Q: Is it a helicopter or an airplane?
A: Both.

At this year’s fourth-annual Marine Week, you’ll get a chance to see and climb aboard the military vehicle that is both helicopter and airplane, the Marines’ MV-22 Osprey.

Marine Week 2012 kicks off June 11 and runs through June 17 in Cleveland, Ohio – also home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The seven-day event celebrates community, country and Corps, and it is free and open to the public.

“Marine Week will bring the Corps’ latest technology, state-of-the-art equipment, rich history and hundreds of Marines to Cleveland,” said Lt. Gen. Steven A. Hummer, commander of Marine Forces Reserve and Commander, Marine Forces North. “For more than 50 years, the greater Cleveland area has been a good friend to the Corps. Marine Week is our opportunity to connect with Clevelanders and all Americans, thank them for their support and demonstrate why the Marine Corps is America’s expeditionary force in readiness.”

Those attending the fourth annual Marine Week will be able to experience a range of venues and demonstrations, from climbing aboard aircraft and ground equipment, like the multifaceted Assault Amphibious Vehicle, to seeing the Silent Drill Platoon and Marine Corps Band up close and personal. It’s also your chance to interact with Marines.

You’ll also witness Marine Corps martial arts demonstrations and engage in clinics with Marine Corps sports teams. Marines will lend a hand to local communities through dozens of service projects, such as neighborhood clean-ups, park restorations and housing rebuilds. The week will culminate with a simulated full-scale combat demonstration as the Marines highlight the unique capabilities they use to fight our country’s battles in the air, on land and at sea.

“The City of Cleveland is pleased to host Marine Week in 2012. It will be a true honor and privilege to celebrate the service of the brave men and women who protect us and our freedom,” Mayor Frank G. Jackson said.

For more information on the events happening during Marine Week, check out www.Marines.mil/MarineWeek for more details. We’ll also provide you with a timeline on this exciting event as it becomes available.