← Military & Defence

Military Personnel Awards

Ceremonies recognizing outstanding military personnel, showcasing award presentations and commendations for dedication and service in the armed forces.

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.

220616-N-YR423-4966 PENSACOLA, Fla. - Naval Education and Training Professional Development Center Commanding Officer, Capt. Willie Brisbane, presents Michael Fisk with an award for winning junior civilian of the quarter (COQ) for first quarter, 2022. Fisk received his award for his superior performance and dedication to duty as a subject matter expert to the Navy Junior ROTC (NJROTC) programs quarterly instructor salary file business process.

Let's give Airman 1st Class Rashad Keys from the 81st Medical Support Squadron a shout-out for being chosen as the Warrior of the Week during this week's staff meeting! As a medical materiel technician, Keys brilliantly led warehouse operations, managing 227 accounts and realigning 30,000 stocked items, enabling 92,000 appointments. Due to his efforts, he was named the squadrons top performer while he managed three direct logistics accounts, optimizing daily replenishments of4,000 line items and accomplishing an inventory for ancillary services worth $876,000. Furthermore, Keys governed the DOD asset reutilization program where he meticulously led the replacement of $2,000 in expired items and advanced a $12.4 million War Reserve Materiel project to support the shipping of 20 assemblages for six taskings. Finally, he directed an eight-member team to audit four inventories where they successfully vetted 1,600 items, certified $30,000 in medical materiel, and secured $69 million in su

Master Sgt. Daniel Fields, deputy commandant of the Command Sgt. Maj. Southern Buddy Hewitt Noncommissioned Officer Academy, thanks Hilton LaBow for speaking to the graduating class of the Basic Leader Course on Sept. 29 at the Multipurpose Auditorium at Fort Drum. (Photo by Mike Strasser, Fort Drum Garrison Public Affairs)

240117-N-HG389-1014 Rear Adm. Mark A. Melson, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC/CTF 73), left, awards the Navy and Marine Corp Commendation Medal to Master Chief Navy Diver Nelson Trevallion, right, during a turnover between Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1-5 and MDSU 1-8. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed naval forces along with regional allies and partners, to sustain patrols in the Indo-Pacific, participation in naval exercises and responses to natural disasters.

502nd Air Base Wing held an honorary commanders hail and farewell ceremony, March 31, 2023, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. This program promotes mission partner relationships between Joint Base San Antonio and the 502nd Air Base Wing and community leaders throughout the city of San Antonio and surrounding areas.

Master Sgt. Jared Schwartzbauer, 758th Airlift Squadron member, receives the Outstanding Airmen of the Year award in the NCO category during a commander's call at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania, April 2, 2023. The OAY is an annual awards program in the Air Force that recognizes Airmen who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, job performance, community involvement, and personal achievements.

220804-N-FD648-1017 NORFOLK, VA - Rear Adm. Dennis Velez, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10 and George H.W. Bush CSG, left, awards the Sailor of the quarter to Yeoman 2nd Class Ensley Arocho aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69) August 4, 2022.

Lt. Col. Daniel Ortwerth, strategy plans officer for the 157th Combat Operations Squadron, receives a photo memento of Jefferson Barracks during his retirement ceremony, May 15, 2022, at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Base, St. Louis, Missouri. Ortwerth served for 28 years.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Cody Anderson, right, a logistics readiness officer with the 182nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, Illinois Air National Guard, assumes command of the 182nd Force Support Squadron in Peoria, Illinois, Oct. 2, 2022. FSS provides services in personnel, promotions, education, training, recreation, and fitness.

Col. Paul Davidson, 51st Fighter Wing vice commander, and Chief Master Sgt. John Alsvig, 51st Fighter Wing command chief, pose for a photo with Master Sgt. Justin Canizales, 51st Security Forces Squadron integrated defense superintendent, during a prisoner of war and missing in action (POW/MIA) remembrance ceremony at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Sept. 27, 2022. The monument stone (pictured) was to be added to Osans POW/MIA memorial monument in honor of U.S. Army Private First Class Anselmo Zamora who died during the Korean War, Feb. 24, 1951.

