Emotional Soldier Reunions

Heartwarming moments of soldiers reuniting with family after deployments, capturing the emotional impact of military service on personal relationships.

Spc. Benjamin Toudic, a motor transport operator assigned to 3rd Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, reunites with his wife, Ashley Toudic, during a welcome home ceremony at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Aug. 25, 2022. During their deployment, the 3rd BSB trained at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, and completed Combined Resolve XVII at Joint Multinational Readiness Center with 11 other NATO allies and partners to enhance interoperability and readiness.

1_230th Assault Helicopter Battalion arriving return home, to Tennessee, from a 11 month long deployment in Kosovo. The 1-230th AHB has been at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo for the last nine months as part of Kosovo Force - KFOR, a NATO led mission that builds peace and maintains stability in the area.

The first group of Virginia National Guard Soldiers assigned to Task Force Red Dragon returns to Virginia and reunites with loved ones and fellow Soldiers Sept. 22, 2022, in Sandston, Virginia, after serving on federal active duty since November 2021. More than 1,000 Virginia and Kentucky National Guard troops under the command of the Lynchburg-based 1st Battalion, 116th Infantry Regiment, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team conducted security operations throughout the Horn of Africa and provided the East Africa Response Force in support of the U.S. government for crisis response throughout East Africa. A transfer of authority ceremony with the New York Army National Guards 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment was conducted Sept. 19. More Soldiers will return to Virginia in the coming weeks after completing administrative tasks transitioning them back to a traditional National Guard status, but an exact date for their return has not been finalized.

1st Lt. Jason Doro of Portage, Wis., shares a quiet moment with his 9-year-old daughter Abigail following a formal sendoff ceremony Feb. 22 at Camp Williams, Wis. Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, Maj. Gen. Don Dunbar, Wisconsin adjutant general, and other senior Wisconsin Army National Guard leaders joined family and friends in sending more than 60 Soldiers of the 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team off for a Middle East deployment. Some of the Soldiers will conduct base security operations in Kuwait, while others will conduct military engagement missions with representatives from regional military organizations. The Soldiers will first conduct several weeks of mobilization training at Fort Hood, Texas. Wisconsin National Guard

Master Sgt. John Grube holds his daughter, Angela, after a call to duty ceremony for the 123rd Air Control Squadron April 29, 2016, at the University of Cincinnati, Blue Ash in Blue Ash, Ohio. More than 90 Airmen from the Ohio Air National Guard unit will deploy to direct air assets and provide surveillance of airspace while managing full-spectrum air defense activities. (Ohio National Guard

Soldiers from the 237th Engineer Company received a warm welcome home from family and friends after their welcome home ceremony at the West Point High School gym July 20. The 237th returned home to Virginia after having served in Iraq since September 2007.

Spc. Benjamin Toudic, a motor transport operator assigned to 3rd Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, reunites with his wife, Ashley Toudic, during a welcome home ceremony at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Aug. 25, 2022. During their deployment, the 3rd BSB trained at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, and completed Combined Resolve XVII at Joint Multinational Readiness Center with 11 other NATO allies and partners to enhance interoperability and readiness.

Sgt. Christopher Stewart, 1-114th Infantry, New Jersey Army National Guard, holds his daughter at the Joint Training and Training Development Center, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., May 18, 2015. The nearly 450 Citizen-Soldiers returned home from a nearly year-long deployment where they served in command and control, conducted oversight for mission planning and administrative support, provided security at facilities, control points, perimeter towers and radar sites in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

A member of Task Force Tomahawk reunites with their family during a welcome home ceremony at Will Rogers Air National Guard Base in Oklahoma City, Feb. 22, 2024. Task Force Tomahawk returned from a nine-month deployment in support of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, where the Citizen-Soldiers provided security at multiple sites across the Horn of Africa as well as manned the East African Response Force. (Oklahoma National Guard

U.S. Army Sgt. Sienna Haley, assigned to the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, holds her daughter after a redeployment ceremony at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Aug. 29, 2022. During their deployment, the 1st ABCT trained at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, and completed Combined Resolve XVII at Joint Multinational Readiness Center with 11 other NATO allies and partners to enhance interoperability and readiness.

