Military Personnel and Activities

Images showcasing military personnel engaged in training and operations, highlighting their roles and activities in various settings.

Soldiers in the desert in the preparations for the attack in the Gulf War in 1990

Paratroopers assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division participate in the annual St. Michael Jump on Salerno Drop Zone on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Oct. 14, 2022. The jump was conducted in honor of the 82nd Airborne Division patron saint.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Rickey G. Jackson watches as the rehearsal for his relinquishment of responsibility ceremony occurs at the parade field of Forward Operating Site Adazi, Latvia, April 25, 2022. The 1st Infantry Division is among other units assigned to V Corps, Americas forward-deployed corps in Europe that works alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces.

Staff Sgt. Clarissa Scott, 344th Training Squadron Military Training Leader/Non-commissioned Officer in Charge, Out-processing, Reclass, and Discharge, poses at the 344th TRS hangar on Oct. 4, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Military Training Leaders go through a four-week course at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, for their initial training. The course teaches the role of the MTL in conducting military training and counseling of non-prior service Airmen and Guardians attending technical training schools.

Staff Sgt. Desiree Allen, 80th Fighter Squadron aviation resource management, uses a radio at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Oct. 13, 2022. After 80th FS pilots take off, the SARM Airmen keep in communication with them to relay information to maintenance personnel.

Pfc. Tristian Hines, of Somerset, Ky., poses for a photo after his First formation where he met his unit July, 21, 2022. Hines arrived at his unit Ranger and Airborne qualified thanks to the Ranger Training Leadership Initiative (RTLI) program, a program in which only National Guard Soldiers qualify for. He was the first Kentucky Guardsman to successfully complete the process.

A U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to the 355th Wing poses for a photo during multi-capable Airmen training at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, April 28, 2022. Airmen at DM from various career fields are required to complete 2 weeks of MCA training, which equips them with expeditionary skills outside of their regular job duties.

Army Cpl. XaViera Masline is promoted to the rank of sergeant during a ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., Jan. 13, 2023. Sgt. Maslines fellow noncommissioned officers from the Army Multimedia and Visual Information Division were present to congratulate her.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Kimani George walks in the vicinity of the white cell transport area. In addition to Soldier transport, barracks supply and building booking constitute major dimensions of white cell responsibilities.

Soldiers in the desert in the preparations for the attack in the Gulf War in 1990

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Joshua Freeman, a Security Forces Airman assigned to the 1st Special Operations Mission Support Group, receives a message from another patrol unit at Austere Field #6, Florida, Sept. 12, 2022. All members performing patrol maintain a direct line of communication to ensure a secure perimeter.

SGT Benjamin Wright Jr Singing the national anthem at HHC Assumption of Responsibility Ceremony

SCHRIEVER SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Space Base Delta 1 conducted a reveille ceremony at Schriever SFB, Colorado, 12 September, 2022. During the ceremony, SBD 1 Commander, U.S. Space Force Colonel, David Hanson, spoke on the significance of service and commitment to the nation's prisoners of war and those missing in action.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Kierra Murray, a Security Forces Airman from the 127th Wing, Selfridge Air National Guard, Mich., provides aircraft security on the flightline during Agile Rage 22 at Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center in Alpena, Mich., June 8, 2022. Agile Rage 22 is a National Guard Bureau-led exercise that provides realistic training opportunities, mimicking current and future combat environments dictated by the National Defense Strategy.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Amos Gray, 325th Comptroller Squadron financial operations supervisor, receives a deployment briefing from Tech. Sgt. Micah Mincey, 325th CPTS unit deployment manager, at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, July 15, 2022. UDMs act as liaisons between various Air Force units and the individual service members tasked to deploy.

Staff Sgt. Jean Ady, from Brooklyn, New York, shoots a back azimuth during U.S. Army NATO Brigade land navigation training at Breitenwald Training Area in Landstuhl, Germany.