U.S. Air Force Col. Steven Thomas, the wing vice commander of the 182nd Airlift Wing, Illinois Air National Guard, retires in Peoria, Illinois, April 30, 2022. Thomas served in the role for five years.

Brig. Gen. Stanley E. Budraitis, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence deputy commander, exchanges gifts with Major General Andrea Di Stasio, Commander, Italian Army Aviation, Italy, during a visit to Fort Rucker, Alabama, May 16, 2022. In 2014, Gen. Di Stasio established the 3rd Helicopter Regiment for Special Operations, Aldebaran, in turn becoming the Regiments first Commander.

Col. Kristen Thompson, 55th Wing commander, presents Scott Carlson, 55th Command Post program analyst, with the 2021 Nuclear Deterrence Operations Civilian Category II of the Year award June 7, 2022, at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. It was Carlsons third year in a row winning in that category.

502nd Air Base Wing held an honorary commanders hail and farewell ceremony, March 31, 2023, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. This program promotes mission partner relationships between Joint Base San Antonio and the 502nd Air Base Wing and community leaders throughout the city of San Antonio and surrounding areas.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Joey Meininger, 1st Special Operations Wing Command Chief, presents a Fort Walton Beach High School Junior ROTC cadet the Greatest of All Time award during a drill competition at Hurlburt Field, Florida, Feb. 10, 2024. The competition featured six local high schools participating in several drill components, including armed and unarmed regulation, armed exhibition, color guard regulation and color guard specialty. Team Hurlburt is committed to fostering key relationships in order to bolster community bonds by organizing events such as the drill competition. Air Force

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Joey D. Blacksher, assigned to 5th Ranger Training Battalion, is honored during his retirment ceremony along with his wife, Kendle Blacksher on Stringer Drop Zone, Dahlonega, Ga., February 2, 2024. Command Sgt. Maj. Blacksher served 22 years of dedicated serve to the U.S. Army and the United States of America. Army Reserve

USACE Headquarters Deputy Commander, Maj. Gen. Heitkamp, visits Portland Districts emergency control center for operation blue roof, a program that provides temporary roof coverage for homeowners in Florida that were affected by hurricane Ian. Volunteers answer phones and field questions from residents affected by hurricane Ian.

Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass poses for a photo with U.S. Army Sergeant 1st Class Maurice Erickson, left, 1st Sgt. for the Joint Task Force-Space Defense, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Joan Jumaquio, center, JTF-SD manpower and personnel senior enlisted leader, and U.S. Space Force Technical Sgt. Andrea McLeod, JTF-SD noncommissioned officer in charge of training, exercises and futures, following an all-call June 10, 2022, at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado. The JTF-SD, in unified action with mission partners, deters aggression, defends capabilities, and defeats adversaries throughout the continuum of conflict.

230406-N-MR862-080 TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. (April 6, 2023) Capt. Robert Skillz” Majoris, commodore, Strategic Communications Wing (SCW) 1, presents Master-At-Arms 3rd Class Velvet Salgado, with a President’s Volunteer Service Award at an awards quarters April 6, 2023. SCW-1 is a tenant command of Naval Air Forces Command, ensuring National Security through the deterrence of adversarial nuclear ambitions.

Sgt. Christina Blanco (right), a signal support systems specialist assigned to the Commanding General's Communication Team, Signal Intelligence Service Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division, poses with Maj. Gen. Charles D. Costanza (left), commanding general of 3rd ID, during her promotion ceremony at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Dec. 12, 2022. Blanco was promoted from the rank of corporal to sergeant.

301st Fighter Wing members pose for a photo at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas on April 03, 2022. Col. Allen Duckworth, 301 FW Commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Micheal Senigo, 301 FW Command Chief, presented an award to the 301 FW Medical Squadron for having the best group name in the Walk Across Texas challenge.

