Military Leadership Engagement

Images of military leaders interacting, discussing operations, and showcasing support during visits and exercises in different locations.

Airmen with the 255th Air Control Squadron, 172nd Airlift Wing, Mississippi Air National Guard, inspect and pack equipment at the Gulfport Combat Readiness Training Center, Gulfport, Miss., September 29, 2022. The Airmen are preparing to deploy to Florida in support of Hurricane Ian recovery.

U.S. Army Col. Richard J. Ikena Jr., commander of 1st Infantry Division Artillery, receives U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin during a congressional visit at Forward Operating Site Adazi, Latvia, July 8, 2022. The 1st Infantry Division Artillery is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

Major General William (Butch) H. Graham (center), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Deputy Commanding General for Civil and Emergency Operations, visits a Blue Roof installation site on Sanibel Island with his aide-de-camp Cpt. Daniel L. Marcey. USACE is actively supporting recovery efforts in areas to include Operation Blue Roof, infrastructure assessments, temporary housing and debris technical assistance in support of FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency and the State of Florida. (Photo by Brigida Sanchez)

New York Army National Guard Command Sergeant Major Sean Goodridge, the senior noncommissioned officer assigned to 152nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, sets up a tent with his Soldiers during a Homeland Response Force validation exercise at Fort Indiantown Gap, PA on September 10, 2022. The tent was used as a command post for the senior NCOs and officers of the unit during the exercise. (New York National Guard photo by SSG Matthew Gunther)

Maxwell AFB, Ala. - Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., tours the new Maxwell Air Force Base Toptracer Range 42 installation on June 23, 2022.

Rear Adm. Mark Mortiz, Deputy Commander, Navy Medical Forces Pacific, recognizes Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Timothy Fliam for his hard work during Tropic Care 2022 in Lihue, Hawai'i, on June 16 2022. Tropicare 2022 provides real world training in a joint civil and military environment while strengthening community relationships by providing medical, dental, and optometry services to the people of Hawai'i.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John V. Meyer III, the commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division, and Col. John B. Gilliam, commander of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, have a conversation with Polish soldiers after an uncasing ceremony at Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, Aug. 29, 2022. The 3/1 ABCT is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, Americas forward-deployed corps in Europe.

Gen. Mark D. Kelly (left), Air Combat Command commander, speaks with Brig. Gen. Richard W. Gibbs, Ogden Air Logistics Complex commander, during a visit to the A-10 production line Aug. 9, 2022, at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. During his visit to Hill AFB, the general met with members of the Ogden Air Logistics Complex and 388th Fighter Wing. He received briefings on aircraft maintenance, sustainment and operations.

Maj. Gen. Rodney Boyd, the Assistant Adjutant General - Army for the Illinois National Guard and the Commander of the Illinois Army National Guard, presents Air Force Col. Shawn Strahle, the Deputy Commander of the Illinois Air National Guard's 183rd Wing, with the Illinois Army National Guard Staff Eagle. Boyd also presented Strahle with the Meritorious Service Medal for more than four years of service as the Director of Information Management, part of the Illinois Army National Guard's staff. Both were presented to Strahle in front of the Illinois Army National Guard staff on January 9 at the Guard's headquarters on Camp Lincoln in Springfield.Strahle is a resident of Chatham, Illinois, and a native of Dugger, Indiana. He served as the Illinois National Guard's Director of Information Management from May 2019 to September 2023. The medal citation reads "Colonel Strahle demonstrated extraordinary leadership, expertise, and devotion to duty that greatly enhanced the overall readiness r

Col. Todd Hook, 1st Cavalry Division chief of staff, explains his strategy for warfighting to section leaders during Command Post Exercise 1.5 Oct. 20 at Fort Hood, Texas. Section leaders came together to discuss how the mission is fought during the CPX.

ASAN, Guam (Sept. 22, 2022) - Joint Region Marianas Commander Rear Adm. Benjamin Nicholson met with a team of dedicated and hardworking archaeologists who support the Navy's cultural resources program and initiatives for Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz (MCBCB), Sept. 21. Additionally, Nicholson recognized Lead Archaeologist and Cultural Resource Program Manager Ronnie Rogers with a command coin.

