Military Meetings and Planning

Military personnel engaged in meetings and strategic planning sessions. The atmosphere is collaborative, highlighting leadership and operational discussions.

U.S. joint service members assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), check in for Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 1-23, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Sept. 11, 2022. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by MAWTS-1, providing standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness, and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Aaron Jackson, 390th Intelligence Squadron squadron aviation resource management journeyman from Bardstown, Kentucky was selected as the 18th Wings Airman of the Week at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The Airman of the Week program is an opportunity for outstanding Airmen to be recognized by KAB leadership as well as showcase these young leaders to their peers.

U.S. Soldiers competing in the Army Best Squad Competition take a written exam on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Sept. 29, 2022. The Army Best Squad Competition tests Soldiers on their individual and collective ability to adapt to and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-readiness events that test their physical endurance, technical skills, and tactical abilities under stress and extreme fatigue.

The 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team headquarters company, Wisconsin Army National Guard, conducted a change-of-responsibility ceremony, October 15, 2022 at its headquarters company at Camp Douglas, WI. During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. Walter R. Smithson relinquished responsibility of the headquarters company to 1st Sgt. Keith T. Graeme. (32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team photo by Staff Sgt. Kati Volkman/Released)

U.S. Navy SEALs assigned to a Naval Special Operations Team, plan prior to a dive mission during exercise UNITAS LXIII in Rio de Janeiro, Sept. 12, 2022. UNITAS is the world's longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise that focuses on enhancing interoperability among multiple nations and joint forces during littoral and amphibious operations in order to build on existing regional partnerships and create new enduring relationships that promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the U.S. Southern Commands area of responsibility.

Maj. Bryan Martin, an Atlanta, Georgia native and the brigade fire support officer assigned to the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division (3/4 ABCT), opens the brigade target working group as a part of the brigade command post exercise, Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, April 25, 2022. The target working group synchronizes both lethal and non-lethal effects during operations. The 3/4th ABCT is among other units assigned to V Corps, America's forward-deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces in the European theater.

Staff Sgt. Keyonne Lewis of the 168th Wing, 168th Logistics Squadron, Eielson Air Force Base, right, ensures Air and Army National Guard members are prepared with equipment for Operation Merbok Response in Nome, Alaska, Sept. 21, 2022. Approximately 100 members of the Alaska Organized Militia, which includes members of the Alaska National Guard, Alaska State Defense Force, and Alaska Naval Militia, were activated following a disaster declaration issued Sept. 17 after the remnants of Typhoon Merbok caused dramatic flooding across more than 1,000 miles of Alaskan coastline.

Air Force Reservists assigned to the 36th Aerial Port Squadron review a member's information as part of Operation Green Flight before adding them to the passenger manifest for a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft flight Oct. 15, 2022, at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. Operation Green Flight is a program for the 446th Airlift Wing to random review readiness, empower Airmen to own their individual readiness, and to give Reservists the opportunity to observe another unit's training.

U.S. joint service members assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), check in for Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 1-23, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Sept. 11, 2022. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by MAWTS-1, providing standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness, and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

From left, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Raymond Rosa, sustainment services manager, 156th Force Support Squadron, serves a plate of food to Airman 1st Class Kevin Medina, security forces journeyman, 156th Security Operations Squadron during the 156th Wing Rising 6 council breakfast event with special guest Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, May 14, 2022. CMSAF Bass engaged with Airmen during her visit to the 156th Wing and emphasized the importance of total force integration and overcoming challenges to more effectively accomplish the Air Force mission and be ready for the ever-evolving battlefield that future conflicts may hold.

A student takes notes during Battle Focused Training held at the 81st Readiness Division on June 7-10. Battle Focused Training is designed to get unit ministry teams ready for large scale combat operations.

Col. Bidemi Olaniyi-Leyimu, commander of the 5th Medical Brigade, visits with other distinguished visitors at the Rhea Middle School, Tenn., location of the Birchwood Cares Innovative Readiness Training medical mission, June 9, 2022. The medical mission is Department of Defense sponsored training event that links community partners with joint force partners to provide medical care for surrounding communities. The clinics offer dental, medical, optometry, physical and mental health services while simultaneously providing hands on training to joint force partners. (Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Joe Harwood)

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Maurice Williams, command chief, Air National Guard (ANG) dined with Airmen of the 186th Air Refueling Wing, Mississippi National Guard, during a visit, Jan. 6, 2024, at Key Field Air National Guard Base, Meridian, Mississippi. Williams listened to Airmen talk about their experiences within the ANG and ideas for future improvement.

