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Military Promotions and Ceremonies

Scenes of military personnel participating in promotion ceremonies and award presentations, highlighting camaraderie and recognition of achievements.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Robert Farmer, a small arms technician with 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division is awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Nov. 2, 2022. Farmer was awarded for saving a womans life after she was swept off a cliff into the ocean. The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the highest non-combat award for heroism awarded to members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Mario Ramirezvelez, a data systems administrator with Headquarters Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, is promoted to corporal during a promotion and awards ceremony at Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans, Oct. 3, 2022. Ramirezvelez was appointed a Non-Commissioned Officer alongside three other Marines in front of a battalion formation in order to recognize hard work and dedication to the Marine Corps, as well as celebrate his promotion from lance corporal to corporal.

Cmdr. Rick Buechel, public works officer, Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bethesda lead officers on a tour of the NSA Bethesda utilities plant.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Steven M. Sutey, the commanding officer of 2d Marine Regiment, congratulates Marines with 2d Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2d Marine Division, during an Annual Rifle Squad Competition award ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 23, 2022. The Marines were awarded for finishing first in the Annual Rifle Squad Competition while deployed to Okinawa, Japan.

U.S. Marine Sgt. Maj. Rodrigo Casillas and Lt. Col. Joshua Bradstreet, the squadron sergeant major and commanding officer for Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 4, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, case the squadron's colors during a deactivation ceremony in 64 Area on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 15, 2022. VMU-4 was reactivated in February 2011, and operated the RQ-21A Blackjack. The squadron was deactivated following the commandants guidance in Force Design 2030.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Anthony Henderson presents a Navy Commendation Medal to 1st Lt. Vadim Ivanov on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 18, 2022. Henderson is the commanding general for 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Ivanov is the 2d MEB aide-de-camp.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Ladetra Cole, a transmissions chief with 8th Communication Battalion, II MEF Information Group, re-enlists during a conditioning hike aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 10, 2022. The hike was conducted in order to celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday while building combat readiness, unit cohesion, and esprit de corps. During the hike, 8th Communication Battalion held a competition by seeing which company could carry and deliver the most amount of canned goods to the hike finish line. The canned goods were donated to local food banks to show partnership with the community outside of Camp Lejeune.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Mario Ramirezvelez, a data systems administrator with Headquarters Battalion, Marine Forces Reserve, is promoted to corporal during a promotion and awards ceremony at Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans, Oct. 3, 2022. Ramirezvelez was appointed a Non-Commissioned Officer alongside three other Marines in front of a battalion formation in order to recognize hard work and dedication to the Marine Corps, as well as celebrate his promotion from lance corporal to corporal.

U.S. Marine Corps 2nd Lt. Luis Luna, left, the camp guard officer in charge of Camp Hansen, and Col. Richard M. Martin, the commanding officer of III MEF Information Group, discuss the events of a tsunami evacuation drill during Exercise Constant Vigilance 2022 on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 18, 2022. The annual drill was held to convey the readiness and capabilities of various installations and first responders in the event of an emergency. CV22 is a Force Protection Condition and crisis response evaluation to validate regional installations, camps, and tenant antiterrorism plans and policies.

PITI, Guam (June 17, 2022) Commodore, Commander, Task Force 75 Capt. Shaun Lieb, right, salutes Capt. Gareth Healy during the change of command at Polaris Point with Vice Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Robert Clark presiding over the ceremony. CTF 75 provides expeditionary combat capabilities in the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet area of operations and is capable of providing the fleet with diverse expeditionary warfighting capabilities that are combat-ready and able to deploy anywhere in U.S. 7th Fleet in response to any contingency. The Navy's expeditionary forces exist first and foremost to support the fleet's warfighting operations and are the Navy's sea-to-shore interface.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Robert Farmer, a small arms technician with 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division is awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Nov. 2, 2022. Farmer was awarded for saving a womans life after she was swept off a cliff into the ocean. The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the highest non-combat award for heroism awarded to members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Thomas Davis, center, speaks during a promotion ceremony for Maj. Learlin J. Lejeune III, operations officer, 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 3, 2022. Lejeune was promoted to lieutenant colonel.

