Military Briefings and Ceremonies

Clusters illustrate military personnel giving speeches and participating in ceremonies, emphasizing leadership and teamwork in various settings.

U.S. Air Force Col. Mansour Elhihi, 125th Operations Group commander, delivers comments at the deployment ceremony for the 114th Space Control Squadron at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 23, 2022. The Airmen will be supporting Operation JUNIPER SHIELD and providing non-kinetic effects to combatant commanders in support of global theater campaigns.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Joel Jackson, commander of the Air Force District of Washington, speaks during an all-call at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington D.C., Dec. 8, 2022. Jackson highlighted the importance of the mission set of JBAB, which includes the unique role the base serves in supporting more than 70 mission partners spanning multiple military services and federal agencies.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Michael E. McWilliams, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Logistics Group, speaks to Marines and Sailors attending the II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF) Combat Service Support Conference on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 27, 2023. The conference was held to identify Force Design 2030 impacts on service support and build a common understanding across II MEF units of force sustainment needs.

Illinois Army National Guard Lt. Col Timothy Barnhart, the surface maintenance manager for the Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics (G4) congratulated the newly promoted Maj. Andrew Sanchez, a branch chief under the Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics (G4), and explained the importance of becoming a field grade officer during a promotion ceremony at Camp Lincoln in Springfield on Jan. 6.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Gregory M. Guillot, commander, Ninth Air Force, speaks during the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing change of command ceremony at Prince Sultan Air Base, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, May 9, 2022. During the ceremony Brig. Gen. Robert Davis relinquished command of the 378th AEW to Brig. Gen. William Betts. The tradition of change of command ceremonies are so that the unit can witness their new leader assume the responsibility and trust associated with the position of commander.

U.S. Air Force Colonel David Shevchik, commander of the 158h Fighter Wing, addresses members of the 158th Fighter Wing and their families during a deployment ceremony at the Vermont Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vermont, April 28th, 2022. The ceremony recognizes the sacrifices of Airmen and their families ahead of the 158th fighter wings deployment to Europe.

U.S. Air Force Gen. Mark Kelly, commander of Air Combat Command, addresses the crowd of families, friends, military and civic leaders in attendance at the 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) Change of Command Ceremony at U.S. Air Force Gen. Mark Kelly, commander of Air Combat Command, addresses the crowd of families, friends, military and civic leaders in attendance at the 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) Change of Command Ceremony at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, 22 July 2022. During the ceremony, U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen Barry Cornish relinquished command of 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) and U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Evan Pettus assumed command.

U.S. Air Force Col. Mansour Elhihi, 125th Operations Group commander, delivers comments at the deployment ceremony for the 114th Space Control Squadron at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 23, 2022. The Airmen will be supporting Operation JUNIPER SHIELD and providing non-kinetic effects to combatant commanders in support of global theater campaigns.

U.S. Air Force Col. Christopher Hall, deputy joint base commander and commander of the 627th Air Base Group, gives remarks during the 627th Communications Squadron assumption of command ceremony at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Aug. 26, 2022. The 627th CS provides world-class communications support, enabling mission partner success across JBLM.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Michael Regan Jr., Deputy Adjutant General for Air, Pennsylvania National Guard, speaks to Airmen and their families during the Outstanding Airman of the Year Award Ceremony at the 193rd Special Operations Wing (SOW) August 6, 2022, in Middletown, Pennsylvania. Every year the 193rd SOW recognizes Airmen across five competitive categories for their exceptional performance and achievements.

1st Sgt. Tyler Heleine speaks during his 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.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Brian Welde, incoming commander of the 378th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron, speaks to his Airmen and leadership during an assumption of command ceremony held at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, May 6, 2022. The primary purpose of an assumption of command is for subordinates to witness an officer formally assume responsibility, authority and accountability for the unit. These ceremonies preserve the tradition of military service and stimulate unit esprit de corps.

