Ceremonial Honors and Memorials

Photos capturing military ceremonies, wreath-laying, and honors, featuring service members presenting flags at significant locations and events.

Service members conduct an Armed Forces Full Honor Wreath-Laying Ceremony at President William H. Tafts Memorial Gravesite in Section 30, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 15, 2022.The wreath-laying ceremony was held to commemorate Taft's 165th birthday and was hosted by Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director, Army National Military Cemeteries. The wreath was laid by U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John H. Phillips, military deputy to the deputy chief of staff, G-6, United States Army Reserve.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Center Director Bob Cabana stands at the base of the Astronaut Memorial Mirror awaiting the arrival of James Loftus, director of the Miami-Dade Police Department who will present to him the U.S. Honor Flag.The flag is presented to NASA to be prepared to fly aboard space shuttle Atlantis on the Space Shuttle Program's final mission, STS-135. The U.S. Honor Flag has been flown nationwide, at Ground Zero and throughout the world to honor heroes who have lost their lives while serving their community and country, including police officers, firefighters, members of the Armed Forces and astronauts. More than 100 honor guard members traveled to the Space Coast to take part in the ceremony. After the flag returns to Earth, it will continue as a traveling memorial.

Service members conduct an Armed Forces Full Honor Wreath-Laying Ceremony at President William H. Tafts Memorial Gravesite in Section 30, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 15, 2022.The wreath-laying ceremony was held to commemorate Taft's 165th birthday and was hosted by Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director, Army National Military Cemeteries. The wreath was laid by U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John H. Phillips, military deputy to the deputy chief of staff, G-6, United States Army Reserve.

020406-F-4132J-016. Base: Waving Girl Park State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ANG

Members of Air Force Special Operations Command applaud as Master Sgt. Cory Haggett, a special tactics operator with the 23d Special Tactics Squadron, 24th Special Operations Wing, is presented the Silver Star during a ceremony, May 13, 2022, at Hurlburt Field, Fla. The Silver Star is the third-highest military combat decoration that can be awarded to a member of the United States Armed Forces.

Members of the Indiana National Guard represented at Indianapolis's 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. The race consists of a 13.1-mile course that starts and finishes in Downtown Indianapolis and includes a lap around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway's famed 2.5-mile oval track.

Brig. Gen. Tommy Mancino, the adjutant general for Oklahoma addresses guests during a Memorial Day ceremony hosted by the 45th Infantry Division Museum in Oklahoma City, May 30, 2022. The museum has held military remembrance ceremonies since its establishment in September 1976. (Oklahoma National Guard photo by Sgt. Reece Heck)

Command Sgt. Maj. Jonathan Saunders, senior enlisted advisor for 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, speaks to Veterans at the Liberty County Chapter POW/MIA ceremony in Hinesville, Georgia Sept. 16, 2022. The event is held every year to honor all POW/MIAs across the service branches. (U.S. Army photos by Staff Sgt. Joel Salgado, 3rd Division Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs)

Visit of Secretary Gale Norton to Annapolis, Maryland, for ceremonies and related tours marking the transfer of the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse from the U.S. Coast Guard to the city of Annapolis and its non-profit partner, the U.S. Lighthouse Society

The Air Force Band and Honor Guard march to the gravesite during the funeral of Brig. Gen. Charles E. McGee at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., June 17, 2022. McGee, a Tuskegee Airman, died Jan. 16, 2022 at the age of 102. He served 30 years during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

Address at Veterans Day Ceremonies, Arlington National Cemetery, 11:01AM. President John F. Kennedy participates in Veterans Day ceremonies. President Kennedy stands with Major General Paul A. Gavan, Commanding General of the Military District of Washington. Standing behind the President (L-R): John S. Gleason, Administrator of Veterans Affairs; Military Aide to the President General Chester V. Clifton; Air Force Aide to the President Colonel Godfrey T. McHugh; Naval Aide to the President Captain Tazewell T. Shepard; and Thomas Stirling, National Commander of the Legion of Valor (partially hidden by President Kennedy). Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.

