vehicle operators with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, at Camp Talega on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, were honored in VMU-4’s first winging ceremony on June 17, 2018.

Cpl. Michael T. Moss, a food service specialist with Marine Wing Support Squadron 473, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, speaks with CWO5 Russell Johnson, a food service officer with Marine Forces Reserve and a judge of the Major General W. P. T. Hill Memorial Awards competition for Food Service Excellence, during Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, on June 22, 2018. The competitive spirit fostered by the Major General W.P.T. Hill awards program contributes to improved food service excellence and increased quality of life for our Marines and Sailors. (United States Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexis B. Rocha/released)

Hometown Heroes of ITX 4-18: Cpl. Michael Moss

Cpl. Michael T. Moss, a food service specialist with Marine Wing Support Squadron 473, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, has played an integral role in fueling Marines for the fight during Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, June 4 to July 2, 2018.

Cpl. Alex T. Ruppert, an ammunition technician with Supply Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 451, Combat Logistics Regiment 45, 4th Marine Logistics Group, based in Greenville, South Carolina, works at his computer during Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, on June 25, 2018. During ITX 4-18, Ruppert served as the records chief for the field ammunition supply point, which is used for storage and distribution of ammunition for training. (United States Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexis B. Rocha/released)

Hometown Heroes of ITX 4-18: Cpl. Alex Ruppert

Cpl. Alex T. Ruppert, an ammunition technician with Supply Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 451, Combat Logistics Regiment 45, 4th Marine Logistics Group, based in Greenville, South Carolina, is not only a Reserve Marine but is also an adjunct professor of kinesiology at University of North Carolina in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Sgt. Catherine J. Salvador (center), an avionics technician with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 775, Marine Aircraft 41, 4th Marine Division, gives a "coyote salute" with her fellow Marines as one of the squadron's AH-1W Super Cobras takes off during Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, on June 22, 2018. The "coyote salute" is a unit tradition that Marines with HMLA-775 take part in anytime their aircraft take off. (United States Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexis B. Rocha/released)

Hometown Heroes of ITX 4-18: Sgt. Catherine Salvador

Sgt. Catherine J. Salvador, an avionics technician with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 775, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, first enlisted as an active duty Marine in 2010 out of her hometown of Hancock, Michigan.

Sgt. Riordan T. Anunciacion, an intelligence specialist with Headquarters Company, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, based in San Bruno, California, monitors Marines performing crunches during a physical fitness test at Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, on June 24, 2018. Monitoring PFTs is one of many responsibilities Anunciacion has taken on that led him to win the 23rd Marines Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter award. (United States Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexis B. Rocha/released)

Face of the Force: Sgt. Riordan Anunciacion

Sgt. Riordan T. Anunciacion, an intelligence specialist with Headquarters Company, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, won the 23rd Marines Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter award on April 5, 2018.

Cpl. Jan Eric Schaeuble, a rifleman and forward observer with Fox Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, uses a vector kit to determine range and direction to a target and plots it on his map during the Air Assault Course at Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, on June 22, 2018. Integrated Training Exercise is a capstone exercise that enables Marines to maintain the highest levels of proficiency and readiness for worldwide deployment and the ability to work as a MAGTF. (United States Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexis B. Rocha/released)

Hometown Heroes of ITX 4-18: Cpl. Jan Eric Schaeuble

Cpl. Jan Eric Schaeuble, a rifleman and forward observer with Fox Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, based in Eastover, South Carolina, traveled all the way to Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, with his unit, to participate in realistic, total force training, at Integrated Training Exercise 4-18.

Sgt. Alan Garcia (left), an aviation supply specialist with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 775, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, discusses supply details with Staff Sgt. Tola S. Suleman (right), during Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California. ITX 4-18 is a live-fire and maneuver combined arms exercise designed to train battalion and squadron-sized units in tactics, techniques, and procedures required to provide a sustainable and ready operational reserve for employment across the full spectrum of crisis and global engagement. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl Alexis B. Rocha/released)

Hometown Heroes of ITX 4-18: Sgt. Alan Garcia

When Sgt. Alan Garcia left active duty in 2016, after serving four years as an aviation supply specialist, he wanted to maintain close ties with the Marine Corps.

Lance Cpl. Alberto Sepulveda, a motor transportation operator with Mike Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, helps transport and unload ammunition for a direct fire shoot at Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 in Twentynine Palms, California, June 13, 2018. ITX 4-18 is a live-fire and maneuver combined arms exercise designed to train battalion and squadron-sized units in tactics, techniques, and procedures required to provide a sustainable and ready operational reserve for employment across the full spectrum of crisis and global engagement.

Hometown Heroes of ITX 4-18: Lance Cpl. Alberto Sepulveda

Lance Cpl. Alberto F. Sepulveda, a motor transportation operator with Battery M, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is one of over 5,500 Reserve Marines participating in Integrated Training Exercise 4-18, at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California.

Cpl. Jin W. Kang, a motor transportation operator with Headquarters Company, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, in San Bruno, California, conducts vehicle maintenance during Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, on June 17, 2018. ITX is a service level training events which aims to prepare units for combat under the most realistic conditions possible. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexis B. Rocha/released)

Hometown Heroes of ITX 4-18: Cpl. Jin Kang

Cpl. Jin W. Kang is a Reserve Marine and motor transportation operator with Headquarters Company, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, located in San Bruno, California.

Marines with Mike Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, debrief after a successful direct fire shoot at Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 in Twentynine Palms, California, June 13, 2018. ITX 4-18 is a live-fire and maneuver combined arms exercise designed to train battalion and squadron-sized units in tactics, techniques, and procedures required to provide a sustainable and ready operational reserve for employment across the full spectrum of crisis and global employment.

Mike Battery, 3/14, conducts high desert direct fire shoot at ITX 4-18

With a maximum range of over 20 miles, the M777 Howitzer is generally employed by Marine Corps artillery units to deliver effective indirect fire support, add depth to combat by providing long range support, and deliver counter fires to ensure freedom of action for ground forces.

