Military Recognition Ceremonies

Photos capturing military personnel receiving awards and honors during formal ceremonies, showcasing camaraderie and dedication.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Anthony Harris receives the Distinguished Graduate Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman Leadership School class 22-5 and NCO Academy class 22-6, July 20, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

U.S. Air National Guard Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Morin holds his retirement ceremony on September 10th, 2022 at the 101st Air Refueling Wing, Bangor, Maine. Morin was a former member of the United States Marine Corps before joining the Maine Air National Guard.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Anthony Harris receives the Distinguished Graduate Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman Leadership School class 22-5 and NCO Academy class 22-6, July 20, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

Col. Betsy Ross, 52nd Mission Support Group outgoing commander, right, receives a Legion of Merit medal from Col. Leslie Hauck, 52nd Fighter Wing commander, during the 52nd MSG change of command ceremony, July 26, 2022, at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. Ross was awarded this medal for her outstanding leadership of the MSG during the two year period she was in command.

Hawaii Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer 4 Shirley Bryant, Commander of Warrant Officer Candidate School and Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 Edwin Parubrub present Warrant Officer Shantelle Wong with the Physical Fitness Award for achieving the highest combined score for the Army Combat Fitness Test and 6.2 mile foot march. The graduation ceremony for Warrant Officer Candidate School, Class 22-001, was held at Waimanalo, Hawaii, on October 16, 2022. (Photo by Spc. Bethany Cravalho)

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Joseph Guzman, Airman Leadership School Class 22-D graduate, left middle, receives his diploma at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 18, 2022. The graduates attended the 24-day, 192-hour course focusing on developing leadership abilities, the profession of arms, and building effective communication.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Jacquita Melton assumed the role of Command Chief of the Ohio Air National Guard's 178th Wing in Springfield, Ohio during a change of authority ceremony held Dec. 3, 2022. Melton is the ninth command chief master sergeant of the Ohio National Guard's 178th Wing.

A retirement ceremony is held for U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Heidi Bunker, the eleventh Ohio state command chief, on September 10, 2022, at Robert S. Beightler Armory in Columbus, Ohio. Her retirement followed a change of authority ceremony.

040922-F-4563N-020. Base: Rickenbacker Ang Base State: Ohio (OH) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Col. Todd Guay, the former commander of the 107th Attack Wing Operations Group, poses with Brigadier General Michael Bank, Assistant Adjutant General of the New York Air National Guard after receiving the Legion of Merit during his retirement ceremony on Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, Niagara Falls New York, 14 May, 2022. Guay has served in the military for nearly 30 years and is replaced by Lt. Col. Thomas Griffon as the new Operations Group commander.Air National Guard Photo by Senior Airman Daniel Meade.

Tech. Sgt. Jonathan Eberle, 512th Security Forces Squadron Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of Training and Readiness, center, receives the 512th Airlift Wing 2023 NCO of the Year award from Col. Doug Stouffer, left, and Chief Master Sgt. David Melby on Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, Feb. 4, 2024. Among other accomplishments, Eberle led a team of 13 security forces members while deployed that supported 720 counterterrorism sorties. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. James Alt receives the Commandant Leadership Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman leadership school class 22-6 and NCO Academy class 22-7, Sept 2, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

Command Chief Master Sgt. Daniel Conner receives The Oregon National Guard Distinguished Service Award from Maj. Gen. Michael Stencel, Adjutant General, Oregon, during his retirement ceremony on Dec. 3, 2022 at Camp Withycombe, Oregon. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

U.S. Air Force Col. Bohnsack, state air surgeon, Michigan Air National Guard, receives the Legion of Merit from U.S. Air Force. Brig. Gen. Bryan Teff, assistant adjutant general-Air, Michigan Air National Guard, at the 110th Wing, Battle Creek Michigan Air National Guard Base, May 7, 2022. Bohnsack received the Legion of Merit during his retirement ceremony after 25 years of service and for his performance as State Air Surgeon from November 2018 through June 2022, which his accomplishments included promoting medical readiness, building the State Partnership Program, and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Col. William Gutermuth, 433rd Airlift Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Takesha Williams, 433rd AW command chief, present the First Sergeant of the Year award to Master Sgt. Jevon King, 74th Aerial Port Squadron, at the wings annual awards ceremony Feb. 3, 2024, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Air Force

JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. - U.S. Air Force Col. John G. Thorne, 363d Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing vice commander (left) awards U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Shelby Hawkins, 17th Intelligence Squadron production manager with the Langley Airmen Leadership School John L. Levitow Award, with U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Christopher R. Deforge, 30th Intelligence Squadron deputy analytical exploitation team chief present. The award is the highest honor given in Professional Military Education and is presented to the student who achieves the highest overall standing from a combination of academic scores, performance evaluations and leadership qualities.

U.S. Air Force Col. Callistus Elbourne, 628th Mission Support Group commands, presents Maj. Christopher Piercy, 628th Contracting Squadron commander, with the Meritorious Service Medal during the 628th CONS Change of Command ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, June 23, 2023.The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to any member of the U.S. armed forces who distinguishes themselves by either outstanding achievement or meritorious service.

PETERSON SPACE BASE, Colo. - U.S. Space Force Specialist 4 Samuel Aydelotte, 63rd Cyber Space Squadron defensive cyber operator, accepts the John Levitow Award during the Airman Leadership School graduation ceremony at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, June 23, 2022. The John Levitow Award is the highest award an enlisted Airman or Guardian can receive during Professional Military Education and is presented to the student who demonstrates outstanding leadership and scholastic achievements.

Col. Brandon B. Schraeder, right, outgoing Joint Nuclear Operations Center commander, receives the Legion of Merit award from Maj. Gen. Andrew Gebara, left, 8th Air Force and Joint-Global Strike Operations Center commander during a change of command ceremony at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., June 1, 2022. A change of command is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit from one commanding or flag officer to another.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Matthew Owens receives the Distinguished Graduate Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman leadership school class 22-6 and NCO Academy class 22-7, Sept 2, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

A retirement ceremony is held for U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Heidi Bunker, the eleventh Ohio state command chief, on September 10, 2022, at Robert S. Beightler Armory in Columbus, Ohio. Her retirement followed a change of authority ceremony.

Col. Todd Guay, the former commander of the 107th Attack Wing Operations Group, poses with Brigadier General Michael Bank, Assistant Adjutant General of the New York Air National Guard during his retirement ceremony on Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, Niagara Falls New York, 14 May, 2022. Guay has served in the military for nearly 30 years and is replaced by Lt. Col. Thomas Griffon as the new Operations Group commander.Air National Guard Photo by Senior Airman Daniel Meade.

Newly promoted 2nd Lt. with family and Gen. Funk

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Terry Bullard, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, (Left), presents U.S. Air Force Col. Laura Dejong, AFOSI 5th Field Investigations Region inbound commander, with certificate at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 9, 2022. During the ceremony, Dejong took command of the AFOSI 5 FIR.

U.S. Coast Guard Operations Specialist 2nd Class Petty Officer Merrill Magowan, of Half Moon Bay, California, center-right, receives a plankowner certificate from United States Naval Community College President Randi R. Cosentino, Ed.D., center, during an all hands call at Coast Guard Sector San Francisco Feb. 7, 2024. Magowan is the first USNCC student to complete an associate degree. United States Naval Community College is the official community college of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Navy

Retired U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Gary Townsend, left, a key speaker during the POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony receives a plaque from retired U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Paul Sanchez, a guest speaker during the POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, Sept. 16, 2022. The ceremony was held to recognize prisoners of war and service members missing in action from different wars.