Veterans Day ceremony and aftermath at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C., where Secretary Dirk Kempthorne delivered the opening remarks, and joined participating dignitaries including the former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, along with Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Founder and President Jan Scruggs, Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation Founder and President Diane Carlson Evans, Mary "Edie" Meeks of the Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation, William Hansen of Lockheed Martin, and William Murdy of Comfort Systems. Ceremony, co-hosted by the Memorial Fund and the National Park Service, highlighted the 25th anniversary of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Yorktown, Virginia to deliver the keynote address at the 225th anniversary celebration of the Battle of Yorktown. Among other dignitaries on hand for the commemorative events were Virginia Senators John Warner and George Allen, former U.S. Army Secretary John Marsh, French Ambassador to the U.S. Jean-David Levitte, and French Defense Minister Michelle Alliot-Marie.

California State Guard members present honorary wreaths to display for fallen troops during the annual Memorial Day Observance Ceremony at Oak Hill Funeral Home & Memorial Park, San Jose, California, May 30 2022. The event honored veterans of all armed forces of the United States and was organized by the United Veterans Council of Santa Clara County.

MSgt B.G. Wright and TSgt Ashley Ball, 183d Fighter Wing Honor Guard, place a wreath in remembrance of those unit members who have passed away. Near the main gate of the 183FW located at Capitol Airport in Springfield, IL.

Soldiers assigned to 5-4 ADAR color guard during the 2022 Memorial Day Ceremony

021113-F-3838S-001. Base: Spangdahlem Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

041207-F-8970B-004. Base: Hickam Air Force Base State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

060501-A-5399B-021. Base: Fort Hood State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Yorktown, Virginia to deliver the keynote address at the 225th anniversary celebration of the Battle of Yorktown. Among other dignitaries on hand for the commemorative events were Virginia Senators John Warner and George Allen, former U.S. Army Secretary John Marsh, French Ambassador to the U.S. Jean-David Levitte, and French Defense Minister Michelle Alliot-Marie.

Barnestomers honor the 13 Airmen fallen in flight from the 104th Fighter Wing during the F-100 memorial rededication ceremony, May 20, 2022, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts. The F-100 monument was originally dedicated on May 17, 1987 by the 104FW Chief Master Sergeants Council. It continues to serve as a reminder of fallen Airmens impact on the unit.

Army Maj. Gen. Haldane B. Lamberton, the adjutant general of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, salutes a wreath at the Kentucky National Guard Memorial during a ceremony in Frankfort, Ky., May 30, 2022. The memorial honors 286 Solders and Airmen from the Kentucky Guard who have paid the ultimate price for freedom since 1912.

The Ohio National Guard, Sgt. 1st Class Daniel B. Crabtree Special Forces Facility officially unveiled a memorial for SFC Crabtree, October 15, 2022, at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio. Crabtree was killed in 2006 when an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle during his deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Jim Slife, commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, stands aside Master Sgt. Cory Haggett, a special tactics operator with the 23d Special Tactics Squadron, 24th Special Operations Wing, as hes presented the Silver Star Medal during a ceremony May 13, 2022, at Hurlburt Field, Fla. The Silver Star is the third-highest military combat decoration that can be awarded to a member of the United States Armed Forces.

Remains of U.S. Army Air Corps Cpl. LaVerne Dirk Van Dyke, B-25 crew member, is laid to rest at the Zeeland Cemetery, Michigan, May 12, 2022. Van Dyke's great-niece, Beth Klomparen and great-nephew, Steve Klomparen accepted the ceremonial folded flag from Wright-Patterson Air Force Honor Guard 80 years after Van Dykes death. Remains of six crew members were found in a remote area of Papua New Guinea in 1998. The DNA analysis process to identify the remains took 20 years and another three years to bring Van Dyke home to his final resting place.

