Military Change of Command Ceremonies

Images capturing significant military change of command events, highlighting the transfer of authority and responsibilities among leaders.

Maj. Charles Coffman, incoming 374th Logistics Readiness Squadron commander, receives the guidon from 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.

New York National Guard Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony Giamberdino, the incoming Command Sgt. Maj receives the guidon from Command Marc Maynard, the outgoing command Sgt. Maj. of the 153rd Troop Command during the change of command ceremony at Camp Smith, May 15, 2022. A change of responsibility ceremony is a long traditional event rich in symbolism and heritage within the military. This ceremony reinforces noncommissioned officer authority in the Army and highlights their support to the chain of command.

U.S. Air Force Col. Jeremy Renken, the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing deputy commander, renders a final salute to Lt. Col Christopher Rousseau, the outbound 378th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander, during a change of command ceremony, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Nov 29, 2022. A change of command ceremony is a military tradition that signifies the formal transfer of authority and command responsibility of a unit from one officer to another.

U.S. Army Reserve Brig. Gen. Wanda N. Williams, commander of the 7th Mission Support Command, accepts the unit colors from Col. Trent E. Loiseau, outgoing commander of Medical Support Unit-Europe, 7th Mission Support Command during a change of command ceremony, Sep 11, 2022 at Kleber Kaserne in Kaiserslautern, Germany. Col. Faith Junghahn assumed command of the unit from Loiseau.

The 121st Air Refueling Wing Mission Support Group holds a Change of Responsibility ceremony at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio, May 15, 2022. Chief Master Sgt. Jason Wheeler formally received responsibility of the 121st Mission Support Group from Chief Master Sgt. Chris Combs.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Michael Bedryk, commander of the 369th Special Troops Battalion and Command Sgt. Maj. Tracy-Ann Stewart, senior enlisted advisor to Bedryk, uncase 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.

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.

Maj. Charles Coffman, incoming 374th Logistics Readiness Squadron commander, receives the guidon from 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.

U.S. Space Force Lt. Col. Matthew Lintker, left, commander of the 18th Space Defense Squadron, salutes U.S. Space Force Maj. Nathan Glandon, incoming commander of the 18th SDS Detachment 1, as U.S. Space Force Master Sgt. Dustin Withey, operations flight chief of the 18th SDS, holds the guidon, during an activation and assumption of command ceremony at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, July 14, 2022. In unified action with mission partners, the 18 SDS Det. 1 will deliver a timely and threat-focused understanding of the space situation in direct support of the Joint Task Force-Space Defenses protect and defend mission.

Tough Ombres from the 90th Sustainment Brigade conduct a change of command ceremony on Camp Pike in North Little Rock, Arkansas today. U.S. Army Reserve Brig. Gen. Kevin Meisler, Commander of the 4th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), is officiating the ceremony.Col. Stephen M. Pazak is relinquishing command to Col. Dixon T. Brockbank from Perry, Utah after serving as the brigade's commander since June 1, 2020.

Lt. Col. Jeffrey Bishop relinquished command of the 131st Logistics Readiness Squadron to Col. William Miller, 131st Mission Support Group commander, at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, Sept. 11, 2022. Lt. Col. Bishop will be working at the Air National Guard Readiness Center in Maryland supporting the Manpower and Personnel Directorate.

Senior Master Sgt. Dwight N. Watkins, right, network sections chief for the 157th Air Operations Group, shakes hands with Capt. Garth Myers, 157th Air Communications Flight commander, during his retirement ceremony, June 26, 2022, at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Base, St. Louis, Missouri. Watkins has served over 25 years.

U.S. Air Force Col. Abraham Jackson, right, U.S. European Command Joint Intelligence Operations Center Europe Analytic Center outgoing commander, receives the Meritorious Service Medal during the JIOCEUR Analytic Center change of command ceremony at Royal Air Force Molesworth, England, July 7, 2022. The change of command ceremony is rooted in military history dating back to the 18th century representing the relinquishing of power from one officer to another.

