Military Honors and Ceremonial Events

Images capturing military funeral honors, color guards, and ceremonial events, reflecting respect and remembrance for service members.

U.S. Marine Corps LtCol. Charles Winchester, outgoing commanding officer of the 9th Marine Corps District, and Col. Jeffrey Buffa, incoming commanding officer of the 9th Marine Corps District, conduct a change of command ceremony at Naval Station Great Lakes. After the ceremony LtCol. Winchester held a retirement ceremony where he was honorably discharged after serving 31 years in the Marine Corps.

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment Caisson Platoon, and the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army 1st Lt. Myles W. Esmay in Section 36 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Aug. 1, 2022. Esmay was killed on June 7, 1944 during the siege of Myitkyina, Burma in World War II. From the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) press release: In the spring and summer of 1944, Esmay, an infantry engineer, was a member of Company B, 236th Engineer Combat Battalion, reinforcing the 5307th Composite Unit (Provisional), also known as Merrills Marauders. Esmays battalion arrived at the recently captured airfield in Myitkyina, Burma, on May 28, where they were tasked with holding the airfield and taking part in the siege of Myitkyina. On June 4, the battalion attacked Japanese forces at Namkwi village northwest of the airfield. The fighting lasted until June 7.

040917-F-6565E-002. Base: Duluth State: Minnesota (MN) Country: United States Of America (USA)

CAMARILLO, Calif. (Sept. 11, 2014) Steelworker 2nd Class Troy Franklin, from Cathedral City, Calif., unfurls the national ensign during a Patriot Day ceremony for students of the University Preparation School. Seabees from Naval Construction Group (NCG) 1, Ventura County first responders and other service members participated in the observance commemorating the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington.

031104-M-4213L-003. Base: USMC Recruit Depot,Parris Island State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MCRD PI

U.S. Marines with Security and Emergency Services Battalion, Marine Corps Installations West, carry the colors during a wreath-laying ceremony at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Library in Simi Valley, California, Feb. 6, 2023. The ceremony was held in honor of President Reagan as a tribute to his service to the United States, and in celebration of what would have been his 112th birthday.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Randall D. White, the outgoing commanding officer of 2nd Transportation Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 27, left, and Lt. Col. Brian T. Everett, the incoming commanding officer of 2nd Transportation Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 27, salute during the pass in review as part of a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 30, 2022. During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Everett assumed command of 2nd Transportation Battalion from Lt. Col. White.

U.S. Marine Corps LtCol. Charles Winchester, outgoing commanding officer of the 9th Marine Corps District, and Col. Jeffrey Buffa, incoming commanding officer of the 9th Marine Corps District, conduct a change of command ceremony at Naval Station Great Lakes. After the ceremony LtCol. Winchester held a retirement ceremony where he was honorably discharged after serving 31 years in the Marine Corps.

U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM) present colors during a change of command ceremony at the Naval Station Norfolk Pennsylvania House, Virginia, Aug. 30, 2022. FMFLANT, MARFORCOM and MARFOR NORTHCOM provide support to the combatant commander by representing Marine Corps capabilities and interests over all assigned and attached Marine Corps forces. The unit also coordinates Marine Corps-Navy integration of operational initiatives and advises Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command on support to Marine Corps forces assigned to U.S. Navy ships, bases and installations.

U.S. Air Force Chaplain (Capt.) Jennifer Ray, 100th Air Refueling Wing chapel, salutes during the playing of the national anthem at the opening of the 9/11 memorial ceremony on Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, Sept. 11, 2022. Airmen, civilians and family members from RAF Lakenheath and RAF Feltwell joined Team Mildenhall in remembrance of the lives lost 21 years ago.

The joint color guard march in Guam's 78th Annual Liberation Day parade in Hagatna, Guam, July 21, 2022. This parade marked the 78th commemoration of Guam's liberation by U.S. military forces on July 21, 1944, which ended the Japanese occupation that had begun in 1941.

220709-N-TI693-3029INDIAN OCEAN (July 9, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary sea base USS Hershel "Woody" Williams (ESB 4) retire the colors during a remembrance ceremony for the passing of the ship's namesake, July 9, 2022. Hershel Woody Williams is rotationally deployed to the U.S. Naval Forces Africa area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet, to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, N.J., holds a Sunset Parade on base to honor the Coast Guards 232nd birthday and recognize regional operational commands, Aug. 7, 2022. To ensurecontinued mission success, the service is embarking on its greatest transformation yet: transforming ourworkforce, sharpening our competitive edge and advancing our mission excellence.

