Oorah! The United States Marine Corps Celebrates 236 Years [Photos] « WCBS-FM 101.1

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Oorah! The United States Marine Corps Celebrates 236 Years [Photos]

The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

383987 07: U.S. Navy and Marine Corps personnel provide port security following the October 12, 2000 terrorist bombing attack on USS Cole (DDG 67) in Aden, Yemen, October 18, 2000. Security personnel established checkpoints and searched incoming vehicles for contraband and explosives while the ship was prepared for its journey back to the United States. (Photo by Lyle G. Becker/U.S. Navy/Newsmakers)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

399488 06: A U.S. Marine from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) waits to go on patrol inside an Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAV) January 8, 2002 while aboard the USS Peleliu. The USS Peleliu is conducting missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (Photo by Ryan M. Kitchell/U.S. Navy/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

400247 01: A Marine scout from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit provides security on a roadside December 8, 2001 south of Kandahar city in Afghanistan. Afghan villagers emerged from roofless, windowless, adobe homes to help push Marine vehicles from soft sand during the unit's movement. (Photo by Joseph R. Chenelly/USMC/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

398687 04: U.S. Marines of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) head for their helicopter ride to the war zone in Afghanistan December 12, 2001 aboard the amphibious command ship the USS Bataan in the Arabian Sea. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group is deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (Photo by Johnny Bivera/U.S. Navy/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

400896 01: U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Joseph Hancock of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit prepares to depart the Kandahar International Airport with his unit January 23, 2002 after serving forty-three days in Afghanistan (Photo by Ted Banks/U.S. Navy/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

398922 02: US Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed from the USS Bataan's Amphibious Ready Group fly in a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter December 14, 2001 to an undisclosed location with field gear and weapons. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group is operating in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (Photo by Johnny Bivera/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

383987 06: A U.S. Marine from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit mans a 50 Caliber machine gun October 13, 2000 at a security post near the port of Aden, Yemen. Security personnel established checkpoints and searched incoming vehicles for contraband and explosives following the October 12, 2000 terrorist bombing attack on USS Cole. (Photo by U.S. Marine Corps/Branden P. O''Brien/Newsmakers).
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

397553 03: U.S. Marines walk through green smoke for a Military Operations in an Urban Terrain (MOUT) medical training exercise to occupy buildings for massive mock casualties November 20, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, CA. The Marines, which included 140 Hospital Corpsman and Dental Technicians, were required to establish a medical facility in one of the occupied buildings and perform Echelon 1-sustainment care of their ''wounded'' fellow Marines. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

397426 01: U.S. Marines rehearse tactically exiting helicopters and forming a security perimeter October 23, 2001 while aboard the USS Peleliu in the Arabian Sea. The USS Peleliu and other ships are in the area conducting missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (Photo by Joseph R. Chenelly/USMC/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395007 02: Staff sergeant Samuel Dunn (L) and Corporal Carlos Constanzo of the First Marine Division demonstrate tactics in "clearing a room" during urban warfare training, September 26, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, California, north of San Diego. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

FILE PHOTO: U.S. Marines deploy concertina wire to prevent infiltration of their encampment during Operation Desert Shield. (photo by DOD)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

398922 01: US Marines with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed from the USS Bataan's Amphibious Ready Group arrive December 14, 2001 at an undisclosed location with field gear and weapons. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group is operating in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (Photo by Johnny Bivera/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395007 04: Soldiers of the First Marine Division undergo urban warfare training, September 26, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, California, north of San Diego. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395007 01: Staff sergeant Samuel Dunn (L) and Corporal Carlos Constanzo of the First Marine Division demonstrate tactics in "clearing a room" during urban warfare training, September 26, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, California, north of San Diego. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

399412 03: U.S. Marines of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) and Task Force 58 walk to their helicopters as they deploy to conduct operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom January 5, 2002 in Kandahar, Afghanistan. (Photo by Johnny Bivera/U.S. Navy/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395297 08: Members of G Company, 2ed Battalion, Fourth Marine Division set up a 60mm motar after charging from an Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAV) during combat readiness training October 3, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, CA. AAV's transport troops over land or water. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395007 06: Soldiers of the First Marine Division undergo urban warfare training, September 26, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, California, north of San Diego. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

394884 07: U.S. Marines descend from an HC-46 Sea Knight helicopter by "fast roping" during training exercises September 24, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, CA, north of San Diego. Fast roping is a rappel-like method of rapidly deploying Marines from helicopters onto land or rooftops. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395007 03: Soldiers of the First Marine Division practice crossing a "dangerous area" during urban warfare training, September 26, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, California, north of San Diego. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

394884 08: Soldiers of the First Marine Division parachute from a HC-46 Sea Knight helicopter during combat readiness training, September 25, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, California, north of San Diego. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395297 13: Private First Class William Draughon of G Company, 2ed Battalion, Fourth Marine Division takes a break to eat during combat readiness training October 3, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, CA. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

394884 06: U.S. Marines descend from an HC-46 Sea Knight helicopter by "fast roping" during training exercises September 24, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, CA, north of San Diego. Fast roping is a rappel-like method of rapidly deploying Marines from helicopters onto land or rooftops. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

394884 08: U.S. Marines practice hand-to-hand combat techniques during training exercises September 24, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, CA, north of San Diego. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

394884 09: U.S. Marines run in formation during training exercises September 24, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, CA, north of San Diego. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

394884 09: Soldiers of the First Marine Division walk through a dust cloud September 25, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, California, north of San Diego. The soldiers will board an HC-46 Sea Knight helicopter, in order to practice parachuting for combat readiness training. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

394884 10: Soldiers of the First Marine Division walk through a dust cloud September 25, 2001 at Camp Pendleton, California, north of San Diego. The soldiers will board an HC-46 Sea Knight helicopter, in the background, in order to practice parachuting for combat readiness training. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395414 06: U.S. Marines stand ready for a high-altitude mountain assault in the Sierra Nevada Mountains during mountain warfare training of the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment out of Camp Lejeune, NC, October 5, 2001 at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center near Bridgeport, CA. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395414 13: U.S. Marines make a high-altitude mountain assault in the Sierra Nevada Mountains during mountain warfare training of the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment out of Camp Lejeune, NC, October 5, 2001 at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center near Bridgeport, CA. The American Marines were also joined by British Royal Marines on the mission. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395414 11: U.S. Marines make a high-altitude mountain assault in the Sierra Nevada Mountains during mountain warfare training of the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment out of Camp Lejeune, NC, October 5, 2001 at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center near Bridgeport, CA. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395414 14: U.S. Marines make a high-altitude mountain assault in the Sierra Nevada Mountains during mountain warfare training of the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment out of Camp Lejeune, NC, October 5, 2001 at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center near Bridgeport, CA. The American Marines were also joined by British Royal Marines on the mission. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

394505 04: U.S. Marines Take Up Position Around Critical Areas Of The Rota Naval Station In Spain September 14, 2001 In An Effort To Increase Its Force Protection Posture Following Terrorist Attacks In New York City And Washington, D.C. (Photo By U.S. Navy/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Travis Neumayer Watches The Perimeter At The Gate Of Camp Hope, Albania June 4, 1999, As Replacement U.S. Air Force Security Personnel Enter The Camp. Neumayer Was Standing The Last Amphibious Readiness Group Watch At The Camp Before The Marines Were To Be Relieved By U.S. Air Force Security Forces. (Photo By U.S. Navy/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395414 07: A U.S. Marine wears night vision equipment for a nightime high-altitude mountain assault in the Sierra Nevada Mountains during mountain warfare training of the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment out of Camp Lejeune, NC, October 5, 2001 at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center near Bridgeport, CA. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

