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Ceremonial Military Honors

Impressive displays of military precision and respect at ceremonies. Soldiers and Marines in formal attire participate in wreath-laying events and drills, showcasing tradition and honor.

The 104th Fighter Wing welcomes U.S. Air Force Col. David Moon Halasi-Kun as the new wing commander during a change of command ceremony June 12, 2022, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts. Halasi-Kun took command of the wing from Col. William T. Sling Bladen who had served as the commander since June 8, 2020.

The Battle Color Detachment performs in Times Square, New York, May 25, 2022. As a part of Fleet Week New York 22, the Marines of Special Purpose Marine-Air Ground Task Force New York engage in special events throughout New York City and the tristate area showcasing sea service technologies, future innovation, and connecting with citizens. Fleet Week New York brings together more than 2,000 service members from the Marine Corps, Navy and Coast Guard offering live band performances, military vehicle and equipment displays, and other community relations projects.

Service members from all service branches participate in an Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 13, 2023. The wreath was laid by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Airmen assigned to the 6th Operations Group stand in formation during the 6th Air Refueling Wing change of command ceremony at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, July 29, 2022. The 6th OG plans and executes global aerial refueling, combatant commander airlift and specialized missions for the U.S. and allied combat and support aircraft through employment of KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft.

Lieutenant Col. Paul W. Steketee, executive officer, Marine Barracks Washington, prepares to march off during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., Aug 26, 2022. The hosting official for the evening was Gen. Eric M. Smith, assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, and Winsome Earle-Sears, lieutenant governor of Virginia, was the guest of honor.

Participants hold flags at the entrance to honor military veterans during the festival.

051002-F-7564C-109. Base: Charlotte Ang Base State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) participate in the Korean War Veterans Memorial Wall of Remembrance Dedication Ceremony in Washington, D.C., July 27, 2022. The Wall of Remembrance will feature the names of more than 36,000 Americans who died supporting the War and over 7,100 Koreans who died while augmenting the Army. Doug Emhoff, The Second Gentleman, Jake Sullivan, National Security Adviser, Lee Jong-sup, Minister of Defense of South Korea, Gen. John H. Tilleli (Ret.), Chairman of the Korean War Veterans Memorial Foundation, laid a wreath in honor of those who served and gave their lives in the conflict.

Damage Controlman 1st Class Carlos Beltran inspects uniforms of a performance division recruits in Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall during a pass-in-review graduation ceremony at Recruit Training Command. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy's only boot camp. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher M. O'Grady)

The cadets of the United States Military Academy participate in pre-game traditions for the Army versus Navy football game on 10 December 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Megan Hackett)

The Hickam Honor Guard ceremonially folds an American flag during the ash scattering ceremony of retired Senior Master Sgt. Raymond L. Perry, at Hickam Field, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Dec. 7, 2012. Perry was a Dec. 7, 1941, Hickam Field attack survivor whose wishes were for his family to return him to Hickam and spread his ashes. He served 26 years in the Air Force and was a founding member of the pararescue career field. He returned to Hickam and serve for more than 20 years as a fire inspector for the Hickam fire department.

U.S Marines with the Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego Color Guard present the colors during a graduation ceremony at MCRD San Diego, Oct. 28, 2022. Graduation took place at the completion of the 13- week transformation, which included training for drill, marksmanship, basic combat skills, and Marine Corps customs and traditions.

Airman 1st Class Matthew Elliot, assigned to the 773d Civil Engineer Squadron, second from right, stands at parade rest during the 673d Air Base Wing and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, change of command ceremony at Heritage Park on JBER, June 28, 2022. U.S. Air Force Col. Kirsten G. Aguilar turned over command to Air Force Col. David J. Wilson as Air Force Lt. Gen. David A. Krumm, commander Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Region, Alaskan Command, and 11th Air Force, officiated before gathered family members, distinguished guests and military personnel.

