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Ceremonial Military Events

Images feature formal military ceremonies such as change of command, promotions, and awards, showcasing leadership transitions and honors within military ranks.

Brigadier General Renea Dorvall receives her general officer flag at a promotion ceremony held in the Helena Armed Forces Reserve Center auditorium on Jan. 6, 2023.

Family of U.S. Air Force Maj. Scott Crane, Missouri Air National Guard, pin the lieutenant colonel rank onto his shoulder tabs during his promotion ceremony at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, Sept. 10, 2022. Crane had many family and friends in attendance.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Craig Wills, 19th Air Force commander, delivers a speech during the 56th Fighter Wing change of command ceremony, July 29, 2022, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. Wills officiated the ceremony in which command of the 56th FW was transferred from U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Gregory Kreuder to U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Jason Rueschhoff. The 56th FW commander oversees the operations of the base including training, safety, and wellbeing of Airmen.

U.S. Air Force Col. Mary Teeter relinquished command of the 305th Maintenance Group to U.S. Air Force Col. Scott Pendley during a change of command ceremony. U.S. Air Force Col. Scott Wiederholt, 305th Air Mobility Wing commander, presided over the ceremony. Teeter led CAN DO Airmen and 305th innovation through both the COVID-19 pandemic as well as Operations Allies Welcome/Refuge.

US Air Force Colonnel Joshua Cinq-Mars, Commander of the 120th Maintenance Group, assumes command during a ceremony on April 2nd, 2023 at the Montana Air National Guard Base, Great Falls, Montana. Cinq-Mars promoted to the rank of Colonel in another ceremony the same day.

Maj. Gen. Rich Neely, The Adjutant General of Illinois and Commander of the Illinois National Guard presents a retirement certificate to Col. Nick Johnson during the dual retirement ceremony for Col. Craig Holan, who commanded the 404th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and retired after nearly 40 years of service and Col. Johnson, who commanded the 65th Troop Command Brigade and served for 32 years. The dual retirement ceremony was held on May 14 at the Illinois Military Academy on Camp Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois.

Nearly 20 Soldiers from Blanchfield Army Community Hospital and the 531st Hospital Center were formally welcomed into the U.S. Armys Noncommissioned Officer Corps at an NCO Induction Ceremony at Fort Campbells Wilson Theater, June 27.

030116-F-5611J-012. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Savannah International Airport State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ANG

U.S. Air Force Maj. Michael Seebeck, Missouri Air National Guard, assumes command of the 139th Force Support Squadron from Lt. Col. Michael Donaldson at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, Aug. 6, 2022.

U.S. Air Force Col. Benjamin Jonsson, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander, passes the 6th Mission Support Group (MSG) guidon to the group's newest commander, Col. Jason Parker, at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, June 30, 2022. As commander of the 6th MSG, Parker will oversee civil engineering, communications, contracting, logistics, mission support and security forces for MacDill.

2022 First Sergeant of the Year, Master Sergeant Catherine Hammett, 121st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, is photographed April 9, 2022, in Mansfield, Ohio, with Major General James Camp, Assistant Adjutant General for Air, Ohio National Guard, Command Sergeant Major William Workley, Command Senior Enlisted Leader, Ohio National Guard, and Chief Master Sergeant Heidi Bunker, Command Chief Master Sergeant, Ohio Air National Guard. The Outstanding Airman of the Year awards recognize members who go above and beyond demonstrating leadership, strong work ethic, and commitment to giving back to their communities.

Col. Scott A. Meyer transfers command of the 312th Airlift Squadron to Lt. Col. Thomas E. Parker during a ceremony at Travis Air Forces Base, California, September 9, 2022. The mission of the 312th Airlift Squadron is to train and provide qualified C-5 Galaxy aircrews to fly worldwide airlift missions and augment the active duty forces under various readiness conditions up to and including full mobilization.

030911-F-1601R-004. Base: Dover Air Force Base State: Delaware (DE) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: Digital

Chief Master Sgt. Doug Rollison, 139th Logistics Readiness Squadron, promotes during a ceremony at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, Dec. 3, 2022.