The 2nd Infantry Division Artillery conducted a change of command ceremony July 6, 2022 on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea. Col. David Pasquale, the outgoing commander, relinquished his responsibilities to Col. Alexander Lee during the ceremony.

U.S. Airmen of the 387th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron commemorate fallen defenders during Police Weeks closing ceremony at the green pad at Cargo City, Kuwait, May 20, 2022.Former President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation in 1962 designating May 15 to May 21 as Police Week.

U.S. Army Capt. Daniel Borkert, outgoing commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, changes to command to Capt. Levi Rowley, incoming commander of HHC, 79th IBCT, at Kearny Mesa Armory, Calif., on June 4, 2022. Borkert passed the guide on to 1st Sgt. Chris Luzader, HHC, in a symbolic gesture during the ceremony.

3-6 ACS has a new leader where LTC Michael Gourgues will relinquish command to LTC Chad Monroe during the change of command ceremony.

U.S. Air Force Col. Derek Salmi, left, 60th Air Mobility Wing commander, gives Staff Sgt. Michael Raucci, right, 860th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron C-17 Globemaster III flying crew chief, the news of being selected for the Stripes for Exceptional Performers program at Travis Air Force Base, California, Oct. 31, 2022. The STEP program allows Major Command, field operating agency and direct reporting unit commanders and senior Air Force officers with large enlisted populations to select a limited number of airmen with exceptional potential for promotion to the grades of staff sergeant through master sergeant.

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.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael Loh, director, Air National Guard, shakes the hand while presenting his coin of excellence to Master Sgt. Brent Garrison of the 168th Medical Group, 168th Wing, Alaska National Guard, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, August 9, 2022. Garrison was recognized as an expert Resource Advisor and Medical Readiness NCOIC, ensuring expeditious medical processing and increasing unit readiness while navigating an ever-changing environment during the global pandemic.

Col. Mathew Gaetke, 51st Operations Group commander, left, passes the squadron guidon to Lt. Col. Chandra Fleming, 51st Operations Support Squadron newly-appointed commander, representing her taking command of the OSS at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, June 7, 2022. The passing of the guidon from an outgoing to an incoming commander ensures the unit and its Airmen are never without leadership. It also signifies an allegiance from members to their corresponding commander.

Today the Minnesota National Guard recognized members of the Minnesota National Guards Saint Paul-based 133rd Airlift Wing and Duluth based 148th Fighter Wing will gather in support of their 2021 and 2022 Outstanding Airman of Year nominees. Each unit selected candidates based on job performance, leadership, community involvement, and personal achievement during the previous year. The awards honor the Airmens accomplishments and highlight their dedication and devotion to duty.The following Airmen will be recognized for 2021: Master Sgt. Jay Jakeway (Senior Noncommissioned Officer)Master Sgt. Shannon Housey (First Sergeant)Staff Sgt. Alaina Lathrop (Noncommissioned Officer)Senior Airman Benjamin Swenson (Airman)Capt. Brent Shouler (Company Grade Officer)The Outstanding Airmen for 2022 to be recognized will be:Master Sgt. Shane Trisco (Senior Noncommissioned Officer)Master Sgt. Sterling Hartwick (First Sgt.)Tech. Sgt. Michael Schuette (Noncommissioned Officer)Senior Airman Madison Moritz

Right, U.S. Army Lt. Col Brian M. Travis outgoing commander of Allied Forces South Battalion (AFSOUTH), passes the Colors to U.S. Army Col. Miles T. Gengler, U.S. Army NATO Brigade Commander, during a change of command ceremony at Joint Forces Command Naples, Italy, June, 22, 2022

Col. Ryan Bailey, left, outgoing commander of the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Agency, shakes hands with Col. Tony Nesbitt, commander of U.S. Army Medical Logistics Command, during a change of command ceremony Aug. 19 at Fort Detrick, Maryland. Bailey, who will retire in September after more than 30 years of service, relinquished command to Col. Gary Cooper. The ceremony also served as an assumption of responsibility for Sgt. Maj. Hugo Roman, USAMMAs new senior enlisted leader.

