Military Change of Command Ceremonies

Images depict formal military change of command ceremonies featuring uniformed personnel, awards, salutes, and patriotic backdrops, conveying a spirit of duty and tradition.

U.S. Air Force Gen. CQ Brown, U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff, passes a guidon to U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, during an AFSOC change of command ceremony at Hurlburt Field, Florida, Dec. 9, 2022. The passing of the guidon to Bauernfeind represented his assumption of command of AFSOC.

Maj. Gen. Kenneth Bibb, 18th Air Force commander, gives the guidon to Col. Thomas Lankford, inbound 317th Airlift Wing commander, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, July 7, 2022. As Commander, Lankford will lead Mobility Air Force operations on the installation for C-130J Super Hercules tactical airlift, and is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping 1,200 combat-ready personnel who operate, maintain, and sustain 28 aircraft.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Peter Nezamis, middle, the outgoing commander of the Illinois Air National Guard, relinquishes command of the Illinois Air National Guard during a change of command ceremony in Peoria, Illinois, June 7, 2022. Nezamis served as the Illinois Air National Guard commander for three years.

U.S Air Force Lt. Gen. Brad Webb, commander of Air Education and Training Command, passes the guidon to Brig. Gen. Russell D. Driggers during the 502nd Air Base Wing and Joint Base San Antonio change of command ceremony at JBSA-Lacklands Pfingston Reception Center, May 3, 2022. When a change of command takes place, the flag is passed to the individual assuming command in the presence of the entire unit. All attending members can witness their new leader assume the responsibility and trust associated with the position of commander.

Col. James Young, outbound 317th Airlift Wing commander, renders his final salute to 317th AW Airmen at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, July 7, 2022. During Col Youngs time as the 317th AW commander, the wing conducted eight Agile Combat Employment exercises. Agile Combat Employment is a proactive and reactive operational scheme of maneuver executed within threat timelines to increase resiliency and survivability while generating combat power throughout the integrated deterrence continuum.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Jose Quintanilla, 17th Logistics Readiness Squadron incoming commander, (right) assumes command from Col. Eugene Moore III, 17th Mission Support Group commander, during the 17th LRS change of command ceremony at Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, May 20, 2022. Changes of command are a military tradition representing the transfer of responsibilities from the presiding official to the upcoming official.

U.S. Space Force Col. Kenneth F. L. Klock, incoming commandant of the National Security Space Institute (NSSI), right, salutes Col. Niki J. Lindhorst, commander of Space Delta 13, during the NSSI change of command ceremony at Peterson Space Force Base, Colo., July 21, 2022. Col. Max. E. Lantz II served as the commandant of NSSI since Jan. 2019 before relinquishing command to Klock.

U.S. Air Force Col. Robert B. Blake, middle, assumes command of the 86th Maintenance Group from Brig. Gen. Josh Olson, 86th Airlift Wing commander, left, during a change of command ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, July 13, 2022. The 86 MXG handles maintenance and sortie generation for 14 assigned C-130J aircraft in addition to five C-21 and three C-37 aircraft that support many mission sets across multiple commands.

The 121st Air Refueling Wing Operations Group holds an Assumption of Authority ceremony at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio, Aug. 13, 2022. Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Hasty formally assumed authority of the 121st Operations Group from Chief Master Sgt. Samuel Given.

The 31st Fighter Wing flag is passed from US Air Force Lieutenant General Ronald E. Keys to US Air Force Brigadier General Donald J. Hoffman. BGEN Hoffman is assuming command of the 31st Fighter Wing, Aviano Air Base, Italy. Flying the only permanently assigned US Air Force fighter aircraft in NATO's Southern Region, the wing conducts and supports air combat operations and maintains munitions for NATO and national authorities. The general also commands the 31st Air Expeditionary Wing, comprised of all USAF expeditionary forces stationed at or deployed to Aviano for Operation DELIBERATE GUARDIAN missions over the former Yugoslavia. In that role, he coordinates the operations of American, .... Complete Scene Caption: The 31st Fighter Wing flag is passed from US Air Force Lieutenant General Ronald E. Keys to US Air Force Brigadier General Donald J. Hoffman. BGEN Hoffman is assuming command of the 31st Fighter Wing, Aviano Air Base, Italy. Flying the only permanently assigned US Air Forc

U.S. Air Force Gen. CQ Brown, U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff, passes a guidon to U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, during an AFSOC change of command ceremony at Hurlburt Field, Florida, Dec. 9, 2022. The passing of the guidon to Bauernfeind represented his assumption of command of AFSOC.

