Military Ceremonies and Events

Photographs of military change of command ceremonies and commemorative events, highlighting formal presentations and troop gatherings.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. C.J. Boston speaks at Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. 77th Annual 12th District Meeting in Las Vegas, Nev., May 17, 2022. A reoccurring theme at the conference was the importance of mentorship.

U.S. Air Force Col. Rebecca S. Elliot, 628th Medical Group commander, recognizes the family support in attendance during the 628th MDG change of command ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, June 24, 2022. Elliot relinquished command to Col. Anadis Collado, incoming 628th Medical Group commander.

U.S. Air Force Col. Robert Vidoloff, 691st Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Group commander, speaks during the 41st Intelligence Squadron Activation and Assumption of Command Ceremony, Aug. 18, 2022, at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland. The 41st IS was recently activated and delivers actionable ISR for cyber national mission force operations in order to deter, disrupt, and if necessary, defeat adversary cyberspace operations to defend the nations critical infrastructure, key resources and freedom of action in cyberspace.

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Marlon Burton, a group superintendent with the 182nd Mission Support Group, Illinois Air National Guard, is promoted to chief master sergeant by group commander Col. Steven Rice, in Peoria, Illinois, on April 30, 2022.

Medica hosted a Memorial Day flag raising and dedication event, May 26, 2022. The ceremony commemorated the first time a U.S. flag was raised at Medica. It also gave service members of the 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment an opportunity to thank Medica for their support while deployed. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

Retired U.S. Army Col. Greg Gadson speaks during a leader and professional development session at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., April 6, 2023.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. C.J. Boston speaks at Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. 77th Annual 12th District Meeting in Las Vegas, Nev., May 17, 2022. A reoccurring theme at the conference was the importance of mentorship.

Honorable Mark Gordon, Governor of Wyoming, addresses Soldiers, friends, and families of the 149th Aviation Battalion, Wyoming Army National Guard, during their deployment ceremony at the Joint Forces Readiness Center auditorium, Cheyenne, Wyo., June 9, 2022. Also in attendance was the First Lady of Wyoming, Jennie Gordon, who comes from a military family.

Capt. David Adams, Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) addresses guests at the CFAS Navy Ball held Oct. 13, 2022 at CFAS in celebration of the U.S. Navys 247th birthday. The theme of the U.S. Navys 247th birthday was "On Watch - 24/7 for 247 Years," which highlighted the Navy's enduring ability to remain fully ready to respond to and effectively deter emergent threats.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers South Atlantic Division held a hurricane response tabletop exercise to help prepare for response in the event of a hurricane making landfall in the southeast. Brig. Gen. Jason Kelly, commander, offers feedback to the participants.

Navy Capt. Hasan Hobbs, a neuroradiologist at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, said although Juneteenth is a time for reflection, it also provides an opportunity to look forward with encouragement, motivation, inspiration and a sense of resiliency," Hobbs served as a keynote speaker during the inaugural Juneteenth celebration at WRNMMC on June 16.

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

Col. John Cluck, 139th Airlift Wing Commander, gifts Lt. Col. Erik Smith, assigned to the 139th Operations Group, Missouri Air National Guard, with a photo of him and his young child during Smiths retirement ceremony at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, April 2, 2023. Smith retired after nearly 24 years of service.

Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo delivers remarks at an event in honor of Veterans Day, at the Department of State, Washington, D.C., November 12, 2019.

Lt. Col Christopher Olson took command of the 346th Test Squadron from Lt. Col. Adan Reyes during a change of command ceremony June 27, 2023 at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Col. Thomas Bodnar, 318th Cyberspace Operations Group, was the presiding officer of the ceremony.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kevre Hendricks, 73rd Army Band, Virgin Islands National Guard, provides the welcoming remarks during the promotion ceremony of Chief Warrant Officer 4 Mervin T. Mills, Virgin Islands National Guard, Joint Force Headquarters, at the Readiness Training Institute building, June 04, 2022. Mr. Mills is being promoted to Chief Warrant Officer 5 which is the highest chief warrant officer grade that can be achieved and are described as master-level technical and tactical experts in their field.

