Naval Ceremonies and Salutes

Sailors engaging in ceremonial activities aboard various naval ships, capturing moments of respect and tradition.

Sailors assigned to Unmanned Surface Vessel Division One (USVDIV-1) stand by as the unmanned surface vessel (USV) Ranger moors to its homeport, Naval Base Ventura County, in Port Hueneme, California, concluding Integrated Battle Problem (IBP) 23.2, Jan. 15, 2024. IBP 23.2 is a Pacific Fleet exercise to test, develop and evaluate the integration of unmanned platforms into fleet operations to create warfighting advantages.

110709-N-EA192-019 SYDNEY (July 9, 2011) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) salute a Royal Australian Navy frigate while manning the rails as the ship gets underway from Sydney. Fitzgerald is one of six Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 and visited Sydney for a port call before participating in exercise Talisman Sabre.

221116-N-N3764-0302SINT EUSTATIUS, Netherlands - (Nov. 16, 2022) - Sailors assigned to the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Milwaukee (LCS 5) conduct a gun-salute for Statia Day off the coast of Sint Eustatius, Netherlands, Nov. 16, 2022. Statia Day is a national holiday celebrated on the Caribbean island of Sint Eustatius. It celebrates the first salute” when Sint Eustatius, locally known as Statia, became the first country to recognize the United States as a nation 245 years ago when after the U.S. declared independence, a Continental Navy ship fired a gun salute upon entering the harbor, and the island, by order of the Dutch governor, returned the salute. Milwaukee is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Joint Interagency Task Force South’s mission, which includes counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

230321-N-DE439-1107 ATLANTIC OCEAN (March 21, 2023) Sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) salute in remembrance of armed forces veterans during a burial at sea ceremony, March 21, 2023. Arleigh Burke 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.

221127-N-RT917-1001 ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 27, 2022) Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) prepare for a ceremony on the ships flight deck for the recently advanced Sailors, Nov. 27, in the Arabian Gulf. The Sullivans is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

DN-ST-87-07745. Base: Baltimore State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

NEW YORK (Oct. 6, 2012) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) run aboard the ship to man the rails and bring the ship to life during its commissioning ceremony. The new destroyer honors the late Lt. (SEAL) Michael P. Murphy, a New York native who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in combat as leader of a four-man reconnaissance team in Afghanistan. Murphy was the first person to be awarded the medal for actions in Afghanistan, and the first member of the U.S. Navy to receive the award since the Vietnam War. The ship will be based in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The U.S. Navy has a 237-year heritage of defending freedom and projecting and protecting U.S. interests around the globe. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting.

Sailors assigned to Unmanned Surface Vessel Division One (USVDIV-1) stand by as the unmanned surface vessel (USV) Ranger moors to its homeport, Naval Base Ventura County, in Port Hueneme, California, concluding Integrated Battle Problem (IBP) 23.2, Jan. 15, 2024. IBP 23.2 is a Pacific Fleet exercise to test, develop and evaluate the integration of unmanned platforms into fleet operations to create warfighting advantages.

240102-N-RP467-1099 PIRAEUS, GREECE (Jan. 2, 2024) Sailors assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) and Marines assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)), man the rails as the ship arrives in Piraeus, Jan. 2. Mesa Verde and 26th (MEU(SOC) are 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.

Indy 500

060706-N-2959L-096. Base: Naval Air Station, North Island State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Sailors aboard USS REUBEN JAMES (FFG 57) fake out their lines on the flight deck prior to pulling into the port city of Antofagasta, Chile, as part of Exercise TEAMWORK SOUTH '99. Subject Operation/Series: TEAMWORK SOUTH '99 Base: USS Reuben James (FFG 57)

DN-ST-90-00141. Base: Naval Submarine Base, New London State: Connecticut (CT) Country: United States Of America (USA)

ARABIAN GULF (Feb. 21, 2018) Sailors practice handling rifles during a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) training aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88). Preble is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations to reassure allies and partners and preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in the region.

221011-N-DB724-2174CEBU, Philippines (Oct. 11, 2022) Philippine Navy sailors march in formation during the opening ceremony of Exercise Sama Sama-Lumbas 2022, Oct. 11. Sama Sama-Lumbas is a multilateral exercise and includes forces from Philippines, the United States, Australia, France, Japan, and the United Kingdom designed to promote regional security cooperation, maintain and strengthen maritime partnerships, and enhance maritime interoperability.

