Military Personnel in Action

Service members engaged in tactical training, aerial support missions, and convoy operations, emphasizing readiness for crisis response.

Spc. Oran Pellissier, a Task Force Phoenix UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter technician from C Company, 1st Batallion, 140th Aviation Regiment, watches his sector of fire during a mission in support of Operation Inherent Resolve in the Middle East.

010330-F-2021R-003. Base: Raf Kinloss State: Forress Moray Country: Scotland (SCT)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 24, 2022) Sailors, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 3, ride in the cabin of an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter, assigned to the Chargers” of Helicopter Sea Combat squadron (HSC) 14, during a helicopter visit, board, search and seizure (HVBSS) drill in conjunction with the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (ABECSG) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS Izumo (DDH-184). ABECSG is underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet. An integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary to flawlessly execute our Navy’s role across the full spectrum of military operations—from combat operations to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. U.S. 3rd Fleet works together with our allies and partners to advance freedom of navigation, the rule of law, and other principles that underpin security for the Indo-Pacific re

Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter) 2nd Class Dylan Harter, from Ninety Six, South Carolina, assigned to the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, performs lookout duties in an MH-60S Knighthawk, during a simulated straits transit with the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) in the Atlantic Ocean, Oct. 9, 2022. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is deployed in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navy's commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

070326-M-2819S-002. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Fallujah State: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ) Scene Major Command Shown: RCT-6

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Travis Schubee, a pilot assigned to Company A Vultures’, Task Force Lobos, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, and Chief Warrant Officer 3 Francisco Rocha, a pilot assigned to the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, prepare to launch a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during a mission May 2.. The 1st ACB is nearing the end of a year-long tour in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and is currently conducting relief in place operations with 12th CAB, the incoming unit.

Tech. Sergeant Gabriel Campbell, 772nd Expeditionary Airlift Squadron loadmaster, looks out the bay of a C-130J Hercules before releasing pallets of cargo during an airdrop Nov. 7, 2011. Aerial delivery of critical supplies decreases the total number of resupply convoys conducted in high threat areas.

U.S. Air Force aerial porters prepare to load cargo onto a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 3rd Wing, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, April 7, 2022. Polar Force 22-4 provided effective, flexible and capabilities-centered forces, ready for deployment worldwide, and enabled real-world proficiency in response to a variety of crises.

Spc. Oran Pellissier, a Task Force Phoenix UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter technician from C Company, 1st Batallion, 140th Aviation Regiment, watches his sector of fire during a mission in support of Operation Inherent Resolve in the Middle East.

A member of the U.S. Army 20th Special Forces Group sticks his hand out of UH-60 Black Hawk to feel the wind during Emerald Warrior 2014, Gulfport, Miss., May 5, 2014. Emerald Warrior is an annual, joint exercise to train special operations, conventional and partner nation forces in combat scenarios designed to hone special operations air and ground combat skills, and is the Department of Defense's only irregular warfare exercise.

Airmen unload their gear from an HH-60G Pave Hawk after its final flight before retiring to the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Sept. 21, 2022. The pilots for the HH-60G Pave Hawks final flight were U.S. Air Force Col. Paul Sheets, 355th Wing vice commander, and U.S. Air Force Lt. Col Andrew Fink, 355th Wing detachment director of operations at Nellis Air Force Base.

Sgt. 1st Class Clayton Perreira, a crew chief from Detachment 1, Charlie Co. 207th Aviation of the Hawaii Army National Guard, uses a UH-60 Black Hawks communication system May 11, 2018, at Lyman Airfield, Hilo, Hawaii. The aircraft surveyed the local area for possible landing zones, improving Task Force Hawaiis situational awareness in response to a volcano outbreak. Task force Hawaii is comprised of more than 100 soldiers and airmen from Hawaiis National Guard, who are supporting government agencies in an effort to provide humanitarian relief to victims of the volcanic eruptions.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Nov. 8, 2022) Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class Cheryl Sonderman (left), Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, and Naval Air Crewman (Helicopter) 3rd Class Joe Chavez, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28 prepare for the takeoff of an MH-60S helicopter from Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay. HSC-28 is at NSA Souda Bay participating in NIRIIS 2022 as part of a deployment to Naval Air Station Sigonella in support of Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Air Force Captain Zachary Orsello (back), 349th Air Refueling Squadron mission pilot, and Maj. Kyle Schafer (front), 344th Air Refueling Squadron mission pilot, review their flight plan Aug. 29, 2022, during Employment Concept Exercise 22-08 in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. Orsello, Schafer and the rest of the aircrew, completed the KC-46A Pegasus first combat sortie, refueling two F-15E Strike Eagles assigned to the 335th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron.

