Military Ceremonies and Protocols

Images depict solemn military ceremonies with personnel in uniforms, flag parades, and official gatherings, showcasing respect and tradition in various settings.

The U.S. Coast Guard commissioned the USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr. (WPC 1147), Patrol Forces Southwest Asia's sixth 154-foot Sentinel-class cutter, into service at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum in New York City, April 21, 2022. Vice Adm. Steven Poulin, U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area commander, presided over the ceremony. The cutter's namesake is Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Clarence Sutphin Jr., a New York native who served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1941 to 1945. During this time, Sutphin served as landing craft coxswain on board the attack transport USS Leonard Wood (APA 12),a landing craft supporting our troops in North Africa and Sicily.

The U.S. Coast Guard commissioned the USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr. (WPC 1147), Patrol Forces Southwest Asia's sixth 154-foot Sentinel-class cutter, into service at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum in New York City, April 21, 2022. Vice Adm. Steven Poulin, U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area commander, presided over the ceremony. The cutter's namesake is Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Clarence Sutphin Jr., a New York native who served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1941 to 1945. During this time, Sutphin served as landing craft coxswain on board the attack transport USS Leonard Wood (APA 12),a landing craft supporting our troops in North Africa and Sicily.

060404-F-0944A-188. Base: Arlington National Cemetary State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A commemorative wreath is placed at the base of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the day of the funeral for the Unknown Serviceman of the Vietnam Era. A Maryland State Police color guard participates in the ceremony. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

221202-N-LZ839-1127NORFOLK, Va. (Dec. 2, 2022) The Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) color guard parades the colors as part of the ships change of command ceremony in the hangar bay, Dec. 2, 2022. During the ceremony, Capt. Paul Burkhart relieved Capt. Joseph Murphy as commanding officer of Bataan.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry watches as the Embassy Marine Guards raise the American flag for the first time in 54 years at the newly re-opened U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba, on August 14, 2015.

Sailors salute during a change of command ceremony aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71). Cmdr. Walter Brinkley relieved Cmdr. Scott Jones as commanding officer of Ross during the ceremony

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY BAHRAIN (May 5, 2021) Vice Adm. Sam Paparo, left, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), is relieved by Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, right, during a change of command ceremony presided over by Gen. Frank McKenzie, commander of U.S. Central Command, at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, May 5, 2021. NAVCENT is the U.S. Navy element of U.S. Central Command in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations and encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. The expanse is comprised of 20 countries and includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.

Office of the Deputy Administrator - September 11th Remembrance , Environmental Protection Agency

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

021111-F-3431H-890. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Capt. Warren Judge, the commanding officer of U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, N.J., and members of the recruit ceremonial honor guard participate in the Cape May County Veterans Day ceremony, Nov. 11, 2022, along with other dignitaries including Congressman Jeff Van Drew, Cape May County Commissioners, and other first responders. Every member of our Coast Guard workforce protects our Nation's security and prosperity in times of war and peace. The missions we perform along the U.S. coastlines, on the Great Lakes, on the inland rivers, and around the world enable a safe, secure, and stable maritime system on which our Nation depends.

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

060707-N-3541A-232. Base: Naval Air Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

040604-M-5523R-009. Base: USS Essex (LHD 2)

020309-M-9917S-006. State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The Military District of Washington Armed Forces Color Guard presents the colors at an event celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 on Monday, June 23, 2014 in the James E. Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington, DC. The event highlighted the influence of the Civil Rights Act on NASA.

LOS ANGELES (May 30, 2022) A Memorial Day ceremony is held during Los Angeles Fleet Week, May 30, 2022. Los Angeles Fleet Week is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience America's sea services. During fleet week, service members participate in various community service events, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community, and enjoy the hospitality of Los Angeles and its surrounding areas.

New Armed Forces Seserve Center & 63rd Regional Support Command Headquarters, Moffett Field, CA ribbon cutting ceremonies.

040604-M-5523R-013. Base: USS Essex (LHD 2)

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.

