Military Ceremonies and Changes of Command

Photos capture formal military ceremonies, including unit deactivations and changes of command, showcasing service members in uniforms, saluting, and presenting colors.

CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti (Sept. 11, 2022)- During a ceremony this morning at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti (CLDJ) the United States Flag was lowered to half-staff in order remember the 2,977 victims of the terrorist attacks on our nation that occurred on 11 September 2001. Camp Lemonnier's leadership and Chief's Mess wanted to take the opportunity to reflect on the victims of this attack as well as those who served and gave the ultimate sacrifice supporting the Global War on Terrorism. As Americans, we chose to commemorate this day with act of service and remembrance. CLDJ serves as an expeditionary base for U.S. military forces providing support to ships, aircraft and personnel that ensure security throughout Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia.

U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Joshua Bradstreet, the commanding officer of Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, salutes the unit's colors during the squadron's deactivation ceremony in 64 Area on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 15, 2022. VMU-4 was reactivated in February 2011, and operated the RQ-21A Blackjack. The squadron was deactivated following the commandants guidance in Force Design 2030.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Thomas M. Siverts (left) and Col. James W. Lively (right), commanding officer, 11th Marine Exeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, stand at attention during the 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Nathan L. Golike, the oncoming commanding officer of 2d Air-Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, II MEF Information Group, salutes Lt. Col. Brian W. Schweers the outgoing commanding officer, during the unit's change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 24, 2022. During the ceremony, Schweers relinquished command of 2d ANGLICO to Golike.

021101-M-0431C-002. Base: Mcas, Cherry Point State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. D.A. Sims II (center), the outgoing 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley commanding general, passes the 1st Inf. Div. colors to U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Robert P. White (far right), the U.S. Army III Corps and Fort Hood commander, during a division change of command ceremony May 11, 2022, at Fort Rileys Cavalry Parade Field. The ceremony was held to honor Sims as the outgoing division commander, and to welcome U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John V. Meyer III as the incoming division commander.

Soldiers from Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois, stand in formation Sept. 9 before embarking on a 2.5-mile Remembrance Walk to remember the people lost during the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. The Soldiers carried American flags on a course through post that ended at the RIA 9/11 Memorial, where they placed the flags in a field adjacent to the memorial.

CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti (Sept. 11, 2022)- During a ceremony this morning at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti (CLDJ) the United States Flag was lowered to half-staff in order remember the 2,977 victims of the terrorist attacks on our nation that occurred on 11 September 2001. Camp Lemonnier's leadership and Chief's Mess wanted to take the opportunity to reflect on the victims of this attack as well as those who served and gave the ultimate sacrifice supporting the Global War on Terrorism. As Americans, we chose to commemorate this day with act of service and remembrance. CLDJ serves as an expeditionary base for U.S. military forces providing support to ships, aircraft and personnel that ensure security throughout Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia.

CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti (Sept. 11, 2022)- During a ceremony this morning at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti (CLDJ) the United States Flag was lowered to half-staff in order remember the 2,977 victims of the terrorist attacks on our nation that occurred on 11 September 2001. Camp Lemonnier's leadership and Chief's Mess wanted to take the opportunity to reflect on the victims of this attack as well as those who served and gave the ultimate sacrifice supporting the Global War on Terrorism. As Americans, we chose to commemorate this day with act of service and remembrance. CLDJ serves as an expeditionary base for U.S. military forces providing support to ships, aircraft and personnel that ensure security throughout Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia.

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. Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, Marine Aircraft Group 24, Marine Aircraft Group 24, march to their positions during a change of command ceremony, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Dec. 8, 2022. Lt. Col. Vanessa Clark relinquished command of VMM-268 to Lt. Col. Brandon Pope.

Lt. Col. David Lycan, 51st Security Forces Squadron outgoing commander, renders a final salute as the squadron commander to his squadron at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, June 7, 2022. Changes of Command represent the formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a flight, squadron, group, wing or MAJCOM from one commanding officer to another. They are a tradition rooted in military history, dating back to the 18th century.

A U.S. Marine Corps color guard with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (1/8), 2d Marine Division, presents the unit colors at a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 24, 2022. During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Christopher R. Richadella, the outgoing commanding officer of 1/8, relinquished his role as commanding officer to Lt. Col. William T. Kerrigan.