U.S. Soldiers with Area Support Group - Kuwait and 11th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB) listen to a speech during a ceremony at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, May 30, 2022. The commanding officers and command sergeants major of Base Support Battalion - Kuwait and the 11th CAB hosted the Memorial Day ceremony to pay respects to the origins of the federal holiday and continue the tradition of wreath-laying to honor fallen service members.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Erik Thompson, command chief of Air Education and Training Command, addresses Airmen from both AETC and Air Force Special Operations Command during the inaugural Torch and Dagger professional development seminar at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, October 13, 2022. Torch and Dagger is a three-day enlisted professional development seminar that brings together Airmen from AETC and AFSOC and is geared towards increasing Airmen understanding of National Security issues, Air Force strategic and operational concerns, leadership development, and interpersonal communication tools.

Col. John A. Morris gave remarks in anticipation of the of the brigades deployment to Europe for Atlantic Resolve.

U.S. Army Chaplain Maj. Gen. Thomas Solhjem, chief of chaplains, U.S. Army Chaplains Corps, introduces the Spiritual Readiness Initiative to unit ministry teams during a special training event at Hainerberg Chapel Sept. 28, 2022, on Hainerberg Kaserne in Wiesbaden, Hessen, DE. The Spiritual Readiness Initiative aims to combat harmful behaviors and their impact on the force. (U.S. Army video by Spc. Theodosius Santalov)

Members of the 138th Fighter Wing, Domestic Violence Intervention Service, and The Vet Center participate in a sexual assault prevention and response panel at the Tulsa Air National Guard Base, Okla., April 2, 2022. The panel provided supervisors and leaders to enhance their knowledge and ability to respond to the needs of their Airmen at a critical time. (Oklahoma Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Rebecca Imwalle)

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Kostiantyn Stanislavchuk speaks to attendees of an all-call hosted March 22, 2023, at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. The purpose of Chief Stanislavchuks visit was to enhance joint nation interoperability and discuss issues affecting the international community of enlisted Airmen.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Daniel Naske, 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron Commander, delivers his closing remarks to members of the 816th EAS during an inactivation ceremony Sept. 30, 2022 at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. Naske took command of the squadron in May 2022.

Col. Jade Beehler, commander of the Wisconsin Army National Guards 64th Troop Command, speaks during a formal change of command ceremony for the Wisconsin National Guards 54th Civil Support Team Oct. 7 at the Armed Forces Reserve Center in Madison, Wis. Lt. Col. Seth Kaste, a prior member of the 54th CST, now is the unit commander. Outgoing commander Lt. Col. Matthew Kelly will now serve as the administrative officer and rear detachment commander for the Wisconsin Army National Guards 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade. The 54th CST is the states full-time response team for emergencies or terrorist events that involve weapons of mass destruction, toxic industrial chemicals or natural disasters. The unit is designed to rapidly deploy, assist local first-responders in determining the nature of an attack or hazardous materials scenario, and provide medical, communications, technical support and advice. Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs photo by Vaughn R. Larson

Chief Master Sgt. Jerry Ratliff, 386th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron fire chief, gets promoted during a ceremony at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait. He was promoted by Lt. Col. Sylvester dAgrella, 386th ECES commander, on Sept. 17, 2022. Ratliffs family was able to watch his promotion ceremony via cellphone streaming. Nearly 100 firefighters, friends, fellow chiefs and leaders took part in the ceremony. Ratiff, who is deployed from the 132nd Civil Engineer Squadron, Iowa Air National Guard, joined the top 1-percent of enlisted members upon promoting to his new rank.

Maj. Christina Merritt, former 334th Fighter Generation Squadron commander, gives a farewell speech to the members of 334th FGS at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, June 24, 2022. Merritt was responsible for the organization, training and equipment of more than 200 flight line maintainers.

Col. Travis Pond, 88th Air Base Wing commander, speaks to Airmen at the USO Center on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Jan. 16, 2024. The USO was hosting a Martin Luther King Jr. Day event that featured Dayton Mayor Jeff Mims as guest speaker.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. David R. Wolfe, Pacific Air Forces command chief, listens as an Airman asks him a question during an all-call at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, April 14, 2022. The purpose of Wolfes visit was to speak with Airmen in a variety of career fields about Andersen AFB, its importance in the region and how the Air Force could contribute to further enhancing the capabilities displayed across the base.

