Military Change of Command Ceremonies

Formal military ceremonies illustrating the transition of command, featuring personnel in uniforms passing guidons in various settings.

Col. Nathan Mitchell, the 28th Maintenance Group commander accepts the 28th Munitions Squadron guidon as Lt. Col. Joshua Allen, 28th Munitions Squadron outgoing commander relinquishes command during a change of command ceremony at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., June 29, 2022. The change of command ceremony is an honored tradition celebrated time after time when a new commander is chosen to command a squadron or wing.

Lt. Col. Benjamin Daw, 374th Logistics Readiness Squadron outgoing commander, passes the guidon to Col. Ryan Vetter, 374th Mission Support Squadron commander, during the 374th LRS Change of Command Ceremony at Yokota Air Base, Japan, June 27, 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.

Col. Randy Whitecotton, right, outgoing 2nd Mission Support Group commander, relinquishes the guidon to Col. Scott Weyenmuller, left, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, during a change of command ceremony at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, June 10, 2022. The passing of a squadrons guidon symbolizes a transfer of command.

Col. Janet Blanchard, right, incoming 2nd Medical Group commander, relinquishes the guidon to Col. Scott Weyenmuller, left, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, during a change of command ceremony at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, June 16, 2022. The passing of a squadrons guidon symbolizes a transfer of command.

The 142nd Operations Support Squadron held a change of command ceremony at Portland Air National Guard Base, Oregon, June 11, 2022. Lt. Col. Daniel McAllister relinquished command and Lt. Col. Bradley Young, previously serving as 123rd Fighter Squadron director of operations, assumed command from the presiding officer for the event, 142nd Operations Group Commander, Col Aaron Mathena.

Lt. Wesley Stakely of the 168th Comptroller Flight, right, presents the One Tuff FM'er Award to Maj. David Simpson, center, and Capt. Michael Nash of the 168th Civil Engineering Squadron. The One Tuff FM'er Award was established to recognize individuals in finance for their outstanding achievements in the Comptroller Flight. Finance extended the award to include members in the wing who have significantly impacted the Comptroller Flight, improving and supporting the finance office. (U.S. Air National Guard photos by Senior Master Sgt. Julie Avey)

Welcome Mercury 7! On January 9, 2023, the Mercury Brigade welcomed the new BDE CSM, Command Sgt. Major Nicholas M. Curry. It is an honor to have him and his family join this Brigade and be a leader to the Soldiers here. His influence and guidance have already been felt throughout the ranks, and we wish CSM Curry continued success in his time here.

220609-N-FP334-1039 NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Italy (July 09, 2022) U.S. Army Soldiers from the 19th Space Company, 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, pass a guidon during a Change of Command ceremony. The Change of Command ceremony transferred command of 19th Space Company, 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, from U.S Army Capt. Chris Cooper to U.S. Army Capt. Ryan Loughran.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. William Betts, the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing commander renders a first salute to Maj. Curtis Floyd, the incoming 378th Expeditionary Communications Squadron commander Aug. 8, 2022, during the 378th CES assumption of command ceremony, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The 378th ECS is responsible for building, operating and maintaining communications systems for the 378th AEW.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Clinton K. Murray (right), Regional Health Command Europe commander, passes the unit colors to Col. Scott J. Rankin (left), Dental Health Command Europe incoming commander during assumption of command ceremony in Sembach, Germany, Sep. 22, 2022. DHCE oversees command and control functions of three Dental Health Activities located throughout Europe.

Col. Nathan Mitchell, the 28th Maintenance Group commander accepts the 28th Munitions Squadron guidon as Lt. Col. Joshua Allen, 28th Munitions Squadron outgoing commander relinquishes command during a change of command ceremony at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., June 29, 2022. The change of command ceremony is an honored tradition celebrated time after time when a new commander is chosen to command a squadron or wing.

The 142nd Operations Support Squadron held a change of command ceremony at Portland Air National Guard Base, Oregon, June 11, 2022. Lt. Col. Daniel McAllister relinquished command and Lt. Col. Bradley Young, previously serving as 123rd Fighter Squadron director of operations, assumed command from the presiding officer for the event, 142nd Operations Group Commander, Col Aaron Mathena.

Welcome Mercury 7! On January 9, 2023, the Mercury Brigade welcomed the new BDE CSM, Command Sgt. Major Nicholas M. Curry. It is an honor to have him and his family join this Brigade and be a leader to the Soldiers here. His influence and guidance have already been felt throughout the ranks, and we wish CSM Curry continued success in his time here.

