Photos Marsoc

Lt. Col Kenneth P. Wolf, commanding officer of Company "A",
lead their troops on a 12-mile hike. The hike, which started here at 2 a.m., featured additional media interview skills and practical application training.

Marines and Sailors of Company A, Foreign Military Training Unit, Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, take their last rest stop on their 12-mile hike before they march back to their company office. The hike, which started at 2 a.m., featured additional media interview skill and practical application training.

An instructor with Team-4 briefs Marines with Marine Corps Barracks 8th and I during a patrolling package part of FMTU?s ORE. Teams-4 and-6 completed their final exercise with the help of the Marines and contracted linguists as role players for the event.

NAVAL AMPHIBIOUS BASE, CORONADO, Calif. 070725-Marines with B Company, Marine Special Operations Battalion, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit participate in fast rope drills, here. The Training in Urban Environment Exercise (TRUEX) is part of the MEU's pre-deployment training cycle before deployment later this year. The exercise was provided by Special Operations Training Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

A Coalition forces member fires at insurgents that attacked their convoy just moments before in a village near Camp Price, Afghanistan, Aug. 17, 2007. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. David Gunn) (Released)

A Tactics instructor with Marine Special Operations School conducts an after-action assessment with Marines from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion during close-quarters battle training here. The training was part of a five week direct action course here to prepare Marine Special Operations Companies for worldwide deployment.

Marine with Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command fires at his target.

A Navy hospital corpsman assigned to the 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion treats a wounded civilian in a Helmand province, Afghanistan village after an attack by Taliban fighters.

A Marine with the Marine Special Operations Advisor Group team, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, keeps a watchful eye for suspicious activity while conducting security during a cordon and search of a village.

A Marine with a Marine special operations company patrols a village looking for Taliban fighters who attacked the MSOC unit and Afghan national army soldiers in the Helmand province village. ANA soldiers and MSOC Marines were visiting the southern Afghanistan village when they were attacked by Taliban fighters in late February.

Two Marines with a Marine special operations company are on the lookout in a village for possible Taliban fighters during late February. The MSOC unit and Afghan national army soldiers were visiting the southern Afghanistan village in which they distributed humanitarian aid to villagers.

A Marine with a Marine special operations company is on the lookout in a village for possible Taliban fighters during late February. The MSOC unit and Afghan national army soldiers were visiting the southern Afghanistan village in which they distributed humanitarian aid to villagers.

Marines with a Marine special operations company secure an area of a Helmand province village in which they were under attack by Taliban fighters, while a Chinook CH-47 pulls in to provide support for the Marines. Afghan national army soldiers and MSOC Marines were visiting the southern Afghanistan village when they were attacked by Taliban fighters in late February.

A Marine special operations company leatherneck examines a poppy plant handed to him by an Afghan national army soldier (right) during a late February patrol through a Helmand province village in which they were looking for Taliban fighters.

A rocket propelled grenade lays unexploded on the ground after bouncing off a Humvee in a Helmand province village during late February. A Taliban fighter had just shot the RPG at a Marine special operations company's Marines in the southern Afghanistan village.

Marines with a Marine special operations company and an Afghan national army soldier position themselves to fight Taliban fighters who attacked them a few minutes prior. ANA soldiers and MSOC Marines were visiting the southern Afghanistan village when they were attacked by Taliban fighters in late February.

Marines with a Marine special operations company take aim on Taliban fighters in a Helmand province village in late February. Afghan national army soldiers and the MSOC Marines were visiting the southern Afghanistan village when they were attacked by Taliban fighters.

A Marine with the Marine Special Operations Company, 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, assesses a head wound on a role-player during a night-time raid through a village here, March 26.

White a écrit:J'avais jamais vu de mags PA montés sur adaptaters 90° (voir le 3éme opérateur du stick)

Marines and sailors with Marine Special Operations Advisor Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command initial training pipeline are stacked in front of a door while a charge explodes during the demolition and logistics subject matter expert training course.

Marine with Special Operations Advisor Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command sights in on his target during the scoped weapons course here, May 22. This course is part of the weapons subject matter expert course that certain MSOAG initial training pipeline students must complete before being assigned to a Marine Special Operations Team.

Marines with Marine Special Operations Advisor Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command initial training pipeline practice range estimation and marksmanship during the scoped weapons course here, May 22. Students receive two weeks of both classroom instruction and live fire training during the course.