Lance Cpl. Robert Gready, an ammunition technician, and Lance Cpl. Ernest Houser, a Marine anti-tank missileman, with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, calculate the route distance to range 410A, a platoon reinforced attack range, during Integrated Training Exercise 4-18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, June 11, 2018. ITX 4-18 provides MAGTF elements an opportunity to undergo a service-level assessment of core competencies that are essential to expeditionary, forward-deployed operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Samantha Schwoch/released)

Hometown Heroes of ITX 4-18: Lance Cpl. Robert Gready

Robert Gready is a native of Houston, Texas, and an emergency room medical scribe at Baptist Emergency Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. He is also a Reserve Marine and ammunition technician with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division.

Lt. Col. Sean Zukowsky (left), commanding officer of 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, and Dale Hoffman (right), volunteer at the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, present officer Mark Delage (center) with a letter of appreciation for his support to the Reserve Force members on March 2, 2018, in Tampa Fla.

ESGR: education, mediation and recognition for Reserve service members

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve is a Department of Defense program that educates, mediates and recognizes employers and the Reserve service members working for them. The program creates a supportive environment for both the employer and employee to be successful.

Lance Cpl. Gage Vielee, a motor transport mechanic with Truck Company, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, inspects, maintains, and repairs a fleet of motor transport vehicles supporting the Marines of Marine Air Ground Task Force 23, during Integrated Training Exercise 4-18, in Twentynine Palms, California, on June 8, 2018. Vielee is one of over 5,500 Marines from Reserve units located across the United States participating in ITX 4-18, the largest annual Marine Forces Reserve training exercise.

Hometown Heroes of ITX 4-18: Lance Cpl. Gage Vielee

Gage Vielee is a native of Chatawa, Mississippi, and manager at Bebo’s Casino in Kentwood, Louisiana. But, to the Marines of Truck Company, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, he’s known as Lance Cpl. Gage Vielee, a motor transportation mechanic and hard-charging warfighter with the Marine Corps Reserve.

Ground Breaking Ceremony on New Reserve Training Center in Des Moines Area

Navy and Marine Corps leadership held a ceremony to commemorate the groundbreaking of a brand new Reserve Training Center hosting Company E, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, and the Navy Operational Support Center in Des Moines, Iowa, May 24, 2018.

U.S. Marines Lance Cpl. Caleb J. Malone (left), combat engineer with Bridge Company C, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, discards a piece of cut plywood as Lance Cpl. Matthew P. Winter (right), combat engineer with Engineer Company C, 6th ESB, 4th MLG, cuts plywood with a circular saw at a construction site during exercise Red Dagger at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., May 23, 2018.

Exercise Red Dagger 2018 ends on a high note

Marines with 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, and British Commando’s with 131 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers, British army, pack their bags and depart back to their home units as exercise Red Dagger successfully concludes.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Travis J. Ganong, armorer with Inspector Instructor Staff, Engineer Support Company, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, punches the boar of the M16’s for an integrated platoon of Marines with 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, and commandos with 131 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers, British army, during exercise Red Dagger at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., May 14, 2018.

6th ESB kicks off exercise Red Dagger 2018

Marines with 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, are partnering with the engineers of 131 Commando Squadron, British Army, to participate in exercise Red Dagger at Fort Indiantown Gap (FTIG), Pennsylvania, May 12-25, 2016.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Michael C. Thweatt, combat engineer with Bridge Company C, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, practices using a nail gun at a construction site during exercise Red Dagger at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., May 19, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of exercise Red Dagger 2018

The heart of a servant, and the mindset of a warrior. Cpl. Michael C. Thweatt is a Reserve Marine from Horn Lake, MS, who has the passion to protect, defend, and assist his fellow citizens and community. Thweatt serves not only as a Marine, but also as a law enforcement officer.

U.S. Marine Private First Class Cody A. Evans, combat engineer with Engineer Company C, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, posts as a road guard during a five mile hike with Marines with 6th ESB, 4th MLG, and British commando’s with 131 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers, British Army, during exercise Red Dagger at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., May 17, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of exercise Red Dagger 2018

It isn’t very often that a Reservist in the Marine Corps gets a job with the same structure as their job in the civilian sector. For Lance Cpl. Cody A. Evans, the things he learned in his military occupational specialty as a combat engineer are skills that he uses in his every day job.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Brandon D. Flake, hospital corpsman with Engineer Support Company, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, poses for a photo during exercise Red Dagger at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., May 17, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of exercise Red Dagger 2018

Most who choose to serve in the Military utilize their skills and knowledge from that time in service to transfer to a civilian career. HM1 Brandon D. Flake decided to make that transition to yet another form of government service.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Derek R. Rush, marksmanship coach with Headquarters and Service Company, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, teaches how to properly break down a rifle during exercise Red Dagger at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., May 13, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of exercise Red Dagger 2018

Taking the initiative to help those in need, or teaching a valuable skill to those thirsty to learn is an important leadership skill to posses. Sgt. Derek R. Rush is a Reserve Marine from Portland, Oregon, who feeds off the enjoyment of helping others.

Reserve Marines with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, perform a five-mile movement to a possible observation post in Cape Wrath, Scotland, April 23, 2018.

A commentary of my time with 4th ANGLICO at Joint Warrior 18

For the many Marines before us, and without a doubt, those who will follow after, one of the fondest memories of boot camp is that moment in second phase when we were finally given the momentous opportunity to fire a rifle.

Sgt. Michael Kozik, a firepower control team chief with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, unpacks his gear before establishing an observation post, in Cape Wrath, Scotland, April 23, 2018.

What it takes: 4th ANGLICO learns how to survive in the wilderness

One thing the general public knows, without a doubt, is that Marines are tough. They go in, complete their objective by any means necessary and then get out as quickly as possible to prepare for the next mission. But what the general public doesn't know is the vast amount of time and effort that goes into coming home safe and successful.

Gunnery Sgt. James Sterling, the staff non-commissioned officer in charge of 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, looks up as he calls in coordinates of a possible target during a practice call-for-fires drill, in Cape Wrath, Scotland, April, 23, 2018. 4th ANGLICO is in Scotland to take part in Joint Warrior 18-1, an exercise that furthers their readiness and effectiveness in combined arms integration, small unit tactics and land navigation. This training aims at improving their capabilities and combat effectiveness and ensures they're ready to fight tonight.