Color Guard performs sequence during the presentation of the Service Colors at the Madingley Memorial Day Commemorative Service. The ceremony was held at Cambridge American Military Cemetery, Coton, Cambridge, United Kingdom. Base: Raf Lakenheath State: East Anglia Country: England / Great Britain (ENG)

Members of the Tennessee National Guard and the James K. Polk Association pay tribute to President James K. Polk, while Taps is played, Nov. 2, at the Tennessee State Capitol, in Nashville. A wreath is laid on the tomb of former presidents each year on their birthday on behalf of the current president. (Tennessee Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Cordeiro)

DA-SC-88-01616. Base: Philadelphia State: Pennsylvania (PA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Ceremony at Department of Interior South Building marking adoption by Department employees of the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division and the 10th Mountain Division as wartime focal points for volunteer activities on behalf of military families

Events marking the debut of the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial traveling exhibit, Corps of Discovery II, at Monticello, Virginia

MAJ. GEN. R.I. Neal, Commanding General, 2nd Marine Division, addresses the audience at the 50th anniversary ceremony of the Battle at Tarawa. Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Members of the official party salute as the national anthem is played July 14, 2022, during the Fort McCoy Garrison Change of Command Ceremony at Veterans Memorial Plaza at the historic Commemorative Area at Fort McCoy, Wis. During the ceremony, Col. Stephen T. Messenger became the new commander of Fort McCoy Garrison. Messenger received the garrison flag from Brenda McCullough, director of U.S. Army Installation Management Command Directorate-Readiness. Messenger replaces Col. Michael D. Poss who became the garrison commander June 10, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic in a virtual change-of-command ceremony. Poss moves on to serve in a position at the 88th Readiness Division also at Fort McCoy.

The 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) hold a wreath-laying ceremony at the gravesite of President John F. Kennedy in Section 45 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, Sept. 27, 2022. This ceremony is held yearly to commemorate President Kennedys contributions to the U.S. Army Special Forces, including authorizing the Green Beret as the official headgear for all U.S. Army Special Forces and his uncompromising support to the regiment.

The 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) hold a wreath-laying ceremony at the gravesite of President John F. Kennedy in Section 45 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, Sept. 27, 2022. This ceremony is held yearly to commemorate President Kennedys contributions to the U.S. Army Special Forces, including authorizing the Green Beret as the official headgear for all U.S. Army Special Forces and his uncompromising support to the regiment.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Dec. 18, 2019) The funeral procession prepares to march to the gravesite following the funeral of retired Adm. James Holloway III, the 20th Chief of Naval Operations. Holloway was born Feb. 23, 1922, and served in the U.S. Navy for 36 years. He is survived by his wife, two daughters and one grandson. He was predeceased in 1964 by his son.

The Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, Honor Guard form a cordon on the flight line, anticipating the arrival of the Secretary of the Air Force, F. Whitten Peters (Not shown), on December 8th, 1999, at Little Rock AFB, AR. Base: Little Rock Air Force Base State: Arkansas (AR) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Left to right, are Mr. Peter B. Teets the Under Secretary of the Air Force (SECAF), Mr. F.W. Peters former SECAF, Dr. James G. Roche, current SECAF, US Air Force (USAF) Technical Sergeant (TSGT) Rory Crissman 11th wing Ceremonies and Protocol and Mr. John Metzler Arlington Cemetery Superintendent, pay tribute to former SECAF, John L. McLucas, at his funeral at Arlington National Cemetery (ANC). Base: Arlington National Cemetery State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

NEW YORK (Nov. 11, 2022) - Service members and veterans participate in the wreath laying ceremony at the Eternal Light Flagstaff at Madison Square Park prior to the New York Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 11, 2022. On Veterans Day we pause to remember all of those individuals, past and present who signed up to defend the very freedoms we enjoy each and every day. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Anna-Liesa Hussey

Tech. Sgt. Diontae Walker and Tech. Sgt. Donnie Scholz, 911th Airlift Wing Honor Guard ceremonial guardsmen, salute as a casket of a deceased veteran is transferred from a hearse at St. James Cemetery in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, Aug. 26, 2022. Ceremonial guardsmen are tasked with the solemn duty of providing funeral honors for deceased veterans to recognize their honorable service and the sacrifices they made during their lives.

