Military Change of Command Ceremonies

Images depict military personnel in formal uniforms participating in change of command ceremonies, showcasing a solemn atmosphere, American flags, and traditional rites.

Capt. James Spitler relieves Capt. Timothy Barelli as the Coast Guard Sector San Diego commander during a change of command ceremony in San Diego, July 14, 2022. Rear Adm. Andrew M. Sugimoto, the 11th Coast Guard District commander, presided over the time-honored military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit from one commanding or flag officer to another.

220916-N-ND021-1015 NORFOLK, VA. (September 16, 2022) Cmdr. David Schaller, commandingofficer of USS Monterey (CG 61) departs the ship's decommissioning ceremony. Monterey wascommissioned on June 16, 1990, and was a U.S. Navy warship for 32 years.

Capt. James Spitler relieves Capt. Timothy Barelli as the Coast Guard Sector San Diego commander during a change of command ceremony in San Diego, July 14, 2022. Rear Adm. Andrew M. Sugimoto, the 11th Coast Guard District commander, presided over the time-honored military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit from one commanding or flag officer to another.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger, Commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks about the impact Lt. Gen. Frank E. Peterson, Jr. had on the Marine Corps during the commissioning ceremony for the USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. (DDG 121) at the Port of Charleston, South Carolina, May 14, 2022. The ship was named after the Marine Corps first African American general and aviator. The ship is the 71st of its class and will be based out of Hawaii, serving in the Pacific Fleet.

SAN DIEGO (Jun. 10, 2022) - Director, Reserve Warfare OPNAV N0959 Rear Adm. Scott Fuller, (left), salutes former Commander, Naval Air Force Reserve (CNAFR) Rear Adm. Scott Jones (right) after presenting Jones the American flag during the flag detail for Joness retirement ceremony in the Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30 hangar at Naval Base Coronado, Jun. 10. CNAFR mans, trains and equips the Naval Air Force Reserve in order to provide enduring operational support and strategic depth to Navy forces that win in combat.

221208-N-YF131-1115 SAN DIEGO (Dec. 8, 2022) Capt. Chris Richard, right, commander, Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, Pacific reports to Vice Adm. Kenneth Whitesell, commander, Naval Air Forces, during a change of command ceremony held in the hangar bay of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 41. HSMWPs mission is to man, train, and equip squadrons, Naval Aviators and Naval Aircrewmen to fly and fight the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, the world's most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform.

CAIRNS, Australia (July 31, 2013) Vice Adm. Robert L. Thomas Jr., right, salutes after taking command of the U.S. 7th Fleet alongside departing U.S. 7th Fleet commander Vice Adm. Scott H. Swift during a change of command ceremony aboard the U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) in Cairns, Australia. With Thomas and Swift are U.S. Ambassador to Australia Jeffrey Bleich and Capt. John Shimotsu, U.S. 7th Fleet Chaplain. Blue Ridge and embarked U.S. 7th Fleet staff are on patrol operating forward, building maritime partnerships and conducting security and stability operations.

040414-M-9656F-001. Base: Camp H.M. Smith State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220520-N-XZ205-1037SAN DIEGO (May 20, 2022) Rear Adm. Timothy Weber, outgoing commander, Naval Medical Forces Pacific (NMFP), gives remarks during a change of command ceremony at Admiral Kidd Catering and Conference Center, Naval Base Point Loma, Harbor Drive Annex May 20. Rear Adm. Guido Valdes, incoming commander, NMFP, assumed the reins of director of the Defense Health Agencys San Diego Market from Weber in a change of directorship ceremony following the change of command.

221007-N-JO823-1139 SEA OF JAPAN (Oct. 7, 2022) Capt. Fred Goldhammer, right, commanding officer of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), and Capt. Daryle Cardone, left, prospective commanding officer of Ronald Reagan, shake hands after reading their official orders during a change of command ceremony in the Sea of Japan, Oct 7. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Capts. Keith Ropella and William Woityra shake hands at the completion of the change of command ceremony for the Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star (WGAB 10) in Vallejo, Calif., July 11, 2022. Polar Star, the nations only heavy icebreaker, deploys annually to Antarctica in support of the U.S. Antarctic Program and National Science Foundation. U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Ens. Katharina Commins.

