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Rest in peace shipmate..

WASHINGTON (NNS) (Sept. 24, 2008) Cryptologic Technician 3rd Class Matthew J. O'Bryant, 22, of Duluth, Ga., died Sept. 20 in the bombing of the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad, Pakistan. O'Bryant was assigned to the Navy Information Operations Command in Fort Meade, Md. (U.S. Navy photo)

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VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Sept. 21, 2008) An F-22 Raptor shows the crowd how it remains stealthy while carrying weapons in flight by cycling it's weapons bay doors during the 50th Anniversary Naval Air Station Oceana Air Show. The three-day event marked 50 years of air shows at NAS Oceana and included performances by the Navy's flight demonstration team the Blue Angels and the Navy's parachute jump team, the Leap Frogs, as well as a variety of aerial demonstrations and static displays of military and civilian aircraft. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Edward I. Fagg/Released)

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VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Sept. 21, 2008) The United States Air Force Heritage Flight performs with the World War II P-51 Mustang and the state-of-the-art F-22 Raptor during the 50th Anniversary Naval Air Station Oceana Air Show. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Edward I. Fagg/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Sept. 22, 2008) An AV-8B Harrier jet lands aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). Peleliu is deployed supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 21, 2008) Members of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) honor guard stand at parade rest during a burial at sea for nine former service members. The Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility operating in the western Pacific and Indian oceans. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brandon C. Wilson/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Sept. 22, 2008) A flight deck crewman cleans the fan blades of an AV-8B Harrier aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 23, 2008) Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 3rd Class Andrew Byers, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28, speaks with the pilot of the MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter as it lands aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4). Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 22, 2008) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the "Vigilantes" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 flown by Lt. Michael Apone, of Holbrook, N.Y., drops a pair of MK-76 25-pound low-drag practice bombs at a towed target during a practice bomb drop launched from aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean P. Gallagher (Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 22, 2008) Seaman Timothy Standish, from Dekalo County, Ga., observes a vertical replenishment aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). The USS Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy hoto by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean P. Gallagher (Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Sept. 22, 2008) A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter lands aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). Peleliu is deployed supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Sept. 22, 2008) Quartermaster Seaman Melissa Ruizmontijo checks time, speed and distance for accurate dead reckoning on the bridge of the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Sept. 22, 2008) A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter lifts off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Sept. 22, 2008) A plane captain of an AV-8B Harrier jet guides the aircraft as it is towed on the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Sept. 22, 2008) A flight deck crewmen use hand signals to communicate with other personnel on the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Sept. 20, 2008) A CH-46E from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 264 lands on the flight deck of the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad R. Erdmann/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Sept. 21, 2008) Distinguished visitors from the Joint Civilian Orientation Conference (JCOC) watch an AV-8B Harrier from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 264 perform a vertical take-off during their visit to the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). Iwo Jima is deployed as the flagship of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad R. Erdmann/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 18, 2008) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Herbert Smith, from Long Beach, Calif., uses a tractor to transfer an SH-60F Sea Hawk assigned to the "Black Knights" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4 to the "Helo-hold" on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Scott/Released)

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EAST CHINA SEA (Sept. 23, 2008) Aviation Boatswain Mate (Handler) Airman Cody Nickles, from Truth or Consequences, NM, assigned to the forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex, stands at the ready position in the event of an emergency on the ship's flight deck. Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. Expeditionary Strike Group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ty Swartz/Released)

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An F-16 Fighting Falcon waits in front of a hardened aircraft shelter at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Sept. 24. The F-16 is deployed to the 332nd Expeditionary Fighter Squadron from the Oklahoma Air National Guard's 138th Fighter Wing. The F-16s arrived Sept. 18 to assist in executing the Air Tasking Order in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Jason Epley)

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A Global Hawk unmanned aircraft system from the 9th Reconnaissance Wing at Beale Air Force Base, Calif., made a trans-Atlantic flight Sept. 20 with the assistance of Navy officials. The 19-hour flight took off from Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Md., to Southwest Asia. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Miranda Moorer)

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A battlefield Airmen stands guard wearing the new airman battle system-ground ensemble. The ABS-G provides battlefield Airmen with fire resistance and tactical integration with body armor. Distribution will begin in February 2009, and it will most likely be in testing phase for 18 to 24 months. (Courtesy photo)

[bd popeye]

I'm back..I hadda a colonscopy today. It was a barrel of laughs. A couple of benign poylops were removed and my inards are nice and pink contrary to popular belief!.The seditive made me very sleepy. I've been snoozing off and on all day..

A few Blue Angel pics just posted by navy.mil


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VIRGINIA BEACH, VA. (Sept. 20, 2008) F/A-18C Hornets from the Blue Angels fly in formation during the precision flight demonstration squadron's performance at the 50th Golden Anniversary 2008 Air Show at Naval Air Station Oceana. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andre N. McIntyre/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (Sept. 25, 2008) The Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Reuben James (FFG 57) departs Naval Station Pearl Harbor. Reuben James and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS O'Kane (DDG 77) departed from Pearl Harbor as part of the Mid-Pacific Surface Combatant Operational Employment program. The program calls for nine of the 11 Hawaii-based surface combatants to focus on the Western Pacific by conducting intermediate/advanced training and regular deployments in the Western Pacific, and is designed to improve the U.S. Pacific Fleet's war fighting readiness and effectiveness. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication 2nd Class Michael A. Lantron/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Sept. 25, 2008) Electronic's Technician 2nd Class Jose Angel Alcala holds his six-year old son in front of the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) as the ship pulls into Naval Station San Diego during its Homecoming. Mercy concluded its four-month deployment where the crew participated in Pacific Partnership 2008. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jeremy M. Starr/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Sept. 23, 2008) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Charles Humphries and flight deck crewmen stand by on the flight deck before moving an AV- 8B Harrier aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). Peleliu is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sarah E. Bitter/Released)

