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U.S. Marines assigned to the Ground Combat Element, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepare to board a CH-53E Super Stallion while on the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19, Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted advanced ARG/MEU readiness sustainment training. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

U.S. Marines assigned to the Ground Combat Element, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepare to board a CH-53E Super Stallion while on the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19, Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted advanced ARG/MEU readiness sustainment training. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

Photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda

A U.S. Marine assigned to the Ground Combat Element, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepares to board a CH-53E Super Stallion while on the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

A U.S. Marine assigned to the Ground Combat Element, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepares to board a CH-53E Super Stallion while on the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

Photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda

U.S. Marines assigned to the Ground Combat Element, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepare to board a CH-53E Super Stallion while on the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

U.S. Marines assigned to the Ground Combat Element, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepare to board a CH-53E Super Stallion while on the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

Photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to the Aviation Combat Element of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), lands aboard the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to the Aviation Combat Element of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), lands aboard the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

Photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to the Aviation Combat Element of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepares to land aboard the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to the Aviation Combat Element of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepares to land aboard the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 18, 2024. U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th MEU(SOC), embarked aboard the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG) conducted a five-day ARG/MEU readiness and sustainment training exercise focused on core mission essential tasks. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

Photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda

A U.S. Marine Corps medium tactical vehicle replacement, assigned to Combat Logistics Battalions 22, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (26th MEU(SOC)), offloads from a landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) during the 26th MEU(SOC) exercise named “Odyssey Encore,” Volos, Greece, Jan. 8, 2024. The 26th MEU(SOC) readiness sustainment exercise enhances the unit’s operational capabilities as an expeditionary crisis response force and provides an opportunity for the 26th MEU(SOC) to conduct advanced integrated expeditionary operations and live-fire training with both the 32nd and 24th Marine Brigades in Greece. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Rafael Brambila-Pelayo)

A U.S. Marine Corps medium tactical vehicle replacement, assigned to Combat Logistics Battalions 22, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (26th MEU(SOC)), offloads from a landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) during the 26th MEU(SOC) exercise named “Odyssey Encore,” Volos, Greece, Jan. 8, 2024. The 26th MEU(SOC) readiness sustainment exercise enhances the unit’s operational capabilities as an expeditionary crisis response force and provides an opportunity for the 26th MEU(SOC) to conduct advanced integrated expeditionary operations and live-fire training with both the 32nd and 24th Marine Brigades in Greece. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Rafael Brambila-Pelayo)

Photo by Cpl. Rafael BrambilaPelayo

231221-M-VB101-2021 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 21, 2023) U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Travis Bird (right), the company commander with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), speaks with Marines prior to conducting a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise aboard amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), Dec. 21. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean)

231221-M-VB101-2021 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 21, 2023) U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Travis Bird (right), the company commander with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), speaks with Marines prior to conducting a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise aboard amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), Dec. 21. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean)

Photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean

A U.S. Marine Corps 11m rigid hull, inflatable boat is lowered from Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) in preparation for integrated amphibious operations with Hellenic Marines assigned to 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade during the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (26th MEU(SOC)) exercise named “Odyssey Encore,” Volos, Greece, Jan. 8, 2024. The 26th MEU(SOC) readiness sustainment exercise enhances the unit’s operational capabilities as an expeditionary crisis response force and provides an opportunity for the 26th MEU(SOC) to conduct advanced integrated expeditionary operations and live-fire training with both the 32nd and 24th Marine Brigades in Greece. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Rafael Brambila-Pelayo)

A U.S. Marine Corps 11m rigid hull, inflatable boat is lowered from Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) in preparation for integrated amphibious operations with Hellenic Marines assigned to 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade during the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (26th MEU(SOC)) exercise named “Odyssey Encore,” Volos, Greece, Jan. 8, 2024. The 26th MEU(SOC) readiness sustainment exercise enhances the unit’s operational capabilities as an expeditionary crisis response force and provides an opportunity for the 26th MEU(SOC) to conduct advanced integrated expeditionary operations and live-fire training with both the 32nd and 24th Marine Brigades in Greece. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Rafael Brambila-Pelayo)

Photo by Cpl. Rafael BrambilaPelayo

U.S. Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), execute a live-fire deck shoot aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) in the Mediterranean Sea, Dec. 12, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jesus Sepulveda Torres)

U.S. Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), execute a live-fire deck shoot aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) in the Mediterranean Sea, Dec. 12, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jesus Sepulveda Torres)

Photo by Staff Sgt. Jesus Sepulveda Torre

231226-M-VB101-1095 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 26, 2023) U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Earl Ehrhart V, an AV-8B Harrier pilot attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), receives signals during flight operations aboard amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), Dec. 26. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean)

231226-M-VB101-1095 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 26, 2023) U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Earl Ehrhart V, an AV-8B Harrier pilot attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), receives signals during flight operations aboard amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), Dec. 26. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean)

Photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean

231221-M-VB101-2066 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 21, 2023) A U.S. Marine with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepares to board a CH-53E Super Stallion conducting a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise aboard amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), Dec. 21. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean)

231221-M-VB101-2066 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 21, 2023) A U.S. Marine with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepares to board a CH-53E Super Stallion conducting a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise aboard amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), Dec. 21. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean)

Photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean

A U.S. Marine with the Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), instructs Hellenic Marines assigned to the 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade on how to properly rappel down a tower during fast rope and rope suspension training at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, on the island of Crete, Greece, Dec. 18, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