U.S Army soldier from 330th Movement Control Battalion embraces daughter after a deployment on Fort Bragg, N.C. 12th Dec. The 330th Movement Control Battalion completed a nine-month deployment to EUCOM in support of Atlantic Resolve.

Soldiers from Alpha Company, 777th Aviation Support Battalion, 90th Troop Command, Oklahoma Army National Guard, reunite with family and friends after spending nearly a year overseas in the Middle East. The welcome home ceremony took place at the Armed Forces Reserve Center Norman, Oklahoma, April 25, 2017.

An Airman from the 19th Airlift Wing reunites with his family at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, after returning from a deployment, April 4, 2022. Airmen from the 19th AW deployed to Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, which is known as U.S. Central Commands Theater Gateway, and is capable of responding to contingencies throughout the area of responsibility through tactical airlift operations.

A Soldier assigned to Alpha Company, 142nd Division Sustainment Support Battalion, 1st Armored Division Sustainment Brigade, greets his family for the first time after redeploying from the U.S. Central Command theater Aug. 11, 2022 at Fort Bliss, Texas. Alpha company served a nine-month rotation in support of Operations Inherent Resolve and Spartan Shield conducting sustainment operations that ensured the warfighter and supported troops in contact received the supplies and materiel they needed.

More than 70 members of the Maryland Army National Guard Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 115th Military Police Battalion return from deployment to Afghanistan September 25, 2013 at the CSM Blair Lee Crockett Readiness Center in Salisbury, Md. The unit deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in November 2012. They served as advisors and mentors to the Afghan National Police and helped to build Afghanistan's domestic security forces.

A U.S. Air Force Airman from the 525th Fighter Squadron Expeditionary team reunites with his family after returning from his deployment to Kadena Air Base, Japan, on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, April 8, 2023. The Expeditionary Fighter Squadron team included 299 active duty and reserve personnel from 8 different JBER squadrons.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Dustin Jeardoe, a canvassing recruiter with Recruiting Substation Lancaster, Recruiting Station Harrisburg, is promoted at the Columbia River Park, Columbia, Pennsylvania, Dec. 5, 2022. The rank of staff sergeant is the first Staff Noncommissioned Officer rank in the U.S. Marine Corps, responsible for the proficiency, training and administration of Marines in their charge.

031021-M-5455N-003. Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 26 MEU

030717-D-0405B-004. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Fort Stewart State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Soldiers from the 75th Field Artillery Brigade, 2nd Battalion, 18th Field Artillery Regiment redeployed at Fort Sill Feb. 5 and 7 after they spent about a month at the National Training Center in Fort Irwin, California for an Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercise.

Members of the Kentucky Air National Guards 123rd Airlift Wing receive an Independence Day welcome from friends and family as they return to their home base in Louisville, Ky., July 4, 2018, after completing a four-month deployment to the Persian Gulf region in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. The Airmen, who arrived aboard Kentucky Air Guard C-130 Hercules aircraft, operated from an undisclosed air base while flying troops and cargo across the U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Coty Crady, logistics chief, Command Element, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), hugs his daughter after returning from deployment aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 11, 2022. Marines and Sailors assigned to the 22nd MEU returned home after completing a seven-month deployment with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group in the U.S. Naval Sixth Fleet area of operations.

A U.S. Army Soldier with the 2nd Battalion, 113th Infantry Regiment, New Jersey Army National Guard, is kissed by his daughter after the welcome home ceremony for the 268 New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers at the National Guard Armory in Teaneck, N.J., Nov. 30, 2019. The Soldiers conducted a variety of missions, including base security, aircraft security, emergency response, intelligence collection, and security force assistance across a broad area of eastern Africa in support of Operation Enduring Freedom - Horn of Africa. (New Jersey National Guard

120820-N-GU530-178BANGOR, Wash. (Aug. 20, 2012) Electrician's Mate 1st Class John Hagenbrock, assigned to the Gold Crew of the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Louisiana (SSBN 743), holds his 7-week-old daughter for the first time after Louisiana's return from a strategic deterrent patrol.

