Military Briefings and Ceremonies

Images depicting U.S. military personnel in various training and award scenarios, showcasing uniforms, camaraderie, and formal military settings.

U.S. Army Central's Command Sgt. Maj. Jacinto Garza, meets with 1st Lt. Victor Castagno, an air and missile defense officer assigned to the 4-3 Air Defense Artillery Regiment, July 28, 2022, at Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates. The 4-3 ADA's mission is to neutralize aerial threats, in partnership with their host nation counterparts, and provide air and missile defense for critical assets.

Sgt. 1st Class Steven Masters, Observer Coach/Trainer, 2-361st Training Support Battalion, 85th U.S. Army Reserve Support Command, based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, briefs Command Sgt. Maj. Steven Slee, Command Sergeant Major, 85th USARSC, on the training lanes during CSTX 86-22-02 at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, August 16, 2022. Masters is a patrol officer with the Omaha, Nebraska Police Department in his civilian life.

Lt. Col. Gregory Polk, the Task Force Pioneer commander, shakes hands with a U.S. Soldier during an award ceremony at Union III forward operating base in Baghdad, Iraq, April 22, 2022. As part of Army tradition, Task Force Pioneer facilitates mass ceremonies to present awards and recognize exemplary accomplishments.

U.S. Army Soldiers stand at parade rest in formation during the 2022 New Jersey National Guard Military Review in Sea Girt, New Jersey, Oct. 16, 2022. New Jersey National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are reviewed annually by New Jerseys governor in this 130-year-old event.

U.S. Army Central's Command Sgt. Maj. Jacinto Garza, meets with 1st Lt. Victor Castagno, an air and missile defense officer assigned to the 4-3 Air Defense Artillery Regiment, July 28, 2022, at Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates. The 4-3 ADA's mission is to neutralize aerial threats, in partnership with their host nation counterparts, and provide air and missile defense for critical assets.

U.S. Army Reserve Spc. Joaquin Miranda, left, Corrections Officer, 420th Military Police Company, searches Pfc. Michael Sobota, center, Aircraft Electrician, 530th Military Police Battalion, participating as a role-player, before entering the Theater Detention Facility at the Spartan Warrior Three Training Exercise, June 19, 2022 on Fort McCoy, Wisconsin.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul Rogers, adjutant general of the Michigan National Guard, pins rank on newly promoted U.S. Army Pfc. Maverick Sincic, 1-119th Field Artillery Regiment, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, Michigan Army National Guard, at Forward Operating Site Adazi, Latvia, May 26, 2022. Summer Shield, led by Latvian Mechanized Infantry Brigade is one of multinational training exercises in Eastern Europe that make up Defender Europe 22 exercise, led by U.S Army Europe and Africa. Defender demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africas ability to conduct large-scale ground combat operations across multiple theaters supporting NATO.

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer Frank Lopez, a senior automotive maintenance warrant officer assigned to the 101st Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division (second to left), explains what the role of 101 BSB is to Chief Warrant Officer Yolondria Dixon-Carter, senior warrant officer advisor to the chief of staff of the Army (right), at the 101st BSB supply support activity on Fort Riley, Kansas, Feb. 14, 2024. Dixon-Carter visited the installation to discuss with other chief warrant officers and Soldiers, and to observe the progress and work that is being conducted. Army

A U.S. Soldier assigned to Task Force Pioneer accepts a certificate of German marksmanship proficiency during a German Armed Forces Badge of Marksmanship awards ceremony at Union III forward operating base in Baghdad, Iraq, April 14, 2022. The German Armed Forces Badge of Marksmanship is awarded to soldiers proficient in marksmanship and is an official military award authorized for wear by enlisted service members.

Maj. Gen. Kenneth S. Hara, The Adjutant General for the State of Hawaii, presents a coin to Guam Army National Guard Pfc. Aaron Lizama during a command visit to the 1-294th Infantry Regiment Tactical Operations Center (TOC) during the Exportable Combat Training Capability program on Camp Roberts, California, July 18, 2022. Each battalion within the 29th IBCT recognized some of their Soldiers with an appreciation coin from the TAG.

Master Sgt. Kenneth Beecroft, Lt. Col. Eric Karsten, and Command Sgt. Maj. Raymond Miller, all observer coaches/trainers with the 1-345th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 157th Infantry Brigade, First Army Division East, prepare to assess the 933rd Military Police Company during detainee operations training at Camp Ripley, Minnesota, July 17, 2022. We come out and give honest, outside feedback on a units training ability, and we teach directly out of doctrine, said Sgt. 1st Class Jayrayle Williams, an observer coach/trainer with the 1-345th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 157th Infantry Brigade, First Army Division East. Observer coaches/trainers give feedback to unit commanders so they know what theyre capable of and can assess how well they are meeting the missions goals. We come in and say how it should be done according to doctrine, and then we just let that unit self discover what processes are actually working and what does not work, said Williams.

