Military Change of Command Ceremonies

Images capture formal military ceremonies with leaders delivering speeches, surrounded by flags and service members, highlighting transitions of command.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III speaks during the U.S. Strategic Command change of command ceremony, Omaha, Neb., Dec. 9, 2022. (DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexander Kubitza)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Mark Camerer, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center commander, delivers a speech during the 628th Air Base Wing Change of Command Ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, July 15, 2022. With more than 14,000 Airmen, the Expeditionary Center is comprised of the Air Force Expeditionary Operations School and five Air Mobility Command wings and two stand-alone groups.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III speaks during the U.S. Strategic Command change of command ceremony, Omaha, Neb., Dec. 9, 2022. (DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexander Kubitza)

221014-N-PX557-0051MECHANICSBURG, Pa.(October 14, 2022)Rear Adm. Peter Stamatopoulos, commander, Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP)/Chief of Supply Corps, provides guest speaker remarks during a change of command ceremony for NAVSUP Business Systems Center (BSC) onboard Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg, October 14. During the ceremony, Capt. David D. Carnal (right) relieved Capt. Eugene Gene” S. Cash (center), as commanding officer, NAVSUP BSC. Cash served as NAVSUP BSC commanding officer from April 2020 to October 2022 and will retire following more than 28 years of service as a Navy Supply Corps Officer.U.S. Navy photo by James E. Foehl (Released)

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Ellis Island, New York City, New York, where he addressed newly naturalized U.S. citizens during Citizenship Day ceremonies, met with National Park Service (NPS) and U.S. Park Police personnel, and joined U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Emilio Gonzalez for announcement of joint USCIS-NPS program to welcome new citizens at National Park sites

Maj. Gen. Kenneth Bibb, 18th Air Force commander, gives a speech during the 317th Airlift Wing change of command ceremony at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, July 7, 2022. Bibb was the presiding officer during the Change of Command, where he relieved Col. James Young of his responsibilities following two years of honorable and dedicated service to the men and women of the 317th AW.

Gen. Thomas Bussiere, Air Force Global Strike Command commander, gives remarks during his assumption of command ceremony at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Dec. 7, 2022. Bussiere previously served as the deputy commander of United States Strategic Command at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.

CORONADO, Calif. (April 28, 2022) Cmdr. Taylor Forester addresses the Sailors of Naval Special Warfare Tactical Communications Command (TCC) 1 after relieving Cmdr. Blythe Blakistone during a change of command ceremony. Naval Special Warfare Group 1, which mans, trains and equips West Coast-based SEAL Teams, is comprised of SEAL Teams 1, 3, 5, and 7 as well as Logistics Support Unit 1 and TCC-1. TCC-1 supports SEAL Teams, other special operations forces, and conventional forces worldwide by providing tactical communications in all environments and levels of conflict.

DN-ST-86-03734. Base: Seattle State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

WASHINGTON (Aug. 24, 2022) Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro delivers remarks and answers questions from Sailors, Marines and Civilians during a Department of the Navy One Year-in-Review all-hands call at the Pentagon Aug. 24, 2022.

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

061025-N-2838C-003. Base: Naval Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III speaks during the U.S. Strategic Command change of command ceremony, Omaha, Neb., Dec. 9, 2022. (DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexander Kubitza)

Inter-American Defense College Leadership hosts a Convocation Ceremony for Class 62 students on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Aug. 2, 2022. The event is a college tradition symbolizing the coming together of students from the Western Hemisphere to a unified body as Class 62.

Brig. Gen. David Manfredi, director of joint staff for the Vermont National Guard, speaks during his retirement ceremony May 26, 2022, at Camp Johnson, Vermont. General Manfredi retired May 26 after more than 30 years of service, including assignments as commander of the 124th Regiment (Regional Training Institute) and commander of the 3-172nd Infantry (Mountain). He deployed to Afghanistan twice in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

U.S. Army Col. Kevin D. McMahan retires from the Washington Army National Gaurd after 31 years of service on Camp Murray, Wash., Aug. 6, 2022. McMahan was the former commander of the the 1st Battalion, 161st Infantry Regiment, 96th Troop Command, and the 10th Homeland Response Force.

