Military Readiness and Training Exercises

Modern military operations focusing on air transport and combat training, featuring soldiers preparing for deployments and participating in exercises.

Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) technicians from the 35th Civil Engineer Squadron perform Agile Combat Employment (ACE) training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Nov. 1, 2022. ACE is the ability to project combat power anytime, anywhere, while remaining operationally unpredictable to complicate an adversary's decision-making process.

A U.S. Air Force 60th Medical Group Critical Care Air Transport Team (CCATT) waits on the flight line for a C-17 Globemaster III ramp to be cleared for patient movement at Travis Air Force Base, California, May 17, 2022. The CCATT participated in a mass casualty exercise and medically evacuated simulated patient manikins to maintain medical readiness in the event of emergencies.

Members of the 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, exit a West Virginia Air National Guard C-17 Globemaster III aircraft in support of the DEFENDER-Europe 22 exercise, May 16, 2022, at Amari Air Base in Harjumaa, Estonia. DEFENDER-Europe 22 is a multinational training exercise designed to demonstrate USAREUR-AFs ability to aggregate US-based combat power quickly in Eastern Europe across multiple theaters in support of NATO and the National Defense Strategy as well as to leverage host nations capabilities to increase USAREUR-AFs operational reach.

U.S. Army soldiers, assigned to 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), board a C-130 Hercules to conduct a combat training jump into Bunker Drop Zone at the 7th Army Joint Multinational Training Command's Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Oct. 22, 2013.

The first group of Virginia National Guard Soldiers assigned to the Staunton-based 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team depart for the U.S Virgin Islands Sept. 24, 2017, from Blackstone Army Airfield in Blackstone, Virginia, to join a multi-state, multi-agency response effort after recent hurricanes battered the region. The Soldiers will serve as a mission command headquarters and synchronize all National Guard operations assisting with recovery effort. Air National Guard crews from the New York and Kentucky National Guard flying C-130 airplanes transported the Soldiers and equipment to begin the mission.

Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) technicians from the 35th Civil Engineer Squadron perform Agile Combat Employment (ACE) training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Nov. 1, 2022. ACE is the ability to project combat power anytime, anywhere, while remaining operationally unpredictable to complicate an adversary's decision-making process.

A group of U.S. Army Paratroopers, assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division and Warrior Training Center, walks in formation to board a C-130 aircraft with their T-11 parachute during Exrcise Falcon Leap on Eindhoven Air Base, Eindhoven, Netherlands., Sep. 13, 2022. More than 1000 Paratroopers from all over the world, 13 different nationalities, multiple airdrops per day, and training with each other equipment for two weeks. this is NATO's largest technical airborne exercise

Airmen assigned to the 755th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron celebrate their achievements in getting an EC-130H Compass Call to zero discrepancies at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Aug. 17, 2022. After six months of dedicated hard work, the EC-130 was marked with zero functional discrepancies.

Navy personnel with U.S. Navy Amphibious Warfare Tactics Instructor Course (AMW-WTI) receive a capability brief on an MV-22B Osprey by a Marine with 2d Marine Aircraft Wing on September 7, 2022, at Marine Corps Air Station New River and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. II MEF units gave AMW-WTI students capability briefs in order to familiarize them with the landward environment, planning considerations, and exposure to all the elements of the Fleet Marine Force.

Maintainers from the 151st Air Refueling Wing receive training from the Sailors assigned the Naval Air Station on essental procedures on an F-18 Super Hornet during an unprecedented joint exercise on Aug. 30, 2022 at Fallon, Navada. This joint force exercise will develop new operational concepts, capabilities and plans to bolster deterrence and maintain the U.S. militarys competitive advantage for the future.

Airmen from the 146th Airlift Wing, California Air National Guard, carry their luggage off of the flightline during firefighting operations at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, May 2. Airmen work long hours during firefighting operations so they swap with new crews periodically to ensure they are able to operate at their best.

