← Military & Defence

Military Personnel Portraits

Formal portraits of military members in uniform, showcasing various branches and roles. The mood is respectful, with varied backgrounds and settings.

Indiana Guardsman, Sgt. Kent G. Willman heroically responds to a crisis in Baltimore. Willman, a Carmel, Ind. native, is a member of the 127th Cyber Protection Battalion which was deployed to Fort Meade, Md.

Master Sgt. Evan Jacobus, 141st Logistics Readiness Squadron poses in front of a Light Medium Tactical Vehicle in Liberty Lake, Wash. July 15, 2022. The Airmen were out supporting the annual Touch-A-Truck event allowing both children and adults to check out heavy equipment from multiple agencies.

U.S. Army Capt. John Kenny, an electronic warfare officer assigned to the 3rd Multi-Domain Task Force, poses for a portrait during Project Convergence-Capstone 4 in Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 23, 2024. Army

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Lucas Corder, 386th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron customer service NCOIC at PERSCO, won Marauder of the week at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, September 9, 2022. "The best part of the deployment so far has been meeting all sorts of people, not just from the U.S. but from all over the world."

Staff Sgt. Jesse Picklo, Pennsylvania Army National Guard Det 1 Co. 1-109th INF, poses for a candid portrait during the 2022 National Guard Bureau Region 2 Best Warrior Competition, held May 17-20, 2022, at Camp Dawson, Kingwood, West Virginia. The Best Warrior Competition is a physically and mentally challenging three-day competition that tests competitors on a wide range of technical and tactical skills relevant to todays combat operating environment. Region 2 consists of competitors from Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional winners from across the nation will advance to compete at the national-level competition this summer.

Indiana Guardsman, Sgt. Kent G. Willman heroically responds to a crisis in Baltimore. Willman, a Carmel, Ind. native, is a member of the 127th Cyber Protection Battalion which was deployed to Fort Meade, Md.

Spc. Daniel Reading, Maryland Army National Guard D Co. 1st BN 175th INF, poses for a candid portrait during the 2022 National Guard Bureau Region 2 Best Warrior Competition, held May 17-20, 2022, at Camp Dawson, Kingwood, West Virginia. The Best Warrior Competition is a physically and mentally challenging three-day competition that tests competitors on a wide range of technical and tactical skills relevant to todays combat operating environment. Region 2 consists of competitors from Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional winners from across the nation will advance to compete at the national-level competition this summer.

A member of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) renders a salute at a disinterment ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu, Hawaii, Nov. 7, 2022. The ceremony was part of DPAAs efforts to disinter the remains of unknown servicemembers lost during the Korean War. DPAAs mission is to achieve the fullest possible accounting for missing and unaccounted-for U.S. personnel to their families and the nation.

Senior Airman Joseph Plato, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal technician, poses for a photo at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, April 8, 2022. Plato was highlighted as a positive representative of the U.S. Air Force.

ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. - Master Sgt. Mathue B. Snow, 78th Security Forces Squadron, is awarded the Bronze Star Medal at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Sept. 9, 2022. Snow was decorated for actions during the Jan. 5th, 2020, complex attack on Manda Bay, Kenya, where one American Soldier and two Department of Defense civilian contractors lost their lives, and six U.S. aircraft and one Kenyan aircraft were destroyed.

Tech. Sgt. Jacob Jones, Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Readiness and Plans NCOIC, poses for a portrait in the AFMAO atrium Aug. 4, 2022 at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware. Jones was selected to commission as a remotely piloted aircraft pilot and will report to Officer Training School next year.

U.S. Air National Guard Staff Sgt. Joshua Maisonet, 138th Maintenance Squadron, Tulsa ANG Base, Oklahoma, aerospace ground equipment technician, poses for a photo after arriving for Checkered Flag 23-1 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Oct. 25, 2022. Checkered Flag is a large-force aerial exercise held at Tyndall which fosters readiness and interoperability through the incorporation of 4th- and 5th-generation aircraft during air-to-air combat training. The 23-1 iteration of the exercise was held Oct. 31 - Nov. 10, 2022.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Travis Turner is an aerospace propulsion journeyman for the 167th Maintenance Squadron and the 167th Airlift Wing Airman Spotlight for September 2022.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Tristan Viglianco from the Michigan National Guard arrives at Alger, Michigan to support the Northern Agility 22-1 exercise, June 29, 2022. The exercise was designed to enhance the ability to operate in austere environments. (U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jaylen Molden)

A Soldier participates in the Norwegian Foot March at Fort Ord National Monument, Calif., Oct. 28. The 229th Military Intelligence Battalion organized the event to maintain readiness, increase resiliency and build esprit de corps.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Caleb Delbaugh, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of command support staff, poses for a portrait at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Dec. 7, 2022. Delbaugh is one of two points of contact for MacDills Joint Services Against Drunk Driving program.

