Today's PIX - Wednesday, July 11, 2012

[m4rs75]

A military aircraft flies over the stadium during the national anthem before the All-Star baseball game Tuesday, July 10, 2012, in Kansas City, Mo.

A military aircraft flies over Kauffman Stadium during the national anthem before the MLB All-Star baseball game, Tuesday, July 10, 2012, in Kansas City, Mo.

President Barack Obama departs aboard Air Force One at the Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on Tuesday July 10, 2012.

President Barack Obama departs on Air Force One at the Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on Tuesday July 10, 2012. The president will visit Kirkwood Community College for an Iowa Grassroots event.

A visitor passes a C-130H Hercules transport aircraft belonging to the Colombian Air Force with eagles painted over the nose cone at the Farnborough Airshow 2012 in southern England July 10, 2012.

Russian Navy destroyer Smetlivy sets sail in the Bosphorus in Istanbul July 11, 2012. Russia dispatched a destroyer-class warship to Syria on Tuesday, a source in the Russian Navy told *******, and another military source was quoted as saying four more Russian ships were en route to the violence-torn country. Moscow has been the major ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as he battles an armed uprising, but the source quoted by Interfax news agency said the ships' mission had nothing to do with the conflict.

A Turkish Navy cost guard boat (L) escorts the Russian Navy destroyer Smetlivy, in the Bosphorus in Istanbul July 11, 2012. Russia dispatched a destroyer-class warship to Syria on Tuesday, a source in the Russian Navy told *******, and another military source was quoted as saying four more Russian ships were en route to the violence-torn country. Moscow has been the major ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as he battles an armed uprising, but the source quoted by Interfax news agency said the ships' mission had nothing to do with the conflict.

A Turkish Navy cost guard boat (L) escorts the Russian Navy destroyer Smetlivy in the Bosphorus in Istanbul July 11, 2012. Russia dispatched a destroyer-class warship to Syria on Tuesday, a source in the Russian Navy told *******, and another military source was quoted as saying four more Russian ships were en route to the violence-torn country. Moscow has been the major ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as he battles an armed uprising, but the source quoted by Interfax news agency said the ships' mission had nothing to do with the conflict.

A December 19, 2008, file photo of the Russian Admiral Chabanenko destroyer arrives at Havana's harbor. Russia has sent a naval flotilla of six warships including the Admiral Chabanenko led by an anti-submarine destroyer to its naval base at the Syrian port of Tartus, the Interfax news agency reported, on July 10 2012.

A Japanese Coast Guard ship (C) attempts to stop a Taiwan Coast Guard ship as it escorts a Taiwanese fishing boat near the disputed East China Sea islets called Senkaku in Japan, Diaoyutai in China and Tiaoyutai in Taiwan, in this handout file picture taken on July 4, 2012. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda said on Saturday that the government is considering buying islands in potentially gas rich territory claimed by both Japan and China, in a move likely to anger Beijing.

A Japan Coast Guard patrol ship (R) sails around a Chinese fishery patrol ship near the disputed islands in the East China Sea, known as the Senkaku isles in Japan or Diaoyu in China, in this handout photo taken by the Japan Coast Guard July 11, 2012. Japan lodged a protest with China on Wednesday against the entry of Chinese patrol ships into waters near disputed islands in the East China Sea, an issue that has long been a cause of friction between Asia's two biggest economies.

Panamanian border police land on a beach during an exercise held for a media preview, on an island in the region of Kuna Yala July 10, 2012. The border police have started an anti-drug operation "Nia ebo urwe" in the Kuna Yala dialect, which means "No to Drugs". The operation aims to prevent the island from being used as a smuggling route for drugs to enter Panama, and to protect the Kuna Yala indigenous communities from drug trafficking, according to the police.

Panamanian border police land on a beach during an exercise held for a media preview, on an island in the region of Kuna Yala July 10, 2012. The border police have started an anti-drug operation "Nia ebo urwe" in the Kuna Yala dialect, which means "No to Drugs". The operation aims to prevent the island from being used as a smuggling route for drugs to enter Panama, and to protect the Kuna Yala indigenous communities from drug trafficking, according to the police.