Major General Charles D. Costanza and Command Sergeant Major Quentin V. Fenderson, command team of 3rd Infantry Division, recently visited U.S. Soldiers of 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany. Marne 6/7 took time to visit each Battalion area of operation and talk with the Dogface Soldiers about their mission and accomplishments since arriving in Germany. They also recognized some outstanding Soldiers with 3ID Coins. The 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division is part of the 1st Infantry Division and V Corps, Americas Forward Deployed Corps in Europe which works alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-ready forces, execute joint and multination training exercises, and retain command and control for its rotational and assigned units in the European Theater.

U.S. Army Capt. John Flegal, left, chemical, biological, radioactive and nuclear (CBRN) officer-in-charge, and U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Deven S. Little, right, all-source intelligence technician, both assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, observe a possible improvised explosive device (IED) during a training exercise at Camp Grayling, Michigan, Aug. 23, 2022. Overseen by U.S. Army Combat Engineers, the training lane put Soldiers through a realistic training environment, allowing them to find and understand the weapons and technology used by enemy forces, increasing their readiness, lethality, and unit cohesion.

FORT HOOD, Texas - Texas Army National Guard, Maj. Gen. Win Burkett, commander of the 36th Infantry Division, attended the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade color casing ceremony Aug. 5, 2022, at North Fort Hood, Texas. The aviation brigade has been preparing to deploy overseas in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Josiah Griggs, assigned to the 51st Security Forces Squadron, Osan Air Force Base, South Korea, prepares for the combat endurance challenge for the Advanced Combat Skills Assessment at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam on May 17, 2022. ACSA is an annual training event designed to test the physical endurance and core operational skills of Pacific Air Force security forces and selected partner nations.

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Justin Seals, the 378th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron operations flight superintendent, salutes Brig. Gen. William Betts, the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing commander, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Leaders with the 378th AEW gathered to congratulate Seals on his selection for the rank of chief master sergeant.

FORT HOOD, Texas - Texas Army National Guard, Maj. Gen. Win Burkett, commander of the 36th Infantry Division, attended the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade color casing ceremony Aug. 5, 2022, at North Fort Hood, Texas. The aviation brigade has been preparing to deploy overseas in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

Maj. Dennis LeMaster, U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence (MEDCoE) Commanding General, awards 1st Lt. Kameron Hernandez, a 70B health services administration officer assigned as the S3 operations officer, 232d Medical Battalion, 32d Medical Brigade, the Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB). Hernandez was one of 14 officer and enlisted Soldiers assigned to various Army medicine commands to earn the coveted badge during a grueling two week testing event conducted by the MEDCoE at Camp Bullis. The culminating event, a 12 mile road march, was followed by an award and graduation ceremony hosted by LeMaster.

U.S. Army Col. Richard J. Ikena Jr., commader of the 1st Infantry Division Artillery, oversees Soldiers assigned to 3rd Battalion, 321st Field Artillery Regiment (3-321 FAR), 18th Field Artillery Brigade as they transmit coordinates before firing a Reduced-Range Practice Rocket (RRPR) from an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during a Latvian-led field artillery live fire exercise, NAMEJS, at Liepāja, Latvia, Sept. 27, 2022. The 3-321 FAR is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

U.S. Army paratroopers from different units rehearse emergency actions during Sustained Airborne Training (SAT) at Sainte-Mere-Eglise, France, June 4, 2022, with troops from multiple countries in preparation for an airborne operation in honor of D-Day. On June 6,1944, more than 150,000 troops from the Allied Forces invaded Normandy, France, from the sea and air. More than 23,000 allied paratroopers participated in the invasion. (U.S. Army photograph by Staff Sgt. Alexander Skripnichuk)

Command Sgt. Maj. Shade Munday, 1st Cavalry Division command sergeant major, patches an incoming Trooper at a patching ceremony, Aug. 3, on Fort Hood, Texas. Every incoming Trooper is welcomed into the 1st Cavalry Division with a patching ceremony.

Security Forces, Fire, and Civil Engineering personnel from 366th Fighter Wing work together to create a cordon during a simulated unexploded ordinance operation as part of exercise Raging Gunfighter 22-2 at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, May 19, 2022. Raging Gunfighter is an exercise designed to simulate operating a Lead Wing from an austere environment in preparation for potential future operations.

U.S. Army Spc. Mitchell Ramsey, left, and U.S. Army Sgt. Raven Azure, right, both infantrymen assigned to 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, simulate pulling security during a training exercise near Fort Bliss, Texas, Oct. 8, 2022. Through constant, continuous and frequent training, Soldiers stand ready and able to conduct any mission and engage any enemy at any time.

