Military Ceremonies and Honors

Images depict military individuals participating in solemn ceremonial events, including burials, wreath layings, and monument unveilings, highlighting respect and remembrance.

Air Force Junior ROTC cadets carry a wreath to be placed at a grave marker Dec. 13, 2014, during Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Nearly 50,000 volunteers came together to place remembrance wreaths on the headstones of about 230,000 veterans during the event.

Sgt. Arajona Allen, 36th Infantry Division, plays taps for Spc. Daniel George Hegarty during his burial at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas, May 18, 2022.Hegarty was not expected to have any next of kin attend his burial, so the community came out to show their respects.

New York Army National Guard Maj. Gen. Michel Natali, the assistant adjutant general, Army, and Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Jenks, the senior enlisted leader of NY's Joint Force Headquarters place the presidential wreath at the grave of former President Chester A. Arthur on his birthday, Albany, New York, Oct. 5, 2022. On each former president's birthday, a wreath is laid at their grave on behalf of the current president.

Air Force Junior ROTC cadets carry a wreath to be placed at a grave marker Dec. 13, 2014, during Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Nearly 50,000 volunteers came together to place remembrance wreaths on the headstones of about 230,000 veterans during the event.

Attendees of the Khobar Towers survivors monument dedication ceremony, unveil a Khobar Towers monument at Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, Alabama, June 24, 2022. The monument was made to honor those who survived the attack.

Australian Lt. Gen. David Morrison, Chief of Staff of the Army, lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington,Va. Feb. 9, 2012.

U.S. Army Human Resource Command Honor Guard perform a POW/MIA Table ceremony for Memorial Day at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central in Radcliff, Ky., May 30, 2022. This ceremony honors those who did not come home by setting a symbolic place for them at a table. | Julia Galli, CST Public Affairs Office.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Jefferson J. O'Donnell, U.S. European Command senior defense official and defense attaché, salutes during a Memorial Day ceremony at the Brookwood American Military Cemetery, England, May 29, 2022. Memorial Day provides us a solemn opportunity to remember our fallen brothers and sisters in arms, reflect upon their courageous sacrifice, and show gratitude for the freedom they gave their lives to defend. It also affords us the opportunity to pay homage to those families who lost their loved ones in service to the Nation-and continue to feel the full weight of that sacrifice today.

U.S. Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Hollyanne Milley; Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. James McConville; U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Christopher LaNeve, commanding general, 82nd Airborne Division; and others attend the funeral service for U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Megellas in Section 75 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 2, 2022.Megellas is considered the most decorated officers in the history of the 82nd Airborne Division. His awards include the Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, two Bronze Stars, two Purple Hearts, and other military honors for his World War II European service. Megellas is being considered for the Medal of Honor for his service and leadership during the Battle of the Bulge, an upgrade of the Silver Star he received for this service.Megellass grandson, James Megellas, received the U.S. flag from his service.

Service members participate in a joint enlistment ceremony at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Ind., May 22, 2022. The official party stood as the colors were being retired. (Indiana National Guard photo by Spc. Kelsea Cook)

The Commandant of Marine Corps, General David H. Berger, salutes during the playing of the national anthems of France, Germany and the United States at a ceremony at Aisne-Marne American Cemetery marking the 104th anniversary of the Battle of Belleau Wood, May 29, 2022. The Battle of Belleau Wood is remembered for the intensity of the fighting and sustained, as well as for the participation of the 5th and 6th Marine Regiments. To this day, Marines assigned to these two regiments wear the French fourragere on the left shoulder of their uniforms as a reminder of their unit's distinguished service during the First World War.

Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. George Casey and Secretary of the Army Pete Geren place a reef at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as part of the Army's 233rd birthday tribute at Arlington National Cemetery, VA, June 14, 2008. The U.S. Congress adopted "the American continental army" on June 14, 1775.

Usa, Virginia, Arlington. Iwo Jima Memorial, Sunset Parade which consists of a performance of 'The Commandant's Own' Drum and Bugle Corps, the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard.

Oklahoma Civilian Aides to the Secretary of the Army view the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 29, 2024.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (front left) and Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin (front right), commanding general, Joint Forces Headquarters - National Capital Region and the U.S. Military District of Washington, participate in an Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 13, 2023.