A ranger of the Virunga Nationa Park observes from a tower on July 10, 2012 in Rumangabo. The United Nations expressed new concern today that rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo are getting arms from other countries, as it sent reinforcements to a threatened city. The UN Security Council is to discuss the new strife Tuesday while international leaders are to use an African Union summit in Addis Ababa this week to try to defuse tensions between Congo and Rwanda over the fighting.

A replica of the historic ship HMS Bounty, right, sails past a lighthouse, center, as it departs Narragansett Bay and heads out to sea off the coast of Newport, R.I. , Monday, July 9, 2012. The Ocean State Tall Ships Festival came to a close in Newport with a "Parade of Sail" along the east passage of Narragansett Bay as the majestic ships sailed out to sea.

[-DENO-]

Turkish Army Road patrol units During the IED Deactivate operation in Hakkari-Şemdninli

[bd popeye]

Good start..good photos..


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ARABIAN SEA (July 10, 2012) The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) travels through rough seas en route to the Mediterranean Sea. Cape St. George is deployed as part of the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher S. Johnson/Released)

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IONIAN SEA (July 10, 2012) Lt. James Gensheimer climbs down a ladder onto a rigid hull inflatable boat during a visit, board, search and seizure training exercise between the Italian destroyer MM Luigi Durand De La Penne (D 560) and the guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99). The training was part of a passing exercise, also involving the guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66), meant to improve interoperability between U.S. and Italian naval forces. Farragut, part of the Eisenhower Strike Group, is on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class A.J. Jones/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (July 8, 2012) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) conducts a vertical replenishment at sea in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing 5, are underway for a routine summer patrol in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Declan Barnes/Released)

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GROTON, Conn. (July 9, 2012) The Virginia-Class attack submarine USS Mississippi (SSN 782) makes its way up the Thames River during its first return-to-homeport after a regular underway period. Mississippi was commissioned June 2 in Pascagoula, Miss. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. j.g. Jeffrey Prunera/Released)

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BANGOR, Wash. (July 8, 2012) The Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Nevada (SSBN 733) returns to its homeport of Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor following a strategic deterrent patrol. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Ed Early/Released)

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VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (July 10, 2012) The amphibious dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) departs Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story for a five-month deployment to the Eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean and Black Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Lolita Lewis/Released)

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BAR, Montenegro (July 9, 2012) Gunner's Mate 3rd Class Devon Dusseault shows a member of the Montenegrin navy a .50-caliber machine gun aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81). Churchill is making a regularly scheduled port visit to Bar, Montenegro, in order to enhance U.S-Montenegro relations and continue U.S. 6th Fleet efforts to build Global Maritime Partnerships with European nations and improve maritime safety and security. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aaron Chase/released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 9, 2012) Sailors shelter from the heat under an F/A-18 Hornet training aircraft on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). George H.W. Bush is in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua D. Sheppard/Released)

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GULF OF ADEN (July 4, 2012) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) heave a line from the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Laramie (T-AO 203) during a replenishment at sea. Nitze is deployed as part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. Laramie is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 53 providing fuel and supplies to U.S. Navy and coalition ships in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeff Atherton/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 9, 2012) Aviation ordnancemen unload ordnance from an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Kestrels of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 137 aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Abraham Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Zachary A. Anderson/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 9, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Airman Krzysztof Urbanik stands bow safety watch as an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 launches off the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Stennis is conducting sustainment exercises off the coast of California designed to maintain mission readiness. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 9, 2012) Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman Annakatrina Vargas directs an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during an ammunition on load. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Will Tyndall/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 9, 2012) Sailors move ordnance on an aircraft elevator while an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 delivers ordnance on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during an ammunition on load.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR HICKAM (July 10, 2012) Sailors from the guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) lower the Union Jack before getting underway during Rim of the Pacific Exercise 2012.

[m4rs75]

French President Francois Hollande inspects the guard of honour by the Coldstream Guards at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on July 10, 2012 in London, England. This is the French President's first official visit to the United Kingdom since taking office, during which he will attend meetings with British Prime Minister David Cameron and Queen Elizabeth II.

Queen Elizabeth II, accompanied by Lady Darnley, Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire, tours the Herefordshire Diamond Day celebrations at King George V Playing Fields on July 11, 2012 in Hereford, England. The Queen, accompanied by Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, viewed a parade and met members of the public before leaving to attend Worcester Cathedral. The visit is part of the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh's Diamond Jubilee tour of the United Kingdom.