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FOB FALCON, Iraq (Sept. 22, 2008) Army Pfc. Bob Ward, assigned to 3rd Platoon, Delta Company, attached to Echo Company, 4th Infantry Division, participates in the Hummvee Egress Assistance Training as part of the Raider Bayonet training exercise at Forward Operating Base Falcon. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Joan E. Kretschmer/Released)

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FOB FALCON, Iraq (Sept. 22, 2008) Soldiers assigned to 3rd Platoon, Delta Company, deployed with Echo Company, 4th Infantry Division, participate in a Raider Bayonet training exercise at the range at Forward Operating Base Falcon. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Joan E. Kretschmer/Released)

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FOB FALCON, Iraq (Sept. 22, 2008) Army Sgt. 1st Class Pedro Sotomeyer, from Honduras, assigned to 1-22 Echo Company, deployed with the 4th Infantry Division, inspects a Soldier's rifle as part of a check to make sure all equipment is present and in working order. Echo Company covered basic combat skills during Raider Bayonet training at Forward Operating Base Falcon. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Kelvin T. Surgener/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 24, 2008) Boatswain's Mate Seaman Michael McClure, from Broken Arrow, Okla., rides inside a rigid-hull inflatable boat during small boat operations alongside the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). McClure is one of three rescue swimmers assigned to Deck Department aboard Ronald Reagan. Ronald Reagan is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Scott/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 24, 2008) Scott Stapp, former lead singer of the band Creed, performs with his band on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph M. Buliavac/Released)

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A pilot from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment pilots his helicopter over the Kansas City Speedway. The 160th will take part in a aerial demonstration before the NASCAR race on Sept. 25. (USASOC photo)


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Col. Michael J. Warmack, commander, 95th Civil Affairs Brigade (A), applauds as the awardees stand for their ovation, Staff Sgt. Carlo Alcazar, recipient of the Bronze Star with Valor device; Cpt, Stephen Ward, recipient of the Bronze Star with Valor device and Sgt. 1st Class Drew Kimmey recipient of the Silver Star. All three are members of Civil Affairs Team 745, 97th Civil Affairs Battalion (Airborne) and received these awards for their valorous actions on the field of battle in Afghanistan in November 2007; they were recognized for their actions at a ceremony in the John F. Kennedy auditorium on Fort Bragg, September 25, 2008. Photo by Staff Sgt. Marie Schult, PAO NCOIC, 3rd SFG(A)


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Deron Cherry (middle), former all-pro Kansas City Chiefs free safety, speaks with two Soldiers from the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) during an aerial infiltration demonstration rehearsal at Kansas Speedway Sept. 25. Cherry will participate in the demonstration by driving the official pace car for the NASCAR Camping World RV 400 race off of an MH-47 Chinook flown by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne). (Photo by Cherish Washington, USASOC PAO)


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U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Travis Oswald prepares for a patrol on Joint Base Balad, Iraq, Sept. 24, 2008. The airmen are assigned to the 332nd Expeditionary Security Force, Immediate Reaction Force. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Aaron Allmon


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A U.S. soldier assigned to the 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, shakes hands with a young Iraqi girl during a market assessment at Cherry Market in Al Karama, Mosul, Iraq, Sept. 17, 2008. U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Sarah De Boise


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U.S. Army soldiers wait for their ride to transport them to clearing barrels in Forward Operating Base Justice, Iraq, Sept. 14, 2008. The soldiers are assigned to the 101st Airborne Division's Company D, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Manuel J. Martinez

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A member Quantico’s Special Reaction Team holds a terrorist role player at bay in a joint exercise with other law enforcement agencies and Virginia Railway Express in Fredericksburg, Va. on Saturday, September 19.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Travis J. Crewdson)


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Members of Quantico’s Special Reaction Team enter a Virginia Railway Express train car looking for terrorist role players in a joint exercise with other law enforcement agencies and VRE in Fredericksburg, Va. on Saturday, Sept. 19.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Travis J. Crewdson)


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A member of Quantico’s Special Reaction Team clears the top deck of a double-deck Virginia Railway Express train car looking for terrorist role players in a joint exercise with other law enforcement agencies and VRE in Fredericksburg, Va. on Saturday, Sept. 19.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Travis J. Crewdson)


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Members of Quantico’s Special Reaction Team work their way through a Virginia Railway Express train car looking for terrorist role players in a joint exercise with other law enforcement agencies and VRE in Fredericksburg, Va. on Saturday, Sept. 19.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Travis J. Crewdson)


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A member of Quantico’s Special Reaction Team takes a terrorist role player into custody on a Virginia Railway Express train car during a joint exercise with other law enforcement agencies and VRE in Fredericksburg, Va. on Saturday, Sept. 19.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Travis J. Crewdson)


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Marines with Company D, 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, stand in a school circle around one of the civilian contractors as he briefs them on their mission for the day’s training. 3rd LAR recently received Improved Thermal Sight Systems and Electric Drive Turrets in their light armored vehicles.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Michael S. Cifuentes)


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Marines with Company D, 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion collect their 25 mm rounds before heading out to the firing line. 3rd LAR recently received Improved thermal Sight Systems and Electric Drive Turrets in their light armored vehicles.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Michael Nerl)


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An LAV from 3rd LAR on the firing line utilizes its new sites while zeroing in on a target. 3rd LAR recently received Improved Thermal Sight Systems and Electric Drive Turrets in their light armored vehicles.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Michael S. Cifuentes)


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Marines with 3rd LAR await their chance to shoot on the firing line and test out their new sights and turret. 3rd LAR recently received Improved Thermal Sight Systems and Electric Drive Turrets in their light armored vehicles.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Michael S. Cifuentes)


