Awards and Ceremonies in Military

Photos capture award ceremonies and promotions within various military branches, highlighting achievements and commendations.

Col. Ryan K. Welch, outgoing director, Army Capability Manager - Reconnaissance and Attack, receives the Honorable Order of St. Michael - Silver Award for excellence in aviation, presented by Col. Joshua P. Higgins, director, Aviation Capability Development and Integration Directorate, during an awards ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum July 8, 2022.

220616-N-YD328-0035 NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (June 16, 2022) Master-at-Arms First Class Adam H. Moose receives a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal from Navy Capt. Rafael C. Facundo, commanding officer, Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Greece, during an Awards at Quarters ceremony in the base gym on Jun. 16, 2022. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., Allied, and Partner nation forces to be where they are needed when they are needed to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

Col. Ryan K. Welch, outgoing director, Army Capability Manager - Reconnaissance and Attack, receives the Honorable Order of St. Michael - Silver Award for excellence in aviation, presented by Col. Joshua P. Higgins, director, Aviation Capability Development and Integration Directorate, during an awards ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum July 8, 2022.

Col. Ryan K. Welch, outgoing director, Army Capability Manager - Reconnaissance and Attack, was awarded the Legion of Merit by Col. Joshua P. Higgins, director, Aviation Capability Development and Integration Directorate, for his meritorious service spanning a 25-year military career, including his leadership, dedication and selfless service while serving at ACM R/A, during an awards ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum July 8, 2022.

Lt. Col. Richard Baysinger, left, 66th Air Base Group deputy commander, and Chief Master Sgt. William Hebb, right, 66 ABG command chief, present Tech. Sgt. Cory Bowman, Air Force Life Cycle Management Detachment 12, with a master sergeant promotion certificate during the E-7 release ceremony at Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., June 2.

502nd Air Base Wing held an honorary commanders hail and farewell ceremony, March 31, 2023, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. This program promotes mission partner relationships between Joint Base San Antonio and the 502nd Air Base Wing and community leaders throughout the city of San Antonio and surrounding areas.

U. S. Army Col. Christian Neary, Mobilization Support Brigade commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Denise Demps, Mobilization Support Brigade command sergeant major, present Chaplain (Maj.) John Monahan the Army Achievement Medal and the Army Commendation Medal for his service while assigned to the Mobilization Support Brigade during an awards ceremony at the Mission Training Complex at Fort Hood, Texas, November 15, 2022. The 642nd RSG held an End-of-Tour Awards Ceremony to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of their Soldiers and civilian staff during their time serving as the Mobilization Support Brigade at Fort Hood from December 2021 to December 2022.

Award Ceremony

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Feb. 15, 2024) Chief Master-at-Arms Michael Deane, assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, Greece, receives a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal from Capt. Odin J. Klug, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay, during an awards ceremony on Feb. 15, 2024. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation that enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. Navy

Col. Christopher G. Jarvis, commander of Womack Army Medical Center, presents Lt. Col. Calvin A. Knox, outgoing commander of the Fort Bragg Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), the Meritorious Service Medal during the change of command ceremony held at the 139th Regiment North Carolina National Guard Training Institute on June 29, 2022.

U.S. Air Force Col. Clinton M. Wilson, center, commander of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing, presents Col. Robert Grant Meadows II, outgoing commander of the 386th Expeditionary Maintenance Group, the Legion of Merit during an inactivation ceremony at the base theater at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, May 30, 2022. As commander of the 386th EMXG, Meadows' strategic leadership guided more than 900 Total Force Airmen, civilians and contractors, over four rotations to generate over 7000 intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, tactical and strategic airlift and precision strike missions in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Spartan Shield. Meadows was instrumental to the largest noncombatant evacuation operation in United States history, generating 224 missions that transported over 5,400 Afghan refugees.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Anthony Maggio, the Equal Opportunity Director at the 117th Air Refueling Wing, holds a retirement ceremony at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama, Jan. 6, 2024. Maggio retired after 22 years in the United States Air Force and the Air National Guard.

SrA Jonathan Holmes of the 130th AW is named the enlisted winner for the WV Air NG for the West Virginia National Guard Best Warrior Competition held April 22-24, 2022, at Camp Dawson in Kingwood, West Virginia. Best Warrior is an annual event where participants compete in a series of warrior training tasks including weapons proficiency on the M4 rifle, 9mm pistol, land navigation, physical fitness, combat first aid, tactical movements, communications, and professional development activities.

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Brandon Mullen, left, and U.S. Army Maj. Peter Postma, right, with the 11th Combat Aviation Brigade, pose with a certificate at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, June 10, 2022. Mullen awarded Postma and other 11th CAB Soldiers the Norwegian Foot March Badge for successfully completing the Norwegian Foot March, or Marsjmerket, at Camp Buehring in March 2022 while mobilized in support of Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve.

AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy - This weeks Wyvern Warrior of the Week is Senior Airman Edgar Sanchez, 606th Air Control Squadron vehicle maintenance technician and a Farmersville, California native.Sanchez has been part of team Aviano for three years and has accomplished many things in his time here. He led a team of five Airmen from different career fields to aid the 31st Civil Engineer Squadron in their response to an Aviano AB water outage. His team responded after-hours and worked late to prepare and position five water buffalos which ensured the base populace had access to potable water.Sanchez also showcased his innovativeness by fabricating four forklift pintle hook towing adapters. This solution averted the need to train personnel on unfamiliar towing equipment, ensuring the unit had the ability to rapidly move equipment using only forklifts. The fabricated adapters saved $6,000 in commercial procurement costs, and ultimately proved their worth during the reception of

YOKOSUKA, Japan (May 23, 2022) - Rear Adm. Richard Seif, commander, Submarine Group Seven, right, and Erin Seif, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Honorary Chair of Volunteers, left, present a certificate of appreciation to Builder Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Holt, for his support raising funds during the 2022 NMCRS Active Duty Fund Drive onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, May 23. At the end of each ADFD season, NMCRS offices from around the world host an appreciation ceremony recognizing commands that have the highest donation per capita, the highest donation contribution, and outstanding command key persons for the Marine Corps and the Navy. NMCRS is a private, non-profit organization that has been financially assisting Marines, sailors and their families through interest-free loans and grants since 1904. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleets forward-deployed naval forces, tena

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Vincent E. Eata, a resource advisor with the 36th Mission Support Group receives the Linebacker of the Week Award from U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul R. Birch, 36th Wing commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. John E. Payne, 36th Wing command chief, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, June 22, 2022. The Team Andersen Linebacker of the Week recognizes outstanding enlisted, officer, civilian and total force personnel who have had an impact on achieving Team Andersens Mission, Vision and Priorities.

Col. J. Stock Dinsmore, Virginia National Guard J4 director of joint logistics, celebrates his retirement from the Virginia Air National Guard during a ceremony presided over by Brig. Gen. Catherine M. Jumper, Virginia Air National Guard commander, Jan. 6, 2024, at the State Military Reservation in Virginia Beach, Virginia. During his VaANG career, Dinsmore served as commander of the 192nd Wings Mission Support Group and the 203rd RED HORSE Squadron, or Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers. He was celebrated by family and fellow service members at the 203rd RED HORSE where he spent more than 20 years of his service.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt.Tyler Skurka, a fuels mobility and equipment maintenance supervisor with the 36th Logistics Readiness Squadron, receives the Linebacker of the Week Award from U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul R. Birch, 36th Wing commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. John E. Payne, 36th Wing command chief, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Aug 3, 2022. The Team Andersen Linebacker of the Week recognizes outstanding enlisted, officer, civilian and total force personnel who have had an impact on achieving Team Andersens Mission, Vision and Priorities.

U.S. Air Force Col. Matthew Reilman, 17th Training Wing commander, presents Senior Airman Gregory Lim, 17 Security Forces Squadron patrolman, a promotion certificate during the Staff Sergeant Release Party at Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, Sept. 1, 2022. Only 21% of 46,000 Airmen were selected for promotion to the rank of staff sergeant.

U.S. Marine Corps GySgt. Wendolyn Rebollar (center), an administrative specialist with 3d Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division (1st MARDIV), poses for a photo with Maj. Gen. Roger B. Turner (left) and Sgt. Maj. David A. Wilson, the commanding general and Sgt. Maj. of 1st MARDIV, respectively, after receiving a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal during the 2022 Active Duty Fund Drive (ADFD) close-out ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 21, 2022. At the end of each ADFD season, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society offices around the world host appreciation ceremonies recognizing commands with the highest donation.

U.S. Air Force Col. Angelina Maguinness, 17th Training Group commander, and Senior Master Sgt. Heather Celano, 313th Training Squadron senior enlisted leader, presents the 316th Training Squadron Student of the Month award to Airman 1st Class Michael Depuydt, 316th TRS student, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, June 10, 2022. Depuydt worked hard for his award and has shown his dedication to his squadron and the training he received at Goodfellow.