U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort congratulate Lance Cpl. Isabella Jones, military working dog handler, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, and Cpl. Jarret Determan, military working dog handler, H&HS, after an awards ceremony at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Jan. 19, 2024. This ceremony was held to award Determan and Jones the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Determan and Jones provided immediate medical attention to a fellow patron due to an accidental gunshot wound.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Blake Pauly, staff noncommissioned officer in charge, salutes 1st Lt. Nicolas Cuncinotta, officer in charge, both with Alpha Battery, 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, during the commencement of the 21-Minute Gun Salute on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 30, 2022. The 21-Minute Gun Salute is a brief ceremony during which guns are discharged 21 times at one-minute intervals in honor of Memorial Day.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew Tracy, left, commanding officer of 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division awards the Battle of Soochow Creek Bravery and Valor Medal to Sgt. Dustin Bohannan, a transmissions systems operator, Headquarters Battalion, 3d Marine Division, during an award ceremony at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, June 1, 2022. The Marines received the award for their superior performance supporting 4th Marines during Service Level Training Exercise 1-21. The first Soochow Creek Medal originated in early 1932 and honors the legacy of 4th Marines service in China from 1927-1941.

Philippine Marine Corps Capt. Darius Reyes, company commander, 65th Reconnaissance Company, 3rd Marine Brigade, greets U.S. Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, prior to the opening ceremony for KAMANDAG 6 at Camp Rodolfo Punsalang, Palawan, Philippines, Oct. 3, 2022. KAMANDAG is an annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Calvert Worth, commanding general of 2d Marine Division, gives a speech about Cpl. Marco Hernandez, a Ridgecrest, California, native and cannon section chief with 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2d MARDIV, during a re-enlistment ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Dec. 7, 2022. Hernandez was identified as a Follow Me" Marine in efforts to share the stories of 2d MARDIV Marines who have decided to re-enlist.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Steven L. Letofsky, a Fire Support Chief with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), was promoted to the rank of Gunnery Sergeant at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., September 1, 2022. Gunnery Sergeants represent a seasoned corps of Staff Noncommissioned Officers who provide advanced knowledge from their respective fieldssetting a standard for the Marines under their charge to follow. Staff Noncommissioned Officers embody the sense of pride and esprit de corps that is the United States Marine Corps. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Davis Harris)

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Robert OBrien, a Lake Worth, Florida native and motor transport operation chief with 2d Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment (2/6), 2d Marine Division, salutes Lt. Col. James R. Armstrong, the commanding officer of 2/6 during his promotion ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 3, 2023. OBrien was meritoriously promoted to gunnery sergeant for his superior performance and as recognition of his ability to assume positions of greater authority and responsibility.

041122-M-0173F-002. Base: Camp Blue Diamond State: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Joseph Howard, a Yonkers, New York native and an infantry mortarman with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, stands at attention during a ceremony awarding him with a Navy and Marine Corps Medal at McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey, Dec. 9, 2022. The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the highest non-combatant decoration awarded. On Dec 30, 2017, at the time a lance corporal, Howard witnessed a car collision between four vehicles. Victims were trapped in a vehicle that had flipped eight times over a distance of 300 feet. Howard extracted the two unconscious victims from the car that continued to leak fuel. As he moved the second victim to safety, the vehicle was engulfed in flames and exploded. He then reassessed their injuries and provided life-saving first aid until first responders arrived. By his bold initiative and unwavering dedication to duty, Lance Cpl. Howard reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest t

U.S. Marines Cpl. Shane Monn, left, and Lance Cpl. Austin Powell, military police officers, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort stand in formation during an awards ceremony at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Sept. 23, 2022. H&HS held the award ceremony to recognize Marines and Sailors for their accomplishments.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Benjamin Soumar, left, the staff noncommissioned officer in charge of Ie Shima Training Facility, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, and Col. David Banning, the commanding officer of Headquarters and Support Battalion, MCIPAC, discuss future construction plans during his tour of Ie Shima Training Facility, Okinawa, Japan, on Aug. 9, 2022. The staff of H&S Bn, MCIPAC, toured le Shima Training Facility to become familiar with operations within the Pacific region. Twelve Marines manage the facility, which includes a training site and landing strip to facilitate aviation operations and emergency response.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Henry Garcia, center, a network chief assigned to Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and a New York native, installs and configures routers in a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle aboard the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset (LPD 25) while underway in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 16, 2024. Somerset and embarked elements of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit are conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Edward Sortino, squadron gunnery sgt., Headquarter and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, takes accountability of Security Augmentation Force personnel during Exercise STRATMOBEX on MCAS Beaufort, May 19, 2022. STRATMOBEX allowed key personnel to practice their role in evacuating and manning the air station in cases of extreme weather.