Col. Lucas Teel, 4th Fighter Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Peter Martinez, 4th FW command chief, present a trophy to Senior Master Sgt. Ruth Salender, 4th Comptroller Squadron senior enlisted leader, during a Chief Master Sergeant Recognition Ceremony at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, March 24, 2023. The ceremony honored Seymour Johnsons newest chief master sergeants and selects for achieving the top enlisted grade in the Air Force.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Brett A. Yoakum, center, of the 164th Airlift Wing, Tennessee National Guard, poses for a photo with Lt. Gen. Michael A. Loh, left, director, Air National Guard (ANG), and Chief Master Sgt. Maurice L. Williams, right, command chief, ANG, during the Outstanding Airmen of the Year ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, on Aug. 25, 2022. Yoakum was recognized as the ANGs Non-commissioned Officer of the Year during Focus on the Force Week 2022an annual event hosted by the ANG command chief that highlights professional development and celebrates the accomplishments of the top-performing members of the enlisted corps.

U.S. Air Force Col. Joshua Wood, 51st Fighter Wing Commander, presents U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jordan Locke, 51st Security Forces Squadron flight sergeant, the Bronze Star with Valor during a presentation ceremony at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Oct. 12, 2022. Locke was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor for defending U.S. assets and personnel against a terrorist attack.

A retirement ceremony is held for U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Heidi Bunker, the eleventh Ohio state command chief, on September 10, 2022, at Robert S. Beightler Armory in Columbus, Ohio. Her retirement followed a change of authority ceremony.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Christian Marshall, center, Airman Leadership School Class 22-G graduate, receives his diploma at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Oct. 27, 2022. The graduates attended a 24-day, 192-hour course focusing on developing leadership abilities, the profession of arms, and building effective communication.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Juna Clark, Airman Leadership School Class 22-D graduate, right, receives the Distinguished Graduate Award at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 19, 2022. The award is presented to the top ten-percent of graduates for their performance in academic evaluations and demonstration of leadership.

SAN ANTONIO - (June 10, 2022) - U.S. Navy Lt. Rachel Robeck, of Atlanta, a medical researcher assigned to Combat Casualty Care and Operational Medicine, Naval Medical Research Unit (NAMRU) San Antonio, was awarded 1st place in the Commanders Awards for Original Medical Research and Quality Improvement (Allied Health Category) during the San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortiums (SAUSHEC) 2022 Graduation Ceremony held at the Lila Cockrell Theatre. Presenting the award, from left to right, are U.S. Army Surgeon General, Lt. Gen. R. Scott Dingle; Director, Defense Health Agency San Antonio Market and 59th Medical Wing Commander, Brig. Gen. Jeannine Ryder; Acting Deputy Director DHA San Antonio Market and Acting Brooke Army Medical Center Commander, Col. Kimberlie Biever, and SAUSHEC Dean and CEO, Dr. Mark True. NAMRU San Antonios mission is to conduct gap driven combat casualty care, craniofacial, and directed energy research to improve survival, operational readiness

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Josh Olson, 86th Airlift Wing commander, left, presents Col. Anthony M. Nance, 86th Maintenance Group outgoing commander, with a Legion of Merit certificate during the 86 CEG change of command ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, July 13, 2022. Nance has been in command of the 86 MXG since July 2020.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. David Sowers, 110th Operations Group commander, presents the certificate of retirement to Lt. Col. Edward Cunningham, 110th Wing chief of safety during his retirement ceremony at the Battle Creek Air National Guard Base, Michigan, Oct. 15, 2022. Cunningham and Sowers served together in the 110th Operations Group.

The 944th Fighter Wing holds a senior noncommissioned officer induction ceremony at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., April 10, 2022. The recently promoted Airmen were charged with increased responsibilities and authority as they accepted the leadership role of their new rank.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Jacquita Melton assumed the role of Command Chief of the Ohio Air National Guard's 178th Wing in Springfield, Ohio during a change of authority ceremony held Dec. 3, 2022. Melton is the ninth command chief master sergeant of the Ohio National Guard's 178th Wing.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Joshua D. Philips, 175th Wing airman of the Year, Maryland Air National Guard, receives a plaque at Warfield Air National Guard Base, Middle River, Maryland, during the 2022 Airman Recognition Ceremony, December 4, 2022. The yearly event pays tribute to the outstanding achievements of the Maryland Air National Guard and names the wing's outstanding Airmen of the year.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jessica Mitchell receives a Distinguished Graduate Award during the graduation ceremony for Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Class 22-5, June 07, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