Airman 1st Class Michah Dunn, 355th Communications Squadron cyber network operations technician, stands in front of a classroom full of Airmen taking a small arms qualification course at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Sept. 12, 2022. The 355th Security Forces Squadron combat arms training and maintenance team were the first to open their doors to Airmen selected to take part in the Airmen shadowing Airmen program.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airmen Jake Buck, a visual information specialist assigned to 4th Combat Camera Squadron attends a weapon familiarization lane during Day 0 of the 2022 Spc. Hilda I. Clayton Best Combat Camera Competition at Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia, May 18, 2022. The annual multi-day competition tests the tactical and technical proficiency of visual information and public affairs specialists across the DOD and participating international competitors.

U.S. Air Force Col. Greg Moseley, 325th Fighter Wing commander, left, discusses the layout of Tyndall Air Force Base with Qatar Emiri Corps of Engineers Maj. Gen. Essa Ali E M Al-Kubaisi, QECE commander, right, during a distinguished visitors tour at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, June 9, 2022. The members toured Tyndalls facilities, construction sites and technological innovation areas of interest.

Lt. Gen. Stephen N. Whiting, Space Operations Command Commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Jacob C. Simmons, Space Operations Command Senior Enlisted Leader, to hear from the Clear Team members on their operations and wellbeing. Whiting had a Space Command Chaplain Team and Space Command Guardians visiting along with him for them to have a chance to see the mission and hear from counterparts. The Clear Space Force 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 and 268th Security Forces, providing 24/7 missile warning, missile defense, and space domain awareness.

Distinguished visitors gather to observe members of joint service components as they provide dental, medical, optometry, physical and mental health, nutrition and pharmaceutical services during a medical mission centered between Meigs, Hamilton and Rhea counties in support of Birchwood Cares, Innovative Readiness Training at the Birchwood Community Center and Rhea County Middle School, Tenn., June 3, 2022. Birchwood Cares, Innovative Readiness Training is a Department of Defense sponsored training event that links community partners with joint force partners to provide medical care for surrounding communities while simultaneously providing hands-on training to joint members.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Ralph Soto, 11th Comptroller Squadron commander, attends the signing of the National Disability Employment Awareness Month proclamation at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C., Oct. 31, 2022. In 1945, President Truman established National Disability Employment Awareness Month and issued the first national call for disabled people to access all the opportunities and rewards of work.

Spc. Devin Greenway, a military policeman with Company A, 49th Missile Defense Battalion, takes notes from the prior shift through a changeover during Exercise Guardian Watch at Fort Greely, Alaska, Nov. 1, 2022. Guardian Watch 23 focused on conducting ground-based midcourse Defense and critical installations security, which are the two missions of the 49th Missile Defense Battalion. (Alaska National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Katie Mazos-Vega)

U.S. Air Force Col. Michael Richard, 35th Fighter Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Cheronica Blandburg 35th Fighter Wing command chief, discuss new changes with Airmen from the 35th Force Support Squadron Falcon Feeder Dining Facility during a Wild Weasel Walk-Through at Misawa Air Base, Japan, September 8, 2022. The Falcon Feeder has recently worked to create new and innovative recipes to serve the maintainers and flight line operators who frequent the establishment.

Airmen from the 334th Training Squadron participate in a study session inside Erwin Manor at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, April 13, 2022. Four trainers were installed to allow students the opportunity to increase tower control contact hours and to provide students additional study and familiarization time outside the classroom.

Spc. Derico Coggins, representing U.S. Army Cyber Command, applies a pressure dressing to a simulated casualty during the Army Best Squad Competition on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Oct. 1, 2022. The week-long competition will assess each squad on their technical and tactical proficiency, as well as their ability to work as a disciplined and cohesive team, featuring a multitude of fitness, knowledge and combat-related events.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Josh Klundt, left, Structural Repairs Non-commissioned Officer In-charge, 114th Fighter Wing, South Dakota Air National Guard, shows Chief Master Sgt. Maurice L. Williams, right, command chief, Air National Guard, right, a photo illustration of a recently commissioned heritage paint scheme on one of the units F-16 Fighter aircraft in celebration of their 75th anniversary, at Joe Foss Field, South Dakota, April 4, 2022. The light blue and white paint scheme was conceptualized to emulate the WWII era Grumman F-4F Wildcat flown by South Dakota native and Medal of Honor recipient Joe Foss.

