Homecoming and Ceremonies

Emotional reunions of military personnel with family and official ceremonies including promotions, showcasing joy and pride.

Troopers of 4-6 Air Cavalry Squadron, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade redeploy to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. on Jun. 5 and 7, 2022. The squadron was on a 9 month rotation to the Republic of Korea in support of 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade.

HANSCOM, AFB, Mass - Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 182nd Infantry Division, return home from deployment after nine months of service throughout the middle east. Leaders from the Massachusetts National Guard Joint Forces Headquarters and 51st Troop Command leadership greeted soldiers on the flight line of Hanscom Air Force Base. The Soldiers were then before then transported to Camp Curtis Guild where they were reunited with family and friends. Since its inception in 1636, the Massachusetts National Guard has participated in each of our nations conflicts, steadfastly serving the country and the citizens of the Commonwealth. More than 20,000 Massachusetts National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have deployed since September 11, 2001

MANAMA, Bahrain (Sept. 13, 2018) Chief Logistics Specialist Suzette Loy, left, pins anchors onto Chief Logistics Specialist Josianne Thompson during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony at Naval Support Activity Bahrain. Sixty-eight Sailors from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, Naval Support Activity Bahrain, and commands located throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility received their anchors.

221021-N-LN285-1842JOINT 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.

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. 24 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

The 322nd Civil Affairs Brigade, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, held an official change of responsibility ceremony on April 8, at Fort Shafter Flats in Honolulu.

061019-N-9999K-003. Base: Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Navy hospital corpsman 2nd class Destanee Wilison, with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, celebrates HOSPITAL CORPSMAN 2ND CLASS Joelle Eusebioduponts, with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st MEU, promotion after the ceremony aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli, in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 13, 2022. The Meritorious Advancement Program recognizes sailors whose performance reflects a rank higher than their current station, and ensures they are allowed to reach their full potential.

Troopers of 4-6 Air Cavalry Squadron, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade redeploy to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. on Jun. 5 and 7, 2022. The squadron was on a 9 month rotation to the Republic of Korea in support of 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade.

More than 700 Airmen and Guardians assigned to the 331 Training Squadron graduated April 21, 2022, from Basic Military Training. Lt. Gen. Sam Barrett, the Director of Logistics, Joint Staff at the Pentagon, and Chief Master Sgt. Mike Morgan, 37th Training Wing command chief, reviewed the ceremony.

A new U.S. Marine of Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, is welcomed by a loved one following a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Jan. 28, 2022. Once Kilo Company was dismissed, families and friends met their new Marines on the parade deck. As recruits, their only means of contact were through letters during their 13-week training cycle. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl Tyler W. Abbott)

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.

220518-N-NY430-1237SAN DIEGO (May 17, 2022) - Chief Aviation Boatswains Mate (Fuel) Patricia Fry receives senior chief collar devices during a promotion ceremony aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), May 18. During the ceremony Sailors were pinned and covered by family, friends and fellow service members. Makin Island is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship homeported in San Diego.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Jonathan Lazzeroni's wife receives flowers during the Marine Helicopter Squadron One Relief and Appointment and Retirement Ceremony at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, May 13, 2022. A relief and appointment ceremony signifies a formal transfer of responsibility from the unit's senior enlisted advisor to another.

2nd Lt. Nathan Riggs is pinned his new rank by his wife and daughter during the Officer Candidate School graduation, held at the Edward Cross Training Center, in Pembroke, NH, Sept 11. Riggs will serve as a logistics officer with the 3643rd Brigade Support Battalion upon completion of the Basic Officer Leadership Course.

1st Sgt. Charles L. Johnson Retirement Ceremony, 30th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Air Defense Artillery Commandant's Office, Fort Sill, Oklahoma. 1st Sgt. Charles L. Johnson retired today after 20 over years serving in the U.S. Army. His presence as a senior enlisted Soldier as part of the Air Defense community is one that will not soon be forgotten. Johnson spent over 8 years stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma and contributed immensely to the Air Defense mission by serving as a 1st Sgt. for 30th Air Defense Artillery and by leading troops towards careers of excellence while serving in the Commandant's office as the Operations NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer).Johnson served two tours overseas, one to Kuwait and one to Bahrain. His time there was well noted by the various military awards he received and prestigious accolades. Since gearing towards retirement Charles began studies in the hopes of becoming a teacher, but says that he would "still like to work close with Air Defense, just

A group of Soldiers embrace after being pinned with their newly-earned Air Assault badges on graduation day of a U.S. Air Assault course at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, on Sept. 9, 2022. Over 200 students participated in the 12-day course held at Camp Dodge, which trains service members in sling load operations and rappelling. Cadre from the Army National Guard Warrior Training Center at Fort Benning, Georgia, traveled as a mobile training team to teach the course.