U.S. Marines Search The Tree Line For Trails Left By Intruders During A Jungle Patrol On Fort Howard, Panama, On June 11, 1999. The Marines Are Providing Security During The Turn Over Of The Panama Canal And U.S. Bases To The Panamanian Government Which Will Be Completed December 31, 1999. (Photo By Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Travis Neumayer Makes A Log Entry As A Contractor Vehicle Leaves The Gate Of Camp Hope, Albania June 4, 1999. Neumayer Was Standing The Last Amphibious Readiness Group Watch At The Camp Before The Marines Are To Be Relieved By U.S. Air Force Security Forces. (Photo By U.S. Navy/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

DHAHRAN, SAUDI ARABIA: Over 1,000 US Marines from Fort Bragg disembark 21 August 1990 from a Galaxy transport plane at Saudi Dhahran air base. Iraq's invasion of Kuwait 02 August 1990, ostensibly over violations of the Iraqi border, led to the Gulf War which began 16 January 1991. A US-led multi-national force repulsed Iraq from Kuwait during the "Desert Storm" offensive and a cease-fire was signed 28 February 1991. (Photo credit should read GERARD FOUET/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

GUANTANAMO, CUBA: Picture taken 24 October 1990 of US Marine private first class Alex Escoto looking through binoculars knows as "big eyes" from the north-east gate of the US Navy base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. US forces will soon begin to transfer detained al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters from Afghanistan to the US Navy base at Guantanamo Bay, where a maximum security facility is being built to hold up to 2,000 prisoners, the Pentagon said 08 January 2002. US President Theodore Roosevelt signed an agreement with Cuba 23 February 1903 to lease the military post at Guantanamo Bay. Washington agreed to pay Cuba 2,000 gold coins per year for the base, a sum now valued at 4,085 dollars. The Cuban however have refused to cash the checks from the US. The base provides logistical support for US ships and aircraft that conducts counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean. Between 1994 and 1996, the Guantanamo Bay post harbored nearly 50,000 Cubans and Haitians refugees who had been trying to reach the United States. AFP PHOTO LUKE FRAZZA (Photo credit should read LUKE FRAZZA/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA: A group of U.S. marines takes a break in the sun after unloading their equipment at Mogadishu airport 11 December 1992 to take part in "Operation Restore Hope ". The soldiers are part of a contingent of 1,800 Marines and nearly 200 French troops participating in the operation. (Photo credit should read ERIC FEFERBERG/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

QATRANEH, JORDAN: Two US Marines stand on guard at the entrance of their camp in the middle of the Jordanian desert at Qatraneh some 50 miles south of Amman 18 August. 4,300 US soldiers including the 11th Marines Expeditionary Unit and four warships are participating in the joint military maneuvers with Jordan that started today. AFP PHOTO (Photo credit should read RABIH MOGHRABI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

395414 17: A British Royal Marine joins U.S. Marines in a high-altitude mountain assault in the Sierra Nevada Mountains during mountain warfare training of the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment out of Camp Lejeune, NC, October 5, 2001 at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center near Bridgeport, CA. The American Marines were also joined by British Royal Marines on the mission. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

DHAHRAN, SAUDI ARABIA: Over 1,000 US Marines from Fort Bragg, South Carolina, disembark 21 August 1990 from a Boeing 747 transport plane at Saudi Dhahran air base. Iraq's invasion of Kuwait 02 August 1990, ostensibly over violations of the Iraqi border, led to the Gulf War which began 16 January 1991. A US-led multi-national force repulsed Iraq from Kuwait during the "Desert Storm" offensive and a cease-fire was signed 28 February 1991. (Photo credit should read GERARD FOUET/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA: A U.S. Marine keeps an eye out 14 April 1993 from his position on an armored personnel carrier at a check-point in Mogadishu. On Tuesday, Australian troops shot and killed a Somali who pointed a gun at them near Baidoa, 200 km (125 miles) northwest of here. (Photo credit should read ERIC CABANIS/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

SUBIC NAVAL BASE, PHILIPPINES: A member of a six-man U.S. Marines' patrol team drinks from his canteen during their last three-days of patrol duty around the tropical forest reserve area of the U.S. Subic Naval Base 11 November, 1992. In two weeks the U.S. turns over the military facility to the Philippine government, ending nearly a century of U.S. presence. (Photo credit should read ROMEO GACAD/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA: A U.S. Marine runs for cover, trying to find a Somali sniper who was shooting at them 17 March, 1993 at a check point in Mogadishu just after one Marine got shot by Somali gun men. (Photo credit should read ALEXANDER JOE/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA: A U.S. Marine stands on a truck as they drive through the "Green Line" dividing north and south Mogadishu in Somalia 12 December 1992 in the first food distribution convoy secured by U.S. troops. The U.S. is sending some 30,000 troops to protect the food convoys. (Photo credit should read MICHEL GANGNE/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA: U.S. Marines raid a house during a weapons-search mission near former headquarters of General Mohamed Farah Aidid in the Sinay district of Mogadishu, Somalia, 13 January, 1993. An armed Somali gunman was reportedly shot to death in the building a few minutes later. (Photo credit should read MANOOCHER DEGHATI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA: A U.S. Marine of the Special Command Forces advances in the bush a few hundred yards inland after he set foot on the beach overlooking Mogadishu's airport early 09 December 1992 at the start of the U.S.-led military and humanitarian landing in Somalia. (Photo credit should read ERIC FEFERBERG/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

CAMP PENDLETON, UNITED STATES: A detachment of US Marines from the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division prepare to enter the gas chamber during NBC (Nuclear, Biological and Chemical) warfare training at Camp Pendleton near Oceanside, California, 02 October, 2001. Marines spent 5 minutes in a gas chamber exposed to CS gas and removed their masked for 10 seconds during the exercise. AFP PHOTO Mike NELSON (Photo credit should read MIKE NELSON/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

SIERRA NEVADA MOUNTAINS, UNITED STATES: U.S. Marines from the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, train at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center at an altitude of 9,000 feet (2743 meters) high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California 05 October, 2001. The regiment of Marines commenced a night attack exercise at sunset with a group of British Royal Marines. AFP PHOTO Mike NELSON/mn (Photo credit should read MIKE NELSON/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA: A U.S. Marine looks at a Somali child eating a bowl of rice as others look on during the first food distribution carried out by U.S. troops in the Old City of Mogadishu 12 December 1992. (Photo credit should read MICHEL GANGNE/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA: A detachment of U.S. Marines boards a civilian airliner 19 January 1993 prior to returning to its base in California. The 237 Marines are members of the first unit to leave Somalia since the beginning of Operation Restore Hope. An Army spokesperson said the U.S. Marines would be replaced by Australian soldiers. (Photo credit should read JOEL ROBINE/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA: A US Marine carries 25 March 1994 part of a heavy machine-gun on his shoulders as he walks to the helicopter that will take him to a warship offshore. The last contingent of US troops is leaving Somalia, 15 months after the US intervened to attempt to aid the widespread famine in Somalia. (Photo credit should read PASCAL GUYOT/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA - FEBRUARY 27: An advance team of 100 U.S. Marines patrol the airport in Mogadishu shortly after their arrival on shore 27 February. Operation United Shield, which is due to extract the rear guard of U.N. troops from Somalia is set to begin this week. Rival factions are reportedly likely to battle one another for control of the airport once U.N. forces abandon their two year mission to Somalia. (COLOR KEY: Sky is blue.) AFP PHOTO (Photo credit should read POOL/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