050108-F-8039C-008. Base: Joe Foss Field State: South Dakota (SD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air National Guard Col. Christine Munch, 111th Mission Support GroupCommander, accepts the 270th Engineering Installation Squadron colors from U.S. ANG Lt. Col. Brian C. Carr, who relinquished command of the 270th EIS, a subordinate unit of the 111th Mission Support Group and the 111th Attack Wing, to Lt. Col. Carolyn R. Bartley in a ceremony held here Sept. 18, 2022. Carr, who has served for more than 30 years, spent the last 14 years of his career here serving with the 111th ATKW.

U.S. Air Force Col. David Wilson stands at attention during the 673d Air Base Wing and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, change of command ceremony at Heritage Park on JBER, June 28, 2022. U.S. Air Force Col. Kirsten G. Aguilar turned over command to Air Force Col. David J. Wilson as Air Force Lt. Gen. David A. Krumm, commander Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Region, Alaskan Command, and 11th Air Force, officiated before gathered family members, distinguished guests and military personnel.

MGEN James E. Chambers, left, commander, 17th Air Force, accepts the cased colors of the 26th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing (26th TRW) from COL Kenneth Funkhauser, the wing's commanding officer, during 26th TRW inactivation ceremony. Base: Zweibrucken Air Base Country: Deutschland / Germany(DEU)

Lt. Col. Kenneth McCormick, the newly appointed commander of the 124th Maintenance Group, assumes command of the MXG during an assumption of command ceremony at Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho, Jan. 7, 2023. McCormick embarks on a maintenance command after spending his early career as a pilot and cyber operations.

The Tinker Air Force Base Honor Guard presents the colors during the 507th Medical Squadron change of command ceremony on Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, Oct. 15, 2022. The CoC ceremony celebrated the transition of leadership from Col Alvin Bradford to Lt. Col. Joseph Ronzio.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Triplett, 139th airlift wing command chief master sergeant, Missouri Air National Guard, coins newly promoted U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Nicholas Borgmeyer, 139th Security Forces Squadron, at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, Dec. 3, 2022. Chief master sergeant is the highest attainable rank for enlisted personnel in the U.S. Air Force.

On January 5, 2024, a significant change of command ceremony occurred at Husband Auditorium on Maxwell Air Force Base. Dr. Mark Conversino, Provost and Chief Academic Officer, Air University, led the rendition of the national anthem, and Lieutenant General Andrea Tullos, Commander and President, Air University, served as the residing speaker. The event marked the transition of leadership for the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, where Colonel Jason Trew handed over command to Colonel Robert O'Keefe. The ceremony was attended by numerous military leaders and their families, and also live streamed over social media, signifying the importance of the occasion and the continuity of leadership within the unit. Maxwell AFB, Ala. -

Lt. Col. Brooke Sciuto, 155th Medical Group commander, salutes Col. John Williams, 155th Air Refueling Wing commander, on Dec. 4, 2022, during a change of command ceremony in Lincoln, Neb. Col. Patti Fries relinquished command of the 155th Medical Group after being in command for four years.

Maj. Gen. Evan Dertien, Air Force Test Center, presents Brig. Gen. Scott Cain, outgoing 96th Test Wing commander, with the Legion of Merit medal for his efforts during his tenure at the wing June 30 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. Brig. Gen. Jeff Geraghty took the reins of the wing from Cain during the ceremony. (U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.)

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Brandon Layman, Senior Enlisted Leader, A3 Headquarters West Virginia Air National Guard, addresses the attendees of his promotion to the rank of Chief Master Sergeant at the 167th Airlift Wing, Jan. 07, 2024. Layman served in the 167th Security Forces Squadron before taking on his currest assignment.

