Leadership and Recognition Ceremonies

Ceremonies honoring military personnel for achievements, training completions, and changes in command, highlighting leadership development.

Col. Brett Black relinquishes command of the 5th Mission Support Group to Col. Gregory Mayer on June 30, 2022, at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. The 5 MSG provides full-spectrum operational and expeditionary support to the 5th Bomb Wing's 27 B-52 strategic bombers, the 91st Missile Wing's 165 Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic missiles and Launch control centers and the 54th Helicopter Squadrons eight UH-1 helicopters delivering global assurance, precision strike and nuclear deterrence to six combatant commanders. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Michael A. Richmond)

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

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Jacquita Melton assumed the role of Command Chief of the Ohio Air National Guard's 178th Wing in Springfield, Ohio during a change of authority ceremony held Dec. 3, 2022. Melton is the ninth command chief master sergeant of the Ohio National Guard's 178th Wing.

Officer Candidate Jury Paulson, receives the Physical Fitness Award during an Officer Candidate School (OCS) graduation ceremony at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, August 27, 2022.

Col. Brett Black relinquishes command of the 5th Mission Support Group to Col. Gregory Mayer on June 30, 2022, at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. The 5 MSG provides full-spectrum operational and expeditionary support to the 5th Bomb Wing's 27 B-52 strategic bombers, the 91st Missile Wing's 165 Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic missiles and Launch control centers and the 54th Helicopter Squadrons eight UH-1 helicopters delivering global assurance, precision strike and nuclear deterrence to six combatant commanders. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Michael A. Richmond)

Col. William Gutermuth, 433rd Airlift Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Takesha Williams, 433rd AW command chief, present the Honor Guard/Guardian of the Year award to Senior Airman Raymond Santellana, 433rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, at the wings annual awards ceremony Feb. 3, 2024, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Air Force

Brig. Gen. Charles Lee Knowles retired after 35 years of service in the Alaska Army National Guard during a ceremony on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, April 10, 2022. A born and raised Alaskan, Knowles joined in 1987 and received his commission as an infantry officer in 1995. He served many years in the 297th Infantry Battalion, and went on to serve as the chief of staff for the AKARNG, commander of the Alaska Army National Guards Recruiting and Retention Battalion and commander of the 297th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade.

Chief Master Sgt. David C. Dike retires from the Idaho Air National Guard at a retirement ceremony, July 1, 2022, Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho. Dikes most recent position was as the contracting chief enlisted manager of region 4.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. (P) Christopher Stucky was presented with the Military Health System 2023 Military Nursing Leadership Award - senior winner, by Dr. Lester Martinez-Lopez, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs; U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Anthony McQueen, deputy surgeon general; and U.S. Army Command Sgt. Major Timothy Sprunger, senior enlisted advisor to the Army surgeon general, on Feb. 15 in National Harbor, Maryland. Stucky currently serves as perioperative consultant to the Army Surgeon General, nurse scientist and Chief of Research at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany.

Chief Master Sgt. Wesley Hudnall is promoted to Chief July 28, 2022, during a ceremony at the Yukon Club, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Chief Hudanall leads the Alaska Air National Guard, 168th Operations Group.

Chief Master Sgt. Brandon Buser, 131st Logistics Readiness Squadron Senior Enlisted Leader, is presented with a certificate of appreciation from the United States Air Force during his retirement ceremony at Knob Noster, Missouri, June 26, 2022. Buser enlisted as a vehicle maintenance mechanic and served in a variety of leadership positions during his 30 years in uniform.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Matthew Owens receives the Distinguished Graduate Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman leadership school class 22-6 and NCO Academy class 22-7, Sept 2, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

The 121st Air Refueling Wing Operations Group holds an Assumption of Authority ceremony at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio, Aug. 13, 2022. Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Hasty formally assumed authority of the 121st Operations Group from Chief Master Sgt. Samuel Given.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Desiree Pointer was presented with the Military Health System 2023 Military Nursing Leadership Award - senior winner, by Dr. Lester Martinez-Lopez, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, and U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen Robert Miller, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force surgeon general, on Feb. 15 in National Harbor, Maryland. Pointer serves as the Healthcare Operations Squadron Commander assigned to the 49th Medical Group, Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico.

