Military Ceremonies and Meetings

Images of military personnel at formal events, including ceremonies and leadership discussions, emphasizing structure, formality, and camaraderie among troops.

221130-N-ZA692-1074 MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 30, 2022) Sailors from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command pose for a group photo following a frocking ceremony at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, Nov. 30.

College of the Ozarks held a campus ceremony honoring the renewal of the Memorandum of Agreement between College of the Ozarks and the Missouri National Guard at the College of the Ozarks William S. Knight (WSK) Center for Patriotic Education, Point Lookout, Mo., Nov. 18, 2022. The agreement establishes the authorizations and procedures governing the College of the Ozarks Bobcat Guard Officer Leadership Development (GOLD) Program. (Photo by U.S. Army National Guard Spc. Rose Di Trolio.)

Lt. Gen. Stephen N. Whiting, Space Operations Command Commander, presents challenge coins to Clear Space Force Station Arctic Airmen and Guardian superior performers in their duties to protect and defend the homeland. The Clear SFS members provide strategic missile warning, missile defense, and Upgraded Early Warning Radar as an integral part of deterrence in support of Homeland Defense. Clear SFS is home to Arctic Airmen and Guardians assigned to the 13th and 213th Space Warning Squadrons and 268th Security Forces, providing 24/7 missile warning, missile defense, and space domain awareness.

Maj. Andrew House Leader, the commander of the 62nd Expeditionary Attack Squadron, attends a change of command ceremony July 6, 2022, at Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates. Valkyrie is the call sign of all sorties flown by the 62nd EATKS.

220714-N-TH560-0036 OCEANA, Va. (July 14, 2022) - Rear Adm. Alvin Holsey, commander, Navy Personnel Command (NPC), hosts a listening session focused on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) at the MyNavy HR Career Development Symposium Mid-Atlantic. As part of the discussion, Sailors shared their experiences with recognizing the role that DEI plays in the warfighting readiness of the U.S. Navy. The symposium, hosted by NPC, featured trade show booths, breakout sessions with top MyNavy HR leadership, and the Fleet Engagement Team focused on servicing Professional Apprenticeship Career Track Sailors.

The 387th Military Police company conducted a color casing ceremony at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, Oct. 15, 2022. The 387th Military Police company has a rich history for its short span. It was first federally recognized on Nov. 6, 2006 in New Albany. The unit then deployed in 2009 with the 384th Military Police Combat support company to Mosul, Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2010, the 387th Military Police Company responded to an earthquake in Haiti and again deployed two years later with the 381st Military Police Support Company in Afghanistan under Task Force Guardian in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2015, the unit was transferred to Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuver Training Center. Then, in 2017 the unit mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. At the end of the ceremony, 387th Military Police Company commander, Cpt. Jay Ciesielczyk addressed the formation. I know the unit that receives you will be fortunate to have you in the

Members of the 195th Wing talk during a leadership symposium at Naval Air Station North Island, California, Jan 5, 2023. The symposium brought together Air Guardsman and civilian counterparts from across the state to receive training, collaborate on best practices and network entering the new year.

Lt. Col. Michael Newson, 51st Communications Squadron newly appointed commander receives his first salute as commander during an assumption of command ceremony at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Aug. 2, 2022. The change of command ceremony is deeply rooted in military tradition that dates back to the reign of King Frederick of Prussia and has persisted into modern day.

221130-N-ZA692-1074 MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 30, 2022) Sailors from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command pose for a group photo following a frocking ceremony at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, Nov. 30.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Jami Shawley, commanding general of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, talks to Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 226 reinforced (VMM-226) and VMM-364 (REIN) following a transfer of authority ceremony April 1, 2023, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti. The VMM provides critical support for multiple operations within CJTF-HOAs area of interest.

U.S. Marines assigned to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) stand at attention for the playing of the national anthem during a ceremony on Camp Foster, Okinawa, July 1, 2022. The ceremony was held to appoint Sgt. Maj. Arthur Arebalo as the new sergeant major of 1st MAW.

Col. Thomas Gibson, commander of the 45th Field Artillery Brigade, Oklahoma Army National Guard, addresses Soldiers during their departure ceremony in Mustang, Oklahoma, Dec. 3, 2022. The Soldiers are deploying to the US Central Command area of responsibility, providing headquarters operations to plan and execute supporting fires. (Oklahoma National Guard photos by Spc. Danielle Rayon)

U.S. Air Force Col. Kevin Lee, 409th Air Expeditionary Group commander, receives his first salute from the Airmen of the 409th AEG during a change of command ceremony at Nigerien Air Base 101, Niamey, Niger, May 28, 2022. Lee assumed command of the group responsible for providing secure, reliable, flexible power projection platforms across North and West Africa.