US Air Force Major General John D. Hopper, Jr. (right) passes the 21st Air Force flag to USAF General Charles T. Robertson, Commander of the Air Mobility Command, at the 21st Air Force Change of Command Ceremony. Command of the 21st Air Force passed from MGEN John D. Hopper, Jr. to MGEN George N. Williams (not shown). GEN Charles T. Robertson, Commander of the Air Mobility Command acted as the presiding official for the ceremony. Headquarters, 21st Air Force is responsible for assessing operational readiness and recommending improvements in the tanker/airlift system within the 21st Air Force area of Africa, Southwest Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, South and Central America, the Eastern .... Complete Scene Caption: US Air Force Major General John D. Hopper, Jr. (right) passes the 21st Air Force flag to USAF General Charles T. Robertson, Commander of the Air Mobility Command, at the 21st Air Force Change of Command Ceremony. Command of the 21st Air Force passed from MGEN John D. Hopper,

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Sherri Hrovatin, former 104th Mission Support Group Commander and Chief Master Sgt. Stephen Jeffers, 104FW Command Chief, smile following a change of command ceremony June 12, 2022, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts. A change of command ceremony is a military tradition that represents the formal transfer of responsibility of a unit from one commanding officer to another.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Peter M. Daigle, director of operations assigned to the 48th Logistics Readiness Squadron, delivers remarks during a change of command ceremony at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, June 29, 2022. During the ceremony, Col. Jason Camilletti relinquished command of the 48th FW to Maj. Gen. Derek France, Third Air Force commander, who then charged Campo with leading the wing.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Corey T. Clark, director of operations, 125th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, retires during a ceremony Jan. 6, 2024, at Jacksonville Air National Guard Base, Florida. Clark retires from the Florida Air National Guard with over 23 years of military service.

Lt. Col. Richard Meziere hands command of the 190th Fighter Squadron over to Lt. Col. Michael Hampton during a change of command ceremony on Gowen Field, Nov. 5, 2022. This event serves to formally and publicly transfer command of the 190th FS from the outgoing to the incoming commander.

Col. Jeffrey G. Holland, incoming 75th Air Base Wing commander, renders his first salute to the wing during a change of command ceremony June 22, 2022, at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. The 75th ABW provides installation support for the Ogden Air Logistics Complex, two fighter wings, and 50 other associate units, totaling 27,000 members consisting of active duty, civilian and contractor personnel.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Joshua Young, center, Airman Leadership School Class 22-G graduate, receives his diploma at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Oct. 27, 2022. The graduates attended a 24-day, 192-hour course focusing on developing leadership abilities, the profession of arms, and building effective communication.

The Legion of Merit is presented to MAJ Dale Nelson by MGEN Robert L. Schwitzer, Director of Strategy, Plans and Policy, in a ceremony at the Pentagon. Base: Arlington State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

040220-F-7169B-004. Base: Kirtland Air Force Base State: New Mexico (NM) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Maj. General Derin S. Durham, 4th Air Force Commander, addresses Airmen of the 434th Air Refueling Wing at Grissom Air Reserve Base, Ind. on Feb. 3, 2024. Durham presided the change of command ceremony, transferring command of the 434th ARW from Col. Summer A. Fields to Col. Van T. Thai. Air Force

Participants of the 49th annual Norwegian Exchange, from the Norwegian Heimevernet, or Home Guard, and the Minnesota National Guard, community leaders, buddy weekend host families and distinguished guests joined together for a farewell banquet, April 3, 2022 at the Falls Ballroom in Little Falls, Minnesota. During the meal, Norwegian Soldiers modeled the traditional bunard and artist Charles Kapsner presented a gift. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

Members of the 117th Air Refueling Wing recieve awards at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama, Aug 13, 2022. This was the first annual Enlisted Awards Banquet

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Jose Reyes, adjutant general, Puerto Rico National Guard and U.S. Air Force Col. Pete Boone, the 156th Wing commander, Puerto Rico Air National Guard, talk with local government officials before King Felipe VI departure at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Puerto Rico Air National Guard, Jan. 26, 2022. The king of Spain visited Puerto Rico to commemorate the fifth centennial founding of the capital city of San Juan, Puerto Rico. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Brandon Patterson)

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass congratulate Senior Master Sgt. Jeremy Mapalo, recipient of the 2020 Lance P. Sijan USAF Leadership Award, senior enlisted category, during a ceremony at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., April 3, 2023. The award is named for Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Lance Sijan, who died while being held as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War.