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class, Andres Rodoni, left, from Dallas, Texas, assigned to Task Force 61/2, monitors a simulated casualty with Hellenic Marine doctor Athanasios Andreou with the 32d Marine Brigade during exercise Alexander the Great 22, Greece, May 20, 2022. Alexander the Great 22 strengthens interoperability and force readiness between the U.S., Greece, and Allied nations, enhancing strategic defense and partnership to preserve security and stability in the region.

Master Sgt. Whitny Vallor, 418th Test and Evaluation Squadron loadmaster, prepares to push out a Joint Persicion Air Drop System (JPADS) during a BLACK FLAG 22-1 training mission May 12, 2021, over the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nevada. Black Flag 22-1 is focused on developing and validating large force tactics and integration required to deliver combat capability and tactical advantage for the Combat Air Force to build readiness that credibly deters and successfully defeats adversaries.

U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers with Alpha Company, 2-104th General Support Aviation Battalion looks on as one of his fellow crew chiefs qualifies on the M240H machine gun during an aerial gunnery range qualification at Fort Indiantown Gap July 21. The Soldiers must qualify by firing the M240H from a UH-60M Blackhawk.

Army Spc. Dwight Heath, from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade in Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia, inspects the outer area of a CH-47 Chinook helicopter mid-flight for potential obstacles during Guardian Response 22, Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, Ind., May 9, 2022. Guardian Response 22 is a training exercise designed to test unit readiness and responsiveness to nuclear response scenarios that include search and rescue operations. (Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. Jermaine Jackson)

U.S. Air Force Capt. Creedance Chambers, a C-17 Globemaster III pilot assigned to the 16th Airlift Squadron, flies back to Charleston Air Force base after an experimental airlift mission to Berlin, Germany, June 17, 2022. The C-17 is the most flexible cargo aircraft in the airlift force, capable of rapid strategic airlift of troops and cargo.

Marines from Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan debark a CH-53E "Super Stallion" helicopter from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466, Marine Aircraft Group 40, MEB-Afghanistan, following a trip from Camp Bastion to here, Jan. 29. After HMH-466 assumed authority from HMH-462, Jan. 21, the squadron has transported more than 1,300 troops around the MEB-Afghanistan area of operations.

Flooding - Minot, N. D. , June 29, 2011 Rich Serino, FEMA deputy administrator, surveys flooding in Minot with officials from the U. S. National Guard.. North Dakota Flooding. Photographs Relating to Disasters and Emergency Management Programs, Activities, and Officials

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 19, 2022) U.S. Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Marine Air-Ground Task Force 7, board a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey aboard U.S. Navy Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) , in support of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, July 19. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC 2022 from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The worlds largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC 2022 provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Matthew McDonough, 33rd Rescue Squadron special missions aviator, fires a door gun on an HH-60 Pave Hawk during a training flight at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Aug. 17, 2022. The crew simulated firing upon hostile ships to assure the team are prepared for any situation when called upon.

Soldiers from the Sandston-based 2nd Battalion, 224th Aviation Regiment conduct aerial door gunnery training Aug. 10 during their three-week annual training at Fort Bragg, N.C. The Soldiers fired M240-H machine guns from the

Personnel from 5th Mobile Aerial Port Squadron (MAPS), Mildenhall Air base, UK, upload equipment bound for UN Security Forces at Mogadishu.(Exact date unknown). Country: Djibouti (DJI)