SASEBO, Japan (April 14, 2022) Seaman Peytan Harris, left, from Houston, assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), speaks to Master Chief Electricians Mate Doug Stevenson, from Atlantic, Penn., about the manning for Harris new rate as a personnel specialist during a Professional Apprenticeship Career Track Rodeo at the base chapel onboard U.S. Fleet Activities Sasebo. The NPC Fleet Engagement Team traveled from Millington, Tennessee, to meet with PACT Sailors stationed at commands throughout Japan to provide career counseling, designate ratings and negotiate orders on the spot. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Christian F. Wortman reenlists Lance Cpl. Kaydan N. Smith on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 21, 2024. Smith said he reenlisted for the Marines around him and for the stability the military provides. This is my family away from my family, said Smith. Marines who are eligible for reenlistment demonstrate dedication to duty, professionalism, and leadership ability. Smith, a native of Kansas, is a network administrator with Headquarters Battalion, 3d Marine Division, Okinawa, Japan. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. David Potter, sergeant major of 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, prepares torelinquish the sword of office to Lt. Col. Marcus Gillett, 9th ESB commanding officer, during a relief ceremony at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 1, 2022. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III MEF’s comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Tajee Dawson, a criminal investigator with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, salutes Col. Richard M. Rusnok, the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni commanding officer, at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 20, 2022. Dawson led a volunteer effort to construct ramps in the river near the Mt. Daisen area so that Giant Japanese Salamanders can reach their breeding grounds. This effort goes further than helping an endangered species by also showing the Japanese community the willingness of service members of MCAS Iwakuni improve our host nation.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Lance J. Langfeldt, the commanding officer for 6th Marine Corps District, congratulates Master Sgt. Andrew S. Henry, the supply chief 6MCD, during his promotion ceremony held at 6MCD Headquarters, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, June 1, 2022. This ceremony serves to publicly recognize those who have proven themselves worthy of the next rank in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Sgt. Maj. Marcos A. Cordero, sergeant major of Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, stands at parade rest during a regimental relief ceremony on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 21, 2022.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Lance J. Langfeldt, the 6th Marine Corps District commanding officer, congratulates Sgt. Robert F. Rodriguez, the motor transportation chief 6MCD, during his reenlistment ceremony held at 6MCD headquarters, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, Sept. 19, 2022. The Marine Corps reenlistment ceremony serves to highlight those who've decided to continue their service, and to reestablish the commitment of Marines to the Corps and to the nation. Rodriguez is a native of New Haven, Connecticut, and was accompanied by his wife, Sgt. Yarimar Rodriguez, and their two daughters.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Marcus Kane, with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force (CBIRF) was promoted to Lance Corporal at Naval Support Facility Indian Head Annex Stump Neck, Maryland, Sept. 1, 2022. Marines from CBIRF came to show their support and appreciation for the newly promoted.

221129-N-VS068-1035PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 30, 2022) - Marines assigned to 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit practice flag handling while in Corporals Course aboard amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), Nov. 30, 2022. Corporals Course is a leadership course which teaches the basics of being a corporal include marching, sword handling, and best practices of leading a platoon. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and amphibious transport dock USS Anchorage (LPD 23) and USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations with the embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit to enhance interoperability with Allies and partners and serve as a ready-response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

221129-N-VS068-1088PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 30, 2022) - Marines assigned to 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit practice cutlass handling while in Corporals Course aboard amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), Nov. 30, 2022. Corporals Course is a leadership course which teaches the basics of being a corporal include marching, sword handling, and best practices of leading a platoon. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and amphibious transport dock USS Anchorage (LPD 23) and USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations with the embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit to enhance interoperability with Allies and partners and serve as a ready-response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Bryan Alfaro, sergeant major, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, reads Cpl. Jarret Determans, military working dog handler, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), citation during an awards ceremony at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Jan. 19, 2024. This ceremony was held to award Determan and Lance Cpl. Isabella Jones, military working dog handler, H&HS, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Determan and Jones provided immediate medical attention to a fellow patron due to an accidental gunshot wound.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Adam L. Chalkley, commanding general of 3rd Marine Logistics Group, left, Col. Christopher M. Haar, outgoing commanding officer of Combat Logistics Regiment 3, right, and Col. Jason B. Berg, the incoming commanding officer of CLR-3, center, sing the Marine Corps hymn during a change of command ceremony at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, June 28, 2023. Marines and Sailors with CLR-3 celebrated Col. Christopher M. Haars successful years commanding the unit and welcome the incoming commander, Col. Jason B. Berg.