Capt. Garrett T. Lawton, 31, of Charleston, W.V., died Aug. 4 while supporting combat operations in Herat province, Afghanistan.
He was assigned to U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Captain Garrett Tucker Lawton,
died August 4, 2008, of wounds suffered in an improvised explosive device attack in the western Afghan province of Herat.

Lawton was a weapons systems operator on F/A-18D jets but had been assigned to ground duty with the 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion, said Captain Michael W. Armistead, a spokesman for Marine Special Operations Command.

A Marine with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command calls the communications operations center to let them know the position of his team here, July 30. As a student in the Marine Network Operators Course, he is taught to be a subject matter expert in communications.

A Marine with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command and a Sailor with Naval Special Warfare Command discuss details of their mission before calling the communications operations center to let them know the position of their team.

An Airman with Air Force Special Operations Command calls a communications team out in the field to discuss details of their mission here, July 30. This is the second course this year, but the first to include students from Naval Special Warfare Command and Air Force Special Operations Command.

A Marine with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command calls the communications operations center to let them know the position of his team here, July 30. As a student in the Marine Network Operators Course, he is taught to be a subject matter expert in communications.

A Marine with Marine Special Operations Advisor Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, clears a corner during the Advanced Urban Warfare portion of their training at the Direct Action Resource Center. The training at DARC included advanced urban warfare, advanced tactical carbine, and advanced tactical pistol courses.

A Marine with Marine Special Operations Advisor Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, clears a corner during the Advanced Urban Warfare portion of their training at the Direct Action Resource Center. The training at DARC included advanced urban warfare, advanced tactical carbine, and advanced tactical pistol courses.

A Marine with Marine Special Operations Advisor Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, holds rear security while fellow team members clear rooms during the Advanced Urban Warfare portion of their training at the Direct Action Resource Center.

Marines with Marine Special Operations Advisor Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, clear a corner during the Advanced Urban Warfare portion of their training at the Direct Action Resource Center

A Marine with Marine Special Operations Advisor Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, holds rear security while fellow team members clear rooms during the Advanced Urban Warfare portion of their training at the Direct Action Resource Center

Marines with Marine Special Operations Advisor Group, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, along with Army Ranger practice room clearing during the Advanced Urban Warfare portion of their training at the Direct Action Resource Center

An operator with 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command rappels to the ground out of a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter at Camp Margarita, aboard Camp Pendleton, Nov. 4. The operator took part in the first ever MARSOC Helicopter Rope Suspension Training Masters course, which ran from Oct. 27, to Nov. 7.

An operator with 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command rappels out of a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter at Camp Margarita, aboard Camp Pendleton, Nov. 4. The operator took part in the first ever MARSOC Helicopter Rope Suspension Training Masters course, which ran from Oct. 27, to Nov. 7.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Richard Blumenstein)

Members of 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command Operators are lifted from the ground by a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter during Special Purpose Insertion/Extraction rigging at Camp Margarita, aboard Camp Pendleton, Nov. 4. The operators took part in the first ever MARSOC Helicopter Rope Suspension Training Masters course, which ran from Oct. 27, to Nov. 7.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Richard Blumenstein)

An operator with 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command rappels out of a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter at Camp Margarita, aboard Camp Pendleton, Nov. 4. The operator took part in the first ever MARSOC Helicopter Rope Suspension Training Masters course, which ran from Oct. 27, to Nov. 7.
(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Richard Blumenstein)

A Marine with a company from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command demonstrates shooting positions to fellow Marines and Sailors prior to conducting shooting drills as part of their Dynamic Assault package at the Washoe County Regional Shooting Facility.

A bullet casing ejects from an M9 pistol after a Marine with a company from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command fires at his target. The Marines and Sailors conducted shooting drills as part of their Dynamic Assault package at the Washoe County Regional Shooting Facility .

A Marine with a company from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command fires on his target while conducting shooting drills as part of the Dynamic Assault package at the Washoe County Regional Shooting Facility.

Marines and Sailors with a company from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command sight in on their targets as they conduct shooting drills as part of their Dynamic Assault package at the Washoe County Regional Shooting Facility.

A Marine with a company from 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command fires on his target while he conducts shooting drills as part of the Dynamic Assault package at the Washoe County Regional Shooting Facility.

