Military Honors and Awards Ceremonies

Images of various military personnel receiving awards during formal ceremonies, featuring medals, certificates, and flags.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jordan Hoenstein receives the John L. Levitow Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman Leadership School class 22-5 and NCO Academy class 22-6, July 20, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

Senior Airman Silas Kornexl, Airman Leadership School graduate, middle, accepts the Commandants Award from Senior Master Sgt. Daisha Brown, 49th Logistics Readiness Squadron superintendent, left, and Master Sgt. Gabriel Larrazabal, 49th Force Support Squadron ALS Commandant, during the graduation of ALS class 22-6, July 7, 2022, on Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. The commandant leadership award is selected by the ALS commandant, and is presented to the student who demonstrates the characteristics of an effective leader.

Chief Master Sgt. Brandon Buser, 131st Logistics Readiness Squadron Senior Enlisted Leader, is presented with the Meritorious Service Medal by 131LRS Commander Lt. Col. Jeffrey Bishop during his retirement ceremony at Knob Noster, Missouri, June 26, 2022. Buser enlisted as a vehicle maintenance mechanic and served in a variety of leadership positions during his 30 years in uniform.

Chief Master Sgt. Daniel Harron, right, senior enlisted leader for the 157th Air Communications Flight, stands with Capt. Garth Myers, 131st Communications Flight Commander, during his retirement ceremony, April 1, 2023, at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Base, St. Louis, Missouri. Harron received a certificate of appreciation for his service in the armed forces.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (April 1, 2022) Navy Career Counselor 1st Class Mona Morris receives a certificate from Rear Adm. Carl Lahti, Commander, Navy Region Japan (CNRJ)/Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan (CNFJ) for being named the Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPT&E) Command Career Counselor of the Year for 2021 at the CNRJ/CNFJ headquarters onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY). For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th fleet's forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

U.S. Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve officers were awarded the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award during a ceremony at The Pentagon, Oct. 26. 2022. The award is presented annually to the top 28 company-grade officers for their outstanding leadership capabilities and their ability to find solutions to difficult problems.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jordan Hoenstein receives the John L. Levitow Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman Leadership School class 22-5 and NCO Academy class 22-6, July 20, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

Congratulations to Sgt. Miguel Lazarin and Spc. Joelle J. Pamplona for successful completion of Physical Therapy Specialist Phase 2!

Col. Christopher G. Batterton, 192nd Wing commander, presents a Certificate of Retirement to Senior Master Sgt. William L. Nearhood, 192nd Wing superintendent of the advanced programs office, during Nearhood's retirement ceremony on May 15, 2022, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. In 1985, Nearhood began his military career when he enlisted into the Navy then transferred to the Virginia Air National Guard in 1997 where he finished his nearly 37 year military career.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Brian Tripp, 85th Flying Training Squadron commander, accepts an award presented by Col. Craig Prather, 47th Flying Training Wing commander, and Lt. Gen. Brad Webb, Air Education and Training Command (AETC) commander, on behalf of Mrs. Hannah Dean at the 80th Aniversario Annual Awards Ceremony in Del Rio, Texas, April 14, 2022. This event took place to honor outstanding military members at Laughlin Air Force Base and civilian leaders in Del Rio who support Laughlin and its mission.

040820-F-6122B-002. Base: Wright-Patterson Air Force Base State: Ohio (OH) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Col. Chris McDonald, left, 436th Airlift Wing commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Carolyn Russell, right, 436th AW command chief, present U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Sabine Mize, center, 436th Mission Support Group annual award winner, with a trophy during the 2023 436th AW Annual Awards Ceremony held at the Hartly Volunteer Fire Company in Hartly, Delaware, Feb. 23, 2024. Mize received the wings Airman Service of the Year award. Air Force

Lt. Col. Timothy S. Ball, professor of Military Science for the University of Texas at San Antonio, left, poses with newly commissioned 2nd Lt. Jacob Bianchi, center, and Maj. Gen. Dennis LeMaster, commanding general U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence (MEDCoE), right, during a commissioning ceremony held at the UTSA main campus, May 13, 2022. Bianchi was one of 24 UTSA Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets that graduated from the program to earn their commission. He is entering the Medical Service Corps and attending the Basic Officer Leader Course at MEDCoE prior to his first duty assignment.

