Military Ceremony and Formation

Images depict soldiers in uniform standing in formation for a military ceremony, showcasing camaraderie and discipline. The atmosphere is formal with flags and military regalia.

Airmen from the 335th Training Squadron march to their dormitories after class at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, Oct. 18, 2022. The 335th TRS trains Airmen in the weather, financial management, manpower and personnel, education and training and force support career fields.

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

050304-A-6854T-005. Base: Villanueva Country: Nicaragua (NIC)

Marine Corps Base SGTMAJ, Sergeant Major (SGTMAJ) Pinon, hands the Marine Corps Base organizational colors to Lieutenant General (LTGEN) Earl B. Hailston, outgoing III MEF Commanding General during the III MEF change of command ceremony. After two years as Commanding General of III Marine Expeditionary Force/Marine Corps Bases Japan, LTGEN Earl B. Hailston, relenquished command to LTGEN Wallace C. Gregson during a sunset ceremony aboard Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, on 010731. Base: Camp Courtney State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN) Scene Major Command Shown: III MEF

Paratroopers across the 82nd Airborne Division finish the 12 mile road march, complete a weapons test, and recieve their E3B on Fort Bragg, NC, April 7, 2023. 371 Paratroopers and Soldiers across multiple units and locations successfully completed E3B.

U.S. Marine Col. Todd Manyx, right, passes a guidon to Col. Rory Kent, as he assumes command of the Marine Corps Information Operations Center (MCIOC) at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Aug. 2, 2022. A Change of Command ceremony is held for the off going commanding officer, Manyx and the incoming Kent for MCIOC, Quantico.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, stand at attention during close order drill at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 13, 2022. Recruits learned and performed drill movements as a platoon throughout recruit training to eliminate individualism and create discipline.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, stand at attention during close order drill at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 13, 2022. Recruits learned and performed drill movements as a platoon throughout recruit training to eliminate individualism and create discipline.

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

Recruits with Oscar Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, carry their equipment down the main walkway at the Table 1 Range on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., April 5, 2023. On Table 1, recruits learn to effectively fire from distances of 200, 300 and 500 yards.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Adrian Gay, left, the outgoing sergeant major of 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division; Sgt. Maj. Jennifer Barto, center, the incoming sergeant major of 3rd AA Bn.; and Lt. Col. Daniel Petronzio, the commanding officer of 3rd AA Bn., salute the colors during a pass in review as part of a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Jan. 11, 2024. During the ceremony, Gay relinquished his role as the battalions senior enlisted leader to Barto.

The reviewing party, consisting of Gen. Darryl A. Williams, U.S. Army Europe and Africa commander, Maj. Gen. Gregory J. Brady and Brig. Gen. Maurice O. Barnett troop the line as Maj. Gen. Brady inspects his troops for the last time and Brig. Gen Barnett inspects them for the first time during the 10th AAMDC, change of command ceremony, July 12, 2022 at Sembach Kaserne, Germany. The command's lineage dates from July 1, 1942 when it was first constitutes as the 10th Coast Artillery (Harbor Defense) at Fort Adams, Rhode Island. It deploys worldwide to conducts joint and combined/coalition air and missile defense operations in the U.S. European command area of operations.

The US Army Support Activity, Fort Dix, NJ had a Change of Responsibility” on 29 April 2022. The outgoing base Command Sergeant Major was CSM Tamara A. Edwards passing the colors to CSM James W. Van Zlike. Both Commanders spoke during this Ceremony along with the US Army Support Activity Commander COL Jon A. Brierton. The families of outgoing and incoming were in attendance. This event was held on Sharp Field, Fort Dix, NJ. (Photos taken by the Fort Dix [TSC Training Support Center)

U.S. Soldiers with Regional Health Command Europe render honors while the American and German national anthem play during a change of command ceremony, June 1, 2022 at Kirchberg Kaserne, Landstuhl, Germany. Brig. Gen. Clinton Murray assumed command of RHCE from Brig. Gen. Mark Thompson.