Rear Admiral Michael R. Van Poots, Deputy Commander Submarine Force Atlantic, attends the capping ceremony at Recruit Training Command (RTC), the Navys only boot camp, in Great Lakes, Illinois. The capping ceremony signifies Recruits becoming Sailors at the end of Battle Stations. It is the crucible event that Recruits must pass before graduation. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy's only boot camp.

040226-N-2383B-059. Base: Washington Navy Yard State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

221019-N-ED185-1018NAVAL BASE KITSAP - BANGOR, Wash. (Oct. 19, 2022) Capt. Gary Montalvo, commodore, Submarine Development Squadron 5, left, shakes hands with Adm. Stuart Munsch, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa during a ribbon cutting ceremony for a newly-completed service pier located on Naval Base Kitsap - Bangor, October 19, 2022. The ceremony marked the completion of a major infrastructure project that will support the arrival of fast attack submarines, including the planned change of homeport for the Seawolf-class fast-attack submarines USS Seawolf (SSN 21) and USS Connecticut (SSN 22) from Naval Station Kitsap-Bremerton to Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor.

WASHINGTON (Sept. 28, 2012) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Michael D. Stevens delivers remarks during the MCPON Change of Office ceremony at the Sail Loft at the Washington Navy Yard. Stevens replaced retired MCPON Rick D. West as the 13th MCPON, and was selected while serving as the U.S. Fleet Forces Fleet Master Chief.

220603-N-TH560-1098 WASHINGTON (June 3, 2022) - Vice Adm. John B. Nowell Jr. gives remarks during his retirement ceremony at Washington Navy Yards Admiral Leutze Park. As guest of honor, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday presented Nowell with the distinguished service medal. Nowell's 38 years of service began at the U.S. Naval Academy; a career surface warfare officer, he served aboard five ships and commanded the guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) and Expeditionary Strike Group 7. Nowell was the Navys 59th Chief of Naval Personnel.

Master Chief Petty Officer Heath Jones relieves Master Chief Petty Officer Jason Vanderhaden as Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard (MPCOCG) during a change of watch ceremony at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, N.J., May 19, 2022. The MCPOCG serves as the senior enlisted advisor to the commandant of the Coast Guard for all matters involving the enlisted workforce.

Rear Adm. (lower half) Edward W. Clexton Jr., commander, Carrier Group Three, and CAPT. George D. O'Brien Jr. exchange salutes as O'Brien assumes command of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70). Looking on is CAPT. Thomas A. Mercer, former commanding officer of the ship. Base: Naval Air Station, North Island State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Capt. James R. McIver, commanding officer Naval Station Newport, departs the stage after a change of homeport ceremony at Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island, on August 19, 2022. Capt. McIver assumed his duties as the Commanding Officer of Naval Station Newport in August 2020.

221202-N-NT795-260 NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (Dec. 2, 2022) Cmdr. Juan A. Luna, executive officer of Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 11, presides over the retirement ceremony for Chief Yeoman Nichol J. Zirpoli, a native of Totowa, N.J., at American Legion Post 291 in Newport Beach, Calif., Dec. 2. Zirpoli retired after 20 years of naval service. MESF is a core Navy capability that provides port and harbor security, high value asset security, and maritime security in the coastal and inland waterways.

Cmdr. Todd Wimmer, the commanding officer of Base Astoria, salutes Rear Adm. Jon Hickey, the Director of Operational Logistics, during an establishment ceremony in Warrenton, Oregon, to formally establish Coast Guard Base Astoria Oct. 26, 2022. Base Astoria is located in Warrenton and will provide operational logistics support for Coast Guard units across the Thirteenth Coast Guard Districts Oregon and Southern Washington regions.

The Coast Guard First District holds a change-of-command ceremony Friday, May 13, 2022 at Faneuil Hall in Boston to bid farewell to Rear Adm. Thomas G. Allan Jr. and welcome Rear Adm. John W. Mauger as commander of the First District. Vice Adm. Steven D. Poulin, Coast Guard Atlantic Area Commander, presided over the ceremony. The change of command ceremony is a time-honored tradition that represents the transfer of one commanding officer to another as well as the transfer of absolute authority and responsibility for a military unit.