A helicopter waits above the ground to evacuate a simulated casualty as fellow Marines and Sailors bring the Marine on a stretcher. A company from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command participated in a Full Mission Profile exercise.

A Marine with a company from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion(2MSOB), sits in the turret of a Ground Mobility Vehicle (GMV) while traveling through the mountains next to Dixie Valley, Nev. April 14, 2009. The Marines are conducting a full mission profile training exercise. (USMC Photo by Sgt Edmund L Hatch/Released) Canon 30D

A Marine from a Marine Special Operations Company with the 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command fires his MK19 grenade launcher at targets in the valley below him. Marines and Sailors conducted high angle shooting at the top of Rocket Mountain.

Marine Special Operations Company with the 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command fires his Enhanced Marksmanship Rifle (EMR) at targets in the valley below him. Marines and Sailors conducted high angle shooting at the top of Rocket Mountain

A Marine Special Operations Team from a Marine Special Operations Company with the 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command assemble at the edge of a cliff prior to engaging targets in the valley below. Marines and Sailors conducted high angle shooting at the top of Rocket Mountain.

A Marine from a Marine Special Operations Company with the 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command fires his M240 G machine gun at targets in the valley below him. Marines and Sailors conducted high angle shooting at the top of Rocket Mountain.

Two Marines with a company from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command find their position using a map and compass during a troop movement in the mountains of California. The movement was primarily conducted to improve the Marines' and Sailors'
land navigation skills.

A Marine with a company from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command leads his mule during a mule and troop movement. Marines and Sailors went through mule packing classes.

Marines with a company from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command lead their mules along a mountain ridge during a mule and troop movement. Marines and Sailors went through mule packing classes.

Marines with a company from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command lead their mules along a mountain ridge during a mule and troop movement. Marines and Sailors went through mule packing classes.

MARINE CORPS Captain John Collins, from 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California, and Gunnery Sergeant Jed Owens, from 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Command, are resting at a checkpoint in the San Onofre Ridgeline at Camp Pendleton, Calif. The checkpoints of the First Annual Recon Challenge offered the Marines the chance to breathe and refuel themselves before moving on to the next challenge.

Marines with 3d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command conduct a direct action hit during training July 17, at the Mountain Warfare Training Center, here. The training was part of a three-week exercise where the operators sharpened their skills in an environment containing elevations up to 7,500 feet above sea level.

Marines from Marine Special Operations Command display weapons commonly used by insurgents in Iraq and Afghanistan while members of a Quadrennial Defense Review panel tour Camp Lejeune, Aug. 28, 2009. The QDR panel’s visit to II MEF and MARSOC was to provide its members with an overview of Marine Corps amphibious capabilities and irregular warfare training.

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command announced Captain Joshua S. Meadows, 30, of Elgin, Texas, died September 5 while conducting combat operations in Farah province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, based at Camp Pendleton Calif.

An Afghan boy guides his younger brother after receiving clothing from U.S. Special Operations forces on patrol in Afghanistan's Farah province, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2009. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

A member of U.S. special operations forces inspect a culvert during a joint patrol with Afghan National Army soldiers in Shewan, a former Taliban stronghold in Afghanistan's Farah province, Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

Afghan National Army soldiers and U.S. special operations forces patrol in Shewan, a former Taliban stronghold in Afghanistan's Farah province, Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

A member of U.S. special operations forces and an Afghan National Army soldier search for roadside bombs during a joint patrol in Shewan, a former Taliban stronghold in Afghanistan's Farah province, Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)

Coalition forces soldier patrols past a bullet pocked door in what used to be one of the most dangerous parts of Shewan, Farah province, Afghanistan, Nov. 3. Afghan and coalition forces now patrol the area with impunity, much to the visible delight of residents.

A coalition forces officer high-fives a child during a routine patrol in Shewan, Farah province, Afghanistan, Nov. 3.

Coalition forces check an alleyway during a patrol in Shewan, Farah province, Afghanistan, Nov. 3.

A coalition forces officer shows residents what their town looks like from above using a satellite map of the area in Shewan, Farah province, Afghanistan, Nov. 3.

A special operations officer shows Shewan residents how to operate a hand-crank radio in order to listen to the new radio station in Shewan, Farah province, Afghanistan, Nov. 2.

A member of a U.S. MARSOC unit patrols in Masaw village, Pusch Rud district in Afghanistan's Farah Province Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009. U.S. and Afghan troops paid a visit to village leaders following a Taliban attack on coalition forces.