Marines with Marine Barracks Washington execute pass in reviewduring a Tuesday Sunset Parade at the Marine Corps War Memorial, Arlington, Va., June 27, 2023. The hosting official for the evening was Mrs. Dee Reardon, Assistant Deputy Commandant Installation an Logistics, and the guest of honor was the Honorable William L. LaPlante, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquistion and Sustainment.

A color guard from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (Old Guard) helps conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Chaturbhuj Gidwani in Section 71 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 23, 2018. Gidwani joined the U.S. Army Reserve in 1973 and after 25 years of service, he retired as a Sergeant Major, having been awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Joint Service Achievement Medal. Afterwards, he joined the Federal Civil Service in 1974 where he started his career with the Department of Defense at the Naval Torpedo Station in Keyport, Washington. From 2001 to 2005, he started Hindu services at Camp Foster, Kadena Air Base, and the Naval Hospital, all in Okinawa, Japan. He retired in 2009 after 35 years with the Federal Civil Service.Gidwani passed away on Nov. 11, 2017 at the age of 79. His spouse, Bulbul Gidwani, received the U.S. flag from his service.

010126-D-9880W-015. Base: Pentagon State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

LOS ANGELES (May 30, 2022) Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JRTOC) Navy Sea Cadets parade the colors for a Memorial Day Ceremony during Los Angeles Fleet Week, May 30, 2022. Los Angeles Fleet Week is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience America's sea services. During fleet week, service members participate in various community service events, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community, and enjoy the hospitality of Los Angeles and its surrounding areas.

More than 500 Airmen assigned to the 433rd Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, August 10-11, 2022. Brig. Gen. Brenda P. Cartier, Director of Operations and Communications, Headquarters Air Education and Training Command, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, reviewed the ceremony.

On the Finance Corps 247th birthday, the 25th DSB stood up the 125th Finance Battalion. Leading the new Battalion is LTC Leviticus D. Pope who assumed command of the battalion in conjunction with the activation.The support of this new battalion increases our capabilities in all aspects, and allows us to plan and synchronize operations in the joint division and core operation areas. Mahalo, and welcome back!

010921-A-1409B-003. Base: Fort Gillem State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: TRADOC

Marines from the The Presidents Own Marine Band, Marines from the Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C. (8th and I), and the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Caisson Platoon conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Brendan ODonnell in Section 83 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Oct. 14, 2022.ODonnell entered the Marine Corps in October of 1950 and fought in the Korean War as a second lieutenant. By early April 1951, ODonnell had become a platoon leader in Company D, 2nd Battalion of the 7th Marine Regiment, supporting the Armys 1st Cavalry Division. His platoon was fighting to the Kansas Line, along the 38th parallel the dividing line between North and South Korea. On April 10, 1951, ODonnells platoon spearheaded a company-sized attack on an enemy ridgeline, killing 27, wounding 35 and capturing seven. As enemy fire rained in from the adjacent hills, he constantly exposed himself while setting up a defensive position. Mortars t

Two C-130J Super Hercules aircraft from the 37th Airlift Squadron out of Ramstein Air Base, Germany, perform a flyover at the C-47 Memorial Garden Ceremony in Picauville, France, June 4, 2022. The C-47 Memorial Garden features a slate-covered area in the shape of a C-47, as well as tulip trees planted to represent each of the 20 American soldiers who lost their lives on June 6, 1944.

DA-SC-88-03526. Base: Fort Belvoir State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DD-ST-89-03804. Base: Andrews Air Force Base State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A ceremony commemorating the 125th anniversary of the sinking of the USS Maine is held at the USS Maine Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Feb. 15, 2023.On Feb. 15, 1898, the USS Maine exploded off the coast of Havana, Cuba, leading to the loss of 260 of her crew. Due to Spanish policy, burials had to be made within 24 hours, therefore the initial crew recovered in the aftermath of the disaster were buried at the Colon Cemetery in Havana. On March 30, 1898, Congress approved a bill authorizing for their remains to be disinterred and transferred to ANC. On Dec. 28, 1899, 165 sets of remains were interred in Section 24 with a full military honors service. The USS Maine was eventually raised, and the ships mast was transported by the Navy to ANC where it was placed next to Section 24 onto a granite base meant to represent the turret of the battleship. The names of those who died aboard the Maine were inscribed onto the base. Sixty-five sets of remains recovered durin

