Military Ceremonies

Images of military change of command and appointment ceremonies, showcasing saluting personnel, flag displays, and formal gatherings.

Brig. Gen. Charlene Dalto, commander of the Land Component Command, Utah Army National Guard, takes charge of the colors to open the 67th annual Governors day at Camp Williams, Utah, Sept. 24, 2022. The time-honored tradition of Governors Day has been celebrated by the Utah National Guard since 1954, and allows the governor to inspect and speak to his troops.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Francis Donovan, the commanding general of 2d Marine Division (MARDIV), salutes the formation as part of a relief and appointment ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 18, 2022. After 2 years serving the division, Sgt. Maj. Krause moves on to be the sergeant major for Defense Information Systems Agency.

Command Sgt. Maj. Ed Rodriguez took responsibility of the 305th Military Intelligence Battalion at a change of responsibility ceremony on Historic Brown Parade Field at Fort Huachuca, Ariz., July 1.

Col. Terry R. Tillis, center, commander of the "Spartan Brigade," 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, passes the colors of the BattleKings Battalion," 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd ABCT, 3rd ID, to Lt. Col. Benjamin Maher, the battalion's incoming commander, during the BattleKings' change of command ceremony on Cottrell Field at Fort Stewart, Georgia, June 14, 2022. The passing of the colors signifies the transfer of command and with it the responsibility for the readiness and welfare of the unit's Soldiers and Families.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Steven R. Rudder, left, outgoing commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (MARFORPAC), and Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, right, commander, MARFORPAC, participate in the pass and review during the MARFORPAC change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 7, 2022. Rudder relinquished command to Jurney. With two-thirds of the Marine Corps operating forces assigned, MARFORPAC operates in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility, the largest Geographical Combatant Command in the U.S. Department of Defense.

Lt. Col. Joshua Long stands in front of the 29th Brigade Engineer Battalion color guard after taking command of the 29th BEB, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division during the Wayfinder change of command ceremony at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, June 3, 2022.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Maurice Barnett, the new Commanding General of the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, salutes to the American Flag during a change of command ceremony on July 12 in Sembach, Germany. Brig. Gen. Maurice Barnett assumed the command of 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command from Maj. Gen Greg Brady.

Brig. Gen. Charlene Dalto, commander of the Land Component Command, Utah Army National Guard, takes charge of the colors to open the 67th annual Governors day at Camp Williams, Utah, Sept. 24, 2022. The time-honored tradition of Governors Day has been celebrated by the Utah National Guard since 1954, and allows the governor to inspect and speak to his troops.

040527-M-3856G-084. Base: Mcas, Beaufort State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

New York National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 369th Sustainment Brigade salute during a farewell ceremony at Camp Smith, N.Y. on September 18, 2022. The brigade, known as the "Harlemhell Fighters" for the unit's service in World War I, will be deploying to Kuwait to provide logistics support Army forces in the Middle East.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Francis Donovan, right, the outgoing commanding general (CG) of 2d Marine Division (MARDIV), prepares to pass the division colors to Brig. Gen. Calvert Worth, the incoming CG of 2d MARDIV, at a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 18, 2022. The passing of the colors represents the transfer of the roles and responsibilities between the division commanders.

U.S. Air Force Airmen of the 108th Wing, New Jersey Air National Guard, stand at the position of attention at the 2022 New Jersey National Guard Military Review at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt, New Jersey, Oct.16, 2022. The Military Review is a 130-year-old tradition that allows the governor as commander-in-chief to review the Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Clint W. Alanis(center), commanding officer of 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, relinquishes Sgt. Maj. Rupert K. Palmer(left), of his duties as sergeant major of 5th ANGLICO, during a relief and appointment ceremony held at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 12, 2022. Palmer is passing his responsibilities as the sergeant major of 5th ANGLICO to Sgt. Maj. Junior E. Diaz(right). 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.

U.S. Marines with 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division, and members of the Northern Army, Japan Self-Defense Force, participate in the opening ceremony for exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Yausubetsu Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 1, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

U.S. Army Maj. Donald Barger, 344th Military Intelligence Battalion executive officer, stands at parade rest during the 344th MI BN change of command ceremony at Fort Concho, San Angelo, Texas, June 21, 2022. Barger was responsible for facilitating and overseeing the change of command.