Lt. Gen. Robert Pat White, III Armored Corps Commanding General, and Brig. Gen. Christopher Beck, incoming Deputy Commanding General of Maneuver, salute the flag outside III Armored Corps Headquarters, at Fort hood, Texas, May 26, 2022.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Erik C. Quist, right, outgoing commanding officer, passes the Warfighting Instructor Battalions colors to Lt. Col. Christopher D. Upton, left, on-coming commanding officer, during the Warfighting Instructor Battalions change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 10, 2022. Lt. Col. Erik C. Quist relinquished command to Lt. Col. Christopher D. Upton.

U.S. Marines with 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, render salutes to Col. Kevin Root, the commanding officer of I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 21, 2022. During the ceremony Lt. Col. Benjamin Heredia relinquished his post to Lt. Col. Curtis Williamson.

U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Installations Pacific, Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, conduct a change of command ceremony outside of MCIPACs Headquarters Building, Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, on June 24, 2022. Change of command ceremonies allow individuals to witness the official passing of authority change between officers. During the ceremony, the outgoing commander passes the units guidon to the incoming commander, symbolizing the transfer of authority, responsibility, and total commitment to all Marines and Sailors.

050615-A-8791C-003. Base: Fort Leonard Wood State: Missouri (MO) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: NORTH WEST

New Jersey National Guard Soldiers and Airmen render honors during 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 Col. Tracy Perry, the incoming commanding officer for Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, salutes during a change of command ceremony at Paige Field House on Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 5, 2022. The Marines of H&S Bn. provide administrative and training support for personnel assigned to Camp Pendleton.

Army Reserve Soldiers from the 88th Readiness Division color guard render honors to the official party during the change of command ceremony for the 88th Readiness Division between Maj. Gen. Darrell J. Guthrie, outgoing commander, and Matthew V. Baker, incoming commander, at Fort McCoy, Wis., July 30, 2022.

Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Gonzales commands a formation during an activation ceremony on Fort Hood, Texas, Sept. 7. This ceremony activated Delta Battery, 6th Battalion, 56th Air Defense Artillery Regiment.

U.S. Marines with the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band perform during the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit Composite Ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 15, 2022 . Battalion Landing Team 2/4, Combat Logistics Battalion 13, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, and Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 362 participated in the 13th MEU Composite Ceremony which commemorated the 13th MEU officially assuming command over the major subordinate elements in preparation for their upcoming deployment to the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force render honors during the I MEF change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 16, 2024. Maj. Gen. Bradford J. Gering relinquished command of I MEF to Lt. Gen. Michael S. Cederholm. I MEF provides the Marine Corps a globally responsive, expeditionary, and fully scalable Marine Air-Ground Task Force, capable of generating, deploying, and employing ready forces and formations for crisis response, forward presence, major combat operations, and campaigns. Marine Corps

The U.S. Marine Corps III Marine Expeditionary Force band drum major marches during a change of command ceremony on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, June 24, 2022. During the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Brian Wolford, outgoing commanding general, relinquished command of 3rd MLG to Brig. Gen. Adam L. Chalkley. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Forces comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Connor Hirth, an antitank missile gunner with 2d Battalion, 2d Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division (MARDIV), participates in a retirement ceremony for Chief Warrant Officer 5 Joshua S. Smith, the 2d MARDIV gunner, on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 15, 2022. Smith retires after 30 years of honorable service.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 1st Brigade Engineer Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division salute the U.S. flag during a change of command ceremony at Bolesławiec, Poland, April 4, 2022. The 1st Brigade Engineer Battalion, also known as "Diehard," is the oldest engineer battalion in the U.S. Army, tracing its lineage all the way to 1846.

U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Jeremiah J. Sherman, headquarters commandant for the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, retires at the Beirut Memorial, Jacksonville, North Carolina, April 14, 2022. Sherman retired from active duty after 23 years of honorable and faithful service.

Maj. Erik Miller, brigade executive officer and commander of troops, salutes Col. Scott C. White, brigade commander, during the unit's change of command ceremony June 30, 2022. White took command of the unit from Col. Mark Huhtanen during the ceremony.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. David Baldwin, Californias adjutant general, marks his retirement with a ceremony at Mather Field, Sacramento, California, Sept. 28, 2022. Baldwins wife, children, and colleagues gather to celebrate his achievements and 40 years of service.

Soldiers assigned to the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson march as flag bearers, May 26, 2022, at Fort Carson, Colorado. The ceremony was the last of several events held in celebration of this year's Ivy Week

Airmen of the 28th Security Forces Squadron render salutes as the flag is lowered during the Police Week retreat ceremony May 15, 2013, on Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.. National Police Week has been a time to honor local, state and federal law enforcement members currently serving and those who have fallen officers for 47 years.