040904-M-2697B-015. Base: Mcas, Beaufort State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Tom James, left, commander of the Joint Task Force-Space Defense, gives remarks during an interservice transfer ceremony for U.S. Army Sergeant 1st Class Maurice Erickson, right, 1st Sgt. for the JTF-SD, at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, Sept. 21, 2022. James presided over the ceremony and administered the oath of enlistment to Erickson as he transferred into the U.S. Space Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Andrew Niebel, commanding general of Marine Corps Installations East, gives a speech during the change of command ceremony forMarine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Aug. 5, 2022. Col. Mikel Huber relinquished command to Col. Brendan Burks, and retired after 29 years of honorable service.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Duke A. Pirak, right, deputy director of the Air National Guard (ANG) coins Senior Airman Logan Abell, network systems specialist assigned to the 158th Communications Squadron at the 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont ANG Base, South Burlington, Vermont, Sept. 11, 2022. Abell was recognized by Pirak for his outstanding contribrbutions as an Airmen in the 158th Fighter Wing.

A U.S. Soldier assigned to Task Force Pioneer accepts a certificate of German marksmanship proficiency during a German Armed Forces Badge of Marksmanship awards ceremony at Union III forward operating base in Baghdad, Iraq, April 14, 2022. The German Armed Forces Badge of Marksmanship is awarded to soldiers proficient in marksmanship and is an official military award authorized for wear by enlisted service members.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Jason Rueschhoff, 56th Fighter Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Jason Shaffer, 56th FW command chief, speak to the military wives at the Heart Link Spouse Orientation Oct. 19, 2022, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. This orientation helps provide support for military spouses at Luke AFB, as they may encounter high-stress events such as deployments, sudden changes of station or other factors.

Lt. Gen. Stephen N. Whiting, Space Operations Command Commander, presents challenge coins to Clear Space Force Station Arctic Airmen and Guardian superior performers in their duties to protect and defend the homeland. The Clear SFS members provide strategic missile warning, missile defense, and Upgraded Early Warning Radar as an integral part of deterrence in support of Homeland Defense. Clear SFS is home to Arctic Airmen and Guardians assigned to the 13th and 213th Space Warning Squadrons, providing 24/7 missile warning, missile defense, and space domain awareness.

Earlier this morning, Soldiers from across Fort Hood reenlisted live on television with Fox and Friends morning show hosted by Will Cain. Brig. Gen. Steven P. Carpenter, 1st Cavalry Division deputy commanding general of maneuver, performed the oath of enlistment.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Tom Whiteman, 121st Air Refueling Wing Chaplain, is promoted during a ceremony at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio, Aug. 13, 2022. Whiteman was joined by fellow Airmen and family members for his promotion ceremony.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, speak with Finnish citizens at a static display during the Oripää Airshow at Säkylä, Finland, July 16, 2022. The 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and the Pori Brigade of the Finnish army began summer training in Finland to strengthen relations and help build interoperability between the two nations.

From left to right: U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jeremy A. McHugh, outgoing U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz commander, Mr. Tommy R. Mize, Installation Management Command-Europe director and Col. Reid E. Furman, incoming commander render honors during a change of command ceremony, July 22, 2022, in Kaiserslautern, Germany. Furman assumed command of the unit from McHugh.

U.S. Army Col. Dana Tourangeau, Deputy Chief of Staff of Personnel, at Joint Force Headquarters, Vermont National Guard, shakes hands with guests after being awarded the Legion of Merit medal during his retirement ceremony at Camp Johnson, Colchester, Vt., May 6, 2022. Col. Tourangeau retires from the Guard after three decades of service.

The oncoming, outgoing, and previous commanding officers of U.S. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 464 stand in formation during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, Feb. 16, 2024. The ceremony represented a transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Lt. Col. Eben Buxton, a native of Virginia, to Lt. Col. Justin Carrel, a native of Alabama. HMH-464 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. William Bowers, the commanding general for Marine Corps Recruiting Command, tours the 8th Marine Corps District (8MCD), Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, Fort Worth, Texas, Sept 8, 2022. 8MCD hosted distinguished guests during a planned Fiscal Year '22 Site Visit.

Col. Kevin McCaskey, left, 39th Air Base Wing vice commander, talks with Col. Scott Thompson, United States Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa director of financial management and comptroller, on Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, Nov. 29, 2022. Thompson and Chief Master Sgt. Shiona Meyer, USAFE-AFAFRICA chief enlisted manager of financial management and comptroller, visited the 39th Air Base Wing and its geographically separated units finance teams to observe their capabilities and resources along with the unique challenges they face. With this knowledge, USAFE-AFAFRICA FM can provide guidance and support to help develop or upgrade processes and procedures to ensure the continuation of the 39th ABW and USAFE-AFAFRICAs mission.