Airmen from the 3rd Wing proceed through the pre-deployment function line at the Joint Mobility Complex, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 21, 2022, in preparation to support NATO Air Shielding. Integration with NATO Allies and Partners further demonstrate the Alliances dedication to deter and defend in an increasing complex and changing security environment.

Gov. Tony Evers, Maj. Gen. Paul Knapp Wisconsins adjutant general and other senior Wisconsin National Guard leaders joined family and friends at the Miller High Life Theater in downtown Milwaukee Sept. 30 for a formal sendoff ceremony for approximately 280 members of the Wisconsin Army National Guards 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade headquarters and the 357th Signal Company. The deploying Soldiers will support Operation Enduring Freedom - Horn of Africa to enhance partnerships and stability in the region. Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs photo by Vaughn R. Larson

Idaho Army National Guard Capt. Joshua McRoberts, Commander of Charlie Company, 2-116th Combined Arms Battalion, walks through company area while soldiers prepare for movement to the Orchard CombaT Training Center.Idaho Army National Guard soldiers from the 2-116th Combined Arms Battalion in the field for annual training and final preparations for deployment in support of Operation Spartan Shield.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. David R. Wolfe, Pacific Air Forces command chief, speaks to Airmen during an all-call at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, April 14, 2022. The purpose of Wolfes visit was to speak with Airmen in a variety of career fields about Andersen AFB, its importance in the region and how the Air Force could contribute to further enhancing the capabilities displayed across the base.

FORT BUCHANAN, Puerto RicoMore than 180 service members from different units of the U.S. Army Reserve in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands gathered at the commands headquarters for the Yearly Training Brief workshop, June 1-5. Col. Carlos Caceres, 1st Mission Support Command commanding officer, stands in front of the YTB audience.

Maj. Gen. Randall Kitchens, Chief of Chaplains, speaks to the Airmen of the 341st Security Forces Squadron tactical response force team on spiritual fitness on Feb. 2, 2024, on Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana. The Malmstrom TRF team is a specialized on-call force capable of responding to any hostile attack within the 13,800-square-mile missile complex or the confines of the base. Air Force

Participants for MREP 2022 work together on team building exercises at Camp Nymindegablejren July 4, 2022. MREP is a program that houses almost 130 participants from 6 different nations, to increase interoperability, strengthen partnerships, and to enhance professional development between allies.

Noncommissioned officers from team Hickam attend the first NCO Symposium at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Dec. 2, 2022. NCOs from Hawaii were invited to attend the symposium to better their leadership skills and shape their perspective when dealing with emergent leadership scenarios.

U.S. Navy Cmdr. William Stewart, the Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic Force Chaplain, speaks on suicide prevention and awareness during a joint Safety Stand-Up with the aircraft carriers USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and USS George Washington (CVN 73), in Hampton, Virginia, June 21, 2022. The John C. Stennis is in Newport News Shipyard working alongside NNS, NAVSEA and contractors conducting Refueling and Complex Overhaul as part of the mission to deliver the warship back in the fight, on time and on budget, to resume its duty of defending the United States.

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass gives closing remarks to U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force personnel assigned to Joint Base Pearl Habor-Hickam during a base visit at JBPH-H, Hawaii, Nov. 7, 2022. Bass visited several squadrons around JBPH-H to gain a look into their unique mission and discuss priorities such as people, culture, and readiness.

Missouri National Guards Public Affairs Office (PAO) traveled on a UH 60 Blackhawk to train Soldiers in Mo., Sept. 21, 2022. The Public Affairs team trains units around the state about the fundamentals of social media while giving public affairs guidance to Soldiers and Airmen. (Photo by U.S. Army National Guard Spc. Rose Di Trolio)

Members of the 607th Air Operations Center render a first salute to Col. Tanner Woolsey, 607th AOC incoming commander, during an assumption of command ceremony at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Jan. 11, 2024. Prior to taking command, Woolsey served as the Chief of Combat Plans and Integrated Air and Missile Defense Divisions at the 613th Air Operations Center, assigned to Headquarters, Pacific Air Forces, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

Paratroopers assigned to Charlie Troop, 1-73 Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division take part in the Combat Water Survival Test for the XVIII Airborne Corps Best Squad Competition on Fort Stewart, GA, July 27, 2022. The Best Squad Competition tests squads' physical, technical and tactical abilities under stress and fatigue to determine which squad from the XVIII Airborne Corps will advance to the Forces Command Best Squad Competition in the coming months.