1st Lt. Brandon Hall, commander of Delta Company, 427th Brigade Support Battalion, New York Army National Guard, is greeted by his family after returning from a 10 month deployment to Ukraine, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, N.Y., Aug. 23, 2018. Hall came home with more than 70 other Soldiers who are the last of 220 that were part of the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine, which deployed in October of 2017 to help oversee the training of 2,000 Ukrainian soldiers alongside other NATO countries.

U.S. Soldiers with Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 28th Infantry Division, and their families are honored during a deployment ceremony at Zembo Shrine Auditorium. These Soldiers are deploying to the Middle East for a year in support of Operation Spartan Shield.

U.S. Marine Corps Major Frank "Gorda" Colpo, Director of Aviation, G3/5, Marine Corps Installations Command (MCICOM) is promoted to Lieutenant Colonel at a ceremony at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virgina, on Feb. 1, 2024. The newly-minted LtCol celebrated surrounded by his family, friends, and fellow Marines at the site honoring the sacrifices made by Marines in defense of the United States for more than two centuries. MCICOM exercises command and control of Marine Corps installations via regional commanders in order to provide oversight, direction, and coordination of installation services and to optimize support to the Operating Forces, tenants, and activities. Marine Corps

The 121st Air Refueling Wing holds a retirement ceremony for Capt. James Felty, 121st Air Refueling Wing Force Support Squadron, at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio, June 4, 2022. Felty retired after 22 years of service to the nation.

Col. Jeffery B. Hambrice assumed command of Fort Campbell Dental Activity from Lt. Col. Michael Hoffman, during a ceremony on Fort Campbell, Kentucky, on August 18.

NORFOLK (April 16, 2022) - A Sailor assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57), embraces his wife after the ship's return to homeport, Naval Station Norfolk, April 16. Mitscher deployed to the European theater of operations and participated in a range of maritime activities in support of Naval Forces Europe and NATO Allies.

A Soldier assigned to Alpha Company, 142nd Division Sustainment Support Battalion, 1st Armored Division Sustainment Brigade, embraces his family for the first time after redeploying from the U.S. Central Command theater Aug. 11, 2022 at Fort Bliss, Texas. Alpha company served a nine-month rotation in support of Operations Inherent Resolve and Spartan Shield conducting sustainment missions that ensured the warfighter and supported troops in contact received the supplies and materiel they needed.

110319-N-YB753-170SAN DIEGO (March 19, 2011) Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Sarah Murphy embraces her children upon return from a deployment aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group stopped in San Diego on its way home to Everett, Wash., following more than six months deployed in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts.

The first group of Virginia National Guard Soldiers assigned to Task Force Red Dragon returns to Virginia and reunites with loved ones and fellow Soldiers Sept. 22, 2022, in Sandston, Virginia, after serving on federal active duty since November 2021. More than 1,000 Virginia and Kentucky National Guard troops under the command of the Lynchburg-based 1st Battalion, 116th Infantry Regiment, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team conducted security operations throughout the Horn of Africa and provided the East Africa Response Force in support of the U.S. government for crisis response throughout East Africa. A transfer of authority ceremony with the New York Army National Guards 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment was conducted Sept. 19. More Soldiers will return to Virginia in the coming weeks after completing administrative tasks transitioning them back to a traditional National Guard status, but an exact date for their return has not been finalized.

A Soldier with the 323rd Military Police Company is greeted by loved ones Oct. 13, 2017, prior to the units welcome home ceremony in Perrysburg, Ohio. The 323rd MP Company was deployed to Turkey in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the military intervention against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. (Ohio National Guard

38 Citizen Airmen from the 166th Airlift Wing returned home after their deployment to Southwest Asia. More than 100 Delaware Air National Guardsmen deployed in support of U.S. Central Command. This was the first time their family has seen them since they deployed at the beginning of summer.