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

Brigadier General Matt Smith presents a certificate of retirement to Lieutenant Colonel Colin Thompson during a ceremony at the Clay National Guard Center in Marietta, Ga., August 12, 2022.

JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. - U.S. Army Col. Harry D. Hung, 633d Air Base Wing vice commander (left) presents U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Amy Wade, 633d Force Support Squadron, Langley Airman leadership school commandant with a crossbow award, with Chief Master Sgt. Billy R. Martin, 633d Mission Support Group senior enlisted leader present. Wade was honored for her two years of service to ALS with the award symbolic of the 633d ABW origins in Pleiku, former Republic of Vietnam during the 1960s.

040804-F-0464D-023. Base: Bolling Air Force Base State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Col. Lucas Teel, 4th Fighter Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Peter Martinez, 4th FW command chief, present a plaque to Senior Master Sgt. Perla Hernandez, 4th Force Support Squadron sustainment services flight chief, during a Chief Master Sergeant Recognition Ceremony at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, March 24, 2023. No more than 1.25% of the Air Force enlisted force may hold the rank of chief master sergeant by federal law.

Col. Mark C. Dmytryszyn, right, outgoing 2nd Bomb Wing commander, receives the Legion of Merit award from Maj. Gen. Andrew J. Gebara, left, 8th Air Force and Joint-Global Strike Operations Center commander, during a change of command ceremony at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, March 31, 2022. The Legion of Merit is awarded for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements.

U.S. Navy Lt. Christopher Jones was presented with the Military Health System 2023 Military Nursing Leadership Award - senior winner, by Dr. Lester Martinez-Lopez, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, and U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Darin Via, U.S. Navy surgeon general, on Feb. 15 in National Harbor, Maryland. Jones is currently a critical care nurse in the 2nd medical battalion, Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune.

Alaska Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Anthony Stratton, left, presents Col. Travolis A. Simmons with the Alaska Legion of Merit during the 3rd Wing change of command ceremony at Hangar 2 on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 15, 2022. U.S. Air Force Col. Travolis A. Simmons turned over command to Col. Kevin M. Jamieson as 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.

Inter-American Defense College Leadership Welcomes dignitaries from the Brazilian Ministry of Defense to the IADC on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Sept. 21, 2022. During the visit, the dignitaries attended an office call with IADC Leadership, received an IADC brief, and concluded the visit with a tour of the campus.

Lt. Gen. Richard W. Scobee (left), Chief of the Air Force Reserve and Commander of the Air Force Reserve Command, was presented the official Air Force Order of the Sword scroll at a ceremony held in Washington, D.C., July 12, 2022. The scroll is signed by all attendees attesting to the leadership and contributions of the recipient. The Order of the Sword is the highest honor and tribute noncommissioned officers can bestow upon an individual.

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

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jay Myrick, administrative officer for Headquarters Company, Joint Force Headquarters, Mississippi Army National Guard (MSARNG); Chief Warrant Officer 5 Donnie Dukes, command chief warrant officer (CCWO) of the MSARNG; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Tommy Smith, former CCWO of the MSARNG and Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jody Kyzar, Warrant Officer Candidate Accessions Program director, stand together during Smith's retirement ceremony at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, Aug. 7, 2022.

Army Lt. Col Mark Webber and his wife Kristen are applauded during an end of service ceremony in Rosemount, MN, Aug. 16, 2012.

The Utah Air National Guard celebrated its Airmen of the Year during a banquet held in their honor at the Zions Bancorporations Midvale Technology Campus on Jan. 6, 2023, in Midvale, Utah. The Airmen of the Year award program recognizes Airmen who display superior leadership, job performance, and personal achievement.

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

UNIVERSAL CITY, TEXAS - (September 23, 2022) Engineman First Class Petty Officer James W. Howes poses with his Shadowbox during his retirement ceremony at VFW Post 4676, Universal City, Texas.

UNIVERSAL CITY, TEXAS - (September 23, 2022) Engineman First Class Petty Officer James W. Howes received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal which was presented by Executive Officer for Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonio, CDR Stacey ONeal during his retirement ceremony at VFW Post 4676, Universal City, Texas.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. poses with Lt. Gen. Thomas Süssli, Swiss chief of defense, after a meeting at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., June 28, 2023.