U.S. Air Force Col. William Hunter, 81st Training Wing commander, provides patches to Keesler's first Dragon University Airmen as Chief Master Sgt. Sarah Esparza, 81st Training Wing command chief, shakes their hands inside the Bay Breeze Event Center at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, April 6, 2022. Dragon University is the 81st Training Wing's Professional Development Incentive Program. The program is led by the Keesler Air Force Base career assistance advisor, and is supported by the Total Force Development Council, Chief's Group, Company Grade Officer Council, Top III and the 5/6. After completing the program, each Airman will receive a patch for military members and a pin for civilians.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Matthew Lowe, right, assumes command of the 325th Security Forces Squadron from Col. Elizabeth Harwood, 325th Mission Support Group commander, left, during a change of command ceremony at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, June 8, 2022. The 325th Security Force Squadron is responsible for base and asset protection across the installation.

Brig. Gen. Frederick L. Crist, commanding general, 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, accepts the command colors from Lt. Gen. Willard M. Burleson III, commanding general, Eighth Army, during a change of command ceremony on Camp Walker, Republic of Korea. Brig. Gen. Steven L. Allen relinquished command during the ceremony, which also featured Eighth Army's Combined Forces Band.

The 109th Air Control Squadron commander Lt Col Chris Bilderback relinquished command to Maj Joshua J. McCarty during the Change of Command ceremony at Roland Wright Air Base on 11 June 22.

Maj. Todd Yehle, right, accepts command of the 741st Maintenance Squadron from Col. Kenneth Benton, during an assumption of command ceremony Sept. 6, 2020, at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont. Guidon bearer Senior Master Sgt. Michael Marshal, 741st Maintenance Squadron Senior Enlisted Leader, looks on. The 741st Maintenance Squadron supports all maintenance activities affecting the bases Minuteman III launch facilities and missile alert facilities. The squadron plans and monitors production efforts of more than 300 maintenance technicians and conducts all ancillary and technical training, ensuring job proficiency and mission readiness.

U.S. Army Col. Jason T. Arriaga (right) 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, commander, passes the Demon Saber to the incoming 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Command CWO, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Anthony A. Nwafor (left), delegating authority and entrusting him with the responsibility and care of the unit on May 17, 2022 at Fort Riley, Kansas.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Geoffrey Norman, deputy commanding general for support of the 1st Infantry Division gives a speech with the youngest and oldest service member present during the celebration of the 105th birthday of the 1st Infantry Division at Poznan, Poland, June 8, 2022. Today, the oldest division in the U.S. Army celebrated its 105th birthday while supporting operations in the European theater.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. John Klein, U.S. Expeditionary Center commander, coins members assigned to the 621st Contingency Response Wing after a presentation Aug. 24, 2022, at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. Devil Raiders had the opportunity to showcase their mission to the newest commander of the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center, Maj. Gen. John Klein, along with Chief Master Sgt. Freeman and their spouses.

Maj. Gen. Kimberly Colloton, Commanding General of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division, passes the unit colors to Lt. Col. Richard T. Childers, the incoming Expeditionary District Commander, during an Assumption of Command ceremony, July 21, 2022, at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. (Photo by Ahmed Magdy, ASG-Kuwait Training Support Center)

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Rene Martinez, commander of the 36th Special Troops Battalion and Command Sgt. Maj. Charles Bouyer, senior enlisted advisor to Martinez, case their battalions flag during a transfer of authority ceremony, Nov. 3, 2022, at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The transfer of authority ceremony signifies the end of the responsibilities of Task Force Phoenix followed by the assumption of responsibility by Task Force Hellfighter.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Timothy Kirchner, center, 422nd Air Base Squadron outgoing commander, relinquishes command to Col. Jon Hannah, left, 422nd Air Base Group commander, during a 422nd ABS change of command ceremony at Royal Air Force Croughton, England, June 6, 2022. The ceremony is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of a units authority and responsibility from one commander to another.

Command Sgt. Maj. Salvador Garcia Garcia, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, congratulates newly promoted 1st Sgt. Curtis N. Thornton as Lt. Col. Corbett W. Baxter battalion commander of U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa HHBn looks on during a promotion ceremony on Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy September 9, 2022. 1st Sgt. Thornton was promoted in a ceremony shortly before taking responsibility as the SETAF-AF Intelligence & Sustainment Company First Sergeant, in a separate ceremony.

U.S. Army Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, U.S. Central Command commander, passes the ceremonial guidon to U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, incoming commander of Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central) during a change of command ceremony at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, July 21, 2022. Grynkewich will serve as the commander of AFCENT and the combined forces air component, working closely with coalition, joint, and interagency partners to lead a combined force that delivers decisive airpower and promotes security throughout U.S. CENTCOMs 21-nation area of responsibility.

