U.S. Marine Corps Joseph Kreis, a combat photographer with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, walks down on logs during an O-Course physical training event during a field training exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Apr. 6, 2026. TThe COMMSTRAT FTX is a five-day event focused on increasing acumen and technical proficiency to provide commanders with capable COMMSTRAT forces at the tactical level. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Carlos Paz-Sosa)  “I feel a great sense of accomplishment because when I was in boot camp I couldn’t actually finish it,” said Kries. “I couldn’t climb the rope, I struggled climbing over the bar. Now I feel that sense of accomplishment knowing I can actually complete the obstacle course.” Kreis expressed his excitement about his progression throughout his career. From recruit training to now Kreis has proved to himself that he has progressed in physical and mental challenges. Kreis is a native of Virginia.