061207-F-2090M-024. Base: Bethesda State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: NAVAL STATION BETHESDA

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro participates in the commissioning of the USS John L. Canley (ESB 6), Feb. 17. The ship is named for Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. John L. Canley, who was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2018 for his actions in 1968 during the battle Hue City, Vietnam.

Retired Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley, a motivational speaker and former 314th Airlift Wing command chief, discusses connectivity with Airmen at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, Jan. 16, 2024. Brinkley Visited Fairchild as a part of Gen. Mike Minihans, commander of Air Mobility Command, initiative to embrace a Warrior Heart culture where individuals prepare their minds, bodies and crafts to be ready now for the difficulty of fights Airmen may face in the future. Brinkley noted how ensuring Airmen have a sense of belonging and a support system is key to maintaining retainability and cultivating a better Air Force culture. We have to help Airmen understand that they're part of us, we lose people because they never felt connected to us, Brinkley explained.

Nichelle Cunningham, 628th Air Base Wing executive assistant, sings the national anthem during the 628th Air Base Wing Change of Command Ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, July 15, 2022. The 628th ABW provides installation support to more than 60 DoD and federal agencies serving more than 90,000 Airmen, Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, Coast Guardsmen, civilians, dependents and retirees.

021011-F-1851U-012. Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

Mr. Lee James, III makes remarks at the Enterprise Services Relinquishment of Charter Ceremony at Fort Belvoir, Virginia on May 2, 2022.

YOKOSUKA, Japan, (Oct. 21, 2022) Senior Chief Master-at-Arms Maritza Mejia, assigned to Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosukas (CFAY) security department, welcomes attendees during a chief pinning ceremony at the Fleet Theater onboard CFAY. Eighteen Sailors from CFAY and tenant commands were promoted to the rank of chief petty officer during the ceremony. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet's forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Amanda I. Azubuike, deputy commanding general of the U.S. Army Cadet Command, speaks at the Center of Influence event, hosted by the U.S. Army, during the 38th Annual Becoming Everything You Are, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (BEYA STEM) Conference, in Baltimore, Md., Feb. 17, 2024. Army

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Mervin T. Mills, Virgin Islands National Guard, Joint Force Headquarter, provides his remarks during his promotion ceremony held at the Readiness Training Institute building, June 04, 2022. Mr. Mills is being promoted to Chief Warrant Officer 5 which is the highest chief warrant officer grade that can be achieved and are described as master-level technical and tactical experts in their field.

Chief Master Sgt. Cynthia Villa, 4th Air Force command chief, speaks to a group of new master sergeants at the 433rd AW Senior Noncommissioned Officer Induction Ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, June 4, 2022. Part of Villas message to inductees was to stay humble in their new role and take care of the Airmen under them.

U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Scott H. Stalker, the command senior enlisted leader of the United States Space Command, listens to a presentation during the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Symposium, at the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly, Virginia, Aug. 11, 2022. The Symposium is designed to provide an educational summit for sergeants major and master gunnery sergeants serving at a general officer command and Navy senior enlisted advisors serving at the Marine Forces level on important and emerging topics in the Marine Corps. The symposium provides a platform for the attendees and presenters to share insights and experiences, which is a key tool for shaping the future of the Marine Corps. (Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Karis Mattingly)

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Tiffany Griego, 100th Air Refueling Wing command chief, gives an opening statement during the Black History Month Lunch and Learn panel at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, Feb. 20, 2024. The panel served as an opportunity for personnel from RAF Mildenhall and Lakenheath to have an open discussion with African-American senior military leaders. Air Force

U.S. Army Europe and Africa Commanding General Gen. Christopher Cavoli delivers key note remarks as the guest speaker during the Vicenza Military Community Masquerade Gala, April 29, 2022, at Villa di Montruglio, in Vicenza, Italy. The evening event was the first of its kind organized by SETAF-AF since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Guests were entertained by the U.S. Army Europe-Africa Band, opera arias, jugglers, a contortionist and a live DJ.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Robert L. Edmonson II, the commanding general of U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command and Aberdeen Proving Ground, addresses Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) high school students at the Stars and Stripes Pre-Dinner Mentoring Sessions, as part of the 38th Annual Becoming Everything You Are (BEYA) Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Conference at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor Hotel in Baltimore, Md., Feb. 16, 2024. At the mentoring sessions local STEM high school students met with senior military and federal government leaders to discuss career opportunities. Army