Brig. Gen. Joane Mathews, Wisconsins deputy adjutant general for Army, and Command Sgt. Maj. Curtis Patrouille, the Wisconsin Army National Guards senior enlisted leader, congratulate Spc. Caleb Ravn, a Soldier with Battery C, 1st Battalion, 120th Field Artillery, on being the runner-up Soldier of the Year at the Wisconsin National Guard State Best Warrior Competition at Fort McCoy, Wis., April 10. Soldiers from the Wisconsin National Guard competed for the opportunity to represent Wisconsin at the regional event May 11-15 at Camp Ripley, Minn. (112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment photo by Staff Sgt. Bridget Vian)

Family, friends and colleagues gathered at the Illinois Military Academy's auditorium Sept. 17, to celebrate the career of Col. Daniel Reichen and wish him well in future endeavors. Reichen retired as the Commander of the 129th Regimental Training Institute and most recently served as the Illinois National Guard's Director of Human Resources.

A U.S. Air Force Airman receives the Community College of the Air Force certificate during the graduation ceremony at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, Oct. 19, 2022. The CCAF is the largest community college in the world, affiliated with schools in over 36 states and eight foreign locations and over 260,000 Air Force members registered.

Col. Katrina Stephens, installation commander, and Chief Master Sgt. William Hebb, installation command chief, stand for a photo with Senior Airman Jennifer Crespo, 66th Security Forces Squadron patrolman, during an Airman Leadership School graduation ceremony at Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., May 19. Crespo received the John Levitow award for achieving the highest overall standing from a combination of academic scores, performance evaluation and leadership qualities. .

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Joseph Campo, 48th Fighter Wing commander, left, awards Senior Master Sgt. Jeremy Mapalo, 48th Security Forces operations superintendent, right, the Bronze Star with Valor during a ceremony at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Aug. 29, 2022. Mapalo was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor for defending U.S. assets and personnel against an armed enemy attack while serving at Manda Bay, Republic of Kenya.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. DaiSean Patrick receives the Distinguished Graduate Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman leadership school class 22-6 and NCO Academy class 22-7, Sept 2, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. DaiSean Patrick receives the Distinguished Graduate Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman leadership school class 22-6 and NCO Academy class 22-7, Sept 2, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. David Baldwin (right), Californias 46th adjutant general, receives his retirement order alongside his wife at Mather Field, Sacramento, California, Sept. 28, 2022. Baldwins career spanned over four decades, 11 of those serving as adjutant general.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. David May, the Wisconsin National Guard's deputy adjutant general for Air, inducts retired U.S Air Force Col. Jeffrey Wiegand into the Wisconsin Air National Guard Hall of Fame during a ceremony at Truax Field in Madison, Wisconsin, Sept. 22, 2022. As a graduate of the U.S, Air Force Academy, Wiegand commissioned in 1989, and joined the ANG in 2004. In addition to being a command pilot with over 3000 flying hours in the F-16 Fighting Falcon, he served as both the commander of the 115th Fighter Wing and chief of staff of the Wisconsin ANG before retiring in 2017.

Col. William Gutermuth, 433rd Airlift Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Takesha Williams, 433rd AW command chief, present the Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year award to Master Sgt. Joshua Green, 356th Airlift Squadron, at the wings annual awards ceremony Feb. 3, 2024, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Air Force

Chief Master Sgt. Brandon Busers spouse is presented with a certificate of appreciation from the Missouri Air National Guard during Busers retirement ceremony at Knob Noster, Missouri, June 26, 2022. Buser enlisted as a vehicle maintenance mechanic and served in a variety of leadership positions during his 30 years in uniform.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Taylor Jacobson, member of the 47th Medical Group, accepts an award presented by Col. Craig Prather, 47th Flying Training Wing commander, and Lt. Gen. Brad Webb, Air Education and Training Command (AETC) commander, at the 80th Aniversario Annual Awards Ceremony in Del Rio, Texas, April 14, 2022. This event took place to honor outstanding military members at Laughlin Air Force Base and civilian leaders in Del Rio who support Laughlin and its mission.