220923-N-OZ224-166 JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska (Sept. 23, 2022) - Cdr. James Reeves, Executive Officer of the Fighting Tigers, Patrol Squadron (VP) EIGHT, discusses features of the P-8A Poseidon with members of the U.S. Air Force on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Sept. 23, 2022. VP-8 is currently deployed to NAF Misawa, Japan conducting maritime patrol and reconnaissance and theater outreach operations within U.S. 7th Fleet (C7F) area of operations in support of Commander, Task Force 72, C7F, and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command objectives throughout the region.

Members of the Tennessee National Guard offload equipment from a KC-135 Stratotanker, assigned to the 134th Air Refueling Wing, Tennessee Air National Guard, upon arrival to Joint Base Andrews, Md., Jan. 15, 2021. National Guard Soldiers and Airmen from several states have traveled to Washington D.C. to provide support to federal and district authorities leading up to the 59th Presidential Inauguration.

000327-F-4406B-500. Subject Operation/Series: ATLAS RESPONSE Base: Hoedspruit Air Force Base Country: South Africa (ZAF)

050120-F-7823A-024. Base: Utapao Nas Country: Thailand (THA)

U.S. Air Force active duty and guard Airmen from the 33rd Fighter Wing and 128th Air Refueling Wing walk towards a KC-135 Stratotanker during large force employment exercise Nomad Lightning, May 6, 2022, at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Wisconsin Air National Guard provided the KC-135s to conduct aerial refuelings throughout Nomad Lightning, and received training opportunities for their aircrews.

Soldiers assigned to the 16th Military Police Brigade return back to Fort Bragg, N.C. to reunite with their families June 27, 2022 following a five-month deployment to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility. The brigade was rapidly deployed to Europe in February to reinforce and reassure our NATO allies.

Yokota Airmen and contractors load a UH-1N Twin Huey helicopter assigned to the 459th Airlift Squadron into a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at Yokota Air Base, Japan, in support of Cope North 2022. The annual exercise is designed to improve collaboration between the U.S. military, Royal Australian Air Force, and Japan Air Self-Defense Force enhancing security cooperation and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Braden Anderson)

U.S. Army Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Infantry Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, exit a C-130 for Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Oct. 28, 2022. JPMRC 23-01 allows the rehearsal of strategic movement and maneuver, integration with allies and partners and demonstrates the unique contributions by the 25th Inf. Div. to the joint force.

Army Maj. Gen. Raymond Shields, the adjutant general of New York, speaks with members of the New York Air National Guard at the African Aerospace and Defense Expo on September 22, 2022, outside Pretoria, South Africa. The New York National Guard sent 60 Airmen and five aircraft to Africa's largest air show from the 21-25 of September.

040109-F-0881Z-004. Base: Baghdad International Airport Country: Iraq (IRQ) Scene Major Command Shown: ACC

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 374th Logistics Readiness Squadron at Yokota Air Base look at a C-130J Super Hercules while waiting to move cargo during Exercise Beverly Sunrise 22-04 at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 9, 2022. Exercise Beverly Sunrise 22-04 offered Airmen the opportunity to accelerate change by testing their ability to tackle Agile Combat Employment and persistent logistics through techniques previously associated with special operations forces, but at a much larger scale.

Pallbearers carrying a flag-draped coffin pass between the American and Korean members of a joint services honor guard as they approach a C-141B Starlifter aircraft. The coffin contains the body of one of the 19 Marines from Co. C., 1ST Bn., 5th Marines, who were killed in the crash of a CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopter during the joint U.S./Korean exercise Team Spirit '89. Subject Operation/Series: TEAM SPIRIT '89 Base: Osan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

Polish land forces board a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, assigned to the 37th Airlift Squadron, Ramstein Air Base, Germany, prior to a static line airdrop as part of the Aviation Detachment Rotation 22-4 (ADR 22-4) training, at Kraków International Airport, Poland, Sept. 14, 2022. The objective of ADR 22-4 is to enhance interoperability and airlift capabilities among allied armed forces through realistic joint, air operation scenarios.

Capt. Steven Cox, 334th Fighter Squadron F-15E Strike Eagle pilot, gives Air Force Academy cadets a tour of an F-15E Strike Eagle at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, June 2, 2022. Cadets are provided with a comprehensive education focused on the profession of arms and coupled with military and athletic training experiences.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Kevin Smith and Rodrigo Maranon from the 437 Aerial Port Squadron, load a C-130 Hercules with water to send to Haiti in support of Operation Unified Response, Charleston AFB, Jan. 24, 2010.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Kaitlin Harms, Corporals Course class commander, with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares to dismiss the Corporals Course graduates after their 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.

