Military Ceremonies and Events

Scenes depicting military personnel at various ceremonies, including prayer sessions and change of command, showcasing leadership and camaraderie.

Brig. Gen. Thomas Mancino, adjutant general for Oklahoma, speaks at the change of command ceremony for the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma National Guard, Camp Gruber Training Center, Oklahoma, Aug. 14, 2022. Col. Colby Wyatt served as the commander of the 45th IBCT for three years and relinquished command to Col. Andrew Ballenger. (Oklahoma Army National Guard photo by Spc. Danielle Rayon)

The new Fort Dix Aviation Building and Army Ramp Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held on Friday, 19 August 2022. During this Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Welcoming Remarks were made by the USARMY ARCD (USA) MAJ Charles Billi. Also in attendance as the Keynote Speaker was the US ASA Fort Dix Base Commander COL Mitchell Wisniewski. This new facility is for troop movements and cargo landing to enter the new constructed Army ramp which provides a wide range of capabilities for refueling operations for transit aircraft and aircraft parking for fixed wing aircraft up to a C-130. The Army ramp can also be used to support rotary wing aircraft for two CH-475s or 5 UH-60s with tie down locations and grounding points. (Images provided by the Fort Dix (TSC) Training Support Center / Dan Amburg)

Soldiers stationed at Arifjan, Kuwait join Chaplain (Maj.) Bean in praying for their families during the National Day of Prayer. The day marked a special event where people of many faiths joined together in prayer to strengthen their spiritual wellbeing.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Charles Tenney, 60th Security Forces Squadron commander, gives a speech during the closing ceremony of a National Police Week event at Travis Air Force Base, California, May 20, 2022. The 60th SFS celebrated National Police Week by organizing events to honor all Defenders, Masters-at-Arms, Air Force Office of Special Investigations members and law enforcement officers who have served, are currently serving and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Capt. Tevin Radford, from Fort Belvoir's 212th Military Police Detachment, speaks at his change of command, May 20, 2022.

The new Fort Dix Aviation Building and Army Ramp Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held on Friday, 19 August 2022. During this Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Welcoming Remarks were made by the USARMY ARCD (USA) MAJ Charles Billi. Also in attendance as the Keynote Speaker was the US ASA Fort Dix Base Commander COL Mitchell Wisniewski. This new facility is for troop movements and cargo landing to enter the new constructed Army ramp which provides a wide range of capabilities for refueling operations for transit aircraft and aircraft parking for fixed wing aircraft up to a C-130. The Army ramp can also be used to support rotary wing aircraft for two CH-475s or 5 UH-60s with tie down locations and grounding points. (Images provided by the Fort Dix (TSC) Training Support Center / Dan Amburg)

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

Lt. Col. Anthony Von Plinsky, assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 347th Regiment (Training Support Battalion), 85th Support Command, gives a speech to the Soldiers and audience members during a relinquish of responsibility ceremony at Cashe Garden on Fort Stewart June 28, 2023.

Brig. Gen. Thomas Mancino, adjutant general for Oklahoma, speaks at the change of command ceremony for the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma National Guard, Camp Gruber Training Center, Oklahoma, Aug. 14, 2022. Col. Colby Wyatt served as the commander of the 45th IBCT for three years and relinquished command to Col. Andrew Ballenger. (Oklahoma Army National Guard photo by Spc. Danielle Rayon)

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

The U.S. Air Forces 968th Expeditionary Airborne Air Control Squadron held its inactivation ceremony on Sept. 29, 2022, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The 968th EAACS flew its last sortie, until reactivation, in AFCENTs area of responsibility on Sept. 23, 2022. The Panthers accomplished their mission but will be back again when needed.

Canadian Brig. Gen. Robert T. Ritchie, assistant commanding general - operations, XVIII Airborne Corps, speaks at his farewell ceremony at the Eternal Flame on the main post parade field on Ft. Bragg, N.C., May 20, 2022. Ritchie is leaving after two years of service to the XVIII Airborne Corps.

Maj. Gen. Kenneth Kamper, commanding general, Fires Center of Excellence and Fort Sill, stands at the podium in front of the unit colors for the 434th change of command ceremony June 17, 2022, in what Kamper called the Kodak moment guidons and colors that represents the chain of command from the brigade commander on down to the lowest Soldier.”