U.S Air Force Capt. Mike Addis, the troop commander of the 442d Logistics Readiness Squadron's deployment for training, thanked members of the 100 LRS for their support during the DFT May 25, 2022, on Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England. "For being the first DFT we've had in years," said Addis, "this went really smoothly - mostly thanks to the fantastic support we received from the 100th."

U.S. Army Col. Christian M. Neary, incoming commander of the 642nd Regional Support Group, leads the May 26, 2022, change of command ceremony at Fort Hood, Texas. Neary took charge of the Reserve unit from outgoing commander Col. Robert J. Coker. The 642nd Regional Support Group currently conducts the duties of the Mobilization Support Brigade supporting the mobilization and demobilization of Reserve and National Guard units from throughout the nation. Maj. Gen. Susan Henderson, commanding general of the 377th Theatre Support Command, oversaw the ceremony. The 642nd Regional Support Group is based in Decatur, Ga.

U.S. Army Soldiers meet the Chief of Staff of the Indian Army Gen. Manoj Pande during his visit at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Feb. 15, 2024. The visit was part of a tour to strengthen U.S. and India relations and interoperability. Air Force

Col. Matthew Kelly, Commander, Army Environmental Command, shoots a laser pistol at a digital target at the World Class Athlete Program, September 20, 2022. Army Environmental Command visited the World Class Athlete Program to observe training, tour facilities, and meet with the athletes.

041026-F-4155R-003. Base: Misawa Air Base Country: Japan (JPN)

Massachusetts Governo Charlie Baker presents the Soldier's Medal to Army Master Sgt. Bernard Madore, center, and Army Capt.Stephen Fiola, both with the Massachusetts Army National Guard, during ceremonies marking the 378th anniversary of the First Muster of troops on Salem Common in Salem, Massachusetts, Saturday, April 11, 2015. The Soldiers received the awards in recognition of their actions during the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings were they rushed to aid victims of the blasts.

Col. Eric Underhill, New York National Guard J3 Director (Operations)stands with Brig. Gen. Denise Donnell, the commander of the New York Air National Guard, Brig Gen. Isabel Smith, the New York National Guard director of Joint Staff and Brig. Gen. Clauco Rossotto from the Brazilian Air Force, on Aug. 29, 2022 near Campo Grande, Brazil. One hundred and five New York Air National Guard members participated in the 5th annual Brazilian Joint Exercise TAPIO held in Campo Grande, Brazil, from Aug. 20-31, 2022.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Dillon Maddock speaks with a Kenyan Defense Force soldier following the Justified Accord 2024 (JA24) welcome brief at the Humanitarian Peace Support School, Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 26, 2024. JA24 is U.S. Africa Command's largest exercise in East Africa, running from February 26 - March 7. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), and hosted in Kenya, this year's exercise will incorporate personnel and units from 23 nations. This multinational exercise builds readiness for the U.S. joint force, prepares regional partners for UN and AU mandated missions, and increases multinational interoperability in support. Army

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Stephen Maranian, commander of 56th Artillery Command, U.S. Army Europe and Africa, talks to Danish Minister of Defense Morten Bødskov, during a HIMARS Rapid Infiltration exercise conducted by U.S. Army Soldiers, assigned to Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 14th Field Artillery Regiment, 75th Artillery Brigade; and U.S. Air Force Airmen, assigned to 167th Airlift Wing, West Virginia, Air National Guard, as part of DEFENDER-Europe 22 at Bornholm, Denmark, May 24, 2022. DEFENDER-Europe 22 is a series of U.S. Army Europe and Africa multinational training exercises within U.S. European Commands Large Global Scale Exercise construct taking place in Eastern Europe. As part of the annual U.S.-led exercise, parts of the Danish army, navy, and air force train littoral defense from Bornholm and in the Baltic Sea as part of the bilateral training exercise led by the United States in order to build readiness and interoperability within the NATO allies.