In support of MICC Tasker T-22-263-02 ACC Command Video

More than 500 Airmen assigned to the 331st Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, August 17-18, 2022. Maj. Gen. Michele C. Edmondson, Commander, Second Air Force, Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, reviewed the ceremony.

CORONADO, Calif. (April 15, 2022) Cmdr. Blake Whittle, the new commanding officer of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Expeditionary Support Unit (EODESU) 1, departs the units change-of-command ceremony at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, April 15, 2022. EODESU-1 plans, coordinates, integrates and provides logistics support that allows Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 1 and its units to support the fleet and joint force in accomplishing national objectives.

DF-ST-88-10417. Base: Pope Air Force Base State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

1st Air Cavalry Brigade held a change of command ceremonytoday between outgoing commander Col. Reggie Harper and incoming commanderCol. Timothy Jaeger on Storck Barracks.

Members of the 81st Security Forces Squadron participate in a retreat ceremony at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, May 20, 2022. The ceremony, hosted by the 81st SFS, was the last of several events held in celebration of this year's Police Week.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Bradford J. Gering, outgoing commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, renders honors to the playing of the national anthem during the I Marine Expeditionary Force change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 16, 2024. Maj. Gen. Gering relinquished command of I MEF to Lt. Gen. Michael S. Cederholm. I MEF provides the Marine Corps a globally responsive, expeditionary, and fully scalable Marine Air-Ground Task Force, capable of generating, deploying, and employing ready forces and formations for crisis response, forward presence, major combat operations, and campaigns. Marine Corps

1st Sgt. Jonathan Callahan, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, leads his troops in a salute as the national anthem plays during a change of command ceremony at Camp Echo, March 21. Callahan is from Eugene, Ore.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Lester L. Williams, offgoing sergeant major, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, receives the national flag from 1st Sgt. Marvin Brown, Headquarters Company 1st Sgt., Headquarters Battalion, MCBH, during the Old Glory presentation as part of the MCBH Relief and Appointment and Retirement ceremony, MCBH, Aug. 19, 2022. Williams was relieved by Sgt. Maj. Joseph J. Caputo as the MCBH Sergeant Major. Williams served over 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Command Sgt. Maj. Blake Wise takes command of troops at the Change of Responsibility Ceremony for the Troop Battalion at Madigan Army Medical Center on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., on Aug. 3.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Jay M. Bargeron 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.

U.S. Army Soldiers with the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, present the colors at "Fight Night for Heroes", the first ever mixed martial arts fights held in Iraq, at Forward Operating Base Marez in Mosul, Iraq, September 5, 2009. The event, sponsored by Xtreme Couture G.I. Foundation, featured mostly active duty military members with 17 fights on the card and over 1,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and civilians in attendance.

U.S. forces stand in formation as King Fahd of Saudi Arabia conducts a review of international coalition forces united against Saddam Hussein during Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU)

U.S. Marines with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing march for pass and review during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 12, 2022. Major General Brian W. Cavanaugh relinquished command of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing to Major General Eric E. Austin. 1st Marine Aircraft Wing is the aviation combat element of III Marine Expeditionary Force. Its mission is to conduct air operations in support of the Fleet Marine Forces to include offensive air support, anti-air support, assault support, aerial reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and control of aircraft and missiles.

Two Change of Responsibility ceremonies were held consecutively at the Regional Training Institute Plaza, Fort Harrison, Mont. on July 19. Command Sgt. Maj. Jerry Brown relinquished responsibility of the 208th RTI to Command Sgt. Maj. William Frank. Command Sgt. Maj. Frederick Haerter then relinquished responsibility of 95th Troop Command to Brown. Haerter has been selected to become the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Deputy Commanding General of the U.S. Army Pacific Command at Fort Shafter, Hawaii. We wish the Sergeants Major the best of luck in their new positions and thank them for their service to their state and nation.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct close order drill on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., March 30, 2023. Drill formations instill confidence, teamwork and discipline within recruits.

040527-M-3856G-063. Base: Mcas, Beaufort State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marines of Marine Air Support Squadron (MASS) 2 present arms during a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, July 28, 2022. The ceremony symbolized the passing of trust and confidence from the outgoing sergeant major of MASS-2, 1st Sgt. Jessica Davila, to the incoming sergeant major, Sgt. Maj. Emanuel Hudson.