060106-M-2697B-003. Base: Marine Corps Air Base Beaufort State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MCAS BEAUFORT

HIALEAH, Fla. (Feb. 9, 2024) Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Miami Commanding Officer Cmdr. Johnny Lykins pins a Navy and Marines Corps Achievement Medal on Machinists Mate, Nuclear Power, 2nd Class Kyle Walsh, during a presentation held at Navy Reserve Center, Miami in Hialeah, Fla., on February 9, 2024. NTAG Miami, has 38 recruiting locations throughout South Florida, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, with the combined mission to recruit the highest caliber Sailors to meet the needs of the Fleet. Navy

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Jeremy Nelson, the outgoing commanding officer of 3rd Landing Support Battalion, gives his remarks during a change of command ceremony on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, June 15, 2022. During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Nelson passed on the command of 3rd LSB to Lt. Col. Justin Hooker. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Forces comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

In 2018, Sam Short was diagnosed with spinal cancer. As part of the Make A Wish Foundation, Sam wanted a chance to stand on the yellow footprints at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island for a chance to earn the title United States Marine. From April 27-28, Short will complete a condensed boot camp alongwith a platoon of Marines in hopes of earning the honorary title of Marine. Short, who is 16 years-old, is from Columbus, Oh.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jason Stewart, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Central Command G-6 operations officer, speaks at a ceremony honoring his late father at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 1, 2022. J. Stewarts father, Rector Stewart, was an Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft crew chief during the Vietnam War era. On Sept. 1, 2021, J. Stewart held his fathers hand during his final moments and promised to take his ashes on a C-130 for one last flight. On Sept. 1, 2022, one year after his fathers passing, J. Stewart fulfilled his promise by taking his fathers ashes on an HC-130J Combat King II assigned to the 920th Rescue Wing, Patrick Air Force Base, Florida, that took off from MacDill AFB.

220930-N-QI593-1273 VIRIGNIA BEACH, Virginia (Sep. 30, 2022) Rear Adm. Joseph DiGuardo, left, receives the national ensign from Chief Yeoman Briana Israelson, during a retirement ceremony at Assault Craft Unit 4 onboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Sept. 30, 2022. The ceremony marks DiGuardos retirement from the Navy after 31 years of dedicated service. Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) is the Navys single functional command for 20,000 Active Duty and Reserve expeditionary forces, and is the central management for the readiness, resources, manning, training and equipping of those entities. NECC enables Navy Expeditionary Combat Forces the ability to execute combat, combat support and combat service support missions across the full spectrum of naval, joint, and combined operations, allowing access from the sea and freedom of action throughout the littorals and inland operating environments.

Lt. Gen. David G. Bellon, commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve (left), stands with Almirante (Colombian Navy Admiral) Francisco Hernando Cubides Granados (right), Commander of the Colombian Navy, during a press conference following a recruit swearing in ceremony while at the Base de Entrenamiento de Marina in Coveñas, Colombia, for a graduation ceremony, Jan 11, 2023. For the first time in Colombian history, 60 women completed the Juramento de Bandera de Infantes de Marina after they completed three months of recruit training and joined the ranks in the Colombian Naval Infantry. U.S. Marines attended the ceremony to show solidarity and support partner nations significant contributions to the principles of Women, Peace, and Security and to demonstrate unwavering support for the women Naval Infantry graduates.

U.S. Marine Corps corporals recite the non-commissioned officer creed during the graduation ceremony aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 17, 2022. Corporals Course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become successful small-unit leaders as they enter the career into the non-commissioned officer ranks. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

PORT HUENEME, Calif. (Oct. 22, 2015) Rear Adm. Darren Hanson, reserve deputy commander of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), speaks with Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 22 during an all hands-call. Hanson, having recently been assigned as reserve deputy commander, is visiting active and reserve Seabee units around Naval Base Ventura County.

U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Mathew Lesnowicz, the outgoing inspector-instructor of 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, delivers a speech during a change of command ceremony for the 4th LAR Bn. inspector-instructors in the 41 Area of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, June 23, 2022. The battalion consists of seven reserve companies across the U.S., with the headquarters located on Camp Pendleton. Lesnowicz is a native of Santa Cruz, California.

(220609-N-OI810-0109) GULFPORT, Mississippi (June 9, 2022) Senior Chief Equipment Operator Casey Simmons, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 14, speaks to Seabees at morning formation during fiscal year 2022, quarter three, Regional Training Platform (RTP-3) at Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport, June 9, 2022. RTP-3 provided NMCB-14 Seabees hands-on training opportunities in tactical combat casualty care; maintenance and material management; civil engineering support equipment operations; convoy operations; and Seabee combat warfare and expeditionary skills. NMCB-14 provides advance base construction, battle damage repair, contingency engineering, humanitarian assistance and disaster recovery support to our fleet and unified commanders.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George W. Smith (right), the commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, talks with Chief Warrant Officer 2 Julia Flores (left), a mobility officer with Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, on his visit to Palau during Valiant Shield, June 8, 2022. Exercises such as Valiant Shield enable real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces through detecting, locating, tracking and engaging units at sea, in the air, on land and in cyberspace in response to a range of mission areas.