220728-A-FV109-1052CHAMBERSBURG, Pa.Command Sgt. Maj. Bradford Smith, U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, and Sgt. Maj. Ekondua Amoke, Letterkenny Army Depot give a standing ovation to Mr. Robert Brindle during the depot's 80th anniversary ceremony. Brindle was a World War II veteran and worked at Letterkenny Army Depot from 1953-1973.

U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Gen. Darrell J. Guthrie, commanding general, 88th Readiness Division, speaks during the Division's 114th Army Reserve Birthday and Open House at Fort Snelling, Minn., April 29, 2022.

U.S. Army Col. Michael Sullivan, 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade outgoing commander, speaks during a change of command ceremony at Ft. Bragg, N.C., July 22, 2022. Under Col. Sullivan's leadership, the brigade established a persistent presence supporting foreign partner forces throughout AFRICOM.

Col. Timothy Jaeger gives remarks during the change of command ceremony on Storck Barracks.

U.S. Army Col. Kevin D. McMahan retires from the Washington Army National Gaurd after 31 years of service on Camp Murray, Wash., Aug. 6, 2022. McMahan was the former commander of the the 1st Battalion, 161st Infantry Regiment, 96th Troop Command, and the 10th Homeland Response Force.

Maj. Amanda Miller, incoming 334th Fighter Generation Squadron commander, gives a speech at a change of command ceremony at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, June 24, 2022. Miller assumed command of more than 200 flight line maintainers in support of Air Combat Commands Basic Course air crew training effort.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Isaac Dayag, 43rd Comptrollers Squadron financial operations technician, addresses the community at the Field of Glory Flag Day Ceremony June 14, 2022, in Erwin, North Carolina.(U.S. Air Force photo/Jim Bove)

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

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

220607-N-OX321-1024 NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Italy (June 7, 2022) - Capt. Aaron F. Shoemaker, commanding officer, Naval Air Station Sigonella, speaks to attendees during a ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Midway held on NAS Sigonella, June 7, 2022. The Battle of Midway is often regarded as a critical turning point in the Pacific during World War II. NAS Sigonellas strategic location enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required, ensuring security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Matthew Klimis, True North 355th Maintenance Group Chaplain, talks to Airmen assigned to the 355th MXG during a morale event at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Sept. 16, 2022. True North is a resilience program that embeds providers and spiritual leaders within squadrons and groups enabling easy access to helpful resources.

Brig. Gen. Jasper Jeffers, the deputy commanding general of maneuver for 3rd Infantry Division, speaks to attendees during his farewell ceremony at Fort Stewart, Georgia, May 26, 2022. Jeffers assumed the role of DCG-M in July 2021.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Michael E. Havey, the commander of the 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, speaks during a battalion change of command ceremony May 12, 2022, at the Fort Riley, Kansas, Cavalry Parade Field. The ceremony was held to honor the battalions outgoing commander, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Patrick H. Kaine, and to welcome Havey as the battalions incoming commander.

U.S. Army Brigade Commander, Colonel Reece J. Lutz, outgoing commander of the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, addresses the formation and attending audience members during their Change of Command and Change of Responsibility Ceremonies at Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville Pennsylvania, June 19, 2022.

Brig. Gen. Michael Dougherty, 335th Signal Command deputy commanding general, delivered a speech in front of hundreds of Soldiers, family and friends at a Welcome Home ceremony for Soldiers who had deployed to Kuwait at the California State Universitys main quad, in Sacramento, Calif., October 22, 2022. United States signal units provide deployable force projection signal support and rapid communications for the U.S Army, joint and combined operations. Since, September 11, 2001, the Signal Corps has been supporting the Global War on Terror, which has continued to emerge across the world.

U.S. Navy Capt. Kevin Brown, the chaplain of Training and Education Command, gives the invocation during the Training Command change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., July 28, 2022. Training Command consistently produces entry-level military occupational specialty, career progression, and career enhancement skills to all officers and enlisted Marines in order to meet force generation and operating force requirements.