U.S. Air National Guard Airman 1st Class Cory Schmidt (left) and U.S. Air National Guard Tech. Sgt. Jaden Krump, both aircrew flight equipment technicians, 114th Fighter Wing, complete G-suit post flight inspections during Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 2-22 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., April 7, 2022. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One, providing standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness, and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

Generals from the U.S. Army and Airforce and Brazilian army recieve a brief at the Multinational Forces South headquarters at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston during PANAMAX 2022, August 8, 2022. PANAMAX is a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored exercise that uses communication themes and operational understanding between joint, combined and interagency operations in order to increase interoperability by emphasizing common interests and establish cooperative solutions through comprehensive and integrated responses to simulated transnational threats in the region.

U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Khadarryl Johnson, 49th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron section commander, right, discusses leadership strategies with U.S. Air Force Capt. Anthony Pipe, 314th Fighter Squadron flight commander, during a flight leadership course at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, Oct. 6, 2022. In this course, flight leaders learned how to properly identify and solve problems in order to effectively lead Airmen to success.

Maj. Gen. Stacy J. Huser, 20th Air Force commander, speaks with Col. Michael Power, 377th Air Base Wing commander, at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., Feb. 9, 2024. During her visit, Huser received various mission briefs, attended a base tour, and had meetings with Airmen stationed at Kirtland. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Taylor Warren, 49th Component Maintenance Squadron quality manager, left, completes a team-building activity with U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Gabriel Sanchez, 49th Communications Squadron officer in charge, during a flight leadership course at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, Oct. 6, 2022. The flight leadership course built teamwork between future flight chiefs and flight commanders to effectively lead Airmen within their units.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Shawndae Wilkins, 36th Contracting Squadron government purchase card program noncommissioned officer in charge and agency organizations program coordinator, uses CON IT, a contract writing system, on Andersen Air Force Base, Aug. 23, 2022. Contracting officers hold a warrant that allows them, as an individual, to obligate the government.

U.S. Army Soldiers attending the Advance Leaders Course at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Noncommissioned Officer Academy - Fort Eustis compete in the distinguished leader board May 19, 2022 at Fort Eustis, Virginia. Soldiers participating in the event are judged on their attention to detail, wear of the uniform, performance of drill and ceremony, and knowledge of noncommisioned officer history.

U.S. Marines with 9th Communication Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, monitor network activities in support of Steel Knight 23 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 1, 2022. SK23 is a 1st Marine Division-led annual training exercise which enables the Navy-Marine Corps team to operate in a realistic, combined-arms environment to enhance naval warfighting tactics, techniques and procedures.

SCHRIEVER SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Lieutenant (Lt.) General (Gen.) David N. Miller Jr., Commander of Space Operations Command, toured Schriever Space Force Bases (SFB) Central Utilities Plant (CUP) and was briefed on the operations by members of the 50th Civil Engineering Squadron (50 CES) during his visit to Schriever SFB, CO., February 29, 2024. Lt. Gen. David N. Miller Jr. visited various locations around Schriever. Space Force

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Peder Swanson, Deputy Commanding General of 3rd Medical Command (Deployment Support), Col. Katie Suarez, Commander of the 338th Brigade, and Command Sgt. Maj. Nathaniel Chapman, Command Sergeant Major of the 338th Brigade, observe Spc. Joanna Rodriguez, an optician with NORA, quality check eyewear during Appalachian Care Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) 2022 at Wise, Va., Aug. 20, 2022. IRT is a Department of Defense (DoD) military training opportunity, exclusive to the United States and its territories, that delivers joint training opportunities to increase deployment readiness. Simultaneously, IRT provides key services (health care, construction, transportation, and cybersecurity) with lasting benefits for our American communities.

Brig. Gen. Lori Robinson, Deputy Commanding General of Support with 2nd Infantry Division/ROK Combined Division, conducts a maintenance terrain walkthrough of the 2nd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade footprint on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea, Sept. 15, 2022. The purpose of the maintenance terrain walkthrough is to ensure a high level of awareness and command interest in field maintenance by ensuring senior Command Groups understand how their maintenance program operates.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Gabrielle Bully, 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron aircrew flight equipment assistant noncommissioned officer in charge, left, assists Capt. Luke Anderton, 37th EBS B-1B Lancer weapons systems operator, both assigned to Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, as he prepares for a Bomber Task Force mission at Andersen AFB, Guam, Nov. 2, 2022. BTF missions demonstrate the credibility of U.S. forces to address a complex and uncertain security environment.