UDAIRI RANGE, KUWAIT - APRIL 8: US Marines from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) walk through the desert during military exercises codenamed "Eager Mace" at the Udairi Range in the Kuwaiti desert, 50 kilometres south of Iraq 08 April 2000. US marines launched a mock assault during these joint Kuwaiti-US war games that run until 25 April and involve some 1400 American sailors and marines. (Photo credit should read RAED QUTENA/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

CAMP PENDLETON, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: An unidentified United States Marine sits with his gun during urban war drill training exercises 26 September 2001 at Camp Pendleton, California. The drill included exercises like building searches and combat readiness. (Photo credit should read FREDERICK M. BROWN/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

CAMP PENDLETON, CA - OCTOBER 15: Lt Cpl. Matthew Blau (L) operates the 7.62mm machine gun on top of a Fast Attack Vehicle as Lt Cpl. Matthew Peterson (R) monitors the radio during a 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) assault at Red Beach in Camp Pendleton near Oceanside, CA, 15 October 2001. This normally scheduled exercise marks the culmination of a two-week at-sea exercise for the 13th MEU in preparation for an upcoming six-month deployment to the Western Pacific and Arabian Gulf regions. (Photo credit should read ANDREW SILK/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

CAMP GEIGER, NC - NOVEMBER 1: US Marines from the newly activated 4th Marine Expeditionary Force take a break during an obstacle course exercise wearing protective chemical, biological gear 01 November 2001 at Camp Geiger, NC. In a bid to strengthen the 1972 Biological Weapons Convention, the United States proposed 01 November 2001 that its 143 signatories pass laws making the possession of biological weapons for terrorist attacks a crime. (Photo credit should read JOHN ALTHOUSE/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

CAMP DAVIS, NC - NOVEMBER 8: A US Marine from 4th Marine Expeditionary Brigade stands out on the skid of a UH-1 Heuy helicopter as he gets the clear signal to begin his rappel during training 08 November 2001 at Camp Davis, NC. The 4thMEB specialize in counter-terrorism. (Photo credit should read JOHN ALTHOUSE/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

CHU LAI, VIET NAM - JULY 18: US Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara sits in US Army "Huey" helicopter during his one-day visit to the US Marine airfield at Chu Lia, South Vietnam, 18 July 1965 during the Vietnam war. The Secretary flew over US Marine lines protecting the airstrip. The Chu Lai was the launching base for Marine Attack squadrons supporting US Marine and South Vietnamese operation in the North and central part of the Republic of Vietnam. 29 June American troops have gone onto the offensive for the first time in Vietnam. In a joint operation with South Vietnamese forces they overran a network of trenches and tunnels in a Vietcong stronghold 30 miles east of Saigon. (Photo credit should read SSGT R. W. SAVATT, JR./AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

SAN DIEGO - JANUARY 31: A view of the United States Marines in full formation during the Pregame Ceromony before a game of the Washington Redskins against the Denver Broncos prior to Super Bowl XXII at Jack Murphy Stadium on January 31, 1988 in San Diego, California. The Redskins won 42-10. (Photo by George Rose/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

UDAIRI RANGE, KUWAIT - APRIL 8: US Marines from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) run through the desert during military exercises codenamed "Eager Mace" at the Udairi Range in the Kuwaiti desert, 50 kilometres south of Iraq 08 April 2000. US marines launched a mock assault during these joint Kuwaiti-US war games that run until 25 April and involve some 1400 American sailors and marines. (Photo credit should read RAED QUTENA/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

ABOARD USS PELELIU, AT SEA - OCTOBER 28: U.S. Marines of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit disembark from CH-46E Sea Knight helicopters aboard the USS Peleliu, an amphibious assault ship based in San Diego 29 October 2001. The Marines are part of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit that is supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. (Photo credit should read EARNIE GRAFTON/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A group of U.S. Marines stand guard 18 April 1983 in front of the destroyed section of the U.S. embassy in Beirut. A bomb partially destroyed the building killing and injuring scores of people. (Photo credit should read -/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

SKYROS ISLAND, GREECE - NOVEMBER 28: A US Marine soldier makes up his face after landing on the coast as 700 US Marines and one Greek Marines batalion take part in a three-day joint manoeuvers codenamed "ALEXANDER THE GREAT 95'" during which they are drilled on an amphibious disembarkation plan on the Aegean island of Skyros 28 November. AFP PHOTO (Photo credit should read Matta KOKKALI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

KUWAIT, KUWAIT - JUNE 7: A detachment of U.S. Marines, part of a 4,200 person contingent, arrives at Showeikh Harbor, five kilometers from Kuwait City, 07 June. The Marines will join with British and Kuwaiti forces for a weeklong series of air, ground and naval maneuvers in Operation Eager Mace. (Photo credit should read RAED QUTANIARQ/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

JACKSONVILLE, NC - NOVEMBER 20: A sniper with the 4th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Corporal Jeremy Northrop takes aim at his target 20 Nov 2001 during sniper training conducted at Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejuene, NC. The 4thMEB was recently activated this year to specifically deal with terrorism activities. (Photo credit should read JOHN ALTHOUSE/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

An advance team of 100 U.S. Marines patrol the airport in Mogadishu shortly after their arrival on shore 27 February. Operation United Shield, which is due to extract the rear guard of U.N. troops from Somalia is set to begin this week. Rival factions are reportedly likely to battle one another for control of the airport once U.N. forces abandon their two year mission to Somalia. (COLOR KEY: Sky is blue.) AFP PHOTO (Photo credit should read POOL/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

QATRANEH, JORDAN: A US Marine soldier drinks water as he guards his camp 18 August in the middle of the Jordanian desert near Qatraneh, 80km south of Amman. US Marines and Jordanian military forces will train in a joint 20-day operation. AFP PHOTO (Photo credit should read RABIH MOGHRABI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Two armed US Marines buy bananas from a passing vendor, 2 January 1993 in Mogadishu capital of Somalia, during "Restore Hope" operation. Since 3 December 1992, the UN autorised US troops to deploy in Somalia in order to restore peace after civil anarchy caused by roving gangs gunmen attached to local warlords. American troops from the United Nations International Trask Force (UNITAF) arrived 9 December 1992 in Mogadishu and began the "Restore Hope" operation. Since then number of foreign troops in Somalia has risen, twenty one countries are contributing to the UN forces in Somalia, the largest are US, France, Italy, Morocco and Canada. AFP PHOTO PASCAL PAVANI (Photo credit should read PASCAL PAVANI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 10: Anchor and Managing Editor, NBC Nightly News, Brian Williams and Super Bowl Champion Football Coach Bill Cowher pose with the USMC Color Guard at the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America Annual Heroes Gala at Gotham Hall on November 10, 2010 in New York, City. (Photo by Joe Kohen/Getty Images for IAVA)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

HELMAND, AFGHANISTAN - NOVEMBER 25: U.S. Marine Warrant Officer Samantha Munn from Eldon, Missouri serves up some turkey in the dining facility for the annual Thanksgiving meal at Camp Leatherneck November 25, 2010 in Helmand, Afghanistan. Roughly 15,000 Marines, other military and private contractors make up the population at Camp Leatherneck in Helmand province. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

