Aircraft Crew Preparations

Images of military personnel preparing for flights, highlighting pilots and crew in cockpit settings with an emphasis on their roles.

1st Lt. Candice Killian prepares to fly a CV-22 Osprey. Lieutenant Killian is the first qualified female CV-22 pilot. (Photo by Stefan Bocchino)

1st Lt. Candice Killian prepares to fly a CV-22 Osprey. Lieutenant Killian is the first qualified female CV-22 pilot. (Photo by Stefan Bocchino)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Ernest Brunelle, left, an Oakham, Mass., native and a fixed wing aircraft safety equipment mechanic and Capt. Thomas Lepick, a Green Cove Spring, Fla., native and an F/A-18 Hornet aircraft pilot, both with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, perform preflight checks on an F/A-18D Hornet aircraft before 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Ryan Caffrey, an MV-22B Osprey crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265, scans the horizon over Kanagawa, Japan, June 13, 2022. VMM-265 is supporting Fuji Viper Shinka 22 in order to enhance lethality and train bilaterally with 4th Marine Regiment and the Japan Ground Self Defense Force.

US Marine Corps (USMC) GUNNERY Sergeant (GYSGT) James Johnson Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 774 (HMM-774) communicates with his pilots as to their estimated time of arrival at Taqqadum, Iraq (IRQ), in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Taqaddum Country: Iraq (IRQ)

Lt. Robert Currie, attached to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140 prepares to climb into an E/A-18G Growler on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) in the Atlantic Ocean Feb. 28, 2024. George Washington is conducting Tailored Ships Training Availability and Final Evaluation Problem (TSTA/FEP). TSTA prepares the ship and crew for full integration into a carrier strike group through a wide range of mission critical operations. Navy

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Austin Mckinney, an MV-22B crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162, inspects an MV-22B Osprey at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, Sept. 19, 2022. VMM-162 prepared personnel and aircraft in support of a Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona. VMM-162 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773 Detachment A, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, conduct maintenance on an AH-1Z Viper during exercise Gunslinger 22 at Salina, Kansas on June 20, 2022. Routine aircraft maintenance is required to ensure the aircraft is operating within optimal flight conditions.

040818-F-0703J-001. Base: RAF Lakenheath State: Suffolk Country: United Kingdom (GBR)

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. John Peacock, a pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232, performs preflight inspections at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Jan. 22, 2024. Nicknamed the Red Devils, VMFA-232 traveled from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan to Guam as a part of their Aviation Training Relocation Program deployment to train multilaterally with allies and partners, and enhance the squadrons combat readiness.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Louis Donatucci III, a tiltrotor mechanic with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, removes an engine wash kit from an MV-22B Osprey on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Aug. 16, 2022. The MV-22B Osprey replaced the CH-46 Sea Knight medium-lift helicopter, providing a faster and more maneuverable medium-lift aircraft, enhancing the capacity and capability of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force in an ever-evolving operational environment.

US Navy Lieutenant Commander Gandolfo Prisinzano, assigned to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW-126) plots information on a surveillance system inside an E-2C Hawkeye aircraft while patroling the skies of the Persian Gulf on the last day of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH. The Seahawks are embarked on board USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) and making their maiden deployment.

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Daniel Basan, from Miami, Florida, a UH-1Y Venom crew chief and instructor for Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 1-23, assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), hand-signals to a pilot during a pre-flight check for a joint air-to-ground missile testing at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Oct. 19, 2022. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by MAWTS-1, providing standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness, and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

980622-F-9580Z-035. Base: Mcchord Air Force Base State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DF-ST-86-05142. Subject Operation/Series: COPE THUNDER '84-7 Country: Philippines (PHL)

A-10 Thunderbolt

U.S. Air Force Capt. Hunter Gillon, 21st Airlift Squadron C-17 Globemaster III pilot, operates a C-17 over Southern California in support of the Marine Corps exercise Steel Knight, Dec. 2, 2022. The 21st AS transported 15 Marines and approximately 68,000 pounds of equipment during their annual exercise which included live-fire training in controlled environments.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Bedhan Rai, a Marine with Chemical Biological Incident Response Force (CBIRF), flies in a UH-60 aircraft before executing a mission readiness exercise at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Jan. 10, 2023. The 12th Aviation Battalion with The Army Aviation Brigade assisted the Marines in getting to their destination by air in order to begin executing training in command and control procedures in an expeditious manner.