CRYSTAL CITY, VA. (Oct. 27, 2022) - Lt. Gen. Michael Schmidt, F-35 Joint Program Executive Officer, presents the Department of the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award to Ryan Gerbino for his consistently outstanding performance as a member of the F-35 Joint Program Office, Annual Sustainment Team, Contracts Department from March 2017 to present, during an awards ceremony at the program headquarters in Crystal City, VA., Oct. 27, 2022. The F-35 Joint Program Office is the Department of Defense's focal point for the 5th generation strike aircraft for the Navy, Air Force, Marines, and our allies. The F-35 is the premier multi-mission, 5th-generation weapon system. Its ability to collect, analyze and share data is a force multiplier that enhances all assets in the battle space: with stealth technology, advanced sensors, weapons capacity, and range. The F-35 has been operational since July 2015 and is the most lethal, survivable, and interoperable fighter aircraft ever built. (Photo by

The 3rd Quarter Workforce Town Hall Ceremony was held at the Riverbend Golf Course for civilian employees to connect with the Camp Humphreys command team, June 24, 2022. During the town hall meeting, U.S. Soldiers and civilian federal employees were recognized for years of service and superior job performance.

Brig. Gen. Maurizio D. Calabrese, deputy commanding general for intelligence at U.S. Central Commands Over-the-Horizon Counterterrorism Headquarters, accepts a gift at the close of the exercise Regional Cooperation 22 Aug. 19, 2022, in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. RC 22 is an annual, multi-national U.S. Central Command-sponsored exercise conducted by U.S. forces in partnership with Central and South Asia nations.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (May 23, 2022) - Rear Adm. Richard Seif, commander, Submarine Group Seven, right, and Erin Seif, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Honorary Chair of Volunteers, left, present a certificate of appreciation to Yeoman Petty Officer 2nd Class Chantel Madarang, for her support raising funds during the 2022 NMCRS Active Duty Fund Drive onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, May 23. At the end of each ADFD season, NMCRS offices from around the world host an appreciation ceremony recognizing commands that have the highest donation per capita, the highest donation contribution, and outstanding command key persons for the Marine Corps and the Navy. NMCRS is a private, non-profit organization that has been financially assisting Marines, sailors and their families through interest-free loans and grants since 1904. 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, t

District of Columbia National Guard service members, family members, and friends gather to honor the retirement of Command Sergeant Major Robert L. Hull, on November 5, 2022 at Washington, DC Armory. During the retirement ceremony, Crystal Hull received a certificate of appreciation from Lieutenant Colonel Amber Ellison. (US Army National Guard Photo by Spc. Emiliano Alcorta).

Maj. Gen. Howard P. Purcell, Assistant Adjutant General for Air, Air Component Commander of the Arizona Air National Guard and Air National Guard Assistant to the Secretary of the Air Force, International Affairs, a former 162nd Wing Commander accepts a token of appreciation from Brig. Gen. Jefferey L. Butler during an informal retirement ceremony at Morris Air National Guard Base, Dec. 3.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Oct. 20, 2022) Capt. Les Sobol, Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) presents the Employee of the Quarter Award to Yumi Izawa during an award ceremony at Benny Decker Theater onboard CFAY. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet's forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

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.

Lt. Col. Kevin Easter relinquishes command of the 1-229th Attack Battalion, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade to Lt. Col. Nicholas Holten at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. on Jun. 10, 2022.

Staff Sgt. Jesse Ginestar is presented with the Oregon National Guards 2009 NCO of the Year title by Retired Maj. Gen. Curtis Loop, president of the Columbia River Chapter of the Association of the United States Army and Brig. Gen. David Enyeart, Assistant Adjutant General Army, Oregon, and Oregon State Command Sgt. Maj. Brunk Conley, March 1, at Camp Rilea, Warrenton, Ore. Ginestar, of Klamath Falls, Ore., is a platoon sergeant with Charlie Troop, 1st Battalion, 82nd Cavalry.

Minnesota National Guards Soldier, Sergeant First Class Kolt Krumpos nominated his employer, McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing Incorporated for their support during his deployment. During the Minnesota State Fair's Military Appreciation Day, Tuesday, August 30, 2022, in Falcon Heights, Employer Support of The Guard and Reserve recognized and honored 23 employers of military families . (Minnesota National Guard Photo by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

Brig. Gen. Humaid Al-Shamsi, deputy commander of the United Arab Emirates Land Forces, presents Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank, U.S. Army Central commanding general, with a gift during a key leader engagement at Patton Hall in Shaw Air Force Base, SC on September 27, 2022. The key leader engagement was vital to maintaining strong relationships with partner nations which shape future regional defense and bilateral cooperation.

