Today's US Navy Photos & Videos

INDIAN OCEAN (June 18, 2012) The Military Sealift Command chartered M/V Tern, a Netherlands-flagged float-on/float-off ship, transits the Indian Ocean while carrying four Avenger-class mine counter measure ships to their new homeport in Manama, Bahrain. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alex R. Forster/Released)

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BAHRAIN (June 23 2012) Tugboats pull the mine counter measure ship USS Devastator (MCM 6) into position as Devastator and three other mine counter measure ships arrived in Bahrain. Devastator is assigned to Commander, Task Force 52, supporting mine countermeasure operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jayme Pastoric/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (June 21, 2012) The aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65), left, conducts a replenishment at sea with the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6). Enterprise is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. Supply is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 53, and is providing fuel and supplies to U.S. Navy and coalition ships in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nick Scott/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (June 23, 2012) Ship's Serviceman 2nd Class Corderra Lee pulls a simulated casualty out of an escape hatch during a general quarters drill aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44). Gunston Hall is part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group with the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) and is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan Sunderman/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (June 23, 2012) Sailors direct a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter assigned to the 29th Combat Aviation Brigade as it takes off from the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) during training operations. New York is part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group with the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) and is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zane Ecklund/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (June 23, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Hannah Marihugh launches an AH-64D Longbow Apache helicopter assigned to 3-159 Attack Reconnaissance Battalion off the flight deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zane Ecklund/Released)

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NACALA, Mozambique (June 21, 2012) Chief Musician Christopher Vlangas, assigned to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe Band ensamble, Flagship, dances with children at Centro Infantil Santa Margarida during an Africa Partnership Station 2012 event. Africa Partnership Station is an international security cooperation initiative, facilitated by Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa, aimed at strengthening global maritime partnerships through training and collaborative activities in order to improve maritime safety and security in Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Joe Keiley/Released)

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NACALA, Mozambique (June 21, 2012) Chief Warrant Officer Ronald McMiller, assistant officer in charge of High-Speed Vessel Swift (HSV 2), dances with children as the U.S. Naval Forces Europe Band ensamble, Flagship, plays at Centro Infantil Santa Margarida during an Africa Partnership Station 2012 event. (U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Joe Keiley/Released)

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EAST CHINA SEA (Jun. 22, 2012) The Republic of Korea navy destroyer ROKS Sejong the Great (DDG 991) is alongside the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) as it prepares to launch an F/A-18 from the flight deck in the East China Sea. The Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Republic of Korea Navy joined U.S. Navy ships in the East China Sea for a trilateral exercise. The exercise is designed to increase interoperability and readiness of all three navies. (US Navy photo by Lt. Cmdr. Denver Applehans/Released)

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EAST CHINA SEA (June 22, 2012) An SH-60F Seahawk helicopter, assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 14, is airborne while the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer JS Kirishima (DD 174), and the Republic of Korea navy destroyer ROKS Sejong the Great (DDG 991) participate a trilateral event. The George Washington Carrier Strike Group is participating in a trilateral exercise to improve interoperability, readiness and the capability to respond quickly to various situations in the region with ships and aircraft from the Republic of Korea Navy and the Japan Maritime Self Defense Forces. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jennifer A. Villalovos/Released)

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EAST CHINA SEA (June 22, 2012) The aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) and the Republic of Korea navy destroyer ROKS Sejong the Great (DDG 991) participate in a trilateral event. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jennifer A. Villalovos/Released)

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ETAJIMA, Japan (June 23, 2012) Midshipmen from the U.S. Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps and Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) work together during a calligraphy class at the Japan Maritime Officer Candidate School during a cultural exchange event. Approximately 20 midshipmen participated alongside midshipmen from the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force in a series of cultural events, further demonstrating the mutual friendship both navies share as part of the U.S.-Japan alliance. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Devon Dow/Released)