U.S. Air Force basic military trainees, 321st Training Squadron, flights 638, 639, 640, and 641, right, stand in formation prior to receiving instructions on the proper techniques to safely handle the M4 carbine rifle during their second week of basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Aug. 23, 2022. Trainees were taught safety and muzzle discipline, as well as, proper positioning and handling of the weapon.

Career counselors assigned to U.S. Army Military District of Washington receive Retention Excellence Awards at Fort McNair, Washington, D.C., Feb. 20, 2024. The awards recognized the organizations who accomplished their retention mission in all categories, resulting in USAMDW finishing fiscal year 2023 with a 136% retention rate. Army

NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 13, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea speaks with Sailors during an all-hands call at Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 13, 2022. Honea conducted his first fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Marlin D. Williams, commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 14, speaks during the presentation of the Chief of Naval Operations 2020 Naval Aviation Safety Award at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, May 23, 2022. The chief of naval operations recognized the squadron for its outstanding safety record during aircraft operations in support of the United States Marine Corps Forces Command. MAG-14 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

Maj. Macharia Davis assumes command of the District of Columbia National Guard Joint Force Headquarters - Higher Headquarters Detachment, during a Change of Command Ceremony at the D.C. Armory, Feb. 4, 2023. The ceremony symbolized the transfer of command between outgoing commander Maj. LeJuan Strickland and incoming commander Maj. Davis. Brig. Gen. Leland Blanchard, commander, D.C. National Guard Land Component Command (LCC) presided over the ceremony. Air National Guard

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Michael Perry, 731st Air Mobility Squadron, briefs U.S. Air Force Gen. Jacqueline D. Van Ovost, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), and U.S. Navy Fleet Master Chief Donald Myrick, senior enlisted leader, USTRANSCOM, May 17, 2022, on Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea. The 731st AMS is responsible for ensuring the safety and fluid movement of all traveling personnel in and outbound via weekly rotators, tracking passenger manifests, handling baggage, and executing security checks and safety briefings for passengers.

737th Training Group leadership briefs the Texas 23rd Congressional District, U. S. House of Representative staff during their visit to Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Sep. 27, 2022. The visit helps to provide the congressional staff an overview and understanding of mission operations throughout JBSA.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. William Pomeroy (left), commanding officer, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 13 (MALS-13), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, speaks to Master Sgt. Maribel Valdez, administrative chief, during her retirement ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, June 24, 2022. Valdez retired after 20 years of service.

Army ROTC Cadets from Brigham Young University - Idaho compete in the Tug of War event on February 10 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wa. The tug of war event was the final event of the challenge and helped determine the winner of 8TH Brigades Army ROTC Task Force North Ranger Challenge held February 9-10. The winners of 8th Brigades Task Force North and South Ranger Challenges will go on to represent the 8th Brigade Vikings at the Sandhurst Military Skills Competition held at the United States Military Academy in April. | U.S. Army

U.S. Marines with India company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, conduct an after-action report following training at the Infantry Immersion Trainer (IIT) site on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 4, 2023. The IIT is designed to provide Marines with a realistic combat environment using sound, smell, atmospherics and role-players to increase combat efficiency.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Michael Seebeck, Missouri Air National Guard, assumes command of the 139th Force Support Squadron from Lt. Col. Michael Donaldson at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, Aug. 6, 2022.

Fort Novosel conducts its annual Aviation Senior Leader Forum Jan. 25, 2024.