Army private in fatigues in the autumn

Recruits with India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, complete a 12k hike aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C, April 30. 2022. Hikes are training events that assists in conditioning recruits through exercise, building moral, and creating a sense of belonging between recruits.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Carl Jones, 100th Maintenance Squadron sheet metal journeyman, is one of the many airmen responsible for repairing wear and damage on aircraft parts, including CV-22 Osprey and KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, July 19, 2022. Sheet metal airmen bolster the structural integrity of aircrat by repairing and protecting parts against damage caused by the environment.

U.S. Army Sgt. Nathaniel Hendrix, left, and Staff Sgt. Lionel Hunter talk about Hendrix time in the army to others during his promotion ceremony on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Sept. 14, 2022. Hunter first met Hendrix in 2018 when they became stationed together in South Korea.

U.S. Army soldier, assigned to the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, inspects their vehicle during Motorpool Monday. Motorpool Monday is conducted weekly to ensure all vehicles are working efficiently.

Major General Telita Crossland, Director deputy Surgeon General and Chief, Medical Corps, visited WRAIR to receive an overview/update of WRAIR's science capabilities and countermeasure development activities

Spc. Keith Dotson, assigned to 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, presents on July 20 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, during the my squad presentation board for the 2022 U.S. Army Pacific Best Squad Competition. The 2022 U.S. Army Pacific Best Squad Competition consists of multiple 5-Soldier squads from USARPAC units competing for the opportunity to represent USARPAC at the Department of the Armys competition. stations. The non-commissioned officers and junior enlisted will be assessed together in their ability to execute warrior tasks and battle drills, marksmanship and land navigation, and will be challenged to complete a mission as a squad.

A Marine with Headquarters Company, Battalion Landing Team 3/6, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) rests in the Kandahar International Airport, Kandahar, Afghanistan, before leaving on a mission in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Kandahar International Airport Country: Afghanistan (AFG) Scene Major Command Shown: 26th MEU (SOC)

A U.S. Airman with the 375th Air Mobility Wing exits a medical transport bus during a medical evacuation simulation on Volk Field Air National Base, Wisconsin, Oct. 21, 2022. Ballistic Badger 2022 simulated a rapid mobility deployment of Airmen to Gwangju, South Korea as a rehearsal for potential conflicts within the pacific.

051124-A-9419D-035. Base: Wyoming State: Michigan (MI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The 2nd Infantry Division Artillery conducted a change of command ceremony July 6, 2022 on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea. Col. David Pasquale, the outgoing commander, relinquished his responsibilities to Col. Alexander Lee during the ceremony.

Senior Master Sgt. Justin Thurman, 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron flight chief, mentors two Airmen during a speed mentoring session at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Feb. 9, 2024. The mentoring session hosted by Kunsan ABs African American Heritage Committee allowed Airmen to ask senior enlisted non-commissioned officers for insight concerning situational decisions and career progression. Air Force

U.S. Space Force Spc. 4 DShaune J. Hemingway, Jr., a satellite vehicle operator with the 4th Space Operations Squadron, is honored as one of the Space Force nominees for the 2023 GEICO Military Service Award at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, Jan. 19, 2024. Hemingway was nominated for his achievements and contributions on-duty and off-duty for both military and civilian communities.

U.S. Army LTC Rohan Oldacre, of the G-1, FMD, Integrated Personnel and Pay System - Army (IPPS - A) briefs the Adjutant General of the U.S Army, BG Gregory Johnson, during a meeting with key leaders of the IPPS - A program to disucss upcoming release events and issues, Dec. 1, 2022 in Arlington, Virginia.

Sgt. Roneicia Durr, 1st Battalion, 204th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 66th Troop Command, Mississippi Army National Guard, poses for a photo at the Hinds Community College-Academic/Technical Center in Jackson, Mississippi, Sept. 2, 2022. "I serve because I want to be an example by serving the community," said Durr.

1st Lt. Kiera Butler, commander, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 418th Quartermaster Battalion, 653rd Regional Support Group, is pictured at the detachment headquarters, Feb. 24, Silverbell Armed Forces Readiness Center, Red Rock, Ariz. Army Reserve

Capt. Kertreck Brooks, commanding officer, speaks with recruits during Battle Stations inside USS Trayer (BST 21) at Recruit Training Command (RTC). Trayer, more commonly referred to as "Battle Stations," is the crucible event that recruits must pass prior to graduation, testing their knowledge and skills in basic seamanship, damage control, firefighting and emergency response procedures. Boot camp is approximately 10 weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes five warfighting competencies of firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms handling and marksmanship along with physical fitness and lessons in Navy heritage and core values, Warrior Toughness, Life Skills, teamwork and discipline. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navys only boot camp.

