Leadership Changes in Military

Photos of change of command ceremonies highlighting leadership transitions within military units, focusing on ceremonies and military protocols.

Chief Warrant Officer Five Gregory N. Stepp addressed his troops for the last time during the change of command at Wellman Armory on Boone National Guard Center, Frankfort, Ky., September 24, 2022.

Command Sergeant Major Charles W. Gregory, Jr. outgoing Command Sgt. Maj. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa addresses the audience during the award ceremony of The Legion of Merit at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy, September 1, 2022.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, DHA director, and his wife, Carol, meet with DHA employees during a farewell event with the workforce Dec. 9 at Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia. Place will depart the Agency Jan. 3, 2023 after serving as the agencys third director and retire following 37 years of service to the nation, the Army and the military health system.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Kevin, right, 432nd Security Forces Squadron commander, gives the guidon flag to Col. Dina Quanico, left, 432nd Mission Support Group commander, during a change of command ceremony at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, May, 10, 2022. Kevin relinquished command of the 432nd Security Forces Squadron.

During a ceremony April 29, at Fitch Auditorium Maj. Gen. Anthony R. Hale, commanding general of the U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence, appointed Peter Don to the Defense Intelligence Senior Level and the position of Senior Technical Advisor for Intelligence Training and Education.

The Holston Army Ammunition Plant conducted a Change of Command Ceremony on August 5th, 2022. Photo depicts the start of the passing of the flag.

Col. Douglas Stouffer, 512th Airlift Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. David Melby, 512th AW command chief, present Emily Reppert, 512th Civil Engineer Squadron, with the Key Spouse of the year award at the wings Warrior Awards Feb. 4, 2023, at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware. The event was the first in-person function in two years, allowing Airmen to come together in celebration of their wingmens accomplishments.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Brenda Miazga, 17th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron commander, shows a photo of when she was an enlisted Airman, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, July 12, 2022. Miazga originally enlisted into the Air Force as a C-130 guidance and control technician.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Paris E. Mintz, left, outgoing command senior enlisted leader of Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 14, poses for a photo with Col. James T. Bardo, commanding officer of MAG-14, during a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Jan. 11, 2024. The ceremony represented a transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Mintz to Sgt. Maj. Christopher D. Battle. MAG-14 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

Chief Warrant Officer Four Timothy Collins' children pin on his ranks during his promotion ceremony at the Wellman Auditorium on the Boone Center in Frankfort, Kentucky Jan. 22, 2024. His children enjoyed doing this for their father. (Kentucky Army National Guard

District of Columbia National Guard holds a change of command ceremony recognizing incoming commander, Maj. Michelle A. Watkis and former Commander, Lt. Col. Michael A. Cox Jr, of the 372nd Military Police Company, at the D.C. Armory, on Feb 3, 2024. During the ceremony, the passing of the unit's guidon signifies the changing of leadership.(Army National Guard

Gen. James C. McConville, chief of staff of the Army, takes a moment to speak with Col. Joseph E. Escandon, commander of U.S. Army Joint Modernization Command, during his recent visit to Project Convergence 22 at Camp Pendleton, Calif, Oct. 21. During the first of two demonstration days for Project Convergence 22, All-Service and Multinational leaders gathered at Camp Pendleton to discuss lessons learned and ways ahead after several weeks of transformational future force experimentation.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jessa Mullan, mental health administrator with the 36th Medical Group, receives the Linebacker of the Week Award from U.S. Air Force Col. Larry Fenner, 36th Wing vice commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Brian Smith, senior enlisted leader for the 36th Operations Group, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Sept. 21, 2022. The Team Andersen Linebacker of the Week recognizes outstanding enlisted, officer, civilian and total force personnel who have had an impact on achieving Team Andersens Mission, Vision and Priorities.

From left, Sgt. Maj. Jimmy F. Richard, incoming sergeant major, Marine Barracks Washington, Sgt. Maj. Carlos A. Ruiz, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Jesse J. Dorsey, outgoing sergeant major, MBW, stand for a group photo following a relief and appointment ceremony at MBW, Jan. 29, 2024. Sgt Maj. Jimmy F. Richard who relieved Sgt Maj. Jesse J. Dorsey, enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2001, deployed and participated in numerous operations, completed eight cycles as a drill instructor, and recently served as the sergeant major of Recruiting Station, Jacksonville, FL.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Sarah Thompson, Alaskan Command director of intelligence, speaks with Chief Patrol Agent David BeMiller, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Blaine Sector, during a U.S. CBP visit at the combined headquarters of Alaska North American Aerospace Defense Command Region, ALCOM, and 11th Air Force on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Sept. 21. The purpose of this visit was to strengthen interagency relationships and discuss mutual goals of defending the homeland.