A new U.S. Marine with Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, is greeted by a guest after a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Nov. 4, 2022. Family and friends were able to watch the ceremony in support of Delta Marines.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Brandon I. Kumalae, incoming command sergeant major of the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT), Hawaii Army National Guard hugs his grandma after the 29th IBCT change of responsibility ceremony, Kapolei, Hawaii, Jan. 7, 2024. The change of responsibility ceremony is a time-honored tradition within the Army that commemorates the relinquishment of responsibility by passing the unit's colors from one senior noncommissioned officer to another.

A U.S. Air Force Airman from the 525th Fighter Squadron Expeditionary team poses for a photo with his wife 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.

220516-N-IE405-1092 NAPLES, Italy (May 16, 2022) Senior Chief Master-at-Arms Scott Chilkos daughters pin his senior chief collar devices on during a frocking ceremony at U.S. Naval Support Activity (NSA) Naples Support Site in Gricignano di Aversa, Italy, May 16, 2022. NSA Naples is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to be where they are needed, when they are needed to ensure security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Kent A. Lundy, the 181st Intelligence Wing chaplain, and Chief Master Sgt. Michael C. May, the state command chief for the Indiana Air National Guard, embrace after a retreat ceremony at Hulman Field Air National Guard Base, Ind., Sept. 10, 2022. This specific retreat ceremony was in honor of Mays retirement.

More than 500 Airmen assigned to the 324th Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, September 7-8, 2022. Maj. Gen. Craig D. Wills, Commander, 19th Air Force, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, reviewed the ceremony.

More than 500 Airmen assigned to the 324th Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, September 7-8, 2022. Maj. Gen. Craig D. Wills, Commander, 19th Air Force, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, reviewed the ceremony.

230331-N-LN782-1046 (Mar. 31, 2023) U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command's Pass in Review in Great Lakes, Illinois, Mar. 31, 2023. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy's only boot camp

A service member hugs Toni Trucks after a plank face-off during a USO performance, Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, July 4, 2019. Air Force Gen. Joseph Lengyel, chief of the National Guard Bureau, is hosting a USO Tour, visiting troops in six countries in three combatant commands.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Sept. 22, 2022) Sonar Technician (Surface) First Class Meghan-Rai Hicks receives a floral tribute during a Bells Across America ceremony at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY). For 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th fleet's forward deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

A newly promoted chief petty officer shares a hug with her husband and son during a Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony at William Pendleton Thompson Hill Field on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 21, 2022. The pinning ceremony is the culmination of an intense six-week training period where the U.S. Navy's senior enlisted leaders introduced the chief petty officer selectees to a set of challenges designed to strengthen their leadership and mentoring abilities.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Brian W. Cavanaugh, the commanding general of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command, greets sailors during a ship tour of the USNS Newport (T-EPF 12) in Baltimore, Maryland, Sept. 9, 2022. Maryland Fleet Week & Flyover Baltimore is an annual public event that celebrates the contributions of the U.S. sea services and maritime capabilities from the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. More than 2,300 service members participated in Maryland Fleet Week & Flyover Baltimore 2022 engaging and assisting with ship tours, live bands and static equipment displays.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Brian W. Cavanaugh, the commanding general of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command, greets sailors during a ship tour of the USNS Newport (T-EPF 12) in Baltimore, Maryland, Sept. 9, 2022. Maryland Fleet Week & Flyover Baltimore is an annual public event that celebrates the contributions of the U.S. sea services and maritime capabilities from the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. More than 2,300 service members participated in Maryland Fleet Week & Flyover Baltimore 2022 engaging and assisting with ship tours, live bands and static equipment displays.

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.

ASAN, Guam (Oct. 3, 2022) - Lt. Cmdr. Roger Blake receives an ovation from military and civilian personnel for his dedicated service at Joint Region Marianas, Oct. 3.

