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Military Award Ceremonies

Images of military personnel receiving awards and commendations in various settings, showcasing formal recognitions and camaraderie among service members.

220616-N-YD328-0056 NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (June 16, 2022) Master-at-Arms Third Class Reed J. Vandermeiren receives a flag letter of commendation from Navy Capt. Rafael C. Facundo, commanding officer, Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Greece, on behalf of Rear Adm. Christopher Gray, Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central, during an Awards at Quarters ceremony in the base gym on Jun. 16, 2022. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay 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 preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

APRA HARBOR, Guam (Aug. 26, 2022) - Capt. Andrew Ring, commanding officer of the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39), left, presents a coin to Cmdr. Masato Murayama, commanding officer of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Oyashio-class submarine JS Takashio (SS 597), right, aboard the Takashio, Aug. 26, 2022. Emory S. Land is one of two Navy submarine tenders that provide maintenance, hotel services and logistical support to submarines and surface ships in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation.

220819-N-XZ205-1006SAN DIEGO (Aug. 19, 2022) Capt. Jeffery Johnson, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) San Diegos acting commanding officer (left), awards Hospitalman Meng Lu, a Sailor assigned to NMRTC San Diego (right), with a Shipmate of the Month Award during a ceremony at the hospital Aug. 19. With input from NMRTC San Diego directorates chain of command, Shipmate of the Month honors Sailors who perform their duties exceptionally well. NMRTC San Diego's mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC San Diego employs more than 6,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere.

Recruits take the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America during a naturalization ceremony inside the Recruit Memorial Chapel at Recruit Training Command (RTC). Boot camp is approximately 10 weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes five warfighting competencies of firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms handling and marksmanship along with physical fitness and lessons in Navy heritage and core values, Warrior Toughness, Life Skills, teamwork and discipline. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navys only boot camp.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jasmin Davila, an administrative specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, and Nashville, Tennessee resident, is recognized for commendable administrative support to fellow Marines, civilians, and other service personnel at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, June 9, 2022. Davila was awarded with a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, named as the Marine Corps Manpower, Personnel, and Administration Awards Program (MCMPAAP) Marine of the Year, and was given an award from the Marine Corps Association in recognition of high endeavor, superior accomplishment, and leadership.

Senator Amanda L. Shelton, Legislative Secretary of the 36th Guam Legislature, left, presents Legislative Resolution 383-36 to recognize U.S. Navy Capt. Steven J. Stasick, the Officer In Charge of Construction (OICC) Marine Corps Marianas outgoing commanding officer, right, during the OICC Marine Corps Marianas change of command ceremony held at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, July 8, 2022. In 2016, OICC Marine Corps Marianas was established to support the Defense Policy Review Initiative in overseeing the $8.7 billion construction program, with $3.1 billion provided by the Government of Japan, to construct Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz and other facilities across Guam. To date, the command has overseen the completion of 18 projects valued at $882 million with 39 active projects valued at $3.3 billion under construction.

U.S Marine Corps Corporal Bradley Feldkamp, a motor transport operator attending Marine Security Guard School at Marine Corps Embassy Security Group, poses for a photo after receiving the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for heroic acts performed while off-duty after an awards ceremony on Quantico, Virginia, April 6, 2023. Feldkamp and two other Marines received the award after intervening during an altercation between civilians involving a knife. The Marines successfully deescalated the situation, recovered the weapon and restrained the perpetrators until the police arrived on scene.

PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 20, 2022) - Capt. Jeffrey Feinberg, commanding officer of USNS Mercy (T-AH 19), left, and Command Senior Chief Manuel Valle, right, award Machinist Mate 1st Class Angel Armando, from El Paso, Texas, center, Sailor of the Month of July aboard Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) in recognition of Armandos efforts during 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.