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. Air Force members of the 233rd Space Groups Salutes during the National Anthem during the 233rd Communication Squadron change of command, Greeley Air National Guard Station, Greeley, Colorado, Oct 15, 2022. The 233rd provides immediate, worldwide missile warning, space launch and detection in the event of an attack against the United States.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Eric Smack, right, the outgoing sergeant major of 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, and Sgt. Maj. Christophe Stoudemayer, left, the incoming sergeant major of 3rd LSB, render salutes to Marines with 3rd LSB conducting a pass and review during a relief and appointment ceremony at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 17, 2024.The relief and appointment ceremony represented the official passing of responsibilities from the previous battalion sergeant major, Sgt. Maj. Eric Smack, to the new battalion sergeant major, Sgt. Maj. Christophe Stoudemayer.

U.S. Marines with 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division, and members of the Northern Army, Japan Self- Defense Force, participate in the opening ceremony for exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Yausubetsu Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 1, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

General Andrew P. Poppas Commanding General, U.S. Army Forces Command passes the guidon to the new III Armored Corps Commanding General, Maj. Gen. Sean Bernabe. Fort Hood, Texas. 4 October 2022. (Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. Desmond Cassell)

Airmen from the 9th Security Forces Squadron participate in the closing ceremony celebrating National Police Week, May 20, 2022, on Beale Air Force Base, California. Police Week pays special tribute to the heroic law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in their duty to serve and protect.

U.S. Navy Command Master Chief Richard Bolton (left), with 1st Marine Division, stands at attention during a change of charge ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 22, 2022. During the ceremony, Command Master Chief PatrickPaul Mangaran relinquished his post to Bolton.

The 1st Cavalry Division celebrated its 101st birthday with friendly competitions and ceremonies to build camaraderie amongst First Team Troopers, Sep. 12-16 at Fort Hood, Texas.To conclude the week-long celebration, thousands of Troopers and local community members attended a ceremony that was held to pay respects to the history and tradition of the cavalry.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Joseph Alverez, the outgoing Sgt. Maj. of Marine Air Control Squadron (MACS) 4, middle, hands over the non-commissioned sword to Lt. Col. Robert Williamson, the Commanding Officer of MACS-4, left, while the oncoming Sgt Maj. James Gray, right, stands at attention during a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 14, 2022. Sgt. Maj. Joseph Alverez was relieved by Sgt Maj. James Gray.

U.S. Marine Corps GySgt Eric Nelson, the supply chief of 4th Marine Corps District, receives the American flag during his retirement ceremony at New Cumberland, Pa., Sept. 2, 2022. GySgt Nelson served in the United States Marine Corps for twenty years which includes his participation in deployments to the Middle East all the way to recruiting command.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Maintenance Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Group (Experimental), conduct a relief and appointment ceremony at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 4, 2022. 3rd Maintenance Battalion conducted a relief and appointment ceremony to relieve Sgt. Maj. Shelby Smith. 1st Sgt. Marc Mangio was appointed to temporarily serve as the acting sergeant major.

U.S. Army Maj.Gen Greg Brady, former Commanding General for 10th Army Air and Missile Defense, salutes during a change of command ceremony July 12 in Sembach, Germany. Brig. Gen. Maurice Barnett assumed the command of 10th AAMDC from Maj. Gen Greg Brady.

U.S. Marines with 2d Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment (2/10), 2d Marine Division, salute the battalion colors at a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 10, 2022. During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Christopher Siekman, the outgoing commanding officer of 2/10, relinquished command to Lt. Col. Ryan Mathews.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Lisette Hernandez (center left), an aviation operations specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, stands at parade rest during a Change of Command ceremony for Lt. Col. Julian Flores, H&HS commanding officer, MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina, June 16, 2022. Hernandez has served on the Color Guard since Nov. 2019 and earned the position of Color Sergeant in early 2021.

Pfc. Jose Chacon from Fort Sill's Salute Battery, B battery, 2-2FAR adjusting his belt and uniform in preparation for the Independence Day observance ceremony on Fort Sill, July 4, 2022.