U.S. Army Sgt. Jacob Cathcart, chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear specialist, assigned to the 637th Chemical Company, assembles a Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System during the communication portion of the 73rd Troop Command Best Warrior Competition at Camp James A. Garfield Joint Military Training Center in Ravenna, Ohio, Nov. 4, 2022. The top noncommissioned officer and junior enlisted Soldier from the 73rd TC will go on to compete at the Ohio Army National Guard BWC in Spring 2023.

Spc. Trevon T. Crudup makes adjustments to the horizontal back straps of a parachute worn by Sgt. Zachary D. Drumm at Fort Bragg, N.C., June 21, 2022. The parachute riggers, assigned to 3rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command, jumped onto Holland Drop Zone later in the day.

New Jersey State Command Chief Master Sgt. Michael Rakauckas speaks to Airmen and Soldiers during a speed mentoring event for CATALIST class 002 on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, June 11, 2022. Cultivating Agile and Transformational Air Guard Leaders through Inspiring and Structured Training (CATALIST) is a New Jersey Air National Guard program that focuses on strengthening the development of future military leaders.

U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Ian S. Riley, Brigade Operations Sgt. Maj of the 1st Theater Signal Brigade signing the Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month Proclamation located in the 1TSB Headquarters in Camp Humphreys, South Korea on April 4, 2022. Riley and other senior leaders signed the proclamation as an example of leaders' involvement in preventing sexual assault

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Tylar Blessing, 23rd Logistics Readiness Squadron ground transportation specialist, participates in the annual Fall Career Fair at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Oct.13, 2022. This event allowed Airmen to connect to the local community and explore job opportunities outside of the military.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Victor Figueroa, center, 60th Medical Group tactical combat casualty care program director, hands out tests during TCCC training at David Grant USAF Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base, California, April 28, 2022. The all-service member TCCC program replaces the self-aid buddy care courses. The Department of Defense has established the use of standardized trauma training platforms for all designated medical support service member augmentees.

Tech. Sgt. Damien Allen, 19th Maintenance Squadron electrical and environmental systems craftsman, right, showcases a piece of equipment to Maj. Gen. Kenneth Bibb, 18th Air Force commander, left, during a visit to Little Rock air Force Base, Arkansas, April 19, 2022. The 18th AF command team toured the installation to connect with members of the local community and gain insight into the innovative ways LRAFB Airmen are supporting Air Mobility Commands mission.

Air Force 2nd Lt. Lewis Miranda (left), Air Force Life Cycle Management Center Rapid Sustainment Office Advance Manufacturing Program, briefs Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass on the digital scanning of parts for use in computer assisted design and 3D printing. Bass was in Dayton for the Corona Conference at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and took the opportunity to learn about innovative programs in the area.

Throughout the days and nights of Oct. 24th through Oct. 26th, 2022, four planes full of National Guard Soldiers arrived at Fort Bliss, Texas, after a yearlong deployment overseas. Leadership from Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Florida, shook the hands of more than 1,000 Soldiers to welcome them home upon their arrival. The majority of the Soldiers are from the 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team headquartered in Boise, Idaho, with components in Montana, Nevada and Oregon. Soldiers from the Florida National Guard joined the deployment as an augmentation. The Soldiers returned home from Southwest Asia in support of Operation Spartan Shield and were part of Task Force Griz, which deployed last November.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Maurice L. Williams, command chief, Air National Guard, sits down with first sergeants at the 136th Airlift Wing, Texas Military Department, June 26, 2022, at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas. During his visit, Williams was able to share his leadership vision, address challenges and gather direct feedback from Airmen across the wing.

Republic of Korea Air Force Airmen receive a briefing about counter unmanned aircraft systems and a small unmanned aircraft system with ROKAF Staff. Sgt. Jaechul Lee, SFS Military Police Unit administration and interpreter (mid left) at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, July 21, 2022. The goal of the event was to share knowledge with ROKAF about how the 8th Security Forces Squadron conducts training and to further strengthen the relationship between ROK and U.S. forces.

Capt. Jim Lucas, an emergency support function representative for medical response at the Smoky Mountain Air Show Emergency Operations Center, 134th Air Refueling Wing, examines data Sept. 10, 2022 at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Tennessee. The two-day annual event provided the local community with a rare chance to see modern and historic aircraft up close and to meet military members.

U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers from the South Carolina National Guard Defense Cyber Optic Element (DCOE), under the state communication office, participated in Cyber Shield 21, the Department of Defense's largest unclassified cyber defense exercise, from July 10-24, 2021.