Brig. Gen. Patrick R. Michaelis, Fort Jackson commanding general, speaks during a Community Information Town Hall, or CIT, April 19 at the NCO Club on Fort Jackson. At the event, Michaelis announced Fort Jackson will have a fireworks display in July. It will be the first such event on post in years.

U.S. Army National Guard Lt. Col. Matthew Brown, is promoted to colonel at the Vermont National Guard Library and Museum in Colchester Vermont, August 12, 2022. Col. Brown enlisted into the 3-172 Infantry (Mountain) in 1993 as a mechanic and commissioned through the Vermont State Officer Candidate Program in 1998 as an Armor Officer.

Capt. Jason Sassano, 144th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, renders the first salute to Maj. Ishmael Macedo as the 144th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron new commander during a Change of Command ceremony, Sept. 11, 2022, at the Fresno Air National Guard Base, Calif. Maj. Macedo became the commander of the 144th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron as Col. Ceasar Gonzales relinquished command.

Maj. Gen. John C. Harris Jr., Ohio adjutant general, speaks to attendees during the Ohio National Guard Joint Senior Leader Conference at the Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center in Lewis Center, Ohio, Feb. 2, 2024. During the JSLC, Harris spoke about the importance of culture and retention to the organization. Air National Guard

220629-N-FG807-2001 SAN DIEGO - (June 29, 2022) - Royal Australian Navy Lt. Cmdr. Alex Rayner, executive officer of the Australian Mine Clearance Diving Task Group (MCDTG), presents the concept of operations brief to international service members assigned to Task Force 177, part of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, conducted in Southern California. 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 worlds 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 worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

Col. Jun Oh, 374th Operations Group commander, delivers remarks at the 319th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron activation and assumption of command ceremony at Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kanoya Air Base, Japan, Oct. 23, 2022. Pacific Air Forces is deploying MQ-9s, a medium-altitude, long endurance remotely piloted aircraft, and personnel to JMSDF Kanoya Air Base to conduct airborne reconnaissance operations in close coordination with the Japan Ministry of Defense in furtherance of the U.S.-Japan treaty and to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Air Force Col. Joseph Zingaro, 165th Mission Support Group commander, gives a speech highlighting both Lt. Col. Puanani Miller and Lt. Col. Ilena OShea prior to a change of command ceremony for the 165th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Georgia Air National Guard, on August 6, 2022 in Savannah, Georgia. OShea will take command of the 165th LRS and Miller will become the chief of staff for the 165th AW.

Maj. Jessica Warzecha relinquishes command of the Training Support Unit during a Change of Command Ceremony, April 5, 2022 at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. The incoming commander is Maj. Torin Roth.

U.S. Army Capt. Olivia Schretzman, 511th Engineer Dive Detachment commander, delivers remarks during a pre-deployment ceremony at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, September 9, 2022. Soldiers with the detachment are deploying to support Operation Spartan Shield 2023 as a part of Task Force Spartan.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Scott Eberle, the commander of the 382nd Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, speaks to the attendees during a ceremony in which the 336th CSSB transferred authority to the 382nd CSSB. These battalions are subordinate to the 369th Sustainment Brigade while forward deployed to the CENTCOM area of operations.

U.S. Air Force Col. Ronald Merchant, 23rd Medical Group commander, makes remarks during a change of command ceremony at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, June 8, 2022. Merchant served as the presiding officer for the 23rd Health Care Operations Squadron change of command ceremony.

Capt. Nathan Dampf and Lt. Col. Jeffrey Bishop listen as 131st Mission Support Group commander Col. William Miller speaks at the 131st Logistics Readiness Squadron change of command ceremony at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, Sept. 11, 2022. Lt. Col. Bishop relinquished command, and Capt. Dampf assumed command. This is Dampf's first command.

