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Military Conferences and Ceremonies

Images depict various military conferences, ceremonies, and events, showcasing leadership, award presentations, and dignitaries at naval and military installations.

Ohio Air National Guard leadership from around the state attend a change of command ceremony at the Toledo Air National Guard Base, Ohio, Oct. 15, 2022. During the ceremony, Col. Chad Holesko assumed command of the 180th Fighter Wing from Col. Michael DiDio.

Museum Art Culture Science Air Force Museum Berlin

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, the Adjutant General of Pennsylvania, welcomes the Prime Minister of Lithuania, Ingrida Šimonytė, to Fort Indiantown Gap to tour the base and learn more about the Pennsylvania National Guards partnership with the Lithuanian Armed Forces.

Carla Manning, military affairs representative, Gatesville Chamber of Commerce Foundation, recognized Soldiers from 1-395th Brigade Engineer Battalion, and presented certificates of appreciation during the City of Gatesville Military Appreciate Fish Fry, held at the Gatesville Civic Center, Feb. 23, 2034. The fish fry is an expression of thanks for the United States Army Reserve and National Guard Soldiers who complete pre-mobilization and de-mobilization training at North Fort Cavazos. Army

Tim Frank (left), historian, Arlington National Cemetery; gives a tour of the Memorial Amphitheater Display Room to Minister of Defense of The Republic of North Macedonia Slavjanka Petrovska (right) at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., June 1, 2022. While at ANC, Petrovska participated in a Public Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

In celebration of German-American camaraderie, more than 450 people gathered at Kaiserslautern's historical Fruchthalle Monday night for the 8th annualGerman-American Friendship Concert hosted by U.S. Army GarrisonRheinland-Pfalz and performed by the U.S. Army Europe and Africa Band andChorus. After the band played an opening number, Garrison Commander Col. Reid Furman formally welcomed the concert-goers. "Tonight we celebrate the relationships we have developed throughout theyears, and cherish this opportunity to interact as friends and neighbors,"said Reid. "It is with our sincere gratitude that we take this opportunityto say thank you to this great city and its people, who provide ahome-away-from-home for our military members, civilians and families."In 2014, the United States Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz, in cooperationwith the United States Army Europe and Africa Band and Chorus, created thefriendship concert to celebrate the long-standing German-Americanpartnership within the

Secretary Dirk Kempthorne previewing new Interior Museum exhibit, "The Vietnam Veterans Memorial: America Responds," commemorating the 25th anniversary of the dedication of the Memorial through photographs, drawings, and models illustrating the Memorial's creation as well as personal objects left at the Wall by the general public

060228-N-0696M-019. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Troy Taylor was appointed the twelfth Ohio state command chief for the Ohio Air National Guard during a change of authority ceremony on September 10, 2022, at Robert S. Beightler Armory in Columbus, Ohio. Maj. Gen. James Camp, the Assistant Adjutant General for Air, Ohio National Guard, performed the ceremony as Taylor accepted authority from the previous state command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Heidi Bunker.

Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, delivers a presentation during the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Symposium at the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly, Virginia, Aug. 11, 2022. The Symposium is designed to provide an educational summit for sergeants major and master gunnery sergeants serving at a general officer command and Navy senior enlisted advisors serving at the Marine Forces level on important and emerging topics in the Marine Corps. The symposium provides a platform for the attendees and presenters to share insights and experiences, which is a key tool for shaping the future of the Marine Corps. (Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Karis Mattingly)

Past and present U.S. service members and guests attend the Allentown Chapter of the Honorary First Defenders and the 213th Regional Support Group's 77th Annual Military Ball at The Americus Hotel in Allentown, Nov. 12, 2022. The evening program included toasts and award ceremonies. Patricia Veresink, Esq., 2022 Commander - Honorary First Defenders, Col. Frank Montgomery, commander of the 213th RSG and other distinguished visitors shared remarks during the event.

Members of the 501st Combat Support Wing and local communities gather for an Air Force ball at the Sywell Aerodrome, England, Oct. 29, 2022. Attendees joined the celebration, which marked the U.S. Air Force 75th anniversary.