Paratroopers assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division stand in a pass and review ceremony, on Sept. 29, 2022, on Pike Field, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, marking the end of All American Week. AAW22 celebrated the Divisions culture and legacy as Americas Guard of Honor through a series of sporting and ceremonial events promoting comradery.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Terry Durbin, 60th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron AE technician, refills an MA-1 oxygen bottle after a simulated fire exercise aboard a flight over the Pacific Ocean on a C-17 Globemaster III during Exercise Golden Bee, Sept. 28, 2022. Exercise Golden Bee is a joint readiness exercise designed to provide training integration and rehearse strategic and operational objectives in the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

011017-F-0308N-288. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Al Udeid Air Base, Doha Country: Qatar (QAT) Scene Major Command Shown: CENTCOM

Captain Thomas Bodine, Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic (AIRLANT), left, and Senior Chief Naval Aircrewman (helicopter) Rabea Shaiboon, right, fly during a gun exercise with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5 at Naval Air Station Fallon, April 26, 2022. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10 and the George H.W. Bush CSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143; VFA-103; VFA-86; VFA-136; Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140; Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121; HSC-5; and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46.

Soldiers assigned to Apex Company, 63rd Expeditionary Signal Battalion, 35th Signal Corps Brigade partnered with Soldiers From the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade to air insert two Terrestrial Transmission Line Of Sight radios (TRILOS) on June 7, 2022. During their training, Apex Company Soldiers conducted platoon validations on Command Post Nodes (CPN), Joint Network Nodes (JNN), and TRILOS to test their expeditionary signal communications and further support XVIII Airborne Corps and all its mission command systems. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Maxine Baen)

U.S. Air Force Captain Alex Kenney, a pilot with the 167th Airlift Squadron, boards a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft during a simulated chemical environment training at the 167th Airlift Wing, Martinsburg, West Virginia, June 10, 2022. This training included maintainers, loadmasters, pilots and other personnel to simulate the process of preparing, loading and flying the aircraft while in a hazardous chemical environment.

An Mh-60S Knighthawk helicopter attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5 flies a daytime familiarization flight during a training detachment at Naval Air Station Fallon, April 21, 2022. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10 and the George H.W. Bush CSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, VFA-103, VFA-86, VFA-136, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, HSC-5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46.

Airmen with the Air Force Reserve Command aircrew for a C-17 Globemaster III work with Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation Regiment (1-147) of the Wisconsin National Guard on loading and unloading UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters June 10 at Sparta-Fort McCoy Airport at Fort McCoy. The 1-147th was set up with numerous Black Hawks and support equipment and personnel at the Sparta-Fort McCoy Airport throughout the first two weeks of June for annual training. The 1-147th and its UH-60s regularly support training operations at Fort McCoy as well as supporting distinguished visitor flying operations. Photo by Kevin Clark/Fort McCoy Multimedia-Visual Information Office

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class George Alonso, 37th Airlift Squadron, , loadmaster assigned to Ramstein Air Base, Germany, communicates drop zone conditions to jump masters during a bilateral air drop with Polish military paratroopers over the Bledowska drop zone, Poland, as part of Aviation Detachment Rotation 22-4 exercise, Sept. 13, 2022. The loadmasters and jumpmasters were able to train with the Polish military, enhancing interoperability when conducting airlift operations in the European region.

Naval Air Crewman 1st Class Bobby Nilson, assigned to the Tridents of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, takes part in flight quarters aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, Oct. 25, 2022. The first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is on its inaugural deployment conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict free Atlantic region.

Capt. Scott Rumsey, 40th Helicopter Squadron pilot, performs co-pilot duties inside a UH-1N Huey helicopter May 24, 2022, over the Highwood Mountains near Great Falls, Mont. In addition to the 40th HSs main mission of providing nuclear surety, the squadrons Airmen are also capable of executing search and rescue operations when called upon.

An Airman from the 403rd Maintenance Squadron, at Keesler AFB, Miss., prepares to deploy to the Virgin Islands to collect data on Hurricane Igor currently out in the Caribbean Sept. 15, 2010. Known as the "Hurricane Hunters", the 53rd WRS's is the only operational unit in the world flying weather reconnaissance on a routine basis.