221129-N-XN177-1049 SAN DIEGO (Nov. 29, 2022) - Sailors salute and render honors aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Nov. 29, 2022. Tripoli returned to Naval Base San Diego following the ship's maiden deployment where they operated in the U.S. 3rd and7th Fleets in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

141020-N-QG393-030 PEARL HARBOR (Oct. 20, 2014) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) stand by as the ship departs Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for an independent deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. Michael Murphy is scheduled to conduct goodwill activities with partner nations along with various presence operations such as Oceania Maritime Security Initiative during the ship's first operational forward deployment.

EVERETT, Wash. (Nov. 12, 2014) Sailors assigned to the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Ingraham (FFG 61) prepare to haul down ship's colors during a decommissioning ceremony. Ingraham was decommissioned after 25 years of Naval service.

A bow view of the guided missile destroyer CURTIS WILBUR (DDG-54) prior to its launching from the ways at the Bath Iron Works Co. shipyard. Base: Bath State: Maine(ME) Country: United States Of America (USA)

060309-N-9562H-015. Base: Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: Naval Station Norfolk

Distinguished visitors aboard the Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7), salute the Stars and Stripes during a change of command ceremony of the Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7), Aug. 1, 2022, in the Philippine Sea. This Change of Command saw Capt. John Kiefaber relieve Capt. Joel Lang. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the 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.

The color guard stands at parade rest prior to the commissioning of the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. (DDG 121) in Charleston, S.C. May 14, 2022. The ship is named in honor of the Marine Corps lieutenant general who was the first African-American Marine Corps aviator and Marine Corps general officer. He retired from the Marine Corps in 1988 after 38 years of service.

220911-N-SI601-1061 YOKOSUKA, Japan (Sept. 11, 2022) Sailors march in formation for evening colors on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), while in port on board Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Sept. 11. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Marines serving with I Marine Expeditionary Force and sailors serving aboard USS Bonhomme Richard march down the flight deck of the Bonhomme Richard to man the rails, Oct. 5, 2011, while the vessel pulls in to the San Francisco Bay for Fleet Week. One of the goals for San Francisco Fleet Week is to reinforce the Marine Corps tradition as a maritime force-in-readiness, inextricability linked to the Navy in support of the Corps unique amphibious and expeditionary capabilities as the countrys expeditionary fighting force.

Crew members man the rails aboard the guided missile frigate USS NICHOLAS (FFG-47) as the vessel passes the destroyer tender USS SIERRA (AD-18), the destroyer USS JOHN RODGERS (DD-983) and the guided missile destroyer USS SEMMES (DDG-18) tied up at the pier. The MACDONOUGH is arriving at the station after being deployed in the Persian Gulf area during Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Base: Naval Base, Charleston State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

120106-N-BT887-001 ARABIAN SEA (Jan. 6, 2012) The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) is alongside the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during a fueling at sea. John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24) man the rails, Oct. 13, 2022. Arlington is a part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and is returning from a seven-month deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operation, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2 to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

220910-N-JO245-1083 NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 10, 2022) - Sailors man the rails aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) as the ship arrives atNaval Station Norfolk.Ross returned to Naval Station Norfolk marking the end of a nearly 10 year tour of her time as a Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe (FDNF-E) destroyer working side by side with our Allies and partners, building interoperability and providing invaluable defensive capabilities over the course of 12 patrols within 6th Fleet.

DN-ST-86-07259. Base: San Francisco State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

NORFOLK (Sept. 28, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) heaves line upon returning to Naval Station Norfolk after a regularly scheduled deployment in the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operations, Sept. 28. Gonzelez was deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group in support of theater security cooperation efforts and to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

DN-SC-87-06084. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

Sailors aboard the hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) man the rails as Mercy pulls in to Naval Air Station North Island, California, following Pacific Partnership 2024-1 Feb. 12, 2024. Pacific Partnership, now in its 19th iteration, is the largest multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific and works to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships. Navy

DN-ST-89-09579. Base: Naval Base Charleston State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 12, 2022) Sailors pose for a photograph in their dress blues aboard Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) during routine operations in the Philippine Sea on Oct. 12, 2022. Chancellorsville is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific and is assigned to Commander, Task Force 70, a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of its allies and partners in the region.

