US Military Pictures & Videos

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 17, 2009) A landing craft air cushion prepares to enter the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) during a Talisman Saber 2009 training exercise. Talisman Saber is a biennial joint military exercise between the U.S. and Australia focusing on operational and tactical interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Casey H. Kyhl/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (July 17, 2009) Members of the visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team of the guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) lower a rigid hull inflatable boat into the water during a VBSS exercise involving Arleigh Burke and the South African Navy frigate SAS Amatola (F 145). Arleigh Burke recently departed Durban, South Africa with Amatola for a series of cooperative, at-sea exercises. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David Holmes/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (July 17, 2009) Boatswain's Mate Seaman Nelson Noriega secures a lifeline aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) as the ship is underway off the coast of South Africa.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David Holmes/Released)

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GULF OF ADEN (July 16, 2009) A SA-330 Puma helicopter assigned to the combat stores ship USNS San Jose (T-AFS 7) conducts a vertical replenishment with the USS Anzio (CG 68). Anzio is the flagship for Combined Task Force 151, a multinational task force established to conduct counter-piracy operations under a mission-based mandate to actively deter, disrupt and suppress piracy off the coast of Somalia. (U.S. Navy photos /Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 16, 2009) US Naval aircraft conduct filght operations on the "roof" of the USS Carl Vinson CVN-70. Carl Vinson is underway conducting flight deck certification after the completion of its scheduled refueling complex overhaul (RCOH) at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding. The RCOH was an extensive yard period that all Nimitz-class aircraft carriers go through near the mid-point of their 50-year life cycle. (U.S. Navy photos /Released)

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YORKTOWN, VA (July 12, 2009) A child plays tag with a remote-controlled robot from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 2, Detachment Yorktown, during the Yorktown Waterman's Heritage Festival in Yorktown, Va. The festival is held annually to honor the watermen who fish on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries and the men and women of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard who protect them. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Bookwalter/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 17, 2009) Quartermaster 3rd Class Chris Emhoolah plots the ship's course on the navigational bridge aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington is participating in Talisman Saber 09, a biennial joint military exercise between the U.S. and Australia focusing on operational and tactical interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Adam K. Thomas/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (July 16, 2009) South African Sailors embarked on the guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) wave to their native ship SAS Amatola (F145) during joint maneuvering drills. The South African Sailors are embarked on Arleigh Burke as part of a crew swap between the two ships to familiarize Sailors with a foreign navy's operation and lifestyle. Arleigh Burke departed Durban, South Africa with Amatola to kick off a series of cooperative at-sea exercises geared to enhance interoperability and strengthen the ongoing partnership between the two navies. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David Holmes/Released)

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SHOALWATER BAY, Australia (July 19, 2009) An MH-53E Sea Stallion helicopter, assigned to the Air Combat Element of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) takes off from the beach as a part of exercise Talisman Saber 2009. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark R. Alvarez/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 17, 2009) Culinary Specialist Seaman Samantha Garza carries fresh bread to a prep station aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington is participating in Talisman Saber 09, a biennial joint military exercise between the U.S. and Australia focusing on operational and tactical interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Charles Oki/Released)

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CORAL SEA (July 17, 2009) An AV-8B Harrier lands aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during a Talisman Saber 2009 exercise. Talisman Saber is a biennial joint military exercise between the U.S. and Australia focusing on operational and tactical interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nardelito Gervacio/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July. 18, 2009) Lt. j.g. Tim Roe, assigned to the engineering department, A Division of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70); Lt. Rami Islam, A Division; and Lt. Eric Laettner, E Division; run laps in in the hangar bay of Carl Vinson to stay in shape while the ship is underway. Carl Vinson is at sea conducting flight deck certification. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Nistas/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 18, 2009) Sailors assigned to the Supply department of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) hook cargo nets together for transport back to the dry cargo-ammunition ship USNS Alan Shepard (T-AKE 3) during a replenishment at-sea. George Washington is participating in Talisman Saber 09, a biennial joint military exercise between the U.S. and Australia focusing on operational and tactical interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Rachel N. Hatch/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 17, 2009) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel) 3rd Class Steven Garcia, assigned to the air department, V-4 division of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), takes a lab sample of JP-5 fuel. Carl Vinson is at sea conducting flight deck certification. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Nistas/Released)