Leaders from numerous government organizations gathered at the North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command headquarters building on Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, Nov. 8-9, 2022, to participate in the Domestic Resilience Workshop. The event included remarks from NORAD and USNORTHCOM leaders, resilience discussions from the Federal Emergency Management Agency Deputy Director Erik Hooks, and briefings from other senior defense officials on such topics as National Guard perspectives, cyber concerns, critical infrastructure tools and defense mobilization. General Glen VanHerck, Commander, NORAD and USNORTHCOM, provided closing remarks to conclude the event.

Col. Randel Gordon, Arnold Engineering Development Complex commander, speaks about the life and career of U.S. Air Force Capt. Ed Dwight Jr. at the 29th annual Black History Month Celebration, Feb. 14 in the University of Tennessee Space Institute Auditorium. Air Force

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III holds a meeting with Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., May 19, 2022.

010609-F-2409C-003. Base: Travis Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AMC

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

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Republic of Marshall Islands President David Kabua engage in a bilateral exchange at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., Sept. 27, 2022. (DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexander Kubitza)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Michael E. Langley, the commander of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command addresses guests and participants as the presenting officer at an award ceremony hosted by the National Montford Point Marines Association (NMPMA), Tidewater Virginia Chapter 14, at New Jerusalem Ministries Church, Virginia Beach, VA, on April 23, 2022. During the ceremony, Private First Class Frank Edward Parker Jr., a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and graduate of the segregated Montford Point Camp in Jacksonville, North Carolina, posthumously received the Certificate of Status and Congressional Gold Medal for service in World War II and for his role in paving the way for future African-American service members. The NMPMA is dedicated to preserving the legacy of nearly 20,000 World War II Marine Corps veterans who served from 1942 - 1949 and trained in the aforementioned segregated training facility.

220510-N-XZ205-1032SAN DIEGO (May 10, 2022) Capt. Eric Elster, the Department of Surgery at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centers third chairman and professor, gives remarks during a town hall meeting in Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) San Diegos auditorium May 10. Elster toured the hospital to share information, examine procedures and speak with Sailors and hospital staff. NMRTC San Diego's mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC San Diego employs more than 6,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere.

STENNIS SPACE CENTER, Mississippi (Oct. 7, 2022) - Rear Adm. John Okon, Director, Warfare Integration Directorate, N2N6I, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, presided over the retirement of Lt. Cmdr. Kabran KJ Johnson at NASA Stennis Space Center, Mississippi Oct. 7, 2022. Johnson enlisted in the Navy in 1992, and graduated the from Aerographers Mate (AG) A-School in 1993 before being selected for Chief and eventually earning a commission. His efforts in support of various Fleet and Naval Special Warfare commands worldwide over the course of his 30-year career were highlighted by colleagues and family at the ceremony. Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command directs and oversees more than 2,500 globally-distributed military and civilian personnel who collect, process and exploit environmental information to assist Fleet and Joint Commanders in all warfare areas to make better decisions faster than the adversary.

PANAMA CITY, FL. (March 27, 2023) - Naval Support Activity (NSA) Panama City was honored to welcome the Commander, Navy Installation Command, Vice Admiral Yancy Lindsey on March 27, 2023, while he visited the base to meet with base leadership and take a tour. During his visit VADM Lindsey made a stop at the NSA Panama City galley to sign a proclamation declaring April as the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) awareness month.