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EAST CHINA SEA (Jun. 22, 2012) The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer JS Yuudachi (DD-103) is in front of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) during a formation in the East China Sea. The Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Republic of Korea Navy joined U.S. Navy ships in the East China Sea for a trilateral exercise. The exercise is designed to increase interoperability and readiness of all three navies. (US Navy photo by Lt. Cmdr. Denver Applehans/Released)

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EAST CHINA SEA (June 21, 2012) The aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) is in the East China Sea during a trilateral exercise with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force and Republic of Korea Navy. The trilateral exercise is designed to improve interoperability, readiness and the capability to respond quickly to various situations in the region, ranging from disaster relief to maritime security activities (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Paul Kelly/Released)

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Atlantic Ocean (June 21, 2012) Sonar Technician (Surface) 1st Class Michael Miller fires a .50 cal machine gun as Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Michael Wakefield instructs during a training exercise aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). Jason Dunham is on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Jamieson/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 25, 2012) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) is underway during a photo exercise in the Atlantic Ocean. Dwight D. Eisenhower is on a scheduled deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julia A. Casper/Released)

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BAHRAIN (June 23 2012) Tugboats pull the mine countermeasure ship USS Devastator (MCM 6), left, off the Military Sealift Command chartered M/V Tern, a float-on/float-off transport ship. Devastator and three other MCM ships arrived in Bahrain the same day. Devastator is assigned to Commander, Task Force 52, supporting mine countermeasure operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jayme Pastoric/Released)

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PUGET SOUND (June 25, 2012) Sailors prepare to stow the rotor blades on an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Stennis is in transit to San Diego for fleet replenishment carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Nolan Kahn/Released)

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YELLOW SEA (June 25, 2012) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Eagles of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 hooks an arresting gear wire while landing aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul Kelly/Released)

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YELLOW SEA (June 25, 2012) Airmen install the slot seal to protect the catapult from damage after flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73).(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul Kelly/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 25, 2012) Air-Traffic Controller Airman Kaleigh A. Cobery runs the status board from the carrier air traffic control center aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). George H.W. Bush is conducting carrier qualifications in the Atlantic Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kasey Krall/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 25, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mates (Handling) move two FA-18C Hornets assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 323 into position on an elevator aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is underway conducting carrier qualifications in preparation for Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012, the world'Äôs largest international maritime exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dustin W. Sisco/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 25, 2012) Aviation Boatswain'Äôs Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Leo Gonzales, left, directs Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Trevor Grimes as he maneuvers an F/A-18C Hornet through the hangar bay aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is underway conducting carrier qualifications in preparation for Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012, the world'Äôs largest international maritime exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jacob Milner/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (June 26, 2012) Sailors assigned to Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL 37) prepare an SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter for take off from the flight deck of the guided-missile frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG 48). Vandegrift is underway in preparation for Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Philippines 2012, is a series of bilateral military exercises between the U.S. Navy and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Timor Leste joins CARAT for the first time in 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class N. Ross Taylor/Released)

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SOUDA BAY, Greece (June 22, 2012) The guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) conducts a berth shift during a port visit to the Greek island of Crete. Cole is on a scheduled deployment and is operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mr. Paul Farley/Released)

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SOUDA BAY, Greece (June 22, 2012) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) prepare to conduct a berth shift during a port visit to the Greek island of Crete. Cole is on a scheduled deployment and is operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mr. Paul Farley/Released)

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CARIBBEAN SEA (June 26, 2012) U.S. Navy Search and Rescue swimmers assigned to the guided-missile frigate USS Elrod (FFG 55) pull one of four survivors aboard their rigid-hulled inflatable boat during search and rescue efforts in the Caribbean. Elrod received a call from a maritime patrol aircraft about a capsized, partially submerged vessel with possible survivors on board. Elrod arrived at the reported position, and launched a boat to retrieve the survivors. After being checked by a corpsman, the four survivors were medevaced to a hospital in Colombia. (U.S. Navy photo by Naval Air Crewman 1st Class Trey Knight/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 27, 2012) A Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block 1B interceptor is launched from the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) for the second time during a Missile Defense Agency test in the Pacific Ocean. The SM-3 Block 1B successfully intercepted a short-range ballistic missile target that had been launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility, located on Kauai, Hawaii. (U.S. Navy photo/Released)