U.S. Air Force Col. Steven Collen, 325th Maintenance Group commander, left, passes the guidon to command to Maj. William Hardy, 325th Maintenance Squadron commander, during a change of command ceremony at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, May 20, 2022. The 325th MXS conducts intermediate-level maintenance to support pilot training for the 325ths F-22 Raptor squadron.

Master Sgt. Anthony S. Alvarez accepted the Blanchfield Army Community Hospital Medical Troop Battalion colors from the BACH Medical troop commander Lt. Col. Les Patterson, during a troop battalion Relinquishment of Responsibility ceremony in the hospital atrium, May 20, 2022 , at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Alvarez assumed BACH Troop Sergeant Major responsibilities from Sgt. Maj. Brian Hawkins. Prior to the Relinquishment of Responsibility, they conducted an awards ceremony and induction into The Order of Military Medical Merit.

Master Sgt. John Perez is promoted to senior master sergeant at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Ala., May 14, 2022. Perez is currently assigned in the 117 Air Refueling Wing command post.

U.S. Air Force Col. Erik Dunn, 673d Mission Support Group commander receives the 673d Force Support Squadron guidon from Lt. Col. Jennifer Mack during the 673d FSS change-of-command ceremony at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 18, 2022.

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Daniel Jacques (center), receives a standing ovation during his retirement ceremony at the Army Aviation Support Facility, May 15, in Concord, NH. Jacques retired after 40-years of service to the New Hampshire Army National Guard. Throughout his tenure he served as a U.S. Army Aviator, deploying seven times in support of various operations as a pilot. (Photo by U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Courtney Rorick, 114th Public Affairs Detachment)

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Joshua M. Olson, 86th Airlift Wing commander, left, hands over command of the 86th Civil Engineer Group to Col. Steven Thomas, 86 CEG incoming commander, during a change of command ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 30, 2022. The 86 CEG assists worldwide contingency missions by providing, maintaining, and protecting properties assigned to the 86 AW, the Kaiserslautern Military Community and geographically separated units.

Col. Jeffery B. Hambrice assumed command of Fort Campbell Dental Activity from Lt. Col. Michael Hoffman, during a ceremony on Fort Campbell, Kentucky, on August 18.

Blanchfield Army Community Hospital conducted a change of Responsibility ceremony where Command Sgt. Maj. Marlon E. Faulds relinquished responsibility of his position to Master Sgt. Johnny D. Thompson, December 9, 2022, at Wilson Theater on Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

1st Cyber Battalion Command Sgt. Maj. John Cabral returns the Legendary Defender guidon back to its stand, while Lt. Col. Danielle Gonzalez, 1st Cyber Battalion incoming commander, and Lt. Col. Adam Dykstra, 1st Cyber Battalion outgoing commander, look on, during a change of command ceremony held June 15 in Signal Theater at Fort Gordon, Georgia. (Photo by Shatara Riis)

Chief Master Sgt. Scott Woods, 111th Attack Wing command chief master sergeant, accepts authority as command chief master sergeant from 111th ATKW Commander Col. Deane Thomey during a ceremony at Biddle Air National Guard Base in Horsham, Pennsylvania, Oct. 15, 2022. Woods previously served as the Senior Enlisted Leader of the 111th Operations Support Squadron at Biddle ANG Base.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Crystal Glaster, 47th Force Support Squadron commander, renders a first salute to the 47th FSS unit at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, on July 20, 2022. Significant symbolism is attached to the ceremonial aspects of a change of command, such as the rendering of a salute to the unit.

Maj. Macharia Davis assumes command of the District of Columbia National Guard Joint Force Headquarters - Higher Headquarters Detachment, during a Change of Command Ceremony at the D.C. Armory, Feb. 4, 2023. The ceremony symbolized the transfer of command between outgoing commander Maj. LeJuan Strickland and incoming commander Maj. Davis. Brig. Gen. Leland Blanchard, commander, D.C. National Guard Land Component Command (LCC) presided over the ceremony. Air National Guard

Command Sgt. Major John Kanaly, center, incoming Command Sgt. Major, 120th Infantry Brigade talks with Command Sgt. Major Dina Pang, right, outgoing Command Sgt. Major, 120th Infantry Brigade, and Col. Paul Bonano, Commander, 120th Infantry Brigade, during the 85th U.S. Army Reserve Support Commands Brigade Command Team Training at Arlington Heights, Illinois, October 15, 2022. The 85th USARSC conducted their annual BCTT, 15-16 October 2022, to prepare incoming First Army brigade commanders as they assume command of their active component and reserve component battalions. Command teams were trained on how to effectively integrate their active and reserve battalions within their brigade formations.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Shawn Hempsey, 355th Comptroller Squadron commander accepts command from Lt. Col. Weldon Hobbs, 355th CPTS outgoing commander at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, June 17, 2022. Hobbs relinquished command to Hempsey during a change of command ceremony.

