← Military & Defence

Navy Chief Petty Officer Ceremonies

Images from Navy promotion ceremonies featuring personnel receiving rank insignia. The mood is ceremonial, highlighting tradition and military pride.

Sasebo area chief petty officers stand at attention during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo Oct. 21, 2022. The rank of chief petty officer was created April 1, 1893, and the chief petty officer pinning ceremony is a unique tradition to the U.S. Navy that signifies promotion to a crucial position of leadership and responsibility.

HONOLULU (Oct. 21, 2022) - Chief Yeoman Nigel Lampkin, from Blackshear, Georgia, assigned to the Emory S. Land-class submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40), receives his chief petty officer combination cover from Chief Hull Maintenance Technician Ryan Magee during the ships promotion ceremony aboard the USS Missouri Memorial in Honolulu, Oct. 21, 2022. Frank Cable, forward deployed to the island of Guam, repairs, rearms, and re-provisions submarines and surface vessels in the Indo-Pacific region.

221021-N-LN285-1376JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (October 21, 2022) -- Twenty-eight new chief petty officers from Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Naval Submarine Training Center Pacific, Submarine Readiness Squadron 33, USS Tucson (SSN 770), USS Hawaii (SSN 776), USS North Carolina (SSN 777) and USS Minnesota (SSN 783) were promoted during a pinning ceremony held at the USS Bowfin Museum in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Oct. 21.

Senior Chief Yeoman Travis Scott is pinned by Yeoman Seaman Recruit Ryan Thao during the aircraft carrier Pre-Commissioning Unit John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) pinning ceremony. The rank of senior chief and master chief was created June 1, 1958, under an amendment to the Career Compensation Act of 1949. John F. Kennedy is the second Ford-class aircraft carrier and is under construction at the Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipyard.

CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti (May 20, 2022) Master Chief Hospital Corpsman Gary A. Vivit, senior enlisted leader, Expeditionary Medical Facility (EMF), Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti (CLDJ), receives his master chief petty officer collar devices from CLDJ EMF officer-in-charge, Cmdr. Tara N. McGinnis during a pinning ceremony held on CLDJ. CLDJ serves as an expeditionary base for U.S. military forces providing support to ships, aircraft and personnel that ensure security throughout Europe, Africa, Central. The base enables maritime and combat operations in the Horn of Africa while fostering positive U.S.-Africa relations.

U.S. Navy Sailors participate in a chief petty officer pinning ceremony, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Oct. 21, 2022. The rank of chief petty officer was created April 1, 1893, and the chief petty officer pinning ceremony is a unique tradition to the U.S. Navy that signifies promotion to a crucial position of leadership and responsibility.

U.S. Navy Sailor Petty Officer 1st Class Andrew Morbito, field medical service technician, 3rd Medical Battalion, Bravo Surgical Company gets his uniform inspected during an all hands week at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Feb. 21, 2024. Bravo Surgical Company conducts uniform inspections bi-annually in order to ensure the Sailors uniforms are maintained and ready for use. Marine Corps

SASEBO, Japan (Oct. 24, 2022) Chief selects along with Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Anthony Curtis, assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6), sing Anchors Aweigh during a Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony in the ships hangar bay in Sasebo, Japan Oct. 24, 2022. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating 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.

Sasebo area chief petty officers stand at attention during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo Oct. 21, 2022. The rank of chief petty officer was created April 1, 1893, and the chief petty officer pinning ceremony is a unique tradition to the U.S. Navy that signifies promotion to a crucial position of leadership and responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Eric Smith, the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, recognizes Gunnery Sgt. Adam Robideau, the Officer Selection Assistant at Officer Selection Station, during his visit to College Station, Texas, Nov. 18, 2022. College Station is home to Texas Agricultural and Mechanical University which commissions more ROTC officers than any institution in the country.

230324-N-LN782-1259 (Mar. 24, 2023) U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command's Pass in Review in Great Lakes, Illinois, Mar. 24, 2023. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy's only boot camp

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Lance J. Langfeldt, the commanding officer of 6th Marine Corps District, awards Maj. Vincent L. Thompson, the outgoing commanding officer of Recruiting Station Montgomery, the meritorious service award during the station's Change of Command ceremony in Montgomery, Alabama, July 1, 2022. The change of command ceremony, a tradition passed down through the generations, represents the official passing of authority from the outgoing Marine, to the incoming Marine.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Jason L. Morris, commanding general of Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego and the Western Recruiting Region (WRR), presents a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (NAM) to Gunnery Sgt. Ryan Butts in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Nov. 1, 2022. Butts was awarded a NAM for his efforts as the supply chief of Recruiting Station Albuquerque, being voted as support billet of the year for Fiscal Year 2022.