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BUSAN, Korea (June 27, 2012) Capt. David Lausman, commanding officer of the Japan-based, Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), presents coins to children dressed in traditional Korean costume at a welcome ceremony. George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing 5, arrived in Busan, Korea for a port visit. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jennifer A. Villalovos/Released)

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NORFOLK (June 26, 2012) Shaune Murphy, a policeman assigned to the Naval Station Norfolk K-9 unit, prepares for training with Sasja, a military working dog. Military working dogs train with their handlers approximately 15 hours per week. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Karen Blankenship/Released)

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NORFOLK (June 26, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter lands on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) while conducting flight operations in port. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Corbin Shea/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 26, 2012) Airman Joshua Preis cleans the windscreen of an F/A-18E Super Hornet on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is underway conducting carrier qualifications in preparation for Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012, the world's largest international maritime exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jacob Milner/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 26, 2012) Sailors prepare to move an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 6 across the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68).(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jacob Milner/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 26, 2012) Aircraft sit in preparation for flight operations on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jacob Milner/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 26, 2012) Airman Samantha Turner paints a crash and salvage division sign in the hangar bay aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Stennis is in transit to San Diego for fleet replenishment squadron carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Justin A. Johndro/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 26, 2012) An F/A-18E Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 and an E/A-6B Prowler from Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 142 are lifted to the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) on the ship's aircraft elevator. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ian A. Cotter/Released)

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SOUDA BAY, Greece (June 25, 2012) The Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Florida (SSGN 728) is escorted by a harbor patrol boat as it gets underway from Souda harbor following a port visit to the island of Crete. Florida is homeported in Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., and is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mr. Paul Farley/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 24, 2012) Sonar Technician Surface Seaman Ian Appling from Kerrville, Texas, gives directions to a line-handling party during an underway replenishment aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81). Winston S. Churchill is on a scheduled deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aaron Chase/Released)

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NORFOLK, Va. (June 26, 2012) Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Shane McClennen, a dog handler assigned to the Naval Station Norfolk K-9 unit, leads Mink, a military working dog, through an obstacle course during patrol training. Naval Station Norfolk handlers train their military working dogs approximately 15 hours per week. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Molly Anne Greendeer/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 25, 2012) The guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) cuts through waves as it transits the Atlantic Ocean. Jason Dunham is on a scheduled deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy Photo by Cryptologic Technician (Maintenance) 1st Class Keith Hanks/Released)

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*DUNHAM, JASON L.

Rank and Organization: Corporal, United States Marine Corps

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as Rifle Squad Leader, 4th Platoon, Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines (Reinforced), Regimental Combat Team 7, First Marine Division (Reinforced), on 14 April 2004. Corporal Dunham's squad was conducting a reconnaissance mission in the town of Karabilah, Iraq, when they heard rocket-propelled grenade and small arms fire erupt approximately two kilometers to the west. Corporal Dunham led his Combined Anti-Armor Team towards the engagement to provide fire support to their Battalion Commander's convoy, which had been ambushed as it was traveling to Camp Husaybah. As Corporal Dunham and his Marines advanced, they quickly began to receive enemy fire. Corporal Dunham ordered his squad to dismount their vehicles and led one of his fire teams on foot several blocks south of the ambushed convoy. Discovering seven Iraqi vehicles in a column attempting to depart, Corporal Dunham and his team stopped the vehicles to search them for weapons. As they approached the vehicles, an insurgent leaped out and attacked Corporal Dunham. Corporal Dunham wrestled the insurgent to the ground and in the ensuing struggle saw the insurgent release a grenade. Corporal Dunham immediately alerted his fellow Marines to the threat. Aware of the imminent danger and without hesitation, Corporal Dunham covered the grenade with his helmet and body, bearing the brunt of the explosion and shielding his Marines from the blast. In an ultimate and selfless act of bravery in which he was mortally wounded, he saved the lives of at least two fellow Marines. By his undaunted courage, intrepid fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty, Corporal Dunham gallantly gave his life for his country, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