CRYSTAL CITY, VA. (Sep. 14, 2022) - Lt. Gen. Michael Schmidt, F-35 Joint Program Executive Officer (PEO), meets with Major General Juha-Pekka Keränen, Finnish Air Chief, during an annual visit in Crystal City, VA., Sep. 14, 2022. This was the first meeting between the Finnish Leadership and the PEO since they signed the Letter of Acceptance. The F-35 Joint Program Office is the Department of Defense's focal point for the 5th generation strike aircraft for the Navy, Air Force, Marines, and our allies. The F-35 is the premier multi-mission, 5th generation weapon system. Its ability to collect, analyze and share data is a force multiplier that enhances all assets in the battle-space: with stealth technology, advanced sensors, weapons capacity, and range. The F-35, which has been operational since July of 2015, is the most lethal, survivable, and interoperable fighter aircraft ever built. (Photo by America Henry-Wingo/Released)

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Mathew Lee, Airman Leadership School Class 22-D graduate, left middle, receives his diploma at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 18, 2022. The graduates attended the 24-day, 192-hour course focusing on developing leadership abilities, the profession of arms, and building effective communication.

Lt. Col. William Skaggs, director of operations for the 157th Air Intelligence Squadron, is pinned with his retirement pin by his girlfriend, during his retirement ceremony, Aug. 6, 2022, at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Base, St. Louis, Missouri. Skaggs served for 37 years.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Joshua Matias, 47th Operations Support Squadron senior enlisted leader, presents Senior Airman Alexandre Chaves, 315th Training Squadron instructor, with the John L. Levitow award during the Airman Leadership School graduation at the Powell Event Center, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, July 7, 2022. The John L. Levitow award recognizes one student and is based upon all performance tasks, peer stratifications, and the capstone exercise.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Makevis Duncan receives the John L. Levitow Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman Leadershop School, Class 22-D at JB Charleston S.C. on April 7, 2022. The John L. Levitow Award is presented to the ALS student who demonstrated the highest level of leadership and scholastic performance during their time in the course.

A U.S. Air Force Airman receives the Community College of the Air Force certificate during the graduation ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, Oct. 19, 2022. The CCAF is the largest community college in the world, affiliated with schools in over 36 states and eight foreign locations and over 260,000 Air Force members registered.

020529-F-2295B-004. Base: US Air Force Academy State: Colorado (CO) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall awards U.S. Air Force Gen. Anthony J. Cotton with the Distinguished Service Medal for his time served as the Global Strike Commander at the General Curtis E. LeMay Command and Control Facility, Omaha, Neb., Dec. 9, 2022. (DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexander Kubitza)

Kay Ivey, Alabama goveror, presents SMSgt Daniella Newbill with the First Sergeant of the Year Award during the 2022 Alabama Governor's Outstanding Service Member Awards Luncheon in Montgomery, Alabama, May 17, 2022.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Cory Martin, incoming 18th Air Force commander, renders first salute to Airmen of the 18th AF during a change of command ceremony on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, Aug. 19, 2022. The change of command ceremony represents a time-honored military tradition providing an opportunity for Airmen to witness the transfer of power to their newly appointed commanding officer.

NASA astronauts Mark Vande Hei, left, and Joe Acaba, right, present Jerry Farnsworth, chief of staff at Arlington National Cemetery with a patch flown onboard the International Space Station during Expedition 54, Friday, June 15, 2018 in Arlington, Va.

Chief Master Sgt. Joshua Malyemezian presents retired Chief Master Sgt. Shelina Frey with a plaque thanking her for being the guest speaker at the Wright-Patterson Chief Master Sergeant Recognition Ceremony on May 14, 2022, in the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. Frey is a former command chief for both the 88th Air Base Wing at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and Air Mobility Command.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass pose with Lt. Col. Morgan Laird, second from left, Senior Master Sgt. Karla Pelayo, Capt. Christopher Locke and Tech. Sgt. Connor Hamilton, recipients of the 2022 Lance P. Sijan USAF Leadership Awards, during a ceremony at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., April 3, 2023. The award is named for Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Lance Sijan, who died while being held as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War.

U.S. Air Force Col. Chris McDonald, left, 436th Airlift Wing commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Carolyn Russell, right, 436th AW command chief, present U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Leon Russell, center, 436th Medical Group annual award winner, with a trophy during the 2023 436th AW Annual Awards Ceremony held at the Hartly Volunteer Fire Company in Hartly, Delaware, Feb. 23, 2024. Russell was recognized as the wings Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Joshua Young, center, Airman Leadership School Class 22-G graduate, receives the Profession of Arms Award at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Oct. 27, 2022. The Profession of Arms Award is given to the student who demonstrate excellence in dress and appearance, drill, ceremony, fitness, attitude and leadership.

