Final answer:
The 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (2 MEF) is based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina and has been involved in major military operations, including the 2003 invasion of Baghdad and Operation Desert Storm.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (2 MEF) is a crucial component of the United States Marine Corps. The 2 MEF is primarily based at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina and is known for its rapid deployment capabilities. This unit has played significant roles in various historical conflicts, including Operation Desert Storm, where Marines prepared for the potential use of chemical weapons by Iraqi forces, and the notable presence in Baghdad during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, commanded by then Lt. General James Conway.
Furthermore, the history of the Marine Expeditionary Forces highlights the evolution of military involvement, as seen in instances like the battle of Iwo Jima and the iconic raising of the American flag atop Mt. Suribachi. The role of the Marines has expanded over time, with a notable increase in the use of National Guard and Reserve components in conflicts post-9/11, as evidenced by the changes in the annual training requirements from two weeks to potentially seven weeks a year.