Tech. Sgt. Christopher Berube, 436th Medical Support Squadron Tricare operations and patient administration flight chief, holds the 436th MDSS squadron patch as Staff Sgt. Christopher Elam, 436th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron dental records and reception noncommissioned officer in charge, narrates the history of the 436th MDSS to Team Dover Airmen, family members and guests at The Landings on Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, June 9, 2022. During the event, the 436th MDSS held an inactivation ceremony, followed by the 436th Health Care Operations Squadron and 436th OMRS Change of Command ceremonies. The change of command ceremony for the 436th Medical Group culminated the event.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., comments on the significance of Accelerating the Legacy 2023 during an interview with 628th Air Base Wing Public Affairs in Charleston, South Carolina, Feb. 16, 2023. Accelerating the Legacy is an aviation heritage event that honors the Tuskegee Airmens legacy, offers professional development and networking opportunities to Total Force Airmen, and inspires the next generation of aviation professionals.

Chaplain (Lt. Col.) John E. Scott, the new division chaplain for 3rd Infantry Division, speaks to distinguished guests and Families during an Assumption of Stole ceremony at the Marne Chapel on Fort Stewart, Georgia, Sept. 28, 2022. The ceremony formally recognized Scott as the new division chaplain for 3rd ID. I want the Soldiers, Family members and civilians of this great division to know that their Unit Ministry Teams care for them and are here to serve them, said Scott.

Chaplain (Lt. Col.) John E. Scott, the new division chaplain for 3rd Infantry Division, speaks to distinguished guests and Families during an Assumption of Stole ceremony at the Marne Chapel on Fort Stewart, Georgia, Sept. 28, 2022. The ceremony formally recognized Scott as the new division chaplain for 3rd ID. I want the Soldiers, Family members and civilians of this great division to know that their Unit Ministry Teams care for them and are here to serve them, said Scott.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Justin Hooker, the commanding officer of 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, gives his remarks during the 3rd LSB Marine Corps Birthday Ball on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 28, 2022. A celebration for the Marine Corps birthday is held every year to reflect on the traditions, history, and legacy of the Marine Corps.

Richard H. Breen, Jr., Defense Health Agency Director of Strategic Communications, 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.

Chief Master Sergeant Troy Martin, 270th Engineering Installation Squadron gains the rank of Chief Master Sergeant and is presented his new service coat by his wife, Madeline and son, Troy. Chief Master Sergeant is the highest enlisted rank in the United States Air Force and leads, mentors and guides future leaders. (U.S Air Force

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael A. Grinston hosts a reception for International Military Student Officers on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Arlington, Va., March 13, 2023. The reception was meant to foster fellowship among international service members.

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, third from right, applauds as Vice President Mike Pence delivers opening remarks during the National Space Council meeting titled, Moon, Mars, and Worlds Beyond, Winning the Next Frontier, Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2018 at the National War College at Fort Lesley J. McNair in Washington. Chaired by the Vice President, the council's role is to advise the President regarding national space policy and strategy, and review the nation's long-range goals for space activities.

Capt. David Adams, Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS), and his wife, Jen Adams, speak with Chuka Asike, principal officer to the U.S. Consulate in Fukuoka, Japan at the CFAS Navy Ball held Oct. 13, 2022 at CFAS in celebration of the U.S. Navys 247th birthday. The theme of the U.S. Navys 247th birthday was "On Watch - 24/7 for 247 Years," which highlighted the Navy's enduring ability to remain fully ready to respond to and effectively deter emergent threats.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Greek Defense Minister Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos engage in a bilateral exchange at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., July 18, 2022. (DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexander Kubitza)

Dr. Elwood L. Robinson, chancellor of Winston-Salem State University, addresses family members along with military and civilian leaders inside the Military Womens Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery June 15 to celebrate President Joe Bidens signing of the Six Triple Eight Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2021. The act awards the Congressional Gold Medal to the members of the Womens Army Corps who were assigned to the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, better known as the Six Triple Eight, during World War II. The Six Triple Eight is now the only womens military unit to receive the nations highest civilian honor, the Congressional Gold Medal.

221203-N-BS627-1129 SIMI VALLEY, CA (Dec. 3, 2022) Chief Aviation Boatswains Mate (Equipment) Lavon Turner, from Meridian, Mississippi, and assigned to the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), sings the national anthem prior to the keynote speaker address from Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III during the Reagan National Defense Forum (RNDF) at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum Dec. 3, 2022. The RNDF, which took place Dec. 2-3, 2022, brought together leaders from across the political spectrum and key stakeholders in the defense community, including Members of Congress, current and former Administration officials, senior military leadership, industry executives, technology innovators, and thought leaders with a mission to review and assess policies that strengthen Americas national defense in the context of the global threat environment.