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1st Lt. Adam Felde, the Weapons Platoon commander with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, briefs his Marines prior to entering a mock Afghan town for a patrolling mission as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at Range 215 Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)


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1st Lt. Adam Felde, the Weapons Platoon commander with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, uses his Afghani interpreter to speak with an Afghan National Policeman of a mock Afghani town during patrol as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at Range 200 Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)


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Weapons Platoon Marines from Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, return fire from Taliban role during their patrol of a mock Afghan town at Range 215 as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at the Combat Center Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)


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Marines with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, along with an Afghan National Army solider-role player and an interpreter search a mock Afghan town for a Taliban combatant during a patrol at Range 215 as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at the Combat Center Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)


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Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment treat casualties from at mock explosion during a first responder drill in a mock Afghan town at Range 215 as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at the Combat Center Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)


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Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment treat casualties from at mock explosion during a first responder drill in a mock Afghan town at Range 215 as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at the Combat Center Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)


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Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment treat casualties from at mock explosion during a first responder drill in a mock Afghan town at Range 215 as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at the Combat Center Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)


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Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment treat casualties from at mock explosion during a first responder drill in a mock Afghan town at Range 215 as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at the Combat Center Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)


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Seaman Tahlon Johnson, a hospital corpsman with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, relays information for a casualty evacuation during a first responder drill in a mock Afghan town at Range 215 as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at the Combat Center Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)


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Marines with 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment treat casualties from at mock explosion during a first responder drill in a mock Afghan town at Range 215 as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at the Combat Center Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)


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Seaman Tahlon Johnson, a hospital corpsman with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, patrols with the rest of his platoon back to the company’s Forward Operating Base just outside a mock Afghan town at Range 215 as part of an Afghanistan-centered Mojave Viper at the Combat Center Sept. 20.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)

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Sergeant Aaron B, a reconnaissance Marine with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's Deep Reconnaissance Platoon conducts precision shooting drills to maintain proficiency while aboard the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) Sept. 25. The 31st MEU and the Sailors of Essex Amphibious Ready Group are working together off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, after recently embarking on their fall deployment.
(Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicks)


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Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's Deep Reconnaissance Platoon conduct precision shooting drills to maintain proficiency while aboard the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) Sept. 25. The 31st MEU and the Sailors of the Essex Expeditionary Strike Group are working together off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, after recently embarking on their fall deployment.
(Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicks)


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September 25, 2008 Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit prepare to shoot M4 carbine assault rifle during a small arms shoot on the flight deck of the forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) is the only permanently forward deployed MEU, maintaining a presence in the Pacific Ocean at all times as part of III Marine Expeditionary Force. Manned by more than 2,200 personnel, The MEU is based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Okinawa, Japan. Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. Expeditionary Strike Group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.
(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Taurean Alexander)


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(September 25, 2008) Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) return to the well deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during combat rubber raiding craft (CRRC) operations. During the exercise, 25 Marines successfully conducted the launch and recovery of four CRRC's. It was the 31st MEU's first CRRC exercise since Essex embarked the unit Sept. 20. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) is based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Okinawa, Japan, and is the only permanently forward-deployed MEU, maintaining a presence in the Pacific Ocean at all times as part of III Marine Expeditionary Force. Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed expeditionary strike group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.
(U.S. Navy photograph by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Johnson.)


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A reserve Marine from 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team-5 waits to take off from Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, for Camp Korean Village in a CH-53 helicopter Sept. 20. The reserve battalion’s current deployment is their second overseas in support of the Global War on Terror. Their expected tour of duty here is seven months.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Capt. Paul Greenberg)


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A Reserve Marine from 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team-5 debarks a CH-53 helicopter at Camp Korean Village, Iraq, Sept. 20. The battalion, which is headquartered in Garden City, N.Y., arrived here during September to support RCT-5's security and stability mission in western al-Anbar province.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Capt. Paul Greenberg)


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Lance Cpl. Alex Briere, Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, debarks a CH-53 helicopter at Camp Korean Village, Iraq, Sept. 20. The Reserve battalion arrived in Iraq in September to support Regimental Combat Team-5’s security and stability mission in western al-Anbar Province.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Capt. Paul Greenberg)


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Reserve Marines from 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team-5 patrol the streets in the town of Rutbah, Iraq, Sept. 24. The town is located in western al-Anbar province. The reserve battalion's current deployment is their second overseas in support of the Global War on Terror.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Capt. Paul Greenberg)


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Senior Airman Andrew Young takes a break on a June day in Albu Ghrar, Iraq, after coordinating air surveillance with an F-16 Fighting Falcon. The 2nd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, captured three suspected terrorists while searching for a high-value individual in the village that day. Young, a joint terminal attack controller embedded with the 2-320th, coordinates close air support missions daily to protect Soldiers and Airmen working in and around Joint Base Balad, Iraq. Young, a native of State College, Pa., is deployed to the 1st Expeditionary Air Support Operations Squadron from Fort Hood, Texas.
(Photographer: 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing)


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Iraqi army police from the Emergency Response Force received a briefing from U.S. Soldiers of 4th Platoon, Outlaw Troop, 4th Squadron, Stryker Cavalry Regiment about the upcoming mission in Khalis, Iraq, Sept. 21, 2008, to find targets during Operation Kanss Al Shabah.
(Photographer: Petty Officer 2nd Class Angela McLane : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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U.S. Army Sgt. Kevin Shellhous from 4th Platoon, Outlaw Troop, 4th Squadron, Stryker Cavalry Regiment sends grid coordinates to dismounts in Khalis, Iraq, Sept. 21, 2008, to find targets during Operation Kanss Al Shabah.
(Photographer: Petty Officer 2nd Class Angela McLane : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Murphy, Staff Sgt. Brock Benson and Sgt. Jeremiah Jares from 4th Platoon, Outlaw Troop, 4th Squadron, Stryker Cavalry Regiment check a last minute map reconnaissance for the upcoming mission in Khalis, Iraq, Sept. 21, 2008, during Operation Kanss Al Shabah.
(Photographer: Petty Officer 2nd Class Angela McLane : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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Iraqi police officer Hassan, talks to U.S. Soldiers assigned to 4th Platoon, Outlaw Troop, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, during a dismounted patrol in Khalis, Diyala province, Iraq, Sept. 22, 2008.
(Photographer: Spc. Ronald Wright : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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U.S. Soldiers assigned to 4th Platoon, Outlaw Troop, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, conduct security during a dismounted patrol through a village in Diyala province, Iraq, Sept. 22, 2008.
(Photographer: Spc. Ronald Wright : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)