Oregon Army National Guard Chaplain (Col). Jacob Scott delivers the invocation during the official renaming ceremony at the Raymond F. Rees Training Center, Umatilla, Oregon, on Sept. 29, 2022. Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Raymond F. Rees is a retired Oregon Guardsman and served as The Adjutant General, Oregon for more than 16 years, retiring from military service in 2013, and later worked as a civilian as the Deputy Secretary of the Army. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

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Today the Minnesota National Guard recognized members of the Minnesota National Guards Saint Paul-based 133rd Airlift Wing and Duluth based 148th Fighter Wing will gather in support of their 2021 and 2022 Outstanding Airman of Year nominees. Each unit selected candidates based on job performance, leadership, community involvement, and personal achievement during the previous year. The awards honor the Airmens accomplishments and highlight their dedication and devotion to duty.The following Airmen will be recognized for 2021: Master Sgt. Jay Jakeway (Senior Noncommissioned Officer)Master Sgt. Shannon Housey (First Sergeant)Staff Sgt. Alaina Lathrop (Noncommissioned Officer)Senior Airman Benjamin Swenson (Airman)Capt. Brent Shouler (Company Grade Officer)The Outstanding Airmen for 2022 to be recognized will be:Master Sgt. Shane Trisco (Senior Noncommissioned Officer)Master Sgt. Sterling Hartwick (First Sgt.)Tech. Sgt. Michael Schuette (Noncommissioned Officer)Senior Airman Madison Moritz

Gen. Stephen Townsend, the commander of U.S Africa Command, addresses the audience during the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa Change of Command Ceremony at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy, July 14, 2022.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Andrew M. Rohling, Deputy Commanding General, addresses the audience during a patching ceremony at Wiesbaden, Germany Aug. 10, 2022. The ceremony was held to recognize the newest general to the unit.

Col. Christopher Meeker, 88th Air Base Wing and installation commander, makes remarks prior to firing the starting pistol for the 5-kilometer, the first race of the 2022 Air Force Marathon Sept. 17, at Wright State University, Fairborn, Ohio. More than 8,500 runners and 1,500 volunteers from all 50 states and 18 different countries came out to run in the races 26th year.

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 Lt. Col. Aaron L. Jones., former commander of the 405th Army Field Support Battalion-Benelux, shares his remarks during a Change of Command ceremony, in Zutendaal, Belgium, June 16, 2022. U.S. Army Lt. Col. Blake Smith assumed command of the unit from Lt. Col. Aaron L. Jones.

Brigadier General John Lubas, deputy commanding general(operations), 101st Airborne Division (AASLT), speaks during his promotion ceremony on Fort Campbell, Ky., August 31, 2022. The promotion to a General Officer signifies a milestone of an officers career in the Army.

Gen. Paul J. LaCamera, Commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, and U.S. Forces Korea, hosts an honor guard ceremony to welcome Gen. Kim, Seung-kyum, Republic of Koreas incoming chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea, July 12, 2022. Gen. LaCamera reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening a robust combined defense posture and the ironclad ROK-U.S. alliance with Gen. Kim, who took the oath as the ROK militarys highest-ranking officer, July 5. Gen. Kim is the 43rd chairman since the position was established in 1954. His career has included assignments as CFC deputy commander, ROK army vice chiefs of staff, and commanding general of ROK army 3rd Corps.

Maj. Sherry Childs. Is the speaker during a ceremony at the Zutendaal Army prepositioned Stocks-2 worksite in Belgium, June 16. (photo by Henri Cambier)

991221-A-6788L-002. Base: Fort Stewart State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

240103-A-US124-1044 MANAMA, Bahrain (Jan. 3, 2024) Lt. Luis Echeverria,commander of Task Group 59.1, delivers remarks during a commissioning ceremony for Task Group 59.1 in Manama, Bahrain, Jan. 3. The new task group focuses on the operational deployment of unmanned systems teamed with manned operators to bolster maritime security across the Middle East region.

Ltc. Donald Hayfron, incoming commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion (HHBN), 4th Infantry Division, introduces himself to his new team during the HHBN change of command ceremony, May 31, 2022, at Founders' Field, Fort Carson, Colorado. Hayfron expressed his happiness at the chance to lead HHBN as its new commander during his speech.