U.S. Air Force Col. William Hunter, 81st Training Wing commander, presents the Legion of Merit award to Col. Chance Geray, outgoing 81st Training Group commander, during the 81st TRG Change of Command Ceremony on the Levitow Training Support Facility drill pad at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, June 15, 2022. Geray passed command of the 81st TRG to Col. Laura King.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., left, greets Air Chief Marshal Michael Wigston, chief of the air staff for the British Royal Air Force, before a meeting at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., Oct. 25, 2022.

U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Roger Lane, of the 101st Air Operations Group, wins the Florida Air National Guard's 2022 Airman of the Year for the company grade officer category during a banquet held in Jacksonville, Florida, Feb. 4, 2023. The Airman of the Year award program is designed to recognize Airmen who display superior leadership, job performance and personal achievement.

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

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. William Bernardi receives the Commandant Leadership Award during the graduation ceremony for Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Class 22-4, April 22, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Natasha Ryan, an aviation safety officer and pilot assigned to 603rd Aviation Support Battalion, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, is given an award for her work within the brigade by the 3rd CAB Brigade command team during a Womens Equality Day ceremony at Hunter Army Airfield, GA, August 31, 2022. Womens Equality Day commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, granting women the right to vote.

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

Command Sgt. Maj. Randy Ly, right, completes his last official duty for the North Carolina Army National Guard at his retirement ceremony at the North Carolina National Guard Armory in Newton, North Carolina, Jan. 13, 2023. Ly was honored for his 30 years of service to state and nation.

Col. David Chauvin, Chief of Staff, Nevada Air National Guard Joint Force Headquarters, presents Lt. Col. Todd Hudson, Nevada Air National Guard Chief of Safety, the Drennan A. Clark Order of Nevada Medal during his retirement ceremony at the Nevada Air National Guard Base in Reno, Nev., on Sept. 11, 2022. The Order of Nevada decoration recognizes individuals for exceptional meritorious service for at least 25 years in the United States military and at least 20 years of service in the Nevada National Guard.

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to the Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., to view Marine Corps Evening Parade, deliver remarks, and attend reception at the site, a National Historic Landmark

U.S. Air Force Mohamed Dalawi receives the John L. Levitow Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman leadership school class 22-6 and NCO Academy class 22-7, Sept 2, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

Inter-American Defense College Leadership Welcomes General William Arnulfo López Chay, Chief of Staff of the Ministry of National Defense of Guatemala and other dignitaries to the IADC on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Sept. 28, 2022. During the visit, General López attended an office call with IADC Leadership, received an IADC brief, spoke with Class 62 students and concluded the visit with a tour of the campus.

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

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Patrick Shelton, 139th Communications Flight, Missouri Air National Guard, presents his wife with a certificate of appreciation during his retirement ceremony at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, Dec. 3, 2022. Throughout his 32 years of service, Shelton has served many leadership roles including commander of the 241st Air Traffic Control Squadron, and the commander of the 139th Communications Flight.

Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright present the Medal of Honor Flag to Valerie Nessel, widow of Medal of Honor recipient Tech. Sgt. John Chapman, during Chapmans Pentagon Hall of Heroes induction ceremony at the Pentagon, in Arlington, Va., Aug. 23, 2018. Chapman was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for actions on Takur Ghar Mountain in Afghanistan March 4, 2002. An elite special operations team was ambushed by the enemy and came under heavy fire from multiple directions. Chapman immediately charged an enemy bunker through thigh-deep snow and killed all enemy occupants. Courageously moving from cover to assault a second machine gun bunker, he was injured by enemy fire. Despite severe wounds, he fought relentlessly, sustaining a violent engagement with multiple enemy personnel before making the ultimate sacrifice. With his last actions, he saved the lives of his teammat

Senior Airman Kushod Tucker, 4th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron bioenvironmental engineering journeyman, left, receives the John L. Levitow Award from Chief Master Sgt. Jacob Komenda, 334th Fighter Generation Squadron senior enlisted leader, during the Airman Leadership School class 24-B graduation at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Feb. 8, 2024. The John L. Levitow Award is the highest honor that can be earned by an Enlisted Professional Military Education graduate. Air Force

U.S. Army Lt. General Telita Crosland, director of the Defense Health Agency , and U.S. Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Tanya Y. Johnson, DHA senior enlisted leader, listen to oral presentation during the Young Investigators Competition during the 2024 AMSUS Annual Meeting in National Harbor, Maryland, on Feb. 13. Presenting was U.S. Army Capt. Sean Rogers from the Womack Army Medical Center.

