These 17 photos show how the US military trains for amphibious warfare

The seas are considered cruel mistresses, and it behooves one to either stay clear or be prepared to face its unpredictable wrath.

Considering that the surface of the planet consists of 71% water, it's probably in the US military's best interest to be prepared to perform both in land and sea. 

Here are 17 pictures that show how they train for amphibious warfare:

US Marines conduct a nighttime boat operation exercise using a Combat Rubber Raiding Craft aboard the USS Green Bay.

An instructor with the Animal Packers Course sings the Marine’s Hymn after completing a plunge into freezing water as part of Winter Mountain Leaders Course.

Recon Marines enter the water with their ankles bound and hands clenched tightly together during a proficiency screening at Camp Schwab.