A group of 36 U.S. Airmen board a KC-10 Extender at Travis Air Force Base, California, Feb. 15, 2024. The group flew to Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, to attend the 2024 Accelerating the Legacy event, which honored the Tuskegee Airmens legacy, offered professional development opportunities, and aimed to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals. Air Force

U.S. Air Force crew chiefs with the 914th Air Refueling Wing, New York, walk towards a KC-135 Stratotanker August 24, 2022 on Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, New York. A crew chief is responsible for the safe repair and generation of the aircraft while at home station or in a deployed environment.

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, pose for a group photo in front of a KC-10 Extender, assigned to the 908th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, before an orientation flight, April 27, 2022, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The purpose of the orientation flight was to expose Airmen of the 378th AEW to the wings flying mission, who normally dont have an opportunity to see it up close. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Noah J. Tancer)

HANSCOM, AFB, Mass - Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 182nd Infantry Division, return home from deployment after nine months of service throughout the middle east. Leaders from the Massachusetts National Guard Joint Forces Headquarters and 51st Troop Command leadership greeted soldiers on the flight line of Hanscom Air Force Base. The Soldiers were then before then transported to Camp Curtis Guild where they were reunited with family and friends. Since its inception in 1636, the Massachusetts National Guard has participated in each of our nations conflicts, steadfastly serving the country and the citizens of the Commonwealth. More than 20,000 Massachusetts National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have deployed since September 11, 2001

U.S. Army Paratroopers assigned to the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, prepare to board a C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron, Yokota Air Force Base, Japan, for airborne operations during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-2 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, June 15, 2022. This exercise provides unique opportunities to integrate various forces into joint, coalition and multilateral training from simulated forward operating bases.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Major Yves Pamphil, command sergeant major of the Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, greets Soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division as they arrive in Poznan, Poland, Oct. 13, 2022. The 1st Infantry Division is proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, Americas forward deployed corps in Europe.

The 155th Air Refueling Wing exercised an Alert Aircraft Repositioning Plan with the 55th Wing, Offutt AFB, May 14, 2022, at the Lincoln Air Force Base, Neb. The plan was to practice a total force movement to show the integrated partnership of our airpowers essential role in national defense and global security.

Soldiers from the Oregon National Guard's 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team arrive at McCord Air Force Base to start their de-mobilization April 12 after 30 hours of travel from Kuwait.

A group of Airmen load equipment and mock casualties into a C-17 Globemaster III during a joint training exercise at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Nov. 9, 2022. The 445th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron and the 88th Medical Group Critical Care Air Transport Team conducted the training, simulating a live-flight environment where Airmen learn to prepare for challenges such as turbulence, changes in temperatures and air pressure, as they care for critically ill patients.

U.S. Air Force Airmen 1st Class Justin Carrizales and Natanaell Vicente-Castro, 437th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chiefs, speak to each other during C-17 Globemaster III relocation operations for Tropical Storm Ian at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, Sept. 29, 2022. The base routinely relocates aircraft prior to extreme weather conditions in order to continue the rapid global mobility mission and to avoid potential damage. (U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Sara Jenkins)

The last C-130H Hercules flight crew from the 179th Airlift Wing at Mansfield Lahm ANGB, Ohio, stands outside the aircraft following its final flight on July 7, 2022. This aircraft, tail 88-4401, will retire and become a static display at the MAPS Air Museum (Military Aviation Preservation Society), an internationally known museum of aviation in North Canton, Ohio. After being selected to become the nation's first Air National Guard Cyber Wing, the unit is transitioning from flying the C-130H Hercules to a new mission assigned to Air Combat Command.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Patrick D. Frank, commanding general of U.S. Army Central (second from right), meets Task Force Rough Rider Soldiers of 3rd Battalion, 142nd Aviation Regiment, Assault Helicopter Battalion, attached to 36th Combat Aviation Brigade, at an aircraft hangar in Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Sept. 17, 2022. 36th CAB, mobilized as Task Force Mustang, is deployed in support of the Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve mission to advise, assist, and enable partnered forces in the enduring defeat of Daesh, the common Arabic term for IS or ISIS, within designated areas of Iraq and Syria.