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HH-60G Pave Hawks from the 66th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron fly over an area in Iraq during an operational training exercise Sept. 19. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Aaron Allmon)


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Staff Sgt. Ben Vorheis, a flight engineer with the 66th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron, conducts a pre-flight inspection on a HH-60G Pave Hawk Sept.19 before a proficiency training exercise at Joint Base Balad, Iraq. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Aaron Allmon)


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A Mississippi Air National Guard's KC-135 Stratotanker refuels an F-15 Eagle Sept. 22 over eastern Florida as another F-15 and an F-22 Raptor from Tyndall AFB, Fla., wait their turn. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Scott Reed)


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The refueling boom from a KC-135 Stratotanker arches over an F-15 Eagle as it refuels the aircraft Sept. 22 over eastern Florida. An F-22 Raptor and another F-15 Eagle from Tyndall AFB, Fla., are part of the training mission with the Mississippi Air National Guard. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Scott Reed)


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An F-16 Fighting Falcon lands at a Southwest Asia base after returning from a mission in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. John Nimmo Sr.)


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An MQ-9 Reaper, like the one pictured here, is featured in the movie "Eagle Eye." (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Brian Ferguson)


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An operational version of the Active Denial System is shown. It is an invisible, counter personnel, directed-energy weapon. (U.S. Air Force photo)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 27, 2008) The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) passes under a rainbow as Sailors from Lincoln and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2 participate in a "flight deck spell out" while transiting the Pacific Ocean. The Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class James R. Evans (Released)

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AFGHANISTAN (Sept. 27, 2008) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the "Stingers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 refuels with a British Royal Air Force L-1011 aircraft in southern Afghanistan after conducting operations in the Helmand province. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 are providing support to coalition forces on the ground in Afghanistan. U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. Erik Etz (Released)

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SUEZ CANAL, Egypt(Sept. 23, 2008) The amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) transits through the Suez Canal. San Antonio is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason R. Zalasky (Released)

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SUEZ CANAL, Egypt (Sept. 23, 2008) The guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61), the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and the guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) transit the Suez Canal. Ramage, Carter Hall and Roosevelt are deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad R. Erdmann/Released)

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The guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) and the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) transit the Suez Canal.

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RED SEA (Sept. 24, 2008) A CH-46E Super Stallion from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 264 conducts a vertical replenishment with the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72). Vella Gulf is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason R. Zalasky/Released)

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SUEZ CANAL, Egypt (Sept. 23, 2008) Seaman Brandon Lewis scans the horizon aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) while transiting the Suez Canal. San Antonio is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brian Goodwin/Released)

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SUEZ CANAL, Egypt (Sept. 23, 2008) The multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) transits the Suez Canal. Iwo Jima is deployed as the flagship of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad R. Erdmann/Released)

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WESTERN Iraq (Sept 22, 2008) Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 27 make their way from an Air Force transport aircraft at an airfield in Western Iraq to start support operations in al-Anbar province area of responsibility. NMCB-27, known as the "Skibees," is deployed to Iraq and other areas of responsibility supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth W. Robinson/Released)

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SAINT MARIE DU MONT, France (Sept. 27, 2008) Adm. Pierre-Francois Forissier, Chief of Naval Staff for the French Navy, center left, and Adm. Mark Fitzgerald, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe, far right, observe the unveiling of a U.S. Navy monument on the Utah Beach battleground. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jason Morris/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Sept. 29, 2008) The Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Pecos (T-A0 197) and the guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97) steam together in the Indian Ocean. Peleliu is currently deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sarah E. Bitter/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Sept. 29, 2008) A Sailor aboard the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Pecos (T-A0 197) attaches a cargo pendant to an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) during an underway replenishment. Peleliu is deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Sept. 29, 2008) The guided missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97) steams in the Indian Ocean while conducting maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 27, 2008) The Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate USS Curtz (FFG 38) is underway as part of the Abraham Lincoln Strike Group while transiting the Pacific Ocean. The Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility operating in the western Pacific and Indian oceans. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class James R. Evans/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 28, 2008) An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the "Experts" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 122 lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Stennis is conducting fleet replacement squadron carrier qualifications off the coast of California. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elliott Fabrizio/Released)

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(Sept. 27, 2008) Seaman Marshall Everett mans the starboard lookout as the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) begins her entrance into Coronado Bay for a scheduled port visit. Stennis is transiting from Bremerton, Wash. to San Diego for fleet exercises in preparation for a deployment in early 2009. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan M. Ilyankoff/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 26, 2008) Seaman Tracey Dowdy, from Boston, stands in formation with her fellow shipmates in the hangar bay of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) as she awaits the next pallet on load from the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10). Ronald Reagan is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee/Released)

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Pararescuemen of the 31st Rescue Squadron return to shore after performing water rescue training using an inflatable zodiac boat off of Kadena Air Base, Japan. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Christopher Marasky)

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Airmen take cover during Combat Skills Training Sept. 23 at Fort Bragg, N.C. Airmen, Sailors and Soldiers are receiving combat training in anticipation of their deployment as members of 12 different Provincial Reconstruction Team members deploying to Afghanistan in November. The training includes convoy operations, weapons, counter improvised explosive device tactics, language and cultural training and combat lifesaving skills training. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Eric M. Grill)