Senior leaders from the Virginia National Guard join family, friends and fellow Soldiers in welcoming home the final groups of Soldiers assigned to the Lynchburg-based 1st Battalion, 116th Infantry Regiment, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team April 1, 2017, in Dulles, Virginia. Approximately 450 Soldiers from 1st Battalion, also known as the Red Dragons, began serving on federal active duty in May 2016 and conducted security operations in Qatar.

U.S. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 are greeted by their family members during the VMM-268 homecoming, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 17, 2022. VMM-268 conducted a six day Trans-Pacific flight, concluding a six month long deployment, in support of the Marine Rotational Force-Darwin retrograde back to Hawaii.

U.S. Air Force personnel recently deployed to Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, return home July 18, 2021 to the 169th Fighter Wing at McEntire Joint National Guard Base, South Carolina. "Swamp Fox" Airmen from the South Carolina Air National Guards 169th Fighter Wing were deployed to PSAB for the past three months to project combat power and help bolster defensive capabilities against potential threats in the region.

The family of U.S. Navy Cmdr. Gareth Montgomery, outgoing director of Installation and Logistics, Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, are awarded certificates of appreciation during his retirement ceremony aboard the installation, July 11, 2022. Family members are awarded for their commitment, dedication and support of service members during their time in service.

Capt. Matthew Zettler, Air Force ROTC instructor, Detachment 128, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, and daughter Aubrey, wait for Capt. Brianna Zettler, 3rd Airlift Squadron C-17 Globemaster III pilot, to deplane at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, Oct. 3, 2022. Members from the 3rd AS, 436th Mission Generation Group and 436th Security Forces Squadron were greeted by family, fellow squadron and Team Dover members after being deployed to Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar.

Sgt. Maj. David Merritt, the Operations and Planning Sergeant Major for the Illinois Army National Guard, is congratulated by a family member after Merritts retirement ceremony retirement ceremony at the Illinois Military Academy on Camp Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois July 22. Merritt has 30-years of military service. He enlisted into the Army in August of 1992 as a private, serving five years as a petroleum supply specialist at Fort Hood, TX and Fort Lewis, WA. He then enlisted into the Illinois Army National Guard as a traditional Soldier in August of 1997. He will continue to reside in East Peoria after his retirement with his wife, Wendy and two sons, Gunner and Tavin.

Retired State Command Sgt. Major Jack Ryan embraces his son Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew Ryan, an instructor pilot for A Co. 1-126th Aviation Regiment who returns from a 10-month deployment to Kosovo, Feb. 17, 2024, at Quonset Air National Guard Base, North Kingstown, RI. CW3 Ryan deployed in support of Operation Joint Guardian, a NATO peacekeeping mission under the Kosovo Force (KFOR). (Army National Guard

Chief Warrant Officer (4) Peggy Bates hugs family members after her retirement ceremony at the Illinois Military Academy on Camp Lincoln in Springfield, Il Aug 7. Bates retired after 38 years of military service. She enlisted in the ILARNG in August of 1984 as a Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic with 3637th Maintenance Company in Springfield, IL. CW4 Bates spent the next 22 years as an enlisted Soldier serving in numerous positions to include Parts Clerk, Technical Inspector, Maintenance Control NCO, Operations NCO, and First Sergeant for 3637th Maintenance Company and the 65th Troop Command. She began her Warrant Officer career in 2006 as an Engineer Equipment Maintenance Warrant Officer for B 634th Brigade Support Battalion and converted to a Property Accounting Warrant Officer in 2008. She has served as a Federal Technician for over 37 years. Bates dedication to the ILARNG and the technician program enhanced the logistics community within the entire state.

BREMERTON, Wash. (May 3, 2013) A Sailor assigned to the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) hugs his wife and daughter on the pier during their homecoming to Naval Station Kitsap. John C. Stennis is returning from an eight-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility.