Colonel Richard Lewis, command chaplain, 335th Signal Command (Theater), provides the invocation during the wreath laying ceremony honoring former President Warren G. Harding, July 16, 2022, in Marion, Ohio.

020911-N-2383B-607. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Chief Master Sgt. Robert Smith, 193rd Special Operations Wing command chief (center) is assisted in donning his service dress coat by Col. Edward Fink Jr, 193rd SOW commander (left) and his family during an assumption of responsibilities ceremony Oct. 28, 2022, Middletown, Pennsylvania. The donning of the service dress coat featuring Command Chief Master Sergeant rank insignia ceremonially marks the beginning of his tenure as command chief.

SAN DIEGO (April 21, 2022) The color guard presents colors during a change of command ceremony aboard amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42), April 21, 2022. Cmdr. Michael J. Welgan relieved Cmdr. Cullen M. Greenfield as commanding officer of Germantown during the ceremony. Germantown, a part of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, is a Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock landing ship homeported in San Diego.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - ASSUMPTION OF COMMAND CEREMONY AND RECEPTION

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. David A. Krumm, commander, 11th Air Force, offers remarks during the 36th Wing change of command ceremony, June 10, 2022, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The 36th Wing is comprised of five groups and 18 squadrons, executing Indo-Pacific Command's Bomber Task Force, Theater Security Packages, Contingency Response Operations and peacetime and combat operations in the Indo-Pacific Region. The wing is also tasked to ensure the successful deployment, employment and integration of air and space forces from the most forward sovereign U.S. Air Force Base in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Members attending the Khobar Towers survivors monument dedication ceremony, render a salute during the playing of the national anthem at Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, Alabama, June 24, 2022. On June 25, 1996, 19 lives were lost and hundreds were injured in a terrorist attack on the Khobar Towers housing complex in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

Sen. John Tower, R-Texas, speaks during commissioning ceremonies for the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI (SSN-705). The ship was built by the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics Corporation. Base: Naval Submarine Base, Groton State: Connecticut (CT) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson delivers remarks at the U.S. Department of State�s Foreign Affairs Day Memorial Plaque Ceremony at the Department in Washington, D.C., on May 5, 2017. The Secretary paid tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country around the world.

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

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (May 27, 2022) Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro addresses the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 2022 during their commissioning ceremony at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. The U.S. Naval Academys Class of 2022 graduated 1,100 midshipmen in a ceremony where President Joseph R. Biden Jr. delivered the graduation address as the guest speaker.

PATUXENT RIVER, Maryland (June 14, 2022) - Vice Adm. Yancy Lindsey, Commander, Navy Installations Command, addresses guests of the NAS Patuxent River change of command ceremony in the Air Test and Evaluation Squadron One hangar at NAS Patuxent River June 14. Lindsey served as guest speaker for the event, where Capt. Derrick Kingsley, NAS Patuxent River executive officer, assumed command of the naval air station from departing commanding officer Capt. John Brabazon.

030416-F-6340W-039. Base: Bolling Air Force Base State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Apr. 1, 2022) Vice Adm. Sean Buck, Superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy, gives remarks to guests for the Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM) proclaimation signing. The Naval Academy observes SAAPM by focusing on creating the appropriate culture to eliminate sexual assault and requiring a personal commitment from all service members.

Lt. Gen. Viorel Pană, center, chief of the Romanian Air Force Staff, salutes during the national anthem before placing a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., June 27, 2023.

Photograph, from coverage of ceremony at Department of Interior South Building marking adoption by Department employees of the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division and 10th Mountain Division for wartime support, selected for use in preparation of Department of Interior video on tenure of departing Secretary Gale Norton

Foreign Affairs Day 2005 ceremonies, speeches, award presentations. Events included a ceremony at the American Foreign Service Association's (AFSA) Memorial Plaque, in the Harry S. Truman Building's C Street Lobby, honoring foreign service officers who died in the line of duty. AFSA President John Limbert, Under Secretary for Political Affairs R. Nicholas Burns, and other officials delivered remarks, as three new entries on the plaque the names of James Mollen and Edward Seitz, of U.S. Embassy Baghdad, and John O'Grady, of U.S. Consulate in Brisbane were unveiled.