230406-N-MR862-082 TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. (April 6, 2023) Capt. Robert Skillz” Majoris, commodore, Strategic Communications Wing (SCW) 1, presents Personnel Specialist 1st Class Ryan Weeks, with a 72nd Air Base Wing Certificate of Recognition at an awards quarters April 6, 2023. SCW-1 is a tenant command of Naval Air Forces Command, ensuring National Security through the deterrence of adversarial nuclear ambitions.

U.S. Army Col. Phil Brown, right, the Joint Task Force-Bravo commander, presents a gift to Dr. Robert Lopez Sum, the executive director for Hospital Regional de Occidente in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, during the Health Engagements Assistance Response Team (HEART) 2022 closing ceremony at Unidad Nacional de Oftalmología in Guatemala City, Aug. 30, 2022. HEART 22 is a JTF-B-led, U.S. Southern Command medical assistance operation that took place in both Guatemala and Honduras.

Ft. Wadsworth, NY - The 353rd Civil Affairs Command inducted six Soldiers into the NCO Corps during a non-commissioned officer (NCO) induction ceremony here on January 6, 2024. The ceremony is a symbolic representation of enlisted Soldiers becoming non-commissioned officers and reminds participants of the legacy of the NCO Corps.The 353rd Civil Affairs Command who joined the NCO Corps are:Sgt. Robert A. BarceloSgt. Shannay O. CassanSgt. David J. LopezSgt. David I. MarquisSgt. Andy B. PierreSgt. Samuel U. Zelic(Released/U.S. Army Reserve Photo By Sgt 1st Class Gregory Williams)

Lt. Col. Brian Kibitlewski (right), commander, Special Troops Battalion, 1st Theater Sustainment Command, presents a certificate of appreciation to Byron Goode (left), ASAP specialist, on Fort Knox, Kentucky, April 29, 2022. Goode was recognized for his dedication and professional commitment during the 1st TSCs spring safety day.

Staff Sgt. Tyler Burkel, 3rd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade and his battalion's partners from Charles Middle School, El Paso ISD receive an award from Brig. Gen. Michael Simmering, deputy commanding general - operations, 1st Armored Division, and Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Williams, senior enlisted advisor, 1st Armored Division, during the Fort Bliss Partners in Education Kick-Off Event Sept. 30, 2022 at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. 3rd Battalion received a total of three awards for their partnership efforts in academic year 2021-2022 including a Top Hours Award, Volunteer of the Year Award, and Partnership of the Year Award. (Photo by Christopher Bohn, Fort Bliss MWR)

U.S. Army Capt. Clinton Bradley is given a plaque at a change of command ceremony on Sept. 18, 2022 at the Flemington National Guard Armory. Incoming battery commander Capt. Capt. Jennifer Wain replaced Capt. Bradley who was promoted to another assignment in the National Guard. (U.S. Army National Guard photos by Pfc. Michael Hayes)

Rahm Emanuel, the U.S. ambassador to Japan, awards U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Joshua Egler, an aeromedical evacuation technician with 18th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, 18th Wing, during a recognition luncheon on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, April 28, 2022. Egler received a challenge coin for responding to an overhead call for medical assistance and providing aid to a Japanese passenger during a flight from Okinawa to Tokyo on Sept. 10, 2021.

A Ho-Chunk Nation member receives a commanders coin from Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Michael Poss on May 10, 2022, after a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Ho-Chunk Nation and Fort McCoy during a special signing ceremony for the memorandum/agreement in Black River Falls, Wis. This memorandum of understanding between the Ho-Chunk Nation and Fort McCoy represents Fort McCoys assumption of the U.S. Armys legal responsibility under multiple federal laws and presidential executive orders to protect natural, historic, and sacred places with traditional religious and cultural importance to all Native American peoples, but especially those of the Ho Chunk Nation, on whos aboriginal territory the Fort McCoy military installation is now located.