New Jersey and Virginia Army National Guard Soldiers supporting the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Teams eXportable Combat Training Capabilities (XCTC) exercise, prepare to mount a UH-60 (Blackhawk) helicopter for a morale flight on July 23, 2022 at Fort Drum, New York. More than 2,500 Soldiers are participating in the training event, which enables brigade combat teams to achieve the trained platoon readiness necessary to deploy, fight, and win.

Brig. Gen. Lori Robinson, Deputy Commanding General of Support with 2nd Infantry Division/ROK Combined Division, conducts a maintenance terrain walkthrough of the 2nd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade footprint on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea, Sept. 15, 2022. The purpose of the maintenance terrain walkthrough is to ensure a high level of awareness and command interest in field maintenance by ensuring senior Command Groups understand how their maintenance program operates.

On Day 3 of Installation Management Command - Europe Best Warrior Competition, the 12 Soldiers completed the 8-mile ruck march; weapons qualification; medical lanes and were in the pool for the mystery event. Photo by Sandra Roemer, IMCOM-E Enterprise Multimedia Center

Polish and U.S. Soldiers stand and watch as armored vehicles cross the Vistula River during Defender Europe at Dęblin, Poland, May 13, 2022. Defender Europe 22 is a series of U.S. Army Europe and Africa multinational training exercises in Eastern Europe. The exercise demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africas ability to conduct large-scale ground combat operations across multiple theaters supporting NATO.

647th Regional Support Group (RSG) outgoing Commander Army Reserve Col. Michael W. Miller (right) recognizes Capt. Hugo N. Magana (center) and Sgt. 1st Class Samaysia Taylor (left) with the Army Commendation Medal during a Change of Command Ceremony at the Wichita Veterans Memorial Park in Wichita, Kan. April 9, 2022. Col. Miller thanked the 647th RSG Headquarters Company Commander Capt. Magana and acting 1st Sgt. Taylor for their outstanding leadership contributing to his success. (Army Reserve photo by Sgt. 1st Class Anaidy G. Claudio)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Kenneth T. Bibb Jr., 18th Air Force commander, thanks participants after observing them execute a multi-capable Airman training demonstration at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, Apr. 22, 2022. The purpose of the demonstration was to showcase Team Fairchilds efforts in improving multi-capable Airmen capabilities.

Ambassador Julianne Smith, U.S. permanent representative to NATO, learns about the M119 howitzers from U.S. Army Soldiers at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base, Romania, July 11, 2022. Ambassador Smith met with U.S. forces under V Corps and NATO allies to get a better understanding of U.S. strategic efforts and contribution in the European theater.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Kadarryl Small, 336th Training Squadron military training leader, inspects Airmen in training during open ranks at Keesler Air Force Base on Nov. 28, 2022. MTLs are responsible for ensuring every non-prior service Airman is provided direction, resources and mentorship.

Brig. Gen. Stephen Osborn, deputy adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard, Col. Mark Kappelman, senior advisor to the Army National Guard, and Capt. Eric How, commander of the 833rd Engineer Company, Iowa National Guard, observe training exercises at Western Strike 22, on June 10, 2022, at Orchard Combat Training Center, Idaho. Western Strike 22 is an eXportable Combat Training Capabilities exercise led by the 65th Field Artillery Brigade, Utah National Guard, that provides National Guard Soldiers immersed training similar to a combat training center and aims to increase participating unit's readiness and lethality.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. John Kolasheski, right, Commanding General of V Corps, and Maj. Gen. John V. Meyer III, Commanding General of 1st Infantry Division and former 2nd Cavalry Regiment (2CR) commander, watch the 2CR change of command ceremony at Grafenwoehr, Germany, June 10, 2022. The Dragoons bid farewell to the 81st COL of the Regiment, COL Joseph M. Ewers, and his family, and welcomed Colonel Robert S. McChrystal as the 82nd Colonel of the Regiment.

Soldiers of the 291st Digital Liaison Detachment, Maryland Army National Guard, speak with Commodore Jüri Saska, the Commander of the Estonian Navy, following the amphibious landing of elements from Task Force 61, Naval Amphibious Forces Europe/2nd Marine Division (TF-61/2) and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit in Saaremaa, Estonia during DEFENDER-Europe on May 21, 2022 and Estonian HEDGEHOG 22. The 291st Digital Liaison Detachment, Maryland Army National Guard, embeds into the multinational force headquarters to ensure interoperability and coordination across all joint warfighting functions. For DEFENDER-Europe 22 and HEDGEHOG 22, the 291st DLD is enabling interoperability between Estonian Defense Forces and U.S. Army V Corps. DEFENDER-Europe 22 is a series of U.S. Army Europe and Africa multinational training exercises within U.S. European Commands Large Global Scale Exercise construct taking place in Eastern Europe. DEFENDER-Europe 22 demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africas abili

Col. Anthony Ely (left), commander, 653rd Regional Support Group, discusses Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration (RSOI) methods used by the 653rd RSG to Maj. Gen. Miguel Castellanos, commanding general, 84th Training Command, June 12, Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif. Castellanos visited the 653rd RSG as they continue to support operations at Combat Support Training Exercise (CSTX) 22. The CSTX is a joint exercise that prepares units for operational deployments around the world.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Alexander Cook, 6th Air Refueling mission support noncommissioned officer in charge, explains camera operations to Airmen assigned to the 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron during a shadow day event at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Nov. 30, 2022. The event demonstrated daily operations for all aspects of the 6th ARWs Wing Staff Agencies.

