US Military Pictures & Videos

Re: Worlds Armed Forces Pictures III

A U.S. soldier stands guard near residents standing at the entrance of their house after a bomb attack in Baghdad's Adhamiya district July 7, 2008. Three civilians including a university professor and his daughter were wounded after a bomb attached to their vehicle exploded in Baghdad's Adhamiya district on Monday, the Iraqi army said.

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AFGHANISTAN - JULY 5: A soldier from U.S led Task Force Paladin is seen during an operation to capture Taliban leaders on July 5, 2008 in the village of Segera, Kandahar Province. Afghanistan. The 3rd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment conducted a joint operation with U.S led Task Force Paladin and Afghan Border Police in the village of Segera in the Province of Kandahar to capture Taliban leaders. According to the military, during the operation about eight Taliban were captured and detained

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An Iraqi man is briefly detained as U.S. Army soldiers from 4th Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment search a home in Sa'ada, about 30 kilometers (20 miles) north of Baghdad in Iraq's volatile Diyala province on Monday, July 7, 2008. Iraqi and U.S. Army troops fanned out in search of weapons and suspected militia members. The man was released.

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U.S. Marine, from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, washes his head near his Humvee at a forward operating base in southern Afghanistan, Friday, July 4, 2008. The U.S. Defense Department has extended the combat tour of 2,200 Marines in Afghanistan after insisting for months the unit would come home on time.

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U.S. Marines soldiers, from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, smokes as they take rest at forward operating base near the town of Garmser in Helmand Province of Afghanistan Sunday, July 6, 2008. The U.S. Defense Department has extended the combat tour of 2,200 Marines in Afghanistan after insisting for months the unit would come home on time.

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A U.S. soldier inspects the site of a bomb attack in Baghdad's Shaab district July 6, 2008. A car bomb killed six civilians and wounded 14 other people in the Shaab district of northern Baghdad on Sunday, police said.

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CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait (July 3, 2008)--Lance Cpl. David R. Wyble, a 25 year-old native of Tulsa, Okla., and an ammunition team chief with India Battery, Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, sets a time fuse on a 155mm artillery round. Wyble, along with the rest of India Btry were conducting sustainment training on one of the many training ranges here. The Camp Pendleton, Calif., based 15th MEU is currently in Kuwait conducting sustainment training.
(Official USMC photo by Staff Sgt. TG Kessler)


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CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait (July 3, 2008)--Lance Cpl. David R. Wyble, a 25 year-old native of Tulsa, Okla., and an ammunition team chief with India Battery, Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, carries 155mm artillery round to his M777 Howitzer. Wyble, along with the rest of India Btry were conducting sustainment training on one of the many training ranges here. The Camp Pendleton, Calif., based 15th MEU is currently in Kuwait conducting sustainment training.
(Official USMC photo by Staff Sgt. TG Kessler)


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CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait (July 3, 2008)--Pfc. Michael J. Schoepfer, a Marine with India Battery, Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, sights in his M777 155mm Howitzer. Schoepfer, along with the rest of India Btry were conducting sustainment training on one of the many training ranges here. The Camp Pendleton, Calif., based 15th MEU is currently in Kuwait conducting sustainment training.
(Official USMC photo by Staff Sgt. TG Kessler)


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CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait (July 3, 2008)--The crew of Gun 3, India Battery, Battalion Landing 2/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, rush to get their M777 15mm Howitzer reloaded and ready to fire during a training exercise here. Throughout their two-day training evolution, India Battery practiced the fundamentals of artillery firing roughly 100 rounds on the range. The Camp Pendleton, Calif., based 15th MEU is currently in Kuwait conducting sustainment training.
(Official USMC photo by Staff Sgt. TG Kessler)