Hometown Heroes of Joint Warrior 18: Gunnery Sgt. James Sterling

Many Marines, after serving an enlistment or two, make the conscious decision to take the knowledge and skills they learned from the Marine Corps and take them into the civilian workforce. For Gunnery Sgt. James Sterling, the things he learned in his eight years of active duty service as a radio operator were well deserving of a job in any field he so chose. But, as time would tell, something was missing. He wanted back in.

Lance Cpl. Dalton Vandervoort, a forward observer with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, watches as helicopters fly over a projected target at the Tain Gunfire Range in Tain, Scotland, April 24, 2018.

What we learned: 4th ANGLICO at Joint Warrior 18

The official purpose of the Marine Corps' six Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Companies is to “provide Marine Air-Ground Task Force commanders a liaison capability with foreign area expertise and to plan, coordinate, employ and conduct terminal control of fires in support of joint, allied and coalition forces.”

Sgt. David J. Butler is a Tavares, Florida, native and Reserve Marine with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, participating in exercise African Lion 2018 in Morocco, April 17-27. African Lion is an annual, multinational, joint-force exercise improving interoperability between participating nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tessa Watts)

Hometown Heroes of African Lion 2018: Sgt. David Butler

Sgt. David J. Butler is a Tavares, Florida, native and Reserve Marine with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, participating in exercise African Lion 2018 in Morocco, April 17-27. Not only does he have his Marine Corps duties to be responsible for, but he’s also pursuing a college degree.

Cpl. Dalen P. Reed is a Lawrence, Kansas, native and Reserve Marine with Detachment 1 Supply Company, Combat Logistics Battalion-453, participating in Exercise African Lion 2018 in Morocco, April 17-27. African Lion is an annual, multinational, joint-force exercise improving interoperability between participating nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tessa Watts)

Hometown Heroes of African Lion 2018: Cpl. Dalen Reed

Cpl. Dalen P. Reed is a Lawrence, Kansas, native and Reserve Marine with Detachment 1 Supply Company, Combat Logistics Battalion-453, participating in Exercise African Lion 2018 in Morocco, April 17-27. When he isn’t conducting his Marine Corps duties, he is studying for his graduate degree in International Leadership and Education in hopes of spreading good leadership traits on an international scale.

Lance Cpl. Brian Perez is a Bronx, New York, native and Reserve Marine with Service Company, 6th Communication Battalion, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, participating in Exercise African Lion 2018 in Morocco, April 17-27. African Lion is an annual, multinational, joint-force exercise improving interoperability between participating nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tessa Watts)

Hometown Heroes of African Lion 2018: Lance Cpl. Brian Perez

Lance Cpl. Brian Perez is a Bronx, New York, native and Reserve Marine with Service Company, 6th Communication Battalion, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, participating in Exercise African Lion 2018 in Morocco, April 17-27. Not only does he have his Marine Corps duties to be responsible for, but he’s also an assistant project manager for a local construction company. Between juggling both of his responsibilities he is also a part time student studying business management.

U.S. Reserve Marine Staff Sgt. Philip J. Michell, a fire support Marine with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, discusses operations with members of Moroccan Armed Forces during Exercise African Lion 2018, in Tan Tan, Morocco, April 23, 2018. African Lion is an annual, multinational, joint-force exercise improving interoperability between participating nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl Tessa D. Watts)

Reserve Marines provide crucial support in African Lion 2018

Reserve Marines from 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company and 6th Communication Battalion, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, improved military interoperability and readiness as they participated in African Lion 2018, an annual, multinational and joint-force exercise conducted in Morocco April 17-27, 2018.

U.S. Reserve Marine Staff Sgt. Philip J. Michell, a fire support Marine with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, discusses operations with members of Moroccan Armed Forces during Exercise African Lion 2018, in Tan Tan, Morocco, April 23, 2018. African Lion is an annual, multinational, joint-force exercise improving interoperability between participating nations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl Tessa D. Watts)

African Mission Network undergoes first trial during African Lion 2018

The African Mission Network is being tested for the first time by the 10 participating countries of command post-exercise portion of African Lion 2018. AMNET is a new innovative network created by the United States that provides secure, interoperable, fast and effective communication between partners of different nations. The participants in the exercise are learning to use AMNET together to achieve effective partnership, liaison, and interoperability.

After completing a successful close air support drill, Cpl. David Rodriguez, a forward observer with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, walks to a debriefing with his firepower control team chiefs at the Tain Gunfire Range in Tain, Scotland, April 24, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of Joint Warrior 18: Cpl. David Rodriguez

Few people choose to accept the responsibility of becoming a United States Marine. Even fewer make the commitment to maintaining a civilian career while fulfilling their role as a member of the Marine Corps Reserve. For Cpl. David Rodriguez, juggling his civilian duties with his Marine Corps obligations is nothing short of that ethos.

Brig. Gen. Helen G. Pratt, commanding general of 4th Marine Logistics Group, talks with a child from Noatak, Alaska, during Innovative Readiness Training Arctic Care 2018, Noatak, April 21, 2018.

Leaving a warm touch on the Arctic Circle

As the snow and ice continue to slowly disappear from the streets and local residents begin to shed their layers with the warmer weather approaching, service members with Innovative Readiness Training Arctic Care 2018 wrap up their training and prepare to head back to their home units, Kotzebue, Alaska, April 25, 2018.

Lance Cpl. Vicente C. Spence, a motor transportation operator with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, is currently 26 miles above the Arctic Circle participating with his unit at Innovative Readiness Training Arctic Care 2018 in the Northwest Arctic Borough of the state of Alaska, April 13-27, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of IRT Arctic Care 2018

Stepping outside of your comfort zone and embracing flexibility are crucial to the success of every mission. Lance Cpl. Vicente C. Spence is a Hemet, California, native and Reserve Marine who is not afraid to take on new challenges and opportunities any chance he gets.

Hometown Heroes of Joint Warrior 18: Sgt. Michael Kozik

What one's family has done in the past frequently has a long standing history for what future generations will often times strive to become. Carrying on his father's legacy of being a career Marine from 1985-2015 has given Sgt. Michael Kozik the opportunity to keep the Marine Corps heritage alive.

