U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Vincent Ta, a high mobility artillery rocket system chief with Q Battery, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, cleans a M249 light machine gun in Darwin, Australia, July 29, 2019. Cleaning weapons is critical in maintaining functionality and tests a Marine’s ability to disassemble and assemble the weapon system. Q Battery is in Darwin to participate in a series of exercises with the Australian Defence Force, following the battery's participation in Talisman Sabre 19. Training with our allies is critical in maintaining interoperability so we are able to best respond to crises around the world. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Brandon Salas VIRIN: 190729-M-PZ577-691