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CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait (July 3, 2008)--Lance Cpl. David R. Wyble, a 25 year-old native of Tulsa, Okla., and an ammunition team chief with India Battery, Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, carries 155mm artillery round to his M777 Howitzer. Wyble, along with the rest of India Btry were conducting sustainment training on one of the many training ranges here. The Camp Pendleton, Calif., based 15th MEU is currently in Kuwait conducting sustainment training.
(Official USMC photo by Staff Sgt. TG Kessler)


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CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait (July 3, 2008)--Marines from India Battery, Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire their M777 Howitzer during a training range here. Throughout their two-day training evolution, India Battery practiced the fundamentals of artillery firing roughly 100 rounds per gun in the six gun battery. The 15th MEU is currently in Kuwait conducting sustainment training.
(Official USMC Photo by Staff Sgt. TG Kessler)


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CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait (July 3, 2008)--Marines from India Battery, Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, fire their M777 Howitzer during a training range here. Throughout their two-day training evolution, India Battery practiced the fundamentals of artillery firing roughly 100 rounds on the range. The Camp Pendleton, Calif., based 15th MEU is currently in Kuwait conducting sustainment training.
(Official USMC photo by Staff Sgt. TG Kessler)


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CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait (July 3, 2008)--Marines from India Battery, Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, place their M777 155mm Howitzers in preparation for a training range here. Throughout their two-day training evolution, India Battery practiced the fundamentals of artillery firing roughly 100 rounds on the range. The Camp Pendleton, Calif., based 15th MEU is currently in Kuwait conducting sustainment training. (Official USMC Photo by Staff Sgt. TG Kessler)

Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, addresses Iraqi Army troops at Combat Outpost Rabiy, Mosul, Iraq, July 8, 2008. Mullen thanked the troops for their dedication and sacrifice in the continuing fight for Mosul during his visit to the city. Mullen is on a six-day tour of the region to visit troops.

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U.S. Army Pfc. Michael Vanpay from Charlie Battery, Fires Squadron, Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment monitors radio traffic as Iraqi Army officers confer at their joint headquarters during Operation Fires Festung in Qubah, north of Baghdad in Iraq's volatile Diyala province on Wednesday, July 9, 2008. U.S. troops secured the outskirts of Qubah as Iraqi Army troops swept through the primarily Shiite town, which had been overrun by al-Qaida.

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A U.S. Army soldier from Charlie Battery, Fires Squadron, Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment kicks down a door as his comrades wait to search a classroom as they occupy a school during Operation Fires Festung in Qubah, north of Baghdad in Iraq's volatile Diyala province on Wednesday, July 9, 2008. U.S. troops secured the outskirts of Qubah as Iraqi Army troops swept through the primarily Shiite town, which had been overrun by al-Qaida

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (July 4, 2008) Fireworks illuminate the night sky aboard Naval Station Pearl Harbor during a 4th of July celebration. In celebration of Independence Day, Moral Welfare and Recreation host a fireworks display and block party featuring fun activities for children and adults. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jason Swink (Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 3, 2008) Cryptologic Technician Technical 2nd Class Charles Myers, assigned to the frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG 48), hugs his daughter after returning home from a deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Jackson (Released)

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CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (June 30, 2008) A Beach Master Unit (BMU) 1 Lighter Amphibious Re-supply Cargo (LARC) crashes through the surf on its way out to sea as the Military Sealift Command SS Flickertail State (T-ACS 5) is off loading equipment and supplies for Joint Logistics Over-The-Shore (JLOTS) 2008.