Airman 1st Class Sean Baker, 354th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, reads teh Firefighters Prayer during the September 11th Remembrance Ceremony Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, September 11, 2022. The ceremony was dedicated to all the first responders, emergency medical services, firefighters and police, who gave their lives and worked to protect the victims of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

Sandy Hagenbeckleft and Major General Kris Belanger right, Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Army, pin on one-star epaulets onto Brig. Gen. Kelly Hagenbeck center during his promotion ceremony held at the Horace B. Hanson Jr. Army Reserve Center in Hoover, Alabama on June 4, 2022.

Family members and friends of 18 Virginia Air National Guard and three Florida Army National Guard members killed in a March 3rd C-23 Sherpa plane crash in Unadilla, Georgia, pay tribute to the men at a memorial service in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The memorial, which took place at Rock Church, was attended by Deputy Secretary of Defense, Paul D. Wolfowitz (not shown) and various other civilian, military dignitaries and over 4000 members of the community. The 18 airmen were assigned to the 203rd Red Horse Flight at Camp Pendleton State Military Reservation in Virginia Beach, Virginia and were returning from temporary duty at Hurlburt Field, Florida. The three soldiers were assigned to the.... Complete Scene Caption: Family members and friends of 18 Virginia Air National Guard and three Florida Army National Guard members killed in a March 3rd C-23 Sherpa plane crash in Unadilla, Georgia, pay tribute to the men at a memorial service in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The memorial, which too

U.S. Air Force Col. Marc E. Greene, 628th Air Base Wing commander, presents Lt. Col. Jahayra N. Lowe, 628th Comptroller Squadron outbound commander, with the Meritorious Service Medal during the 628th CPTS Change of Command Ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, June 23, 2022. Airmen earn the Meritorious Service Medal by distinguishing themselves through meritorious achievement or service.

COL. Bruce Senft 37th Training Wing Vice Commander, presents the Bolivian Merito Aeronautico to MASTER SGT. Ricardo Rodriguez-Robles, Inter-American Air Force Academy. Base: El Alto Air Base Country: Bolivia (BOL)

Kay Ivey, Alabama goveror, presents MSgt Phillip Cosby with the SNCO of the Year Award during the 2022 Alabama Governor's Outstanding Service Member Awards Luncheon in Montgomery, Alabama, May 17, 2022.

Brig. Gen. Peter T. Green III, Assistant Adjutant General for Air, Massachusetts Air National Guard, retired after 40 years of service in a ceremony held at the 104th Fighter WIng on Sept. 10, 2022. Brig. Gen. Green started his career as a security forces specialist at the 104FW and prior to moving to Massachusetts ANG Joint Force Headquarts was the 104FW Commander. Distinguished guests included Maj. Gen. Gary W. Keefe, The Adjutant General, Massachusetts Air National Guard, Brig. Gen. Virginia Gaglio, Chief of Staff and Air Component Commander, Massachusetts ANG, Col. David 'Moon' Halasikun, 104FW Commander, Massachusetts Senator John Velis, Westfield Mayor Michael McCabe, and other 104FW leaders, members, family and friends. (U.S Air National Guard Photos by Master Sgt. Lindsey S. Watson)

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Marie Sarabia, the 149th Fighter Wing force development superintendent, has her new rank put on by her parents during her promotion ceremony, June 30, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. The 149th FW force development office is responsible for advancing airmen through education and training.

U.S. Air Force Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost, U.S. Transportation Command commander, and U.S. Air Force Capt. Christopher Bowyer-Meeder, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center public affairs director, prepare for an on-camera interview at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst New Jersey, June 3, 2022. Van Ovost toured the center, coined Airmen for their services during OAW, and addressed recent graduates of the Advanced Study of Air Mobility course.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Nathan Szanto, center, Airman Leadership School Class 22-G graduate, receives his diploma at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Oct. 27, 2022. The graduates attended a 24-day, 192-hour course focusing on developing leadership abilities, the profession of arms, and building effective communication.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Virginia Gaglio, Air Component Commander of the Massachusetts Air National Guard, receives the guidon from Col. William T. Sling Bladen, 104th Fighter Wing Commander during a change of command ceremony June 12, 2022, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts. Col. David Moon Halasi-Kun assumed command of the wing from Bladen, who has served as the commander since June 8, 2020.