Staff Sgt. Kelly Pletz receives the "Warrior of the Week" award at the Judge Advocate General Office, 332d Air Expeditionary Wing at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, August 26, 2022. Pletz earned recognition for her many contributions to the mission in addition to her work as the Non-Commissioned Officer In Charge of the Legal Office.

Spc. Noah Mangas, an air defense enhanced early warning system operator assigned to the 4th Battalion 3rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, poses for a photo in front of an M901 Patriot Launching station August 25, 2022, at Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates. Mangas was recognized by the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing's 5/6 Council as the Top Performer for July.

"Having a month is pretty awesome because people get to know about our culture. Mexican culture is so beautiful, colorful and different, said U.S. Air Force Airman Basic Tonya Castillo-Valdez, 100th Comptroller Squadron finance technician. Valdez is a Hispanic-American who was born in Mexico.

Spc. Brandon Mitchell, Pennsylvania Army National Guard HHC 337 ENG, poses for a candid portrait during the 2022 National Guard Bureau Region 2 Best Warrior Competition, held May 17-20, 2022, at Camp Dawson, Kingwood, West Virginia. The Best Warrior Competition is a physically and mentally challenging three-day competition that tests competitors on a wide range of technical and tactical skills relevant to todays combat operating environment. Region 2 consists of competitors from Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional winners from across the nation will advance to compete at the national-level competition this summer.

Spc. Wyatt Walls, representing the U.S. Army National Guard, prepares for a task during the U.S. Army Best Squad Competition on Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2022. The Army Best Squad Competition tests Soldiers on their individual and collective ability to adapt to and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-readiness events that test their physical and mental endurance, technical and tactical abilities, and basic warrior skills under stress and extreme fatigue.

Maj. Robert Hudspeth, the incoming commander of the 90th Ground CombatTraining Squadron, renders his first salute to members of the 90 GCTS duringa change of command ceremony May 26, 2021 in the Regional Training Institute building at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming. The change of commandceremony signifies the transition of command from Maj. Dexter Binion, theoutgoing commander of the 90 GCTS, to Hudspeth.

Military, service and soldier or happy man at navy, bedroom or officer quarters for battle, war training or USA combat. Portrait, veteran and uniform with courage for government draft or conscription

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Cameron Richardson, 337th Air Control Squadron weapons technician, poses for a photo at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Oct. 6, 2022. Since enlisting in 2019, Richardson has made several accomplishments such as basic training honor graduate, technical training distinguished graduate and received coins from several Air Force leaders including Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Joanne S. Bass.

U.S. Army Sgt. Jennifer Johnson, a religious affairs non-commissioned officer assigned to the 34th Infantry Division "Red Bulls" poses for a portrait at Fort Cavazos, Texas Feb. 28, 2024. She is one of the chaplain assistants going to the Middle East to participate in Operation Spartan Shield. (Minnesota National Guard

U.S. Army soldier, PFC Robert Plett from Grand Ledge Army Aviation Support Facility, Michigan, performs wet-wing de-fueling during the Northern Agility 22-1 exercise, June 27, 2022. This was one part of the multi-component exercise tailored to training Multi-Capable Airmen as a cross-functional team.

Spc. Edwin Alvaradolozano, a Des Moines, Iowa, native and cavalry scout assigned to Troop A, 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment, smiles before making his first leap down a rappel tower at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, on June 8, 2022. The unit had the opportunity to conduct rappelling familiarization on the bases 60-foot tower during their annual training.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Reggie Skillman, 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, inspect a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft tire at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Feb. 21, 2023. Crew chiefs ensure that the aircraft in their care are ready to fly at a moments notice so that pilots can safely and effectively complete their mission.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Juan Loera, 336th Training Squadron military training leader, poses for photo at Keesler Air Force Base on Nov. 28, 2022. MTLs are responsible for ensuring every non-prior service Airman is provided direction, resources and mentorship.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. George Kiszlo, 390th Intelligence Squadron flight chief, weapons and tactics from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was selected as the 18th Wings Supervisor of the Month at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The Supervisor of the Month program is an opportunity for outstanding non-commissioned officers to be recognized by KAB leadership as well as showcase these leaders to their peers.