The 3rd Infantry Division Honor Guard present the National Colors at the Liberty County Chapter POW/MIA ceremony in Hinesville, Georgia Sept. 16, 2022. The event is held every year to honor all POW/MIAs across the service branches. (U.S. Army photos by Staff Sgt. Joel Salgado, 3rd Division Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs)

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christopher Dauer, 85th Engineering Installation Squadron incoming commander, delivers remarks to the crowd at the 85th EIS reassignment and change of command ceremony outside Maltby Hall on Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, Feb. 6, 2023. The 85th EIS was redesigned from the 38th Cyberspace Engineering Installation Group to the 5th Combat Communications Squadron. Dauer took command from Lt. Col. Whitney Walker, 85th EIS outgoing commander.

010926-F-8708H-006. Base: Moffett Federal Airfield State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 129TH RESCUE WING, ANG

Members of the Fort McCoy Public Affairs Office raise the United States flag for the first time in 2022 at Veterans Memorial Plaza on May 5, 2022, at the Commemorative Area at Fort McCoy, Wis. The 900 block of Fort McCoy and the 11-acre area surrounding it are at the hub of the forts history-preservation efforts and is called the Commemorative Area. The Commemorative Area consists of five World War II-era buildings set aside to help tell Fort McCoy's unique story. These facilities are representative of the types found in the cantonment area when it was constructed in 1942. Three of the buildings an administrative facility, a dining facility, and a barracks are set up to depict Soldier life during the 1940s. Display items include a World War II chapel, bunk beds, footlockers, mannequins, and potbelly stoves. Another building highlights four different modern military training venues, and a separate facility shows various training aids. The area also has the Equipment Park. Veterans Mem

A color-guard marches slowly toward their position for the ceremony held by the Big Bend Area Law Enforcement Officers Association at the memorial to fallen officers within the region on May 25, 2022, on the campus of Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas. The color-guard had personnel from multiple regional law-enforcement agencies to include all three components of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), participate in a Joint Armed Forces Color Guard presentation during an Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-laying ceremony, Sept. 15, 2022, at the grave sit of 27th President of the United States, William H. Taft, in Arlington National Cemetery, Va. During the ceremony, hosted by Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director, Army National Military Cemeteries, Maj. Gen. John H. Phillips, Military Deputy to Deputy Chief of Staff, G6, (IMA) laid a wreath to commemorate Tafts 165th birthday. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Laura Stephens)

Sailors from the Navy Medical/Dental Clinic aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, unfold the flag as they prepare to perform colors for the first time at the Clinic's opening ceremonies on July 25, 2000. Base: Marine Corps Base, Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: NAVY MED

Pacific Islands Tour: Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne and aides to Saipan Island, of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - NEWS CONFERENCE WITH ASSISTANT SECRETARY JAMES MAHONEY

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Dylan Wheeler, a cavalry scout assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, salutes the Medal of Honor Flag during Capt. Larry L. Taylors memorial service at the Chattanooga National Cemetery in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on Feb. 7, 2024. Taylor flew into enemy fire to rescue a four-man long-range reconnaissance patrol team, which went on to earn him the nations highest honor - the Medal of Honor. Army

Members of the color guard move July 14, 2022, during the Fort McCoy Garrison change-of-command ceremony at Fort McCoy, Wis. Col. Stephen T. Messenger received the garrison flag from Brenda McCullough, director of Installation Management Command-Readiness signifying Messenger as the new garrison commander. Messenger replaces Col. Michael D. Poss who became the garrison commander June 10, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic in a virtual change-of-command ceremony. Poss moves on to serve in a position at the 88th Readiness Division also at Fort McCoy. Messenger arrives after serving in his prior assignment as the director of engineering and logistics, J4, Joint Task Force Civil Support, Fort Eustis, Va., which was on the front lines of the nations COVID response.