U.S. Marines and attendees stand for the national anthem during a change of command ceremony for Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, Marine Aircraft Group 24, Marine Aircraft Group 24, aboard Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Dec. 8, 2022. Lt. Col. Vanessa Clark relinquished command of VMM-268 to Lt. Col. Brandon Pope.

U.S. Marines with the Headquarters and Support Battalion color guard carry the colors during Col. Ian Clark's retirement ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station on Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 1, 2022. Col. Clark was the former Chief of Staff and Deputy Commander for Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, and retired after 33 years of honorable service. Col. Clark is a native of Peterborough, Ontario.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Michael E. McWilliams, the incoming commanding general of 2nd Marine Logistics Group, left, and Brig. Gen. Forrest C. Poole III, the outgoing commanding general of 2nd Marine Logistics Group, stand at attention during a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 8, 2022. During the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Michael E. McWilliams assumed command of 2nd Marine Logistics Group from Brig. Gen. Forrest C. Poole III.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Michael Taylor, the commanding officer of Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, center, passes the sword of office to Sgt. Maj. James Myrick, the sergeant major of CLB 2, during a relief and appointment ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 29, 2022. During the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Myrick assumed the post of battalion sergeant major from Sgt. Maj. Davoren. Davoren honorably served as the battalion sergeant major of CLB-2 for two years and retired after 25 years of active-duty service.

U.S. Marines with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing march for pass and review during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 12, 2022. Major General Brian W. Cavanaugh relinquished command of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing to Major General Eric E. Austin. 1st Marine Aircraft Wing is the aviation combat element of III Marine Expeditionary Force. Its mission is to conduct air operations in support of the Fleet Marine Forces to include offensive air support, anti-air support, assault support, aerial reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and control of aircraft and missiles.

The 378th Air Expeditionary Wings honor guard team, comprised of U.S. Airmen deployed to Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, presents the colors, Sept. 11, 2022, during a Remembrance Ceremony in honor of the victims and first responders who passed away on September 11, 2001. Since the events of 9/11, the U.S. has deployed hundreds of thousands to the outer limits of its American borders and to every corner of the globe to eradicate terrorism.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Neil Owens (left), commanding officer of Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji and Lt Col. Charles Nash (right), commanding officer of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines participate in the opening ceremony for Exercise Shinka 22.1 at Camp Fuji, Japan, June 11, 2022. Shinka exemplifies a shared commitment to realistic training that produces lethal, ready, and adaptable forces capable of decentralized operations across a wide range of missions. 3/2 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program.

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 643rd Regional Support Group, serve as color guard during a Change of Command Ceremony, Defense Supply Center Columbus, June 11, 2022. The color guard is a tradition within the U.S. Military and is present at every Change of Command Ceremony within the organization. (Photo by U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. Megan Fischer)

U.S. Marines with Marine Air Support Squadron (MASS) 2 participate in a ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Jan. 19, 2024. The ceremony was held in celebration of MASS-2's 81st Anniversary.

Marines and sailors with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, return home to their friends and family after about 8 months of deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Oct. 18 2013.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Adam R. Sacchetti, commanding officer, 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, gives remarks during the redesignation ceremony of 1st Battalion, 3d Marines at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 23, 2022. 1/3 redesignated to the 3rd Littoral Combat Team where it will be organized, trained, and equipped to support sea control and sea denial operations within actively contested maritime spaces as part of a modernized force, integrated with the Navy and other joint force elements. The redesignation demonstrates significant progress towards the FD2030 initiative.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Jeffery Perry, battalion sergeant major of Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 6, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, carries the battalion colors during a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 13, 2022. During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Emmaline Hill assumed command of CLB-6 from Lt. Col. Michael Vincent.

U.S. Air Force Col. Eric Schmidt, 432nd Wing/432nd Air Expeditionary Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Adrienne Warren, 432nd Wg/432nd AEW command chief, led the POW/MIA vigil run/walk at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, Sept. 15, 2022. Airmen honored service members who are or have been prisoners of war or declared missing in action.

060704-A-7377C-030. Base: Fort Bragg State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: SOUTHEAST

220909-N-LR905-1027 NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 9, 2022) - Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class Rich Bray, left, and Personnel Specialist 1st Class Kaylyn Weatherford, both selected for advancement to the rank of Chief Petty Officer, assigned to Commander, Navy Reserve Forces Command (CNRFC), prepare to raise the national ensign on the 21st anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. CNRFC is the Navy Reserve headquarters responsible for readiness, oversight, manpower management, logistics, financial management, mobilization and training of nearly 60,000 Sailors in executing operational support and warfighting missions.