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 982nd Combat Camera Company (Airborne) clean their M4 Carbine rifles after completing their marksmanship qualifications on Fort Jackson, SC, April 9, 2022. Soldiers qualify their marksmanship every year in order to maintain combat readiness.

From left, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Mark Gorzynski, commander of the 119th Field Artillery Regiment of the Michigan Army National Guard, Danish army Maj. Carsten Holmfred, second in command senior national representative of the Danish enhanced forward presence Battle Group, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, Adjutant General of Michigan, and Danish army Lt. Col. Dennis Nuppenau, senior national representative of the Danish enhanced forward presence Battle Group, discuss the training being conducted during Summer Shield at Forward Operating Site Adazi, Latvia, May 26, 2022. Summer Shield is one of U.S. Army Europe and Africas multinational training exercises in Eastern Europe that make up Defender Europe 22. Defender demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africas ability to conduct large-scale ground combat operations across multiple theaters supporting NATO.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division (3-1 ABCT) and members of the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battlegroup Poland participate in a NATO patch ceremony, where they symbolically replace the 1st Cavalry Division patch worn on the left sleeve, with the NATO Battlegroup patch representing their commitment to the NATO mission at Bemowo Piskie, Poland, Oct. 21, 2022. The 3-1 ABCT is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

1st Sgt. Sean Kirk, the Task Force Santiago first sergeant, stands at the position of parade rest during a shoulder sleeve insignia ceremony, June 22, 2022, at Union III forward operating base in Baghdad, Iraq. The shoulder sleeve insignia, also known as the combat patch signifies a Soldier having served duty in a hostile environment or combat zone. Task Force Santiago is a subordinate task force of Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve.

Soldiers in 524th Division Sustainment Support Battalion, 25th DSB are heading to the field to support our ground allies over at 2IBCT for Nakoa Fleek here in Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.(U.S. Army Photos By: Sgt. Kenyel Jones)

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Patrick D. Frank, commanding general of U.S. Army Central (center), accompanied by Lt. Col. Erika A. Besser, commander of 449th Aviation Support Battalion, assigned as "Task Force Dark Horse" to 36th Combat Aviation Brigade (left), receives an introduction to Capt. Casey J. Voss, company commander of Bravo Company, Task Force Dark Horse, at Udairi Landing Zone on Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Sept. 17, 2022. 36th CAB, mobilized as Task Force Mustang, is deployed in support of the Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve mission to advise, assist, and enable partnered forces in the enduring defeat of Daesh, the common Arabic term for IS or ISIS, within designated areas of Iraq and Syria.

FORT HOOD, Texas - U.S. Army Spc. Kyle Union, a Soldier in 8th Squad, Blue Platoon, based out of Tallahassee, Florida, trains on dissembling and reassembling weapons for the U.S. Army Forces Command Best Squad Competition at Fort Hood, Texas, August 14, 2022. These Soldiers represent the best the in U.S. Army Forces Command.

Maj. Gen. Stacy Huser (right), 20th Air Force commander, greets members of the 377th Weapons System Security Squadron during a tour of Kirtland Air Force Base, Feb. 11, 2024. During the tour, Huser learned about the duties of the 377 WSSS and conversed with Airmen. Air Force

MARINE CORPS BASE, HAWAII (July 8, 2022) Australian Army soldiers from 1st Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment demonstrate the Australian Defence Force's EF88 Austeyr rifle to US Marines during a multi-national weapon familiarization during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. The event included an aircraft familiarization with the Sea Stallion CH-53E and a display of participating nations weapons to increase combined integration. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (Photo by Royal Australian Air Force C

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, left, Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central) commander, meets with Canadian leadership at Camp Canada at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, Aug. 18, 2022. During the visit, Grynkewich met with Canadian military members to discuss the importance of partner nation integration within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 122nd Fighter Wing, Indiana Air National Guard, hold a safety briefing before conducting Integrated Combat Turn maneuvers with A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft during Guardian Blitz at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Jan. 26, 2023. ICT maneuvers involve refueling and rearming the aircraft while the pilot waits in the cockpit with engines running before taking off again to maximize time in the air. During the exercise, the 122nd FW positioned the main force at MacDill Air Force Base while stationing a self-sufficient contingency force at Moody Air Force Base to further project combat power and sustainability in a contested environment.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Wilbur Oles, commanding officer of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, marches his Marines to meet their families upon return from deployment on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Oct. 7, 2022. VMM-163 deployed to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, in support of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), providing capabilities for personnel recovery and casualty evacuation of U.S. forces throughout East Africa. CJTF-HOA, America's only enduring U.S. military installation in Africa, continues to thrive while being challenged with instability caused by Violent Extremist Organizations. Oles is a native of Delhi, New York.