Sailors man the rail aboard the guided missile frigate USS VANDEGRIFT (FFG-48) during a ceremony at which the vessel is being dedicated to GEN Alexander A. Vandegrift, Medal of Honor recipient and 18th Commandant of the Marine Corps. Base: Long Beach Naval Shipyard State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

120701-N-TG831-042EAST CHINA SEA (July 1, 2012) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) heave line during a replenishment at sea. McCampbell is underway in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

070310-M-8182G-030. Base: New Orleans State: Louisiana (LA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MARFORRES

PUGET SOUND (Nov. 3, 2017) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) transits Puget Sound. John C. Stennis is underway from Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton conducting routine training as it continues preparing for its next scheduled deployment.

Crewmen stand in formation on the deck of the battleship USS NEW JERSEY (BB 62). The ship's 16-inch/50-caliber guns are in the background. The NEW JERSEY, after recently completing renovation and modernization, is departing for sea trials prior to reactivation in January 1983. Base: Long Beach Naval Shipyard State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 30, 2022) Two U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagles and a U.S. Navy E-2 overfly the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) as part of Operation Noble Defender (OND) off the coast of Cape Canaveral, Florida, June 30, 2022. During OND, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region (CONR) coordinated and conducted joint operations with the U.S. Navy while concurrently launching jets from different locations across the United States' gulf coast and Puerto Rico. OND, is an integrated air and missile defense operation designed to ensure the defense and security of the northern and southern approaches to North America. This particular OND allowed NORAD units to exercise maneuvers designed to defend the southern approach to the United States from simulated cruise missile threats.

220904-N-GF955-1198BALTIC SEA (Sept. 4, 2022) U.S. Navy Seaman Malek Kassak, from Detroit, Michigan, looks through the big eyes aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117) during a maneuvering exercise with partner and allied ships in the Baltic Sea, Sept. 4, 2022. Paul Ignatius is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, 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.

151217-N-EH855-042 NORFOLK, Va. (Dec. 17, 2015) Sailors man the rails on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) as the ship arrives in its new homeport of Naval Station Norfolk. Washington arrives at Naval Station Norfolk as part of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9 following its forward deployment in Japan. Washington's arrival to Norfolk is part of a three-carrier swap with USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). After serving seven years as the U.S. Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier in Yokosuka, Japan, Washington proceeded to San Diego for a 10-day crew swap turnover with Ronald Reagan in August 2015. Washington then sailed around South America, participating in Southern Seas 2015 and UNITAS 2015.

The U.S. flag flies above the Blue Ridge-class amphibious command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20), which is currently underway participating in exercise BALTOPS22 in the Baltic Sea, June 8, 2022. BALTOPS 22 is the premier maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region. The exercise, led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and executed by Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, provides a unique training opportunity to strengthen combined response capabilities critical to preserving freedom of navigation and security in the Baltic Sea.

220928-N-EH998-1020 GULF OF ADEN (Sept. 28, 2022) Sideboys salute Cmdr. Sam Sarieni during a change of command ceremony aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) in the Gulf of Aden, Sept. 28. USS Nitze is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

DF-ST-85-01530. Base: Pearl Harbor State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Crewmen file aboard the battleship USS NEW JERSEY (BB-62) during the recommissioning ceremony. Base: Long Beach Naval Shipyard State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

SAN DIEGO (Sep. 9, 2022) Chief petty officers and chief petty officer selectees assigned to amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), take a group photo aboard amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Sep. 9, 2022. Essex is homeported in San Diego.

Trip to Maryland, New York Florida: USS Observation Island, launching of a Polaris Missile, 11:45AM. During a visit aboard the United States Naval ship USS Observation Island (EAG-154), President John F. Kennedy (center right, wearing sunglasses) watches a demonstration of the firing of a Polaris A-2 missile from the submarine USS Andrew Jackson (SSBN-619), at sea off the coast of Florida. Left to right: unidentified military officer (partially hidden on edge of frame); White House Secret Service agent, Floyd Boring (in back); Commanding Officer of the USS Observation Island, Captain Roderick O. Middleton; Deputy Commander of the Submarine Force of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet, Rear Admiral Vernon L. Lowrance; President Kennedy (wearing a windbreaker bearing the insignias of USS Observation Island and USS Andrew Jackson presented as a gift from the crews of both ships); and Director of Special Projects (USN), Rear Admiral I. J. Galantin. See also MO 75.704, United States Naval Jacket