Major Gary Barney and Sergeant Major Fredric Trunzo, 2nd Squadron, 101st Cavalry Regiment, review weather reports and coordinte troops while activated for state active duty, Nov 18, 2022, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, Niagara Falls, NY. 60 Soldiers and Airmen were placed on standby at the direction of NY Gov. Kathy Hochul, in response to severe winter weather in Western New York. Air National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Jason Carr.

U.S. Army Pfc. Patrick Scully, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, Division Artillery, 1st Armored Division, answers questions on military knowledge during the board portion of the Iron Squad Competition at Fort Bliss, Texas, April 19, 2022. The Iron Squad Competition is a four-day event designed to test each squad and individual competitors physical stamina, Warrior Tasks and Battle Drill skills and military knowledge. The winning squad will advance to compete in the III Corps Best Squad Competition later this year at Fort Hood.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Summer Love, 18th Munitions Squadron custody account supervisor from Klamath Falls, Oregon was selected as the 18th Wings Supervisor of the Month at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The Supervisor of the Month program is an opportunity for outstanding non-commissioned officers to be recognized by KAB leadership as well as showcase these leaders to their peers.

Captain Paulo DePaula, 366th Fighter Wing Physician Assistant-Certified, and Senior Airman Rachel Blakeley-Ruiz, 366th Fighter Wing Public Health Medic, perform a field examination on Captain Menji Cheim, 366th Fighter Wing Intelligence Officer, after a simulated assault during exercise Raging Gunfighter 22-2 at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, May 22, 2022. The 366th Fighter Wing developed Raging Gunfighter that will further prove Agile Combat Employment concepts.

U.S. Space Force Lt. Gen. David N. Miller Jr., Space Operations Command commander, takes notes about the 21st Security Forces training facility at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, Feb. 29, 2024. Miller was interested in how the virtual training simulator allows for greater variety and volume of training scenarios for defenders. Space Force

Sgt. Trevor McCarson, an animal care specialist with the 422nd Medical Detachment (Veterinary Services), prepares medical equipment during a simulated military working dog training with U.S. Navy medical personnel during Combat Support Training Exercise (CSTX) and Global Medic at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, Aug. 11, 2022. Joint branch training on simulations like this is conducted due to veterinarians seldomly being in the battlefield and this prepares hospitals to treat military working dogs.

Senior Airman Ebrima Minteh, structural journeyman with the 155th Civil Engineer Squadron, drills holes into a shadowbox display case, Feb. 2, 2024, at the National Guard air base in Lincoln, Nebraska. Minteh, originally from The Gambia, joined the Nebraska Air National Guard in 2021 after receiving his degree from the University of Nebraska Omaha and obtaining his five-year green card. Air National Guard

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Johnathan Flores, left, 660th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron KC-10 Extender aerospace propulsion journeyman, and Airman 1st Class Gustave Achu, 660th AMXS KC-10 aerospace propulsion apprentice, discuss KC-10 engine swap procedures at Travis Air Force Base, California, Oct. 24, 2022. Airmen assigned to the 660th AMXS maintain, repair and advance Travis AFBs fleet of KC-10 aircraft.

Staff Sgt. Logan Whitehill, 374th Force Support Squadron NCO in charge of official mail center, explains how they perform day to day operations to United States Air Force Academy cadets at Yokota Air Base, Japan, June 29, 2022. Operation Air Force is a two week long academy summer program that sends cadets entering their third and fourth years of training to bases around the world to experience what active duty Airmen from all areas of expertise do to support the Department of Defense mission for U.S. Military Forces.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Kayla Kesterson, left, 47th Operation Support Squadron air traffic controller, speaks to Lt. Gen. Brian Robinson, right, commander of Air Education and Training Command, about virtual simulators used to train air traffic controllers and pilots at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, Aug. 12, 2022. Laughlin's Undergraduate Pilot Training 2.5 makes increased use of modern technologies, including simulators, virtual reality headsets, 360-degree videos, and a virtual instructor pilot to coach students through maneuvers.

Capt. Faudia Bacchuas, Brigade Jag for 164th Air Defense Artillery (ADA) quizzes Soldiers on expectations during briefing for Hurricane Ian. Florida has activated some 5,000 National Guard troops in response to Hurricane Ian.

U.S. Air Force Airmen participate in an LGBTQ+ Pride panel on June 15, 2022 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Panel members and attendees discussed issues faced by LGBTQ+ military members and allies.

