Military Leadership and Events

Military leaders addressing gatherings and events, fostering international relations and community engagement within military contexts.

Dr. Tim McMahon, Armed Forces Medical Examiner System DoD DNA operations director, shares AFMES DNA processes and advances with family members of missing personnel during a Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) Family Member Update (FMU) in Phoenix, Ariz., Feb. 24, 2024. DPAA personnel continuously work toward locating, recovering and identifying the remains of U.S. service members who are still missing from World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War and the Vietnam War. Air Force

Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall speaks during the Senior Enlisted Leader International Summit in Arlington, Va., Aug. 1, 2022. The summit is hosting senior enlisted leaders from 54 countries to reinforce partnerships between military services.

220929-N-FB203-0012 MANAMA, Bahrain (September 29, 2022) Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain and U.S. Navy Central Command leadership eat and speak with regional Ombudsman as part of a Navy Ombudsman appreciation breakfast. NSA Bahrain enables the forward operations and responsiveness of U.S. and allied forces in support of Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia's mission to provide services to the fleet, warfighter and family.

Anthony Davis, Deputy Director for Training and Readiness, with Marine Forces Reserve, speaks at the Inspector-Instructor (I&I) Orientation Training in New Orleans, Aug. 29, 2022. To keep the Marine Corps Reserve relevant, ready and responsive, this annual training provides guidance and best practices to recently assigned I&I staff by addressing key functional areas and emphasizing policies and procedures necessary for mission success. The Marine Corps is the only branch of service that assigns active duty service members to serve with Reserve units to help maintain a continuous state of readiness for mobilization.

Audience members stand and clap for Shirley Reagor, 102-year-old original member of the Coast Guard SPARS, during a ceremony at the Lone Star Flight Museum in Houston, Texas, Dec. 2, 2022. During the event, Coast Guard and community members celebrated the 80th anniversary of the SPARS, also known as the U.S. Coast Guard Womens Reserve during World War 2.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Michael L. Brooks, base commander, Marine Corps Base Quantico, conducts an annual brief to the community at The Clubs of Quantico and Crossroads Event Center on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Oct. 6, 2022. The annual event ensures that key community partners are well informed about MCBQs economic impact to the community.

More than 40 senior leaders and scholars from Arctic and near-Arctic nations joined at the Arctic Security Forces Council Roundtable in Fairbanks, Alaska, May 3, 2022. The event, themed "Security Through Partnerships: Stronger Together" was hosted by U.S. Northern Command in conjunction with U.S. European Command and the Norwegian Defense Staff and included discussions about defense and security issues, the strategic importance of the Arctic and the asymmetric advantage gained through strong alliances and partnerships built on the foundation of shared values, experience and vision. (Department of Defense photo by Eve Baker)

220404-N-BL637-1383 NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (Apr. 4, 2022) Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday, left center, speaks during a panel comprised of himself, Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger and Commandant of the Coast Guard Admiral Karl Schultz, during the 2022 Sea-Air-Space Exposition. The Sea-Air-Space Exposition is an annual event that brings together key military decision makers, the U.S. defense industrial base and private-sector companies for an innovative and educational maritime focused event.

Dr. Tim McMahon, Armed Forces Medical Examiner System DoD DNA operations director, shares AFMES DNA processes and advances with family members of missing personnel during a Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) Family Member Update (FMU) in Phoenix, Ariz., Feb. 24, 2024. DPAA personnel continuously work toward locating, recovering and identifying the remains of U.S. service members who are still missing from World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War and the Vietnam War. Air Force

WASHINGTON (Aug. 24, 2022) Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro delivers remarks and answers questions from Sailors, Marines and Civilians during a Department of the Navy One Year-in-Review all-hands call at the Pentagon Aug. 24, 2022.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosts the Ukraine Defense Contact Group with NATO and international counterparts at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 8, 2022. This is the the fifth such meeting of defense leaders from around the world since Russias unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine.

U.S. Army Soldiers and Civilians from Tripler Army Medical Center conduct a safety stand-down on July 21, 2022, in various areas of the hospital. A safety stand-down is a block of time where all personal in an organization come together and speak about the current and known safety issues that affect the command.