Blanchfield Army Community Hospital Commander Col. Samuel Preston, along with other VA and Regional leaders, welcomed Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis R. McDonough Jan. 5 to the hospital facilities, and to host a roundtable discussion with Soldiers.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Brock Schuld, 131st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 131st Bomb Wing, Missouri National Guard, discusses the Weapons Load Trainer at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, with Lt. Gen. Michael Loh, director, Air National Guard, May 13, 2022. The trainer allows Team Whiteman Airmen to learn all aspects of the munitions enterprise for the B-2 Spirit bomber in a safe and controlled environment.

U.S. Army Pfc. Kaeli West, a cannon crewmember with the 1-119th Field Artillery Regiment, Charlie Battery, Michigan Army National Guard, shakes hands with U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. William Russell III, senior enlisted advisor to the adjutant general, Michigan National Guard, during exercise Summer Shield at Forward Operating Site Adazi, Latvia, May 25, 2022. Summer Shield, led by Latvian Mechanized Infantry Brigade is one of multinational training exercises in Eastern Europe that make up Defender Europe 22 exercise, led by U.S Army Europe and Africa. Defender demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africas ability to conduct large-scale ground combat operations across multiple theaters supporting NATO.

U.S. Air Force Col. Adam Gaudinski, 173rd Maintenance Group commander, passes the guidon to Lt. Col. Kristopher Wolfram, 173rd Maintenance Squadron commander, during a ceremony July 29, 2022, at Kingsley Field in Klamath Falls, Oregon. The passing of the guidon symbolizes the transfer of command from the outgoing commander to the incoming commander.

The 136th Civil Engineer Squadron receive the Col. William Deneke Award for Outstanding Civil Engineer Squadron September 17, 2022, at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas. The trophy is designed and built each year by the previous year's award winners. (Texas Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Lynn M. Means)

Left, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa Commanding General Maj. Gen. Todd R. Wasmund visits Camp Darby escorted by base leadership. Mr. David S. Meeks, second on the left, Installation Manager, Accountable Officer, Ammunition Center Europe, Pisa Ammunition Storage Area, explains the completion of infrastructure modernization. Camp Darby, Pisa Ammunition Storage Area, Italy, Sep. 21, 2022.The $42 million project includes railway bridge over the Navicelli Canal, upgrades to canal docks and a safe zone for loading and unloading ammunition. The project funded by the U.S. government, is a key strategic project and contributes to improving security at the site.

U.S. Army Col. Brain McCarthy (Left), commander of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division and the 40th Chief of Staff of the Army, Gen. James C. McConville (Right) met with Soldiers and their Families on Fort Riley, Kansas, Aug. 25, 2022. McConville visited Fort Riley to engage with key leaders, speak with Soldiers and tour the installation.

The Honorable Christopher Maier, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict, is greeted by 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) Command on Camp Bull Simons, Florida, Feb. 28, 2024. During his visit, Maier had the opportunity to learn about 7th SFG(A)s current and future operations as well as the programs they use to keep ODAs in the fight. In his role, Maier oversees special operations, irregular warfare, counterterrorism, and information operations policy issues, among other responsibilities. Army

Rahm Emanuel, U.S. Ambassador to Japan, high-fives a U.S. Air Force Airman for his brief during the ambassadors visit at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 22, 2022. Airmen were able to share their personal stories with the ambassador, who expressed his gratitude for the sacrifices they make daily.

The 10th Mountain Division honors Gold Star Spouses Apr. 05, 2023, on Fort Drum, NY. Gold Star Spouses Day honors surviving spouses of fallen service members, specifically those who died while on active duty. Leadership, garrisons and Guard/Reserve locations plan community events to show appreciation to Gold Star spouses annually on April 5.

CAMP GRAYLING, Mich. - World War II veteran, Claude Cawood, gives Jeffery Lemire, first sergeant, Battery A, 1st Battalion, 103rd Field Artillery Regiment, Rhode Island Army National Guard a high-five after firing the M777 Howitzer, Aug. 9, 2018 at Camp Grayling, Mich. Cawood, a former section chief on the M105 Howitzer, who served three years in the Philippines had an opportunity to visit Soldiers supporting the Northern Strike exercise.

MG Phil Brooks pumps up the team from the 1-118th FA out of the Georgia National Guard during their MRE at Fort Sill, which will be followed by a deployment.

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.

1st Lt. Darryl Thomas, resource management, 1st Theater Sustainment Command, participates in cleaning the battalion motor pool during motor pool maintenance on Fort Knox, Kentucky, May 16, 2022.