US Marine Corps Reserve (USMCR) Marines assigned to A/Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion (LAR), pose for a group photograph in front of their Light Armored Vehicles (LAV-25), at Camp Pendleton, California (CA), in preparation for mobilization in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Base: Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps SgtMaj. Brian R. Drechsler, battalion sergeant major, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, carries the units guidon during a change of command ceremony at the community center, Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, on May 25, 2022. Change of command ceremonies allows individuals to witness the official passing of authority change between officers. During the ceremony, the outgoing commander passes the units guidon to the incoming commander, symbolizing the transfer of authority, responsibility, and total commitment to all Marines and Sailors.

U.S. Soldiers with Regional Health Command-Europe render honors during a redesignation ceremony on Sep. 30, 2022 in Landstuhl, Germany. RHC-Europe redesignated to Medical Readiness Center-Europe.

220928-N-EH998-1013 - GULF OF ADEN (Sept. 28, 2022) - Sideboys salute Cmdr. Katie Jacobson during the change of command ceremony aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) in the Gulf of Aden, Sept. 28. USS Nitze is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

New York National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 369th Sustainment Brigade stand in formation during a farewell ceremony at Camp Smith, N.Y. on September 18, 2022. The brigade, known as the "Harlemhell Fighters" for the unit's service in World War I, will be deploying to Kuwait to provide logistics support Army forces in the Middle East.

Congratulations to Sgt. 1st Class Kasim Kennedy, Sgt. 1st Class Jayson Rodrigueznieves, Staff Sgt. Jason Mortham, Sgt. Felicia Dagg on their induction into the Sgt. Audie Murphy Club. The Sergeant Audie Murphy Club is a private organization for enlisted Noncommissioned officers (NCO), whose leadership achievements and performance merit special recognition.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jae Yen Kim, left, 501st Combat Support Wing resource advisor, holds an American flag along with Airmen from the 501st CSW, at Wembley Stadium, in London, England, Oct. 30, 2022. Approximately 70 uniformed personnel represented the U.S. Air Force and nation by unveiling an American flag during the pre-game ceremonies of the Jacksonville Jaguars and Denver Broncos NFL game.

U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Division conduct a rehearsal for a battle colors rededication ceremony at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan Sept. 13, 2022. The ceremony commemorates the Divisions 80th Anniversary and its legacy of valor, honor, and fidelity. The 3d Marine Division was activated at Camp Elliot, San Diego, Sept. 16, 1942 and has taken part in combat operations from World War II and Vietnam through Iraq and Afghanistan. The current Marines of 3d Marine Division continue to build on this legacy today as a critical part of the stand-in force within the first island chain of the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George W. Smith, commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force gives his remarks during the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit Change of Command ceremony held on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 2, 2022. The ceremony was held to relinquish the command from Col. James W. Lively to Col. Thomas M. Siverts

Lt. Col. James E. Perkins, incoming commander of the "Mustang Squadron," 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, returns a salute to the 3rd ID Band as Lt. Col. Thomas E. Lamb, outgoing commander of 6th Sqn., 8th Cav. Regt., and both their families watch the pass in review during the change of command ceremony on Cottrell Field at Fort Stewart, Georgia, June 27, 2022. The change of command ceremony signifies the transfer of command and with it the responsibility for the readiness and welfare of the unit's Soldiers and Families.

Today the 10th Mountain Division honored the Soldiers from Task Force 2-14 by participating in the Mogadishu Mile. The original mile was a route taken by Soldiers from a Blackhawk helicopter crash site to a rally point held by the 10th MTN DIV on National Street during the Battle of Mogadishu on October 4, 1993.

220930-N-QI593-1021 VIRIGNIA BEACH, Virginia (Sep. 30, 2022) Side boys render honors to Rear Adm. Bradley Andros, upon arrival during a change of command ceremony at Assault Craft Unit 4 onboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Sept. 30, 2022. Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) is the Navys single functional command for 20,000 Active Duty and Reserve expeditionary forces, and is the central management for the readiness, resources, manning, training and equipping of those entities. NECC enables Navy Expeditionary Combat Forces the ability to execute combat, combat support and combat service support missions across the full spectrum of naval, joint, and combined operations, allowing access from the sea and freedom of action throughout the littorals and inland operating environments.

Drill sergeant Stewart with Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 58th Infantry Battalion briefs trainees on taking cover from a nearby bunker during the "First 100 yards" on October 21st, 2022 at Fort Benning, GA. The event The First 100 Yards, an homage to their lineage of closing the last 100 yards of the fight, incorporates teamwork into a competition that features mental and physical challenges on the day they arrive to their basic training company.