2006 Korean War Veterans Armistice Day Ceremony at the Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C., with Secretary Dirk Kempthorne joining Vice President Dick Cheney and South Koreaa's Ambassador to the U.S., Lee Tae-Sik, among the dignitaries participating

Veterans Day ceremony and aftermath at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C., where Secretary Dirk Kempthorne delivered the opening remarks, and joined participating dignitaries including the former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, along with Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Founder and President Jan Scruggs, Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation Founder and President Diane Carlson Evans, Mary "Edie" Meeks of the Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation, William Hansen of Lockheed Martin, and William Murdy of Comfort Systems. Ceremony, co-hosted by the Memorial Fund and the National Park Service, highlighted the 25th anniversary of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Veterans of Foreign Wars District III hosts a memorial event Nov. 11 at Yongsan Garrison, Seoul Korea. U.S. and Korean dignitaries placed wreathes and flowers to honor veterans.

Air Chief Marshal Fadjar Prasetyo, chief of staff, Indonesian Air Force participates in an Air Force Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., May 19, 2022.

Chief of Naval Operations for the Republic of Korea Adm. Yang Yong-mo and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Personnel, Manpower, and Training U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Rick Cheeseman render honors during a Navy Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 30, 2024.

Army JROTC Cadets Jena Farris and Angel Montelongo participate in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery on June 21. The Cadets were in Washington D.C. to compete in the 2022 Army JROTC Leadership Bowl that took place June 19-22. | Sarah Windmueller, U.S. Army Cadet Command Public Affairs

Soldiers with the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) provide ceremonial support during an Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Va., Feb. 13, 2024. The wreath was laid by the Chief of Staff of the India Army, General Manoj Pande, and hosted by Maj. Gen. Trevor J. Bredenkamp, Commanding General, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region, U.S. Army Military District of Washington and Gen. Randy A. George, Chief of Staff of the United States Army. Army

040915-F-0201C-002. Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA)

2006 Korean War Veterans Armistice Day Ceremony at the Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C., with Secretary Dirk Kempthorne joining Vice President Dick Cheney and South Koreaa's Ambassador to the U.S., Lee Tae-Sik, among the dignitaries participating

Master Sgt. Michael Swick, 179th Airlift Wing Honor Guard, volunteers his time on Memorial Day to perform with the American Legion Post #243, Galion, Ohio, for the "Taps for Veterans" nationwide event, May 25, 2020. Swick teamed up with the American Legion members to render honors at two local cemetary locations, one in Iberia and the other in Galion. (Ohio National Guard

Leslie Cruise, a World War II veteran, salutes the grave of Pvt. Richard Vargas while Army Sgt. Jeannette Mason, 5th Quartermaster Theater Aerial Delivery Company parachute rigger, plays taps during a wreath laying ceremony at Lorraine American National Cemetery and Memorial, St. Avold, France, June 2, 2014. Seventy years ago on June 7, 1944 Pvt. Richard Vargas saved Cruises life during the invasion of Normandy. Cruise went to France several times prior to this visit looking for his friends grave in order to say thank you.

030811-F-0375W-001. Base: Elmendorf Air Force Base State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Col. Stephen E. Capehart, commander of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, renders a salute during the Polish national anthem at a memorial roll call during the Polish Land Forces Black Division Holiday celebration at Tankers Square, Żagań, Poland, Sept. 9, 2022. The 3/4th ABCT 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, Americas forward-deployed corps in Europe.

The commune of Amfreville honors the 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment and 82nd Airborne Division at the 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment Memorial in Picauville, France, June 1, 2022. U.S. Army Col. Richard Taylor of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Abn. Div., Battalion S3 Maj. Craig Barnhill of the 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment, and members of Amfrevilles local legislation provided remarks and laid wreaths in remembrance of the 507ths heroic actions in 1944.

A member of the joint services color guard holds a state flag and a veteran holds the POW-MIA flag during the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A sentinel from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) supports a Public Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 18, 2023. The wreath was laid by British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.

Col. Charles Barkhurst, 88th Air Base Wing vice commander, speaks at a Memorial Day ceremony, May, 30, 2022, at Stubbs Park, Centerville, Ohio. Local military and civilian leaders and community members participated in Memorial Day events in the greater Dayton area.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, left, Adjutant General of Pennsylvania, and Brig. Gen. Laura McHugh, Deputy Adjutant General-Army, salute as the remains of Pfc. Donald M. Born are carried by Soldiers with the Pennsylvania National Guard funeral honors team.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Aug.18, 2022) Midshipmen from 2nd and 20th Company march in a funeral procession for Midshipman 2nd Class (junior) Luke Bird from the U.S. Naval Academy Chapel to the Naval Academy cemetery. Bird, of New Braunfels, Texas, died July 17, 2022, when he fell over a waterfall while hiking in the Valparaíso region during a semester abroad in Chile.