220901-N-YD731-1471 ADRIATIC SEA (Sep. 1, 2022) Cmdr. Thomas Van Hoozer, commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, flies his last flight as commanding officer during a change of command ceremony, Sep. 1, 2022. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group 10 and the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, VFA-103, VFA-86, VFA-136, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, HSC-5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The GHWBCSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Two U.S. Army Green Berets assigned to 1-10 Special Forces Group watch over their French counterpart as he surveys the drop zone in preparation for a military free fall above Le Mont Saint Michel, France, June 9, 2022. This airborne operation comes at the collaboration of French and U.S. allied forces to reinforce strong bonds and clear communication between NATO allies.

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (Nov. 15, 2022) - Members of Expeditionary Resuscitative Surgical Systems team 29 simulate combat casualty egress with high fidelity manikins at Naval Expeditionary Medical Institute (NEMTI) during Operation Firebreak,November 15.Operation Firebreak is an exercise designed to evaluate operational readiness through simulated point of injury treatment and transport of casualties to the next level of care. Navy Medicine Operational Training Command (NMOTC) is comprised of six nationwide detachments that offer specialized medical training in the fields of aviation, aviation survival, surface and undersea warfare, expeditionary and special operations medicine.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Joseph Lucero, a crew chief instructor from Albuquerque, New Mexico with Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), surveys the flight line while taxiing aboard an MV-22B Osprey after a ground threat reaction drill in support of Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 1-23 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Oct. 6, 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. Space Force Chief Master Sgt. Susan Sparks, Space Launch Delta 45 Senior Enlisted Leader, tandem jumps with pararescuemen from the 920th Rescue Wing at Patrick Space Force Base, Fla., July 28, 2022. Sparks is SLD 45s newest SEL.

050621-A-9665L-028. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Forward Operating Base Danger State: Salah Ad Din Country: Iraq (IRQ) Scene Major Command Shown: 4TH IRAQI ARMY DIVISION

Airmen assigned to the 437th Airlift Wing, stationed at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, scan the horizon as a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III flies above Saipan, Dec. 3, 2022. Airmen assigned to the 437th AW conducted off-station training in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility to hone global reach and readiness capabilities.

After assisting the Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance paratroopers jump out the rear ramp of the Chinook CH-47, Sgt. Bobby Joe Spivey a Ypsilanti, Michigan, native, enjoys the lush Michigan vegetation. Spivey is a flight engineer with the 3-238th Aviation Regiment, Bravo Company, based out of Selfridge, Michigan, who was supporting the Marines in a Wet Jump during a joint exercise in Grayling, Michigan. Northern Strike 17 is a National Guard Bureau-sponsored exercise uniting approximately 5,000 service members from 13 states and five coalition countries during the first two weeks of August 2017 at the Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center and the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, both located in northern Michigan and operated by the Michigan National Guard. The newly accredited NS17 demonstrates the Michigan National Guards ability to provide accessible, readiness-building opportunities for military units from all service branches to achieve and sustain proficiency in co

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team (BLT), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conduct communication checks on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, June 16, 2022. The Marines did this in preparation for a motorized raid training exercise to enhance combat readiness. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

Sergeant (SGT) Taotafa Kirifi, Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 82nd Airborne, hooks a sling load cable to a CH-47 Chinook helicopter at Bagram Airfield, during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Bagram Airfield State: Parwan Country: Afghanistan (AFG)

U.S. Army Spouses apart of the 10th Combat Aviation Brigade participate in the brigade spouse flight on Fort Drum, NY May 12, 2022. Spouses had the oppurtunity to fly in UH-60M Black Hawk and CH-47F Chinook helicopters.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Travis Rouse, a crew chief assigned to the Aviation Combat Element, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, sits on the back of an MV-22 Osprey on Parnu Airfield, Parnu, Estonia before returning to Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) May 21, 2022. The 22nd MEU is participating in the Estonian-led exercise Siil 22 (Hedgehog 22 in English). Hedgehog 22 brings together members of the Estonian Defense Force and Sailors and Marines under Commander Task Force 61/2 to enhance allied interoperability and preserve security and stability in the Baltic region.