The United States Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team performs during the Air Force 75th Anniversary Tattoo Sept. 15, 2022, at Audi Field, Washington, D.C. The Honor Guard Drill Teams mission is to promote the Air Force mission by showcasing drill performances at public and military venues to recruit, retain and inspire Airmen. The team performs drill movements with a fully-functional M-1 rifle in intricate, constantly-changing formations.

Graduates from recruit company P-202 complete basic training at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, N.J., Sep. 16, 2022. Training Center Cape May staff members look forward to continuing the Coast Guards Long Blue Line of developing fleet-ready women and men, who are eagerly ready to make a difference in our Coast Guard.

U.S. Air Force Airman Owen Ray and Airman 1st Class Caleb Bertels, 375th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighters, and Senior Airman Philip Thompson, 375th Security Forces Squadron patrolman, prepare to raise the U.S. flag during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, Sept. 9, 2022. The ceremony was hosted to remember and honor the lives lost in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosts Danish Defense Minister Morten Bodskov for a bilateral exchange meeting at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., Sept. 1, 2022.

An Air Force Honor Guard member adjust to the correct position during the dignified transfer of remains for J. Christopher Stevens, U.S. ambassador to Libya, and three other Americans on Sept. 14, 2012, at Joint Base Andrews, Md. The U.S. State Department held a ceremony on base to honor the Americans who gave their lives in service to their country.

More than 600 Airmen assigned to the 320th Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, July 7-8, 2022. Col. Catherine Barrington, 90th Missile Wing commander, reviewed the ceremony.

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 Col. (ret.) Charles Vasiliadis in Section 7 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 9, 2023.Vasiliadis served in the Air Force for 30 years and was a highly decorated fighter pilot. A Vietnam veteran, he earned two Silver Stars, two Legions of Merit, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, a Purple Heart, and 30 Air Medals.Vasiliadis son, Douglas, received the flag from his fathers funeral service.

220801-N-TT639-1114 PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 1, 2022) - Capt. Joel B Lang, commanding officer of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), addresses the crew during a change of command ceremony on the flight deck, August 1, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Body Bearers with Marine Barracks Washington prepare to load the cannon during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., Aug 19, 2022. The guest of honor was The Honorable Carlos F. Matus, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary and Director of Diplomatic Security Service. The hosting official was Lt. Gen. Gregg Olson, Director of The Marine Corps Staff.

Chief of Space Operations Gen. John W. Jay Raymond speaks during a basic military training graduation ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, on June 23, 2022. The ceremony marked a milestone as the first BMT graduation to include all-Guardian flights, taught by Guardian military training instructors, using Space Force specific curriculum.

The Travis Elite Honor Guard participates during the 60th Air Mobility Wing change of command ceremony at Travis Air Force Base, California, July 27, 2022. A change of command ceremony is a military tradition of formal transfer of command, responsibilities and authority from one commander to another.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosts Somali President Hassan Sheikh for a meeting at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., Sept. 15, 2022. (DoD photo by U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jack Sanders)

Marines with the Silent Drill Platoon execute their long line” sequence during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., May 13, 2022. The hosting official was Gen. Eric Smith, the 36th Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the guests of honor were Gen. Thomas R. Morgan (Ret.), 21st Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Walter E. Boomer (Ret.), 24th Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Terrence Dake (Ret.), 27th Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Robert Magnus (Ret.), 30th Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. John M. Paxton Jr (Ret.), 33rd Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps.

The U.S. Navy Ceremonial Band supports a Navy Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 30, 2024. The wreath was laid by the Chief of Naval Operations for the Republic of Korea Adm. Yang Yong-mo.

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment Caisson Platoon, and the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Megellas, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 2, 2022.Megellas is considered the most decorated officers in the history of the 82nd Airborne Division. His awards include the Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, two Bronze Stars, two Purple Hearts, and other military honors for his World War II European service. Megellas is being considered for the Medal of Honor for his service and leadership during the Battle of the Bulge, an upgrade of the Silver Star he received for this service.Megellass grandson, James Megellas, received the U.S. flag from his service.