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CHARLESTOWN, Mass. (June 28, 2012) USS Constitution sits at her berth in Charlestown Navy Yard as Boston Navy Week gets set to begin. Navy weeks are designed to increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kathryn E. Macdonald/Released)

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ATLATNIC OCEAN (June 25, 2012) Engineman 3rd Class John Soria, from Plano, Texas, serves as phone talker during an underway replenishment aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). Jason Dunham is on a scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Jamieson/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 27, 2012) The fast-attack submarine USS Alexandria (SSN 779) surfaces for a formation sailing event while participating in the War of 1812 fleet exercise. The exercise is a week-long multi-national exercise involving 19 ships from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Brazil, and Portugal, and is designed to increase interoperability with allied nations, improve tactical prowess and certification of participating units

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 27, 2012) The amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) is alongside coalition partner ships during a sailing event while participating in the War of 1812 fleet exercise. The exercise is a week-long multi-national exercise involving 19 ships from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Brazil, and Portugal, and is designed to increase interoperability with allied nations, improve tactical prowess and certification of participating units. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Petty Officer 2nd Class Gretchen M. Albrecht/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 27, 2012) Air-Traffic Controller 2nd Class Karina Reid operates the SPN-43 air search radar system while standing approach control aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1). Wasp is participating in the War of 1812 fleet exercise, a week-long multi-national exercise involving 19 ships from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Brazil, and Portugal, and is designed to increase interoperability with allied nations, improve tactical prowess and certification of participating units. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Petty Officer 2nd Class Gretchen M. Albrecht/Released)

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SAMAR, PHILIPPINES (June 28, 2012) Ensign Alex Tonsberg weighs a Filipino child at a medical civic action project held at the Carayman Elementary School during Pacific Partnership 2012. The medical civic action projects are designed to provide medical, dental and optometry care to local residents. Now in its seventh year, Pacific Partnership is an annual U.S. Pacific Fleet humanitarian and civic assistance mission designed to work by, with and through host and partner nations, non-government organizations and international agencies to build partnerships and a collective ability to respond to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Feddersen/Released

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PACFIC OCEAN (June 27, 2012) Damage Controlman 3rd Class Carol Gonzalez refills the tank of a self-contained breathing apparatus in hangar bay two aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is in transit to San Diego for fleet replenishment squadron carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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PACFIC OCEAN (June 27, 2012) Damage Controlman 3rd Class Carol Gonzalez instructs Sailors on proper donning of self-contained breathing apparatuses in hangar bay two aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is in transit to San Diego for fleet replenishment squadron carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Will Tyndall/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 27, 2012) Aviation Boatswain'Äôs Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Wyatt Price directs a CH-53 Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to the Blackhawks of Helicopter Mine Countermeasure Squadron (HM) 15 while operating from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1). Wasp is participating in the War of 1812 fleet exercise, a week-long multi-national exercise involving 19 ships from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Brazil, and Portugal, and is designed to increase interoperability with allied nations, improve tactical prowess and certification of participating units. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Petty Officer 2nd Class Gretchen M. Albrecht/Released)

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CHANGI NAVAL BASE, Singapore (June 25, 2012) Seaman Jerod-Michael Hinkle, front, and Culinary Specialist Seaman Chen Sun, both assigned to the guided-missile frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG 48), heave on a mooring line as their ship leaves the pier. Vandegrift is underway in preparation for Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2012 Philippines. CARAT is a series of bilateral military exercises between the U.S. Navy and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Timor Leste joins the exercise for the first time in 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gregory A. Harden II/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 25, 2012) Airman Christopher Holcomb fires a shot line from the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) to the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7). Peleliu is the flagship for the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group and is underway conducting pre-deployment training with the Whidbey Island-class docking landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) and the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd class John W. Shepherd II/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 27, 2012) A C-2A Greyhound assigned to the Providers of Fleet Logistics Combat Squadron (VRC) 30 lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Stennis is in transit to San Diego for fleet replenishment carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Nolan Kahn/Released