Cuban President Raul Castro, bottom right, attends a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of Unknown Soldier in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, July 11, 2012. Castro is in Moscow to meet with Russia's president and foreign minister.

Visiting Cuban leader Raul Castro (R) takes part in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow on July 11, 2012.

Cuba's President Raul Castro (2nd L) follows the wreath during a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier near the walls of Moscow's Kremlin July 11, 2012.

A Sri Lankan policeman is seen reflected on an entrance plaque during a demonstration outside the Saudi embassy in Colombo on July 11, 2012. The demonstrators demanded the release of Sri Lankan worker Premanath Perera who had been jailed in saudi Arabia for allegedly worshipping an image of Buddha. Activists say the Sri Lankan worker had been convicted recently and want Sri Lankan authorities to secure his release and bring him back to the island.

Buddhist monks from human rights activity organizations stand in front of the Saudi embassy in Colombo July 11, 2012, as they demand the release detained Sri Lankan migrant worker Premanath Perera. The demonstrators demanded the release of Perera who had been jailed in saudi Arabia for allegedly worshipping an image of Buddha. Activists say the Sri Lankan worker had been convicted recently and want Sri Lankan authorities to secure his release and bring him back to the island.

A paratrooper from the 3rd Battalion (Airborne), 509th Infantry of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division drives along a wall of hesco barriers at FOB Gardez in Afghanistan's Paktiya Province July 10, 2012.

Paratroopers from the 3rd Battalion (Airborne), 509th Infantry of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division walk along a wall of hesco barriers at FOB Gardez in Afghanistan's Paktiya Province July 10, 2012.

Paratroopers from the 3rd Battalion (Airborne), 509th Infantry of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division play basketball inside a qalat compound at FOB Gardez in Afghanistan's Paktiya Province July 10, 2012.

Afghan police officers stand guard as women march to protest the recent public execution of a young woman, in Kabul July 11, 2012. The Taliban denied involvement in the killing in Parwan province, in which an unnamed woman's head and body were riddled with bullets at close range in punishment for alleged adultery. Authorities in Kabul directly blamed the Islamist group.

Soldiers patrol in front the police station that was attacked by rebels of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) last week in Toribio, southern Colombia, Tuesday, July 10, 2012. Colombia's President Juan Manuel Santos will visit Toribio on Wednesday.

United Nations peacekeepers deploy with an armoured personnel carrier in the eastern Congolese city of Goma, July 10, 2012. Authorities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo accused neighbouring Rwanda on Tuesday of "invading" a volatile border area, portraying an advancing insurgency as a Rwandan military operation. The rapid M23 rebel advance has opened the way for a possible assault on the North Kivu provincial capital Goma, where U.N. peacekeepers have reinforced their positions.

United Nations peacekeepers deploy with an armoured personnel carrier in the eastern Congolese city of Goma, July 10, 2012. Authorities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo accused neighbouring Rwanda on Tuesday of "invading" a volatile border area, portraying an advancing insurgency as a Rwandan military operation. The rapid M23 rebel advance has opened the way for a possible assault on the North Kivu provincial capital Goma, where U.N. peacekeepers have reinforced their positions.

United Nations peacekeepers deploy with an armoured personnel carrier in the eastern Congolese city of Goma, July 10, 2012, 2012. Authorities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo accused neighbouring Rwanda on Tuesday of "invading" a volatile border area, portraying an advancing insurgency as a Rwandan military operation. The rapid M23 rebel advance has opened the way for a possible assault on the North Kivu provincial capital Goma, where U.N. peacekeepers have reinforced their positions.

Revelers run and fall in front of Fuente Ymbro's ranch fighting bulls during the running of the bulls of the San Fermin festival, in Pamplona, Spain, Wednesday, July 11, 2012.

[Dossbag]

^ That looks like it's gonna hurt!

[m4rs75]

United Nations peacekeepers stand deployed with an armoured personnel carrier (APC) on the road between Bunagana and Rutshuru on July 10, 2012. Since yesterday, the United Nations' Stabilisation Mission for the Congo (MONUSCO) has deployed peacekeepers at key positions around the capital of the restive North Kivu province following a threat by M23 rebels to advance on the city of Goma.