Lt. Col. Timothy Butler, commander of 3rd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division joined the reviewing party during a Polish Oath of Enlistment Ceremony August 27, 2022. Interactions like these build stronger bonds between U.S. and Polish forces here in Poland.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. John Lamontagne, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa deputy commander coins Nebraska Air National Guard members for exceptional performance at the Tunisia International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition 2022 in Hammamet, Tunisia, Oct. 12, 2022. Support to the Tunisia IADE is the embodiment of U.S. Africa Command's dedication to its African partners.

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico (Sept. 22, 2017) Rear Adm. Jeff Hughes, left, commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2, embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) discusses joint operations in Puerto Rico with senior leadership from the U.S. Army, Navy and Marine Corps. Kearsarge is assisting with relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. The Department of Defense is supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the lead federal agency, in helping those affected by Hurricane Maria to minimize suffering and is one component of the overall whole-of-government response effort.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 11, 2022) - U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Ryan Rideout, left, deputy commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force, shakes hands with Col. Samuel L. Meyer, commanding officer, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, aboard amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) July 11. Rideouts visit to the 13th MEU embarked on Makin Island is a part of series of scheduled visits to local Marine units in the operational area. The 13th MEU is currently embarked aboard the USS Makin Island conducting routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet.

050929-A-0000M-029. Base: England Air Force Base State: Louisiana (LA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: Co. B, 112th Engineer Battalion

2nd Infantry Division ROK-U.S. Combined Division Commanding General William D. Taylor, greets a soldier from 3d Cavalry Regiment, at Osan, South Korea, Feb. 21, 2024. This is the first time the 3d Cavalry Regiment has been deployed to the Korean peninsula. Army

U.S. Marine Col. Robert S. White, chief of staff of Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (TF 51/5) receives the flag during the reading of Old Glory and passing of the flag at his retirement ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity Bahrain, July 20. Col. White retired after 30 years of honorable service.

U.S. Army Col. Seth Graves, the U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys commander, right, receives the Republic of Korea (ROK) Order of National Security Merit Samil Medal from ROK Army Support Group commander Col. Seok-mo Koo at Maude Hall on June 27, 2023. Graves is the seventh person to receive the award, which is signed by the president of the Republic of Korea, in recognition and appreciation of his outstanding and meritoriuous service to the ROK.

Vermont Army National Guard Brig. Gen. Nathan Lord with the 42nd Infantry Division presents a medal to New York Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Robert Lamorte II with the 42nd Infantry Division during the 26th Annual Marksmanship Advisory Council Region One (MAC1) Combat Championships held at Camp Ethan Allen Training Site in Jericho, August 19-21, 2022. The MAC1 provides a combat focused marksmanship sustainment training event and competition for all the states in New England and New York. These matches are the second priority in the Chief of the National Guard Bureaus guidance for sustainment training events. The matches are operational focused marksmanship sustainment exercises, designed to validate and sustain perishable marksmanship skills essential to mobilization readiness and success.

Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau (left), Maj. Gen. Michael E. Stencel, Adjutant General, Oregon (center) and Maj. Gen. (ret.) Raymond F. Rees (right) pause for the invocation during the renaming ceremony at the Raymond F. Rees Training Center, Umatilla, Oregon, on Sept. 29, 2022. Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Raymond F. Rees is a retired Oregon Guardsman and served as The Adjutant General, Oregon for more than 16 years, retiring from military service in 2013, and later worked as a civilian as the Deputy Secretary of the Army. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

U.S. Army service members forward deployed to Camp Arifjan were treated to a Thanksgiving meal at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Nov. 24, 2022. U.S. Army leaders at every echelon were on hand and ready to serve Thanksgiving meals to Soldiers and other service members. In attendance were several congressional delegates who also served and spoke with service members, expressing their gratitude for the sacrifice theyve made being away from their families.

The 204th Regional Training Institute conducts a change of command ceremony, Gowen Field, April 10, 2023. During the ceremony, the outgoing commander, Col. Dan Lister transferred command of the 204th RTI to incoming commander, Col. Russel Des Jardins.

Col. Joshua Higgins, director of the Aviation Capability Development and Integration Directorate, administers the oath of office to Lt. Col. S McGowan "Macky" Price III during a promotion ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum July 13, 2022, at Fort Rucker, Alabama.