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CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (June 30, 2008) Seabees assigned to Beach Master Unit (BMU) 1 guide a Lighter Amphibious Re-supply Cargo (LARC) from the surf at Red Beach during Joint Logistics Over-The-Shore (JLOTS) 2008. JLOTS 2008 will establish command and control of Army and Navy units, construct a Life Support Area (LSA), conduct force protection operations, execute an in-stream offload of shipping from a sea echelon area, employ Offshore Petroleum Discharge System (OPDS), retrograde and safely redeploy allocated forces. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian P. Caracci (Released)

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Marines, from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, played dominoes at their base in Afghanistan. The Defense Department has extended the combat tour of 2,200 marines in Afghanistan after insisting for months that the unit would come home on time.
Photo: Rafiq Maqbool/Associated Press

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PROVIDENCE, R.I. (July 7, 2008) Army Staff Sgt. Joshua West assigned to 511th Engineering Dive Team, Fort Eustis Va., lowers himself down to the sunken former Soviet submarine Juliett 484 to conduct salvage operations. U.S. Navy and Army Divers along with federal, state and local authorities participate in a joint service operation to raise the sunken former Soviet submarine at Collier Point Park. Mobile Diving & Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2, U.S. Army Dive Company and a NAVSEA Support Unit prepare to salvage the former Soviet submarine that sank at her mooring point in about 30 feet of water during a nor'easter, which struck Providence in April of 2007. This training exercise is part of the DoD's Innovative Readiness Training program. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Perez (Released)

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SOUDA BAY, Crete (Jul 8, 2008) The guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) arrives in Souda harbor for a brief port visit. McFaul is on a scheduled deployment to the 6th Fleet area of responsibility and will support theater security cooperation by participating in regional exercises with allies, making deplomatic port calls and responding to any contingency. U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley (Released)

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (July 8, 2008) The aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) heads out to open sea from Naval Station Pearl Harbor to participate in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2008 maritime exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist First Class Michael Moriatis (Released)

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Not everyone in the Navy is on board a ship. Many sailors man these Riverene patrol boats.

HADITHA, Iraq (July 5, 2008) Information Systems Technician Shawn Gregg, assigned to Riverine Squadron (RIVRON ) 3, mans an M240 machine gun while conducting a security patrol in Lake Quadsiyah near Haditha, Iraq. RIVRON-3 patrols the area waterways to help ensure safety and security in Al Anbar province. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Seth Maggard (Released)

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HADITHA, Iraq (July 5, 2008) Gunner's Mate Seaman Jose Caro, assigned to Riverine Squadron (RIVRON ) 3, watches the open water while conducting a security patrol in Lake Quadsiyah near Haditha, Iraq. RIVRON-3 patrols the area waterways to help ensure safety and security in Al Anbar province. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Seth Maggard (Released)

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HADITHA, Iraq (July 4, 2008) Sailors assigned to Riverine Squadron (RIVRON ) 3 take Marines assigned to the civil affairs group of 2nd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment on a tour of Lake Quadsiyah near Haditha, Iraq. RIVRON-3 patrols the area waterways to help ensure safety and security in Al Anbar province. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Seth Maggard (Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 9, 2008) An EA-6B Prowler assigned to the "Lancers" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 131 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility to support maritime security operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class James R. Evans (Released)

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JAVA SEA (July 8, 2008) Master-at-Arms 1st Class Ignacio Coria stands the forward watch at the bow of the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) as the ship steams toward Dili, Timor-Leste. Mercy is scheduled to arrive in Timor Leste to provide local communities with a wide range of services to include various medical, dental and engineering civic action programs for Pacific Partnership 2008. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Mark Logico (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 8, 2008) A Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 arrives at the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Starkey (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 8, 2008) A V-22 Osprey aircraft from the "Thunder Chickens" of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 conducts landing qualifications aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5). Bataan is conducting routine operations in the Atlantic Ocean. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Patrick Gearhiser (Released)

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CORONADO, Calif. (July 8, 2008) A Basic Crewman Training (BCT) student comes up for air while training in the pool with his class at Naval Amphibious Base, Coronado. The students are in their first week of BCT, which is the first phase of special warfare combatant-craft crewman (SWCC) training. SWCCs operate and maintain the Navy inventory of state-of-the-art, high-performance boats used to support SEALs in special operations missions worldwide. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dominique M. Lasco (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 28, 2008) Ens. Adam Berry and Lt.j.g. Douglas Nelson stand watch on the bridge of the guided-missile frigate USS Simpson (FFG 56) during a general quarters drill. The Simpson crew is conducting a total ship survivability exercise to simulate numerous simultaneous missile attacks, including eight small boat attacks and a torpedo attack. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Buslovich (Released)

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Some excellent photos from "The New York Times"..sorry no-hi-res!