221003-N-UB993-1042SAN DIEGO (Oct. 3, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea answers a question during an all-hands call at Naval Air Station North Island, Oct. 3, 2022. Honea conducted his second fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

221007-N-UB993-1031SAN DIEGO (Oct. 7, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea speaks with Sailors during an all-hands call at the Naval Base Point Loma, Oct. 7, 2022. Honea conducted his second fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

ROTC Cadet Isaac Kimbrell (right) briefs Soldiers with the 146th Expeditionary Signal Battalion on potential missions at Florida State College of Jacksonville (FSCJ) - Wilson Campus, September 2, 2019. Florida National Guardsmen across the state are preparing to respond to Hurricane Dorian relief efforts. The Florida National Guard has approximately 12,000 Soldiers and Airmen assigned, and can activate personnel as needed and directed by Governor Ron DeSantis.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Duke A. Pirak, right, deputy director, Air National Guard, receives an overview of the air picture management section from Tech. Sgt. Joshua Bassett, left, identification technician, 225th Air Defense Squadron, during a visit to the Western Air Defense Sector, Washington National Guard, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Oct. 27, 2022. During Piraks visit, he fielded questions on a range of topics that spanned from national security threats to daily issues affecting the service members families such as inflation and housing issues.

Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank, U.S. Army Central commanding general, delivered the keynote address at the Veterans Day Program hosted by the Sumter County Veterans Association November 11 in Sumter S.C. The program honored Veterans from the local area for their service to the community and nation.

Basic Military Police Course graduates recite the Military Police Creed in Edgewood, Md., Sept. 1, 2022. The 70th Regional Training Institute, 2nd Modular Training Battalion, trains Soldiers from the Army National Guard, Reserve, and Active Duty from all over the country focusing on training Soldiers who will become military police officers and already have a primary military occupational specialty.

Lt. Col. Shannon Castaneda, the commander of the 152nd Communications Flight promoted four Airmen to the ranks of Senior Airman and Master Sergeant, Nevada Air National Guard Base, Aug. 13, 2022. Master Sgt. Torrey Eldridge, Master Sgt. Douglas Swinehart, Senior Airman Aaron Durney, and Senior Airman Erik Corcoran were all promoted.

Kuwait Army doctors, Lt. Col. Hussain Al-Saraf, Sgt. Maj. Mona Mubarak Alhajeri, and Sgt. Maj. Najah Zamel Alenezi receive a tour of the hospital at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Aug. 26, 2022.

220414-N-ZA692-0033 MANAMA, Bahrain (April 14, 2022) Royal Jordanian Navy Col. Mohammad Al-Tarawneh, left, Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), center, and Pakistan Navy Commodore Ahmed Hussain, salute during a change-of-command ceremony for Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, April 14, at CMF headquarters in Bahrain. Established in 2009, CTF 151 enhances regional maritime cooperation and protects global maritime commerce by deterring, disrupting and suppressing piracy and armed robbery at sea.

Pathfinder students listen to instruction during a sling load operation demonstration at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, on Aug. 26, 2022. Cadre assigned to the Army National Guard Warrior Training Center in Fort Benning, Georgia, are teaching approximately 50 National Guard and Active Component Soldiers to become proficient in navigational aid and advisory services to military aircraft.

CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti (Aug. 10, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger, 38th Commandant of the Marine Corps speaks with Marines assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 during a address held in 11 Degrees North on Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti (CLDJ) as part of the commandant's visit to CLDJ. CLDJ serves as an expeditionary base for U.S. military forces providing support to ships, aircraft and personnel that ensure security throughout Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Brandon Elias, a manpower management officer with Manpower and Reserve Affairs Department, Headquarters Marine Corps, observes as a classmate presents their logistics plan for a notional operation during an Advanced Expeditionary Logistics Operations Course (AXLOC) course at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Sept. 29, 2022. AXLOC incorporates extensive use of case studies, wargaming and decision forcing cases, and rapid planning to train personnel to effectively close and sustain naval expeditionary forces in support of distributed maritime operations and expeditionary advanced base operations.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ralph G. Foshee Jr., incoming commander for the 968th Expeditionary Airborne Air Control Squadron, speaks to the men and women of the squadron during a change of command ceremony at Prince Sultan Air Base, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, May 8, 2022. Lt. Col. Steven A. Bailey relinquished command of the 968th EAACS to Foshee during the ceremony. The tradition of change of command ceremonies are so that the unit can witness their new leader assume the responsibility and trust associated with the position of commander.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Jessica Alcaraz, 23rd Operations Support Squadron intelligence mission planning chief, gives an intel mission brief at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Oct. 13, 2022. The 23rd Wing deployed A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft and support personnel to Anderson Air Force Base, Guam for a routine Dynamic Force Employment Operation.

Lt. Gen. Mary K. Izaguirre was sworn in as the 46th Surgeon General of the U.S. Army during a change of command ceremony hosted by Gen. Randy George, Army Chief of Staff, at Joint Base San Antonio - Fort Sam Houston, Jan. 25.