Troopers of 4-6 Air Cavalry Squadron, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade redeploy to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. on Jun. 5 and 7, 2022. The squadron was on a 9 month rotation to the Republic of Korea in support of 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Sarah Sinclair assumes command of the 104th Civil Engineering Squadron from Lt. Col. Jeremy Dugan Dec. 3, 2022, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts. A change of command ceremony is a military tradition that represents the formal transfer of responsibility of a unit from one commanding officer to another.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul Loiselle, the assistant adjutant general-air, Puerto Rico Air National Guard, salutes U.S. Air Force Col. Pete Boone, the outgoing 156th Wing commander, during the change of command ceremony at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, Oct. 15, 2022. The change of command ceremony took place during the October regularly scheduled drill.

Lt. Col. Christopher MacDonald, right, hands a guidon to Col. Alan Berck, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Operations School commandant, during the 423d Training Squadron change of command ceremony at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ., May 26, 2022. The mission of the 423d TRS is to train and educate professional expeditionary Airmen and enable warfighters to operate effectively in multiple environments.

U.S. Army Col. Scott J. Rankin, Dental Health Command Europe commander, holds the unit colors during an assumption of command ceremony in Sembach, Germany, Sep. 22, 2022. DHCE oversees command and control functions of three Dental Health Activities located throughout Europe.

Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Thibodeau, outgoing senior enlisted advisor, 54th Troop Command (TC), New Hampshire Army National Guard, is awarded the Army Meritorious Service Medal from Col. Allen Aldenberg, commander of 54th TC, during the change of responsibility ceremony on Jan. 6, 2024, at the Edward Cross Training Complex in Pembroke, N.H.

A change of command ceremony for the 152nd Security Forces Squadron (SFS) was held Feb. 3, 2024 at the Nevada Air National Guard Base, Reno, Nev. Col. Justin Galli presided over the ceremony as previous 152nd SFS commander Col. Shaun Cruze relinquished command to Maj. Lewis Roberts.

U.S. Air Force Airman First Class Nolan Britton, 173rd Maintenance Group F-15C dedicated crew chief, was coined by the Oregon Adjutant General, Major General Michael Stencel, Apr. 4, 2023 at Kingsley Field in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Britton was recognized for his volunteerism as well as dedication to upgrade training in a record amount of time.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Bobby Budde, outgoing commander of the 908th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, relinquishes command to Brig. Gen. William Betts, commander of the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, during the unit's change of command ceremony at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oct. 14, 2022. During the change of command ceremony, Lt. Col. Michael Deprey assumed command. 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.

Soldiers from Alpha Battery, 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, were welcomed home in a ceremony from a nine-month deployment to the Eastern Flank supporting "European Assure, Deter and Reinforce" in Slovakia, Romania, and Poland on Katterbach Airfield, Ansbach, Germany, February 26, 2024. The unit, part of the 52D Air Defense Artillery Brigade, was the first in the U.S. Army to field and test the Maneuver Short Range Air Defense (M-SHORAD) systems. It provides short-range air defense to protect forces against fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and unmanned aerial system threats. Army

WORCESTER, Mass -During a large ceremony at the DCU Center, here Families, Friends, and leaders gathered on January 23, 2024, to send off the 1st Battalion, 181st Infantry Regiment before their deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Speakers at the ceremony included Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll, Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts, Maj. Gen. Gary W. Keefe, Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard, and Lt. Col. Alex Hampton, commander of the 1-181st Infantry Battalion. During the ceremony, Hampton and Command Sgt. Maj. Sean P. Fitzgerald, Command Sergeant Major of the 1-181st Infantry Battalion cased the battalion colors while they are deployed under the command of U.S. Central Command, upon returning home, the unit will uncase their colors.

The 1/135th Assault Helicopter Battalion conducted a change of command ceremony at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, on June 12, 2022. Change of command ceremonies are a formal recognition of an outgoing commander passing on their duties and responsibilities to an incoming commander.