CORONADO, Calif. (Dec. 1, 2022) Cmdr. Christopher Whitehouse, right, receives the Meritorious Service Medal during the Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 6 change of command ceremony at Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI), Dec. 1, 2022. HSC-6 is an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter squadron whose mission is maritime and overland strike, search and rescue, personnel recovery, naval special warfare, anti-surface warfare and logistics attached to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17.

Master Sgt. Jose Sabalier, 733rd Training Squadron, receives a certificate of recognition from Col. Terry McClain, 433rd Airlift Wing commander, during the Senior Noncommissioned Officer Induction Ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, June 4, 2022. Chief Master Sgt. Cynthia Villa, 4th Air Force command chief, served as the ceremonys guest speaker during her visit to the wing.

221130-N-EJ241-1006Master-at-Arms 1st Class Matthew Wyatt, assigned to U.S. Navy Support Facility (NSF) Diego Garcia, receives his frocking letter from Capt. John F. Wilson, commanding officer of NSF Diego Garcia, during a frocking ceremony at Diego Garcia Nov. 30, 2022. NSF Diego Garcia provides logistic, service, recreational, and administrative support to U.S. and allied forces forward deployed to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Ashley Mikulcik receives a Distinguished Graduate Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman Leadership School, Class 22-4, June 07, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

Gregg Englert, husband of newly retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Melanie Englert, receives a Certificate of Appreciation during his wifes retirement ceremony at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, April 30, 2022. Englert retired with 21 years of military service.

Senior Airman Hunter Blume, center, 335th Fighter Generation Squadron electrical and environmental journeyman, receives the Volunteer of the Year Award from Col. Lucas Teel, 4th Fighter Wing commander and Chief Master Sgt. Peter Martinez, 4 FW command chief, during the 4 FW Annual Awards ceremony and banquet at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Feb. 9, 2024. Annual Awards are awarded to Airmen and civilians in 13 different categories, including Volunteer of the Year, Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year, Key Spouse of the Year, Airman of the Year and more. Air Force

930104-D-9880W-016. State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (May 5, 2022) - U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Enforcement Specialist 2nd Class Aaron Dail Humphreys, attached to U.S. Coast Guard Taclet South, is recognized as Navy League Fort Lauderdales Sea Services Enlisted Person of the Year at an awards reception during Fleet Week Port Everglades festivities, May 5, 2022. Fleet Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy and increase the awareness of the Navys role and purpose in our national defense.

IMCOM Commanding General Lt. Gen. Omar Jones, left, honors Command Sgt. Major Joe Ulloth's wife, Merline, center, during Ulloth's retirement ceremony Tuesday at the Fort Sam Houston Theater.

Maj. Gen. Janson D. Boyles, the adjutant general of Mississippi, stands with Chief Warrant Officer 5 Tommy Smith, former command chief warrant officer for the Mississippi Army National Guard, during Smith's retirement ceremony at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, Aug. 7, 2022. Smith was awarded the Legion of Merit and the Mississippi Magnolia Cross during the ceremony.

220607-N-DB801 -0131MAYPORT, Fla. -- (June 9, 2022) - Cmdr. Craig McLemore, left, receives a certificate from Peruvian Navy Lt. Cmdr. Maria Belen Canales, Deputy Secretary of the Inter-American Naval Telecommunications Network (IANTN) as he assumes duties as IANTN Secretary at U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet headquarters, June 9, 2022. Established in 1962, IANTN now includes 19 countries that maintain a permanent communication link among naval authorities of the Americas. U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet hosts the multinational IANTN staff, which oversees IANTN detachments and operations centers in 18 partner nations in the Caribbean, Central and South America. U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet is the trusted maritime partner for Caribbean, Central and South America maritime forces leading to improved unity, security and stability.

U.S. Air Force Captain Jared C. Houten, 175th Wing company grade officer of the year, Maryland Air National Guard, receives a plaque at Warfield Air National Guard Base, Middle River, Maryland, during the 2022 Airman Recognition Ceremony, December 4, 2022. The yearly event pays tribute to the outstanding achievements of the Maryland Air National Guard and names the wing's outstanding Airmen of the year.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Jessica Pabon was presented with the Military Health System 2023 Allied Health Leadership Excellence Award - senior non-provider, by Dr. Lester Martinez-Lopez, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, and U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen Robert Miller, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force surgeon general, on Feb. 15 in National Harbor, Maryland. Pabon is assigned to the 10th Medical Support Squadron, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado.