Senior Master Sgt. William L. Nearhood, 192nd Wing superintendent of the advanced programs office, retires from the Virginia Air National Guard during a ceremony presided by Col. Christopher G. Batterton, 192nd Wing commander, on May 15, 2022, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. In 1985, Nearhood began his military career when he enlisted into the Navy then transferred to the VaANG in 1997 where he finished his nearly 37 year military career.

Lt. Col. Trevor Anderson, outgoing 970th Airborne Air Control Squadron commander, recieves the meritorious service medal from Col. James Mattey, 513th Air Controle Group commander, during the 970th AACS change of command ceremony at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, June 5, 2022.

Senior Airman Elizabeth L. Harper, Airman Leadership School graduate, accepts the Distinguished Graduate Award from Master Sgt. Troy Campbell, Holloman Top III representative, during the graduation of ALS class 22-6, July 7, 2022, on Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. The distinguished graduate award is presented to the top ten-percent of graduates for their performance in academic evaluations and demonstration of leadership.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Patrick Shelton, 139th Communications Flight, Missouri Air National Guard, is presented with a gift from U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Aaron Larimore during his retirement ceremony at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, Dec. 3, 2022. Throughout his 32 years of service, Shelton has served many leadership roles including commander of the 241st Air Traffic Control Squadron, and the commander of the 139th Communications Flight.

Family, friends and colleagues gathered at the Illinois Military Academy's auditorium Sept. 17, to celebrate the career of Col. Daniel Reichen and wish him well in future endeavors. Reichen retired as the Commander of the 129th Regimental Training Institute and most recently served as the Illinois National Guard's Director of Human Resources.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Natalie Gessaman receives the John L. Levitow Award during the graduation ceremony for Airman Leadership School class 22-5 and NCO Academy class 22-6, July 20, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Nathan Hartley receives a Distinguished Graduate Award during the graduation ceremony for Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Class 22-5, June 07, 2022, at the Lankford Enlisted Professional Military Education Center on McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in East Tennessee.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. David A. Krumm, left, presents Col. Travolis A. Simmons with the Legion of Merit during the 3rd Wing change of command ceremony at Hangar 2 on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 15, 2022. U.S. Air Force Col. Travolis A. Simmons turned over command to Col. Kevin M. Jamieson as Lt. Gen. David A. Krumm, commander Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Region, Alaskan Command, and 11th Air Force, officiated before gathered family members, distinguished guests and military personnel.

040630-F-5344D-001. Base: Wright-Patterson Air Force Base State: Ohio (OH) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Members of the 117th Air Refueling Wing recieve awards at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama, Aug 13, 2022. This was the first annual Enlisted Awards Banquet

U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant Axihah Depina, Airman Leadership School Class 22-D graduate, left middle, receives a diploma at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 18, 2022. The graduates attended the 24-day, 192-hour course focusing on developing leadership abilities, the profession of arms, and building effective communication.

Maj. Gen. Rich Neely, The Adjutant General of Illinois and Commander of the Illinois National Guard presents a retirement certificate to Col. Nick Johnson during the dual retirement ceremony for Col. Craig Holan, who commanded the 404th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and retired after nearly 40 years of service and Col. Johnson, who commanded the 65th Troop Command Brigade and served for 32 years. The dual retirement ceremony was held on May 14 at the Illinois Military Academy on Camp Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois.

Maryland Air National Guard Master Sgt. Samillia Glover, 175th Wing Outstanding Airman of the Year for the senior non-commissioned officer category, Maryland Air National Guard, receives a plaque at Martin State Air National Guard Base, Middle River, Maryland, Jan. 7, 2024. The annual event honors the outstanding achievements of the Maryland Air National Guard and names the wings outstanding airman of the year.

United States Air Force Lt. Gen. Ricky N. Rupp, U.S. Forces Japan and 5th Air Force commander, left, presents the Legion of Merit to Col. Jesse J. Friedel, 35th Fighter Wing (FW) outgoing commander, during the 35th FW change of command ceremony at Misawa Air Base, Japan, June 30, 2022. Friedel served as commander of the 35th FW since July 2020, amidst a global pandemic, during which the wing earned the Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award.