More than 700 Airmen assigned to Flights 90-72, graduated from U.S. Air Force Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas, January 03-04, 2024. Col. Nathan T. Colunga, Commander, Special Warfare Training Wing, Joint Base San Antonio-Chapman Training Annex, Texas, reviewed the ceremony.

U.S. Air Force Col. Derek Salmi, 60th Air Mobility Wing commander, returns a salute during a Veterans Day parade in Fairfield, California, Nov. 11, 2022. The parade honored all veterans and highlighted the relationships between Airmen at Travis Air Force Base, California, and the local community.

More than 500 Airmen assigned to the 331st Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, August 17-18, 2022. Maj. Gen. Michele C. Edmondson, Commander, Second Air Force, Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, reviewed the ceremony.

(From left to right) Chief of Naval Operations for the Republic of Korea Adm. Yang Yong-mo, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Personnel, Manpower, and Training U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Rick Cheeseman, and Arlington National Cemetery Deputy Chief of Staff Bob Quackenbush walk through the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 30, 2024. Yong-mo was at ANC to participate in a Navy Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Office of the Secretary - National Science and Technology Medals

Maj. Gen. Andrew J. Gerbara, commander of the Eighth Air Force returns a salute to a formation during a change of command ceremony, June 23, 2022, at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. Change of command ceremonies are rooted in military history, dating back to the 18th century.

Petty Officer Third Class Anna Medow presents the colors as part of the honor guard during a change of homeport ceremony at Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island, on August 19, 2022.

More than 600 Airmen assigned to the 321st Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, August 3-4, 2022. Lt. Col. Jeremy Stowers, Commander, 321st Training Squadron, reviewed the ceremony.

Chief of Space Operations Gen. John W. Jay Raymond speaks with newly graduated Guardians and their families after a basic military training graduation ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, on June 23, 2022. The ceremony marked a milestone as the first BMT graduation to include all-Guardian flights, taught by Guardian military training instructors, using Space Force specific curriculum.

U.S. Air Force Installation & Mission Support Center change of command ceremony, Aug. 12, 2022, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. USAF Maj. Gen. John Wilcox relinquishes command of AFIMSC to USAF Maj. Gen. John Allen.

An Airman from the 422d Air Base Group honor guard, holds a folded flag during a 9/11 retreat ceremony at RAF Croughton, England, Sep. 9, 2022. Airmen and guests participated in the ceremony to honor those who lost their lives during the September 11th terrorist attacks.

Members of the Marine Security Guard detachment watch U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry as he addressed employees and family members from U.S. Embassy Sri Lanka on May 3, 2015, in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Col. Marco Schiattoni, Italian Air Force base commander, salutes different flights during a flag raising ceremony for the Holy Lady of Loreto at Aviano Air Base, Italy, Dec. 12, 2022. Schiattoni paid his respects to the Holy Lady of Loreto by laying memorial flowers in front of her statue, located by the ITAF headquarters building. This ceremony is held to ask for guidance and protection for all aviators.

U.S Air Force Honor Guard members march during the 86th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, 2012, in New York City. Airmen from the U.S Air Force Band and Honor Guard participated in the parade with an expected television audience of 55 million viewers.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Courtney Lawrence, director, The Commandants Own, U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, directs Marines during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington, May 6, 2022. The hosting official for the evening was Gen. David H. Berger, 38th Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the guest of honor was The Honorable Charles F. Bolden Jr., former administrator of NASA.

U.S. Marine 1st Lt. Eugene J. Nash IV reads Gen. John A. Lejeunes birthday message during a Marine Corps Birthday Ball celebration for I Marine Expeditionary Force at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California, Oct. 28, 2022. Marines with I MEF hosted the ball to mark the 247th birthday of the Corps, and honor the legacy of past generations of Marines.