An Afghan boy passes U.S. special operations forces during a patrol in Masaw village, Pusch Rud district in Afghanistan's Farah Province Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009.

Afghan children watch as U.S. special operations forces and Afghan National Army soldiers patrol in Masaw village, Pusch Rud district in Afghanistan's Farah Province Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009.

A member of a U.S. MARSOC unit stands guard as an Afghan soldier hands out winter coats in Masaw village, Pusch Rud district in Afghanistan's Farah Province Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009. U.S. and Afghan troops paid a visit to village leaders following a Taliban attack on coalition forces.

A Marine operator from 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command readies his M4 Carbine near a suspected Taliban location at the outskirts of Bala Morghab, Badghis province, Afghanistan, Dec. 9. Taliban fighters are commonplace throughout the Morghab Valley and constant security must be maintained whenever coalition forces are conducting operations within the valley. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Edmund L. Hatch)

Marines from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, walk past local village workers standing outside of Forward Operating Base Todd, Badghis Province, Afghanistan, Dec 15. Local labor is hired to perform many of the manual labor tasks required to build and maintain the FOB with the intention of creating jobs in the community and boosting the local economy. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Edmund L. Hatch)

An Afghan National Army soldier from the 2/1/207th Kandak and a Coalition partner holds security during a patrol halt in Akazai Village, Badghis province, Afghanistan, March 13. The ANA soldiers are conducting a patrol in Akazai Village along with their coalition partners to reinforce their presence in the area and to deliver humanitarian supplies. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt Edmund Hatch)

Marines with 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, use their rifle optics to scan the horizon during a patrol through Bala Morghab, Badghis Province, Afghanistan, Dec. 22. Patrols are conducted regularly throughout the Morghab Valley in order to actively engage the public and disrupt Taliban activity. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Edmund L. Hatch)

A Marine from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, returns fire on attacking Taliban fighters outside of Balu Morghab, Badghis province, Afghanistan, Jan. 20. Taliban fighters opened fire on a patrol consisting of 2d MSOB Marines and Afghan National Army soldiers from the 2/1/207th Kandak. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Edmund L. Hatch)

A Marine from 2d Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, looks out of the windows of an Afghan National Police checkpoint outside of Bala Morghab, Badghis province, Afghanistan, Dec. 22. During patrols throughout Bala Morghab, U.S., Afghan, and coalition forces regularly inspect the city's checkpoints to ensure they are fully stocked with supplies and to check on the well being of the soldiers. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Edmund L. Hatch)

A U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command Marine holds security around a humanitarian aide site in the Farah province

A U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command Marine holds security around a humanitarian aide site in the Farah province

A U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command Marine takes cover as a sand storm approaches in Farah province, Afghanistan.

Marines from the U.S. Marine Corps Special Operation Command (MARSOC), along with Afghan national army from the 2/2/207th Kandak and Italian Army Operational Mentoring Liaison Team members conducted a combat reconnaissance patrol around the mountains of Bagwa, Farah province, Afghanistan Feb. 25. During the CRP the teams were lead by the ANA. They delivered supplies to a school in Dizak, and then continued on through the mountains of Bagwa conducting route reconnaissance.

A curious Afghan girl peeks out from her stoop while her male family members receive items from ANA soldiers while a MARSOC Marine holds security in the village of Ranj Bala, Farah Prov., Feb 28. Afghan National Army from the 2/2/207th Kandak, Italian Army Operational Mentoring Liaison Team and Marines from the Marine Special Operation Command conduct a combat reconnaissance patrol through the mountainous region of Farah. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sergeant Nicholas Pilch)

A MARSOC Marine holds security while coalition forces set up camp for the evening in the hills of Farah province, Feb 25. Afghan national army from the 2/2/207th Kandak, Italian Army Operational Mentoring Liaison Team and Marines from the Marine Special Operation Command conduct a combat reconnaissance patrol through the mountainous region of Farah. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Nicholas Pilch)

A MARSOC Marine and CJSOTF Soldier move to a higher position after coalition forces received smalls arms fire during a route recon patrol through the hills of Farah province, Feb 26. Afghan national army from the 2/2/207th Kandak, Italian Army Operational Mentoring Liaison Team and Marines from the Marine Special Operation Command conduct a combat reconnaissance patrol through the mountainous region of Farah. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Nicholas Pilch)

Afghan national army from the 2/2/207th Kandak, Italian Army Operational Mentoring Liaison Team and Marines from the Marine Special Operation Command convoy to Shawan Garrison, Farah Province, Afghanistan Feb. 27. During the convoy the Marines made a stop at a river pass that is used to access the garrison and inform the locals that were digging a canal that there would be a bridge in the area they were digging very soon.