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CORAL SEA (July 18, 2009) Aviation Boatswains Mate Airman Apprentice Michael Gonzales, from San Diego assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), pulls a line measuring the distance from Essex and the Royal Australian Navy Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment vessel HMAS Success (OR 304) during a replenishment at sea as part of Talisman Saber 2009 off the coast of Queensland, Australia. Talisman Saber 09 is a biennial joint military exercise between the U.S. and Australia focusing on operational and tactical interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ty Swartz/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (JULY 18, 2009) Aviation Ordnanceman Airman George Williams, assigned to the supply department, S2 Division aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), rinses plates before putting them into the high pressure wash during his temporary assignment to the mess decks.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Johnson/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (JULY 18, 2009) Seaman Recruit Chris Blankenship, assigned to the deck department aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), loads paper trash and food scraps into the pulper to be broken down and released safely to the sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Johnson/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (JULY 18, 2009) Gunner's Mate 3rd Class Austin Windau, assigned to the operations security force, Charlie Section aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), disassembles a .9mm pistol for a maintenance check and cleaning. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Johnson/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 18, 2009) Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Travell Young gives orders to the capstan operator aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) during a replenishment at-sea with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Pecos (T-AO 197). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Charles Oki/Released)

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NORFOLK (July 18, 2009) U.S. Navy SEALS conduct a fast-rope insertion demonstration from an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter onto a beach overlooking the Chesapeake Bay during a capabilities exercise at Naval Amphibious Base, Little Creek, Va. The Naval Special Warfare community displayed its capabilities as part of the 40th UDT-SEAL East Coast Reunion celebrations. Events are planned throughout the weekend to honor UDT/SEAL history, heritage, and families. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua T. Rodriguez/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 17, 2009) Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Louis M. Peters guides a landing craft air cushion out of the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) during a Talisman Saber 2009 training exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Casey H. Kyhl/Released)

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US Army soldiers with the 856th Engineers, 1 Battalion, 108th Field Artillery. 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, pull security patrol during a convoy maneuver on a route clearing mission near Camp Taji, Iraq, July 20. Route clearance operations help to make normal life possible for Iraqis, without the fear of improvised explosive devices.
(Photo by Spc. David Sharp : Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq)

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CORAL SEA (July 22, 2009) The Royal Australian Navy replenishment oiler HMAS Success (AOR 304) sends a fuel probe to the guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) during an underway replenishment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Byron C. Linder/Released)

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SHOALWATER BAY, Australia (July 21, 2009) Sailors guide a truck from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) onto Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1627 as Marines disembark for the field training part of military exercise Talisman Saber 2009. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Geronimo Aquino/ Released)

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GROTON, Conn. (July 22, 2009) The Virginia-class attack submarine USS New Hampshire (SSN 778) returns home after its maiden deployment to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Myers/Released)

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GROTON, Conn. (July 22, 2009) Ensign Jason Revitzer, Supply Officer of the Virginia-class attack submarine USS New Hampshire (SSN 778), kisses his wife during the return of New Hampshire from its maiden deployment to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility. During the deployment, New Hampshire crewmembers visited Spain, France and Norway, where they participated in the Norwegian Submarine Centennial celebration. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Myers/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 22, 2009) Sailors recover a simulated casualty aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington is participating in Talisman Saber 2009, a biennial joint military exercise between the U.S. and Australia focusing on operational and tactical interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Christopher S. Harte/Released

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 22, 2009) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Rafael Caba flakes out a fire hose during a general quarters drill aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington is participating in Talisman Saber 2009, a biennial joint military exercise between the U.S. and Australia focusing on operational and tactical interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Christopher S. Harte/Released)

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NORFOLK (July 9, 2009) Members of a hose team fight a simulated fire during a general quarters drill aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-69). Enterprise is undergoing an extended dry-dock ship's restricted availability in the Northrop Grumman shipyard. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Alex Forster/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2009) Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU) run in formation during morning physical training on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6). (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Dave Nagle/Released)