Col. Jonathan Doyle, Provost Marshal/Protection Director of IMCOM speaks to Soldiers standing in front of the ASA-Black Sea fire station at MK Air Base on 20 January, 2023.

U.S. Air Force Airmen from Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina, and Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina, participate in pre-race festivities at the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte, North Carolina, May 29, 2022. (U.S. Air Force photo/Jim Bove)

070106-A-0559K-001. Base: Indianapolis State: Indiana (IN) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Partner nations closed out the Tradewinds 2022 exercise with a ceremony at British Army Training Support Unit Belize in Ladyville, Belize May 20 2022. Tradewinds 2022 is a multinational exercise designed to expand the Caribbean regions capability to mitigate, plan for, and respond to crises; increase regional training capacity and interoperability; develop new and refine existing standard operating procedures; enhance ability to defend exclusive economic zones; and promote human rights and adherence to shared international norms and values; fully integrate women into defense, peace and security missions; and increase maritime domain awareness to deter illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing activities.

040722-M-8703S-024. Base: Mcagcc, Twentynine Palms State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Andrew DAmbrogi, left, outgoing commanding officer, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 (VMFA-211), renders a salute during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, June 9, 2022. DAmbrogi commanded VMFA-211 for a year and a half and is now passing on the responsibility to Lt. Col. Jesse Peppers, who was previously assigned to Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort as an instructor pilot.

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

Paratroopers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion attend an award and promotion ceremony for fellow Paratroopers on Fort Bragg, NC, Aug. 5, 2022. Paratroopers recieved awards for work done both in Poland and in Garrison.

040531-F-0681L-061. Base: Fargo State: North Dakota (ND) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ARNG

A group of U.S. Army Rangers, assigned to 5th Ranger Training Battalion, conducts a retirment ceremony for Command Sgt. Maj. Joey D. Blacksher on Stringer Drop Zone, Dahlonega, Ga., February 2, 2024. Command Sgt. Maj. Blacksher served 22 years of dedicated serve to the U.S. Army and the United States of America. Army Reserve

030110-F-2021H-008. Base: Ellsworth Air Force Base State: South Dakota (SD) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ACC

Keesler personnel participate in the Back Bay Elementary School Military Honor Walk in Biloxi, Mississippi, April 25, 2022. The walk, held in recognition of the Month of the Military Child, allows students the opportunity to honor all military personnel affiliated with the school and the surrounding community.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Joel F. Schmidt, the outgoing commanding officer of The Basic School, passes the commands colors to Col. Reginald J. McClam, the incoming commander of The Basic School, at The Basic School Change of Command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Quantico, July 14, 2022. The Basic School mission is to train and educate newly commissioned or appointed officers in the high standards of professional knowledge, esprit-de-corps, and leadership to prepare them for duty as company grade officers in the operating forces, with particular emphasis on the duties, responsibilities, and warfighting skills required of a rifle platoon commander.

U.S. Air Force Col. Christian Bergtholdt, right, assumes command of the 325th Operations Group from Col. Greg Moseley, 325th Fighter Wing commander, left, during a change of command ceremony at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, June 23, 2022. The 325th OG is responsible for directing the flying and support operations for the 43rd Fighter Squadron, the 2nd Fighter Training Squadron, the 325th Training Support Squadron and the 325th Operations Support Squadron.

U.S. Navy Command Master Chief Scottie Cox, command master chief of 2d Marine Division (2dMARDIV), receives the Fleet Marine Force device from Maj. Gen. Francis Donovan, former commanding general of 2d MARDIV, on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 7, 2022. The FMF pin signifies U.S. Naval officers and sailors who are trained and qualified to perform duties in support of the U.S. Marine Corps.