DM-SC-89-11230. Base: Marine Corps Base, Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

041005-F-6340W-305. Base: Bolling Air Force Base State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Ceremonial guardsmen from the 14th Flying Training Wing, perform duties during a Memorial Day ceremony on Columbus Air Force Base, Miss. May 26, 2022. The mission of the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard is to represent Airmen to the American public and the world.

U.S. Army Soldiers attending the Advance Leaders Course at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Noncommissioned Officer Academy - Fort Eustis compete in the Commandant's Inspection May 18, 2022 at Fort Eustis, Virginia. They are judged on their attention to detail, wear of the uniform, and performance of drill and ceremony.

Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin III and the Australian Deputy Prime Minister of Defense Richard Marles renders honor during an Armed Forces Full Honor Cordon at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., July 13, 2022.

Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley passes the chief of staff of the Air Force flag to Gen. Mark A. Welsh III during a ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Aug. 10, 2012. Welsh is the twentieth Air Force chief of staff.

More than 500 Airmen assigned to the 324th Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, July 13-14, 2022. Lt. Gen. Timothy D. Haugh, Sixteenth Air Force Commander, reviewed the ceremony.

More than 600 Airmen and Guardians assigned to the 326th Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, August 24-25, 2022. Col. Chris Forrest, Chief, Research Programs, RSI, HQ USEUCOM, reviewed the ceremony.

LGEN Merrill A. McPeak, center, passes the unit colors of the 12th Air Force (12th AF) to GEN Robert D. Russ, left, Commander in CHIEF, Tactical Air Command, during the 12th AF change of command. LGEN Peter T. Kempf, right, will assume command of the 12th AF from McPeak. Base: Bergstrom Air Force Base State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Queen Beatrix and King Harald V of Norway (2nd of the left) visit the van Ghentkazerne. Songs behind Queen Beatrix is the mayor of Rotterdam, Dr. A. Peper. On the left the commander Marines, General-Major of the Mariniers E.C. Beat.

Lt. Gen. Brad Webb, commander of Air Education and Training Command, and Chief Master Sgt. Erik Thompson, command chief of Air Education and Training Command, present a wreath to Staff Sgt. Daniel Velasquez, 802nd Security Forces Squadron security manager and Joint Base San Antonio Military Ambassador, during the Pilgrimage to the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, April 4, 2022. The Pilgrimage to the Alamo is a memorial tribute honoring the heroes of the Battle of the Alamo on San Jacinto Day. The event is hosted by the Alamo Mission Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, and consists of a processional of military, community groups, and individuals culminating with wreaths placed in front of the Alamo.

Corps Marines 330 years. Deilé on the Coolsingel.On the Coolsingel, for the town hall, Prince Willem-Alexander decreases the DEILÉ. Behind the Prince General-Major of the Mariniers E.C. Beat, Commander Korps Marines.

Turkish Airmen assigned to the 10th Tanker Base Command render a salute to the Turkish flag during the Atatürk Memorial Day ceremony at Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye, Nov. 10, 2022. The 10th Tanker Base Command and the 39th Air Base Wing pay tribute and give credit to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk for the birth and modernization of Türkiye and his accomplishments. Turkish residents throughout the nation spent two minutes in silence on Nov. 10th at 9:05 a.m., to pay respect and commemorate the 84th anniversary since his passing.

Members from Ramstein High School junior reserve officers training corps present colors at the American Kindergraves Memorial ceremony in Kaiserslautern, Germany, May 14, 2022. The ceremony honored infants who were unable to return home after death.

More than 500 Airmen assigned to the 323rd Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Sept 14-15, 2022. Col. Lauren A. Courchaine, Commander, 37th Training Wing, reviewed the ceremony

GREAT LAKES, Il. (Dec. 7, 2022) Capt. Jason J. Williamson, Naval Station Great Lakes commanding officer, salutes the parading of the colors during a Pearl Harbor ceremony at the National Museum of the American Sailor. 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.