Airmen of the 139th Airlift Wing prepare to board a C-130 Hercules aircraft in the Large Scale Readiness Exercise at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, on June 2, 2022. This exercise tests the wings ability to deploy into a contested and degraded environment.

Senior Airman Charles OConnor, 374th Security Forces Squadron training instructor, right, provides feedback after a scenario during the fly-away security training at Yokota Air Base, Japan, May 10, 2022. The 374th Security Forces Squadron conducted fly-away security training as part of a training during the exercise week. This training assessed Yokota's ability to perform Agile Combat Employment across a range of military operations in a complex and dynamic international security environment.

041110-F-2326B-034. Base: Tallil Air Base State: Dhi Qar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

120229-F-BB898-045 U.S. Army soldiers board a C-130 Hercules aircraft assigned to the 61st Airlift Squadron for a personnel drop at Fort Bragg, N.C., on Feb. 29, 2012.

U.S. Army Soldiers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade walk to a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft before a static-line jump at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Feb. 13, 2024. Over 200 paratroopers from the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force and the German Army trained alongside the 86th Airlift Wing. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Kevin Kennedy, 16th Air Force (Air Forces Cyber) commander, and other Airmen walk towards an EC-130H Compass Call from the 55th Electronic Combat Group at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Sept. 14, 2022. Kennedy is the commander of the first Information Warfare Numbered Air Force. This convergence of IW forces synchronized cyberspace operations, Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance, electromagnetic spectrum operations such as the 55th ECGs mission, information operations, public affairs and weather.

A U.S. Army Spc. Victoria Acosta, assigned to the 3631 Signal Company, 36th Sustainment Brigade, carries luggage from an Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft assigned to the 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron, upon arriving to Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, May 16, 2022. The 36th Sustainment Brigade was executing the first ever fly-away TAC package in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. This movement supports the theater optimization strategic plan of the 1st Theater Sustainment Command, to provide ability of command and control in a tactical environment for coalition forces. The fly-away kit included a deployable rapid assembly shelter, satellite transportable terminal and 10k generator, all transported by a series of multi-purpose tactical wheeled vehicles.

Commander of the 366th Air Expeditionary Group (AEG), Colonel (COL) William Andrews (center facing left) addresses a group of airman at a re-enlistment during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: CENTCOM

031005-F-3175F-009. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Dyess Air Force Base State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AMC

U.S. Army Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Infantry Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, exit a C-130 for the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) 23-01 rotation at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Oct. 28, 2022. JPMRC 23-01 allows the rehearsal of strategic movement and maneuver, integration with allies and partners and demonstrates the unique contributions by the 25th Inf. Div. to the joint force.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing participate in the loading of a M31 Marine Corps Expeditionary Arresting Gear System into a KC-130J Hercules during Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 2-23 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, March 27, 2023. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by MAWTS-1, providing standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualification to support Marine aviation training and readiness, and assist in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

U.S. Marines prepare to board a KC-130J Hercules assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 352, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, to execute a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System Rapid Infiltration during Integrated Training Exercise 2-24, at the Strategic Expeditionary Landing Field, Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Feb. 10, 2024. The HIRAIN exercise demonstrated I Marine Expeditionary Forces ability to rapidly deploy the HIMARS to meet and deter any threats. ITX ensures units are ready to fight tonight as a I MEF Marine Air-Ground task force. Marine Corps

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 23rd Wing load onto a C-17 Globemaster III at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Sept. 24, 2022. C-17s are capable of rapid strategic delivery of troops and cargo in support of deployments. Moody Airmen set out on the first-ever operational deployment of the HH-60W to provide rescue services in support of contingency operations.

DF-ST-87-09597. Subject Operation/Series: TEAM SPIRIT Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

Maj. Nicholas Velazquez Jr., 433rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander, renders his first salute to the 433rd AMXS Airmen during a change of command ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Sept. 10, 2022. The ceremony allowed Velazquez to formally greet the personnel under his command.