Air Force Maj. Courtland Pitt, left, a Chaplin with 110th Medical Group, introduces Marine Corps Cpl. Chandarong Ouk, right, an embarkation specialist with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, to a classroom of students during a career day at the Kotzebue Elementary School, Kotzebue, Alaska, April 19, 2018.

Strengthening Ties around the Land of the Midnight Sun

Buried beneath layers of clothing, taking caution with each passing step on the slick ice, and working hard to take cover from the numbing wind, I walk the streets of Kotzebue, Alaska, better known as the “Gateway to the Arctic.”

Lance Cpl. Wyatt Dillon, a radio operator with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, tests a radio as part of a gear accountability check, in Durness, Scotland, April 22, 2018.

4th ANGLICO arrives in Scotland for Joint Warrior 18-1

Reserve Marines with 3rd Brigade platoon, 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Team, Force Headquarters Group, are participating in exercise Joint Warrior 18-1, in Durness, Scotland, from April 18-May 2, 2018.

Lt. Cmdr. Joseph Villaluz, the dental officer in charge of Innovative Readiness Training Arctic Care 2018, 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, is participating with his unit at IRT Arctic Care in the Northwest Arctic Borough of the state of Alaska, April 13-27, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of IRT Arctic Care 2018

Strengthening and building new partnerships with culturally complex populations in remote areas of the United States is a key goal of the Innovative Readiness Training Program. Lt. Cmdr. Joseph Villaluz is a Vancouver, Washington, native and Reserve Sailor who plays a key role in developing and maintaining those lasting bonds.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Victor A. Gonzalez, a dental technician with 4th Dental Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, is participating with his unit at Innovative Readiness Training Arctic Care 2018 in the Northwest Arctic Borough of the state of Alaska, April 13-27, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of IRT Arctic Care 2018

Discipline. The foundation of every successful Marine and Sailor. Petty Officer 3rd Class Victor A. Gonzalez is a Plano, Texas, native and Reserve Sailor who through the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program, instills a number of mental and character discipline requirements in his students to develop their Warrior Ethos.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Shannon J. Gilliam, a command career counselor/dental assistant on Inspector-Instructor duty based out of Atlanta with 4th Dental Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, is currently 26 miles above the Arctic Circle with his unit at Innovative Readiness Training Arctic Care 2018 in the Northwest Arctic Borough of the state of Alaska, April 13-27, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of IRT Arctic Care 2018

Throughout the United States, there are active duty Marines and Sailors who contribute to the continuous state of readiness of the military by instructing and assisting Selected Marine Corps Reserve units.

Maj. Lisbeth M. Andriessen, the Innovative Readiness Training program manager for Marine Forces Reserve, embraces the elements 26 miles above the Arcitc Circle in Kotzebue, Alaska, where she is overseeing the execution of IRT Arctic Care 2018 in the Northwest Arctic Borough, April 13-27, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of IRT Arctic Care 2018

Reserve Marines typically spend two weeks each year building their capabilities at an Annual Training exercise and one weekend each month supporting their active duty counterparts. Maj. Lisbeth M. Andriessen is a Portland, Indiana, native and Reserve Marine who knew she wanted to serve more.

Service members load a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter with gear and supplies in support of Innovative Readiness Training Arctic Care 2018, as they prepare to depart Kotzebue, Alaska, and travel to outlying villages, April 14, 2018. Service members in support of IRT Arctic Care will conduct critical mission training and logistical movements in order to simulate military/civilian humanitarian operations and health care delivery in time of crisis, conflict or disaster. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ricardo Davila)

Combating the cold: IRT Arctic Care 2018 kicks off

Deep within the Northwest Arctic Borough, where snow and ice blanket the surface and winds send piercing chills through the body, service members gather in Kotzebue, Alaska, for the kick off of Innovative Readiness Training Arctic Care 2018.

Sgt. Veronica J. Rios, a warehouse clerk with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, is currently 26 miles above the Arctic Circle participating with her unit at Innovative Readiness Training Arctic Care 2018 in the Northwest Arctic Borough of the state of Alaska, April 13-27, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of IRT Arctic Care 2018

Leading by example, serving with pride and striving for success are fundamental traits of United States Marines. Sgt. Veronica J. Rios is a Sunnyside, Washington native and Reserve Marine who truly embodies the Marine Corps ethos.

Marine Corps Sgt. Jeffery Hale, a launcher chief with Kilo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, reattaches a M240 Machine Gun onto a M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) after having been off loaded from an Air Force MC-130 at Fort Campbell, Ky., March 29, 2018. Marines from Kilo Battery flew from Fort Campbell, to Dugway Proving Grounds, Utah, where they offloaded and fired four HIMARS missiles, demonstrating a unique capability that will give commanders more options to deal with threats when other options are not appropriate. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Niles Lee)

Marines with 2/14 conduct a live-fire HIMARS raid

An Air Force MC-130 barrels through the dry, March air, in route to Dugway Proving Grounds, Utah. Aboard, Marines verify target coordinates for an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System chained down beside them.

Lt. Gen. Rex C. McMillian (right), commander of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North, poses with Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 451, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, after they receive the 2017 Department of Defense Family Readiness Award, at the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes, Arlington, Virginia, March 23, 2018. Established in 2000, the DoD Reserve Family Readiness Award recognizes the top unit in each of the seven Reserve components, which are a vital link in the support networks for Reserve component families. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dallas Johnson)

Marines with CLB-451 receive 2017 Reserve Family Readiness Award

The Family Readiness Program serves a vital role in ensuring Marines and families across the Reserve are prepared to answer the Nation’s call. The program provides resource information and training in addition to support services to enhance a Marine's personal and family readiness so that he or she can remain fully focused on the mission.