U.S. Army paratroopers with the 173rd Airborne Brigade participate in a Memorial Day ceremony at Caserma Del Din, May 26, 2022, to pay their respects to the fallen heroes who throughout the brigades history, have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our nation. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army's Contingency Response Force in Europe, providing rapidly deployable forces to the United States European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. Forward deployed across Italy and Germany, the brigade routinely trains alongside NATO allies and partners to build partnerships and strengthen the alliance. (U.S. Army photograph by Staff Sgt. Alexander Skripnichuk)

American servicemen at The National World War II Memorial, Washington DC, United States of America

820518-D-2987S-062. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

More than 600 Airmen assigned to the 433rd Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Oct. 5-6, 2022. Gen. Mike Minihan, Commander of Air Mobility Command, reviewed the ceremony.

502nd Security Forces Group renders a salute during the 502nd Air Base Wing Change of command ceremony, May 3, 2022, Pfingston Basic Military Training Center, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. The 502d Air Base Wing is host to Joint Base San Antonio which unifies 11 geographically distinct locations including JBSA-Fort Sam Houston, JBSA-Lackland, JBSA-Randolph and JBSA-Camp Bullis.

The U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own participate in an Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Feb. 9, 2023. The wreath was laid by Georgian Defence Minister Juansher Burchuladze.

U.S. Park Police motorcycle unit on hand for annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, Washington, D.C., with Secretary Dirk Kempthorne meeting officers, inspecting vehicles, and participating in the motorcylce procession

DF-ST-86-09760. Base: Rhein-Main Air Base Country: West Germany (FRG)

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and service members from across the military provide support during an Armed Forces Full Honor Wreath-Laying Ceremony as part of President of the Republic of France Emmanuel Macrons visit to the U.S. at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington, Va., Nov. 30, 2022.

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.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III meets with Jordans King Abdullah II at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., May 12, 2022.

(From left to right) Gen. Pierre Schill, chief of staff, French Army; Chief of Staff of the Army General James McConville; and U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Kevin Admiral, director of force management, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Army participate in an Army Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Aug. 23, 2022.

France, Brittany, Coetquidan, Guer on 2021-09-23. Report on the training of the Inter-Arms Military School in Saint-Cyr Coetquidan in Morbihan. The EMIA recruits its students from among active non-commissioned officers and non-commissioned soldiers selected by competition. The cadets follow a two-year training course. At the end of the first year, they are appointed to the rank of second lieutenant, then lieutenant at the end of the second year. Photograph by Martin Bertrand. France, Bretagne, Coetquidan, Guer le 2021-09-23. Reportage sur la formation de l' Ecole militaire interarmes à Saint-Cyr Coetquidan dans le Morbihan. L'EMIA recrute ses eleves parmi les sous-officiers d'active et les militaires du rang selectionnes par concours. Les eleves-officiers suivent une formation de deux ans. A l'issue de la première annee, ils sont nommés au grade de sous-lieutenant, puis de lieutenant a la fin de la seconde annee. Photographie de Martin Bertrand.

A member of the United States Air Force Honor Guard Precision Drill Team, 11th Wing at Bolling Air Force Base, District of Colmbia, leads the team in a number of drills for the residents of Ely, England. This was the first time the team performed for a British crowd. (Duplicate image, see also DF-SD-01-03267 or search 000824-F-4177H-003). Base: Ely Country: England / Great Britain (ENG)

A color guard from the U.S. Navy carry the flag of the Republic of Korea in the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 30, 2024. The color guard was supporting a Navy Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony conducted by Chief of Naval Operations for the Republic of Korea Adm. Yang Yong-mo.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III holds a meeting with Swedish Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., May 18, 2022.