HELMAND, AFGHANISTAN - NOVEMBER 25: U.S. Marines get served turkey dinners in the main dining facility during the annual Thanksgiving meal at Camp Leatherneck, November 25, 2010 in Helmand, Afghanistan. Roughly 15,000 Marines, other military and private contractors make up the population at Camp Leatherneck in Helmand province. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine gives a thumbs-up while on his way to Mogadishu's beach to depart from Somalia, 02 March 1995. US Marines escorted the last UN peackeepers from Mogadishu's shores to waiting warships, quietly ending the two year and $2 billion intervention. AFP PHOTO (Photo credit should read DOD POOL/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

U.S. Marine gunman Lance Corporal Gary Henrion aboard a Chinook chopper patrols the shoreline near Mogadishu airport in Somalia 18 December 1992 as part of a reconnaissance flight. The Chinook belongs to a unit of the USS Tripoli helicopter carrier taking part in the " Restore Hope Operation " (Photo credit should read MIKE NELSON/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A U.S. Marine (L) guards Somalis looking for work at the American Embassy compound 10 January, 1993 in Mogadishu, Somalia. The international coalition forces have secured the regions of Baidoa, Bardera, Bali Dogle, Hoddur, Belet Huen and Jalalaxsi. (Photo credit should read MANOOCHER DEGHATI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MUSA QALA, AFGHANISTAN - NOVEMBER 14: (SPAIN OUT, FRANCE OUT, AFP OUT) Hospital Corpsman Shannon Crowley, 22, US Navy Sailor working with the FET, shares a laugh with Lance Corporal Kristi Baker, 21, US Marine with the FET (Female Engagement Team) 1st Battalion 8th Marines, Regimental Combat team II before going out on a patrol November 14, 2010 in Musa Qala, Afghanistan. There are 48 women presently working along the volatile front lines of the war in Afghanistan deployed as the second Female Engagement team participating in a more active role, gaining access where men can't. The women, many who volunteer for the 6.5 month deployment take a 10 week course at Camp Pendleton in California where they are trained for any possible situation, including learning Afghan customs and basic Pashtun language. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 20: U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. William Gibson, a veteran who was wounded in the Iraq war, helps located a Christmas tree at the apex of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial December 20, 2010 in Washington, DC. The Christmas tree was decorated with hand made cards and ornaments made by schoolchildren from around the United States. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion 8th, Bravo company patrol during an operation not far from Shir Chazay in Musa Qala district of Helmand province on January 22, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion 8th, Bravo runs during an operation not far from Shir Chazay in Musa Qala district of Helmand province on January 22, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion 8th, Bravo smokes while taking a rest during an operation in Musa Qala district of Helmand province on January 23, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines from 1st Battalion 8th, Bravo knees on the ground during an operation in Zalmabad village in Musa Qala district of Helmand province on January 23, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines takes a rest during a patrol outside Musa Qala District Center base on January 28, 2011. Taliban militants are waging a nine-year insurgency against 140,000 international troops stationed in Afghanistan. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines shakes hands with children during a patrol outside Musa Qala District Center base on January 28, 2011. Taliban militants are waging a nine-year insurgency against 140,000 international troops stationed in Afghanistan. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines stands behind the babred wire the base after returning from a patrol outside Musa Qala District Center base on January 28, 2011 in Musa Qala. Taliban militants are waging a nine-year insurgency against 140,000 international troops stationed in Afghanistan. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine (R) from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines plays a guitar as others take food at Musa Qala District Center base on February 1, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion 8th, Bravo looks on with binoculars during an operation in Zalmabad village in Musa Qala district of Helmand province on January 22, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines plays with Afghan children during patrol in Musa Qala on January 30, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines interacts with children during a patrol outside Musa Qala District Center base on January 28, 2011. Taliban militants are waging a nine-year insurgency against 140,000 international troops stationed in Afghanistan. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1 Marines division, 1 Tanks, Delta company, 3 platoon sits in his M1 Abrams tank as others refuel their vehicles at FOB Edinburgh base, Helmand province, on February 2, 2011. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines on a foot patrol interacts with Afghan children outside Musa Qala District Center base on January 28, 2011 in Musa Qala. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines plays guitar at a kitchen in the Musa Qala District Center base on February 1, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines stands guard at his post at Musa Qala District Center base on February 1, 2011. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines stands guard at his post at Musa Qala District Center base on February 1, 2011. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines sits as he watches fire, in Musa Qala on January 30, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines take a break and play cards at Talibghan base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province at February 3, 2011. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines places a kettle on a fire as he takes a break at Talibghan base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province at February 3, 2011. US-led NATO troops are under a deadline across Afghanistan to train local forces to take responsibility for their country's security by 2014. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines takes an azimuth reading before shooting at new Mirage base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province at February 5, 2011. US-led NATO troops are under a deadline across Afghanistan to train local forces to take responsibility for their country's security by 2014. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines shaves at Talibghan base on February 3, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting a Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines take a break and play cards at Talibghan base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province at February 3, 2011. US-led NATO troops are under a deadline across Afghanistan to train local forces to take responsibility for their country's security by 2014. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1 Marines division, 1 Tanks, Delta company, 3 platoon refuels his M1 Abrams tank at FOB Edinburgh base, Helmand province, on February 2, 2011. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines shoots at new Mirage base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province at February 5, 2011. US-led NATO troops are under a deadline across Afghanistan to train local forces to take responsibility for their country's security by 2014. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company lines up his shoot with a rocket launcher as the American flag floats in the background at new Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province at February 6, 2011. US-led NATO troops are under a deadline across Afghanistan to train local forces to take responsibility for their country's security by 2014. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company prepares his shot with a rocket launcher at new Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 6, 2011. US-led NATO troops are under a deadline across Afghanistan to train local forces to take responsibility for their country's security by 2014. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines speaks over the radio just after undergoing an attack by alleged Talibans during patrol outside new Mirage base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province at February 5, 2011. US-led NATO troops are under a deadline across Afghanistan to train local forces to take responsibility for their country's security by 2014. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines works at new Mirage base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province at February 5, 2011. US-led NATO troops are under a deadline across Afghanistan to train local forces to take responsibility for their country's security by 2014. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines observes from his post at new Mirage base, on the south of Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 4, 2011. US-led NATO troops are under a deadline across Afghanistan to train local forces to take responsibility for their country's security by 2014.AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOVAFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines plays with a trained dog at Shagali patrol base, in Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 3, 2011. Each trained dog used for special purposes in the military can cost 70,000 USD upwards. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting a Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company peers through his rifle scope at Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 7, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States, in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines stands near his armoured vehicle during rain at Shagali patrol base, in Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 3, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting a Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