Vice Adm. Yancy B. Lindsey, Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC), Commander, and CNIC Force Master Chief Jason Dunn present a trophy to Master-at-Arms 1st Class Brian Allocca, from Hopkinsville, Kentucky, during the FY-21 CNIC Shore Enterprise Sailor of the Year announcement ceremony at the U.S. Navy Museum on board the historic Washington Navy Yard on May 11. In 2020, the Chief of Naval Operations expanded the Sailor of the Year program to recognize 18 Sailors that will be meritoriously advanced to the rank of chief petty officer.

Members of the HKIA PRTF pose for a photo at the Air Rescue Assiciation Ball in Valdosta, Georgia, after being awarded the Jolly Green Mission of the Year, Sept. 10, 2022. The Air Rescue Association JGRMOY is a prestigious annual award to honor the exceptional service and performance of rescue professionals.

GM1(SW/EXW) Lucas Santerre, assigned to USS Vicksburg (CG-69), re-enlists aboard the Battleship Wisconsin in-front of members of his family and his command. The ceremony was hosted by the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, located next to the battleship in Downtown Norfolk, Virginia.

221014-N-FP878-0027COLUMBUS, Ohio (OCT. 14, 2022) - Cmdr. Erik Moss, commanding officer of Navy Talent Acusition Group Ohio River Valley (NTAG ORV), presents a letter of appreciation to Reverend David Gwinner during a flag pole dedication ceremony Friday. NTAG ORV covers Ohio, West Virginia Kentucky and parts of Indianna for recruiting and Navy outreach for non-fleet concentration areas.

220617-N-XY052-1425: SAN ANTONIO- (June 17, 2022) Lieutenant Commander John M. Griffith receives his shadow box during his retirement ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph Airforce Base, Texas.

Airmen assigned to the 312th Training Squadron pose for a group photo with 17th Training Wing leadership during the 17th TRW 4th Quarterly Awards Ceremony at the Powell Event Center, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, Feb. 2, 2023. The 312th TRS received the Unit of the Quarter award to honor all members for their exceptional accomplishments and performance. Air Force

Maj. Gen. Michael Talley, commanding general U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence, presents a certificate of retirement to Mr. J.M. Harmon III, SES Deputy to the Commanding General, during a ceremony at Blesee Auditorium at Fort Sam Houston - Joint Base San Antonio, Texas on March 31, 2023. Harmon retired after culmination of a distinguished career with over 47 years of faithful and dedicated service to the Army and Army Medicine. Pictured on the right is Command Sgt. Maj. Victor Laragione, MEDCoE Command Sergeant Major.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kenneth Barrows receives a Distinguished Graduate Award during the graduation ceremony for Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Class 22-5, June 07, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker awarded Maj. Gen. Rich Neely, the Adjutant General of Illinois and the Commander of the Illinois National Guard, with the Illinois Distinguished Service Medal for his "leadership and poise" during the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Pritzker spoke at the Illinois National Guard's quarterly Senior Leader Engagement held Aug. 19 at Manufacturing times Digital (MxD) in Chicago. The Illinois National Guard administered more than 1.87 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine and contributed more than 268,000 man-days to the vaccination effort in Illinois saving thousands of lives.

HM2 Zarate receives her end of tour award at the culmination of her enlistment. HM2 is well on her way to completing her bachelors and applying to a physician assistant school.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (March 31, 2023) - Cmdr. Lida Cooper, the chief staff officer of Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY), presents the 2022-2023 Asia Military Youth of the Year award to Bailee Georgia McCollum at the Pacific Youth of the Year Luncheon at the Officers Club onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY). The Youth of the Year program is a recognition program for teens organized by the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, which honors and celebrates the nations most inspiring teens and their stories of leadership and excellence. For 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet's forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON - (Dec. 1, 2022) A rise in rank is an honor and means a lot to service members who tirelessly perform their duties to strengthen the United States Navy. In recognition of their Naval dedication, eight Sailors, seven from Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonio and one from Naval Aviation Maintenance Center for Excellence, Oceana, received authorization to be advanced to the next pay grade.

