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Photos

Snapshots of what’s happening in the Defense Department.

A large group of Marine Corps recruits shed gear in a pool while holding their hands on their heads.

Shedding the Baggage

Marine Corps recruits stand up after shedding gear during a swim qualification event at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Jan. 7, 2026. Water survival qualifications test Marines in aquatic readiness through a 25-meter swim, 15-foot tower jump into the water, four-minute tread, 25-meter pack swim and an underwater shedding of gear.

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