221021-N-EJ241-1113DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (Oct. 21, 2022) - Master Sergeant Stephen B. Lanham, assigned to Air Mobility Command, Detachment 1, salutes while being piped into the Chief Petty Officer Mess during U.S. Navy Support Facility Diego Garcias Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony. Chiefs are recognized for exemplary technical expertise within their rating, superior administrative skills, strong leadership ability, and most importantly, chiefs bridge the gap between officers and enlisted personnel, acting as supervisors as well as advocates for their Sailors.

220826-N-VI040-1026 NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan (Aug. 26, 2022) Chief Petty Officers from Naval Air Facility Atsugis Security Forces Department remove Chief Master-at-Arms Michael Johnsons Chief Petty Officer collar insignia and combination cover during his commissioning ceremony held onboard NAF Atsugi Aug. 26, 2022. NAF Atsugi supports the combat readiness of Commander, Fleet Air Western Pacific, Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE (CVW) 5, Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51 and 23 other tenant commands, and provides logistic support, coordination, and services to units assigned to the Western Pacific.

221130-N-EJ241-1011Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Peter DAgostino, assigned to U.S. Navy Support Facility (NSF) Diego Garcia, receives his collar devices during a frocking ceremony at Diego Garcia Nov. 30, 2022. NSF Diego Garcia provides logistic, service, recreational, and administrative support to U.S. and allied forces forward deployed to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf.

220515-N-LY160-1046 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 15, 2022) - Master Chief Logistics Specialist David Rowe, from New York, poses for a photo during a frocking ceremony in the hangar bay aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), May 15, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Cristianne H. Tchakountesomgwack, a native of Shreveport, Louisiana, with Platoon 4025, graduates as the company honor graduate for Papa Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, July 22, 2022. Tchakountesomgwack earned this distinction over 13 weeks of training by outperforming other recruits from her company during a series of training events designed to test their basic Marine Corps skills.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Bradley Fromm, center, the outgoing commanding officer of Recruiting Station (RS) Richmond, passes the colors to Maj. Kenneth Jackson, right, the incoming commanding officer of RS Richmond during RS Richmonds change of command ceremony at the Omni Richmond Hotel, Richmond, Virginia, July 1, 2022. During the ceremony, Maj. Bradley Fromm relinquished his duties as the commanding officer of RS Richmond to Maj. Kenneth Jackson.

U.S. Marine Corps SgtMaj. Christopher Maddox, left, the sergeant major of Recruiting Station (RS) Richmond, passes the colors to Maj. Bradley Fromm, the outgoing commanding officer of RS Richmond, during RS Richmonds change of command ceremony at the Omni Richmond Hotel, Richmond, Virginia, July 1, 2022. During the ceremony, Maj. Bradley Fromm relinquished his duties as the commanding officer of RS Richmond to Maj. Kenneth Jackson.

Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point Color Guard prepares to present the Marine Corps Flag during the 46th Annual Voluntary Education Graduation Ceremony at Two Rivers Theatre, MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina, June 2, 2022. The goals of the voluntary education programs are to provide a broad range of personal and professional learning opportunities to improve the academic abilities of active-duty personnel to assist in their career progression and to generally strengthen the military community.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Austin Lehnert, imagery analysis specialist, gives a presentation during the Career School at the Staff Non-Commissioned Officer Academy on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Feb. 23, 2024. The SNCO Academy educates and develops enlisted Marines to be ethical, moral and professional leaders capable of making sound decisions even in times of ambiguity. Marine Corps

NEWPORT, R.I. (June 30, 2022) Rear Adm. Pete Garvin, commander, Naval Education and Training Command, passes through sideboys during the Naval Chaplaincy School (NCS) assumption of command ceremony at Naval Station Newport, June 30, 2022. NCS trains Navy chaplains and religious program specialists to fulfill a critical role in helping the Department of the Navy achieve and maintain a ready force by preparing religious ministry team members to minister across the sea services to build personal, unit, and family readiness and strengthen spirit, moral character, and toughness.