U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May holds a Memorial Day ceremony, May 30, 2022, on base in Cape May, N.J. This Memorial Day, Adm. Karl Schultz, commandant of the Coast Guard, called on all members of the service to honor and remember our countrymen who were killed on the battlefield or died from related injuries or sickness as they fought to preserve the ideals of freedom and democracy. The Coast Guard will remember all United States Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and Merchant Mariners who paid the ultimate sacrifice, who gave their last full measure of devotion fighting for our Nation and the family members they left behind.U.S. Coast Guard photo by Chief Warrant Officer 2 Timothy Tamargo

U.S. Marines from 4th Marine Aircraft Wing stand with their M16-A4 service rifles in preparation to present arms during the funeral service forU.S. Marine Corps Gen. Joseph P. Hoar (retired) at Miramar National Cemetery, San Diego, California, Oct. 7, 2022. Gen. Hoar served honorably for 37 years and held many distinguished positions includingCommanding Officer, 1st Marine Regiment; Commanding General, Eastern Recruiting Region; and Commander, United States Central Command. Gen. Hoar was a native of Boston.

The State and Territorial Cordon lines the walkways of the mall leading up to the tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Nov. 30, 2022. The cordon was part of an Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony in honor of French President Emmanuel Macrons visit to ANC.

The 19th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black, speaks to Marines of Headquarters Marine Corps during a motivational run to celebrate the Marine Corps' 247th birthday in Arlington, Virginia, Nov. 9, 2022. Each year around the globe for the Marine Corps birthday, Marines honor the long, illustrious history of the Marine Corps.

U.S. Marine with Marine Forces Reserve hold the American flag during a remembrance ceremony for the 81st anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans Dec. 7, 2022. Civilians, veterans and service members came together to honor the courage and sacrifice of those who perished during the attack on Dec. 7, 1941, and to thank the service members who fought bravely during WWII.

The 1st Cavalry Division celebrated its 101st birthday with friendly competitions and ceremonies to build camaraderie amongst First Team Troopers, Sep. 12-16 at Fort Hood, Texas.To conclude the week-long celebration, thousands of Troopers and local community members attended a ceremony that was held to pay respects to the history and tradition of the cavalry.

Members across Joint Base San Antonio participate with the Police Week retreat ceremony, May 20, 2022, at JBSA-Randolph, Texas. The week of May 9-15 was observed around the country to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement. It began in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls, National Police Week.

Veterans salute the National Colors at the Liberty County Chapter POW/MIA ceremony in Hinesville, Georgia Sept. 16, 2022. The event is held every year to honor all POW/MIAs across the service branches. (U.S. Army photos by Staff Sgt. Joel Salgado, 3rd Division Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs)

September 11th remembrance ceremony held in front of NASA Research Park Bldg-17 (Lunar Science Institute) hosted by the American Legion, Post 881, Moffett Field. Flag detail - Lt Randy Vincent - NASA Protective Services, Ty Locatelli, Carlos Pinedo - NASA Fire Department

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron (MALS) 36 participate in a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, May 13, 2022. The ceremony represented the transfer of responsibility, authority and accountability from Lt. Col. Matthew Haley to Lt. Col. Joshua Onuska.

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 174th Infantry Brigade perform order of the colors during a change of command ceremony at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst N.J., July 13, 2022. The 174th Infantry Brigade is responsible for preparing soldiers of the U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard for deployment through battle training in maneuvers, equipment and other details. (U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Sergio Avalos)

The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band and the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Color Guard performs during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 23, 2022. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

Members of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Joint Service Color Guard present the colors during the National POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony hosted by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) at National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu, Sept. 16, 2022. The event is held every year on the third Friday of September, honoring prisoners of war and missing-in-action service members. DPAAs mission is to achieve the fullest possible accounting for missing and unaccounted-for U.S. personnel to their families and our nation.