DF-SC-87-07821. Base: Arlington State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The Minnesota Air National Guard Flight of Honor Ceremony was held at the 148th Fighter Wing, Duluth, Minn., 9 Oct. 2022. The ceremony recognized past and present Airmen from the 148th Fighter Wing and the 133rd Airlift Wing for notable professional achievements, service and or heroism.

The Minnesota Air National Guard Flight of Honor Ceremony was held at the 148th Fighter Wing, Duluth, Minn., 9 Oct. 2022. The ceremony recognized past and present Airmen from the 148th Fighter Wing and the 133rd Airlift Wing for notable professional achievements, service and or heroism.

Bob Quackenbush (right), deputy chief of staff, Arlington National Cemetery; and U.S. Army Col. (ret.) Gregory Gadson (left); watch the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Oct. 4, 2022. Gadson was at ANC to speak to employees as part of the National Disability Employment Awareness Month. He also participated in a Public Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Gadson has dedicated himself to the work of Wounded Warriors, veterans, and other groups who support employment and betterment of person with disabilities.

A contingent from the U.S. Military Academy participated in the commemoration of former President Franklin D. Roosevelts 142nd birthday Jan. 30 in Hyde Park, N.Y. The annual wreath laying event celebrates the life and service of the former president, which is held in the rose garden at the FDR Presidential Library and Museum, hosted by the National Park Service at the home of the FDR National Historic Site. USMA Dean of the Academic Board Brig. Gen. Shane Reeves placed a Presidential Wreath on the behalf of President Joseph R. Biden in honor of FDR at the event. Reeves also made brief remarks at the ceremony.

Two Romanian soldiers salute a memorial during the armed forces day celebration, where soldiers from the U.S., France, and Canadian armies participated on Oct. 25, 2022, Constanta, Romania.The 101st is committed to showing support for the local communities and learning the culture of our partner nations.

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg, Mississippi, for touring, participation in events highlighting the restoration project--funded jointly by the National Park Service and the Friends of the Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign, as part of the National Park Centennial Initiative--aimed at replacing interpretive battlefield markers and conserving the array of bronze statuary and stone monuments at the Civil War site. Joining Secretary Kempthorne for the events, including the unveiling of the first group of 22 metal markers identifying the specific locations of various Union and Confederate artillery batteries during the siege and defense of Vicksburg, were National Park Service Director Mary Bomar, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Chairman John Nau III, and country music star Trace Adkins, among other dignitaries.

U.S. Army Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Milley, Ramón CZ Colón-López, the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and U.S. Army Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli, the U.S. Army Europe and Africa commanding general, place wreaths during the Normandy American Cemetery commemoration ceremony at Colleville-Sur-Mer, Normandy, France, June 6, 2022. This ceremony commemorated the Soldiers who died in Europe during World War II.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John V. Meyer III, commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division gives a speech in honor of the "Big Red One" Soldiers who landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day at the 1st Infantry Division Monument in Colleville-Sur-Mer, France, June 5, 2022. This year, U.S. Army Europe and Africa commemorates the 78th anniversary of D-Day, the largest multi-national amphibious landing and operational military airdrop in history, and highlights the U.S.' steadfast commitment to European allies and partners.

Tracie Ross, Woody Williams' daughter, receives the folded national ensign from the Commandant of the Marine Corps, General David H. Berger, following the West Virginia State Memorial services for U.S. Marine Corps CWO4 Hershel "Woody" Williams at the State Capitol and Gold Star Family Memorial Monument, July 3, 2022 in Charleston, W.Va. Born on October 2, 1923, in Quiet Dell, WV, Woody enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve on May 26, 1943, and advanced to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4 before his retirement in 1969 after 17 years of service. During WWII, Woody served in New Caledonia, Guadalcanal, and Guam before landing in Iwo Jima where his actions earned him the Medal of Honor. At the time of his death on June 29, 2022, he was the last living World War II Medal of Honor recipient.