Col. Brian Moore, 51st Maintenance Group commander, provides remarks during the 51st Maintenance Squadron change of command ceremony at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, May 23, 2022. Moore facilitated the transition of the 51st MXS command by receiving the ceremonial guidon from the outgoing officer and presenting it to the incoming officer.

U.S. Army Jon Brierton, Army Support Activity Dix commander, speaks at a dedication ceremony on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Jul. 7, 2022. The Military Schools Building was dedicated to John Edward Dimon, a New Jersey native who enlisted in the U.S. Army during WWII, where he earned the rank of major. Dimon later served his community as a civic leader, serving as a founding member of the Burlington County Military Affairs Committee and member of the NJ state senate, until his death in 1993.

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U.S. Army Gen. Stephen Townsend, commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), delivers comments during the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) change of command ceremony at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, May 14, 2022. As a dynamic, joint and multinational operational headquarters, CJTF-HOA ensures a strategic partnership with Djibouti, responds to crises, supports operations, protects U.S. lives and enables the countering of violent extremist organizations throughout East Africa in order to enhance stability and prosperity.

Gen. Ed Daly, Army Materiel Command commanding general, speaks during a welcome ceremony at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, Feb. 13, 2023. The ceremony officially welcomed the arrival of Lt. Gen. Chris Mohan, AMC deputy commanding general and Redstone Arsenal senior commander, and Ms. Marion Whicker, AMC executive deputy to the commanding general.

9/11 Remembrance ceremony, Sep. 12, 2022, Joint Base San Antonio-Kelly Air Field, Texas. On Sep. 11, 2011, a terrorist attack was carried out against the United States of America. This ceremony was held to remember the 2,977 lives lost, You will never be forgotten.

U.S. Army Pacific Commanding General Charles A. Flynn gives his opening remarks during the International Fellows visit on Fort Shafter, HI. Feb. 21, 2024. The International Fellows are instructed in areas ranging from military concepts and doctrine to national and theater level strategies. Army

Lt. Gen. Dennis S. McKean, deputy commander, Futures and Concepts, U.S. Army Futures Command, Austin, Texas, speaks about the future of combined arms warfare during Fort Rucker's Aviation Industry Days event Aug. 3, 2022.

Major General John Haas, Assistant Adjutant General - Army and commander of the Florida Army National Guard (FLARNG) addresses personnel with the 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade during their deployment ceremony, Dec. 6, 2023. The 164th ADA will be a part of Task Force Atlas, and will provide command and control support to the National Capital Region-Integrated Air Defense System(NCR-IADS) Homeland Defense mission in support of Operation Noble Eagle.

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Matthew Martindell, 139th Security Force Squadron, Missouri Air National Guard, is promoted to the rank of chief master sergeant at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base on June 5, 2022. Martindell has served in the Air National Guard for 23 years.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Duke A. Pirak, center, deputy director of the Air National Guard (ANG) meets with the leadership of the 158th Maintenance Group, 158th Fighter Wing, at the Vermont ANG Base, South Burlington, Vermont, Sept. 11, 2022. Pirak, who assists the ANG director in managing the 108,300 members in the ANG, made the visit during a Vermont National Guard open house, a complimentary event demonstrating the capabilities of the Vermont Air and Army National Guard.

FORT MEADE, Md - Lt. Col. Stephen P. Ward, the outgoing commander of the Headquarters Command Battalion, gives his final remarks to friends, family, and fellow Soldiers during a formal change of command ceremony here, June 30. The change of command ceremony recognized the immense leadership that Ward displayed, as well as welcoming the future guidance of incoming commander Lt. Col. Chaveso Cook.

220602-N-DQ752-0050 JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO FT. SAM HOUSTON, Texas (Jun. 2, 2022) Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Geraldine Kirk, guest speaker, delivers remarks during the HM2 Jaime S. Jaenke Commemoration Ceremony at Jaenke Hall. NMTSC is the Navy component command that provides administrative and operational control over Navy staff and students assigned to the Medical Education and Training Campus and other medical programs in the San Antonio area.