060120-N-3019M-001. Base: Mcbh, Kaneohe Bay State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Daniel Recinos (Left), an admin clerk with Headquarters Battalion, Karmolette OGilvie (Center), Mayor of Twentynine Palms, and Sgt. Grace Grimaldi, platoon sergeant with Exercise Support Division, pose for a photo during the Service Members of the Quarter Honoree Luncheon at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 31, 2022. The Armed Services YMCA hosted the luncheon to congratulate the honorees on their outstanding service.

220429-N-UN585-3027 ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 29, 2022) Cmdr. Scott Jones, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71), left, presents a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal certificate to Gas Turbine System Technician (Electrical) 3rd Class Eric Bergmann, April 29, 2022. Ross, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on its 12th patrol in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

220826-N-EJ241-1055DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (Aug. 26, 2022) - Lamberto M. Higonia Jr., a civilian contractor assigned to U.S. Navy Support Facility (NSF) Diego Garcia, receives a Junior Civilian of the Quarter award from Capt. John F. Wilson, commanding officer of NSF Diego Garcia during awards at quarters. NSF Diego Garcia provides logistic, service, recreational, and administrative support to U.S. and allied forces forward deployed to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

US Marine Corps Colonel John B. Sollis (Left), CHIEF of STAFF, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, California, presents USMC CHIEF Warrant Officer (4) Raymond Parris a Navy Commendation Medal during his retirement ceremony at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, on January 21, 2000. Base: Usmc Recruit Depot, San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220715-N-VP266-1292 WASHINGTON (July 15, 2022) -- Cmdr. Dave Tickle, commanding officer of the U.S. Ceremonial Guard, (left) receives the Meritorious Service Medal award from Rear Adm. Nancy Lacore, commandant, Naval District Washington, (right) during a change of command ceremony at Washington Navy Yards Leutze Park, July 15, 2022. During the ceremony, Cmdr. Alex McMahon relieved Tickle, the next commanding officer of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.

060401-N-6511P-006. Base: USS Bunker Hill (CG 52)

Mr. Michael Neighbors, 162nd Wing International Affairs, presents Slovak Liaison Officer assistant, Sergeant First Class Zoltan Okos, with a certificate of appreciation for his three years of service at Morris Air National Guard Base during a ceremony here today.

Maria Donnelly receives an award for her 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: Computer Engineer, Maria Donnelly; Cybersecure Hull, Mechanical & Electrical (HM&E) Control Systems & Networks Department Head Seth Burmaster.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Aug. 25, 2022) Seaman Bruno Mernard Germain, attached to USS Shiloh (CG 67), originally from the Republic of Haiti, receives a certificate of naturalization from Lt. j.g. Briana McDaniel with Region Legal Service Office (RLSO) Western Pacific during a naturalization ceremony held at the Kinnick High School Little Theater onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY). Six Sailors and two civilians from CFAYs various tenant commands were naturalized as U.S. citizens 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 Fleets forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON - (Nov. 23, 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 his Naval dedication, Electricians Mate Nuclear Petty Officer Second Class Andrew W. Pluss received authorization to assume the title of and wear the uniform of First-Class Petty Officer. Pluss was pinned by his wife, Marisol Rosado in the presence of command members of the Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonio.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Dylan Hoover, ammo technician assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, poses for a photo with fellow Marines aboard San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), October 1, 2022. USS Arlington, assigned to the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group, and 22nd MEU are on a scheduled deployment under the command and control of Task Force 61/2 while operating in U.S. 6th Fleet in support of U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (December 2, 2022) Capt. Les Sobol, Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY), presents frocking letters to Sailors in recognition of their advancement to the next paygrade during a frocking and awards ceremony held at Benny Decker Theater onboard CFAY. 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.