Command Sgt. Maj. Kyle Brunell (left) pictured with Command Sgt. Maj. Omar Mascarenas (right) during the Regional Health Command Europe relinquishment of responsibility ceremony held on Aug. 12 at Sembach, Germany.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (June 29, 2022) Master-at-Arms Second Class Brian Pakulski receives a promotion memorandum from Navy Capt. Rafael C. Facundo, commanding officer, Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Greece, during a frocking ceremony held in the base gym on June 29, 2022. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., Allied, and Partner nation forces to be where they are needed when they are needed to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Eric Austin, the commanding general of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), presents a plaque to Maj. Jarod Bryant in recognition of his selection for the Alfred A. Cunningham Award, awarded to the Marine Aviator of the Year during the Marine Corps Aviation Association (MCAA) awards luncheon at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Futenma, April 5, 2023. The MCAA awards are presented annually to individuals and units that represent the best of the best in Marine Corps aviation, rewarding operational readiness and technical ingenuity throughout the service.

On Jan. 18, 2024, Capt. M.W. Meno presented UT2 Andrew Becerra with a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal at quarters for muster for professional achievement in the performance of his duties. As contingency construction crew training advance base lead instructor for Naval Construction Group One (NCG-1) from October 2020 to January 2024, Petty Officer Becerra flawlessly led 10 instructors in the delivery of 2,100 contact hours of instruction to 350 students and dedicated 80 hours of formal course review to four contingency construction crew training curriculums, resulting in a 100% pass rate and zero safety mishaps. As lead evaluator for eight field training exercises, he masterfully led the evaluation of 16 advanced base sites resulting in force-wide major combat operation certifications for eight subordinate units. Petty Officer Becerras exceptional professionalism, unwavering perseverance, and loyal dedication to duty reflected credit upon him, upholding the highest traditions of

U.S. Marines pose for a photo with Sgt. Alexander Fultz at the Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 3, 2023. The Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony provides units in the Camp Lejeune area the opportunity to recognize Marines, Sailors, and family members who earned a Presidential Volunteer Service Award or made a significant impact through their volunteer efforts.

Cmdr. Douglas Kennedy, chief staff officer of Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS), presents Lt. j.g. Zachery Bixby, assistant security officer of CFAS, with the Navy Security Force Officer insignia during a qualification ceremony at CFAS Dec. 13, 2022. For 75 years, CFAS has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services to empower forward-deployed U.S. and Allied Forces while providing superior support to their families and the community.

Col. Shanon Anderson, left, 436th Airlift Wing vice commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Timothy Bayes, right, 436th AW command chief present, Tech. Sgt. Jacob Jones, Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations lead self-assessment program manager, with a certificate as the weeks Top Performer at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, April 15, 2022. Jones individual performance and contributions to his team not only earned him Top Performer recognition but also a Stripes for Exceptional Performers promotion to the rank of technical sergeant.

Evan Brown, Cadet Command, receives the 2022 Category III Civilian Inspector General of the Year award.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (May 23, 2022) - Rear Adm. Richard Seif, commander, Submarine Group Seven, right, and Erin Seif, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Honorary Chair of Volunteers, left, present a certificate of appreciation to Intelligence Specialist Petty Officer 2nd Class Benjamin Waller, for his support raising funds during the 2022 NMCRS Active Duty Fund Drive onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, May 23. At the end of each ADFD season, NMCRS offices from around the world host an appreciation ceremony recognizing commands that have the highest donation per capita, the highest donation contribution, and outstanding command key persons for the Marine Corps and the Navy. NMCRS is a private, non-profit organization that has been financially assisting Marines, sailors and their families through interest-free loans and grants since 1904. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleets forward-deploye

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Joshua M. Olson, 86th Airlift Wing commander, left, presents Col. Christopher B. Meeker, 86th Civil Engineer Group outgoing commander, with a Legion of Merit certificate during the 86 CEG change of command ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 30, 2022. Meeker has been in command of the 86 CEG since June 2020.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Nicole Penn accepts a plaque on behalf of Sgt. Pablo Mendoza in recognition of his selection for the Jack W. Demmonnd Award, awarded to the Aviation Ground Marine of the Year, presented by Maj. Gen. Eric Austin, the commanding general of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), during the Marine Corps Aviation Association (MCAA) awards luncheon at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Futenma, April 5, 2023. The MCAA awards are presented annually to individuals and units that represent the best of the best in Marine Corps aviation, rewarding operational readiness and technical ingenuity throughout the service.

220527-N-EJ241-1010DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (May 27, 2022) - Senior Chief Culinary Specialist Ariel C. Coley, assigned to Naval Support Facility (NSF) Diego Garcia, receives a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal from Capt. Richard D. Payne, commanding officer of NSF Diego Garcia during awards at quarters. NSF Diego Garcia provides logistic, service, recreational, and administrative support to U.S. and allied forces forward deployed to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

A change of command ceremony is held at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Columbus, Ohio, June 4, 2022. Maj. Clinton Hensley relinquished command of the 121st Air Refueling Wing Communications Flight to Maj. Samuel Kenoyer.

