1st Marine Division

180706-M-ST406-1056

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Robert F. Castellvi, left, the incoming commanding general of 1st Marine Division, recieves the division colors from Maj. Gen. Eric M. Smith, the outgoing commanding general, during a change of command ceremony held at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 6, 2018. The ceremony represented the transfer of responsibility, authority and accountability from Smith to Castellvi. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ana S. Madrigal)

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U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Alex W. Michael, an antitank missile gunner with 1st Tank Battalion, 1st Marine Division (MARDIV), looks through a lensatic compass during the Rifle Squad Competition on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 27, 2018. The units competed against each other to determine which squad will participate in the 1st MARDIV Infantry Competition in late August 2018. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexa M. Hernandez)

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Lance Cpl. Andrew Parish, an infantry rifleman with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (MARDIV), competes during the Rifle Squad Competition on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 27, 2018. The units competed against each other to determine which squad will participate in the 1st MARDIV Infantry Competition in late August 2018.

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A U.S. Marine with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (MARDIV), gives hand and arm signals during the Rifle Squad Competition on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 27, 2018. The units competed against each other to determine which squad will participate in the 1st MARDIV Infantry Competition in late August 2018. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Miguel A. Rosales)

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U.S. Marines with Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Platoon, Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, are sprayed down decontamination during the Concept of Real World CBRN Operations course at the Guardian Centers in Perry, Georgia, June 22, 2018. This training was conducted to enhance and refine the conduct of sensitive site exploitation, which supports the commander’s decision making cycle and maintains momentum during combat operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Prado)

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U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Guerrero, a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defense specialist with CBRN Platoon, Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, poses for a picture during the Concept of Real World CBRN Operations course at the Guardian Centers in Perry, Georgia, June 20, 2018. This training was conducted to enhance and refine the conduct of sensitive site exploitation, which supports the commander’s decision making cycle and maintains momentum during combat operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Prado)

180619-M-VO343-1166

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Arun Shankar, left, the incoming commanding officer of Headquarters Battalion (HQBN), 1st Marine Division (MARDIV), receives the Marine Corps flag from Col. Carlos O. Urbina, right, offgoing commanding officer of HQBN, 1st MARDIV, during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 19, 2018. The ceremony was held as a formal transfer of authority and responsibility of commanding officer from Urbina to Shankar. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexa M. Hernandez)

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U.S. Marines with Headquarters Battalion (HQBN), 1st Marine Division (MARDIV), salute the American flag during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 19, 2018. The ceremony was held as a formal transfer of authority and responsibility of commanding officer of HQBN, 1st MARDIV, from Col. Carlos O. Urbina to Maj. Arun Shankar. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexa M. Hernandez)

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Retired U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel “Woody” Williams, the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient of the battle of Iwo Jima, shakes hands with Marines during his visit to the 5th Marine Regiment Vietnam War Memorial at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 29, 2018. Williams visits the newly unveiled memorial to honor the Marines and sailors who gave their lives guarding our great nation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexa M. Hernandez)

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Retired U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel “Woody” Williams, the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient of the battle of Iwo Jima, speaks to Marines during his visit to the 5th Marine Regiment Vietnam War Memorial at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 29, 2018. Williams visits the newly unveiled memorial to honor the Marines and sailors who gave their lives guarding our great nation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexa M. Hernandez)

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U.S. Marines with 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, observe the 5th Marines Vietnam War Memorial unveiling ceremony in the Camp San Mateo Memorial Garden at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 28, 2018. The memorial is inscribed with the names of 2,706 Marines and sailors who gave their lives serving our great nation. (U.S. photo by Lance Cpl. Rhita Daniel)

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A U.S. Marine with 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, marches by the 5th Marines Vietnam War Memorial during the unveiling ceremony in the Camp San Mateo Memorial Garden at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 28, 2018. The memorial is inscribed with the names of 2,706 Marines and sailors who gave their lives serving our great nation. (U.S. photo by Lance Cpl. Rhita Daniel)

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U.S. Marine Corps and Navy veterans observe the 5th Marines Vietnam War Memorial during the unveiling ceremony in the Camp San Mateo Memorial Garden at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 28, 2018. The memorial is inscribed with the names of 2,706 Marines and sailors who gave their lives serving our great nation. (U.S. photo by Lance Cpl. Rhita Daniel)