U.S. Air Force Col. Daniel McDonough, the commander of the 182nd Airlift Wing, Illinois Air National Guard, receives the Legion of Merit during a change of command ceremony in Peoria, Illinois, June 7, 2022. McDonough later assumed command of the Illinois Air National Guard from outgoing commander Maj. Gen. Peter Nezamis.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind addresses an audience during the Air Force Special Operations Command change of command ceremony at Hurlburt Field, Florida, Dec. 9, 2022. During the ceremony U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind assumed command of AFSOC from U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Jim Slife.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Jim Slife, commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, presents the Silver Star Medal to Master Sgt. Cory Haggett, a special tactics operator with the 23d Special Tactics Squadron, 24th Special Operations Wing, during a ceremony May 13, 2022, at Hurlburt Field, Fla. The Silver Star is the third-highest military combat decoration that can be awarded to a member of the United States Armed Forces.

U.S. Air Force Col. Martin Timko, 167th Airlift wing commander, stands with the 167th Airlift Wings Outstanding Airmen of the Year, Senior Airman Dallis Myers, 167th Medical Group, Staff Sgt. Jessie Trejo, 167th Security Forces Squadron, Chief Master Sgt. Jeffrey DeMille, 167th Operations Support Squadron, and Master Sgt. Ashleigh Palmer, 167th Maintenance Squadron, during a ceremony at the wing, April 2, 2023. Trejo, DeMille and Palmer were recognized as the winners in their respective categories at the state level.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Kevin Mckinley, left, 423d Civil Engineer Squadron incoming commander, speaks during a change of command ceremony at RAF Alconbury, England, June 22, 2022. Prior to assuming command, Mckinley attended the Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama.

US Air Force General Gerald Perryman Jr., relinquishes his command of the 14th Air Force to General Richard B. Meyers, Air Force Space Command and US Space Command Commander, May 6th, 1999, during the Change of Command Ceremony held outside the Headquarters Building at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. Base: Vandenberg Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Alexander Newcome, outgoing 81st Comptroller Squadron commander, salutes Col. William Hunter, 81st Training Wing commander, during the 81st CPTS Change of Command Ceremony in the Bay Breeze Event Center at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, June 16, 2022. Newcome passed command of the 81st CPTS to Maj. Christopher O'Dell, incoming 81st CPTS commander.

Lt. Col. Brenton Gaylord, outgoing 317th Operations Support Squadron commander, right, takes the guidon from Col. John Poole, 317th Operations Group commander, left, during the 317th OSS change of command ceremony at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, June 30, 2022. The 317th OSS has approximately 130 personnel who oversee organizing, training and equipping the aircrews of the 317th Airlift Wing.

DF-ST-87-11630. Base: Osan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Joseph Campo, incoming 48th Fighter Wing commander, renders his first salute during a change of command ceremony at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, June 29, 2022. During the ceremony, Col. Jason Camilletti relinquished command of the 48th FW to Maj. Gen. Derek France, Third Air Force commander, who then charged Campo with leading the wing.

Col. Patrick Miller, 88th Air Base Wing and installation commander, speaks during the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Honor Guard graduation ceremony, April 25, 2022. Thirty-nine Airmen from units across the base underwent more than 50 hours of training to become proficient in the customs and courtesies they will need during their six-month tour with the guard.

Col. David Lopez, Commander of Air Combat Command's Executive, promotes to Brigadier General at Langley Air Force Base, May 22, 2022. Lopez swore in as he prepared to take on his newest responsibilities.

Col. John Poole, 317th Operations Group commander, presents the 317th Operations Support Squadron guidon to Lt. Col. Austin Rust, incoming 317th OSS commander, during the 317th OSS change of command ceremony officiated by Poole at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, June 30, 2022. Rust took command of the squadron responsible for organizing, training and equipping aircrew who operate 28 C-130J aircraft engaged in worldwide combat aerial delivery operations.

Alpha Company, 46th Aviation Support Battalion, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade hosts a change of command at Evergreen Theater, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., April 29, 2022. Capt. Cameron Blackhurst reliquished command to Capt. Emmanuel Phillips.