Alaska Army Guard Maj. Walter Hotch-Hill, 49th Missile Defense Battalion (Ground-based Midcourse Defense), presents Rachel Sallaffie with a certificate of appreciation for her support to the organization during a retirement ceremony for her husband, Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Sallaffie, at the National Guard armory in Bethel, Aug. 19, 2022. (Alaska National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Balinda ONeal)

U.S. Air Force A1C William Kornegay, radar, airfield and weather systems technician with the 36th Operations Support Squadron receives the Linebacker of the Week Award from U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul R. Birch, 36th Wing commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. John E. Payne, 36th Wing command chief, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, July 20, 2022. The Team Andersen Linebacker of the Week recognizes outstanding enlisted, officer, civilian and total force personnel who have had an impact on achieving Team Andersens Mission, Vision and Priorities.

U.S. Soldiers participating in the Combined Arms Training Center (CATC) hosted Stryker Leader Course at Vilseck, Germany, graduated from their course May 25, 2022. The 7th Army Training Command's CATC coordinates and delivers individual training and professional education for U.S. Army Soldiers, Department of the Army and host nation civilians, and multinational partners through the most efficient and effective means available to ensure readiness and interoperability.

Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall commander Col. David Bowling and garrison chaplain Lt. Col. Alan Irizarry present Sergeant 1st Class Denise Min with the Meritorious Service Medal July 28 at the Memorial Chapel.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Nov. 10, 2022) Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Lauren S. Gagliano, assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, receives a Flag Letter of Commendation from Capt. Odin Klug, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay, Greece, on behalf of Rear Adm. B. J. Collins, commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central during an award ceremony on Nov. 10, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

Lt. Col. Joseph Sahl (Left), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District commander, presents the Meritorious Service Medal to Lt. Col. Nathan Branen, Nashville District deputy commander, during a ceremony at the district headquarters May 13, 2022. Sahl made the presentation on behalf of Col. Kimberly A. Peeples, Great Lakes and Ohio River Division commander. The medal recognizes Branens extraordinary leadership and tireless work ethic that ensured the districts success across its diverse and complex missions.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Sean M. Castilla, commander of the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Poland and the commander of the 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division (3-1 ABCT) operationally controlled by the 1st Infantry Division (1 ID), presents a gift to the U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 1 ID Band, after their Christmas music performance for the troops during the 1 ID Band holiday tour at Bemowo Piskie, Poland, Dec. 2, 2022. The 1 ID is proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

Col. Peter Fiorentino, a Massachusetts National Guardsman and commander of the 51st Troop Command, delivers gifts to U.S. and partner nation leaders at the close of the exercise Regional Cooperation 22 Aug. 19, 2022, in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. RC 22 is an annual, multi-national U.S. Central Command-sponsored exercise conducted by U.S. forces in partnership with Central and South Asia nations.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Puanani Miller, outgoing commander of the 165th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Georgia Air National Guard, is awarded a Meritorious Service Medal by Col. Joseph Zingaro for her successes as the commander for more than 2 years during a change of command ceremony on August 6, 2022 in Savannah, Georgia. Miller was selected as the chief of staff for the 165th AW for her next assignment.

On June 2, White Sands Missile Range held a Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony for the volunteers of the community on post. WSMR Commander Brig. Gen. Eric D. Little, Command Sgt. Maj. Jose G. Melendez, Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Devin Winnegan presenting the Emma Marie Baird Award to Maria Pangborn. Pangborn is the first person at WSMR to ever receive this prestigious award for volunteers.

220826-N-EJ241-1006DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (Aug. 26, 2022) - Master-at-Arms 1st Class Kenny A. Lewis, assigned to U.S. Navy Support Facility (NSF) Diego Garcia, receives a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal from Capt. John F. Wilson, commanding officer of NSF Diego Garcia during awards at quarters. NSF Diego Garcia provides logistic, service, recreational, and administrative support to U.S. and allied forces forward deployed to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Corrine Ramos receives a Senior Sailor of the Quarter plaque from Capt. Steve Aboona, commanding officer of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command, Bethesda, during an awards ceremony in Memorial Auditorium at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, Oct. 7, 2022. Aboona presented 40 individual awards during the award ceremony which recognized various achievements of Sailors assigned to the command.