Brig. Gen. Rolf Mammen, 127th Wing Commander, Staff Sgt. Matthew Jarecki, firefighter, 127th Civil Engineer Squadron and Chief Master Sgt. Rick Gordon, 127th Wing command chief, based in Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan, pose after awarding Jarecki the Wings outstanding airman of the year award. Jarecki and seven other individuals were awarded in different categories and will advance to the Michigan Air National Guard competition.

Members of the 117th Air Refueling Wing recieve awards at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Alabama, Aug 13, 2022. This was the first annual Enlisted Awards Banquet

Maryland Air National Guard Master Sgt. Robert Hedderick, 175th Wing Outstanding Airman of the Year for the non-commissioned officer category, Maryland Air National Guard, receives a plaque at Martin State Air National Guard Base, Middle River, Maryland, Jan. 7, 2024. The annual Airman Recognition Ceremony honors the outstanding achievements of the Maryland Air National Guard and names the wings outstanding airman of the year.

U.S. Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve officers were awarded the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award during a ceremony at The Pentagon, Oct. 26. 2022. The award is presented annually to the top 28 company-grade officers for their outstanding leadership capabilities and their ability to find solutions to difficult problems.

U.S. Air Force Col. Matthew Reilman, 17th Training Wing commander, presents U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Samuel McManus, Marine Corps Detachment Goodfellow instructor, with a diploma from the Community College of the Air Force at the CCAF graduation in the Powell Event Center, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, Nov. 16, 2022. Unique to the 17th TRW, joint service members may attend and even graduate from the CCAF.

The Charles Dick Medal of Merit is presented to Ohio Army National Guard Maj. Gen. Steve Stivers (right), who also represented Ohio in Congress from 2011 to 2021, during the National Guard Association of the United States 144th General Conference & Exhibition Aug. 29, 2022, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio. The award is given for contributions to the National Guard by elected representatives and legislative bodies at the state and national levels.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Elliot Bicak, Airman Leadership School Class 22-D graduate, center, is awarded the Profession of Arms Award at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 19, 2022. This award goes to the student who demonstrates excellence in dress and appearance, drill, ceremony, fitness, attitude and leadership.

UNIVERSAL CITY, TEXAS - (September 23, 2022) Engineman First Class Petty Officer James W. Howes received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal which was presented by Executive Officer for Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonio, CDR Stacey ONeal during his retirement ceremony at VFW Post 4676, Universal City, Texas.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Elizabeth Mann, 17th Force Support Squadron Airman Leadership School commandant, awards the commandants award to Senior Airman Joshua Thompson, 17th Training Support Squadron cyber system operator, Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, Oct. 13, 2022. The commandants award is one of four awards given during ALS graduation.

A retirement ceremony is held for U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Heidi Bunker, the eleventh Ohio state command chief, on September 10, 2022, at Robert S. Beightler Armory in Columbus, Ohio. Her retirement followed a change of authority ceremony.

Brig. Gen. Rolf Mammen, 127th Wing Commander, Senior Master Sgt. Holly LeCluyse, aircrew equipment shop chief, 191st Operations Support Squadron and Chief Master Sgt. Rick Gordon, 127th Wing command chief, based in Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan, pose after awarding LeCluyse the Wing's outstanding senior non-commissioned officer of the year award. LeCluyse and seven other individuals were awarded in different categories based on rank and will advance to the Michigan Air National Guard competition.

U.S. Navy Capt. Matthew Tadlock was presented with the Operational Medicine Award the at the 2024 AMSUS Annual Meeting in National Harbor, Maryland, on Feb. 12. U.S. Navy Deputy Surgeon General Rear Adm. Rick Freedman and AMSUS Executive Director and CEO John Cho presented the award.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Recognition Ceremony, Apr. 28, 2022, Magnolia Halle, San Antonio, Texas. This event was held to honor all promotees to the rank of Chief Master Sgt.