SAN DIEGO (May 16, 2022) - Cmdr. Loren Jacobi, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 3s commanding officer, congratulates Senior Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic James Johnson, during a frocking ceremony on Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI). HSC-3 is the West Coast MH-60S fleet replacement squadron, responsible for training pilots and aircrewmen by providing the most capable warfighters to the fleet.

U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Marcella Scott, aviation structural mechanic, Marine Aviation Logistics 24, provides her remarks during the 130th Chief Petty Officer Birthday cake cutting ceremony, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 31, 2023. The purpose of the celebration was to commemorate 130 years of lineage for Chief Petty Officers across MCBH.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Andrew Ezell, the comptroller of 4th Marine Corps District (4MCD), stands at parade rest during his promotion ceremony at 4MCD headquarters, New Cumberland, Pa., Sept. 1, 2022. Promotion ceremonies are a significant achievement in a service members career and are a testament to their commitment, mastery of duties and skills, and leadership capabilities.

Chief Interior Communications Electrician Clinton Jordan, assigned to Mine Countermeasures Squadron 7, poses for a photo during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo Oct. 21, 2022. The rank of chief petty officer was created April 1, 1893, and the chief petty officer pinning ceremony is a unique tradition to the U.S. Navy that signifies promotion to a crucial position of leadership and responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Hansxavier Frias, a motor vehicle operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, originally from Philippines, poses for a photo during a naturalization ceremony hosted at the Camp Foster Community Center on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, July 18, 2022. A total of 33 U.S. service members and Status of Forces Agreement personnel from 17 countries swore the Oath of Allegiance and received their naturalization certificates to become U.S. citizens. Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is granted to a foreign citizen after he or she fulfills the requirements to become a citizen established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965.

YOKOSUKA, Japan, (Oct. 21, 2022) Chief Information Systems Technician Ruebin Porch receives his combination cover during a chief pinning ceremony at the Fleet Theater onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY). Eighteen Sailors from CFAY and tenant commands were promoted to the rank of chief petty officer during the ceremony. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet's forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Andrew Nicolas, fleet marine force technician, Bravo Surgical Company, 3d Medical Battalion, stands at attention during the 130th Chief Petty Officer Birthday cake cutting ceremony, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 31, 2023. The celebration commemorated 130 years of lineage for Chief Petty Officers across MCBH.

SAN DIEGO (May 16, 2022) - Cmdr. Loren Jacobi, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 3s commanding officer, presents a certificate of advancement toMaster Chief Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter) Jeffrey Maki, during a frocking ceremony on Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI). HSC-3 is the West Coast MH-60S fleet replacement squadron, responsible for training pilots and aircrewmen by providing the most capable warfighters to the fleet.

WASHINGTON (Sept. 22, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea, right, met with Warrant Officer of the Royal Australian Navy Deb Butterworth, left, Sept. 22, 2022. The two naval leaders discussed partnership programs and recruitment efforts during a visit to the Pentagon.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (Oct. 21, 2022) Chief Navy Counselor Tray Bynam, from Phenix City, Alabama, assigned to Naval Station Great Lakes, prepares to be pinned during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 11, 2022) - U.S. Navy Chaplain Pohlmarc Lawrence delivers the invocation during a 9/11 memorial ceremony in the hangar bay of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Sept. 11, 2022. Mesa Verde is currently underway in the Atlantic Ocean in support of exercise UNITAS LXIII. 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. Marine Corps Lt. Col. NaTasha M. Everly, outgoing commanding officer of Weapons Training Battalion (WTBN) Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, sits alongside her family during the WTBN change of command ceremony on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 1, 2022. WTBN Camp Lejeune serves to provide facilities and support for marksmanship training, re-qualification, and competition shooting for the Marines of Marine Forces, Atlantic and Marines that visit from throughout the world.

U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Bradley Feldkamp, a motor transport operator, left, Corporal John Darby, a flight equipment technician, center, and Lance Corporal Nicholas Dural, an infantry rifleman, right, all attending Marine Security Guard School at Marine Corps Embassy Security Group, pose for a photo after receiving the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for heroic acts performed while off-duty after an awards ceremony on Quantico, Virginia, April 6, 2023. The Marines received the award after intervening during an altercation between civilians involving a knife. The Marines successfully deescalated the situation, recovered the weapon and restrained the perpetrators until the police arrived on scene.