The Utah Air National Guard honor their outstanding nominees during the Airmen of the Year banquet at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center on Jan. 7th, 2023. The Airmen of the Year award program is designed to recognize Airmen who display superior leadership, job performance and personal achievement.

Leadership with newly promoted 2LT

U.S. Marine Lt. Gen. George W. Smith Jr., the commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, presents retired Sgt. Maj. Brad A. Kasal with a gift during a Marine Corps Birthday Ball celebration at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California, Oct. 28, 2022. Marines with I MEF hosted the ball to honor the long-standing tradition of celebrating the birth and legacy of the Marine Corps.

Army Major General Ray Shields, left, the adjutant general of New York, and Air Force Brig, General Gary Charlton, right, the commander of the New York National Guards 105th Airlift, presents a gift to Brazilian Lt. General R.A. Fonesca Neubert at the African Aerospace and Defense Expo on September 21, 2022 outside Pretoria, South Africa. The New York National Guard sent over 60 Airmen and five Air National Guard planes to Africa's largest air show from the 21-25 of September. The New York National Guard has State Partnership Program training agreements with both Brazil and South Africa. ( U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Jean Marie Kratzer)

Army Major General Ray Shields, left, the adjutant general of New York, and Air Force Brig, General Gary Charlton, right, the commander of the New York National Guards 105th Airlift, presents a gift to Brazilian Lt. General R.A. Fonesca Neubert at the African Aerospace and Defense Expo on September 21, 2022 outside Pretoria, South Africa. The New York National Guard sent over 60 Airmen and five Air National Guard planes to Africa's largest air show from the 21-25 of September. The New York National Guard has State Partnership Program training agreements with both Brazil and South Africa. ( U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Jean Marie Kratzer)

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Timothy Ogan, 47th Security Forces Squadron senior enlisted leader, awards Senior Airman Christian Vera, 17th Comptroller Squadron finance technician, with the John L. Levitow award during the Airman Leadership School graduation at the Powell Event Center, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, Oct. 13, 2022. The John L. Levitow award recognizes one student and is based upon all performance tasks, peer stratifications, and the capstone exercise. (U.S. Air Force photo Senior Airman Michael Bowman) An

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Timothy Ogan, 47th Security Forces Squadron senior enlisted leader, awards Senior Airman Christian Vera, 17th Comptroller Squadron finance technician, with the John L. Levitow award during the Airman Leadership School graduation at the Powell Event Center, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, Oct. 13, 2022. The John L. Levitow award recognizes one student and is based upon all performance tasks, peer stratifications, and the capstone exercise.

DLA Troop Support Deputy Commander Richard Ellis receives a certificate of retirement from Army Lt. Gen. Charles R. Hamilton, deputy chief of staff, G-4, during a retirement ceremony May 6. Ellis retired after 38 years of federal service, 26 in the Navy and 12 at Troop Support.

Col. Richard Erredge, 960th Cyberspace Wing commander, presents Chief Master Sgt. Billie Baber, 960th CW command chief, a certificate of retirement, Nov. 4, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Baber retired after dedicating 26 years to military service.

Col. Lucas Teel, left, 4th Fighter Wing commander, presents Maj. Samuel Han, outgoing 4th Comptroller Squadron commander, with the Meritorious Service Medal at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, June 24, 2022. The Meritorious Service Medal was presented to Han during a change of command ceremony, and may be awarded to any member of the United States Armed Forces who distinguishes themselves by either outstanding achievement or meritorious service to the United States.

Retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Augustus L. Collins, the former Adjutant General of Mississippi, receives a plaque of appreciation from Col. Britt Watson, 172nd Airlift Wing Commander, at the Black Heritage Program, Jackson, Mississippi, Feb. 23, 2024. The 172nd Airlift wing showed their gratitude to Collins for speaking at their event. Air National Guard

Air Marshal Robert Chipman, Royal Australian Air Force Chief of Air Force, shakes hands with U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., following a meeting during the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, England, July 15, 2022. Brown attended RIAT to meet with air and space chiefs from other nations and demonstrate the Department of the Air Forces commitment to its allies and partners.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (January 18, 2024) Sailors stationed aboard Naval Station Great Lakes and its tenant commands are presented lone Sailor statues from the Navy League at a Sailor of the year ceremony at the National Museum of the American Sailor, Jan. 18, 2024. Since its founding in 1902, the Navy League has provided a voice for stronger sea services. The Navy League has grown to become the foremost citizens organization serving, supporting and standing with all U.S. sea services.