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

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Demarion Davis, 48th Fighter Wing Communications Squadron cybersecurity manager, poses for a photo after being selected to be one of the 12 Outstanding Airmen of the year at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, July 26, 2022. This award recognises 12 outstanding enlisted personnel for superior leadership, job performance, community involvement, and personal achievements.

Army Sgt. Ronnie Banks, a maintenance section leader with the 207th Engineers and a production controller in the field maintenance shop (FMS) 6 on his full time side, stayed at the Jackson armory while it was flooding the night of July J8, 2022. The Armory sits on the North Fork Kentucky River, whose waters rose to over 43 feet.

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Alexander Rodriguez, an operations noncommissioned officer assigned to Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment, hold the battalion colors during a transfer-of-authority ceremony at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Sept. 19. During the ceremony more than 1,100 New York Army National Guard Soldiers began their service in Africa as part of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa.

Sgt. Ethan Hart participates in the hoist lane during the Jack L. Clark Jr., Army Best Medic Competition at Fort Hood, Texas 27 Jan.

United States Air Force 2nd Lt. Jean Bertrand Kalima came to the United States nine years ago from Africa. Now a U.S. citizen, he recently began attending the Uniformed Services University

Staff Sgt. Gerard Bhagwatsingh, 919th Special Operations Security Forces defender, takes time for a photo at Duke Field, Florida, Aug. 6, 2022. Bhagwatsingh serves the Fort Walton Beach Police Department community policing division in his civilian capacity.

Staff Sgt. Devin Flores, 332d Expeditionary Civil Engineering Squadron force protection escort, poses for a photograph at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, June 28, 2022. Flores hopes that by telling his story of mental resiliency by overcoming sexual assault trauma from his childhood, other survivors will feel empowered to find strength and heal in their own way.

Highest Rifle Marksmanship ScoreLawton Fort Sill, Oklahoma - PV2 Elijah Ford was awarded the Highest Rifle Marksmanship award by Bravo Battery 1-31st Field Artillery Battalion, 434th Field Artillery Brigade on January 26th, 2024 for scoring the highest in the battery on Rifle Marksmanship during Basic Combat Training. In addition to receiving the Marksman Award PVT Kaden Marcum was awarded the Louis Birtz Award by Bravo Battery 1-31st.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Miguel Rodriguez, a flight sergeant with the 156th Security Forces Squadron at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Puerto Rico Air National Guard, answers a phone in the base defense operations center, May 12, 2022. Rodriguez was recognized as an outstanding performer in the 156th Wing.

World War II Veterans and representatives of those who could not be in attendance receive a challenge coin at the Eternal Heroes Monument in Normandy, France, June 2, 2022. World War II Veterans and representatives of the 82nd Airborne Division and 101st Airborne Divisions (Air Assault) came to honor fallen Paratroopers who liberated Ravenoville in June of 1944.

Spc. Carlos V. Estep, air traffic control operator, 1st Battalion, 11th Aviation Regiment, stands with Command Sgt. Maj. Raymond Harris, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command command sergeant major, after being recognized for outstanding service on Jan. 18, 2024, at Fort Novosel, Alabama.

Sgt. Tyler Holloway of the Wyoming Army National Guard interviewed with public affairs after a Peer Evaluation Board at the Volunteer Training Site Tullahoma, Tenn., July 28, 2022. Competitors conducted MOUT training, an Air Assault Course, a four-mile Valor Run, a Peer Evaluation, and media interviews for the days events. The National Best Warrior competition consists of the best of the best Soldiers in the Army National Guard.

California State Guard Sgt. 1st Class Justin Harman stands in front of a rope course at Orange County Ropes Course in Anaheim, Calif., July 19, 2022. The whole purpose behind the rope course is to teach our cadetsif they can go through this daunting physical task, they can go forward and do that with everything else in their life, said Harman.

Sgt. Baylie Bialas, with Winn Army Community Hospital, Ft. Stewart, Ga., smiles after earning the Expert Field Medical Badge at Ft. McCoy, Wis. May 12, 2022.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Ricardo Cabezas, a medic from the 87th Healthcare Operations Squadron, poses for a photo inside of an ambulance on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., June 2, 2022.