Brig. Gen. Joseph R. Harris II, Hawaii Air National Guard commander, presents the guidon to Col. Phillip L. Mallory to symbolize the assumption of command of the 154th Wing, Sept. 7, 2022, at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Before assuming command of the Air National Guard's largest wing, Mallory most recently served as the 154th Wing vice commander, the 154th Operations Group commander, and the 298th Air Defense Group commander. 154th Wing Airmen are charged with maintaining wartime-ready assets and can deploy disaster-relief capabilities during peacetime operations within the State of Hawaii, the U.S. mainland, and the international community.

030502-F-9956A-003. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Milhail Kogalniceanu Air Base Country: Romania (ROM)

PAWLEYS ISLAND, S.C. (Oct. 02, 2022) Major General William Graham, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters deputy commanding general, and Lt. Col. Andrew Johannes, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District commander, met with local elected leaders at North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, and Pawleys Island Oct. 2 to survey damage left behind from Hurricane Ian. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is working with local, state, and federal partners to conduct post-storm surveys and preliminary damage assessments along the Grand Strand.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven Basham, U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa deputy commander, spoke with U.S. Servicemembers participating in the Innovation and Leadership in Aerospace Tradeshow in Berlin, held at the Berlin Expo Center Airport, Berlin Brandenburg International Airport, June 24, 2022. Servicemembers specializing in a variety of career fields provided support to U.S. military aircraft participating as static aircraft during the event. U.S. support of ILA Berlin demonstrates our strong European presence and strengthens our ties with NATO Allies and Partners.

General Randy George, Chief of Staff of the Army, arrives at III Armored Corps Headquarters during his visit to Fort Cavazos, Texas, Feb. 20, 2024. George took a tour of Fort Cavazos making stops at 1st Battalion 5th Calvary Regiment's motorpool, dined at the Operation Iraqi Freedom Warrior Restaurant, and met with III Corps Soldiers and leadership. Army

Fire Chief Mike Scott briefs Brig. Gen. Gavin A. Lawrence, Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command commanding general, at Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point Southport, North Carolina Auguste 31, 2022. This was Lawrences first visit to MOTSU since taking command. MOTSU is SDDCs East Coast strategic ammunition port and is the DoDs primary ammunition seaport supporting the European, African and Middle Eastern areas of operation.

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.

U.S. Soldiers with the 228th Engineer Company, 337th Engineer Battalion, 55th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, arrive home after a nine-month deployment to the Middle East. They arrived at Harrisburg International Airport and were driven to Fort Indiantown Gap where they were reunited with their loved ones. They were also greeted by senior Pennsylvania National Guard leaders including Maj. Gen. Mark McCormack, commander of the 28th Infantry Division, and Brig. Gen. Laura McHugh, Deputy Adjutant General-Army.

Maj. Gen. Hidey Zilberman, second from right, Israel Defense and Armed Forces Attaché to the United States, coins U.S. Army Master Sgt. Andrew P. Glatz, right, senior artillery instructor, 3rd Battalion, 254th Regiment, New Jersey Army National Guard, at the New Jersey Army National Guard Training Complex, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, March 28, 2023. Zilberman and his staff saw the Small Unmanned Aerial System classroom; Digital Sand Table; Engagement Skills Trainer II; Indoor Village for Military Operations in Urban Training; Virtual Convoy Operations Trainer, and the Regional Training Maintenance Site for all U.S. Army wheeled vehicles.

Members of the 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron speak with Member of Parliament Robert Courts during an immersion tour at RAF Fairford, England, Feb. 9, 2024. Courts participated in a tour of the installation, strengthening relationships with U.S. Air Force personnel and gaining insights into the 501st Combat Support Wing mission. Air Force

Gen. Glen VanHerck, Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command, meets with Col. David Berkland, 354th Fighter Wing Commander, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 4, 2022. (Department of Defense photo by Chuck Marsh)

Leadership from the U.S. Space Force, Combined Force Space Component Command, and Space Launch Delta 30 walk together on the runway at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif., Oct. 11, 2022. U.S. Space Force Gen. John Jay Raymond, Chief of Space Operations,

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) participate in Flags-In”, where Soldiers placed U.S. flags at the headstones and niche of service members buried at Arlington National Cemetery, Va. Over 250,000 flags were planted at the final resting place of our Nation's fallen.