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AFGHANISTAN (Sept. 27, 2008) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the "Stingers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 departs a tanker track in Southern Afghanistan to head back to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) while two other Hornets join a British Royal Air Force L-1011 aerial refueling aircraft. Ronald Reagan is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. Erik Etz/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Sept. 28, 2008) Quarter Master 3rd Class David Kaelin observes the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Lenthall (T-AO 189) through the "big eyes" aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72). Vella Gulf is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason R. Zalasky (Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 28, 2008) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the "Eagles" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 launches from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The F/A-18E provides the carrier strike group with a strike fighter that has significant growth potential and increased range currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 26, 2008) Sailors lower ordnance in the hangar bay aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during an ammunition on load between Stennis and the Military Sealift Command ammunition ship USNS Flint (T-AE 32). Stennis is transiting from Bremerton, Wash. to San Diego for fleet exercises, preparing for a deployment in early 2009. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Josue L. Escobosa/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Sept. 27, 2008) Sailors assigned to the deck department of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) heave a mooring line on the fantail as the ship moors pierside at Naval Air Station Coronado. Stennis transiting from Bremerton, Wash. to San Diego for fleet exercises in preparation for a deployment in early 2009. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dmitry Chepusov/Released)

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WHITE BEACH, Okinawa (Sept. 25, 2008) Aviation Boatswain's Mate Handling Gerson Rivadenera launches an SH-60 Sea Hawk during flight deck operations aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9). Denver is the Navy's only forward deployed amphibious assault ship and is part of the Expeditionary Strike Group forward deployed to Sasebo, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Gomez/Released)

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RED SEA (Sept. 25, 2008) Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Cody Rufener directs flight crew members during flight operations aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50). Carter Hall is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Flordeliz Valerio/Released)

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RED SEA (Sept. 25, 2008) Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU) practice fast-rope techniques from a CH-46E Super Stallion from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 264 aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). Iwo Jima is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jennifer Hunt/Released)

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TERRE DE NEGRES, Haiti (Sept. 26, 2008) Lt. Sophie Levoie, assigned to the Canadian Forces Health Services Centre and embarked aboard the ampohibious assault ship Uss Kearsarge (LHD 3), laughs with a Hatian child at a neighborhood church during medical and veterinary aid operations. Kearsarge completed her humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mission in Haiti Sept. 26, delivering more than 3.3 million pounds of food, water and other supplies. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David Danals/Released)

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U.S. Army Task Force Gold Engineer Lt. Eric Holland shakes hands with an Iraqi child while walking through Muhalla 512 in the Sadr City district of Baghdad on Sept. 27, 2008.
(Photographer: Tech Sgt. Cohen Young : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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Task Force Gold, Charlie Company 404th Civil Affairs Battalion Staff Sgt. Michelle Bouder of Mohnton, Pa., checks the cleanliness of the outer perimeter of the Al Mithaq Pool in the Sadr City district of Baghdad on Sept. 27, 2008.
(Photographer: Tech Sgt. Cohen Young : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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Task Force Gold, Charlie Company 404th Civil Affairs Battalion Staff Sgt. Michelle Bouder(right) of Mohnton, Pa., asks a question to an interpreter about the cleanliness of the Al Mithaq Pool in the Sadr City district of Baghdad on Sept. 27, 2008.
(Photographer: Tech Sgt. Cohen Young : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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Two 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Personal Security Detail Soldiers descend the stairs of a school in Muhalla 511 during a patrol in the Sadr City district of Baghdad on Sept. 27, 2008.
(Photographer: Tech Sgt. Cohen Young : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Personal Security Detail Sgt. Kevin Dodson of Colorado Springs, Colo., gives a "pound" handshake to Iraqi teens during a patrol through Muhalla 511 in the Sadr City district of Baghdad on Sept. 27, 2008.
(Photographer: Tech Sgt. Cohen Young : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)
Again, this is one of those pics that should be on the front page of every paper.......



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3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Personal Security Detail Sgt. Kevin Dodson of Colorado Springs, Colo., leads the way as Spc. Fout is escorted by a young Iraqi boy through Muhalla 511 in the Sadr City district of Baghdad on Sept. 27, 2008.
(Photographer: Tech Sgt. Cohen Young : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)



Quote:
Lance Cpl. Manuel E. Cuello, an armory custodian with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, looks down the barrel of his rifle for obstructions at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Sept. 28. Several infantry Marines from the company will perform mission-critical duties including gathering intelligence, maintaining the armory and distributing mail.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Shawn Coolman)


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Lance Cpl. Manuel E. Cuello (left) and Cpl. Alberto J. Torres (right), both armory custodians with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, make sure their weapons are in working condition at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Sept. 28. Cuello and Torres are both infantry Marines who will serve as armory custodians for the company. The company selected several infantry Marines to serve in mission-critical roles such as armory custodian and intelligence collector.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Shawn Coolman)


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Cpl. Drew W. Daddio, 23, a Company Level Intelligence Cell team leader, from Hackettstown, N.J., gives a quick hip pocket class to his fellow Marines in Company G, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5 at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Sept. 28. Several infantry Marines from the company will perform mission-critical duties, including gathering intelligence, maintaining the armory and distributing mail.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Shawn Coolman)


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Staff Sgt. Gary D. Patterson, standing right, the platoon sergeant for Weapons Platoon, Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, gives a safety brief to Marines of his company Sept. 25, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. Patterson, a native of Huntsville, Ala., is participating in off-site training, the first exercise for the BLT during a six-month training cycle. The MEU is preparing for a scheduled six-month deployment this spring.
(Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Theodore W. Ritchie)