CAPE MAY, N.J. - Personnel at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May hold a remembrance ceremony for Petty Officer 1st Class Douglas Munro at his statue on the parade field, Sept. 27, 2022.U.S. Coast Guard men and women carry out a wide variety of diverse missions every day. Protecting people and commerce on the sea, protecting the sea itself, and protecting the country from threats aboard. We focus on present-day operations and readiness and strive to be prepared for tomorrow, but certain times compel us, and all Americans, to reflect on our history and heritage. The 80th anniversary of Munros extraordinarily heroic actions at Guadalcanal is such a day.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Freddy Corniel, center front, carries an urn containing a veterans cremains, while Staff Sgt. Matthew S. Mueller carries an American flag during the Veteran Internment Service at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Wrightstown, New Jersey, June 16, 2022. The ceremony was organized by the Vietnam Veterans of America, New Jersey Shore Area Chapter 12. The Monmouth County Sheriffs Office escorted the cremains of 14 veterans and one spouse - World War I veteran Edward Eriksen, World War II veterans Filmore A. Fergusson, Joseph Fucci, Donald B. Jamieson, Frank S. Krulikowski, William N. Lutz, John J. Nelson, Anthony P. Saeea, John J. Stasik, Edward E. Tompkins and George Urbanowicz; Korean War veterans Hugh Allan Jr. and Richard D Dixon; Vietnam veteran John J. Feehan Sr., and Margaret Duda, wife of Theodore Duda. Since 2011, New Jersey Shore Area Chapter 12, has worked with funeral homes to identify unclaimed cremains of veteran

The Parris Island Marine Band was awarded the Col. George S. Howard Citation of Musical Excellence aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., June 2, 2022.This annual award is presented to a military concert band which has demonstrated significant high standards of musical excellence. More than 150 military bands, including all foreign military bands, are eligible for the award. This marks the fourth time the Parris Island Marine Band has received the award.

020516-F-1616C-005. Base: Mcguire Air Force Base State: New Jersey (NJ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Service members from all service branches participate in an Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va. Jan. 13, 2023. The wreath was laid by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

U.S. Marines with 1st Marine Division lower the U.S. flag during a combined evening colors ceremony with Republic of Korea marines during Freedom Shield 24 in Pohang, South Korea, Feb. 29, 2024. Freedom Shield 24 is a defense-oriented exercise designed to strengthen the ROK-U.S. Alliance, enhance the combined defense posture, and further strengthen security and stability on the Korean peninsula. Marine Corps

Marines with Marine Barracks Washington conduct pass in review during a Sunset Parade at the Marine Corps War Memorial, Arlington, Va., July 19, 2022. The hosting official for the evening was Lt. Gen. Edward D. Banta, Deputy Commandant, Installation and Logistics, and the guest of honor was The Honorable Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Representative for Florida's 23rd Congressional District.

USA, New England, Massachusetts, Cape Ann, Gloucester, Gloucester Horribles Traditional Parade, July 3, student military honor guard.

The U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard marches forward to their position during Fleet Week New York 2022 at Lincoln Park, New Jersey, May 26, 2022. Fleet Week New York has been held nearly every year since 1984 to celebrate the nations maritime services and highlight their innovative capabilities, while providing an opportunity for the citizens of New York City and the surrounding tristate area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen.

Junior ROTC High School Military Academy marching in the parade, Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, USA.

DA-ST-88-04873. Base: Mount Vernon State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Color Guard performs during the 2022 MCAS Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 2022. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

A U.S. Marine Corps color guard with Headquarters Battalion (HQBN), 2d Marine Division, conduct drill movements at a relief and appointment ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 4, 2022. During the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Keith D. Hoge, the outgoing sergeant major, relinquished his role of battalion sergeant major to Sgt. Maj. Clifford P. Fincham.

DA-SC-86-10649. Base: Omaha Beach Country: France (FRA)

Marines with the Silent Drill Platoon shake hands with veterans following an Honor Flight Network performance at the Lincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C., April 19, 2022. The Honor Flight Network is a non profit organization dedicated to transporting American veterans to Washington D.C. to visit war memorials, honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

U.S. Marines with Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, present the colors during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 5, 2022. During the ceremony, Col. Seth W. B. Folsom relinquished command of the battalion to Col. Matthew Lundgren.

U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Division conduct a rehearsal for a battle colors rededication ceremony at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan Sept. 13, 2022. The ceremony commemorates the Divisions 80th Anniversary and its legacy of valor, honor, and fidelity. The 3d Marine Division was activated at Camp Elliot, San Diego, Sept. 16, 1942 and has taken part in combat operations from World War II and Vietnam through Iraq and Afghanistan. The current Marines of 3d Marine Division continue to build on this legacy today as a critical part of the stand-in force within the first island chain of the Indo-Pacific.