U.S. Navy Cmdr. Elliot Ross, Operations Manager, with the Expeditionary Medical Facility Jacksonville Reserve Component, briefs Sailors at the conclusion of a medical training exercise in support Golden Coyote Training Exercise at Camp Rapid, South Dakota, June 15, 2022. Golden Coyote is a three-phase, scenario-driven training exercise conducted in the Black Hills of South Dakota and Wyoming, which enables commanders to focus on mission essential task requirements, warrior tasks, and battle drills.

230409-N-LN782-1105 (Apr. 09, 2023) Recruits attend an Easter service at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois, Apr. 9, 2023. Boot camp is approximately 10 weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes five warfighting competencies of firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms handling and marksmanship along with physical fitness and lessons in Navy heritage and core values, Warrior Toughness, Life Skills, teamwork and discipline. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navys only boot camp.

U.S. Marines with 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) receive a welcome aboard brief given by the Commanding Officer, Sergeant Major, and leaders from across the 26th MEU staff at the base theater on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 22, 2022. Leaders from the 26th MEU welcomed new joins with an orientation brief about the unit, upcoming training exercises and expectations to prepare Marines for the upcoming deployment.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, U.S. Navy Sailors with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4, U.S. Navy Seventh Fleet, and soldiers with the Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade Logistics Battalion, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force observe a water purification test during Iron Fist 24, at Kin Blue Beach Training Area, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 27, 2024. Bilateral training tests readiness and ability to respond to crises in challenging and time-sensitive conditions. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force. Marine Corps

030731-M-5578G-048. Base: Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 1ST Marine Division

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, awards an EOD badge to Royal Thai Army Sgt. Maj. 2nd Class Aurtsataporn Kantiwang, left, a student with Thailand Mine Action Center (TMAC), during a ceremony for an EOD level 1-2 course at Fort Bhanurangsi, Ratchaburi, Thailand, Feb. 8, 2024. Royal Thai and American Armed Forces work together to train 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 effects of unexploded ordnance. Marine Corps

U.S. Navy chief hospital corpsman Thomas Van Ingen, with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit demonstrates tactical combat casualty care on a simulated casualty during a combat lifesaver course aboard the Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 7, 2022. The combat lifesaver course is a five day course designed to reinforce the basics of tactical combat casualty care. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 13, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea speaks with Sailors following an all-hands call at Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 13, 2022. Honea conducted his first fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Benjamin O. LeBaron Montes, a sergeant instructor with Alpha Company, Officer Candidates School, corrects a candidate with Officer Selection Team San Diego during an OCS preparation weekend at Edson Range, Camp Pendleton, California on April 30, 2022. The OCS preparation weekend is designed to prepare aspiring Marine Corps officers mentally and physically for the rigors of OCS.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. John McNamara, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with Combat Logistics Battalion 6 (CLB-6), Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, prepare to dispose of an explosive during a live demolition range in Syndalen, Finland Oct. 14, 2022. Task Force Red Cloud, headquartered by elements of CLB-6, is deployed to Finland in support of Exercises SYD 2022 and Freezing Winds 2022 to enhance U.S. and Finnish select interdependence in the maritime domain; solidify bilateral maritime maneuver within the Finnish littoral environment; and foster strong relationships between U.S. Marine Corps and Finnish Defense Force sustainment units.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Forrest C. Poole III, commanding general of 2nd Marine Logistics Group, speaks during a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 17, 2022. During the ceremony, Col. Michael Castellano relinquished command to Col. Karin R. Fitzgerald.

U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 4 James Domorod, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) defense officer, II Marine Expeditionary Force, talks with Finnish Navy Chief Petty Officer Niko Karlenius, CBRN chief, Nyland Brigade during a bilateral CBRN training in Syndalen, Finland, Aug. 11, 2022. 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Scott Siska, company commander, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Bravo Company, speaks to the audience during the MWCS-18, Bravo Company activation ceremony, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 1, 2022. The company activated in accordance with the Marine Corps progression towards Force Design 2030.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Devin K. Phommachanh, the 6th Marine Corps District communication strategy and operations chief, reads the promotion warrant for 1st Lt. Mikaela F. Frias, the assistant marketing and communications officer for 6MCD, during her promotion ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, May 23, 2022. This ceremony serves to publicly recognize those who have proven themselves worthy of the next officer rank in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Swedish Marine Corps Intelligence Officer, 2. Swedish Marine Battalion, exchanges introductions with U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Charles McKenna, Intelligence Officer, 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, at Berga Naval Base, Sweden, September 2, 2022 prior to exercise Archipelago Endeavor 22. AE22 is an annual, bilateral integrated field-training exercise, conducted to promote interoperability, strengthen partnerships, and enhance strategic and tactical cooperation between U.S. and Swedish Marines.