Colonel General Karim Valiyeva, First Deputy Minister of Defense and Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, presents a gift to Brig. Gen. Thomas H. Mancino, adjutant general for Oklahoma, at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, November 30, 2022. Oklahoma National Guard leaders and a delegation from Azerbaijan met to celebrate 20 years of the state partnership program between Oklahoma and Azerbaijan. (Oklahoma National Guard photo by Sgt. Reece Heck)

BACH had five service members graduate from the Interservice Physician Assistant Program (IPAP) June 10, 2022, at Cole Park Commons on Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The IPAP mission is to provide the uniformed services with highly competent, compassionate Physician Assistants who model integrity, strive for leadership excellence, and are committed to lifelong learning. Our graduates are commissioned into the officer corps of their respective service and take their place beside other military health care professionals in providing medical services to active duty military personnel, their dependents, and retirees.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Charles G. Chiarotti, retired, president, Marine Corps Association, presents the First Lieutenant Baldomero Lopez Honor Graduate Award to 2nd Lt. Chase M. Hundman, judge advocate, during TBS Bravo Company 2-22 Graduation at Little Hall aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, June 30, 2022. Officers of The Basic School, class 2-22 have been thoroughly trained and educated in the high standards of professional knowledge, esprit-de-corps, and leadership to prepare them for duty as company grade officers in the operating forces.

Spc. Adam Fitzpatrick not only claimed the win, but set a new record in the Marine Corps Match with his score of 200-17x at the 61st Interservice Rifle Championships in Quantico, Virginia. This Soldiers score beat out the 2019 record of 200-15x set by Staff Sgt. Rhodes of the Marine Corps. This course of fire included 20 rapid-fire prone from standing shots from 300 yards, with a 70 second time limit for each 10-shot string.

U.S. Air Force Col. Angelina Maguinness, 17th Training Group commander, presents a decoration to Lt. Col. Linda Davis, outgoing 17th Training Support Squadron commander, during the 17th TRSS change of command at the Powell Event Center, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, June 17, 2022. Davis was highlighted for her outstanding leadership of the 17th TRSS during her two years in command.

Participants of the 49th annual Norwegian Exchange, from the Norwegian Heimevernet, or Home Guard, and the Minnesota National Guard, community leaders, buddy weekend host families and distinguished guests joined together for a farewell banquet, April 3, 2022 at the Falls Ballroom in Little Falls, Minnesota. During the meal, Norwegian Soldiers modeled the traditional bunard and artist Charles Kapsner presented a gift. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

The Nevada Air National Guard Base, Reno, Nev. played host to the Outstanding Airmen of the Year Awards Banquet on Feb. 5, 2023, which honored the previous year's exceptional Airmen. The event was attended by Airmen, their families, and friends.

Senior Airman Kimberly Brown, 4th Logistics Readiness Squadron inspection supervisor, right, receives the Academic Achievement Award from Senior Master Sgt. Suge Wilson, 4th LRS 1st Sergeant, during the Airman Leadership School class 24-B graduation at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Feb. 8, 2024. The Academic Achievement award was given to the Airman who achieved the highest academic average throughout the course. Air Force

Pamela Conner receives a Certificate of Appreciation from Maj. Gen. Michael Stencel, Adjutant General, Oregon, during her husband's retirement ceremony on Dec. 3, 2022 at Camp Withycombe, Oregon. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

U.S. Coast Guard Operations Specialist 2nd Class Petty Officer Merrill Magowan, of Half Moon Bay, California, center-left, receives a plankowner certificate from United States Naval Community College President Randi R. Cosentino, Ed.D., left, during an all hands call at Coast Guard Sector San Francisco Feb. 7, 2024. Magowan 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

SAN DIEGO (May 16, 2022) - Cmdr. Loren Jacobi, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 3s commanding officer, presents a certificate of advancement to Senior Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic James Johnson, during a frocking ceremony on Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI). HSC-3 is the West Coast MH-60S fleet replacement squadron, responsible for training pilots and aircrewmen by providing the most capable warfighters to the fleet.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Christinia Rumayor was presented with the Military Health System 2023 Award for the Advancement of Women Physicians in Military Medicine - senior winner, by Dr. Lester Martinez-Lopez, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs; U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Anthony McQueen, deputy surgeon general; and U.S. Army Command Sgt. Major Timothy Sprunger, senior enlisted advisor to the Army surgeon general, on Feb. 15 in National Harbor, Maryland. Rumayor is battalion commander for the 261st Multifunctional Medical Battalion at Fort Liberty, North Carolina.