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment Caisson Platoon, and the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army 1st Lt. Myles W. Esmay in Section 36 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Aug. 1, 2022. Esmay was killed on June 7, 1944 during the siege of Myitkyina, Burma in World War II. From the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) press release:In the spring and summer of 1944, Esmay, an infantry engineer, was a member of Company B, 236th Engineer Combat Battalion, reinforcing the 5307th Composite Unit (Provisional), also known as Merrills Marauders. Esmays battalion arrived at the recently captured airfield in Myitkyina, Burma, on May 28, where they were tasked with holding the airfield and taking part in the siege of Myitkyina. On June 4, the battalion attacked Japanese forces at Namkwi village northwest of the airfield. The fighting lasted until June 7. Esmay wa

NASA Administrator Charles Bolden speaks to NASA personnel and others during a wreath laying ceremony as part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2015, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.

020314-F-1083S-009. Base: Arlington National Cemetery State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where he participated in ceremonies commemorating the 144th anniversary of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, conversed with National Park Service staff and visitors, and toured the Park, including the construction site for the new Visitors Center

040531-F-9032T-027. Base: RAF Lakenheath State: East Anglia Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg, Mississippi, for touring, participation in events highlighting the restoration project--funded jointly by the National Park Service and the Friends of the Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign, as part of the National Park Centennial Initiative--aimed at replacing interpretive battlefield markers and conserving the array of bronze statuary and stone monuments at the Civil War site. Joining Secretary Kempthorne for the events, including the unveiling of the first group of 22 metal markers identifying the specific locations of various Union and Confederate artillery batteries during the siege and defense of Vicksburg, were National Park Service Director Mary Bomar, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Chairman John Nau III, and country music star Trace Adkins, among other dignitaries.

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Yorktown, Virginia to deliver the keynote address at the 225th anniversary celebration of the Battle of Yorktown. Among other dignitaries on hand for the commemorative events were Virginia Senators John Warner and George Allen, former U.S. Army Secretary John Marsh, French Ambassador to the U.S. Jean-David Levitte, and French Defense Minister Michelle Alliot-Marie.

Paul E. Funk II, commanding general, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, hosts the U.S. Armys Twilight Tattoo on Joint Base Myer - Henderson Hall, Arlington, Va., May 18, 2022.

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Yorktown, Virginia to deliver the keynote address at the 225th anniversary celebration of the Battle of Yorktown. Among other dignitaries on hand for the commemorative events were Virginia Senators John Warner and George Allen, former U.S. Army Secretary John Marsh, French Ambassador to the U.S. Jean-David Levitte, and French Defense Minister Michelle Alliot-Marie.

From left to right, U.S. Army Area Support Group (ASG)-Poland Commander Col. Jorge Fonseca, V Corps Deputy Chief of Staff (Forward) Col. Scott Daulton, V Corps Civil Affairs Planning Chief Lt. Col. Kenyon Eyman, and ASG-Poland Senior Enlisted Advisor Sgt. Maj. Joseph Cristaro salute a memorial plaque dedicated to Peter Mansfeld in Poznan, Poland, Oct. 23, 2022. The memorial plaques, including another dedicated to Romek Strzalkowski, honor the two teenagers killed during the Hungarian Uprising against the Peoples Republic of Hungary and the Soviet Union.

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.

NORFOLK, Va. (Sep. 9, 2022)- Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads Sailors and Morale, Recreation and Welfare honor and remember the lives of those lost and affected by the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 during a remembrance ceremony onboard NSA Hampton Roads, September 9, 2022. Sunday marks 21 years since the terrorist attacks in 2001.

2006 Korean War Veterans Armistice Day Ceremony at the Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C., with Secretary Dirk Kempthorne joining Vice President Dick Cheney and South Koreaa's Ambassador to the U.S., Lee Tae-Sik, among the dignitaries participating

Members from the 92nd Air Refueling Wing honor guard stand at attention as "Taps" is played during the memorial for retired Col. Mark Fischer October 14, 2022 at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake, Wash. Col. Fischer retired as the vice wing commander at the 141st ARW in 2018 after 34 years of service.