A Special Forces Soldier scans the terrain after a short night's sleep during a three-day mission through the mountains of Bagwa, Farah province, Afghanistan Feb. 25.

Afghan national army from the 2/2/207th Kandak, Italian Army Operational Mentoring Liaison Team and Marines from the Marine Special Operation Command conduct a combat reconnaissance patrol around the mountains of Bagwa, Farah province, Afghanistan Feb. 26. During the CRP the teams were lead by the ANA and they dropped off supplies to a school in Dizak, continued on through the mountains of Bagwa conducting route reconnaissance while getting eyes on the mountain terrain and while conducting the route recon the teams received small arms contact. No injuries occurred during the two-day CRP.

A Special Forces Soldier scans the terrain for threats during a fire fight in the mountains of Bagwa, Farah province, Afghanistan Feb. 25. MARSOC Marines and ANA conducted a three-day mission to scan the mountains for possible future routes and while on patrol the teams came under fire.

A MARSOC Marine pulls security near a poppy field in Peyo as Afghan National Army Soldiers and Marine Special Operation Command Marines patrol through the village in Farah province, Bala Baluk District, Afghanistan, March 29. The coalition forces started the three-day CRP lead by the ANA with a dismounted patrol through Suji, Peyo and Pasaw, an air drop of humanitarian aide supplies for Aka Sadiq and a route recon through the mountainous terrain of eastern Bala Baluk.

MARSOC Marines take a knee in a wheat field in Suji as Afghan National Army Soldiers and Marine Special Operation Command Marines patrol through the village in Farah province, Bala Baluk District, Afghanistan, March 29. The coalition forces started the three-day CRP lead by the ANA with a dismounted patrol through Suji, Peyo and Pasaw, an air drop of humanitarian aide supplies for Aka Sadiq and a route recon through the mountainous terrain of eastern Bala Baluk.

A Marine takes pictures of role players acting as terrorists during the culmination of a three-week long special reconnaissance training module at the Military Operations in Urban Terrain facility, June 22. The training was a smaller part of the seven-month long U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, Individual Training Course. During the exercise, Marines trained to collect information on mock enemy forces.

A Marine records collected information on a laptop during the culmination of a three-week long special reconnaissance training module at the Military Operations in Urban Terrain facility, June 22. The training was a smaller part of the seven-month long U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, Individual Training Course. During the exercise, Marines trained to collect information on mock enemy forces.

Marines shoot M-4 carbines on June 30 as part of a five-week marksmanship and close quarters battle course at the Verona Loop area’s K Ranges. The training was a smaller part of the seven month-long U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, Individual Training Course. The Marines are tested in the final week of the course during numerous scenarios.

A Marine with a Marine Special Operations Team gets some sleep while waiting for vehicle repairs in Moqur, Afghanistan July 6. ANA soldiers alongside U.S. Special Forces troops moved into Darrah-I-Bum to establish a Forward Operating Base there with the hopes of alleviating security issues in an area with heavy insurgent activity.
DATE: 7/6/2010

Gunnery Sgt. Robert Gilbert II’s body armor on display. Robert Jr. died March 16 of wounds sustained during combat operations in Afghanistan.
DATE: 8/6/2010

Marine Network Operators Course students communicate with operators in the field during the course’s final exercise. This was the fourth iteration of the 13-week course.
DATE: 8/13/2010

A Marine assigned to Special Operations Task Force-West in Herat province, Afghanistan, moves into position to investigate a possible threat Aug. 14 during a presence patrol in the village of Zanghlav, Injil District. The coalition force conducted the patrol to increase base security and promote the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan governance in the province.

A Marine assigned to Special Operations Task Force-West in Herat province, Afghanistan, scans the area around him before moving forward during an Aug. 14 presence patrol in the village of Zanghlav, Injil District. The coalition force conducted the patrol to increase base security and promote the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan governance in the province.

