Photographers Narrative

Exercise Natural Fire was more of a humanitarian mission than an opportunity for our military to work alongside the Ugandan military. Just a few months prior to the start of the exercise, militias went through the country, killing adults and children and burning down homes. In attempt to show different ways to combat violence, the U.S. Marines trained the Ugandan Soldiers non-lethal ways of defending themselves and others. The days were long, humid, and extremely hot, but the desire to learn never seemed to falter. This shot was taken just before a final test to demonstrate all they'd learned throughout their week together.