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U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Michael Nakonieczny, commanding officer of 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, holds the battalion's battle axe during Highlanders' Night at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 24, 2018. Highlanders’ Night is an annual event the battalion holds to celebrate its history and traditions while building camaraderie through competitive events. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Kierkegaard)

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U.S. Marines, with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, pull during the battalion’s Highlanders' Night tug-of-war competition at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., May 24, 2018. Highlanders’ Night is an annual event the battalion holds to celebrate its history and traditions while building camaraderie through competitive events. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Kierkegaard)

Exercise Platinum Ren

A U.S. Marine with 1st Platoon, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, returns fire while conducting a live fire range and patrol, during Exercise Platinum Ren, at Fort Trondennes, Harstad, Norway, May 11, 2018. The exercise is a theater security cooperation training evolution with Norwegian Coastal Ranger Commandos held to sustain mission essential tasks in a harsh operating environment and strengthen coalition partnerships. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Miguel A. Rosales)

Exercise Platinum Ren

A U.S. Marine with 1st Platoon, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conducts barrier shooting drills during Exercise Platinum Ren at Fort Trondennes, Harstad, Norway, May 10, 2018. The exercise is a theater security cooperation training evolution with Norwegian Coastal Ranger Commandos held to sustain mission essential tasks in a harsh operating environment and strengthen coalition partnerships. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Miguel A. Rosales)

Exercise Platinum Ren

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Mike Ibarra, a team leader with 1st Platoon, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, fires a M9 Beretta semiautomatic handgun during Exercise Platinum Ren, at Fort Trondennes, Harstad, Norway, May 8, 2018. The exercise is a theater security cooperation training evolution with Norwegian Coastal Ranger Commandos held to sustain mission essential tasks in a harsh operating environment and strengthen coalition partnerships. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Miguel A. Rosales)

180503-M-UI426-1205

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kreed Gentz, right, a main battle tank technician with 1st Tank Battalion, 1st Marine Division (MARDIV), and boxer with the 1st MARDIV boxing team, faces his opponent British Royal Marine (RM) 1st Class Aiden Thompson, at the Commando Training Centre for the Royal Marines Lympstone, England, May 3, 2018. The 1st MARDIV boxing team and RMs were scheduled to compete in a friendly boxing exposition to strengthen the bond of both counterparts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Megan E. Brown)

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U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Joshua Vera, right, a water support technician with 7th Engineer Support, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and boxer with the 1st Marine Division (MARDIV) boxing team, is declared the winner of the second bout against British Royal Marine (RM) Sgt. Daniel Brinks, in a boxing competition at Commando Training Centre for the Royal Marines Lympstone, England, May 3, 2018. The 1st MARDIV boxing team and RMs were scheduled to compete in a friendly boxing exposition to strengthen the bond of both counterparts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Megan E. Brown)

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U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Kemuel Sanchez, a motor vehicle operator with 1st Marine Raider Battalion, Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, and boxer with the 1st Marine Division (MARDIV), receives coaching advice from his coach Kevin Kylis, during a one-minute break between rounds in a boxing competition at Commando Training Centre for the Royal Marines Lympstone, England, May 3, 2018. The 1st MARDIV boxing team and RMs were scheduled to compete in a friendly boxing exposition to strengthen the bond of both counterparts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Megan E. Brown)

180503-M-UI426-0535

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Kreed Gentz, a main battle tank technician with 1st Tank Battalion and boxer with the 1st Marine Division (MARDIV) boxing team, faces his opponent, British Royal Marine (RM) 1st Class Aiden Thompson at Commando Training Centre for the Royal Marines Lympstone, England, May 3, 2018. The 1st MARDIV boxing team and RMs were scheduled to compete in a friendly boxing exposition to strengthen the bond of both counterparts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Megan E. Brown)

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U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Eric M. Smith, right, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, presents a Silver Star to U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Philip H. Sauer’s siblings at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 24, 2018. The Silver Star was presented posthumously to Sauer for his actions while serving with 1st Battalion, 9th Marines in the Republic of Vietnam on April 24, 1967. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Kierkegaard)

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William Marks, a Vietnam veteran, poses for a photo with the 1st Marine Division color guard after a silver star presentation ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 24, 2018. The Silver Star was presented posthumously to Sauer for his actions while serving with 1st Battalion, 9th Marines in the Republic of Vietnam on April 24, 1967. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Audrey M. C. Rampton)