Sgt. Colton Platzke, Delaware Army National Guard 1049th Transportation Company, participates in a stress-shoot event during the 2022 National Guard Bureau Region 2 Best Warrior Competition, held May 17-20, 2022, at Camp Dawson, Kingwood, West Virginia. The Best Warrior Competition is a physically and mentally challenging three-day competition that tests competitors on a wide range of technical and tactical skills relevant to todays combat operating environment. Region 2 consists of competitors from Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional winners from across the nation will advance to compete at the national-level competition this summer.

U.S. Army Sgt. Jonathan Warren, assigned to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, prepares to engage a board panel while competing in the 2022 Best Squad Competition at the Pentagon Library and Conference Center in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 7, 2022. The competition tests the squads proficiency in their warrior tasks and battle drills and identifies the most cohesive, highly trained, disciplined and fit team - ready to fight and win - while demonstrating commitment to the Army Values and Warrior Ethos.

Senior Airman Jamin Sligh, 911th Security Forces Squadron installation patrolman, poses for a photo at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania, Feb. 3, 2024. Sligh won the Air Force Reserve Command's Outstanding Security Forces Support Staff Airman Award. Air Force

Fifteen Minnesota National Guard and two Croatian Soldiers are competing in Minnesotas Best Warrior Competition April 7-10, 2022, at Camp Ripley. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers nominated by units across the state. Croatia and Minnesota have worked together for 25 years as part of the National Guards State Partnership Program. Minnesotas winners will move on to compete against the best Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from states across the region at Camp Ripley in May. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Luther C. Talks)

Sgt. Michael Holley, 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, participates in the Ohio Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition(BWC)at the Ohio Army National Guard Camp James A. Garfield Joint Military Training Center, Ravenna, Ohio, April 3, 2022. The winners of the BWC will move on to represent the Ohio Army National Guard at the regional levelcompetitionthis summer. The BWCrecognizes Soldiers who demonstratecommitment to the Army values, embody the warrior Ethos, and represent the Force of the future. (Photo by Spc. Benhur Ayettey, 196thMobile Public Affairs Attachment/RELEASED)

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Bobby Horne, member of Joint Multinational Training Group- Ukraine Task Force Thunder, poses for a photo shortly after his promotion at Camp Kasserine, Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Jan. 15, 2024.

U.S. Army Capt. Jennifer Wain holds the guidon at a change of command ceremony on Sept. 18, 2022 at the Flemington National Guard Armory. 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)

Soldiers and NCOs from the West Virginia and District of Columbia National Guards compete in their annual Best Warrior Competition, held at Camp Dawson, Kingwood, West Virginia, April 22, 2022. Best Warrior is an annual event where participants compete in a series of military tasks including weapons proficiency, endurance, physical fitness, medical skills, communications, and professional development activities. Winners of the local Best Warrior will compete at the regional level in May, also at Camp Dawson.

Sgt. Dejuan Patterson, a native of Chicagos South Side and former active-duty Marine canine handler, was promoted to sergeant in the Illinois Army National Guard at the Northwest Armory in Chicago Jan. 5 during a deployment ceremony for the 1863rd Financial Management Support Detachment.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Michelle Diaz, 18th Wing executive administrator from Huron, California was selected as the 18th Wings Airman of the Week at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The Airman of the Week program is an opportunity for outstanding Airmen to be recognized by KAB leadership as well as showcase these young leaders to their peers.

220413-N-TH560-0183 MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan (April 13, 2022) Airman Timothy Moore, from New Caney, Texas, poses for a photo during a Navy Personnel Command (NPC) Fleet Engagement Team event at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni. Moore enlisted in the Navy as part of the Professional Apprenticeship Career Tracks (PACT) program and earned the Yeoman rating at the event, April 13, 2022. The Fleet Engagement Team, consisting of enlisted community managers, rating specialists and detailers from NPC, worked one-on-one with PACT Sailors in Japan to provide career counseling, designate ratings and negotiate orders on site.

Staff Sgt. Lavell Bartley, 27, Sgt. Marcus Cordero, 29, and SSG Shawn Sargent, 30, pose for a recent photo. The three represent a cross section of NCOs assigned to the 54th Quartermaster Company who will lead troops in supporting a variety of mortuary affairs missions in Southwest Asia

Master Sgt. Sonia Toro-Valles, 51st Security Forces Squadron flight chief, briefs a predominately female flight at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Mar. 31, 2022. The flight was created in support of Womans History Month. The 51st SFS is the largest security forces unit in the Pacific Air Force and has more than 440 defenders, with only 13% of them being female.