220911-N-AS200-5031 - POINT MUGU, Calif. (Sept. 11, 2022) - Lt. Cmdr. Bryan Davenport, chaplain, Airborne Command & Control and Logistics Wing (ACCLOGWING), conducts a benediction during a 9/11 ceremony onboard Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC), Point Mugu. 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-2D Hawkeyes, 3 warfare centers and 80 tenants.

OTARU, Japan (Feb. 6, 2024) Cmdr. Stephen Szachta, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115), conducts an interview with local news personnel in Otaru, Japan, during a regularly scheduled port visit. Rafael Peralta is forward-deployed and assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navys largest DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleets principal surface force. Navy

220429-N-UJ449-1262 NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Italy (April 29, 2022) Capt. Kevin Pickard, congratulates Capt. Aaron Shoemaker, Naval Air Station Sigonella commanding officer, after turning over command during their change of command ceremony on NAS Sigonella, April 29, 2022. NAS Sigonellas strategic location enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required, ensuring security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.

Capt. Christopher Bahner, left, commodore, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific (VAQWP), salutes Rear Adm. John F. Meier, commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic, during VAQWPs change of command ceremony at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Oak Harbor, Washington, August 11, 2022. VAQWP supports the manning, training and equipment of electronic attack squadrons in the Pacific theatre while providing electronic warfare tactical and technical development leadership and expertise.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (June 3, 2022) - Rear Adm. Rick Seif, commander, Submarine Group Seven, speaks during the Navy Data Center (NAVDATCEN) change of command ceremony aboard Fleet Activities Yokosuka, June 3, 2022. NAVDATCEN provides critical operational reports to Commander, Seventh Fleet Task Force commanders and warfighters in support of their mission to project power, provide a forward presence, and maintain mutual defense agreements of the United States and allied interests.

Capt. Gregory H. Magee, outgoing Sector San Juan commander, addresses the audience during the unit's change of command ceremony in San Juan, Puerto Rico June 16, 2022. During the ceremony, Capt. Jose E Diaz relieved Capt. Magee as the commander of Sector San Juan. Capt. Diaz will be responsible for leading Coast Guard forces in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and the oversight of a 1.3 million square nautical mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Caribbean. Coast Guard Photo by Ricardo Castrodad

220908-N-GR120-1323 ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Sept. 8, 2022) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday, right, shakes hands with Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) James Honea after delivering the oath of enlistment before the MCPON Change of Office ceremony held at Mahan Hall, United States Naval Academy, Sept. 8, 2022. Honea relieved MCPON Russell Smith to become the 16th MCPON.

221028-N-PS730-1027 NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (October 28, 2022) Capt. Blair Guy III gives a speech aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) during a change of command ceremony, October 28. Cmdr. Erik Reynolds relieved Cmdr. Timothy Battles of command.

Capt. Christopher Tepera delivers remarks at Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Pearl Harbor (NMRTC-PH) Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony on June 23, 2022 at the Hickam Officer's Club, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Capt. (Ret.) Christopher Tepera retired after 26 years of U.S. Naval service and relinquished command to Capt. Victor Diaz.

220628-N-TR286-0064 TARANTO, ITALY (June 28, 2022) Cmdr. Lawrence Heyworth IV delivers his remarks at the change of command ceremony aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98). USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet, to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

PANAMA CITY, FL (June 10, 2022) 220610-N-OT328-0071 Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center Change of Command ceremony. Commander Erich Frandrup was relieved by Commander Troy Lawson during a change of command ceremony.

President William Jefferson Clinton greets enlisted personnel of various services as he arrives for breakfast at the enlisted galley during a tour of area military installations. Base: Naval Station, Pearl Harbor State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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

120831-N-WL435-241 DUBLIN (Aug. 31, 2012) Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert praises "A true patriot and great American," Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Rick West, the 12th MCPON, aboard the amphibious dock-landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) during an all hands with the Sailors and Marines aboard Fort McHenry. CNO, MCPON and the Sailors and Marines aboard Fort McHenry are in Dublin to support the Emerald Isle Classic NCAA football game between Navy and Notre Dame.

A U.S. Navy officer discusses the storage of equipment in pre-positioning caves with a civilian worker. Country: Norway (NOR)

BOSTON (July 22, 2022) - Guest speaker, Director, Reserve Warfare, Office of the Chief of Naval Reserve, Capt. Luke Frost delivers remarks during the Navy Talent Acquisition Group New England change of command aboard the USS Constitution. Cmdr. Jeremy Watkins relinquished authority as commanding officer to Cmdr. Kaitlin McLeod during a formal ceremony.