221021-N-VI040-1094 NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan (Oct. 21, 2022) Logistics Specialist 1st Class Bianca Roberts receives her Chief Petty Officer Anchors from her family as she advances to the next rank during a Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony held onboard Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi Oct. 21, 2022. NAF Atsugi supports the combat readiness of Commander, Fleet Air Western Pacific, Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE (CVW) 5, Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51 and 23 other tenant commands, and provides logistic support, coordination, and services to units assigned to the Western Pacific.

Chief Boatswains Mate Thomas Oloughlin, assigned to Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS), is pinned with his anchors as he is promoted to chief petty officer during a pinning ceremony at CFAS Oct. 21, 2022. The rank of chief petty officer was created April 1, 1893, and the chief petty officer pinning ceremony is a unique tradition to the U.S. Navy that signifies promotion to a crucial position of leadership and responsibility.

Pfc. Gerard Smith, an Iowa Army National Guard Soldier assigned to the 209th Medical Company (Area Support), hugs a loved one after the conclusion of a send-off ceremony at Clear Creek Amana High School in Tiffin, Iowa, on July 16, 2022. Senior leaders, family and friends gathered in the auditorium to honor the 80 Soldiers who are mobilizing to Poland in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve. They will be providing field hospital health service support as part of NATOs Enhanced Forward Presence mission, which enables the U.S. to provide deterrence to adversaries while supporting our NATO partners.

United States Air Force Col. Michael P. Richard, 35th Fighter Wing (FW) incoming commander, gives his wife, Jessica, flowers during the 35th FW change of command ceremony at Misawa Air Base, Japan, June 30, 2022. The ancient ceremony traces its roots to medieval battlefields where the knights were obliged to obey the orders of the warrior carrying their unit guidon.

A U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing, meets their family on the flight line at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, April 6, 2023. The Airman had just returned from a deployment in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. The 6th ARW thanks all their service members and their families for the sacrifices they make throughout their military career. The support of military families serves as the backbone for the 6th ARWs ability to deliver hope and project lethality, anytime and anywhere.

LUANDA, Angola (Nov. 3, 2022) Lt. Noelle Hackfield, right, surgeon assigned to the expeditionary sea base USS Hershel Woody” Williams (ESB 4), provides a guided tour to Angolan Navy Lt. Pedro Manuel of ship’s surgery room and office following the ship’s arrival in the Angolan port, Nov.3, 2022. Hershel Woody” Williams is rotationally deployed to the U.S. Naval Forces Africa area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet, to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Fourteen Soldiers from the Utah National Guard's 141st Military Intelligence Battalion returned home from a 10-month deployment to Afghanistan Dec. 14, 2015, just in time for Christmas.

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (Oct. 21, 2022) Chief Hull Maintenance Technician Robert Vanroy receives his combination cover during a chief pinning ceremony at Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall onboard Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes. A total of 43 Sailors from RTC were promoted to the rank of chief petty officer during the ceremony. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy's only boot camp.

Marti Williams receives a bouquet of flowers during the welcoming ceremony for Col. Jeremy Wilson, incoming deputy commanding general for support of the 3rd Infantry Division, on Fort Stewart, Georgia, August 5, 2022. She is engaged to Wilson and was a guest of honor during the ceremony.

030420-F-6964P-025. Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: Centaf

NAVAL BASE KITSAP-BREMERTON, Wash. (May 25, 2022) - Senior Chief Electronics Technician (Nuclear) Ryan Williams, attached to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), is pinned by his son during a frocking ceremony at the Naval Base Kitsap auditorium, Bremerton, Wash., May 25, 2022. Theodore Roosevelt is in a docking planned incremental availability at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility where the ship will receive scheduled maintenance and upgrades.

120523-N-DI878-267SAN DIEGO (May 23, 2012) A Sailor is welcomed home by family members as the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) returns to homeport at Naval Base Coronado. Carl Vinson and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 recently completed a deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 7th Fleet areas of responsibility.

WORCESTER, Mass -During a large ceremony at the DCU Center, here Families, Friends, and leaders gathered on January 23, 2024, to send off the 1st Battalion, 181st Infantry Regiment before their deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Speakers at the ceremony included Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll, Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts, Maj. Gen. Gary W. Keefe, Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard, and Lt. Col. Alex Hampton, commander of the 1-181st Infantry Battalion. During the ceremony, Hampton and Command Sgt. Maj. Sean P. Fitzgerald, Command Sergeant Major of the 1-181st Infantry Battalion cased the battalion colors while they are deployed under the command of U.S. Central Command, upon returning home, the unit will uncase their colors.

NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (Oct. 21, 2022) Family members pin Chief Electronics Technician Israel Riveras anchors during the Naval Surface Force Atlantic chief petty officer pinning ceremony onboard Naval Station Norfolk, Oct. 21. Nine Sailors received their gold-fouled anchors during the ceremony.

220523-N-XK809-1073 FORT MEADE, Md. (May 23, 2022) Master Chief Information Systems Technician Amaury Ponciano, from Union City, N.J., assigned to U.S. Fleet Cyber Command/U.S. 10th Fleet, is pinned to his current rank during a pinning ceremony at the fountain by the Fort Meade Parade Field.

220518-N-DW158-1028 YOKOSUKA, Japan (May 18, 2022) Senior Chief Legalman Zandee Galang receives her new anchors during a master chief petty officer and senior chief petty officer pinning ceremony aboard the U.S. Navys only forward deployed aircraft carrier the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Four Reagan Sailors assumed the rank of master chief petty officer and 20 assumed the rank of senior chief petty officer during the ceremony. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

More than 600 Airmen assigned to the 326th Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, April 28, 2022. Col. Matthew Reilman, 17th Training Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Rebecca Arbona, 17th TRW command chief, reviewed the ceremony. The 17th TRW is located at Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Oct. 21, 2022) - Chief Mass Communication Specialist Claire Farin receives her chief petty officer combination cover during the chief petty officer pinning ceremony aboard U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) Oct. 21, 2022. Nine selectees were promoted to the rank of chief petty officer during the ceremony. Blue Ridge is the oldest operational ship in the Navy and, as 7th Fleet command ship, actively works to foster relationships with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

Oregon National Guard Soldiers assigned to Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 82nd Cavalry Regiment say their final goodbyes to family and friends at the conclusion of their formal mobilization ceremony held at West Albany High School football stadium, Albany, Ore., April 25, 2021. Approximately 130 Oregon National Guard Soldiers are deploying to Poland to support the European Deterrence Initiative as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve. (National Guard

030717-D-0405B-008. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Fort Stewart State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Navy Chief Machinists Mate (Nuclear) Michael Gibson, from Clarksville, Indiana, assigned to the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), has his cover placed by his family and fellow chiefs during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony at the Coastal Virginia Church, in Norfolk, Virginia, Oct. 21, 2022. The John C. Stennis is in Newport News Shipyard working alongside NNS, NAVSEA and contractors conducting Refueling and Complex Overhaul as part of the mission to deliver the warship back in the fight, on time and on budget, to resume its duty of defending the United States.

221021-N-WF272-1561 PHILADELPHIA (Oct. 21, 2022) Chief Aviation Boatswains Mate (Fuel) Gameliel Smith, a native of Mechanicsville, Md., assigned to Navy Talent Acquisition Group Philadelphia, has his anchors pinned by his wife and son during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony held at Naval Support Activity Philadelphia, Oct. 21, 2022. Nine new Chiefs received their anchors and donned their new covers for the first time in front of their fellow Chiefs, command leadership, family members and friends. Navy Talent Acquisition Group Philadelphia encompasses regions of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and West Virginia, providing recruiting services from more than 30 talent acquisition sites with the overall goal of attracting the highest quality candidates to ensure the ongoing success of Americas Navy.

Senior Chief Machinists Mate (Nuclear) Patrick Heinig is pinned by his wife Jennifer during the aircraft carrier Pre-Commissioning Unit John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) pinning ceremony. The rank of senior chief and master chief was created June 1, 1958, under an amendment to the Career Compensation Act of 1949. John F. Kennedy is the second Ford-class aircraft carrier and is under construction at the Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipyard.

U.S. forces and French soldiers participate in the closing ceremony that commemorates the end of Exercise Marara 22 on Bora Bora, French Polynesia, May 18, 2022. Exercise Marara 22 reinforces U.S. commitments to our allies and partners in Oceania and raises our collective readiness to address crises and contingencies in the region.