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (July 18, 2022) - Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) New Student Indoctrination (NSI) Cycle 2 midshipman candidates salute during in their graduation ceremony in the Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall at Recruit Training Command (RTC), July 18. Upon completion of NSI, the candidates will start their freshman year of the NROTC program at colleges and universities nationwide this fall. NSI is an indoctrination program hosted at RTC, and provides midshipmen with a common military training orientation. NSI provides basic training in five warfighting fundamentals - firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding and small arms handling and marksmanship - to begin creating basically trained and smartly disciplined future Navy and Marine Corps officers. NROTC is overseen by Commander, Naval Service Training Command (NSTC), Rear Adm. Jennifer S. Couture, which supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navys new officers and enlisted Sailors.

U.S. Marine Corps PFC Aimal Taraki poses for a photo at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, April 3, 2023. Taraki is a former translator who used to coordinate between U.S. and Afghan forces during the war in Afghanistan. Taraki emigrated to the U.S. in 2018 with the hopes of joining the Marine Corps.

Recruits take the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America during a naturalization ceremony inside the Recruit Memorial Chapel at Recruit Training Command (RTC). Boot camp is approximately 10 weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes five warfighting competencies of firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms handling and marksmanship along with physical fitness and lessons in Navy heritage and core values, Warrior Toughness, Life Skills, teamwork and discipline. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navys only boot camp.

Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Troy E. Black attends Headquarters Battalion Corporals Course graduation on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, July 29. The Corporals Course is a 3-week course designed to prepare Marines to transition from subordinates to small unit leaders.

221021-N-LK647-1248 ATLANTIC OCEANEns. Lavaughn Holloman, left, and Chief Quartermaster Zoy Suka, both assigned to the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), celebrate after the FY-23 chief petty officer pinning ceremony while Normandy is underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, Oct. 21, 2022. The first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is on its inaugural deployment 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.

SAN DIEGO (Oct. 21, 2022) Sailors assigned to amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) stand at attention during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony held onboard Naval Base San Diego, Oct. 21, 2022. Fifteen Essex Sailors were advanced to the rank of chief petty officer.

220518-N-DN159-1030 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (May 18, 2022) Master Chief Electronics Technician (Nuclear) Rey Chacon is pinned by Master Chief Machinists Mate (Nuclear) Devon Goyert during a promotion ceremony on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), May 18, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied and Partner interests.

Recruits take the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America during a naturalization ceremony inside the Recruit Memorial Chapel at Recruit Training Command (RTC). Boot camp is approximately 10 weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes five warfighting competencies of firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms handling and marksmanship along with physical fitness and lessons in Navy heritage and core values, Warrior Toughness, Life Skills, teamwork and discipline. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navys only boot camp.

Inter-American Defense College Leadership welcomed General de Ala DEMA Miguel Eduardo Hernández Velazquez,Incoming Chief of Delegation of Mexico to the IADBfor a visit to the IADC Campus on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Jan. 27, 2023. During the visit, the distinguished visitor conducted an office call with IADC Leadership, received an IADC brief, and concluded the visit with a tour of the campus.

Kevin Guy, a Department of Defense civilian safety and environmental specialist with Marine Corps Base Quantico, receives the Certificate of Commendation from U.S. Marine Corp Col. Michael L. Brooks, base commander, Marine Corps Base Quantico, at The Clubs at Quantico, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, October 14, 2022. This ceremony is done to award the DoD civilian workers for their outstanding efforts throughout their career..

Leah Hawker, the wife of Capt. Jeremy J. Hawker, pins on his command ashore pin during the Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Patuxent River change of command ceremony.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (March 27, 2013) Engineman 1st Class James Collins and Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Lamont Mukes, both assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2, raise the national ensign at the beginning of the Chiefs Day of Service at Shelton Park Elementary School. Chief petty officers and first class petty officers joined together to mentor children in recognition of the chief petty officers' birthday.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Amy Ebitz, 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, sits with her family during her retirement ceremony on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, July 7, 2022. Ebitz retired after 27 years of service in the Marine Corps and served her final tour as the Assistant Chief of Staff for the 2d MEB G-3.

U.S Marine Corps Cpl. William Wilson, a ground radio technician with 2nd Maintenance Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, poses for a photo at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, on April 11, 2022. Wilson was awarded a certificate of appreciation for his volunteering efforts during a Marine Corps Installations East volunteer appreciation award ceremony after volunteering over 35 hours while participating in the Onslow County Outreach program, assisting a local food bank, the Single Marine Program, YMCA, and local schools.