000721-N-7495A-002. Base: Us Naval Academy, Annapolis State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220802-N-GO175-1011 SEATTLE (Aug. 2, 2022) Capt. Steve Foley, commanding officer of Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) meets with distinguished visitors aboard the ship during Seattle Seafair, Aug. 2, 2022. Fleet Week Seattle is a time-honored celebration of the sea services and provides an opportunity for the citizens of Washington to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as witness firsthand the latest capabilities of today's maritime services

KINGS BAY, Ga. (May 19, 2022) Cmdr. Steven Dykstra, incoming commanding officer of the Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Wyoming (SSBN 742) (Blue), speaks to distinguished guests, family and crew during a change of command ceremony held at the chapel onboard Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia. Dykstra relieves Cmdr. Ben Pollock. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ashley Berumen (Released)

DN-SC-85-09728. Base: Naval Air Station Whidbey Island State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

NEW YORK (May 30, 2022) Rear Adm. Scott F. Robertson, Commander, Carrier Strike Group Two, speaks at a Memorial Day commemoration at the Soliders and Sailors Monument during New York Fleet Week, May 30. Fleet Week New York, now in its 34th year, is the citys time-honored celebration of the sea services. It is an unparalleled opportunity for the citizens of New York and the surrounding tri-state area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, and witness firsthand the latest capabilities of todays maritime services. The weeklong celebration has been held nearly every year since 1984 and will host nearly 3,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen this year.

SASEBO, Japan (May 12, 2022) Capt. Severn B. Stevens, the new commanding officer of the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20), gives remarks during his change-of-command ceremony in the ships vehicle stowage area. Green Bay, part of Amphibious Squadron 11, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Calvert Worth Jr., 2d Marine Division commanding general, gives his remarks during a wreath-laying ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 9. 2022. This ceremony is a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and in remembrance of the events on Sept. 11, 2001.

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to the Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., to view Marine Corps Evening Parade, deliver remarks, and attend reception at the site, a National Historic Landmark

Vice Adm. Doug Perry, right shakes hands with NATOs Supreme Allied Commander Europe, Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli after assuming command of Joint Force Command Norfolk during a change of command ceremony aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Vice Adm. Daniel 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.

Force Master Chief (FORCM) Jason R. Dunn salutes Vice Adm. Yancy B. Lindsey, Commander, Navy Installations Command, after relieving FORCM Greg A. Vidaurri (not shown) during a change of office at the historic Washington Navy Yard, Washington, D.C. Vidaurri retires after serving in 14 duty stations within 32 years of naval service.

WASHINGTON (April 26, 2013) Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert congratulates the Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy Vice Adm. Paul Maddison after presenting him with the Legion of Merit award during a full honors ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard in recognition of his visit. Maddison was awarded the Legion of Merit during the ceremony for his dedication to superior maritime partnership and security cooperation efforts with the United States during his time as the commander of the Royal Canadian Navy.

221013-N-FN963-1106 NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan (Oct. 13, 2022) Capt. J.M. Montagnet, commanding officer, Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi, left, and Yeoman 1st Class Jamez Cox, from Tupelo, Miss., host the NAF Atsugi Navy Birthday Ball. NAF Atsugi supports the combat readiness of Commander, Fleet Air Western Pacific, Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE (CVW) 5, Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51 and 23 other tenant commands, and provides logistic support, coordination, and services to units assigned to the Western Pacific.

President William Jefferson Clinton receives officers' caps from the officers of various ships upon his arrival at NAS, Alameda. Clinton is visiting Alameda to discuss the issue of base closure. Base: Naval Air Station, Alameda State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 20, 2022) Executive Officer Charles Jones, from Bowie, Md., speaks as the master of ceremonies during a change of command aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

220412-N-RC359-1070 YOKOSUKA, Japan (April 12, 2022) Capt. Fred Goldhammer, commanding officer of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), right, gives a tour of the pilot house to U.S. senators and their guests. The official party toured the hangar bay, flight deck and bridge during their time aboard. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Heath Jones delivers remarks during his Change of Watch ceremony in Cape May, New Jersey, May 19, 2022. During the ceremony, Jones relieved the 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Jason Vanderhaden.