001129-A-4813S-003. Base: Fort Gillem State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MACOMS

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Pierce Draper, right, the Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) Thailand team leader with Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, presents medical supplies to Royal Thai Navy Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Pakawat Bangpoo, left, a medic with Humanitarian Mine Action Unit (HMAU) 2, Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC), during a landmine casualty care (LCC) course graduation at Fort Bhanurangsi, Ratchaburi, Thailand, Feb. 2, 2024. Graduates of the LCC course received donations of medical equipment from the U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific HMA Program. This equipment will support the HMAUs and TMACs mission of becoming landmine free. Marine Corps

Maj. Gen. Kerry L. Muehlenbeck presents guest speaker Maj. Margaret Russell with an award during the 2022 Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs Professional Development conference April 30, 2022 at Casino Del Sol in Tucson, Ariz. The AZDEMA PD event is an annual event where state employees, Soldiers, and Airmen come to listen to speakers on a wide range of subjects to foster critical thought, learning, and inspiration.

The 3rd Quarter Workforce Town Hall Ceremony was held at the Riverbend Golf Course for civilian employees to connect with the Camp Humphreys command team, June 24, 2022. During the town hall meeting, U.S. Soldiers and civilian federal employees were recognized for years of service and superior job performance.

1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Commanding General Maj. Gen. James P. Isenhower III presents a gift to Japan's Air Defense School Commandant Maj. Gen.Toyokazu Egashira during an exchange at the 1st Armored Division Headquarters at Fort Bliss, Texas, Oct. 27, 2022. The gift exchange highlights the partnership between our forces. (U.S Army photo by Sgt. David Cordova, 24th Theater Public Affairs Support Element)

Col. Andy Nuce, left, presents the Legion of Merit award to Lt. Col. Ronald Foley in recognition of Foleys contributions to the U.S. Army Medical Corps during his 40 year career, part of the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Development Activity

CAMP SIMBA, Kenya - Fifty-two shooters grouped into four-person teams from the U.S. Army National Guard and U.S. Air Force who are currently assigned to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), participated in an individual and team competitions in a joint-force combined arms marksmanship competition July 20-25, 2022. (U.S. Army National Guard Photos by Sgt. Thomas Johnson)

Lt. Col. Jared Rupp, second from right, and Col. Darren Wees, 704th Test Group commander, second from left, pose for a photo after Rupp accepted the guidon for the 846th Test Squadron from Wees during a Change of Command ceremony June 9, 2022, at the Holloman High Speed Test Track on Holloman Air Force Base, N.M. Rupp assumed command of the 846 TS, the squadron that operates the HHSTT. The mission of the 846 TS is to plan and execute world-class rocket sled tests enabling weapon system development in support of the warfighter. The squadron is part of the 704th Test Group at Holloman, a unit of Arnold Engineering Development Complex, headquartered at Arnold Air Force Base, Tenn.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Oct 6, 2022) Electronics Technician (Navigation) 1st Class Tristan Goodlake is frocked to the rank of petty officer first class at Commander, Submarine Group 7 (CSG-7), Oct. 6, 2022.. CSG-7 directs forward-deployed, combat capable forces across the full spectrum of undersea warfare throughout the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea.

A student from Matthew C. Perry Middle School, left, poses for a picture with U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Paul Cordes, the executive officer of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, during an art awards presentation at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Feb. 22, 2024. The air station presented awards for its monthly art competition in which students attending schools at the air station showcase their artistic talent through different art mediums. Marine Corps

During a small ceremony June 30, TAMC Leaders, Col. Bill Soliz and Command Sgt. Maj. John Contreras presented certificates of appreciation to four Royal Thai Air Force nurses who spent a month at Tripler Army Medical Center this summer. The opportunity to train with partner nations like Thailand increase interoperability and enhance our capabilities across the Indo-Pacific region.

From left, Staff Sgt. Nicholas Faddis and Airman 1st Class Kasie Faddis, who are married and both public affairs specialists with the 117th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Office, pose for a photo at Staff Sgt. Faddiss promotion ceremony on Nov. 6, 2022, at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama. Faddis joined the 117 ARW Oct. 25, 2018.

Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class John Gripentrog receives his Flag Letter of Commendation certificate from Capt. Steve Aboona, commanding officer of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command, Bethesda, during an awards ceremony in Memorial Auditorium at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, Oct. 7, 2022. Aboona presented 40 individual awards during the award ceremony which recognized various achievements of Sailors assigned to the command.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Christina Mallard, 47th Security Forces Squadron kennel master, presents Staff Sgt. Trinity King, 47th Security Forces Squadron military working dog handler, with a shadow box of MWD Ffinns accessories at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, on July 22, 2022. Ffinns actions during service resulted in one of the largest methamphetamine busts in US history.

Former Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Michael Poss and Alan McCoy, grandson of Fort McCoy founder Maj. Gen. Robert Bruce McCoy, have a meeting July 8, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wis. Descendants of Maj. Gen. Robert Bruce McCoy visited the post July 8 to learn more about their familys military history with the installation.

221001-N-N0777-1020 ADRIATIC SEA (Oct. 1, 2022) Capt. Thomas Bodine, commander, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, presents a Meritorious Service Medal to Cmdr. Nelson Keyser, commanding officer of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86, Oct. 1, 2022. CVW-7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group 10, George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG). The squadrons of CVW-7 are VFA-86, VFA-103, VFA-136, VFA-143, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The GHWBCSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S., allied, and partner interests.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Robert Bechtelheimer, a maintenance team lead with the 734th Air Mobility Squadron, receives the Linebacker of the Week Award from U.S. Air Force Col. Larry Fenner, 36th Wing vice commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. John E. Payne, 36th Wing command chief, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Aug. 31, 2022. The Team Andersen Linebacker of the Week recognizes outstanding enlisted, officer, civilian and total force personnel who have had an impact on achieving Team Andersens mission, vision and priorities.

Department of the Army Civilians Andrew Wlaschin and Duane Taylor, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, each received the 110th Aviation Brigade Platinum Safety Award during a ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum April 11, 2022. Wlaschin provided more than 30 years of Air Traffic Control service without experiencing an aviation Class A, B or C accident, including his prior active service in the U.S. Navy as well as his Army civilian service. Taylor's proficiency, mastery of aviation systems and superb piloting skills were evident in his flying more than 11,000 hours without experiencing a Class A, B or C accident.

Rear Adm. Jeffrey Czerewko, commander of Naval Education and Training Command, visited the U.S. Naval Submarine Learning Center (SLC) and U.S. Naval Submarine School in Groton, Connecticut, Jan. 24, 2024. During the visit, Czerewko presented an award to an SLC Sailor during the units all hands event and met with SLC leadership. SLC is dedicated to providing submarine Sailors the necessary tools to lead the force by embracing modern training and education systems and integrating those advancements into the Navy's undersea warfare community.

Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Glorya Chlupsa receives a Letter of Appreciation from Capt. Steve Aboona, commanding officer of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command, Bethesda, during an awards ceremony in Memorial Auditorium at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, Oct. 7, 2022. Aboona presented 40 individual awards during the award ceremony which recognized various achievements of Sailors assigned to the command.

Jessica Isman, a family readiness representative with Family Readiness, Marine and Family Programs, Marine Corps Community Services Camp Pendleton, receives a volunteer award from U.S. Marine Col. Tim Anderson, the chief of staff for Marine Corps Installations West, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, during an award ceremony at Marine and Family Programs Headquarters on Camp Pendleton, California, April 21, 2022. In keeping with National Volunteer Week, the ceremony recognized, encouraged, and acknowledged base volunteers who continually serve Camp Pendleton Marines, sailors, and their families through selfless volunteer efforts. (Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Andrew Cortez)

Dr. Alfonso Wer Rodríguez, left, the administrative council president at Unidad Nacional de Oftalmología (UNO), presents a gift to U.S. Air Force Capt. Alexandre Rogan, the officer in charge of the Health Engagements Assistance Response Team (HEART) 2022, during the HEART 22 closing ceremony in Guatemala City, Aug. 30, 2022. During the ceremony, representatives from the U.S. government and military showed their appreciation to the Guatemalan government and members of UNO and Hospital Regional de Occidente in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, for their partnership during the HEART 22 mission.