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YOKOHAMA, Japan (July 21, 2009) Cmdr. Jeffrey J. Kim, commanding officer of the guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56), explains the ship's capabilities to members of the Japanese media during a tour of the ship. John S. McCain made the transit from Yokosuka to Yokohama, Japan as the first-ever U.S. Navy ship to participate in the annual celebration of the Yokohama port opening. This year's celebration marks the 150th anniversary of the port being opened. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Josh Cassatt/Released)

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YOKOHAMA, Japan (July 21, 2009) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) man the rails as the ship passes under the Yokohama Bridge. John S. McCain made the transit from Yokosuka to Yokohama, Japan as the first-ever U.S. Navy ship to participate in the annual celebration of the Yokohama port opening. This year's celebration marks the 150th anniversary of the port being opened. (U.S. Navy photos/released)

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Sailors assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 1, participates in the annual Captains Cup Ultimate Seabee competition as she runs through a wash rack with a 45-pound sandbag in her backpack. The Ultimate Seabee event is one of ten events that each of the four companies, Alfa, Bravo, Charlie and Headquarters Company, compete against each other for points towards winning the Battalion trophy and the Captain's Cup pennant for the company's guide-on. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian P Caracci/Released)

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WASHINGTON (July 22, 2009) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Rick West speaks with Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Roy before testifying before the House Armed Services Committee, Subcommittee on Military Personnel at the Rayburn House Office Building. West and Roy will appear before Congress with Sgt. Major of the Army Kenneth Preston and Sgt. Major of the Marine Corps Carlton Kent. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jennifer A. Villalovos/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2009) Royal Australian Air Force Flight Lt. Catherine Rubin works with Operations Specialist 1st Class Ennis Hooker in the combat direction center aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) during a Talisman Saber 09 exercise.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John J. Mike/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 21, 2009) Aviation Machinist Mate 3rd Class Amanda Oterocastillo tightens a bolt on a jet engine in the jet shop aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The jet shop is part of the Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD), responsible for maintaining jet engines. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 21, 2009) Aviation Electronics Technician Airman Patricia Hansen moves aircraft templates around the Ouija board in flight deck control aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Flight deck control is responsible for all movement of aircraft on the flight deck. The Ouija board is a scale model of the flight deck. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chelsea Kennedy/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 20, 2009) Lt. Joselyn C. Mercado, an obstetrician/gynecologist resident assigned to Naval Medical Center San Diego, sings the national anthem at Petco Park in San Diego, Calif. before a baseball game between the Padres and the Florida Marlins. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Anastasia Fitzgerald/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2009) Damage Controlman 1st Class Chris Rodriguez, a member of Afloat Training Group Western Pacific, grades hose team members on their ability to fight a simulated fire during a general quarters drill aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Christopher S. Harte/Released)

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DAHLGREN, Va. (July 20, 2009) Transportation personnel at Naval Support Facility Dahlgren prepare to off-load a World War I-era tractor-mounted artillery piece, the first gun originally test-fired to mark the establishment of Dahlgren as a naval proving ground on Oct. 16, 1918. The 7-inch, 45 caliber gun will be restored by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division. (U.S. Navy photo by Doug Davant/Released)

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NORFOLK (July 20, 2009) Engineman 2nd Class Robert Bender, assigned to the Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 1 security team, provides security for the extraction of a suspected insurgent from his hiding place to a riverine patrol boat during a simulated raid. One of the many capabilities of a Riverine security team is to find, capture and extract persons in a maritime environment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Paul D. Williams /Released)