U.S. Air Force Col. Adam Bingham, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander, speaks during the 6th ARW change of command ceremony at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, July 29, 2022. Bingham took command of the 6th ARW after previously serving as commander of the 47th Operations Group at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt Julian Vanegas, Kadena Air Base Honor Guard, presents U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Nicholas Evans, 18th Wing commander, with a flag during a promotion ceremony at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Jan. 30, 2024. Evans commands the largest combat wing in the U.S. Air Force which provides U.S. Indo-Pacific Command trained and equipped tactical air superiority forces; combat search and rescue forces; command and control platforms; aeromedical evacuation capability; and global mobility resources for contingency operations.

U.S. Air Force Col. Chris Austin, commander of the 144th Fighter Wing, California Air National Guard, left, administers the oath of office for newly promoted Col. Dorothy Hinkley, commander of the 129th Medical Group, 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, during a ceremony, Sept. 10, 2022, at Moffett Air National Guard Base near Mountain View, California. Hinkley earned her commission through the Navy ROTC program and served on active duty with the Navy before transitioning to the U.S. Navy Reserve and later transferring to the Air National Guard.

Maj. Gen. Andrew Gebara, left, 8th Air Force and Joint-Global Strike Operations Center commander, Col. Brandon B. Schraeder, center, outgoing Joint Nuclear Operations Center commander, and Lt. Col. John Baker, right, incoming JNOC commander, stand at the position of attention during a change of command ceremony at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., June 1, 2022. A change of command is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit from one commanding or flag officer to another.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. John E. Payne, command chief of the 36th Wing, stands ready with the guidon moments before the begining of the 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. (U.S. Air Force photos by Staff Sgt. Ryan Brooks)

The 944th Fighter Wing holds a senior noncommissioned officer induction ceremony at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., April 10, 2022. The recently promoted Airmen were charged with increased responsibilities and authority as they accepted the leadership role of their new rank.

Lt. Col. Samsul Alam, chief of internal review for the 75th Innovation Command, is hugged by his wife, Lisa, as he is prepared to be presented his retirement award, temporarily held by Staff Sgt. Nydia Santini. Col. Michael Shanley and Command Sgt. Maj. Kristal Florquist presented Alam and his wife with their award and certificates of appreciation.

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

U.S. Air National Guard Col. Sonya L. Morrison assumes command of the 185th Air Refueling Wing at 185th Air Refueling Wing at Sioux City, Iowa, August 6, 2022. Morrison is replacing Col. Mark A. Muckey as wing commander.

The 142nd Force Support Squadron held a change of command ceremony at Portland Air National Guard Base, Oregon, June 10, 2022. Lt. Col. Kelly Barton relinquished command and Maj. Berlinda White, previously serving as the personnel director for the Oregon Air National Guard, assumed command from the presiding officer for the event, 142nd Mission Support Group Commander, Col David Shattls.

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.

Col. Robert A. Corby, right, accepts command of the 316th Medical Group from Col. Todd Randolph, 316th Wing and Joint Base Andrews installation commander, during a change of command ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Md., July 21, 2022. Chief Master Sgt. William Schumacher, 316th MDG senior enlisted leader, center, looks on.

U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., poses for a photo with Air-Vice Marshal Andrew Clark, Royal New Zealand Air Force Chief of the Air Force, during the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, England, July 15, 2022. Brown attended RIAT to meet with air and space chiefs from other nations and demonstrate the Department of the Air Forces commitment to its allies and partners.

Surrounded by family and friends, last month, 94-year-old Sgt. Walter Leman Messley celebrated his birthday and he had one final wish - to have his service and legacy honored one last time with his loved ones. On Sunday, April 2, 2023, two members of the Idaho Army National Guards Honor Guard joined Messleys family and friends at Meridian Meadows Transitional Care to honor his service with a flag-folding ceremony and present him with his own U.S. flag in recognition of his service.

U.S. Air Force Col. David Fazenbaker, commander of the 62d Airlift Wing, renders a salute during the national anthem at the 2022-2024 Honorary Commander Assumption of Command Ceremony at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Sept. 29, 2022. Across the Air Force, the Honorary Commander Program provides a platform to inform and educate local community leaders about Department of Defense missions and develop supportive relationships with the community.