U.S. Army Soldiers from the 128th Aviation Brigade and U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Noncommissioned Officer Academy - Fort Eustis attended a community events council May 24, 2022, at Fort Eustis, Virginia

Military retirees and their family members participate in the 2022 Retiree Appreciation Day on Sept. 9, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wis. Hundreds of people attended the event that was coordinated by the Fort McCoy Soldier for Life/Retirement Services Office with the Fort McCoy Directorate of Human Resources. It was the first Retiree Appreciation Day at the installation since 2019.

ARLINGTON, Va. (Feb. 21, 2013) Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert speaks to members of the American Society of Naval Engineers (ANSE) about advances in warfighting technology and techniques and how shipbuilders should incorporate those concepts as they forge ahead with new designs to compliment the modern maritime strategy.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

U.S. Marines with The Basic School stand (TBS) at the position of attention 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.

Col. Michael Maginness, 5th Bomb Wing Vice Commander, briefs the Military Affairs Committee and community leaders at the Armed Forces Reserve Center, Minot, North Dakota, on May, 12, 2022. This lunch allows community leaders to engage and discuss important topics that are happening both on Minot Air Force Base and the City of Minot.

Nicholas Wulf, 422d Air Base Squadron supervisory logistics specialist, pitches his innovation during the Pathfinder Innovation Conference at RAF Alconbury, England, Oct. 21, 2022. The conference gave participants an opportunity to pitch their innovations, which were evaluated by a panel of judges and ranked based on their feasibility and overall benefit to the 501st Combat Support Wing mission. (U.S Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Eugene Oliver)

Members of the Society of the 1st Infantry Division gather during their society banquet at the Society of the First Infantry Division's 101st annual reunion at the Fort Worth Hilton Hotel, Texas, July 24th, 2022. The reunion allowed brothers and sisters-in-arms who currently or previously served within the 1st Infantry Division to spend time with fellow Veterans to share their stories of dedication and sacrifice.

RENO, Nevada (Sept. 10, 2022) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday attends 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. 8-12, for Sailor and leadership engagement.

RENO, Nevada (Sept. 10, 2022) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday attends a Chief of Naval Air Training winging ceremony during the Tailhook Associations Hook 22, the largest annual naval aviation conference, in Reno, Nevada. Gilday traveled to Nevada and California, Sept. 8-13, to meet and speak with Sailors and Navy leaders.

Vanden High School Junior Reserve Officer Corps (JROTC) students listen while Maj. Gen. Michael Talley, commanding general of the U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence, describes his Army career and shares the many opportunities available in Army Medicine, November 14, 2022. Talley attended his freshmen, sophomore, and part of his junior year at Vanden High School and had the opportunity to visit the campus during a during a hometown recruiting to California. The Army is working to engage with the public and raise awareness of the many opportunities of military service. In that effort senior Army leaders are visiting their hometown to meet with students and educators.

Brig. Gen. David B. Johnson, Ohio Air National Guard chief of staff, speaks to attendees of the 2022 Columbus Armed Forces Day Luncheon May 20, 2022, at the Villa Milano Banquet & Conference Center in Columbus, Ohio. The luncheon was hosted by the Military/Veterans Educational Foundation, a charitable organization that works to raise public awareness about the military in Central Ohio, funds several scholarships and organizes the annual Veterans Day parade in downtown Columbus.

U.S. Marines with Marine Forces Reserve participate in practical application exercises at the Inspector-Instructor (I&I) Orientation Training in New Orleans, Aug. 29, 2022. This training is held annually to discuss ongoing missions and conduct practical exercises for new leaders becoming part of the I&I staff. These officers and higher enlisted also receive briefs on topics including mobilization, force protection, logistics, Reserve policies and procedures, and the Marine Corps Reserve mission, Toys for Tots.

Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force Roger A. Towberman listens to a question during the Senior Enlisted Leader International Summit in Arlington, Va., Aug. 2, 2022. The summit is hosting senior enlisted leaders from 54 countries to reinforce partnerships between military services.

New Armed Forces Seserve Center & 63rd Regional Support Command Headquarters, Moffett Field, CA ribbon cutting ceremonies.