A Marine assigned to Special Operations Task Force-West in Herat province, Afghanistan, observes his sector of fire during an Aug. 14 presence patrol in the village of Zanghlav, Injil District. The coalition force conducted the patrol to increase base security and promote the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan governance in the province.

Marines assigned to Special Operations Task Force-West in Herat province, Afghanistan, reviews images taken by the team during an assessment of an area Aug. 14 during a presence patrol in the village of Zanghlav, Injil District. The coalition force conducted the patrol to increase base security and promote the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan governance in the province.

A Marine from Special Operations Task Force West, speaks with another member of the patrol providing security for key leader engagements in Zanghlav and Rabat-I-Sapcha villages, Guzarah district, Herat province, Afghanistan Aug. 22. The Afghan National Police assisted by coalition forces conducted the meetings in order to increase base security and promote Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan governance in Herat province.

A Marine from Special Operations Task Force West, sits in his turret before a combined presence patrol and key leader engagements in Zanghlav and Rabat-I-Sapcha villages, Guzarah district, Herat province, Afghanistan Aug. 22. The Afghan National Police assisted by the coalition force conducted the meetings in order to increase base security and promote Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan governance in Herat province.

A Marine from Special Operations Task Force West, provides security during a combined presence patrol and key leader engagements in Zanghlav and Rabat-I-Sapcha villages, Guzarah district, Herat province, Afghanistan Aug. 22. The Afghan National Police assisted by the coalition force conducted the meetings in order to increase base security and promote Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan governance in Herat province.

Marines from Special Operations Task Force West, provides security during a combined presence patrol and key leader engagements in Zanghlav and Rabat-I-Sapcha villages, Guzarah district, Herat province, Afghanistan Aug. 22. The Afghan National Police assisted by the coalition force conducted the engagements to promote Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan governance in Herat province.

Children from the village of Rabat-I-Sapcha watch Marines as they provide security during a combined presence patrol and key leader engagement in the village, Guzarah district, Herat province, Afghanistan Aug. 22. The Afghan National Police assisted by Marines from Special Operations Task Force West, conducted the engagements to increase base security and promote Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan governance in Herat province.

Two Marines with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, provide security during a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, NC. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week.

A Marine with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, patrols through a forest during a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week.

Two Marines with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, put on camouflage paint and clean their weapons before conducting a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, NC. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week.

Marines with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, put on camoflage paint, clean weapons and prepare their gear before conducting a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, NC. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week.

A Marine with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, takes aim during a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week.

A Marine with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, provides security during a fire and menuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week.

A Marine with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, takes aim during a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, NC. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Provost/Released)

Marines with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, run toward their target during a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, NC. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Provost/Released)

Marines with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, looks through his sights while providing cover during a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, NC. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Provost/Released)

Marines with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, provide cover during a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, NC. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Provost/Released)

Marines with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, slowly work through tall grass during a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010, aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Provost/Released)

Two Marines with Individual Training Course, Marine Special Operations School, Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, low crawl through tall grass during a fire and maneuver exercise Sept. 24, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, NC. The exercise was the culminating event of a weapons and tactics package the course conducted that week. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Provost/Released)

A Marine in U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command's new Assessment and Selection Preparation and Orientation Course participates in a 10-mile hike Sept. 29 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. ASPOC is designed to prepare Critical Skills Operator candidates for the challenges of Assessment and Selection.

Marines in U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command's new Assessment and Selection Preparation and Orientation Course conduct a 10-mile hike Sept. 29, 2010 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. ASPOC is designed to prepare Critical Skills Operator candidates for the challenges of Assessment and Selection.

Marines in U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command's new Assessment and Selection Preparation and Orientation Course conduct a 10-mile hike Sept. 29 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. ASPOC is designed to prepare Critical Skills Operator candidates for the challenges of Assessment and Selection.

Marines in U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command's new Assessment and Selection Preparation and Orientation Course conduct a 10-mile hike Sept. 29 aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C. ASPOC is designed to prepare Critical Skills Operator candidates for the challenges of Assessment and Selection.

Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, MCCS Sponsorship Day at 1st MSOB compound.

Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, MCCS Sponsorship Day at 1st MSOB compound.

A Marine with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, fires a round at a silhouette target during combat marksmanship training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2010. MARSOC critical skills operators continuously sharpen their marksmanship skills for future operations.

A Marine with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, fires a round at a silhouette target during combat marksmanship training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2010. MARSOC critical skills operators continuously sharpen their marksmanship skills for future operations.