Chaplain Lt. Col. Jeremy Pedersen, command chaplain assigned to the 34th Infantry Division "Red Bulls" poses for a portrait at Fort Cavazos, Texas Feb. 28, 2024. The chaplain team is headed to the Middle East to participate in Operation Spartan Shield. (Minnesota National Guard

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Bryan Kummer, with the U.S. Army National Guard, prepares to answer questions during a board while competing in the 2022 Best Squad Competition at the Pentagon Library and Conference Center in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 7, 2022. The competition tests the squads proficiency in their warrior tasks and battle drills and identifies the most cohesive, highly trained, disciplined and fit team - ready to fight and win - while demonstrating commitment to the Army Values and Warrior Ethos.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Alfonso L. Hernandez, Property Book Officer, 85th U.S. Army Reserve Support Command, with direct support to 5th Armored Brigade, pauses for a photo at the 85th USARSCs headquarters, September 21, 2022. Hernandez won The Chief of Staff, Army, Supply Excellence Award, at Fort Bliss, Texas, July 15, 2022 and shared the experience on receiving the recognition.

Staff Sgt. Luis Mendez (left), a combat engineer and OC/T assigned to 3-364 Brigade Engineer Battalion, 189th Infantry Brigade and Capt. Jerry Duong (right), the brigade's operations training officer, stand on a helipad following a UH-60L flight during Western Strike 22-06 at the Orchard Combat Training Center at Boise, Idaho June 11, 2022.

Master Sgt. Clifford Jackson III, 39th Air Base Wing command section superintendent, and his son Airman 1st Class Clifford Jackson IV, a materiel management technician assigned to the 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron, shares their experience serving together at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, June 14, 2022. The two Airmen continue a family tradition of military service that dates back to WWII. The father-son team provide each other with a sense of home while serving their short tours in Turkey. They meet at least once a week to share a meal and discuss a variety of issues related to personal and professional growth.

U.S. Army Cpl. Marlon Brown, a combat medic, stands for a portrait on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, May 20, 2022.

Staff Sgt. Michael Orlando, 77th Fighter Generation Squadron dedicated crew chief, poses for a photo at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, April 15, 2022. Orlando is the dedicated crew chief for the 20th Fighter Wing's flagship aircraft and earned the Air Combat Command Crew Chief of the Year award in 2021.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Jami Shawley, commanding general of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), participates in a French Desert Commando Course graduation ceremony at the 5th Overseas Interarms Regiment, Djibouti, June 1, 2022. Members of the CJTF-HOA regularly train and work alongside allies, partners, and government organizations to achieve a unified effort to improve safety, security and prosperity in East Africa.

Senior Master Sgt. Kenneth Cook, 613th Air Operations Center air mobility division senior leader, poses for a photo at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Feb. 21, 2024. Cook uses his upbringing, background and experiences to have a positive impact on Airmen and underprivileged kids. Air Force

US Airmen participate in Rapid Damage Airfield Repair (RDAR) Training at the 163d Regional Training Site on March Air Reserve Base in Calif., Sept. 1, 2023. RDAR is the primary warfighting objective of a Civil Engineering Squadron in the United States Air Force.

Spc. Emilia Grant, nutrition care specialist at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center and native of Lemon Grove, California, competes in Regional Health Command Europe's Best Leader Competition, May 24, for a chance to advance and represent Army Medicine Europe at the U.S. Army Medical Command Best Leader Competition later this summer.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Arthur Flanders, a crew chief assigned to the 165th Maintenance Group, Georgia Air National Guard, attaches chains to a C-130 Hercules aircraft so it an be secure on the flightline in preparation for strong winds and thunderstorms predicted to make their way through southern Georgia on April 5, 2022.

Tech. Sgt. Andrew Thompson, 127th Maintenance Squadron, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan, Sept. 11, 2022.

Senior Airman Mitchell Knaub, 8th Operations Support Squadron airfield management shift lead, sits next to a government vehicle at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, June 17, 2022. Airfield management personnel enable projection of airpower by ensuring the airfield is cleared of foreign object debris and dispersed of any wildlife.