Arizona Army National Guardsman Sgt. 1st Class Benjamin Taylor, a recruiting and retention noncommissioned officer and U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Sarah Painter with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 492nd Civil Affairs Battalion, take part in the Marche Internationale de Diekirch (MID) event in Buckeye, Arizona on September 18, 2022. The 492nd CAB conducted the MID event in order to build camaraderie and foster unit cohesion, and incentivizing completion with the MID award.

TAMC Troop Battalion Team Change of Responsibility Ceremony!Tripler Army Medical Center Troop Battalion bids farewell to Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Duke, and welcomes Command Sgt. Maj. Amanda N. Miller.

U.S. Army Soldiers with the Pennsylvania National Guards 56th Striker Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, prepare to board a plane at Harrisburg International Airport on Jan. 1, 2024. The Soldiers are leaving their homes and families for about a year to deploy to Africa to support U.S. Africa Command and partner forces with security objectives in the region. Maj. Gen. Mark McCormack, the commanding general of the 28th Infantry Division, Brig. Gen. Laura McHugh, the Deputy Adjutant General-Army, Command Sgt. Maj. Shawn Phillips, the State Command Sergeant Major, and other officials greeted Soldiers as they boarded their planes to leave Pennsylvania.

1st Sgt. Charles A. Neal, the first sergeant for 647th Quartermaster Company in 3rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command, signals a time hack to paratroopers during sustained airborne training at Fort Bragg, N.C., June 21, 2022. The parachute riggers jumped onto Holland Drop Zone later in the day.

FORT MEADE, Md. - Senior Drill Sgt. Christopher Blanton, a visual information operations chief and drill sergeant assigned to the United States army Signal School detachment, addresses a formation of USASSD Soldiers about the importance of self-care and identifying the importance of self-care during a resiliency stand-down, June 8. Soldiers were released early from their classes at the Defense Information School to reflect upon the necessity of self-care, allowing them to strengthen their foundational base of resiliency.

Tunisia Maj. Wagdi Nehdi, Logistical Commander of the Tunisian Army, observes maintenance procedures performed by U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Craig Krantz, a Motor Officer for the 960th Brigade Support Battalion, Wyoming Army National Guard, in Sheridan, Wyoming, May 17, 2022, on a State Partnership Program visit. The purpose of the SPP is to enhance military ties and strengthen partnerships with countries worldwide. The Wyoming National Guard partnered with the African nation of Tunisia in 2004 and continues to further their relationship with educational exchanges like these.

220817-N-NA571-1476 NAVAL AMPHIBIOUS BASE CORONADO, Calif. (Aug. 17, 2022) Capt. Rafael Miranda, commanding officer of Amphibious Construction Battalion 1 (ACB 1), observes the return from a training march on Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, Aug 17, 2022. ACB 1 conducts ship-to-shore transportation and construction support as a part of joint amphibious operations around the world.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. John Heidelberg, left, Marine Wing Support Squadron 172 expeditionary airfield systems technician, speaks with U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Kendal Boyd, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron electrical systems specialist, to discuss emergency airfield lighting systems at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Feb. 6, 2024. EALS are used when an emergency runway has been designated, allowing aircraft to find and safely land on them in the event of severe damage to the main runway. Air Force

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

U.S Air Force Col. Matthew Reilman, 17th Training Wing commander, discusses future joint service collaborative ideas with Army Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Baird, National Geospatial-intelligence Agency command senior enlisted leader, at Forward Operating Base Sentinel, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, May 12, 2022. Baird visited the 17th Training Wing to understand the Air Forces geospatial intelligence and imagery training with the intent of shaping a GEOINT Training Evolution project slated for 2030-2035.

U.S. Army Soldiers of the 87th Division Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Division Sustainment Brigade, 3rd Infantry Divsion, witness the presentation of a 90-day, DUI-free streamer to the battalion's Bravo Company, presented by Col. David Key and Command Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Campbell, the 3rd DSB command team, on Fort Stewart, Georgia, March 31, 2023. The 3rd DSB is composed of a diverse group of people from across America, every one of which has pledged to uphold the Constitution and the Army Values of leadership, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. Provider Soldiers treat one another with dignity and respect, foster trust and confidence in our profession, and are people of character, presence and intellect.