Inter-American Defense College Leadership Welcomes Brazilian Ministry of Defense Curso de Política, Estratégia e Alta Administração do Exército (CPEAEx) 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 a class by a college faculty, and toured the IADC Campus.

220413-N-JL161-1048 WASHINGTON (April 13, 2022) Musician 1st Class Chris Dechiara receives the coveted drum head plaque, given by Master Chief Musician James Armstrong on behalf of the Navy Band. The retirement ceremony commemorates years of dedicated service.

Inter-American Defense College Leadership Welcomes the Brazilian Defense Ministrys Escola Superior de Defesa Leadership, Students and Staff to the IADC on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Sept. 14, 2022. During the visit the students were briefed by leadership and received an orientation class by a college faculty member.

061017-N-1132M-130. Base: Concord State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: NAS MERIDIAN

Reserve Deputy Commander Rear Adm. Brad Dunham, Commander, Naval Air Force Reserve, awards the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal to Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Vincent Davis, assigned to Patrol Squadron (VP) 69, during an all hands call at Ault Field in Oak Harbor, Washington September 14, 2022. VP-69, a Navy reserve squadron, is slated to complete their transition to P-8 Poseidon aircraft later this year, sundowning the P-3C Orion for Navy operational squadrons. (U.S Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aranza Valdez)

Graduates from recruit company Bravo-202 complete basic training at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, N.J., May 20, 2022. While the missions of the Coast Guard have evolved over the last two centuries, our commitment to being Always Ready has remained steadfast.

CRYSTAL CITY, VA. (March 28, 2022) - The F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office celebrates the 100th birthday of the Italian Air Force during a cake-cutting ceremony at the F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office on March 28, in Crystal City, VA. The F-35 Joint Program Office is the Department of Defense's focal point for the 5th generation strike aircraft for the Navy, Air Force, Marines, and our allies. The F-35 is the premier multi-mission, 5th-generation weapon system. Its ability to collect, analyze and share data is a force multiplier that enhances all assets in the battle-space: with stealth technology, advanced sensors, weapons capacity, and range. The F-35, which has been operational since July of 2015, is the most lethal, survivable, and interoperable fighter aircraft ever built.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Huy Dinh, of the 125th Maintenance Group, wins the Florida Air National Guard's 2022 Airman of the Year for the airman category during a banquet held in Jacksonville, Fla. Feb. 4, 2023. The Airman of the Year award program is designed to recognize Airmen who display superior leadership, job performance and personal achievement.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (Sep. 14, 2022) Naval Station Great Lakes and tenant commands reconize command ombudsmen during a ombudsman appreciation ceremony at the National Museum of the American Sailor. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

220610-N-DD308-1124 WASHINGTON (June 10, 2022) Rear Adm. Michael Steffen, commandant, Naval District Washington, (left) receives the Legion of Merit award from Vice Adm. Yancy B. Lindsey, commander, Navy Installations Command, (right) during a change of command ceremony at Leutze Park in the Washington Navy Yard, June 10. During the ceremony, Rear Adm. Nancy Lacore relieved Steffen, becoming Naval District Washingtons 93rd commandant.

The Utah Air National Guard celebrated its Airmen of the Year during a banquet held in their honor at the Zions Bancorporations Midvale Technology Campus on Jan. 6, 2023, in Midvale, Utah. The Airmen of the Year award program recognizes Airmen who display superior leadership, job performance, and personal achievement.

Chief Master Sgt. Jesse Haupt (center), 419th Maintenance Squadron, poses with Col. Matthew Fritz (left), 419th Fighter Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Heather Richins, 419th FW command chief, during the Chief Induction Ceremony May 14, 2022, in Layton, Utah. Only 1% of the entire enlisted force will earn the rank of chief.