U.S. Air Force Col. Sigurd Lokensgard, left, former commander of the 129th Maintenance Group, 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, speaks during his retirement ceremony as Lt. Col. Lyndsey Ballinger, commander of the 129th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, looks on, Aug. 6, 2022, at Moffett Air National Guard Base, California. Lokensgard is a U.S. Air Force Academy graduate who retires with more than 30 years of service.

U.S. Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno CW4 Thomas F. Oroho stand at attention during the reading of the Citation for the Soldier's Medal which CW4 Oroho is being presented with by Gen. Odierno at Davison Army Airfield, VA, Nov 1, 2013. CW4 Oroho, Company Commander of D Company, 12th Aviation Battalion, received the medal by placing his own life in harms way on Sept. 1, 2012 at Panama City, Florida when he entered the ocean during high tide to save the lives of a drowning girl and her father .

Col. Christopher Meeker (left), 88th Air Base Wing and installation commander, presents Tech. Sgt. Kasey Davidson, 88th Medical Group, with a plaque marking his selection for promotion to master sergeant at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base senior NCO induction ceremony Aug. 26, 2022. At right is Chief Master Sgt. Lloyd Morales, 88 ABW command chief.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Jeremy T. Sloane renders his last salute 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.

Maj. Samuel Han, right, outgoing 4th Comptroller Squadron commander, relinquishes the guidon to Col. Lucas Teel, 4th Fighter Wing commander, during the 4th CPTS change of command ceremony at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, June 24, 2022. Han provided financial advice and decision support to the 4th FW, overseeing the wings budget and financial customer service of the wings 6,500 total force personnel.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Kevin Gottfried, a small group leader with the United States Army Aviation Center of Excellence Noncommissioned Officer Academy - Fort Eustis, and two fellow Soldiers were inducted into the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club during a ceremony May 20, 2022, at Fort Eustis, Virginia.

U.S. Air Force Col. Patrick Morgan relinquished command of the 165th Medical Group, Georgia Air National Guard, to Lt. Col. Chad Asplund on June 12, 2022 in the Fuel Cell Hangar at the 165th Airlift Wing in Savannah, Georgia. Morgan served as the commander of the medical group for 12 years and will retire on June 15, 2022 with a total of 40 years dedicated and honorable service to the United State Air Force.

U.S. Air Force Col. Chad Holesko receives the official 180th Fighter Wing flag, officially assuming command of the wing from Brig. Gen. Gary McCue, Deputy Assistant Adjutant General for Air, Ohio National Guard, during a Change of Command ceremony at the 180FW in Swanton, Ohio, Oct. 15, 2022. During the ceremony, outgoing 180FW commander, Col. Michael DiDio, relinquished command to incoming commander, Holesko.

81st Training Wing Change of Command. US Air Force Brigadier General Roosevelt Mercer Jr. (2nd from right), new Commander, 81st TRW, Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, salutes before receiving the guidon from USAF CHIEF MASTER Sergeant McCann while USAF BGEN Elizabeth Ann Harrell (Left), outgoing Commander, 81st TRW, and USAF Major General John F. Regni, Commander, 2nd Air Force, Keesler AFB, MS, looks on. 81st Training Wing Change of Command. US Air Force Brigadier General Roosevelt Mercer Jr. (2nd from right), new Commander, 81st TRW, Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, salutes before receiving the guidon from USAF Chief Master Sergeant McCann while USAF BGEN Elizabeth Ann Harrell (Left), outgoing Commander, 81st TRW, and USAF Major General John F. Regni, Commander, 2nd Air Force, Keesler AFB, MS, looks on.

Lt. Col. Erik Smith, assigned to the 139th Operations Group, and Col. John Cluck, 139th Airlift Wing commander, Missouri Air National Guard, stand at attention during Smiths retirement ceremony at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, April 2, 2023. Smith retired after nearly 24 years of service.

(From left) U.S. Air Force Col. David Moon Halasi-Kun, 104th Fighter Wing commander, Col. Sherri Hrovatin, outgoing 104th Mission Support Group commander, and Lt. Col. Andrew St. Jean, incoming 104MSG commander, stand in formation during a change of command ceremony June 12, 2022, at Barnes Air National Base, Massachusetts. A change of command ceremony is a military tradition that represents the formal transfer of responsibility of a unit from one commanding officer to another.

