 In the spirit of Marines training as they fight, the Marine Corps is allowing the use of new weapons and optics during individual Marines' annual marksmanship qualifications. Officials say the decision to allow the additional items was prompted by the Commandant's decision last year to field the M-27 infantry automatic rifle. The IAR's free-floating barrel makes it more accurate than the current M-249 squad automatic weapon and will be issued as its replacement. Those not issued this all will continue firing with their M-16A-4s and M-4s with approved combat optics. Approved pistols include the M-9, M-9A-1 and M-45. As always, you can log on to Marine Stop Mill for more information and check out Mar-Admin 124-12. From Washington, I'm Sergeant Todd Hunter.