U.S. Army Soldiers competing in the Army Best Squad Competition participate in a night land navigation test on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Sept. 29, 2022. The Army Best Squad Competition tests Soldiers on their individual and collective ability to adapt to and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-readiness events that test their physical and mental endurance, technical and tactical abilities, and under stress and extreme fatigue.

Tech. Sgt. Cary Wickersham, 730th Air Mobility Squadron air transportation standardization and evaluation program evaluator, speaks to attendees during a ribbon cutting ceremony, June 13, 2022, at Yokota Air Base, Japan. The project spanned nearly seven years, with planning starting in late 2015, construction starting in June of 2020 and completion in June of 2022.

221004-N-UB993-1088Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea speaks with Sailors during an all-hands call at Naval Base San Diego, Oct. 4, 2022. Honea conducted his second fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

The U.S. Army Reserves 99th Readiness Division hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 15 to officially open its new Army Reserve Center in Newark, Delaware. This state-of-the-art facility replaces two older structures in Dover and Lewes, allowing the Army Reserve to consolidate services into a single facility to enhance Soldier readiness and save taxpayer money. Distinguished guests at the event included Newark Mayor Stu Markham, Delaware Army Reserve Ambassador Stephan Murphy, 99th RD Command Sgt. Maj. Subretta Pompey, and retired Maj. Gen. Hugh Broomall, state chair for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve for Delaware.

U.S. Army Capt. Clinton Bradley speaks at a change of command ceremony on Sept. 18, 2022 at the Flemington National Guard Armory. Capt. Jennifer Wain replaced Capt. Bradley who was promoted to another assignment in the National Guard. (U.S. Army National Guard photos by Pfc. Michael Hayes)

$Chief Master Sgt. Jacob C. Simmons, Space Operations Command Senior Enlisted Leader, congratulates Clear Space Force Station Arctic Airmen and Guardian coin recipients. Lt. Gen. Stephen N. Whiting, Space Operations Command Commander presented challenge coins to Clear SFS Arctic Airmen and Guardian superior performers in their duties to protect and defend the homeland. The Clear SFS members provide strategic missile warning, missile defense, and Upgraded Early Warning Radar as an integral part of deterrence in support of Homeland Defense. \Clear SFS is home to Arctic Airmen and Guardians assigned to the 13th and 213th Space Warning Squadrons and 268th Security Forces, providing 24/7 missile warning, missile defense, and space domain awareness.$

220401-N-EJ241-1007DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (April 1, 2022) - Sailors assigned to Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia and several tenant commands, take turns saying the Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM) proclamation. The Department of Defense observes SAAPM by focusing on creating the appropriate culture to eliminate sexual assault and requiring a personal commitment from all Service members.

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Corey Fowler, Sgt. 1st Class Cody Blackmon, 1st Lt. Molly Murphy, Staff Sgt. Heeyu Chang, 1st Lt. Austin Pinkerton, Sgt. Donair Mason, Staff Sgt. Keith Estes, and Capt. Christopher Wunsch, the eight competitors, are recognized on stage at the awards ceremony for Medical Readiness Command, Pacific's Fiscal Year 2023 Best Medic Competition, Oct. 28, 2022 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. These eight top Soldiers from across MRC,P competed in ten events over three days including a 15-mile ruck march, water survival tests, marksmanship, combat casualty care, and more.

A Green Beret with 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) discusses visit, board, search and seizure methods (VBSS) during a military engagement with a member of the Philippine Coast Guard Special Operations Force on June 1, 2022, near Puerto Princesa, Palawan. This engagement provided an opportunity for the Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard Special Operations Force and U.S. Green Berets to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures with each other in an effort to enhance interoperability while sharing new ideas for maritime operations. U.S. Special Operations Forces continue to prepare for tomorrows challenges and seize the initiative nowtogether. The U.S. focus on integrated deterrence requires geographically distributed, operationally resilient, defense-in-depth, and sustainable force postures that are coordinated globally and effectively employed every day.

U.S. Air National Guard Airmen of the 185th Air Refueling Wing listen to a speech during a Change of Command ceremony at the 185th Air Refueling Wing at Sioux City, Iowa, August 6, 2022. U.S. Air National Guard Col. Sonya L. Morrison is replacing Col. Mark A. Muckey as wing commander.