HONOLULU (June 7, 2022) Adm. Samuel Paparo, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, speaks during the 80th Anniversary Commemoration of the Battle of Midway at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

Lt. Col. Kevin Potts, second from right, Fort Indiantown Gap garrison commander, addresses local elected officials from Dauphin, Lebanon and Schuylkill counties during a briefing at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., on Oct. 18, 2022. (Pennsylvania National Guard photo by Brad Rhen)

Retried Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Robert Gaylor talks with 502d Logistics Readiness Squadron senior leaders during a strategic leadership off-site in San Antonio, Texas, April 12, 2022. Several guest speakers and team building exercises led a focus on developing values of high-performance teams and understanding different personalities in the work place.

U.S. Navy, Sailors assigned to the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), and their family members register for the grand prize raffle at the Stennis Spring Fling Party at Waterside Norfolk Marriot, Norfolk, Virginia, April 14, 2022. The John C. Stennis is in Newport News Shipyard working alongside NNS, NAVSEA and contractors conducting Refueling and Complex Overhaul as part of the mission to deliver the warship back in the fight, on time and on budget, to resume its duty of defending the United States.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Sean Tyler, left, commander, Defense Logistics Agency Aviation, introduces retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Arthur Gregg, as a special guest during the National African American History Month Celebration Feb. 20 on Defense Supply Center Richmond in Virginia. By honoring the history of African Americans and their contributions to the arts and military industry, the DLA Aviation team recognizes and celebrates the richness of the past and present by highlighting the resilience, achievements and stories of the Black community. (DOD

220914-N-UB993-1145NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 14, 2022) Evelyn Honea, Navy Ombudsman-at-Large, speaks with local command Ombudsmans in an effort to assist the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea improve the quality of life for Sailors and their families at Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 14, 2022. MCPON Honea conducted his first fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

Joseph Ramirez, the director of Marine Corps Liaisons for Government and External Affairs, addresses the attendees of the local elected officials at the Elected Officials Luncheon hosted by U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Andrew M. Niebel, commanding general, Marine Corps Installations East-Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, Aug. 31, 2022, at Paradise Point Officers Club on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The annual luncheon reinforces partnerships between the U.S. Marine Corps and surrounding communities by communicating enhancement of support between the base and the local community.

Wayne Mastin, with Astrion, talks with fellow attendees during the Mobility Air Force Data Link Users Group, at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, Missouri, February 6, 2024. During the event, hosted by the Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center, more than 100 subject matter experts discussed community airframe updates, future data link capabilities, as well as briefings from some of the top leaders in the field. Data Link provides the capability for air and ground crews to be able to establish and maintain tactical coordination anywhere in the world. Air National Guard

Members attending the 2022 Scientific Summit hosted by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency take part in a working group focused on recovering remains on the atoll of Tarawa, Sept. 21, 2022, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, HI. The atoll of Tarawa was involved in fierce fighting during World War II, with DPAA and its partner organizations working to recover and repatriate the remains of American, Japanese, and Korean service members killed in action.

U.S. Marine Corps, Navy and Coast Guard leaders answer questions during the Is Acquisition Innovating and Adapting to Meet the Different Requirements Presented Near Term and Far Term panel during the WEST 2024 conference at the San Diego Convention Center in California, Feb. 14, 2024. The panel discussed the extent of these challenges and the pace at which their teams are innovating and adapting to field needed capabilities as quickly as possible. WEST 2024 is the only event in which the makers of platforms and the designers of technologies can network, discuss and demonstrate their solutions in a single locale. Marine Corps

Inter-American Defense College Leadership hosts a hail and farewell ceremony on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Aug. 24, 2022. During the ceremony arriving team members were greeted and departing members received awards, parting gifts and shared a few words with fellow staff members, students and faculty.

Newly appointed civic leaders recite the Honorary Commanders Oath during the 2023 HCC Induction Ceremony at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, Oct. 20, 2022. Forty-two local civic and business leaders were inducted into the HCC program.