Royal Thai Army Lt. Col. Saranyoo Sarachai, right, a doctor with Fort Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital, presents a gift to U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Joshua Montano, left, with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, during a landmine casualty care course graduation at Fort Bhanurangsi, Ratchaburi, Thailand, Feb. 2, 2024. Royal Thai and American Armed Forces work together to train students in treating landmine and blast trauma injuries in order to develop a medical capacity to assist Thailands mission of becoming landmine free. This partnership is aligned with the U.S. Department of Defenses Humanitarian Mine Action program, which assists partnered nations affected by landmines, explosive remnants of war, and the hazardous effects of unexploded ordnance. Marine Corps

USMEPCOM Commander Col. Megan Stallings (right) presents Erika Mumphord, financial management analyst, J-8, with a certificate for winning USMEPCOM's "Biggest Loser" competition. Mumphord claimed the title of "Biggest Loser" for losing the most weight from Jan. to April.

Infantería de Marina Colombiana (Colombian marine corps) Brig. Gen. Jorge Federico Torres Mora, left, commandant of the Infantería de Marina Colombiana, and U.S. Marine Corps Col. Victor Pastor, right, chief of staff, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South, pose for a photo with a plaque during a staff planner working group in Bogotá, Colombia, Feb. 2, 2024.The Colombia-U.S. military relationship is characterized by extensive cooperation, with both nations' Marine Corps engaging in combined training exercises aimed at enhancing interoperability and strengthening regional security. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Bradley S. James, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Korea commander, right, and Republic of Korea (ROK) Air Force Brig. Gen. Hong-cheol Kim, chancellor of Joint Forces Military University (JFMU), pose with a gift at JFMU, Daejeon, ROK, April 1, 2022. The event enhanced the ironclad ROK-US alliance while giving ROK service members the opportunity to discuss the importance of leadership and professional development in joint and combined operations.

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

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Andre Smith, a senior line corpsman assigned to Second Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, is handed a plaque from James Hunter, the chairman of the Havelock Chamber of Commerce, Military Affairs Committee, at the Service Person of the Quarter ceremony at Hancock Lodge, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Oct. 25, 2022. Smith was recognized and celebrated as the Service Person of the Quarter by the Havelock Chamber of Commerce, Military Affairs Committee for his contributions both on and off the installation.

PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 20, 2022) - Capt. Jeffrey Feinberg, commanding officer of USNS Mercy (T-AH 19), left, and Command Senior Chief Manuel Valle, right, award Hospitalman Tal Zvik, from El Paso, Texas, center, Sailor of the Month of July aboard Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) in recognition of Zviks efforts during 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.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Oct 14, 2022) Information Systems Technician 3rd Class Cade Welsh is awarded Blue Jacket of the Quarter by Capt Jeff Bierley, Chief of Staff, Commander, Submarine Group 7 (CSG-7), Oct. 14, 2022.. CSG-7 directs forward-deployed, combat capable forces across the full spectrum of undersea warfare throughout the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea.

U.S. Navy Capt. Henry F. Holcomb, the division chaplain with 1st Marine Division, currently assigned to III Marine Expeditionary Force as part of exercise Freedom Shield 23, right, stands with Republic of Korea Navy Capt. Kim Dong Woo, left, following a combined worship service during FS23 in Pohang, Republic of Korea, March 19, 2023. The service gave ROK, U.S. Navy and Marines the opportunity to practice their religious beliefs together. The ROK-U.S. alliance is vital to the collective defense and security of the Korean Peninsula and the region, and the lynchpin of U.S. joint force posture in Northeast Asia.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William Jurney, right, commanding general of II Marine Expeditionary Force, and Lt. Gen. David Bellon, left, commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve and U.S. Marine Corps Forces South, meet at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 8, 2022. Jurney and Bellon met to discuss future relations between their commands.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Christina Gilman, a supply chief with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, receives a volunteer award from Col. Tim Anderson, the chief of staff for Marine Corps Installations West, MCB Camp Pendleton, during an award ceremony at Marine and Family Programs Headquarters on Camp Pendleton, California, April 21, 2022. In keeping with National Volunteer Week, the ceremony recognized, encouraged, and acknowledged base volunteers who continually serve Camp Pendleton Marines, sailors, and their families through selfless volunteer efforts. (Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Andrew Cortez)