The Army Marksmanship Unit is a little-known squad dedicated to training and employing Olympic-level shooters. Top photo,(? SGT) 1st Class Jason A. Parker shoots a .22-caliber smallbore rifle in the standing position at the Pool International Shooting Complex in Ft. Benning Georgia.

The unit, established in 1956 to serve as a symbol of America's military prowess during the cold war, continues today as a public-relations and recruiting tool. Its members have won 21 Olympic medals.

About a month before the Games, soldiers like Sgt. Parker, third photo, are spending long days at the practice range in a quest for the steadiest hand, the sharpest eye and the calmest mind.


Photo: Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

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Private First Class Vinnie ******* readies himself to shoot. Unlike athletes in many other countries who belong to the military in name only, the 64 men and 4 women of the Army Marksmanship Unit carry many of the responsibilities of typical soldiers.
Photo: Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

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Specialist Eller takes shells out after shooting. Members of the unit go through basic training and they teach marksmanship to thousands of deploying soldiers. Still, many say they cannot help feeling that they should be doing more.
Photo: Chang W. Lee/The New York Times

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The Navy unveiled weapons systems yesterday at the Dahlgren Naval Support Facility that will help ships handle attacks like one against the USS Cole eight years ago. Scientists at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, the base's largest command, demonstrated a new MK 46 gun system that will arm a new fleet of ships.
The MK 46 is part of a surface warfare system that also includes a missile component, an armed helicopter and unmanned aerial vehicles, among other features.

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KEY WEST, Fla. (July 10, 2008) Fox News reporter Phil Keating interviews Persistent Maritime Unmanned Aircraft Systems Program Office 262 Program Manager Capt. Robert Dishman in front of the Skyship 600 blimp at Naval Air Station Key West. The lighter-than-air vehicle is in Key West for six weeks to conduct a series of maritime surveillance evaluations. The joint airship experiment between the Navy and Coast Guard emphasizes the cooperative strategy for 21st century seapower among the sea services. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Rachel McMarr (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 9, 2008) The Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oilier USNS Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195) pulls alongside the guided-missile destroyer USS Mahan (DDG 72) after a replenishment at sea with the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason R. Zalasky (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 9, 2008) The the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) steams near the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason R. Zalasky (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 9, 2008) Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Stephen Graham serves as flight deck safety observer as an SH-60B helicopter assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 42 (HSL) 42 takes off from the flight deck of the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming scheduled deployment. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason R. Zalasky (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 10, 2008) An SH-60B assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42) prepares to land on the flight deck of the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming scheduled deployment. The Iwo Jima ESG is made up of Iwo Jima; the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50); the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17); the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72); the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61); all homeported at Norfolk, Va.; the guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), homeported at Mayport, Fla.; and the fast-attack submarine USS Hartford (SSN 768), homeported at Groton, Conn. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class Michael Starkey (Released)

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PERSIAN GULF (July 10, 2008) A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 165 prepares to land on the flight deck of 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 Seaman Sarah E. Bitter (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 10, 2008) An SH-60B assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42 departs the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad R. Erdmann (Released)

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (July 10, 2008) Canadian Private Shaun Murphy, assigned to the "Red Devils" of A Company, 1st Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, requests permission to board the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) moored at Pearl Harbor to participate in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) maritime exercise. RIMPAC is the world's largest multinational exercise and is scheduled biennially by the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Participants include the United States, Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, the Netherlands, Peru, Republic of Korea, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist First Class Michael Moriatis (Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 10, 2008) Personnel aboard the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10) attach a cargo pendant to an MH-60S Seahawk assigned to the "Blackjacks" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 during a replenishment at sea with the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Scott (Released)