220606-N-AS200-2002 POINT MUGU, Calif. (Jun. 6, 2022) - Capt. Jason Parish, commanding officer, Naval Satellite Operations Center (NAVSOC) delivers remarks during the Naval Satellite Operations Center (NAVSOC) disestablishment 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.

DN-SC-85-12163. Base: Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth State: New Hampshire (NH) Country: United States Of America (USA)

221129-N-MW880-1104 NAPLES, Italy (Nov. 29, 2022) Capt. Dave Pollard, commanding officer of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), welcomes Sgt. Maj. Andree Tschense, command senior enlisted leader, Joint Force Command Naples, aboard the ship during a reception for local military and civilian leaders honoring the U.S.-Italian relationship, while anchored in the Bay of Naples, Nov. 29, 2022.The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

061030-N-4965F-002. Base: Pearl Harbor State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Master Chief Petty Officer Heath Jones relieves Master Chief Petty Officer Jason Vanderhaden as Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard (MPCOCG) during a change of watch ceremony at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, N.J., May 19, 2022. The MCPOCG serves as the senior enlisted advisor to the commandant of the Coast Guard for all matters involving the enlisted workforce.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (June 9, 2022) Deputy Commander of US Transportation Command Vice Adm. Dee Mewbourne presents the Gray Owl to U.S. Naval Academy Superintendent Vice Adm. Sean Buck. The Gray Owl is presented to the senior naval flight officer (NFO) on continuous active duty in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps that has held that designation for the longest period of time.

SASEBO, Japan (March 6, 2013) Lt. Cmdr. Mark A. Rice, commanding officer of the mine countermeasures ship USS Guardian (MCM 5) lays the ship's ensign in a time capsule along with the ship's decommissioning pennant, messages and mementos during the ship's decommissioning ceremony at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo. Originally commissioned in 1989, Guardian has been forward deployed to Sasebo since 1996 conducting bilateral and multilateral mine exercises and theater security cooperation missions throughout the 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

U.S. Navy Cmdr. Nicholas Schaal, the safety environmental officer in charge with 3rd Marine Logistics Group, gets pinned by his family during his promotion ceremony at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Sep. 1, 2022. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

Chief Operations Specialist Kelly Clancy, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61), leads the crew as master of ceremonies through a Chief Petty Officers pinning ceremony as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, Oct. 21, 2022. The first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is on its inaugural deployment 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.

NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (Aug. 10, 2022) Rear Adm. Dennis Velez, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10 and George H.W. Bush CSG, delivers remarks during a press conference as the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) prepares to depart Naval Station Norfolk for a scheduled deployment, Aug. 10, 2022. George H.W. Bush provides the national command authority flexible, tailorable warfighting capability as the flagship of a carrier strike group that maintains maritime stability and security to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Adm. Karl Schultz, the 26th Commandant of the Coast Guard, attends the 34th Annual Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., May 13, 2022. During the event, the names engraved on the walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial are read aloud to memorialize those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Rear Adm. Michael Day, commander, Coast Guard 14th District, speaks during a change of command ceremony for the Coast Guard 14th District at Coast Guard Base Honolulu, June 10, 2022. During the ceremony Day relieved Rear Adm. Matthew Sibley as the district commander as he departs to become the deputy commander of Coast Guard Pacific Area.

NORFOLk (April 6, 2013) Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James Amos addresses Sailors and Marines assigned to the newly commissioned amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24) during Arlington's commissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk. Arlington is the third Navy vessel to bear the name and commemorates the lives lost and the heroism demonstrated in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Sept. 8, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) James Honea delivers remarks during the MCPON Change of Office ceremony held at Mahan Hall, United States Naval Academy, Sept. 8, 2022. MCPON James Honea relieved MCPON Russell Smith to become the 16th MCPON.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Sept. 18, 2015) Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. John Richardson delivers his first remarks as the 31st CNO during a change of command ceremony held at the U.S. Naval Academy.

NEWPORT, R.I. (Aug. 26, 2022) An Officer Development School (ODS) class 22070 distinguished graduate at Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN), stands for a group photo with Capt. Everett Alcorn, commanding officer, OTCN, left, and Rear Adm. Cynthia Kuehner, commander, Naval Medical Forces Support Command, right, following the class graduation ceremony, Aug. 26. ODS provides staff corps officers al restricted line designators with training necessary to prepare them to function in their role as newly commissioned Naval officers.