220627-N-EJ241-1008DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (June 27, 2022) - Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Katryn Kroeker, assigned to American Forces Network Diego Garcia, receives her frocking letter from Capt. Richard D. Payne, commanding officer of U.S. Navy Support Facility Diego Garcia during a frocking ceremony. NSF Diego Garcia provides logistic, service, recreational, and administrative support to U.S. and allied forces forward deployed to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

Maj. Gen. Mark Landes, commanding general of 1st Army Division East, awards Col. Timothy Gallagher, outgoing commander of 4th Cavalry Multi-Functional Training Brigade, the Legion of Merit, June 30th, 2022, at Fort Knox, Ky.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Nov. 28, 2022) Air Controlman 3rd Class Katelyn Colwell, assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, Greece, receives a frocking letter from Capt. Odin J. Klug, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay, during a frocking ceremony at the Fitness Center on Nov. 28, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Nov. 28, 2022) Master-at-Arms 1st Class Colin McNeill, assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, Greece, receives a frocking letter from Capt. Odin J. Klug, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay, during a frocking ceremony at the Fitness Center on Nov. 28, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Army Centrals Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Ronald Clark, presents Mrs. Angela Cherland with a volunteer award at Patton Hall on Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., May 19, 2022. The Volunteer Management Information System assists the Army Volunteer Corps in managing dedicated volunteer hours, awards, training, and certificates.

Col. Jordan Henderson, commander of 30th Medical Brigade, congratulates Staff Sgt. Kyle Kraft for winning the 2022 Best Medic Competition held at Baumholder, Germany Nov 28-Dec 2. Kraft and his teammate, Spc. Lake Goo, will represent 30th Medical Brigade at the Army-wide Best Medic Competition to be held at Ft. Polk Jan 23-27. Staff Sgt. Kraft is assigned to the 519th Hospital Center.

Col. Michael Johnson and Command Sgt. Maj. Julio Santos, 110th Aviation Brigade, presents Elesa Johnson and Stephanie Tucker with a certificate of appreciation for their support and efforts to the 110th Aviation Brigade over the last year in Operation Deploy Your Dress (ODYD,), Fort Rucker, Alabama, August 31, 2022. The idea of ODYD has developed into a large organization, run entirely by volunteers.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Niave Knell (left), 1st Infantry Division senior mission commander, presents Rebekah Weinrich (right) with the 1ID Volunteer Recognition Award during the 1st Family Volunteer Award Recognition Ceremony at Victory Chapel on Fort Riley, Kansas, June 23, 2022. 1ID recognized the volunteers as part of the Big Red One Year of Family, a campaign that honors 1ID Families commitment to each other and the Army.

U.S. Navy Capt. Cassidy Norman, right, Commanding Officer of the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), awards James Wilson, from Providence Forge, Virginia, as the Warfighter of the Week, on the floating accommodation facility, in Newport News, Virginia, June 22, 2022. The John C. Stennis is in Newport News Shipyard working alongside NNS, NAVSEA and contractors conducting Refueling and Complex Overhaul as part of the mission to deliver the warship back in the fight, on time and on budget, to resume its duty of defending the United States.

Petty Officer Jeffrey R. Lipto receives Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

SILVERDALE, Wash. (Aug. 9, 2022) -Hull Technician 1st Class Jamila M. Habibullah, right, receives Trident Refit Facility, Bangor's (TRFB) Sailor of the Quarter award, third quarter, fiscal year 2022. TRFB's Commanding Officer, U.S. Navy Capt. Michael D. Eberlein, left, presented the award. TRFB supports the nations strategic deterrence mission repairing, incrementally overhauling, and modernizing Pacific Fleet strategic ballistic missile submarines during refits.

Brig. Gen. Toni Lord, Virginia National Guard air component commander, presents the Air Combat Command Superior Team Award to Airmen assigned to 192nd Security Forces Squadron Combat Arms on Aug. 7, 2022, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Andrew M. Niebel, commanding general of Marine Corps Installations East, left, and 1st Lt. Cintia Vickery, a ground supply officer with 2nd Supply Battalion, right, pose for a photo with the 2022 Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Cup, on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 16, 2022. 2nd Supply Battalion was awarded the SAPR Cup for being the unit with the most participants in the SAPR 5k run and walk.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Sean Choquette, 12th Air Force (Air Force Southern) vice commander, awards Staff Sgt. Michael Buchalski, 563d Rescue Group HH-60G Pave Hawk special missions aviator, the Air Medal with Valor during an award ceremony at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Dec. 12, 2022. The Air Medal with Valor is awarded to military personnel who distinguish themselves by single acts of heroism or extraordinary achievement in combat or combat support while in participation of aerial flight.

220729-N-EJ241-1010DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (July 29, 2022) - Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Scott R. King, assigned to U.S. Navy Support Facility (NSF) Diego Garcia, receives a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal from Capt. John F. Wilson, commanding officer of NSF Diego Garcia during awards at quarters. NSF Diego Garcia provides logistic, service, recreational, and administrative support to U.S. and allied forces forward deployed to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

U.S. Air Force Col. Ryan Garlow, left, 100th Air Refueling Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Tiffany Griego, right, 100th ARW command chief, congratulate Staff Sgt. Brandon Kapp, 100th Maintenance Squadron unit deployment manager, for being the ReaDy Airman of the Week at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, Jan. 18, 2024. Unit deployment managers are assigned to a unit to help keep track of the training and medical readiness of their Airmen.