Col. Matthew L. Parker assumed command of the U.S. Army Aviation Center Logistics Command from Col. Stephen W. Owen during a change of command ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum on Fort Rucker, Alabama, July 13, 2022.

Gen. Randy George, Army Chief of Staff, promotes Maj. Gen. Mary K. Izaguirre to lieutenant general in a ceremony on Joint Base San Antonio - Fort Sam Houston Jan 25.

New York National Guard Command Sgt. Major Marc Maynard, speaks during the ceremony at wh ich he took over responsibilit y as the senor enlisted leader for the 4,400- member 53rd Troop Command at Camp Smith, on May 15, 2022. He replaces Command Sgt. Major Sgt. Major Thomas Ciampolillo who is retiring.

Army Gen. Frank Grass, chief, National Guard Bureau, gives an address at the Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., April 27, 2016.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Anita Fligge, Defense Health Agency chief nursing officer, listens to Master Sgt. Matthew Maxwell, DHA senior enlisted leader, at the David Grant USAF Medical Center all call at Travis Air Force Base, California, March 31, 2022. During a DGMC tour, Fligge interacted with medical staff while touring multiple facilities.

Brig. Gen. Shannon D. Smith speaks to members of the 113th Wing, District of Columbia Air National Guard following his assumption of the unit command in a ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, July 15th, 2022.

Brig. Gen. Steven L. Allen speaks to attendees at the 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command change of command ceremony at Camp Walker, Republic of Korea, after relinquishing command to Brig. Gen. Frederick L. Crist.

Maj. Gen. Benjamin Corell, the Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard, addresses family, friends and peers at his retirement ceremony at Joint Force Headquarters in Johnston, Iowa, Feb. 4, 2023. The director of the National Guard and the governor of Iowa both recognized the Strawberry Point native for his 37 years of honorable service.

A change of command ceremony is held at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Columbus, Ohio, June 4, 2022. Maj. Clinton Hensley relinquished command of the 121st Air Refueling Wing Communications Flight to Maj. Samuel Kenoyer.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Josh Olson, 86th Airlift Wing commander, speaks at the opening of the Hercules Innovation Lab at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 29,2022. Olson spoke about how excited he was to see what Airmen on Ramstein could come up with at the HIL and how it will change the base and possibly the Air Force.

Lt. Col. Roshanda McGruder, Air Force Office of Special Investigations Detachment 601 commander, speaks during a Black History Month panel at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Feb. 29, 2024. McGruder shared her service experience from the beginning of her time at basic military training to becoming a commander in OSI. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen Russell Driggers, 502nd Air Base Wing, Joint Base San Antonio commander, provides opening remarks to newly assigned commanders, senior enlisted leaders and their spouses at the beginning of the 502nd ABW senior leader orientation conference Aug. 10, 2022, JBSA-Lackland, Texas. The conference is a multi-day orientation designed to welcome and prepare senior leaders for the unique challenges of JBSA.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Michael E. Dixon, state command chief, Indiana Air National Guard, addresses the audience during an assumption of responsibility ceremony at the 122nd Fighter Wing (FW), Indiana September 10, 2022. During the ceremony Chief Master Sgt. Kyle D. Hoopingarner assumed the position of 122nd FW command chief followed by Dixon assuming the position of state command chief.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Justin Snyder, 375th Security Forces Squadron flight sergeant, speaks during the final guard mount ceremony during Police Week on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, May 20, 2022. Police Week originated from a 1962 presidential proclamation from President John F. Kennedy to honor members of law enforcement who lost their lives in the line of duty.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Russ Mack, deputy commander Air Combat Command, speaks during a Zone 1 ground-breaking ceremony at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 13, 2022. As the Installation of the Future, these modern flight line facilities will play a major role in supporting the incoming F-35A Lightning II mission to Tyndall.

Florida Army National Guard Ltc. Col. Jason M. Hunt, assumes command of Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, July 16, 2022. Hunt enlisted in the Army in 1994 and has had a distinguished career, his awards include the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal (3rd award) and several others.