PHILLIPPINE SEA (June 17, 2022) Seven Sailors, selected to represent the rates and ranks of the seven Sailors lost during a collision at sea five years ago, release balloons during a Remembrance Ceremony on the focsle of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a schedule deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

PIRAEUS, GREECE (Jan. 5, 2024) Commanding Officer Marc E. Davis, center, observes as sailors assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), stand watch on the bridge while the ship departs Piraeus, Jan. 5. Mesa Verde and 26th (MEU(SOC) are 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.

EAST CHINA SEA (June 18, 2013) Senior Chief Boatswains Mate Demetris Artis carries cremains during a burial at sea aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6). The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group is conducting joint force operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

The national ensign flies from the stern of the ocean minesweeper USS IMPERVIOUS (MSO-449) as the ship lies tied up during Operation Desert Shield. The aircraft carrier USS MIDWAY (CV-41) is in the background. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Base: Abu Dhabi Country: United Arab Emerites (UAE)

U.S. Marines with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the USS Bataan (LHD 5) man the rails during the Parade of Ships to kick off Fleet Week New York 22, in New York City, May 25, 2022. As a part of Fleet Week New York 22, the Marines of Special Purpose Marine-Air Ground Task Force Fleet Week New York engage in special events throughout New York City and the Tri-State area showcasing sea service technologies, future innovation, and connecting with citizens. Fleet Week New York brings together more than 2,000 service members from the Marine Corps, Navy and Coast Guard offering live band performances, military vehicle and equipment displays, and other community relations projects.

220502-N-XN177-1191 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 2, 2022) - Machinists Mate 2nd Class Emory Thomas mans the rails on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), May 2, 2022. Tripoli is underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet.

The early sun rises behind a Chilean naval vessel while a sailor aboard USS REUBEN JAMES (FFG 57) mans the rails during sea-and-anchor detail while departing Valparaiso, Chile, as Exercise TEAMWORK SOUTH '99 begins. Subject Operation/Series: TEAMWORK SOUTH '99 Base: USS Reuben James (FFG 57)

SAN DIEGO (April 21, 2022) Cmdr. Cullen M. Greenfield salutes while walking through the side boys at a change of command ceremony aboard amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42), April 21, 2022. Cmdr. Michael J. Welgan relieved Greenfield as commanding officer of Germantown during the ceremony. Germantown, a part of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, is a Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock landing ship homeported in San Diego.

Sailors man the rail of the guided missile frigate USS VANDERGRIFT (FFG-48) as the ship prepares to dock for a port visit. The USS JARRETT (FFG-33) is accompanying the VANDERGRIFT and is already tied up in the background. State: Manila Bay Country: Republic Of The Philippines (PHL)

Sailors man the rails on the stern of the frigate USS KNOX (FF-1052) during the vessel's decommissioning ceremony. Base: Long Beach State: California(CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

060223-N-6204K-021. Base: Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: LHD-7

GUANABARA BAY, Brazil (Sept. 7, 2022) Sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) man the rails during the Parade of Ships marking Brazils bicentennial during UNITAS LXIII, Sept. 7, 2022. UNITAS is the worlds longest-running maritime exercise. Hosted this year by Brazil, it brings together multinational forces from Belize, 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 conducting operations in and off the coast of Rio de Janeiro. The exercise trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations through the execution of anti-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air, amphibious and electronic warfare operations that enhance warfighting proficiency and increase interoperability among participating naval and marine forces.

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Jan. 5, 2012) Sailors from the First Class Petty Officer Mess (FCPOM) and the Chiefs Mess run laps around the ship during physical training aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). Mobile Bay is deployed with the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.

120909-N-TX154-201PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 9, 2012) The forward deployed Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Cowpens (CG 63) as seen from the top of the forward mast. Cowpens is part of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group, the US Navys only forward deployed carrier strike group based out of Yokosuka, Japan, and is conducting a routine patrol of the western Pacific region.