MESA, Ariz. - Brig. Gen. Royce P. Resoso, 335th Signal Command deputy commanding general, and Col. Patrick E. Hughes, 505th Signal Brigade commander, traveled to Mesa, Arizona, to conduct Relinquishment of Responsibility and Retirement ceremonies for Command Sgt. Maj. James A Milligan at Herrera Hall on the U.S. Army Reserve Center, February 24, 2024.A native of Monaca, Pennsylvania, Milligan entered the U.S. Marine Corps in 1991. He earned a Associates Degree in Business at the University of Phoenix in 2009, and he has attended many Army courses that included Basic Infantry Rifleman and Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic schools. He joined the Army Reserve in 2000 and reclassified to the Army Signal Corps in 2009.Dozens of old colleagues and family members came from around the country to celebrate Milligans retirement, where he gave a heart felt speech. He thanked his wife Jennifer and three children, Micael, Jeffery and Julia, for their sacrifice throughout his military career. United States s

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.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Brian Psolka, the outgoing commanding officer of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265, middle, salutes Col. Christopher Murray, the commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 36, left, during a retirement ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, May 26, 2022. Psolka served 20 years of honorable and faithful service to the Marine Corps.

Soldiers assigned to the "Spartan Brigade," 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, applaud after remarks made by Maj. Gen. Charles Costanza, commanding general of the 3rd ID and Fort Stewart, during the 2nd ABCT, 3rd ID, change of command ceremony on Cottrell Field at Fort Stewart, Georgia, June 16, 2022. The Spartan Brigade will complete reception and qualification on all its modernized vehicle platforms in the fall of 2022, and the 3rd ID will be complete its modernization in 2023, fulfilling the Army's modernization priority.

U.S. Marines and Sailors with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS) render a salute during an awards ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, South Carolina, Sept. 23, 2022. H&HS held the award ceremony to recognize Marines and Sailors for their accomplishments.

U.S. Soldiers with the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division and 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division stand at attention during a Victory Day remembrance ceremony at Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, May 8, 2022. Victory Day, or V - E Day in the United States, recognizes the end of World War II in the European theater, and remembers the sacrifices of service members and civilians lost during the conflict.

Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, Oregon Army National Guard, render a salute during the National Anthem at their demobilization ceremony in Albany, Oregon, June 13. The 2-162nd Infantry Battalion spent approximately 10-months in Kabul, Afghanistan, performing various security duties and training Afghan National Police forces.

UU.S. Marines with The Basic School participate in The Basic School Change of Command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Quantico, July 14, 2022. The Basic School mission is to train and educate newly commissioned or appointed officers in the high standards of professional knowledge, esprit-de-corps, and leadership to prepare them for duty as company grade officers in the operating forces, with particular emphasis on the duties, responsibilities, and warfighting skills required of a rifle platoon commander.

U.S. Soldiers with Brigade Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 588th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division perform a company change of commander ceremony, at Zagan, Poland, Aug. 31, 2022. The 3/4th ABCT is among other units assigned to 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.

117th Air Refueling Wing Members participate in a 9/11 remembrance at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama, Sept. 11, 2022. Chaplain (Capt.) Eric Guiffreda led wing members in prayer. (US Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Jeremy Farson)

Members of the 149th Fighter Wing held a prayer service at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas on May 26, 2022 in honor of the victims of the Uvalde, Texas school shooting. The prayer service was led by Chaplain Major Victor Pagan and was open to group prayer led by various members in attendance. (Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Ryan Mancuso)

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Michael E. McWilliams, right, commanding general of 2nd Marine Logistics Group, and Sgt. Maj. Wesley O. Turner II, sergeant major of 2nd MLG, stand at attention during morning colors before an awards ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 16, 2024. During the ceremony Marines and Sailors with 2nd MLG were awarded and recognized for their efforts and discipline during the calendar year of 2023 and the first quarter of 2024. Marine Corps

U.S. Navy Sailors and U.S. Marines, with I Marine Expeditionary Force, salute during the national anthem at a change of charge ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 26, 2024. The change of charge ceremony represents the relinquishment of duties from one command master chief to another.

1st Armored Division Band sounds the call, paving the way for the arrival of the new commander.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 3 participate in the CLB-3 change of command ceremony, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 10, 2022. Lt. Col. Joshua Gregory relinquished command to Lt. Col. Osman Sesay.

The brigade colors on stand brilliant as they prepare for the casing ceremony.

The 50th Expeditionary Signal Battalion-Enhanced (ESB-E), 35th Corps Signal Brigade welcomed their new commander during a change of command ceremony at Fort Bragg, N.C., on June 16, 2022. Lt. Col. Merlin Kynaston, an Elizabeth City N.C. native, assumed command of the 50th ESB-E from Lt. Col Mallory Wampler. The ceremony was officiated by Col. Bernard Brogan, the commander of the 35th Corps Signal Brigade.