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Marines from Weapons Platoon, Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, rush to the firing line with their Shoulder-fired Multipurpose Anti-armor Weapons, or SMAWs, Sept. 25, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. Kilo Company trained with practice grenades, trainer variants of the AT-4 light anti-armor weapon, and SMAWs loaded with small-caliber spotting rounds. BLT 3/2 is aboard Fort Pickett for their off-site training, the first in a series of progressively more complex exercises during the 22nd MEU's six-month pre-deployment training cycle. The MEU is preparing for a scheduled six-month deployment this spring.
(Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Theodore W. Ritchie)


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Lance Cpl. Travis A. Willis, right, a Marine with Weapons Platoon, Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires small-caliber spotting rounds from his Shoulder-fired Multipurpose Anti-armor Weapon, or SMAW, as another Marine tracks the rounds Sept. 25, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. Willis, a native of Louisville, Ky., is participating in off-site training, the first exercise for the BLT during a six-month training cycle. Kilo Company trained with practice grenades, trainer variants of the AT-4 light anti-armor weapon, and SMAWs. The MEU is preparing for a scheduled six-month deployment this spring.
(Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Theodore W. Ritchie)


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Marines with Weapons Platoon, Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire small-caliber spotting rounds from their Shoulder-fired Multipurpose Anti-armor Weapons, or SMAWs, as other Marines track the rounds Sept. 25, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. Kilo Company trained with practice grenades, trainer variants of the AT-4 light anti-armor weapon, and SMAWs. BLT 3/2 is aboard Fort Pickett for their off-site training, the first in a series of progressively more complex exercises during the 22nd MEU's six-month pre-deployment training cycle. The MEU is preparing for a scheduled six-month deployment this spring.
(Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Theodore W. Ritchie)


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Pfc. Rodger A. Thomas, a Marine with Weapons Platoon, Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, fires a training variant of the AT-4 light anti-armor weapon Sept. 25, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. Thomas, a native of Byesville, Ohio, is participating in off-site training, the first exercise for the BLT during a six-month training cycle. Kilo Company trained with practice grenades, trainer variants of the AT-4 light anti-armor weapon, and SMAWs. The MEU is preparing for a scheduled six-month deployment this spring.
(Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Theodore W. Ritchie)


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A Marine with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, throws a practice grenade into a drain culvert during a grenade reaction course Sept. 25, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. Kilo Company trained with practice grenades, trainer variants of the AT-4 light anti-armor weapon, and Shoulder-fired Multipurpose Anti-armor Weapons, or SMAWs, loaded with small-caliber spotting rounds. BLT 3/2 is aboard Fort Pickett for their off-site training, the first in a series of progressively more complex exercises during the 22nd MEU's six-month pre-deployment training cycle. The MEU is preparing for a scheduled six-month deployment this spring.
(Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Theodore W. Ritchie)

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Corporal Taylor Sorg (center), a Marine with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's Amphibious Reconnaissance Platoon, awaits for the call to return to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) Sept. 25, to conduct a Combat Rubber Raider Craft recovery drill. The training was part of Navy and Marine integration training with Essex Expeditionary Strike Group personnel after embarking on their fall deployment.
(Official Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jason Spinella)


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Sgt. Jeremy Gooch from Lubbock, Texas, a CH-53D crew chief with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363, and Cpl. Charles Bickford from Jacksonville, Florida, an airframes mechanic with HMH-363, work together to refuel their CH-53D helicopter on the flight line of Al Asad Air Base in the Anbar province of Iraq on Sept. 26, 2008.
(Photographer: Lance Cpl. Kelly Chase : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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A CH-53D helicopter from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363 flies over the Anbar province of Iraq on Sept. 25, 2008.
(Photographer: Lance Cpl. Kelly Chase : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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Sgt. Jeffrey Young from Decauter, Indiana, a CH-53D helicopter crew chief with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363, keeps watch out of the rear of the helicopter while flying over the Anbar province of Iraq on Sept. 25, 2008.
(Photographer: Lance Cpl. Kelly Chase : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)


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FALLUJAH, Iraq (Sept. 21, 2008) – TOW gunners from Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines, assemble an M220 Tube-Launched, Optically Tracked Wire-Guided (TOW) missile launcher onto a HMMWV turret here, Sept. 21. The Marines performed a live-fire exercise to hone their skills on the weapon system that they are specialized in their military occupational specialty (MOS).
(Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Chris Lyttle) (RELEASED)


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FALLUJAH, Iraq (Sept. 21, 2008) – Lance Cpl. Ian Bradley, a TOW gunner with Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines unpacks an M220 Tube-Launched, Optically Tracked Wire-Guided (TOW) missile here, Sept. 21. Bradley and other junior Marines with the platoon are designated TOW gunners my military occupational specialty. The Marines performed a live-fire exercise in conjunction with medium and heavy machine gun fire to retrain the TOW gunners on the weapon system.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Chris Lyttle) (RELEASED)


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FALLUJAH, Iraq (Sept. 21, 2008) – Lance Cpl. Jeffery Evans (above), a TOW gunner with Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines prepares to load an M220 Tube-Launched, Optically Tracked Wire-Guided (TOW) missile into a launcher here, Sept. 21. Bradley and other TOW gunners performed a live-fire exercise in conjunction with medium and heavy machine gun fire to hone their skills on the weapon system that they are specialized in their military occupational specialty (MOS).
(Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Chris Lyttle) (RELEASED)


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Lance Cpl. Jeffery Evans, a TOW gunner with Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines, fires an M220 Tube-Launched, Optically Tracked Wire-Guided missile Sept. 21.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Chris Lyttle) (RELEASED)


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FALLUJAH, Iraq (Sept. 21, 2008) – Sgt. John Powell (above) feeds rounds to his M240 medium machine gunner before laying heavy suppressive fire down range here, Sept. 21. Marines from Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines participated in an M220 Tube-Launched, Optically Tracked Wire-Guided (TOW) missile firing exercise to retrain the platoon’s designated TOW gunners.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Chris Lyttle) (RELEASED)