First Lady Michelle Obama, Dr. Jill Biden, and Gen. Martin Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stand for the national anthem at the Pentagon in Arlington, Va., Feb. 15, 2012. During the event a report was unveiled outlining opportunities and best practices for states to better support military spouses serving in professions with state licensure requirements.

KINGS BAY, Ga. (July 1, 2022) Cmdr. Michael Graham, incoming commanding officer of the Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Maryland (SSBN 738) (Blue), speaks to distinguished guests, family and crew during a change of command ceremony held at the chapel onboard Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia. Graham relieves Cmdr. Darrell Brown. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ashley Berumen (Released)

U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 2 Steve ShawSegovia with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, narrates during the 80th annual Evening Colors Ceremony at the Santa Margarita Ranch House on Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 15, 2022. The ceremony was held to commemorate the official dedication of Camp Pendleton, which took place in September 1942. The base was named after Maj. Gen. Joseph H. Pendleton, who had long advocated for a West Coast training base to be established.

San Diego (June 08, 2022) Sailors, friends and family attend the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Alexandria (SSN 757) change of command ceremony where Cmdr. Christopher Carter is relieved by Cmdr. Christoper Rose as commanding officer at Naval Base Point Loma. Commissioned June 29, 1991, the submarine is more than 360 feet long and displaces more than 6,900 tons. Alexandria is capable of supporting various missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, strike warfare, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

The 38th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. David H. Berger, gives a speech during a Brigadier General Select Orientation Course Honors Ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, Aug. 15, 2022. The ceremony honors newly promoted and soon-to-be brigadier generals and senior executives. BGSOC is an annual, week-long course held in the National Capital Region to instruct the newly promoted individuals on their new rank and responsibilities. The hosting official for the evening was the 38th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. David H. Berger.

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

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Mark A. Milley speaks during the 21st 9/11 Pentagon Observance Ceremony on Sept. 11, 2022, at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C. (DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexander Kubitza)

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Mark A. Milley speaks during the 21st 9/11 Pentagon Observance Ceremony on Sept. 11, 2022, at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

An Air Force Honor Guard member places a shadow box at the picture of one of the 18 Virginia Air National Guard and three Florida Army National Guard members who were killed on a March 3rd in an C-23 Sherpa plane crash in Unadilla, Georgia. The memorial service, which took place at Rock Church, Virginia Beach, Virginia, was attended by Deputy Secretary of Defense, Paul D. Wolfowitz (not shown) and various other civilian and military dignitaries and over 4000 members of the community. The 18 airmen were assigned to the 203rd Red Horse Flight at Camp Pendleton State Military Reservation in Virginia Beach, Virginia and were returning from temporary duty at Hurlburt Field, Florida. The three .... Complete Scene Caption: An Air Force Honor Guard member places a shadow box at the picture of one of the 18 Virginia Air National Guard and three Florida Army National Guard members who were killed on a March 3rd in an C-23 Sherpa plane crash in Unadilla, Georgia. The memorial service, which too

Gourbesville celebrates the 82nd Airborne Divisions contributions to the liberation of Normandy in Picauville, France, June 1, 2022. U.S. Army Col. Richard Taylor of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Abn. Div., provided remarks in celebration of the 78th Anniversary of the Normandy invasion.

(From left to right): Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. James McConville; Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth; Command Sgt. Maj. Charles Albertson, executive officer, Sergeant Major of the Army; and Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director, Army National Military Cemeteries walk through the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., June 14, 2022. Wormuth, McConville, and Albertson were at ANC to participate in an Army Full Honors Wreath-Laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in recognition of the U.S. Armys Birthday. The U.S. Armys legacy has been built over 247 years on the dedication, courage, and heroism of every American soldier. We honor all who have answered the call since the Armys founding in 1775.

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.

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii -- 18th Medical Command (Deployment Support) Commander Maj. Gen. Paula Lodi makes remarks after being promoted at Fort Shafter, Hawaii, Feb. 10, 2023.