Soldiers from the Headquarters Support Company, 55th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, carry the brigade colors during the 28th Infantry Division Memorial Service at Boalsburg, Pa. The colors of the division, brigades, battalions, and companies, were on display to honor all the Soldiers that have served and gave the ultimate sacrifice

021111-F-3873G-006. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Unknown

Veterans Day ceremony and aftermath at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C., where Secretary Dirk Kempthorne delivered the opening remarks, and joined participating dignitaries including the former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, along with Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Founder and President Jan Scruggs, Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation Founder and President Diane Carlson Evans, Mary "Edie" Meeks of the Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation, William Hansen of Lockheed Martin, and William Murdy of Comfort Systems. Ceremony, co-hosted by the Memorial Fund and the National Park Service, highlighted the 25th anniversary of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

A US Army Honor Guard Team from Fort McPherson, Georgia folds the American Flag during a Retreat Ceremony held at the Fort. Base: Fort Mcpherson State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego Color Guard present the colors during a graduation ceremony for Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, May 06, 2022. The new Marines stood at attention while colors were marched in front of them.

The North Salem High School JROTC Color Guard salute the colors for the Memorial Day ceremony at the World War II Memorial, Salem, Ore., May 30, 2022. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

A US Air Force AIRMAN from Hickam AFB, Hawaii Honor Guard carries a folded American Flag following during retreat ceremony. Base: Hickam Air Force Base State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Usa, Virginia, Arlington. Iwo Jima Memorial, Sunset Parade which consists of a performance of 'The Commandant's Own' Drum and Bugle Corps, the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard.

NORFOLK (Oct. 21, 2022) Chief Operations Specialist Marlisha Graham stands with fellow chief petty officers during a promotion ceremony at the POW/MIA Park on Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads October 21, 2022. The ceremony was the culmination of a six-week training period in which senior enlisted leaders introduced the chief selectees to myriad challenges designed to strengthen their leadership skills and to provide a better understanding of what it means to be the chief.

050121-A-5399B-300. Base: Fort Hood State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: NORTHEAST

Idaho Governor Brad Little, military members, veterans and residents of the Treasure Valley community gather at Idaho State Veterans Cemetery for a Memorial Day ceremony, May 30, 2022, Boise, Idaho. The ceremony included guest speakers, a 21-gun salute and firing of American Civil War cannons.

U.S. Space Force Maj. Gen. Douglas A. Schiess, Combined Force Space Component Command (CFSCC) commander, led a CFSCC formation during a Retreat ceremony, conducted by members of the Vandenberg Base Honor Guard team, Aug. 31, 2022, at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif. The Retreat ceremony serves a twofold purpose. It signals the end of the official duty day and serves as a ceremony for paying respect to the flag.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Joy Kitashima, sergeant major of III Marine Expeditionary Force presents the III MEF colors to outgoing commanding general, Lt. Gen. James W. Bierman during the III MEF change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 26, 2024. During the ceremony, Lt. Gen. Bierman relinquished his duties as commanding general of III MEF to Lt. Gen. Roger B. Turner.

DN-ST-87-03247. Base: San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

United States coalition forces who served in Desert Storm march across the Arlington Memorial Bridge during the National Victory Celebration parade. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM VICTORY PARADE Base: Arlington State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

020811-F-2706D-004. Base: Spangdahlem Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

U.S. Marine Corps drill instructors with Fox Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, march with the guidons of their platoons during a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Sept. 30, 2022. Graduation took place at the completion of the 13-week transformation, which included training for drill, marksmanship, basic combat skills, and Marine Corps customs and traditions.

010614-A-6788L-002. Base: Fort Stewart State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: FORSCOM

Address at Veterans Day Ceremonies, Arlington National Cemetery, 11:01AM. Secretary of the Army Elvis J. Stahr and his wife, Dorothy Howland Berkfield Stahr, participate in Veterans Day ceremonies. Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.