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Army Sgt. Shane M. White, an information systems specialist with 4th Psychological Operations Group, and 1stSgt. Joseph C. Gray, company first sergeant, Team Tank, Regimental Combat Team 1, visit at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Sept. 25. Gray is White's father, and the men were seeing each other for the first time in more than a year.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. M. Trent Lowry)


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Army Sgt. Shane M. White, 22, an information systems specialist with 4th Psychological Operations Group, based in Falloujah, Iraq, fires an automatic shotgun on Al Asad Air Base Sept. 26. White was firing with Marines because his father is 1stSgt. Joseph Gray, company first sergeant, Team Tank, Regimental Combat Team 1, and the two were visiting while deployed in Iraq. It was the first time they had seen each other in more than a year.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by 1stSgt. Joseph Gray)


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HELMAND PROVINCE, Forward Operating Base Sangin, Afghanistan – Cpl. Albino Cardenas, a combat cook and Tucson, Ariz., native, assigned to Company E, Task Force 2d Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix, grills up hot, mouth-watering steaks for the Marines and sailors here, Sept. 4. One of many ways of boosting morale for the service members serving here in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, such cookouts offer the warriors a tasty and nutritious alternative to field rations and Meals Ready to Eat.
(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Steve Cushman)


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HELMAND PROVINCE, Forward Operating Base Sangin, Afghanistan –Night falls on the Marines and sailors of Company E, Task Force 2d Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix, as Cpl. Albino Cardenas, a combat cook and Tucson, Ariz., native, continues to serve hot, mouth-watering steaks for the Marines and sailors here, Sept. 4. One of many ways of boosting morale for the service members serving here in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, such cookouts offer the warriors a tasty and nutritious alternative to field rations and Meals Ready to Eat.
(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Steve Cushman)

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An A-10 Thunderbolt II, like this one, performs sorties daily in Southwest Asia. A-10s employ a wide variety of conventional munitions, including general purpose bombs, cluster bomb units and laser guided bombs. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Cecilio M. Ricardo Jr.)

Hires.
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Marines with 2nd Platoon, Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, discuss their mission and objectives at Afghan National Police office in Sara Kowt, a mock Afghan town aboard the Combat Center’s training area, before heading out on a patrol of surrounding villages during a three-day-long final exercise Sept. 23 for a new Afghanistan-specific pre-deployment training evolution, known as Mojave Viper.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)

Hires.
Quote:
Marines from Company L’s 2nd Platoon, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, prepare to step out on a patrol of Sara Kowt, a mock Afghan town aboard the Combat Center’s training area, during a three-day-long final exercise Sept. 23 for a new Afghanistan-specific pre-deployment training evolution, known as Mojave Viper.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)

Hires.
Quote:
Marines with 2nd Platoon, Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, speak to the role-playing chief of the Afghan National Police office in Sara Kowt, a mock Afghan town aboard the Combat Center’s training area, before going out on a patrol during a three-day-long final exercise Sept. 23 for a new Afghanistan-specific pre-deployment training evolution, known as Mojave Viper.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett)

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A U.S. Soldier from 2nd Platoon Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division moves up a stairway as he and others clear a home. His unit was conducting Operation Boar Wild II, a cordon and search mission in Sharwa Um Jidir, eastern Baghdad, Sept. 29, 2008.
(Photographer: Staff Sgt. Brian Lehnhardt : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)

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U.S. Soldiers from 2nd Platoon Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division speak to a young Iraqi girl who said she was being forced by her parents to sell illegal gas by herself along a road in Sharwa Um Jidir, eastern Baghdad, Sept. 29, 2008. She was told never to be seen selling again.
(Photographer: Staff Sgt. Brian Lehnhardt : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)

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Iraqi boys watch as Pfc. Ryan Ellenburger of 2nd Platoon Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division conducts security next to a reed fence in Sharwa Um Jidir, eastern Baghdad, Sept. 29, 2008. Leaders from his unit were speaking to some local citizens at the time.
(Photographer: Staff Sgt. Brian Lehnhardt : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)

Quote:
U.S. Soldiers from 2nd Platoon Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division pull security inside the courtyard of a home as their unit conducts Operation Boar Wild II, a cordon and search mission in Sharwa Um Jidir, eastern Baghdad, Sept. 29, 2008.
(Photographer: Staff Sgt. Brian Lehnhardt : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)

Quote:
1st Lt. Guillermo Morrison (center), platoon leader of 2nd Platoon Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, a native of Coppers Cover, Texas, speaks to a man outside a home as his unit conducts Operation Boar Wild II, a cordon and search mission in Sharwa Um Jidir, eastern Baghdad, Sept. 29, 2008.
(Photographer: Staff Sgt. Brian Lehnhardt : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)

Quote:
A U.S. Soldier from 2nd Platoon Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division cautiously walks upstairs to the loft of a home as his unit conducts Operation Boar Wild II, a cordon and search mission in Sharwa Um Jidir, eastern Baghdad, Sept. 29, 2008.
(Photographer: Staff Sgt. Brian Lehnhardt : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)

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PATUXENT RIVER, Md. (Oct. 1, 2008) The Naval Air Systems Command Support and Commercial Derivative Aircraft Support Office Adversary Team will use retired Swiss Air Force F-5N Freedom Fighters to fly in a dedicated adversary role to train Navy pilots. U.S. Navy Photo (Released)