U.S. Army Spc. Michael Schwenk, a public affairs specialist with the 444th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, takes pictures of Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., The Adjutant General of New Jersey and New Jersey Gov. Philip D. Murphy, at the National Guard Armory in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, Feb. 3, 2024. Hou was promoted to major general and commands more than 8,400 Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard. As Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Hou leads, directs, and manages the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs in the execution of federal and state missions. In addition, she manages all state veterans programs, commissions, and facilities in New Jersey. Army National Guard

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Devon Simpson, assigned to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, renders a salute to Sgt. Maj. of the U.S. Army Michael A. Grinston, while competing in the 2022 Best Squad Competition at the Pentagon Library and Conference Center in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 7, 2022. The competition tests the squads proficiency in their warrior tasks and battle drills and identifies the most cohesive, highly trained, disciplined and fit team - ready to fight and win - while demonstrating commitment to the Army Values and Warrior Ethos.

DTRAs Director hosted Lt. Gen. Robert J. Skinner, the Director of DISA and the Commander of the Joint Force Headquarters-Department of Defense Information Network.Ms. Rebecca K.C. Hersman, Director, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Fort Belvoir, Virginia, 10-05-2022.Portions of this image were masked for security reasons.

The 104th Fighter Wing promoted Michael Gardner, 104th Security Forces Squadron Manager, to chief master sergeant in a ceremony held on May 6, 2022, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Westfield, Massachusetts. Chief Gardner was promoted by Maj. Bath, 104SFS Commander. Chief Gardner was congratulated by family, friends, 104FW leadership and members. (U.S Air National Guard Photos by Master Sgt. Lindsey S. Watson)

Maj. Gen. Daryl O. Hood (second from the left), the commanding general of the 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) Command, presents the Liberty We Defend award to the Fort Liberty, North Carolina-based 192nd Ordnance Battalion (Explosive Ordnance Disposal). Leaders from the 20th CBRNE Command recognized units and individuals for excellence in retention during a ceremony on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, Feb. 8. U.S. Army

Chief Master Sgt. Lawanda Jackson, 192nd Support Squadron mobility flight chief, presents a gift to Lt. Col. Fallon Martin, 192nd SS commander, during her retirement ceremony on July 9, 2022, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. Ending her military career with the Virginia Air National Guard, Martin's 20 years of service was celebrated by family and friends along with numerous retired and currently serving military personnel who impacted her career.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William Jurney presents a commemorative plaque to Brig. Gen. Anthony Henderson on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 18, 2022. Jurney is the II Marine Expeditionary Force Commanding General and Henderson is the II MEF Deputy Commanding General.

U.S. Navy Lt. Keith Moody, left, intelligence integration analyst for the National Space Defense Center and U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Scott Erway, right, noncommissioned officer in charge of the cybersecurity operations center (CSOC), prepare to cut the Joint Task Force-Space Defense cake in celebration of the organizations third birthday at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, Aug. 26, 2022. The JTF-SD was formed as a functional component command under U.S. Space Command Aug. 29, 2019 and recognized in an establishing ceremony Oct. 21, 2019. The JTF-SDs mission is, in unified action with mission partners, to deter aggression, defend capabilities and defeat adversaries throughout the continuum of conflict in order to maintain space superiority in the USSPACECOM area of responsibility.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Sharon Gilliland speaks during a change of command ceremony held in the 108th Operations Group auditorium at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Sept. 22, 2022. Gilliland assumed command of the 150th Special Operations Squadron from Lt. Col. Kristopher Szymczak who served as commander since October 2020.

U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Nicole Velez Rodriguez, 3rd Operations Support Squadron intelligence flight, streams a live symposium to Facebook for National Hispanic Heritage Month with Senior Airman Arlyne Perez, 673rd Air Base Wing Command Post emergency action controller, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Oct. 6, 2022. Perez shared the importance of finding a community within the military and how the small Hispanic communities she found played a strong supportive role in her growth.