040712-F-7232T-007. Complete Scene Caption: Three US Air Force (USAF) Airmen assigned to the Air Reserve Personnel Center in Denver, Colorado are honored during a television interview conducted by Jennifer Castor from local news station KMGH-7 (an ABC affiliate), conducted inside the Air Force Reserve Command Center at Denver, Colorado (CO). The heroic acts of USAF STAFF Sergeant (SSGT) Juan M. Williams (left); SSGT Louis A. Deanda (center) and SSGT) Shelly M. Dapp, were recorded after the trio rescued a family of five from a burning vehicle, driving home on Interstate-25, returning to the base. Also pictured are USAF Technical Sergeant (TSGT) Robert Mims (far right), assigned to Headquarters Air Reserve Personnel Center (HQ ARPC) Public Affairs (PA) and Erica Welcher, an intern for the news service.

United States Naval Community College President Randi R. Cosentino, Ed.D., center-left, talks about USNCC and its first associate degree graduate during an all hands call at Coast Guard Sector San Francisco Feb. 7, 2024. Operations Specialist 2nd Class Merrill Magowan, of Half Moon Bay, California, is the first USNCC student to complete an associate degree. United States Naval Community College is the official community college of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Navy

U.S. Army Col. Andrew OConnor, Deputy Chief of Staff of Personnel for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, is promoted from Lieutenant Colonel during a ceremony in his honor at the Fort Indiantown Gap Community Club, Feb. 3, 2023.

Flight Lieutenant (ret.) Colin S. Bell receives a standing ovation as he takes the podium during the 501st Combat Support Wing Air Force ball at the Sywell Aerodrome, England, Oct. 29, 2022. Bell told stories from when he was a de Havilland Mosquito pilot during World War II and how training he received from the U.S. Army Air Corps helped him survive.

STENNIS SPACE CENTER, Mississippi (Oct. 7, 2022) - Rear Adm. John Okon, Director, Warfare Integration Directorate, N2N6I, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, presided over the retirement of Lt. Cmdr. Kabran KJ Johnson at NASA Stennis Space Center, Mississippi Oct. 7, 2022. Johnson enlisted in the Navy in 1992, and graduated the from Aerographers Mate (AG) A-School in 1993 before being selected for Chief and eventually earning a commission. His efforts in support of various Fleet and Naval Special Warfare commands worldwide over the course of his 30-year career were highlighted by colleagues and family at the ceremony. Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command directs and oversees more than 2,500 globally-distributed military and civilian personnel who collect, process and exploit environmental information to assist Fleet and Joint Commanders in all warfare areas to make better decisions faster than the adversary.

NASA, Roscosmos, and JAXA team members, along with Russian Search and Recovery Forces, meet to discuss the readiness for the landing of Expedition 55 crew members Anton Shkaplerov of Roscosmos, Scott Tingle of NASA, Norishige Kanai of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) Saturday, June 2, 2018. Shkaplerov, Tingle, and Kanai are returning after 168 days in space where they served as members of the Expedition 54 and 55 crews onboard the International Space Station.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Oct. 14, 2022) Cmdr. Margrette Moore, assigned to Navy Medicine Readiness Training Unit Souda Bay, celebrates being the most senior Navy personnel at the NSA Souda Bays Navy Ball held at the Avra Imperial Resort in Kolymbari, Crete, Greece, on Oct. 14, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

We had a great time supporting the Change of Command Ceremony of the DISA Army Reserve Element. This ceremony was officiated by U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Royce P. Resoso, Deputy Commanding General, 335th Signal Command (Theater) as we fare-welled LTC. Kevin Sturm and welcomed LTC Tomas D. Filipiak.

Cmdr. Andrew Crouse, commanding officer of Naval Magazine Indian Island, speaks with residents at Sherwood Assisted Living during a lunch hosted in honor of Veterans Day in Sequim, Washington Nov. 9, 2022. The residents, many of whom served in various branches of the military from World War II through the Vietnam War, shared stories about their lives and military service with Sailors from the region.