Brig. Gen. Thomas Vickers gives Mast. Sgt. Adam Paulsen his graduation certificate. Paulsen, along with fifteen others, graduated from the Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Foundation Course on May 27, 2022 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. He and the others will work to combat sexual harassment and assault in their units and the Army.

1st Sgt. Tyler Heleine wipes away a tear during his Sept. 10 retirement ceremony on Camp Lincoln, Springfield. Heleine, the Sheriff of Coles County, Illinois, retired after more than 21 years of service in the Illinois Army National Guard including a 2004-2005 tour in Iraq with the 1544th Transportation Co.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Jamie McDavid ceremoniously accepts the 167th Logistics Readiness Squadron guidon from Col. Bill Annie, 167th Mission Support Group commander, to mark her assumption of command of 167th LRS, during a ceremony at the 167th Airlift Wing, Shepherd Field, Martinsburg, West Virginia, Aug. 6, 2022. McDavid previously served as the wing executive staff officer and director of personnel.

U.S. Army Col. Angel Estrada, commander of the 16th Sustainment Brigade, 21st Theater Sustainment Command speaks with a Soldier at Zagan, Poland, April 1, 2022. The 49th Movement Control Battalion finished up a nine-month rotation to Poland in support of Atlantic Resolve, transferring authority to the 330th Movement Control Battalion. Through bilateral, joint and multinational training, Atlantic Resolve builds readiness, increases interoperability and enhances the bond between ally and partner militaries.

Col. Shahram Takmili receives the organizational colors from Command Sgt. Maj. Samuel Turville during the 300th Military Intelligence Brigade change-of-command ceremony on Aug. 6, 2022, at Camp Williams, Utah. During the ceremony, Col. Shahram Takmili relinquished command to Col. Cody Strong.

U.S. Army Col. Wilbur Hsu, foreground right, Commander of 41st Field Artillery Brigade (41st FAB), passes the unit colors to Command Sgt. Maj. Caleb Webster, Senior Enlisted Advisor of 41st FAB, during an assumption of responsibility ceremony at Tower Barracks, Grafenwoehr, Germany, Jan. 24, 2024. The 41st FAB is the only European based Fires brigade. The "Rail Gunners!" Brigade provides strategic, operational, and tactical-level fires and support throughout the U.S. European Command.

Col. Bryan M. Harris,commander, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division passes the brigade colors to Lt. Col. Rolland H. Johnson, incoming commander, 82nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2ABCT, 1ID during a change of command ceremony, Jan. 23, 2023, Zagan, Poland. The 2/1 is among other units assigned to the 1 ID, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

U.S. Space Force Brig. Gen. Dennis Bythewood, left, deputy commander of the Joint Task Force-Space Defense, bestows a Defense Meritorious Service Medal on U.S. Space Force Maj. Nathan Glandon, incoming commander of the 18th Space Defense Squadron Detachment 1, during an award presentation at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, July 14, 2022. Glandon was awarded the DMSM for his outstanding service as mission director for the National Space Defense Center, June 1, 2020, to June 30, 2022. Glandon led the NSDCs response to the November 2021 Russian anti-satellite destructive test that caused over 1,500 pieces of space debris. During this event, Glandon provided indications and warning to national leaders, the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and allies that protected 10 human spaceflight lives and on-orbit high value assets worth $129 billion.

Capt. Keith J. Kenny assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 588th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division assumes command during a Change of Command Ceremony on January 19th, 2024 at Fort Carson, Colorado

U.S. Air Force Maj. James Dunn, right, incoming commander of the 386th Expeditionary Contracting Squadron, assumes command of the 386th ECONS and receives the guidon from Col. John Gustafason, commander of the 386th Expeditionary Mission Support Group, during a change of command ceremony at the base theater at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, June 17, 2022. In the contracting career field, Dunn has been assigned to services, commodities, construction, special programs and Major Weapon Systems contracting offices, with assignments at the Space and Missile Systems Center, the Acquisition Management and Integration Center and the Air Force Installation Contracting Center, Air Combat Command Operating Location.