Vice Adm. Yancy Lindsey, Commander, Navy Installations Command, arrives at the Naval Beach Unit 7 Yokose LCAC Facility at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) Sept. 21, 2022. Lindsey visited CFAS to tour its facilities, meet with personnel assigned to area commands, and increase his familiarity with CFAS mission and relationships with host nation counterparts. For 75 years, CFAS has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services to empower forward-deployed U.S. and Allied Forces while providing superior support to their families and the community.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Jose M. Ducasse (right), the Site Support Marine Aircraft Group 49 Detachment B, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Sergeant Major and Lt. Col. Timothy K. Gallagher, commanding officer of MAG-49 Detachment B, case their squadrons colors during a deactivation ceremony for the squadron at Newburgh, New York, Dec. 2, 2022. The Marine Corps plans to activate VMGR-153 in fiscal year 2023. The squadron will be based at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.

Team USA poses for a picture after working through the CIOR land obstacle course near Hammelburg, Germany on July 28th 2022. The Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers Military Competition (CIOR MILCOMP) is a three-day team competition consisting of NATO and Partnership for Peace nations in Europe. It has been around since 1957. The competition is open to all reserve components for both NCO and officer. It is now run on a volunteer basis and funded by former competitors through an alumni association.

U.S. Army Capt. Zachary B. Griffin, 42d Transportation Company commander provides remarks after assuming command during the activation ceremony, Oct. 14, 2022 at Rhine Ordnance Barracks in Kaiserslautern, Germany

Troopers assigned to 1-12 Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division participated in a WWII Commemoration Wreath Laying Ceremony at Drawsko Pomorskie Municiple Cemetery in Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland Sept. 1, 2022. Participating in events like these promote partnership between U.S. and Polish forces and the civilian population.

030411-M-1852W-034. Base: Marine Corps Air Station, Futema State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN) Scene Major Command Shown: MAG-36

New U.S. Marines with Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, are dismissed during a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 16, 2022. Graduation took place at the completion of the 13-week transformation, which included training for drill, marksmanship, basic combat skills, and Marine Corps customs and traditions.

The Washington Nationals hosted National Guard Day at Nationals Park, Washington, D.C., June 28, 2022. Pre-game recognition ceremonies included National Guard members lining the field, a ceremonial first pitch from Air Force Maj. Gen. Keith MacDonald, Color Guard drills and renditions of the National Anthem and God Bless America sung by Army Sgt. Victoria Golding. (U.S. Air National Guard photos by Master Sgt. Erich B. Smith)

The U.S. Army Reserves 200th Military Police Command welcomed Brig. Gen. Cary Cowan Jr. as its new commanding general during a change-of-command ceremony Aug. 26 on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. Cowan assumed command from Maj. Gen. John Hussey during the ceremony, which was presided over by Maj. Gen. Gregory Mosser, U.S. Army Reserve Command deputy commanding general.

As the incoming Commander of the 232d Medical Battalion, Lt. Col. Genna Speed, right, addresses the audience and Soldiers during the 232d MED BN change of command ceremony held at the U.S. Army Medical Department Amphitheater, on Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas, June 13, 2022. The change of command ceremony recognized the change of leadership from Lt. Col. Menendez, outgoing commander, to the incoming commander Lt. Col. Speed. A former combat medic originally from Slidell, Louisiana, Speed participated in the Army Medical Department Enlisted Commissioning Program.

Paratroopers across the 82nd Airborne Division finish the 12 mile road march, complete a weapons test, and recieve their E3B on Fort Bragg, NC, April 7, 2023. 371 Paratroopers and Soldiers across multiple units and locations successfully completed E3B.

An opening ceremony is held for Exercise Yama Sakura 83 at Camp Asaka, Japan, Dec. 5, 2022. As a part of U.S. Army Pacific Operation Pathways, Yama Sakura 83 is the largest and most complex U.S. Army and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force bilateral command post exercise to date.

U.S. Soldiers with the 252nd Composite Supply Company, 728th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 213th Regional Support Group, currently deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Spartan Shield, participate in the Danish Contingent March at Camp Buehring, Jan. 15, 2023.

030323-A-XXXXX-2144. Base: Fort Hood State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Soldiers from 11th Airborne Division stand on Pershing Field Sept. 30, 2022 wait to get awarded their Skills Badges for the Expert Field Medical, Expert Infantry or Expert Soldier Badge testing that took place over the past three weeks. (Photos by Staff Sgt. Christopher B. Dennis/ 11th Airborne Division Public Affairs Office)

Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) present arms for the Romanian national anthem during the Romanian armed forces day celebration, with Romanian, French, and Canadian soldiers 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.