Capt. Joshua B. Kelly, a logistician with 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, poses with his family after receiving the First Lieutenant Travis Manion Marine Corps Officer Logistician award at the Marine Corps Association and Foundation's 14th annual Ground Logistics Awards Dinner at the Crystal Gateway Marriott, Arlington, Virginia, March 22, 2018. Kelly was given the award in part for his efforts of providing new and advance means of logistical support within his unit during the 2017 fiscal year. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dallas Johnson)

Hometown Heroes: Capt. Joshua Kelly

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Capt. Joshua Kelly, a platoon commander with Truck Company, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, has always valued travel and the thrill of challenge

Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 473 stand to show they were the winners of Marine Corps Logistics Organization/Team of the Year for a large unit award before the opening ceremony of the Marine Corps Association and Foundation's 14th annual Ground Logistics Awards Dinner at the Crystal Gateway Marriott, Arlington, Virginia, March 22, 2018. MWSS-473 was given the award in part for their hurricane relief efforts and their aide efforts when Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 452 crashed in Mississippi. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dallas Johnson)

Marines with MWSS-473 awarded first ever Ground Logistics Award for Reserve unit

The Marine Corps is known for doing more with less. Marine Forces Reserve is a perfect example of this principle in action. Reserve training is traditionally limited to 48 drill periods and 14 days of annual training per year, yet the Marine Corps Reserve consistently provides highly-trained units and individuals, at a moment’s notice, to augment, reinforce and support active forces for employment across the full spectrum of crisis and global engagement.

Marines and sailors attending the Operational Stress Control and Readiness train-the-trainer course practice conducting the teach-back portion of their certification, March 14, 2018, at Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans. In order to become an OSCAR Trainer, the service members have to prove their ability to be able to teach the course and build an OSCAR team. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Samantha Schwoch/released)

MARFORRES hosts Operational Stress Control and Readiness train-the-trainer course

OSCAR, Operational Stress Control and Readiness, is an official Marine Corps program that provides Marines and sailors with knowledge to identify, support and advise service members with combat and operational stress reactions.

The Joint Light Tactical Vehicle is showcased for Marines after an executive brief at Marine Forces Reserve, New Orleans, La., March 9, 2018. The JLTV, manufactured by Oshkosh Defense, is finding it’s new home with the Marine Corps Reserve as the successor to the Humvee, which has served the U.S. armed forces for over three decades.

Reserve Marines Receive New Tactical Vehicle

The High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle, often referred to as Humvee, has served the U.S. armed forces for more than three decades. Its successor, the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, is finally finding its new home with the Marine Corps Reserve.

Selected Marine Corps Reserve and Individual Mobilization Augmentee enlisted Marines, are you ready to advance your career and take on new challenges? If so, than the direct hire program may be exactly what you are looking for.

Direct hire program for enlisted Reserve Marines

Selected Marine Corps Reserve and Individual Mobilization Augmentee enlisted Marines, are you ready to advance your career and take on new challenges? If so, than the direct hire program may be exactly what you are looking for.

Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Collins is a Grimesland, North Carolina, native and an M88A2 Recovery Vehicle rigger with Company F, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division.

Hometown Heroes of Winter Break 2018

Cpl. Michael Collins is a Grimesland, North Carolina, native and an M88A2 Recovery Vehicle rigger with Company F, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division.

Sgt. Michael Colbert, a Lansing, Michigan, native and Reserve Marine with Fox Company, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, had the opportunity to go to Michigan as a tank crewman when his unit participated in Exercise Winter Break 2018 on Camp Grayling, Michigan, Feb. 4-17, 2018. When he's not conducting Marine Corps training, Colbert is a fire-protection installer for a construction company outside of Highpoint, North Carolina.

Hometown Heroes of Winter Break 2018

Sgt. Michael Colbert, a Lansing, Michigan, native and Reserve Marine with Fox Company, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, had the opportunity to go to Michigan as a tank crewman when his unit participated in Exercise Winter Break 2018 on Camp Grayling, Michigan, Feb. 4-17, 2018. When he's not conducting Marine Corps training, Colbert is a fire-protection installer for a construction company outside of Highpoint, North Carolina.

Ruiz is a motor transport mechanic with Company F, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, and is participating with his unit in Exercise Winter Break 2018 on Camp Grayling, Michigan, Feb. 4-17, 2018. When he's not conducting Marine Corps training, Ruiz works as a fencing contractor for a local fencing company in Jacksonville, North Carolina.

Hometown Heroes of Winter Break 2018

Ruiz is a motor transport mechanic with Company F, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, and is participating with his unit in Exercise Winter Break 2018 on Camp Grayling, Michigan, Feb. 4-17, 2018. When he's not conducting Marine Corps training, Ruiz works as a fencing contractor for a local fencing company in Jacksonville, North Carolina.

Lance Cpl. William Vasquez is a Sanford, North Carolina, native and Reserve Marine with Company F, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division. Vasquez, a tank crew member, participated in exercise Winter Break 2018 on Camp Grayling, Michigan, Feb. 4-17, 2018. When he's not conducting Marine Corps training, Vasquez is a construction worker for Parkers Stockstill Construction in North Carolina.

Hometown Heroes of Winter Break 2018

Lance Cpl. William Vasquez is a Sanford, North Carolina, native and Reserve Marine with Company F, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division. Vasquez, a tank crew member, participated in exercise Winter Break 2018 on Camp Grayling, Michigan, Feb. 4-17, 2018. When he's not conducting Marine Corps training, Vasquez is a construction worker for Parkers Stockstill Construction in North Carolina.

Marines with Company F, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, pause to check the scheme of maneuver before a platoon formation rehearsal during exercise Winter Break 2018 near Camp Grayling, Michigan, Feb. 8, 2018. Winter Break 18 challenges Marines of Fox Co., 4th Tank Bn. to contend with employment problems caused by extreme cold weather and snow and adapt to the operational challenges of a severe climate.

MARFORRES tankers take on ice, snow at Winter Break 18

Marines with Fox Company, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, tested their ability to conduct operations in the deep snow and extreme cold of the harsh northern Michigan winter during exercise Winter Break 18, aboard Camp Grayling, Michigan, Feb. 6-14.

Sgt. Trenton Hammonds is a Red Springs, North Carolina native and Reserve Marine with Company F, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division. A natural leader, Hammonds is mentoring junior Marines during exercise Winter Break 2018 at Camp Grayling, Michigan, Feb. 4-17, 2018.