A special mission aviator from the 1st Special Operations Wing mans a gun placement at the belly ramp of a CV-22 during a joint Special Operations Forces exercise Nov. 1, 2022, at Hurlburt Field, Fla. CV-22s transported operators from Naval Special Warfare Command and Special Operations Surgical Team members from the 24th Special Operations Wing to direct action and humanitarian aid and disaster relief scenarios during the exercise.

A U.S. Air Force pararescueman assigned to the 57th Rescue Squadron, prepares for take off during exercise Jolly Vihar near Pápa Air Base, Hungary, July 15, 2022. The 57th RQS teams conduct day and night personnel recovery operations in combat, as well as provide combatant commanders with options to report, locate, recover and reintegrate isolated personnel. During Jolly Vihar the 57th RQS and 56th RQS trained alongside Hungarian troops to conduct integrated mission training scenarios.

U.S. Army Sgt. Devon Council, Joint Task Force-Bravo flight engineer from the 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment, completes a corrosion control inspection of a CH-47 Chinook April 22, 2022, at Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras. The three crews within Bravo Company fly more than 100 hours per month, which leads to a build up of dirt degrading the performance of the aircraft and its components. Keeping the Chinooks fully mission capable, which takes constant, deliberate effort and elbow grease, allows them to provide premier heavy-lift rotary wing support to JTF-B and the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility.

Tech. Sgt. Ryan Penne, a pararescueman with the Kentucky Air National Guards 123rd Special Tactics Squadron, checks his teammates altimeter at Muhammad Ali International Airport in Louisville, Ky., on April 23, 2022, in preparation for a parachute insertion in the Ohio River for the Thunder Over Louisville air show. Squadron members kicked off the show by jumping with banners for the United States of America and Kentucky.

Avenger Crew Member Spc. Elizabeth Strople, 1-256th Air Defense Artillery (ADA), establishes communications while on a convoy to aid citizens devastated by Hurricane Ian in Port Charlotte, Fla.Oct.2,2022. Over 6,000 service members were activated in response to the natural disaster along with both military and civilian support from out-of-state locations.

U. S. Air Force Airmen from the 124th Fighter Wing, Gowen Field Air National Guard Base, Boise, Idaho, perform Agile Combat Employment (ACE) training while loading a transport cart into a C-130 Hercules from the Illinois Air National Guard's 182nd Airlift Wing, Peoria Air National Guard Base, during an Integrated Combat Turn (ICT) during Agile Rage 22, Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Mich., June 9, 2022. ACE is not a specific mission, but a universal application to all combat air force operations. ACE is the ability to project combat power anytime, anywhere, while remaining operationally unpredictable to complicate an adversary's decision making process.

A Co., 834th Aviation Support Battalion, an element of the aviation Task Force 34 headquartered on Joint Base Balad, Iraq, delivered fuel to the local Bakir Village on Mar. 12. SGT Denver Williams, of St. Cloud, MN, checks the fuel level from atop the tanker truck. Task Force 34 also took this opprotunity to distribute humanitarian supplies, shoes, and candy to the local Iraqi elders and children.

Senior Master Sgt. Scott Spangler, 920th Operations Group special mission aviator superintendent, scans the ground during a turkey shoot competition at Avon Park Air Force Range, Florida, June 14, 2022. During the competition aircrew members competed on skills such as aircraft weapons employment, helicopter air to air refueling, degraded navigation, degraded search, and confined hoisting.

1st Sgt. Bruce Hofstetter, a Flight Engineer with Company B., 2nd Battalion, 238th General Support Aviation Brigade, smiles at Pvt. 1st Class Nicholas Pinedos reaction to the CH-47F Chinook tilting during an orientation flight above Lake of the Hills Airport June 11.

A U.S. Marine crew chief with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa conducts aerial observation from an MV-22 Osprey for tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel (TRAP) training at Naval Station Rota, Spain, March 28, 2018. SPMAGTF-CR-AF deployed to conduct crisis-response and theater-security operations in Europe and North Africa.