Mr. Johannes Thief, member of the 47th Mission Support Group, accepts an award presented by Col. Craig Prather, 47th Flying Training Wing commander, and Lt. Gen. Brad Webb, Air Education and Training Command (AETC) commander, at the 80th Aniversario Annual Awards Ceremony in Del Rio, Texas, April 14, 2022. This event took place to honor outstanding military members at Laughlin Air Force Base and civilian leaders in Del Rio who support Laughlin and its mission.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Steve Reynolds, 104 Fighter Wing Maintenance Group Commander addresses the audience during a change of command ceremony June 12, 2022, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts. A change of command ceremony is a military tradition that represents the formal transfer of responsibility of a unit from one commanding officer to another.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Robert Laning, 312th Training Squadron senior enlisted leader (left); Capt. Andrea Shefferly, 17th Operation Medical Readiness Squadron physical therapy and optometry flight commander (middle); and Staff Sgt. Michael Stanton, 17th Security Forces Squadron Defender (right); salute the wreath during the 312th TRS 9/11 memorial ceremony at the Louis F. Garland Department of Defense Fire Academy high bay, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, Sept. 9, 2022. The colors of the wreath represent the nation, but also the first responders who selflessly served with honor and valor.

U.S. Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve officers were awarded the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award during a ceremony at The Pentagon, Oct. 26. 2022. The award is presented annually to the top 28 company-grade officers for their outstanding leadership capabilities and their ability to find solutions to difficult problems.

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.

021206-F-4659S-050. Base: Warfield Air National Guard Base State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MDANG

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Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass pose with Senior Master Sgt. Karla Pelayo, recipient of the 2022 Lance P. Sijan USAF Leadership Award, senior enlisted category, during a ceremony at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., April 3, 2023. The award is named for Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Lance Sijan, who died while being held as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War.

Members of the 117th Air Refueling Wing recieve awards at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama, Aug 13, 2022. This was the first annual Enlisted Awards Banquet

Outgoing commander US Air Force Brigadier General Donald J. Hoffman (right), passes on the saber to new 52nd Fighter Wing commander, US Air Force Colonel Gregory J. Ihde, during a change of command at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. Base: Spangdahlem Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

Col. Andrew Campbell, 374th Airlift Wing commander, looks at attendees during the 374th Operations Group change of command ceremony at Yokota Air Base, Japan, June 22, 2022. The change of command ceremony formally transferred command of the 374th OG from Col. Kevin Martin to Col. Jun Oh.

021208-F-0730D-001. Base: Syracuse State: New York (NY) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Col. Tom Sling Bladen, 104th Fighter Wing Commander, addresses the audience during a change of command ceremony June 12, 2022, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts. A change of command ceremony is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of responsibility for a unit from one commanding officer to another.

Military leaders attend Small Market and Stand Alone Military Medical Treatment Facility Organization (SSO) change of directorship ceremony, Sep. 29, 2022, at Port San Antonio, Texas.

040129-F-4406B-049. Base: Colorado Springs State: Colorado (CO) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: DISA

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass congratulate Maj. Kasey Vaughn, recipient of the 2020 Lance P. Sijan USAF Leadership Award, junior officer category, during a ceremony at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., April 3, 2023. The award is named for Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Lance Sijan, who died while being held as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War.

Maryland Air National Guard Capt. Allison Fleming, 175th Wing Outstanding Airman of the Year for the company grade officer category, Maryland Air National Guard, receives a plaque at Martin State Air National Guard Base, Middle River, Maryland, Jan. 7, 2024. The annual event honors the outstanding achievements of the Maryland Air National Guard and names the wings outstanding airman of the year.