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

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Recognition Ceremony, Apr. 28, 2022, Magnolia Halle, San Antonio, Texas. This event was held to honor all promotees to the rank of Chief Master Sgt.

U.S. Air National Guard Staff Sgt Ciara Loman was awarded enlisted member of the year the State of Utah Service Member of the Year awards during at the Utah State Capital on 09 June 22. The awards recognize the outstanding performers from each of the major military entities in the state representing the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Space Force, from active duty, guard and reserve organizations. (Air National Guard photo by: Staff Sgt Nicholas Perez)

Raquel Stewart shakes hands with Brig. Gen. Laura McHugh (Right), Deputy Adjutant General - Army, during a Female Veterans Day ceremony at the State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg, Pa. March 31, 2022. Stewart, along with eighteen other female veterans, were honored for their service and deeds to the state in celebration of Womens History Month. McHugh took part in the ceremony by recognizing each honoree for their service. Stewart served in the U.S. Army Reserves for eight years and was awarded the Outstanding Service Womens award. She now works as a Community Liaison for the KeystoneCare Home Care, Palliative, and Hospice Care Service Company, which serves the Philadelphia and Montgomery counties.

Air Commodore Robert Adang, commander, Defense Helicopter Command, Royal Netherlands Air Force, participates in a wing pinning ceremony for Royal Netherlands Air Force aviators at Fort Rucker, Ala., Aug. 9, 2022.

1st Infantry Division Deputy Commanding General-Support, U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Niave F. Knell, presents U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Albert Serrano, the outgoing ready reserve command sergeant major for 1st Inf. Div., the Legion Of Merit award for exceptional service throughout his 30-year career. The Legion of Merit award is presented only to those of exceptional service who served as a prime example of the army values and standards.

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Brandon Green, with the United States Army Marksmanship Unit, receives an award during the awards banquet for the 62nd annual Interservice Rifle Championships in Quantico, Virginia, June 27, 2023. The matches began in 1960 to promote the Competition-In-Arms Program, which was established in 1901 to encourage interest and improvement in marksmanship by refining skills through advanced marksmanship training and competition.

10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) Command Team presents Sebastian Demmel, a German national, a certificate of appreciation at the 10th SFG(A) 70th Anniversary Ball at the Broadmoor Event Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, June 18, 2022. Mr. Demmel has been providing custom wood sculptures to Special Forces Soldiers for over 50 years.

Chief Master Sgt. Leondas Moore (center), 388th Maintenance Squadron, poses with Col. Craig Andrle (left), 388th Fighter Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Brandon Wolfgang, 388th Fighter Wing command chief, during the Chief Induction Ceremony Mar. 31, 2023, in Ogden, Utah. Only 1% of the entire enlisted force will earn the rank of chief.

930121-D-2987S-017. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Lt. Gen. R. Scott Dingle, surgeon general and commanding general of the U.S. Army Medical Command, present Army Brig. Gen. Jack M. Davis with and the AMEDD 30-Year Medallion for his more than 30 years of service. Davis retired from his last tour of duty at WRNMMC, following 40 years of military service during a retirement ceremony held in the hospitals Memorial Auditorium, Sept. 9.(DOD Photograph by Harvey A. Duze, Office of Command Communications - WRNMMC)

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., left, greets Air Chief Marshal Michael Wigston, chief of the air staff for the British Royal Air Force, before a meeting at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., Oct. 25, 2022.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. 1st Class Tomoya Tasaki, the joint fire support training sergeant with Field Artillery Battalion, Amphibious Rabid Deployment Brigade, left, and JGSDF Capt. Kimihisa Homma, a company commander with FABN, ARDB, pass a gift to U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Clint Alanis, the commanding officer of 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, during 5th ANGLICOs annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball in Onna, Okinawa, Nov. 3, 2022. The birthday ball is held annually in units across the Marine Corps to celebrate the founding of the Corps in 1775. The ceremony includes reading of the birthday message from the commandant and a cake cutting ceremony with the oldest and youngest Marines present.