Gunnery Sgt. Tania T. Zych, a production recruiter with Recruiting Station San Antonio, Texas (RS San Antonio), was promoted in front of the Iwo Jima Monument at the Marine Military Academy in Harlingen, Texas by Capt. Luis E. Benavides, the Operations Officer with RS San Antonio, Jan. 6, 2024.

U.S. Army Soldiers, assigned to the 3rd Medical Command (Deployment Support), march during a change of command ceremony at Fort Gillem, Georgia, September 18, 2022. These types of ceremonial formations signify unit cohesion and are a part of maintaining Army customs and courtesies.

Brig. Gen. Phillip N. Frietze, commanding general of 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, gives a speech during 1st Supply Battalions change of command ceremony on Camp Pendleton California, June 29, 2022. The change of command ceremony marked the passing of command from Col. Siebrand Niewenhous to Col. Taunja Menke.

U.S. Marines with 1st Landing Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group,I Marine Expeditionary Force, take part in a change of command ceremony onCamp Pendleton California, June 22, 2022. The 1st LSB change of commandceremony marked the passing of command from Lt. Col. Jonathan L. Peterson toLt. Col. Autumn D. Swinford.

220928-N-EH998-1028 GULF OF ADEN (Sept. 28, 2022) Sideboys salute Capt. Robert Francis, commander of Destroyer Squadron 50, during a change of command ceremony aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) in the Gulf of Aden, Sept. 28. USS Nitze is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

040329-M-8530M-042. Base: Camp Al Qaim State: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Army Col. Stephen E. Capehart, commander of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, explains the history of tanker boots to Polish Land Forces Gen. Jarosław Mika, general commander of Branches of the Armed Forces, during the opening ceremony of the Abrams Tank Training Academy at Biedrusko, Poland, Aug. 10, 2022. The Abrams Tank Training Academy was established to teach Polish tank crewmen on operations, tactics and maintenance of the M1 Abrams tanks, bringing the U.S. and Poland closer as allies.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Manlee Herrington, incoming commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group 24, gives a speech during a change of command ceremony, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 17, 2022. Col. Brian Koch relinquished command to Herrington.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Steven R. Rudder, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (MARFORPAC), passes the colors to the incoming commander, Lt. Gen. William M. Jurney, 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.

A firing party with Bravo Company, Marine Barracks Washington, fires a volley during a Sunset Parade at the Marine Corps War Memorial, Arlington, Va., July 26, 2022. The hosting official for the evening was General Ryan P. Heritage, Commanding General, Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command & Marine Corps Space Command. The guest of honor was Lt. Gen. Timothy D. Haugh, incoming Deputy Commander for United States Cyber Command.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Cory Tribble, left, executive officer, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Bravo Company, and Lance Cpl. Maurice Dellofano, right, a satellite transmissions systems operator with MWCS-18, Bravo Co, stand at parade rest during the MWCS-18, Bravo Co activation ceremony, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 1, 2022. The company activated in accordance with the Marine Corps progression towards Force Design 2030.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Cory Tribble, left, executive officer, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Bravo Company, and Lance Cpl. Maurice Dellofano, right, a satellite transmissions systems operator with MWCS-18, Bravo Co, stand at parade rest during the MWCS-18, Bravo Co activation ceremony, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 1, 2022. The company activated in accordance with the Marine Corps progression towards Force Design 2030.

U.S. Army Soldiers raise their color guard flags during a change of command ceremony at Fort Gillem, Georgia, September 18, 2022. The color guard honors and upholds Army tradition and is an essential part of ceremonies.

U.S. Army Soldiers raise their color guard flags during a change of command ceremony at Fort Gillem, Georgia, September 18, 2022. The color guard honors and upholds Army tradition and is an essential part of ceremonies.

U.S. Marines with the Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego Color Guard march in formation during a graduation ceremony at MCRD San Diego, Sept. 16, 2022. Graduation took place at the completion of the 13-week transformation, which included training for drill, marksmanship, basic combat skills, and Marine Corps customs and traditions.