180405-M-VO343-1204

A U.S. Marine with 1st Force Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, descends during Military Free-Fall and Static-Line parachute operations at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 5, 2018. The battalion conducted the operations with Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 to maintain and increase parachuting and jumpmaster proficiency. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexa M. Hernandez)

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Patriot Guard Riders of Southern California with American Legion Riders escort the 5th Marines Vietnam War Memorial at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 29, 2018. The memorial is scheduled to be unveiled on May 28, 2018 to pay tribute to the Marines and Sailors of the regiment. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Audrey M. C. Rampton)

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A U.S. Marine with Force Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, sights in during a pre-sniper training exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 26, 2018. The exercise evaluated and selected Marines to attend the Scout Sniper Basic Course. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Audrey M. C. Rampton)

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U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Rafael Govea, a combat engineer, with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 372, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, stake a metal rod into the dirt during a St. Patrick’s Day field meet hosted by 1st Combat Engineer Battalion (CEB), 1st Marine Division at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 23, 2018. Marines with 1st CEB, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, and MWSS 372 honored their patron saint by participating in an annual field meet. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ana S. Madrigal)

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U.S. Marines with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion (CEB), 1st Marine Division, host a St. Patrick’s Day field meet at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 23, 2018. Marines with 1st CEB, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, and Marine Wing Support Squadron 372 honored their patron saint by participating in an annual field meet. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ana S. Madrigal)

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U.S. Marines with the Silent Drill Platoon with the Battle Color Detachment, perform during the Battle Color ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 15, 2018. The ceremony featured the platoon, "The Commandant's Own," the United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps and the Marine Corps Color Guard. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Rhita Daniel)

Quads for Squads

U.S. Marines Lance Cpl. Jonathan Herreracorral, a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense specialist, and David Bobbie, an intelligence specialist, both with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, conduct start-up drills for the InstantEye Quadcopter during a Quad for Squads training event on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Feb. 28, 2018. Quads for Squads is a program intended to train and equip individual squads with small unmanned aircraft systems. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Audrey Rampton)

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U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. William T. Sowers, left, the sergeant major, and Maj. Gen. Eric Smith, the commanding general, both of 1st Marine Division, add a streamer to the division colors during the unit's 77th anniversary ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 2, 2018. Division veterans, active duty Marines and Sailors participated in the ceremony, celebrating the oldest, largest and most decorated division in the Marine Corps. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Roxanna Gonzalez)

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U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Kendrick Gaines, a field artillery officer with 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, salutes during the unit's 77th anniversary ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 2, 2018. Division veterans, active duty Marines and Sailors participated in the ceremony, celebrating the oldest, largest and most decorated division in the Marine Corps. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Roxanna Gonzalez)

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U.S. Marines with the 1st Marine Division Band perform during the unit's 77th anniversary ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 2, 2018. Division veterans, active duty Marines and Sailors participated in the ceremony, celebrating the oldest, largest and most decorated division in the Marine Corps. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Roxanna Gonzalez)

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U.S. Marines with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, fist bump each other prior to a low level static line (LLSL) parachute operations at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 1, 2018. LLSL parachute operations are conducted to increase proficiency with the MC-6 parachute system.(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Prado)

Iron Fist 2018: Amphibious Operations Training

Marines with 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division and Western Army Infantry Regiment, Japan Ground Self Defense Force Soldiers conduct a mobile beach head patrol during exercise Iron Fist 2018, Jan. 24. Iron Fist brings together U.S. Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and soldiers from the JGSDF to improve their bilateral planning, communicating, and conducting of combined amphibious operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jacob A. Farbo)

Exercise Iron Fist 2018: Live Fire Range

Pfc. Jose Martinez, an infantrymen with, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division aims down the sights as part of live fire training during exercise Iron Fist 2018, Jan. 17. Iron Fist is an annual, bilateral training exercise where U.S. and Japanese service members train together and share techniques, tactics and procedures to improve their combined operational capabilities.

