Second Lt. Jeptha T. Johnson, left, platoon commander

Second Lt. Jeptha T. Johnson, left, platoon commander and Atlanta native, battles Cpl. Steven R. Marshal, right, a motor transport operator and Hudson Falls, N.Y., native, both with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, in a baton match during Marine Corps martial arts program training aboard USS Mesa Verde, April 16, 2011. The training offers the Marines a chance to better themselves while also giving them a break from periods of stressful and monotonous ship life. The Marines and sailors of the 22nd MEU are currently deployed with Amphibious Squadron 6 aboard the USS Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and will continue to train and improve the MEU's ability to operate as a cohesive and effective Marine Air Ground Task Force. The 22nd MEU is a multi-mission, capable force, with approximately 2,200 Marines and sailors, and comprised of Aviation Combat Element, Marine Medium Tilt Rotor Squadron 263 (Reinforced); Logistics Combat Element, Combat Logistics Battalion 22; Ground Combat Element, BLT 2/2; and its Command Element.