Members of the 105th Airlift Wing attended an assumption of authority ceremony for Command Chief Master Sergeant Joseph A. Cincotta, on May 15, 2022, at Stewart Air National Guard Base, Newburgh, New York. The command chief is the top enlisted member of the 105th Airlift Wing and will serve as the principal advisor to the wing commander. (Staff Sgt Jonathan Lane/U.S. Air Force/Released)

Brig. Gen. Charles Lee Knowles retired after 35 years of service in the Alaska Army National Guard during a ceremony on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, April 10, 2022. A born and raised Alaskan, Knowles joined in 1987 and received his commission as an infantry officer in 1995. He served many years in the 297th Infantry Battalion, and went on to serve as the chief of staff for the AKARNG, commander of the Alaska Army National Guards Recruiting and Retention Battalion and commander of the 297th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade.

Gen. James B. Hecker, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa incoming commander, gives remarks during the change of command ceremony for USAFE-AFAFRICA at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 27, 2022. Hecker led the intellectual and leadership center of the U.S. Air Force at Air University in Alabama, graduating more than 50,000 residents and 120,000 non-resident officers, enlisted and civilian personnel each year.

Gen James E. Rainey accepts the position of Commanding General for Army Futures Command on October 4th, 2022 in Austin, TX (US Army Photo by Patrick Hunter)

041019-F-1740G-003. Base: Yokota Air Base Country: Japan (JPN)

040709-F-0628H-001. Base: Offutt Air Force Base State: Nebraska (NE) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Vice Adm. Daniel Dwyer addresses U.S. 2nd Fleet staff and guests during a change of command ceremony aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Dwyer was relieved by Vice Adm. Doug Perry as commander, Joint Force Command Norfolk, commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, and director, Combined Joint Operations from the Sea - Centre of Excellence. U.S. 2nd Fleet employs maritime forces ready to fight across multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arctic to ensure access, deter aggression, and defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

KEYPORT, Wash. (June 24, 2022) - Rear Adm. Kevin Byrne, commander, Naval Surface Warfare Center and Naval Undersea Warfare Center, addresses the audience during a change of command for NUWC Division, Keyport. Capt. Jon Moretty turns over command to Capt. Clinton Hoskins at a ceremony held at the U.S. Naval Undersea Museum in Keyport, Wash. This was the 42nd change of command for NUWC Division, Keyport. NUWC Division, Keyport provides advanced technical capabilities for test and evaluation, in-service engineering, maintenance and industrial base support, fleet material readiness and obsolescence management for undersea warfare to expand Americas undersea dominance.

Brig. Gen. Mark Thompson, Deputy Chief of Staff for Support, leads a Warrior's Corner discussion on overcoming contested logistics to deliver class VIIIB (blood and blood products) during large-scale combat operations at the AUSA Global Force Symposium Mar. 29.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Brian Tripp, former 85th Flying Training Squadron commander, sits next to Lt. Col. Gregory Show, current 85th Flying Training Squadron commander, during the 85th FTS change of command ceremony at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, June 3, 2022. Show accepts the role as the 85th Training Squadron commander from former commander Lt. Col. Brian Tripp.

Army Lt. Col. Carla Raisler introduces the newly commissioned officers in a ceremony at the Kentucky State Capitol Rotundra in Frankfort, Ky. on Sept. 24, 2022. The new officers will be pinned by family and friends at the ceremony as part of commissioning tradition.

Army Lt. Col. Carla Raisler introduces the newly commissioned officers in a ceremony at the Kentucky State Capitol Rotundra in Frankfort, Ky. on Sept. 24, 2022. The new officers will be pinned by family and friends at the ceremony as part of commissioning tradition.

120110-N-YQ566-186CRYSTAL CITY, Va. (Jan. 10, 2012) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert delivers remarks during the 24th Annual Surface Navy Association Symposium. This year's theme is "Surface Navy: A Credible Force in Uncertain Times."