030220-M-5150A-006. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Camp Ripper Country: Kuwait (KWT) Scene Major Command Shown: 2nd AAB

Brig. Gen. Philip N. Frietze (Left), Commanding General, 1st Marine Logistics Group, Lt. Col. Melina Mesta, outgoing commanding officer of 7th Engineer Support Battalion, and Lt. Col. Sarah R. Culbertson, oncoming commanding officer of 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, salutes the colors during a change of command ceremony on Camp Pendleton California, June 15, 2022. The 7th ESB change of command ceremony marked the passing of command from Lt. Col. Melina Mesta to Lt. Col.Sarah Culbertson.

U.S. Marines with 1st Marine Division color guard, march out the colors during a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 10, 2022. During the ceremony Sgt. Maj. Dustin R. Benson replaced Sgt. Maj. Nicholas C. Elliott as the 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division sergeant major.

U.S. Soldiers with Regional Health Command-Europe render honors during a redesignation ceremony on Sep. 30, 2022 in Landstuhl, Germany. RHC-Europe redesignated to Medical Readiness Center-Europe.

The Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Color Guard performs during the 2022 MCAS Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 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.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Keith Brown Jr., Commander of the Regimental Support Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, salutes during the Regimental Support Squadron 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.

Members of the 202nd Engineering Installation Squadron (EIS) hoist a flag over their new home during a ribbon cutting ceremony at Robins Air Force Base, Ga., Jan. 21, 2012. The 202nd EIS had been stationed at the Macon, Ga., airport since the unit was formed in 1952. They began the move to their new location at Robins Air Force Base in Sept. 2012.

COL. Casper, commander of the Falcon Brigade and Brigade soldiers salutes the US flag and MAJ. GEN. Montgomery. Subject Operation/Series: UNOSOM II Base: Modadishu Country: Somalia (SOM)

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Joseph Papenfus an Army Chief Information Officer assigned to U.S. Army Europe and Africa, speaks to the distinguished guests and citizens, June 4, 2022, during the 4 Braves 90th Infantry Division 78th Commemoration Ceremony, at Monument des 4 Braves, Periers, Normandie, France. The Four Braves Monument stands in the city center and serves as a constant reminder that we are forever indebted to the Greatest Generation for their selfless service and sacrifice in the name of global peace and security.

Clemson University Air Force ROTC cadet Brittney McKeone, a senior studying electrical engineering from Aynor, SC, helps other ROTC cadets and community members place American flags around the Scroll of Honor for Veterans Day and Military Appreciation Week, Nov. 10, 2022. The Scroll of Honor is Clemson's memorial to its 497 alumni who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Their names are carved in the stones around the barrow. (Photo by Ken Scar)

Indy 500

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.

The Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego Color Guard presents the colors during a graduation ceremony for Fox Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, at MCRD San Diego, June 17, 2022. Graduation took place at the completion of the 13-week transformation which included training for drill, basic combat skills, and Marine Corps customs and traditions.

930204-D-9880W-015. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Members of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Joint Service Color Guard posts colors during the National POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony hosted by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu, Sept. 16, 2022. The event is held every year on the third Friday of September, honoring prisoners of war and missing-in-action service members. 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. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Austin Renforth, commanding general, Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), cuts a piece of cake during the Marine Corps historical uniform pageant at MCAGCC, Twentynine Palms, California, Nov. 9, 2022. The event included a historical uniform pageant and the traditional cake cutting ceremony in honor of the 247th Marine Corps birthday.

SOUDA BAY, Greece (May 27, 2018) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Marshall Roebuck salutes as Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Edward Tierra lowers the ensign on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Harry S. Truman is operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations alongside allies.

040723-M-3843C-203. Base: Marine Corps Air Station,Iwakuni Country: Japan (JPN)

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Zason Zeller, the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiments senior enlisted Soldier, stands at the head of a formation of Task Force Wolfhound Soldiers during a ceremony at Fort Bliss, Tx., Sep. 6. During the ceremony the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry colors were cased in preparation for deployment overseas. The colors will be unfurled once the unit arrives in Africa and assumes responsibility for a security mission as part of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa

The Kirtland Air Force Base Honor Guard presents the colors during a furling ceremony for the 377th Security Support Squadron Desert Mules guidon at Kirtland AFB, N.M., June 2, 2022. During the ceremony, the guidon was furled and cased to recognize the inactivation of the 377 SSPTS Desert Mules.

U.S. Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force participate in the III MEF change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 26, 2024. During the ceremony, Lt. Gen. James W. Bierman relinquished his duties as commanding general of III MEF to Lt. Gen. Roger B. Turner.

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