Chief Master Sgt. Marcus Kirksey, senior enlisted leader for the 351st Recruiting Squadron, Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Ga., engages with two Junior Leadership Corps cadets at Northeast High School in Macon, Georgia during an Air Force GO Inspire event, Feb. 8, 2024. Air Force

U.S. Navy Cmdr. Kimberly Cain, left, deputy chaplain with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, thanks U.S. Marine Corps Col. Morina Foster, right, director of Defense Policy Review Initiative Division, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, for speaking during the Womens Leadership and Education Forum on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 22, 2022. WLEF provided an opportunity for networking, mentorship, education, and peer-to-peer collaboration among male and female service members.

U.S. Marines with Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM), Headquarters Marine Corps Intelligence School Training Command and Expeditionary Warfare Training Group, Atlantic gather around their Lance Cpl. Leadership and Ethics Seminar 1-22 instructors from FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM at Hopkins Hall Gymnasium, Virginia, May 20, 2022. These Marines graduated from a week-long course consisting of knowledge assessment, physical training and open leadership discussions. The Lance Cpl. Leadership and Ethics Seminar is designed to reaffirm the values, ethos, and principles of small unit leadership and is required training for Marines prior to achieving the non-commissioned officer rank of Corporal.

U.S. Marines with Drill Instructor School, Recruit Training Regiment, receive a debrief during a routine uniform inspection at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, May 10, 2022. During the uniform inspection the students were evaluated on their knowledge, the Drill Instructor Creed, uniform fit, confidence and appearance. Drill Instructor School further develops the leadership, command presence, instructional ability, physical fitness, and knowledge of selected Officers, Staff Non-Commissioned and Non-Commissioned Officers in order to successfully perform the duties of a Series Commander and Drill Instructor.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Oct. 21, 2022) Capt. Odin J. Klug, commanding officer, Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, delivers remarks during a Chief Pinning ceremony at NSA Souda Bay on Oct. 21, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

220603-N-YD328-0041NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (June 3, 2022) Navy Capt. Rafael C. Facundo (front left), commanding officer, Command Master Chief Igor F. Vargas (front right), and Sailors assigned to Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Greece, participate in a commemoration and cake cutting in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Midway. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., Allied, and Partner nation forces to be where they are needed when they are needed to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (June 30, 2022) Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Victor Juarez Romero, assigned to Naval Station Great Lakes, receives his frocking letter from Captain Ken Williams, NSGL's executive officer, during a ceremony in Ross Theater. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

220711-N-TH560-0876 NORFOLK, Va. (July 11, 2022) - Lt. Christina A. Danai receives the Junior Officer Capt. Joy Bright Hancock Leadership Award, presented by Vice. Adm. Lisa Franchetti, the director of Policy, Plans, and Strategy of the Joint Staff, Capt. Emily Bassett, president of Sea Service Leadership Association (SSLA), and Rear Adm. Shoshana Chatfield, SSLA chair of the board, at the Joint Womens Leadership Symposium. The awards are presented annually to honor the leadership of Sailors who go above and beyond to foster an inclusive culture in the Navy.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (April 12, 2022) Command Senior Chief Shanika Jones, a detailer from Navy Personnel Command, negotiates orders with a Professional Apprenticeship Career Tracks (PACT) Sailor during a Fleet Engagement Team event onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka. The Fleet Engagement Team met with PACT Sailors forward-deployed to the 7th Fleet to provide career counseling, designate ratings and negotiate orders on site.

Recruits take the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America during a naturalization ceremony inside the Recruit Memorial Chapel at Recruit Training Command (RTC). Boot camp is approximately 10 weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes five warfighting competencies of firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms handling and marksmanship along with physical fitness and lessons in Navy heritage and core values, Warrior Toughness, Life Skills, teamwork and discipline. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navys only boot camp.

221021-N-OM737-1325NORFOLK, Va. (October 21, 2022) Newly promoted Chief petty officers assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD-5) stand in formation during the ships pinning ceremony at the Nauticus museum, Oct. 21, 2022. During the ceremony, 15 USS Bataan Sailors were promoted to the rank of chief petty officer. The Chief petty officer pinning ceremony is considered one of the most significant milestones of an enlisted U.S. Navy Sailors career.