Hometown Heroes of Winter Break 2018

Sgt. Trenton Hammonds is a Red Springs, North Carolina native and Reserve Marine with Company F, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division. A natural leader, Hammonds is mentoring junior Marines during exercise Winter Break 2018 at Camp Grayling, Michigan, Feb. 4-17, 2018. When he's not training Marines in his capacity as a tank commander, Hammonds works as a maintenance supervisor for an apartment complex at the University of North Carolina, Pembroke.

HM2 Corey Parker is an Augusta, Georgia native and Navy corpsman stationed with a Marine Corps Reserve unit based in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Hometown Heroes of Winter Break 2018

HM2 Corey Parker is an Augusta, Georgia native and Navy corpsman stationed with a Marine Corps Reserve unit based in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Faces of the Force: Capt. Tiffany Basham

Capt. Tiffany Basham, a logistics officer, as well as a recent graduate of Norwich University, in Northfield, Vermont, is the first female officer at 1st Battalion, 24th Marines, 4th Marine Division.

Commander, Navy Reserve Forces Command, Rear Adm. Thomas Luscher, left, presents Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Cedrick Jenkins, assigned to Commander, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, with a Lone Sailor Award following his selection as Fiscal Year 2017 Navy Reserve Full Time Support Shore Sailor of Year (SOY). Jenkins will go on to compete for the title of 2017 Vice Chief of Naval Operations (Naval Shore Activities) SOY. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sean Rinner)

CNRFC Announces Navy Reserve Shore Sailor of the Year

Commander of Navy Reserve Forces Command, Rear Adm. Thomas Lusher, announced Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Cedrick Jenkins as the 2017 Navy Reserve Full Time Support Shore Sailor of Year during a ceremony held at the Maryland House on Naval Station Norfolk, Jan. 11, 2018.

Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 24th Marines, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, navigate the route to their next checkpoint during the final exercise of exercise Nordic Frost on Camp Ethan Allen Training Site in Jericho, Vt., Jan. 22, 2018. The exercise allowed Marines to demonstrate their ability to operate in a cold weather mountainous environment, conducting land navigation, marksmanship training, demolitions, call for fire training and other core competencies. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Samantha Schwoch/released)

Reserve Marines test their limits in exercise Nordic Frost 18

In the mountainous terrain of northern Vermont, where temperatures drop below freezing and the snow covers the landscape, Marines were pushed to their limits as they battled against the extreme winter weather.

Flags are on displayed at a memorial for Staff Sgt. Enrico Antonio Rojo, held aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Jan. 21, 2018. He served in the Marine Corps Reserve from 2009-2016. Staff Sgt. Rojo was awarded a Navy and Marine Corps Medal for attempting to help the victim of a car accident on December 16, 2016. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Rachel K. Porter)

Combat Center Commanding General awards fallen Marine

The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal was awarded to the family of Staff Sgt. Enrico Antonio Rojo during a memorial ceremony held aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Jan. 21, 2018.

L.I.N.K.S., lifestyles, insights, networking, knowledge, and skills, is an official Marine Corps program that provides Marines and their families with the connections and resources essential to managing life in the Corps. A volunteer-based program, L.I.N.K.S. provides Marine families with available resources, such as deployment support, information on Marine Corps traditions, career planners and more. (Courtesy Photo)

Essential L.I.N.K.S. for Marines

L.I.N.K.S., lifestyles, insights, networking, knowledge, and skills, is an official Marine Corps program that provides Marines and their families with the connections and resources essential to managing life in the Corps. A volunteer-based program, L.I.N.K.S. provides Marine families with available resources, such as deployment support, information on Marine Corps traditions, career planners and more.

Lt. Col. Brietta Larmon, assistant chief of staff for the G-1, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, and a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter pilot, flies a CH-53E during her deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Southern Command in 2016. Larmon, began her Marine Corps career in 1999 on the active duty side, and later transferred to the Reserves in 2006. Her current billet is an active-reserve position and she hopes to have many more years working side-by-side with her fellow Marines.

Faces of the Force: Lt. Col. Brietta Larmon

As the clock ticked away on her senior year of college, Brietta Larmon knew she had little time to decide what was next. She needed a pursuit that would fit her outgoing personality and military background. By the end of her senior year, she found exactly the adventure she was looking for: the thrill of flying.

Lance Cpl. Miguel Salazar, an unmanned aerial vehicle technician with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, returns an RQ-7 Shadow to the VMU-4 hanger at Camp Wilson, Marine Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, June 22, 2017.

Marines say goodbye to the Shadow

Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4 prepared the RQ-7B Shadow Unmanned Aircraft System for its final flight during Exercise Steel Knight in Twentynine Palms, California, Dec. 11, 2017.

Marine Forces Reserve’s Toys for Tots celebrates 70th anniversary season

Marine Forces Reserve is now celebrating the 70th anniversary season of the Toys for Tots foundation. The Toys for Tots program aims to assist and guide young children, helping them grow into responsible, productive citizens through the message of hope that comes with a new toy.

Members of the Afghan National Army transport family members and two recovering children back to their home.

Children Survive Taliban Suicide Bombing Attack Thanks to Joint Coalition Patrol Team

Two young Afghan children were released from the Joint Theater Hospital after receiving treatment for injuries they sustained in a Taliban suicide bombing attack November 22.

Rudolph joins Marine Corps Band New Orleans on stage at Saenger Theater in New Orleans on Dec. 11, 2015.

Marine Corps Band New Orleans to perform concert series for Toys for Tots program

The Marine Corps Band New Orleans is scheduled to perform “Santa Meets Sousa,” a series of holiday concerts in multiple locations and dates throughout Dec. 2017. Last year, the New Orleans community donated over 69,700 toys to the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program to be distributed to local families in the area in time for Christmas.

U.S. Naval Academy and Naval Academy Preparatory School admission requirements

Marine Administrative Message 631/17 explains the admission requirements for all active duty and Reserve Marines wanting to apply for the U.S. Naval Academy’s class of 2022, in Annapolis, Maryland.

Early Release Policy during Holiday Period

Marine Administrative Message 618/17 explains the criteria for the early release of active and Reserve Marines whose term of active service will expire during the holiday periods.