A US Marine Corps Door Gunner Peers from a CH-53D Sea Stallion Helicopter from Above an M2 .50 Caliber Machine Gun

010621-F-2829R-003. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT RESCUE IX Base: Naval Air Station, Fallon State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Members of the Tinker Company Grade Officer Council visit the 507th Air Refueling Wing to learn about the Air Force Reserve, the KC-135 Stratotanker and wing's aerial refueling mission October 4, 2022, Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Kevin Ross, 81st Expeditionary Rescue Squadron (ERQS) HC-130J Combat King II loadmaster, watches a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 over the Red Sea, Sept. 7, 2022, during a tactical air refueling mission. The 81st ERQS is a rapidly deployable combat search and rescue force that can conduct tactical air refueling, airdrop and airland of personnel and/or equipment during day or night operations in support of combat personnel recovery within Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Anthony Corcoran, CH-53E Super Stallion crew chief, Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 366, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, watches aircraft pass on a CH-53E Super Stallion on Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Aug. 31, 2022. HMH-366 aviation maintenance Marines conduct routine preventative maintenance on CH-53E Super Stallion to ensure a constant state of readiness. MCAS New River provides aviation support, force protection, infrastructure, and community services to promote the readiness, sustainment and quality of life for II Marine Expeditionary Force and other military forces, tenant commands, personnel and their families.

Soldiers from the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School prepare to jump from the tailgate of a C-27 aircraft during free fall training at Camp Mackall, North Carolina September 22, 2022. The military free fall parachutists jumped from 7,000 feet and landed on Luzon Drop Zone.

Staff Sgt. Kareem Spearman and Tech. Sgt. Jaime Bustamante, both 102nd Rescue Squadron loadmasters, watch as a UH-60 Pave Hawk refuels during an air refueling training scenario over the Gulf Coast of Mississippi during exercise Southern Strike 17, Oct. 31, 2016. Southern Strike is a total force, multi-service training exercise hosted by the Mississippi Air National Guards Combat Readiness Training Center in Gulfport, Miss., and took place from from Oct. 24 through Nov. 4. The exercise emphasized air-to-air, air-to-ground and special operations forces training opportunities.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment (Attack Battalion), 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, prepare to load two AH-64D Longbow helicopters onto a U.S. Air Force C-17 transport aircraft after unloading two AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters, at Wiesbaden Army Airfield, Clay Kaserne, Germany, Sept. 1, 2023. The AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopter upgrade is part of the 12th CAB modernization efforts, ongoing training, and new equipment fielding.12th CAB is among other units assigned to V Corps, America's Forward Deployed Corps in Europe. They work alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-ready forces, execute joint and multinational training exercises, and retain command and control for all rotational and assigned units in the European Theater.

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), wait to conduct static line airborne operations on a KC-130J Hercules during Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 1-23 over Yuma, Arizona, Sept. 30, 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. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Bradley Watkins from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, an MV-22B Osprey crew chief assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing fires an M240D 7.62mm machine gun during Weapons and Tactics Instructors (WTI) course 1-23 at Yodaville, near Yuma, Arizona, Oct. 5, 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Brent Romine, a motor transport operator with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, leads a convoy through Henoko beach on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, Jan. 25, 2022. 3rd LSB conducted a battalion field exercise to train core mission essential tasks and rehearse emerging warfighting concepts in preparation for future exercises and operations. 3d MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEFs comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Hunter Barber)

Staff Sgt. Carl Haynes, 725th Air Mobility Squadron electrical and environmental systems technician, performs a maintenance inspection in the wheel well of a C-17 Globemaster III at Naval Station, Rota, April 2, 2022. As NAVSTA Rotas only Air Mobility Command presence, the 725th AMS provides command and control, maintenance and air transportation support for all U.S. Transportation Command aircraft transiting through the base.

Guardsmen with the Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin and Main Air National Guard train on installing a Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasure System (LAIRCM) on a KC-135 aircraft at the 171st Air Refueling Wing near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Sept. 8, 2022. The defensive system uses an infrared laser to protect against missile threats.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Kevin Ross, 81st Expeditionary Rescue Squadron HC-130J, Combat King II loadmaster, signals a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163, over the Red Sea, Sept. 7, 2022, during a tactical air refueling mission. The 81st ERQS is a rapidly deployable combat search and rescue force that can conduct tactical air refueling, airdrop and airland of personnel and/or equipment during day or night operations in support of combat personnel recovery within Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility.