The 762nd Transportation Company's color guard lines up prior to the start of Spc. Seaberry's posthumous award ceremony.

U.S. Soldiers with 588th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division perform a battalion change of command ceremony, Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, June 15, 2022. The 3/4th ABCT 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.

Tough Ombres from the 90th Sustainment Brigade conduct a change of command ceremony on Camp Pike in North Little Rock, Arkansas today. U.S. Army Reserve Brig. Gen. Kevin Meisler, Commander of the 4th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), is officiating the ceremony.Col. Stephen M. Pazak is relinquishing command to Col. Dixon T. Brockbank from Perry, Utah after serving as the brigade's commander since June 1, 2020.

U.S. Marines with Marine Air Control Group (MACG) 28 conduct a pass and review at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, June 23, 2022. The ceremony represented a transfer of responsibility and authority from Col. Michael C. McCarthy to Col. Brian D. McLean. MACG-28 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Michael Martinet addresses Marines of 3d Marine Division following a battle colors rededication ceremony at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan on Sept. 13, 2022. The ceremony commemorates the Divisions 80th Anniversary and its legacy of valor, honor, and fidelity. The 3d Marine Division was activated at Camp Elliot, San Diego, Sept. 16, 1942 and has taken part in combat operations from World War II and Vietnam through Iraq and Afghanistan. The current Marines of 3d Marine Division continue to build on this legacy today as a critical part of the stand-in force within the first island chain of the Indo-Pacific.

The 3rd Infantry Division color guard performs drill and ceremony during a twilight tattoo at Cottrell Field on Fort Stewart, Georgia, July 22, 2022. The twilight tattoo celebrates the constitution and organization of 3rd ID through performance and music, sharing the storied division's history for all past and present members of the Marne community. The event also highlighted the divisions Marne Hall of Fame with the goal of connecting current Dogface Soldiers with past Dogface Soldiers who demonstrated service within the division, their lifelong commitment to the divisions values, and either their valorous combat actions or their contributions to their chosen fields outside the division.

Senior Airman Crayton Noe, 7th Bomb Wing religious affairs Airman, salutes the U.S. flag while 1st Lt. Christopher Smith, 7th BW executive officer, sings the national anthem during the grand re-opening of the Soul Fire Café at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, June 3, 2022. The singing of the national anthem during ceremonies is one of the oldest military traditions to honor the U.S. flag.

U.S. Army Capt. Mellorie Clinton (right), commander of the Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, passes the company guideon to Col. Tony Dedmond, Deputy Commander of 10th AAMDC relinquishing her command as the HHB commander on May 24, 2022, at Sembach, Germany.

050121-A-5399B-165. Base: Fort Hood State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: NORTHEAST

Staff Sgt. Taylor Solano, 332d Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron Air Terminal Operations Center information controller and Base Honor Guard non-commissioned officer-in-charge, second from left, gives commands to the ceremonial detail during the master sergeant release ceremony at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, June 1, 2022. The Honor Guard provides military ceremonial support and dignified transfer support when called upon.

1st Sgt. Brian Pappaducas, the state casualty operations manager for the Iowa National Guard, stands at attention as Soldiers fold an American flag during an annual command retreat at the historic Camp Dodge Pool Pavilion in Johnston, Iowa, on May 26, 2022. Historically, reveille was sounded at sunset to signal sentries to begin their watch and direct Soldiers to their quarters for the evening. Today, command retreats are held to honor the American flag as it is raised and lowered. (U.S. Army National Guard photos by Staff Sgt. Tawny Schmit)

Lt. Col. Eric Megerdoomian relinquishes command of the 1-229th Attack Battalion, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade to Lt. Col. Lori Perkins at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. on Jun. 15, 2022.

Col. Edgar Arroyo, Commander of Troops holds formation at the Medical Readiness Command, Pacific re-designation ceremony on October 18, 2022, at Fort Shafter Army Base. (U.S. Army Photo)

Soldiers of the 578th Brigade Engineer Battalion participate in the change responsibility for Command Sgt. Maj. Alexandre Santana, incoming CSM of the 578 BEB, at Kearny Mesa Recreation Park, Calif., on June 4, 2022. The change of responsibility ceremony is a traditional event meant to reinforce noncommissioned officer authority in the U.S. Army and highlights their support to the chain of command.