Sgt. Maj. Bryan Fuller (left), Inspector Instructor Sgt. Maj. of Combat Logistics Group 453, and Brig. Gen. Michael Martin (center), Deputy Commanding General of Marine Corps Forces Command, present Marine Corps veteran Sgt. Eubaldo Lovato (right), with the Silver Star award in Montrose, Colorado, Nov. 18, 2017.

Silver Star award-upgrade presented to Marine Corps veteran for heroic actions

“As a squad leader, Cpl. Lovato was in charge of 13 Marines,” said Brig. Gen. Michael Martin, deputy commanding general of Marine Corps Forces Command. “He was assigned a sector to clear that was loaded with enemies in houses, rooms, closets, on roof tops and probably in sewage systems. It was some of the worst types of fighting you can absolutely imagine.”

A screenshot of the Reserve and Independent Duty Administration Course on the Naval Post Graduate website.

MARFORRES launches a new online Reserve and Independent Duty Administration Course and Functional Administrative Support Tool

The Marine Forces Reserve, Assistant Chief of Staff G-1 directorate, announced the release of a new web-based Reserve and Independent Duty Administration Course—known as RIDAC—along with an update to the MARFORRES Standard Operating Procedures for Personnel Administration, Force Order 1001.5a, which now directs the use of the Functional Administrative Support Tool.

Staff Sgt. Austin Kings (left), an intelligence specialist with Alpha Company, Intelligence Support Battalion, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, and Missouri Governor Eric Greitens (right) poses for a photo during an award ceremony at Jefferson City, Missouri, on Oct. 28, 2017.

Faces of the Force: Staff Sgt. Austin Kings

Staff Sgt. Austin Kings, an intelligence specialist with Alpha Company, Intelligence Support Battalion, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, was awarded the Medal of Merit by Missouri Governor, Eric Greitens, in Jefferson City, Missouri, Oct. 28, 2017.

Fiscal Year 2018 Competition-In-Arms Program Announcement

Marine Administrative Message 581/17 announces the Competition-In-Arms Program for fiscal year 2018.

Col. Ricardo Player, the chief of staff of Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, discusses the dangers of drug use to Junior ROTC cadets during Red Ribbon Week, at New Orleans Military and Maritime Academy in New Orleans, Oct. 23, 2017.

MARFORRES takes part in drug awareness during Red Ribbon Week

To educate high school students on the dangers and effects of drug use, Marines from Marine Forces Reserve, traveled to local New Orleans high schools to discuss the negative effects of drug use, during Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23-31, 2017.

Brig. Gen. Bradley James, the commanding general of 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, reads the names on bricks that were laid to memorialize the lives of the 15 Marines and one sailor who died in a C-130 plane crash in July 2017, in Moorhead, Miss., Oct. 19, 2017. James attended the memorial event that not only paid tribute to the fallen service members, but to also celebrate the 200th birthday of the state of Mississippi. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dallas Johnson)

MARFORRES 4th MAW leaders attend memorial for C-130 crash

Brig. Gen. Bradley James, the commanding general of 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, and senior leaders with 4th MAW, attended a memorial service for the 15 Marines and one sailor who perished in a C-130 airplane crash in July 2017, in Moorhead, Mississippi, Oct. 19, 2017.

Cpl. Eric Gore, the chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense specialist training non-commissioned officer with Headquarters Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, stands outside of Marine Corps Support Facility in New Orleans, Oct. 16, 2017.

Faces of the Force: Cpl. Eric Gore

When Hurricane Harvey made landfall in southeast Texas on Aug. 25, 2017, it flooded thousands of homes and displaced more than 30,000 people. In response to the devastation, thousands of citizens from across the country rushed to Texas to assist in relief efforts, taking time away from their homes and work to help others out.

Photo of the USS Constitution provided by Associated Press.

Marines participate in USS Constitution demonstration

Marines with 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, helped commemorate the birthday of the U.S. Navy by setting sail on the USS Constitution from the Charlestown Navy Yard, Boston, Oct. 20, 2017.

Sgt. Michael Kirby, a radio chief with 3rd Platoon, Rocket Battery F, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, poses for a photo in front of a Humvee during Weapons and Tactics Instructor course 1-18 at Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Range, Calif., Oct. 12, 2017.

Faces of the Force: Sgt. Michael Kirby

Life in the military is a path not many people take, even fewer take the road of becoming a U.S. Marine. The military in general has many challenges that service members learn to face throughout their career. Those challenges include going to school, taking care of their family and performing their military occupation specialties simultaneously, while also participating in exercises or preparing for deployments.

14th Marines and MWSS-473 transport supplies to Hurricane relief efforts

Reserve Marines map out help for Houston and Puerto Rico

The 2017 hurricane season saw the development of multiple record setting storms and hurricanes. Two in particular, Hurricane Harvey, that hit Texas in late August, and Hurricane Irma, which hit less than two weeks later in the Caribbean Islands, caused some of the greatest damage to those regions in recent years.

The Marine Corps raises domestic violence awareness

Marine Administrative Message 524/17 announces that October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Continuation pay procedures for the Blended Retirement System

Marine Administrative Message 543/17 gives guidance on continuation pay, a form of payment in addition to regular salary that is offered as an incentive, to Marines with 12 years of service and who are participating in the Blended Retirement System.

Chief Petty Officer Billini Benoit a reserve corpsman with 4th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, Marine Forces Reserve, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, has used his experience as a reserve, FMF-certified corpsman and a high school teacher to develop an educational program to prepare reserve corpsmen to pass the Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Warfare Specialist certification required for them to attach to Marine units. The program has been widely successful in its short existence with a 100 percent passage rate that has already tripled the number of corpsmen from his unit that receive the certification annually.

Faces of the Force: Chief Petty Officer Billini Benoit

NEW ORLEANS – Standing on the yellow footprints, crawling through the Quigley, holding the eagle,

National Retirement Security Week 2017

Marine Administrative Message 519/17 announces that the Department of Defense and the Marine Corps are participating in the National Retirement Security Week from Oct. 15-21, 2017.

Marine Corps Sgt. Ian Ferro (left), a combat correspondent with Headquarters Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, motivates a Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps midshipman during ammo can lifts at Tulane University in New Orleans, Sept. 20, 2017.