U.S. Army Capt. Pierce English, right, incoming commander of Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment, 41st Field Artillery Brigade, assumes command of the Battery during the change of command ceremony at Tower Barracks, Germany, Feb. 21, 2024. Capt. Kurt Rossi relinquished command of Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiment, 41st Field Artillery Brigade, to Capt. Pierce English. Army

Col. John Popiak, Cyber Protection Brigade commander, passes the guidon to Lt. Col. Danielle Gonzalez, incoming commander of the 1st Cyber Battalion, as Command Sgt. Maj. John Cabral, 1st Cyber Battalion command sergeant major, 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)

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Eric J. Tolska, right, commander, 1-150th Assault Helicopter Battalion, New Jersey Army National Guard, returns the unit colors to Command Sgt. Maj. Christina M. Lewis, signifying Tolskas assumption of command of the Battalion during a change of command ceremony at the Army Aviation Support Facility at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, June 24, 2022. (New Jersey National Guard photo by Mark C. Olsen)

U.S. Army Gen. Gary Brito, incoming commander of U.S Army Training and Doctrine Command, receives the unit colors from Gen. James McConville, Chief of Staff of the Army, during a change of command ceremony September 8, 2022 at Fort Eustis, Virginia. Brito, a Hyannis, Massachusetts native, will serve as the 18th Commanding General of TRADOC.

Brig. Gen. Justin Mann, director of Joint Staff, presents the Governors Twenty award to Staff Sgt. Peter McGovern while assigned to 122 Fighter Wing on October 23, 2022, at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Aaron Edwards, 120th PAD) The TAG Match offers a unique opportunity to compete against members of other branches.

U.S. Central Command's Commander, Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, passes the U.S. Army Central colors to incoming USARCENT's Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Patrick D. Frank, during the change of command ceremony at Patton Hall's Lucky Park, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., July 7, 2022. During the ceremony, Frank assumed command from outgoing Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Ronald P. Clark.

Petty Officer 1st Class Lacy McMahon receives recognition from Air Force Col. Joseph Leonard, maintenance group commander for the 117 Fighter Wing unit of the New Jersey Air National Guard, for her service in training their unit personnel in CPR and increasing their overall deployment readiness, May 4, 2022. McMahon embodied the Coast Guards values to remain Always Ready, and went above and beyond to assist other military services in maintaining their readiness to respond to calls when needed.

U.S. Soldiers with the 28th Financial Management Support Unit, 213th Regional Support Group, Pennsylvania National Guard, deactivate their unit and activate the 28th Finance Battalion during a ceremony in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, Feb. 4, 2024. The incoming commander for the battalion, Lt. Col. Glenn Sudol, was welcomed while the outgoing commander of the 28th FMSU, Maj. Scott Buckmaster, was recognized for his service. Army National Guard

1st Cyber Battalion bid farewell to and presented awards to Reserve Soldiers from Cyber Protection Teams 183 and 186 in a ceremony today in Signal Theater at Fort Gordon, Georgia. CPTs 183 and 186 mobilized in September of 2021 to support teams across the Cyber Protection Brigade. CPT 183 is from Adelphi, Maryland, and CPT 186 is from Coraopolis, Pennsylvania.

The 121st Air Refueling Wing Mission Support Group holds a Change of Responsibility ceremony at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio, May 15, 2022. Chief Master Sgt. Jason Wheeler formally received responsibility of the 121st Mission Support Group from Chief Master Sgt. Chris Combs.

Col. John Goodson III took the reins of the 37th Training Group from Col. Joyce Storm July 22 at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Col. Lauren Courchaine, 37th Training Wing commander, presided over the ceremony.

Maj. Daniel Finney, incoming 317th Maintenance Squadron commander, renders his first salute as commander during a change of command ceremony at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, 17 June 2022. The 317th MXSs maintenance backshop responsibilities include fuel cell, propulsion, isochronal inspection, aero repair of key flight control surfaces & landing gear components and propeller valve housing rebuild.

Col. Kathryn Roman, 4th Maintenance Group commander, passes the guidon to Maj. Amanda Miller, incoming 334th Fighter Generation Squadron commander, at a change of command ceremony at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, June 24, 2022. Miller was previously a logistics readiness officer and a maintenance officer supporting the 4th Fighter Wing mission.