TINIAN, Northern Mariana Islands (Sept.14, 2022) - Capt. Lance Flood, 30 NCR outgoing commander, delivers his remarks followed by the reading of his orders, during a change of command ceremony held at the 107th Seabee Memorial in Tinian, Northern Mariana Islands, Sept. 9.Capt. Flood demonstrated innovative leadership. His efforts have made the Fleet more ready today and set the path toward shaping the Naval Construction Force of tomorrow.30 NCR conducts tactical and operational level planning, maintains major contingency response capability, and executes general engineering across the full range of military operations within the USINDOPACOM area of responsibility, fulfilling CTF 75 requirements in order to support the combatant command and other service component efforts to protect and defend the United States, its territories, allies, and interests; promote regional security and deter aggression. 30 NCR oversees all naval construction force units deployed throughout the USINDOPACOM ar

Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Stephen Messenger talks to guests Aug. 18, 2022, at the Community Appreciation Night event at McCoy's Community Center at Fort McCoy, Wis. Nearly 60 people participated in the event that brings together Fort McCoy personnel with community leaders from nearby cities, townships, towns, and villages. It was the first event like this at the post since 2019.

SOUTH BAY, Fla. - Feb.22, 2023 --The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Jacksonville District and South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony at the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir project. The project will set the foundation for restoring the central portion of the Everglades ecosystem and sending water south. Col. James Booth, Jacksonville District Commander, addresses the guests during the groundbreaking ceremony.

Col. Mark Howard, 55th Wing commander, speaks to a crowd of miliary members and community leaders at the Bennie Davis Maintenance Facility on Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., Feb. 9, 2024. The community leaders and Offutt leadership signed a memorandum pledging to continue building stronger ties in their respective communities. (U.S Air Force

Col. Shawn Nokes, Director of Domestic Operations for the Illinois National Guard speaks during CW4 Peggy Bates 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 entir

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Nov. 30, 2022) Capt. Odin J. Klug, commanding officer, Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, tells Navy Exchange Souda Bay associates they impact quality of life every day during a ceremony for the 2021 Bingham Award in the Fitness Center onboard Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay on Nov. 30, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Stephen Messenger gives a presentation during the 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Observance on Jan. 16, 2024, in McCoys Community Center at Fort McCoy, Wis. The 2024 observance at Fort McCoy featured opening comments by Master Sgt. Ana Guzman with the Fort McCoy Equal Opportunity Office who organized the event. It also included an opening prayer by Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Amy Noble with the Fort McCoy Religious Support Office, and Messenger spoke about the legacy of MLK Jr. The 2024 theme for the observance was Remember! Celebrate! Act! A Day On, Not A Day Off! After Messenger gave his presentation, a video of one of Kings most famous speeches, Ive Been to the Mountaintop, was played for the observance attendees.

U.S. Air Force Col. Paul Sheets, 23rd Wing commander, gives his closing remarks for the 2023 Annual Awards at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Feb. 16, 2024. During his speech, Sheets urged the Airmen to remember that their accomplishments at Moody AFB have an impact beyond Southern Georgia. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Gen. Mark Kelly, commander of Air Combat Command, addresses the crowd of families, friends, military and civic leaders in attendance at the 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) Change of Command Ceremony at U.S. Air Force Gen. Mark Kelly, commander of Air Combat Command, addresses the crowd of families, friends, military and civic leaders in attendance at the 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) Change of Command Ceremony at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, 22 July 2022. During the ceremony, U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen Barry Cornish relinquished command of 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) and U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Evan Pettus assumed command.

U.S. Space Force Col. Robert Long speaks on the Space Force and Range of the Future panel during the California Defense Leadership Summit in Sacramento, Calif., Aug. 30, 2022. Long spoke alongside Michael Corriea, Vice President of Lockheed Martin Space, and Kaina Pereira, Senior Advisor, Business Development at the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development.