A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, reunites with his family after completing a seven-month deployment with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) in the U.S. Naval Sixth Fleet area of operations on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina Oct. 10, 2022. The ARG and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Members of Alpha Company 1st Battalion 182nd Infantry Regiment depart for a deployment to Southwest Asia on Memorial Day. 30 May 2022, Army Aviation Support Facility, Quonset Air National Guard Base, Rhode Island. The guardsmen will head first to Fort Bliss, Texas, for mobilization and then head to Southwest Asia.

U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Ryan Shults, an F-18 pilot assigned to Carrier Air Wing 5, reunites with his family after returning to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, August 17, 2022. The air wing's return marked the completion of their most recent deployment aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76), where they provided airpower to protect U.S. forces and allies as they flew missions in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Kimberly Lanham, wife of Command Sgt. Maj. David Lanham, is presented flowers during the change of responsibility and retirement ceremony for Command Sgt. Maj. Lanham at St. Francis Barracks, St. Augustine, Florida on May 14, 2022. Command Sgt. Maj. Lanham is the outgoing Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Florida National Guard.U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Tori Miller.

220413-N-DT940-1083NORFOLK, Va. (April 13, 2022) A Sailor assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) embraces his family following the ship's return to its homeport, Naval Station Norfolk, April 13. Forrest Sherman deployed to the European theater of operations and participated in a range of maritime activities in support of Naval Forces Europe and NATO Allies.

111101-N-XR557-179NORFOLK (Nov. 1, 2011) A Sailor assigned to the guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) greets his family upon returning from an eight-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea. Monterey visited 16 ports as the initial platform for the ballistic missile defense of Europe.

A U.S. Marine with Combat Logistics Battalion 26, reunites with his family after a seven-month deployment with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) in the U.S. Naval Sixth Fleet area of operations on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina Oct. 9, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Brandon Deffenbaugh is greeted by his wife and daughters as 15 Soldiers with the South Dakota Army National Guards 200th Engineer Company arrive at T.F. Riggs High School in Pierre, S.D., May 19, 2018. The Soldiers returned home after a nine-month deployment to Syria where they served as a bridge training team and emplaced and repaired bridges throughout the region to ensure freedom of movement for U.S. military and coalition forces.

061114-N-2248M-051. Base: Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

NORFOLK (July 23, 2021) The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) returns to Naval Station Norfolk. Vella Gulf, a ship of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG), returned to its homeport in Naval Station Norfolk following a six-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation.

U.S. Army National Guard 1st. Sgt. Daniel Schaab is advanced to sergeant major, at the Ike Skelton Training Site, Jefferson City, Mo., Sept. 15, 2022. Gathered by family, friends and many teammates, Sgt. Maj. Schaab has made a significant positive impact on the lives and careers of his Soldiers over the years.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Daniel Meyers with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, embraces his child at the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa homecoming, on MCAS Miramar, California, Aug. 22, 2022. The deployment was a successful integration of elements of three Fleet Marine Force squadrons to provide critical rapid personnel recovery and medical evacuation capabilities to U.S. and partner forces operating in East Africa.

CAMP ATTERBURY, Ind.-Spc. Roschell Eaton and Spc. Jason Hutchins, mother and son, both from the 3175th Military Police Company, train at Camp Atterbury, IN. for their upcoming deployment as part of Kosovo Force 10, Multi-National Task Force (East). (

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Jerry Grant, 35th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) journeyman, helps a child put-on the military body armor during a Memorial Day state fair at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 30, 2022. Grant shared with members of all ages about the different protective equipment found within the EOD, in order to give them better understanding of the importance of each item.

031002-F-5135H-001. Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Brig. Gen. Beth Salisbury, deputy commanding general of the Army Reserves 99th Readiness Division, greets community members gathered 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.

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Alex Leurk, a special operations independent duty corpsman with Reconnaissance Detachment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, kisses his wife during a homecoming aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, October 10, 2022. Marines and Sailors assigned to the 22nd MEU returned home after completing a seven-month deployment with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group in the U.S. Naval Sixth Fleet area of operations.