A memorialization ceremony officially designating the U.S. Army Reserve Center in Dubuque, Iowa as The Specialist Ronald D. Rennison Army Reserve Center was attended by more than 100 people July 10, 2022. Rennison was a Dubuque native who was one of 292 servicemembers who was killed in Operation Desert Storm in 1991.

Mr. Jon Stephens, Political Advisor, 31st Fighter Wing, US Air Force, Aviano Air Base, addresses members of the Province of Pordenone and Udine, Italian military regional command, U.S. Consulate Milan Political-Economic, U.S. Airmen stationed at Aviano Airbase, U.S. Ljubljana Office of Defense Cooperation, Slovenian Delegation, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa and the 173rd Airborne Brigade, during the Sustainable Training Area Management Workshop, Udine, Italy, September 20, 2022. Natura 2000 is a network of nature protection areas in the territory of the European Union. It is made up of Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas designated under the Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive, respectively. The network includes both terrestrial and Marine Protected Areas. The event dialogue was designed to increase and improve a developing relationship between military and civilian representatives.

070131-A-8359B-001. State: Virgin Islands (VI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The rural town of Firth held a large Veterans Day assembly in Eastern Idaho on Nov. 10th, inviting hundreds of attendees, including Idahos adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Michael Garshak. The assembly honored more than 100 local veterans and their families with help from more than 600 local and surrounding town volunteers, students, teachers and administrators. The assembly was held at Firth High School. The population of the small town is just shy of 600 people, according to the latest United States Census Bureau. Four Soldiers from the Idaho National Guards 148th Field Artillery Regiment posted the flags. Local veterans of all branches and current service members were recognized at the assembly and presented with plaques and roses. Garshak spoke at the assembly about the importance of patriotism.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - USS Monitor 30th Anniversary

DA-ST-85-12378. Base: Fort Meade State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

ZKH Prins Bernhard brings a working visit as an Inspector General of the Royal Netherlands Air Force in the Group of Technology and Material Guided Weapons in Hesepe (W-Germany). Here a brief explanation about organization, task and working method of the group.

Retired Army Gen. Robert B. Brown provides opening remarks during Association of the United States Army's opening ceremony at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., Oct. 10, 2022. Brown, who serves as AUSA president and CEO, encouraged attendees to take advantage of all the forums available at this years exposition. "I am certain this will be the best annual meeting ever," said Brown. The Association of the United States Army is a nonprofit educational and professional development association serving Americas Army and supporters of a strong national defense.

Chris Milchuck, Central Illinois Survivor Outreach Services Coordinator, speaks with Gold Star Mother Vonda Rodgers during a Survivor appreciation dinner in Springfield, Illinois, November 19, 2022. Vonda is the mother of Sgt. Josh Rodgers. Josh served as a Machine Gunner, Squad Automatic Machine Gunner, Gun Team Leader, and Ranger Team Leader. On April 27, 2017 during a combat operation in the Achin District, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan Josh's platoon conducted a special operations raid known as Isis-K stronghold. His platoon received intense enemy fire from all directions. Reacting to this threat, Josh lead his team to cover even after receiving a gunshot wound to the leg and applying self-aid. Undaunted by his wounds Josh continued to lead his Rangers against the enemy until being fatally wounded. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Trenton Fouche, Joint Force Headquarters - Illinois National Guard)

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - USS Monitor 30th Anniversary

Charles Darson, the substance abuse counseling center director for 3rd Marine Logistics Group, instructs Marines, Sailors, and civilians during a Professional Military Education workshop on force preservation at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 29, 2022. The workshop provided discussion and education to commanders and staff on force preservation efforts for 3rd MLG Marines and Sailors. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Forces comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

060811-N-1550W-003. Base: Naval Station, Mayport State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Inter-American Defense College Leadership Welcomes the Honduran Colegio de Defensa Nacional Leadership, Students and Staff to the IADC on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Oct. 4, 2022. During the visit, the students were briefed by leadership and received an institutional brief by a college faculty member.