Garrison Commander Col. Michael Poss addresses event-goers during a Community Leader Engagement on April 19, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than a dozen community leaders from Tomah, Sparta, and other nearby municipalities gathered at Fort McCoy to see the posts mission first-hand. During their visit, the community leaders received a driving tour of the installation and made stops at the Combined Arms Collective Training Facility on South Post, Fort McCoy Commemorative Area, Fort McCoy Simulations Training Complex in the 200 block on the cantonment area, Garrison Headquarters, and McCoys Community Center where they received a lunch.

Chief Warrant Officer (4) Peggy Bates, Command Property Account Warrant Officer and Col. Steve Foster, Illinois National Guard Chaplain, listen as Col. Shawn Nokes, Director of Domestic Operations for the Illinois National Guard speaks during CW4 Peggy Bates 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

U.S. Army National Guard 1st. Sgt. Daniel Schaab is advanced to sergeant major, at the Ike Skelton Training Site, Jefferson City, Mo., Sept. 15, 2022. Gathered by family, friends and many teammates, Sgt. Maj. Schaab has made a significant positive impact on the lives and careers of his Soldiers over the years.

Tripler Army Medical Center Command Team and Staff gathered in the Kyser Auditorium to observe the Awards presentation.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Thomas Matechik, 23rd Security Forces Squadron commander, gives a speech during military working dog Timos retirement at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Jan. 13, 2023. Matechik spoke of Timo's highly successful career during his six years of military service. Among other missions, Timo deployed to Kuwait, providing a secure power projection platform for aircraft conducting operations across the Middle East and Central Asia.

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Nicholas Borgmeyer, 139th Security Forces Squadron, Missouri Air National Guard, is promoted to the rank of chief master sergeant during his promotion ceremony at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, Dec. 3, 2022. Chief master sergeant is the highest attainable rank for enlisted personnel in the U.S. Air Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Bradford J. Gering, commanding general of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, gives his closing remarks during the quarterly award recognition ceremony at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Nov. 2, 2022. The ceremony recognized Marines and Sailors for their exceptional work ethic and achievements during the 3rd quarter of fiscal year 2022.

221006-N-UB993-1061CAMP PENDLETON, Cali. (Oct. 6, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea speaks with Sailors and Marines assigned to l Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) during an all-hands call at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Oct. 6, 2022. Honea conducted his second fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

Lt. Col. Stephen McNamara assumed command of the 148th Air Support Operations Squadron during an assumption of command ceremony in Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania, Jan. 7, 2024. 148th ASOS personnel advise ground commanders in application of close air support and other air power into schemes of maneuver.

US Army Support Activity Fort Dix, New Jersey celebrates the 247th Birthday of the US Army at Infantry Park on ASA Fort Dix on June 14, 2022. The US Army is the nation's oldest military service having been founded by the Second Continental Congress on June 14, 1775. CSM James W. Van Zlike, Command Sergeant Major of ASA Fort Dix addresses the crowd at the 247th Army Birthday celebration at Infantry Park on ASA Fort Dix, New Jersey on June 14, 2022. Retired Sergeant Major of The Army Kenneth O. Preston delivers the keynote speech at the ASA Fort Dix 247th Army Birthday celebration at Infantry Park on ASA Fort Dix, New Jersey on June 14, 2022. Sergeant Major of the Army Preston served as the as the 13th Sergeant Major of the Army from January 15, 2004 to March 1, 2011. His seven year tenure as Sergeant Major of the Army is the longest in the 247-year history of the US Army. Sergeant Major of The Army Retired Kenneth O. Preston, Colonel Jon A. Brierton, Commander ASA

U.S. Air Force Col. Jon T. Hannah, 422d Air Base Group commander, speaks during an assumption of command ceremony at RAF Croughton, England, June 27, 2022. This will be the last ceremony Hannah presides over as the commander of the 422d ABG.

Lt. Col. Jason M. Wingeart from 2nd Battalion, 35th Regiment, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division speaks during the change of command ceremony at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, June 1, 2022. Wingeart is succeeded by the incoming commander Lt. Col. Peter B. Walther.