Honorary commanders with the 502nd Air Base Wing look at wall decorations during an honorary commanders program tour, Aug. 17, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. The honorary commanders program enhances the knowledge of community leaders regarding the missions, policies, programs and people of the U.S. military, while fostering a supportive relationship between the military and the community.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - PHOTOS OF BRIGADIER GENERAL JACK KELLY AND CHINESE DELEGATION

WASHINGTON (Jan. 4., 2024) - Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti delivers remarks during the White House Historical Association's 9th annual Commodore Stephen Decaturs birthday event, at the Decatur House in Washington D.C., Jan. 4. The evening was focused on the US-Royal Navy relationship since the days of Stephen Decatur and the War of 1812 during the event.

Coast Guard Rear Admiral Todd Wiemers, Assistant Commandant for Capability, addresses attendees of the third annual Global Marine Transportation (MTS) Cybersecurity Symposium in Long Beach, California, May 12, 2022. The focus of the symposium was to strengthen collaboration and to engage across boundaries, encompassing international organizations, industry, and the public sector.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Michael Taylor, 422d Air Base Group senior enlisted leader, speaks prior to the Crown Olympics at RAF Croughton, England, Jan. 6, 2022. Airmen from RAF Croughton, RAF Welford and RAF Fairford came together to interact and compete at various games and activities to build camaraderie and togetherness.

221023-N-DL524-1050 MIAMI (Oct. 23, 2022) Army Gen. Laura Richardson, commander of U.S. Southern Command, speaks at a reception following the arrival of hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20). Comfort is deployed to U.S. 4th Fleet in support of Continuing Promise 2022, a humanitarian assistance and goodwill mission conducting direct medical care, expeditionary veterinary care, and subject matter expert exchanges with five partner nations in the Caribbean, Central and South America.

Military and civilian personnel attend the 41st Annual Salute to the Military inside the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi, Oct. 4, 2022. The Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce hosted event recognized the men and women who serve in the military along the Gulf Coast.

U.S. Congressman Adam Smith, House Armed Services Committee Chairman, left, and U.S. Congressman Steve Palazzo, center, are briefed on the events of Orient Shield 22 at Camp Kengun, Japan on August 30, 2022. Orient Shield is the largest U.S. Army and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force bilateral field training exercise being executed in various locations throughout Japan to enhance interoperability, and test and refine multi-domain and cross-domain operations. The U.S. shares mutual security and economic interests with like-minded allies and partners including Japan across the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Michael A. Fahey, outgoing Commanding General of 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, addresses crowd of friends, family, and colleagues during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans, June 30, 2022. Fahey thanked his family and welcomed the incoming Commanding General of 4th Marine Division, Brig. Gen. Douglas K. Clark.

MONTEREY, Calif. (Aug. 9, 2022) The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) hosted Adm. Samuel Paparo, commander of U.S. Pacific Fleet (PACFLT), and other major commanders at the PACFLT 2022 Commanders Conference, Aug. 8-9. The event brought together senior-level commanders from across the Navy and Marine Corps to the NPS campus in order to assess the current operational environment and to discuss the fleets priorities and challenges.

Philippine Marine Corps Commandant Maj. Gen. Nestor C. Herico speaks as a panelist in a discussion about contested logistics during the eighth iteration of the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium, Tokyo, Japan, June 15, 2022. PALS consists of discussions and presentations which aim to deepen cooperation, confront common threats, protect shared resources and uphold sovereignty. 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.

061115-F-7203T-007. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

High school educators watch the Parris Island Marine Corps Band perform at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, May 4, 2022. The annual 1st Marine Corps District Educators' Workshop brought high school staff and faculty, as well as broadcast media from across the northeast United States to MCRD PI to experience a preview of recruit training and show the opportunities available to their students within the Marine Corps.

Capt. David Adams, Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS), proposes a kampai toast during the 2022 Japan-America Society of Sasebo (JASS) Christmas party held at Hotel Flags Kujukushima in Sasebo, Japan Dec. 9, 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.

220403-N-CM110-2003 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 3, 2022) - Capt. Joel Lang, commanding officer of amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), answers questions during an interview with civilian Media aboard amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), April 3. Reporters embarked Tripoli for a tour and to observe the U.S. Marine Corps Lightning carrier concept demonstration. The Lightning carrier concept demonstration shows Tripoli and other amphibious assault ships are capable of operating as dedicated fixed-wing carrier platforms, capable of bringing fifth generation Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft wherever they are required.