(NORFOLK, Va.) Vice Adm. William Houston, commander, Submarine Forces, speaks to Sea and Shore Sailor of the Year finalists during a ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, April 21, 2022. The Sailor of the Year is an annual competition held to recognize superior performance of individual Sailors who best exemplify the ideals of a professional Sailor throughout the fleet.

Norfolk (October 1, 2022) Jim Beutte, one of the Volunteer Museum Docents at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, provides some meaningful interpretation to Joseph Genet and his family. Genet served aboard the Battleship Wisconsin from 1951-1953, and was in the Downtown Norfolk, Virginia area to attend the USS Wisconsin annual reunion. Battleship Wisconsin is located next to the museum.

Norfolk (October 1, 2022) Jim Beutte, one of the Volunteer Museum Docents at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, provides some meaningful interpretation to Joseph Genet and his family. Genet served aboard the Battleship Wisconsin from 1951-1953, and was in the Downtown Norfolk, Virginia area to attend the USS Wisconsin annual reunion. Battleship Wisconsin is located next to the museum. (US Navy Photo by Max Lonzanida/Released).

RENO, Nev. (08 Sept. 2022) -- Hill Goodspeed, National Naval Aviation Museum historian, delivers a "History of U.S. Navy Aircraft Carriers" presentation at Hook '22 in Reno, Nevada. The symposium brought together Navy and Marine Corps aviators and industry partners to discuss significant issues impacting the Naval Aviation Enterprise and to celebrate the centennial of the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier.

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg, Mississippi, for touring, participation in events highlighting the restoration project--funded jointly by the National Park Service and the Friends of the Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign, as part of the National Park Centennial Initiative--aimed at replacing interpretive battlefield markers and conserving the array of bronze statuary and stone monuments at the Civil War site. Joining Secretary Kempthorne for the events, including the unveiling of the first group of 22 metal markers identifying the specific locations of various Union and Confederate artillery batteries during the siege and defense of Vicksburg, were National Park Service Director Mary Bomar, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Chairman John Nau III, and country music star Trace Adkins, among other dignitaries.

American and Norwegian Soldiers, distinguished guests, and friends of Camp Ripley attended the Norwegian Meal, March 30, 2022, at the Hangar Conference center at Camp Ripley. The Norwegian meal is brought from Norway and prepared by members of the Heimevernet as a taste of Norway. (Minnesota National Guard Photo by Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

STENNIS SPACE CENTER, Miss. University of Southern Mississippi (USM) held a graduation ceremony for students in the Hydrographic Science Program to include an officer from Fleet Survey Team. Naval Oceanography was represented by Mr. Matthew Borbash, Deputy Hydrographer of the Navy. USM is the only university in the United States to offer an undergraduate program in hydrography and one of just two to offer masters and doctoral degree programs in this challenging field. Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command directs and oversees more than 2,500 globally-distributed military and civilian personnel who collect, process and exploit environmental information to assist Fleet and Joint Commanders in all warfare areas to make better decisions faster than the adversary, July 29, 2022.

U.S. Army General Curtis Scaparotti, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, introduces U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Mark Lippert before he, in turn, introduced U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry to U.S. military and diplomatic personnel at the Yongsan Army Garrison amid a visit to Seoul, Republic of Korea, on May 18, 2015.

Retired U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Charles Rock speaks with Sasebo Mayor Norio Tomonaga at the Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) Navy Ball held Oct. 13, 2022 at CFAS in celebration of the U.S. Navys 247th birthday. The theme of the U.S. Navys 247th birthday was "On Watch - 24/7 for 247 Years," which highlighted the Navy's enduring ability to remain fully ready to respond to and effectively deter emergent threats.