Recruits take the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America during a naturalization ceremony inside the Recruit Memorial Chapel at Recruit Training Command (RTC). Boot camp is approximately 10 weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes five warfighting competencies of firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms handling and marksmanship along with physical fitness and lessons in Navy heritage and core values, Warrior Toughness, Life Skills, teamwork and discipline. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navys only boot camp.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Michael E. McWilliams, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Logistics Group (MLG), congratulates Cpl. Austin Millette, a radio operator with 2nd Supply Battalion, 2nd MLG, during Millettes meritorious promotion ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 2, 2022. This meritorious promotion was given to Millette for his outstanding performance in his military occupational specialty. Millette says that he looks forward to reenlisting and accomplishing even greater feats during his career in the Marine Corps.

220819-N-XZ205-1001SAN DIEGO (Aug. 19, 2022) Capt. Jeffery Johnson, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) San Diegos acting commanding officer (left), awards Legalman 2nd Class Roberto Pedroza, a Sailor assigned to NMRTC San Diego (right), with a Shipmate of the Month Award during a ceremony at the hospital Aug. 19. With input from NMRTC San Diego directorates chain of command, Shipmate of the Month honors Sailors who perform their duties exceptionally well. NMRTC San Diego's mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC San Diego employs more than 6,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Vakeno L. Whiteside, an administrative specialist with Headquarters Company, Headquarters and Service Battalion, poses for a photo with Brig. Gen. Jason L. Morris, left, the commanding general of Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego, and Sgt. Maj. Abel T. Leal, right, the Sergeant Major of MCRD San Diego, and family, after a promotion ceremony at MCRD San Diego, Aug. 1, 2022. The ceremony was held to recognize Whiteside for his hard work and dedication to the Marine Corps, as well as celebrate his promotion from lance corporal to corporal.

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON - (Oct. 19, 2022) Machinist Mate Nuclear First-Class Petty Officer Jeremy T. Lagunas poses with his Navy and Marine Corps Achievement award after being pinned and recognized by NTAG San Antonio Commanding Officer, CDR. Stephanie Simoni and command members.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (May 20, 2022) Cmdr. John Carter, Naval Station Great Lakes chaplain, has a retirement ceremony in honor of more than 20 years of service. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

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.

(220901-N-ET093-1065) ADRATIC SEA (Sep. 1, 2022) Lt. Cmdr. Lisa Milligan, places a cover on Cmdr. Alexa Sandifer 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard Martin, Commanding Officer of III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, poses for a photo with Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Col. Yoshiaki Himeda from the JGSDF Intelligence School during a visit to Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 24, 2022. The purpose of this visit was to strengthen ties with Japan as well as showcase III MIGs abilities. III MIG functions as the vanguard of III MEF, operating in the Indo-Pacific regions information environment, and supports Marine Air Ground Task Force operations with communications, intelligence, and supporting arms liaison capabilities.

HM2 Eugene was selected as Junior Sailor of the Year for FY23. She received recognition for her selection at the February awards board at Naval Health Clinic Charleston.

061127-N-3884F-071. Base: Arta Country: Djibouti (DJI) Scene Major Command Shown: CJTF-HOA

220408-N-XZ205-1004SAN DIEGO (April 8, 2022) Capt. Kim Davis, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) San Diegos commanding officer (left), awards Maj. Andrew Schrader, a Marine assigned to NMRTC San Diego (right), with a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal during a ceremony at the hospital April 8. The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal is awarded for heroism and meritorious achievement and service. NMRTC San Diego's mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC San Diego employs more than 6,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere.

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Amanda Elsenboss, 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.