U.S. Marine Corps recruits with Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, receive information outside the barber shop at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 7, 2022. After receiving haircuts, recruits had a moment to go over order information for ring purchases.

Soldiers from the 75th Field Artillery Brigade, 2nd Battalion, 18th Field Artillery Regiment redeployed at Fort Sill Feb. 5 and 7 after they spent about a month at the National Training Center in Fort Irwin, California for an Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercise.

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 378th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron, pose for a group photo, Oct. 4, 2022, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The 378th EOSS's mission is to provide operational planning, flight schedules, weather monitoring, resource management and more to support safe and effective flying operations out of PSAB in AFCENTs area of responsibility.

240123-N-OZ224-2582NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. (Jan. 23, 2023) - International military members from Naval Education and Training Security Assistance Field Activity (NETSAFA) International Training Center (NITC) pose for a photo as they make their way onto the USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) for a tour. International nations included Angola, Barbados, Czech Republic, Georgia, Hungary, the Philippines, and Thailand. NETSAFA NITC provides U.S. Navy training and education in support of numerous military disciplines, operational and administrative, tailored to meet the requirements of international partner nations.

Lt. Col. Timothy Butler, commander of 3rd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division and Command Sgt. Maj. Don Batchan joined the reviewing party during a Polish Oath of Enlistment Ceremony August 27, 2022. Interactions like these build stronger bonds between U.S. and Polish forces here in Poland.

KINGS BAY, Ga. (July 18, 2022) The Blue and Gold crews of the Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Alaska (SSBN 732) pose for a photo after receiving the Omaha Trophy, during a ceremony held at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia. The Omaha Trophy is awarded annually to U.S. Strategic Command units who demonstrate the highest standards of performance in the commands mission areas, their role in global operations and the commands continued emphasis on strategic deterrence.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Brandon Graham (right), the outgoing commanding officer of 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division (1st MARDIV), transfers the unit colors to Col. Brendan Sullivan (left), the incoming commanding officer of 1st Marine Regiment, 1st MARDIV, during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 23, 2022. During the ceremony, Graham relinquished command of 1st Marine Regiment to Sullivan.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Jay D. Williamson, Sergeant Major of Marine Corps Forces Central Command, delivers remarks during his appointment ceremony at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Mar 31, 2023. MARCENT is designated as the Marine Corps service component for U.S. Central Command and is responsible for all Marine Corps forces in the CENTCOM area of responsibility.

040722-M-8703S-018. Base: Mcagcc, Twentynine Palms State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Soldiers of the 2nd Armored Division stand in formation as they display unit flags following the division reflagging ceremony at Harmon Field. Base: Fort Hood State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Troopers assigned to 1-12 Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division participated in a WWII Commemoration Wreath Laying Ceremony at Drawsko Pomorskie Municiple Cemetery in Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland Sept. 1, 2022. Participating in events like these promote partnership between U.S. and Polish forces and the civilian population.

Members of the color guard move July 14, 2022, during the Fort McCoy Garrison change-of-command ceremony at Fort McCoy, Wis. Col. Stephen T. Messenger received the garrison flag from Brenda McCullough, director of Installation Management Command-Readiness signifying Messenger as the new garrison commander. Messenger replaces Col. Michael D. Poss who became the garrison commander June 10, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic in a virtual change-of-command ceremony. Poss moves on to serve in a position at the 88th Readiness Division also at Fort McCoy. Messenger arrives after serving in his prior assignment as the director of engineering and logistics, J4, Joint Task Force Civil Support, Fort Eustis, Va., which was on the front lines of the nations COVID response.

U.S. Marines with the 1st Marine Division band perform Waltzing Matilda during a relief ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 24, 2022. During the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Roland McGinnis ended his tour as the battalion sergeant major.

U.S. Army Reserve Lt. Col. Arturo Napolitano, Commander of 318th Theater Public Affairs Support Element, Arlington Heights, Il., (left) stands with members of the 85th Honor Guard, U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Fernando Ramos (middle), and Sgt. First Class Moises Garcia (right), after the Columbus Day Parade on Oct. 10, 2022 in Chicago. After the parade, the Soldiers participated in other events that the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans held, like the parade party.