Col. Paul Franken (left)Commander of the Multi-Agency Augmentation Command (MAC) presents a certificate of appreciation to Mary-Elizabeth Burke, wife of Col. Jeffery Burke, former Chief of the Army National Guard Operations Division, Multi-Agency Augmentation Command (MAC) D.C. National Guard, during his retirement ceremony, May. 14, 2022 at the D.C. Armory, Washington, D.C. Burke retires after 41 years of military service. In his military career, Burke served three years as Assistant Deputy Director for the Intelligence in the National Joint Operations and Intelligence Center at the Pentagon

Senior Airman Allahna M. Plunkett-Walls, Airman Leadership School graduate, accepts the Distinguished Graduate Award from Master Sgt. Troy Campbell, Holloman Top III representative during the graduation of ALS class 22-6, July 7, 2022, on Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. The distinguished graduate award is presented to the top ten-percent of graduates for their performance in academic evaluations and demonstration of leadership.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. David May, the Wisconsin National Guard's deputy adjutant general for Air, inducts retired U.S Air Force Col. Jeffrey Wiegand into the Wisconsin Air National Guard Hall of Fame during a ceremony at Truax Field in Madison, Wisconsin, Sept. 22, 2022. As a graduate of the U.S, Air Force Academy, Wiegand commissioned in 1989, and joined the ANG in 2004. In addition to being a command pilot with over 3000 flying hours in the F-16 Fighting Falcon, he served as both the commander of the 115th Fighter Wing and chief of staff of the Wisconsin ANG before retiring in 2017.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. David May, the Wisconsin National Guard's deputy adjutant general for Air, inducts retired U.S Air Force Col. Jeffrey Wiegand into the Wisconsin Air National Guard Hall of Fame during a ceremony at Truax Field in Madison, Wisconsin, Sept. 22, 2022. As a graduate of the U.S, Air Force Academy, Wiegand commissioned in 1989, and joined the ANG in 2004. In addition to being a command pilot with over 3000 flying hours in the F-16 Fighting Falcon, he served as both the commander of the 115th Fighter Wing and chief of staff of the Wisconsin ANG before retiring in 2017.

Army Sgt. Guy Mellor, with the Utah National Guard is presented a minuteman statue for being named the 2011 Army National Guard Noncommissioned Officer of the Year during the National Guards 2011 Outstanding Soldiers and Airmen of the Year banquet Aug. 10, 2011. Lindberg was presented his award by Air Force Gen. Craig McKinley, chief of the National Guard Bureau, Maj. Gen. Timothy Kadavy, deputy director of the Army National Guard, Command Chief Master Sgt. Denise Jelinski-Hall, senior enlisted advisor to the chief of the National Guard Bureau and Sgt. Maj. Richard Burch, the command Sgt. Maj. of the Army National Guard.

Sergeant 1st Class Luis Navedo, career and guidance counselor assigned to the Springfield, Massachusetts Military Entrance Processing Station, was honored by Maj. Gen. Francis Evon, adjutant general for the Connecticut National Guard, and Maj. Gen. Lee Ellis, assistant deputy commanding general for National Guard affairs at U.S. Army Materiel Command, for his exceptional service at the 73th annual Connecticut Armed Forces Day Luncheon in Southington, Connecticut, May 20, 2022.

CW3 Sherry D Mitchell and CSM Juan J Mitchell's celebrate retirement from the DC National Guard June 12, 2022, at the DC National Guard Armory after 70 years of combined service.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Jacquita Melton assumed the role of Command Chief of the Ohio Air National Guard's 178th Wing in Springfield, Ohio during a change of authority ceremony held Dec. 3, 2022. Melton is the ninth command chief master sergeant of the Ohio National Guard's 178th Wing.

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Antoni C. Bukowski and U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Zachary T. Olson are presented the Meritorious Service Medal during the Secretary of the Army Career Counselor of the year award ceremony at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., March 31, 2023. The Secretary of the Army, the Honorable Christine E. Wormuth hosted this event.