Tunisia Maj. Wagdi Nehdi, Logistical Commander of the Tunisian Army, observes maintenance procedures performed by U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Craig Krantz, a Motor Officer for the 960th Brigade Support Battalion, Wyoming Army National Guard, in Sheridan, Wyoming, May 17, 2022, on a State Partnership Program visit. The purpose of the SPP is to enhance military ties and strengthen partnerships with countries worldwide. The Wyoming National Guard partnered with the African nation of Tunisia in 2004 and continues to further their relationship with educational exchanges like these.

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael Thomas, a Behavioral Health NCO, at the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center at Fort Hood, Texas, is examined on his appearance while conducting weapon drill commands as part of the Regional Health Command-Central Best Leader Competition in Fort Bliss, Texas, on April 14, 2022. The competition promotes esprit de corps throughout the Army while recognizing Soldiers, noncommissioned officers, and officers that demonstrate commitment to the Army values and embody the warrior ethos.

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division's Best Squad attend a welcome brief for XVIII Airborne Corps Best Squad Competition on Fort Stewart, Georgia, July 25, 2022. Squads from throughout XVIII Airborne Corps are competing in the Best Squad Competition, which will test them in a number of areas including marksmanship, land navigation, small-unit tactics and endurance.

1st Sgt. Christopher Price, First Sergeant of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry receives the unit colors for the last time during a change of responsibility ceremony at Ft. Carson, Colo., May 16. During the ceremony, 1st Sgt. Christopher Price relinquished responsibility of the company to 1st Sgt. Jaime Natividad. U.S. Army photo by Maj. Jason Elmore.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Charles Bies, commander of the 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, announces the winning team during a cooking competition at Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, Aug. 4, 2022. The 3/4 ABCT is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, Americas forward-deployed corps in Europe.

Soldiers of 1st Squadron, 172nd Cavalry Regiment (Mountain), Vermont Army National Guard, assemble at sunset to honor the retirement of Headquarters, Headquarters Troop U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Douglas Stewart at Ethan Allen Firing Range, Jericho, Vt., Oct. 15, 2022. This formation marks the last in which Stewart participates before retirement from service.

Lt. Col. Mario Iglesias, left, the Program Executive Officer Ground Combat Systems M2A4 Bradley Fighting Vehicle product manager, gives a coin for excellence to Sgt. Tyler Mattice, an M2A4 vehicle commander assigned to the "Hound Battalion," 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, at Fort Stewart, Georgia, April 22, 2022. The near decade-long effort to upgrade the BFV culminated in the first unit, 3rd Bn., 67th AR, 2nd ABCT, 3rd ID, equipped with, and trained on the M2A4 variant, upgraded with enhanced mobility and power generation capabilities to bring increased lethality and survivability to the warfighter.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Baird, National Geospatial-intelligence Agency command senior enlisted leader, questions students assigned to the 344th Military Intelligence Battalion about their training experience at Forward Operating Base Sentinel, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, May 12, 2022. Baird visited the 17th Training Wing to enhance his understanding of the mission.

Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Devin Crawford (left), 108th Training Command, receives tips from a German Reserve Soldier during a CIOR shooting practice near Hammelburg, Germany on July 28th 2022. The Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers Military Competition (CIOR MILCOMP) is a three-day team competition consisting of NATO and Partnership for Peace nations in Europe. It has been around since 1957. The competition is open to all reserve components for both NCO and officer. It is now run on a volunteer basis and funded by former competitors through an alumni association.

DM-SC-88-07528. Base: Parris Island State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Sgt. Christopher Putnam, a nodal network systems operator assigned to the 1st Infantry Division Artillery, stands by the American flag and speaks about his team and aspirations after the Re-enlistment ceremony at Adazi, Latvia, April 27, 2022. The 1st Infantry Division is among other units assigned to V Corps, Americas forward-deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces.

GHOST Troopers assigned to 2-7 Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, interact with Polish Police, Sept. 22, 2022. Maintaining a relationship with the Polish community grows lasting partnerships between 3ABCT and regional security partners.

Chief Petty Officer Tiffany Moore gives a briefing to attendees of the Drill Instructor Summit, Oct. 19, 2022.The summit is designed to facilitate dialogue between the services, aid in the exchange of ideas, discuss societal trends affecting basic military training, and identify best practices which serve to benefit enlisted training across the services.U.S. Coast Guard photo by Chief Warrant Officer 2 Timothy Tamargo

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Iris Barajas, a tank commander, assigned to the 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, evaluates her Soldiers as part of a gunnery skills test held at Pabrade, Lithuania, July 19, 2022.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Alysa Turbeville, a Pacific Air Forces Civil Engineer Readiness Challenge team member, helps construct a Small Shelter System at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, April 13, 2022. The 673d Civil Engineer Group sent 34 personnel as part of PACAFs 39-member team to compete at the Air Force Civil Engineer Readiness Challenge hosted April 18 through 22 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida. Established in 1986, the event challenges CE Airmen to showcase their total mission readiness while competing on integrated base response skills and practices.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Justin Geers, 23rd Wing command chief, right, speaks with Senior Airman Kaleb Karr, 822nd Base Defense Squadron fire team member, left, and Senior Airman Zach Hogan, 23rd Comptroller Squadron financial operations technician, at their base defense post during exercise Agile Flag 22-2 at Avon Park, Florida, July 24, 2022. Agile Flag 22-2 is Air Combat Command's first lead-wing certification event designed to demonstrate the 23rd Wing's capability to generate combat air power while continuing to move, maneuver, and sustain the Wing and subordinate force elements in a dynamic and contested environment.