United Nations peacekeepers stand deployed with an armoured personnel carrier (APC) in the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on July 10, 2012. Since yesterday, the United Nations' Stabilisation Mission for the Congo (MONUSCO) has deployed peace-keepers at key positions around the capital of the restive North Kivu province following a threat by M23 rebels to advance on the city.

United Nations peacekeepers stand deployed with an armoured personnel carrier (APC) in the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on July 10, 2012. Since yesterday, the United Nations' Stabilisation Mission for the Congo (MONUSCO) has deployed peace-keepers at key positions around the capital of the restive North Kivu province following a threat by M23 rebels to advance on the city.

Women carrying sweetcorn walk past United Nations peacekeepers deployed with an armoured personnel carrier (APC) in the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on July 10, 2012. Since yesterday, the United Nations' Stabilisation Mission for the Congo (MONUSCO) has deployed peace-keepers at key positions around the capital of the restive North Kivu province following a threat by M23 rebels to advance on the city.

United Nations peacekeepers stand deployed with an armoured personnel carrier (APC) in the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on July 10, 2012. Since yesterday, the United Nations' Stabilisation Mission for the Congo (MONUSCO) has deployed peace-keepers at key positions around the capital of the restive North Kivu province following a threat by M23 rebels to advance on the city.

United Nations peacekeepers stand deployed with an armoured personnel carrier (APC) at a roundabout in the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on July 10, 2012. Since yesterday, the United Nations' Stabilisation Mission for the Congo (MONUSCO) has deployed peace-keepers at key positions around the capital of the restive North Kivu province following a threat by M23 rebels to advance on the city.

Uruguayan United Nations peacekeepers stand deployed with an armoured personnel carrier (APC) in the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on July 10, 2012. Since yesterday, the United Nations' Stabilisation Mission for the Congo (MONUSCO) has deployed peacekeepers at key positions around the capital of the restive North Kivu province following a threat by M23 rebels to advance on the city.

A Uruguayan United Nations peacekeeper stands next to an armoured personnel carrier deployed in the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on July 10, 2012. Since yesterday, the United Nations' Stabilisation Mission for the Congo (MONUSCO) has deployed peace-keepers at key positions around the capital of the restive North Kivu province following a threat by M23 rebels to advance on the city.

Displaced Congolese families trek back into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) side of Bunagana after spending a night across the border in Uganda, July 10, 2012. Rebels in Congo said on July 6 they had seized the eastern DRC town of Bunagana on the border with Uganda after days of fierce fighting with government troops during which a U.N. peacekeeper was killed and thousands of residents displaced.

A man walks past next to riot police during a march through the centre of Madrid in protest against government austerity measures July 11, 2012. Joined by supporters and trade unionists in the capital, the miners rallied noisily at the climax of a 44-day protest against a 60 percent cut in coal subsidies which they say will force mines to close and put many out of work.

Demonstrators throw stones to riot policemen during a miners' demonstration on July 11, 2012 in Madrid, in protest at industry subsidy cuts that they say threaten their communities. Miners want to reverse the Spanish government's decision to slash subsidies to the coal pits on which many northern towns rely by nearly two thirds to 111 million euros this year ($137 million) from 301 million euros last year.

Riot police fire rubber bullets during clashes between supporters of Spanish coal miners and riot police as they ended a "Marcha Negra" (Black March) near the Industry Ministry in Madrid July 11, 2012. Thousands of miners and supporters, chanting and throwing firecrackers, marched through the centre of Madrid on Wednesday in protest against government austerity measures, but Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy announced more pain in a new series of taxes and spending cuts. Joined by supporters and trade unionists in the capital, the miners rallied noisily at the climax of a 44-day protest against a 60 percent cut in coal subsidies which they say will force mines to close and put many out of work.

Riot police fire rubber bullets during clashes between supporters of Spanish coal miners and riot police as they ended a "Marcha Negra" (Black March) near the Industry Ministry in Madrid July 11, 2012. Thousands of miners and supporters, chanting and throwing firecrackers, marched through the centre of Madrid on Wednesday in protest against government austerity measures, but Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy announced more pain in a new series of taxes and spending cuts. Joined by supporters and trade unionists in the capital, the miners rallied noisily at the climax of a 44-day protest against a 60 percent cut in coal subsidies which they say will force mines to close and put many out of work.