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SIGONELLA, Sicily (July 20, 2009) Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 1st Class William Greathouse, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 8, speaks during a memorial service at Naval Air Station Sigonella for Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 2nd Class Tony M. Randolph. Randolph and U.S. Army Capt. Mark Garner were killed when a roadside bomb detonated near their vehicle while conducting combat operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Greathouse and another explosive ordnance technician were wounded. Greathouse escorted Randolph's remains to his home to Henryetta, Okla. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason T. Poplin/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (July 17, 2009) An SA-330 Puma helicopter assigned to the Military Sealift Command combat stores ship USNS San Jose (T-AFS 7), delivers cargo to the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) during a vertical replenishment. Bataan is serving as the flagship of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group conducting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Tony Sisti/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (July 17, 2009) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 22 takes off from the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5). Bataan is serving as the flagship of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group conducting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Tony Sisti/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 20, 2009) Aviation ordnancemen assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 25 detach an AIM-9 Sidewinder missile from the wing of an F/A-18C Hornet aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Aviation ordnancemen are responsible for maintaining, repairing, installing, operating and handling aviation ordnance equipment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Oliver Cole/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 20, 2009) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Stingers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 approaches for a landing aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Oliver Cole/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 18, 2009) Aviation Machinist's Mate 2nd Class Herbmark Rufin inspects the propeller of an E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the Black Eagles of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Squadron mechanics complete a thorough inspection of an aircraft prior to its launch. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 18, 2009) Aviation Machinist's Mate Airman Jesus Lopez watches the blast from a jet engine during an engine test cell run on the fantail of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). During an engine test cell run the operator pushes the engine to its limit to ensure no faults with the engine will occur when a pilot is flying. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Oliver Cole/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 18, 2009) Lt. Cmdr. James Shell leans on the wing of an EA-6B Prowler assigned to the Cougars of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 139 before flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 18, 2009) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 2nd Class Edward Cisneros stands watch in primary flight control (PRI-FLY) aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). PRI-FLY is the control tower for all flight operations aboard Ronald Reagan. Launches and recoveries are closely monitored in this office to ensure maximum efficiency on the flight deck. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 18, 2009) Lt. Cmdr. James Carver inspects the exterior of an EA-6B Prowler assigned to the Cougars of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 139 before flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Before flight operations squadron mechanics and pilots inspect their aircraft to ensure that systems and all exterior parts are in working order. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee/Released)

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How about some USCG pix??

A crew preparing to dock the Coast Guard cutter Petrel at a base in San Diego in late June. As the land border with Mexico tightens, authorities are seeing an increasing number of people and drugs moving into the United States by sea off the San Diego coast.
Photo: Sandy Huffaker for The New York Times

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The monitoring of the seas falls mainly to the Coast Guard and the Customs and Border Protection division of the Department of Homeland Security. Cutters like the Petrel, aircraft and a few small high-speed boats are used for patrols. The authorities have noted that an increase in maritime drug seizures coincides with the near completion of new border fencing and other equipment along a 14-mile stretch from the ocean inland.
Photo: Sandy Huffaker for The New York Times

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An armed guardsman stood guard as the Petrel approached a suspicious boat. In the fiscal year that ended Oct. 30, the authorities arrested 136 illegal immigrants sneaking in by sea, double the 66 marine arrests in 2007. The seizure of drugs has also similarly increased.
Photo: Sandy Huffaker for The New York Times

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Jessica Galli, a coast guardswoman, helped to guide a speed boat onto the Petrel. The speed boat was used for an inspection of a boat for contraband. Authorities say that the shift to smuggling on the sea demonstrates the resolve of smugglers to exploit the vastness of the sea, the difficulty in monitoring it and the desperation of migrants willing to risk crossing it.
Photo: Sandy Huffaker for The New York Times

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Chris Salerno, a cadet, in the Petrel's control room. Crew members say that despite the equipment on hand to detect smugglers, criminals also have access to similar technology. The Homeland Security Department has responded to the increased activity at sea with orders for more boats and equipment.
Photo: Sandy Huffaker for The New York Times

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Crew members on the Petrel prepared after they received word of a suspicious boat.
Photo: Sandy Huffaker for The New York Times

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U.S. Army soldier Specialist Williams from Dagger Company, 2-12 Infantry, 4th Brigade patrols through the village of Kandigal in the Pesh Valley in Afghanistan's Kunar Province July 25, 2009. This brigade is part of NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

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U.S. soldier Private First Class Dequilla from Dagger Company, 2-12 Infantry, 4th Brigade sits behind a machine gun before heading out on a patrol in the Pesh Valley in Afghanistan's Kunar Province July 24, 2009. Afghanistan will hold a presidential election on August 20, 2009.