220330-N-PU674-1017 PENSACOLA, Fla. (March 30, 2022) Rear Adm. Pete Garvin, commander, Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), right, presents the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal to Senior Chief Musician Christopher Sams during the 2021 Military Instructor of the Year (MIOY) ceremony in the NETC headquarters courtyard. Sams, an instructor for the Naval School of Music, was selected as the Senior Enlisted MIOY.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Julio Armendariz, right, accepts the Commandant's Award from U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Matthew Cabral, 49th Civil Engineer Squadron, command support staff section chief, during an Airman Leadership School graduation at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, Nov. 3, 2022. The Commandants award is selected by the ALS commandant and is presented to the student who best demonstrates the characteristics of an effective leader.

040606-F-1008F-096. Base: Boise State: Idaho (ID) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Rear Adm. Pete Garvin, right, commander, Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), presents Mrs. Carla McCarthy, NETC Pensacolas deputy public affairs officer, with a plaque for her selection as NETCs 1st Qtr. fiscal year 2023 senior civilian of the quarter during an awards ceremony in Pensacola, Fla., March 28, 2022. NETCs mission is to recruit, train and deliver those who serve our nation, taking them from street-to-fleet by forging civilians into highly skilled, operational and combat ready warfighters.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Timothy Sullivan, Detachment 3, 2300 Military Intelligence Group, National Intelligence Support Group, Military Intelligence Readiness Command intelligence analyst, holds his award for the 336th Expeditionary Military Intelligence Brigades 2024 Best Warrior NCO during the Best Warrior Competition awards ceremony at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Feb. 22, 2024. Participants underwent rigorous evaluations by seasoned leaders who are subject matter experts in their respective fields. The assessments encompassed a wide range of military skills tests, including physical fitness, weapons knowledge, marksmanship, land navigation, general military knowledge and more. Air Force

Members of the 117th Air Refueling Wing recieve awards at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama, Aug 13, 2022. This was the first annual Enlisted Awards Banquet

SAN ANTONIO - (Sept. 28, 2022) Members of Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonios Division Five gathered at Navy Recruiting Station (NRS) Mercado for an awards luncheon provided by the command in recognition of their exceptional performance. Naval Counselor Chief Petty Officer Jesse Lilley is presented the Division Leading Chief Petty Officer of the Month for August 2022 award by NTAG San Antonio Commanding Officer, CDR. Stephanie Simoni.

221001-N-N0777-1020 ADRIATIC SEA (Oct. 1, 2022) Capt. Thomas Bodine, commander, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, presents a Meritorious Service Medal to Cmdr. Nelson Keyser, commanding officer of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86, Oct. 1, 2022. CVW-7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group 10, George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG). The squadrons of CVW-7 are VFA-86, VFA-103, VFA-136, VFA-143, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The GHWBCSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S., allied, and partner interests.

Inter-American Defense College Leadership Welcomes the Brazilian Defense Ministrys Escola Superior de Defesa Leadership, Students and Staff to the IADC on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Sept. 14, 2022. During the visit the students were briefed by leadership and received an orientation class by a college faculty member.

Retiring Chief of Police Joseph C. Metzger, receives an American Flag that flew over the U.S. Capital, presented to him by Lt. Col. Robin R. Pinckney during his retirement ceremony Oct. 27 at the Lee Club. Metzger also received the Meritorious Civilian Service Medal and Order of Marechausee.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Darryl McLean, former commander of the 72nd Aerial Port Squadron, presents his spouse, Ellen, with flowers during his retirement ceremony, Aug. 6, 2022. McLean enlisted in the Air Force, July 1983, then commissioned, Feb. 2001, and has served a total of 39 years.

Col. David Chauvin, Chief of Staff, Nevada Air National Guard Joint Force Headquarters, presents Lt. Col. Todd Hudson, Nevada Air National Guard Chief of Safety, the Drennan A. Clark Order of Nevada Medal during his retirement ceremony at the Nevada Air National Guard Base in Reno, Nev., on Sept. 11, 2022. The Order of Nevada decoration recognizes individuals for exceptional meritorious service for at least 25 years in the United States military and at least 20 years of service in the Nevada National Guard.