STAFF SGT. Moorman of 1ST Battalion, 509th Infantry, waits to board an aircraft. Moorman and his unit will parachute into the vicinity of David, Panama, where they will conduct operations in support of Operation Just Cause. Exact Date Shot Unknown. Subject Operation/Series: JUST CAUSE Base: Howard Air Force Base Country: Panama (PAN)

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Deangello Wiggins enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2007. Today, he embodies the Armys motto of Be All You Can Be by his dedication to being the best Soldier, husband, and father he can be and by exploring his creativity through writing and publishing his first book.

U.S. Army Pfc. Shamar Cerant, a Military Policeman assigned to Duelmen, Germany, parades alongside Soldiers during Drills and Ceremonies, the mystery event for the USAG Benelux Best Warrior Competition, on Chièvres Air Base, Belgium, Feb. 27, 2023.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Maurice Selders, administrative specialist, Headquarters and Support (H&S) Battalion, Marine Corps Installations East, stands guard at a barricade during Exercise Urgent Response on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 15, 2022. H&S Battalion Marines conducted identification checks and established vehicle control points in support of Exercise Urgent Response, an installation-wide exercise that plans for and executes anti-terrorism response procedures.

TAMARA DROP ZONE, Honduras - Army Master Sgt. MichaelHankins, Joint Task Force-Bravo Army Forces, uses a compass to check winddirection after a weather balloon was released. Sergeant Hankins helpedsetup the drop zone for U.S. and Honduran forces to jump from a CH-47Chinook helicopter here Dec. 8. The jump was part of a graduationrequirement for the Honduran TESON unit. TESON, which stands for TropasEspeciales para Operaciones de Selva y Nocturnas, is an elite Honduran unitakin to the U.S. Army Rangers.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Sequoyah Edwards, a combat engineer with Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 171, takes notes during a field exercise at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 6, 2022. MWSS-171 conducted this exercise in order to familiarize themselves with expeditionary advanced base operations, demolition operations, urban operations, and different weapon systems.

Senior Enlisted Advisor Tony L. Whitehead, the senior enlisted advisor for the Chief, National Guard Bureau, speaks with Texas Army National Guardsmen assigned to Operation Lone Star, November 23, 2022, in Harlingen, Texas, during a joint operational area circulation. SEA Whitehead serves as the Chief's principal military advisor on all enlisted matters affecting training, utilization, the health of the force, and enlisted professional development. As the highest enlisted level of National Guard leadership, he provides direction for the enlisted force and represents their interests.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Maurice L. Williams, command chief, Air National Guard, shares his personal keys to success with Airmen with the 136th Airlift Wing, Texas Military Department, during an enlisted town hall June 26, 2022, at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas.

Pvt. Tyrice Melvin, who graduated Basic Combat Training, speaks with Maj. Gen. Milford H. Beagle Jr., 10th Mountain Division commander, after his unit's graduation July 28. Melvin and Beagle met each other on board a plane flight from Germany. Beagle once commanded Fort Jackson and the Army Training Center.

U.S. Army Soldiers with the New Jersey Army National Guard load their bags at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Jan. 25, 2024. More than 1,500 NJARNG Soldiers are deploying to support U.S. Central Commands Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve. This is the largest deployment of NJARNG Soldiers since 2008.