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U.S. Army Specialist Hernandez from Dagger Company, 2-12 Infantry, 4th Brigade patrols through the village of Kandigal in the Pesh Valley in Afghanistan's Kunar Province July 25, 2009. This brigade is part of NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

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Sergeant Padron of the U.S. Army's Dagger Company, 2-12 Infantry, 4th Brigade hangs upside down while blindfolded as he practices reassembling a gun at Michigan Base in the Pesh Valley in Afghanistan's Kunar Province July 24, 2009. Afghanistan will hold a presidential election on August 20, 2009

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FORT STEWART, GEORGIA - A soldier with the U.S. Army's 293rd Military Police Company holds hands with his wife during the 3rd Infantry Division's first Coin Covenant Ceremony July 24, 2009 in Fort Stewart, Georgia. More than 130 soldiers from the company are due to deploy to Afghanistan early next week. The ceremony for married and engaged soldiers is part of the chaplain program that encourages couples to remain faithful during their year long deployment. (Stephen Morton /Getty Images)

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FORT STEWART, GEORGIA - U.S. Army PVT Eric Durnil holds his sister Sara Durnil after a deployment ceremony for the 293rd Military Police Company July 24, 2009 in Fort Stewart, Georgia. More than 130 soldiers from the 293rd Military Police Company, attached to the Army's 3rd Infantry Division stationed at Ft. Stewart are due to deploy to Afganistan early next week. (Stephen Morton / Getty Images)

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FORT STEWART, GEORGIA - U.S. Army PFC Michael Araujo (R) and his wife Ashely (L) fill out commitment cards during the 3rd Infantry Division's first Coin Covenant Ceremony July 24, 2009 in Fort Stewart, Georgia. More than 130 soldiers from the 293rd Military Police Company the company are due to deploy to Afghanistan early next week.

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FORT STEWART, GEORGIA - Lakeyia Jones, the wife of U.S. Army Sgt. Cedric Jones, writes a commitments letter to her husband during the 3rd Infantry Division's first Coin Covenant Ceremony July 24, 2009 in Fort Stewart, Georgia. More than 130 soldiers from the 293rd Military Police Company the company are due to deploy to Afghanistan early next week.

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FORT STEWART, GEORGIA - Married just over a month, Amy Cosens (L) wipes a tear from her eye while taking part taking part in the 3rd Infantry Division's first Coin Covenant Ceremony with her husband U.S. Army PFC Lee Cosens July 24, 2009 in Fort Stewart, Georgia.

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FORT STEWART, GEORGIA - Married just over a month, Amy Cosens (R) and her husband U.S. Army PFC Lee Cosens exchange half of a pewter coin during the 3rd Infantry Division's first Coin Covenant Ceremony July 24, 2009 in Fort Stewart, Georgia.

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FORT STEWART, GEORGIA - A U.S. Army Chaplin holds the two halves of a pewter medallion given to soldiers and their spouses with the 293rd Military Police Company before taking part in the 3rd Infantry Division's first Coin Covenant Ceremony July 24, 2009 in Fort Stewart, Georgia

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NORFOLK (July 24, 2009) The command pennants of Adm. John C. Harvey, Jr. are raised aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Harvey relieved Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert as Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces during a change of command ceremony aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) at Naval Station Norfolk. Greenert's next assignment will be Vice Chief of Naval Operations at the Pentagon. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication 2nd Class Felicito Rustique/Released)

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RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (July 26, 2009) Landing Craft Unit 1643, assigned to Assault Craft Unit 2 based in Little Creek, Va., transports U.S. and Brazilian Marines to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) from Governor's Island near Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. Oak Hill is participating in Southern Partnership Station '09. Southern Partnership Station is a combined naval and amphibious operation with Oak Hill and maritime forces from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay. Oak Hill is also supporting Southern Exchange 2009. (U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Cory Torres/Released)

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RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (July 25, 2009) Sailors aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) look on as a Brazilian Super Puma helicopter takes off from Oak Hill's flight deck during flight operations. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cory Rose/Released)