The shadow of a US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company is cast upon a wall as his unit patrols around Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, in Afghanistan's Helmand province on February 8, 2011. Afghan President Hamid Karzai said on February 8, 2011 that he was in talks with the United States about the possible establishment of permanent US military bases in his war-ravaged country.AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines plays with a trained dog at Shagali patrol base, in Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 3, 2011. Each trained dog used for special purposes in the military can cost 70,000 USD upwards. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting a Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company uses a communications set while on patrol near new Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 7, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States, in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines runs at Talibghan base on February 3, 2011. A 140,000-strong force of NATO-led international troops stationed in Afghanistan currently fighting a Taliban-led insurgency is now entering its tenth year. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company receives a haircut from a comrade at new Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 7, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States, in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company on patrol near new Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 7, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States, in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company receives a haircut from a comrade at new Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 7, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States, in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company receives a haircut from a comrade at new Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 7, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States, in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine controls an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at Vehicle Squadron 2, Camp Dwyer in Gamser, Helmand Province on February 15, 2011. There are around 140,000 foreign troops in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in 2001 following the September 11 attacks. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company shoulders his weapon as his unit patrols around Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, in Afghanistan's Helmand province on February 8, 2011. Afghan President Hamid Karzai said on February 8, 2011 that he was in talks with the United States about the possible establishment of permanent US military bases in his war-ravaged country.AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine stands next to a CH-53 helicopter at Camp Dwyer in Gamser, Helmand Province on February 16, 2011. There are around 140,000 foreign troops in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in 2001 following the September 11 attacks. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine plays basketball at Camp Dwyer in Gamser, Helmand Province on February 15, 2011. There are around 140,000 foreign troops in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in 2001 following the September 11 attacks. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, Bravo company washes his head following a haircut at new Mirage patrol base, Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 7, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States, in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine looks out of his machine gun turret on board a CH-53 helicopter before landing in Gamser in Helmand Province on February 16, 2011. There are around 140,000 foreign troops in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in 2001 following the September 11 attacks. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Two US Marines walk toward CH-53 helicopters at camp Dwyer, Gamser in Helmand Province on February 16, 2011. There are around 140,000 foreign troops in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in 2001 following the September 11 attacks. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine inspects an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at Vehicle Squadron 2, Camp Dwyer in Gamser, Helmand Province on February 15, 2011. There are around 140,000 foreign troops in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in 2001 following the September 11 attacks. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine mans a machine gun shortly before a helicopter landing in Camp Delhi in Gamser, Helmand Province, on February 17, 2011. There are around 140,000 foreign troops in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in 2001 following the September 11 attacks. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment patrols past a mosque in Gamser on February 20, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Lance Corporal Corey Hilton from US Marines 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment stands guard as US Marines with Female Engagement Team (FET) members visit a sewing centre in Gamser, Helmand Province, southern Afghanistan on February 18, 2011. The US Marines have deployed some 40 female Marines in Helmand province and Nimruz for a programme called Female Engagement Team (FET) to interact with Afghan civilians specifically women and children. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Two US Marines play basket ball AT Camp Dwyer in Gamser, Helmand Province on February 15, 2011. There are around 140,000 foreign troops in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in 2001 following the September 11 attacks. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine mans his machine gun on board a CH-53 helicopter during a flight over Helmand Province on February 16, 2011. There are around 140,000 foreign troops in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in 2001 following the September 11 attacks. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Major Marley from US Marines 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment checks his pockets as Afghan children ask for candy during a patrol in Gamser, southern Afghanistan on February 22, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Afghan children aproach as a US Marines 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment stands guard, while members of the Female Engagement Team (FETs) visit a sewing center in Gamser, in the southern Afghanistan Helmand province on February 18, 2011. US Marines deployed about 40 Female Marines in Helmand province and Nimruz for a program called Female Engagement Team (FETs) to interact with Afghan civilians, especially women and children. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment check the area during a patrol along the Helmand river in Gamser, southern Afghanistan on February 22, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment patrol along the Helmand river in Gamser, southern Afghanistan on February 22, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Two US Marines 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment soldiers speak to an Afghan child as they take a rest during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand province, Southern Afghanistan on February 23, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Lance Corporal Emmanuel De Los Reges (L) and Lance Corporal Corey Hilton (R) from US Marines 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment stand guard as US Marines with Female Engagement Team (FET)members visit a sewing centre in Gamser, Helmand Province, southern Afghanistan on February 18, 2011. The US Marines have deployed some 40 female Marines in Helmand province and Nimruz for a programme called Female Engagement Team (FET) to interact with Afghan civilians specifically women and children. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment talks to a child during a patrol in Gamser on February 20, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines from 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment takes position during a patrol in the village of Kashthay in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 24, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment is watched by Afghan children as he holds a doll during a patrol in the village of Kashthay in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 24, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines from 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment takes position during a patrol in the village of Kashthay in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 24, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Sargeant Savanna E. Malendoski, US Marines 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment member, Female Engagement Team (FET) is silhouetted against a doorway as she leaves a house after a visit in Garmser, Helmand province southern Afghanistan on February 23, 2011. US Marines deployed about 40 Female Marines in Helmand province and Nimruz for a program called Female Engagement Team (FET) to interact with Afghan civilians specifically the women and children. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

An Afghan child is reflected on the glasses of interpreter Sonia as US Marines 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment members with Female Engagement Team (FET) visit a house in Garmser, Helmand province southern Afghanistan on February 23, 2011. US Marines deployed about 40 Female Marines in Helmand province and Nimruz for a program called Female Engagement Team (FET) to interact with Afghan civilians specifically the women and children. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment stands guard as colleagues check a house after finding more than 40 mortar shells during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 26, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Afghan women walk past US Marines from 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment during their patrol at the Kashthay village in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 24, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment takes position as colleagues check a house in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 26, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment checks the situation after more than 40 mortar shells were found during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 26, 2011. the There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment takes position during a patrol in Garmser on February 25, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment greets school children during a patrol in the village of Kashthay in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 24, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment patrols in Garmser on February 25, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment runs after more than 40 mortar shells were found at a house during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 26, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment patrols in Garmser on February 25, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment stands guard as the unit patrol Gamser, southern Afghanistan on February 22, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine (FRONT) digs earth as colleagues from the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment secure a location where they found more than 40 mortar shells in the compound of a house during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 26, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment handles mortar shells after his unit found more than 40 mortar shells in the compound of a house during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 26, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine digs earth as colleagues from the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment secure a location where they found more than 40 mortar shells in the compound of a house during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 26, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment patrol along the Helmand river in Gamser, southern Afghanistan on February 22, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment walks during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, Southern Afghanistan on February 28, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment sits atop a Mine-resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle (MATV) prior to a patrol in Gamser, Helman province Southern Afghanistan on February 20, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment keeps watch outside a new police station in Garmser, Helmand Province, Southern Afghanistan on February 28, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Corporal Hurb Hartfield (R), US Marine of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Weapons Company checks situation during a patrol with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Laki south Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 3, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marines 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment shakes handa with an Afghan child during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand province, Southern Afghanistan on February 23, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment carries mortar shells after the unit found more than 40 mortar shells in the compound of a house during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on February 26, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Battallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company returns to a base after a joint patrol with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Laki downsouth Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 3, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons company patrol in Laki, Garmser, Helmand Province Afghanistan on March 4, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons company checks for Improvised Explosive Device (IED) during a patrol in Laki, Garmser, Helmand Province Afghanistan on March 4, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company returns to Camp Gorgak after a patrol along with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Laki, Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 2, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company walks on a joint patrol with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Laki south Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 2, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Corporal Hunter Woolf (R) with his dog Susie, US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company checks the situation during a patrol in Laki, Garmser, Helmand Province Afghanistan on March 4, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company walks on a joint patrol with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Laki south Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 2, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