Chief Master Sgt. Michael Murieen, 820th Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers (RED HORSE) senior enlisted leader, recounts his time in the 557th Expeditionary RHS at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Oct. 14, 2022. Due to the drawdown of personnel in the central command area of responsibility, and reduced requirements from RED HORSE personnel and teams in-theater, the 557th ERHS was inactivated.

U.S. Air Force Technical Sgt. James Hale, 335th Training Squadron first sergeant, tributes a fallen warrior during the fallen warrior retreat ceremony at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, Feb. 22, 2024. The retreat ceremony was held to remember several fallen warriors. Air Force

The 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division Commander Lt. Col. Pete Leszczynski addresses the guests and Soldiers in formation after assuming command of the "No Fear" Wolfhound Battalion from outgoing commander Lt. Col. Michael Haith during their change of command ceremony at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, June 15, 2022.

World War II Veterans and representatives of those who could not be in attendance receive a challenge coin at the Eternal Heroes Monument in Normandy, France, June 2, 2022. World War II Veterans and representatives of the 82nd Airborne Division and 101st Airborne Divisions (Air Assault) came to honor fallen Paratroopers who liberated Ravenoville in June of 1944.

With his wingman, Command Sgt. Maj. Marvin Hill, by his side, Gen. David H. Petraeus praises 160 Soldiers with the 4th Cavalry, 10th Mountain Division for their patriotism and dedication to duty before reenlisting them in the U.S. Army. Petraeus, commander of NATO and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan, traveled to Camp Spann near Mazar e Sharif in Balkh Province to preside over the mass reenlistment ceremony. Hill is ISAF's top enlisted Soldier.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Chad Monroe, squadron commander for Bravo Troop, 3rd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division (3-6 CAV) delivers a speech during a change of command ceremony at Lielvārde, Latvia, Oct. 10, 2022. The 3-6 CAV is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

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

Command Sergeant Major Charles W. Gregory, Jr., the outgoing Command Sgt. Maj., delivers his farewell speech during the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa Change of Responsibility Ceremony at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy, September 1, 2022.

Members of the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) and the Canadian Special Operations Regiment salute a wreath they laid in front of the Group's Memorial Wall at Joint Base Lewis McChord, WA, December 5, 2022, to honor those U.S. and Canadian Forces that gave their life.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Liel Cuneo, contracting specialist with the 36th Contracting Squadron, speaks as the master of ceremonies during the push ceremony for the 71st iteration of Operation Christmas Drop at Andersen Air Force Base, Dec. 5, 2022. Operation Christmas Drop 2022 will deliver 200 drops of donated goods via airlift to 56 islands across the Pacific benefitting over 23,000 people.

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

The Master of Ceremonies, Spec. Nabors, opens the National Day of Prayer. The day brought soldiers and civilians of various faiths together to prayer for the government, the military, their families, and their leadership.

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Cody meets with Airmen during an all call June 15, 2015, at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Cody answered AirmenÕs questions regarding Air Force standards, new processes and entitlements.

Maj. Yolanda Seals, 433rd Maintenance Squadron commander, speaks to attendees after assuming command during the 433rd MXS change of command ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Sept. 10, 2022. The 433rd MXS mission is to provide essential on and off-equipment repair and support maintenance for all assigned C-5M Super Galaxy aircraft.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Janeen Birckhead, commander of the Maryland Army National Guard, speaks at the 291st Digital Liaison Detachments change of command ceremony in Adelphi, Md., August 14, 2022. Col. Kristine Henry relinquished command to Lt. Col. John McDaniel Jr. during the ceremony.

Command Sgt. Maj. Quentin V. Fenderson, the senior enlisted advisor of the 3rd Infantry Division, gives a speech during a patching ceremony at Fort Stewart, Georgia. April 19, 2022. During the ceremony, Soldiers formally received the division patch, which represents the history of the Marne Division; the three white stripes are symbolic of the three major operations in which the division participated during World War I, the Battle of the Marne River, the Meuse-Argonne Offensive and the St. Mihiel Offensive, and the blue symbolizes the loyalty of those who placed their lives on the altar of self-sacrifice in defense of the American ideals of liberty and democracy.

