Lawmakers asked the Government Accountability Office to look into the fleet's history in December. Two Pacific-focused rotations cover more ground, and ocean, for the sea service. Maj. Gen. Lorna Mahlock now leads a force she said is "competing daily against a threat that is very real, but which few can comprehend, quantify or see.” A coalition of 13 nations warned of increased military response if Houthi assaults on commercial ships continue. Adm. John C. Aquilino said he is “very concerned” about increased joint military actions by China and Russia in the region. Gen. Eric Smith signaled his desire to resume the commandant job when he can and wished Marines a happy birthday. “We’re Marines till we die,” a Silver Star recipient says in the video. “And we require a two-week notice for that.” “There’s always someone that disappoints you. I’m reminded that Jesus of Nazareth had 1 out of 12 disappoint him.” Senior Enlisted Adviser to the Chairman Troy Black becomes the top enlisted voice on quality-of-life and combat readiness issues for the joint force. A spokesman attributed the “tough decision” to cancel the Tampa ball to “the dynamic and uncertain security environment" in the Middle East. Load More