Leadership with newly promoted 2LT

Ken Crowley, a longtime supporter of the Connecticut's armed forces and their families, was presented the Connecticut Civilian Medal of Merit by Maj. Gen. Francis Evon, adjutant general for the Connecticut National Guard, at the 73rd annual Connecticut Armed Forces Day Luncheon in Southington, Connecticut May 20, 2022. Crowley was presented the award for his performance of exceptionally meritorious philanthropic services that contributed to the accomplishment of the mission of Connecticut's armed forces from 2002 through 2021.

Two 10th Mountain Division Soldiers are given the original casting of the Historic Marker unveiled at The National Ski Patrol (NSP) Gravesite Rededication Ceremony in honor of Charles Minot "Minnie" Dole at the Saranac Waterfront Lodge at Saranac Lake, N.Y., May 2, 2022. The Historic Marker highlights Charles Minot Dole's contribution to American history and the armed forces.

Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth presents a photo and citation to Medal of Honor recipient former Army Spc. Five Dennis M. Fujii, in a ceremony in which Fujii and five other Medal of Honor recipients were inducted into the Pentagon Hall of Heroes, at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., July 6, 2022. (DoD photo by Lisa Ferdinando)

Brian Savidge receives an award for his 40 years of government service during the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Philadelphia Division Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 3rd Quarter Awards Ceremony on Aug. 1, 2022. Pictured from left to right: NSWCPD Commanding Officer Capt. Dana Simon; Mechanical Engineer, Brian Savidge; NSWCPD Technical Director (acting) Chris Savage; NSWCPD Quality Management Officer Director Frank Gerace.

010406-D-2987S-016. State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Long-time volunteers at the 100th Bomb Group Memorial Museum, along with Royal Air Force Mildenhall leadership and spouses, proudly show off their Queens Award for Voluntary Service, presented by The Lady Dannatt, center, MBE, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk, at Thorpe Abbotts, Norfolk, England, Sept. 8, 2022. The award, signed by the Queen, is the highest award given to volunteer groups across the United Kingdom, and became poignant and bittersweet as it was presented on the day Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II passed away. Only two volunteer groups in Norfolk received the award as part of the Platinum Jubilee and in recognition of extraordinary service to the community. The 100th Air Refueling Wings heritage dates back to the 100th Bomb Group and the museum is dedicated to Airmen of the Eighth Air Force who served during World War II.

U.S. Air Force Col. Jason Vattioni, 377th Air Base Wing and Kirtland AFB installation commander, inducted Claudine Martinez as a Team Kirtland Wingman on May 12, 2022, at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M.

Veterans' Employment and Training Service - Veterans Day Salute Awards

220728-N-RQ186-1049 ELIZABETH CITY, Nc. (July 28, 2022) Rear Admiral John F. Meier, right, Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic, shakes hands with Alison North, a SUPER-16” Junior ROTC Flight Academy graduate at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU). The Junior ROTC cadets gain experience in aviation during the intensive eight-week Flight Academy with scholarships granted from their respective armed forces branch.

The 41st Signal Battalion celebrated its 80th birthday on Friday, January 27 on Camp Humphreys. It was a lovely evening of entertainment and camaraderie among teammates and members of the larger Signal community on the peninsula.

Mark Tinsley, center, 4th Wing Staff Agency information technology project manager, receives the Category 2 Civilian of the Year Award from Col. Lucas Teel, 4th Fighter Wing commander and Chief Master Sgt. Peter Martinez, 4 FW command chief, during the 4 FW Annual Awards ceremony and banquet at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Feb. 9, 2024. Annual Awards are awarded to Airmen and civilians in 13 different categories, including Volunteer of the Year, Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year, Key Spouse of the Year, Airman of the Year and more. Air Force

Inter-American Defense Board Leadership and guest celebrate the boards 80th anniversary at the Organization of American States building, Washington, D.C., March 30, 2022. During the celebration An Ordinary Meeting of the Council of Delegates was held in the Hall of the Americas of the Organization of American States. The meeting was attended by OAS authorities, Ambassadors of the Member States, Permanent Representatives, Secretaries of Defense and Commanders of the armed forces of the hemisphere, Delegates to the IADB and of the Observer Countries and the Inter-American Defense College, both in person and remotely.