Riot policemen fire tear gas during a miners' demonstration in Madrid, on July 11, 2012 in protest at industry subsidy cuts that they say threaten their communities. Miners want to reverse the Spanish government's decision to slash subsidies to the coal pits on which many northern towns rely by nearly two thirds to 111 million euros this year ($137 million) from 301 million euros last year.

A woman covered in blood is arrested by riot policemen during clashes following a miners' demonstration in Madrid, on July 11, 2012 in protest at industry subsidy cuts that they say threaten their communities. Miners want to reverse the Spanish government's decision to slash subsidies to the coal pits on which many northern towns rely by nearly two thirds to 111 million euros this year ($137 million) from 301 million euros last year.

Flares are thrown at riot police outside the industry ministry during a demonstration by Spanish coal miners on July 11, 2012 in Madrid, Spain. The miners had marched to Madrid in protest at industry subsidy cuts.

Riot policemen fire tear gas during a demonstration by coal miners on July 11, 2012 in Madrid, in protest at industry subsidy cuts that they say threaten their communities. Miners want to reverse the Spanish government's decision to slash subsidies to the coal pits on which many northern towns rely by nearly two thirds to 111 million euros this year ($137 million) from 301 million euros last year.

Riot policemen fire tear gas during a demonstration by coal miners on July 11, 2012 in Madrid, in protest at industry subsidy cuts that they say threaten their communities. Miners want to reverse the Spanish government's decision to slash subsidies to the coal pits on which many northern towns rely by nearly two thirds to 111 million euros this year ($137 million) from 301 million euros last year.

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Staff Sgt. Desiree Palacios tests and make final settings on her camera before taxing out to on sortie in a F-16D Fighting Falcon with the 182 Fighter Squadron, Lackland Air Force Base, TX. Sgt. Palacios is an aerial photojournalist whose duty is to document the visual story of this fighter mission. Because of the intense number of activities required of all aircrew during flight, only aerial photographers are allowed to take hand-held photographs. The aerial photographer's duty is the safe documentation of aerial missions for a variety of DoD uses. The popular rearward photograph of fighters in the cockpit are usually of aerial photographers who use themselves to help show the human element in fighter jet environment. This day's mission had her in an "aggressor" aircraft where other fighter pilots attempted to intercept them. Lt. Col. Christopher "Gash" Carlson (not seen) of the 149th Fighter Wing was the pilot for this mission. In this training, only electronic signals and flight data were used to determine if anyone intercepted. (U.S. Air Force photo by Lance Cheung)

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HONG KONG (July 10, 2012) Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) man the rails as the ship pulls into Hong Kong. Hong Kong is the second port visit for the aircraft carrier since it departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka on May 26 to begin its 2012 patrol. George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean P. La Marr/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (July 8, 2012) Sailors assigned to the Republic of Singapore navy RSS Formidable (68) tour the Battleship Missouri Memorial. Formidable is in Hawaii to participate in Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. Twenty-two nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC exercise from Jun. 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971. (Photo by Ong Hong Tat, Defence Media Journalist, Republic of Singapore/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (July 6, 2012) New Zealand Army soldiers assigned to Alpha Company disembark the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) to participate in a Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. Twenty-two nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC exercise from June 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971. (New Zealand Defence Force photo by LAC Amanda McErlich, Defence Communications Group/Released)

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Two CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters prepare to take off after unloading 23 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment Marines during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise in the Combat Center training areas July 9, 2012. Marines with 2/25 are currently training at the Combat Center as part of Large Scale Exercise at Javelin Thrust 2012. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Ali Azimi)

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U.S. Air Force pararescuemen and Army Soldiers prepare to cross-load simulated casualties from a Marine MH-53 to an Air Force HC-130J Combat King II during a training exercise at an improvised landing strip in the Grand Bara Desert, Djibouti, June 30, 2012. The joint service exercise took place in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Donald Allen)

[hogdriver]

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A B-52 Stratofortress flies over the Pacific Ocean after an air refueling in support of exercise Rim of the Pacific. The first B-52 flew for the first time 60 years ago. The last B-52 manufactured, Tail No. 1040, rolled off the assembly line 50 years ago. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Kamaile O. Long)

[muck]

^
It's amazing to think that this bird is probably older than any of the crew members aboard.