(from right to left) Staff Sgt. Bosco Sandigo, Staff Sgt. Kofi Serebour, Staff Sgt. Ackeilia Richards, and Staff Sgt. Brandon Ferraro, with the U.S. Army New York City Recruiting Battalion, pose for a "selfie" during a U.S. Army Birthday ceremony in Times Square, N.Y., on June 14, 2022. The ceremony commemorated the Armys 247th birthday, and highlighted the Armys 24/7 commitment to global readiness and the Army family.

220901-N-WF272-1114 NEW CASTLE, Del. (Sept. 1, 2022) Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class Johana Cruel, a native of Allentown, Pa., assigned to Navy Talent Acquisition Group Philadelphia, participates in the Navywide E-6 advancement exam held at Navy Operational Support Center New Castle, Delaware, Sept. 1. NTAG Philadelphia encompasses regions of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and West Virginia, providing recruiting services from more than 30 talent acquisition sites with the overall goal of attracting the highest quality candidates to ensure the ongoing success of Americas Navy.

220628-N-TT639-2003 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 28, 2022) - Rear Admiral Derek Trinque, commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 7, left, presents a coin to Aviation Boatswains Mate (Fuels) 2nd Class Charlyn Andres aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 28, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Chief Master-at-Arms Anton Olsund, assigned to Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS), receives his combination cover as he is promoted to chief petty officer during a pinning ceremony at CFAS Oct. 21, 2022. The rank of chief petty officer was created April 1, 1893, and the chief petty officer pinning ceremony is a unique tradition to the U.S. Navy that signifies promotion to a crucial position of leadership and responsibility.

KINGS BAY, Ga. (Dec. 5, 2012) Lt. j.g. Luke Leveque, assigned to the Gold crew of the ballistic missile submarine USS Maryland (SSBN 738) pins the submarine officer warfare device on his wife, Lt. j.g. Marquette Leveque, assigned to the Gold crew of the ballistic missile submarine USS Wyoming (SSBN 742), at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay. Leveque is one of three Sailors to become the first female unrestricted line officers to qualify in submarines.

220601-N-KN989-1005 JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (June 1, 2022) Service members from the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Honor Guard parade the colors during a change of command ceremony. Capt. Jason Adams, Commander, Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Indo-Pacific, was relieved by Capt. Patrick Blake during the official change of command ceremony June 1, 2022. DLA Indo-Pacific, has more than 1329 uniformed and civilian personnel who provide a unified DLA interface for warfighters throughout the USINDOPACOM area of responsibility, integrating DLA support within the region and reaching back to other DLA activities in the continental United States for logistics solutions.

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton meets with U.S. Marines at the U.S. Embassy Astana in Astana, Kazakhstan, on December 1, 2010.

Lt. Michael Wojdyla talks with guests.

NEWPORT, R.I. (June 30, 2022) Rear Adm. Pete Garvin, commander, Naval Education and Training Command, speaks with Limited Duty Officer/Chief Warrant Officer (LDO/CWO) Academy class 22100 students at Officer Training Command Newport before their graduation ceremony, June 30, 2022. The academy prepares prior senior enlisted Sailors for their new roles in the wardroom. The LDO/CWO community supports the warfighting capability and readiness of naval forces through leadership, technical proficiency, and experience.

120726-N-WL435-541PENSACOLA, Fla. (July 26, 2012) Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert speaks to more than 3,700 Sailors during an all-hands call with students and staff at Naval Education and Training Command.

060801-N-6363M-007. Base: USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74)

220921-N-CM110-1018 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 21, 2022) - Sailors stand at attention during a dress uniform inspection aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 21, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Marines with Marine Raider Support Group, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, attend the Patriot Day Observance Ceremony at Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Sept. 9, 2022. The Patriot Day ceremony is held in remembrance of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

U.S. Marines with Marine Raider Support Group, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, attend the Patriot Day Observance Ceremony at Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Sept. 9, 2022. The Patriot Day ceremony is held in remembrance of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Chief Master-at-Arms Anton Olsund, assigned to Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS), poses for a photo during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony at CFAS Oct. 21, 2022. The rank of chief petty officer was created April 1, 1893, and the chief petty officer pinning ceremony is a unique tradition to the U.S. Navy that signifies promotion to a crucial position of leadership and responsibility.

NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (Oct. 21, 2022) A chief petty officer mentor pins Chief Culinary Specialist Prince Kudalors anchors during the Naval Surface Force Atlantic chief petty officer pinning ceremony onboard Naval Station Norfolk, Oct. 21, 2022. Nine Sailors received their gold-fouled anchors during the ceremony.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Edwin Lobos, the sexual assault prevention response victim advocate for Wounded Warrior Battalion - West, smiles after receiving a coin from Brig. Gen. Jason G. Woodworth at Wounded Warrior Bn. on Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 11, 2022. Lobos showed exemplary leadership and tact while helping a Marine who was in need of assistance during a sensitive situation. SAPR has a 24/7 resource line that provides aid and support to victims and families who have experienced any form of sexual assault.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Aug. 25, 2022) Aviation Machinists Mate Airman Juan Tomas Diaz Figueroa, attached to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51, originally from the Dominican Republic, receives a certificate of naturalization from Lt. j.g. Briana McDaniel with Region Legal Service Office (RLSO) Western Pacific during a naturalization ceremony held at the Kinnick High School Little Theater onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY). Six Sailors and two civilians from CFAYs various tenant commands were naturalized as U.S. citizens during the ceremony. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleets forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

220411-N-TH560-0467 YOKOSUKA, Japan (April 11, 2022) Fireman Chelsea Rogers, from Thomson, Ga., poses for a photo during a Navy Personnel Command (NPC) Fleet Engagement Team event aboard the Navys only forward-deployed nuclear aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Rogers enlisted in the Navy as part of the Professional Apprenticeship Career Tracks (PACT) program and earned the Machinists Mate rating at the event, April 11, 2022. The Fleet Engagement Team, consisting of enlisted community managers, rating specialists and detailers from NPC, worked one-on-one with PACT Sailors in Japan to provide career counseling, designate ratings and negotiate orders on site.

Rear Adm. Stephen Barnett, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii, delivers his speech during a Black History Month celebration at Tripler Army Medical Center, Feb. 23, 2024. Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements made by African Americans throughout U.S. history. The 2024 Defense Department Black History Month theme highlights African Americans and the Arts. Navy

U.S. Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 2 Stevie Cardona, left, personnel officer, and Sgt. Major Christine Henning, sergeant major, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, celebrate for receiving 1st Place in Throwdown at Fightertown in their bracket at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Oct. 5, 2022. The event challenged teams of two Marines power, strength, and endurance in 12 different events.

SGT. Joseph Walker, III receives the Navy and Marine Corps Medal from Colonel Bruce Gombar for an act of heroism on February 8, 1992 when he saved the lives of 3 children who were trapped in a car which had rolled into a swimming pool. Base: Marine Corps Base, Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (Apr. 1, 2022) Command Master Chief Anthony Corey and Naval Station Great Lakes' chief's mess pose for a photo on the Navy Chief's birthday. 2022 marks the 129th birthday for the Navy Chief, a rank established April 1, 1893.

220603-N-XY052-1048: SAN ANTONIO - (June 3, 2022) NCCS Daniel Street, from Atlanta, Georgia, who serves as NTAG San Antonios Enlisted Assistant Command Recruiter and is featured as this week's Recruiter in the Spotlight, poses for a portrait in the headquarters trophy area.

031028-M-8049T-079. Base: Marine Corps Base, Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Gunnery Sgt. Duncan Mcclain, assigned to Commander Task Force 76, is pinned with his anchors as he is ceremoniously promoted to chief petty officer during a pinning ceremony at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo Oct. 21, 2022. The rank of chief petty officer was created April 1, 1893, and the chief petty officer pinning ceremony is a unique tradition to the U.S. Navy that signifies promotion to a crucial position of leadership and responsibility.

Chief Boatswains Mate Thomas Oloughlin, assigned to Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS), poses for a photo during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony at CFAS Oct. 21, 2022. The rank of chief petty officer was created April 1, 1893, and the chief petty officer pinning ceremony is a unique tradition to the U.S. Navy that signifies promotion to a crucial position of leadership and responsibility.

MyNavy Career Centers (MNCC) Command Master Chief Keith Wilkerson speaks with Pensacola-area Navy leadership during a scheduled visit to Naval Air Station Pensacola, Jan. 25, 2023. During the visit, Satterwhite briefed command Triads and Sailors on MNCC. MNCC is the central node for Sailor pay issues and resolution, oversees Human Resources Services Center, Navy Pay and Personnel Support Center, Travel Processing Center, six Transaction Service Centers, and 13 Regional Support Centers around the globe.