COL. George Durham, right, 374th Airlift Wing commander, receives the 374th Airliift flag from LT. GEN. Richard Hawley, Fifth Air Force commander, during the 374th Airlift Wing reorganization ceremony. The 374th Tactical Airlift Wing and the 475th Air Base Wing were combined to form the new unit. Base: Yokota Air Base Country: Japan (JPN)

220330-N-PU674-1031 PENSACOLA, Fla. (March 30, 2022) From left, Maj. Larry Black, Lt. Michael Ziarek, Senior Chief Musician Christopher Sams, Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class Beatriz Cruz and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Joshua Tayag are recognized as the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) 2021 Military Instructors of the Year during a ceremony in the NETC headquarters courtyard.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Dakota Darling, a 173rd Fighter Wing Honor Guard member, salutes the flag during a retreat ceremony at Kingsley Field in Klamath Falls, Ore., Oct. 28, 2022. The honor guard is an important part of nearly every Air Force ceremony, from posting the colors to ceremonial flag folding and military funeral honors.

230324-N-LN782-1154 (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

U.S. Army Chaplain (Maj.) Michael Krog from the 82nd Airborne Division officiates the funeral service for U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Megellas in Section 75 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 2, 2022.Megellas is considered the most decorated officers in the history of the 82nd Airborne Division. His awards include the Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, two Bronze Stars, two Purple Hearts, and other military honors for his World War II European service. Megellas is being considered for the Medal of Honor for his service and leadership during the Battle of the Bulge, an upgrade of the Silver Star he received for this service.Megellass grandson, James Megellas, received the U.S. flag from his service.

The first two Guardian flights to experience a Space Force ecosystem within Air Force Basic Military Training graduated at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, on June 22-23, 2022. More than 700 Airmen and Guardians assigned to the 326th Training Squadron graduated, and Gen. John "Jay" Raymond, Chief of Space Operations, reviewed the ceremony.

GEN. Walter Kross (Right) Commander, Air Mobility Command assists Brigadier GEN. Paul R. Dordal, Commander 43rd Airlift Wing unfurl the 43rd Airlift Wing's flag during Pope Air Force Base redesignation ceremonies held on 1 April, 1987. Pope AFB was transferred from Air Combat Command to Air Mobility Command and the 23rd Wing was awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit award and inactivated. During the ceremonies, the 43rd Airlift Wing and the 23rd Fighter Group were activated. The 23rd FG will be a tenant ACC unit on Pope and report to the 347th Wing at Moody AFB, Ga. Base: Pope Air Force Base State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Official Imagery from the ceremony honoring the life of Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel Woodrow "Woody" Williams, Medal of Honor recipient, held at the World War II Memorial, Washington D.C., July 14, 2022. Born in Quiet Dell, West Virginia in 1923, Williams, 98, was awarded the Medal of Honor for "conspicious gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his live above and beyond the call of duty" while he served as a demolition sergeant sewrving with the 21st Marines, third Marine Division while fighting Japanese forces on Iwo Jima on Feb. 23, 1945. At the time of his death on June 29, 2022, he was the last living World War II Medal of honor recipient.

Marines stand in formation during the VE Day commemoration ceremony at Maddingley American Cemetery. Base: Cambridge State: Cambridgeshire Country: England / Great Britain (ENG)

U.S. Marines pose with Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro following a multi-branch re-enlistment ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial reflection pools in New York, Nov. 10, 2022. Del Toro administered the re-enlistment ceremony in observance of Veterans Day, for military personnel from the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy, who reaffirmed their commitment to defending the nation.

230324-N-LN782-1193 (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

Airmen assigned to the MacDill Air Force Base Honor Guard participate in a retirement ceremony at MacDill AFB, Florida, Jan. 19, 2024. The MacDill AFB Honor Guard, sustained by the 6th Air Refueling Wing, provides military funeral honors and supports base events including change of command and retirement ceremonies.

