Troop Formations and Ceremonies

Images featuring large formations and military ceremonies, emphasizing discipline and tradition within U.S. Armed Forces.

U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers with Company A, 1-118th Infantry Battalion, South Carolina National Guard, stand in formation during a deployment ceremony at the Moncks Corner Armory in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, Aug. 7, 2022. More than 130 Soldiers from the unit will be mobilized for approximately a year to support Operation Spartan Shield, Task Force Spartan and U.S. Army Central Command.

U.S. Army Col. Kevin J. Lambert, deputy commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, speaks briefly to Soldiers assigned to 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd ID, before dismissing them to rejoin their Families during a redeployment ceremony at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Aug. 29, 2022. The 1st ABCT Soldiers deployed to Germany to assure allies and deter Russian aggression while also supporting a range of other requirements in the area.

A formation of 374th Medical Group Airmen welcome Col. Gregory Richert with a first salute during a change of command ceremony for the 374th Medical Group at Yokota Air Base, Japan, June 21, 2023. Richert assumed command of the 374th MDG from Col. Brad Brough. The change of command ceremony is a tradition dating back to the Roman era, where military leaders would pass batons, colors, standards, or ensigns that symbolized the passing of command to subordinates in attendance, and ensured unit members were never without official leadership or a continuation of trust.

US Army General George A. Joulwan (right), Supreme Allied Commander Europe, passes the Implementation Forces (IFOR) guide on to US Army General William W. Crouch (left), the new commander-in-chief of NATO-led Peace IFOR, signifying the transfer of authority to Allied Land Forces Central Europe. The ceremony was held at the Sarajevo Airport, Bosnia and Herzegovina in support of Operation JOINT ENDEAVOR. Seated in the front row and seen to the left of the military leaders are Presidents Momcilo Krajisnik (left), and Kresimir Zubak (right), of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT ENDEAVOR Base: Sarajevo Country: Bosnia And/I Herzegovina (BIH)

U.S. Army Pacific Commanding General, Gen. Charles A. Flynn, shakes a U.S. Army Pacific Soldier from FSM May 7 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The meeting provided a venue to address their shared commitment, reinforced trust and deepen ties to foster a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. 1st Class Monik Phan)

U.S. Air Force Col. Cory Damon, 6th Air Refueling Wing vice commander, greets a Ukrainian athlete on the flightline at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Aug. 17, 2022. More than 60 Ukrainian athletes, families, coaches, caregivers, and staff traveled to MacDill AFB en route to Orlando where theyll compete in the 2022 Department of Defense Warrior Games held at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, August 19 to 28. The Warrior Games consists of nearly 300 wounded, ill, and injured active duty service members and veterans who will participate in a series of adaptive sporting events and represent the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Special Operations Command. The DOD Warrior Games is a celebration of not only U.S. service members, but those of international teams. Warrior athletes from Canada and Ukraine will compete in this year's events.

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass, speaks with an airman attending Airman Leadership school at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, August 4, 2022. ALS is the first level of Professional Military Education enlisted Airmen experience. It is designed to be an entry-level leadership enhancement course to prepare senior airmen for positions of greater responsibility by strengthening their ability to lead, follow, and manage while also gaining a broader understanding of the military profession and their role within the Air and Space Forces. Bass emphasized the importance of this course and the role leaders play in developing a stronger and more resilient Air Force.

U.S. Army Soldiers of the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New Jersey Army National Guard, march in during the 44th IBCTs farewell ceremony at the Cure Insurance Arena, Trenton, New Jersey, Jan. 14, 2024. More than 1,500 NJARNG Soldiers will deploy in support of U.S. Central Commands Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve. CJTF-OIR advises, assists, and enables partnered forces until they can independently defeat Islamic State of Iraq and Syria - ISIS - in designated areas of Iraq and Syria, in order to set conditions for long-term security cooperation frameworks. It is the largest deployment of New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers since 2008. (New Jersey National Guard

020405-F-6742S-226. Base: Eielson Air Force Base State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: PACAF

Maj. Gen. Anthony R. Hale, Fort Huachuca and USAICoE commanding general, speaks at USAICoE's Distinguished Instructor of the Year Awards Ceremony.

040226-M-5607G-002. Base: Mcas, Cherry Point State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Soldiers with the 102nd Cavalry Regiment, 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New Jersey Army National Guard, initiates their deployment at the 102nd Cavalry Regiments fairwell ceremony at the Westfield Armory, Westfield, New Jersey, on Jan. 14, 2024. More than 1,500 NJARNG Soldiers will deploy in support of U.S. Central Commands Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve. CJTF-OIR advises, assists, and enables partnered forces until they can independently defeat Islamic State of Iraq and Syria - ISIS - in designated areas of Iraq and Syria, in order to set conditions for long-term security cooperation frameworks. It is the largest deployment of New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers since 2008.

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to Bravo Troop, 3rd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division (3-6 CAV) render a salute during a change of command ceremony at Lielvārde, Latvia, Oct. 10, 2022. The 3-6 CAV is among other units assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

Staff Sgt. Julian Gaitor, Spc. Tyler McGinnis and Pfc. Patrick Sullivan, an M2A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle crew assigned to 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, present themselves as the Bradley crew representing the 3rd ID for the Sullivan Cup during the opening ceremony on Fort Benning, Georgia, May 2, 2022. The competition highlights the importance of mastering the fundamentals that we must preserve as a fighting force to maintain a lethal edge over our potential adversaries, using both tanks, and for the first time, Bradleys.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Corey Martin, 18th Air Force Commander (right) and Lt. Col. Daniel Naske (center), 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron Commander, case the units colors during an inactivation ceremony Sept. 30, 2022 at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. The squadrons flag is rolled up, then covered by a sleeve to symbolize the conclusion of squadron operations.

President Barack Obama visits with a platoon of U.S. troops at Bagram Air Field in Afghanistan that recently lost six members, Dec. 3, 2010. The President made an overnight trip to visit troops in Afghanistan.

Gen. Joseph Lengyel, chief of the National Guard Bureau, speaks to several members of the Tennessee National Guard May 20, 2020 at Berry Field Air National Guard Base, Nashville, Tennessee. Lengyel visited the 118th Wing to learn how Airmen conducted their federal missions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

030725-F-1851U-005. Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

Guests salute for the national anthem during the change of responsibility for the chief of space operations at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Nov. 2, 2022. Gen. Chance Saltzman relieved Gen. John W. Jay Raymond as the second CSO, the senior uniformed officer heading the Space Force.

Col. Michael Story (center), incoming commander, receives the Weed Army Community Hospital colors from Brig. Gen. E. Darrin Cox, commanding general of Regional Health Command - Central, July 6, during a change of command ceremony at Weed ACH on Fort Irwin, Calif. (Photo by Kimberly Hackbarth/ Fort Irwin Public Affairs Office)

Col. David Shevchik, commander of the 158th Fighter Wing, presents a Meritorious Service Medal to outgoing Command Chief Master Sgt. Jeffrey Stebbins during the command chief master sergeant assumption of authority ceremony at the Vermont Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vermont, June 4, 2022. Chief Master Sgt. Adrianne Schulz, the new command chief of the 158th Fighter Wing, has become the first female command chief in the seven decade history of the Vermont Air National Guard.

West Virginia Army National Guard Col. Mark B. Houck relinquished command of the Army Interagency Training and Education Center (AITEC) to Lt. Col. Gina M. Nichols during a ceremony at AITEC headquarters in St. Albans, West Virginia, Aug. 9, 2022. From left to right are pictures: Col. Mark B. Houck, Brig. Gen. Gene Holt, Lt. Col. Gina M. Nichols, Maj. Gen. William Crane.

A U.S. Marine with Service Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, addresses the head table during the mess night on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, May 27, 2022. Mess night is a time-honored tradition where Marines gather to share in the Corps customs and courtesies and build camaraderie and esprit de corps. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Force's comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

Lt. Gen. Maria R. Gervais, deputy commanding general and chief of staff for U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, hands 3rd Military Police Group (CID) colors to Col. Christine Whitmer,701st Military Police Group Criminal Investigation Division, during a transfer of authority, July 8. Col. Russ Stewart with 3rd MPG transferred authority to 701st MPG as the Army is restructuring the organization.

U.S. Air Force Col. Humberto Pabon Jr., the 156th Wing commander, receives his first salute from Airmen with the Puerto Rico Air National Guard during the 156th Wing change of command ceremony at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, Oct. 15, 2022. The change of command ceremony took place during the October regularly scheduled drill.

1st Lt. Nancy Mock, 138 FW Judge Advocate, speaks at her officer pinning ceremony at the Tulsa Air National Guard Base, Okla., Oct. 2, 2022. Judge advocates handle a large range of possible legal issues including international law, operations law, environmental law and military and civilian personnel issues. (Photo by Oklahoma Air National Guard Airman 1st Class Alyssa Smalley)

020214-A-7315T-003. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Fort Polk State: Louisiana (LA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: FORSCOM

120114-N-EK905-071 GULF OF ADEN (Jan. 14, 2012) Vice Adm. Mark Fox, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, addresses Sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). Makin Island and embarked Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU), is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Robert W. Hughes, Jr., left, Assistant Adjutant General - Army, takes a photo during the farewell ceremony for the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New Jersey Army National Guard, at the Cure Insurance Arena, Trenton, New Jersey, Jan. 14, 2024. More than 1,500 NJARNG Soldiers will deploy in support of U.S. Central Commands Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve. CJTF-OIR advises, assists, and enables partnered forces until they can independently defeat Islamic State of Iraq and Syria - ISIS - in designated areas of Iraq and Syria, in order to set conditions for long-term security cooperation frameworks. It is the largest deployment of New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers since 2008. (New Jersey National Guard

220406-N-KR702-1037 JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR HICKAM (April 6, 2022) Rear Adm. Stu Satterwhite, Commander, MyNavy Career Center, listens to a question during a meeting with Hawaii-based command leaders aboard Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, April 6. Satterwhite is visiting fleet concentration areas to discuss changes MNCC is implementing to improve Navy pay and personnel processes.

Col. Sam Smith, Fort Polk garrison commander, (center) passes the stole from Chaplain (Col.) Scott Hammond (left)to Chaplain (Col.) Michael Jeffries during a Change of Stole ceremony held at Fort Polks Main Post Chapel July 29.

Astronauts with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration visit deployed service members Jan. 31 on Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan, during an Armed Forces Entertainment tour.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Blaize Dunn gives remarks at the 386th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron change of command ceremony at the base theater at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, June 16, 2022. Lt. Col. Tito Ruiz, incoming commander, 386th ESFS, succeeded Lt. Col. Lee Anderson, outgoing commander, 386th ESFS.

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, conduct an end of the day brief on the United States Naval Ship Dahl (T-AKR 312) during exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Kushiro Port, on Oct. 1, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains. 3rd MLG, based out of Okinawa, Japan, is a forward-deployed combat unit that serves as III Marine Expeditionary Forces comprehensive logistics and combat service support backbone for operations throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.

332d Air Expeditionary Wing leadership and First Sergeants pose alongside First Sergeant Symposium graduates at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, June 21, 2022. A First Sergeant is the eyes and ears of a squadron and serves as a critical link between matters impacting enlisted members and the commander.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger, 38th Commandant of the Marine Corps, poses for a group photo with Marines assigned to CJTF-HOA, Aug. 10 2022. Gen. Berger spent his time learning about the different CJTF-HOA missions, and speaking to Marines.

Lt. Col. Michael J. Esposito assumes command of Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 29th Infantry Division from Lt. Col. John R. Roche during a change of command ceremony Septempber 11, 2022, at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Maj. Gen. John M. Rhodes, commanding general of the 29th Infantry Division, presided over the traditional exchanging of the unit colors that represented the change of command from Roche to Esposito.

U.S. service members assigned to Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), pose for a group photo after being presented their badges during a French Desert Commando Course graduation ceremony at the 5th Overseas Interarms Regiment, Djibouti, June 1, 2022. Members of the CJTF-HOA regularly train and work alongside allies, partners, and government organizations to achieve a unified effort to improve safety, security and prosperity in East Africa.

U.S. Army CW5 Timothy Shrewsbury gets promoted from chief warrant officer 4 to chief warrant officer 5 on Fort Drum, NY Jun 24, 2022. The U.S. Army rank of chief warrant officer 5 is called a "unicorn" rank because it is rarely seen in the Army.

Alpha Company, 46th Aviation Support Battalion, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade hosts a change of command at Evergreen Theater, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., April 29, 2022. Capt. Cameron Blackhurst reliquished command to Capt. Emmanuel Phillips.

Col. Steven Bauman, 341st Security Forces Group commander, pauses at a battlefield cross representing Airman 1st Class Jason Nathan during the Police Week opening ceremony May 16, 2022, at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont. During the ceremony, Bauman told the story of losing Nathan when they were deployed to Iraq together in 2007.

Members of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Combat Team (IBCT), Oregon National Guard after their re-stationing ceremony Oct. 16, 2022, at the 17th Street Armory in Salem, Ore. The company moved from Medford to Salem, culminating with the re-stationing ceremony, celebrating their arrival at a new home armory.

030616-M-5266H-007. Base: An Nasariyah State: Dhi Qar Country: Iraq (IRQ) Scene Major Command Shown: 40599

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Thomas Bussiere, United States Strategic Command deputy commander, presents the Omaha Trophy to the 509th Operations Support Squadron for excellence in strategic bomber execution Aug. 4, 2022, on Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. The Omaha Trophy is an annual award given to the best units in four different categories across the United States Strategic Command.

Soldiers from 4-6 Air Cavalry Squadron, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, currently deployed In the Republic of Korea Assigned to the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, host a Spur Ride, on the 7th-8th of Apr. 2022, Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea. The Spur Ride is an event which tests a soldiers physical and mental strength and the ability to operate as part of a team under high levels of stress.

Our theme for this years symposium is ADA for Army 2030 - Enabling the Maneuver Commander. This theme originates from Air Defenses significant growth and modernization efforts to provide additional capability and capacity to the operational force. Invited speakers include senior leaders of the Army with vast AMD experience to include General James Dickinson, LTG Daniel Karbler, MG Sean Gainey, and the AAMDC Commanders. Additionally, LTG Donahue will provide a Corps Commander's perspective of what capabilities are required from Air Defense Artillery to enable the maneuver force. These discussions will aid in the development of the AMD force for the Army of 2030.

Members of the 204th Army Band play music June 14, 2022, at McCoys Community Center as part of the Army Birthday Celebration at Fort McCoy, Wis. The breakfast was part of many events coordinated by the Fort McCoy Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation to commemorate the 247th birthday of the U.S. Army at Fort McCoy. The day also included a birthday breakfast, a 5k run and walk, free car washes, and more.

040705-M-1158H-021. Base: Marine Corps Base, Camp Foster State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN)

Spc. Robert Stueve of the Kansas Army National Guard asks a question during a town hall meeting with Air Force Gen. Craig McKinley, the chief of the National Guard Bureau, and other National Guard leaders during an Oct. 31, 2009, visit to Multinational Force and Observers on the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The National Guard currently leads the American contribution to the mission to observe, report and verify violations of the 1979 treaty between Egypt and Israel.

Two troops from Scout Troop BSA 4434 observe two Steel Talons Honor Guard members demonstrate a flag folding technique, April 1, 2022, on Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. Engaging with the external community allows Holloman to showcase its capabilities and gives the public a better understanding of the 49th Wings mission.

Graduates of Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor Course (MAIC) 43-24, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations East-Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, congratulate each other after their graduation ceremony on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 16, 2024. The MAIC is designed to test and strengthen the decision making, warfighting skills, leadership qualities and mental and physical fitness of students, who may graduate and become Marine Corps MAIs. Marine Corps

Soldiers and Airmen from the 4/1 Advise and Assist Brigade(AAB) give a shout out to Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates as he met with them during a recent trip to Mosul, Iraq, Apr. 8, 2011. Secretary Gates met with the U.S. and Iraqi leaders, troops and held discussions while taking photos and giving out coins to deployed members during his stay in Iraq.

061209-D-7203T-028. Base: Al Asad Air Base State: Al Anbar Country: Iraq (IRQ)

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistic Battalion 5, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, corporals course, pose for a group photo at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Feb. 5, 2024. Corporals course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become successful small-unit leaders using realistic problem-based situations that a Marine corporal will encounter. Marine Corps

U.S. Army Soldiers with the 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade and Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) conduct pre-deployment drills with the Armed Forces of Djiboutis Bataillon d'Intervention Rapide at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Feb. 22, 2024. The drills, including a visit to the engagement skills trainer facility, were completed in preparation for exercise Justified Accord, led by U.S Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF). JA24 is U.S. Africa Command's largest exercise in East Africa, running from February 26 - March 7. Led by SETAF-AF, and hosted in Kenya, this year's exercise will incorporate personnel and units from 23 nations. This multinational exercise builds readiness for the U.S. joint force, prepares regional partners for UN and AU mandated missions, and increases multinational interoperability in support of humanitarian assistance, disaster response and crisis response. Army

Delta Air Lines and the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals hosted approximately 150 students, ages 13-18, on the airline's 21st annual Dream Flight from Atlanta to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard, Duluth, Minnesota on July 15, 2022. The fighter wing transformed their maintenance hangar into an interactive, educational round robin experience featuring an F-16 fighting falcon, F-16 aircraft maintenance personnel from, explosive ordnance disposal personnel and equipment, and an F-35 Lightning II and personnel from the F-35 Demonstration Team, 388th Fighter Wing.

Stuart H. Talkofsky, retiring 1st Marine Corps District marketing analysis program manager, receives the Navy Civilian Service Commendation Medal at the 1MCD Headquarters, Garden City, New York, Oct. 7, 2022. In 37 years with 1MCD, Talkofsky served 16 different command staffs and aided in the recruitment of more than 200,000 Marines from the northeastern United States.

355th Medical Group Staff Sgt. selects pose for a group photo with their leadership during the Staff Sgt. release party at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Aug. 31, 2022. Selectees celebrated their accomplishments and selection as the Air Forces newest non-commissioned officers with family, friends and coworkers at the party.

Col. Matthew L. Parker assumed command of the U.S. Army Aviation Center Logistics Command from Col. Stephen W. Owen during a change of command ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum on Fort Rucker, Alabama, July 13, 2022.

U.S. Army Soldiers of the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, New Jersey Army National Guard, bow their heads for the invocation at the 44th IBCTs farewell ceremony at the Cure Insurance Arena, Trenton, New Jersey, Jan. 14, 2024. More than 1,500 NJARNG Soldiers will deploy in support of U.S. Central Commands Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve. CJTF-OIR advises, assists, and enables partnered forces until they can independently defeat Islamic State of Iraq and Syria - ISIS - in designated areas of Iraq and Syria, in order to set conditions for long-term security cooperation frameworks. It is the largest deployment of New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers since 2008. (New Jersey National Guard

U.S. Air Force Airmen with the 56th Security Forces Squadron receive a briefing prior to beginning their shift Sept. 29, 2022, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. The brief, also known as guard mount, informs defenders of critical information that they will need to know before starting work.

From left to right, Command Sgt. Maj. Jesus Robles, outgoing senior enlisted advisor of 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division and Command Sgt. Maj. Chad Reynolds, incoming senior enlisted advisor of 2nd Bn., 77th FA Reg., 2SBCT, 4th Inf. Div., stand before the battalion during a change of responsibility ceremony July 29 at Fort Carson, Colo. Change of responsibility ceremonies are a time honored tradition in which a unit transfers responsibility from one senior enlisted advisor to the next.

U.S. Marine Col. Robert S. White, chief of staff of Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (TF 51/5) receives the flag during the reading of Old Glory and passing of the flag at his retirement ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity Bahrain, July 20. Col. White retired after 30 years of honorable service.

U.S. Army Col. Randy T. Overstreet, deputy chief of Force Management Directorate, receives his new rank from his daughter on Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 3, 2022.

U.S. Space Force Col. Phillip Verroco, current Space Delta 5 (DEL 5) commander and Combined Space Operations Center (CSpOC) director, speaks during the DEL 5 change of command ceremony at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif., May 24, 2022. DEL 5 is the U.S. Space Force command and control organization within Space Operations Command that is presented to U.S. Space Command and the Combined Force Space Component Command to accomplish the CSpOC mission of actions providing tailored space effects on demand to support combatant commanders to accomplish national security objectives.

U.S. Army Maj. Dana Bal, a pharmacist and assistant program manager with the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Development Activity, shares the history and heritage of the Army Medical Corps during an Army Heritage event at Fort Detrick, Md., June 27, 2023. Bal, a current member of the USAMMDA Program Management Acquisition Internship Program, commissioned as an Army officer in 2008 after graduating from the University of Pittsburgh. She was awarded the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) educational delay to complete pharmacy school, graduating in 2010.

Civilian employers of Illinois National Guard and Reserve service members attend an Employer Support of Guard and Reserve "Breakfast with the Boss" at the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria, Illinois, May 19, 2022. The ESGR event invites employers to experience and better understand the employment and military service of members of the National Guard and Reserve.

Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), the 101st Airborne Division Band and members of the province Gemeente Meierijstad, Netherlands visited an elementary school during the 78th Anniversary of Operation MARKET GARDEN commemorations, Sept.14, 2022.They started with a visit talking with the children about why they joined the U.S. Army and how proud they were to be standing there because of what their 101st predecessors did with the NATO partners to liberate the Netherlands 78 years ago. After the 101st band played a concert for all the children. In keeping with the theme to remember the 101st history the band play songs to take them through time with the music.

Military working dogs and their handlers from the 72nd Security Forces Squadron pose for official photos November 4, 2022, Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Pedro Cortes, airfield management specialist, 156th Contingency Response Group, attends the mid-year commanders all-call at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, June 5, 2022. Wing leadership spoke about the strategic vision for the wing, the threat of U.S. adversaries, as well as the importance of maintaining readiness.

Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders addresses members of the 158th Fighter Wing and their families during a deployment ceremony at the Vermont Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vermont, April 28th, 2022. The ceremony recognizes the sacrifices of Airmen and their families ahead of the 158th fighter wings deployment to Europe.

Mr. Tommy R. Mize, left, director, Installation Management Command Europe, places the new Area Support Group patch on U.S. Army Col. Jorge M. Fonseca, commander, Area Support Group Poland, at Camp Kosciuszko, Poznan, Poland, Nov. 8, 2022. ASG-Poland and IMCOM are responsible for delivering quality base services and support functions to service members and Department of the Army Civilians in order to centralized base operations and improve the quality of life for personnel.

080918-N-0696M-039U.S Navy Adm. Mike Mullen chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff addresses students at the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy, Ft, Bliss, Tx., Sept. 18, 2007.

220913-N-UB993-2034VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Sept. 13, 2022) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea speaks with Sailors during an all-hands call at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek/Fort Story, Sept. 13, 2022. Honea conducted his first fleet visit to answer questions and discuss his priorities of warfighting competency, professional and character development, and quality of life.

Keesler personnel bow their heads during the invocation during the Women's History Month Bruncheon inside the Bay Breeze Event Center at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, March 27, 2023. The theme for this year's Women's History Month is Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories and is celebrated throughout March.

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to Alpha Co., 2-10 Assault Helicopter Battalion return home to their families on Fort Drum, Ny Sep. 7, 2022. VooDoo Soldiers spent almost a year in Iraq defending the nation.

030128-F-6426S-073. Base: Fairchild Air Force Base State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Paratrooper assigned to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, is inspected before an Airborne operation during "Devil Strike" at Fort Bragg, N.C., Sep. 14, 2022. Operation "Devil Strike" is a field training exercise meant to validate the tactical readiness of the brigade and ensure efficiency in combat operations.

U.S. Army Sgt. Adam Mitchell, an Army musician and vocalist assigned to the 1st Infantry Division Band (1 ID), performs Christmas music for troops during the 1 ID Band holiday tour at Bemowo Piskie, Poland, Dec. 2, 2022. The 1 ID is proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

U.S. Army Soldiers stand at attention during the Best Warrior Competition awards ceremony at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Feb. 22, 2024. Participants underwent rigorous evaluations by seasoned leaders who are subject matter experts in their respective fields. The assessments encompassed a wide range of military skills tests, including physical fitness, weapons knowledge, marksmanship, land navigation, general military knowledge and more. Air Force

Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass poses for a photo with Airmen at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, Jan. 9, 2023. The visit to AUAB was an opportunity for senior leadership to thank and recognize Airmen and Guardians who continually stand watch 24 hours a day, protecting the U.S., allies and partners national security.

Attendees of the 9/11 remembrance service stand at attention for the playing of Auld Lang Syne, Anchors Away, and the Marines Hymn at Memorial Chapel, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Sept. 9, 2022. The remembrance service was held in honor of those who lost their lives on 9/11.

The Army National Guards Best Squad competitors pose for a photo at Ft. Benning, Georgia before competing in the U.S. Armys Best Squad Competition Sept. 29 to Oct. 10. The team was selected as one of the top four of the service-wide competition that began with twelve teams from the Active, Reserve, and Special Forces components. From left: Sgt. Austin Manville, New York Army National Guard, Spc. Nathaniel Miska, Minnesota Army National Guard, Staff Sgt. Bryan Kummer, Nebraska Army National Guard, Sgt. Tyler Holloway, Wyoming Army National Guard, Spc. Wyatt Walls, Oregon Army National Guard.

The 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team headquarters company, Wisconsin Army National Guard, conducted a change-of-responsibility ceremony, October 15, 2022 at its headquarters company at Camp Douglas, WI. During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. Walter R. Smithson relinquished responsibility of the headquarters company to 1st Sgt. Keith T. Graeme. (32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team photo by Staff Sgt. Kati Volkman/Released)

Inter-American Defense College Leadership welcomed Mr. Kevin J. Bostick,U.S. Southern Command Exercises and Coalition Affairs Directorate Director for a visit to the IADC Campus on Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., Feb. 8, 2023. The Joint Staff's J7/9 Exercises and Coalition Affairs directorate utilizes partnerships across society, including exercises, civil affairs operations and humanitarian assistance activities, to improve the capacity of both USSOUTHCOM and partner nations to quickly respond to emergencies and neutralize threat networks. The J7/9 strives to develop a highly trained workforce that is focused on creative and cooperative solutions. As a result, the J7/9 strengthens partnerships between the U.S. government, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, businesses, academia and all elements of civil society. During the visit, Mr. Bostickconducted an office call with IADC Leadership, received an IADC brief, and concluded the visit with a tour of th

Airmen assigned to the 319th Reconnaissance Wing attend the year end training initiative brief Oct. 7, 2022, at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota. Topics briefed during the YETI included proper winter clothing, snow removal, safe winter driving and winter car kits.

Russ Martin, a volunteer docent at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum in Norfolk, Virginia, provides some meaningful interpretation during a guided tour for sailors assigned to Naval Medical Center Portsmouth. The museum, located on the second floor of the Nauticus building in Downtown Norfolk, is one of 10 U.S. Navy museums within the Naval History and Heritage Command.

Gen. Darryl A. Williams, Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe and Africa escorts Gen. Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, Commander of Turkish Land Forces, through an honor cordon in Wiesbaden, Germany, Jan. 30, 2024. During the meeting leadership discussed their shared commitment to the NATO Alliance and dedication to securing the region.

British Armed Forces, Col. Neil Unsworth OBE, Commander of British Armed Forces and U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Brandon D. Parker, Chief of Staff for Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR) learn and wear a busbie with the help of British Armed Forces, Staff Sgt. Sam Potts, Drum Major 1st Battalion Welsh Guards at the CJTF-OIR compound March 30, 2022 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The British Army maintains a Corps of Drums in each Foot Guards Battalion. The busbie, is a military top hat that members of Corps of Drums wear for formal events and performances.

Utah National Guards 300th Military Intelligence Brigade held its 34th annual Military Intelligence Language Conference on Feb. 11, 2023. As part of the conference more than 140 competitors from 25 different organizations participate in the Polyglot Games. The competition is conducted in seven different languages and follow every step of the intelligence cycle, from the operations order to a final commander's brief as they translate battlefield recordings and news reports, exploit documents to identify and destroy enemy equipment, and assess possible enemy courses of action.