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ST JOHN'S, Antigua (July 10, 2008) Construction Mechanic 2nd Class Aaron Heldreth checks bottle pressures with his buddy diver, Constable Gaveline Brouet, a Region Security Service diver from St. Lucia, during Navy Diver-Global Fleet Station 2008. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kori L. Melvin (Released)

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ST JOHN'S, Antigua (July 10, 2008) Constable Vincent Gregoire, a Regional Security Service diver from the Common Wealth of Dominica, conducts searching techniques with U.S. Navy Diver 1st Class Overton Pierce from Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Expeditionary Support Unit (EODEU) 2, off the coast of Antigua during Navy Diver-Global Fleet Station (ND-GFS) 2008. Global Fleet Station's mission is to maintain strong multi-laterial partnerships, support the U.S. maritime strategic goals and enhance regional stability and security by promoting multinational working relationships. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kori L. Melvin (Released)

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St. John's, Antiqua (July 10, 2008) Antigua Regional Security Service Ordinary Seaman Julio L. Charles prepares to leave surface to inspect the hull of the Military Sealift Command rescue and salvage ship USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51) on a training dive during Navy Diver Global Fleet Station (ND-GFS) 2008. Grasp and 14 embarked navy divers are on a 90-day deployment to the Caribbean visiting seven island nations to take part in joint diver training. Global Fleet Station's mission is to maintain strong multi-laterial partnerships, support the U.S. maritime strategic goals and enhance regional stability and security by promoting multinational working relationships. U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Andrew McKaskle (Released)

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ST JOHN'S, Antigua (July 7, 2008) Navy Diver 3rd Class Kyle Duncan, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Expeditionary Support Unit (EODESU) 2, acts as an unconscious diver during a rescue demonstration with Regional Security Service diver of the Common Wealth of Dominica, Constable Vincent Gregoire, as part of Navy Diver-Global Fleet Station (ND-GFS) 2008. . U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kori L. Melvin (Released)

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U.S. soldiers of the 2nd Brigade, 1st Armour Division take their position during a joint patrol with Iraqi army soldiers in Baghdad's Sadr City July 13, 2008. Democratic White House hopeful Barack Obama said on Saturday comments by Iraqi leaders calling for a timetable for withdrawal of U.S. troops added weight to his stand in favor of such a timetable.

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FORT BRAGG, NORTH CAROLINA - JULY 13: Naomi Mullings sits on her father's shoulders as they wait to greet Specialist Brian Norwood as well as approximately 300 Paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division's 1st Brigade Combat Team as they return to Fort Bragg July 13, 2008 in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

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Family and friends welcome approximately 300 Paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division's 1st Brigade Combat Team as they return to Fort Bragg July 13, 2008 in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The unit's area of operations spanned across western, central and southern Iraq, and over the course of a 13-month deployment. The 1st BCT suffered 8 soldiers' deaths.

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Gunnery Sgt. Tim Parkhurst, paraloft chief, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 1, inspects a Marine’s parachute before loading into a KC-130J for a static-line jump July 3. The Marines were training to become more familiar with insertion into a combat zone.


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Marines of 2nd platoon, Echo Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 1, file into a KC-130J for a static-line jump July 3. Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 Detachment A escorted the Marines for the flight.


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The final Marine of 2nd platoon, Echo Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 1 exits the KC-130J as a jumpmaster looks on ensuring the parachutes deploy properly.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Taylor Poulin)


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Marines compete in the pull-up portion of the combathlon, July 3.


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Marines from E Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment race to be the first to perform a combined 1,000 push-ups during the combathlon, July 3.


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Staff Sgt. Eliazar Andrade (center), an infantry platoon sergeant with E Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, runs with a full water jug on Camp Hansen July 3 during the combathlon, a series of combat-inspired events devised to kick off the extended Fourth of July weekend.
Ok, I know this looks bad........