Col. Michael Parks, commander of the 507th Air Refueling Wing, stands at attention with Col. Alvin Bradford and Lt. Col. Joseph Ronzio, the previous and current 507th Medical Squadron, respectively, during the 507th MDS change of command on Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, Oct. 15, 2022. Bradford served as the 507th MDS commander, and as the unit's senior mendical provider, for three-and-a-half years.

Col. William M. Martin is promoted to the rank of Colonel during a ceremony among his family and peers on Fort Bragg, N.C., May 20, 2022. The ceremony celebrated the career and promotion of Col. William M. Martin the 82nd Airborne Division G6.

Washington D.C. (July 5, 2022) Dr. William A. LaPlante Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment address the attendees during a semi-virtual Change of Leadership ceremony at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C., where Lt. Gen. Eric Fick transferred authorities and duties of the F-35 Joint Program Office to Lt. Gen. Michael Schmidt on July 5, 2022. The F-35 Joint Program Office is the Department of Defense's focal point for the 5th generation strike aircraft for the Navy, Air Force, Marines, and our allies. The F-35 is the premier multi-mission, 5th generation weapon system. Its ability to collect, analyze and share data is a force multiplier that enhances all assets in the battle-space: with stealth technology, advanced sensors, weapons capacity, and range. The F-35, which has been operational since July of 2015, is the most lethal, survivable, and interoperable fighter aircraft ever built.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Davis S. Nahom, center, receives the Alaskan Command colors from Gen. Glen D. VanHerck during the 11th Air Force change of command ceremony at Hanger 20 on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, August 11, 2022. U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. David A. Krumm turned over command to Lt. Gen. Davis S. Nahom as Gen. Glen D. VanHerck, Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command and United States Northern Command, and Gen. Ken S. Wilsbach, Commander, Pacific Air Forces, officiated before gathered family members, distinguished guests and military personnel.

New York Air National Guard Chief Master Sgt. Dave Lathrop (right) receives a Meritorious Service Medal from Col. Catherine Hutson, Commander of the 174th Maintenance Group during a retirement ceremony held at Hancock Field Air National Guard Base, Syracuse, New York.

Lt. Col. Micheal Chebino, right, accepts the 24th Fighter Squadrons guidon as he assumes command of the unit at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas, June 16, 2022. In a Change of Command ceremony, the guidon is passed from the former commander to the new commander, representing the transfer of responsibility.

The Wyoming National Guard partnered with the Veterans Commission to support Task Force Tribute in Cheyenne, Wyo., on Aug. 26, 2022. Task Force Tribute is a veteran-inspired journey across the U.S. honoring the 7,054 fallen service members during combat operations since 9/11. One mile is traveled for each service member lost.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul R. Birch renders his first salute during the 36th Wing change of command ceremony, June 10, 2022, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. As installation commander, Birch is now responsible for the well-being of more than 8,000 joint military and civilian personnel on Andersen AFB. Additionally, he supports Department of Defense installation management of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands as the Deputy Commander of Joint Region Marianas.

The class of new Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Honor Guard members recite the Honor Guard Charge at the end of their graduation ceremony, April 25, 2022. Thirty-nine Airmen from units across the base underwent more than 50 hours of training to become proficient in the customs and courtesies they will need during their six-month tour with the guard.

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Andre Heags, 334th Training Squadron air traffic control training superintendent, briefs members of the German Military Aviation Authority on Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, Feb. 12, 2024. The GMAA visited the 334th TRS to gain a deeper understanding of the training controllers undergo and to collaborate on innovative ideas to enhance the training pipeline for both countries. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Capt. Kristen Linn, 2d Audiovisual Squadron support flight commander, renders a final salute to Lt. Col. Sheryll Klinkel, outgoing commander, during the 2d AVS change of command ceremony at Hill Air Force Base, UT, June 21, 2022. The final salute is rendered to show respect and appreciation for the former commander.