Maj. Gen. John B. Richardson IV, 1st Cavalry Division commanding general and Command Sgt. Maj. Shade S. Munday, 1st Cavalry Division command sergeant major, along with Rosalyn Rubin, Robert Huntley and Deborah Kessler, family of Cpl. Tibor Rubin, render honors to the flag during a ceremony honoring the transfer or Cpl. Tibor Rubins Medal of Honor to the 1st Cavalry Division Jun. 23 on Fort Hood, Texas. Rubin, who was assigned to 3rd Battalion 8th Cavalry Regiment, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism during the period from July 23, 1950 to April 20, 1953. He is the only Holocaust survivor to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor.

U.S. Army Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Regiment "Old Guard" participate in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in commemoration of the Army's 238th Birthday in Arlington National Cemetery June 14, 2013. Secretary of the Army John McHugh, U.S. Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno and Sergeant Major of the Army Sgt. Maj. Raymond F. Chandler III were laying the wreath.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Brian Charles, a special operator assigned to the 23d Special Tactics Squadron, 24th Special Operations Wing, addresses attendees at the Silver Star Medal ceremony for Master Sgt. Cory Haggett, also a special tactics operator with the 24 SOW, May 13, 2022, at Hurlburt Field, Fla. During the ceremony, Haggett received the nations third-highest military combat medal for his gallant actions while deployed in 2017 in operations near Yemen.

The Coast Guard Academy's Corps of Cadets stand in formation during a regimental review, Sep. 30, 2022.

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), participate in a Joint Armed Forces Color Guard presentation during an Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-laying ceremony, Sept. 15, 2022, at the grave sit of 27th President of the United States, William H. Taft, in Arlington National Cemetery, Va. During the ceremony, hosted by Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director, Army National Military Cemeteries, Maj. Gen. John H. Phillips, Military Deputy to Deputy Chief of Staff, G6, (IMA) laid a wreath to commemorate Tafts 165th birthday. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Laura Stephens)

Col. James Zacchino Jr., Fort Drum garrison commander, and Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Thomas McCort, Fort Drum garrison chaplain, participates in the annual wreath-laying ceremony in honor of the sole Italian soldier buried at the Prisoner of War Cemetery on Route 26, just outside the cantonment area. (Photo by Mike Strasser, Fort Drum Garrison Public Affairs)

U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May personnel participate in the Cape May County Veterans Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony in Cape May, New Jersey, May 30, 2022. This Memorial Day, Adm. Karl Schultz, commandant of the Coast Guard, called on all members of the Coast Guard to reflect on the service and sacrifice of all American military personnel who died in the performance of their military duties, and to pay tribute to these heroes and to honor the family members they left behind.

Veterans render a salute during a monument reveal ceremony honoring French Resistance fighters during WWII in Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, France, June 5, 2022. Project Jedburgh was a joint Allied program, with the OSS Special Operations (SO) branch, the British Special Operations Executive (SOE), and the French Bureau Central de Renseignements et dAction (BCRA) and is widely considered the origins from which all modern special operations draw their lineage from.

Soldiers, friends, and family gathered to witness U.S. Army Col. Matthew W. Brown, the chief of staff of III Armored Corps be promoted to brigadier general on July 12, 2022 on Fort Hood, Texas. Lt. Gen. Robert Pat White, commanding general of III Armored Corps and Fort Hood, presided over the ceremony, promoting Brown to his one-star rank.

Chief of Navy Reserve honors the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Midway.WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 6, 2022) Vice Adm. John B. Mustin, Chief of Navy Reserve and Commander, Navy Reserve Force, is keynote speaker during the 80th year commemoration of the Battle of Midway at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C. on June 6, 2022. Mustin states during the ceremony that "the victory at Midway was primarily the result of decisions made and actions taken by individuals at decisive moments in the course of the battle. Today we commemorate those who sacrificed and refused to yield. Those who ensured American triumph at Midway. Those whose selfless dedication contributed to the defense of global freedom over tyranny. Those whose service turned the tide of war of the battle in the Pacific - and of the entire war."The Battle of Midway was a major American victory by the U.S. Navy against Japans Imperial Navy, turning the tide of war, near the island of Midway in the Pacific Ocean, June 4-7, 1942,

221111-N-LH273-1096 (Arlington, Va.) Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command held a Veterans Day wreath laying ceremony at the Seabee Memorial at the Arlington National Cemetery. Veterans Day is celebrated on Nov. 11 every year, and is a time to commemorate the dedication, service, and sacrifice of all who serve or have served in the U.S. Military. .