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YOKOSUKA, Japan (Oct. 2, 2008) A Japanese harbor tug assists the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) as the ship departs Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka. McCampbell, a part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, is permanently forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kari R. Bergman/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (Oct. 1, 2008) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59) makes her way pier side to Naval Station (NAVSTA) Pearl Harbor. Russell returned to its homeport of NAVSTA Pearl Harbor after a six-month deployment to the western Pacific supporting the Global War on Terrorism as part of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael A. Lantron/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (Oct. 1, 2008) Boatswain's Mate Seaman Ryan Cook, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59), hugs his daughter after the ship moors at Naval Station (NAVSTA) Pearl Harbor. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael A. Lantron/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (Oct. 1, 2008) Sonar Technician (Surface) 3rd Class Andreas Arredondo, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59), kisses his wife during a first kiss ceremony pier side onboard Naval Station (NAVSTA) Pearl Harbor. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael A. Lantron/Released)

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NORFOLK, Va. (Oct. 1, 2008) Electronics Technician 2nd class Jeremy Lytle and Electronics Technician 3rd class Daniel Trahan replace the aft anchor light of the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Newport News (SSN 750), moored at Naval Station Norfolk’s Pier 3. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Xander Gamble/Released)

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NORFOLK, Va. (Oct. 1, 2008) Electronics Technician 2nd class Jeremy Lytle and Electronics Technician 3rd class Daniel Trahan replace the aft anchor light of the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Newport News (SSN 750), moored at Naval Station Norfolk. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Xander Gamble/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Oct. 1, 2008) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter ascends from the flight deck of the guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97) during a parts transfer and refueling at sea with the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). Peleliu and Halsey are part of the Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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FASLANE, Scotland (Oct. 1, 2008) Fire Controlman 3rd Class Brandon Roehl, left, Sonar Technician (Surface) 3rd Class Brian McKeon, Sonar Technician (Surface) 3rd Class Jesse Lindsey and Sonar Technician (Surface) Manoj Sewal pull a mooring line tight as the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) pulls into Faslane. Mitscher is enroute to take part in Exercise Joint Warrior, a course designed and led by the joint tactical exercise planning staff (JTEPS) in the United Kingdom. The exercise helps U.S. ships improve interoperability between allied navies and prepares participants for a role in a joint maritime environment during upcoming deployments. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 3rd Class Stephen Tate/Released)

U.S. Army soldiers from Ironhawk Troop, 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment carry an Iraqi Army soldier after treating him for a gunshot wound in Mosul, 360 kilometers (225 miles) northwest of Baghdad, Iraq, Thursday, Oct. 2, 2008.

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An F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, numbered AA-1, taxis past the control tower on Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., Oct. 1. It marked the first time the aircraft arrived here. The F-35 will perform a series of tests, including airstart and noise testing. The aircraft flew in from Naval Air Station Fort Worth, Texas. The F-35 is a stealthy, single-engine, supersonic multi-role fighter that will replace a variety of aging fighter and strike aircraft for the Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and allied defense forces. The A-10 Thunderbolt, F-16 Fighting Falcon, F/A-18 Hornet and A/V-8 Harrier are among the jets it will replace. Once fielded, it will complement the fleet of F-22 Raptor air-supremacy fighters that are already operational. (Lockheed Martin photo courtesy/Andy Wolfe)

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CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (Sept. 29, 2008) Steelworker 3rd Class Arnoldo Sotorivas, from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4, removes excess concrete using a process called screeding, during the construction of an Emergency Medical Facility parking ramp. NMCB-4 is on a six-month deployment supporting Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa and is completing missions in various countries in Eastern Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ronald Gutridge/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Oct. 1, 2008) Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU) practice martial art techniques aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). Iwo Jima is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad R. Erdmann/Released)

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Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, tend to a Marine's simulated wounds during improvised explosive device convoy training on Sept. 28, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. The Marines of CLB 22 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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Marines with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon, Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, ready their Light Armored Vehicle for the LAV maneuver assault course on Sept. 25, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. The Marines of BLT 3/2 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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Lance Cpl. David Evans, an administrative clerk with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, adjusts his sights after studying his target during the zeroing portion of his combat marksmanship training on Sept. 26, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. Evans, a native of Falmouth, Mass., is participating in off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct a security halt during Improvised Explosive Device convoy training Sept. 28, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. The Marines of CLB 22 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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Marines with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, practice a supported assault with assistance from a Light Armored Vehicle with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon on the LAV maneuver assault course on Sept. 25, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. The Marines of BLT 3/2 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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Staff Sgt. Christopher Hall, a Light Armored Vehicle commander with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon, Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, sits atop his LAV while waiting to take on the LAV maneuver assault course on Sept. 25, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. Hall, a native of Port St. Lucie, Fla., is participating in off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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A vehicle with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, rolls by an explosion from a training improvised explosive device during IED convoy training Sept. 28, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. The Marines of CLB 22 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, roll through a live-fire convoy training range on Sept. 29, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. The Marines of CLB 22 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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A member of Scout-Sniper Platoon, Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, sights in on a target with an M40 sniper rifle during a live-fire range exercise on Sept. 26, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. The Marines of BLT 3/2 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, check underneath their vehicle while conducting a security halt during improvised explosive device convoy training on Sept. 28, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. The Marines of CLB-22 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, rush back to assist a notionally wounded comrade after a training improvised explosive device detonation during convoy IED training on Sept. 28, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. The Marines of CLB 22 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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Cpl. Matthew P. Dobbins, an engineer with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, fills an ammunition box for a vehicle-mounted machine gun in preparation for a live-fire convoy training exercise on Sept. 29, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., A Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. Dobbins is from Indianapolis, Ind. The Marines of CLB-22 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)


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Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct a security halt during improvised explosive device convoy training on Sept. 28, 2008, aboard Fort Pickett, Va., a Virginia Army National Guard Maneuver Training Center. The Marines of CLB 22 are conducting off-site training, the first major exercise of a six-month pre-deployment training cycle for the 22nd MEU.
(Photographer: Cpl. Theodore Ritchie : 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs)