Reunions and Homecomings

Heartwarming moments capturing soldiers reuniting with loved ones after deployments, emphasizing emotional connections.

Command Sgt. Maj. Caron Hill, senior enlisted advisor, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, III Corps, congratulates Sgt. 1st Class Amanda Hoover, outgoing deputy commandant for the III Corps and Fort Hood People First Center, during a change of responsibility ceremony at Fort Hood, Texas, Sept. 16, 2022. The People First Center is a leader development laboratory that works to reinforce healthy organizational culture.

Sgt. Edward Gathman, of 2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery Regiment, is welcomed home by his wife, Courtney, at Thompson Field in Flowood, Mississippi, Feb. 27, 2019. Gathman, of Brandon, was part of a contingent of the Mississippi Army National Guards 155th Armored Brigade Combat Team returning home after serving in Kuwait in support of Operation Spartan Shield for approximately one year. The arrivals, with Soldiers from various brigade subordinate units, are a portion of a series of flights that will return brigade Soldiers home through the end of March 2019.

Soldiers like Specialist Michael Glass, a cavalry scout with Troop B, 108th Cavalry bid farewell to family and loved ones at a departure ceremony at the units armory in Canton, Ga. Nov. 26, 2018. Troop B, and other units of the Georgia Army National Guards 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team are in the final stages of preparation for their deployment to Afghanistan.Georgia National Guard

More than 600 personnel from the Idaho National Guards largest unit deployed August 9 and 10 in support of Operation Spartan Shield in Southwest Asia. The 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Teams Task Force Rattler trained for more than two years in anticipation of this mobilization. Idaho Soldiers will comprise nearly 65 percent of the task force during this rotation, and will include other Soldiers from Montana, Ohio, Oregon and South Carolina. OSS is a joint mission under the United States Central Command and is part of Operation Enduring Freedom. OSS is an ongoing operation and supported primarily by Army National Guard combat units from across the country. The deployment is anticipated to last approximately 12 months and is the second rotation the 116th CBCT is supporting. The first task force deployed in November 2021 and will return in October. The Soldiers mobilizing Wednesday will receive 45 days of additional training stateside before deploying overseas.

Sgt. 1st Class Maryann Lujan and Staff Sgt. Benjamin Baca reunite after Baca deployed with the 3631st Signal Company on a 10-month deployment to the Central Command Area of Responsibility in support of Operation Spartan Shield at the Rio Rancho Readiness Center, Nov. 15, 2022. The unit provided communications support to forces across the region.

A U.S. Army soldier assigned to the 142nd Area Support Medical Company, Connecticut Army National Guard, holds another soldier from the Connecticut Army National Guard in an embrace at the Connecticut Army National Guard Army Aviation Support Facility in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, Sept. 8, 2022. The 142nd ASMC previously spent the past nine months deployed to Poland providing medical care in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve.

Family and friends welcome deployers home, Oct. 19, 2020, at Army Aviation Support Facility, Tusla, Okla. Soldiers from Bravo Company, 834th Aviation Support Battalion, 90th Troop Command, Oklahoma Army National Guard, returned from a 12 month deployment, where they provided support to the 34th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade, Minnesota National Guard, in the Central Command area of operations. (Oklahoma Air National Guard

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. William Dowd, from the 158th Fighter Wing, returns home to Vermont Air National Guard Base after a four-month deployment to the Pacific, Oct. 19, 2015. Theater Security Packages to the Asian-Pacific show the U.S. commitment to the regional security and stability for disaster relief, global situational awareness, combating piracy, active defense and power projection.

A Soldier assigned to 2nd Squadron, 107th Cavalry Regiment says goodbye to a family member following the units call to duty ceremony Sept. 22, 2022, at the Dayton Masonic Center in Dayton, Ohio. Elements of the Ohio Army National Guards 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team conducted call to duty ceremonies for their units in advance of an approximately yearlong deployment in support of Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve.

Command Sgt. Maj. Caron Hill, senior enlisted advisor, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, III Corps, congratulates Sgt. 1st Class Amanda Hoover, outgoing deputy commandant for the III Corps and Fort Hood People First Center, during a change of responsibility ceremony at Fort Hood, Texas, Sept. 16, 2022. The People First Center is a leader development laboratory that works to reinforce healthy organizational culture.

More than 600 personnel from the Idaho National Guards largest unit deployed August 9 and 10 in support of Operation Spartan Shield in Southwest Asia. The 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Teams Task Force Rattler trained for more than two years in anticipation of this mobilization. Idaho Soldiers will comprise nearly 65 percent of the task force during this rotation, and will include other Soldiers from Montana, Ohio, Oregon and South Carolina. OSS is a joint mission under the United States Central Command and is part of Operation Enduring Freedom. OSS is an ongoing operation and supported primarily by Army National Guard combat units from across the country. The deployment is anticipated to last approximately 12 months and is the second rotation the 116th CBCT is supporting. The first task force deployed in November 2021 and will return in October. The Soldiers mobilizing Wednesday will receive 45 days of additional training stateside before deploying overseas.

Brig. Gen. David Manfredi, director of joint staff for the Vermont National Guard, hugs his daughter, Capt. Hailey Manfredi, after giving her flowers during his retirement ceremony May 26, 2022, at Camp Johnson, Vermont. General Manfredi retired May 26 after more than 30 years of service, including assignments as commander of the 124th Regiment (Regional Training Institute) and commander of the 3-172nd Infantry (Mountain). He deployed to Afghanistan twice in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

U.S. Army National Guard 1st Sgt. Miche'al Strayhorn is advanced to sergeant major during a ceremony at Ike Skelton Training Site, Jefferson City, Missouri, August 4, 2022.She is currently the J1 Directorate Sergeant Major at Joint Force Headquarters, Jefferson City, Missouri.

The Idaho Army National Guard welcomed home, to Boise, nearly 100 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team Soldiers on Nov. 4, 2022, after a yearlong deployment to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Spartan Shield. An additional 100 other Soldiers returned to their communities elsewhere across the state throughout the day. The task force conducted security and stability operations and demonstrated the U.S.s continued commitment to deterring adversaries while supporting regional allies. The task force was relieved in October by another 116th CBCT-led task force, including more than 600 Idaho Soldiers, who are expected to return next year.

Staff Sgt. Emma Covault, a motor transportation specialist with the 1133rd Transportation Company, 734th Regional Support Group, Iowa Army National Guard, hugs her daughter at the welcome home ceremony held at the Waterloo Regional Airport, Waterloo, Iowa, Sept. 1, 2023. The dedicated men and women of the 1133rd Transportation Company, based in Mason City and Iowa City, demonstrated unwavering commitment and professionalism throughout their deployment.

Nearly 50 Utah Guard members from Detachment 2, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), returned from an 11-month deployment to Iraq at the Wright Air Base Friday, Nov. 18, 2016

A U.S. Marine with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), embraces his spouse upon return to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar after a deployment aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, Aug. 11 2022. The historic deployment marked the first U.S. Marine Corps F-35C squadron deployed aboard a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier and further assures 3rd MAWs commitment to providing fixed wing fighter aircraft for deployment as a part of the U.S. Navy carrier air wings, deploying regularly across the Indo-Pacific region.

Family and friends congratulate Lt. Col. Todd Hudson, 152nd Airlift Wing Chief of Safety and Nevada Air National Guard C-130 navigator, as Hudson finishes his final flight at the Nevada Air National Guard Base, Reno, Nev., June 25, 2022. Hudson is set to become the Air Force Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) commander at North Valleys High School in Reno.

040407-M-7837W-011. Base: Naval Air Station, Belle Chasse State: Louisiana (LA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Soldiers from the Idaho Army National Guards 1st of the 168th General Support Aviation Battalion mobilized today from Gowen Field, Boise, to Fort Hood, Texas, for training and will deploy to Afghanistan this spring in support of Operation Freedoms Sentinel. During the 12-month deployment the unit will provide medical evacuation support. This is the eighth time in a decade that Idaho Army National Guard aviation units have deployed in support of overseas combat operations.

Cadets Shane Henderson and Justin Collado celebrate completing the final event of the Sandhurst Military Skills Competition on April 30, 2022. After two intense days of competition, the Cadets competed in the final challenge, called The Crucible.” Cadet teams were tasked with physical and mental obstacles while relocating heavy gear and rescuing two combat casualties. The Sandhurst Military Skills Competition is an annual event hosted by the United States Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., featuring colleges from around the United States and world fighting for the title of being the best military program in the world. | Photo by Sarah Windmueller, U.S. Army Cadet Command Public Affairs

Marines with Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, embrace their families for the first time after the Family Day ceremony on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. Dec 1, 2022. The Marines were released to spend time with their friends and families.

WFA00: Return Dutch Eund Troops 14JUN2001 The first Dutch Mariniers returned from their mission in Eritrea and Ethiopia on Thursday 14 June. The Dutch have contributed to the United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea in the last six months (ENME). In total, around 1500 soldiers of all armed forces participated in an eye. Spread over a period of ten days, the soldiers return to their parts in the Netherlands. The first detachment that returned consisted of 150 marines and support staff from the Charlie-Compagnie. This unit has carried out various tasks from its basic location May Mine in Eritrea. In the Van Braam Houckgeestkazerne in Doorn, the soldiers could reunite themselves with family members and friends. WFA / Str.HK / Hennie Keersis Note: The description with this photo is the original description by the photographer. At a later stage this description will be revised if necessary. Return Dutch Eund Troups WFA00: Return Dutch Eundions 14JUN2001The first Dutch Marines returned

Senior Master Sgt. Richard Bailey, 117th Air Refueling Wing, Emergency Manager, retires after 36 years of service at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Ala. May 15, 2022. Bailey started his career in Communications and for the past 14 years served as the Emergency Manager for the Civil Engineering squadron. He was instramental in responding to multiple man-made and natural disaster relief efforts, including the recent COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 500 Airmen assigned to the 320th Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, August 31-Sept 1, 2022. Brig. Gen. Randy P. Oakland, Director of Operations and Communications, Headquarters Air Education and Training Command, JBSA-Randolph, Texas, reviewed the ceremony.

U.S. Soldiers with the 228th Engineer Company, 337th Engineer Battalion, 55th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, arrive home after a nine-month deployment to the Middle East. They arrived at Harrisburg International Airport and were driven to Fort Indiantown Gap where they were reunited with their loved ones. They were also greeted by senior Pennsylvania National Guard leaders including Maj. Gen. Mark McCormack, commander of the 28th Infantry Division, and Brig. Gen. Laura McHugh, Deputy Adjutant General-Army.

U.S. Army Spc. James DeBisschop, a health care specialist assigned to the 142nd Area Support Medical Company, Connecticut Army National Guard, hugs his father, John DeBisschop, at the Connecticut Army National Guard Army Aviation Support Facility in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, Sept. 8, 2022. The 142nd ASMC previously spent the past nine months deployed to Poland providing medical care in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve.

Family and friends greet redeploying members assigned to the 355th Wing and 563rd Rescue Group on the flight line at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Oct. 8, 2022. The members returned home to their families after a deployment overseas.

060331-N-8907D-046. Base: Little Creek State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220701-N-DE439-1126 NAVAL STATION ROTA, Spain (July 1, 2022) Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 2nd Class Jose Vargas is greeted by his daughter as the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) returns to Naval Station Rota, Spain, July 1, 2022. Porter 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.

Patricia Izzea Auerbach, U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Joseph G. Izzeas sister, attends the rededication of Izzea Street in a ceremony on Otis Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts, Sept. 1, 2023. Auerbach traveled from Pennsylvania with her family to visit the street named after her brother, lost his life in an aircraft collision in 1958 while flying a training mission out of Otis Air Force Base. (Air National Guard

SAN DIEGO (Sept. 3, 2020) Operations Specialist 1st Class Andrew Eischen, a Sailor assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115), kisses his wife following Rafael Peraltas successful completion of a seven-and-a-half-month deployment. The ship operated in the U.S. 7th Fleets area of responsibility in support of security and stability initiatives in the Indo-Pacific.

Moments before getting into line for out processing for deployment in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, members of the 128th Air Refueling Wing, General Mitchell Field, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, embrace and say goodbye to loved ones. Once in line they will not see each other until they return from their mission, that could be a couple of months. Operation ENDURING FREEDOM is in support of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT), fighting terrorism abroad. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: General Mitchell Angb, Milwaukee State: Wisconsin (WI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Airmen with the 177th Fighter Wing, New Jersey Air National Guard, are reunited with their families at the Atlantic City Air National Guard Base, N.J., Aug. 3, 2021. During the more than four-month deployment, the Airmen supported U.S. Central Command operations in the Middle East. (New Jersey National Guard

120902-N-GL340-160 PEARL HARBOR (Sept. 2, 2012) Musician 3rd Class Steve Lamonica assigned to the U.S. Pacific Fleet band aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) reunites with his wife and daughter after completing Pacific Partnership 2012. Mercy is in Pearl Harbor to drop off several partner nations and other crew on its way back to San Diego after the completion of Pacific Partnership 2012. Now in its seventh year, Pacific Partnership is an annual U.S. Pacific Fleet humanitarian and civic assistance mission U.S. military, host and partner nations, non-governmental organizations and international agencies designed to build stronger relationships and disaster response capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region.

A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, apprehends a simulated protestor during a simulated embassy reinforcement exercise on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Dec 6, 2022. Embassy reinforcement exercises validate Marines on how and when to react to non-lethal situations and enhance combat readiness. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premiere crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

USS Harry S. Truman arrives at their homeport of Naval Station Norfolk after a 10 month deployment, Sept. 12, 2022. Truman Sailors were met by over 8,000 friends and family members waiting pierside.

North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) Soldiers of the 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team reunite with friends, family and fellow Soldiers at the NCNGs Readiness Center in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Aug. 6, 2020. The Soldiers are home after a year-long deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Spartan Shield.

030608-M-5888P-009. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Cpl. Roen Algea, chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear specialist, Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA(AW)) 533, Marine Aircraft Group 31, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, greets his family during a homecoming at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Oct. 5, 2022. VMFA(AW)-533 returned from the Unit Deployment Program which provides forward presence and assists commanders around the globe.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Oct. 13, 2022) - Cmdr. Beth Nelson, commanding officer of the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), reunites with her family on the pier after the ship returned to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story following a deployment with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), Oct. 13. More than 4,000 Sailors and Marines assigned to the Kearsarge ARG supported a wide range of interoperability opportunities and exercises across the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations increasing combat readiness and crisis response capabilities while strengthening relationships with both NATO Allies and partners.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Oct. 13, 2022) - Cmdr. Beth Nelson, commanding officer of the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), reunites with her family on the pier after the ship returned to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story following a deployment with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), Oct. 13. More than 4,000 Sailors and Marines assigned to the Kearsarge ARG supported a wide range of interoperability opportunities and exercises across the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations increasing combat readiness and crisis response capabilities while strengthening relationships with both NATO Allies and partners.

Paratroopers across the 82nd Airborne Division finish the 12 mile road march, complete a weapons test, and recieve their E3B on Fort Bragg, NC, April 7, 2023. 371 Paratroopers and Soldiers across multiple units and locations successfully completed E3B.

TSgt. Severin Stalmarck , an airman with the 176th Security Forces Squadron, embraces his son at Ted Stevens-Anchorage International Airport upon his return from Kandahar, Afghanistan on June 22, 2020. 12 AKNG Airmen deployed in support of Operation Freedom Sentinel, a NATO-led continuation of the Global War on Terrorism.

An Airman assigned to the 335th Fighter Squadron reunites with his family after returning from a deployment at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, Oct. 15, 2022. After six months deployed, the Airmen were welcomed back to Seymour Johnson AFB by their families and friends.

U.S. Air Force Col. Allison Black, 1st Special Operations Wing commander, hugs SEAC Ramón Colón-López, Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, before attending the Talon 13 Remembrance Ceremony Aug. 5, 2022 at Hurlburt Field, Florida. During his visit, the SEAC attended the Talon 13 Remembrance Ceremony, visited AFSOC Headquarters and 24th Special Operations Wing, had lunch with Airmen, and hosted an All-Call. The SEAC serves as the 4th Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the most senior enlisted service member, by position, in the United States Armed Forces, and the principal military advisor to the Chairman on all matters involving joint and combined total force integration, utilization, health of the force, and joint development for enlisted personnel.

Staff Sgt. Michael Reynolds, 374th Security Forces Squadron flight sergeant, left, and Senior Airman Wyatt Moore, 374th Security Forces Squadron base defense leader, right, arrest a simulated intruder during a gate runner training scenario at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Oct.13, 2022. The training scenario was part of the Samurai Readiness Inspection Exercise, which is aimed at testing 374th Airlift Wing Airmens capabilities to respond at a moments notice.

APRA HARBOR, Guam (April 25, 2013) A Sailor assigned to the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Chicago (SSN 721) greets his family as Chicago returns to Apra Harbor, Guam, after completing its first mission as part of Commander, Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) 15. Chicago was out to sea for seven weeks conducting operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

PEARL HARBOR (May 30, 2013) Chief Electronics Technician Chris Ghramm hugs his wife for the first hug while Cmdr. Caleb Kerr, commanding officer walks off the brow following the return of the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Bremerton (SSN 698) to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam after completing a deployment to the western Pacific region.

041229-F-7564C-040. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Fort Bragg State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Sgt. Sara Hayes, signal support systems sergeant for Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 180th Cavalry Regiment, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, embraces a loved one during a welcome home ceremony at the Mustang High School Football Stadium Tuesday, Sept. 25, in Mustang, Oklahoma. Troopers from 1st Squadron, 180th Cavalry Regiment, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, returned from 9-month deployment to Kabul in support of the NATO-led train, advise and assist Resolute Support Mission and the U.S.-led Operation Freedoms Sentinel.

040119-M-3843C-004. Base: Mcas, Beaufort State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: VMFA 224

110511-N-QY430-031NORFOLK (May 11, 2011) Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Roland Swain, assigned to the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68), kisses his wife goodbye before the shipÕs departure from Naval Station Norfolk. Anzio is deploying as part of the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (April 17, 2014) Lt. Will Carey, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32, is reunited with his wife and daughter during a homecoming celebration at Naval Air Station Oceana after a nine-month deployment. Deployed as part of Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group,VFA-32 participated in Operation Enduring Freedom and several multinational exercises in support of maritime security operations.

U.S Army Soldier from 330th Movement Control Battalion plays with son after deployment on Fort Bragg, N.C 12th Dec. The 330th Movement Control Battalion completed a nine-month deployment to EUCOM in support of Atlantic Resolve.

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (Nov. 4, 2022) Friends, family members, and loved ones embrace Sailors with the 64th Annual Recruit Cardinal Division following a pass-in-review graduation ceremony inside Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall at Recruit Training Command, Nov. 4, 2022. Cardinal Division is named after the St. Louis Cardinals, who have sponsored one division per year since 1958, and is the U.S. Navys longest-running special recruit division.

001018-N-6097C-002. Base: Naval Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William Jurney, left, pass a microphone to Brig. Gen. Anthony Henderson to give a speech during the 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 20, 2022. During the ceremony Brig. Gen. Anthony Henderson relinquished his command of the 2d MEB to Col. Nicholas Davis.

The first groups of Virginia National Guard Soldiers assigned to the Fort Belvoir-based 29th Infantry Division return to Virginia July 10, 2017, after serving on federal active duty since November 2016. The Soldiers served in the Middle East in support of Task Force Spartan Shield as the first intermediate division headquarters under U.S. Army Central Command. Senior leaders from state government and the Virginia National Guard greeted Soldiers when they arrived at Dulles Airport, then the Soldiers reunited with family, friends and fellow Soldiers at Fort Belvoir and Sandston. During the deployment, the 29th ID Soldiers provided mission command for joint training exercises and military-to-military engagements with partner nations to promote regional stability and theater security cooperation. A formal transfer of authority is scheduled for July 13, and the remaining 29th ID Soldiers will return after that.

Soldiers from the 75th Field Artillery Brigade, 2nd Battalion, 18th Field Artillery Regiment redeployed at Fort Sill Feb. 5 and 7 after they spent about a month at the National Training Center in Fort Irwin, California for an Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercise.

Culinary Specialist (Submarine) 1st Class Antonio Williams, assigned to the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Albany (SSN 753), greets his wife, Nakiya, with the traditional first kiss during the boats homecoming to Naval Station Norfolk, May 14, 2022. Albany returned following a six-month deployment that supported national security interests and maritime security operations at sea.

FORT HOOD, Texas - U.S. Army 1st Lt. Cole Hillis, a signal officer assigned to III Armored Corps Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, salutes a dedication to the victims of 9/11 during a 9/11 memorial ceremony at Fort Hood, Texas, on Sept. 9, 2022. The dedication contained photos of the tragedy as well as a wreath of flowers.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Oct. 13, 2022) - Cmdr. Beth Nelson, commanding officer of the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), embraces her daughter on the pier after the ship returned to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story following a deployment with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), Oct. 13. More than 4,000 Sailors and Marines assigned to the Kearsarge ARG supported a wide range of interoperability opportunities and exercises across the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations increasing combat readiness and crisis response capabilities while strengthening relationships with both NATO Allies and partners.

An Airman, who deployed to the 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron hugs a loved one upon returning to Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, Oct. 3, 2022. The 816th EAS provided global strategic airlift, airdrop, aeromedical evacuation, and humanitarian relief across Southwest Asia and the Middle East.

Spc. John Liddle, 108th MP Company(Abn), performs the first obstacle, kneeing the training pad, during LEOC training after being sprayed in the eyes with pepper spray.

020520-F-9916S-007. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: General Mitchell Iap/Ars State: Wisconsin (WI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Capt. Vaughn Campbell, a pilot assigned to the 50th Air Refueling Squadron, is welcomed home by his wife, Lea Campell, at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, June 6, 2022. The Airmen returned home to MacDill following a six-month deployment where they were tasked to deliver coalition air power and support to secure and stabilize the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

A sailor and his wife embrace during their reunion on the pier. Five ships of the aircraft carrier USS SARATOGA (CV-60) battle group are returning to Mayport today after serving in the Persian Gulf region during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD DESERT STORM Base: Naval Station, Mayport State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A pilot from Fighter Squadron 102 (VF-102) is reunited with a loved one following his squadron's arrival at the station with other aircraft of Carrier Air Wing 1 (CVW-1). The wing, stationed aboard the aircraft carrier USS AMERICA (CV-66), has returned to Oceana following deployment in the Persian Gulf area during Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Base: Naval Air Station, Oceana State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Dustin Jeardoe, a canvassing recruiter with Recruiting Substation Lancaster, Recruiting Station Harrisburg, is promoted at the Columbia River Park, Columbia, Pennsylvania, Dec. 5, 2022. The rank of staff sergeant is the first Staff Noncommissioned Officer rank in the U.S. Marine Corps, responsible for the proficiency, training and administration of Marines in their charge.

Approximately 60 Soldiers returned home from deployment in the Middle East to the Salt Lake Air National Guard Base on July 28, 2018.

A new U.S. Marine from Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, is greeted by a loved one after a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Nov. 18, 2022. Graduation took place at the completion of the 13-week transformation, which included training for drill, marksmanship, basic combat skills, and Marine Corps customs and traditions.

020614-F-1789V-004. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Frank Palfrey, right, crew chief with the 28th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade, Pennsylvania National Guard assists a flood victim out of a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter at Florence Regional Airport at Florence, South Carolina, Sept. 20, 2018.

Soldiers from the California National Guards San Bernadino-based 1-185th Infantry Regiment arrived home at Los Angeles International Airport today, Oct. 15, 2022, after a one-year deployment to Poland. During their deployment, the 1-185th was part of Battlegroup Poland, a NATO lead operation that enforces NATO and a multinational military presence in Northeastern Europe. Their specific mission was to train with other nations to demonstrate an alliance and the ability to respond as one force against any potential aggression.

Retail Services Specialist 1st Class Myron Doulet, left, assigned to the supply department of the world's largest aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), greets family upon returning from the ships eight-month maiden deployment, Jan. 17, 2024. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) completed a scheduled deployment in U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations, demonstrating the commitment and power projection capability of the Navys globally deployed force.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Mark D. Camerer, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center commander, embraces Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Green, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center Command Chief, on May 18, 2022, at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. Camerer is a Command Pilot with more than 3,800 total flight hours and more than 745 combat and combat support flight hours in the C-17A and KC-135A/R/Q aircraft. The fini flight is an Air Force tradition marking pilots' departure from a unit, or their final flight prior to departing a flying unit, separating or retiring from the Air Force.

000818-N-0872M-512. Base: Naval Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

French Army Marechal des Logis Sarah Biatz, Aito instructor, Marine Infantry Regiment in French Polynesia, French Armed Forces, pins U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Leonardo Macedo Jr., accounting chief, Comptroller, Headquarters and Service and Battalion (HQSVCBN), U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (MARFORPAC), during the Aito Course Pinning Ceremony in Taravao, Tahiti, French Polynesia, Sept. 9, 2022. The event provided a bilateral training opportunity between the French Armed Forces and Marines with MARFORPAC. The nine Marines and Sailor from HQSVCBN participated in the bilateral training with the French Armed Forces in order to strengthen relationships with the region. The courses name comes from the Tahitian word aito, which means warrior.

A crew member from the destroyer USS HARRY W. HILL (DD-986 ) is reunited with a loved one following his ship's return to the station. The destroyer has returned from a WestPac deployment and service in the Persian Gulf area during Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Base: Naval Air Station, San Diego State: California(CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A petty officer embraces his wife as they are reunited aboard the frigate USS ELMER MONTGOMERY (FF-1082). The ELMER MONTGOMERY has returned to Mayport after serving in the Persian Gulf region during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD DESERT STORM Base: Naval Station, Mayport State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

More than 600 Airmen assigned to the 320th Training Squadron graduated from Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, July 7-8, 2022. Col. Catherine Barrington, 90th Missile Wing commander, reviewed the ceremony.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Christopher Basinger, 86th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, right, gives water to Airman 1st Class Paul Kreiner, 86th Comptroller Squadron financial analyst, during the Norwegian Foot March at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Nov. 5, 2022. The objective of the Norwegian Foot March is to successfully ruck 18.6 miles with a total of 25 pounds on their back. Multiple checkpoints were placed along the route to provide the participants with refreshments and aid if needed.

U.S. Airmen with the Indiana Air National Guard return home to waiting family and loved ones July 27, 2018, at the 122nd Fighter Wing in Fort Wayne, Ind. The Blacksnakes deployed approximately 300 Airmen along with their squadron of A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft to Afghanistan for over three months in support of Operation Freedoms Sentinel.

SIENNA MILLER and BRADLEY COOPER in AMERICAN SNIPER (2014), directed by CLINT EASTWOOD.