MARFORRES NCOs lead Tulane NROTC midshipmen during morning PT

The peace and quiet of a dark and humid Wednesday morning at Tulane University in New Orleans was suddenly interrupted by shouts of “aye aye, sergeant!” and “aye aye, corporal!” from Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps midshipmen as they ran to pick up main packs, ammo cans and water jugs.

Marines with 2nd Civil Affairs Group, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, listen to a park ranger provide a historical overview of the Battle of Cedar Creek, the final battle of Union Gen. Sheridan’s 1864 Shenandoah campaign, during the unit’s recent staff ride exercise through the Shenandoah Valley on September 9, 2017. During the three-day staff ride exercise, 2nd CAG’s Marines reviewed Sheridan’s 1864 campaign through the Shenandoah Valley in the context of civil military operations. During a stop at Belle Grove Plantation, which served as Sheridan’s headquarters, the 2nd CAG Marines learned about the Shenandoah’s economy and inhabitants, providing context to the Marines’ consideration of the civil environment that Sheridan’s troops operated in.

2nd CAG is a subordinate unit of Force Headquarters Group. 2nd CAG, along with its sister units of 1st, 3rd, and 4th CAG, provides an enabling function to combatant commanders by planning and conducting civil-military operations in support of the commander’s objectives. 2nd CAG supports II Marine Expeditionary Force and the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, as well as those commands’ subordinate units.

Marines with 2nd Civil Affairs Group trace their heritage

Dr. Brad Wineman, a professor of military history at the Marine Corps’ Command & Staff College, laid out the problem for his students, the Marines and sailors of the 2nd Civil Affairs Group, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve:

MWSS-473 FARP operations in wake of Hurricane Irma

Marine Forces Reserve units contribute to hurricane relief efforts

As states across the southeast began to deal with the blow of Hurricane Irma, which destroyed homes and left millions without power, Americans once again proved their ability to come together in the face of crisis. Government, state and local organizations, as well as individuals, did their part to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their neighbors in need.

Marines complete live-fire battle-drill training at Fort McCoy

More than 140 Marines and Sailors with the 3rd Civil Affairs Group (CAG) of Naval Station Great Lakes, Ill., completed nearly three days of battle-drill training at Fort McCoy in early September, including live-fire marksmanship exercises

4th Reconnaissance Marines support rescue efforts in wake of Hurricane Harvey

Marines Forces Reserve answers Texas's call

U.S. Marines with 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion and 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, came together in wake of Hurricane Harvey to conduct search and rescue missions and provide disaster relief to effected areas of Texas and Louisiana, Aug. 28-Sept. 3, 2017.

Faces of the Forec: Lance Cpl. Andy Sosa

Faces of the Force: Lance Cpl. Andy Sosa

After an exhaustive but humbling week of search and rescue operations, U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Andy Sosa, an amphibious assault crewmember, rested and conducted necessary maintenance on amphibious assault vehicles at the Ford Park Entertainment Complex, Beaumont, Texas, on Sept. 1, 2017.

Faces of the Forces: Sgt. Brad Coats

Faces of the Forces: Sgt. Brad Coats

“It’s like something you would see out of a movie,” said Marine Corps Sgt. Brad Coats, a reconnaissance Marine with Charlie Company, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve. “It’s something you don’t want to see, families out here have lost everything.”

Sergeant Maj. Larry Liechty, sergeant major of Marine Aircraft Group 49, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, pays his respects to nine Marines of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 452, 4th MAW, MARFORRES, following a memorial at Stewart Air National Guard Base, Aug. 27, 2017.

Honoring the fallen Marines of VMGR-452

The sound of taps echoed throughout Hangar 100 of Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, NY, on the afternoon of Aug. 27, 2017, as Marines, family, airmen and local government leaders joined to honor nine Marines of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 452, Marine Aircraft Group 49, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve.

Raunedys Pena (left) and Richard Vergara (right). (Courtesy Photo by Matthew McDermott/Released)

Faces of the Force: Gunnery Sgt. Richard D. Vergara

Marine Forces Reserve consists of skilled warfighters who are not only prepared to serve their country at all times, but who are also prepared to support and protect their local communities as well.

U.S. Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, Marine Forces Reserve prepare to launch the RQ-7 Shadow Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System on Camp Pendleton, Calif., August 19th, 2017.

VMU-4 survey wildlife with Unmanned Aerial Systems

Unmanned Aerial Systems are able to track enemy movements no matter the terrain and provide Marines real time updates to enemy positions. But recently, the Marines of Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, used there UASs for a more environmental purpose.

6th ANGLICO Marines and Georgian soldiers prepare for deployment in support of Operation Freedom's Sentinel

U.S. Marines with 6th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, and soldiers with the 31st Georgian Light Infantry Battalion, conducted a Mission Rehearsal Exercise as part of the Georgia Deployment Program- Resolute Support Mission aboard the Joint Multinational Readiness Center, Hohenfels, Germany, Aug. 16-22, 2017.

New seasonal influenza vaccine and goal announced

Marine Administrative Message 453/17 provide guidances, to Marine Corps active and Reserve components, to implement the 2017-2018 mandatory Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Program. The Department of Defense goal is 90 percent of personnel vaccinated no later than Dec. 15, 2017.

Maj. Mathison Hall, a detachment commander with 2nd Civil Affairs Group and a senior analyst at the Jonhns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, presents his feature at the annual U.S. Army Mad Scientist conference at Georgetown University, July 25-26, 2017

Faces of the Force: Maj. Mathison Hall

Marine Forces Reserve is composed of Marines who not only serve in the military but also actively contribute in the civilian sector.

Capt. John Howarth the company operations liaison officer with Echo Company, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, stands outside Echo Company’s barracks at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, Michigan, during exercise Northern Strike 17, Aug. 9, 2017.

Faces of the Force: Capt. John Howarth

Sitting calmly and collectively on a U.S. Army Boeing CH-47 Chinook in flight, Capt. John Howarth the company operations liaison officer with Echo Company, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, watches as Reconnaissance Marines jump out of the helicopter during exercise Northern Strike 17. Worn proudly above his left breast pocket are his Combatant Diver and Naval Parachutist badge, symbolizing his experience and hard work.