U.S. Air Force Airmen 1st Class Julian Villanueva and Christopher Scott, 335th Training Squadron students, plot weather charts during the weather initial skills course inside of the Joint Weather Training Facility at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, July 21, 2022. The weather apprentice course, which graduated 650 students this past year, takes 151 academic days to complete. Approximately 7,400 students go through the 335th TRS's 13 Air Force Specialty Codes each year.

U.S. Army Soldiers from the1st Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, and 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery, 173rd Airborne Brigade, prepare their gear before departing from Aviano, Italy in support of U.S. Africa Commands Exercise African Lion 22 in Agadir, Morocco, Wednesday, June 21, 2022. African Lion 22, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa, is U.S. Africa Commands largest annual exercise focused on increasing training and interoperability between the U.S. and partners and allies in Africa.

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 60th Air Mobility Wing review records at the personnel deployment function line during an exercise at Travis Air Force Base, California, April 8, 2022. Airmen from multiple squadrons participated in exercise Roundel Perun 22-01, testing Travis AFBs rapid mobility capabilities during possible real-world scenarios.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Dylan Miller, 355th Communications Squadron Radio Frequency Transmissions supervisor, sets up a mobile antenna at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Oct. 13, 2022. Airmen were able to visit the other squadrons on base as part of the Dirty Jobs initiative.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Bryan Ponce-Cisneros, 18th Comptroller Squadron milpay technician from Burbank, California was selected as the 18th Wings Airman of the Week at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The Airman of the Week program is an opportunity for outstanding Airmen to be recognized by KAB leadership as well as showcase these young leaders to their peers.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brandon Camacho, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management journeyman from Queen Creek, Arizona was selected as the 18th Wings Airman of the Week at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The Airman of the Week program is an opportunity for outstanding Airmen to be recognized by KAB leadership as well as showcase these young leaders to their peers.

A Soldier undergoes a visual test Oct. 19, 2022, at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., as part of the Technician Occupational Medical Surveillance Program. Federal technicians in the Pennsylvania National Guard who are exposed or potentially exposed to occupational hazards are enrolled in the program and evaluated annually in their birth month. (Pennsylvania National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Zane Craig)

Col. Rudolph Cachuela, left, Air Mobility Command surgeon general, speaks with 436th Medical Group staff during his visit to Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, Sept. 20, 2022. Cachuela toured the 436th MDG, Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations and Bedrock Innovation Lab.

U.S. Air Force Col. Jason Purdy, 23rd Maintenance Group commander, takes notes during an Agile Flag 22-2 all call at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, July 8, 2022. This exercise marks a significant milestone in standardizing the way Air Combat Command organizes, trains and equips for agile combat employment.

2nd Lt. Andre Andrews from the Alaska Air National Guard Cyber Defense Team looks over Staff Sgt. Kyle Parkensons shoulder to ensure network security during Cyber Shield 2022 at the Army National Guards Professional Educational Center on Camp Robinson, Arkansas on June 13. Cyber Shield 2022 is the DODs largest unclassified inter-agency and joint national level training cyber defense exercise which includes representation from 20 states plus Guam.

U.S. Air Force Airmen get their bags checked during a simulated TSA security check at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, April 21, 2022. Exercise ARDENT CROSSBOW is the first time the 633d Air Base Wing is conducting agile combat support as an Air Base Squadron as part of Air Combat Commands effort to align into the Air Forces new four-phase Force Generation model (Available to Commit, Reset, Prepare and Ready). Through the stand-up of an Air Base Squadron and a supporting A-Staff, Airmen will be prepared to deploy as task-oriented, high-performing teams who are ready for crisis before crisis emerges.

U.S. Air Force Col. Billy Pope, 81st Training Wing commander, tours the command post training area during the 81st Training Group Immersion Tour at Cody Hall on Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, April 4, 2023. Command Post holds the responsibility of notifying leadership and the base population of anything that will affect their safety.

WHINSEC cadre go through pre-mission checks in preparation for the final, hands-on, evaluation as part of the Combat Life Saver certification.

Senior Airman Marissa Michael, 355th Force Support Squadron food service specialist, hands food out at Fast Brrreak at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Oct. 7, 2022. Fast Brrreak is a non-appropriated funds facility that opened on July 27, 2022.

Pvt. Basar Findikl (right), motor transport operator, HHC, 653rd Regional Support Group, listens to instructions from Sgt. Johnathan Stone, HHC, 653rd RSG, Feb. 25, Armed Forces Reserve Center, Mesa, Ariz., as part of Battle Assembly weekend for the unit. Army Reserve

Sgt. Gerrans Mei, a cyber security analyst representing the North Carolina National Guard, participates in Cyber Shield 2022 at Camp Robinson in North Little Rock, Arkansas June 12, 2022. Cyber Shield 2022 is the Department of Defense's largest unclassified inter-agency and joint national level training cyber defense exercise which includes representation from 20 states plus Guam.