PEARL HARBOR (Aug. 2, 2022) U.S. Navy Sailors man the rails as U.S. Navy Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) pulls into Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 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 worlds 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 worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

221010-N-ZG822-1030 SOUDA BAY, Crete (Oct. 10, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) lower the American flag as the ship,along with the embarked staff of Carrier Strike Group 10, departs Souda Bay, Crete, following a scheduled port visit Oct. 10, 2022. The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group 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.

220513-N-XK047-1115Midshipmen from the Reserve Officer training Course (ROTC) program local universities toured amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island ( LHD 8 ) and met with officers to learn roles and responsibilities of Naval and Marine Corps officers. ROTC students show interest in becoming a military officer and gather information on which branch of service sounds most interesting to them. The group consisted of Midshipmen from University of San Diego, San Diego State University, University of California, San Diego, and Point Loma Nazarene University.

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (May 4, 2013) Sailors and Marines assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Anchorage (LPD 23) man the rails after the ship was officially commissioned during a ceremony at the Port of Anchorage. Anchorage is the seventh San Antonio-class LPD and was delivered to the U.S. Navy in Sept. 2012.

220522-N-CM110-1014 IWAKUNI, Japan (May 22, 2022) - Capt. Joel Lang, commanding officer of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), administers the oath of office during a promotion ceremony, May 22, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

U.S. Navy Hospitalman Charlie Smith mans the rails aboard the hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) as the ship pulls into Naval Air Station North Island, California, following Pacific Partnership 2024-1, Feb. 12, 2024. Pacific Partnership, now in its 19th iteration, is the largest multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific and works to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships. Navy

120830-N-KB563-101PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 30, 2012) The amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) sits off the coast of White Beach Naval Facility as the national ensign flies from amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6). Tortuga is part of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group.

Crew members of the U.S. Navy's newest nuclear-powered strategic missile submarine, USS KENTUCKY (SSBN-737), look out from the sail structure. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

Cannon, Fort Henry, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, North America

230330-N-KC543-1051 ATLANTIC OCEAN (March 30, 2023) Sailors assemble on the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) to watch an F-35II Lightning fly-over passed the ship, March 30, 2023. Wasp is underway conducting Type Commander (TYCOM) sea trials.

The guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) departs Naval Station Norfolk, Jan. 28, 2024, for a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations. Leyte Gulf will operate with regional partners to strengthen maritime partnerships, enhance U.S. maritime posture and counter threats such as illicit drug trafficking.

060307-N-7981E-083. Base: USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Nov. 11, 2022) Canadian Rear Adm. David Patchell, vice commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, attends a Canadian Remembrance Day ceremony on the Halifax-class frigate HMCS Montreal (FFH 336), Nov. 11. The Montreal is attached to the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group which is deployed in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navy's commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jan. 25, 2020) Capt. Kurt Sellerburg, commanding officer of the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), uses a telescopic alidade to take a bearing to a surface contact, Jan. 25, 2020. Bunker Hill, part of the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group, is on a scheduled deployment to the Indo-Pacific.

NORFOLK (Sept. 9, 2022) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) returns to Naval Station Norfolk after a regularly scheduled deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of theater security cooperation efforts and to defend U.S., allied and partner interests, Sept. 9, 2022. Cole was deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group.

060311-N-4014G-168. Base: Naval Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN-71)

Members of the deck force of the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS NORFOLK (SSN-714), are shown on the bow of the ship as the vessel departs the Norfolk Naval Base for Annapolis, MD. Base: Hampton Roadstead State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

PEARL HARBOR (Sept. 20, 2022) - U.S. Navy Sailors man the rails aboard Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) while underway for Pacific Partnership 2022. Now, in its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.

The crew of the Arleigh Burke class destroyer USS Jason Dunham mans the rails for the first time Nov. 13, 2010 at Port Everglades, Fla. The ship's commissioning ceremony paid homage to its namesake, Cpl. Jason Dunham, who selflessly sacrificed his life at age 22 in Iraq, April 14, 2004.

Chinese officers man the rail as the U.S. Navy frigate USS GEORGE PHILLIP (FFG 12) (Out of focus in the background) escorts the Republic of China (Navy) Luhu Class Destroyer, HARIBING (DDG 112), into San Diego Bay. .