Senior Airman Nevin Cardamone, a 911th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, checks the tire pressure on a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station flightline, Pennsylvania, Jan. 18. 2024. AMXS and Maintenance Squadron Steel Airmen performed routine inspections and maintenance on the aircraft to ensure mission readiness.

A German soldier with the 6th Battery, 345th Artillery Battalion, rides in a U.S. Army UH-60 Blackhawk with 3rd Aviation Combat Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, during close-air support training at Townsend Bombing Range, Georgia, Feb. 21, 2024. German joint tactical air control and joint fire observers practiced coordinating aircraft, infiltrating and exfiltrating an area of operations with American military assets. Joint branch training with NATO allies ensures personnel utilize similar procedures and can operate together. Marine Corps

U.S. Airmen and Soldiers from the 386th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron and U.S. Soldiers upload an Apache helicopter onto a C-17 Globemaster III at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, June 23, 2022. Aerial porters from the 386th ELRS and aviation specialists from the U.S. Army 11th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade conducted relief in place/transfer of authority of Apache helicopters designated to the U.S. Army 101st Aviation Battalion.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Courtney Herll, left, 23rd Logistics Readiness Squadron environmental and safety noncommissioned officer in charge, monitors a control panel on a strategic aircraft refueling cart during exercise Agile Flag 22-2 at Avon Park, Florida, July 25, 2022. This was the first exercise Moody Air Force Base Airmen used the STARCART for hot pit refuels. Agile Flag 22-2 is Air Combat Command's first lead-wing certification event designed to demonstrate the 23rd Wing's capability to generate combat air power while continuing to move, maneuver, and sustain the Wing and subordinate force elements in a dynamic and contested environment.

A U.S. Air Force air crew with the 4th Special Operations Squadron participates in a training sortie on an AC-130J Ghostrider, April 14, 2022 at Hurlburt Field, Florida. The 4 SOS regularly performs training sorties on the AC-130J in order to ensure readiness to perform special operations missions any time, any place.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Michael Gesford, HC-130J Combat King II loadmaster assigned to the 26th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron, directs a forklift carrying cargo for transport towards his aircraft at an undisclosed location within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Nov. 5, 2022. The HC-130J is a rapidly deployable, multi-capable aircraft, capable of extending the reach of U.S. and partner rescue forces within the CENTCOM AOR, and providing tactical combat airlift capabilities.

011024-F-0308N-127. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH 2001 Country: Southwest Asia Scene Major Command Shown: CENTCOM

A U.S. Army 1st Special Forces Group team member prepares for a military free fall jump over Donnelly Training Area, Alaska, during Red Flag 22-2 June 13, 2022. RF-A 22-2 provides realistic combat training in a simulated environment.

A U.S. Army Soldier on security scans the base perimeter at Manda Bay, Kenya, October 27, 2022. Improved defenses, fighting positions and indirect fire protection is critical to maintaining control of the regions safe landing zone.

California National Guard Soldier Staff Sgt. Justin Jensen, crew chief with Task Force Medevac from Mather, California, observes the deadly Carr Fire, at 41% containment, during water-drop efforts from a UH-60 Black Hawk over Shasta County, California on August 4.

California Air National Guard (ANG) STAFF Sergeant Tim Barbour, a LoadMaster with the 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, Moffett Field stands on the open ramp of an MC-130 "Combat Shadow aircraft at 3,500 feet above the Pacific Ocean with the RAM-Z deployment package. The RAM-Z has a rubber Zodiac inflatable boat with outboard motor and a complete medical kit that is parachuted into the water. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

Members from the 36th Airlift Squadron and Japan Self-Defense Force 1st Airborne Brigade, listen to a pre-flight brief aboard a C-130J Super Hercules at Yokota Air Base, Japan, prior to a static-line jump Jan. 25, 2022, as part of Airborne 22. Airborne 22 demonstrates the JGSDF's capability to employ large-scale airborne insertion anywhere. During the exercise, C-130Js from Yokota are planned to airdrop approximately 500 JGSDF personnel and 100 container delivery system bundles. Training events like this increase effective interoperability to gain advantages whenever both countries work together. Airborne 22 demonstrates the JGSDF's capability to employ large-scale airborne insertion anywhere. (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Gustavo Castillo)