Exercise Iron Fist 2018: Urban Explosives Breaching

U.S. Marines with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion clear hallways during exercise Iron Fist 2018, Jan. 18. Exercise Iron Fist is an annual bilateral training exercise where U.S. and Japanese service members train together and share technique, tactics and procedures to improve their combined operational capabilities. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Robert Alejandre)

Iron Fist 2016: JGSDF and USMC load LCAC and departure

Private First Class Joshua Webb, with Alpha Battery,11th Marines, sits in the back seat of a M1163 Prime Mover as they load onto a Landing Craft Air Cushion as part of Iron Fist 2018, Jan. 19. Iron Fist is a five-week-long exercise focusing on advanced marksmanship, amphibious reconnaissance, fire and maneuver assaults, staff planning, logistical support, medical knowledge sharing, fire support operations, including mortars, artillery and close air support, and amphibious landing operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Robert B. Brown Jr.)

Weapons Demonstration with The Nice Guys Charity

U.S. Marines with Fox Battery, 2nd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, fire a M777A2 155mm howitzer during a weapons demonstration at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 16, 2018. The division demonstrated its capabilities to members of The Nice Guys organization displaying small arms weapons, vehicles, and training sites. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Roxanna Gonzalez)

11th Marine Regiment celebrates Saint Barbara’s Day

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jonathan Ortiz with 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, stands at parade rest during a field meet at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 11, 2018. St. Barbara is honored every year as an artillery patron saint. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Prado)

11th Marines Centennial Ceremony

U.S. Marines with 11th Marine Regiment rededicate the regimental ribbons during a centennial ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 9, 2018. The ceremony was held to commemorate 100 years of the Regiment's history. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Rhita Daniel)

Steel Knight 18: 7th Marine Regiment

U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division (MARDIV), execute a breach using a M1 Assault Breacher Vehicle during exercise Steel Knight (SK) 18 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 10, 2017. SK-18 is a division level exercise designed to enhance the command and control and interoperability with the 1st MARDIV, its adjacent units and naval support forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Prado)

Amphibious Breaching

A U.S. Marine Corps amphibious assault vehicle with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, fires a mine clearing line charge during a simulated amphibious breach in support of exercise Steel Knight 2018 at San Clemente Island, Calif., Dec. 9, 2017. Steel Knight is a 1st Marine Division led exercise enabling Marines and Sailors to operate in a realistic environment developing necessary skill sets to maintain a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by LCpl. Rhita Daniel)

Amphibious Breaching

U.S. Marines with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, observe a beach after a simulated amphibious breach in support of exercise Steel Knight 2018 at San Clemente Island, Calif., Dec. 9, 2017. Steel Knight is a 1st Marine Division led exercise enabling Marines and Sailors to operate in a realistic environment developing necessary skill sets to maintain a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by LCpl. Rhita Daniel)

Steel Knight 2018: 7th Marine Regiment

U.S. Marines with 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division (MARDIV), embark an assault amphibious vehicle during exercise Steel Knight (SK) 18 at Marine Corps Air-Group Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 8, 2017. SK-18 is a division level exercise designed to enhance the command and control and interoperability with the 1st MARDIV, its adjacent units and naval support forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Audrey Rampton)

GAS GAS GAS!

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Teagan E. Fredericks, a combat production specialist with 1st Marine Divison Communications Strategy and Operations, wears her mission oriented protective posture (MOPP) suit with her protective mask during exercise Steel Knight 2018 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 7, 2017. Fredericks wore her MOPP gear during a simulated chemical strike as part of the exercise. (U.S. Marines Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Gabriela Garcia)

Amphibious Breaching

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Paige Fischer, an electrician with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, holds security during a simulated amphibious breach in support of exercise Steel Knight 2018 at San Clemente Island, Calif., Dec. 6, 2017. Steel Knight is a 1st Marine Division led exercise enabling Marines and Sailors to operate in a realistic environment developing necessary skill sets to maintain a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by LCpl. Rhita Daniel)

Steel Knight 18: 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines Air Assault

U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, participate in an air assault as part of exercise Steel Knight 2018 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 7, 2017. Steel Knight provides effective and intense training in an expeditionary environment to ensure the 1st MARDIV remains combat-ready, interoperable, deployable on a short notice, and lethal when called into action. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Justin Huffty)

Steel Knight 18: 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines Air Assault

U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provide cover fire during an air assault, part of exercise Steel Knight 2018 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 7, 2017. Steel Knight provides effective and intense training in an expeditionary environment to ensure the 1st Marine Division remains combat-ready, interoperable, deployable on a short notice, and lethal when called into action. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Justin Huffty)

Steel Knight 18: 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines Air Assault