U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Nicole Velez Rodriguez, 3rd Operations Support Squadron intelligence flight, streams a live symposium to Facebook for National Hispanic Heritage Month with Senior Airman Arlyne Perez, 673rd Air Base Wing Command Post emergency action controller, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Oct. 6, 2022. Perez shared the importance of finding a community within the military and how the small Hispanic communities she found played a strong supportive role in her growth.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Michael D. Wickman, (right) U.S. Army Europe and Africa deputy commanding general for Army National Guard, passes the unit colors to Col. Troy V. Alexander (left), incoming United States Army North Atlantic Treaty Organization (USANATO) commander during a change of command ceremony, July 7, 2022 at Sembach, Germany. The passing of the colors signified the trust placed on him and charges him with the responsibility of the unit and his Soldiers.

The 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Wisconsin Army National Guard, conducted a change-of-responsibility ceremony, August 7, 2022 at its headquarters company at Camp Douglas, WI. During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. John L. Dietzler relinquished responsibility of the brigade to Command Sgt. Maj. Aaron J. Johnson.

Lt. Col. Jodie Kunkel, 82nd Brigade Engineer Battalion (82nd BEB), 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team (2-1 ABCT), 1st Infantry Division (1 ID) commander speaks with Gen. Jaroslaw Mika, the general commander of the Branches of the Armed Forces in Poland after a gym opening ceremony, Jan. 20, 2023, Zagan, Poland. The 82nd BEB, 2-1 ABCT, 1 ID is among other units assigned to the 1 ID, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

The Joint Base Langley-Eustis honor guard performs the ceremonious flag folding a retirement ceremony for Lt. Col. Fallon Martin, 192nd Support Squadron, on July 9, 2022, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. Ending her military career with the Virginia Air National Guard, Martin's 20 years of service was celebrated by family and friends along with numerous retired and currently serving military personnel who impacted her career.

Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Stephen Messenger gives final comments after author and domestic-violence survivor Carolyn Colleen shared her personal story of perseverance and more during the 2022 Fort McCoy Womens Equality Day observance Aug. 25, 2022, at McCoys Community Center at Fort McCoy, Wis. The event featured many displays about womens equality. The event, organized by Equal Opportunity Advisor Master Sgt. Ana Guzman with the Fort McCoy Garrison Equal Opportunity Office, recognizes the day the 19th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution was passed on Aug. 26, 1920, giving women the right to vote.

Vice Chief of Naval Operations Admiral James W. Kilby speaks with CMDCM Veronica C. Holliday, the Deputy Director of the U.S. Senior Enlisted Academy upon his arrival at the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy (SEA) at Naval Station Newport, R.I.ADM Kilby spent 90 minutes speaking to and answering questions from enlisted leadership who are currently attending the schoolhouse. His remarks focused on Get Real, Get Better and what the Navy is doing to prepare for combat this decade. Questions from students centered around DMAP, pay issues and many other concerns.The SEA is the Navy's only professional military education institution dedicated to senior enlisted personnel, focusing on management, leadership, national security and physical fitness.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Thomas Sherman, Security Forces director, presents his coin Troy Hull, 802nd Security Forces Squadron, as USAF Chief Master Sgt. Donald Gallagher, Security Forces career field manager looks on, March 30, 2023, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Sherman and Gallaghers visit to JBSA-Lackland was to brief the current state of security forces from the top and to recognize the top performers within the 802nd SFS.

U.S. Army Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, U.S. Central Command commander, stands proudly next to U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, incoming Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central) commander, during a change of command ceremony at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, July 21, 2022. Kurilla presided over the ceremony highlighting AFCENTs eight-decade history as well as the importance of serving as force of stability to protect troops and partners across the Middle East.

Sgt. Maj. Felix Lassus, Support Operations Sergeant Major, congratulates Cindy Beserra, secretary of the general staff, on receiving the Highly Productive Achievement Award on Oct. 18 at Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois.

040906-A-0363C-002. Base: Kandahar Airfield Country: Afghanistan (AFG)

Brig. Gen. Toni Lord, Virginia National Guard air component commander, congratulates Staff Sgt. Cierra Feacher for superior performance on Aug. 7, 2022, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.

Annie Price, Vice President of Consultant Support with Scentsy, Inc., assumes honorary command of the 124th CS with Maj. Kahli Gorski, commander of the 124th CS, June, 3, 2022, Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho. Annie Price will serve as honorary commander of the 124th CS until 2025.

The 433rd Airlift Wings 2023 Annual Award banquet was officiated by Maj. Diana Peña, 433rd Force Support Squadron flight commander, and Staff Sgt. Ty Schmaljohn, 433rd Mission Support Group, staff technician, on Feb. 3, 2024, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Air Force

Past and present Soldiers attend the 213th Regional Support Group's Dining Out at The Meadows in Hellertown, Nov. 5, 2022. Then event was the 213th RSG's first since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The evening program included toasts and an award ceremony. Brig. Gen James McCormack, the Assistant Adjutant General-Army of the Pennsylvania National Guard, Col. Frank Montgomery, commander of the 213th RSG and other distinguished visitor shared remarks during the event. (Photo by, Staff Sgt. Brandon Nelson)

1st Sgt. Tyler Heleine presents flowers to his spouse, Heather, during Heleine's Sept. 10 retirement ceremony on Camp Lincoln, Springfield. Heleine, the Sheriff of Coles County, Illinois, retired after more than 21 years of service in the Illinois Army National Guard including a 2004-2005 tour in Iraq with the 1544th Transportation Co.

Chief Warrant Officer Jonathan Harris receives a handshake from Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser after being presented the Silver Star during an award ceremony at Combined Joint Task Force-101 Headquarters on Nov. 28.

Senior Master Sgt. James M. Ethington, 131st Bomb Wing Human Resource Advisor, stands with his wife during his retirement ceremony, May 15, 2022, at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Base, St. Louis, Missouri. Ethington served for 20 years.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, DHA director, and his wife, Carol, meet with DHA employees during a farewell event with the workforce Dec. 9 at Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia. Place will depart the Agency Jan. 3, 2023 after serving as the agencys third director and retire following 36 years of service to the nation, the Army and the military health system.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jody Kyzar, Warrant Officer Candidate Accessions Program (WOCAP) director for the Mississippi Army National Guard, gives a gift to Chief Warrant Officer 5 Tommy Smith, former command chief warrant officer for the Mississippi Army National Guard, during his retirement ceremony at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, Aug. 7, 2022. Smith retired from the Mississippi National Guard after more than 30 years of service.

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 12 Combat Aviation Brigade, Soldiers and family gathering the Change of Command Ceremony, CPT Victor L. Ripley outgoing Commander speaks to the audience and Soldiers. The ceremony took place at Katterbach Army Airfield, Ansbach, Germany, July 1, 2022.

Join us in congratulating Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jesus Zeladallanos on receiving the order of Saint Christopher!Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jesus Zeladallanos, a mobility officer in the 1st Theater Sustainment Command was awarded the order of Saint Christopher used as a symbol of strength, loyalty and safety for transporters. Congratulations and keep up the great work! #FirstTeam

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, DHA director, and his wife, Carol, meet with DHA employees during a farewell event with the workforce Dec. 9 at Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia. Place will depart the Agency Jan. 3, 2023 after serving as the agencys third director and retire following 37 years of service to the nation, the Army and the military health system.

U.S. Air Force Col. Pete Boone, the outgoing 156th Wing commander, honors his wife with flowers for her support during his time as wing commander at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, Oct. 15, 2022. The change of command ceremony took place during the October regularly scheduled drill.

Airman 1st Class Crystal Goman (left), a client systems technician assigned to the 39th Communications Squadron, salutes the American Flag held by Tech. Sgt. Henry Bones, 39th CS client systems section chief, during the National Police Week closing ceremony at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, May 20, 2022. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls, as National Police Week. National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

Chief Warrant Officer (4) Peggy Bates hugs friends 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.

Virginia National Guard Soldiers assigned to the Virginia Beach-based 529th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 329th Regional Support Group return to Virginia and reunite with family, friends and fellow Soldiers Sept. 18, 2019, after serving on federal active duty in support of Operation Inherent Resolve since Dec. 2018. During the deployment the 529th was headquartered in Camp Taji, Iraq, and they planned and coordinated combat sustainment support, managing all commodities, operational contracting support as well as maintenance support for numerous units operating in the Central Command Area of Responsibility. Soldiers assigned to the 529th served in 14 locations spread across four different countries.R

U.S Army Maj. Jason Barrett, Commander of the 982nd Signal Company Combat Camera Airborne, reads off the award plaque prior to presenting it to SSG Maria Henriquez, former supply sgt. for the 982nd Signal Company Combat Camera, in East Point, Ga on August 13, 2022. Henriquez served as the Supply Sgt for the 982nd Signal Company Combat Camera from 2019 to 2022.