Pacific Air Forces Airmen listen to a speech from Gen. Ken Wilsbach, former PACAF commander, during an Order of the Sword presentation at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Feb. 8, 2024. Military branches around the world present prestigious swords of honor to recognize the accomplishments and service to their country and fellow man. In the Air Force, the Order of the Sword remains the highest and only honor presented by the noncommissioned officer corps to a senior ranking officer and is maintained by the command chief master sergeant of the designated command. Air Force

U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. David Chastain, operations sergeant major for 1st Infantry Division Artillery, addresses the Soldiers during U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Chase Howards promotion ceremony at Forward Operating Site Adazi, Latvia, June 1, 2022. The 1st Infantry Division is among other units assigned to V Corps, Americas forward deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces.

172nd Airlift Wing first sergeants toss tee shirts to Airmen of the 172nd Airlift Wing who gathered for Wingman Day 2022; an event that builds esprit de corps, reaffirms leadership's commitment to their people and strengthens relationships across the Wing. U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Jared Bounds.

U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers with Company A, 1-118th Infantry Battalion, South Carolina National Guard, stand in formation during a deployment ceremony at the Moncks Corner Armory in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, Aug. 7, 2022. More than 130 Soldiers from the unit will be mobilized for approximately a year to support Operation Spartan Shield, Task Force Spartan and U.S. Army Central Command.

221006-N-UB993-1075CAMP PENDLETON, Cali. (Oct. 6, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea listens to a Sailor ask a querstion during an all-hands call at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Oct. 6, 2022. Honea conducted his second fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Tristan Tarpley, indoor simulated marksmanship trainer instructor, teaches students with the Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps from Tolleson High School, Arizona, how to correctly use the ISMT during their visit to Marine Corps Base Hawaii, MCBH, March 30, 2023. The purpose of the visit was to give Marine Corps Junior ROTC students the opportunity to learn and experience different jobs or career paths they may choose in the Marine Corps.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Paul Smith, commander of troops with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, presents troops to the out-going and on-coming commanding officers during a 7th Comm Bn. change of command ceremony in which Lt. Col. Jeffrey Patterson passed command to Lt. Col. William J. Matkins at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 16, 2022. III MIG functions as the vanguard of III MEF, operating in the Indo-Pacific regions information environment, and supports Marine Air Ground Task Force operations with communications, intelligence, and supporting arms liaison capabilities.

Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 226 reinforced (VMM-226) leadership cases their colors while VMM-364 (REIN) uncases their colors during a transfer of authority ceremony April 1, 2023, at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti. The VMM provides critical support for multiple operations within Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africas area of interest.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Russell Smith answers questions during an all-hands call at Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton, Washington May 19, 2022. MCPON Smith visited commands throughout the pacific northwest to engage with Sailors to discuss their concerns, quality of life issues, and champion Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gildays Get Real, Get Better initiative. Get Real, Get Better is a call to action for every Navy leader to apply a set of Navy-proven leadership and problem-solving best practices that empower our people to achieve exceptional performance.

Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) receive classroom instruction during Day One of Air Assault school on Mihail Kogalniceanu Airbase, Romanian, on November 19, 2022. Soldiers must learn different aircraft capabilities such as speed, weight capacity, and max personnel capacity.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Joseph Roberts, center-right, and Cpl. Devanta Miller, center-left, both Marine Corps martial arts instructors with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, guide Marines on fighting techniques a during Marine Corps Martial Arts Program course aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20) in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 5, 2024. Teaching MCMAP while underway give Marines the opportunity to practice hand-to-hand combat techniques and maintain lethality. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Marine Corps

220707-M-TN173-1020 MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII (July 7, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Idris N. Turay, the sergeant major of Marine Air-Ground Task Force 7 (MAGFT-7), addresses Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion 4th Marine Regiment, MAGTF-7 and partner nations during Rim of the Pacific 2022 (RIMPAC 2022), July 7, 2022 on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Hawaii. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC 2022 from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The worlds largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC 2022 provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationship among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Marine Corps Video by Sgt. Jared D. Curtis)

Oregon Army National Guard Col. Russell Gibson, 82nd Troop Command Brigade Commander (right) and Lt. Col. Nathan Edgecomb, 2-641st Battalion Commander (left) along with family and friends of Soldiers assigned to Detachment 1, Company Alpha, 1st Battalion - 112th Aviation, stand for the National Anthem during the units Demobilization Ceremony held at the Army Aviation Support Facility, Salem, Oregon on Jan. 19, 2024. A total of 27 Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers teamed-up with Soldiers from Idaho, North Dakota, Montana and Wisconsin as part of a 12 month mobilization along the U.S. Southwest Border. (National Guard