Material from Vice Admiral Allen - Principal Federal Official - 26-HK-370-85. File Unit includes photographs of Admrial Allen on CNN and Visits by Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton among others. Hurricane Katrina

020308-F-1851U-006. Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

HAGÅTÑA, Guam (Sept. 23, 2022) - Guams Governor Lourdes Lou Leon Guerror and Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio hosted a proclamation signing at the Ricardo J. Bordallo Governors Complex, with guests Joint Region Marianas Commander Rear Adm. Benjamin Nicholson, Dr. Marcia L. Gladney, and attending Gold Star Families, declaring Sept. 22 as Gold Star Family Day, and Sept. 25 as Gold Star Mothers Day. (U.S. Navy photos by Randall W. Ramaswamy)

Inter-American Defense College Leadership Welcomes Chiefs of Delegation and Alumni from 36, 41, 43, 46, 47, 49, 54, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60 and 61 for a 60th anniversary Celebration on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Oct. 7, 2022. During the celebration visitors participated in a campus tour, a Panel on Ethics and Strategic Leadership, a BBQ and an Alumni Recognition Ceremony, including the release of the 60th Anniversary Book Strengthening Strategic Leadership in the Americas.

221110-N-MU675-2020 SAN DIEGO (Nov. 10, 2022) The 2022 ESPN Armed Forces Classic - Carrier Edition championship trophy and two USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) plaques sit at a table at the celebration dinner at the San Diego Air and Space Museum Nov. 10, 2022. The ESPN Armed Forces Classic is an annual series of college basketball games held near Veterans Day on military bases as a tribute to U.S. service members.

10 past Minnesota National Guard service members were honored for their service during the annual Court of Honor induction program ceremony at Camp Ripley, October 2, 2022, near Little Falls, Minnesota. The Court of Honor commemorates the lasting contributions of soldiers who have dedicated their lives to the service of the State and Nation. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Apr. 5, 2022) The Honorable Meredith Berger, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations and Environment, and performing the duties of the Under Secretary of the Navy, eats lunch with midshipmen in King Hall at the U.S. Naval Academy. As the undergraduate college of our country's naval service, the Naval Academy prepares young men and women to become professional officers of competence, character, and compassion in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

Air Force and Space Force service members attend the 2022 Air, Space and Cyber Conference in National Harbor, Md., Sept. 19, 2022.

240205-N-PN185-1029 - Austin, Texas (Feb. 5, 2024) - Chief Musician Joshua Arvizu, from DeRidder, Louisiana, speaks with an audience member following the United States Navy Bands 2024 national tour concert at Westlake Community Performing Arts Center. The Navy Band will travel 2500 ground miles over 18 days to 7 states, giving 12 public concerts as well as 5 performances for students in schools. Navy

Volunteers and staff members from the Hampton Roads Naval Museum in Norfolk, Virginia receive a guided tour of some of the artifacts and historical displays at the Mariners Museum in Newport News, Virginia. The tour allowed for a greater understanding of the naval history of the Hampton Roads, Virginia region.

TSGT Ervin Burke chats with East German refugees at the 652nd U.S. Air Force Contingency Hospital. The hospital, which functions only during war time, is currently providing shelter for approximately 200 refugees as they attempt to relocate. Base: Donaueschingen Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

Gen. John W. Jay Raymond, center, Chief of Space Operations, speaks with Air Marshall Robert Chipman, left, Royal Australian Air Force Chief of Air Force, during the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, England, July 16, 2022. Raymond attended RIAT to engage in bilateral meetings with other Air and Space Chiefs from other nations and bolster partnerships with our allies.

Attendees of the 2022 Scientific Summit hosted by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency listen to a briefing by Dr. Wilfredo Tierra, Medico-Legal Officer from the National Bureau of Investigation, Sept. 21, 2022, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, HI. The National Bureau of Investigation is an agency of the Philippine government with extensive experience recovering remains in the aftermath of natural disasters.

220528-N-PW480-0281 CHICAGO (May 28, 2022) Commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC) Rear Adm. Jennifer Couture speaks with Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot during a Gold Star Family breakfast in the Walnut Room of Macys Department Store, May 28. Couture joined Lightfoot, U.S. government representatives, and senior military officers to commemorate Memorial Day and remember service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice during their service to the United States. NSTC supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navys new officers and enlisted Sailors. This training includes the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) at more than 160 colleges and universities across the country, Officer Training Command (OTC) in Newport, Rhode Island, Recruit Training Command (RTC), the Navys only boot camp, as well as the NJROTC and Navy National Defense Cadet Corps (NNDCC) citizenship development program at more than 600 high schools worldwide.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. speaks with a guest before a holiday concert performed by the Air Force Band at the Daughters of the American Revolution Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., Dec. 10, 2022.

Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper speaks at his official portrait unveiling ceremony at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., July 15, 2021. (DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexander Kubitza)

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken thanks U.S. Marines and explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) members for their support during his visit to London, United Kingdom, on May 5, 2021.

Members of the 168th Logistics Squadron take photos together during the 168th Wing Dining Out in Fairbanks, Alaska. The 168th Wing hosted a Dining Out event for Airmen to keep Air Force traditions alive and continue morale-building ceremonies. The Air Force Dining Out event started approximately in the 1930s with Army Air Corps General H. Hap Arnolds Wing Dings. The guest speaker at the 2022 168th WG Dining Out was Gregory D. Gadson, a motivational speaker, retired Colonel in the United States Army, and former commander of the U.S. Army Fort Belvoir Garrison. He is also a bilateral above-the-knee amputee.

France Vice Chief of Defense Gen. Eric Autellet places a gift to the Unknown Soldiers in a display case in the Memorial Amphitheater Display Room at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 20, 2023.

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael A. Grinston hosts a reception for International Military Student Officers on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Arlington, Va., March 13, 2023. The reception was meant to foster fellowship among international service members.

Participants in a Community Leader Engagement stop at a training area May 24, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wis. More than a dozen community leaders and local law enforcement professionals from Tomah, Sparta, Monroe County, and other nearby municipalities gathered at Fort McCoy to see the posts mission first-hand. During their visit, the community leaders received a driving tour of the installation and made stops at the Combined Arms Collective Training Facility on South Post, training areas on North Post, the Commemorative Area, Garrison Headquarters, and McCoys Community Center where they received a lunch.

U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa Commanding General Maj. Gen. Todd R. Wasmund stands for a photo with Brigadier General Abo Tagué Mahamadou Chief of Staff of the Army (CEMAT) Niger, during The African Land Forces Colloquium 2022 ice breaker, Grafenwoehr, Germany, Sept. 12, 2022. ALFC 22 brought African Land Force Commanders together along with select U.S. Army and allied and partner army leaders to address land force security challenges. ALFC22 emphasized U.S. Army institutional training and ways to "Train to Fight."

Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Dr. Celeste Wallander; and Air Force Gen. Tod D. Wolters, commander, U.S. European Command, and NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe, provide testimony at a House Armed Services Committee hearing on national security challenges and U.S. military activity in Europe, 2118 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C.

General David Petraeus and Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker testify before Congress about the situation in Iraq

Dr. Debra Zinni, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) deputy laboratory director, addresses attendees during the scientific summit held at DPAA headquarters, Sept. 20, 2022, at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. DPAA aimed to strengthen ties with host-nation partners and share knowledge within the archeological/anthropological field for the purpose of driving the mission forward.

Ft. Wadsworth, NY - Amauri Espinal, a retired U.S. Army Reserve senior non-commissioned officer and combat veteran, provides a keynote address during a non-commissioned officer (NCO) induction ceremony here on January 6, 2024. During the ceremony, the 353rd Civil Affairs Command inducted six Soldiers into the NCO Corps, which recognizes the transition from being an enlisted Soldier to becoming a non-commissioned officer. The 353rd Civil Affairs Command who joined the NCO Corps are:Sgt. Robert A. BarceloSgt. Shannay O. CassanSgt. David J. LopezSgt. David I. MarquisSgt. Andy B. PierreSgt. Samuel U. Zelic(Released/U.S. Army Reserve Photo By Sgt 1st Class Gregory Williams)

Hull Maintenance Technician 1st Class Panfilo Bascar, assigned to Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS), speaks during the 2022 CFAS Holiday Party at CFAS Dec. 2, 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.