The 168th Wing hosted a Dining Out event in Fairbanks, Alaska, for Airmen to keep Air Force traditions alive and continue morale-building ceremonies. The Air Force Dining Out event started approximately in the 1930s with Army Air Corps General H. Hap Arnolds Wing Dings. The guest speaker at the 2022 168th WG Dining Out was Gregory D. Gadson, a motivational speaker, retired Colonel in the United States Army, and former commander of the U.S. Army Fort Belvoir Garrison. He is also a bilateral above-the-knee amputee.

Chief Master Sgt. Lloyd Morales, 88th Air Base Wing command chief, speaks during the senior NCO induction ceremony Aug. 26, 2022, at the Wright-Patt Club. Morales told the 32 master sergeant selectees about the significance of advancing into the top three enlisted ranks.

Dr. Eric Moore, U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, or DEVCOM, Deputy to the Commanding General, right, and Dax Cadet, DEVCOM Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Center, left, pose for a photo Feb. 17, 2024, at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, Maryland. Mims received the Black Engineer of the Year Awards in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Science Spectrum Trailblazer award. Army

Gen. Duke Richardson, Air Force Materiel Command commander, makes remarks during the Assumption of Command ceremony for Lt. Gen. Donna Shipton, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center commander, at the National Museum of the Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, Jan. 17, 2024. GENERAL REMARKS FROM HIS SPEECH HERE.

U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., shakes hands with Gen. John W. Jay Raymond, Chief of Space Operations, following a speech during the Global Air and Space Chiefs Conference in London, England, July 14, 2022. As a keynote speaker, Brown spoke on the Air Force Integrated by Design approach to allies and partners, international cooperation, and maintaining an edge in space as well as the Department of the Air Forces commitment to NATO allies and European security.

Gloria Warren-Baskin, 1st Lt. Warrens only surviving immediate family member, provides remarks as a guest speaker during the street renaming ceremony at Fort Hamilton, N.Y., May 20, 2022. The ceremony officially removed Confederate Civil War General Robert E. Lees name from the main avenue and renamed it John Warren Avenue in honor of U.S. Army 1st Lt. John E. Warren, Jr., who was a Brooklyn native, Vietnam War veteran, and Medal of Honor recipient. Our military assets are designed to commemorate and reflect the courage, valor and rich diversity of our military heroes. Those examples are clearly evident in the personal stories and backgrounds associated with the selected name.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosts NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg for talks at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., June 2, 2022. (DoD photo by Lisa Ferdinando)

New York Army National Guard Command Sgt. Maj. Leyland Jones, senior enlisted advisor to the commander of the 369th Sustainment Brigade, shakes the hand of Theresa Europe, during a visit to the Harlem Regiment Armory, New York, N.Y. by the granddaughters of legendary Harlem Hellfighter James Reese Europe, including Lynn Europe Cotter and Patricia Europe Pearson, Feb. 24, 2024. Army National Guard

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Michael E. Langley and guests pose for a photo following his promotion ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., August 6, 2022. Gen. Langley, who began his career in the Marine Corps as an artillery officer in 1985, is the first Black Marine to be promoted to the rank of General.

Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret) Levi Maynard looks on during the assumption of command ceremony yesterday for Maj. Gen. Bob D. Harter who officially assumed command of the 81st Readiness Division on September 20, 2022, at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina. Harter most recently served as the Deputy Chief of the Army Reserve at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.Distinguished guests at this event included Lt. Gen. Jody J. Daniels, Chief of the Arm Reserve and Commanding General of U.S. Army Reserve Command; the Honorable Kevin Shwedo, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, South Carolina; Maj. Gen. Van McCarty, South Carolina Adjutant General; Mrs. Jennifer Harding, South Carolina State Chair, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve; Mr. George Sharpe, Staff Representative from the office of U.S. Senator Tim Scott; Mr. Sam Brick, United States Army Reserve Ambassador; Brig. Gen. Jason Kelly, Commanding General, U.S. Army Training Center and Fort Jackson; Brig. Gen. (Ret) Jan Haigler; Mr. Dan Beatt

Col. Lisa Rennard, commander, 403rd Army Field Support Brigade, welcomes participants from South Korea and Japan to the 2022 Powerhouse Brigade Senior Leader Seminar at Camp Henry, South Korea, June 28.