AFP/Getty Images

A US Marine of the 2nd Battallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company returns to a base after a joint patrol with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Laki , Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 3, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company walks on a joint patrol with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Laki south Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 2, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Afghan children walk past a US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company during a joint patrol with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Laki south Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 2, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Afghan children watch as US Marines of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company patrol along with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Laki, Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 2, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

An Afghan man walks behind US Marines of the 2nd Battallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company during their patrol with Aghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Laki south Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 3, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment sits on top of a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle (MATV) at camp Gorgak downsouth Garmser in Helmand Province on March 2, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the US in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

This picture taken on March 5, 2011 shows US Marines of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Fox Company exercising at the Amir Patrol Base's Iron yard in Lakari, Helmand province, Afghanistan. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Crosses hang as US Marines of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment attend a mass prayer at a chapel of the FOB Delhi in Garmser, Helmand Province, on March 6, 2011. Afghan President Hamid Karzai on March 6, 2011 told US General David Petraeus, the commander of international troops, that his apology after nine children died in a NATO air strike was "not enough". AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

This photo taken on March 5, 2011 shows US Marines of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Fox Company exercising at the Amir Patrol Base's Iron yard in Lakari, Helmand province, Afghanistan. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

This picture taken on March 2, 2011 shows US Marines of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company cooking pizza in Laki, Helmand province, Afghanistan. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

This photo taken on March 5, 2011 shows US Marines of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Fox Company exercise at the Amir Patrol Base's Iron yard in Lakari, Helmand province, Afghanistan. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Weapons Company pushes an Afghan child on a swing at a playground of a school managed by The Marines in Laki, Garmser, Helmand Province Afghanistan on March 4, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Corporal Tom Love, US Marine of the 2nd Battallion, 1st Marines Fox Company talks to an Afghan child during a joint patrol with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers in Lakari downsouth Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 5, 2011. One in three Afghan soldiers still leave the army each year, but NATO remains on track to raise the number of security forces to 305,000 by October 2011, an alliance general said. Boosting the ranks of Afghanistan's security forces is a vital element of NATO's plan to begin handing command of the battlefield to Afghans this year, and start withdrawing some foreign troops, with the goal of giving them full control nationwide by 2014. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Chapelin Luitenant Timothy Miller (L) plays guitar as he leads mass prayers for US Marines of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Regiment at the FOB Delhi in Garmser, Helmand Province, on March 6, 2011. Afghan President Hamid Karzai on March 6 told US General David Petraeus, the commander of international troops, that his apology after nine children died in a NATO air strike was "not enough". AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

This photo taken on March 5, 2011 shows a US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Fox Company exercises at the Amir Patrol Base's Iron yard in Lakari, Helmand province, Afghanistan. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment (L) shakes hand with Afghanistan National Army (ANA) soldiers during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, on March 7, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

This photo taken on March 5, 2011 shows a US Marine of the 2nd Batallion, 1st Marines Fox Company exercises at the Amir Patrol Base's Iron yard in Lakari, Helmand province, Afghanistan. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Afghan children look on as a US Marine of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment, walks during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, on March 7, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton poses for a photograph with members of the USMC "FAST Marines", a quick response team from Norfolk, Virginia, on duty at the US Embassy in Cairo, on March 16, 2011. AFP PHOTO/PAUL J. RICHARDS-POOL (Photo credit should read PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Bibel quotes are written on a helmet of a US Marine of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 12, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States, in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

An Afghan child look on as US Marines of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, on March 7, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment at a machine gun position on a MATV leaves the FOB Delhi in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 14, 2011. An emotional Afghan President Hamid Karzai on March 12 told international troops to "stop their operations in our land", his strongest remarks yet over mistaken killings of civilians. A UN report recorded 2,777 civilian deaths last year, underscoring the level of violence in the country as foreign troops prepare to start handing control of security to Afghan forces in some areas from July. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment walks past ruins in Garmser, Helmand Province, on March 13, 2011. An emotional Afghan President Hamid Karzai on March 12 told international troops to "stop their operations in our land", his strongest remarks yet over mistaken killings of civilians. A UN report recorded 2,777 civilian deaths last year, underscoring the level of violence in the country as foreign troops prepare to start handing control of security to Afghan forces in some areas from July. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

OSHIMA ISLAND - APRIL 1: (EDITORS NOTE: Image has been reviewed by U.S. Military prior to transmission.) In this handout image provided by the U.S. Navy, Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force arrive in Oshima Island, Japan, to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief on April 1, 2011 in Oshima, Island. Essex, with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is currently operating off the coast of Kesennuma, in northeastern Japan, in support of Operation Tomodachi. (Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eva-Marie Ramsaran/U.S. Navy via Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 1st Battalion, 8th Marines blows bubbles from chewing gum as he waits with a colleague to patrol the area around new Mirage base, on the south of Musa Qala District, Helmand province on February 4, 2011. US-led NATO troops are under a deadline across Afghanistan to train local forces to take responsibility for their country's security by 2014. AFP PHOTO / DMITRY KOSTYUKOV (Photo credit should read DMITRY KOSTYUKOV/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MILWAUKEE, WI - APRIL 04: Members of the U.S. Marine color guard watch batting practice from a gate in the right field wall before the home opener between the Atlanta Braves and the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park on April 4, 2011 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment patrols in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 12, 2011. There are around 140,000 international troops, two-thirds of them from the United States, in Afghanistan fighting the militant Islamist Taliban. AFP PHOTO/ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

An Afghan boy on a bicycle passes US Marines of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment during a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on March 12, 2011. On March 9 a UN report revealed that the deaths of Afghan civilians in the war had increased 15 percent to a record high last year, adding that insurgents were responsible for three-quarters of the killings. There are currently around 140,000 international troops serving in Afghanistan, around two-thirds of them from the United States. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Afghan children watch as a US Marine from 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment stands in front of ruins in Garmser, Helmand Province, on March 13, 2011. An emotional Afghan President Hamid Karzai on March 12 told international troops to "stop their operations in our land", his strongest remarks yet over mistaken killings of civilians. A UN report recorded 2,777 civilian deaths last year, underscoring the level of violence in the country as foreign troops prepare to start handing control of security to Afghan forces in some areas from July. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

OSHIMA ISLAND, JAPAN - APRIL 3: In this handout provided by the U.S. Navy, Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) unload supplies and equipment for disaster relief operations April 3, 2011 on Oshima Island, Japan. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Sailors with the Essex Amphibious Ready Group are on Oshima Island to help clear a harbor and assist with cleaning debris from roads and a local school in support of Operation Tomodachi following the deadly March 11 earthquake and resulting tsunami. (Photo by Eva-Marie Ramsaran/U.S. Navy via Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines Regiment walks past ruins in Garmser, Helmand Province, on March 13, 2011. An emotional Afghan President Hamid Karzai on March 12 told international troops to "stop their operations in our land", his strongest remarks yet over mistaken killings of civilians. A UN report recorded 2,777 civilian deaths last year, underscoring the level of violence in the country as foreign troops prepare to start handing control of security to Afghan forces in some areas from July. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

First Sergeant Damien Rodriguez of the US Marine's Apache Company of the Company A 3rd Light Armored Reconaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division (Forward) shows poppies plantation belong to villagers near Patrol Base Torbert in Banadar corridor, Garmsher district, Helmand province, on April 18, 2011 as they search for Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) set by insurgent in a local school. AFP PHOTO / Bay ISMOYO (Photo credit should read BAY ISMOYO/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