Inter-American Defense College held its World Situation Conference on Fort Lesley J. McNair in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 8-10, 2023. During their conference Participants engaged in a strategic-level analysis organized by Brazilian Army and professor Col. Fábio Araújo. The conference offered students a global and sub-regional understanding of geo-politics, enabling them to analyze various aspects such as politics, socio-cultural factors, economics, defense, security, science, technology, key nations, state actors, regional alliances, and governmental or international non-governmental organizations. The focus of Committee I involves an in-depth examination of national and sub-regional security, defense, and development policies, along with strategic trends that will influence the Western Hemisphere in the next 10 years.

230331-N-UN585-1034NAVAL BASE SAN DIEGO (March 31, 2023) Graduates of the Basic Division Officer Course (BDOC) receive their certificates during a graduation ceremony in the Mariner Skills Training Center, Pacific auditorium. BDOC is a nine-week course focused on division leadership and is the Surface Warfare Officer career paths initial training.

Retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 Phyllis Wilson (left), president of the Military Womens Memorial, and Blair Underwood, actor and executive producer of the upcoming musical about the Six Triple Eight, join family members along with military and civilian leaders inside the Military Womens Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery June 15 to celebrate President Joe Bidens signing of the Six Triple Eight Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2021. The act awards the Congressional Gold Medal to the members of the Womens Army Corps who were assigned to the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, better known as the Six Triple Eight, during World War II. The Six Triple Eight is now the only womens military unit to receive the nations highest civilian honor, the Congressional Gold Medal.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken shows his support to the U.S. Embassy Support Team working to facilitate the safe transit of thousands of Afghan evacuees at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on September 8, 2021.

Assistant Secretary of Defense Frederick Pang talks with participants of the Non-Combatant Evacuation Group. Because of the intense threat of terrorist activity in the Middle East, non-essentials were evacuated from Saudi Arabia to Charleston AFB, where they were repatriated. Base: Charleston Air Force Base State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Rear Adm. Lex Walker, Commander, Navy Recruiting Command, speaks with media during Memphis Navy Week. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy and increase awareness in metropolitan areas that do not have a significant Navy presence.

Yokosuka, Japan (Jul. 25, 2022) - Capt. Michael S. Carl became the 39th NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Yokosuka commanding officer after relieving Capt. Edward D. Pidgeon during a change of command ceremony held on July 1 onboard Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka.

United States Army Garrison Yongsan-Casey Command Sgt. Maj. Wayne Butterbrodt, 1-17th Infantry Battalion Command Sgt. Maj. Joshua Weiss, 31 soldiers and KATUSAs participate in the Noncommissioned Officers Corps Induction Ceremony held at the Camp Casey Theatre, March 30, 2023. The inductees were soldiers and KATUSAs from USAG Caseys Headquarters and Headquarters Company, the Charlie Detachment of the 176th Financial Management Support Unit, and the 2nd Battalion2nd Aviation Regiment of the 2nd Infantry Division. The NCO Induction Ceremony celebrates newly promoted soldiers joining the noncommissioned officer corps.

Ms. Kristin Bukovec, Quality Assurance Specialist, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), speaks to family members during a Family Member Update (FMU) in Denver, Colorado, September 10, 2022. DPAA visited the area meeting with strategic partners, government leadership, service members and DoD personnel before hosting the Denver FMU. Families attended the FMU to stay informed on current DPAA operations as well as to share their own stories of loved ones that are still missing from past conflicts. (DoD photo by Air Force Lt. Col. Tamara R Fischer-Carter)

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg, Mississippi, for touring, participation in events highlighting the restoration project--funded jointly by the National Park Service and the Friends of the Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign, as part of the National Park Centennial Initiative--aimed at replacing interpretive battlefield markers and conserving the array of bronze statuary and stone monuments at the Civil War site. Joining Secretary Kempthorne for the events, including the unveiling of the first group of 22 metal markers identifying the specific locations of various Union and Confederate artillery batteries during the siege and defense of Vicksburg, were National Park Service Director Mary Bomar, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Chairman John Nau III, and country music star Trace Adkins, among other dignitaries.