The 1st Battalion, 8th Marines Color Guard retires the colors during the 39th Beirut Memorial Observance Ceremony at Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Oct. 23, 2022. The memorial observance is held annually on Oct. 23 to remember the lives lost due to the terrorist attacks at U.S. Marine Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon and Grenada.

Vice President Cheney participates in memorial ceremonies for the September 11 attacks

DA-SC-88-05933. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

RAF Chicksands Base Honor Guard presents the Flags with respect during the playing of the National Anthems, of the United States and for the United Kingdom. Ceremony was for the inactivation of the 774th Air Base Group. Base: Raf Chicksands Country: England / Great Britain (ENG)

The Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard from Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, presents Colors as Fire Chief Nick DiNapoli of Barstow Fire District sings the National Anthem, during the Patriot's Day ceremony held at Mountain View Cemetery, Barstow, California, September 10. The event, hosted by the United States Veterans Support Committee honored first responders, military, and civilians who were either lost during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, or who served in various capacities to protect America after the attacks.

WASHINGTON (October 19, 2022) -- Members of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Drill Team perform for observers during a Joint Service Drill Team Competition at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington. Drill teams from all four branches of the U.S. military and the U.S. Coast Guard performed as part of the event.

A Canadian indigenous person during the Government of Canada ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, at Juno Beach in Courseulles-sur-Mer, Normandy, France. Picture date: Thursday June 6, 2024.

NETCOM Commanding General, MG Christopher Eubank spoke at the ceremony restating We will never forget. During the ceremony, the names of the fallen were read aloud prior to placemat of a wreath inside the Signal Cove of Remembrance. The ceremony was followed by the solemn notes of taps as it was played by a lone bugler.

American and French representatives, civilian and military, honor the fallen U.S. troops in Operation Overlord or D-Day at the Normandy American Cemetery in Coleville, France, May 29, 2022. On June 6, 1944, more than 150,000 Soldiers from the Allied Forces stormed Normandy Beach in what is known as the largest seaborne invasion in history. Approximately 4,000 soldiers lost their lives, and the battle changed the course of World War ll. (U.S. Army photograph by Staff Sgt. Alexander Skripnichuk)

Guests and Fort McCoy staff members participating in a Community Leader Engagement event visit Veterans Memorial Plaza on July 6, 2022, at the Commemorative Area at Fort McCoy, Wis. Nearly two dozen community leaders from Tomah, Sparta, Black River Falls, Volk Field, La Crosse, and other nearby municipalities gathered at Fort McCoy to see the posts mission first-hand and learn more about the Army mission at the installation.

01/13/2014 Washington, United States The President of the Government, Mariano Rajoy during his visit to Arlington Cemetery. Photography: Diego Crespo / Moncloa Presidency of the Government ARCHDC.

Flooding Severe Storm - Madison, Tenn. , May 29, 2010 Gary Lima, TEMA Community Relations Coordinator, leads Boy Scout troop #460 in a Memorial Day project to place flags on graves in the Nashville National Memorial Cemetery. Gary's work as a Scout Master and State Community Relations Coordinator illuminates his service to the people of Tennessee. David Fine/FEMA. Tennessee Severe Storms, Flooding, Straight-Line Winds, and Tornadoes. Photographs Relating to Disasters and Emergency Management Programs, Activities, and Officials

A color guard presents the colors during graduation ceremonies at the Recruit Training Command. Base: Naval Training Center, Orlando State: Florida(FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A joint services color guard participates in the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. A veteran salutes during the ceremony. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

KITTERY, Me. Sept. 30, 2022, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Submarine Maintenance Engineering Planning and Procurement Activity Change of Command Ceremony where Capt. Carey Pantling passes command to Capt. Joseph Meier. Rdml. Jonathan Rucker, Program Executive Officer, Attack Submarines was the presiding officer. The Color Guard from Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Unit, Portsmouth presents colors as the official party salutes. Pictured (left to right): Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Norman La Fleur; Pastor Andrew Newman; Capt. Pantling; Rdml. Rucker, and Capt. Meier.