Col. William Davis, New Hampshire Air National Guard director of staff, addresses fourth graders from St. John Regional School during a graveside wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate President Franklin Pierces 218th birthday Nov. 22, 2022, at Old North Cemetery in Concord, New Hampshire. The New Hampshire National Guard performs services annually with Pierce Brigade volunteers. Pierce is the only New Hampshire resident to be elected president of the United States, holding office from 1853 - 1857.

Tourist looking at an honor guard

021111-M-8719G-020. State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MCB Camp Lejeune

Visit of United Kingdom's Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, to Washington, D.C., with protective detail personnel providing security

U.S. Army Col. (ret.) Gregory Gadson participates in a Public Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Oct. 4, 2022. Gadson was at ANC to speak to employees as part of the National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Gadson has dedicated himself to the work of Wounded Warriors, veterans, and other groups who support employment and betterment of person with disabilities.

Veterans Day ceremony and aftermath at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C., where Secretary Dirk Kempthorne delivered the opening remarks, and joined participating dignitaries including the former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, along with Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Founder and President Jan Scruggs, Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation Founder and President Diane Carlson Evans, Mary "Edie" Meeks of the Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation, William Hansen of Lockheed Martin, and William Murdy of Comfort Systems. Ceremony, co-hosted by the Memorial Fund and the National Park Service, highlighted the 25th anniversary of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

U.S. Army Col. Dixon Brockbank commander of the 90th Sustainment Brigade, Carver McGriff, a U.S. Army Veteran of the 90th Infantry Division, and Daniel Guillard the mayor of Le Plessis-Lastelle, carries a wreath to the 90th Inf. Div. Monument, June 4, 2022, during the 90th Infantry Division Tribute and 78th Liberation Commemoration Ceremony, at Le Plessis-Lastelle, France. The monument was dedicated to the soldiers of the 90th U.S. Inf. Div., who fought in July, 1944 for the liberation of Plessis-Lastelle.

Cmdr. Richard Rosenbusch, from New Baltimore, Michigan, USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) assistant air officer, places a rose during a wreath laying ceremony in honor of former President Gerald R. Ford and First Lady Betty Ford at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, September 1, 2022. Twelve Ford Sailors traveled to Michigan for the ships annual namesake visit to learn about the legacy of President Gerald R. Ford and connect with local community members in Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor and Albion, Michigan.

Army Maj. Gen. Robert Cone, commander of Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan, and Army Sgt. Maj. Gregory Valcin, acting CSTC-A command sergeant major, place a wreath below a flag flown at half-staff during a remembrance ceremony at Camp Eggers in Kabul, Afghanistan, Sept. 11, 2008

Airmen, military spouses, and civilian police gathered for the opening ceremony to police week at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, May 16, 2022. During National Police Week, Security Forces Airmen gave tribute to their brothers and sisters who'Ve lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

031105-M-3544G-036. Base: USMC Recruit Depot, San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) participate in an Army Honor Wreath Ceremony for the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Va., July 19, 2022. Chief David Huchler participated in the wreath-laying hosted by Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin, commanding general, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington.

Retired Maj. Gen. Lloyd B. Ramsey salutes during the wreath laying ceremony at the 3rd Infantry Division memorial during the Operation Dragoon ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery Aug. 5. Ramsey was instrumental in getting the monument made and put into ANC.

The 14th Air Force Change of Command Ceremony is getting ready to commence in front of the Headquarters Building at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. The ceremony took place on May 6th, 1999. Base: Vandenberg Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where he participated in ceremonies commemorating the 144th anniversary of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, conversed with National Park Service staff and visitors, and toured the Park, including the construction site for the new Visitors Center

Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Aleckna, Area Support Group Poland senior enlisted advisor, lays down a wreath at the 1956 Uprising Monument in Poznań, Poland commemorating the 1956 and subsequent Polish protests against the communist political system, June 26, 2022. The Poznań Riots, or the 1956 Uprising, was the first recognized strike and street demonstration in communist Poland.

The U.S. Marine Security Guards present the National Colors at Embassy Moscow's Fourth of July celebration at the Spaso House, U.S. Ambassador's residence in Moscow, Russia, on July 4, 2014.

Retired Gen. Alfred M. Gray, the 29th Commandant of the Marine Corps, pays his respects during the 39th Beirut Memorial Observance Ceremony at Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Oct. 23, 2022. The memorial observance is held annually on Oct. 23 to remember the lives lost due to the terrorist attacks at U.S. Marine Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon and Grenada.