Col. Kerya Reyes, commander, Detachment 5, Headquarters Individual Reservist Readiness and Integration Organization; 911th Airlift Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. Jamesha Barnes; and Barness husband, Jay Adams, pose for a photo at Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania, June 5, 2022. The certificate of appreciation is to recognize Adams for his continued support during his wifes service.

220421-N-GF276-1115NORFOLK, Va. (April 21, 2022) Logistics Specialist 1st Class Romeika V. Dillingham, center, assigned to the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), poses for a photo with Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic (CNAL), Rear Adm. John Meier, left, and CNAL, Force Master Chief Chris Chelberg, right. Sailor of the Year candidates are characterized by a history of sustained superior performance, command and mission impact, proven leadership abilities, and outstanding professionalism.

RENO, Nevada (Sept. 10, 2022) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday presents awards as the guest of honor at Tailhook 2022 at the Nugget Casino Resort in Reno, Nevada. Tailhook is the largest annual Naval Aviation conference with this years theme being: 100 Years of Carriers. Gilday traveled to Nevada and California, Sept. 8-13, for Sailor and leadership engagement.

Electricians Mate 3rd Class Anthony De Guzman, assigned to the mine countermeasures ship USS Chief (MCM 14), poses for a photo with Lt. Swider Thorsten during a naturalization ceremony at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) June 29, 2022. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and Region Legal Service Office Western Pacific collaborated to conduct the naturalization ceremony at CFAS allowing Sailors to become U.S. citizens.

Minnesotas Army Command Sgt. Maj. George Jensen presents a flower to Linda Ebert during the Court of Honor Induction Ceremony at the Gen. John W. Vessey Recreation Center near Camp Ripley, October 2, 2022, in Little Falls, Minnesota. Ebert is the wife of honoree Lt. Col. (Ret.) John F. Ebert. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

220415-N-UN585-2083 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 15, 2022) Cmdr. Scott Jones, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71), left, presents a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medal certificate to Machinist's Mate 2nd Class Carlyn Eggers, April 15, 2022. Ross, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on its 12th patrol in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON - (Oct. 14, 2022) A rise in rank is an honor and means a lot to service members who tirelessly perform their duties daily to protect and defend. In recognition of her Naval dedication, Interior Communications Electrician Petty Officer Second Class Naomi G. Ramos posing with Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonios Commanding Officer, CDR Stephanie Simoni, received authorization to assume the title of and wear the uniform of First Class Petty Officer.

The U.S. Air Forces in Europe Ambassadors Rock Band performs at Club 4of the Regional Logistics Basein Wrocław, Poland, Oct. 12, 2022. The USAFE Band partnered with the U.S. Consulate-Krakow to travel across southern Poland from Oct 11-20, 2022, conducting performances that celebrated the shared spirit of freedom and enduring friendship between the U.S. and Poland. By transcending language and cultural barriers through the universal power of music, military bands promote peace, build relationships, and strengthen unity among people.

040227-F-0086S-002. Base: Holloman Air Force Base State: New Mexico (NM) Country: United States Of America (USA)

From left, U.S. Marine Corps 1st Sgt. Gary E. Moll, senior enlisted leader, Headquarters and Service Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, Kelley Warren, principle of Parkwood Elementary School, and Lt. Col. Brian T. Everett, commanding officer, H&S Battalion, 2nd MLG, pose for a photo after presenting a cased flag to Parkwood Elementary School in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Feb. 27, 2024. On the last Friday of every month, at least 10 Marines with H&S Battalion volunteer to be role models and mentors for students at Parkwood Elementary School through the Adopt a School program, strengthening community relationships between the Marine Corps and the public. Marine Corps

Members of the 117th Air Refueling Wing recieve awards at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama, Aug 13, 2022. This was the first annual Enlisted Awards Banquet

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON - (Sept. 12, 2022) Retail Specialist First Class Shannon J. Clifton, poses with his Navy and Marine Corps Achievement award after being pinned and recognized by NTAG San Antonio Executive Officer, CDR. Stacey ONeal and command members.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (Sep. 14, 2022) Naval Station Great Lakes and tenant commands reconize command ombudsmen during a ombudsman appreciation ceremony at the National Museum of the American Sailor. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

021206-F-4659S-066. Base: Warfield Air National Guard Base State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MDANG