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.

San Diego (May 27, 2022) The official party salutes the ensign during the national anthem at the Commander, Submarine Squadron (COMSUBRON) 11 change of command ceremony at Naval Base Point Loma (NBPL) aboard the Los Angeles-class submarine USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) on May 27. Capt. Ken Douglas relieved Capt. Patrick Friedman as commodore.

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

220406-N-UD000-1119 NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (April 6, 2022) Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10 Command Master Chief Claude Henderson shakes Rear Adm. Rick Cheesemans hand during a change of command ceremony aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) April 6, 2022. During the ceremony, Rear Adm. Dennis Velez relieved Rear Adm. Rick Cheeseman, as Commander, CSG-10. CSG-10 is an integrated combat weapons system that delivers superior combat capability to deter, and if necessary, defeat Americas adversaries in support of national security. It achieves its mission by projecting the combined power of George H.W. Bush, Carrier Air Wing 7, Destroyer Squadron 26, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55).

NORFOLK, Va. (Oct. 9, 2022) - Cmdr. Christopher Petro, right, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78), speaks to Royal Canadian Navy Rear Adm. David Patchell, vice commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, welcoming him aboard Porter in Naval Station Norfolk, Oct. 9. Porter returned to Naval Station Norfolk after completing seven years of service and 11 patrols at Naval Station Rota, Spain as a Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe (FDNF-E) destroyer.

221013-N-VI040-1035 NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan (Oct. 13, 2022) Capt. Manning Montagnet, commanding officer, Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi, delivers remarks during the installations Navy Ball held in celebration of the Navys 247th birthday Oct. 13, 2022. NAF Atsugi supports the combat readiness of Commander, Fleet Air Western Pacific, Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE (CVW) 5, Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51 and 23 other tenant commands, and provides logistic support, coordination, and services to units assigned to the Western Pacific.

240112-N-PV534-1110 SAN DIEGO (Jan. 12, 2023) Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) Brenda Flores delivers remarks during a retirement ceremony in honor of Senior Chief Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) Marquis Clark on the flight deck aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is currently moored pierside at Naval Air Station North Island.

Vice President Kamala Harris delivered the keynote address at the Coast Guard Academy during the 141st Commencement Exercises May 18, 2022. The Coast Guard Academy graduated 252 new officers along with nine international students.

230324-N-LN782-1992 (Mar. 24, 2023) U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command's Pass in Review in Great Lakes, Illinois, Mar. 24, 2023. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy's only boot camp

CAPT Michael P. Kalleres, commander, Destroyer Squadron Eight, salutes during the commissioning ceremony for the guided missile frigate USS AUBREY FITCH (FFG-34). Base: Bath State: Maine (ME) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Vice Admiral Yancy Lindsey, commander, Navy Installations Command, congratulates Sailors after their capping ceremony on the pier of USS Trayer (BST 21) at Recruit Training Command. Trayer, more commonly referred to as "Battle Stations," is the crucible event that recruits must pass prior to graduation, testing their knowledge and skills in basic seamanship, damage control, firefighting, watch standing and emergency response procedures. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy's only boot camp.

221012-N-KB401-1173 WASHINGTON (Oct. 12, 2022) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday gives remarks at a cake cutting ceremony for the Navy's 247th birthday celebration at the Pentagon, Oct. 12. The theme for this years birthday celebration is "On Watch - 24/7 for 247 Years."

Vice Adm. Steven Poulin, Atlantic Area commander, presents the departing award to Rear Adm. Laura Dickey, outgoing 5th District commander, at the 5th District's change-of-command ceremony in Portsmouth, Virginia, May 11, 2022. The change of command is a time-honored tradition that promotes continuity and authority of command within the Coast Guard. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Emily Velez.

NORFOLK (July 15, 2021) Vice Adm. Andrew Lewis, commander of Joint Force Command Norfolk delivers remarks at the Joint Force Command Norfolk Full Operational Capability ceremony. Joint Force Command Norfolk declared Full Operational Capability during a ceremony on board the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) July 15, 2021. JFC Norfolk stands as the operational embodiment of the transatlantic link. It will continue to maintain security of the strategic lines of communication between Europe and North America and enable the reinforcement of Europe from North America.