U.S. Air Force Col. Kyle Baldassari, 375th Communications Group commander, and Lt. Col. Daniel Corneliussen, 375th Communications Support Squadron commander, furl the 375th CSPTS guidon during the 375th CG inactivation ceremony on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, July 29, 2022. The furling and unfurling of guidons serves as a symbolic gesture for the activation, inactivation and realignment of units in the military.

A U.S. Air Force Airman receives the Community College of the Air Force certificate during the graduation ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, Oct. 19, 2022. The CCAF is the largest community college in the world, affiliated with schools in over 36 states and eight foreign locations and over 260,000 Air Force members registered.

Lt. Col. Kristen Carter, right, outgoing 436th Medical Support Squadron commander, and Col. Tracy Allen, left, 436th Medical Group commander, furl the 436th MDSS guidon at The Landings on Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, June 9, 2022. Constituted in 1992, the 436th MDSS held an inactivation ceremony and was the first of four ceremonies conducted within the 436th MDG. Guidon bearer for the ceremony was Master Sgt. Amy Schwiesow, center, 436th MDSS superintendent.

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- U.S. Air Force Academy superintendent Lt. Gen. Richard Clark salutes during the pass and review portion of the Founders Day parade at Stillman Field in Colorado Spring, Colo., April 1, 2022.

U.S. Air Force Col. Roxanne T. Toy takes command of the I.G. Brown Training and Education Center on June 1, 2022, during a ceremony on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee. Colonel Toy is TECs 18th commander since its establishment in July 1968. The primary learning center of the Air National Guard, TEC provides enlisted professional military education and professional continuing education for the total U.S. Air Force.

21st Air Force Commander, USAF Lieutenant General Maxwell Bailey (Left), passes the 6th Air Refueling Wing Guidon To incoming 6th ARW Commander Colonel Chip Diehl. Base: Macdill Air Force Base State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Gen. Mike Minihan, Air Mobility Command commander, presents citation to Maj. Gen. Kenneth Bibb Jr., outgoing 18th Air Force commander, during a change of command ceremony on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, Aug. 19. 2022. Bibb received the Distinguished Service Medal for his many accomplishments while in command of AMC.

010713-F-7906C-033. Base: Kelly Air Force Base State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AFMC

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Karl Schultz, and ceremony members render honors to the national ensign, during the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Change of Watch ceremony in Cape May, New Jersey, May 19, 2022. The Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard is the senior enlisted member of the Coast Guard, and the principal advisor to the Commandant on all enlisted personnel matters.

U.S. Air Force Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Craig Forsythe, 501st Combat Support Wing chaplain, reads an invocation at the Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial, Madingley, England, Sept. 1, 2022. Leadership from the 501st Combat Support Wing joined the 8th Air Force commander and command chief, along with other U.S. Air Force leaders, to mark the 80th Anniversary of the formation of the Mighty Eighth Air Force and to commemorate those who gave their lives in the ultimate sacrifice.

Lt. Col. Darrick Duran, 374th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron commander, renders his first salute as commander during the 374th OMRS assumption of command ceremony at Yokota Air Base, Japan, June 28, 2022.The assumption of command ceremony is a long-standing military tradition that represents the formal transfer of responsibility from one officer to another.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Lonny Reese, right, 114th Fighter Wing, South Dakota Air National Guard, assumes command of the 114th Fighter Wing communications flight while taking the flight guidon from Col. Brent Post, left, 114th Fighter Wing Mission Support Group Commander, during a change of command ceremony at Joe Foss Field, South Dakota, Dec. 3, 2022. Reese replaced Lt. Col. Kevin Miller, outgoing communications flight commander.

221031-N-XY052-1181: SAN ANTONIO, Texas - (Oct. 31, 2022) Rear Adm. Cynthia A. Kuehner, Commander Naval Medical Forces Support Command, poses with Lt. Gen. Brian Robinson, Commander of Air Education and Training Command (AETC), and Brig. Gen Russell D. Driggers, Commander 502nd Air Base Wing and Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) during the San Antonio Chamber of Commerces Celebrate Americas Military (CAM) 52nd Opening Ceremony held at the citys famed Alamo Plaza.

Gen. Norton Schwartz gives the chief of staff of the Air Force flag to Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley during a ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Aug. 10, 2012. Schwartz served as the nineteenth Air Force chief of staff and is retiring after nearly four decades of service.