U.S. partner nation police officers from the Caribbean are recognized for having completed the Public Order Course during Tradewinds 22, on May 12, in Belize. Tradewinds is a Caribbean-focused exercise designed to expand the regions capability to mitigate, plan for, and respond to crises; strengthen partnerships; increase regional training capacity and interoperability; develop new and refine existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) during the SOP Development Conference; determine SOPs to be exercised; determine regional process for SOP validation; enhance ability to defend Exclusive Economic Zones; increase U.S./ally/partner readiness; promote human rights and adherence to shared international norms and values; fully integrate women into the force; and increase maritime domain awareness to deter IUU fishing activities.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jarod Sanders, a fire support Marine with 2d Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, II Marine Expeditionary Force, poses for a photo during exercise Mjolnir Strike on Atlantic Airfield, North Carolina, June 27, 2023.Go and get after it, said Sanders when asked for advice for other enlisted Marines. Its about the warfighter mentality, just go do it. Im a busy body so when someone asks, Hey who wants to do this I always respond with, Ill go do it. Why Because I dont want to sit still and I want to get after it.Sanders participated in exercise Mjolnir Strike 3-23 for proficiency training and evaluation for Joint Terminal Attack Controllers. Exercise Mjolnir Strike 3-23 incorporates multiple fire support capabilities, such as ground-based indirect fires and close air support.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 26, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Dan Navarro, from Wahiawa, Hawaii, poses for a photo aboard Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, July 26, 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 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.

Various members from the 460th Security Forces Squadron place their hands upon the spirit rock, painted with the names of those fallen in the line of duty at Buckley Space Force Base, Colo., May 17, 2022. The 460th SFS hosts police week on the week of May 22, to honor those valiant officers whove given their lives for ours.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Tyra Watson stands with an M60 machine gun at a law enforcement display during National Police Week at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, May 17, 2022. National Police Week connected civilian and military law enforcement members with their local communities and gave the public a chance to learn about the tools and tactics law enforcement members employ.

030302-N-5362A-010. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Camp Patriot Country: Kuwait (KWT)

Tech. Sgt. James Harris, a 911th Airlift Wing public affairs specialist, poses in front of the American flag for Black History Month at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania, Feb. 4, 2024. The blue in the U.S. flag represents vigilance, perseverance and justice, which are qualities that can serve as commemoration and remembrance to recognizing African Americans and their central role in U.S. history. Air Force

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Victor Reyes Santos, a master welder with the 783rd Support Maintenance Company, Task Force Red Ball, poses with his precision tool and equipment in the companys workshop on Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Dec. 1, 2022. The 783SMC is based in Puerto Rico and has been instrumental in responding to emergencies and recovery efforts. While forward deployed, the company has been instrumental in ensuring the readiness of several unique pieces of equipment used on the ground, in the water and in the air.

Sgt. 1st Class Crystal Seymore, Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Army liaison, shows off an Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations patch at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, Aug. 18, 2022. Seymore has been attached to AFMAO for two years and said her time with the team taught her the importance of mental health. The priority of resiliency is led by Col. Hollinger AFMAO commander, she said. He ensures that not only are the deceased and their families taken care of, but the Airmen and liaisons serving within this facility as well.

Illinois Air National Guard Staff Sgt. Jose Reyna talks to a Univision reporter at the Illinois Army National Guard's North Riverside armory. Governor JB Pritzker issued an emergency disaster proclamation on Sept. 14 and activated approximately 75 members of the Illinois National Guard to ensure all state resources are available to support asylum seekers arriving nearly daily to Chicago. More than 60 percent of the Soldiers and Airmen activated are Spanish speakers. The proclamation enables the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and other state agencies, in close coordination with the City of Chicago, Cook County, and other local governments, to ensure the individuals and families receive the assistance they need. This includes transport, emergency shelter and housing, food, health screenings, medical assessments, treatments, and other necessary care and services.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kenneth Moreno, a Bronx, New York native and a food service specialist with Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 (MWSS-272), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, poses for a photo at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, Dec. 12, 2022. Moreno joined the Marine Corps to give himself and his family a better life.

Senior Airman Fernando Bones, 66th Security Forces Squadron Base Defense Operations Center controller, listens to instructions during a force response techniques training session at Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., July 14. The weeklong training, held July 11-15, provided students with close-range subject control skills through individual and team techniques.

A Patriot Day Memorial Ceremony held at the 332d Air Expeditionary Wing at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, Sept. 11, 2022. Patriot Day is a holiday memorializing the lives lost in the terrorist attacks September 11, 2001, and honoring those who have fought in the Global War on Terror ever since.