DD-ST-89-03828. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight, The Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard faces the American flag during the National Anthem, in Colchester, Vermont, Sep 11, 2022. Maj. Gen. Knight was there to speak to all those participating in the Vermont Remembers Run, in memoriam of those who lost their lives during and since the events of 9/11.

Members of the color guard with the 1st Infantry Division march away after the culmination of a ceremony at the 1st Infantry Division Monument in Colleville-Sur-Mer, France, June 5, 2022. The event honored the men of the "Big Red One" who fought in the invasion of Normandy.

040611-F-4517Q-001. Base: Travis Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Brandon Susewitt, 375th Civil Engineer Squadron crew chief, stands by a bell during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, Sept. 9, 2022. During the ceremony, the bell was rung three times, three times each, to honor first responders who lost their lives in the line of duty, symbolizing the end of their duties.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defense General Warakiat Rattananont and others (not pictured) watch the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., May 10, 2022. While at ANC, participated in a Public Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

040525-F-1851U-003. Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg, Mississippi, for touring, participation in events highlighting the restoration project--funded jointly by the National Park Service and the Friends of the Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign, as part of the National Park Centennial Initiative--aimed at replacing interpretive battlefield markers and conserving the array of bronze statuary and stone monuments at the Civil War site. Joining Secretary Kempthorne for the events, including the unveiling of the first group of 22 metal markers identifying the specific locations of various Union and Confederate artillery batteries during the siege and defense of Vicksburg, were National Park Service Director Mary Bomar, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Chairman John Nau III, and country music star Trace Adkins, among other dignitaries.

U.S. Air Force base honor guard members fold the American flag during a retreat ceremony at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, on Sept. 2, 2022. The 85th Flying Training Squadron celebrated its 50th anniversary at Laughlin, which ended with a retreat ceremony.

Maj. Gen. Michel M. Russell Sr. (left), commanding general, 1st Theater Sustainment Command and CSM Albert E. Richardson, senior enlisted advisor 1st TSC, render honors to the flag during the Memorial Day ceremony held at the Vietnam Memorial Wall in the Elizabethtown Nature Park, May 30, 2022

221028-N-UQ872-1005 PORT HUENEME, Calif. (Oct. 28, 2022) Rear Adm. Dean A. VanderLey, commander of Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) and 46th Chief of Civil Engineers, addresses Civil Engineer Corps Officers School (CECOS) Basic Class 273 during a graduation ceremony at Port Hueneme, California Oct. 28.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black, the 19th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, and his wife, retired First Sgt. Stacie Black salute the flag during a colors ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, April 7, 2022. The sergeant major of the Marine Corps and his spouse, retired First Sgt. Stacie Black were the parade reviewing officials for Lima Company graduation ceremony. Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island has transformed young men and women into Marines since 1915.

The color guard Soldiers, left, assigned to the "BattleKings Battalion," 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Armored Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, salutes after posting the colors during a Memorial Day ceremony at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville, Georgia, May 30, 2022. The purpose of Memorial Day is to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Fallen Firefighters 9/11 2012 Memorial Service Held at National.. Photographs Relating to Disasters and Emergency Management Programs, Activities, and Officials

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg, Mississippi, for touring, participation in events highlighting the restoration project--funded jointly by the National Park Service and the Friends of the Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign, as part of the National Park Centennial Initiative--aimed at replacing interpretive battlefield markers and conserving the array of bronze statuary and stone monuments at the Civil War site. Joining Secretary Kempthorne for the events, including the unveiling of the first group of 22 metal markers identifying the specific locations of various Union and Confederate artillery batteries during the siege and defense of Vicksburg, were National Park Service Director Mary Bomar, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Chairman John Nau III, and country music star Trace Adkins, among other dignitaries.