Spc. Amaya Tinoco, a Soldier from the 4th Infantry Division Combatives Team, challenges an opponent during the Lacerda Cup All-Army Combatives Championships semi-final round at Fort Benning, Georgia, on April 11, 2023. Combatives competitions enhance unit combat readiness by building Soldiers' personal courage, confidence, and resiliency as well as their situational responsiveness to close-quarters threats in the operational environment.

120310-N-AW702-044MAYPORT, Fla. (March 10, 2012) Cryptologic Technician Technical 3rd Class Joseph Cox embraces his newborn daughter during a homecoming celebration for the guided-missile frigate USS De Wert (FFG 45) at Naval Station Mayport. De Wert returned to homeport after completing a seven-month counter piracy deployment to the Horn of Africa and Indian Ocean.

Soldiers assigned to the 16th Military Police Brigade return back to Fort Bragg, N.C. to reunite with their families June 27, 2022 following a five-month deployment to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility. The brigade was rapidly deployed to Europe in February to reinforce and reassure our NATO allies.

110817-N- NK458-115NORFOLK (Aug. 17, 2011) MachinistÕs Mate 1st Class Robert Vance embraces his wife after returning to Naval Station Norfolk from a seven-month deployment aboard the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Scranton (SSN 756). Vance was awarded the traditional first kiss after departing the ship. Scranton conducted maritime security operations and participated in Operation Odyssey Dawn against Libya.

110629-N-WX059-264PEARL HARBOR (June 29, 2011) Lt. Donald Curran, chief staff officer aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60), is greeted by his family after returning from a seven-month deployment. Paul Hamilton deployed to the western Pacific supporting operations in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility.

221021-N-LN285-1521JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (October 21, 2022) -- Twenty-eight new chief petty officers from Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Naval Submarine Training Center Pacific, Submarine Readiness Squadron 33, USS Tucson (SSN 770), USS Hawaii (SSN 776), USS North Carolina (SSN 777) and USS Minnesota (SSN 783) were promoted during a pinning ceremony held at the USS Bowfin Museum in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Oct. 21.

240112-N-PV534-1021 SAN DIEGO (Jan. 12, 2023) Capt. Damon Loveless, executive officer of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), greets Senior Chief Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) Marquis Clarks daughter during Clarks retirement ceremony on the flight deck. Abraham Lincoln is currently moored pierside at Naval Air Station North Island.

Members of the 117th Air Control Squadron, 165th Airlift Wing, return home to Savannah Ga., on Nov. 21, 2018 after a deployment. The Airmen were deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility and assigned to the 727th Expeditionary Air Control Squadron, also known as "Kingpin. The 117th ACS provided combatant commanders with air control for all aircraft, and constant live picture of the airspace for Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Syria, and the NATO Resolute Support Mission and Operation Freedom's Sentinel in Afghanistan.

Gunnery Sgt. Salvador Torres, musician, The Commandants Own, U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, talks with guests after performing at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, Quantico, Virginia, Aug. 24, 2022. The Commandants Own, performed multiple songs to showcase esprit de corps and honor the generations before us.

000818-N-0872M-510. Base: Naval Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Nathan Keehn, automotive maintenance technician, Marine Corps Information Operations Center, interacts with participants of the Marine Corps Marathon Kids Run at Long Bridge Park in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 29, 2022. The one mile fun run offered children ages 5-12 the opportunity to run with Marines; finishing at Camp Miles where families were able to enjoy activities, entertainment, and games.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jarod Ludwig, an infantry rifleman with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, hugs a family member during a homecoming ceremony at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, April 13, 2022. The unit returned to the Combat Center after completing a unit deployment program to Okinawa, Japan with the 3rd Marine Division.

NAVAL BASE CORONADO (Aug. 10, 2016) Damage Controlman 2nd Class Devin Bingley meets his child for the first time after returning from a seven-month deployment. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 is disembarking from John C. Stennis in San Diego before the ship returns to its homeport in Bremerton, Washington. Providing a combat-ready force to protect collective maritime interests, John C. Stennis is returning from a regularly scheduled Western Pacific deployment.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Benjamin Hoffman, executive officer for the 424th Air Base Squadron, receives his new rank from his wife Stephanie, during a promotion ceremony on Chièvres Air Base, June 10, 2022.