Military leaders from Joint Base San Antonio and local Fiesta and community members show honors during the All Veterans Memorial Service in San Antonio, Texas, April 10, 2022. The All Veterans Memorial Service is the oldest military event in Fiesta San Antonio and is hosted by the Alamo Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America. The service, attended by veterans, spouses and survivors, veterans groups, and the general public, honors the sacrifices of past and present U.S. military members.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight, The Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard faces the American flag during the National Anthem, in Colchester, Vermont, Sep 11, 2022. Maj. Gen. Knight was there to speak to all those participating in the Vermont Remembers Run, in memoriam of those who lost their lives during and since the events of 9/11.

Veterans Day ceremony and aftermath at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C., where Secretary Dirk Kempthorne delivered the opening remarks, and joined participating dignitaries including the former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, along with Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Founder and President Jan Scruggs, Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation Founder and President Diane Carlson Evans, Mary "Edie" Meeks of the Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation, William Hansen of Lockheed Martin, and William Murdy of Comfort Systems. Ceremony, co-hosted by the Memorial Fund and the National Park Service, highlighted the 25th anniversary of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Yorktown, Virginia to deliver the keynote address at the 225th anniversary celebration of the Battle of Yorktown. Among other dignitaries on hand for the commemorative events were Virginia Senators John Warner and George Allen, former U.S. Army Secretary John Marsh, French Ambassador to the U.S. Jean-David Levitte, and French Defense Minister Michelle Alliot-Marie.

Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, Mr. James Crowden and Mr. Glyn Davies, charge D' Affaires of the United States Embassy in London wait while General Gregory S. Martin the commander, US Air Forces in Europe, Ramstein Air Base, Germany and other presenters place their wreaths on the Wall of the Missing during the Madingley Memorial Day Commemorative Service. The wreaths are placed on the wall to honor the men and women buried at Cambridge American Military Cemetery, and whose names are engraved on the Wall of the Missing. The ceremony was held at Cambridge American Military Cemetery, Coton, Cambridge, United Kingdom. Base: Raf Lakenheath State: East Anglia Country: England / Great Britain (ENG)

Col. Cory Scates, Deputy Chief of Staff, Intelligence, Tennessee National Guard, and Sarah Elizabeth Hickman-Mcleod, James K. Polk Association Board Member, lay a wreath at the tomb of President James K. Polk, Nov. 2, at the Tennessee State Capitol, in Nashville. A wreath is laid on the tomb of former presidents each year on their birthday on behalf of the current president. (Tennessee Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Cordeiro)

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (May 4, 2013) An Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) senior chief petty officer bears a ceremonial wreath dedicated to fallen EOD Sailors during the 44th Annual EOD Memorial Service at the Kauffman EOD Training Complex. The wreath was placed in front of the Navy panel of the memorial wall with separate sections for each service bearing the names of EOD service members who died in the line of duty.

On Sunday October 21, 2001, a Dedication Ceremony is held at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base for the Rickenbacker Memorial Park. The Memorial Park is dedicated to the memories of fifteen flyers that lost their lives in service to the unit and country. The flying deaths occurred at various dates from 1947 through 1988. On Sunday October 21, 2001, a Dedication Ceremony is held at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base for the Rickenbacker Memorial Park. The Memorial Park is dedicated to the memories of fifteen flyers that lost their lives in service to the unit and country. The flying deaths occurred at various dates from 1947 through 1988.

NEW YORK (Nov. 11, 2022) - Service members and veterans participate in the wreath laying ceremony at the Eternal Light Flagstaff at Madison Square Park prior to the New York Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 11, 2022. On Veterans Day we pause to remember all of those individuals, past and present who signed up to defend the very freedoms we enjoy each and every day. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Anna-Liesa Hussey

020314-F-1083S-016. Base: Arlington National Cemetery State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

2006 Korean War Veterans Armistice Day Ceremony at the Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C., with Secretary Dirk Kempthorne joining Vice President Dick Cheney and South Koreaa's Ambassador to the U.S., Lee Tae-Sik, among the dignitaries participating

The official party presents the wreath during the 2022 Governors Wreath-Laying Ceremony May 27, 2022, at the Ohio Statehouse atrium in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and First Lady Fran DeWine (pictured) were joined by Gold Star Families to honor the men and women who sacrificed their lives in service to their country, during the event leading up to Memorial Day.

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