Staff Sgt. James Smith, Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations departures specialist, practices a dignified transfer in the carry team lead position during ground training July 29, 2022 at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware. The carry team lead position calls commands and secures the transfer case during a dignified transfer.

Lt. Col. Aaron Morrison, squadron commander, right, recognizes Capt. Cody Pigford, officer in Charge, left, both assigned to 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, for orchestrating the Order of the Spur, June 16, 2022, at Fort Carson, Colorado. It was important that we incorporated training while also recognizing Cavalry Scout traditions, said Pigford in an interview.

Members of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) render a salute during a disinterment ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii, Oct. 17, 2022. The ceremony was part of the agencys efforts to disinter and identify the remains of unknown service members lost during the Korean War. DPAAs mission is to achieve the fullest possible accounting for missing and unaccounted-for U.S. personnel to their families and our nation.

U.S. Soldiers conduct medical evacuation training during Exercise Combined Resolve 17 (CbR 17) at Hohenfels Training Area, Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) in Hohenfels, Germany, May 26, 2022. CbR 17 is a United States Army Europe-Africa directed, 7th Army Training Command executed exercise that takes place at JMRC from May 20 to June 19, 2022. The event is designed to evaluate and assess a unit's ability to conduct operations in a complex, multi-domain simulated battle space. The focus of the rotation is to exercise combined arms operations in a multinational environment.

94th Security Forces Squadron Airmen carry a simulated wounded Airman to cover during an exercise at Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Ga, Sept. 22. Dobbins ARB hosted, coordinated, and participated in a base-wide exercise from Sept. 19-25 called United Force 22-01 to test readiness capabilities.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Michael L. McLaughlin, 1st Infantry Division Artillery command sergeant major, shakes hands with U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher L. Mullinax, command sergeant major of the 1st Infantry Division at Forward Operating Site Adazi, Latvia, June 16, 2022. The 1st Infantry Division is among other units assigned to V Corps, Americas forward deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces.

General Daniel Hokanson, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, meets with Florida National Guard (FLNG) soldiers from the 715th Military Police Company as they distribute needed supplies in Lehigh Acres, Fla., on Saturday, October 1, 2022. As Hurricane Ian swept through the state of Florida, the FLNG responded to civilians' needs in a disastrous event.

SANTA RITA, Guam (July 22, 2022) Sailors attached to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) Five conduct technical rope and pulley training on board Lt. Chris Reed Shipboard Trainer that focused on lifting simulated bombs from confined spaces.

Members of the 202nd Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers (RED HORSE), Florida Air National Guard, head south from Bradenton, Florida, to clear debris from roadways in Manatee, Charolette, and Lee counties, Sept. 29, 2022. The 202nd RED HORSE Squadron, stationed at Camp Blanding, Florida, is a specialized, highly mobile civil engineering team comprised of Florida Air National Guardsmen that provides rapid response capabilities for multiple worldwide contingencies and operations.

Col. Taona Enriquez, installation commander, presents her coin to Massachusetts Army National Guard Soldiers at Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., Sept.30. The National Guard provided personnel and a refueling vehicle during a power outage that impacted portions of the installation.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Tyler Morris, left, 435th Security Forces Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of combat arms and training maintenance, relays instructions during a proficiency course at RAF Molesworth, England, Aug. 19, 2022. During the course instructors from the 820th Base Defense Group and 435th Contingency Response Group provided oversight and guidance to help critique and advance the combat arms skills of the defenders from the 423d SFS.

Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division prepare to call a nine-line MEDEVAC during the brigade Mungadai at the Kahuku Training Area, Hawaii on Jan. 26, 2022. The brigade Mungadai is a multi-day training event for senior leaders in the brigade designed to test them physically and mentally while building esprit de corps and camaraderie. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Alan Brutus)

The Week of the Warrior continues as competitors from the 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division finish the third day of events, May 3, 2022, on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea. The third day saw the Soldiers complete an air assault from Camp Casey to Camp Humphreys and complete a course that tested various warrior tasks and battle drills. (U.S. Army by Sgt. Yongha Hwang)

U.S. Army Col. Derek A. Smith, commander of 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, 7th Infantry Division, talks to U.S. Army Sgt. Marvin Mira and U.S. Army Sgt. Lance Duenas-Reolidio, petroleum supply specialist with 2-158th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, 7th Infantry Division at the battalions forward arming and refueling point (FARP), Lop Buri, Thailand, Feb. 28, 2024, during Cobra Gold 2024. Exercise Cobra Gold 24 reinforces the foundation and framework necessary to respond rapidly and effectively to regional crises. Army

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Ryan S. Rideout, deputy commanding general for I Marine Expeditionary Force, center, joins other key leaders overlooking Valiant Shield 2022 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, on June 6, 2022. This training builds real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces through detecting, locating, tracking, and engaging units at sea, in the air, on land, and in cyberspace in response to a range of mission areas.