230328-N-DB801-0050MIAMI - (March 28, 2023) - Adm. Barrera speaks at the Combined Force Maritime Component Commander (CFMCC) flag course at USSOUTHCOM headquarters, March 27-31, 2023. This years course features 16 partner nation senior officers and 19 U.S. flag and general officers. The purpose of the CFMCC flag course is to improve the effectiveness of senior leaders (flag and general officers) who routinely work together at the operational level of command and control. Rear Adm. Jim Aiken, Commander U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet (USNAVSO/FOURTHFLT), serves as host for this iteration of the course. USNAVSO/FOURTHFLT is the trusted maritime partner for Caribbean, Central and South America maritime forces leading to improved unity, security, and stability.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (Aug. 3, 2022) Naval Station Great Lakes' Non-Supervisory Civilian of the Quarter, 3rd Quarter Fiscal Year 2022 Brenda Moechoe. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., retired Lt. Col. James H. Harvey, documented original Tuskegee Airman, and Maj. Saj El-Amin, Accelerating the Legacy moderator, participate in a fireside chat during the Accelerating the Legacy 2023 banquet in Charleston, South Carolina, Feb. 16, 2023. Accelerating the Legacy is an aviation heritage event that honors the Tuskegee Airmens legacy, offers professional development and networking opportunities to Total Force Airmen, and inspires the next generation of aviation professionals.

Hanke Bruins Slot (far right), minister of interior and kingdom affairs, Netherlands and others view the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 28, 2022.

Col. Peggy Dickson, 436th Medical Group commander, poses for a 360° photo at the Air Force Ball in Dover, Delaware, Oct. 21, 2022. The Air Force Ball celebrated the 75th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force.

Col. Reginald McClam, The Basic Schools commanding officer, speaks to Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) midshipmen at the 29th annual University of Notre Dame Naval Leadership Weekend seminar hosted by the Notre Dame NROTC unit in South Bend, Indiana, Feb. 9, 2024. The seminar was attended by more than 240 future naval and Marine Corps officers from 44 NROTC units. Navy

Mr. Gabriel Gabe Quevedo, F-35 Joint Program Office Norway Country Manager, poses for a portrait to accompany a SpotLightning feature story for Hispanic American Month. The F-35 is the premier multi-mission, 5th generation weapon system. Its ability to collect, analyze and share data is a force multiplier that enhances all assets in the battle-space: with stealth technology, advanced sensors, weapons capacity, and range. The F-35, which has been operational since July of 2015, is the most lethal, survivable, and interoperable fighter aircraft ever built. (Photo by America Henry-Wingo/Released)

220627-N-TT639-1038 EAST CHINA SEA (June 27, 2022) - Culinary Specialist 1st Class Jabrian Johnson, from Dallas, speaks during a Pride Month celebration on the mess decks aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 27, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Educators from Seattle to Olympia met with key military leaders to learn about military opportunities for their students during a social gathering on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., Aug. 18, 2022. Pictured is Col. James Scott, commander of 8th Brigade Reserve Officer's Training Corps (ROTC), offering remarks at the event.

Master Sgt. Jay Brown, 51st Logistics Readiness Squadron aircraft parts store section chief, walks through a saber archway with his family during a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Induction Ceremony at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Oct. 6, 2022. Walking through the saber archway symbolizes the welcoming of inductees into the highest tier of enlisted Airmen.

221008-N-IL330-1102 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 8, 2022) - Senior Chief Electricians Mate Mario Ramirez, from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, delivers remarks as a guest speaker during the Hispanic Heritage Month event on the mess decks aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Oct. 8, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. makes remarks during a briefing for attendees of the Senior Leader Orientation Course at Joint Base Andrews, Md., April 15, 2022. The course provides training for newly selected brigadier generals, senior executive service members and their spouses.