220912-N-IW125-1084 KEY WEST, Fla. (Sep 12, 2022) U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Selectees and Naval Air Station Key West Fire Department host a 9/11 remembrance ceremony at NAS Key Wests Boca Chica Field Sep. 12, 2022. Naval Air Station Key West is the state-of-the-art facility for combat fighter aircraft of all military services, provides world-class pierside support to U.S. and foreign naval vessels, and is the premier training center for surface and subsurface military operations.

U.S. Marines with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit march off the colors during the 13th MEU Composite Ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 15, 2022. Battalion Landing Team 2/4, Combat Logistics Battalion 13, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, and Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 362 participated in the 13th MEU composite ceremony which commemorated the 13th MEU officially assuming command over the major subordinate elements in preparation for their upcoming deployment to the Indo-Pacific region.

New U.S. Marines with Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, retire the platoon guidons during a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, April 8, 2022. Following graduation, the Marines were given 10 days of leave before taking the next step in training at the School of Infantry at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Speros C. Koumparakis, commander, Marine Corps Base Hawaii and U.S. Navy Cmdr. Stephen Niemann, officer in charge, Naval Support Detachment, salute the Klipper Memorial during the 2022 Klipper Ceremony, MCBH, Dec. 7, 2022. The Klipper Memorial was dedicated in 1981 to honor the 17 U.S. Navy Sailors and two civilian contractors who died during the attack on Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay on Dec. 7, 1941.

The 1st Infantry Division Band marches at the head of a formation of Fort Riley Soldiers during an Independence Day parade on July 4th, 2022, at Junction City, KS. The parade was a part of the town's Freedom Festival, an event featuring rides, games, food, and entertainment for Junction City and Fort Riley locals.

221207-N-MR862-169 OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (07 Dec. 2022) Marine Corp League Oklahoma City Commandant, Danny Thomas discusses the names on the wall of the USS Oklahoma of the 14 U.S. Marines who lost their lives on the USS Oklahoma (BB-37), during the events of Pearl Harbor Dec 07, 2022. Strategic Communications Wing (SCW) 1 is a tenant command at Tinker Air Force Base, ensuring National Security through the deterrence of adversarial nuclear ambitions.

110510-N-UH963-150WASHINGTON (May 10, 2011) Gunnery Sgt. Brian M. Blonder renders honors during the National Anthem before receiving the Navy Cross medal for his actions while serving as a platoon sergeant in Force Reconnaissance Platoon, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Marine Corps Forces Central Command (Forward).

Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune was represented in the local Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, November 5, 2022. NMCCLs Commander and Director Captain Kevin Brown was accompanied by Master Chief Tim Whitaker, the Honor Guard, and several dozen corpsmen as they made their way down Western Boulevard in Jacksonville! Spectators also got to see the Armed Services Blood Program Blood Mobile and the Inter-Facility Transport Teams ambulance.

Usa, Virginia, Arlington. Iwo Jima Memorial, Sunset Parade which consists of a performance of 'The Commandant's Own' Drum and Bugle Corps, the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard.

Marines from Marine Air Carrier Group 48 render a 21-gun salute at the annual Norridge Veterans Memorial Day observance. U.S. Army Reserve Brig. Gen. Richard W. Corner, II, Commanding General, 85th U.S. Army Reserve Support Command, attended Memorial Day ceremonies in the local communities of Norridge and Arlington Heights during the Memorial Day weekend, May 29-30, 2022 to give remarks remembering fallen servicemembers and Gold Star Families.

060502-N-6996K-001. Base: Fort Stroy State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

US servicemen, army, airforce, marines and navy provide security at The National World War II Memorial, Washington DC, USA

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Anthony B. Reyes, the communication strategy and operations director assigned to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Task Force Los Angeles, observes an American flag attached to a parachutist man during a Memorial Day ceremony at Green Hills Memorial Park in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, as part of Los Angeles Fleet Week, May 30, 2022. The purpose of Fleet Week is to showcase the capabilities of the Navy-Marine Corps team and give back to the community with events, static displays, and personal interactions between service members and the public.

A color guard marches in a parade during the Armed Forces Day celebration. With Moffett Field scheduled for closing, local citizens are saluting the air station's contributions to the community as part of the events of the day. Base: Naval Air Station, Moffett Field State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY, LOS ANGELES (May 27, 2022) - The 1st Marine Division "Brass Breed" Band perform at the Griffith Observatory during LA Fleet Week 22, May 27. LAFW is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience America's sea services. During fleet week, service members participate in various community service events, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community, and enjoy the hospitality of Los Angeles and its surrounding areas.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. David Baldwin, Californias Adjutant General, marks his retirement with a ceremony at Mather Field, Sacramento, California, Sept. 28, 2022. Baldwins wife, children, and colleagues gather to celebrate his achievements and 40 years of service.