Brig. Gen. Tracy Smith, assistant adjutant general-Air and commander of the Alaska Air National Guard, Col. Brian Kile, Director of Joint Staff, Alaska National Guard and Chief Master Sgt. Kim Groat, Alaska Air National Guards state command chief visit the 168th Wing deployers and maintenance group to hear from the Airmen. The 168th is the premier Arctic Wing providing rapid global reach and vigilance capabilities through air refueling, aeromedical evacuation, missile warning, and space domain awareness. The 168th Wing maintains a 24/7 air defense constant watch and commitment for North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).

221129-N-VS068-1110PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 30, 2022) - 1st. Sgt. Aldo Vervuzco, with Weapons company, Battalion Landing Team 2/4, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, leads Corporals Course aboard amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), Nov. 30, 2022. Corporals Course is a leadership course which teaches the basics of being a corporal include marching, sword handling, and best practices of leading a platoon. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and amphibious transport dock USS Anchorage (LPD 23) and USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations with the embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit 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.

U.S. Army Cpt. Nicholas J. Hedlesky, outgoing commander of Signal, Intelligence, and Sustainment Company, gives a speech during the change of command ceremony in Poznan, Poland, July 1st 2022. SIS Co. 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 deploy corps in Europe.

Lt. Col. Karl Duerks, 155th Air Refueling Wing pilot, stands at attention next to retired Col. Mark Hopson, June 17, 2022, during a retirement ceremony at the Lincoln Air Force Base, Neb. Duerk had 3,500 flying hours during his military career.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Andrew Gebara, eighth Air Force commander, and U.S. Air Force CMSgt Steve Cenov, Eighth Air Force command chief, speaks to Airman assigned to a bomber task force on Royal Air Force Base Fairford, England on Sept. 2, 2022. Through bomber task forces, the Mighty Eighth enhances our operational readiness and ensures that we are ready to fight tonight.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Ted Braxton, left, 449th Air Expeditionary Group senior enlisted leader, and Senior Master Sgt. Zachary Simpson, 726th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron (EABS) senior enlisted leader, speak with Airmen from the 475th EABS during a meet and greet dinner at Camp Simba, Kenya, June 3, 2022. Camp Simba is operated by the 475th EABS and provides base operations and communications support for thirteen mission partners including a safe landing zone for Combined Joint Task ForceHorn of Africa personnel recovery and casualty evacuation and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms.

Members of the 349th Air Mobility Wing and other distinguished visitors gathered to celebrate the 2023 Annual Award winners during a banquet on February 03, 2024, at Travis Air Force Base, California. (US Air Force

U.S. Army divers of the 511th Engineer Dive Detachment render honors during a pre-deployment ceremony at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, September 9, 2022. The ceremony recognized Soldiers who will be supporting Operation Spartan Shield 2023 in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

221024-N-AN659-1005 Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash. (Oct. 24, 2022) Cmdr. Frank Verducci, Commanding Officer, and Command Master Chief Benjamin Faulise, Command Master Chief of Patrol Squadron (VP) 46, the Grey Knights, awards Sailors attached to the squadron with Navy Achievement Medals at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Oct. 24, 2022. Fifteen service members were awarded for their measurable achievements while assigned to VP-46.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Troy Taylor was appointed the twelfth Ohio state command chief for the Ohio Air National Guard during a change of authority ceremony on September 10, 2022, at Robert S. Beightler Armory in Columbus, Ohio. Maj. Gen. James Camp, the Assistant Adjutant General for Air, Ohio National Guard, performed the ceremony as Taylor accepted authority from the previous state command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Heidi Bunker.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Maurice L. Williams, command chief, Air National Guard, speaks with Airmen of the 114th Fighter Wing during his visit to Joe Foss Field, April 4, 2022. During his visit, Williams spoke to Airmen about their role and responsibilities towards mission accomplishment and the Air Force Whole Airman Concept. Willaims further stressed the importance of Airmen understanding the why behind what they do in order to have a greater impact on the mission.

Capt. Ryan Yeager gives flowers to his spouse during the 507th Maintenance Squadron assumption of command ceremony on Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, Oct. 15, 2022. It is customary for a new commander to present their spouse with a gift or speech during an assumption of command ceremony.