U.S. Marine Corps ret. Gen. Walter Boomer (far right) and U.S. Air Force ret. Gen. Lloyd "Fig" Newton stand with Operation Patriots FOB founders, U.S. Marine Corps veteran Roy Brown Junior and Stephanie brown on the 50th Vietnam Veterans Day commemoration in Ridgeland, South Carolina, March 25, 2023. OPFOB recognized and honored the veterans who served during the Vietnam war and invited local veterans for a luncheon and commemorative ceremony.

U.S. Army Specialist Ryheim S. Baker, Human Resource Specialist at the 519th Hospital Center, speaks about his past and experiences to the service members who were in attendance at the event on 21 November 2022, at Sembach, Kaiserslautern, Germany. The 21st TSC held a National American Indian History Month Observance to honor, educate, and recognize the rich and diverse cultures, traditions and histories of American Indians and Alaskan Natives.

Australian Army Maj. Gen. Scott Winter, commander, 1st Division, and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Gen. Yoshihide Yoshida interact as part of an icebreaker event during the eighth iteration of the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium, Tokyo, Japan, June 13, 2022. PALS consists of discussions and presentations conducted to promote regional security and to enable responsive forces during crisis situations. The 2022 symposium brought together senior leaders from 18 participating delegations who are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific, with the objective of strengthening and developing regional relationships.

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg, Mississippi, for touring, participation in events highlighting the restoration project--funded jointly by the National Park Service and the Friends of the Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign, as part of the National Park Centennial Initiative--aimed at replacing interpretive battlefield markers and conserving the array of bronze statuary and stone monuments at the Civil War site. Joining Secretary Kempthorne for the events, including the unveiling of the first group of 22 metal markers identifying the specific locations of various Union and Confederate artillery batteries during the siege and defense of Vicksburg, were National Park Service Director Mary Bomar, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Chairman John Nau III, and country music star Trace Adkins, among other dignitaries.

During opening day of the International Quilt Festival Nov. 3, 2022, in Houston, Col. Tina L. Kirkpatrick, commander, commander, 475th Quartermaster Group, U.S. Army Reserve, and Donna Swanson, New Hampshire state coordinator, Quilts of Valor, look at "The Memories That Remain," an award winning quilt designed by Lynn Czaban. Kirkpatrick, who, in her civilian capacity, is also the suicide prevention program manager for the 75th Innovation Command, U.S. Army Reserve, received a custom quilt presented by Swanson and her staff at Quilts of Valor, a national organization with more than 10,000 members who have made more than 300,000 quilts designed for veterans and service members in honor of their service and sacrifice.

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (August 16, 2022) Navy Exchange (NEX) Pearl Harbor receives the 2021 Bingham Award in the sales over $50 million category. The award is presented to the best of the best NEXs in nine sales categories for overall financial results and customer service. Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) is headquarters for the worldwide NEXCOM Enterprise. Its mission is to provide authorized customers quality goods and services at a savings and to support Navy quality of life programs for active duty military, retirees, reservists and their families.

Lt. Col. Fajar Catur, TNI, delivers a lecture on the structure of the TNI joint forces command for day 2 of Gema Bhakti, September 10, 2022, Jakarta Indonesia. Gema Bhakti 22 is a USINDOPACOM Joint Exercise Program event, utilizing US Joint forces partnering with TNI Armed Forces working together to increase interoperability and enhance regional stability and security through bilateral and multilateral partnerships.

Brigadier General Guy Jones, FCC, Deputy Director, speaks to audience members about Project Convergence 2022 at the 2022 AUSA Convention on October 10, 2022, in Washington, D.C.

Command Sgt Maj Ludwig (Left) Lt Col Mullins (Middle) and Mr. Reiner Hufnagel, the mayor of Obernzenn pose in front of the ceremonial keg at Obernzenn fest The Obernzinn fest is an annual event that allows local dignitaries to connect and celebrate local traditionLt Col Mullins and command Sgt Maj Ludwig were invited to experience the celebration as the newest leadership of Illesheim As we continue to strengthen our bonds with our host nation we grow strongertogether

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