The 908th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron holds a change of command ceremony at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oct. 14, 2022. During the ceremony, Maj. Bobby Budde relinquished command to Lt. Col. Michael Deprey. 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.

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.

POLAND Friday, February 9th 2023, HHC Brigade Archangels welcome CPT Grant Moyer as the new commander.We thank CPT Olivia Lynch for her for the time and energy and wish her all the best on her future endeavors!(

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

U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Brant, commander of the 1st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Aviation Regiment, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, receives the battalion colors from the outgoing U.S. Army command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. Scott McGee, during a change of responsibility ceremony at Fort Riley, Kansas, Marshall Army Airfield, June 22, 2022. The passing of the unit colors is a historic military tradition that signifies the transfer of unit responsibilities from one leader to another. (U.S. Army Photo Pfc. Kenneth Barnet, 19th Public Affairs Detachment)

Col. Elizabeth Somsel, 7th Medical Group commander, takes the guidon from Lt. Col. Michael Renkas, outgoing 7th Medical Support Squadron commander, during the 7th MDSS Inactivation Ceremony at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, June 24, 2022. Renkas took command of the 7th MDSS amid the COVID-19 pandemic in July of 2020.

Maj. Gen. Christopher G. Beck, deputy commander of III Corps and Fort Hood, meets with soldiers after his promotion ceremony on Fort Hood, Texas, Aug. 22, 2022.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 50th Quartermaster Detachment (50 QM), 103rd Troop Command, Hawaii Army National Guard, conduct the uncasing of the new unit colors during a unit activation ceremony for the 50 QM at Waiawa Armory, Pearl City, Hawaii, Feb. 3, 2024. The mission of the 50 QM is to provide field feeding support for up to 700 personnel at the Echelons Above Brigade level as well as provide National Guard Civil Support throughout Hawaii. Army National Guard

Col. Kyle Grygo, 51st Mission Support Group commander, and Lt. Col. Michael Newson, 51st Communications Squadron incoming commander, bow their heads for prayer during the squadron's assumption of command at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Aug. 2, 2022. The ceremony is a military tradition which represents when an incoming commander assumes the authority and responsibility for a flight, squadron, group, wing or MAJCOM from a presiding officer to an incoming commander.

U.S. Army Master Sgt. Alexandre Santana, 578 Brigade Engineer Battalion, 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, is promoted to the rank of Command Sgt. Major in front of collogues and family at Kearny Mesa Armory, Calif., on June 4, 2022. Santana was later installed as Command Sgt. Major of the 578 BEB. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Simone Lara)

U.S. Army Col. Kevin Jackson, 19th Battlefield Coordination Detachment commander, presents a command coin to Tech. Sgt. Justin Deaton on Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 15, 2022. Deaton was handpicked to be personally recognized due to his outstanding performance in recent joint coordination with mobility mission partners in support of Ukraine. The 19th BCD conducts liaison between U.S. Army Europe and Africa or designated Army Forces/Land Component Command and the 603rd Air and Space Operations Center to coordinate air power and ground capabilities across the range of military operations within the U.S. European Command and U.S. African Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Army Col. Kevin Jackson, 19th Battlefield Coordination Detachment commander, presents a command coin to Tech. Sgt. Justin Deaton on Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 15, 2022. Deaton was handpicked to be personally recognized due to his outstanding performance in recent joint coordination with mobility mission partners in support of Ukraine. The 19th BCD conducts liaison between U.S. Army Europe and Africa or designated Army Forces/Land Component Command and the 603rd Air and Space Operations Center to coordinate air power and ground capabilities across the range of military operations within the U.S. European Command and U.S. African Command areas of responsibility.

Promotable Lt. Col. Johnathan Evans (center left), outgoing commander of Barquist Army Health Clinic, passes the unit guidon to Col. Tracy Michael (center right), Fort George G. Meade Medical Department Activity commander, at a change of command ceremony June 14, 2022, Fort Detrick, Maryland. Lt. Col. Christopher Richelderfer assumed command of Barquist Army Health Clinic.