On January 30, 2023, the HAVOC Team was given the opportunity to hold an award celebration. Col. McClure (right) and CSM Curry (left), leadership team of the 1st Signal Brigade, pose with Sgt. Goodson (Center).

Mr. Kevin Leonard, from the 49th Logistics Readiness Squadron, accepts the Civilian Category III (Supervisory) of the Quarter Award during the 49th Wings 1st quarter awards ceremony, June 10, 2022, on Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. Quarterly award winners were selected based on their technical expertise, demonstration of leadership and job performance.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Dorthea Milam, a member of the 117th Mission Support Group, is awarded and congratulated by senior leadership of the 117th Mission Support Group at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama, Aug. 13, 2022. The all call opened with awards and later addressed other items regarding the 117th Mission Support Group.

Command Sgt. Maj. Robin Bolmer of Futures and Concepts Center congratulates Sgt. 1st Class Robert Gulbrandsen after he was named winner of FCCs 2022 Best Warrior Competition on April 28, 2022, on Fort Bliss, Texas.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (February 2, 2024) Civilians and Sailors stationed aboard Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL) receive awards from NSGL Commanding Officer, Capt. Steve Yargosz, Feb. 2, 2024. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation. Navy

YOKOSUKA, Japan (May 23, 2022) - Rear Adm. Richard Seif, commander, Submarine Group Seven, presents a certificate of appreciation to the crew of the USS Barry (DDG-52) for their support raising funds during the 2022 Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Active Duty Fund Drive onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, May 23. Electronic Technician 1st Class Petty Officer Jean Paulynice accepts on their behalf. At the end of each ADFD season, NMCRS offices from around the world host an appreciation ceremony recognizing commands that have the highest donation per capita, the highest donation contribution, and outstanding command key persons for the Marine Corps and the Navy. NMCRS is a private, non-profit organization that has been financially assisting Marines, sailors and their families through interest-free loans and grants since 1904. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleets forward-deployed nava

Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Drew Deboard receives his Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal certificate from Capt. Steve Aboona, commanding officer of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command, Bethesda, during an awards ceremony in Memorial Auditorium at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, Oct. 7, 2022. Aboona presented 40 individual awards during the award ceremony which recognized various achievements of Sailors assigned to the command.

Alaska Army Guard Maj. Walter Hotch-Hill, 49th Missile Defense Battalion (Ground-based Midcourse Defense), presents Rachel Sallaffie with an Alaska Commendation Medal for her support to the organization during a retirement ceremony for her husband, Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Sallaffie, at the National Guard armory in Bethel, Aug. 19, 2022. (Alaska National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Balinda ONeal)

Sgt. Curtiss Galloway, a motor transport operator assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division Artillery, 3rd ID, poses for a photo with Maj. Gen. Charles D. Costanza, the commanding general of 3rd ID, at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Oct. 6. 2022. Reenlistment ceremonies are an important part of a Soldiers career and are a chance for Soldiers to publicly reaffirm their commitment to support the Constitution of the United States of America.

Lt. Col. Angela Rosario receives Military Medical Merit (O2M3). (from left) Col. Martin Doperak and Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony Forker Jr.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Omega Guzman senior watch supervisor for the Air Traffic Control Tower with the 36th Operation Support Squadron, receives the Linebacker of the Week Award from U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul R. Birch, 36th Wing commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Brian Smith, senior enlisted leader for the 36th Operations Group, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Sept. 28, 2022. The Team Andersen Linebacker of the Week recognizes outstanding enlisted, officer, civilian and total force personnel who have had an impact on achieving Team Andersens Mission, Vision and Priorities.

SHREVEPORT, Louisiana (May 15, 2022) - Navy Reserve Region Readiness and Mobilization Command Fort Worth Commander Capt. Mark Hofmann presents the Navy Commendation Medal to Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Ferd Slocum. Slocum is one of five Navy Reserve Center Shreveport Sailors involved in saving the life of their distressed shipmate, who experienced cardiac arrest shortly after performing the Navy physical readiness test.

NAVAL BASE GUAM (April 1, 2022) - U.S. Naval Base Guam (NBG) Commanding Officer Capt. Michael Luckett recognized NBG Sailors during an end-of-tour award ceremony at the NBG Headquarters April 1.- Master-at-Arms 1st (MA1) Class Jayme Wolff, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal - MA1 Jose Guzman, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal- Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Jaeger Alvarez, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal- Master-at-Arms 3rd (MA3) Class Erik Gilbert, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal - MA3 Alberto Castillejo, Letter of Commendation

U.S. Air Force Col. William Hunter, 81st Training Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Sarah Esparza, 81st TRW command chief, present April Geray, wife of Col. Chance Geray, 81st Training Group commander, with the Volunteer Excellence Award inside the Bay Breeze Event Center at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, April 13, 2022. The Volunteer Excellence Award recognizes individual federal civilians, family members, military and federal retirees, who perform outstanding volunteer community service of a sustained and direct nature.