CAMP JOSEPH T. ROBINSON, NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Brig. Gen. Leland Tony Shepherd hands the Arkansas Army National Guard flag to Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Winkle for safekeeping after accepting command. Shepherd was promoted to brigadier general and assumed command of the Arkansas Army National Guard in back-to-back ceremonies here June 12, 2022.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Eric R. Miyasato Jr., left, outgoing commander of the 29th Brigade Support Battalion (BSB), 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Hawaii Army National Guard, receives the unit colors from Command Sgt. Maj. Jason I. Kaaiakamanu, right, during the 29th BSB change of command ceremony in Kapolei, Hawaii, Jan. 6, 2024. The change of command ceremony is a time-honored tradition within the Army which commemorates the relinquishment of command by passing the unit colors from the outgoing commanding officer to the incoming commanding officer.

U.S. Army Europe & Africa (USAREUR-AF) Command Sgt. Maj. Jeremiah Inman, passes the colors to the outgoing USAREUR-AF commander Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli during the USAREUR-AF Change of Command ceremony on Clay Kaserne, Wiesbaden, Germany, June 28, 2022.

Lt. Gen. Mary K. Izaguirre was sworn in as the 46th Surgeon General of the U.S. Army during a change of command ceremony hosted by Gen. Randy George, Army Chief of Staff, at Joint Base San Antonio - Fort Sam Houston, Jan. 25.

Maj. Megan McDonough, incoming 317th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander, receives the guidon from Col. Jeffery Darden, 317th Maintenance Group commander, during the 317th AMXS change of command on Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, June 3, 2022. McDonough comes from Joint Base San Antonio, Texas, making the 317th AMXS her 13th assignment in her Air Force career.

11 Soldiers of the 35th Infantry Division Artillery were promoted to the ranks of Sergeant and Staff Sergeant during a ceremony at the Division Headquarters in Leavenworth, Kansas, January 7, 2024. The Soldiers were promoted by Capt. Hans Stephensen and Acting 1st Sgt. Andrew Eicholtz.

U.S. Air Force Col. Richard J. Zavadil, right, takes command of the 378th Expeditionary Medical Squadron, from Brig. Gen. William Betts, commander of the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, during a change of command ceremony at Prince Sultan Air Base, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, June 9, 2022. Col. Jeffrey L. Wisneski relinquished command of the 378th EMDS to Zavadil. The tradition of change of command ceremonies is so that the unit can witness their new leader assume the responsibility and trust associated with the position of commander.

Warrant Officer Katherine Strobel, takes command of the 202nd Army Band and addresses her new Soldiers during a change of command ceremony at Wellman Armory on Boone National Guard Center, Frankfort, Ky., September 24, 2022.

Leadership from the 142nd Operations Group (OG) and the Operations Support Squadron conduct a redesignation ceremony, changing the Operations Support Flight to the Operations Support Squadron (OSS), Sept. 9, 2022, Portland Air National Guard Base, Oregon. During the Ceremony the guideons were switched out to visually represent the change from Flight to Squadron. 142nd OG commander, Col. Aaron Mathena, plans to continue growing the OSS to be the most it can be. Currently the squadron is comprised of 40 members but the intention is to expand it to 50 in the near future. The function of the OSS is to provide training and development, planning, scheduling and to manage life support activities in support of flying operations.

Lt. Col. Sarah Summers, left, 709th Technical Maintenance Squadron commander, presents Maj. Brent Johnson, Air Force Technical Applications Center Detachment (AFTAC, Det) 403 incoming commander, the AFTAC, Det 403 guidon at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, June 16, 2022. The passing of the guidon from an outgoing commander to an incoming commander ensures the unit and its Airmen are never without leadership. It also signifies an allegiance from the units members to their corresponding commander.

U.S. Army Spc. Sherayne Graham, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, XVIII Airborne Corps HHBN, speaks with her first line supervisor U.S. Army Sgt. Rodney McFarland. Sgt McFarland has been a key mentor and leader for Spc. Graham, as she pursues her degree in psychology, as well as submitting a Green to Gold packet.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael Loh, left, director, Air National Guard, speaks to Master Sgt. William Kersey, 116th Communications Squadron, 116th Air Control Wing (ACW), Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Aug. 2, 2022. Loh recognized Kersey for superior performance during a visit to the 116th ACW.

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass presents her coin to Airmen with the 156th Wing, recognized as outstanding performers, during an all-call at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Puerto Rico, May 14, 2022. CMSAF Bass spent time with the Puerto Rico Air National Guard and emphasized the importance of total force integration and overcoming challenges to more effectively accomplish the Air Force mission and be ready for the ever-evolving battlefield that future conflicts may hold.