U.S. Air Force Capt. Jonathan Ayers, 35th Fighter Wing chaplain, recites a prayer during a Memorial Day ceremony at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 27, 2022. Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971.

030617-F-2869F-005. Base: Charleston Air Force Base State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: USAF

240104-N-ED185-2086KEYPORT, Wash. (Jan. 5, 2023) Capt. Eric A. Hunter, the incoming commanding officer of the blue crew of the Ohio-class guided missile submarine USS Ohio (SSGN 726), speaks during a change of command ceremony for the submarine at Keyport, Washington, Jan. 5, 2024. During the ceremony, Hunter relieved Capt. Micah D. Maxwell as commanding officer of the blue crew of Ohio.

Col. Christopher Stauder, Cyber Protection Brigade incoming commander, addresses the Hunter Brigade and guests during the CPBs change of command ceremony at Fort Gordon, Georgia, Oct. 27, 2022. (Photo by Shatara Riis)

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Laura McHugh, the Deputy Adjutant General-Army of Pennsylvania, speaks with state legislators during Pennsylvania National Guard and Veterans Day at the state capitol.

Veterans' Employment and Training Service - Veterans Day Salute Awards

Janine Sijan speaks during a ceremony for the 2019 to 2022 Lance P. Sijan USAF Leadership Awards at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., April 3, 2023. The award is named for her brother, Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Lance Sijan, who died while being held as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War.

Official imagery from the memorial services for Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel Woodrow Woody Williams, Medal of Honor recipient, held at the West Virginia State Capitol, Sunday, July 3, 2022. Born in Quiet Dell, West Virginia in 1923, Williams, 98, was awarded the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while he served as a demolition sergeant serving with the 21st Marines, third Marine Division while fighting Japanese forces on Iwo Jima on Feb. 23, 1945. At the time of his death on June 29, 2022, he was the last living World War II Medal of Honor recipient.

A scene is shown May 10, 2022, of a special signing ceremony for a memorandum/agreement between the Ho-Chunk Nation and Fort McCoy in Black River Falls, Wis. The ceremony was held at the Ho-Chunk Nation Tribal Office Building on the east side of Black River Falls and included Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Michael Poss and Command Sgt. Maj. Raquel DiDomenico, garrison command sergeant major, and Ho-Chunk Nation Chief Clayton Winneshiek and Ho-Chunk Nation President Marlon WhiteEagle. This memorandum of understanding between the Ho-Chunk Nation and Fort McCoy represents Fort McCoys assumption of the U.S. Armys legal responsibility under multiple federal laws and presidential executive orders to protect natural, historic, and sacred places with traditional religious and cultural importance to all Native American peoples, but especially those of the Ho Chunk Nation, on whos aboriginal territory the Fort McCoy military installation is now located.

Col. Todd Guay, the former commander of the 107th Attack Wing Operations Group, passes the Guide On flag to Lt. Col. Andrew Carlson, commander of the 107th Attack Wing, as he relinquishes command of the Operations Group to Lt. Col. Thomas Griffon during his retirement ceremony on Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, Niagara Falls New York, 14 May, 2022. Guay has served in the military for nearly 30 years.Air National Guard Photo by Senior Airman Daniel Meade.

Lt. Gen. Richard W. Scobee (Right), Chief of the Air Force Reserve and Commander of the Air Force Reserve Command, was inducted into the Air Force Order of the Sword at a ceremony held in Washington, D.C., July 12, 2022. The Order of the Sword is the highest honor and tribute noncommissioned officers can bestow upon an individual.

U.S. Air Force Civil Engineer Center celebrates its 10th anniversary with a ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Oct. 12, 2022. This event honors the AFCEC mission to deliver civil engineering expertise and services to strengthen installations and enhance combat power.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Mark Macias, member of the Vandenberg Space Force Base Honor Guard team and assigned to the 30th Civil Engineer Squadron, covers the 18th Space Defense Squadrons previous unit flag behind the units new flag during a re-designation ceremony at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif., April 13, 2022. The 18 SDS, previously 18th Space Control Squadron, will continue to be U.S. Space Commands premier provider of continuous, comprehensive and combat-relevant space domain awareness.