Lt. Col. Karen Williams, incoming 4th Healthcare Operations Squadron commander, renders a first salute to members of the 4th HCOS at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, June 30, 2022. Williams assumed command of the 4th HCOS from Lt. Col. Sarah Martin.

221018-N-UB993-1029Mayport, Fla. (Oct. 18, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea listens to a question from Master-at-Arms Second Class Hunter Price about rentention during an all-hands call at Naval Station Mayport, Oct. 18, 2022. Honea is conducting fleet visits to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

Camp Ripley hosted a birthday celebration at the education center on 8 July 2022. Warrant Officers came together to pay their respects to the 104th Birthday of the Warrant Officers Corp.

Cadets with the Civil Air Patrol Space Force Operations Academy tour the Morrell Operations Center, Cape Canaveral Space Force Center, July 28, 2022. They attended a brief from the 45 Weather Squadron, walked through the surveillance room and the mission control room.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Dennis W. Sampson, the commanding officer of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), welcomes Marines and Sailors to the MEU during a welcome aboard brief at the Base Theater on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 22, 2022. Leaders from the 26th MEU welcomed new joins with an orientation brief about the unit, upcoming training exercises and expectations to prepare Marines for the upcoming deployment.

A Soldier assigned to the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School dons his green berets for the first time during a Regimental First Formation at Fort Bragg, North Carolina August 18, 2022. The ceremony marked the completion of the Special Forces Qualification Course where Soldiers earned the honor of wearing the green beret, the official headgear of Special Forces.

U.S. Marine Corps base leadership with Marine Corps Air Station Futenma sit in support during a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration on MCAS Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 17, 2023. During the celebration, Marines learned about Dr. King and the political movements of his time through videos and songs addressing racial injustice and the hope for a better future. After taking a pledge to promote equal opportunity, the Marines linked arms and sang together, showing their unity and commitment to equality.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Gavin Roblez; a native of Texas, an expeditionary airfield systems technician, and cold-weather training instructor with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing; gives a brief during a four-day cold weather-training course in preparation for Exercise Nordic Response 24 at Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 11, 2024. Exercise Nordic Response, formerly known as Cold Response, is a NATO training event conducted every two years to promote military competency in arctic environments and to foster interoperability between the U.S. Marine Corps and allied nations. Marine Corps

U.S. Navy Corpsmen with 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines (2/24) participate in a Valkyrie Whole Blood Transfusion Course on July 26, 2022, at Range 18 at Fort McCoy, Wis. Valkyrie is the whole blood transfusion program run by 1st Marine Division aboard Camp Pendleton (Calif.) that teaches all of their Corpsmen how to perform field blood transfusions. The 2/24 is an infantry battalion based out of Chicago consisting of approximately 1,000 Marines and Sailors. The battalion falls under the 24th Marine Regiment and the 4th Marine Division.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. David J. Hart, the commanding officer of Marine Air-Ground Task Force 7 (MAGFT-7) Ripper”, addresses the Marines aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD2) in the Pacific Ocean, June 19, 2022. Ripper leadership talks through the importance of the Marines role in advancing relationships with U.S. partners and increasing coalition Naval Warfighting interoperability, competency and lethality.

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Stephanie Lewis, an instructor with the First Sergeant Academy at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, speaks with Airmen at the 156th Wing, Puerto Rico Air National Guard, during an additional duty first sergeants symposium held at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, May 12, 2022. The goal of the symposium was to enhance the first sergeants program and invest in the future of the enlisted force.

Airmen attend a timeline induction ceremony honoring 67th Cyberspace Wing and 688th Cyberspace Wings contributions towards Air Force Cyberspace and Communication capabilities, at the Air Force Cyber Heritage Center at HQ Cyberspace Capabilities Center on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, May 19, 2022. The four tiles honored during the ceremony will now hang on the Heritage Centers timeline wall, a 30-foot wall dedicated to focusing on Air Force cyberspace and information dominance.

Philippine Marine Corps scout snipers and force reconnaissance Marines conduct bilateral sniper concealment training with U.S. Marines assigned to1st Reconnaissance Battalion, attached to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit during KAMANDAG 6 at Marine Base Rodolfo Punsalang, Palawan, Philippines, Oct. 7, 2022. KAMANDAG is an annual bilateral training exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. Military designed to strengthen interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences.

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