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School cadet candidate Emily Adams embraces a family member following the Prep School's graduation parade, May 16, 2022. (U.S. Air Force photo/Joshua Armstrong)

Shared smiles all around...Chief Hospital Corpsman Ferrell Jenkins has his hands full after he was ceremoniously promoted, along with Chief Gunners Mate Tristan Brayman, Chief Hospital Corpsman Cyrus Cunningham and Chief Hospital Corpsman Sonny Soriano to their new rank as part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Navy Chief Petty Officer ranks, Oct. 21, 2022, at Navy Medicine Readiness Training Command Bremerton (official Navy photo).

220920-N-XG173-1258 PEARL HARBOR (Sept 20, 2022) Chief Hospital Corpsman Ivy Nicolas, from Bulacan, Philippines greets her family after Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) arrival in Pearl Harbor after participating in Pacific Partnership 2022. Now in its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.

Airman Karla Guerrero, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), pledges the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America during a naturalization ceremony at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) June 1, 2022. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and Region Legal Service Office Western Pacific collaborated to conduct the naturalization ceremony at CFAS allowing Sailors to become U.S. citizens.

HANSCOM, AFB, Mass - Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 182nd Infantry Division, return home from deployment after nine months of service throughout the middle east. Leaders from the Massachusetts National Guard Joint Forces Headquarters and 51st Troop Command leadership greeted soldiers on the flight line of Hanscom Air Force Base. The Soldiers were then before then transported to Camp Curtis Guild where they were reunited with family and friends. Since its inception in 1636, the Massachusetts National Guard has participated in each of our nations conflicts, steadfastly serving the country and the citizens of the Commonwealth. More than 20,000 Massachusetts National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have deployed since September 11, 2001

DN-ST-89-03348. Base: Naval Air Station, Jacksonville State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Okinawa, Japan (Oct. 21, 2022) Cheif Hospital Corpsman Juan Paublo Amio, being frocked to Cheif Petty Officer during The Pinning Ceremony. The Fiscal Year 2023 Cheif Petty Officer Pinning Ceremony took place in the Keystone Theatre, onboard Kadena Air Force Base.

U.S. Navy Chief Machinists Mate (Nuclear) Joshua Perry, from Grover Beach, California, assigned to the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), has his new rank pinned on by his fellow chiefs during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony at the Coastal Virginia Church, in Norfolk, Virginia, Oct. 21, 2022. John C. Stennis is in Newport News Shipyard working alongside NNS, NAVSEA and contractors conducting Refueling and Complex Overhaul as part of the mission to deliver the warship back in the fight, on time and on budget, to resume its duty of defending the United States.

A newly promoted chief petty officer is pinned to his new rank by his son during a Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony at William Pendleton Thompson Hill Field on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Oct. 21, 2022. The pinning ceremony is the culmination of an intense six-week training period where the U.S. Navy's senior enlisted leaders introduced the chief petty officer selectees to a set of challenges designed to strengthen their leadership and mentoring abilities.

U.S. Air Force Gen. Duke Richardson, Air Force Materiel Command commander, celebrates with a U.S. Space Force Guardian after finishing the Air Force Half Marathon Sept. 17, 2022, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. More than 8,500 runners and 1,500 volunteers from all 50 states and 18 different countries came out to run in the races 26th year.

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.

040618-M-3856G-011. Base: Mcas, Beaufort State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

STENNIS SPACE CENTER, Mississippi (Oct. 7, 2022) - Rear Adm. John Okon, Director, Warfare Integration Directorate, N2N6I, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, presided over the retirement of Lt. Cmdr. Kabran KJ Johnson at NASA Stennis Space Center, Mississippi Oct. 7, 2022. Johnson enlisted in the Navy in 1992, and graduated the from Aerographers Mate (AG) A-School in 1993 before being selected for Chief and eventually earning a commission. His efforts in support of various Fleet and Naval Special Warfare commands worldwide over the course of his 30-year career were highlighted by colleagues and family at the ceremony. Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command directs and oversees more than 2,500 globally-distributed military and civilian personnel who collect, process and exploit environmental information to assist Fleet and Joint Commanders in all warfare areas to make better decisions faster than the adversary.