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Sergeant Aaron M.T. Lavier (front) performs the buddy low crawl under the weight of "buddy" Cpl. Mason D. Brown during the combathlon on Camp Hansen, July 3. The event combined eight different combat-related challenges in a fight to the finish for the companies of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment. Lavier and Brown are riflemen with E Company, 2nd Bn., 4th Marines.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Joseph A. Cabrera)


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1st Lt. Kenneth Jura, a Gulf Breeze, Fla., native, takes a knee during Operation Borzoi Bonzoi X, a mission aimed at clearing the East Anbar Province of enemy weapons and helping to provide a safer community in this area northwest of Baghdad, July 10. Jura serves as an infantry platoon leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
(Photographer: Spc. Brian Pierce : 2nd Stryker Brigade 25th Infantry Division)


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An Iraqi army soldier from the 2nd Battalion, 31st Brigade, 8th Iraqi army division talks with an East Anbar Province resident on what he can do to assist the Iraqi army in making this region northwest of Baghdad a safer place to live, July 10.
(Photographer: Spc. Brian Pierce : 2nd Stryker Brigade 25th Infantry Division)


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Pvt. Joshua Cole, a Clarkston, Mich., native, talks with children during Operation Borzoi Bonzoi X, a mission aimed at clearing portions of the East Anbar Province, northwest of Baghdad, of enemy weapons while also working to provide essential services for the people of this area, July 10. Cole serves as an infantryman with Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
(Photographer: Spc. Brian Pierce : 2nd Stryker Brigade 25th Infantry Division)


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1st Lt. Kenneth Jura, a Gulf Breeze, Fla., native, takes a look through his sights to judge the distance to a bridge during Operation Borzoi Bonzoi X, a mission aimed at clearing the area of illegal weapons and helping to bring the people of the area together in providing security for the East Anbar Province, northwest of Baghdad, July 10. Jura serves as an infantry platoon leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi – National Division-Baghdad.
(Photographer: Spc. Brian Pierce : 2nd Stryker Brigade 25th Infantry Division)


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Pfc. Travis Diestel (left), a College Station Texas native, stops and speaks with Iraqi children during a dismounted patrol in the Rusafa security District of eastern Baghdad, July 2. Diestel is assigned to Troop B, 3rd Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
(Photographer: Spc. Grant Okubo : 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs)


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Sgt. Jonathan Herrero (right), who hails from Peachtree City, Ga., directs Pfc. Travis Diestel, a College Station, Texas, native, during a dismounted patrol in the Rusafa security District of eastern Baghdad, July 2. Both Soldiers are assigned to Troop B, 3rd Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
(Photographer: Spc. Grant Okubo : 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs)


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Cpl. Gilberto Roman, an Auburn, Ala. native, looks into a vacant building as he provides security during a dismounted patrol in the Rusafa security District of eastern Baghdad, July 2. Roman is assigned to Troop B, 3rd Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
(Photographer: Spc. Grant Okubo : 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs)


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Sgt. Jonathan Herrero hands out information and tip cards to local citizens during a dismounted patrol in the Rusafa security District of eastern Baghdad, July 2. Herrero is a Peachtree City, Ga. native assigned to Troop B, 3rd Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
(Photographer: Spc. Grant Okubo : 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs)


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Pfc. Joshua Kanecht, a Port Byron, Ill. native, provides security during a dismounted patrol in the Rusafa security District of eastern Baghdad, July 2. Kanecht is assigned to Troop B, 3rd Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
(Photographer: Spc. Grant Okubo : 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs)


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Spc. Adam Brown, an Annandale, Va., native, patrols through a neighborhood in the Taji Qada, northwest of Baghdad, July 9, en route to a tribal sheik’s house to discuss essential services and grants. Brown is an infantryman assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
(Photographer: Sgt. J.B. Jaso III : 2nd Stryker Brigade 25th Infantry Division)