NASA astronauts Mark Vande Hei, center, and Joe Acaba, right, present Lieutenant Colonel Jeffery Todd Burroughs, battalion commander, Old Guard, and others from the Honor Guard with their patch that was flown onboard the International Space Station during Expedition 54, Friday, June 15, 2018 at the Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Kevin Brown, center, 17th Healthcare Operations Squadron pediatrician, receives the 17th Training Wing Company Grade Officer of the Quarter award from Col. Angelina Maguinness, left, 17th TRW commander, Chief Master Sgt. Catherine Gaco-Escalera, right, 17th MDG senior enlisted leader, and Catharsis the Cobra, far right, during the 17th TRW 4th Quarterly Awards Ceremony at the Powell Event Center, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, Feb. 2, 2024. The 17th MDG oversees the treatment and care of all Goodfellow AFB personnel and their families. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Col. Christopher Joyce, right, incoming commander of the 62d Maintenance Group receives guidon from U.S. Air Force Col. David Fazenbaker, commander of the 62d Airlift Wing during 62d MXG assumption of command ceremony at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Aug. 5, 2022. Joyce formerly worked as the director of the Strategic Solutions Division at the Defense Logistics Agency Operations Directorate J3.

Ron Nirenberg, City of San Antonio mayor, assumes honorary command of the 433rd Airlift Wing from Col. Terry McClain, 433rd AW commander, during the Honorary Commanders induction ceremony in San Antonio, April 2, 2022. The intent of the 433rd AW Honorary Commanders Program is to foster friendship between local and military communities.

The Nevada Air National Guard Base, Reno, Nev. played host to the Outstanding Airmen of the Year Awards Banquet on Feb. 5, 2023, which honored the previous year's exceptional Airmen. The event was attended by Airmen, their families, and friends.

Maj. Gen. James Camp (from left), Ohio assistant adjutant general for Air, receives a photo from Col. Sasa Milutinovic, head of religion for the Serbian Armed Forces and Capt. Vladimir Blagojevic, Serbian Air Force military chaplain, April 8, 2022, at the Maj. Gen. Robert S. Beightler Armory in Columbus, Ohio. This State Partnership Program exchange was a continuation of the Ohio National Guards chaplain corps working closely with the Serbian Armed Forces since 2013 to reestablish a chaplaincy program that had not existed for more than seven decades in Serbia. Today, there are chaplains at Serbias military bases throughout the country, and the Ohio and Serbia chaplaincy relationship continues to grow.

030714-F-9905C-007. Base: Scott Air Force Base State: Illinois (IL) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: Air Mobility Command

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kenneth Barrows receives the Academic Achievement Award during the graduation ceremony for Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Class 22-5, June 07, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

Chief Master Sgt. Gary Reny, officially retired during a ceremony on Otis Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts, Sep. 10, 2022. Reny celebrated his retirement after 35 years of honorable military service with many family members and friends.

Air Force Vice Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin poses with 2nd Lt. Allyson Burba before a ceremony at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., April 7, 2023. Burba was named the 2022 Cadet of the Year.

U.S. Coast Guard Machinery Technician Richard Gauthier is presented the permanent Cutterman pin Oct. 18 2022, Aboard Coast Guard Cutter Katherine Walker. Gauthier was recognized during a ceremony held keeping with maritime traditions. This device signifies five or more years served aboard an afloat unit. (U.S. Coast Guard Photo SN Olinda Romero) (This image has been color corrected and Cropped to represent the original scene.)

Brig. Gen. Peter T. Green III, Assistant Adjutant General for Air, Massachusetts Air National Guard, retired after 40 years of service in a ceremony held at the 104th Fighter WIng on Sept. 10, 2022. Brig. Gen. Green started his career as a security forces specialist at the 104FW and prior to moving to Massachusetts ANG Joint Force Headquarts was the 104FW Commander. Distinguished guests included Maj. Gen. Gary W. Keefe, The Adjutant General, Massachusetts Air National Guard, Brig. Gen. Virginia Gaglio, Chief of Staff and Air Component Commander, Massachusetts ANG, Col. David 'Moon' Halasikun, 104FW Commander, Massachusetts Senator John Velis, Westfield Mayor Michael McCabe, and other 104FW leaders, members, family and friends. (U.S Air National Guard Photos by Master Sgt. Lindsey S. Watson)

United States Air Force NCO Academy Class 22-4, E-flight at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center, April 04, 2022, on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

COL James M. Davis is presented the Legion of Merit from BGEN Ellis D. Parker, acting director for Requirements, Officer of the Deputy CHIEF of STAFF for Operations and Plans, ceremony at the Pentagon. Base: Arlington State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Frederick L. Hall, State Aviation Safety Officer for the District of Columbia Army National Guard, celebrates over 28 years of service with a retirement ceremony at the 260th Regional Training Institute, Fort Belvoir, Va., Jan. 5, 2024. Gordon joined the D.C. National Guard in 2008, after first enlisting in 1995 and serving as a Black Hawk crew chief. CW5 Hall also provided 13 years of active duty service.