Attendees listen to U.S. Air Force Col. Christopher B. Meeker, 86th Civil Engineer Group outgoing commander, give a speech during the 86 CEG change of command ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 30, 2022. Meeker spoke about the many accomplishments by the 86 CEG during his tenure at Ramstein.

17th Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. John Jumper delivers a speech during the 75th Annual Air Force Ball in Las Vegas, Nevada, Sept 10, 2022. Jumper spoke on the Air Forces past and what the future will hold.

17th Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. John Jumper delivers a speech during the 75th Annual Air Force Ball in Las Vegas, Nevada, Sept 10, 2022. Jumper spoke on the Air Forces past and what the future will hold.

Lt. Col. Darrick Duran, 374th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron commander, delivers a speech 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. Army Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., The Adjutant General of New Jersey, addresses the audience during the farewell ceremony for the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New Jersey Army National Guard, at the Cure Insurance Arena, Trenton, New Jersey, Jan. 14, 2024. More than 1,500 NJARNG Soldiers will deploy in support of U.S. Central Commands Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve. CJTF-OIR advises, assists, and enables partnered forces until they can independently defeat Islamic State of Iraq and Syria - ISIS - in designated areas of Iraq and Syria, in order to set conditions for long-term security cooperation frameworks. It is the largest deployment of New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers since 2008. (New Jersey National Guard

220519-N-UD000-1049 NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (May 19, 2022) Rear Adm. Dennis Velez, commander, Carrier Strike Group 10, delivers remarks during a change of command ceremony aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) May 19, 2022. During the ceremony, Capt. Dave Pollard relieved Capt. Robert Aguilar as commanding officer of George H.W. Bush. George H.W. Bush provides the national command authority flexible, tailorable war fighting capability as the flagship of the carrier strike group which maintains maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Stein (right), 502nd Operations Support Squadron commander, provides opening remarks during U.S. Army Air Corps 1st Lt. Gerald Teldons, retired, award ceremony for his honorable service as a pilot on July 29, 2022, at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life and Learning, San Antonio, Texas. Teldon, born in Bronx, N.Y., in 1924, joined the military in 1944. He completed 62 missions during WWII and the Korean War. Lt. Col. Andrew Stein, 502nd Operations Support Squadron commander, was the presiding officers. The awards presented to Teldon are as follows: the Air Medal; American Campaign Medal; European - African - Middle Eastern Campaign Medal; World War II Victory Medal; National Defense Medal; and the Distinguished Unit Citation.

Chief Master Sgt. Alan Weary, installation command chief, speaks to Airman Leadership School graduates during a ceremony at Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., Sept. 1. ALS is an entry-level leadership course designed to prepare senior airman and equivalent Coast Guard members for positions of greater responsibility.

A U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Airman assigned to the 20th Fighter Wing presents a speech on the importance of the POW/MIA table at the 75th Annual Air Force Ball at the Carolina Skies Club at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., Sep. 16, 2022. The tradition of having a separate table for those who were taken prisoner or deemed missing in action dates back to the Vietnam War.

U.S. Air Force Academy -- Brigadier General Linell A. Letendre, Dean of the Faculty, presents the graduation class of 2022 during the U.S. Air Force Academy's Class of 2022 Graduation Ceremony at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 25, 2022. Nine-hundred-seventy cadets crossed the stage to become the Air Force/Space Forces newest second lieutenants. (U.S. Air Force photo/Joshua Armstrong)

U.S. Air Force Col. Marc E. Greene, outgoing 628th Air Base Wing commander, gives his final salute during the 628th ABW Change of Command Ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, July 15, 2022. Since the beginning of his command in May 2020, Greene has led Team Charleston through a global pandemic, their first Air Show in four years and the largest humanitarian airlift of all time: Operation Allies Refuge.