Pennsylvania Army National Guard Soldiers with Alpha Company, 2-104th General Support Aviation Battalion perform training to pass the air gunnery qualification at Fort Indiantown Gap July 21, 2022. To be fully qualified, soldiers must pass the aircrew qualification tables four, five, and six.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Andrew Girard, 535th Airlift Squadron loadmaster, briefs two members of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (Koku-Jieitai) during a training exercise around the Hawaiian Islands, Sept. 27, 2022. This is the first bilateral exercise between the squadrons, increasing interoperability and familiarizing both forces on the capabilities of the Kawasaki C-2 and C-17 Globemaster III.

A U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook flight engineer assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, looks out the open ramp of a CH-47 helicopter while in flight, March 1, 2011 over the Gulf of Mexico in support of Emerald Warrior 2011. Emerald Warrior 2011 is a U.S. Special Operations Command-sponsored, multiservice exercise designed to leverage lessons learned from Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom to provide trained and ready forces to combatant commanders.

U.S. Marines with Kilo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, Marine Forces Reserve, prepare an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System to be loaded onto a KC-130J Super Hercules assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing at Avon Park Air Force Range, Florida, May 10, 2022. The Marines of Kilo Battery conducted their annual training alongside the U.S. Air Force during exercise Emerald Warrior 22.1. Emerald Warrior provides annual, realistic pre-deployment training encompassing multiple joint operating areas across the globe.

030321-F-1443F-017. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 75th Fighter Generation Squadron load crew work together to load an A-10C Thunderbolt II at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Jan 5, 2024. The 75th FGS competed in a quarterly weapons load crew competition against the 74th FGS.

Two C-130 Hercules with the Peoria Air National Guards 182nd Airlift Wing participate in integrated combat turns at the Combat Readiness Training Center, Alpena, MI, June 9, 2022. During Agile Rage 22, airmen from across the Air National Guard, to include the Idaho Air National Guards 124th Fighter Wing, came together to execute the Air Forces agile combat employment mission.

220509-A-EQ028-0033 BAHRAIN (May 9, 2022) Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter) 2nd Class Eugene Schoen, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, flies in an MH-60s Knighthawk during a search and rescue exercise with members of the Bahrain Defence Force, May 9, during Exercise Neon Defender. Neon Defender is an annual bilateral training event between U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and Bahrain. The exercise focuses on maritime security operations, installation defense and medical response.

(Front to back) Airman 1st Class Riley Henagar and Staff Sgt. Tyler Renteria, both 36th Airlift Squadron loadmasters, rig a heavy equipment extract parachute on a C-130J Super Hercules during the Samurai Readiness Inspection, Oct. 12, 2022 at Yokota Air Base, Japan. Loadmasters ensure aircraft configurations are correct and properly prepared for air drops.

060510-A-7969G-001. Base: Bayji State: Salah Ad Din Country: Iraq (IRQ)

Reserve Citizen Airmen in the 74th Aerial Port Squadron work with 433rd Airlift Wing C-5M Super Galaxy aircrew to practice the on-load and offload of a firetruck April 3, 2022, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas.

Soldiers assigned to 1-229 Attack Battalion, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade refuel, rearm, and repair AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and other vehicles at the Forward Arming and Refueling Point on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., Oct. 20, 2022.

Crew chiefs and aircraft sheet metal specialists from the 92nd Aircraft Generation Squadron (AFG), Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, confer about two sheet metal problems they might have with the wing of the KC-135R they are standing on. They are participating in an Operational Readiness Inspection (ORI), which tests a unit's ability to operate in a simulated wartime environment. Subject Operation/Series: CRISIS REACH 95-02NORTHERN PIKE Base: Malstrom Air Force Base State: Montana (MT) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Captain Joesph Dunham, 9th Special Operations Squadron pilot, conduct preflight check during Operation Centennial contact at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., June 27, 2023. To celebrate 100 years of Air Refueling, a critical capability, Dunham participated in one of the many USAFs aerial refueling demonstrations throughout the United States and overseas.

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