230901-N-KC192-1030 PORTSMOUTH, Va. (Sept. 1, 2023) Cmdr. William Eickmeyer, the regional environmental health program manager assigned to Naval Medical Forces Atlantic, puts his combination cover on during a promotion ceremony on board Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads - Portsmouth Annex, Sept. 1, 2023. Eickmeyer has served in the U.S. military for 30 years spanning across the Air National Guard and the Navy.

Capt. David Adams, Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS), speaks during a commissioning ceremony for Ens. Ezra Payton, assigned to CFAS security department, at CFAS Aug. 31, 2022. 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.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (June 28, 2022) - USS Blue Ridge commanding officer Capt. Dale Gregory Jr. addresses and congratulates newly frocked Sailors during a ceremony aboard U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) June 28, 2022. Blue Ridge is the oldest operational ship in the Navy and, as 7th Fleet command ship, actively works to foster relationships with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

230404-N-ED185-1091KEYPORT, Wash (April 4, 2023) U.S. Navy Cmdr. Rowdy A. Garcia, commanding officer of the blue crew of the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Maine (SSBN 741) speaks during a change of command ceremony for submarine. Garcia relieved U.S. Navy Cmdr. Darren Gerhardt as commanding officer of Maine.

U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Jason Woodworth, the commanding general for Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, addresses the crowd during the 80th annual Evening Colors Ceremony at the Santa Margarita Ranch House on Camp Pendleton, California, Sept. 15, 2022. The ceremony was held to commemorate the official dedication of Camp Pendleton, which took place in September 1942. The base was named after Maj. Gen. Joseph H. Pendleton, who had long advocated for a West Coast training base to be established. Woodworth is a native of Suffield, Connecticut.

061114-N-0696M-060. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DN-ST-85-10176. Base: Naval Submarine Base, New London State: Connecticut (CT) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DN-ST-89-08394. Base: Valdez State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

061212-N-7948R-001. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Visit to the Atlantic Fleet: President Kennedy greets SEALs, boards USS Northampton (CC-1), 5:20PM. President John F. Kennedy greets an unidentified United States Navy rear admiral upon boarding the cruiser USS Northampton (CC-1), command ship of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet, dockside at Naval Air Station, Norfolk, Virginia. Naval Aide to the President Captain Tazewell Shepard, Jr. (back center) stands behind President Kennedy. The President boarded the ship for an overnight cruise to view fleet exercises.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Dec. 1, 2022) Cmdr. Kenji Igawa, incoming commanding officer of Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Howard (DDG 83), receives his commanding officers pin from Capt. Walter Mainor, commander, Task Force 71, during a change of command ceremony aboard the ship, forward-deployed to Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Dec. 1. Howard is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navys largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th fleets principal surface force.

Admiral Frank B. Kelso II salutes during the change of command ceremony at which he assumes the position of CHIEF of Naval Operations from Admiral Carlisle A.H. Trost. The ceremony is taking place at the United States Naval Academy. Base: Annapolis State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast (WMEC 623) holds a change of command ceremony in Astoria, Ore., July 22, 2022. Cmdr. Brock S. Eckel relieved Cmdr. Craig Allen Jr. as the Steadfasts commanding officer during a ceremony presided over by Rear Adm. Matthew Sibley, Deputy Commander of Coast Guard Pacific Area.

230628-N-CJ603-2065NASSAU, The Bahamas (June 28, 2023) Capt. Nakia Cooper, commanding officer of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), answers questions at a media availability on the flight deck, June 28, 2023. Wasp is in Nassau, The Bahamas for a scheduled port visit to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Bahamian independence and an opportunity to strengthen the 50-year bilateral partnership with the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, an important relationship with a key regional partner.

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to the Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., to view Marine Corps Evening Parade, deliver remarks, and attend reception at the site, a National Historic Landmark

A candid informal portrait of the CHIEF of Naval Operations, Admiral Jeremy M. Boorda, in his Pentagon office. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220912-N-WX095-1061 NORFOLK, Va. (Sep. 12, 2022) Capt. Gavin Duff, commanding officer, Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), speaks to media on the pier after the Truman returns to Naval Station Norfolk after a regularly scheduled deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operations in support of theater security cooperation efforts and to defend U.S., allied and partner interests, Sep. 12, 2022. Truman was deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group.

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