New Hampshire Joint Force Headquarters leadership and company grade officers from both the N.H. Army and Air National Guard flew down to Washing D.C. from Pease Air National Guard Base, N.H. April 4, 2022. This trip provided young leaders in the guard a cross section of experiences with legislative branches, Army and Air Headquarters and non-governmental organizations in the national capital region.

U.S. Marines assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) embark an MV-22B Osprey during Weapons and Tactics Instructors (WTI) course 1-23 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Oct. 5, 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.

031209-F-1789V-004. Base: Lajes Field State: Azores Country: Portugal (PRT) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFFE

U.S. Marine Corps chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defense specialist Marines with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), board a MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 2, 2022. 1st MAW CBRN conducted a short- notice fly-away drill as part of their enhanced CBRN capability set, to identify hazardous materials and mitigate hazardous material threats on the battlefield.

Maintainers from the 151st Air Refueling Wing train Sailors assigned the Naval Air Station about essential procedures about the KC-135R Stratotanker during an unprecedented joint exercise on Aug. 30, 2022 at Fallon, Navada. This joint force exercise incorporates more than seven military entities across three branches creating innovative operational concepts to allow quick response to an ever changing wartime horizon

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John V. Meyer III, left, commander of the 1st Infantry Division, gives the authorization to conclude a transfer of authority ceremony at Powidz, Poland, Sept. 12, 2022. The 1st Armored Division's Combat Aviation Brigade assumed responsibility for the aviation component of Atlantic Resolve under the 1st Infantry Division, providing air support capabilities to units deployed to Europe.

GULFPORT, Miss. (March 21, 2013) Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133 return from more than six months on deployment in Afghanistan. The battalion's homeport is in Gulfport, Miss.

U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Commander, Col. Aaron Dixon, at the USAG Ansbach change of command ceremony on Katterbach Kaserne, Aug. 19, 2022.

Members of the U.S. Air Force and Royal Netherlands air force watch aircraft take off during exercise Falcon Strike 2022 at Amendola Air Base, Italy, Nov. 17, 2022. Falcon Strike 22 consisted of multiple NATO nations practicing joint offensive and defensive air operations that integrated fourth and fifth-generation airpower.

050106-F-5550W-019. Base: Langley Air Force Base State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Members from the U.S. Air Force 535th Airlift Squadron and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force 403rd Tactical Airlift Squadron pose for a photo after a flight during a bilateral training exercise around the Hawaiian Islands, Sept. 27, 2022. The 3-day bilateral exercise familiarized aircrew from both forces on the capabilities of the Kawasaki C-2 and the C-17 Globemaster III.

U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 174 and Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 153 prepare to load a joint light tactical vehicle into a KC-130J Hercules during a training event, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 21, 2023. The training was conducted to familiarize Marines with procedures for loading a JLTV onto a cargo aircraft.

980403-F-4116M-001. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH 1998 Base: Prince Sultan Air Base Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU) Scene Major Command Shown: ACC

Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 204th Air Defense Artillery Regiment arrive at the Allen C. Thompson Field Air National Guard Base, in Flowood, Mississippi, July 23, 2022. The unit recently completed their Rim of the Pacific rotation at Fort Shafter, Hawaii with the support of the 172d Airlift Wing, Mississippi Air National Guard. RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants, which are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and the security of the worlds oceans.

Members of the 1st Special Operations Squadron and 71st Air Rescue Squadron tour a CV-22 Osprey at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 8, 2022. This marks the 353rd Special Operations Wings third visit to Fleet Air Wing 31, a staple for long-term routine training.

U.S. Marines and families with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312, Marine Air Group 31, watch F/A-18 Hornet pilots depart for the Unit Deployment Program (UDP) at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, Oct. 2, 2022. The UDP provides forward presence and assists commanders around the globe.

U.S. Marines and families with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312, Marine Air Group 31, watch F/A-18 Hornet pilots depart for the Unit Deployment Program (UDP) at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, Oct. 2, 2022. The UDP provides forward presence and assists commanders around the globe.