Event-goers participate in the annual Arbor Day celebration April 29, 2022, west of Gate 5 on the cantonment area at Fort McCoy, Wis. During the observance, Fort McCoy Garrison leadership and other installation personnel helped children from the post Child Development Center plant hundreds of trees. The post also received its 33rd Tree City USA award from the National Arbor Day Foundation during the celebration.

220914-N-PC065-2097 KLAIPEDA, Lithuania (Sept. 14, 2022) - U.S. Navy Lt. Paul Rockrohr, the chaplain assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), receives a letter of appreciation on behalf of the Arlington from retired Lithuanian Navy Lt. Cmdr. Azvydas Piepalius, at a Lithuanian cadet school during a community relations event, Sept. 14, 2022. The Arlington is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Capt. Christopher Reed, center right, poses for a group photo with Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC), Bethesda, leadership during an awards ceremony in Memorial Auditorium at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, Oct. 7, 2022. Capt. Steve Aboona, commanding officer of NMRTC, Bethesda, presented 40 individual awards during the award ceremony which recognized various achievements of Sailors assigned to the command.

Top honor on their respective courses go to: (left to right) Lt. Alberto Lozano Castillo, Inter Agency Crisis Action Planning course; Col. Carlos F. Hermida Reina, International Operational Law course; Capt. Adhara M Estrada Torres, Medical Assistance course; Patrolman Christian C Orejuela Hoyos, Joint Disaster Response Techniques.

David Pagano, the 405th Army Field Support Brigades Logistics Civil Augmentation Program representative for the Wiesbaden area of operations, receives a cross-organizational award signed by U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbadens former commander and presented to him by the 405th AFSB commander, Col. Crystal Hills, at the U.S. Army Europe and Africa headquarters, Nov. 4. (Photo by SFC Guido Fermin)

220729-N-AS200-6100 POINT MUGU, Calif. (July 29, 2022) - Capt. Robert Kimnach, commanding officer, Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC), left, presents an end of tour award to Cmdr. Ryan E. Magee, operations officer, NBVC July 29, 2022. NBVC is a strategically located Naval installation composed of three operating facilities: Point Mugu, Port Hueneme and San Nicolas Island. NBVC is the home of the Pacific Seabees, West Coast E-2C Hawkeyes, 3 warfare centers and 80 tenants.

Lt. Col. John Dexter presents a plaque to Retired Birg. Gen. Dr. Irene Zoppi during the National Hispanic Heritage Month observation Sept. 29 in Brucker Hall at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall.

051102-A-1526R-065. Base: Buenos Aires Country: Argentina (ARG)

Col. Andy Nuce presents Dr. Quentin Scott a 15 year Service Award certificate during a U.S. Army Medical Materiel Development Activity (USAMMDA) town hall and awards presentation ceremony at the Fort Detrick auditorium, Fort Detrick, Md., Sept. 22, 2022. Nuce is the commander and Scott is the Branch Chief for the Office of Quality Management, both with USAMMDA. USAMMDA leads the Department of Defenses medical product development through contracting, agreements and interdisciplinary and integrated-product teams. (Official U.S. Army Photo by T. T. Parish/Released)

U.S. Air Force Airman Emma Gantner, 786th Force Support Squadron military postal clerk, receives a graduation certificate with German Air Forces Col. Michael Trautermann, German national senior representative of the NATO Headquarters Allied Air Command, at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, on Dec. 5, 2022. Gantner was the only woman to participate and received a badge in gold, obtaining the top overall score of A+++.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Pierce Draper, center right, the Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) Thailand team leader with Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, Royal Thai Armed Forces Lt. Gen. Nattawut Sabyeroop, center left, director general of the Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC), James Shelstad, left, with the Golden West Foundation, and John Kelsch, right, also with the Golden West Foundation, pose for a photo during the graduation ceremony for the HMA Thailand EOD level 1-2 course at Fort Bhanurangsi, Ratchaburi, Thailand, Feb. 9, 2024. Royal Thai and American Armed Forces work together to train Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC) students in EOD level 1-2 in order to develop an EOD capacity to assist TMACs mission of becoming landmine free. This partnership is aligned with the U.S. Department of Defenses HMA Program, which assists partnered nations affected by landmines, explosive remnants of war and the hazardous e

NETCOM Command Career Counselor, Master Sgt. Janine Toomer, awards Staff Sgt. Oscar Lopez, 160th Theater Signal Brigade, with a trophy Dec. 8. After two days of the NETCOM Career Counselor of the Year competition, Lopez earned the annual honor.