Soldiers assigned to the 34th Infantry Division "Red Bulls", of the Minnesota National Guard, participate in a tactical communication class, Feb. 10, 2024, Fort Cavazos, Texas. Throughout the class, they practiced procedures for a 9-line medical evacuation, spot report and how to speak using a military radio. (Minnesota National Guard

Pvt. 1st Class Divin Banza, power equipment repairer, 3/4 ADA Regiment, receives a coin from Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael A. Grinston. Grinston awards coins to select exemplary enlisted and non-commissioned officer Soldiers, then hosts an informal Q&A covering various Army topics: promotions, career lessons learned, mental health, and the future of the force amid current recruitment and retention challenges, December 14, 2022.

Norwegians in the Norwegian Home Guard Rapid Response Force / Youth program conduct weapons familiarity and preliminary marksmanship instruction and practice firing the Minnesota National Guard primary weapon system, the M4A1 Rifle on Engagement Skills Trainer ranges during the 51st Norwegian Reciprocal Troop Exchange (NOREX) at Camp Ripley Training Center in Little Falls, Minnesota on February 3rd, 2024. The Norwegians will use what they learned about the weapon system to complete rifle qualification ranges later on in NOREX (Minnesota Army National Guard

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Maria Cloherty, 325th Logistics Readiness Squadron unit deployment manager, back, shows Tech. Sgt. Robert Semcho, 325th LRS UDM, a feature on the Commander Toolkit, a web-based program used to track unit readiness, at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, July 15, 2022. UDMs use the CC Toolkit to ensure their unit is deployment ready, including annual training, medical appointments and physical fitness assessments.

WHITE BEACH, Japan (Sept. 20, 2022) Vice Adm. Yancy Lindsey, Commander, Navy Installations Command, listens to Justin Evers, acting Morale, Welfare and Recreation manager, talk about gym improvements as he tours Commander, Fleet Activities Okinawa (CFAO) White Beach Naval Facility. CFAO maintains and operates facilities to support the U.S. Navy's naval and aviation assets in the Indo-Pacific region.

Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Taylor, psychological operations NCO for U.S. Army Central, analyzes the command's area of responsibility during Exercise Lucky Strike 2022 at Fort Gordon, Georgia, on Sept. 20, 2022. During Exercise Lucky Strike, USARCENT deployed its contingency command post, demonstrating an ability to rapidly deploy within its area of responsibility.

U.S. service members and foreign partners receive briefings on Emerald Warrior 22.1 at Hurlburt Field, Florida, May 5, 2022. Emerald Warrior provides annual, realistic pre-deployment training encompassing multiple joint operating areas. The exercise prepares special operations forces, conventional force enablers, partner nations and interagency elements, to integrate with and execute full-spectrum special operations in any environment, sharpening U.S. forces abilities to operate around the globe ( U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Wendy Day)

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Chris Kronenwetter, the 127th Wings chaplain office superintendent ,poses for a photo at the Battle Creek Air National Guard Base, Mich., April 8, 2022. Kronenwetter has been named the recipient of the 2021 Minuteman Award Outstanding Air National Guard Religious Affairs Airman of the Year, given annually for excellence in his field, and for going above and beyond typical responsibilities. (Air National Guard photo by: Staff Sgt. Bethany Rizor)

Brig. Gen. Leigh Swanson, Air Mobility Command command surgeon, speaks with Col. Elizabeth Beal, 19th Medical Group commander, during a base visit at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, Feb. 12, 2024. During the visit, Swanson and Chief Master Sgt. Daneen Jeziorske, AMC medical enlisted force, had the opportunity to learn about the 19th MDGs daily operations and engage with numerous Airmen across various career fields that contribute to preparing and maintaining medical readiness. Air Force

U.S. Army Sgt. Eliezer Meléndez, a public affairs NCO assigned to the 113th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment of the Puerto Rico Army National Guard, works on his computer at Bolesławiec, Poland, Sept. 15, 2022. The 113th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, and is celebrating Hispanic heritage month, remembering Hispanics that have served throughout U.S. military history.