Military retirees and their family members participate in the 2022 Retiree Appreciation Day on Sept. 9, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wis. Hundreds of people attended the event that was coordinated by the Fort McCoy Soldier for Life/Retirement Services Office with the Fort McCoy Directorate of Human Resources. It was the first Retiree Appreciation Day at the installation since 2019.

107th Attack Wing members assemble for a holiday commanders call, December 10, 2022, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station. During the meeting Lt Col Andrew Carlson and Col John O'Connor, wing commander and vice commander respectively, expressed their goals and vision for the 107th, as well as wished members and their families a safe and happy holiday season. Air National Guard photo by 1st Lt Jason Carr

U.S. Marines with Marine Forces Reserve pose for a photo at the Inspector-Instructor (I&I) Orientation Training in New Orleans, Aug. 29, 2022. To keep the Marine Corps Reserve relevant, ready and responsive, this annual orientation training provides guidance and best practices to recently assigned I&Is by addressing key functional areas and emphasizing policies and procedures necessary for mission success. The Marine Corps is the only branch of service that assigns active duty service members to serve with Reserve units to help maintain a continuous state of readiness for mobilization.

Meeting with the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), Palm Beach, Florida 10:15AM. President John F. Kennedy meets with the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) and others at the residence of C. Michael Paul in Palm Beach, Florida. Seated at table (clockwise from top): President Kennedy; Secretary of Defense, Robert S. McNamara; Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral George W. Anderson, Jr.; Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, General David M. Shoup; unidentified (back to camera); former Chief of Staff of the United States Army, General George H. Decker; former Chairman of the JCS, General Lyman L. Lemnitzer; Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson. Notes: Scratches on right hand side of image are original to the negative.

4th Infantry Division veterans are given a tour inside the Command and General Staff College during the 2022 National Reunion at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, July 28, 2022. The National 4th Inf. (IVY) Div. Association has been supporting the Veterans, Soldiers and friends of the 4th Inf. Div. since 1919.

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.

Stephen Sullivan, the Chief Financial Officer and Director for Resources, Installations, and Materiel for the Office of the Chief of the Army Reserve, sits in on a briefing April 25, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wis., as part of an official visit. Sullivan visited Fort McCoy from April 25-27 to learn more about the installation and see facilities throughout the post. The visit included an initial overview briefing by Garrison Commander Col. Michael Poss with other members of the Fort McCoy Garrison command team as well as several Fort McCoy workforce leaders and members. The visit also included tours of barracks buildings and dining facilities used for the Operation Allies Welcome mission at Fort McCoy between Aug. 15, 2021, and Feb. 15, 2022. And Sullivan received an aerial tour aboard a UH-60 Black Hawk that showed him the entire installation from north to south and in between.

220630-N-WR119-1010 PEARL HARBOR (June 30, 2022) Retired U.S. Navy Adm. Peter Gumataotao, director of the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies addresses senior enlisted leaders from various countries' navies during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, June 30. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (April 22, 2022) Aviation Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Ashley Glover reacts to being selected as Naval Surface Force Atlantic (SURFLANT)s Sea Sailor of the Year at SURFLANTs FY-21 Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year Ceremony, Apr. 22. Rear Adm. Brendan McLane, commander of SURFLANT, also announced Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Rashad McKenzie as SURFLANTs Shore Sailor of the Year.

U.S. Marines with Marine Forces Reserve pose for a photo at the Inspector-Instructor (I&I) Orientation Training in New Orleans, Jan. 9, 2024. This annual training provides guidance to newly assigned I&I staff by giving them the tools and resources necessary to support the Marine Forces Reserve's ongoing mission to augment the active component.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. General Jay Bargeron, 3d Marine Division Commanding General, speaks at the 3d Marine Division Association banquet honoring the Divisions 80th Anniversary in San Diego, California, Sept. 17, 2022. 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.