Senior Master Sgt. Jessica De La Mora, 15th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron lead production superintendent, poses for a photo at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Aug. 23, 2022. De La Mora joined the Air Force in 2001 before the tragedies that occurred on Sept. 11, 2001.

On July 9, the 510th Regional Support Group brought their families together to celebrate their first official Organizational Day. After lunch, a raffle, and some laughs at the dunk tank, many soldiers and family members competed in the first annual Commanders Cup. Through events such as basketball, volleyball, football, and eventually tug-of-war, only one team remained standing to receive the coveted trophy. Thanks to everyone who joined and participated in some great team building!

U.S. Army Sgt. Andrew Row, assigned to U.S. Army Forces Command, participates in a board while competing in the 2022 Best Squad Competition at the Pentagon Library and Conference Center in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 7, 2022. The competition tests the squads proficiency in their warrior tasks and battle drills and identifies the most cohesive, highly trained, disciplined and fit team - ready to fight and win - while demonstrating commitment to the Army Values and Warrior Ethos.

Tech. Sgt. Brian Roberge, the services manager with the 157th Force Support Squadron, prepares the dining facility for lunch inside the Sequoyah High School cafeteria June 6, 2022 in Tahlequah, OK. The Airmen are a part of the Cherokee Nation Innovative Readiness Training that allows service members to accomplish mission-essential training while providing care at no cost to the local community.

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass coins Tech. Sgt. Jacob Bennette, 110th Wing recruiter during an all call at the Battle Creek Air National Guard Base, Michigan, Feb. 4, 2024. Bennette received the Outstanding Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year award for his effort in securing 176% of his mission objective, accessing 44 applicants in 2023, and accounting for 45% of the team's accessions which propelled Wing manning over 104% for the first time in 20 years. Air National Guard

Spc. Samuel Elston, a military police officer with the 57th Military Police Company, 728th Military Police Battalion, 8th Military Police Brigade, 8th Theater Sustainment Command poses for a photo on Fort Shafter, Hawaii, Jan. 10, 2024.

Soldier man, smile and portrait for service in bedroom at academy, military base and pride for USA. Person, army officer or happy with uniform, confidence or camouflage clothes for government in dorm

ST. LOUIS (May 26, 2022) Personnel Specialist 1st Class Juhnkarl Rule, a classifier assigned to Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Mid America at Military Entrance Processing Station St. Louis, poses for a portrait for Asian American Pacific Islander Month. Rule, who was born and raised in the Philippines, came to the U.S. with his mother when he was 16 years old to establish a better life for his family. NTAG Mid America, part of Navy Recruiting Command, recruits the next generation of Navy Sailors throughout areas encompassing Missouri, Kansas, central and southern Illinois, and a portion of Kentucky.

Sgt. Maj. Antonio Gonzalez is the operations sergeant major for the Mission Command Training Program. His actions in Afghanistan in 2007 would result in the Silver Star, the third-highest award for valor in the U.S. Army. Gonzalez enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1996, following graduation from Kansas State University, where he was also on the football team.

Twelve National Guard Soldiers are competing in the Region IV Best Warrior Competition May 11-15, 2022, at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from the Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio National Guards. The winners will move on to compete in the National Guards competition on July 20-30, 2022, at Camp Smyrna, Tennessee. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Sgt. Bob Brown)

U.S. Army Cpl. Jared Kiner, assigned to U.S. Army Forces Command, participates in a board while competing in the 2022 Best Squad Competition at the Pentagon Library and Conference Center in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 7, 2022. The competition tests the squads proficiency in their warrior tasks and battle drills and identifies the most cohesive, highly trained, disciplined and fit team - ready to fight and win - while demonstrating commitment to the Army Values and Warrior Ethos.

Captain Sarah Kolb, outgoing commander of Headquarters Support Company, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), speaks during the HSC Change of Command ceremony at the division atrium, June 9, 2022. Kolb is headed to Fort Jackson, Sc., as the aide de camp for the commanding general there.

Chief Master Sgt. Jerry Ratliff, 386th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron fire chief, gets promoted during a ceremony at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait. He was promoted by Lt. Col. Sylvester dAgrella, 386th ECES commander, on Sept. 17, 2022. Ratliffs family was able to watch his promotion ceremony via cellphone streaming. Nearly 100 firefighters, friends, fellow chiefs and leaders took part in the ceremony. Ratiff, who is deployed from the 132nd Civil Engineer Squadron, Iowa Air National Guard, joined the top 1-percent of enlisted members upon promoting to his new rank.