In this picture taken on March 13 shows a US Marine's weapon, a helmet and a pair of gloves during a break of a patrol in Garmser, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. An emotional Afghan President Hamid Karzai on March 12 told international troops to "stop their operations in our land", his strongest remarks yet over mistaken killings of civilians. A UN report recorded 2,777 civilian deaths last year, underscoring the level of violence in the country as foreign troops prepare to start handing control of security to Afghan forces in some areas from July. AFP PHOTO / ADEK BERRY (Photo credit should read ADEK BERRY/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Corpsman HA Joey Echeverria of Company A 3rd Light Armored Reconaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division (Forward) holds a check point near their Patrol Base in Banadar corridor, Garmsher district, Helmand province, on April 18, 2011 as US Marines search for Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) set by insurgent in a local school. AFP PHOTO / Bay ISMOYO (Photo credit should read BAY ISMOYO/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A member of the US Marine helicopter CH 53 crew sits at the back door as it flies over Marjah district in Helmand Province on May 3, 2011. On April 2, 2011 the US announced it had killed Osama bin Laden in a covert operation in Pakistan, nearly ten years after the superpower invaded Afghanistan in the wake of the 9/11 attacks claimed by the Al-Qaeda chief. AFP PHOTO / Bay ISMOYO (Photo credit should read BAY ISMOYO/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 3rd Battalion 9th Marines Kodiak Company rests during a patrol at Kote Tazagul area in Marjah district in Helmand Province on May 24, 2011. US lawmakers saw momentum for political reconciliation in Afghanistan in the wake of Osama bin Laden's death, but voiced fear that the fight against extremism was floundering in Pakistan. Senator John Kerry, who recently visited the region, said US forces' killing of bin Laden in Pakistan along with "security gains" in the Taliban's historic stronghold of southern Afghanistan "have created some political space." AFP PHOTO/Massoud HOSSAINI (Photo credit should read MASSOUD HOSSAINI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 3rd Battalion 9th Marines Kodiak Company looks though the scope of his rifle during a patrol at Kote Tazagul area in Marjah district in Helmand Province on May 24, 2011. US lawmakers saw momentum for political reconciliation in Afghanistan in the wake of Osama bin Laden's death, but voiced fear that the fight against extremism was floundering in Pakistan. Senator John Kerry, who recently visited the region, said US forces' killing of bin Laden in Pakistan along with "security gains" in the Taliban's historic stronghold of southern Afghanistan "have created some political space." AFP PHOTO/Massoud HOSSAINI (Photo credit should read MASSOUD HOSSAINI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 3rd Battalion 9th Marines Kodiak Company smokes a cigar during a patrol in Kote Tazagul area in Marjah district in Helmand Province on May 24, 2011. US lawmakers saw momentum for political reconciliation in Afghanistan in the wake of Osama bin Laden's death, but voiced fear that the fight against extremism was floundering in Pakistan. Senator John Kerry, who recently visited the region, said US forces' killing of bin Laden in Pakistan along with "security gains" in the Taliban's historic stronghold of southern Afghanistan "have created some political space." AFP PHOTO/Massoud HOSSAINI (Photo credit should read MASSOUD HOSSAINI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 27: A United States Marine shows weaponry during demonstrations in Times Square as part of Fleet Week festivities May 27, 2011 in New York City. Fleet Week, which has been held in New York since 1984, brings thousands of military members to the city where they engage the public with numerous activities, demonstrations, tours and contests. Fleet Week concludes on Memorial Day with a military flyover to honor those killed while serving in the military. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (L) greets members of the USMC "FAST Marines", a quick response team from Norfolk, Virginia, on duty at the US Embassy in Cairo, on March 16, 2011. AFP PHOTO/PAUL J. RICHARDS-POOL (Photo credit should read PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 27: A United States Marine poses while showing weaponry during demonstrations in Times Square as part of Fleet Week festivities May 27, 2011 in New York City. Fleet Week, which has been held in New York since 1984, brings thousands of military members to the city where they engage the public with numerous activities, demonstrations, tours and contests. Fleet Week concludes on Memorial Day with a military flyover to honor those killed while serving in the military. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 30: Major General Mills USMC I MEF CG (C) poses with the USO Liberty Bells during the USO Military Appreciation Day with the NY Mets at Citi Field on May 30, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for USO of Metropolitan New York)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

OSHIMA ISLAND, JAPAN - APRIL 3: In this handout provided by the U.S. Navy, Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) unload supplies and equipment for disaster relief operations April 3, 2011 on Oshima Island, Japan. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Sailors with the Essex Amphibious Ready Group are on Oshima Island to help clear a harbor and assist with cleaning debris from roads and a local school in support of Operation Tomodachi following the deadly March 11 earthquake and resulting tsunami. (Photo by Eva-Marie Ramsaran/U.S. Navy via Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

CULVER CITY, CA - JUNE 04: Actress Eva Mendes (L) kisses a U.S. Marine onstage during Spike TV's 5th annual 2011 "Guys Choice" Awards at Sony Pictures Studios on June 4, 2011 in Culver City, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Afghan children look on as a US Marine from 3rd Battalion 9th Marines Kodiak Company walks to his patrol base in Block 9th of Marjah district in Helmand Province on May 25, 2011. US lawmakers on May 24 saw momentum for political reconciliation in Afghanistan in the wake of Osama bin Laden's death, but voiced fear that the fight against extremism was floundering in Pakistan. AFP PHOTO/Massoud HOSSAINI (Photo credit should read MASSOUD HOSSAINI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 3rd Battalion 9th Marines Kodiak Company walks to his patrol base in Block 9th of Marjah district in Helmand Province on May 25, 2011. US lawmakers on May 24 saw momentum for political reconciliation in Afghanistan in the wake of Osama bin Laden's death, but voiced fear that the fight against extremism was floundering in Pakistan. AFP PHOTO/Massoud HOSSAINI (Photo credit should read MASSOUD HOSSAINI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

AMHERST, NH - JULY 4: Former Massachusetts governor and Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney (R) shakes hands with a U.S. Marine while marching in a Fourth of July parade July 4, 2011 in Amherst, New Hampshire. Romney, considered the republican front runner, raised nearly $20 million in the second quarter. (Photo by Darren McCollester/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

US Marines from the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment of the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade wait for helicopter transport as part of Operation Khanjar at Camp Dwyer in Helmand Province in Afghanistan on July 2, 2009. US Marines launched a major offensive into the Taliban heartlands of southern Afghanistan before dawn as President Barack Obama's new war plan swung into action. With dozens of aircraft ferrying out troops from various bases, the assault aimed to insert forces into insurgent strongholds in Helmand province in what officers said was the biggest offensive airlift by the Marines since Vietnam. Operation Khanjar (Strike of the Sword), involving nearly 4,000 US forces as well as 650 Afghan police and soldiers, would bring security to the Helmand River valley ahead of presidential elections on August 20, commanders aid. TOPSHOTS AFP PHOTO/ Manpreet ROMANA (Photo credit should read MANPREET ROMANA/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