Maj. Gen. David Hodne, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, awards an Army Commendation Medal to Sgt. Bryan Taesali, an infantryman assigned to 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div., April 19, 2022, during the Combatives Recognition at Fort Carson, Colorado. The Army Commendation Medal is a mid-level United States military decoration presented for sustained acts of heroism or meritorious service.

Lt. Col. Thomas Gawrych receives the Meritorious Service Medal for his dedication to service as the 110th Security Forces Squadron commander, during a change of command ceremony at the Battle Creek Air National Guard Base, Mich., June 5, 2022. Lt. Col. Gawrych relinquished command of the 110th Security Forces Squadron to Maj. John Wilkinson.

U.S. Army Maj. John Shay, a chaplain with the 47th Chaplain Detachment, is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal at Camp Ripley, July 10th, 2022. Shay provided religious support to the 1/34th Armored Brigade's 5,200 Soldiers for more than four years, improving long-term readiness and spiritual fitness for the Brigade. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

Lt. Col. Sylvia A. Hill, commander, 348th Field Hospital (left) and 1st Sgt. Jennifer M. Tucker, senior enlisted advisor, 348th FH, uncase the colors at the Transfer of Authority Ceremony Jan. 8, 2024, at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The 3rd Medical Command (Forward) provides comprehensive health service support throughout the theater. They possess a deep portfolio of specialties that includes expeditionary surgical, dental, optometry, preventive medicine, and veterinary services that offers fly-away capability anywhere in theater.

U.S. Army Col. John B. Mountford is promoted to Brig. Gen. by U.S. Army Europe & Africa Commanding General, Gen. Darryl A. Williams along with Brig. Gen. Mountfords wife during his promotion ceremony at Clay Kaserne, Wiesbaden, Germany, Jan. 19, 2024. Brig. Gen. Mountford serves as the Deputy Chief of Staff of Operations at Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) in United Kingdom. The ARRC is a rapid reaction force maintained by NATO and is capable of deploying a High Readiness Force Headquarters at short notice for operations and crisis response.

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. - Command Sgt. Maj. Jesse Potter assumed his authority as the senior enlisted leader and Keeper of the Colors for the 780th Military Intelligence (MI) Brigade (Cyber) in a Change of Responsibility ceremony hosted by Colonel Benjamin Sangster, the brigade commander, at the Post Theater, October 3.

Troopers of 4-6 Air Cavalry Squadron, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade redeploy to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. on Jun. 5 and 7, 2022. The squadron was on a 9 month rotation to the Republic of Korea in support of 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade.

Command Sgt. Maj. Anguiano of the 176th Medical Brigade bids Sgt. Donley a farewell during his retirement ceremony on June 4, 2022, in Seagoville, Tx.

The Central High School JROTC Color Guard posts the colors at the Joint Force Readiness Center in Cheyenne, Wyo., on June 28, 2023. The Wyoming Army Guard celebrated the signing of its first corporate sponsor, Simon, a Colas Co., to the Army Partnership for Your Success Program.

Col. David Chauvin, Chief of Staff, Nevada Air National Guard, passes the 152nd Airlift Wing (AW) guidon to Col Evan J. Kirkwood, incoming 152 AW commander, during an assumption of command ceremony at the Nevada Air National Guard Base, Reno, Nevada, October 15, 2022. Kirkwood has been with the Nevada Air National Guard since enlisting as an Airman Basic in 1994 and has progressed through various career fields and command positions.

Col. Brett A. Ayvazian (left), incoming commander of the Blue Grass Army Depot, Col. Landis C. Maddox (center), Commander of Joint Munitions Command, and Col. Stephen D. Dorris, BGADs outgoing commander, pose for a group shot at the start of BGADs Change of Command Ceremony on July 12, 2022.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, DHA director, and his wife, Carol, meet with DHA employees during a farewell event with the workforce Dec. 9 at Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia. Place will depart the Agency Jan. 3, 2023 after serving as the agencys third director and retire following 37 years of service to the nation, the Army and the military health system.