U.S. Space Force Chief Master Sgt. Jeramey W. Conley, command senior enlisted leader for the Joint Task Force-Space Defense, poses for a photo in the organizations heritage room at Schriever Space Force Base, Colo., June 29, 2022. Conley has an extensive space operations background and is focused on ensuring JTF-SD warfighters are prepared to provide commanders with the effects they need. In unified action with the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community, JTF-SD organizes, trains, and equips personnel assigned to the National Space Defense Center to execute protect and defend missions, and conduct space superiority operations to deter aggression, defend national capabilities, and defeat adversaries throughout the phases of conflict.

Sgt. Morgan Sondelskie, a singer with the Wisconsin Army National Guard's 132nd Army Band, holds the units honorary mascot, Cpl. Klinger. The plastic frog was given to the band by a wife "several years ago," and since then has travelled everywhere with them.

Members of the Idaho National Guard visit a job fair hosted by the Idaho Air National Guard Airmen and Family Readiness Program, June 5, 2022, Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho. The AFRP provides a variety of different services for Airmen, military families and civilian employees in need of assistance.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Joel Barra, assigned to the rifle detail as the noncommissioned officer in charge, with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, participates in an annual wreath-laying ceremony at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California, Feb. 6, 2024. This ceremony is an annual event to commemorate the life and legacy of the 40th president of the United States, Ronald Reagan, and is held every year on his birthday by presidential declaration. Marine Corps

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Eric Zwyer, an emergency management specialist with the 378th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron, holds a falcon at the Prince Sultan Air Base Museum, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, May 28, 2022. More than 700 U.S. service members attended the Saudi Cultural Day. The three-day event, May 27-29, was hosted through a collaborative effort between the Scientist's Gift Program, local members of the Royal Saudi Air Force, and the 378th Air Expeditionary Wings Host Nation Coordination Cell, to provide an opportunity to learn about the history, culture and traditions of Saudi Arabia.

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael R. Campbell, a religious affairs specialist assigned to 7th Infantry Division, describes his hobby outside the military at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., Jan. 17, 2024. Campbell emphasized the importance of being a unique individual outside the U.S. Army by detailing his own personal experiences.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. John Thacker, 386th Expeditionary Medical Squadron independent duty medical technician, speaks on his favorite part of the deployment to Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, October 25, 2022. "I enjoy helping people, said Thacker. I like seeing people get better. My favorite thing is when I'll go to the DFAC and someone will come up to me and say, I'm feeling much better now, thank you so much. They think that I did something really cool, but I was just doing my job. It's good to see people improve and I like that we have that sense of community here.

Portrait of U.S. Army 1st Lt. Mark C. ONeill, commander of Operations Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 40th Infantry Division, California Army National Guard, photographed June 16, 2022, at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, California.

U.S. Army Spc. Erick Muniz, 216th Engineer Battalion Mobility Augmentation Company, 578th Engineer Battalion, California National Guard, inspects his gloves at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, Calif. July 26, 2022.

U.S. Army Spc. Felix Kwame Osei, a UH-60 Black Hawk mechanic for Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 137th Aviation Regiment, assembles an M4 carbine during the 73rd Troop Commands Best Warrior Competition at Camp James A. Garfield Joint Military Training Center in Ravenna, Ohio, Nov. 4, 2022. The competition promoted esprit de corps and recognized Ohio National Guard Soldiers who demonstrated commitment to the Army values and embody the Warrior Ethos.

Spc. Abby Milinkovich, a 2017 graduate of the Medical Education and Training Campus Combat Medic Specialist Training Program, serves in the Army National Guard while currently working on her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree through the METC Degree Bridge Program.

Operations Specialist 2nd Class Gabby Graves is featured as this week's Recruiter in the Spotlight. (U.S. Navy photo Dan Puleio)

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Kelsey Ockman, 786th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal apprentice, holds a challenge coin he earned at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Jan. 30, 2024. Ockman credits his success to his team who he says are his inspiration and is proud to serve with.

Staff Sgt. Benjamin Huff, a standardization instructor with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 111th Aviation Regiment, Mississippi Army National Guard, performs run-up procedures during pre-flight checks on a CH-47 Chinook helicopter in Meridian, Mississippi, Sept. 29, 2022. The flight team ensured the helicopter was in full working order prior to its flight to Florida in response to Hurricane Ian's effects across the state.