Airmen from the 81st Training Group attend the 81st Training Group Airman's Ball inside the Bay Breeze Event Center at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, Sept. 30, 2022. The event was geared toward Airmen in training on how to participate and act during a formal military ball so they can feel confident in their abilities when arriving at their follow-on locations. The Airmen served in key positions throughout the ball such as emcees, color guard, POW/MIA table ceremony, national anthem singer and the invocation.

The Illinois National Guard Lincoln's ChalleNGe Academy color guard team prepares for the Posting of the Colors during a Gold Star Mothers and Family Day event Sept. 25 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield, Illinois. Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton presented flowers to family members of fallen heroes in attendance. Gov. Pritzker proclaimed September 25 as Gold Star Mothers Day in Illinois to recognize the mothers who suffered the supreme tragedy in the loss of their sons and daughters in wars and remember the sacrifices they have made. Since 1936, Gold Star Mothers and Family Day has taken place to recognize the loved ones of those who have tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. (Illinois National Guard photo by Army Sgt. Trenton Fouche)

U.S. Marines, international military members and government officials celebrate the 247th U.S. Marine Corps birthday during a ceremony and reception at the U.S. Mission to the U.N., New York, Nov. 10, 2022. The event gathered past and present service members from the Marine Corps, government leaders and representatives from foreign militaries to honor U.S. Marine Corps traditions, build camaraderie and acknowledge past accomplishments.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosts the annual POW/MIA recognition ceremony at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., Sept. 16, 2022. (DoD photo by Lisa Ferdinando)

Members assigned to the 17th Training Wing gather for the annual Air Force Ball, at the McNease Convention Center, in San Angelo, Texas, Sept. 17, 2022. The ball shined a spotlight on the Air Forces 75th anniversary, themed Then and Now. Attendees learned about the services past accomplishments and todays achievements.

Members of the delegation from China and their hosts, the U.S. Navy, dine at the Hotel Del Coronado prior to their departure. Base: San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Jason Woodworth, center, the commanding general of Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, speaks with members of the San Diego Military Advisory Council and affiliates during a breakfast at the Admiral Kidd Catering & Conference Center on Naval Base Point Loma, California, August 17, 2022. SDMACs mission is to support and promote the mutual business and other interests of the military, their quality of life, and the defense community in the San Diego area. Woodworth is a native of Suffield, Connecticut.

Material from Vice Admiral Allen - Aftermath - 26-HK-372-27. Hurricane Katrina

The Inter-American Defense College and United States Northern Command hosts the inaugural North American Defense Framework for Women, Peace, and Security Workshop at IADC Kennedy Hall on Fort Lesley J. McNair in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 27-29, 2024. The event brought together military and civilian experts from Canada, Mexico, the United States, and the Bahamas. The collaborative event focused on integrating gender perspectives into military education, addressing gender-based violence, and enhancing gender equality in military operations. Participants, representing diverse ranks and branches, formulated actionable recommendations and formed partnerships, signifying a transformative shift toward a more inclusive defense framework. Air Force

Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) personnel meet with Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Peoples Liberation Army Archives (PLA-A), and local officials in order to discuss the upcoming site survey in the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), Jan. 7, 2024. A DPAA team spent several weeks surveying sites in Southern China in order to provide vital information for future recovery missions. Approximately690 unaccounted-for American personnel from World War II are believed to be located within modern-day PRC.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George W. Smith Jr., commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, provides opening remarks to I MEF Marines, during a I MEF Professional Leaders Conference at the Hilton Garden Inn Conference Center in Carlsbad, California, March 28, 2023. During the conference, approximately 150 sergeants and staff sergeants participated in group focused case studies, workshops, and discussions centered on troop welfare. The purpose of the conference was to better prepare and increase understanding in small unit leaders about the human factors and behaviors that may be indicative of mental health issues and suicidal ideation.

With a throng of reporters looking on, the prime and backup crews for the Expedition 8 mission to the International Space Station and the prime and backup European Space Agency Astronauts receive final well-wishes from Russian and U.S. space officials at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2003, before heading to the launch pad. Expedition 8 Commander and NASA Science Officer Michael Foale, Expedition 8 Soyuz Commander Alexander Kaleri and ESA's Pedro Duque of Spain were launched on a Soyuz TMA-3 vehicle, arriving at the ISS on Oct. 20.