DM-SN-89-07864. Base: Marine Corps Base, Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220401-N-EJ241-1034DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (April 1, 2022) - Capt. Richard D. Payne, commanding officer of Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia, and Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Katryn Kroeker, assigned to American Forces Network (AFN) Diego Garcia, cut a cake during the Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM) observance. The Department of Defense observes SAAPM by focusing on creating the appropriate culture to eliminate sexual assault and requiring a personal commitment from all Service members.

CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti (May 08, 2022) U.S. Navy Master-at-Arms 1st Class Kelly Gaines, a Navy Reserve Sailor, from Noblesville, Ind., attached to Naval Security Forces Crane, Ind., and currently deployed to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, holds a keepsake from her son for a Mother's Day photograph.

220412-N-XZ205-1022SAN DIEGO (April 12, 2022) Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Zanzi Ortiz, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) San Diegos Womens Association Vowing Excellence in Service (WAVES) president (right), presents a WAVES-themed stained glass window to Capt. Kim Davis, NMRTC San Diegos commanding officer (left), during a Celebration of Women event at the hospital April 12. The theme of the event was Phenomenal Women: Providing Healing and Promoting Hope. NMRTC San Diego's mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC San Diego employs more than 6,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Joseph R. Clearfield, right, deputy commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, receives a gift from Cmdr. Marika Vosawale, Support Commander and Acting Commander, Republic of Fiji Navy, during a bilateral meeting at the eighth iteration of the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium in Tokyo, Japan, June 13, 2022. PALS consists of discussions and presentations which facilitate meaningful dialogue on key aspects of amphibious operations, capability development, crisis response and interoperability. The 2022 symposium brought together senior leaders from 18 participating delegations who are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific, with the objective of strengthening and developing regional relationships.

US. Marine Corps Sgt. Robin Alejandro Mendoza, left, a chief combat marksmanship coaches course instructor, with Weapons and Field Training Battalion and Sgt. Ceaser Verdin, a drill instructor with Support Training Battalion, Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, pose with certificates and medals they earned at the Marine Corps Marksmanship Competition West at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 23, 2024. Mendoza, a native of Auburn, Washington, and Verdin, a native of Pomona, California, are members of the Edson Range shooting team. The MCMC West was held in conjunction with several other competitions around the Marine Corps to find the top 10 percent of shooters who will go on to compete in the national tournament in Quantico Virginia for a place on the Marine Corps Shooting Team. Marine Corps

Laura J. W. Altman, left, an alcohol and substance prevention specialist with Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Lejeune-New River, shakes hands with U.S. Marine Corps Col. Garth W. Burnett, right, commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River, after awarding MCAS New River a plaque of appreciation during the Sober October event on MCAS New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Oct. 28, 2022. MCCS hosted this years Sober October event to raise awareness for substance abuse and suicide prevention for service members in recognition of Red Ribbon Week.

Fire Controlman 1st Class Arvin David, assigned to NTAG Golden Gate, is featured as this week's Recruiter in the Spotlight.

040731-M-4419R-025. Base: Ar Ramadi State: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

SAN ANTONIO - (June 30, 2022) Cmdr. Stephanie Simoni, commanding officer, Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonio presents the family of Lt. Cmdr. Tracy Lewis with certificates of appreciation during her retirement ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland Airforce Base, Texas.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (Apr. 8, 2022) Karrie Coleman receives an award from Capt. Ken Williams, Naval Station Great Lakes' executive officer, during a command quarters. Opened in 1911, Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL) is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Courtland Mabe, a Douglasville, Georgia, native and anti-tank missile gunner with 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, poses for a photo during his reenlistment ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 6, 2022. Mabe was selected for reenlistment through the Commandants Retention Program which allows Marines that embody the whole Marine concept and represent the top echelon of Marines to bypass the twenty-step reenlistment process. I strive to take ownership in all that I do. I make the Corps, regiments, and battalions missions mine. If I dont succeed, they dont succeed, says Mabe.