U.S. Army Reserve Command Sgt. Maj. Edward Bailey, left, MIRC command sergeant major, and Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Brian Bertazon, right, listen to a speech during a change of responsibility ceremony held at Fort Belvoir, Va., Jan. 21, 2024. Command Sgt. Maj. Edward Bailey assumed responsibility as Military Intelligence Readiness Command command sergeant major from outgoing command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Brian Bertazon.

U.S. Army Soldier 1st. Sgt. John Grimes, assigned to Bravo Company, 186th BSB, 86th IBCT (MTN), Vermont National Guard, recieves the NCO Sword for the 1st. Sgt. change of responsibility ceremony at B. Maintenance, Camp Johnson, Colchester, Vt., January 6, 2024. Outgoing 1st. Sgt. John Grimes hands responsibility to incoming 1st. Sgt. Nicole Baker.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ralph G. Foshee Jr.,right, assumes command of the 968th Expeditionary Airborne Air Control Squadron, from Brig. Gen. Robert Davis, commander of the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, during a change of command ceremony at Prince Sultan Air Base, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, May 8, 2022. Lt. Col. Steven A. Bailey relinquished command of the 968th EAACS during the ceremony. The tradition of change of command ceremonies are so that the unit can witness their new leader assume the responsibility and trust associated with the position of commander.

The 378th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron holds a change of command ceremony at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, June 15, 2022. During the ceremony Maj. Alexander Yee relinquished command to Maj. Cynthia Lete. The primary purpose of a change of command is for subordinates to witness an officer formally assume responsibility, authority and accountability for the unit. These ceremonies preserve the tradition of military service and stimulate unit esprit de corps.

Maj. Gen. David Francis, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker commander, presents a challenge coin to Cpt. Lindsey Nickell, 1st Battalion, 13th Aviation Regiment, at the 1st Aviation Brigade Headquarters July 18, 2022, Fort Rucker Alabama.

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Frederick L. Hall, State Aviation Safety Officer for the District of Columbia Army National Guard, celebrates over 28 years of service with a retirement ceremony at the 260th Regional Training Institute, Fort Belvoir, Va., Jan. 5, 2024. Gordon joined the D.C. National Guard in 2008, after first enlisting in 1995 and serving as a Black Hawk crew chief. CW5 Hall also provided 13 years of active duty service.

Maj. Gen. Dennis LeMaster, commanding general U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence, presents Pfc. Samuel Olson, Foxtrot Company, 232nd Medical Battalion, with a commanders coin upon his acceptance to attend the U. S. Military Academy at West Point, during a coin ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio - Fort Sam Houston, Texas, March 30, 2022. Olson is an Advanced Individual Training student training to become a 68W Combat Medic, and after graduating will begin the next phase of his Army career at West Point.

Col. Jeffery B. Hambrice assumed command of Fort Campbell Dental Activity from Lt. Col. Michael Hoffman, during a ceremony on Fort Campbell, Kentucky, on August 18.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jarret Weiblen, 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron outgoing commander, relinquishes command during the 35th LRS change of command ceremony at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 20, 2022. Weiblen said farewell after serving as the squadrons commander since June, 2021.

Col. Dolphis Hall, 4th Medical Group commander, left, and Lt. Col. Joseph Popham, 4th Medical Support Squadron commander, pose with the guidon during the inactivation ceremony at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, April 1, 2022. The passing of a squadrons guidon symbolizes a relinquishment of command.

Air Force Col. Charles T. Goad, the commander of the 181st Intelligence Wing, and Lt. Col. Christopher N. Brownell, the commander of the 181st Mission Support Group, exchange salutes during an assumption of command ceremony at Hulman Field Air National Guard Base, Ind., Dec. 3, 2022. Brownell assumed command of the 181st MSG during the ceremony.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Brian R. Miller, outgoing commanding officer of Deployment Processing Command (DPC) Reserve Support Unit (RSU)-East, left, stands at attention alongside Col. Armando A. Freire, commanding officer of DPC/RSU-East, during a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 15, 2022. DPC/RSU-East is a critical enabler to get Reserve Marines and units deployed by providing support to non-mobilized Reserve Component unit training, conducting Individual Augment deployment/redeployment processing, and supporting activated Reserve units/detachments while aboard Camp Lejeune in order to support total force integration during mobilization.