The U.S. Naval Submarine School, Rotary Club of Niantic, and several local public representatives honored Naval Submarine School staff member Petty Officer 1st Class Gabriel W. Muscella as the service person of the month in a ceremony in Niantic, Connecticut, Sept. 14, 2022. During the ceremony, Muscella was recognized for him many achievements at the submarine school and outside of work and was given multiple awards by local representatives, and an Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal by Capt. Eric Sagers, the commanding officer of the U.S. Naval Submarine School. U.S. Navy photos by Lauren Laughlin

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Mitch Utterback asks four founding 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) Green Berets, Henry Bertrand, Richard Simonian, Vahan Sipantzi and Clyde Sincere to share stories and answer questions during a Special Forces Association Convention (SFACON), where Green Berets, Soldiers and retirees attended a four-day event held from September 21-24, 2022, in the Colorado Springs area including Fort Carson. SFACON is held to honor, remember and recognize Green Berets and enablers with multiple special events, panels of speakers and Special Forces Medal of Honor guests.

Lt. Gen. (Ret) Thomas Spoehr, Director, Center for National Defense, The Heritage Foundation, Dr. Melanie Sisson, Fellow-Foreign Policy, Center for Security, Strategy, and Technology, Brookings, Dr. Michael Clarke, Senior Fellow, Centre for Defence Research, Australian Defence College, Canberra, Australia, Mr. Richard McManus, Senior Technical Advisor, U.S. Strategic Command, J5 and Mr. Ed Ferguson, Minister Counsellor Defence, British Embassy participate in a panel discussion at United States Strategic Command's 13th annual Deterrence Symposium in La Vista, Nebraska, 27 July 2022. The Deterrence Symposium is the premiere event for United States Strategic Command, drawing from academic, government, military, and international experts, with the goal of exploring a broad range of deterrence issues and thinking.

Group Photo of members of Task Force VIPR. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers South Atlantic Division formally commissioned Task Force Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico in a ceremony at the historic Fort Castillo San Critóbal in the heart of San Juan Jan. 23. TF VIPR was created to organize and prioritize the demand of construction projects throughout the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, Army Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Mike McCord, Under Secretary of Defense (comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer, provide testimony at a House Armed Services Committee hearing on the fiscal 2023 defense budget request, 2118 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. April 5, 2022.

Memphis, Tenn. (June 13, 2022) Personnel Specialist 1st Class Keith Cherry, a native of Houston, Texas, assigned the Navys eSports team, watches over as team members speak to students at The Technical Training Center of The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Memphis during Navy Week Memphis. Memphis Navy Week is one of 14 Navy Weeks in 2022, which brings a variety of assets, equipment, and personnel to a single city for a weeklong series of engagements designed to bring America's Navy closer to the people it protects. Each year, the program reaches more than 140 million people -- about half the U.S. population.

221001-N-MW880-2040 ADRIATIC SEA (Oct. 01, 2022) Rear Adm. Dennis Velez, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10, George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG), speaks during a Hispanic Heritage Month observance ceremony, Oct. 01, 2022. CVW-7 is the offensive air and strike component of CSG-10, GHWBCSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (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. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Members of Team Malmstrom raise their glasses in a toast during the Air Force 75th Anniversary Ball Sept. 24, 2022, in Great Falls, Mont. The ball is a celebration of Air Force Birthday as well as an opportunity to experience some of the services time-honored traditions. In addition, the ball provides an opportunity for Airmen to reflect and commemorate those who served before.