U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 4 Stephan A. Kretz, the assistant officer in charge for the Marine Corps Administrative Analysis Team, speaks at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, Triangle, Virginia, June 10, 2022. Kretz served faithfully for 25 years.

021112-D-9880W-030. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Col. Travolis A. Simmons delivers remarks during the 3rd Wing change of command ceremony at Hangar 2 on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 15, 2022. U.S. Air Force Col. Travolis A. Simmons turned over command to Col. Kevin M. Jamieson as 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.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Joe Giles, assigned to the 633d Logistics Readiness Squadron, gives a speech during the promotion ceremony of Chief Master Sgt. Clyde Rankins at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Nov. 30, 2022. Giles was formally enlisted and served as a recruiter before commissioning and becoming an officer at JBLE.

220606-N-AS200-5009 POINT MUGU, Calif. (Jun. 6, 2022) - U.S. Space Force Col. Matthew Holston, commander, Space Delta 8, delivers remarks during the 10th Space Operations Squadron activation and assumption of command ceremony onboard Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC) Jun. 6. NBVC is a strategically located Naval installation composed of three operating facilities: Point Mugu, Port Hueneme and San Nicolas Island. NBVC is the home of the Pacific Seabees, West Coast E-2C Hawkeyes, 3 warfare centers and 80 tenants.

Retired U.S. Army Col. Christine Nickey Knighton delivers a keynote address to the Defense Logistics Agency Aviation team during the National African American History Month Celebration Feb. 20 on Defense Supply Center Richmond in Virginia. By honoring the history of African Americans and their contributions to the arts and military industry, the DLA Aviation team recognizes and celebrates the richness of the past and present by highlighting the resilience, achievements and stories of the Black community. (DOD

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., leads the applause for Lt. Gen. John Healy, after his promotion during a ceremony at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Aug. 3, 2022. Brown presided over the ceremony that took place before Healy took command of Air Force Reserve Command.

050401-F-4490W-005. Base: Enid State: Oklahoma (OK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. David Berger, commandant of the Marine Corps, delivers a speech during a ceremony at Aisne-Marne American Cemetery, Belleau, France, May 29, 2022. This Memorial Day ceremony was held to commemorate the 104th anniversary of the Battle of Belleau Wood. The visit is to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their respective countries during World War I.

Admiral Christopher Grady, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, speaks to attendees at the 2022 National Defense Transportation Association - U.S. Transportation Command Fall Meeting, St. Louis, Mo., Oct. 18, 2022. He discussed the Department of Defense (DoD) and industry national logistics and transportation response to U.S. global security concerns in Europe and the Indo-Pacific. The Fall Meeting provides a unique forum where DoD and industry professionals gather to discuss defense logistics and transportation challenges, opportunities, innovations, new technologies, best practices, and adapting logistics for a contested environment in the 21st century.

U.S. Air Force Col. Anadis Collado, 628th Medical Group commander, thanks her family for ongoing support during the 628th MDG change of command ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, June 24, 2022. Collado assumed command from Col. Rebecca S. Elliot, outgoing 628th Medical Group commander.

The 36th Chief of Staff of the Army, Gen. George Casey Jr., and his wife, Sheila, are honored by members of the Army Staff as they depart the Pentagon on Apr. 11, 2011. Casey served in the US Army for nearly 41 years.

U.S. Park Police promotion ceremony, with Secretary Dirk Kempthorne among the dignitaries on hand

Pentagon officials host the 2022 Pentagon Native American Heritage Month Celebration with members of the Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society and Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez in the Pentagon Courtyard in Washington, D.C., Nov. 10, 2022.

Col. Kenneth McGhee, incoming 91st Missile Wing commander, receives the guidon from Maj. Gen. Michael Lutton, 20th Air Force commander June 6, 2022, at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. Prior to taking command of the 91st Missile Wing, McGhee was commander of the 341st Operations Group at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana.

010808-D-9880W-061. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Promotion of Army Lt. Gen. Frank Grass to General and change of responsibility ceremony swearing in Gen. Grass as the 27th Chief of the National Guard Bureau in the Pentagon Auditorium on Sept. 7, 2012.