Speakers honor women veterans in Milltown, New Jersey, June 3, 2022. The American Legion Joyce Kilmer Post 25 hosted their second annual event recognizing women veterans.

Vice Adm. Andrew J. Tiongson addresses the audience during the Pacific Area change-of-command ceremony on Base Alameda, Calif., July 8, 2022. Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Linda L. Fagan presided over the ceremony where Tiongson relieved Vice Adm. Michael F. McAllister as the Pacific Area commander. U. S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brandon Giles.

LTC TOM NELSON ADDRESSES AUDIENCE AT BLDG 4220 RIBBON CUTTING EVENT

Vermont Governor Phil B. Scott, The Republic of Austria Minister of Defense Klaudia Tanner and Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard met together at the State House to recognize the formal beginning of their military partnership during a signing ceremony in Montpelier, Vermont, May 11, 2022. The National Guard Bureaus State Partnership began in 1993 and now includes over 90 countries and state National Guards. Vermont also began partnerships with North Macedonia in 1993 and Senegal in 2008.

President Bush remarks at the annual Peace Officer's 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.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA Associate Administrator for Space Operations William Gerstenmaier speaks to a crowd gathered in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida to honor space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986.

NAPLES, ITALY -- Rear Adm. Scott Gray, commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central (EAURAFCENT), speaks during his change of command onboard Naval Support Activity (NSA) Naples, May 26, 2022. Navy Region EURAFCENT oversees nine installations in seven countries, enabling U.S., allied and partner nation forces to be where they are needed, when they are needed, in order to ensure security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii -- (background left to right) 18th Medical Command (Deployment Support) Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Byung Min gives the invocation as Chaplain (Capt.) Kara Dreflay-Utley, the guest singer, (foreground left to right) 18th MEDCOM (DS) Commander Brig. Gen. Paula Lodi and U.S. Army Pacific Commander Gen. Charles Flynn bow their heads during Lodi's promotion ceremony at Fort Shafter, Hawaii, Feb. 10, 2023. Lodi was promoted to the rank of major general, which is commonly referred to as a 2-star general.

Secretary Gale Norton speaking at ceremonies at the War Correspondents Memorial, Burkittsville, Maryland, featuring unveiling of plaque honoring fourprominent journalists killed during war and war-related coverage in Iraq and Pakistan

Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks, Craig Manson, center, among officials on hand for Department of Interior South Building ceremony marking adoption by Department employees of the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division and the 10th Mountain Division as wartime focal points for volunteer activities on behalf of military family members

Maj. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., The Adjutant General of New Jersey, addresses the audience during her promotion ceremony at the National Guard Armory in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, Feb. 3, 2024. Hou commands more than 8,400 Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard. As Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Hou leads, directs, and manages the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs in the execution of federal and state missions. In addition, she manages all state veterans programs, commissions, and facilities in New Jersey. (New Jersey National Guard

DF-ST-88-05315. Base: Wright-Patterson Air Force Base State: Ohio (OH) Country: United States Of America (USA)

US President Joe Biden, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Mark A. Milley attend the 21st 9/11 Pentagon Observance Ceremony on Sept. 11, 2022, at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, joined Superintendent Larry Adkinson, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg, and other dignitaries, pauses for the U.S. and Filipino National Anthems during a visit to the American Cemetery in Manila on December 17, 2013.

Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen H. Hicks speaks at the National Capital Region ROTC Detachment commencement at Fort Myer, Virginia, May 20, 2022. The class of 2022 had 87 cadets with 14 of them commissioning as Distinguished Military Graduates, the top 20% of cadets in the nation.

Family and friends of fallen Airmen listen as U.S. Air Force 145th Airlift Wing Commander Col. Joseph H. Stepp IV, presents opening remarks during the Annual Memorial Wall Dedication Ceremony held at the North Carolina Air National Guard Base, Charlotte Douglas International Airport, April 3, 2022. The Annual Memorial Wall Dedication Ceremony commemorated thirty-three Airmen that served in the North Carolina Air National Guard and passed away during the year 2021.