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1st Lt. Carlos Manrique, a native of St. Augustine, Fla., discusses grants and essential services with a sheik in the Taji Qada, northwest of Baghdad, July 9, ensuring that residents that live in the area are provided with much needed items. Manrique is an infantry platoon leader assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
(Photographer: Sgt. J.B. Jaso III : 2nd Stryker Brigade 25th Infantry Division)

YOKOSUKA, Japan (July 12, 2008) Adm. Robert Willard, commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, congratulates Vice Adm. Doug Crowder aboard the amphibious command ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) after presenting him the Navy Distinguished Service Medal. Crowder relinquished command of the U.S. Pacific Fleet to Vice Adm. John M. Bird. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ben Farone (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 12, 2008) A rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) returns to the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Starkey (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 12, 2008) A landing craft air cushion from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 approaches the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Starkey (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July. 12, 2008) A seven-meter rigid hull inflatable boat pulls up alongside the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) for a passenger transfer during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Composite Unit Training Exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Katrina Parker (Released)

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NORTH ARABIAN SEA (July 11, 2008) Yeoman 1st Class Julie Eubanks, of Rockwall, Texas, types an enclosure letter in the administrative office aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to support Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom as well as maritime security operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Johndion Magsipoc (Released)

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NORFOLK, Va. (July 11, 2008) Family members and friends of Sailors aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Nashville (LPD 14) await liberty call for Sailors aboard the ship. Nashville deployed as part of the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group to support 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 3rd Class Brian May (Released)

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ATLANIC OCEAN (Jul. 11, 2008) Fire Controlman 1st Class Kevin Sanders inspects the bullet feed for a .50-caliber machine gun during a warning and disabling fire exercise aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group composite unit training exercise (COMPTTUEX). COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming deployment.U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brian Goodwin (Released)

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NORFOLK, Va. (July 11, 2008) The amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) returns home after a deployment as the lead ship of the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group 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 Seaman Tristan Miller (Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 11, 2008) The guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) fires a Harpoon anti-ship missile during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) maritime exercise. RIMPAC is the world's largest multinational exercise and is scheduled biennially by the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Participants include the United States, Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, the Netherlands, Peru, Republic of Korea, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. U.S. Navy Photo (Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Jul. 11, 2008) Seaman Allen Parces steers the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group composite unit training exercise. COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad R. Erdmann (Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 11, 2008) Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Wesley Goodwin, of Flint, Mich., performs maintenance on the arresting hook of a Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 F/A-18C Hornet in the hangar bay of the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Patrick Heil (Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 11, 2008) Aircraft are readied for launch off the bow catapults of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) during night flight operations. The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group is on a routine deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility in the western Pacific and Indian Oceans. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph M. Buliavac (Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 11, 2008) Sailors form a line for a foreign object damage walk-down on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) as the sun sets over the Western Pacific. The walk-downs are held several times each day to prevent foreign objects from damaging aircraft engines and other components. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph M. Buliavac (Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 11, 2008) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the "Stingers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 flies over the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) after the aircraft was waved off during a landing attempt. The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group is on a routine deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility in the western Pacific and Indian Oceans. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph M. Buliavac (Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 11, 2008) An Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) directs an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the "Fighting Redcocks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22 onto catapult one during flight operations aboard 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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DILI, Timor-Leste (July 12, 2008) At sunrise, the US Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) prepares to bring on patients during its second day of the Pacific Partnership mission in Timor Leste. This humanitarian civic assistance mission is supporting and cooperating with the government of Timor Leste, Partner Nations including representatives from Australia, Canada, India, Indonesia, Portugal, and the Republic of Korea and the many non governmental organizations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark Logico (Released)

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NORFOLK, Va. (July 11, 2008) Cryptologic Technician (Technical) Seaman Tim Decker, assigned to the amphibious transport dock ship USS Nashville (LPD 14) is kissed by Kayla McGowin during the return of the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group from a five-month deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brian May (Released)

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