Gen. Anthony Cotton, United States Strategic Commandcommander, presents a commanders coin to Technical Sgt.Jacob Seibel, 40th Helicopter Squadron weapons and tacticsflight chief and special mission aviator, during the 2022Omaha Trophy presentation at Malmstrom Air Force Base,Mont., June 28, 2023. Seibel received his coin for leadingthe team that developed the first-ever Air Force GlobalStrike Commands 24/7-armed helicopter alert guidance forthe UH-1N Huey and MH-139 Greywolf.

U.S. Army Col. Scott P. Nicholas, commander of the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade, "Task Force Mustang" (far left), presents his remarks on the achievements by Sgt. Daniel J. Littleton, a CBRN specialist and motor pool specialist assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 149th Aviation Regiment, General Support Aviation Battalion, 36th Combat Aviation Brigade, 36th Infantry Division (second from right), during a command and staff meeting held at the Task Force Mustang headquarters in Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Sept. 22, 2022. Littleton, a native of Lewisville, TX, was recognized as Task Force Mustang's "Hero of the Week" and was presented a Certificate of Achievement by the brigade command team for his valuable contributions in coordinating, tracking, and moving his entire company's rolling stock with a relentless work ethic, in order to support of 2-149th GSAB's "Task Force Roosevelt" readiness.

Soldiers bow their heads as an invocation is given on Travis Air Force Base, Fairfield, CA on Sep 10, 2022. The Soldiers prepare to deploy to the CENTCOM area of operations.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Clinton K. Murray (left), commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Omar A. Mascarenas (right), both with Regional Health Command-Europe case the unit colors during the redesignation ceremony on Sep. 30, 2022 in Landstuhl, Germany. RHC-Europe redesignated to Medical Readiness Center-Europe.

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Richard Kerwood, Ohio Army National Guard state command chief warrant officer, is sworn in by Brig. Gen. Thomas E. Moore II, Ohio assistant adjutant general for Army, during Kerwoods promotion ceremony May 12, 2022, at the Maj. Gen. Robert S. Beightler Armory in Columbus, Ohio. As the state command chief warrant officer, Kerwood provides direction, guidance, resources, assistance and supervision of the Ohio Army National Guard Warrant Officer Cohort.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. James E. Holloman, command sergeant major of 3-142 Assault Helicopter Battalion (AHB) from the New York Army National Guard (right), attached to the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade of the Texas Army National Guard, introduces Sgt. Daniel T. Clavin, signal operations support sergeant, 25U, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3-142 AHB, during a command staff meeting held at the 36th CAB headquarters in Camp Bhuering, Kuwait, Sept. 15, 2022. Clavin, a native of Farmingville, NY, was presented a Certificate of Appreciation by the brigade command team for his timely actions over procuring and installing over 40 workstations within two days, in order to meet operational standards for the Task Force Rough Rider's Tactical Operations Center.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Cody Anderson, right, a logistics readiness officer with the 182nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, Illinois Air National Guard, assumes command of the 182nd Force Support Squadron in Peoria, Illinois, Oct. 2, 2022. FSS provides services in personnel, promotions, education, training, recreation, and fitness.

U.S. Army Col. Scott P. Nicholas, commander of the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB) from the Texas Army National Guard (center), accompanied by Command Sgt. Maj. Robert W. Hartzog, command sergeant major of the 36th CAB (left), congratulates Sgt. Daniel T. Clavin, signal operations support sergeant, 25U, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3-142 Assault Helicopter Battalion from the New York Army National Guard, during a command and staff meeting held at the 36th CAB headquarters in Camp Bhuering, Kuwait, Sept. 15, 2022. Clavin, a native of Farmingville, NY, was presented a Certificate of Appreciation by the brigade command team for his timely actions over procuring and installing over 40 workstations within two days, in order to meet operational standards for the Task Force Rough Rider's Tactical Operations Center.

Col. Cody Strong receives the organizational colors from Brig. Gen. Charlene Dalto representing his assuming command during the 300th Military Intelligence Brigade change-of-command ceremony, Aug. 6, 2022, at Camp Williams, Utah. During the ceremony, Col. Shahram Takmili relinquished command to Col. Cody Strong.

U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. Brian Kimani, a transportation management coordinator with the 313th Movement Control Battalion, Task Force Raven, reenlists during a ceremony conducted by Lt. Col. Diane Moncrief, the battalion commander, at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, June 28, 2023. Task Force Raven is a battalion under the 369th Sustainment Brigade, Task Force Hellfighters.

Lt. Col. Brian Kroeller assumes command of the 142nd AMXS during a ceremony on Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Ore.