Maj. Gen. Shingo Nashinoki, Commanding General, Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), right, presents the Japanese Defense Cooperation Award to U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Kyle Ellison, Deputy Commanding General, III Marine Expeditionary Force, on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, June 8, 2022. The Defense Cooperation Award is the highest award a non-Japanese service member can receive from the JGSDF. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Lance Cpl. Natalie Greenwood)

U.S. Marine 2nd Lt. David Meagher, the platoon leader for 1st Plt, I Co, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, shares an experience about working alongside female Marine infantry officers during the Women, Peace, Safety (WPS) training at Manatee training site in Belize during TRADEWINDS22 May 10, 2022. The SOUTHCOMs Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Program recognizes the diverse roles women play as agents of change in preventing and resolving conflict, countering terrorism and violent extremism as well as building post-conflict peace and stability in our Hemisphere. Tradewinds 2022 is a multinational exercise designed to expand the Caribbean regions capability to mitigate, plan for, and respond to crises; increase regional training capacity and interoperability; develop new and refine existing standard operating procedures; enhance ability to defend exclusive economic zones; and promote human rights and adherence to shared international norms and values; fully integrate women into defe

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Ethan Dotson, a Midland, Michigan native and french horn instrumentalist with the 2d Marine Division Band, briefs his fire team at an Infantry Immersion Trainer (IIT) on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 19, 2024. The IIT is used to fully immerse Marines in various scenarios in order to teach them to effectively adapt to complete combat, security, and humanitarian missions.

Lt Col Michael L. Eubanks, with Weapons and Field Training Battalion, relinquishes command of the battalion to Col Michael F. Arnone in a change of command ceremony on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island S.C., June 29, 2022. Weapons and Field Training Battalion oversees and executes the training of recruits during events such as the gas chamber, rappel tower, shooting on the range, Basic Warrior Training, and the Crucible.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Nhadeije Bordes, a legal clerk with 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), receives the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal during a ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Apr. 30, 2023. Bordes received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for superior performance in her duties while serving as the legal clerk for the 26th MEU.

U.S. Marine 1st Sgt. Chris MacVarish, a recovering patient with Wounded Warrior Battalion - West, poses for a portrait after his Purple Heart Medal award ceremony at the Wounded Warrior Bn. on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, May 19, 2022. MacVarish was awarded the Purple Heart after being wounded in an ambush July 27, 2007, while in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

221209-N-YG104-0029 DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (December 09, 2022) Sailors ask questions during an all hands call with Adm. Samuel Paparo, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, aboard Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia. During his visit Paparo engaged with members of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force, the Royal Navy, and Royal Marines from the United Kingdom, as well as civilians, and foreign contractors who support the installation. The site visit was an opportunity to learn how the U.S. Pacific Fleet can best support personnel assigned, while also maximizing strategic output.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Courtland Mabe, a Douglasville, Georgia, native and anti-tank missile gunner with 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2d Marine Division, recites the Oath of Enlistment on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 6, 2022. Mabe was selected for reenlistment through the Commandants Retention Program which allows Marines that embody the whole Marine concept and represent the top echelon of Marines to bypass the twenty-step reenlistment process.

Three U.S. Marines attending Marine Security Guard School at Marine Corps Embassy Security Group, receive the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for their heroic acts performed while off-duty during an awards ceremony on Quantico, Virginia, April 6, 2023. They received the award after intervening during an altercation between civilians involving a knife. The Marines successfully deescalated the situation, recovered the weapon and restrained the perpetrators until the police arrived on scene.