Lt. Col. Steven Rachamim bids farewell to Cpt. Brandi Bartley after serving as the company commander for 19 months. During her tenure her battery supported Astral Knight '21, Adriatic Strike '21, Saber Guardian '21, and the rapid deployment to Poland and Slovakia to defend NATO's eastern flank.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Nov. 28, 2022) Air Controlman 3rd Class Alexander Beaucamp, assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, Greece, receives a frocking letter from Capt. Odin J. Klug, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay, during a frocking ceremony at the Fitness Center on Nov. 28, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

220527-N-EJ241-1028DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (May 27, 2022) - Air Traffic Controller Airman Andrew M. Tobar, assigned to Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia, is presented a Letter of Commendation by Capt. Richard D. Payne, commanding officer of NSF Diego Garcia during awards at quarters. NSF Diego Garcia provides logistic, service, recreational, and administrative support to U.S. and allied forces forward deployed to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

Maj. Gen. Matthew Baker, Commanding General of the 88th Readiness Division, presents Maj. Nathi Kijpatanasilp, 88th RD Headquarters Detachment Commander, with his certificate of promotion the 88th RD command classroom at Fort McCoy, WI on 19 Jan, 2024

Congratulations to Sgt. Miguel Lazarin and Spc. Joelle J. Pamplona for successful completion of Physical Therapy Specialist Phase 2!

221130-N-EJ241-1030Air Traffic Controller 3rd Class Daniel Coffin, assigned to U.S. Navy Support Facility (NSF) Diego Garcia, receives his frocking letter from Capt. John F. Wilson, commanding officer of NSF Diego Garcia, during a frocking ceremony at Diego Garcia Nov. 30, 2022. NSF Diego Garcia provides logistic, service, recreational, and administrative support to U.S. and allied forces forward deployed to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

U.S. Army paratrooper Capt. Christopher Donaghe, the physician assistant assigned to 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, was designated as the U.S. Army Europe and Africa physician assistant of the year 2021 at Caserma Del Din in Vicenza, Italy on May 20, 2022.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Nov. 28, 2022) Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Zachary Owen, assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, Greece, receives a frocking letter from Capt. Odin J. Klug, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay, during a frocking ceremony at the Fitness Center on Nov. 28, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Elizabeth Macdowell receives a Letter of Appreciation from Capt. Steve Aboona, commanding officer of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command, Bethesda, during an awards ceremony in Memorial Auditorium at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, Oct. 7, 2022. Aboona presented 40 individual awards during the award ceremony which recognized various achievements of Sailors assigned to the command.

Let's give Staff Sgt. Dustin Hadsock from the 81st Security Forces Squadron a shout-out for being chosen as the Warrior of the Week during this week's staff meeting! As a military working dog handler, Hadsock is dedicated to the mission and provides Keesler Air Force Base with prompt 24/7 military working dog explosive detection capabilities, as well as detecting and deterring any unauthorized access onto the installation. Additionally, he is responsible forstrengthening our community ties by assisting in over 72 military working dog demonstrations and educating over 15,000 military and civilian personnel. Finally, Hadsock provided protection to the President by supporting the United States Secret Service with explosive detection capabilities at four different locations and searching over250 vehicles, 15 buildings and three miles of route clearance, ultimately resulting in his section being recognized as the units Team of the 2nd Quarter.

U.S. Army U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Frank Stanco (left), the acting senior commander of Fort Riley, and U.S. Army Col. William McKannay (right), the Fort Riley Garrison commander, present U.S. Army 1st Lt. Nikiay Comer (center), an officer assigned to the 299th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, with a volunteer of the year award April 21, 2022, at Fort Riley, Kansas. Comer was awarded for volunteering over 263 hours during the 2021 calendar year.

The winner for Best Officer from the 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives (CBRNE) Best Warrior Competition, is Cpt. John Lintner with 48th Chemical Brigade, pose for a photo during the awards ceremony at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, July 14, 2022. The 20th CBRNE Commands Best Squad Competition and Best Warrior Competition is a single event used to select the best Noncommissioned Officer of the Year and Soldier of the Year from Soldiers within the command and its major subordinate commands.

Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Michael Poss and Fort McCoy Garrison Deputy Commander Lt. Col. Chad Maynard present an employee with the Fort McCoy Directorate of Public Works (DPW) with an award on June 1, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wis. Thirty-one DPW employees received Army Civil Service Commendation and Achievement Medals for Operation Allies Welcome (OAW) support. OAW took place at Fort McCoy between Aug. 15, 2021, and Feb. 15, 2022. The installation supported the housing, processing, and relocating of approximately 13,000 Afghan guests who were airlifted from Afghanistan in August 2021.