Master-At-Arms 2nd Class (MA2) Jordan N. Clayton, a native of Riverside, California, was selected as the Navy Recruiting District San Diego Sailor of the Quarter.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Lester L. Williams, offgoing sergeant major, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, speaks to ceremony attendees during the MCBH Relief and Appointment and Retirement ceremony, MCBH, Aug. 19, 2022. Williams was relieved by Sgt. Maj. Joseph J. Caputo as the MCBH Sergeant Major. Williams served over 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps.

030205-M-0523L-046. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Camp Commando Country: Kuwait (KWT)

The Color Guard, assigned to 46th Aviation Support Battalion, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, marches in the "Duck Daze" parade at University Place, Wash. on Jun. 4, 2022.

Soldiers assigned to Delta Company, 1-229 Attack Battalion, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, prepare to load an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter at Gray Army Airfield, Wash. on Oct 20, 2022. The Soldiers were training with Airmen on AH-64E Apache helicopter C-17 loading and unloading procedures.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to 55th Signal Company (Combat Camera), 21st Signal Brigade, conduct Modern Army Combatives training at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, July 22, 2022. Combatives is the term for hand-to-hand combat training and techniques within the Army branch of the United States military.

Portrait of a young African American US Marine Corps soldier saluting over brown background

Col. Henry Wolf Jeffress, 8th Fighter Wing Commander introduces Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. as he prepares to host an all call at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Aug. 12, 2022. During the all call, Brown discussed the National Defense Strategy, Air Force doctrine, and Airman resiliency, among other topics. His visit to Kunsan and other air bases in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Area of Responsibility enabled him to recognize the contributions of Airmen serving in the region and reinforce U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

220506-N-KN989-1002 JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (May 6, 2022) Master-at-Arms 1st Class Lamar McNeal, assigned to Commander Navy Region Hawaii (CNRH), receives the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal after being selected as CNRHs 2021 Shore Sailor of the Year. Commander Navy Region Hawaii is the regional coordinator for all shore-based naval personnel and shore activities in Hawaii - as well as the Navys representative to the Hawaii community.

A U.S. Air Force member tries on a helmet during the deployment issue line.

U.S. Army Sgt. Nathaniel Hendrix, assigned to D Company 3rd Psychological Operations Battalion (Airborne) (Dissemination), 8th Psychological Operations Group (Airborne), talks to others during his promotion ceremony on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Sept. 14, 2022. Hendrix joined the Army as a Multimedia Illustrator in Feb. of 2018 after attending collage for two years.

PHILLIP CARUSO in FORREST GUMP (1994), directed by ROBERT ZEMECKIS.

050819-A-0575B-051. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Bagram Airfield State: Parwan Country: Afghanistan (AFG) Scene Major Command Shown: CJTF76

BOSTON (Sept. 15, 2022) U.S. Seaman Latia Miller, from Century City, California, earned her basic interpretive historian qualification aboard USS Constitution. USS Constitution, is the worlds oldest commissioned warship afloat, and played a crucial role in the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812, actively defending sea lanes from 1797 to 1855. During normal operations, the active-duty Sailors stationed aboard USS Constitution provide free tours and offer public visitation to more than 600,000 people a year as they support the ships mission of promoting the Navys history and maritime heritage and raising awareness of the importance of a sustained naval presence. USS Constitution was undefeated in battle and destroyed or captured 33 opponents. The ship earned the nickname of Old Ironsides during the war of 1812 when British cannonballs were seen bouncing off the ships wooden hull.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Kelvin N. Robinson, the outgoing commander of the 2nd Battalion, 70th Armor Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, reflects on his time as a Big Red One Soldier and expressed what it meant to him to be a commander during the change of command ceremony at the Fort Riley, Kansas, Cavalry Parade Field, June 16th, 2022.