Grafenwoehr Fire Department Chief Alexander Richter explains the process of raising the Maypole to Col. Daniel Miller and Command Sgt. Maj. Kristian Castro during a Maypole Celebration at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany April 29, 2022. Maypole, or Maibaum in German, dates back to the 16th century and is celebrated in many places across Europe. The tradition centers on the raising of a large, decorated tree trunk in the town center followed by traditional Bavarian festivities.

U.S. ASA Fort Dix Headquarters Celebrated the Army Birthday US Flag Ceremony with a Formation during Reveille at 0600 on 14 June 2022. The Fort Dix workforce shared in the Ceremony by assisting the raising of the large U.S Flag in a group around the Fort Dix Flag Pole. After the raising remarks were spoken by U.S. ASA Fort Dix Commander Colonel Jon A. Brierton to the Service Members, Family Members, DoD Civilians and Contractors that had attended. (Photos taken by the Fort Dix TSC Training Support Center)

Remains of U.S. Army Air Corps Cpl. LaVerne Dirk Van Dyke, B-25 crew member, is laid to rest at the Zeeland Cemetery, Michigan, May 12, 2022. Van Dyke's great-niece, Beth Klomparen and great-nephew, Steve Klomparen accepted the ceremonial folded flag from Wright-Patterson Air Force Honor Guard 80 years after Van Dykes death. Remains of six crew members were found in a remote area of Papua New Guinea in 1998. The DNA analysis process to identify the remains took 20 years and another three years to bring Van Dyke home to his final resting place.

Soldiers assigned to the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson stand in front of the American flag, May 26, 2022, at Founder's Field, Fort Carson, Colorado. 4th Inf. Div. Soldiers participated in the Retreat Ceremony in remembrance of those present and past who fought and died for their nation.

030110-F-2021H-004. Base: Ellsworth Air Force Base State: South Dakota (SD) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ACC

Finnish air force Col. Antti Koskela, senior national representative to Allied Air Command, and Royal Air Force Air Marshal Johnny Stringer, AIRCOM deputy commander, salute the Finnish flag at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, April 4, 2023. Allied Air Command leadership and staff assembled for a ceremony to celebrate the accession of Finland to the NATO alliance and raise the Finnish flag as a visible sign of the countrys integration to NATO.

Troopers assigned to 1-12 Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division participated in a WWII Commemoration Wreath Laying Ceremony at Drawsko Pomorskie Municiple Cemetery in Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland Sept. 1, 2022. Participating in events like these promote partnership between U.S. and Polish forces and the civilian population.

ARLINGTON, Va. (March 8, 2013) Two Sailors recovered from the ironclad USS Monitor are buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Monitor sank off Cape Hatteras, N.C., in 1862. The Sailors are being interred with full military honors.U.S. Navy

The U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command hosted the Signal Cove of Remembrance Ceremony, May 26, in front of the NETCOM headquarters, Greely Hall, Fort Huachuca, Ariz. Established in 2008, the Signal Cove of Remembrance is a memorial dedicated to the memory of Army Signal Soldiers and Civilians who have paid the ultimate price for freedom since Sept., 11, 2001. During the ceremony, the names of the fallen were read aloud prior to placemat of a wreath inside the Signal Cove of Remembrance.