U.S. Marine Corps. Sgt. Maj. Artie Martinez, outgoing sergeant major, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31 (MALS-31), relinquishes his duties as Squadron Sergeant Major during his Relief and Appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, June 7, 2022. The ceremony recognized Martinez's service, leadership and dedication as he relinquished his duties to the unit.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Joseph Freshour, left, F-35B Lighting II operational test director, Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron 1 (VMX-1), is presented a certificate of retirement from the U.S. president and a letter from the commandant of the Marine Corps by Col. Byron D. Sullivan, commanding officer, VMX-1, during his retirement ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, May 20, 2022. In his 19 years in the USMC Freshour has developed beyond anything he thought possible when he was a teenager and starting his military journey. From the honor of serving as commanding officer, to serving with Marines in combat, Freshour has overcome challenges that made him who he is today.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Sgt. Robert Adams, left, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Bravo Company 1st Sgt., and Maj. Scott Siska, right, company commander, MWCS-18, Bravo Co, unfurl the company colors during the MWCS-18, Bravo Co activation ceremony, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 1, 2022. The company activated in accordance with the Marine Corps progression towards Force Design 2030.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Christine M. Houser, the commanding officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar and Sgt. Maj. Lacey J. Lewis, the Sergeant Major of H&HS MCAS Miramar, lead a squadron hike on MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, June 2, 2022. The squadron conducted a five-mile conditioning hike to enhance combat fitness, build cohesion, and promote unit camaraderie throughout the squadron.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. NaTasha M. Everly, outgoing commanding officer of Weapons Training Battalion (WTBN) Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, salutes during the WTBN change of command ceremony on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 1, 2022. WTBN Camp Lejeune serves to provide facilities and support for marksmanship training, re-qualification, and competition shooting for the Marines of Marine Forces, Atlantic and Marines that visit from throughout the world.

U.S. Navy Cmdr. James M. Peugh, the command chaplain with Marine Corps Installations East (MCIEAST)-Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, is promoted to the rank of captain by U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Andrew M. Niebel, commanding general, MCIEAST-MCB Camp Lejeune, on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Sept. 1, 2022. The chaplain develops personnel and families of the Camp Lejeune community for spiritual and personal readiness through ministries or pastoral care.

U.S. Marine Maj. Gen. Benjamin T. Watson, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, salutes during morning colors at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Sep. 16, 2022. During the ceremony, Watson awarded Marines and sailors from across the division for their exceptional performance.

TUY HOA, Vietnam (July 3, 2022) - Rear Adm. Mark Melson, Commander, Task Force 73, greets U.S. Navy Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Mobile Battalion 3 (NMCB 3) and Amphibious Construction Battalion One (ACB 1) at Pacific Partnership 2022 engineering site Lam Son Primary School. Now in its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Carlos Ruiz, sergeant major of U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South and U.S. Marine Corps Marine Corps Forces Reserve, shakes hands with a Colombian Marine at Colombian Naval Base Turbo, Turbo, Colombia, Jan. 24, 2023. U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. David Bellon, commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Reserve, his staff, and leaders of 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion traveled to Colombia to meet with leadership of the Infantería de Marina Colombiana (Colombian Marine Corps) to continue to strengthen the partnership between the two Navies and Marine Corps.

First Marine Expeditionary Force (1MEF), Sergeant Major (SGM) Kinnely and 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), SGM John Estrada watch from the sidelines as their respective Commanding Generals tour Al Jaber Air Base, Kuwait, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base State: Al Ahmadi Country: Kuwait (KWT)

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jason Sander, center, outgoing company commander of Bravo Company, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, passes the guidon flag to Maj. Phillip Tate, right, oncoming company commander of Bravo Company during a change of command ceremony on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, May 20, 2022. The ceremony represents the transfer of authority, responsibility, and accountability from the outgoing company commander to the oncoming company commander.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Seiki Tanaka, right, the Marine Air-Ground Task Force plans chief for the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, translates English to Japanese for Maj. Zachary Fox, center, the current operations officer with the 31st MEU, to Japan Ground Self Defense Force Capt. Misono with the 2nd Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment, during a war game, part of Iron Fist 24, on Camp Ainoura, Sasebo, Japan, Feb. 29, 2024. War games help to visualize and predict what courses of action to take alongside their allies against a common adversary. Iron Fist is an annual bilateral exercise designed to increase interoperability and strengthen the relationships between the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force, and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force. Marine Corps

SASEBO, Japan (April 18, 2022) Seaman Robert Brandt, from Lexington, S.C., assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), performs a personnel inspections during a Between the Lifelines training course. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Sept. 23, 2022) Sailors and civilian employees assigned to Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month during a ceremony hosted by CFAYs multicultural committee in the command auditorium. The event featured displays highlighting the contributions of Hispanic Americans throughout U.S. history and cultural dishes served to attendees. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleets forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. William T. Kerrigan, commanding officer of 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, appoints Sgt. Maj. Daniel R. Lassett as the sergeant major of 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 8, 2022. This appointment symbolizes the transfer of authority, responsibility, and accountability of the Marines and Sailors under his charge.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Lester L. Williams, left, offgoing sergeant major, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, receives the Legion of Merit award and shakes hands with Col. Speros Koumparakis, right, commanding officer, MCBH, during the MCBH Relief and Appointment and Retirement ceremony, MCBH, Aug. 19, 2022. Williams was relieved by Sgt. Maj. Joseph J. Caputo as the MCBH Sergeant Major. Williams served over 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Vice Adm. Yancy Lindsey, Commander, Navy Installations Command, meets with Lt. j.g. Zachery Bixby, assistant security officer at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) security department, during a tour at CFAS Sept. 21, 2022. Lindsey visited CFAS to tour its facilities, meet with personnel assigned to area commands, and increase his familiarity with CFAS mission and relationships with host nation counterparts. For 75 years, CFAS has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services to empower forward-deployed U.S. and Allied Forces while providing superior support to their families and the community.