Senior Airman Maria Fox, center, Hispanic Heritage Month Committee lead, reads a proclamation prior to Col. Taona Enriquez, third from left, installation commander, signs it during a ceremony at Hanscom Air Force Base, Sept. 14, while James Clarke, from left, Hanscom Diversity, Equity and Inclusion affirmative employment program manager, Senior Airman Jennifer Crespo, Hanscom Command Chief Master Sgt. Alan Weary, Staff Sgt. Benjamin Perez, Senior Airmen Jazlynn Liranzo and Alejandro Pena, HHM committee members, look on. Hispanic Heritage Month will take place Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 to recognize the contributions made by Hispanic and Latino Americans.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ralph Foshee, the commander of the 968th Expeditionary Airborne Air Control Squadron, speaks to his Airmen and leadership during the units inactivation ceremony on Sept. 29, 2022, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The 968th EAACS flew its last sortie, until reactivation, in AFCENTs area of responsibility on Sept. 23, 2022. The Panthers accomplished their mission but will be back again when needed.

The 174th Attack Wing's newly promoted staff sergeants gather for a group photo during a non-commissioned officers induction ceremony at Hancock Air National Guard Base, Syracuse, New York, September 11, 2022.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Oct. 12, 2022) Command Master Chief Igor Vargas, Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, delivers remarks during a presentation in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 12, 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.

Members of the Parris Island Marine Band, Headquarters and Service Battalion, perform for members of the Marine Corps Musicians Association at the Lyceum on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island S.C., Oct. 14, 2022. The association is made up of prior service Marines who were musicians in Marine Corps bands.

At the Marine chow hall on Camp Sledd, Major General (MGEN) James Amos, addresses a group of STAFF Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) from the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) at Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base, Kuwait, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base State: Al Ahmadi Country: Kuwait (KWT)

From left, 2022 FCoE DSOY Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Barnett and fellow competitors Staff Sgt. Riquante Brown, 428th FA; Staff Sgt. Benito Carrion, 434th FA; Staff Sgt. Gilbert Gomex; 434th FA and Staff Sgt. Adrian Rolon, 434 FA. Fires Center of Excellence and Fort Sill Command Sgt. Major Stephen Burnley gave opening remarks during the ceremony June 9 2022.

Col. Justin Davis presides over the 86th Troop Command's Change of Command ceremony May, 15, in Williston, Vermont. Lt. Col. Doran Metzgar, left, is passing command to Lt. Col. Jack Lehneman. The 86th Troop Command has multiple subordinate units, the 131st Judge Advocate General, 172nd Law Enforcement Detachment, 40th Army Band, 172nd Public Affairs Detachment, CIT/136th CSC, 1/D Co. 1-224th Aviation Safety and Security, 2/C Co. 1-224th Aviation, C Co. 3-126th Aviation, B Co. 2-245th Aviation.

230126-N-GR655-0154 WEISER, Idaho (January 26, 2023) - Lt. Cmdr. Darrell Smith, left, executive officer of the future USS Idaho (SSN 799), and Chief of the Boat Master Chief Travis Skipper speak with students at Weiser High School in Weiser, Idaho, Jan. 26. The discussion was part of a larger visit by members of the crew to their future Virginia-class submarines namesake state, where the sailors are learning more about Idahos rich history and military traditions, as well as sharing their Navy stories and building relationships in the community. The future USS Idaho is currently being built at General Dynamics Corp.s Electric Boat shipyard in Groton, Connecticut, where the crew - known as a pre-commissioning unit (PCU) - is based.

U.S. Air Force Col. Humberto Pabon Jr., the outgoing 156th Wing commander, delivers a gift to his wife, U.S. Air Force Capt. Claudia Villasenor, the public affairs officer for the Puerto Rico Air National Guard, during the 156th Wing change of command ceremony at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, Dec. 10, 2022. The change of command ceremony is a time-honored tradition, symbolizing the transfer of responsibility from one officer to another, and this ceremony was held during the December regularly scheduled drill.

Members of the 914 th Maintenance Group stand in front of a KC-135R Stratotanker inside a hangar April 1, 2022 at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, New York. The maintenance group won the 2021 Air Force Reserve Command Maintenance Effectiveness Award.

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