Honorary Chief Sean MacDonnell, the son of Coast Guard Academy instructor Lt. Cmdr. George MacDonnell, poses for a group photo at a surprise ceremony held on campus, June 4. MacDonnell was made an honorary chief, a title bestowed only onto those who demonstrate the highest commitment to the Coast Guard's Core Values, for his unwavering strength in his battle against cancer.

SILVERDALE, Wash. (Aug. 11, 2022) - U.S. Navy Capt. Michael D. Eberlein, commanding officer, Trident Refit Facility, Bangor (TRFB), presents Nicholas D. Allen, shop 35A supervisor, with a certificate of achievement for the completion of the TRFB Leadership Development Program. The TRFB Leadership Development Program provides extensive training encompassing fleet maintenance functions for current and future leaders at the command.

ABH1(AW/SW/IW) Darlene Rule, assigned to USS Wasp (LHD-1) poses for photos during her re-enlistment ceremony aboard the Battleship Wisconsin in Downtown Norfolk on Wednesday, May 25, 2022. The ceremony was hosted by the Hampton Roads Naval Museum as part of their military ceremonies program that is available to area commands without cost. The museum is located next to the Battleship Wisconsin in Downtown Norfolk, Virginia.

President Wesley Simina, president of the Federated States of Micronesia, right, presents U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Mark Melson, commander of Task Force 73, left, with a gift during the Chuuk closing ceremony aboard the hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19), anchored off Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia, as part of Pacific Partnership 2024-1, Jan. 20, 2024. Pacific Partnership, now in its 19th iteration, is the largest multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific and works to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (Sep. 14, 2022) Naval Station Great Lakes and tenant commands reconize command ombudsmen during a ombudsman appreciation ceremony at the National Museum of the American Sailor. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

United States Army Garrison Yongsan-Casey Command Sgt. Maj. Wayne Butterbrodt, 1-17th Infantry Battalion Command Sgt. Maj. Joshua Weiss, 31 soldiers and KATUSAs participate in the Noncommissioned Officers Corps Induction Ceremony held at the Camp Casey Theatre, March 30, 2023. The inductees were soldiers and KATUSAs from USAG Caseys Headquarters and Headquarters Company, the Charlie Detachment of the 176th Financial Management Support Unit, and the 2nd Battalion2nd Aviation Regiment of the 2nd Infantry Division. The NCO Induction Ceremony celebrates newly promoted soldiers joining the noncommissioned officer corps.

Jared Whittemore, fire chief at Commander Navy Region Japan (CNRJ) Fire and Emergency Services Sasebo presents Capt. David Adams, Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) with a personalized firefighter helmet during the 2022 Fire Prevention Month proclamation signing event at the CNRJ Fire and Emergency Services Iorazaki fire station Oct. 7, 2022. For 75 years, CFAS has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services to empower forward-deployed U.S. and Allied Forces while providing superior support to their families and the community.

Sully H.W. Bush was promoted to the honorary rank of Chief Petty Officer on 29 June 2022 during a small ceremony at Walter Reed national Military Medical Center) WRNMMCs Bldg. 1 (Tower) flagpole. His original handler at the hospital, HM1 Samantha Murdock, escorted him while Evan Sisley, former personal aide to the late President George H.W. Bush, pinned the new rank on Sully. Alongside was fellow #WRBFacilityDog HM3 Luke who was also promoted to Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (HM2).(Photographs by Harvey A. Duze - Office of Command Communications)

ASAN, Guam (Sept. 13, 2022) - Yeoman 1st Class Arvin Alon, from Dededo, Guam, was the recipient of a Meritorious Advancement Program promotion ceremony at Joint Region Marianas, Sept. 13.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Adam Chalkley, the commanding general of 3rd Marine Logistics Group, left, and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Maj. Gen. Masayoshi Sakamoto, commandant of the JGSDF Ordnance School, exchange gifts during a brief at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Sep. 14, 2022. The purpose of the brief was to explain and demonstrate the capabilities of three dimensional printing and how they will be incorporated in future operations. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Dallas Green, a crewmember from U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf (WMSL 750), stands with a member of the Republic of Singapore Navy following a ceremony at the Changi Navy Base in Singapore, Feb. 26, 2024. Following the ceremony, crews from both the Bertholf and the Republic of Singapore Navy socialized about their experiences in their respective sea-going services. Coast Guard