Kevin Brown, the acting host for a crab soup cook off during Maryland Fleet Week & Flyover Baltimore, introduces the competing chefs in Baltimore, Maryland, Sept. 9, 2022. Maryland Fleet Week & Flyover Baltimore is an annual public event that celebrates the contributions of the U.S. sea services and maritime capabilities from the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. More than 2,300 service members participated in Maryland Fleet Week & Flyover Baltimore 2022 engaging and assisting with ship tours, live bands and static equipment displays.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Ryan Miccio, 603rd Air Operations Center Future Operations Division multidomain strategic center planner, shares past events from his life during a Storytellers event at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 26, 2022. Storytellers is held every September during suicide awareness month at Ramstein.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III presents the Medal of Honor flag to Ashley Aczon-Skjelstad, the daughter of the late Medal of Honor recipient Army Staff Sgt. Edward N. Kaneshiro, in a ceremony where Kaneshiro and five other Medal of Honor recipients were inducted into the Pentagon Hall of Heroes, at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., July 6, 2022. (DoD photo by Lisa Ferdinando)

U.S. Army Central, HSC Company Commander, Cpt. Leslie Amaya, reads the Juneteenth General Order No. 3 during the Juneteenth Celebration at Patton Hall on Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., June 16, 2022. This General Order informed the people of Texas that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.

Inter-American Defense College Leadership, students and staff participate in a 9/11 Never Forget Challenge on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Sept. 9, 2022. The event included a 2,200 steps per teams in relay mode activity to remember the fallen, the injured and everyone who was impacted by the events of 9/11. The steps challenge was designed simulate the equivalent steps of the World Trade Center Tower.

040116-F-5946H-001. Base: Fairchild Air Force Base State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AMC

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Brian Cooper, 177th Maintenance Group commander, speaks at a podium April 1, 2023, at the 177th Fighter Wing, Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey. Cooper spoke to the 177MXG during the 177th Maintenance Professional of the Year Banquet.

Dr. Rich Cole and Cindy Chal, the children of the late Doolittle Raider Col. Richard Cole, invert his goblet during a ceremony commemorating the Doolittle Raiders in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., April 18. 2022. The Doolittle Raid on April 18, 1942 was the first American air raid on the Japanese home islands during WWII.

Dr. Madeline Bodoh, U.S. Army Reserve Command Continuous Process Improvement Office director, expresses her gratitude to Col. Ray Phariss, deputy chief of staff, U.S. Army Reserve Command, guest speakers and all competitors during the awards ceremony and recognition of competitors for the Rise of the Digital Soldier Challenge on May 10, 2022, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael A. Grinston hosts a reception for International Military Student Officers on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Arlington, Va., March 13, 2023. The reception was meant to foster fellowship among international service members.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. testifies before the Senate Armed Services Committee on the Department of the Air Forces fiscal year 2023 budget request, Washington, D.C., May 3, 2022.

U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Ansbach and Stadt (town) Ansbach hosted Speaker Series discussion forums to the topics Trans-Atlantic Partnership, a new era in Europe challenges to secure NATOs Eastern flank and the way forward for Trans-Atlantic partnership. U.S. and German militaries and officials spoke about newest developments in the Ukrainian crisis and the future of NATO and U.S. German cooperation.Pictured event was held in Karlshalle in Ansbach. The speakers were USAG Ansbach commander Col. Karen E. Hobart, V Corps Deputy Commanding General for Support (DCG-S) Maj. Gen. Robert D. Burke and Dr. Johannes Urban with the Bavarian State Chancellery. Dr. Urban speaks to the audience.Ansbach, Germany, May 13, 2022.

230407-N-LN782-2042 (Apr. 07, 2023) A Sailor embraces with a family member inside Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall after graduating from Recruit Training Command. Boot camp is approximately 10 weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes five warfighting competencies of firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms handling and marksmanship along with physical fitness and lessons in Navy heritage and core values, Warrior Toughness, Life Skills, teamwork and discipline. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navys only boot camp.