010406-D-2987S-005. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Thomas A. Calvo, right, holds the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New Jersey Army National Guard, guidon as Col. Brian J. Stramaglia, center, commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin P. Kirkpatrick, prepare to case the IBCTs colors during the 44th IBCTs farewell ceremony at the Cure Insurance Arena, Trenton, New Jersey, Jan. 14, 2024. More than 1,500 NJARNG Soldiers will deploy in support of U.S. Central Commands Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve. CJTF-OIR advises, assists, and enables partnered forces until they can independently defeat Islamic State of Iraq and Syria - ISIS - in designated areas of Iraq and Syria, in order to set conditions for long-term security cooperation frameworks. It is the largest deployment of New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers since 2008. (New Jersey National Guard

U.S. Air Force Col. Robert McAllister, the A2/3/5 director assigned to the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, awards Lt. Col. Ralph Foshee, the commander of the 968th Expeditionary Airborne Air Control Squadron, a Meritorious Service Medal during the units inactivation ceremony on Sept. 29, 2022, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The 968th EAACS flew its last sortie, until reactivation, in AFCENTs area of responsibility on Sept. 23, 2022. The Panthers accomplished their mission but will be back again when needed.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, DHA director, and his wife, Carol, meet with DHA employees during a farewell event with the workforce Dec. 9 at Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia. Place will depart the Agency Jan. 3, 2023 after serving as the agencys third director and retire following 37 years of service to the nation, the Army and the military health system.

Friends and family welcome Soldiers assigned to the 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment home at Camp Ripley, Minnesota, January 28, 2022 after a nine month deployment overseas. The battalion executed missions at 12 locations in nine different countries across the Middle East, Southwest Asia, and Africa. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Stephen Messenger signs the observance sign Sept. 15, 2022, during Fort McCoys 2022 National Hispanic Heritage Month observance Sept. 15, 2022, at McCoys Community Center at Fort McCoy, Wis. Licensed Counselor Carmella Navarro was the guest speaker. Navarro has experience working with the Army Reserves 85th Support Command and much more as a licensed clinical professional counselor. Navarro shared many personal experiences in her presentation. The 2022 National Hispanic Heritage Month observance at Fort McCoy was organized by Guzman with the Fort McCoy Equal Opportunity Office. In addition to the guest speaker, the banquet room at McCoys Community Center was adorned with materials highlight Hispanic Heritage, and more.

A U.S. Air Force Airman with the 177th Fighter Wing hands flowers to the wife of Col. Eric A. Balint, 177th Mission Support Group commander, at the 177th Fighter Wing, Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, Jan. 7, 2024. Balint was promoted to Colonel, the highest rank of a field grade officer.

U.S. Air Force Reserve Citizen Airmen attend the Spring Into Wellness Information Fair in the Heat Seeker room, on Luke Air Force Base, Arizona on May 15, 2022. Airmen were provided resources for mental health and self care to look out for themselves and their wingmen.

Biloxi, Miss. , April 29, 2010 Administrator Fugate speaks with General Ian Dickinson, 8st TRW Commander during his visit with the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (Hurricane Hunters) at Keesler Air Force Base. The Hurricane Hunters provide valuable weather data used by FEMA and other partners to evaluate active weather situations. David Fine/FEMA.. Photographs Relating to Disasters and Emergency Management Programs, Activities, and Officials

Kristyn E. Jones, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller receives a squadron patch and coin from U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Nesta Gardner, Commander, 502d Comptroller Squadron, during her visit to Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, 28 July, 2022. As the Department of the Air Forces Comptroller and Chief Financial Officer, she serves as the principal adviser to the Secretary, Chief of Staff of the Air Force and Chief of Space Operations on all financial matters.