A round from an M-45 Close Quarters Combat Pistol leaves the barrel during combat marksmanship training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2010. MARSOC critical skills operators continuously sharpen their marksmanship skills for future operations.

Marines with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, walk toward their targets during combat marksmanship training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2010. MARSOC critical skills operators continuously sharpen their marksmanship skills for future operations.

Two Marines with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, blast a door open during explosive breaching refresher training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2010. MARSOC critical skills operators constantly sharpen their skills for future operations.

Two Marines with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, blast a door open during explosive breaching refresher training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2010. MARSOC critical skills operators constantly sharpen their skills for future operations.

Two Marines with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, blast a door open during explosive breaching refresher training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2010. MARSOC critical skills operators constantly sharpen their skills for future operations.

A Marines with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, blast a door open during explosive breaching refresher training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2010. MARSOC critical skills operators constantly sharpen their skills for future operations.

Marines with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, blast an opening through a mock wall during explosive breaching refresher training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2010. MARSOC critical skills operators constantly sharpen their skills for future operations.

Marines with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, blast an opening through a mock wall during explosive breaching refresher training aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 3, 2010. MARSOC critical skills operators constantly sharpen their skills for future operations.

Afghan National Policemen and U.S. Special Forces engage insurgents on the far side of a canal while pulling security near the village of Hyderabad, Gereshk district, Helmand province Dec. 3. A combined force totaling more than 350 international troops emplaced a Dry Support Bridge across a canal near a Forward Operating Base in the area. The DSB is the first of it's kind to be emplaced in Afghanistan.

A Marine stands awaiting orders, as the sun sets, the evening before emplacing a Dry Support Bridge over one of the canals near the village of Hyderabad, Gereshk District, Helmand province, Dec. 2. The combined force totaled more than 350 people and took two days from demolition to construction. The DSB is the first of its kind to be emplaced in Afghanistan.

A Marine stands awaiting orders, as the sun sets, the evening before emplacing a Dry Support Bridge over one of the canals near the village of Hyderabad, Gereshk District, Helmand province, Dec. 2. The combined force totaled more than 350 people and took two days from demolition to construction. The DSB is the first of its kind to be emplaced in Afghanistan.

A Joint Terminal Attack Controller with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command looks through a SOF Laser Marker to provide a laser mark on a target for supporting aircraft during Carrier Airwing Training conducted by the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center aboard Naval Air Station Fallon, Nev., April 14. During the exercise, MARSOC JTACs practiced their critical skills and renewed their currencies and qualifications.

Joint Terminal Attack Controllers with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command watch for aircraft during Carrier Airwing Training conducted by the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center aboard Naval Air Station Fallon, Nev., April 14. During the exercise, MARSOC JTACs practiced their critical skills and renewed their currencies and qualifications.

Joint Terminal Attack Controllers with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command double-check coordinates with aircraft during Carrier Airwing Training conducted by the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center aboard Naval Air Station Fallon, Nev., April 7. During the exercise, MARSOC JTACs practiced their critical skills and renewed their currencies and qualifications.

A Joint Terminal Attack Controller with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command looks out the window of a Navy MH-60S helicopter during Carrier Airwing Training conducted by the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center aboard Naval Air Station Fallon, Nev., April 7. During the exercise, MARSOC JTACs practiced their critical skills and renewed their currencies and qualifications.

A Joint Terminal Attack Controller with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command communicates with a Navy MH-60S helicopter during landing as part of Carrier Airwing Training conducted by the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center aboard Naval Air Station Fallon, Nev., April 5. During the exercise, MARSOC JTACs practiced their critical skills and renewed their currencies and qualifications

A simulated Improvised Explosive Device detonates during a Humvee convoy as part of Carrier Airwing Training conducted by the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center aboard Naval Air Station Fallon, Nev., April 5. During the exercise, Joint Terminal Attack Controllers with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command practiced their critical skills and renewed their currencies and qualifications.

A Joint Terminal Attack Controller with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command checks his grid coordinates during Carrier Airwing Training conducted by the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center aboard Naval Air Station Fallon, Nev., April 7. During the exercise, MARSOC JTACs practiced their critical skills and renewed their currencies and qualifications.

A Joint Terminal Attack Controller with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command communicates with a Navy MH-60S helicopter during takeoff as part of Carrier Airwing Training conducted by the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center aboard Naval Air Station Fallon, Nev., April 7. During the exercise, MARSOC JTACs practiced their critical skills and renewed their currencies and qualifications.