Thanks for the pictures!

[RSone]

The Netherlands' Queen Beatrix and her Military Police and security escort arriving at the seawall closure ceremony for the Second Maasvlakte expansion of Rotterdam Harbour. The expansion consists entirely of artificial land and will enlarge the territory of the Netherlands by some 2000 hectares.

The Queen and executives of the harbour surveying the small exposition outside of the ceremony site.

Hopper dredger dotting the i's

Video of the ceremony and construction workers celebrating the closure of the seawall.

[bd popeye]

Excellent photos posted by all the contributors today! Bravo Zulu!


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SAN DIEGO (July 10, 2012) Navy Diver 2nd Class Justin Lemons, assigned to Southwest Regional Maintenance Center, conducts a pre-dive equipment check before performing underwater hull maintenance on the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). Southwest Regional Maintenance Center is the largest shore based intermediate maintenance activity and the second largest ship repair facility in the Southwestern United States, providing intermediate level maintenance support to more than 100 surface ships and submarines of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and U.S. Coast Guard. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Foster Bamford/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 10, 2012) Navy Diver 2nd Class Justin Lemons, assigned to Southwest Regional Maintenance Center prepares to perform underwater hull maintenance on the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Foster Bamford/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 10, 2012) Navy Diver 2nd Class Justin Lemons, assigned to Southwest Regional Maintenance Center jumps into the water to perform underwater hull maintenance on the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Foster Bamford/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 10, 2012) Navy Diver 2nd Class Dustin Bigby, assigned to Southwest Regional Maintenance Center, conducts a pre-dive equipment check before performing underwater hull maintenance on the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4).(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Trevor Welsh/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 10, 2012) Navy Diver 2nd Class Dustin Bigby, assigned to Southwest Regional Maintenance Center, conducts a pre-dive equipment check before performing underwater hull maintenance on the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4).(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Trevor Welsh/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 10, 2012) Navy Diver 2nd Class Dustin Bigby, assigned to Southwest Regional Maintenance Center, jumps into the water to perform underwater hull maintenance on the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4).(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Trevor Welsh/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (July 10, 2012) A Navy diver assigned to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1, untangles a buoy line during a familiarization dive with Royal Australian navy divers. The units are working together during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Anderson C. Bomjardim/Released)

[bd popeye]

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GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines (July 9, 2012) Musician 3rd Class Gabriel Brown, vocalist with the U.S. 7th Fleet Band ensemble, Orient Express, back-flips off the stage at a concert in Robinsons Mall during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Philippines 2012. CARAT is a series of bilateral military exercises between the U.S. Navy and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Timor Leste joins the exercise for the first time in 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Stephen Hickok/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 10, 2012) Sailors assigned to the Wildcats of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131 perform maintenance on an F/A-18C Hornet on the flight deck aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Dwight D. Eisenhower is on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julia A. Casper/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (July 10, 2012) The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kongo-class guided-missile destroyer JDS Myoko (DDG 175) pulls out of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to support Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012. Twenty-two nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC exercise from June 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jon Dasbach/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 8, 2012) Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Taylor Branch looks for surface contacts from the bridge of the guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99). Farragut is on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class A.J. Jones/Released)

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NORFOLK (July 10, 2012) Tugboats assist the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) pull into Norfolk Naval Station after 16 months at Norfolk Naval Shipyard during its docking planned incremental availability. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Benjamin Kelly/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 9, 2012) A Sailor signals as an EA-6B Prowler assigned to the Lancers of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 131 prepares to launch from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Carlos M. Vazquez II/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 9, 2012) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 is shut down after landing on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Carlos M. Vazquez II/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (July 9, 2012) Forklift teams stand by as a SA-330J Puma helicopter delivers cargo to the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH-19) during an underway replenishment while supporting Pacific Partnership 2012. Pacific Partnership is an annual U.S. Pacific Fleet humanitarian and civic assistance mission, which brings together U.S. military personnel, host and partner nations, non-government organizations and international agencies to build stronger relationships and develop disaster response capabilities throughout the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Camelia Montoy/Released)