Outgoing Stabilization Force (SFOR) Commander, GEN William Crouch talks to members of his command during change of command ceremonies at Ilidza Compound. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT GUARD Base: Sarajevo Country: Bosnia And/I Herzegovina (BIH)

Col. Henry R. Jeffress, 8th Fighter Wing commander, gives opening remarks prior to a Prisoner of War and Missing in Action ruck at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Oct. 7, 2022. During the event, more than 100 Airmen gathered to pay their respects to prisoners of war and the more than 81,000 U.S. service members who went missing during past conflicts.

Chief Master Sgt. Jessica McWain, the command chief of the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, gives the closing remarks of a Remembrance Ceremony on Sept. 11, 2022, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 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. Army Lt. Col. Derek Drouin addresses the soldiers and leaders of 6-9 Cavalry Regiment as he relinquishes command to U.S. Army Lt. Col. Levi Thompson, the new commander of 6-9 Cavalry Regiment at a ceremony in Poland, Sept. 12, 2022. The change of command ceremony is a tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility from the outgoing commander to the incoming commander.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John W. Brennan, commanding general of Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR), addresses accomplishments by Task Force Eagle, led by 11th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB), and welcomes Task Force Mustang during a Transfer-of-Authority ceremony held at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Aug. 27, 2022. 36th CAB, mobilized as Task Force Mustang, is deployed in support of the CJTF-OIR mission to advise, assist and enable partnered forces in the enduring defeat of Daesh, the common Arabic term for ISIS, within designated areas of Iraq and Syria.

Lt. Col. Harley P. Jennings, outgoing commander of the "Maintain Battalion," 703rd Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, addresses Soldiers and distinguished guests during the 703rd BSB's change of command ceremony on Cottrell Field at Fort Stewart, June 14, 2022. The change of command ceremony signifies the transfer of command and with it the responsibility for the readiness and welfare of the unit's Soldiers and Families.

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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Thomas Treacy, a career counselor with the Pennsylvania National Guard, presents a streamer to the 628th Aviation Support Battalion, 28th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade in honor of the battalion's excellence in Soldier retention.

As part of military medicine's "Pivot to Readiness", the U.S. Army Medical Command is reorganizing and re-designating its Regional Health Commands to Medical Readiness Commands. During four ceremonies the Regional Health Commands will reflag and become Medical Readiness Commands.We are building the future of Army Medicine. Medical reform and restructuring will enhance the ability to recruit, organize, train, and equip medical Soldiers and leaders capable of supporting the current and future force.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Sean Milligan, the 354th Fighter Wing command chief, delivers a speech during the Prisoners of War/Missing in Action remembrance ceremony on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Sept. 16, 2022. The National POW/MIA Recognition Day is an annual event held to honor service members who are still missing or were prisoners of war.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Pat White outgoing commanding general of III Armored Corps and Fort Hood, delivers a speech during the corps' change-of-command ceremony Oct. 4, 2022, at Fort Hood, Texas. White leaves the corps after more than three years in command with 37 years of dedicated service to the nation.

Hawaii Army National Guard Col. David R. Hatcher II, commander of the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT), delivers a speech during his promotion ceremony at Kalaeloa, Hawaii, July 1, 2022. Hatcher enlisted as an infantryman in 1987, commissioned in 2000 and commanded the 1-487 Field Artillery Battalion from 2019 to 2021 prior to assuming command of the 29th IBCT on April 4, 2022.

U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers with the 2nd Battalion 263rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, South Carolina National Guard, conducted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the renovation of Battery B, Sept. 10, 2022, Easley, South Carolina. In attendance were U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, South Carolina State Senator Thomas Alexander, South Carolina State Representative Neal Collins, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. R. Van McCarty, the adjutant general for South Carolina National Guard, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Frank Rice, commander, 263rd Army Air and Missile Defense Command.

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Senior Airman Thomas Landon, 75th Security Forces Squadron, reads the namesof fallen first responders during the 9/11 Memorial Ceremony Sept. 9, 2022,at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. The Sept. 11, 2001, attacks were one of thedarkest days in U.S. history, with nearly 3,000 people killed.