Sarah Sinclair, 104th Civil Engineering Squadron commander, promotes to lieutenant colonel, Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts. Following the ceremony, Sinclair spoke about how valuable the support of her brothers and sisters in arms is and said, "moving forward I know you'll be there and I'll be here for you as well." Air National Guard

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Marcus O'Neal, commander of the 103rd Intelligence and Electronic Warfare battalion, and Command Sgt. Maj. Nam Nguyen, senior enlisted advisor for the 103rd IEW battalion, unravel the battalion colors during a battalion standup ceremony on Fort Stewart, Georgia, Sept. 16, 2022. The 103rd IEW battalion will support 3rd Infantry Division by providing multi-domain intelligence collection capabilities to the division headquarters.

U.S. Air Force Col. Denny Davies, 86th Airlift Wing vice commander, congratulates Airman 1st Class Riston Mais, 86th Munitions Squadron conventional maintenance technician, for earning Airlifter of the Month at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 16, 2022. Mais was coined after being selected as the Airlifter of the Month for his outstanding performance that went beyond the scope of his grade.

The Chief of the Romanian Land Forces Maj. General Gen. Iulian Berdilă presents a streamer for the V Corps colors to Victory leadership during an awards ceremony at the corps' main headquarters in Fort Knox, Kentucky, Oct.13, 2022. During his visit, Berdilă briefed leaders, met with Soldiers and presented awards to Victory Corps personnel for their contributions to the strategic American-Romanian partnership.

Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces command, presents Rear Adm. Joseph DiGuardo, outgoing commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), with his end of service award during a ceremony at Assault Craft Unit 4 onboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Sept. 30. The ceremony also marks DiGuardos retirement from the Navy after 31 years of dedicated service. NECC is the Navys single functional command for 20,000 Active Duty and Reserve expeditionary forces, and is the central management for the readiness, resources, manning, training and equipping of those entities. NECC enables Navy Expeditionary Combat Forces the ability to execute combat, combat support and combat service support missions across the full spectrum of naval, joint, and combined operations, allowing access from the sea and freedom of action throughout the littorals and inland operating environments.

CDRE MCGHEE'S VISIT

168th Engineer Brigade Transfer of Authority

U.S. Army Special Forces Col. Ken Dwyer presents a diploma to Mexican Army Nurse, Capt. Haydee Chavez Reyes. Chavez was the honor graduate for the Inter Agency Crisis Action Planning Course (IACAP). US Army photo by SPC Jaden Witt.

Camp Ripley outgoing garrison commander, Army Col. Joshua Simer, prepares to pass the garrison colors to Army Brig. Gen. Kruse during a change of command ceremony at Camp Ripley near Little Falls, Minnesota, December 10, 2022. Simer will continue his career at the Minnesota National Guards Joint Force Headquarters J5 - Plans office. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

Lt. Col. Shannon Castaneda, the commander of the 152nd Communications Flight promoted four Airmen to the ranks of Senior Airman and Master Sergeant, Nevada Air National Guard Base, Aug. 13, 2022. Master Sgt. Torrey Eldridge, Master Sgt. Douglas Swinehart, Senior Airman Aaron Durney, and Senior Airman Erik Corcoran were all promoted.

Indiana National Guardsmen with the 38th Infantry Division retire the colors to conclude a change of command ceremony at the Cyclone Division Armory in Indianapolis, Jan. 22, 2023. The color guard honors those who serve in the armed forces, past and present. (Indiana National Guard photo by Sgt. Kelsea Cook)

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Nicholas Reitz, right, outgoing commander of the 13th Expeditionary Combat Weather Squadron, relinquishes command of the 13th ECWS during a change of command ceremony at Poznan, Poland, June 2, 2022. The 13th ECWS, which falls under the 4th Air Support Operations Group in the 435th Air Ground Operations Wing, is a specialized weather squadron focusing on weather intelligence tracking for U.S. Army Europe-Africa forces.

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. - Command Sgt. Maj. Jermaine Ocean is the new senior enlisted leader for the 781st Military Intelligence Battalion (Cyber) and assumed responsibility as the keeper of the colors from Lt. Col. Donald Sedivy, the battalion commander, during a change of responsibility ceremony at the post theater, January 23.

U.S. Air Force Col. Robert McAllister, the A2/3/5 director assigned to the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, awards Lt. Col. Ralph Foshee, the commander of the 968th Expeditionary Airborne Air Control Squadron, furl the 968th EAACS colors during the units inactivation ceremony on Sept. 29, 2022, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The 968th EAACS flew its last sortie, until reactivation, in AFCENTs area of responsibility on Sept. 23, 2022. The Panthers accomplished their mission but will be back again when needed.

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