Security forces Airmen, assigned to the Ohio National Guards 180th Fighter Wing, receive instructions before a less-lethal grenade qualification course at the Owens Community College Center for Emergency Preparedness, Aug. 6, 2022. The 180FW conducts realistic training in a variety of environments to ensure Airmen are trained for domestic operations around the state and in defense of the 180FW.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. John Barrett, 724th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Rex Panting, 409th Air Expeditionary Wing command chief, discuss operations of AB 201, Niger with U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Brian Cashman, Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa, Dec. 4, 2022. Cashman visited AB 201 to better understand the mission of the U.S. Armys civil affairs operations in West Africa and the operations of AB 201.

A group of U.S. Army Rangers, assigned to 5th Ranger Training Battalion, salutes the colors during a retirment ceremony for Command Sgt. Maj. Joey D. Blacksher on Stringer Drop Zone, Dahlonega, Ga., February 2, 2024. Command Sgt. Maj. Blacksher served 22 years of dedicated serve to the U.S. Army and the United States of America. Army Reserve

Staff Sgts. Scott Hepler and Leon Bingaman, 11th Airborne Division Soldiers, refresh themselves on basic knots and how to tie them on the first day of Advanced Military Mountaineering Course at Black Rapids Training Site 8 July. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Dennis/11th Airborne Division Public Affairs NCO)

FORT MCCOY, WI - Pfc. Lukas Sparks, mass communication specialist and native of Lancaster, Ohio, is advanced to specialist during a promotion ceremony held during annual training, Aug. 8, 2022. Capt. Richard Harris, Commander, 367th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, Whitehall, Ohio pinned the new rank on Sparks (Photo by U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. Megan Fischer).

Command Sergeant Major Jelani Edwards, former 4th Infantry Division Artillery senior enlisted advisor, receives the DIVARTY flag from Sgt. Maj. Brandon Morey, interim DIVARTY command Sgt. Maj., during a relinquishment of Responsibility ceremony at Fort Carson, Colorado, April 8, 2022. Edwards has been with DIVARTY since January 2020 Edwards' and his next position is at the Mission Command Center of Excellence at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

Members of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) disinter the remains of an unknown service member during a disinterment ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii, May 16, 2022. The ceremony was part of the agencys efforts to disinter and identify the remains of unknown service members lost during the Korean War. DPAAs mission is to achieve the fullest possible accounting for missing and unaccounted-for U.S. personnel to their families and our nation.

Senior Master Sgt. Thomas Moriarty, 104th Fighter Wing Operations Group first sergeant, addresses Airmen during the TF Powderhorn awards ceremony at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts, May 14, 2022. Fifty four Barnestormers were awarded Army Achievement Medals for their outstanding performance during TF Powderhorn, an activation where members supported state medical facilities.

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Xanthus Lee, assigned to 55th Signal Company (Combat Camera), receives the Army Achievement Medal from U.S. Army Maj. Octavia Blackwell, the commander of 55th Signal Company (Combat Camera), after the awards ceremony for the 2022 Spc. Hilda I. Clayton Best Combat Camera Competition at Fort A.P Hill, Virginia, May 23, 2022. The annual multi-day competition tests the physical, tactical and technical proficiency of visual information and public affairs specialists across the DOD and participating international competitors.

Sgt. Robert Black of Crystal Lake, Illinois, a Health Care Specialist with the Illinois National Guards 708th Medical Company speed plots points on a map during day three of the Region IV Best Warrior Competition on May 13, 2022. He is one of twelve National Guard Soldiers competing in the Region IV Best Warrior Competition May 11-15, 2022, at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from the Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio National Guards. The winners will move on to compete in the National Guards competition on July 20-30, 2022, at Camp Smyrna, Tennessee. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sydney Mariette.)

U.S. Airmen from the 18th Civil Engineer Squadron and 18th Operations Support Squadron brief U.S. Marines and Japan Self-Defense Force members during a Bilateral Defense of Okinawa Working Group demonstration at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Aug. 2, 2022. The ability to meet face-to-face allowed U.S. and Japanese military personnel to exchange information and plans in a seamless way, increasing interoperability.

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