Soldiers of the 578th Brigade Engineer Battalion participate in the change responsibility for Command Sgt. Maj. Alexandre Santana, incoming CSM of the 578 BEB, at Kearny Mesa Recreation Park, Calif., on June 4, 2022. The change of responsibility ceremony is a traditional event meant to reinforce noncommissioned officer authority in the U.S. Army and highlights their support to the chain of command.

290th Military Police Brigade, U.S. Army Reserve, held a change of command ceremony and a change of responsibility ceremony at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, on Friday, August 5, 2022. During the ceremony, Col. John Dunn relinquished command to the incoming commander, Col. Jonathan Bennett. Following the change of command, Command Sgt. Maj. Jeffery Culberson assumed responsibility from Command Sgt. Maj. Kyle Jenkins.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Roger B. Turner (left), the outgoing commanding general of the 1st Marine Division, and Maj. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, incoming the commanding general, present arms during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 8, 2022. The ceremony represented the transfer of responsibility, authority and accountability from Turner to Watson.

The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band and the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Color Guard performs during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 23, 2022. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

290th Military Police Brigade, U.S. Army Reserve, held a change of command ceremony and a change of responsibility ceremony at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, on Friday, August 5, 2022. During the ceremony, Col. John Dunn relinquished command to the incoming commander, Col. Jonathan Bennett. Following the change of command, Command Sgt. Maj. Jeffery Culberson assumed responsibility from Command Sgt. Maj. Kyle Jenkins.

U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Melodie Hunt, Battalion Sergeant Major for the 2-130th Airfield Operations Battalion, 449th Combat Aviation Brigade, (left), U.S. Army Lt. Col. Patrick J. Szvetitz, incoming commander for the 2-130th AOB (center left), U.S. Army Col. Michele Harper, Commander of the 449th CAB (center right), and U.S. Army Daniel J. McAuliffe outgoing commander for the 2-130th AOB (right), render honors as the National Anthem plays during a change of command ceremony at the Harnett Regional Jetport in Erwin, North Carolina, June 4, 2022. Lt. Col. Patrick J. Szvetitz assumed command of the 2-130th AOB in place of Lt. Col. Daniel J. McAuliffe.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to Regimental Support Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment pass the guidon to relinquish and assume command during a change of command ceremony at Rose Barracks, Germany, July 7, 2022. Lt. Col. Christopher Richardson relinquished command of the squadron to Lt. Col. Keith Brown Jr.

U.S. Marine Corps. marines assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 49 stand at attention during a relief and appointment retirement ceremony on July 17, 2022 at Joint Base McGuire Dix Lakehurst, N.J. The relief and appointment is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit from one senior noncommissioned officer to another. The mission of MAG 49 is to organize, train, and equip combat ready squadrons to augment and reinforce the active Marine forces in time of war, national emergency, or contingency operations, and to provide personnel and assault support capabilities to relieve operational tempo for active duty forces.

On the Finance Corps 247th birthday, the 25th DSB stood up the 125th Finance Battalion. Leading the new Battalion is LTC Leviticus D. Pope who assumed command of the battalion in conjunction with the activation.The support of this new battalion increases our capabilities in all aspects, and allows us to plan and synchronize operations in the joint division and core operation areas. Mahalo, and welcome back!

Tech Sgt. Darrell Charlee, Kirtland Air Force Base Inspection Agency client systems NCO in charge, renders a salute for the playing of the national anthem during a home-blessing ceremony for a Navajo Nation veteran in Shiprock, New Mexico, Feb. 28, 2024. Along with visiting several schools on the Navajo Nation Reservation, Charlee and three other Airmen representing the Indigenous Nations Equality Team attended the ceremony to show their support for the Vietnam War veteran. Roughly 18%, nearly one-in-five Native Americans either have or are currently serving in the U.S. armed forces, said Charlee. It goes back to that warrior ethos, native men and women have an almost instinctual obligation to serve their country and people. Air Force

U.S. Marines with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division conduct a change of command ceremony on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, on May 27, 2022. The ceremony represented the transfer of responsibility, authority and accountability from Lt. Col. Albert J. Goldberg to Lt. Col. Brian T. Spillane.