A U.S. Marine with 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, prepares to depart a landing strip during exercise Steel Knight 2018 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 7, 2017. Steel Knight provides effective and intense training in an expeditionary environment to ensure the 1st Marine Division remains combat-ready, interoperable, deployable on a short notice, and lethal when called into action. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Justin Huffty)

1st Tank Battalion Begins Training for Steel Knight 2018

U.S. Marines with Alpha Company, 1st Tank Battalion, 1st Marine Division, arrives at Tactical Assembly Area Abrams in an M1A1 Abrams tank during exercise Steel Knight 2018 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Dec. 4, 2017. Exercise Steel Knight is a 1st Marine Division exercise conducted to successfully demonstrate the capability to exercise command and control over forces in a distributed environment with long range movement, while conducting offensive and defensive maneuver and operations integrated with supporting arms. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Allison DeVries)

Amphibious Breaching

U.S. Marines with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion (CEB), 1st Marine Division, walk to their assault amphibious vehicles before a simulated amphibious breach in support of exercise Steel Knight 2018 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 3, 2017. Steel Knight is a 1st Marine Division led exercise enabling Marines and Sailors to operate in a realistic environment developing necessary skill sets to maintain a fully capable Marine Air Ground Task Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by LCpl. Rhita Daniel)

3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment: Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation

U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, utilize amphibious assault vehicles during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation (MCCRE) at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Nov. 29, 2017. MCCREs are conducted to ensure unit standardization and combat readiness in preparation for operational deployments. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Prado)

Marines Observe Blue Force during Southern Katipo 17

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Brendan Mulcahy, a rifleman with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, patrols while extracting from an observation post during Exercise Southern Katipo 17 (SK17), at St. Arnaud, New Zealand, Oct. 28, 2017. The Marines and some New Zealand Defense Force (NZDF) members role played as part of the opposition forces during SK17, a large scale exercise hosted by the NZDF with 16 participating nations playing various supporting roles. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Allison M. DeVries)

Marines Observe Blue Force during Southern Katipo 17

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Ryan Savage, a rifleman with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, applies camouflage paint during Exercise Southern Katipo 17 (SK17), at St. Arnaud, New Zealand, Oct. 28, 2017. The Marines and some New Zealand Defense Force (NZDF) members role played as part of the opposition forces during SK17, a large scale exercise hosted by the NZDF with 16 participating nations playing various supporting roles. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Allison M. DeVries)

Night Insert Operations During SK 17

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jadon Valdez, left, a rifleman, and HM3 Cody Moody, right, a hospital corpsman, both with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division prepare for a night insert to an observation post during Exercise Southern Katipo 17 (SK17) at St. Arnaud, New Zealand, Oct. 24, 2017. Exercise SK17 is a large scale exercise hosted by the New Zealand Defense Force (NZDF) with 16 participating nations playing various supporting roles; U.S. Marines and some NZDF members are role playing as part of the opposition forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Allison M. DeVries)

Marines Conduct a Reconnaissance Patrol Southern Katipo 17

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Bobby Norton, left, a rifleman with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conducts a radio check while on a reconnaissance patrol during Exercise Southern Katipo 17 (SK17) at St. Arnaud, New Zealand, Oct. 27, 2017. The U.S. Marines and some New Zealand Defense Force (NZDF) members role played as part of the opposition forces during SK17, a large scale exercise hosted by the NZDF with 16 participating nations playing various supporting roles. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Allison M. DeVries)

Mud Bath: 1st LAR prepares for Southern Katipo 17

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Mitchell Jensen, a rifleman with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion (LAR), 1st Marine Division, emerges from a mud puddle during an exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 13, 2017. The three week, multinational exercise is held in New Zealand to build interoperability between coalition forces.(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Allison M. DeVries)

Mud Bath: 1st LAR prepares for Southern Katipo 17

U.S. Marines with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion (LAR), 1st Marine Division, prepare to run their ghillie suits through a mud and water exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 13, 2017. The three week, multinational exercise is held in New Zealand to build interoperability between coalition forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Allison M. DeVries)

RSTAC Experimental Sniper Company

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Joseph Starr, a professionally instructed gunman with Regimental Surveillance and Target Acquisition Company (RSTAC), 1st Marine Division, acquires targets during a field operation at Fort Irwin, Calif., October 2, 2017. RSTAC is an experimental company designed to build proficiency in scout sniper operations for service level exercises culminating in live fire full-mission profiles, reporting surveillance and reconnaissance control center operations and high-angle precision fires. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexa M. Hernandez)