041024-N-7397A-044. Base: Naval Station, San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

050728-A-5930C-007. Base: Mosul Country: Iraq (IRQ)

The Rhode Island Army National Guard and approximately 400 loved ones, welcomed home more than 100 soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment after a ten-month deployment to Kosovo, Feb. 17, 2024, at Quonset Air National Guard Base, North Kingstown, RI. They were deployed in support of Operation Joint Guardian, a NATO peacekeeping mission under the Kosovo Force (KFOR). KFORs mission is to provide a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement in Kosovo in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1244. Army National Guard

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jason Fox, Martial Arts Instructor (MAI) Course trainer and MAI course student, celebrate the end of a culminating event at Courthouse Bay on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, April 21, 2022. The MAI course is a three-week course designed to prepare Marines to teach and instruct the fundamentals of hand-to-hand combat.

060502-N-5055G-066. Base: Naval Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force Roger A. Towberman hugs Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass during the 2022 Air Force Sergeants Association Professional Education & Development Symposium, in San Antonio, Aug. 16, 2022. During the symposium, Airmen were able to hear from past and present Air Force leaders.

U.S. Army Spc. Enmanuel Lara, a M1 Armored Vehicle Crew Member, assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 70th Armor Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, presented a single red rose to the daughter of the outgoing 2nd Bn., 70th Armor Regt., 2ABCT, 1st Inf. Div., commander, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Kelvin N. Robinson. Ms. Robinson, daughter of Lt. Col. Kelvin N. Robinson, was presented a rose for her devotion and loyal support of the Soldiers and the Families of the regiment for the last two years during a change of command ceremony at the Fort Riley, Kansas, Cavalry Parade Field, June 16th, 2022.

250 New York National Guard Soldiers assigned to the Harlem Hellfighters 369th Sustainment Brigade said goodbye to their families for a year during a farewell ceremony 9 a.m. Sept. 18, 2022, at Camp Smith Training Site, Cortlandt Manor NY. The Soldiers of the 369th Sustainment Brigade will be deploying to Kuwait for a sustainment operations mission.

Pensacola, FL - NIOC Pensacola's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) committee hosted a giveback for its Sailors; MWR members handed out bags of candy while canvasing Sailors about ideas for MWR events for 2024.

Disaster Assistance Response Teams (DART) - Return - 26-HK-118-85. Hurricane Katrina

060706-N-3570S-206. Base: Naval Air Station, North Island State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: FLEET COMBAT CAMERA GROUP PACIFI

The 7th Army Training Command (7ATC), Headquarters and Headquarters Company, hosts a Change of Responsibility Ceremony at the Tower View Conference Center in Grafenwoehr, Germany, 19 Jan. 2024. Outgoing 1st Sgt. Joshua Taylor relinquished his responsibility to incoming 1st Sgt. Trey Gullick.

SAN DIEGO (March 1, 2019) Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Tre Francisco, from Suffolk, Virginia, greets his wife and meets his newborn son for the first time upon returning from deployment, March 1, 2019, aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Anchorage (LPD 23). Anchorage, with embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), is returning from a deployment to the western Pacific and Middle East. The U.S. Navy has patrolled the Indo-Pacific region routinely for more than 70 years promoting peace and security.

More than 200 Airmen from the Vermont Air National Guard's 158th Fighter Wing returned from a three month deployment to Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, in support of ongoing NATO missions over Europe, Vermont Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vt., Aug. 6, 2022. This marked the return of all Vermonters who were deployed to Europe over the the previous three months.

Captain Kevin R. Smith, outgoing commander of the Monroe, Ga.-based 178th Military Police Company kneels on the concrete floor of the George J. Hearn Armory, presents a ring, and asks Brittany Walker to be his wife. The formation of Soldiers erupts in applause when she says yes.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Troy Taylor was appointed the twelfth Ohio state command chief for the Ohio Air National Guard during a change of authority ceremony on September 10, 2022, at Robert S. Beightler Armory in Columbus, Ohio. Maj. Gen. James Camp, the Assistant Adjutant General for Air, Ohio National Guard, performed the ceremony as Taylor accepted authority from the previous state command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Heidi Bunker.

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