Technology Administration - 2004 National Medal of Technology Laureates

Service members participate in a joint enlistment ceremony at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Ind., May 22, 2022. The official party welcomed the new enlistees to the U.S. Armed Forces. (Indiana National Guard photo by Spc. Kelsea Cook)

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Diane Chau, adjudant, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, salutes while the national anthem plays during the unit's change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 2, 2022. The ceremony was held to relinquish command from Col. James W. Lively to Col. Thomas M. Siverts.

U.S. Army Sgt. Jeremy Leach, drum major of the 1st Infantry Division Band, goes over the route the band will march before a parade leading to the inaugural military tattoo at Vilnius, Lithuania, Aug. 27, 2022. The Big Red One Band is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly performing alongside NATO allies during a historical, inaugural military tattoo hosted by Lithuanian Armed Forces.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Fridrik Fridriksson, former director of Tactical Training and Exercise Control Group, Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command, salutes the colors at the close of his promotion ceremony at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, June 3, 2022. Fridriksson will assume command of 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade and concurrently serve as the Deputy Commanding General of III Marine Expeditionary Force in Okinawa, Japan.

As part of military medicine's "Pivot to Readiness", the U.S. Army Medical Command is reorganizing and re-designating its Regional Health Commands to Medical Readiness Commands. During four ceremonies the Regional Health Commands will reflag and become Medical Readiness Commands.We are building the future of Army Medicine. Medical reform and restructuring will enhance the ability to recruit, organize, train, and equip medical Soldiers and leaders capable of supporting the current and future force.

Arrival ceremonies for Konrad Adenauer, Chancellor of West Germany, 10:45AM. President John F. Kennedy and Chancellor of West Germany, Dr. Konrad Adenauer (both walking at left), review honor guard troops during arrival ceremonies in honor of Chancellor Adenauer. Interpreter for the German Foreign Ministry, Heinz Weber, walks behind. The Washington monument is visible in the distance. South Lawn, White House, Washington, D.C.

Service members from the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard, carry the casket of Navy Electricians Mate 3rd Class Roman W. Sadlowski, during his full honors military funeral in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 19, 2022.On Dec. 7, 1941, Sadlowski was assigned to the battleship USS Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when the ship was attacked by Japanese aircraft. The USS Oklahoma sustained multiple torpedo hits, which caused it to capsize quickly. The attack on the ship resulted in the deaths of 429 crewmen, including Sadlowski.Between June and November 2015, DPAA personnel exhumed the USS Oklahoma Unknown remains from the Punchbowl for analysis.To identify Sadlowskis remains, scientists from DPAA used anthropological analysis and circumstantial and material evidence. Additionally, scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis.

Marines from the The Presidents Own Marine Band, Marines from the Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C. (8th and I), and the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Caisson Platoon conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Brendan ODonnell in Section 83 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Oct. 14, 2022.ODonnell entered the Marine Corps in October of 1950 and fought in the Korean War as a second lieutenant. By early April 1951, ODonnell had become a platoon leader in Company D, 2nd Battalion of the 7th Marine Regiment, supporting the Armys 1st Cavalry Division. His platoon was fighting to the Kansas Line, along the 38th parallel the dividing line between North and South Korea. On April 10, 1951, ODonnells platoon spearheaded a company-sized attack on an enemy ridgeline, killing 27, wounding 35 and capturing seven. As enemy fire rained in from the adjacent hills, he constantly exposed himself while setting up a defensive position. Mortars t

The US Air Force (USAF) Honor Guard and the USAF Band escort the remains of US Air Force (USAF) Major General (MGEN) Howard W. Cannon (RET), carried by the US Armys (USA) Old Guard Platoon to the Arlington National Cemetery, where he will be buried with full military honors. MGEN Cannon was a former senator to the state of Nevada. Base: Arlington National Cemetery State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The Goodfellow Joint Service Color Guard prepares to present the colors during the 17th Training Group change of command at Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, June 30, 2022. The Joint Service Color Guard is responsible for presenting the National Colors during official ceremonies.

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