10 past Minnesota National Guard service members were honored for their service during the annual Court of Honor induction program ceremony at Camp Ripley, October 2, 2022, near Little Falls, Minnesota. The Court of Honor commemorates the lasting contributions of soldiers who have dedicated their lives to the service of the State and Nation. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

Sgt. 1st Class Bronson Victoria, Secretary General Staff, 32d AAMDC, was inducted into the Honorable Order of Saint Barbara during the Saint Barbara's Social, December 3rd at the Plaza Hotel in El Paso, TexasThe Honorable Order of Saint Barbara is awarded to personnel who have served honorably and with distinction as a member of the Artillery or part of an Artillery unit.

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

Maj. Gen Carl-Johan Edström, Swedish Air Force Chief of Air Force, Maj. Gen. Juha-Pekka Keränen, Finnish Air Forces Commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., meet during the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, England, July 15, 2022. Brown attended RIAT to meet with air and space chiefs from other nations and demonstrate the Department of the Air Forces commitment to its allies and partners.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Brian J. Mennes, deputy commanding general, XVIII Airborne Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Jason Johnson, operations sergeant major, XVIII Airborne Corps are joined by first responders from the surrounding communities around Fort Bragg following Fort Braggs 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Fort Bragg, N.C., Sept. 11, 2022. The ceremony paid tribute to both U.S. military members and first responders who were affected by the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and the nations response to the attacks. The ceremony also honored the lives of nearly 3,000 people who died during the September 11, 2001 attacks on our nation.

Colonel Tony Kim, Staff Judge Advocate for 21st Theater Sustainment Command, hands Judge Markus Gietzen, member of the Bar Association of the 21st TSC, a plaque inducting him as a part of the team, June 10, 2022, at the Armstrong Club, Vogelweh, Germany. The Law Day event offers excellent opportunities for personal and professional exchanges between local U.S. Armed Forces members and the Rhineland-Palatinate judiciary members.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Recognition Ceremony, Apr. 28, 2022, Magnolia Halle, San Antonio, Texas. This event was held to honor all promotees to the rank of Chief Master Sgt.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith, the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, stands with the 2022 Marine Corps League Award recipients during a Congressional breakfast at Modern Day Marine 2022 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington D.C., May 11, 2022. The Modern Day Marine expo brings together Marines, veterans, and industry partners to collaborate on the innovations and capabilities that ensure the Marine Corps remains capable of winning tomorrows battles.

DN-SC-86-03612. Base: Naval Submarine Base, Groton State: Connecticut (CT) Country: United States Of America (USA)

CRYSTAL CITY, VA. (July 18, 2022) - Lt Gen Michael Schmidt, Program Executive Officer for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office, meets with the Greece Minister of Defense and members of the Greek delegation during an office call in Arlington, VA. The F-35 Joint Program Office is the Department of Defense's focal point for the 5th generation strike aircraft for the Navy, Air Force, Marines, and our allies. The F-35 is the premier multi-mission, 5th generation weapon system. Its ability to collect, analyze and share data is a force multiplier that enhances all assets in the battle-space: with stealth technology, advanced sensors, weapons capacity, and range. The F-35, which has been operational since July of 2015, is the most lethal, survivable, and interoperable fighter aircraft ever built.

The Secretary of Defense for the United States, the Honorable Robert M. Gates presents the Medal of Honor flag to Staff Sergeant Salvatore A. Giunta during the Medal of Honor Hall of Heroes Induction Ceremony at the Pentagon on November 17, 2010.

LONDON (Aug. 18, 2022) - Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday receives a gift from Royal Navy Adm. Sir Ben Key, First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff of the United Kingdom, during an office call at the Ministry of Defense in London, England, Aug. 18.This visit was part of an international trip to Spain and the United Kingdom to engage with Sailors and meet with local military and government leadershipto discuss regional and maritime security, as well as interoperability.

Army Materiel Command's Lisha Adams receives a Certificate of Appreciation from AMC Commanding General Gen. Ed Daly during her May 31 retirement ceremony. Adams served as AMC's Executive Deputy to the Commanding General for seven of her 39 years of service to the Army. She also received a Distinguished Executive Presidential Rank Award as a Senior Executive Service member from President Joe Biden and a Department of the Army Distinguished Civilian Service Medal from the Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth.

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