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RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (July 25, 2009) Seaman Tyree Evans, assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51), directs a Marine as he drives a vehicle onto the Brazilian Navy Landing Craft Unit 11 during the U.S. Marine Corps Forces South multinational amphibious exercise Southern Exchange 2009. (U.S Army Photo by Spc. Corey Idleburg/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 24, 2009) The Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Yukon (T-AO 202) delivers jet fuel to the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) during a replenishment at sea. Nimitz and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 are conducting operations off the coast of Southern California in preparation for a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Robert Winn/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 24, 2009) Sailors assigned to the deck department of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7) prepare to raise an 11-meter rigid-hull inflatable boat. Cleveland is assigned to the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Readiness Group (ARG) and is underway conducting a Composite Training Unit Exercise in preparation for a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific Ocean later this year. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Grant P. Ammon/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 26, 2009) Operations Specialist 3rd Class Milton Bobbitt, assigned to the operations department of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), plots surface contacts to make sure they don't pose any collision dangers for the carrier. Carl Vinson is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Nistas/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 24, 2009) The aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) is silhouetted as it transits the western Pacific Ocean at sunrise. George Washington is participating in Talisman Saber 09, a biennial, combined exercise designed to train Australian and U.S. forces in planning and conducting combined operations,. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class John M. Hageman/Released)

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BOSTON, Mass. (July 24, 2009) Cmdr. Timothy M. Cooper salutes his side boys as he arrives to relieve Cmdr. William A. Bullard, III as commanding officer of USS Constitution. Cooper transferred from the position of Director of the Distributed Training Center Atlantic before assuming command of Old Ironsides as the ship's 71st commanding officer. Bullard's follow-on command is a temporary assignment as a student at the Naval War College. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clay Weis/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 23, 2009) Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) ground combat element conduct weapons training in the hangar bay of the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6). The 11th MEU is part of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, currently underway conducting a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in preparation for a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific Ocean later this year. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Eva-Marie Ramsaran/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (July 23, 2009) Kahuna Pule Gantotise performs a traditional Hawaiian blessing during an arrival ceremony for the Virginia-class attack submarine USS Hawaii (SSN 776). Hawaii is the third Virginia-class submarine constructed and the first submarine to bear the name of the Aloha state. Measuring 377 feet long, weighing 7,800 tons when submerged and with a crew of more than 130, Hawaii is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, naval special warfare involving special operations forces, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, irregular warfare, and mine warfare. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael Hight/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 23, 2009) Chief Master-At-Arms James Bolibrzuch instructs sailors on weapons handling techniques before a live-fire exercise aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7). Cleveland is assigned to the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Readiness Group and is underway conducting a Composite Training Unit Exercise in preparation for a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific Ocean later this year. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Grant P. Ammon/Released)

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JAMPANG TENGAH, Indonesia (July 22, 2009) U.S. Marines assigned to the 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment practice body blows with Indonesian Marines from the 2nd Indonesian Marine Infantry Battalion during a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program class. The class was conducted as part of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Indonesia 2009. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance the operational readiness of the participating forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler J. Hlavac/Released)

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HELMAND RIVER VALLEY (July 21, 2009) An F/A-18C Hornet, assigned to the Stingers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), returns from a mission supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Ronald Reagan is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. Operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility are focused on reassuring regional partners of the United States' commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity. (U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. Erik Etz/Released)

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NEW YORK (July 19, 2009) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Mahan (DDG 72) man-the-rails while escorting the Royal Australian Navy Adelaide class guided-missile frigate HMAS Sydney (FFG 03) and Anzac class frigate HMAS Ballarat (FFG 155) while pulling into New York for a port visit. Mahan is in New York in conjunction with the Royal Australian Navy Operation Northern Trident 2009. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chad R. Erdmann/Released)

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (July 13, 2009) An E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the Greyhawks of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 120 flies over Jacksonville, Fla. VAW-120 is based at Naval Station Norfolk, Va. is conducting field carrier landing practice in Jacksonville to prepare for carrier qualifications later this month. VAW-120 operates a detachment of both E-2C and C-2A aircraft from Naval Air Station Jacksonville two weeks before each carrier qualification period. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. j.g. John A. Ivancic/Released)

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U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment load onto an MV-22 Osprey aircraft at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., on June 19, 2009. The Marines are training during Mojave Viper for an upcoming deployment. DoD photo by Cpl. Tyler W. Hill, U.S. Marine Corps