220718-N-DD694-1034 WASHINGTON (July 18, 2022) Musician 1st Class Franklin Silva, left, and Musician 1st Class Nicholas Halbig pose together at their pinning ceremony. Musicians selected for U.S. Navy Band are promoted to E6 upon arrival at the band.

220401-N-XB470-1014SAN DIEGO (April 1, 2022) Capt. Kim Davis, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) San Diegos commanding officer (left), awards Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Carly Vohs, a Sailor assigned to NMRTC San Diego (right), with a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal during an awards ceremony at the hospital April 1. The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal is awarded for heroism, meritorious achievement and service. NMRTC San Diego's mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC San Diego employs more than 6,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Nahla Beard, an Air Traffic Controller with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, displays her award at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, August 2, 2022. Sgt. Beard achieved the Guinness world record for most chest-to-ground burpees in one minute.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Phillip N. Ash, commanding officer of 1st Marine Corps District, left, presents the first place male award to Owen Moelter during the Eighth Annual Seaside Semper Five held in Seaside Heights, New Jersey, Sept. 24, 2022. Formed in 2014 to support the Marine Raider Foundation, the Semper Five is an annual 5K Run/Walk and a 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk to raise money for injured Marines and Gold Star families.

220401-N-GK686-1220 NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Italy (Apr. 1, 2022) - Master Chief Avionics Technician Joy McGill and Chief Master-at-Arms Danielle Hinchliff cut the cake during the ceremony in honor of the Chiefs Birthday on Naval Air Station Sigonella, Apr. 1, 2022. NAS Sigonellas strategic location enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required, ensuring security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.

The Scripps Ranch High School Air Force JROTC team won the championship trophy at the 2022 Junior Academic Bowl. The top teams from each service - Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marines - competed against each other in Washington D.C. June 24-27 and demonstrated the academic knowledge and skills learned in JROTC throughout the year. | Sarah Windmueller, U.S. Army Cadet Command Public Affairs

HONIARA, Solomon Islands (Sept. 9, 2022) - Capt. Hank Kim, Pacific Partnership 2022 mission commander, shakes hands with the Honorable Manasseh Sogavare, Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, during a visit in support of 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. Pacific Partnership is a unifying mission that fosters enduring friendships and cooperation among many nations. The years mission in Solomon Islands will include participants from the United States, Japan and Australia.

GREAT LAKES (Oct. 13, 2022) "A" school students Operations Specialist Seaman Apprentice Aissatou Maiga from Washington D.C. (left) and Seaman Recruit Emily Sharpe from Morristown, Tennessee (right) assisted Naval Station Great Lakes Commanding Officer Jason Williamson, center, in cutting the Navy birthday cake at Galley 525 onboard Naval Station Great Lakes during the special dinner meal. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

220526-N-IW069 -1070 SAN DIEGO (May 26, 2022) Chief Machinists Mate (Nuclear) Glendon Austin Jr. is advanced to senior chief petty officer during a pinning ceremony at Naval Air Station North Island, May 26. Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) is currently pierside in its homeport of San Diego.

KILUUFI, Solomon Islands (Sept. 7, 2022) Capt. Jeffrey Feinberg, commanding officer of Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19), right, presents a Pacific Partnership ball cap to the Honorable Daniel Suidani, Premier of Malaita, during 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. Pacific Partnership is a unifying mission that fosters enduring friendships and cooperation among many nations. The years mission in Solomon Islands includes participants from the United States, Japan and Australia.

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