GUANABARA BAY, Brazil (Sept. 7, 2022) Operations Specialist 3rd Class Sheylla Pineda mans the rails aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) during the Parade of Ships marking Brazils bicentennial during UNITAS LXIII, Sept. 7, 2022. UNITAS is the worlds longest-running maritime exercise. Hosted this year by Brazil, it brings together multinational forces from Belize, 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 conducting operations in and off the coast of Rio de Janeiro. The exercise trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations through the execution of anti-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air, amphibious and electronic warfare operations that enhance warfighting proficiency and increase interoperability among participating naval and marine forces.

220911-N-BR419-1019 YOKOSUKA, Japan (Sept. 11, 2022) Sailors march in formation for morning colors on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), while in port on board Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Sept. 11. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

220516-N-DP708-1026 SAN DIEGO (May 16, 2022) Sailors exchange tools that turn gears to lift and remove an aircraft catapult on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), May 16. Vinson is currently pierside in its homeport of San Diego.

110712-N-CH661-003ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 12, 2011) Lt. j.g. Gilbert L. Bishop, briefs members of the air department on firefighting scenarios aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are completing a six-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility.

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and Carrier Strike Group 12 Chaplain Cmdr. Genevieve Clark, from McMinnville, Oregon, presides over Easter Sunday sunrise service on the flight deck, April 17, 2022. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and strike group integration as part of the ships tailored basic phase prior to operational deployment.

Sailors man the rails as the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) arrives for a scheduled port visit in Rotterdam, the Netherlands while underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, Nov. 12, 2022. The first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is on its inaugural deployment conducting training and operations along 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.

CDR Ted Elkins re-enlists ABH1(AW/SW/IW) Darlene Rule, assigned to USS Wasp (LHD-1) during a ceremony aboard the Battleship Wisconsin in Downtown Norfolk on Wednesday, May 25, 2022. The ceremony was hosted by the Hampton Roads Naval Museum as part of their military ceremonies program that is available to area commands without cost. The museum is located next to the Battleship Wisconsin in Downtown Norfolk, Virginia.

Australian warship and crew take part in Naval Review and maritime parade in Sydney Harbour for Australia's Bicentenary, 1988

NORFOLK (Dec. 21, 2018) Chief Gunner's Mate Francis Cruz waves to family on the pier from aboard the Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) as the ship pulls into Naval Station Norfolk. Jason Dunham returns to homeport after a seven-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet area of operations.

Prow of USS Turner Joy

Navy Medicine Operational Training Command holds change of command ceremony at National Naval Aviation Museum aboard Naval Air Staiton Pensacola, Sept. 30.Navy Medicine Operational Training Command oversees 6 detachments and 12 training centers in more than 60 facilities spread across the U.S. with more than 65 instructional programs within aviation, surface and undersea warfare in addition to expeditionary forces and special operations medicine.

110303-N-5539C-060SANTA RITA, Guam (March 3, 2011) The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723) prepares to moor at U.S. Naval Base Guam. Oklahoma City arrived to its new homeport following an engineering overhaul, sea trials, certifications and transit from the Atlantic Ocean.

Officers stand at attention during the change of command ceremony aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70). CAPT. George D. O'Brien Jr. is relieving CAPT. Thomas A. Mercer as commanding officer of the ship. Base: Naval Air Station, North Island State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220911-N-BR419-1029 YOKOSUKA, Japan (Sept. 11, 2022) Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 1st Class Nicholas Ochieng, right, from Rosenberg, Texas, a Chief select, and Aviation Boatswains Mate (Equipment) 1st Class Jason Krawczynki, from Chicago, a Chief select, prepare to raise the ensign for morning colors on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), while in port on board Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Sept. 11. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

040519-N-0119G-009. Base: USS Enterprise (CVN 65)

120604-N-XE109-054 NORFOLK (Jun 4, 2012) The U.S. Navy Fleet Forces Band performs during a ceremony to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Midway. The ceremony was held in the hangar bay aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). George H.W. Bush is homeported in Norfolk, Va.

SOUDA BAY, Greece (Nov. 27, 2014) Boatswains Mate Seaman Marcellus Alexander, left, from Weirton, W. Va., and Seaman Julian Robinson, right, from Savannah, Ga., raise the national ensign aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) during morning colors. Cole is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

060502-N-9562H-061. Base: Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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