The 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team headquarters company, Wisconsin Army National Guard, conducted a change-of-responsibility ceremony, October 15, 2022 at its headquarters company at Camp Douglas, WI. During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. Walter R. Smithson relinquished responsibility of the headquarters company to 1st Sgt. Keith T. Graeme. (32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team photo by Staff Sgt. Kati Volkman/Released)

Senior Master Sgt. Mark A. Hartnoll, a quality assurance superintendent with the 124th Maintenance Group, is promoted to the rank of Chief Master Sgt. by Col. John R. Williams, III, commander of the 124th MXG, July 8, 2022, in a ceremony at Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho. Hartnoll was also presented with a Chiefs coin and a numbered plaque to celebrate his achievement.

Headquarters Detachment, Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center held an award ceremony for Annual Training 2022 at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, August 5, 2022.

Col. Scott Weyenmuller, left, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, Col. Randy Whitecotton, middle, outgoing 2nd Mission Support Group commander, and Col. Kevin James, incoming 2nd MSG commander, stand at the position of attention in preparation for the passing of the guidon 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.

Lt. Col. Farrah Schluter, 301st Logistics Readiness Squadron commander, pins the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal onto Chief Master Sgt. Angela Rooney, 301 FW LRS senior enlisted leader, at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas on June 4, 2022. The Meritorious Service Medal is a decoration presented by the United States Armed Forces to recognize superior and exceptional non-combat service.

U.S. Air Force Gen. Kevin Schneider, Pacific Air Forces commander, recognizes Airmen during his visit at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Feb. 28, 2024. Schneider visited with Airmen across the installation to discuss the quality of life on station to learn more about the unique challenges Airmen and families face while being stationed in Alaska. Air Force

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Kevin Tucei, left, a Mississippi native and the incoming command senior enlisted leader of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 252, embraces Sgt. Maj. Ryan Sweet, a North Carolina native and the outgoing command senior enlisted leader of VMGR-252, during a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Feb. 2, 2024. The ceremony represented a transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Sweet to Tucei. VMGR-252 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. Marine Corps

U.S. Air Force Maj. Cory A. Staudinger, right, incoming commander, 386th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, assumes command and receives the 386th EAMXS guidon from Col. Clinton M. Wilson, commander of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing, during an assumption of command ceremony at the base theater at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, June 24, 2022. Staudinger succeeded Lt. Col. Dale Ellis, outgoing commander, 386th EAMXS.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Steven P. Carpenter, commander of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division shakes hands with newly graduated Polish tank crewmen during the Abrams Tank Training Academy ceremony at Biedrusko, Poland, Sept. 27, 2022. Poland is proudly working alongside 1st Infantry Division, other NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

Chaplain David Kahler provides the invocation during a change of command ceremony held in the 108th Operations Group auditorium at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Sept. 22, 2022. Lt. Col. Sharon Gilliland assumed command of the 150th Special Operations Squadron from Lt. Col. Kristopher Szymczak who served as commander since October 2020.

Lt. Gen. R. Scott Dingle, the U.S. Army Surgeon General and Commanding General of U.S. Army Medical Command, recently visited Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, on Sept. 23, 2022, during a battlefield circulation. He also met with Soldiers of 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) and the 531st Hospital Center, to discuss operational readiness and partnerships with surrounding medical centers.

Left, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Michael S. Harrell commander of 839th Transportation Battalion greets newly appointed U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Cesar G. Garcia assigned to 839th Transportation Battalion, during the promotion ceremony at Camp Darby, Italy, Feb 09, 2024. Army

Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman Ramon CZ Colon-Lopez, meets with the 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment Aug. 10, 2022, at Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras. The SEAC provided two professional development opportunities, joined a physical fitness session, toured key units on post including the Medical Element, the 612th Air Base Squadron and met with Army Forces Battalion soldiers. The focus of the visit was to meet with enlisted, discuss the importance of U.S. military and partner nations professional development and provide an open forum of discussion with Soldiers, Airmen and Marines.

SSG Dominic Valdez with 1st Battalion 41st Infantry Regiment stands at attention as GS SGM 4th Infantry, CSM Moore awards him the Bronze Order of Mercury at the Colorado Springs VFW Aug 24. The Bronze Order of Mercury recognizes Soldiers who have demonstrated the highest standards of integrity, moral character, professional competence and selflessness, and who have contributed significantly to the promotion of the Signal Corps and the Signal Corps Regimental Association.