U.S. Marines with 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS LXIII, talk through communications operations with Brazilian Marines in São Pedro da Aldeia, Brazil, during exercise UNITAS LXIII, Sept. 4, 2022. U.S. Marines and Brazilian Marines used this time to convey communication procedures and safety actions before flights began. UNITAS is the world's longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise that brings together forces from 19 countries to include Brazil, Cameroon, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Namibia, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, South Korea, Spain, United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the United States. The exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability among multiple nations and joint forces during littoral and amphibious operations in order to build on existing regional partnerships and create new enduring relationships t

U.S Marines and U.S. Navy Sailors with Marine Expeditionary Force III and Philippine Marines eat food and interact during Marine Aviation Support Activities 22-2, July 20, 2022, Subic Bay, Philippine. MASA 22-2 is a bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of Philippines and the U.S. Marine Corps, aimed at increasing interoperability and improving aviation-related capabilities in support of U.S.-Philippine mutual defense.

U.S. Marines with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force (CBIRF) graduate the Lance Corporal Leadership and Ethics Seminar at Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Maryland, April 26, 2022. The seminar is essential for a junior Marine to develop leadership skills.

041213-M-3544G-047. Base: USMC Recruit Depot, San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Joshua Smith, 31st Marine Expeditionary Units senior enlisted advisor, speaks to Marines attending Corporals Course aboard Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 14, 2022. Corporals Course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become successful small-unit leaders as they enter the career into the non-commissioned officer ranks. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

SILVERDALE, Wash. (May 13, 2022) - Trident Refit Facility, Bangors (TRFB) Command Master Chief Timothy Glazner (left) discusses the accomplishments of Chief Machinists Mate Paul Williams (right), code 320 leading chief petty officer, after Williams was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. Williams received recognition for his dedication to duty, diligence, and leadership. TRFB supports the nations strategic deterrence mission repairing, incrementally overhauling, and modernizing Pacific Fleet strategic ballistic missile submarines during refits.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Damon K. Burrows, the incoming commanding officer of Headquarters Battalion (HQBn.), 2d Marine Division, addresses the audience at a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 8, 2022. During the ceremony, Burrows took command of HQBn. from Col. Kemper A. Jones.

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Austen Robinson, an operations in the information environment (OIE) planner with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, speaks to Philippine service members and U.S. Marines at an OIE exchange during KAMANDAG 6 at Camp Rodolfo Punsalang, Palawan, Philippines, Oct. 8, 2022. KAMANDAG is an annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences.

220621-N-LN285-2122JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (June 21, 2022) - Master Chief Machinists Mate David Henley, chief of the boat, addresses the crew of the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Missouri (SSN 780) after the presentation of the Master Chief Hugh McCracken Leadership Award to the Chief Petty Officers Mess of USS Missouri (SSN 780), 21 June, 2022. Every year, Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic (COMSUBLANT) and COMSUBPAC recognize two top chiefs mess per coast. One fast-attack submarine and one ballistic missile submarine, or guided missile submarine, are evaluated and selected as the recipient of the Hugh McCracken Leadership Award.The award is named after the first Submarine Force Master Chief, Hugh E. McCracken, but it is also in remembrance of Chief Gunners Mate William H. Reader, who served as the first Submarine Force Chief of the Boat. These two leaders are revered in naval history as senior enlisted leaders, who set the expectation for what it means to be a Ch

Brig. Gen. Andrew M. Niebel, commanding general, Marine Corps Installations East-Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, accompanied by his senior staff, visited Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany as part of his commander's tour, recently. During his visit to MCLB Albany, Niebel focused on meeting and greeting workforce leadership, building the future and protecting the installation.

221210-N-DF558-1248 PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 10, 2022) Capt. Patrick Baker, left, executive officer of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), congratulates Quartermaster 3rd Class Danny Rhodes, right, from El Paso, Texas, during a frocking ceremony in the hangar bay aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

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