Personnel from the 49th Medical Group and other squadrons attend the 49th Medical Support Squadron inactivation ceremony April 29, 2022, on Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. The 49th MDSS has been operational since Sep. 1, 1994 and during that time they have won the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award four times.

Col. Michael C. Jensik addresses the 8th Military Police Brigade Watchdog” Brigade one last time as he officially relinquishes command during a change of command ceremony on Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, July 15, 2022. The "Watchdog" Soldiers, families, and supporters gathered at Hamilton Field to mark the passing of the colors from Jensik to Col. Charlie Green.

The U.S. Army Reserve 319th Expeditionary Signal Battalion (ESB), conducted a change of command and uncasting of the colors ceremony at Fort Hood, Texas on June 1, 2022. The presiding official, Brig. Gen. Michael J. Dougherty, Deputy Commanding General, 335th Signal Command (Theater), participated in the ceremony with the outgoing Commander, Lt. Col. Douglas Ullrich, and the incoming Commander Lt. Col. Stephanie Lee.

Defense Health Agency J1 Senior Enlisted Leader, Sgt. Major Isaac Bray, delivers remarks at the Patriot's Day Observance Ceremony held at the Defense Health Headquarters on Sept. 9, 2022, in memory of the 21st anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks.

Command Sgt. Maj. Brian Soper, the Minneosta National Guard Command Senior Enlisted Leader, gives opening remarks during an award ceremony, May 15, 2022. Twelve National Guard Soldiers who competed 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 Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

U.S. Army Maj. Annaliese Baumer prepares to assume command of the 572nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, Vermont Army National Guard, during a change of command ceremony held at a flight facility in North Clarendon, Vt., Baumer will serve as the first female commander in the unit's 100-year history.

Lt. Col. Matthew Gill, 911th Airlift Wing Civil Engineer Squadron commander, gives a speech after his assumption of command at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania, Nov. 6, 2022. Gill talked about his plan for the 911th CES moving forward under his command.

USACE Deputy Commanding General Maj. Gen. Richard Heitkamp speaks during an event that marked the beginning of the Mid-Chesapeake Bay ecosystem restoration project following an initial contract award of $43.1 million on October 6, 2022, at Fort McHenry.

Lt. Col. Anthony Tuero, 374th Maintenance Squadron outgoing commander, delivers a speech during the 374th MXS change of command ceremony, May 23, 2022, at Yokota Air Base, Japan. The change of command ceremony formally transferred command of the 374th MXS from Tuero to Maj. David Perkins.

Lt. Gen. Mary K. Izaguirre was sworn in as the 46th Surgeon General of the U.S. Army during a change of command ceremony hosted by Gen. Randy George, Army Chief of Staff, at Joint Base San Antonio - Fort Sam Houston, Jan. 25.

Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG) Brig. Gen. Stephen F. Logan, HIARNG Commander, gives a speech during the change of command ceremony at Kalaeloa, Hawaii, April 18, 2022. Col. Jonathan A. Ishikawa, outgoing commander of the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, relinquished the position of commander to Lt. Col (P) David R. Hatcher II.

Lt. Col. Jared W. Snawder, outgoing Commander, 39th Signal Strategic Battalion, gives a speech during 39th Strategic Signal Battalion change of command ceremony June 30, 2022 at Chièvres Air Base, Belgium. (photo by Henri Cambier)

Col. Barry Little, 341st Missile Wing commander, gives opening remarks during a Womens Equality Day celebration Aug. 26, 2022, at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont. The celebration included guest speakers and women-owned business vendors.

Maj. Gen. Michael Turley, adjutant general Utah National Guard, and Command Sgt. Maj. Spencer Nielsen, senior enlisted advisor, Utah National Guard, joined Elizabeth Smart, Suzie Skirvin, and Andrew Kalinen in an open discussion town-hall at Camp Williams, Utah, April 9, 2022. The town-hall highlighted Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, as well as overall resiliency within the force.

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