051224-N-0696M-275. Complete Scene Caption: The Honorable Donald H. Rumsfeld (left), U.S. Secretary of Defense (SECDEF), presents the Bronze Star Medal to U.S. Army SPC. Lucas Crowe, 2nd Battalion, 1ST Infantry Regiment, Multi-National Force-Northwest, at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Courage, Mosul, Ninawa Province, Iraq, on Dec. 24, 2005. SPECIALIST Crowe receives this award for his actions on Dec. 15, 2005, when he saved the life of a two-year old Iraqi boy from a flooded basement. He performed CPR, resuscitated the boy and comforted him until medical help arrived. The SECDEF is in country after visiting the affected areas of the Oct. 8, 2005 earthquake in Pakistan and to support the U.S. Service Members of the region. (DoD photo by PETTY Officer 1ST Class Chad J. McNeeley) (Released) Base: Forward Operating Base Courage State: Ninawa Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, DHA director, and his wife, Carol, meet with DHA employees during a farewell event with the workforce Dec. 9 at Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia. Place will depart the Agency Jan. 3, 2023 after serving as the agencys third director and retire following 36 years of service to the nation, the Army and the military health system.

With the snip of a teal ribbon, the Fort Bragg Sexual Harassment/Sexual Assault Fusion Directorate celebrated the opening of its new combined office, April 28. Fort Bragg is one of six installations piloting the new, redesigned Sexual Harassment/Sexual Assault Response and Prevention Programs Fusion Directorate, which is a victim-centered model aimed to address the issues and recommendations identified by the Fort Hood Independent Review Commission on Sexual Assault in the Military.

The third Security Implications of Climate Change (SICC III) symposium was held from 26-28 June, 2023 in Gaborone, Botswana. The symposium, sponsored by U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM), the Botswana Defence Force (BDF), and the U.S. Institute for Peace (USIP), brought together leaders and representatives from over 36 countries to convene and discuss collaborative efforts to address climate-related challenges across the African continent.

Soldiers cut a cake June 14, 2022, at McCoys Community Center as part of the Army Birthday Celebration at Fort McCoy, Wis. The breakfast was part of many events coordinated by the Fort McCoy Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation to commemorate the 247th birthday of the U.S. Army at Fort McCoy. The day also included a birthday breakfast, free car washes, and more.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, DHA director, and his wife, Carol, meet with DHA employees during a farewell event with the workforce Dec. 9 at Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia. Place will depart the Agency Jan. 3, 2023 after serving as the agencys third director and retire following 37 years of service to the nation, the Army and the military health system.

Col. Andrew Campbell, center, 374th Airlift Wing commander, greets guests during the Japanese-American Friendship Festivals distinguished visitor reception May 21, 2022, at Yokota Air Base, Japan. The DV reception provided an opportunity for U.S. military leaders to celebrate the friendship between the U.S. and Japan alongside Japan Self-Defense Force and local Japanese community leaders. The two-day festival was an opportunity for visitors to learn more about the U.S. and Japan bilateral partnership, while strengthening the bonds between Yokota and the local communities. Yokota was able to host the event with the support of Japan Self-Defense Force, sister services and the local community.

Soldiers cut a cake June 14, 2022, at McCoys Community Center as part of the Army Birthday Celebration at Fort McCoy, Wis. The breakfast was part of many events coordinated by the Fort McCoy Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation to commemorate the 247th birthday of the U.S. Army at Fort McCoy. The day also included a birthday breakfast, free car washes, and more.

Maj. Vern Meissner, the commander of the Illinois Army National Guards headquarters company for Joint Force Headquarters - Illinois, received his rank by his mother, Viva Meissner, during a promotion ceremony at the Illinois Military Academy on Camp Lincoln in Springfield Jan. 6.

Former Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Michael Poss and Alan McCoy, grandson of Fort McCoy founder Maj. Gen. Robert Bruce McCoy, have a meeting July 8, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wis. Descendants of Maj. Gen. Robert Bruce McCoy visited the post July 8 to learn more about their familys military history with the installation.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, DHA director, and his wife, Carol, meet with DHA employees during a farewell event with the workforce Dec. 9 at Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia. Place will depart the Agency Jan. 3, 2023 after serving as the agencys third director and retire following 37 years of service to the nation, the Army and the military health system.