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PACFIC OCEAN (June 27, 2012) Airman Michael Ryan, from Tempe, Ariz., uses a tow tractor to move an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 in hangar bay one aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is in transit to San Diego for fleet replenishment squadron carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (June 27, 2012) Sailors assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 conduct pre-flight maintenance on an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter. The primary mission of HSC 8 is to employ the versatility and lethality of the MH-60S to support the battle group commander's objectives, with emphasis on combat search and rescue, support of special operations, anti-surface warfare, and logistics support. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class John Grandin/Released)

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GROTON, Conn. (June 27, 2012) Electronic's Technician 1st Class Matt Snyder, assigned to the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720), hugs his 19-month-old daughter moments after returning home from a six-month deployment. Pittsburgh left Groton in December 2011 and conducted missions in the U.S 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations while deployed. (U.S. Navy Photo by John Narewski/Released)

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By Commander, U.S. Third Fleet Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Twenty-two nations, 42 ships, six submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel will participate in the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise scheduled June 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands.

The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971.

Hosted by U.S. Pacific Fleet, and led by Vice Adm. Gerald Beaman, commander of the U.S. Third Fleet (C3F), RIMPAC 2012 marks the first time non-U.S. officers will command components of the combined task force during the exercise. Commodore Stuart Mayer of the Royal Australian Navy will command the Maritime Component and Brig. Gen. Michael Hood of the Royal Canadian Air Force will command the Air Component. Other key leaders of the multinational force include Royal Canadian Navy Rear Adm. Ron Lloyd, deputy commander of the Combined Task Force (CTF), and Japan Maritime Self Defense Force Rear Adm. Fumiyuki Kitagawa, vice commander of the CTF.

The theme of RIMPAC 2012 is "Capable, Adaptive, Partners." The participating nations and forces will exercise a wide range of capabilities and demonstrate the inherent flexibility of maritime forces. These capabilities range from disaster relief and maritime security operations to sea control and complex warfighting. The relevant, realistic training syllabus includes amphibious operations; gunnery, missile, anti-submarine and air defense exercises as well as counter-piracy, mine clearance operations, explosive ordnance disposal and diving and salvage operations.

RIMPAC 2012 will feature the first demonstration of a U.S. Navy "Great Green Fleet," during which U.S. surface combatants and carrier-based aircraft will test, evaluate and demonstrate the cross-platform utility and functionality of biofuels. This demonstration will also incorporate prototype energy efficiency initiatives such as solid state lighting, on-line gas turbine waterwash and energy management tools.

This year's exercise includes units or personnel from Australia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, Tonga, the United Kingdom and the United States.

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (June 29, 2012) The Russian navy Udaloy-class destroyer RFS Admiral Panteleyev (BPK 548) arrives at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to participate in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise 2012. Twenty-two nations, 42 ships, six submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel will participate in the biennial RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea-lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean Furey/Released)

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (June 29, 2012) The Royal Canadian Navy Halifax-class frigate HMCS Ottawa (FFH 341) pulls into Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to support the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jon Dasbach/Released)

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (June 29, 2012) The U.S. Coast Guard Legend-class maritime security cutter USCGC Bertholf (WMSL 750) pulls into Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to support the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jon Dasbach/Released)

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The Japan Maritime Self-Defense destroyer JMSDF Myoko (DDG 175) is moored at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam to participate in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (New Zealand Defense Force photo by LAC Amanda McErlich/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (June 28, 2012) The Japanese Self Defense Force ship JS Shirane (DDH 143), of the, transits the waters of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam during the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Barker/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (June 28, 2012) The Royal Australian Navy Anzac-class frigate HMAS Perth (FFH 157) pulls into Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to support Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise.