U.S. Marines and their families reunite after Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, return from their deployment at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, April 11, 2022. VMM-161 returned from a deployment serving as the East African Aviation Combat Element 22.1.

Soldiers from the 75th Field Artillery Brigade, 2nd Battalion, 18th Field Artillery Regiment redeployed at Fort Sill Feb. 5 and 7 after they spent about a month at the National Training Center in Fort Irwin, California for an Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercise.

Family and friends greet redeploying members assigned to the 355th Wing and 563rd Rescue Group on the flight line at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Oct. 8, 2022. The members returned home to their families after a deployment overseas.

Gunnery Sgt. Levi Moser, assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), embraces his wife and son during a deployment homecoming aboard Camp Lejeune, Oct. 9, 2022. Marines and Sailors assigned to the 22nd MEU returned home after completing a seven-month deployment with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group in the U.S. Naval Sixth Fleet area of operations.

230628-N-ZQ263-2025 SAN DIEGO (June 28, 2023) A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 6 greets his family after the traditional first kiss after returning from deployment aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz arrives in San Diego concluding a seven-month deployment to U.S. 3rd and 7th Fleet areas of operations (AO). Nimitzs presence in U.S. 3rd and 7th Fleet AOs reinforced the United States commitment to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

031021-M-5455N-002. Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 26 MEU

U.S. Army Sgt. Victoria Krauss, a unit supply noncommissioned officer assigned to the 1st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Aviation Regiment, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, presents a bouquet of yellow roses to Tara Burney, the spouse of U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Nicholas Burney, the incoming 1st ARB, 1st Avn. Regt., 1st CAB, 1st Inf. Div., command sergeant major, during a change of responsibility ceremony at the Fort Riley, Kansas, Marshall Army Airfield, June 22, 2022. The yellow roses symbolize joy and friendship as well as the relationships that will grow between her and the Battalions Soldiers and Family Readiness Group.

030717-D-0405B-010. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Fort Stewart State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Some U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers with the 4-118th Infantry Battalion, 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team (ABCT), attached to the 218th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, South Carolina National Guard, return home Oct. 8, 2020, with South Carolina National Guard leaders greeting them in Columbia, South Carolina, after a deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Spartan Shield. The 4-118th Infantry Battalion deployed to the Middle East after departing South Carolina in August 2019. The return of the Soldiers from the Middle East is conducted in stages due to mission requirements.

A Soldier with the Oklahoma National Guard's Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 149th Aviation (GSAB) prepares to leave for a deployment to Afghanistan on Sept. 16, 2012.

041006-F-7564C-258. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Pope Air Force Base State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 2022 cadets celebrate receiving their diplomas during the Graduation Ceremony at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 25, 2022. Nine-hundred-seventy cadets crossed the stage to become the Air Force/Space Forces newest second lieutenants.

Reunion at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada (NV), US Army (USA) Reservist STAFF Sergeant (SSG) James Smith, 257th Transportation Company (TRANS CO), Las Vegas, NV, holds his eight month old son Malik for the first time on returning home from a 13-month deployment to Kuwait and Iraq during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

221004-N-CR843-0350NAVAL AIR STATION JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Oct. 4, 2022) Aviation Electricians Mate 3rd Class Benjamin Wolfe, assigned to the “Fighting Tigers” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 8 is reunited with his wife and infant daughter as VP-8 returns to Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla., Oct. 4, 2022. VP-8 is returning from a six month deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of Commander, Task Force 72 and U.S, Indo-Pacific Command objectives throughout the region.

230628-N-KU796-1215 SAN DIEGO (June 28, 2023) A U.S. Navy Sailor greets his family after the traditional first kiss after returning from deployment aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz arrives in San Diego concluding a seven-month deployment to U.S. 3rd and 7th Fleet areas of operations (AO). Nimitzs presence in U.S. 3rd and 7th Fleet AOs reinforced the United States commitment to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

The 2nd Infantry Division Artillery conducted a change of command ceremony July 6, 2022 on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea. Col. David Pasquale, the outgoing commander, relinquished his responsibilities to Col. Alexander Lee during the ceremony.