Joint Base San Antonio hosted a synchronized flag formation at all three installations (JBSA-Lackland, JBSA-Fort Sam Houston and JBSA-Randolph) at 7:46 a.m. Sept. 12, 2022 at JBSA Fort Sam Houston. The ceremonies included a flag formation, a moment of silence, an invocation and a speaker. Lt. Gen. John R. Evans, U.S. Army North (Fifth Army) commander, led the remembrance ceremony at JBSA-Fort Sam Houston. The particular time of 7:46 a.m. Central time was chosen as that was when Flight 11 crashed into the north face of the North Tower (1 WTC) of the World Trade Center in New York City, between floors 93 and 99, at 8:46 a.m. Eastern time on Sept. 11, 2001.

Mr. Sebastien Chenu (National Rally) Vice-President of the National Assembly, welcomed by a guard of honor of Republican Guards and drums, on his way to the Sessions Hall. National Assembly. Paris. Ile-de-France. 2024-06-06.

An Airman from the 422d Air Base Group honor guard, folds a flag during a 9/11 retreat ceremony at RAF Croughton, England, Sep. 9, 2022. Airmen and guests participated in the ceremony to honor those who lost their lives during the September 11th terrorist attacks.

129th Rescue Wing honor guard members are staged for the wing Change of Command ceremony, April 2, 2022, at Moffett Air National Guard Base, California. During the ceremony, outgoing commander U.S. Air Force Col. Jeffrey Waldman relinquished command to incoming commander, Col. Victor Teal, Jr.

Military and community members gather at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia June 14 to celebrate Flag Day and the U.S. Armys 247th birthday. The days events began with a naturalization ceremony for 13 new U.S. citizens, followed by remarks from several senior Army leaders, the administering of the Oath of Enlistment to dozens of new Army recruits, and a traditional cutting of the Army birthday cake. The final event featured a tree-planting in Washington Square as part of Queen Elizabeth IIs Green Canopy initiative celebrating her 70 years on the throne of England, as well as a wreath-laying at the parks Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Marines with The Presidents Own, U.S. Marine Band, march across the parade field during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington D.C., June 24, 2022. The hosting official for the evening was Gen. Eric Smith, 36th Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the guest of honor was Adm. Christopher W. Grady, 12th Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

U.S. Air Force Airman First Class Dustyn Greggainsruthford, Senior Airman Luc Tucker, Senior Airman Jerome Francisco, and Airman First Class Veronica Mollena, Honor Guard, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, prepare to present the colors at the start of the U.S. Air Force 75th Ball at the Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center, San Antonio, Texas, Sept. 17, 2022. The theme of this year's Air Force Ball was "Proud Past, Promising Future," and allowed participants to connect, engage and boost morale among the active duty, reservists, civilians, and private sector partners to foster an ongoing kinship within the Military City, USA, community.

The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard and the U.S. Air Force Ceremonial Brass Band conduct modified military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Michael Collins in Section 51 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 30, 2023. After graduating from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1952, Collins joined the Air Force and became a fighter pilot. In January 1954, Collins joined the 21st Fighter-Bomber Wing at George Air Force Base, Calif., where he learned to deliver nuclear weapons in his F-86 Sabre jet. From 1959 to 1963, he was a test pilot for the Air Force Flight Test Center at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. There, he tested performance, stability, and control characteristics of experimental Air Force fighter jets. During his career, he logged over 4,200 hours of flying time.In October 1963, Collins joined NASA as a member of the third group of NASA astronauts. During the Gemini 10 mission, Collins became the third U.S. astronaut to complete a

Members of the Leavenworth High School junior ROTC Color Guard prepare to retire the colors at the end of USD 207's Freedom Walk. The annual event is the school district's way to honor those who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

020305-F-6701P-022. Subject Operation/Series: ANACONDA Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

Members of the Pentagon Honor Guard render honors during the arrival of the Albanian Defense Minister Niko Peleshi to a bilateral exchange meeting hosted by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., Jan. 26, 2023.

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