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U.S. army soldier Specialist Williams from Dagger Company, 2-12 Infantry, 4th Brigade patrols through the village of Kandigal in the Pesh Valley in Afghanistan's Kunar Province July 25, 2009. This brigade is part of NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

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U.S. Army soldier Private Davis from Dagger Company, 2-12 Infantry, 4th Brigade aims his weapon towards insurgent positions during a patrol through the village of Kandigal in the Pesh Valley in Afghanistan's Kunar Province July 25, 2009. This brigade is part of NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

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Airmen prepare to engage with enemy targets as part of an exercise during Road Warrior VII July 17 at Camp Guernsey, Wyo. Students from the Tactical Response Force provided aerial and ground support using advanced tactics learned during a week-long class. Road Warrior is a joint training exercise between Air Force Space Command and the National Nuclear Security Agency's Office of Secure Transportation. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Heather R. Shaw)

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This is the sequence of events US Army Airborne students endure before,during and after their third jump at Fort Benning, Ga., July 21, 2009. The soldiers are assigned to 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment's Company B, 1st Battalion, Airborne. The students are in their final phase of parachute training, known as "jump week." The company began with 525 students July 6, but only 424 made it to the final week.
U.S. Army Photos by Kristin Molinaro

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FORT STEWART, GA - JULY 28: U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Charles Smith (L) gets a kiss goodbye from his wife Laura Smith (R) before deploying to Afghanistan with the 293rd Military Police Company July 28, 2009 in Fort Stewart, Georgia. More than 130 soldiers from the company, attached to the Army's 3rd Infantry Division, will spend the next year in Afghanistan training the Afghan National Police. (Photo by Stephen Morton/***** Images)

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US Marines of the 2nd Battalion 8 Marines of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade take position as US Marines help Afghan National Army search compounds for insurgents in Gharmsir district in Helmand Province on July 29, 2009. About 4,000 US Marines are battling insurgents in a massive offensive launched in the south early this month to clear Taliban militants out of strongholds ahead of presidential and provincial council elections scheduled for August 20. AFP PHOTO/ Manpreet ROMANA (Photo credit should read MANPREET ROMANA/AFP/***** Images)

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US Marine Lance Corporal Anthony Redhouse of 1st Combat Engineer Battalion of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade scans for suspected objects as US Marines help Afghan National Army search compounds for insurgents in Gharmsir district in Helmand Province on July 29, 2009. About 4,000 US Marines are battling insurgents in a massive offensive launched in the south early this month to clear Taliban militants out of strongholds ahead of presidential and provincial council elections scheduled for August 20. AFP PHOTO/ Manpreet ROMANA (Photo credit should read MANPREET ROMANA/AFP/***** Images)

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An Afghan man watches as a US soldier from 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade patrol in a village as US Marines help Afghan National Army search compounds for insurgents in Gharmsir district in Helmand Province on July 29, 2009. About 4,000 US Marines are battling insurgents in a massive offensive launched in the south early this month to clear Taliban militants out of strongholds ahead of presidential and provincial council elections scheduled for August 20. AFP PHOTO/ Manpreet ROMANA (Photo credit should read MANPREET ROMANA/AFP/***** Images)

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U.S. soldier Specialist Jeffery Adams of Road Clearance Package (RCP) eight of the 2-12 Infantry, 4th Brigade, looks through the sight of his gun during a mission in the valley of Kunar River in Afghanistan's Kunar province July 28, 2009.

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An Iraqi soldier stands guard near a U.S. armoured vehicle during a reopening ceremony of a bridge connecting Shula and Ghazaliya districts in Baghdad July 28, 2009.

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U.S. soldier Specialist Jeffery Adams of Road Clearance Package (RCP) eight of the 2-12 Infantry, 4th Brigade, travels in an armoured vehicle during a mission in the valley of Kunar River in Afghanistan's Kunar province July 28, 2009.

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U.S. soldier Specialist Jeffery Adams (L) of Road Clearance Package (RCP) eight of the 2-12 Infantry, 4th Brigade, stands in front of a broken down truck during a mission in the valley of Kunar River in Afghanistan's Kunar province July 28, 2009.

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