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.

A Day of Remembrance 2021

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.

The Indiana National Guard supported the 152nd Crown Hill Memorial Service, May 30, 2022 at the Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis, Ind. The ceremony included keynote speaker, retired Marine Cpl. Josh Bleill, a joint-service color guard, the 38th Infantry Division band, a wreath laying ceremony and a 21-gun Howitzer cannon salute.

Pacific Islands Tour: Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne and aides to Midway Atoll, U.S. Territory

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.

US Secretary of Defense, the Honorable William S. Cohen, addresses the soldiers of the 1/26 Task Force (1ST Battalion, 26th Infantry) 2nd Brigade, 1ST Infantry Division (Mechanized), Scheinfurt, Germany, and the media at Camp Dobol during his visit to Bosnia-Herzegovina, to encourage Stabilizing Force (SFOR) soldiers and to thank them for their tireless efforts and commitment during Operation JOINT GUARD, 6 March 1997. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT GUARD Base: Camp Dobal Country: Bosnia And/I Herzegovina (BIH)

010126-D-9880W-020. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

070102-F-1577E-004. Base: Andrews Air Force Base State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Colonel Milano (left) and Colonel Spencer (right) salute the colors during the 12th Marine Corps District change of command ceremony. Colonel Milano (left) and Colonel Spencer (right) salute the colors during the 12th Marine Corps District change of command ceremony.

The Naval Station Norfolk Color Guard arrive at a change of command ceremony held at Carrier Strike Group Four (CSG) 4 headquarters on Naval Station Norfolk, July 8, 2022. Rear Adm. Jeffery Czerewko relieved Rear Adm. Richard Brophy as commander of CSG 4. CSG 4 mentors, trains and assesses East Coast units preparing to deploy.

An Armed Forces Full Honor Cordon in honor of the Netherlands Minister of Defense Kajsa Ollongren at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., July 13, 2022. . Hosted by the U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III.

Mr. George Nungesser, Vice President of Program Management, Ingalls Shipbuilding, speaks during the commissioning of the USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. in Charleston, S.C., May 14, 2022. Lt. General Petersen served in Korea and Vietnam during his career and his legacy is carried on today as an American hero and as an outstanding Marine.

Day of Remembrance 2023. Sheryl Chafee, second from right, Astronauts Memorial Foundation (AMF) Board of Directors chairperson, accompanied by NASA Associate Administrator Bob Cabana, and Kennedy Space Director Janet Petro, lay a wreath in front of the Space Mirror Memorial during the Day of Remembrance on Jan. 26, 2023, at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. At far right is Thad Altman, AMF president and CEO. The event honored the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbia tragedy. This years ceremony was hosted by the AMF, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.

961223-M-3983O-001. Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

161029-N-HI707-293 GROTON, Conn. (Oct. 29, 2016) First Lady Michelle Obama announces "Bring the Ship to Life" spurring its crew members to race across the brow and fall in formation aboard USS Illinois (SSN 786) during the commissioning ceremony on Naval Submarine Base New London, Oct. 29. USS Illinois is the U.S. NavyÕs 13th Virginia-Class attack submarine and the fourth ship named for the State of Illinois.

230328-N-MJ302-1125 BUSAN, Republic of Korea (March 28, 2023) From right to left, U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Christopher Sweeney, commander, Carrier Strike Group 11; Rear Adm. Mark Schafer, commander, Naval Forces Korea; and Capt. Craig Sicola, commanding officer of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68); participate in a press conference on the flight deck aboard Nimitz. Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with Allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

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.

Col. Bryan Preece, 130th Airlift Wing Commander, speaks at the Summer U.S. Air Force Junior Reserve Officer's Training Corps Flight Academy Graduation on July 29, 2022, at the Fairmont State Aviation Center of Excellence Fairmont, West Virginia. The Air Force sponsored program targets High School Juniors, JROTC members, and Air Force Academy cadets, teaching them to fly in about six and a half weeks and awarding them private pilot certifications. Preece spoke about his journey as an Air Force Aviator and pinned the wings on the graduates.