040312-F-9082S-045. Base: Warner Robins Air Force Base State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Staff Sgt. Logan Stuckey, right, was promoted at a recent ceremony held at the Eastern Air Defense Sector in Rome. Lt. Col. Jason Taylor, the Director of Operations at the 224th Support Squadron, was the promoting officer.

U.S. Air Force Col. Elizabeth Hanson, 305th Air Mobility Wing commander and the 911th Air Refueling Squadrons wing commander, applauds during the 911th ARSs assumption of command ceremony at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Sept. 9, 2022. The squadron is the Air Force's very first active-duty squadron that is under the command of a reserve wing.

Lieutenant General Peter A. Kind, Director of Information Systems Command, promotes Brigadier General Ronald L. Lowe to Major General. Major General Lowe's wife, Lindsay, assists in the ceremony. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Col. Karri Roman, 375th Health Care Operations Squadron former commander, receives her final salute during a change of command ceremony at the 375th Medical Group at the Deltgen Auditorium on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, June 9, 2022. Roman led 157 personnel in the provision of primary and specialty healthcare to 19,000 enrolled patients, including 5,000 active duty service members.

U.S. Space Force Col. Heidi Dexter, Space Base Delta 2 commander, presents to the attendees of the annual State of the Base event, Aurora, Colorado, Jan. 24, 2024. State of the Base is an event hosted yearly in partnership with SBD 2 and the Aurora Rotary.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Corey Thobe takes command of the 121st Air Refueling Wing Civil Engineering Squadron from Lt. Col. Daryl Brezina at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio, June 4, 2022. Thobe and Brezina were joined by their families for a Change of Command ceremony to commemorate the event.

Gen. Paul E. Funk II, TRADOC commanding general, and president-elect Darrell K. Williams, a Soldier for Life.

Right side rear view, medium shot of US First Lady Hillary Rodham-Clinton as she's greeted by USAF Colonel Felix Grieder, Commander 436th Airlift Wing, Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, upon her arrival to the base on April 9th, 1999. Base: Dover Air Force Base State: Delaware (DE) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Army CHIEF of STAFF General John A. Wickham Jr. and Mrs. Pati Thompson each finish pinning a fourth star on the shoulders of General Richard H. Thompson during his promotion ceremony at the Pentagon. Thompson has been appointed as the new Commanding General of the US Army Material Development and Readiness Command. Base: Arlington State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Col. Judy Rattan (left), 97th Medical Group (MDG) commander, passes a guidon to Lt. Col. Sylvia Kim, 97th Healthcare Operations Squadron (HCOS) commander, during a change of command ceremony at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, June 1, 2022. HCOS Airmen oversee resource management, TRICARE operations and patient administration, medical information systems, medical logistics, medical readiness, pharmacy, laboratory and diagnostic imaging.

The 168th Wing hosted a Dining Out event in Fairbanks, Alaska, for Airmen to keep Air Force traditions alive and continue morale-building ceremonies. The Air Force Dining Out event started approximately in the 1930s with Army Air Corps General H. Hap Arnolds Wing Dings. The guest speaker at the 2022 168th WG Dining Out was Gregory D. Gadson, a motivational speaker, retired Colonel in the United States Army, and former commander of the U.S. Army Fort Belvoir Garrison. He is also a bilateral above-the-knee amputee.

Retirement Ceremony

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. E-Quantay Mason, left, Phoenix Raven with REACH 651, and Maj. Drew Dela Cruz, C-17 pilot and REACH 651 aircraft commander, share a moment before receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross from Maj. Gen. Corey Martin, 18th Air Force commander, at Travis Air Force Base, California, Dec. 9, 2022. Martin recognized 24 Airmen for their heroic actions during Operation Allies Refuge. The Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded to any officer or enlisted person of the U.S. armed forces for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight.

U.S. Air Force Col. Rebecca Elliott, 628th Medical Group commander, delivers a speech during the 628th Healthcare Operations Squadron Change of Command ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, June 23, 2022. As the 628th MDG commander, Elliott is responsible for the overall operation of healthcare delivery for approximately 66,000 eligible beneficiaries.

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