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III MEF is the nucleus of a joint and coalition Stand-In Force within the First Island Chain. In competition, III MEF assures and expands access for the joint force across the Indo-Pacific. In crisis, it provides in-place response forces to secure allies and partners while deterring adversary aggression. In conflict, III MEF fights from advanced naval bases as part of a naval expeditionary force and enables Joint Force objectives in the Indo-Pacific.
A CH-53 helicopter with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466, releases lift cables after an external lift at Landing Zone Swan, Okinawa, Japan.
U.S. Marines with III MEF share their perspectives on the professional, personal, and family benefits of serving in the Indo-Pacific.
U.S. Marine with 3rd Littoral Combat Team, observes simulated targets during a live-fire range at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Jan. 19, 2026
U.S. Marines with 3rd Littoral Combat Team, offload from U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook helicopters at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Jan. 21, 2026.
A U.S. Marine with 3rd Littoral Combat Team adjusts fire during a live-fire training event at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Jan. 15, 2026.
U.S. Marines with Marine Aircraft Group 12, refuel an F/A-18C Hornet at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 30, 2025.
Maj. Codi Anne Mullen assumed command of Headquarters Company, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, during a ceremony on Jan. 13, 2026, at Camp Courtney. The event marked a new chapter in her career as a logistics officer and commander. Headquarters Company provides personnel and support that allows the brigade’s command element to function daily.
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The Marine Corps has long been committed to retaining its talented individuals. The E-8 Redesignation Pilot Program serves to continue that commitment to retaining and growing talent. By allowing master sergeants to shift into the first sergeant role, the program allows the Marine Corps to leverage the leadership capabilities of seasoned Marines, aligning talent more efficiently with the Corps’ operational needs. First Sergeant Christopher J. McCullar exemplifies talent that the Marine Corps seeks to keep. His outstanding performance over nearly two decades has afforded him the chance to chase after something he’s wanted since his early days in the Marine Corps.
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP SMEDLEY D. BUTLER, Okinawa, Japan – For decades, III Marine Expeditionary Force has stood as a beacon of readiness and capability in the Indo-Pacific region. As the Marine Corps marks 250 years of service, III MEF shows no signs of slowing down.