U.S. Marines with 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, board a C-130 for an air delivery exercise at Ie Shima, Okinawa, Japan, June 9, 2022. The purpose of the exercise was to maintain training and readiness qualifications as well as simulate a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System ammunition resupply via air delivery. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Force's comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

Royal Australian Air Force, U.S. Air Force and Royal Air Force service members pose in front of an RC-135 at Kadena Air Base, Japan, July 22, 2022 following a successful sortie. This sortie was the first in the Pacific region to include U.S., U.K., and Australian service members, demonstrating strong alliances and our resolve to maintain a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

040429-F-6135M-001. Base: Incirlik Air Base, Adana Country: Turkey (TUR)

Brig. Gen. Donald K. Carpenter, Director of National Guard Bureau Logistics, Engineering, and Force Protection and Col. Timothy Martin, Principal Deputy Director of the National Guard Bureau A4 speaks to members of the 168th Wing during the Production Assessment Team visit Feb. 9, 2023, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The PATs goal at the 168th Wing was to find ways to become more efficient to increase aircraft availability.

011008-F-3329S-004. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU) Scene Major Command Shown: AMC

Chief Master Sgt. Sheronne King, 15th Wing command chief, marshals a C-17 Globemaster III during Col. Daniel Dobbels, 15th Wing commander, final flight at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii June 15, 2022. The fini-flight tradition began during World War II signifying an important milestone, the tradition continues today.

U.S. Air Force Academy cadets pose in front of a C-130 Hercules aircraft during Operation Air Force, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, June 9, 2022. In addition to visiting Dyess AFB, the cadets ventured out to Goodfellow AFB and Lackland AFB to further their understanding of the operational Air Force prior to commissioning.

U.S. Air Force Airmen view a C-47 Skytrain aircraft static display during a 37th Airlift Squadron 80th Anniversary event at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, May 26, 2022. The C-47 aircraft pays homage to the squadrons heritage, and was one of the aircraft responsible for dropping paratroopers in Normandy on D-Day.

PACIFIC MISSILE RANGE FACILITY, Hawaii, (July 28, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Jay Bargeron, 3rd Marine Division Commanding General, and staff are greeted by leadership from 3d Littoral Anti-Air Battalion, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022 at Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, Hawaii, July 28, 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

020924-F-2095R-019. Base: Louis Trichardt Air Force Base Country: South Africa (ZAF) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

U.S. Air Force Col. Jesse J. Friedel, 35th Fighter Wing commander, stands with Airmen assigned to the 35th FW for a group photo on the flightline at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 23, 2022. The mission of the 35th FW is to protect U.S. interests in the Pacific and defend Japan. We deter adversaries through our presence, readiness and ability to project agile combat air power.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Anthony Demarzo, 13th Fighter Squadron pilot, shakes hands with Airman 1st Class Victor Hawkins, 13th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, before a flight during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-3 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Aug. 3, 2022. RF-A, a Pacific Air Forces-sponsored exercise, provides a unique opportunity to integrate various joint and multilateral forces in a realistic threat environment. Primarily taking place in the more than 77,000 square mile airspace of the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, the exercises reinforce the United States' continued commitment to the Indo-Pacific region as a Pacific nation, leader and power.

U.S. Air Force Airmen salute the oncoming vehicle transporting Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Sept. 23, 2022. Kendall toured multiple units throughout JBLE, ACCs only joint base, meeting with Airmen and leaders to foster open communication and listen to first-hand concerns of military members.

Members of Kubasaki High Schools Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps walk across a flightline during a tour on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 2, 2022. During the tour of MCAS Futenma, the students observed and learned about aircraft, equipment, military lifestyle, and capabilities of the air station.

From Left, U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Andrew Turner and Tech. Sgt. Cody Harpster, 126th Maintenance Group crew chiefs, enter a KC-130 Stratotanker during an inspection at Scott Air Force, Illinois, May 14, 2022. The Nuclear Operations Readiness Inspection is an Air Mobility Command-sponsored assessment designed to provide select mobility air refueling forces a robust training opportunity to hone nuclear readiness and strategic deterrent capabilities through tailored field training activities.