Col. Samuel Hunter and Command Sgt. Maj. Ira Ford, 658th Regional Support Group Commander and Command Sergeant Major pose for a photo with Rear Adm. Benjamin Nicholson, the Commander of Joint Region Marianas.

U.S. Air Force Col. Richard Martin, left, 423rd Air Base Group commander, recognizes Lt. Col. Andrea Hunwick, right, 426th Air Base Squadron staff judge advocate, during a group commanders call meeting at the Jåttå Military Compound in Stavanger, Norway, June 16, 2022.

Lt. Col. Jennifer Malatesta, 374th Force Support Squadron outgoing commander, renders her final salute as commander during the 374th FSS change of command ceremony at Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 7, 2022. The change of command ceremony formally transferred command of the 374th FSS from Lt. Col. Jennifer Malatesta to Maj. Jordan Hayes.

Maj. Gen. Torrence Saxe, adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard and commissioner of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, speaks to Cama-i Dance Festival attendees during a special recognition event at the Bethel Regional High School in Bethel, Alaska, March 25, 2023. About 20 members of the Alaska National Guard and Alaska State Defense Force attended the celebration where they were honored by festival organizers.

Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG) Brig. Gen. Stephen F. Logan, HIARNG Commander, receives the guidon from Col. Tyson Y. Tahara, outgoing commander of the 103rd Troop Command during a change of command ceremony between Tahara and Col. Barbara P. Tucker, Pearl City, Hawaii, April 3, 2022. A change of command ceremony symbolizes the exchange from one commander to the next.

Chief Warrant Officer Five (CW5) Patrick J. Muenks takes off on his last flight in a UH-60 Blackhawk at the Army Aviation Support Facility, Jefferson City, Mo., Sept. 23, 2022. Muenks retired after 41-years of dedicated service to the Missouri Army National Guard. (Photo by U.S. Army National Guard Spc. Rose Di Trolio.)

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jung "Steve" Soh, new Director of the United States Army Communications Information Systems Activity Pacific in front of formation at the end of the Change of Director Ceremony held at the 1st Theater Signal Brigade Headquarters in Camp Humphreys, South Korea on July 8, 2022.

Maj. Gen. Joseph A. Marsiglia receives his new rank during his promotion ceremony at Fort Gillem, Georgia, September 18, 2022. Marsiglia was promoted and assumed command from the 3rd Medical Command (Deployment Support) later in the morning.

U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Mary Davison, left, 18th Contracting Squadron officer in-charge of the commodities and services flight, and Senior Airman Jared Roderick, 18th CONS contract specialist, discuss Federal Acquisition Regulations at Kadena Air Base, Japan, March 27, 2023. In 2022 alone, 18th CONS executed 392 contracting actions valued at over 170 million dollars, earning the unit Best Contracting Squadron in PACAF.

U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers of the South Carolina National Guard conduct a deployment ceremony for Company A, 1-111th General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB), 59th Aviation Troop Command, April 20, 2022, at the Army Aviation Support Facility (Location 1), at McEntire Joint National Guard Base, South Carolina. The South Carolina National Guard will deploy approximately 50 Soldiers and eight UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters from the 1-111th GSAB to the Sinai Peninsula, in support of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) peacekeeping mission. The MFOs overarching mission is to supervise and monitor the implementation of the security provisions of the Egyptian-Israeli Treaty of Peace as well as contribute to preventing any violations of the treaty.

U.S. Air Force Col Tamala A. Saylor of the 181st Intelligence Wing accepts the nation's flag one last time during a retreat ceremony prior to her retirement at Hulman Field Air National Guard Base in Terre Haute, Ind., April 23, 2022. Saylor retired after more than 39 years of military service.

Headquarters Detachment, Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center held an award ceremony for Annual Training 2022 at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, August 5, 2022.

Official Passing of Colors during the 1st Theater Signal Brigade Change of Command Ceremony held at Camp Humphreys, Republic of South Korea, July 7, 2022.

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