040731-M-4419R-026. Base: Ar Ramadi State: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

Ho-Chunk Nation President Marlon WhiteEagle receives a commanders coin from Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Michael Poss on May 10, 2022, after they both signed a memorandum of understanding between the Ho-Chunk Nation and Fort McCoy during a special signing ceremony for the memorandum/agreement in Black River Falls, Wis. This memorandum of understanding between the Ho-Chunk Nation and Fort McCoy represents Fort McCoys assumption of the U.S. Armys legal responsibility under multiple federal laws and presidential executive orders to protect natural, historic, and sacred places with traditional religious and cultural importance to all Native American peoples, but especially those of the Ho Chunk Nation, on whos aboriginal territory the Fort McCoy military installation is now located.

The 192nd Wing hosts a Boss Lift event on June 4, 2022, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. Airmen nominated supervisors from 14 civilian employers for exceptional support of their Virginia Air National Guard careers. The employers flew in an Ohio Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker and witnessed aerial refueling of F-22 Raptors. The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) presented awards to the employers. ESGR is a U.S. Department of Defense program promoting cooperation and understanding between civilian employers and their Guard and Reserve employees.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (Apr. 8, 2022) Anna Mayne receives an award from Capt. Ken Williams, Naval Station Great Lakes' executive officer, during a command quarters. Opened in 1911, Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL) is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Kyle Shoop, left, the commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, poses for a photo with U.S. Navy Aviation Mechanic Seaman Hans Melvin Vitasolo, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, and a native of the Philippines, during a naturalization ceremony at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 30, 2024. The naturalization ceremony was held to acknowledge MCAS Iwakuni service members becoming citizens of the United States. The ceremony included service members from El Salvador, Liberia, Mexico, Jamaica, and the Philippines.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Cody Eichelberger, a defender with the 167th Security Forces Squadron, holds a copy of his book Burnt Chapel at the 167th Airlift Wing, Martinsburg, West Virginia, Oct. 1, 2022.

050201-A-4487O-19. Base: Fort Buchanan, San Juan State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: SOUTHEAST

STENNIS SPACE CENTER, Miss. Rear Admiral Ron Piret, commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, visited Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) for a curriculum review of the joint masters program and to meet with students, professors and institute leadership. The Joint Program offers a masters degree program for U.S. Naval Officers, and more than 85 officers have received this degree dating back to the first award in 1970. The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is a private, nonprofit research and higher education facility dedicated to the study of marine science and engineering. Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command directs and oversees more than 2,500 globally distributed military and civilian personnel who collect, process and exploit environmental information to assist Fleet and Joint Commanders in all warfare areas to make better decisions faster than the adversary, August 10, 2022.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Jul. 6, 2022) Lt. Col. Michael Kerschbaum, Commander, Stars and Stripes, delivers an award to Charlene DuBose, NEX general manager, during a ceremony celebrating the NEX Yokosuka's award as the best exchange in mainland Japan for Stars and Stripes' Best of Pacific 2022-2023 contest. For more than 75 years, Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet's forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families. (U.S. Navy Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Conner Houghtaling)

Brig. Gen. Maurizio D. Calabrese, deputy commanding general for intelligence at U.S. Central Commands Over-the-Horizon Counterterrorism Headquarters, accepts a gift at the close of the exercise Regional Cooperation 22 Aug. 19, 2022, in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. RC 22 is an annual, multi-national U.S. Central Command-sponsored exercise conducted by U.S. forces in partnership with Central and South Asia nations.

Lt. Col. Patrick Cornwell receives the Minnesota Distinguished Service Medal at Camp Ripley, Minnesota, July 10, 2022. Cornwell served as the Camp Ripley Deputy Commander for 23 months, overseeing the base through a global pandemic and the largest state activation in Minnesota's history."The people up here are great," said Cornwell. "I'm happy to be here on the weekends because I still get to enjoy Camp Ripley and do my best to mentor some of the staff here as we go forward."(Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

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