A U.S. Marine with the Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), instructs Hellenic Marines assigned to the 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade on how to properly rappel down a tower during fast rope and rope suspension training at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, on the island of Crete, Greece, Dec. 18, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

Photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda

A U.S. Marine with the Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), rappels down a tower during fast rope and rope suspension training at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, on the island of Crete, Greece, Dec. 18, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

A U.S. Marine with the Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), rappels down a tower during fast rope and rope suspension training at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, on the island of Crete, Greece, Dec. 18, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

Photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda

U.S. Marines with the Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepare to breach a building during Military Operations on Urbanized Terrain training at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, on the island of Crete, Greece, Dec. 16, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

U.S. Marines with the Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), prepare to breach a building during Military Operations on Urbanized Terrain training at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, on the island of Crete, Greece, Dec. 16, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

Photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Michael Bogdanos, a platoon commander with the Light Armored Reconnaissance Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th MEU(SOC), conducts beach landing during an amphibious assault training mission as part of the 26th MEU(SOC) Exercise “Odyssey Encore”, Volos, Greece, Jan. 8, 2024. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) Marine Air-Ground Task Force readiness sustainment exercise enhances the unit’s operational capabilities as a crisis response force. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean)

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Michael Bogdanos, a platoon commander with the Light Armored Reconnaissance Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th MEU(SOC), conducts beach landing during an amphibious assault training mission as part of the 26th MEU(SOC) Exercise “Odyssey Encore”, Volos, Greece, Jan. 8, 2024. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) Marine Air-Ground Task Force readiness sustainment exercise enhances the unit’s operational capabilities as a crisis response force. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean)

Photo by Sgt. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean

U.S. Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) execute a small-scale amphibious assault alongside Greek Marines with 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade during a bilateral exercise near Skyros, Greece, Dec. 2, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jesus Sepulveda Torres)

U.S. Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) execute a small-scale amphibious assault alongside Greek Marines with 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade during a bilateral exercise near Skyros, Greece, Dec. 2, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jesus Sepulveda Torres)

Photo by Staff Sgt. Jesus Sepulveda Torres

U.S. Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) execute a small-scale amphibious assault alongside Greek Marines with 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade during a bilateral exercise near Skyros, Greece, Dec. 2, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Michele Clarke)

U.S. Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) execute a small-scale amphibious assault alongside Greek Marines with 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade during a bilateral exercise near Skyros, Greece, Dec. 2, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Michele Clarke)

Photo by Cpl. Michele Clarke

U.S. Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) execute a small-scale amphibious assault alongside Greek Marines with the 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade part of a bilateral exercise near Skyros, Greece, Dec. 2, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Michele Clarke)

U.S. Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) execute a small-scale amphibious assault alongside Greek Marines with the 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade part of a bilateral exercise near Skyros, Greece, Dec. 2, 2023. U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked on the ships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, are on a scheduled deployment as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force with elements deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., Allied, and Partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Michele Clarke)

Photo by Cpl. Michele Clarke

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Austin Bradley, a motor transport operator assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), receives a piece of cake from Gunnery Sgt. Jeremy Meierotto, during a cake cutting ceremony celebrating the Marine Corps Birthday aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Nov. 10, 2023. A key ritual of the cake-cutting ceremony is the passing of the cake from the oldest Marine present to the youngest, symbolizing generations of knowledge being shared to the future of the Corps, and the youngest Marine in the event was Bradley, at 19 years old.

The USS Mesa Verde, assigned to the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Austin Bradley, a motor transport operator assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), receives a piece of cake from Gunnery Sgt. Jeremy Meierotto, during a cake cutting ceremony celebrating the Marine Corps Birthday aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Mediterranean Sea, Nov. 10, 2023. A key ritual of the cake-cutting ceremony is the passing of the cake from the oldest Marine present to the youngest, symbolizing generations of knowledge being shared to the future of the Corps, and the youngest Marine in the event was Bradley, at 19 years old. The USS Mesa Verde, assigned to the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda)

Photo by Cpl. Aziza Kamuhanda

230906-M-WR609-1080 UDAIRI RANGE COMPLEX, Kuwait (Sept. 6, 2023) – A U.S. Marine with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) (Special Operations Capable) (26MEU(SOC)), fires an M72 LAW anti-tank weapon during an integrated platoon reinforced live-fire attack with Kuwaiti Marines at Udairi Range Complex, Kuwait, Sept. 6, 2023. Elements of the 26th MEU(SOC) conduct bilateral training with Kuwait armed forces to increase interoperability, maintain operational readiness, and strengthen relationships with partner forces. Components of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and 26th MEU(SOC) are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Jeffrey Cordero)

230906-M-WR609-1080 UDAIRI RANGE COMPLEX, Kuwait (Sept. 6, 2023) – A U.S. Marine with Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) (Special Operations Capable) (26MEU(SOC)), fires an M72 LAW anti-tank weapon during an integrated platoon reinforced live-fire attack with Kuwaiti Marines at Udairi Range Complex, Kuwait, Sept. 6, 2023. Elements of the 26th MEU(SOC) conduct bilateral training with Kuwait armed forces to increase interoperability, maintain operational readiness, and strengthen relationships with partner forces. Components of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and 26th MEU(SOC) are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Jeffrey Cordero)

Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Jeffrey Cordero