041110-F-2326B-101. Base: Tallil Air Base State: Dhi Qar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

Military and diplomatic leaders from various participating nations participate in a Tactical Combat Casuality Course during Cutlass Express 2024 Camp Doraleh, Djibouti Feb 27, 2024. Exercises like Cutlass Express foster trust between participating nations by promoting mutual understanding and cooperation. Exercise Cutlass Express (CE) is one of three African regional "Express" series exercises sponsored by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and facilitated by U.S. Naval Forces Africa/U.S. Sixth Fleet (NAVAF/SIXTHFLT). Air National Guard

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Nathan Jackson, 375th Wing Staff Agency senior enlisted leader, stands for a photo on Scott Air Force Base, Aug. 26, 2022. Jackson was selected as the Air Mobility Command nominee in the Senior Enlisted Category for the 2022 Lance P. Sijan Award.

Col. Randel Gordon, incoming commander of Arnold Engineering Development Complex, sits for an interview June 13, 2022, with public affairs at Arnold Air Force Base, Tenn., headquarters of AEDC. (U.S. Air Force photos by Jill Pickett)

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Ruth Polancorivera, legal services specialist, Headquarters and Support (H&S) Battalion, Marine Corps Installations East, checks common access cards during Exercise Urgent Response on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 15, 2022. H&S Battalion Marines conducted identification checks and established vehicle control points in support of Exercise Urgent Response, an installation-wide exercise that plans for and executes anti-terrorism response procedures.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Lionel Hunter, right, promotes Sgt. Nathaniel Hendrix from Cpl. to Sgt. during his promotion ceremony on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Sept. 14, 2022. Hendrix asked Hunter to promote him as Hunter was one of Hendrix first mentors in the Army.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Ashley Brown, 36th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron physical therapy technician, speaks to students about physical therapy during the Tiyan High School Health Fair in Barrigada, Guam, Feb. 23, 2024. At the fair Airmen from the 36th Civil Engineer Squadron and 36th Medical Group demonstrated carrying a patient, applying a tourniquet, and walked students through various physical therapy exercises. Air Force

Anthony Brinkley talks to Airmen about resiliency during one of his presentations in the USO auditorium Oct. 20, 2022, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. Brinkley, a retired Air Force chief master sergeant, stressed the importance of self-care for all personnel in the chain of command, including taking advantage of available mental health resources. He conducted five sessions geared for leadership teams, junior enlisted, NCOs, senior NCOs, company and field grade officers.

Spc. Aliyah Ashe, from the 1776th Military Police Company, claps during a round of applause while attending the CATCH Night of Champions event at The Henry hotel in Dearborn, Mich., on October 13, 2022

Col. Randel Gordon, incoming commander of Arnold Engineering Development Complex, sits for an interview June 13, 2022, with public affairs at Arnold Air Force Base, Tenn., headquarters of AEDC. (U.S. Air Force photos by Jill Pickett)

Master Sgt. Gladice Glonzalez, Indo Pacific Command J5 senior enlisted leader, speaks to noncommissioned officers during a symposium at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Dec. 2, 2022. This was the first NCO symposium held at JBPHH, and guest speakers were invited to share insight and knowledge to help enhance leadership skills.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Dana Jackson Jr, a logistics chief with Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, poses for a photo during exercise Native Fury 22 at a Logistics Support Area established in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Aug. 15, 2022. Native Fury 22 is a biennial exercise focused on the demonstration of the rapid offload and integration of a Maritime Prepositioned Force in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in support of regional security, crisis response, and contingency operations.

Tech. Sgt. Benson Stewart, supply management specialist, District of Columbia Air National Guard, works within the 113th Wing Logistics Readiness Squadron at Joint Base Andrews, Feb. 3, 2024. In recognition of Black History Month, the Department of Defense recognizes the bravery and exceptional service of Black military and civilian personnel and celebrates the richness and diversity of their achievements during February and all year. Air National Guard

U.S. Army Sgt. Tarako Braswell and Sgt. Torrance Saunders, assigned to 982nd Signal Company (Airborne) stand for a photo before competing in 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 physical, tactical and technical proficiency of visual information and public affairs specialists across the DOD and participating international competitors.

U.S. Army Sgt. Sidney Perry, assigned to 55th Signal Company (Combat Camera), 21st Signal Brigade, participates in a marksmanship qualification range while competing in the 2022 Spc. Hilda I. Clayton Best Combat Camera Competition at Fort A.P Hill, Virginia, May 21, 2022. The annual multi-day competition tests the physical, tactical and technical proficiency of visual information and public affairs specialists across the DOD and participating international competitors.