YOKOSUKA, Japan, (Oct. 21, 2022) Chief Personnel Specialist Andrew Asuncion poses for a photo with his family during a chief pinning ceremony at the Fleet Theater onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY). Eighteen Sailors from CFAY and tenant commands were promoted to the rank of chief petty officer during the ceremony. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet's forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

220408-N-SI601-1091 YOKOSUKA, Japan (April 8, 2022) Master Chief Electricians Mate (Nuclear) Nathan Miller gives his daughter a bouquet of flowers at his retirement ceremony on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Millers family and friends attended the ceremony to commemorate his 24 years in the U.S. Navy. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON - (Oct. 14, 2022) A rise in rank is an honor and means a lot to service members who tirelessly perform their duties daily to protect and defend. In recognition of her Naval dedication, Interior Communications Electrician Petty Officer Second Class Naomi G. Ramos received authorization to assume the title of and wear the uniform of First Class Petty Officer.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Moses R. Menchaca and his family bow their heads in prayer during the Headquarters and Service Company change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, July 14, 2022. During the ceremony, Capt. Moses R. Menchaca assumed command of Headquarters and Service Company from Maj. Charles M. Olmsted.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Sep. 30, 2022) - Lt. Cmdr. Chris Guaydacan, force protection officer assigned to Commander, Submarine Group (CSG) 7, presents the United States flag to his mother during his retirement ceremony, Sept. 30. Guaydacan retires with over 30 years of combined service to his country.

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.

SAN DIEGO (Aug. 23, 2022) Sailors from Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) reunite with their families after the ship returns from deployment. Fitzgerald, a part of the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, returned to Naval Base San Diego, following a seven-month deployment to the U.S. 3rd, 5th and 7th Fleets in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

120828-N-ZI955-293IWO JIMA, Japan (Aug. 28, 2012) Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Andrew Thomasson, right, hugs Senior Chief Ken Ballard after he laid his grandfather's ashes to rest at Iwo Jima's Invasion Beach. More than 60 Navy Misawa chief petty officers and chief petty officer selectees took part in a remembrance ceremony for Thomasson's grandfather. The Sailors honored Chief Motor Machinist's Mate Oscar Thomasson, who was part of the initial assault during the Battle for Iwo Jima when he was a 2nd class petty officer. He survived the battle and went on to raise a family in Kansas, ultimately passing away Dec. 22, 2006 at the age of 80.

U.S. Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force, walk Sgt. Maj. Ramarie Moore, sergeant major, I Marine Expeditionary Force and Master Gunnery Sgt. Robert Moore, logistics and mobility chief for Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group Camp Pendleton, California, April 29, 2022. Sgt. Maj. Ramarie Moore and Master Gunnery Sgt. Robert Moores, logistics and mobility chief for Combat Logistics Regiment 1, children to the front during a retirement ceremony on Camp Pendleton, California, April 29, 2022. Sgt. Maj. Ramarie Moore and Master Gunnery Sgt. Robert Moore retired after 22+ years of honorable service.

Chief Warrant Officer Five (CW5) Patrick J. Muenks retirement ceremony takes place at the Army Aviation Support Facility, Jefferson City, Mo., Sept. 23, 2022. Muenks retired after 41-years of dedicated service to the Missouri Army National Guard. (Photo by U.S. Army National Guard Spc. Rose Di Trolio.)

CAMP JOSEPH T. ROBINSON, NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Lukas Shepherd pins brigadier general insignia onto the service coat of his dad's uniform. Leland Tony Shepherd was promoted to brigadier general and assumed command of the Arkansas Army National Guard in back-to-back ceremonies here June 12, 2022.

More than 600 Airmen and Guardians assigned to the 321 Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training on April 7, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Col. Todd Dyer, 99th Air Base Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Trey Morgan III, 99th Air Base Wing command chief, reviewed the ceremony.

Reportage: Soldiers greet and gather around World War II Army veteran 106-year-old Alyce Dixon after she was honored at a women's history month event at the Pentagon, March 31, 2014. Dixon, who was a member of the Women's Army Corps, served in Europe during World War II as a member of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. The 6888th was the only unit of African-American women in the WAC to serve overseas in England and France during World War II.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Oct. 21, 2022) Chief Master-at-Arms Caleb Goad, assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, is pinned to the rank of chief petty officer during a Chief Pinning ceremony at NSA Souda Bay on Oct. 21, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

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

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Collin D. Barry, sergeant major, Marine Corps Base Quantico, right, presents challenge coins to Marine volunteers with 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, and Security Battalion, MCBQ, during a Toys for Tots event in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Nov. 16, 2022. Toys for Tots is a program founded in 1947 by the Marine Corps Reserve which distributes toys to children whose parents cannot afford presents during the Christmas Season.