SAN DIEGO (Sept. 30, 2022) - Interior Communications Electrician 1st Class Savanna Gerber greets her son upon Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercys (T-AH 19) return to San Diego after completion of Pacific Partnership 2022. Having just completed its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multi-national humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership 2022 host nations included Vietnam, Palau, the Philippines and Solomon Islands. U.S. Service Members carried out the mission alongside partner nation representatives from Australia, Chile, Japan, the Republic of Korea and the United Kingdom.

Marines with the Silent Drill Platoon greet female veterans with a Honor Flight Network at the Lincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C., May 31, 2022. The Honor Flight Network is a non-profit organization committed to letting American veterans travel to Washington D.C. to visit memorials, honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

221027-N-GR655-0128 GROTON, Conn. (October 27, 2022) - An officer assigned to the USS North Dakota (SSN 784) gives flowers to his children during a homecoming event at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Conn., Oct. 27. North Dakota returned to homeport from its 3rd full deployment since commissioning in support of the Navy's maritime strategy - supporting national security interests and maritime security operations - in the 6th Fleet area of operations. The Virginia-class fast attack submarine USS North Dakota and crew operate under Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) FOUR and its primary mission is to provide attack submarines that are ready, willing, and able to meet the unique challenges of undersea combat and deployed operations in unforgiving environments across the globe.

A member of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds observes Skyfest 2022 on Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, May 14, 2022. The Thunderbirds have been performing since 1953 to exhibit the capabilities of modern, high-performance aircrafts as well as showcasing the professional skill that is required to operate the machinery.

NORFOLK (Oct. 13, 2022) - A Sailor assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), greets family after returning to Naval Station Norfolk from a seven-month deployment, Oct. 13. More than 4,000 Sailors and Marines assigned to the Kearsarge ARG supported a wide range of interoperability opportunities and exercises across the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations increasing combat readiness and crisis response capabilities while strengthening relationships with both NATO Allies and partners.

Norfolk, Va. (September 1, 2022). Lt. Aaron Antonio, assigned to the San Antonio-Class Amphibious Transport Dock USS New York (LPD 21), is promoted to Lieutenant Commander during a ceremony aboard the decommissioned Iowa-Class Battleship USS Wisconsin (BB 64). The ceremony occurred in front of the Battleships iconic turret No. 1 and was attended by members of his family and command. The ceremony was hosted and coordinated by the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, one of ten U.S. Navy museums within the Naval History and Heritage Command. The museum offers military ceremonies for area commands without cost as part of their military outreach offerings. (US Navy Photo by Max Lonzanida/Released).

Family and friends congratulate Lt. Col. Todd Hudson, 152nd Airlift Wing Chief of Safety and Nevada Air National Guard C-130 navigator, as Hudson finishes his final flight at the Nevada Air National Guard Base, Reno, Nev., June 25, 2022. Hudson is set to become the Air Force Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) commander at North Valleys High School in Reno.

Gunnery Sgt. Michael A. Zangare, 36, from Cleveland, walks with his family to USS Bonhomme Richard as the ship readies for deployment Sept. 24. Some Marines brought guests on board to tour the ship before saying their goodbyes. Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed after eight months of training as a quick-reaction task force.

Congratulations to Col. Kara-Marie Delaney on her promotion.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Oct. 21, 2022) Chief Mass Communication Specialist Aidan Campbell is pinned during the FY23 Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Pinning Ceremony for Commander, Submarine Group 7, Defense Service Office Pacific, and Commander, Naval Forces Japan (CNFJ) held at the CNFJ auditorium onboard Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Oct. 21, 2022. Seven Chief Petty Officer Selects were promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer during the ceremony. Each Sailor had their anchors pinned and donned the CPO covers for the first time in front of their fellow CPOs, command leadership, family and friends.

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