Craig Crenshaw, Virginia Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, gives the keynote speech at Quantico National Cemetery in Triangle, Virginia on May 30, 2022. The wreath laying ceremony is held annually Memorial Day weekend to honor the memory and military service of the service members buried there.

Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Christopher W. Grady, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen H. Hicks, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Mark A. Milley and his wife Hollyanne Milley stand for a flag unveiling during an observance ceremony at the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial to honor the 184 lives lost in the 2001 terrorist attack at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., Sept. 11, 2022.

Former vice commandant, Vice Adm. Charles Ray, and former commandant, Adm. Robert Papp, both retired, attend the Atlantic Area change of command ceremony on May 24, 2022, at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown, Virginia. The change of command is a time-honored tradition formally recognizing the transfer of command from one leader to another.

New Armed Forces Seserve Center & 63rd Regional Support Command Headquarters, Moffett Field, CA ribbon cutting ceremonies.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. (Ret.) James T. Conway, the 34th Commandant of the Marine Corps, stands in the reviewing area as honors are played during a change of command and retirement ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California, July 15, 2022. U.S. Marine Corps Col. James B. Conway, the outgoing commanding officer, relinquished command of the 12th Marine Corps District to Col. Mike E. Ogden, the oncoming commanding officer. A change of command ceremony is a time-honored tradition which formally signifies the transfer of command and entails the total accountability, authority, and responsibility from one individual to another.

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

Commencement Address at United States Military Academy, West Point (New York), 10:01AM. President John F. Kennedy (at lectern) delivers an address during graduation exercises at the United States Military Academy (USMA), West Point, New York. Standing left of lectern (L-R): Special Assistant to the President, Kenneth P. O'Donnell; Special Assistant to the President for National Security, McGeorge Bundy; General Maxwell D. Taylor; Chief of Staff of the United States Army, General George H. Decker; Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Lyman L. Lemnitzer; and Secretary of the Army, Elvis J. Stahr, Jr. Field House, USMA, West Point, New York.

220909-N-IE405-1001 NAPLES, Italy (Sept. 9, 2022) Sailors and personnel assigned to various commands at U.S. Naval Support Activity (NSA) Naples observe the 9/11 commemoration ceremony held at the U.S. Naval Hospital Naples' Support Site in Gricignano di Aversa, Italy, Sept. 9, 2022. NSA Naples is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to be where they are needed, when they are needed to ensure security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

220909-N-IE405-1001 NAPLES, Italy (Sept. 9, 2022) Sailors and personnel assigned to various commands at U.S. Naval Support Activity (NSA) Naples observe the 9/11 commemoration ceremony held at the U.S. Naval Hospital Naples' Support Site in Gricignano di Aversa, Italy, Sept. 9, 2022. NSA Naples is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to be where they are needed, when they are needed to ensure security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

Foreign Affairs Day 2005 ceremonies, speeches, award presentations. Events included a ceremony at the American Foreign Service Association's (AFSA) Memorial Plaque, in the Harry S. Truman Building's C Street Lobby, honoring foreign service officers who died in the line of duty. AFSA President John Limbert, Under Secretary for Political Affairs R. Nicholas Burns, and other officials delivered remarks, as three new entries on the plaque the names of James Mollen and Edward Seitz, of U.S. Embassy Baghdad, and John O'Grady, of U.S. Consulate in Brisbane were unveiled.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Army Rangers from the 75th Ranger Regiment attend the Congressional Medal of Honor presentation for Sgt. 1st Class Leroy A. Petry at the White House, July 12. Petry received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his actions during a mission on May 26, 2008, serving as a squad leader with Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment while conducting a mission in rural eastern Afghanistan with his unit to capture a high-value insurgent target. Early in the mission, the squad came under heavy enemy fire and Petry was shot in both legs. Despite his wounds, the Ranger gallantly continued fighting alongside his brothers in arms. When an enemy hand grenade landed just inches away, Petry grabbed it to protect fellow Rangers. As he released the grenade to throw it, the explosive detonated and he lost his right hand.

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