060828-F-0193C-024. Base: Reno State: Nevada, (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Veterans listen as President Barack Obama addresses the annual VFW convention in Phoenix, AZ., Aug. 17, 2009.

Current and former service members of the Maryland National Guard stand during the renaming and ribbon cutting ceremony for the Maj. Gen. Linda L. Singh Readiness Center located in Eldersburg, Maryland, Oct. 22, 2022. The new readiness center supports the Maryland Army National Guard's 200th Military Police Company and the 729th Quartermaster Company.

Retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Augustus L. Collins, the former Adjutant General of Mississippi, speaks at the 172nd Airlift Wing Black Heritage Program, Jackson, Mississippi, Feb. 23, 2024. Collins shared stories about African American contributions in the United States military. Air National Guard

220401-N-PN850-1021 WASHINGTON (Apr. 1, 2022) Master of Ceremonies Chief Musician William F. Edwards, III salutes as the Navy Band plays the National Anthem for the Chief Petty Officer Birthday Celebration

This years 19th Annual Armed Forces Day Concert recognized 12 recipients of the State of Utah Service Members of the Year award, three of which were service members from the Utah National Guard, at the Gallivan Center, Salt Lake City, May 21, 2022.

220331-N-GP384-1024 IONIAN SEA (Mar. 31, 2022) Command Master Chief Keith Wilkerson, command master chief of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), speaks during a Chief Petty Officer Birthday observance in Trumans hangar bay, Mar. 31, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Derek France 3rd Air Force commander gives a speech during the assumption of command at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 22, 2022. France was commissioned at the United States Air Force Academy in May 1992, where he went on to become a command pilot with more than 2,900 hours of flightime in the F-15, F-22, and F-16.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Oct. 14, 2022) Rear Adm. Carl Lahti, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Japan / Commander, Navy Region Japan (CNFJ/CNRJ), speaks as the guest of honor of the Navy Ball held at Club Alliance onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) in celebration of the Navy's 247th Birthday. The theme of the 247th Navy Birthday is "On Watch - 24/7 for 247 Years," which highlights the U.S. Navy's enduring ability to remain fully ready to respond to and effectively deter emergent threats. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet's forward deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

220630-N-RG360-1024 PEARL HARBOR (June 30, 2022) Sailors and civilians attend the International Legal Symposium during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, June 30. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

GEN Colin Powell, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of STAFF, speaks during the Sunset Ceremony for Pearl Harbor survivors at the Arizona Memorial Visitors Centers. The ceremony is part of day-long observances commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Base: Pearl Harbor State: Hawaii(HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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

220513-N-TP834-1107U.S. Army Gen. James Dickinson, U.S. Space Command commander, presides over a joint service commissioning ceremony of 42 cadets from the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps, May 13, 2022, at Colorado State University, Colo. Dickinson, a 1985 CSU graduate, spoke with cadets about the privilege to serve and the evolving challenges in the space domain. Maintaining an ongoing presence with ROTC detachments helps USSPACECOM accomplish its mission through integrating forces and capabilities provided by all services.

U.S. Air Force Col. Travolis A. Simmons and Col. Kevin M. Jamieson share a moment of levity during the 3rd Wing change of command ceremony at Hangar 2 on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 15, 2022. U.S. Air Force Col. Travolis A. Simmons turned over command to Col. Kevin M. Jamieson as 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.

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia (Oct. 29, 2022) - U.S. Ambassador to Canada, David Cohen, receives a tour through the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Fords (CVN 78) hangar bay before a reception, Oct. 29. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) is deployed in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

SAN DIEGO (May 23, 2022) Rear Adm. Stephen D. Barnett gives a speech during a change of command ceremony on board Naval Air Station North Island. During the ceremony, Rear Adm. Bradley N. Rosen relieved Rear Adm. Stephen D. Barnett as commander, Navy Region Southwest.

Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen H. Hicks participates in the Suicide Prevention recognition ceremony hosted by William Booth, Director, Defense Human Resources Activity, at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., Sept. 7, 2022.

Command Sgt. Maj. Quentin Fenderson, the senior enlisted advisor for 3rd Infantry Division, rings a ceremonial bell during the divisions 9/11 “Patriot Day '' remembrance ceremony at Club Stewart on Fort Stewart, Georgia, Sept. 9, 2022. The ceremony honored the thousands of civilians, police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, and members of the military that gave their lives at the World Trade Center, at Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and the Pentagon as well as the memory of the Dogface Soldiers killed in the subsequent war on terrorism.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III speaks during the official portrait unveiling ceremony for former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., July 15, 2021. (DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexander Kubitza)

U.S. Air Force Col. Del Rivera, 319th Reconnaissance Wing vice commander, speaks during a cake-cutting ceremony Sept. 15, 2022, celebrating the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota. The 2022 theme was Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation. Diversity and inclusion are imperative in the Air Force, where multicultural contributions to national defense are celebrated and all airmen are valued and respected for their identity, culture and background.

Col. Kenneth McGhee, incoming 91st Missile Wing commander, takes command of the 91st Missile Wing June 6, 2022, at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. The 91st Missile Wing consists of three groups, the 91st Operations Group, the 91st Maintenance Group and the 91st Security Forces Group, which has approximately 1,800 professionals working together to keep the Minuteman III missiles on alert.

220518-N-OH262-0136 WASHINGTON D.C. (May 18, 2022)--Rear Adm. Michael Wettlaufer, Commander, Military Sealift Command, addresses the audience during the Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony held to honor Merchant Mariners of WWII at the U.S. Capital, May 18. During WWII Merchant Mariners put their lives on the line for their country, braving German and Japanese submarines, in their Liberty Ships, as they delivered critical supplies for service members serving in the European and Pacific theaters.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Sept. 22, 2022) Command Master Chief Robert Beachy, Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka's (CFAY) command master chief, greets Sailors and Gold Star families attending the Bells Across America ceremony in honor of fallen service members at CFAY. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet's forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

220518-N-OH262-0125 WASHINGTON D.C. (May 18, 2022)--Rear Adm. Michael Wettlaufer, Commander, Military Sealift Command, addresses the audience during the Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony held to honor Merchant Mariners of WWII at the U.S. Capital, May 18. During WWII Merchant Mariners put their lives on the line for their country, braving German and Japanese submarines, in their Liberty Ships, as they delivered critical supplies for service members serving in the European and Pacific theaters.

Col. Stella Garcia, 15th Medical Group commander, receives her first salute during a change of command ceremony at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Aug. 1, 2022. Airmen assigned to the 15th Healthcare Operations Squadron, the 15th Medical Support Squadron and the 15th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron rendered Garcias first salute.

U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo participates in a Q&A moderated by Major General John S. Kem at the Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania on April 1, 2019.

DF-ST-88-08728. Base: Ramstein Air Base Country: West Germany (FRG)

U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo delivers remarks at The Citadel in Charleston, S.C. on November 11, 2019.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Steven J. Butow, commander of the California Air National Guard, provides remarks during the 9/11 memorial ceremony at The Flame of Liberty Memorial in Los Gatos, Calif., Sept. 11, 2022. Hosted by The Veterans Memorial & Support Foundation, the memorial ceremony honored the men and women who lost their lives and honored the first responders who sacrifice their lives. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Tech. Sgt. Deepak Prasad)

A side view of incoming Pacific commander GEN. John G. Lorber, as he addresses the audience during the change of command ceremony. The command was relinquished from GEN. Robert L. Rutherford. Base: Hickam Air Force Base State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Ellis Island, New York City, New York, where he addressed newly naturalized U.S. citizens during Citizenship Day ceremonies, met with National Park Service (NPS) and U.S. Park Police personnel, and joined U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Emilio Gonzalez for announcement of joint USCIS-NPS program to welcome new citizens at National Park sites

of 2