U.S. Air Force Col. Edward Szczepanik, 6th Air Refueling Wing deputy commander, center, and Senior Airman Khya Lynwood, 50th Air Refueling Squadron non-commissioned officer in charge of Squadron Aviation Resource Management, sign a board during a Champion of the Week recognition at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Feb. 20, 2024. Lynwood was recognized for her work in reviewing over 20,000 critical checklist items for 23 training sorties which played a critical role in training six new boom operators and co-pilots. Air Force

Airman 1st Class Kailee Hill, a command and control technician assigned to the 172nd Contingency Response Flight, sets up command and control systems at Avon Park, Florida, April 22nd. Southern Strike helps our joint team maintain combat readiness, build relationships, strengthen interoperability and prepare for possible future contingency missions.

Virginia Army National Guard 91st Cyber Brigade Commander Col. Rusty McGuire reviews the work of his team. The last of the brigade's 11 Cyber Protection Teams validated at Cyber Shield 2022 fulfilling a Congressional mandate. The exercise was held at the Army National Guards Professional Educational Center on Camp Robinson, Arkansas from June 5-17. Cyber Shield 2022 is the DODs largest unclassified inter-agency and joint national level training cyber defense exercise which includes representation from 20 states plus Guam.

U.S. Air Force Airmen, assigned to the Ohio National Guards 180th Fighter Wing, process through a mock personnel deployment function during a training exercise at the 180FW in Swanton, Ohio, Aug. 4, 2022. The 180FW performs daily training, conducted in realistic environments under realistic circumstances, ensuring our forces maintain the highest levels of proficiency and readiness for worldwide deployment.

U.S. Army ROTC Cadets assigned to the U.S. Army Cadet Command 2nd Brigade accept awards for placing first overall during the Ranger Challenge at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. on Oct. 23, 2022.The competition is conducted over two days on a non-tactical course. The mission is to challenge Cadets' mental and physical toughness and to develop leadership while fostering teamwork and esprit-de-corps. Teams participate in nine graded events, each team is awarded points based on how well they perform in each event. The best team in each event is awarded a trophy for being the first, second, and third place teams. The number one team is The Ranger Challenge Winner for that year.

Senior Master Sgt. Genna Steven assigned to the 292nd Combat Communications Squadron trancribes mission planning data into a database for particpants of exercise Gema Bhakti 2022, Sep. 14. 2022, Jakarta, Indonesia. Gema Bhakti 22 is a U.S. Indo-Pacific Command joint exercise program event, utilizing U.S. joint forces and TNI Armed Forces working together to increase interoperability and enhance regional stability and security through bilateral and multilateral partnerships.

Capt. Bryan King, project engineer Tulsa District USACE, Tinker AFB speaks with Brig. Gen. Christopher Beck about the E-3G training facility during the Beck's recent visit to Tinker. This will be the final visit for Beck before he relinquishes his command at USACE SWD in May.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Maurice Williams, center, command chief, Air National Guard, speaks with an Airman assigned to the 239th Combat Communications Squadron, 131st Bomb Wing, Missouri National Guard, at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Base, St. Louis, Missouri, Sept. 11, 2022. During his visit, Williams spoke with leadership and Airmen about the importance of the mission, leadership qualities and the Airmen's impact on the future of the Air Force.

Members of the 137th Mission Sustainment Team look over a map as they conduct a site survey during ATREUS 22-4 at Andøya Space Defense Range, Norway, Nov. 8, 2022. This was the first time the multi-capable Airmen conducted their mission in a setting realistic to the austere environments they will encounter while supporting global SOF operations.

19th Civil Engineering Squadron Airmen attend a class on radio communication techniques during a Prime Base Engineer Emergency Force (BEEF) training day at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, July 28, 2022. Members were briefed on proper lingo and various procedures and were then required to put them into practice.

U.S. Space Force Master Sgt. Katie Sawyer, 527th Space Aggressor Squadron maintenance superintendent, annotates status updates of each team during exercise Heavy Rain III at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 13, 2022. Heavy Rain is a five-day exercise that tests Airmens ability to establish and sustain communication in a simulated contested environment. .

Leadership from the 39th Air Base Wing watch as an Airman assigned to the 39th Comptroller Squadron (CPTS) shows a system that they use to process personnel at Incirlik AB, Turkey, July 18, 2022. Members of the 39th ABW depend on this service when arriving, and it contributes to a welcoming and smooth transition. The command team was able to experience the in-depth process Airmen of the 39th CPTS completed for all U.S. military personnel located here.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. William A. Ryan III,deputy commanding generalof Americas First Corps, recognizes Soldiers assigned to Headquarters & Headquarters Battalion for their assistance during the 2022 warfighter exercise, on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., Nov. 5, 2022.

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