031003-M-2900S-002. Base: Savannah State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Special Operations Surgical Team members from the 24th Special Operations Wing and operators from Naval Special Warfare Command offload a simulated casualty from a CV-22 to a casualty collection point during a joint Special Operations Forces exercise Nov. 1, 2022, at Eglin Air Force Range, Fla. SOST are combat-ready battlefield surgeons and medical support personnel who have brought a plethora of advanced combat medicine skills to the USSOF enterprise.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven Basham, U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa deputy commander, spoke with U.S. Servicemembers participating in the Innovation and Leadership in Aerospace Tradeshow in Berlin, held at the Berlin Expo Center Airport, Berlin Brandenburg International Airport, June 24, 2022. Servicemembers specialising in a variety of career fields provided support to U.S. military aircraft participating as static aircraft during the event. U.S. support of ILA Berlin demonstrates our strong European presence and strengthens our ties with NATO Allies and Partners.

Airmen with the 1st Special Operations Wing, Hurlburt Field, Florida, unload luggage from an AC-130J Ghostrider gunship at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Sept. 27, 2022. Planes, equipment and Airmen came to Wright-Patt to get out of the way of Hurricane Ian which was bearing on the west coast of Florida.

040512-F-9085B-002. Base: Pope Air Force Base State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Troops cross the airfield after disembarking from Military Airlift Command C-141 Starlifter aircraft upon their arrival in support of Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: OPERATION DESERT SHIELD Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU)

040516-F-2621S-021. Base: Swanton State: Ohio (OH) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marines and Sailors with 3d Littoral Combat Team, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, board a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 535th Airlift Squadron at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, Jan. 11, 2024. The Marines are preparing to depart for the Big Island of Hawaii to participate in Bougainville III, a 3d LCT live-fire exercise focused on decentralized operations to prepare the battalion to command and control forces from dispersed locations.

U.S. Marines with India Company, 3d Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Ground Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin (MRF-D) 22, load an MV-22 Osprey during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel rehearsal as part of exercise Darrandarra 22, at Royal Australian Air Force Base Darwin, NT, Australia, June 15, 2022. Exercise Darrandarra 22 increases MRF-D 22s readiness to respond to realistic crises throughout a range of military operations within the region.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 75th Fighter Generation Squadron load weapons onto an A-10C Thunderbolt II during exercise Agile Flag 22-2 at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, July 23, 2022. Agile Flag 22-2 is Air Combat Commands first lead-wing certification event designed to demonstrate the 23rd Wings 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. (U.S. Airman 1st Class Rachel Coates)

A U.S. Air Force HC-130J Combat King II assigned to the 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, takes off down the runway of Moffett Federal Airfield as Airmen wave from the tarmac during the 129th Rescue Wing spouse flight, Sept. 11, 2022, at Moffett Air National Guard Base near Mountain View, California. The orientation flights built greater connection between family members and the wing, while simultaneously providing aircrew with training in how to work with non-military passengers.

A U.S. Air Force HC-130J Combat King II assigned to the 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, takes off down the runway of Moffett Federal Airfield as Airmen wave from the tarmac during the 129th Rescue Wing spouse flight, Sept. 11, 2022, at Moffett Air National Guard Base near Mountain View, California. The orientation flights built greater connection between family members and the wing, while simultaneously providing aircrew with training in how to work with non-military passengers.

Tech. Sgt. Benjamin Rowe, 803rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., marshals an 815th Airlift Squadron C-130J Super Hercules aircraft for takeoff Aug. 8, 2022. This marked Rowes final marshal as he transitions to the role of first sergeant within the Air Force Reserve's 403rd Wing.

1st Class Petty Officers selected for the rank of Chief Petty Officer assigned to the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, Destroyer Squadron TWO, and Carrier Strike Group 12 march in formation during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony in the hangar bay, Oct. 21, 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. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 127th Wing, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan, travel to Sawyer International Airport, Michigan in support of Agile Combat Employment (ACE) training during the Northern Agility 22-1 exercise, June 27, 2022, here. Agile Combat Employment is a proactive and reactive operational scheme of maneuver executed within threat timelines to increase survivability while generating combat power.

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