[hogdriver]

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A 1st Fighter Wing's F-22 Raptor from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., pulls away from a KC-135 Stratotanker with the 756th Air Refueling Squadron, Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility, Md., after refueling off the east coast, July 10, 2012. The first Raptor assigned to the Wing arrived, Jan. 7, 2005. This aircraft was allocated as a trainer, and was docked in a hanger for maintenance personnel to familiarize themselves with its complex systems. The second Raptor, designated for flying operations, arrived, Jan. 18, 2005. On Dec. 15, 2005, Air Combat Command commander, along with the 1st FW commander, announced the 27th Fighter Squadron as fully operational capable to fly, fight and win with the F-22.

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A 1st Fighter Wing's F-22 Raptor from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., pulls into position to accept fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker with the 756th Air Refueling Squadron, Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility, Md., off the east coast, July 10, 2012.

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A 1st Fighter Wing's F-22 Raptor from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., pulls away and flies beside a KC-135 Stratotanker with the 756th Air Refueling Squadron, Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility, Md., while his wingman refuels off the east coast, July 10, 2012. The first Raptor assigned to the Wing arrived, Jan. 7, 2005. This aircraft was allocated as a trainer, and was docked in a hanger for maintenance personnel to familiarize themselves with its complex systems. The second Raptor, designated for flying operations, arrived, Jan. 18, 2005. On Dec. 15, 2005, Air Combat Command commander, along with the 1st FW commander, announced the 27th Fighter Squadron as fully operational capable to fly, fight and win with the F-22.

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A pair of 1st Fighter Wing's F-22 Raptors from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va. pulls away and flies behind a KC-135 Stratotanker with the 756th Air Refueling Squadron, Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility, Md. after receiving fuel off the east coast on July 10, 2012

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A KC-135 Stratotanker with the 756th Air Refueling Squadron, Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility, Md. refuels a 1st Fighter Wing's F-22 Raptor from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va. off the east coast on July 10, 2012.

[bd popeye]

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BAR, Montenegro (July 09, 2012) Electrician's Mate 2nd Class Lynne S. Kendig shows a member of the Montenegrin navy an M-14 rifle used by the visit, board, search and seizure team from the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81). Churchill is making a scheduled port visit to Bar, Montenegro, to enhance U.S.-Montenegro relations and continue U.S. 6th Fleet efforts to build global maritime partnerships with European nations and improve maritime safety and security. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aaron Chase/released)

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WAIMANALO, Hawaii (July 7, 2012) A Canadian soldier assigned to Princess Patricia Canada Light Infantry returns fire during force on force training on the windward side of Oahu during Rim of the Pacific 2012. Twenty-two nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC exercise from June 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Paul Seeber/Released)

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BELLOWS AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii (July 9, 2012) New Zealand army soldiers conduct urban combat training at the Bellows Air Force Station training facility during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012. (New Zealand Defence Force photo by LAC Amanda McErlich, Photographer, Defence Communications Group/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (June 9, 2012) Sailors aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH-19) team up to move cargo delivered to the ship during an underway replenishment while supporting Pacific Partnership 2012. Pacific Partnership is an annual U.S. Pacific Fleet humanitarian and civic assistance mission, which brings together U.S. military personnel, host and partner nations, non-government organizations and international agencies to build stronger relationships and develop disaster response capabilities throughout the Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Camelia Montoy/Released)

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7/11/2012 By Cpl. Michael Iams
Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton
Marine Corps Community Services held its first Beach Yoga Class at the Del Mar Beach on Camp Pendleton, July 11. Unlike other yoga classes held indoors, the Beach Yoga Class uses the beach to give a sense of serenity to the class. "Being at the beach gives a nice, calm and beautiful environment for the yoga class and really helps get you in that relaxed state of mind," said Yvonne Warfield. There is no fee or sign-up required to participate in the class. The Beach Yoga Class is held every Wednesday at the Del Mar Beach. Warfield is the group exercise coordinator for MCCS.