Senior Airman Jason Summers, 4th Munitions Squadron precision guided munitions crew chief, right, receives the Academic Achievement Award from Senior Master Sgt. Suge Wilson, 4th Logistics Readiness Squadron 1st Sergeant, during the Airman Leadership School class 24-B graduation at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Feb. 8, 2024. The Academic Achievement Award was given to the Airman who achieved the highest academic average throughout the course. Air Force

Inter-American Defense College Leadership hosts a hail and farewell ceremony on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Aug. 24, 2022. During the ceremony arriving team members were greeted and departing members received awards, parting gifts and shared a few words with fellow staff members, students and faculty.

U.S. Air Force Col. Sigurd Lokensgard, former commander of the 129th Maintenance Group, 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, receives an etched plaque made from an aircraft part during his retirement ceremony, Aug. 6, 2022, at Moffett Air National Guard Base, California. Lokensgard is a U.S. Air Force Academy graduate who retires with more than 30 years of service.

U.S. Navy Capt. Juliann Althoff was presented with the Military Health System 2023 Award for the Advancement of Women Physicians in Military Medicine - senior winner, by Dr. Lester Martinez-Lopez, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, and U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Darin Via, U.S. Navy surgeon general, on Feb. 15 in National Harbor, Maryland. Althoff is commanding officer at Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island at Oak Harbor, Washington.

Staff Sgt. Jason Calandra, right, was recently promoted during a ceremony at the Eastern Air Defense Sector in Rome. Lt. Col. Jason Taylor, the Director of Operations at the 224th Support Squadron, served as the promoting officer.

The Nevada Air National Guard Base, Reno, Nev. played host to the Outstanding Airmen of the Year Awards Banquet on Feb. 5, 2023, which honored the previous year's exceptional Airmen. The event was attended by Airmen, their families, and friends.

Iowa Representative 3rd District and former 132d Wing member Zach Nunn presents a congressional award to Senior Master Sgt. Steven Edwards for distinguished service in Des Moines, Iowa on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024. Edwards was one of the first members to ever receive this reward. Air National Guard

Master Sgt. Ashley Sanchez, 433rd Operations Group, receives a certificate of recognition from Col. Terry McClain, 433rd Airlift Wing commander, during the Senior Noncommissioned Officer Induction Ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, June 4, 2022. Chief Master Sgt. Cynthia Villa, 4th Air Force command chief, served as the ceremonys guest speaker during her visit to the wing.

U.S. Army Brigadier General Marilyn Quagliotti, Commander of the 5th Signal Corp., presents STAFF Sergeant Robert Talenti, a member of the 786th Communications Squadron, Ramstein Air Base, Germany, a Professional of the Year award for the year 2000. All a part of the United States Air Forces in Europe Communications and Information Awards Banquet, held at the Officers Club on Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. McConnell presents Tech. Sgt. Josiah Sutton with an academic acheivement award at the NCOA Class 2023-M graduation at Ebbing Air National Guard Base, Fort Smith, AR, June 28 2023. Class 2023-M is the first mobilized NCOA class to take place within the United States Air Force.

Senior Master Sgt. Dominic Martini, a 910th Security Forces Squadron Defender, and Col. Jeff Van Dootingh, commander of the 910th Airlift Wing, pose for a photo on Sept. 17, 2022, at the Eastwood Event Centre. Martini was presented with a trophy for outstanding achievements throughout the year while at a military ball celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Air Force.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Julian Irizarry, center, Airman Leadership School Class 22-G graduate, receives his diploma at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Oct. 27, 2022. The graduates attended a 24-day, 192-hour course focusing on developing leadership abilities, the profession of arms, and building effective communication.

The five U.S. Air Force members that earned annual awards for the 908th Airlift Wing pose for a photo at the end of the 908th AW 2023 annual awards banquet at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, Feb. 3, 2023. The event was the first in-person banquet the wing has held in four years. Air Force

Nearly 20 Soldiers from Blanchfield Army Community Hospital and the 531st Hospital Center were formally welcomed into the U.S. Armys Noncommissioned Officer Corps at an NCO Induction Ceremony at Fort Campbells Wilson Theater, June 27.

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