LTG Thomas A. Schwartz, Commanding General, III Corps and Fort Hood, speaks to the guests at the Longbow introduction ceremony at Hood Army Airfield. Base: Fort Hood State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Father Joseph Deichert, senior joint base chaplain, leads the Father Emil Kapaun Traffic Circle Dedication site blessing at Kapaun Air Station, Germany, Sept. 12, 2022. Father Emil Kapaun was commissioned into the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps in 1944 and later was a prisoner of war after serving in WWII and the Korean War.

Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau (left), Maj. Gen. Michael E. Stencel, Adjutant General, Oregon (center) render a hand salute to Maj. Gen. (ret.) Raymond F. Rees (right), as Gen. Hokanson deferred 'Ruffles and Flourishes' to honor Rees to being the official renaming ceremony at the Raymond F. Rees Training Center, Umatilla, Oregon, on Sept. 29, 2022. Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Raymond F. Rees is a retired Oregon Guardsman and served as The Adjutant General, Oregon for more than 16 years, retiring from military service in 2013, and later worked as a civilian as the Deputy Secretary of the Army. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

Meeting and press conference, hosted by Secretary Dirk Kempthorne at Main Interior, on inter-state water issues arising from the drought affecting the southeastern U.S., with the Secretary joined by Alabama Governor Bob Riley, Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue, Florida Governor Charlie Crist, White House Council on Environmental Quality Chairman James Connaughton, and the Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Lieutenant General Robert Van Antwerp

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew Danner, commanding officer of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, delivers a speech during the opening ceremony for Iron Fist 23 at Hijudai, Japan on Feb. 16, 2023. The ceremony was conducted to officialize 31st MEU Marines and 1ARDR soldiers working together during the first iteration of Iron Fist conducted in Japan. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marines Corps, the U.S. Navy, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau (left), Maj. Gen. Michael E. Stencel, Adjutant General, Oregon (center) render a hand salute to Maj. Gen. (ret.) Raymond F. Rees (right), as Gen. Hokanson deferred 'Ruffles and Flourishes' to honor Rees, during the official renaming ceremony at the Raymond F. Rees Training Center, Umatilla, Oregon, on Sept. 29, 2022. Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Raymond F. Rees is a retired Oregon Guardsman and served as The Adjutant General, Oregon for more than 16 years, retiring from military service in 2013, and later worked as a civilian as the Deputy Secretary of the Army. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

U.S. Military Members from U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, U.S.Army Garrison Italy, Aviano Air Base, Camp Darby Military Community and Military Vaterans honored their comrades who lost their life for our freedom, at Florence Memorial Cemetery, Italy, May 30, 2022. Consul General of the United States in Florence, Ragini Gupta read the Presidential Proclamation to open the commemoration ceremony. Guests of honor were the United States Ambassador for the Holy See Joseph Donnelly, the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa Commander, and the U.S. Army Europe and Africa Deputy Commanding General, Major Gen. Andrew Rohling, and the Italian Deputy Minister of Defense, Honorable Stefania Pucciarelli.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Michael King, 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, rings a bell during a 9/11 remembrance Ceremony Sept. 9, 2022, at Spangdahlem Air Base Germany. Ringing the bell is a firefighter tradition used to honor fallen firefighters.

Lt. Col. Geoffrey Lynch, incoming Commander, 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade, 1st Armored Division addresses his new command in his remarks during the ceremony. The Ready First Brigade held a Change of Command ceremony on Monday, May 9, 2022, at the 2nd Infantry Division (ROK-US Combined Division) Headquarters on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea. This marked the transition of command of the 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division from Lt. Col. Matthew Caprari to Lt. Col. Geoffrey Lynch.

Col. Matthew Eakins, commander of Volk Field Combat Readiness Training Center, speaks during an Oct. 25 ceremony for returning Airmen of the Wisconsin Air National Guards 128th Air Control Squadron at Volk Field, Wis. The 128th deployed in support of air operations throughout the Middle East as attached members of the 727th Expeditionary Air Control Squadron. During the deployment they performed air surveillance, aircraft tracking, and overall command and control of tactical coalition aircraft operations throughout the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and the Combined Defense of the Arabian Peninsula. Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs photo by Vaughn R. Larson

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Elden E. Engelhard, aviation tactics and mission survivability officer, speaks during his promotion ceremony at Fort Novosel, Ala., Jan. 19, 2024.