CARSON, CA - JUNE 03: A U.S. Marine looks on prior to the MLS match between D.C. United and the Los Angeles Galaxy at The Home Depot Center on June 3, 2011 in Carson, California. United and the Galaxy played to a 0-0 draw. (Photo by Victor Decolongon/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine rests as he waits for a flight at the military airport of Camp Dwyer in Helmand Province on May 21, 2011. Six medical students were killed and 23 others wounded in a Taliban suicide attack at Afghanistan's main military hospital in Kabul, officials said. The blast took place at lunchtime in a tent used as a dining room by students at the heavily-secured city centre hospital, one of the biggest and best-equipped in Afghanistan. AFP PHOTO/Massoud HOSSAINI (Photo credit should read MASSOUD HOSSAINI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

US Navy Pvt. 1st Class Kori Sunderman walks with his one-year-old son Caleb and wife Brenna as approximately 270 US Marines and sailors with Regimental Combat Team 1 (RTC 1) return from a 12-month deployment to Afghanistan on September 2, 2011 at Camp Pendleton, California. The Marines of RCT 1 served from September 2010 through September 2011 in support of the International Security Assistance Force-Afghanistan in the southern and central Helmand River Valley. AFP PHOTO/ David McNew (Photo credit should read DAVID MCNEW/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Marine Gunnery Sgt. Christopher Krivenko holds his nine-month-old daughter Bree as approximately 270 US Marines and sailors with Regimental Combat Team 1 (RTC 1) return from a 12-month deployment to Afghanistan on September 2, 2011 at Camp Pendleton, California. The Marines of RCT 1 served from September 2010 through September 2011 in support of the International Security Assistance Force-Afghanistan in the southern and central Helmand River Valley. AFP PHOTO / David McNew (Photo credit should read DAVID MCNEW/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 28: United States Marine Corps Lieutenant General John Allen prepares to testify before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Capitol Hill June 28, 2011 in Washington, DC. Allen has been nominated by President Barack Obama to replace Gen. David Petraeus as the commander of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) and U.S. forces in Afghanistan. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

In this photograph taken on May 18, 2011, a US Marines runs to a V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft at Camp Dwyer military airport in Helmand Province. Taliban fighters attacked an Afghan road construction company before dawn on May 19, triggering gunbattles that killed 35 people and wounded another 20 in the worst single attack in months. The attack, which sparked a shootout lasting five hours, happened in the eastern province of Paktia, which borders Pakistan, a provincial spokesman said. AFP PHOTO/Massoud HOSSAINI (Photo credit should read MASSOUD HOSSAINI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

MANHATTAN, KS - JUNE 24: ***EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE*** Recording Artists Jared Daniels with US Marines backstage during The 2011 Country Stampede Day 2 at Tuttle Creek State Park on June 24, 2011 in Manhattan, Kansas. (Photo by Rick Diamond/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Loved ones are reunited as approximately 270 US Marines and sailors with Regimental Combat Team 1 (RTC 1) return from a 12-month deployment to Afghanistan on September 2, 2011 at Camp Pendleton, California. The Marines of RCT 1 served from September 2010 through September 2011 in support of the International Security Assistance Force-Afghanistan (ISAF) in the southern and central Helmand Valley. AFP PHOTO/David McNew (Photo credit should read DAVID MCNEW/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Marines and sailors maintain formation while awaiting release to join nearby loved ones as approximately 270 US Marines and sailors with Regimental Combat Team 1 (RTC 1) return from a 12-month deployment to Afghanistan on September 2, 2011 at Camp Pendleton, California. The Marines of RCT 1 served from September 2010 through September 2011 in support of the International Security Assistance Force-Afghanistan in the southern and central Helmand River Valley. AFP PHOTO/ David McNew (Photo credit should read DAVID MCNEW/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine from 3rd Battalion 9th Marines Kodiak Company talks to Afghan locals after a Shura in Block 9 of Marjah district in Helmand Province on May 22, 2011. Six members of the Afghan security forces died on May 22 when the Taliban stormed a traffic police office and two suicide bombers detonated themselves, triggering a nine-hour standoff. The attack in restive Khost province, which borders Pakistan in the east, came the day after six medical students were killed and 23 wounded when a suicide bomber struck at Kabul's heavily-guarded main military hospital. It is the latest in a wave of breaches at supposedly secure Afghan government sites as the annual spring fighting season gets under way in Afghanistan. AFP PHOTO/Massoud HOSSAINI (Photo credit should read MASSOUD HOSSAINI/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

Marine Gunnery Sgt. Christopher Krivenko holds his nine-month-old daughter Bree as approximately 270 US Marines and sailors with Regimental Combat Team 1 (RTC 1) return from a 12-month deployment to Afghanistan on September 2, 2011 at Camp Pendleton, California. The Marines of RCT 1 served from September 2010 through September 2011 in support of the International Security Assistance Force-Afghanistan in the southern and central Helmand River Valley. AFP PHOTO/ David McNew (Photo credit should read DAVID MCNEW/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 12: Marines are seen on the field during the singing of the United States National Anthem before the Denver Broncos take on the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on September 12, 2011 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

US Marines stand in front of the flag of The United States of America, in front of the US embassy in Sarajevo, on September 9, 2011. In memory of those who lost their lives in September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, US flag in Sarajevo was flown at half mast. AFP PHOTO ELVIS BARUKCIC (Photo credit should read ELVIS BARUKCIC/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

US Marines stand in front of the flag of the United States of America, in front of the US embassy in Sarajevo, on September 9, 2011. In memory of those who lost their lives in September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, the US flag in Sarajevo was flown at half mast. AFP PHOTO ELVIS BARUKCIC (Photo credit should read ELVIS BARUKCIC/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

US Marines take position during an amphibious landing simulation as part of RP-US Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) on the beach in San Antonio, Zambales province, north of Manila on October 23, 2011. This year's PHIBLEX is the 28th in the series of bilateral exercises conducted every year as a venue for joint and combined training between the Marine Corps of the Philippines and US militaries. AFP PHOTO / TED ALJIBE (Photo credit should read TED ALJIBE/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

US Marines take position during an amphibious landing simulation as part of RP-US Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) on the beach in San Antonio, Zambales province, north of Manila on October 23, 2011. This year's PHIBLEX is the 28th in the series of bilateral exercises conducted every year as a venue for joint and combined training between the Marine Corps of the Philippines and US militaries. AFP PHOTO / TED ALJIBE (Photo credit should read TED ALJIBE/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

A US Marine (L) gives instructions to two of his Philippine counterparts during an amphibious landing simulation as part of RP-US Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) on the beach in San Antonio, Zambales province, north of Manila on October 23, 2011. This year's PHIBLEX is the 28th in the series of bilateral exercises conducted every year as a venue for joint and combined training between the Marine Corps of the Philippines and US militaries. AFP PHOTO / TED ALJIBE (Photo credit should read TED ALJIBE/AFP/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

PHOENIX, AZ - SEPTEMBER 11: A U.S. Marine stands at attention during the playing of the National Anthem during the pregame ceremonies commerorating the 10th anniversary of 9/11 Chase Field on September 11, 2011 in Phoenix, Arizona. The San Diego Padres defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks 7-6. (Photo by Chris Pondy/Getty Images)
The USMC celebrate 236 years of serving the United States.

US Marines take position during an amphibious landing simulation as part of RP-US Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) on the beach in San Antonio, Zambales province, north of Manila on October 23, 2011. This year's PHIBLEX is the 28th in the series of bilateral exercises conducted every year as a venue for joint and combined training between the Marine Corps of the Philippines and US militaries. AFP PHOTO / TED ALJIBE (Photo credit should read TED ALJIBE/AFP/Getty Images)
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