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. - The 781st Military Intelligence Battalion (Cyber) Change of Command whereby Lieutenant Colonel Michael L. Arner (right) relinquished his command to Lieutenant Colonel Donald E. Sedivy (left) in a ceremony hosted by Colonel Matthew J. Lennox, commander of the 780th Military Intelligence Brigade (Cyber), on the McGlachlin Parade Field, June 24. Vanguard When Others Cannot

U.S. Soldiers assigned to Bulldog Troop, 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, pass the guidon to relinquish and assume command during a Change of Command Ceremony at Grafenwoehr, Germany, Dec. 2, 2022. Capt. John Afdem relinquished command of the troop to Capt Isak Visser.

1st Infantry Division's color guard stands at attention during the Charles Shay Indian Memorial ceremony at Saint Laurent Sur Mer, Omaha Beach, France, June 4, 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.

The U.S. Marine Corps Base Quantico Color Guard presents the colors before the Marine Corps Marathon Belleau Wood 8K, at MCB Quantico, Virginia, June 25, 2022. The event challenged runners and their individual tenacity as they ran 4.9 miles of trails through the woods of MCB Quantico, or participated virtually.

U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Division participate in a battle colors rededication ceremony on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 14, 2022. The ceremony commemorated the Divisions 80th Anniversary and its legacy of valor, honor, and fidelity. The 3d Marine Division was activated at Camp Elliot, San Diego, Sept. 16, 1942 and has taken part in combat operations from World War II and Vietnam through Iraq and Afghanistan. The current Marines of 3d Marine Division continue to build on this legacy today as a critical part of the stand-in force within the first island chain of the Indo-Pacific.

Members of the Republic of Korea Marine Corps participate in a combined evening colors ceremony with U.S. Marines from 1st Marine Division during Freedom Shield 24 in Pohang, South Korea, Feb. 29, 2024. Freedom Shield 24 is a defense-oriented exercise designed to strengthen the ROK-U.S. Alliance, enhance the combined defense posture, and further strengthen security and stability on the Korean peninsula. Marine Corps

A U.S. Marine stands at attention as a part of the joint color guard during the U.S. European Command change of responsibility ceremony, Stuttgart, Germany, Tuesday, June 7, 2022. Command Sgt. Maj. Robert V. Abernethy, a South Carolina native, assumed responsibility from Chief Master Sgt. Phillip L. Easton, who served as the commands top enlisted adviser since August 2019.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Alejandro Garcia Jr., right, sergeant major, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, Marine Aircraft Group 24, hands the organizational colors to Lt. Col. Vanessa Clark, left, offgoing commanding officer, during a change of command ceremony, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Dec. 8, 2022. Clark relinquished command of VMM-268 to Lt. Col. Brandon Pope.

Readiness Challenge VIII participants wait for an update on the final day of the competition April 22, 2022, at the Silver Flag Exercise Site, Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida. The Department of the Air Force CE event is hosted by the Air Force Civil Engineer Center. After a 20+ year hiatus, the challenge, a premier event for DAF civil engineers, is back. This year's Readiness Challenge is the initial operating capability event before the challenge reaches full operational capability in April 2023. Eight teams representing major commands and U.S. Space Force faced off in about 20 events showing a wide variety of CE capabilities from emergency airfield lighting and water purification to building a guard shack from the ground up and firefighting and EOD operations.

Command Sergeant Major Adam Nash, 4th Infantry Division Sergeant Major, calls the division to attention prior to the start of the Utah Beach event to start Ivy Week, Fort Carson, Colorado, May 23, 2022. The Utah Beach event pays tribute to the 4th Infantry Division Soldiers that stormed Utah Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944.

Master Sgt. Jesus Hernadez, a motor transport chief with 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, assists local veterans before the dedication ceremony of the Michael A. Noline Community Building, honoring Pfc. Michael A. Noline, a fallen member of their battalion at the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation, Arizona, May 14, 2022. Noline, a member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, who served as a light armored vehicle (LAV) crewman for 3rd Light Armored Infantry Battalion, was killed in action in support of Operation Desert Storm, Jan. 26, 1991.