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PEARL HARBOR (June 28, 2012) Two of the three Japanese Maritime Self-Defense ships JS Myoko (DDG 175) and JS Shirane (DDH 143) are moored at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam. (Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force photo by LS Tetsuya Sekino/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (June 28, 2012) The Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Gary (FFG 51) transits the waters of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in support of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Barker/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (Jun. 28, 2012) Beach goers observe the Chilean Navy frigate Almirante Lynch (FF 07) pull into Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in support of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise.

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PEARL HARBOR (June 27, 2012) The Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrives at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean Furey/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (June 27, 2012) The Singapore Naval frigate RSS Formidable (68) arrives at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean Furey/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (June 27, 2012) The French frigate Prairial (F731) arrives at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise 2012.

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PEARL HARBOR (June 27, 2012) The Mexican Navy ship Usumacinta (A-412), formerly the USS Fredrick (LST-1184) arrives at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean Furey/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (June 26, 2012) The Japanese minesweeper tender JDS Bungo (MST 464) pulls into Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to support Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jon Dasbach/Released)

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (June 29, 2012) Members of the Royal New Zealand Navy hydrographic survey team and sailors from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force minesweeper tender Bungo (MST-463) load equipment during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise 2012. LAC Amanda McErlich, Photographer, Defence Communications Group/Released)

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MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII (June 28, 2012) New Zealand Army soldiers from Alpha Company clear buildings as part of the Military Operations Urban Training (MOUT). Alpha Company is hosted by the 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971. (New Zealand Defense Force photo by LAC Amanda McErlich/Released)

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (June 29, 2012) Members of the Royal New Zealand Navy hydrographic survey team and sailors from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force minesweeper tender Bungo (MST-463) load equipment during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise 2012. LAC Amanda McErlich, Photographer, Defence Communications Group/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (June 27, 2012) U.S. Marines disembark the Mexican navy tank landing ship ARM Usumacinta (A-412) at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. (Royal Canadian photo by Master Corporal Marc-Andre Gaudreault/Released)

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BOSTON (June 29, 2012) Performers march during the "Sunset Parade" at the site of the USS Constitution during Boston Navy Week 2012. Boston Navy Week is one of 15 signature events planned across America in 2012. The eight-day long event commemorates the Bicentennial of the War of 1812, hosting service members from the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard and coalition ships from around the world. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Daniel Johnston/Released)

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BOSTON (June 29, 2012) Spectators watch performers during the "Sunset Parade" at the site of the USS Constitution during Boston Navy Week 2012.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Daniel Johnston/Released)

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BOSTON (June 29, 2012) Performers march during the "Sunset Parade" at the site of the USS Constitution during Boston Navy Week 2012.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Daniel Johnston/Released)

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BOSTON (June 29, 2012) Longshoreman watch as the guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely (DDG 107) enters Boston Harbor to participate in Boston Navy Week 2012.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elisandro T. Diaz/Released)

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BOSTON (June 28, 2012) Sailors and Marines man the rails aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) as it pulls into Boston, Mass., to take part in Boston Navy Week 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Petty Officer 2nd Class Gretchen M. Albrecht/Released)

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BOSTON (June 29, 2012) Sailors aboard the Royal Fleet Auxiliary RFA Argus (A 135) take photographs of the ship's arriving in Boston Harbor for Boston Navy Week. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elisandro T. Diaz/Released)

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BOSTON (June 29, 2012) Sailors aboard the German navy frigate FGS Hessen (F 221) watch as the ship enters Boston Harbor to participate in Boston Navy Week 2012. Boston Navy Week is one of 15 signature events planned across America in 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elisandro T. Diaz/Released)

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bd popeye said:

RIMPAC is a multi-nation exercise taking place 23 times during the last 41 years in the Pacific Ocean near Hawaii...RIMPAC is in full effect!!!...