US Army Private First Class Joe Contreras, from 5th Signal Command, briefs US Army Major General William Russ, commander of Army Signal Command, about the damps antenna, in Lager Aulenbach, Germany, during COMBINED ENDEAVOR 2001. Combined Endeavor is the largest communications and information systems exercise in the world. The exercise, sponsored by US European Command and hosted by Germany in the spirit of "Partnership for Peace," is held annually to test and document the interoperability of dozens of nations and NATO. There are 37 countries participating this year. Subject Operation/Series: COMBINED ENDEAVOR 2001 Base: Lager Aulenbach State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

U.S. Air Force Col. Eric A. Guttormsen, left, commander, 108th Wing, New Jersey Air National Guard, discusses the wings various missions with U.S. Rep. Donald W. Norcross (NJ-1), second from left, during a visit at the 108th Wing at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, Aug. 1, 2022. Norcross is a member of the House Armed Services Committee. The visit highlighted the Wings multiple missions and its importance to the national defense strategy. (New Jersey National Guard photo by Mark C. Olsen)

Operation Junior Expeditionary Team (OpJET), June 17, 2022, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. OpJET provides children the opportunity to see a mock deployment and gives them an idea what their parent experiences when they report for duty away from home, as well as the process when they return.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III is greeted by U.S. Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, commander, U.S. Northern Command/North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and U.S. Army Gen. James Dickinson, commander, U.S. Space Command at Peterson Space Force Base, Colo., May 24, 2022. Austin visted Fort Carson, Colo. and met with soldiers and assigned to 4th Infantry Division; the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team who recently returned from Operation Inherent Resolve and families of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division who are currently deployed to Europe in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve. (DoD photo by Chad J. McNeeley)

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. Lt. Col. Chris Mercado, and U.S. Gen. Paul LaCamera view the border between both Koreas from an observation post at the demilitarized zone in Panmunjom, South Korea, Sept. 29, 2022. This was Harris's first visit to the DMZ.

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass speaks with Col. Adam Bingham, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander, on the flightline at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Aug. 3, 2022. Bass met with members assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing, U.S. Central Command, U.S. Special Operations Command and other tenant units to discuss the Air Force's mission, vision and priorities during her visit to the base.

Gen. Bantz J. Craddock, commander of U.S. European Command, speaks to Georgian soldiers Aug. 21. The Georgian soldiers are working hand-in-hand with U.S. Soldiers and assisting with the delivery of humanitarian assistance supplies to the people of the former Soviet republic.

Spc. Keith Scholl, left, a nodal network systems operator assigned to 52nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, speaks to Lt. Col. Benjamin Hassell, right, commander of 52nd Bde. Eng. Bn. and Ms. Bryn Wollacott, center, military legislative assistant for Congressman Dough Lamborn, during a congressional staff visit to Ft. Carson, Colo., July 6. Congressman Lamborn's delegation visited the installation to receive an update on military operations in the area and speak to Soldiers about their concerns. U.S. Army photo by Maj. Jason Elmore.

Barry Campbell, project manager with Whispering Ridge Construction, and Master Sergeant Brad Wilson, Innovative Readiness Training deputy program manager, share a light moment during a tour for distinguished guests at the Blackfeet Nation Senior Center job site in Heart Butte, Montana, September 8, 2022. Innovative Readiness Training builds mutually beneficial civil-military partnerships between US communities and the Department of Defense, providing high quality, mission-essential training for Active, Guard, and Reserve support personnel and units.

Maj. Gen. Bryan Radliff, 10th Air Force commander, coins Master Sgt. Heidi Venable during a visit to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska.

041125-M-0036Y-020. Base: Camp Ramadi State: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Air Force Col. Derek Salmi, 60th Air Mobility Wing commander, addresses Airmen from the 60th Civil Engineer Squadron after signing a proclamation for fire prevention week at Travis Air Force Base, California, Oct. 11, 2022. The proclamation confirmed the 60th AMW's involvement in fire prevention week, a nationwide event focused on educating and training the public on the basics of proactive fire safety.