Stephen Woodson looks at the plaque painting of his father, Staff Sgt. Waverly Woodson Jr., a World War II First U.S. Army combat medic hero, following the unveiling of it during a renaming dedication ceremony at Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois, April 14. The health clinic was renamed Woodson Health Clinic. (Photo by Jon Micheal Connor, ASC Public Affairs)

Rear Adm. Steve Barnett, commander, Navy Closure Task Force-Red Hill (NCTF-RH) meets with elected members of the Community Representation Initiative (CRI) in Honolulu, Hawaii, Feb. 15, 2024. NCTF-RH is designated as one of the Navys representative organizations that meets with the CRI twice per quarter to discuss the progress of the closure mission. Charged with the safe decommissioning of the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility (RHBFSF), NCTF-RH was established by the Department of the Navy as a commitment to the community and the environment. The Navy continues to engage with the people of Hawaii, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders as NCTF-RH works to safely and deliberately decommission the RHBFSF. Navy

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Michael E. Langley, the commander of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command, center left, awards a replica Congressional Gold Medal to the brother of U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class Frank Edward Parker Jr., Mr. John J. Dance, right, at a ceremony hosted by the National Montford Point Marines Association (NMPMA), Tidewater Virginia Chapter 14, at New Jerusalem Ministries Church, Virginia Beach, VA, on April 23, 2022. During the ceremony, Parker, a graduate of the segregated Montford Point Camp in Jacksonville, North Carolina, posthumously received the Certificate of Status and Congressional Gold Medal for service in World War II and for his role in paving the way for future African-American service members. The NMPMA is dedicated to preserving the legacy of nearly 20,000 World War II Marine Corps veterans who served from 1942 - 1949 and trained in the aforementioned segregated training facility.

Event, including wreath-laying ceremony, honoring Interior law enforcement personnel killed in the line of duty, with Secretary Dirk Kempthorne, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Law Enforcement and Security Larry Parkinson, and other officials on hand to speak, pose with law enforcement staff from respective bureaus

Tetsuro Teramoto, the Iwo Jima Association of Japan president, speaks during the 2022 Reunion of Honor on Iwo To, Japan, Dec. 10, 2022. The Reunion of Honor is an annual ceremony that commemorates the sacrifices made by both Japanese and American service members who fought during World War II on Iwo To.

The 41st Signal Battalion celebrated its 80th birthday on Friday, January 27 on Camp Humphreys. It was a lovely evening of entertainment and camaraderie among teammates and members of the larger Signal community on the peninsula.

Retired Sgt. Maj. Carlton W. Kent, 16th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps and guest of honor, speeks at the Marine Corps Base Quantico's cake cutting ceremony in honor of the 247th Marine Corps Birthday at Butler Stadium on MCBQ, Virginia, Nov. 9, 2022. The annual cake cutting ceremony is a long-standing tradition which celebrates the establishment of the United States Marine Corps. The Marine Corps birthday is celebrated every year to commemorate the birth of the Corps and honor the service and sacrifices of all Marines, past and present.

PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 26, 2022) - Quartermaster 2nd Class Katiana Cadet, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, speaks during a Womens Equality Day observance aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) while operating in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 26. Barry is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navys largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleets principal surface force.

Veterans attend the annual POW/MIA recognition ceremony at the Pentagon, hosted by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, Washington, D.C., Sept. 16, 2022. (DoD photo by Lisa Ferdinando)

NORFOLK, Va. (July 2, 2022) - Vice Adm. (ret.) John Morgan speaks during the 31st Commissioning Anniversary and Celebration Dinner, July 2, 2022. July 4, 2022 marks 31 years since the U.S. Navy commissioned the first Aegis-equipped guided-missile destroyer, USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51).

220526-N-AO823-1039SAN DIEGO (May 26, 2022) - Lt. j.g. Harriet Halog speaks at an Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month observance aboard amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). The theme of this year's observance is: Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration. This observance runs through the month of May and celebrates the service and sacrifices of Asian/Pacific Islanders throughout the United States. Makin Island is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship homeported in San Diego.

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

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