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 29, 2012) Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN69) participate in a burial at sea ceremony. Dwight D. Eisenhower is on a deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. Dwight D. Eisenhower is deployed as part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group. (U.S. Navy photo by Seaman Luis Fiallos/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 29, 2012) Gunner's mates(+ one Ordie) present arms during a burial at sea ceremony aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Dwight D. Eisenhower is on a deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. Dwight D. Eisenhower is deployed as part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group. (U.S. Navy photo by Seaman Luis Fiallos/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 29, 2012) Damage Controlman Fireman Jyree Byrd, assigned to the Engineering Department's Damage Control Division, helps a guest don a self-contained breathing apparatus backpack in the hangar bay of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) during a friends and family day cruise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy A. Hazel/Released)

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GROTON, Conn. (June 29, 2012) The submarine USS Virginia (SSN 774) returns to her homeport of Groton, Conn., after completing a scheduled underway period. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jason J. Perry/Released)

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SAMAR, Philippines (June 29, 2012) Lt. Cmdr. Dennis Flores holds a patient who received cleft lip repair surgery aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) during Pacific Partnership 2012. Now in its seventh year, Pacific Partnership is an annual U.S. Pacific Fleet humanitarian and civic assistance mission designed to work by, with and through host and partner nations, non-government organizations and international agencies to build partnership and a collective ability to respond to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Kristopher Radder/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (June 29, 2012) Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Allison Vargo performs maintenance on a bomb rack aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and combat flight operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kathleen L. Church/Released)

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BALTIC SEA (June 29, 2012) The guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) conducts helicopter operations in support of Exercise FRUKUS 2012. FRUKUS is an annual exercise aimed at improving maritime security through an open dialogue and increased training between the navies of France, Russia, United Kingdom and United States. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Oleksiak/Released)

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BALTIC SEA (June 29, 2012) Chief Damage Controlman Teresa McGee, left, and Lt. j.g. Steven Hopkins, from the guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), demonstrate how to don firefighting equipment aboard the Russian navy frigate Yaroslav Mudriy (727) during Exercise FRUKUS 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Oleksiak/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (June 29, 2012) Yeoman 3rd Class Colin Gillett stands lookout watch aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) as the ship approaches the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Guadalupe (T-AO 200) for a replenishment at sea. New York and the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group deployed as the U.S. Central Command theater reserve force providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zane Ecklund/Released)

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DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania (June 29, 2012) Chief Master-at-Arms Aaron Bienkowski plays with children at Kinondi Muslim High School during a community relations event conducted by High Speed Vessel Swift (HSV 2) Sailors. Swift is in port to support Africa Partnership Station 2012. Africa Partnership Station is an international security cooperation initiative, facilitated by Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa, aimed at strengthening global maritime partnerships through training and collaborative activities in order to improve maritime safety and security in Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Joe Keiley/Released)

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DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania (June 29, 2012) Lt. Cmdr. Suzanna Brugler, a public affairs officer with the U.S. 6th fleet, presents a soccer ball to students at Kinondi Muslim High School during a community relations event conducted by High Speed Vessel Swift (HSV 2) Sailors. Swift is in port to support Africa Partnership Station 2012. (Navy Photo by Ensign Joe Keiley/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 28, 2012) An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 154 launches off of the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) during launch and recovery operations. Nimitz is underway conducting carrier qualifications in preparation for Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012, the world's largest international maritime exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dustin W. Sisco/released)

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ARABIAN SEA (June 29, 2012) A close-in weapons system (CIWS) mount fires rounds during a live-fire exercise aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kathleen L. Church/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (June 29, 2012) Sailors fight a simulated fire during a main space fire drill aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21). New York and the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group deployed as the U.S. Central Command theater reserve force providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ian Carver/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (June 28, 2012) Gunner's Mate 3rd Class Michael Kolbeck cycles ammunition on a Mk 46 30mm gun aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21). New York and embarked elements of the 24th Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) are part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group, deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zane Ecklund/Released)

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