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7/11/2012 By Lance Cpl. D. J. Wu
Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms
Lance Cpl. Mark Fitzmyer, rifleman, Company E, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, provides cover fire for the rest of his platoon during an attack on the Combat Center's Range 410A July 6, 2012, during Large Scale Exercise-1/Javelin Thrust 2012

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7/11/2012 By Lance Cpl. D. J. Wu
Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms
Cpl. John Belli, rifleman, Company E, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, stops to get accountability for his team during Large Scale Exercise-1/Javelin Thrust 2012 at the Combat Center's Range 410A July 6, 2012.

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7/9/2012 By Sgt. Kevin M. Okamura
1st MEB
MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Marines and a CH-53 helicopter from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 772 refuels an AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter during Exercise Javelin Thrust 2012. Javelin is an annual large-scale exercise which allows active and reserve Marines and Sailors from 38 different states to train together as a seamless Marine Air Ground Task Force. (Photo by Sgt. Kevin M. Okamura/Released)

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7/9/2012 By Sgt. Kevin M. Okamura
1st MEB
MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Marines from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 772 refuel an AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter during Exercise Javelin Thrust 2012. Javelin Thrust is an annual large-scale exercise which allows active and reserve Marines and Sailors from 38 different states to train together as a seamless Marine Air Ground Task Force. (Photo by Sgt. Kevin M. Okamura/Released)

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7/9/2012 By Lance Cpl. Ali Azimi
Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms
Marines with 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, step off the CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter to retrieve two Marines during a tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel exercise in the Combat Center training areas July 9, 2012. Marines with 2/25 are currently training at the Combat Center as part of Large Scale Exercise 1/Javelin Thrust 2012.

[m4rs75]

Awesome pix guys!




RiP ^

Yemeni soldiers stand guard at the site of a suicide bomb attack at a police academy in Sanaa, Yemen, Wednesday, July 11, 2012. A suicide bomber threw himself into a crowd of Yemeni police cadets leaving their academy on Wednesday and detonated his explosives, killing several people, a security official said.

Tribesmen loyal to al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group perform the traditional Baraa dance as they arrive to a gathering in the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada on the border with Saudi Arabia to denounce what they say is a U.S. interference in Yemen July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

Tribesmen loyal to al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group perform the traditional Baraa dance as they arrive to a gathering in the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada on the border with Saudi Arabia to denounce what they say is a U.S. interference in Yemen July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

Tribesmen loyal to al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group perform the traditional Baraa dance as they arrive to a gathering in the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada on the border with Saudi Arabia to denounce what they say is a U.S. interference in Yemen July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

A boy stands among tribesmen loyal to the al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group as they arrive to a gathering in the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada on the border with Saudi Arabia to denounce what they say is a U.S. interference in Yemen July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

Tribesmen loyal to the al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group shout slogans as they arrive to a gathering to denounce what say to be U.S. interference in Yemen, in the northwestern province of Saada, on the border with Saudi Arabia July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

A boy carries a rifle as he stands among tribesmen loyal to the al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group arriving to a gathering in the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada on the border with Saudi Arabia to denounce what they say is a U.S. interference in Yemen July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

A boy looks on as he sits with tribesmen loyal to the al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group attending a gathering in the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada on the border with Saudi Arabia to denounce what they say is a U.S. interference in Yemen July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

Tribesmen loyal to al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group attend a gathering in the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada on the border with Saudi Arabia to denounce what they say is a U.S. interference in Yemen July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

Tribesmen loyal to the al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group attend a gathering in the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada on the border with Saudi Arabia to denounce what they say is a U.S. interference in Yemen July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

Tribesmen loyal to the al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group shout slogans during a gathering in the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada on the border with Saudi Arabia to denounce what they say is a U.S. interference in Yemen July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

Tribesmen loyal to the al-Houthi Shi'ite rebel group shout slogans during a gathering in the northwestern Yemeni province of Saada on the border with Saudi Arabia to denounce what they say is a U.S. interference in Yemen July 11, 2012. The mountainous province of Saada is the stronghold of Shi'ite rebels, known as the Houthis, after the clan of their leaders, who had fought government forces for years until an uprising against former President Ali Abdullah Saleh last year gave them a free hand in the lawless frontier province. Trying to counter the threat of al Qaeda, Washington is deepening its involvement in Yemen, using drone strikes to target suspected militants and training the Yemeni army to fight them.

[Lugiahua]

^ It must be hard to find your own shoes after the gathering.