Chief Logistics Specialist Jonathan Ruelos, assigned to Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS), poses for a photo during a chief petty officer pinning ceremony at CFAS Oct. 21, 2022. The rank of chief petty officer was created April 1, 1893, and the chief petty officer pinning ceremony is a unique tradition to the U.S. Navy that signifies promotion to a crucial position of leadership and responsibility.

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON - (Oct. 14, 2022) A rise in rank is an honor and means a lot to service members who tirelessly perform their duties daily to protect and defend. In recognition of her Naval dedication, Machinist Mate Second Class Petty Officer Heidi Salazar posing with Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonios Commanding Officer, CDR Stephanie Simoni, received authorization to assume the title of and wear the uniform of First Class Petty Officer.

Pensacola, FL - Navy Information Operations Command Pensacola held a promotion ceremony for two sailors on 16 February 2024.

NORTH CHICAGO, Il. (April 1, 2022) Hospitalman Brandon Fletchall assigned to Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Great Lakes receives a direct appointment to attend the U.S. Naval Academy as part of the Class of 2026. NMRTC Great Lakes is the Navy command at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, the first-of-its-kind, and only, health care center that integrates Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs medical care into a single combined mission.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Symone White, a network administrator with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, holds her certification of reenlistment as a part of the Commandants Retention Program (CRP) aboard Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), in the Atlantic Ocean, July 26, 2022. The CRP is focused on retaining the most talented First Term Marines by streamlining the reenlistment process and offering meaningful incentives to reenlist. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Capt. Jeffrey Klinger, left, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC), Bethesda's commanding officer, poses for a group photo with Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Taylor Piroglu, center, NMRTC, Bethesda's Sailor of the quarter, and Master Chief Hospital Corpsman Josina Cato, NMRTC, Bethesda's command master chief, at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, Jan. 30, 2024. The Sailors were selected for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Leilana TupuaRodriguez, a criminal investigator with Criminal Investigation Division, Provost Marshals Office, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) poses for a photo with the Jim Kallstrom Award for bravery presented at the Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 29, 2022. TupuaRodriguez, a native of Bremerton, Washington, received the award for her bravery while deployed with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, supporting evacuations during the bombing in Kabul that took the life of 13 service members in August of 2021.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Stephany Godinez, left, administrative specialist, Headquarters and Service Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (MARFORPAC), delivers a wreath to U.S. Army Gen. Charles A. Flynn, center, commander, U.S. Army Pacific, and his wife Kathleen Flynn, during the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) Day 2022 ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu, Hawaii, April 25, 2022. ANZAC Day commemorates the sacrifices made by all Australians and New Zealanders who have served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions around the world. This date marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australia and New Zealand during World War I and is the 50th year MARFORPAC has provided military support to ANZAC Day in Honolulu.

(August 1, 2022) Communication Technician (Technical Branch) Petty Officer 1st Class Andrew Hernandez from San Antonio, Texas receives a Commanders coin from Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonios Commanding Officer, CDR. Stephanie Simoni for his hard work in refreshing the commands assets.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Robert Catching, the incoming sergeant major for Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, gives a speech during a relief and appointment ceremony on MCAS Camp Pendleton, California, Feb. 15, 2023. After two years of serving his role of sergeant major for H&HS, MCAS Camp Pendleton, Sgt. Maj. Gonzalez relinquished his duties to Sgt. Maj. Robert Catching.

U.S. Navy Corpsmen with 1st Medical Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, pose for a photo after a Fleet Marine Force pinning ceremony during exercise Native Fury 22 at Yanbu Commercial Port, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Aug. 26, 2022. The FMF pin is awarded to Sailors who are trained and qualified to perform duties in support of Marine Corps units. Native Fury 22 is a biennial exercise focused on the demonstration of the rapid offload and integration of a Maritime Pre-Positioned Force in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in support of regional security, crisis response, and contingency operations.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Nicholas J. Underwood, left, sergeant major of Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA(AW)) 533 and Sgt. Ernest Brunelle, an Oakham, Mass., native and a fixed wing aircraft safety equipment mechanic with VMFA(AW) 533, pose for a photo after an incentive flight at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 30, 2022. Incentive flights are periodically awarded to Marines and Sailors for meritorious actions and service.

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