050202-F-4230F-155. Base: Manchester State: New Hampshire (NH) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Major Collin D. Barry, Sergeant Major, Marine Corps Base Quantico, interacts with kids during the Marine Corps Marathon Kids Run at 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.

(220901-N-ET093-1057) ADRATIC SEA (Sep. 1, 2022) Master Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Eric Gray, left, and Lt. Cmdr. Tim Hutchison, right, pin Lt. Cmdr. Alexa Sandifer, as commander during a promotion ceremony aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), Sep. 1, 2022. The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

DM-ST-86-12989. Base: Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

More than 500 Airmen assigned to the 433rd Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, August 10-11, 2022. Brig. Gen. Brenda P. Cartier, Director of Operations and Communications, Headquarters Air Education and Training Command, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, reviewed the ceremony.

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.

060929-N-8909B-064. Base: Naval Base, San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

221021-N-FP878-0010LAWRENCEBURG, Ind. (OCT. 21, 2022) - Navy Counselor Chief Jeffery Welbaum has his anchors pinned on by his wife and son during Navy Talent Acquisition Group Ohio River Valley's (NTAG ORV) chief pinning ceremony, Friday. NTAG ORV covers Ohio, West Virginia Kentucky and parts of Indiana for recruiting and Navy outreach for non-fleet concentration areas.

Machele N. Hayfon, wife of Ltc. Donald Hayfon, receives a bouquet of yellow roses during the Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion change of command, May 31, 2022, at Founders' Field, Fort Carson, Colorado. The yellow roses for the incoming commander's spouse represents friendship and a warm welcome to the command. (U.S. Army photo Pfc. Joshua Zayas)

A sailor from the destroyer tender USS ACADIA (AD-42) is reunited with his family following the vessel's arrival in port. The ACADIA has returned to San Diego following deployment in the Persian Gulf region during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORMDESERT SHIELD Base: Naval Air Station, San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (June 27, 2022) - Family members and loved ones congratulate Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) New Student Indoctrination (NSI) midshipman following a graduation ceremony in the Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall at Recruit Training Command (RTC), June 27. Upon completion of NSI, the candidates will start their freshman year of the NROTC program at colleges and universities nationwide this fall. NSI is an indoctrination program hosted at RTC, and provides midshipmen with a common military training orientation. NSI provides basic training in five warfighting fundamentals - firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding and small arms handling and marksmanship - to begin creating basically trained and smartly disciplined future Navy and Marine Corps officers. NROTC is overseen by Commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC), Rear Adm. Jennifer S. Couture, which supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navys new officers and enlisted S

Senior Airman Chloe Degrande, 4th Equipment Maintenance Squadron non-destructive inspector and base honor guard member, shows Anna Stanmire, a Goldsboro Civil Air Patrol cadet, how to fold a flag at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Dec. 7, 2022. The event taught the cadets about the base honor guard responsibilities in a variety of ceremonies, history and traditions.

The U.S. Air Forces in Europe Ambassadors Rock Band performs at Bielskie Centrum Kultury in Bielsko-Biała, Poland, Oct. 17, 2022. The USAFE Band partnered with the U.S. Consulate-Krakow to travel across southern Poland from Oct 11-20, 2022, conducting performances that celebrated the shared spirit of freedom and enduring friendship between the U.S. and Poland. By transcending language and cultural barriers through the universal power of music, military bands promote peace, build relationships, and strengthen unity among people.

NAVAL STATION ROTA, Spain (Aug. 17, 2022) Sailors reunite with their families after the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG 84) homeport shifts to Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota, Spain, Aug. 17, 2022. Naval Station Rota sustains the fleet, enables the fighter and supports the family by conducting air operations, port operations, ensuring security and safety, assuring quality of life and providing the core services of power, water, fuel and information technology.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. David Shreve, a combat engineer assigned to the 10th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, greets his wife, Lee, and their dog, Kauai, during redeployment ceremony at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Aug. 22, 2022. The 1st ABCT Soldiers deployed to Germany in support of NATO allies to deter Russian aggression and assure allies while also supporting a range of other requirements in the area.

070204-A-8359B-014. State: Virgin Islands (VI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

of 2