RSTAC Experimental Sniper Company

A U.S. Marine with Regimental Surveillance & Target Acquisition Company (RSTAC), 1st Marine Division, looks through a PVS-14 night vision scope during a night insert at Fort Irwin, Calif., Oct. 1, 2017. RSTAC is an experimental company designed to build proficiency in scout sniper operations for service level exercises. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexa M. Hernandez)

1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment Jane Wayne Day

Vanessa Burback, a U.S. Marine spouse, shoots a M27 infantry automatic rifle during Jane Wayne day at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Sept. 29, 2017. Jane Wayne Day, hosted by 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, gave Marine spouses and family members the opportunity to experience a day in the Corps. (U. S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ana S. Madrigal)

Deep Strike II 2017

A U.S. Marine with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (MARDIV), sites in an M242 Bushmaster chain-driven automatic cannon weapon during the Deep Strike II exercise at River Valley, Calif., Sept. 14, 2017. The exercise allowed 1st MARDIV Marines to train with 1st Marine Logistics Group Marines in order to combine the efforts of ground and logistics combat elements in one long range military operation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Austin Mealy)

Deep Strike II 2017

Marines with Company B, 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, hold security in a light armored vehicle during Deep Strike II in the River Valley, Calif., Sept. 12, 2017. Deep Strike II is an exercise that allowed Marines with 1st Marine Division to train with Marines from 1st Marine Logistics Group to combine the efforts of ground and logistics combat elements in one long range military operation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Justin Huffty)

Annual Surf Qual with 3rd AAB

A U.S. Marine with 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, jumps off an Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAV) during an annual surf qualification at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 17, 2017. The annual training included a 500 meter swim from Amphibious Assualt Vehicles (AAV) to shore to simulate an AAV sinking in the ocean. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Roxanna Gonzalez)

Annual Surf Qual with 3rd AAB

A U.S. Marine with 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, jumps from an Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAV) during an annual surf qualification at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 17, 2017. The annual training included a 500 meter swim from AAVs to shore to simulate an AAV sinking in the ocean. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Roxanna Gonzalez)

Marines With 1st Marine Division Visit Bloody Ridge

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jeremy Pogue, a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, hikes to Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone's fighting hole during a tour of Bloody Ridge in Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, Aug. 9, 2017. The tour was used to teach the Marines about Bloody Ridge and the Battle of Guadalcanal, which took place from Aug. 7, 1942 to Feb. 9, 1943. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Wesley Timm)

Bringing the Heat: 2/7 MCCRE

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, sprint to their next objective while assaulting an urban environment during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation (MCCRE) at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 15, 2017. The 2/7 MCCRE is in preparation for the upcoming deployment with the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Justin Huffty)

Bringing the Heat: 2/7 MCCRE

Cpl. Jerrick Espino, an intelligence analyst with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, lands a PD-100 Black Hornet micro unmanned aerial vehicle during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 8, 2017. The 2/7 MCCRE is in preparation for their upcoming deployment on the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Austin Mealy)

The Professionals: V-2/1 MCCRE

Lance Cpl. Mitchell Nicholas, a riflemen with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, provides security during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 15, 2017. MCCREs are conducted to ensure unit standardization and combat readiness in preparation for operational deployments. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joseph Prado)

The Professionals: V-2/1 MCCRE

Marines with 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, utilize Amphibious Assault Vehicles during a Marine Corps Combat Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 12, 2017. MCCREs are conducted to ensure unit standardization and combat readiness in preparation for operational deployments. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joseph Prado)

Explosive Engagement: SAPPER Squad Competition

Marines with 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division, create a terrain model during the SAPPER Squad Competition held at Camp Pendleton, Calif., from June 12 to 16, 2017. Marines from 1st, 2nd and 4th Combat Engineers Battalion and 3rd Combat Assault Battalion competed against each other for a week to test their strengths within their occupational field. The competition is designed to test and determine the top squad within the combat engineer community and build comradery between the different units. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Justin Huffty)

3rd LAR MCCRE

Marines with 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, tested an Unmanned Aerial System, also known as the RQ-20 Puma, during part of the Battalion’s Marine Combat Corps' Readiness Evaluation at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Mar. 13, 2017. The Puma provides land-based and maritime intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance. (Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Mike Hernandez)