Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and soldiers with the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force, Western Infantry Regiment salute during the playing of the national anthem at the opening ceremony of exercise Iron Fist here Feb. 8. The bilateral training exercise will allow the Marines, sailors and soldiers an opportunity to work together and improve their amphibious capabilities while strengthening the bond between the U.S. and Japan. - Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and soldiers with the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force, Western Infantry Regiment salute during the playing of the national anthem at the opening ceremony of exercise Iron Fist here Feb. 8. The bilateral training exercise will allow the Marines, sailors and soldiers an opportunity to work together and improve their amphibious capabilities while strengthening the bond between the U.S. and Japan.