Soldiers and civilians speak to representatives of perspective employers and institutes of higher learning at Fort Jackson Education and Career Fair May 10 at the Solomon Center on post.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Lance J. Langfeldt, center, 6th Marine Corps District commanding officer, stands with the 6MCD Career Recruiter Training Event attendees in New Orleans, Louisiana, Oct. 5, 2022. The four-day CRTE joins together the RSCOs, career recruiters, and career recruiter applicants for professional development in all aspects of recruiting and Military Occupational Specialty progression. The Career Recruiter MOS 8412 and Recruiting Officer MOS 4810, are lateral career options for successful Marine Corps recruiters to apply for as staff sergeants or gunnery sergeants. ( (Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Devin Phommachanh)

The Westfield Starfires, a collegiate summer baseball team in Westfield, Massachusetts visited Barnes Air National Guard Base, Westfield, Massachusetts to debut their specialty jerseys highlighting the 104FW and continue the partnership between the Starfires and the 104FW. The team watched our F-15Cs take off, spoke to Tech. Sgt. Garrick Pelletier a maintainer, and Capt. Kyle 'Vice' Randal an F-15C pilot. (U.S Air National Guard Photos by Master Sgt. Lindsey S. Watson)

Matt Tomes, director and administrative officer for Rock Island National Cemetery in Illinois fielded questions from retirees about requirements for burial in the cemetery. Located on Rock Island Arsenal, the cemetery is managed by the National Cemetery Administration. The historic cemetery is currently undergoing a $6.2 million expansion project which will allow for an additional 5,836 gravesites on 9.12 acres for the local community. (Photo by Staci-Jill Burnley, USAGRIA Public Affairs)

Col. Andy Nuce, Commander of the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Development Activity

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - PHOTOS OF BRIGADIER GENERAL JACK KELLY AND CHINESE DELEGATION

Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli participates in a question and answer forum following his speech at the 131st Annual National Guard Association of the United States conference in Nashville, TN, Sept. 13, 2009. Chiarelli highlighted several steps the Army is taking to address increasing soldier suicides and mental health issues.

221021-N-LZ409-1026 KOLOA, Hawai`i (Oct. 21, 2022) Guests pose for a group photo at a U.S. Navy Ball hosted by Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), Barking Sands, at the Grand Hyatt Kaua`i Resort and Spa, in celebration of the Navys 247th birthday. The theme of the U.S. Navys 247th birthday was On Watch - 24/7 for 247 Years, which highlights our Navys enduring ability to remain fully ready to respond to and effectively deter emergent threats. PMRF is the worlds largest instrumented multi-environment range capable of supporting surface, subsurface, air and space operations simultaneously.

LTG Laura A. Potter, Deputy Chief of Staff, G-2; Mr. Alexander Miller, HQDA G-2 Senior Advisor for S&T; Mr. Mark C. Luz, PEO, IEW&S; Mr. Michael C. Monteleone III, APNT/S, Director speaks to audience members about Deep Sensing & the Edge at 2022 AUSA Convention on October 10, 2022, in Washington, D.C.

Lt. Col. Cory Jerch, Commander OSS/CC, 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.

Maj. Terrence Tysall speaks at an Officer Candidate School (OCS) graduation ceremony at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, August 27, 2022. OCS is a physically and mentally challenging course designed to transform first-time Soldiers or those with prior military experience into strong, effective leaders.

Dr. Myra Gray, U.S. Army Security Assistance Command Deputy to the Commanding General, discusses international sustainment and foreign military sales alongside Tory Kessinger, assistant program executive officer for international programs in the Army's Program Executive Office for Combat support and Combat Service Support, at the 2024 Tactical Wheeled Vehicles Conference in Charlotte, N.C., Feb. 27, 2024. Army

Former drill instructors with Fox Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, hold a reunion aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., July 30, 2022.These past drill instructors served in Fox Company, between 1980 and 1984 ensuring each graduating Marine was ready to fight and win their nation's battles.

220804-N-MM912-1106 PACIFIC OCEAN (August 4, 2022) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) hosts the closing reception of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The worlds largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

Major Shota Kurechi from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force gives a briefing during the Pacific Unity Multi-Lateral Civil Engineer Key Leader Engagement, June 24, 2022 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Themes during this KLE included topics of shared interest across the allies and partners such as joint capabilities, leveraging expertise in the Total Force, and increased frequency of subject matter expert exchanges and multi-lateral training.

From left, Zanetta Adams, director of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Thais Taylor, and CW5 Jessica S Ulrey, pose for a photo at the second annual Michigan Military & Veterans Gala at the Lansing Event Center, Lansing, Mich., Nov. 5, 2022. The night featured a formal presentation of awards to veterans, service members and those who advocate for them throughout the 2022 year

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