U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Division conduct a rehearsal for a battle colors rededication ceremony at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan Sept. 13, 2022. The ceremony commemorates the Divisions 80th Anniversary and its legacy of valor, honor, and fidelity. The 3d Marine Division was activated at Camp Elliot, San Diego, Sept. 16, 1942 and has taken part in combat operations from World War II and Vietnam through Iraq and Afghanistan. The current Marines of 3d Marine Division continue to build on this legacy today as a critical part of the stand-in force within the first island chain of the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Bryan Alfaro, sergeant major, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, reads Lance Cpl. Isabella Jones, military working dog handler, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), citation during an awards ceremony at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Jan. 19, 2024. This ceremony was held to award Cpl. Jarret Determan, military working dog handler, H&HS, and Jones the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Determan and Jones provided immediate medical attention to a fellow patron due to an accidental gunshot wound.

U.S. Army Soldiers bear the unit colors at the change of command ceremony between Gen. Gary Brito, incoming commander of U.S Army Training and Doctrine Command, and Gen. Paul Funk at Fort Eustis, Virginia, September 8, 2022.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Shawn M. Basco, former commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 31, is awarded the Legion of Merit by Maj. Gen. Michael Cederholm, commanding general of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, June 8, 2022. The ceremony represented a transfer of responsibility and authority from Basco to Col. Dustin J. Byrum. MAG-31 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

Lt. Col. Michael R. Sandstrom, former Commanding Officer of the 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, reliquishes command to Lt. Col. Gregg F. Curley in a change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island S.C., July 1, 2022. The 3rd Recruit Training Battalion is a part of the Recruit Training Regiment and houses the companies of India, Kilo, Lima, and Mike.

34th Infantry Division rallies together and teams up with the Gatesville Firefighters for group photos at Fort Cavazos, Texas, Feb.18, 2024. The Gatesville fighters assisted by allowing the public affairs team to use a fire truck to get a high angle for the group photo. (Minnesota National Guard

Members of the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division, under the direction of Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Rick Bloss (Right), march into the parade grounds for the start of CENTRASBAT (Central Asian Peacekeeping Battalion) 2000 opening ceremonies on Sepember 13th, 2000. CENTRASBAT 2000 is a multi-national peacekeeping and humanitarian relief exercise sponsored by United States Central Command (U.S. CENTCOM) and hosted by former Soviet Republic Kazakhstan in Central Asia, Sep. 11-20, 2000. Exercise participants include approximately 300 U. S. troops including personnel from U.S. CENTCOM, from the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and 5th Special Forces .... Complete Scene Caption: Members of the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division, under the direction of Battalion Commander Lieutenant Colonel Rick Bloss (Right), march into the parade grounds for the start of CENTRASBAT (Central Asian Peacekeeping Battalion) 2000 opening ceremonies on Sepember 13th,

U.S. Army Pacific Commander Gen. Charles A. Flynn hands off the guidon to Brig. Gen. Kevin Meisler as he takes command of the 311th Signal Command Theater (SC (T)) during a change of command ceremony at Palm Circle in Fort Shafter, Hawaii, on July 15, 2022. Meisler comes to the 311th SC (T) from the 4th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) at Fort Sam Houston, where he served nearly two years as commanding general.

Col. Chad Holesko assumed command of the 180th Fighter Wing from Col. Michael DiDio during a change of command ceremony in Swanton, Ohio on Oct. 15, 2022. Holesko previously served as the 180FW maintenance group commander.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Roger B. Turner, 1st Marine Division commanding general, salutes as honors are rendered during the change of command ceremony for 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion at Camp Pendleton, California, June 14, 2022. During the Ceremony, Lt. Col. Wilson M. Moore relinquished command to Lt. Col. Daniel R. Petronzio.

Lt. Col. Gregory Polk, the Task Force Pioneer commander, salutes 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.

050322-A-6157W-027. Base: Fort Lewis State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Mark R. Liston, outgoing commanding officer, gives his remarks during the during the Weapons Training Battalion change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, July 28, 2022. The ceremony was held to relinquish the command from Liston to Col. Gregory L. Jones.

U.S. Army Soldiers with Company C, 1st Battalion, 222d Aviation Regiment, perform the daily flag detail June 8, 2022 at Fort Eustis, Virginia. Flag handlers ensure correct folding of the flag and ensure the flag does not touch the ground.

SCHRIEVER SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Space Base Delta 1 conducted a reveille ceremony at Schriever SFB, Colorado, 12 September, 2022. During the ceremony, SBD 1 Commander, U.S. Space Force Colonel, David Hanson, spoke on the significance of service and commitment to the nation's prisoners of war and those missing in action.