The director of the Army National Guard, Lt. Gen. Jon A. Jensen (center) poses with Brig. Gen. Robert Larkin, Assistant Adjutant General-Kentucky (right) and State Command Sergeant Major Jesse Withers (right) during the Survivor Outreach Services Riverboat outreach in Northern Kentucky. June 12, 2022.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Samantha Fil, Arctic Spark volunteer, shakes hands with Royal Australian Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Carl Newman, Pacific Air Force deputy commander, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, March 29, 2023. The 673d Medical Groups Arctic Spark Cell presented current and past projects geared specifically to JBER needs.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael A. Loh, director, Air National Guard, gives coins to several airmen assigned to the 105th Airlift Wing, during a town hall at Stewart Air National Guard Base, New York, June 3, 2022.

Yesterday the Iron Eagles welcomed Maj. Gen. Adam Joks, V Corps Deputy Commanding General for Interoperability, during a Table Top Exercise (TTX) to discuss future Gray Eagle training missions in Poland. Where he was shown Gray Eagles and taught how they operate.

French civilians take part in the Gavin Ceremony in Saint Mere Eglise, France, June 3, 2022. Paratroopers and the citizens of Saint Mere Eglise celebrate and honor Gavins contributions and mastery while in command of the 82nd Airborne Division during the invasion.

U.S. Air Force Col. Matthew Bartlett, left, commander of the 449 Air Expeditionary Group, and Lt. Col. Drew Gehler, commander of the 475th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron (EABS), stand at attention as orders are published during a change of command ceremony at Manda Bay Airfield, Kenya, May 9, 2022. Gehler relinquished command of the 475th EABS to Lt. Col. Phillip Ferris, incoming commander. The 475th EABS provides base operations and communications support for 13 mission partners enabling Special Operations Command Africa missions in Kenya and Somalia. Together, with African and international partners, they help provide a secure, stable, and prosperous Africa.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Greg Brady, Commanding General of the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, and U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Giancarlo Macri, the command sergeant major of the 10th AAMDC presents a commanders coin for excellence to the Soldiers of Defender Café, on Rhine Ordnance Barracks on June 14, 2022.

Lt. Gen. Ryoji Takemoto, Commanding General of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) Western Army, Maj. General Stephen G. Smith, 7th Infantry Division Commanding General and U.S. Marine Corps Brigadier General Michael A. Brooks, Assistant Commanding General of 3rd Marine Division, provide opening remarks for Yama Sakura 83 opening ceremony at Camp Kengun, Japan, Dec. 4, 2022. Yama Sakura is a complex command post exercise that has been ongoing for over 40 years and continues to build the bilateral partnership of the strong US-JGSDF alliance.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Renato Simoni, senior enlisted leader of the 156th Security Operations Squadron, 156th Wing, Puerto Rico Air National Guard, receives a coin from Lt. Col. Wes Carter, commander, 17nd Contingency Response Flight, 172nd Airlift Wing, Mississippi Air National Guard, at Avon Park, Florida, April 24, 2022. Southern Strike 2022 allows participants the opportunity to build partnerships and maintain combat readiness for future missions.

040604-M-5523R-018. Base: USS Essex (LHD 2)

Maj. Gen. Daryl O. Hood (center), the commanding general of the 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) Command, stands beside Antonio J. Amos (right) on Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, Feb. 28. Hood welcomed Amos, a retired U.S. Army Chemical Corps lieutenant colonel and senior Army civilian, into the Chemical Corps Regimental Associations Order of the Dragon. U.S. Army

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Rupp, U.S. Forces Japan and 5th Air Force commander, right, points to Brig. Gen. Eaglin, 18th Wing commander, left, as he recalls a story between them on Kadena Air Base, Japan, April 29, 2022. Rupp visited the Kadena Air Base dorms to hear from dorm representatives about the improvements they wish to see to the facilities.

Canadian Royal Air Force Brig.-Gen. Kevin Whale, Space Operations Command, Deputy Commanding General of Transformation, poses with Chief of Space Operations Gen. John W. Jay Raymond and Lt. Gen. Stephen Whiting, Commander Space Operations Command, after receiving the Legion of Merit (Degree of Officer) at SpOC Headquarters, Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, 24 May, 2022

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael Loh, director, Air National Guard, shakes hands with Mrs. Keri Elkins, executive assistant to senior leaders of the Idaho National Guard (IDNG), at Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho, Aug. 20, 2022. Elkins is a civilian employee of the IDNG and fills a critical role in supporting the organization. .

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