2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, stand in formation at Victory field to receive a safety brief from the Regimental commander. THERE IS ONLY A SCREEN RESOLUTION IMAGE AVAILABLE. Subject Operation/Series: STEEL KNIGHT '97 Base: Twentynine Palms State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 117th Air Control Squadron, Georgia Air National Guard, pose for a group photo on May 5, 2022, in Savannah, Georgia.

Airmen from the 501st Combat Support Wing, fold an American flag prior to a national anthem demonstration at Wembley Stadium, in London, England, Oct. 30, 2022. Approximately 70 uniformed personnel represented the U.S. Air Force and nation by unveiling an American flag during the pre-game ceremonies of the Jacksonville Jaguars and Denver Broncos NFL game.

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

220526-N-KG461-1019Jacksonville, Fla. (May 26, 2022) Religious Program Specialist 3rd Class Justin Knight places a flag on a grave at the Jacksonville National Cemetery in preparation for Memorial Day. Military personnel and civilians gathered to place approximately 22,000 flags in preparation for a Memorial Day observance ceremony. The 52-acre national cemetery is home to over 16,000 memorials.

U.S. Marines with 1st Marine Division stand in formation during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, July 08, 2022. During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Roger B. Turner relinquished command of 1st MARDIV to Maj. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson.

U.S. Marines with Marine Air Support Squadron (MASS) 2 stand in formation during a ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Jan. 19, 2024. The ceremony was held in celebration of MASS-2's 81st Anniversary.

Lt. Gen. Xavier Brunson, Americas First Corps commanding general, and Lt. Gen. Tadao Maeda, Commanding General, GCC, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, give remarks during the press conference for Exercise Yama Sakura 83 at Camp Asaka, Japan, Dec. 12, 2022. As a part of U.S. Army Pacific Operation Pathways, Yama Sakura 83 is the largest and most complex U.S. Army and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force bilateral command post exercise to date.

Senior leaders with Task Force Red Dragon, Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), participate in a commemoration of the Battle of Camarón with French forces in Djibouti (FFDJ) at the French Base Djibouti April 28, 2022. The Bataille de Camerone which occurred over ten hours on April 30, 1863 between the Foreign Legion of the French army and the Mexican army, is regarded as a defining moment in the Foreign Legion's history. Members of the CJTF HOA regularly train with and work alongside allies, partners, and government organizations to achieve a unified effort to improve safety, security and prosperity in East Africa.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Jeremy Burnock, 81st Logistics Readiness Squadron first sergeant, stands at parade rest during the fallen warrior retreat ceremony at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, Feb. 22, 2024. The retreat ceremony was held to remember several fallen warriors. Air Force

SCHRIEVER SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Space Base Delta 1 conducted a Reveille ceremony at Schriever SFB, Colorado 12 September, 2022. The ceremony marked the official start of the duty day but also paid honor to the nation's Prisoners of War and Missing in Action

U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade (4th SFAB), participate in the Proclamation Day for the Republic of Latvia Military Parade at Riga, Latvia, Nov. 18, 2022. The 4th SFAB and the 1st Infantry Division are proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

U.S. Marines with 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division, and members of the Northern Army, Japan Self- Defense Force, participate in the closing ceremony for exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Yausubetsu Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 14, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

030617-M-5753Q-013. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Najaf Country: Iraq (IRQ)

NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 13, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) James Honea speaks with Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic (CNSL) staff chief petty officer selectees at CNSL headquarters, Sept. 13. Honea is conducting his first fleet engagement to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development and quality of life.

Left to right, 1st Sgt. James Williams, Capt. Zachary Goehler, 1st Sgt. Sanae Hutchinson prepare to march in the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa's Headquarters Support Company Change of Responsibility ceremony on Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Aug. 24, 2022. The Change of Responsibility ceremony represents the official passing of authority from the outgoing 1st Sgt. to the incoming 1st Sgt.

Soldiers assigned to the 35th Infantry Division Band, play the national anthem at the Kansas City Monarchs baseball game, July 3rd, 2022. The 35th ID band is currently headquartered in Olathe, Kansas, and is the official band of the Kansas Army National Guard. The band is currently in the middle of a three-week tour, performing at venues across the state.

Airmen of the 97th Air Mobility Wing stand at parade rest during the Prisoners of War/Missing in Action ceremony Sept. 17. The POW/MIA ceremony is held annually to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for their country.

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