The Texas Military Forces prepares for their international guest, General Vlastimicil Picek, Chief of the General Staff, Armed Forces of the Czech Republic, to arrive Austin Aviation Support Facility, July 27, 2010.He is visiting to tour our pre-deployment training facility and exchange views on how its capabilities could be leveraged to further improve Czech pre-deployment efforts.

A U.S. Marine Corps color guard with 10th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division march in a parade during a Mardi Gras celebration on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 21, 2024. The 10th Marine Regiment participated in the first Mardi Gras parade on Camp Lejeune to help build a sense of community between Marines and their families. Marine Corps

U.S. Marines serving as the color guard, assigned to the 12th Marine Corps District, Western Recruiting Region, stand at parade rest during a change of command and retirement ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California, July 15, 2022. U.S. Marine Corps Col. James B. Conway, the outgoing commanding officer, relinquished command of the 12th Marine Corps District to Col. Mike E. Ogden, the oncoming commanding officer. A change of command ceremony is a time-honored tradition which formally signifies the transfer of command and entails the total accountability, authority, and responsibility from one individual to another.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Thomas M. Siverts (left) and Col. James W. Lively (right) embrace during the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit's change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 2, 2022. The ceremony was held to relinquish command from Lively to Siverts.

070121-A-8359B-007. Base: Fort Buchanan State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Col. Amy Downing, commander of 101st Division Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), uncases her brigade colors at Tower Barracks Parade Field, Germany, Oct. 6, 2022. The uncasing of the Lifeliners' colors symbolizes their arrival to the European theater and represents the history, honor, and esprit de corps of the Soldiers of 101st Division Sustainment Brigade.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Christopher McGuire, incomming Comanding Officer of Weapons and Field Training Battalion, left, shakes the hand of Col. Carlos Jackson, right, during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 28, 2023. Col. Jackson relinquised command to Col. Christopher McGuire, who took charge as the Executive Officer of Weapons and Field Training Battalion, Marine Recruit Depot, San Diego.

Members of the 181st Intelligence Wing salute a retreat ceremony at Hulman Field Air National Guard Base, Ind., Sept. 10, 2022. The flag was lowered, folded in a triangle, and presented to Chief Master Sgt. Michael C. May, the state command chief for the Indiana Air National Guard, for his retirement.

From left to right, Airman 1st Class Elyse Wilson, Airman 1st Class Jatravious Ingram, and Airman 1st Class Pierce DeFilippo, Yokota Air Base honor guard members, participate in a Retreat Ceremony as part of the 2022 Yokota Veterans Day Ceremony at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Nov. 10, 2022. The ceremony included a formation with service members from each U.S. military branch, as well as members of the Japan Self-Defense Force, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9555 and local Girl and Boy Scout troops. The ceremony served as a time to reflect on those who served generations past and commemorate their selfless and courageous actions in service to their country.

U.S. service members assigned to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) conduct a disinterment ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu, Hawaii, Feb. 26, 2024. From the approximately 2,000 remaining World War II unknowns in the cemetery, eight caskets were transferred to the DPAA laboratory, where they will undergo further scientific analysis and possible identification. Army

The U.S. Army Reserves 200th Military Police Command welcomed Brig. Gen. Cary Cowan Jr. as its new commanding general during a change-of-command ceremony Aug. 26 on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. Cowan assumed command from Maj. Gen. John Hussey during the ceremony, which was presided over by Maj. Gen. Gregory Mosser, U.S. Army Reserve Command deputy commanding general.

Today, 2-2 Assault Helicopter Battalion, 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, conducted a change of command. Col. Aaron Martin is accompanied by Lt. Col Bridget Dalziel, the outgoing commander and Lt. Col. Scott Gale, the incoming commander, saluting the formation prior to inspecting them.

U.S. Marines with II Marine Expeditionary Force, render honors to Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, outgoing commanding general, II Marine Expeditionary Force, during the change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, August 18, 2022. Lt. Gen. Jurney relinquished command to Lt. Gen. David A. Ottignon.

110325-N-SI773-985PORT HUENEME, Calif. (March 25, 2011) Sailors assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5 react after being announced at the 2nd annual Vietnam-6 Memorial Super Squad competition. The event is a tribute to the six deployments NMCB-5 made to Vietnam during Vietnam War and tested squads on all aspects of administration, military tactics and physical readiness.

of 4