A Joint Terminal Attack Controller with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command communicates with a Navy MH-60S helicopter during takeoff as part of Carrier Airwing Training conducted by the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center aboard Naval Air Station Fallon, Nev., April 5. During the exercise, MARSOC JTACs practiced their critical skills and renewed their currencies and qualifications.

A Joint Terminal Attack Controller with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command communicates with aircraft from inside a Humvee during a convoy exercise as part of Carrier Airwing Training conducted by the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center aboard Naval Air Station Fallon, Nev., April 5. During the exercise, MARSOC JTACs practiced their critical skills and renewed their currencies and qualifications.

Marines with 3rd Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, check each others' gear before conducting a High Altitude, High Opening jump as part of a Double-Bag Static-Line parachute course in Wendover, Utah, April 9 - 21. The course was taught by personnel from the 2nd MSOB paraloft and the Airborne Mobile Training Team, and is designed to give Marines a basic understanding of HAHO operations.

A jumpmaster with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, dives out of a plane during a Double-Bag Static-Line parachute course in Wendover, Utah, April 9 - 21. The course was taught by personnel from the 2nd MSOB paraloft and the Airborne Mobile Training Team, and is designed to give Marines a basic understanding of HAHO operations.

A soldier attached to U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, provides security outside of a village during a pre-deployment exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif. May 15, 2011. The three-week exercise is designed to prepare MARSOC Marines for deployment to combat operations in Afghanistan by immersing them in an environment as realistic and comprehensive as possible.

A Marine sniper with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, provides security from the back of an M-ATV during a medical engagement as part of a pre-deployment exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., May 15. The three-week exercise is designed to prepare MARSOC Marines for deployment to combat operations in Afghanistan by immersing them in an environment as realistic and comprehensive as possible.

A Marine sniper with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, provides security from the back of an M-ATV during a medical engagement as part of a pre-deployment exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., May 15. The three-week exercise is designed to prepare MARSOC Marines for deployment to combat operations in Afghanistan by immersing them in an environment as realistic and comprehensive as possible.

Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, provide security during a medical engagement as part of a pre-deployment exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., May 15. The three-week exercise is designed to prepare MARSOC Marines for deployment to combat operations in Afghanistan by immersing them in an environment as realistic and comprehensive as possible.

Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, provide security during a medical engagement as part of a pre-deployment exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., May 15. The three-week exercise is designed to prepare MARSOC Marines for deployment to combat operations in Afghanistan by immersing them in an environment as realistic and comprehensive as possible.

A Marine with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, speaks with an Afghan role player during a medical engagement as part of a pre-deployment exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., May 15. The three-week exercise is designed to prepare MARSOC Marines for deployment to combat operations in Afghanistan by immersing them in an environment as realistic and comprehensive as possible.

A Marine with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, provides security during a medical engagement as part of a pre-deployment exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif. May 15, 2011. The three-week exercise is designed to prepare MARSOC Marines for deployment to combat operations in Afghanistan by immersing them in an environment as realistic and comprehensive as possible. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kyle McNally/Released)

Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, walk through a village with Afghan role players during a pre-deployment exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif. May 15, 2011. The three-week exercise is designed to prepare MARSOC Marines for deployment to combat operations in Afghanistan by immersing them in an environment as realistic and comprehensive as possible.

Marines with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, patrol through a village during a pre-deployment exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif. May 15, 2011. The three-week exercise is designed to prepare MARSOC Marines for deployment to combat operations in Afghanistan by immersing them in an environment as realistic and comprehensive as possible. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kyle McNally/Released)

A Marine with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command, looks out from the back of an M-ATV during a simulated convoy as part of a pre-deployment exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif. May 15, 2011. The three-week exercise is designed to prepare MARSOC Marines for deployment to combat operations in Afghanistan by immersing them in an environment as realistic and comprehensive as possible.

In this June 3, 2011 file photo, Afghan National Army soldiers and US Marines rush with badly wounded Afghan Army soldiers to a a medevac helicopter from the US Army's Task Force Lift "Dust Off", Charlie Company 1-214 Aviation Regiment, after they came under fire in the outskirts of Sangin, in the Helmand Province of southern Afghanistan. (AP Photo/Anja Niedringhaus, File)