SAN ANTONIO- (August 26, 2022) Operations Officer for Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonio, Lieutenant Commander Allen L. Cordova poses with his wife, Criselda who was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from the United States Navy, and NTAG San Antonio Commanding Officer, CDR Stephanie Simoni during his retirement ceremony at VFW Post 2022, Helotes, Texas.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Brian J. Mennes, deputy commanding general, XVIII Airborne Corps, and Sgt. Maj. Jason Johnson, operations sergeant major, XVIII Airborne Corps are joined by first responders from the surrounding communities around Fort Bragg following Fort Braggs 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Fort Bragg, N.C., Sept. 11, 2022. The ceremony paid tribute to both U.S. military members and first responders who were affected by the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and the nations response to the attacks. The ceremony also honored the lives of nearly 3,000 people who died during the September 11, 2001 attacks on our nation.

Capt. Willie Carmichael, commanding officer, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett (WMSL 757), presents a plaque to the Commandant of the Central Industrial Security Force for Chennai, , during a visit to the cutter while it was moored in Chennai, India, on Sept. 17, 2022. This is the first visit to India for the Midgett, one of the newest vessels in the Coast Guard's fleet.

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON - (Sept. 12, 2022) Retail Specialist First Class Shannon J. Clifton, poses with his Navy and Marine Corps Achievement award and NTAG San Antonio Executive Officer, CDR. Stacey ONeal.

Recruits take the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America during a naturalization ceremony inside the Recruit Memorial Chapel at Recruit Training Command (RTC). Boot camp is approximately 10 weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes five warfighting competencies of firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms handling and marksmanship along with physical fitness and lessons in Navy heritage and core values, Warrior Toughness, Life Skills, teamwork and discipline. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navys only boot camp.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Zachary Evans, right, 3rd Airlift Squadron pilot, receives a congressional award from Mark Dreling, left, Office of Congressman Don Bacon chief of staff at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, Feb. 9, 2024. Evans was honored for rescuing a man from a burning vehicle, who had broken both legs in the accident. Air Force

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)

220826-N-EJ241-1041DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (Aug. 26, 2022) - Victor A. Hermoso III, a civilian contractor assigned to U.S. Navy Support Facility (NSF) Diego Garcia, receives a Performance Award from Capt. John F. Wilson, commanding officer of NSF Diego Garcia during awards at quarters. NSF Diego Garcia provides logistic, service, recreational, and administrative support to U.S. and allied forces forward deployed to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

U.S. Air Force Col. Ryan Hayde, 23rd Wing vice commander, left, coins Mrs. Joyce Eaker, Fort Valley State University executive assistant and program coordinator, during a FSVU visit at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Oct. 14, 2022. Mrs. Eaker was the lead coordinator for the visit, ensuring that the academic leaders and students had a successful, positive experience visiting Moody AFB. The 23rd Wing hosted FVSU members to discuss collaborative opportunities between the base and the university to build a long-lasting working relationship.

Lt. Gen. Russel L, Honore, commanding general, First Army, and a lifetime 4-H member, receives the 2007 Friend of National 4-H Award for his support of 4-H throughout his career. Presenting the award is Shawn Gayner, a 4-H member from Idaho.

220819-N-XZ205-1024SAN DIEGO (Aug. 19, 2022) Capt. Jeffery Johnson, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) San Diegos acting commanding officer (left), awards Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Justin Rizzo, a Sailor assigned to NMRTC San Diego (right), with a Shipmate of the Month Award during a ceremony at the hospital Aug. 19. With input from NMRTC San Diego directorates chain of command, Shipmate of the Month honors Sailors who perform their duties exceptionally well. NMRTC San Diego's mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC San Diego employs more than 6,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Recognition Ceremony, Apr. 28, 2022, Magnolia Halle, San Antonio, Texas. This event was held to honor all promotees to the rank of Chief Master Sgt.

BALTIMORE (May 24, 2022) - Capt. Abigail Yablonsky, deputy commander, Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC), accepts the Sponsor Recognition Award from Kathy Zolman, director of operations, Medical Technology Enterprise Consortium (MTEC) at MTECs 7th Annual membership meeting. NMRC was awarded as an outstanding military funding sponsor focused on accelerating prototype development.

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