Rear Adm. Lex Walker, Commander, Navy Recruiting Command, right, attends a meeting with Lee Harris, Shelby County Mayor, during Memphis Navy Week. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy and increase awareness in metropolitan areas that do not have a significant Navy presence.

Army Cpl. XaViera Masline is promoted to the rank of sergeant during a ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., Jan. 13, 2023. Sgt. Maslines fellow noncommissioned officers from the Army Multimedia and Visual Information Division were present to congratulate her.

Maj. Gen. David Wilson, commanding general, U.S. Army Sustainment Command, and senior mission commander, Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois, gives remarks during the installation quarterly retirement ceremony at Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois, Sept. 27 in Heritage Hall. The event paid tribute to a combined 104 years of national service for four Soldiers. (Photo by Linda Lambiotte, ASC Public Affairs)

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Ryan Scott, 2-10 AHB Commander, conducts his last flight as battalion commander on Fort Drum, Ny. July 15, 2022. Lt. Col. Scott was pinned his Master Aviator Wings afterwards, after completing 15 years of service and 2,000 flight hours.

A Marine armed with M16A1 rifle patrols the area around Grenville during Operation URGENT FURY. Subject Operation/Series: URGENT FURY Base: Grenville Country: Grenada (GRD)

"I recognize that, even though I was born and raised in Africa, what our African ancestors went through afforded my parents the opportunity to come to America and enjoy the freedom that they forged and the privilege to serve this great country," said Senior Chief Petty Officer Mamadou Sambe, of the Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), said during a Juneteenth celebration at WRNMMC on June 16.

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Terrance C. Smith smiles alongside his son at his retirement ceremony at the Noncommissioned Officer Academy auditorium on Fort Bragg N.C Oct. 27. Smith retired after 21 years of honorable service to our country. (U.S Army photo by Sgt. Daniel Ramos.)

JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. - U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Gloria JT Thomas, 441st Vehicle Support Chain Operations Squadron, noncommissioned officer in charge of vehicle disposition and lease management, stands outside of the 735th Supply Chain Operations Group building at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Aug. 17, 2022. The 441st VSCOS falls under the 735th SCOG and aids them in their mission to be the first for the Air Force supply chain.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. David Hamptonfurr, administrative specialist, Marine Corps Base Quantico, poses for a photo on MCB Quantico, Oct. 4, 2022. Hamptonfurr competed in the 2022 Organization of Competitive Bodybuilding in Bowie, Maryland, making his professional debut.

Studio shot of African male police officer

030411-M-1852W-002. Base: Marine Corps Air Station, Futema State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN) Scene Major Command Shown: MAG-36

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Oct. 13, 2022) Chief Information Systems Technician (Sel) Jacob Wilson, assigned to Information Warfare Training Site Yokosuka, emcees at the U.S. Navys 247th birthday cake-cutting ceremony for newly selected chiefs at the Chapel of Hope onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY). For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleets forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Jaderik Williams, 347th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment journeyman, smiles during an AFE inspection at the 71st Rescue Squadron at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Jan. 4, 2023. The routine 120-day inspection requires the HGU-55/P helmets and the V7 Quick-don masks be completely sanitized. In order to sanitize each component, AFE Airmen must disassemble each individual part.

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Charles Johnson, 307th Medical Squadron senior enlisted leader, poses for a photo at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, Feb. 6, 2024. Johnson was named Air Force Reserve Commands Outstanding Air Reserve Technician Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year, 2023. Johnson oversees numerous aspects of the 307th MDS including the Personnel Reliability Program for the AFRCs only nuclear-capable bomber unit. (U.S Air Force

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Michael Goggins, of the 129th Communications Flight, 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, talks about his recent visit to the White House as a representative of the California Air National Guard, Dec. 3, 2022, during an all hands meeting at Moffett Air National Guard Base near Mountain View, California. Goggins spoke about seeing the White House decorated for the holidays and meeting First Lady Jill Biden.

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