110909-N-IA881-126GULFPORT, Miss. (Sept. 9, 2011) Chief Petty Officer (Select) Shannon Tracey, left, and Darrin Hill, assistant chief of fire prevention for the Construction Battalion Center Gulfport Fire Department, salute after placing a plaque and a wreath in tribute to those killed during the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

230324-N-LN782-1529 (Mar. 24, 2023) U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command's Pass in Review in Great Lakes, Illinois, Mar. 24, 2023. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy's only boot camp

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg, Mississippi, for touring, participation in events highlighting the restoration project--funded jointly by the National Park Service and the Friends of the Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign, as part of the National Park Centennial Initiative--aimed at replacing interpretive battlefield markers and conserving the array of bronze statuary and stone monuments at the Civil War site. Joining Secretary Kempthorne for the events, including the unveiling of the first group of 22 metal markers identifying the specific locations of various Union and Confederate artillery batteries during the siege and defense of Vicksburg, were National Park Service Director Mary Bomar, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Chairman John Nau III, and country music star Trace Adkins, among other dignitaries.

State Funeral of President Kennedy: Departure from the White House and Procession to the United States Capitol. The funeral procession of President John F. Kennedy departs the White House for the Capitol Building; the flag-draped casket of President Kennedy is borne by a horse-drawn caisson with honor guard attending. North Lawn driveway, White House, Washington, D.C.

U.S. Park Police Honor Guard, on hand for annual St. Patrick's Day Parade along Constitution Avenue, Washington, D.C.

The American flag is hoisted above the Fort McCoy, Wis., historic Commemorative Area on July 14, 2022, for the Fort McCoy Garrison Change of Command ceremony at the installation. The flag served as a backdrop to the outdoor ceremony that was held in front of Veterans Memorial Plaza at the Commemorative Area. The historic area has become a favorite location for military ceremonies at Fort McCoy. The flag was raised and prepared by the Fort McCoy Directorate of Emergency Services Fire Department.

Members across Joint Base San Antonio participate with the Police Week retreat ceremony, May 20, 2022, at JBSA-Randolph, Texas. The week of May 9-15 was observed around the country to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement. It began in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls, National Police Week.

Lt. Gen. John S. Kolasheski, Commander of V Corps, provides remarks and unveils new features to the Eternal Heroes Monument in Normandy, France, June 2, 2022. Kolasheski provided remarks on the importance of the 82nd Airborne Division and 101st Airborne Divisions (Air Assault) liberation of Ravenoville in June of 1944.

Secretary Gale Norton speaking at ceremonies at the War Correspondents Memorial, Burkittsville, Maryland, featuring unveiling of plaque honoring fourprominent journalists killed during war and war-related coverage in Iraq and Pakistan

Whiteman Air Force Bases Honor Guard Airmen lay the ceremonial wreath during a 9/11 ceremony on Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri Sept. 19, 2022. Whiteman commemorates the events of 9/11 by remembering those who were lost during the attack.

The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard, the U.S. Air Force Ceremonial Brass Band, and the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Caisson Platoon conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Cuthbert Pattillo and Lt. Gen. Charles Pattillo in Section 75 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 14, 2022.Twin brothers, Maj. Gen. and Lt. Gen. Pattillo enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Forces in November 1942. During World War II, both flew with the Eighth Air Forces 352nd Fighter Group, protecting bombers and attacking ground targets. Maj. Gen. Pattillo flew 135 combat missions before being shot down and captured by the Germans. He remained a POW until the end of the war.Both were released from active duty following World War II but were later recalled in early 1948, serving with the 31st Fighter Group. Later, both served with the with the 36th Tactical Wing at Furstenfeldbruck Air Base in Germany. While in Europe, both helped form and flew in the U.S

220909-N-OX321-1007 NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Italy (Sept. 9, 2022) Naval Air Station Sigonella personnel attend the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony held on NAS Sigonella, Sept. 9, 2022. The ceremony marks the 21st anniversary of the terrorist attacks and honors those who lost their lives that day and the heroic efforts of emergency personnel. NAS Sigonellas strategic location enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.

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