Lt. Col. Matthew Caprari, outgoing Commander, 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division addresses his Soldiers and the audience during his farewell remarks during the change of command ceremony. The Ready First Brigade held a Change of Command ceremony on Monday, May 9, 2022, at the 2nd Infantry Division (ROK-US Combined Division) Headquarters on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea. This marked the transition of command of the 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division from Lt. Col. Matthew Caprari to Lt. Col. Geoffrey Lynch.

Hawaii Army National Guard Col. David R. Hatcher II, commander of the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT), thanks his parents during his promotion ceremony at Kalaeloa, Hawaii, July 1, 2022. Hatcher enlisted as an infantryman in 1987, commissioned in 2000 and commanded the 1-487 Field Artillery Battalion from 2019 to 2021 prior to assuming command of the 29th IBCT on April 4, 2022.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Kofie Primus, incoming 21st Theater Sustainment Command senior enlisted advisor, gives his remarks during a change of responsibility ceremony in Daenner Kaserne, Germany, June 2, 2022. Command Sgt. Maj. Primus is the 19th Command Sergeant Major for 21st TSC.

March Air Reserve Base Airmen with the California Air National Guard host a Change of Command ceremony for incoming 163d Attack Wing Commander Col. Clark Bramante at March ARB, Oct. 16, 2022. A Change of command is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit to a commanding officer. The mission of the 163d ATKW is to provide dedicated, disciplined, and diverse guardsmen ready to defend California, the nation and local communities from any threats that compromise the safety, security and well-being of citizens and allies.

U.S. Army Gen. Darryl A. Williams, U.S. Army Europe & Africa commander, addresses the audience during a patching ceremony at Wiesbaden, Germany Aug. 10, 2022. Williams presented a patch to Lt. Gen. Andrew M. Rohling as the new Deputy Commanding General of the unit.

060727-N-4021H-028. Base: Coronad0 State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Congressman Don Bacon speaks at a groundbreaking ceremony for the Nebraska Army National Guard Bellevue Readiness Center in Bellevue, Nebraska, Oct. 25, 2022. This marks the beginning of a $36 million project that will result in a new building that will hold five units and roughly 380 service members.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Chad B. Harness, outgoing Command Sgt. Maj. of the 1st Battalion, 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, provides remarks during the award ceremony before thechange of responsibility ceremony at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy Oct. 20, 2022. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Joey D. Blacksher, assigned to 5th Ranger Training Battalion, speaks during his retirement ceremony on Stringer Drop Zone, Dahlonega, Ga., February 2, 2024. Command Sgt. Maj. Blacksher served 22 years of dedicated serve to the U.S. Army and the United States of America. Army Reserve

The Parris Island Marine Band was awarded the Col. George S. Howard Citation of Musical Excellence aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., June 2, 2022.This annual award is presented to a military concert band which has demonstrated significant high standards of musical excellence. More than 150 military bands, including all foreign military bands, are eligible for the award. This marks the fourth time the Parris Island Marine Band has received the award.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Mervale Abraham, 43rd Air Mobility Squadron air freight technician, addresses the community at the Field of Glory Flag Day Ceremony June 14, 2022, in Erwin, North Carolina.(U.S. Air Force photo/Jim Bove)

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Mikel Huber, commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point addresses guests at the ribbon cutting ceremony of the MCAS Cherry Point Historical Aircraft Park, North Carolina, July 21, 2022. As the air station prepares to base six F-35 Lightning II squadrons, this park serves to pay tribute and embrace the 80 years of naval aviation history of MCAS Cherry Point.

Command Sgt. Maj. Subretta L. Pompey became the senior-enlisted leader of the U.S. Army Reserves 99th Readiness Division April 8 during an assumption-of-responsibility ceremony at division headquarters on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. Pompey is the first African American and the first woman to serve in this position throughout the 99th's 80-year history, dating back to the 99th Infantry Division in World War II.

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