040806-F-9891G-004. Base: Omaha State: Nebraska (NE) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Col. Brian Filler, left, 501st Combat Support Wing commander, receives the 423d Air Base Group guidon from Col. Richard Martin, 423d ABG outgoing commander, during a change of command ceremony at RAF Alconbury, England, July 25, 2022. During his command, Martin led a unit that provided a full range of operational, logistical, engineering, medical and communications support and community services to 6,500 military and civilian personnel and families at 4 instalations.

030109-F-3798Y-004. Base: Yokota Air Base Country: Japan (JPN) Scene Major Command Shown: PACAF

220523-D-CJ362-1165 NORFOLK, Va. (May 23, 2022) Rear Adm. Paul C. Spedero, U.S. Navy, commander, Joint Enabling Capabilities Command (JECC), is relieved of command by Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost, U.S. Air Force, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, during a change of command ceremony onboard Naval Station Norfolk. Spedero turned over command to Brig. Gen. Stephen F. Jost. JECCs mission is to provide planners, public affairs specialists, and communications capabilities to Combatant Commanders to enable the rapid establishment of a Joint Force Headquarters or in support of other missions, exercises, or planning efforts.

020403-F-3050V-026. Base: Arlington National Cemetery State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Brig. Gen. Gent Welsh, Commander, Washington Air National Guard (left) presents a Certificate of Appreciation from the United States Air Force to Brenda Boyd (center) along with Chief Master Sgt. Marvin Boyd, Washington State Air National Guard Command Chief Master Sergeant (right), at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., on Oct. 15, 2022. Chief Boyd retired after 35 years of military service beginning in the U.S. Navy and the Washington Air National Guard. (Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. (ret.) John Hughel, Washington Air National Guard Public Affairs)

Army Reserve Maj. Gen. Darrell J. Guthrie, former commander, 88th Readiness Division, executes his final salute to an American flag held by award proffer Chief Warrant Officer 2 Donald Smith during Guthrie's retirement ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park, Fort McCoy, Wis., July 30. 2022. The flag was folded in its cocked hat appearance in a reminder to Soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain Paul Jones, by the Division's Honor Guard.

Col. Soo Sohn, left, 341st Medical Group commander, gives her remarks to Lt. Col. Darren Damiani, outgoing 341st Operational Medical Readiness Squadron commander, and Lt. Col. Jennifer Harward, incoming 341st OMRS commander during a change of command ceremony July 28, 2022, at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont. Damiani served as 341st OMRS commander for 13 months before becoming a colonel-selectee and subsequently being chosen to become chief nurse at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas.

Osan Honor Guard presents the colors during a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Induction Ceremony at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Oct. 6, 2022. To begin the ceremony, the colors were presented during the playing of the Republic of Korea and the United States' national anthem.

New members of the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Honor Guard demonstrate a six-man flag-fold during their graduation ceremony, April 25, 2022. Guardsmen demonstrated the full funeral service, including gun salute and taps, prior to receiving their honor guard badges.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Patrick Shelton, 139th Communications Flight, Missouri Air National Guard, is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal by U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Aaron Larimore during his retirement ceremony at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, Dec. 3, 2022. Throughout his 32 years of service, Shelton has served many leadership roles including commander of the 241st Air Traffic Control Squadron, and the commander of the 139th Communications Flight.

U.S. Air Force Col. Roxanne T. Toy takes command of the I.G. Brown Training and Education Center on June 1, 2022, during a ceremony on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee. Colonel Toy is TECs 18th commander since its establishment in July 1968. The primary learning center of the Air National Guard, TEC provides enlisted professional military education and professional continuing education for the total U.S. Air Force.

U.S. Air Force Col. Chris Robinson, 375th Air Mobility Wing Commander, receives the 375th Communications Group guidon from Col. Kyle Baldassari, 375th CG commander, during the 375th CG inactivation ceremony on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, July 29, 2022. The passing of the guidon is a time-honored military tradition that signifies the transfer of responsibility for units and personnel.

DF-SD-07-25422. Base: Hector International Field State: North Dakota (ND) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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