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Kasey Hales, assigned to Division Schools, Navy Education and Training Command, Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, accepts a congratulatory statue for achieving Junior Sailor of the Year from U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George W. Smith, Jr., commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, and Command Master Chief Charles Ziervogel, Navy senior enlisted leader of I MEF, during the I MEF Marines and Sailors of the Year awards ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, March 22, 2023. The Marines and Sailors of the Year awards are earned by Marines and Sailors who exemplify Marine Corps and Navy core values by performing above and beyond what is expected of them in service and rank.

U.S. Army Spc. Jordan Williamson, right, and U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Mildred Restrepo, left, with 11th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB), pose with a certificate at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, June 20, 2022. Williamson was recognized by Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR) leaders for his work as a postal manager while deployed with 11th CAB, mobilized as Task Force Eagle, in support the CJTF-OIR mission to advise, assist and enable partnered forces in the enduring defeat of Daesh within designated areas of Iraq and Syria.

Amber Exler (middle) receives a Volunteer of the Quarter Award from Maj. Gen. John Meyer III (left), commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley, and Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher Mullinax (right), the command sergeant major of the 1st Inf. Div. and Fort Riley, Nov. 7, 2022, at Victory Hall in Fort Riley, Kansas. Exler received the award for her volunteer work with her company and battalion Soldier Family Readiness Groups as well as the Historical and Archaeological Society of Fort Riley. (U.S. Army by Sgt. Jared Simmons)

U.S. Army Col. Michael Ronn, Tripler Army Medical Center commander, left, inducts Lt. Col Thorbjorn Persson into Army Medicines prestigious Order of the Military Medical Merit, also known as O2M3. Founded in 1982 by the Commanding General of the U.S. Army Health Service Command, the honor recognizes people who have served in the Army Medical Department and through selflessness, have made a sustained contribution to the betterment of Army Medicine. (Defense Health Agency

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Calvert Worth, from left, the commanding general of 2d Marine Division (MARDIV), Sgt. Kayla Hanner, a Lapeer, Michigan, native and administrative specialist, and Sgt. Maj. Todd Colwell, the sergeant major of 2d MARDIV, pose for a photo after Hanners promotion ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 11, 2024. Hanner was identified as a Follow Me Marine in efforts to share the stories of 2d MARDIV Marines who are leading the way.

220616-N-YD328-0063 NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (June 16, 2022) Air Traffic Controller Airman Apprentice Christopher R. Mann receives a letter of commendation from Navy Capt. Rafael C. Facundo, commanding officer, Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Greece, during an Awards at Quarters ceremony in the base gym on Jun. 16, 2022. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., Allied, and Partner nation forces to be where they are needed when they are needed to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Thomas Galoff, participates in a retirement ceremony near Camp Ripley's Town Hall, June 4, 2022. Galoff will retire this summer from his fulltime position with more than 40 years of service. He began his career in 1980 with the Wisconsin National Guards 724th Engineer Battalion as a combat engineer and heavy equipment operator. (Minnesota National Guard Photo by Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Thomas Galoff, stands for a photo near Camp Ripley, June 4, 2022. Galoff will retire this summer with more than 40 years of service. He began his career in 1980 with the Wisconsin National Guards 724th Engineer Battalion as a combat engineer and heavy equipment operator. (Minnesota National Guard Photo by Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Nov. 28, 2022) Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Jayla Coleman, assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, Greece, receives a frocking letter from Capt. Odin J. Klug, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay, during a frocking ceremony at the Fitness Center on Nov. 28, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Andrew Morris, executive officer of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, Col. Eric Garcia, chief of staff of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW), Marines, and sailors of MCAS Miramar and 3rd MAW pose for a group photo during the quarterly award recognition ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, California, May 11, 2022. The ceremony recognized Marines and Sailors for their exceptional work ethic and achievements during 2nd quarter of fiscal year 22.

220810-N-IE405-3040 NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY NAPLES, Italy (Aug. 10, 2022) Rear Adm. Brad Collins, commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central, (right), congratulates Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Devyn States, Sailor of the Quarter award recipient for U.S. Naval Support Activity (NSA) Naples, during a recognition ceremony hosted by USO Naples onboard NSA Naples in Capodichino, Italy, Aug. 10, 2022. USO Naples hosted a celebratory luncheon for the Sailor of the Quarter award recipients for their outstanding contributions to their respective commands. Navy Region EURAFCENT oversees nine installations in seven countries, enabling U.S., allied and partner nation forces to be where they are needed, when they are needed, in order to ensure security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

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