Col. Seth Spanier, 28th Bomb Wing commander, provides remarks at the start of the U.S. Air Force 75th anniversary celebration event at the Raider Café dining facility at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., Sept. 16, 2022. Each year, Airmen from across the installation gather at the Raider Café on Ellsworth and conduct a cake-cutting ceremony to recognize the Air Forces birthday.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, DHA director, and his wife, Carol, meet with DHA employees during a farewell event with the workforce Dec. 9 at Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia. Place will depart the Agency Jan. 3, 2023 after serving as the agencys third director and retire following 37 years of service to the nation, the Army and the military health system.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. William Harper, 20th Maintenance Group command chief, and Airman Auron Gonzales-Taylor, 20th Component Maintenance Squadron fuels technician, cut the Air Force 75th birthday cake at the Chief Emerson Dining Facility at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., Sep. 16, 2022. The dining facility hosted the cake cutting during the lunch service to kick off the celebration of the U.S. Air Forces 75th Birthday.

U.S. Army Col. Shannon-Mikal Lucas (center), deputy provost marshal general, Office of the Provost Marshal General; and U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Viridiana Lavalle (right), military working dog program manager, Office of the Provost Marshal General; receive a briefing on how to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from a Tomb Guard at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 27, 2022.

The third Security Implications of Climate Change (SICC III) symposium was held from 26-28 June, 2023 in Gaborone, Botswana. The symposium, sponsored by U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM), the Botswana Defence Force (BDF), and the U.S. Institute for Peace (USIP), brought together leaders and representatives from over 36 countries to convene and discuss collaborative efforts to address climate-related challenges across the African continent.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Anita Fligge, Defense Health Agency chief nursing officer, arrives at the David Grant USAF Medical Center safety huddle at Travis Air Force Base, California, March 31, 2022. During a DGMC tour, Fligge interacted with medical staff while touring multiple facilities.

Col. Frederick Trey Coleman, 505th Command and Control Wing commander, right, and Dr. Jeff Reilley, Air University, left, discussed Air Education and Training Commands plan to incorporate Joint All-Domain Operations, or JADO, principles throughout all levels of PME at Hurlburt Field, Florida, May 24, 2022. The 705th Training Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Florida, recently hosted visitors from Air University to review the former Multi-domain Warfare Officer, or 13O, training program to determine the best place to integrate operational planning instruction throughout various levels of the U.S. Air Forces Professional Military Education system. (U.S. Air Force photographer Deb Henley)

U.S. Army Col. Eugene Ferris, left, commander of 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, shakes hands with Lt. Col. Roger Wang Jr., prior to a change of command ceremony of 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division at Jasionka, Poland, May 20, 2022. Lt. Col. Wang relinquished command to Lt. Col. David Cochrane. The Division headquarters and its 3rd Brigade Combat Team have been deployed to Poland as part of the strong and unremitting commitment to NATO allies against any aggression.

The 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team headquarters company, Wisconsin Army National Guard, conducted a change-of-responsibility ceremony, October 15, 2022 at its headquarters company at Camp Douglas, WI. During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. Walter R. Smithson relinquished responsibility of the headquarters company to 1st Sgt. Keith T. Graeme. (32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team photo by Staff Sgt. Kati Volkman/Released)

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen Joseph Campo, 48th Fighter Wing commander, and SMSgt. Charles Butcher, 48th Civil Engineer Squadron fire chief, signs a proclamation for fire prevention week at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Oct. 13, 2022. The proclamation is signed annually to kick-off Fire Prevention Week, spreading awareness for fire safety.

Command Team of 311th Signal Command visits USACISA-P, and recognizes civilians for their hard work.

The Thunderbird team greets 2nd Lt. Madison Marsh, recently crowned Miss America 2024, ahead of the Daytona 500 NASCAR Cup Series race in Daytona Beach, FL on Feb. 17, 2024. Throughout the weekend, Marsh spoke with students across the city about serving both in and out of uniform. Air Force

Brig. Gen. Jeffrey L. Wilkinson, outgoing assistant adjutant general for Air, was retired from the U.S. Air Force and Kentucky Air National Guard during a ceremony held at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., Aug. 13, 2022. A career special tactics officer, Wilkinson served the Air Force and Air National Guard for more than 28 years.

Maj. Jason West, outgoing commander of U.S. Army Air Ambulance Detachment Yakima, 2-158 Assault Helicopter Battalion, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade receives a gift from his Soldiers prior to the detachment's change of command ceremony at Yakima Training Center, Wash. on Jun. 9, 2022.

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