Portrait of C-130 Aircraft Commander MAJ. Steve O'Brien. MAJ. O'Brien flies airdrop missions from Rhein-Main AB, Germany to Sarajevo. He is assigned to the 133rd Airlift Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard, St. Paul, Minn. Country: Unknown

U.S. Air National Guard Staff Sgt. Derek Zeigler, boom operator with the 197th Air Refueling Squadron, does post refuel checks after conducting an air refueling mission with Luke Air Force Base on Aug. 6, 2022. The 197th is part of the 161st Air Refueling Wing out of Goldwater Air National Guard Base and regularly conducts air refueling missions with their regional partners at Luke Air Force Base.

A U.S. Marine with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, assists in offloading a CH-53E Super Stallion during exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Kamifurano Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, 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.

Left side rear view of USAF Major Graham Buschor in the co-pilot's seat of a HH-60 Pave Hawk Combat Rescue Helicopter. He was the co-pilot of the ill-fated "Jolly-10" rescue mission and now is CHIEF of Safety for the 10th Rescue Wing at the Air National Guard Base at Westhampton Beach, New York. MAJ Buschor has flown HH-60s for more than 11 years. Base: Francis Gabreski Ang Base State: New York (NY) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Cmdr. Nicklaus Cheddar Bob” Smith, commanding officer, Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14 (HM-14), navigates an MH-53 Sea Dragon” helicopter during the squadron’s last flight Dec. 8, 2022.

040121-F-9629J-001. Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: AMC

US Air Force Captain Vincent Cyran prepares to exit his F-16CJ aircraft upon landing at Lajes Air Base, Azores. His unit, the 55th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, is on a return leg from Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, in support of Operation NORTHERN WATCH. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN WATCH Base: Lajes Air Base Country: Azores (AZR)

GEN. MAJ. Tokasyn Buzabayev, the First Deputy of STAFF from the Republic of Kazakstan, gives a thumbs up prior to his incentive flight in an F-16. Base: Luke Air Force Base State: Arizona (AZ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

CAPT. Michael F. O'Neill, Chaplain, aboard a B-52 Stratofortress aircraft. CAPT. O'Neill has logged more than 200 hours of flying time during his assignment at Loring Air Force Base. Base: Loring Air Force Base State: Maine (ME) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Lt. Col. Joost Luijsterburg, Royal Netherlands Air Force detachment commander, Morris Air National Guard Base, buckles the chin strap of his helmet at Naval Air Station Key West, Florida. This is the last temporary duty that the RNLAF will make with the 162nd Wing before they return to the Netherlands.

970311-F-0994L-513. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT GUARD Country: Bosnia And/I Herzegovina (BIH)

Maj. Devin Neal, a flight nurse assigned to the 183rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, checks on a simulated patient aboard a C-17 Globemaster III, June 17. The Airmen completed their annual training, where they honed their skills in patient care at MacDill Air Force Base.

040406-F-9624D-006. Base: Hickam Air Force Base State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Aaron Harman, an Electronic Communication Systems operator with the 193rd Special Operations Group, pulls patch cables during the EC-130J Commando Solo aircraft final training flight in Middletown, Pennsylvania, Sept. 17, 2022. Airmen from the 193rd Special Operations Wing brought to a close a 54-year chapter in unit history as one of the three Commando Solo aircraft delivered its final broadcast during the Lancaster Community Days Air Show event.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Paul Rupert, 6th Air Refueling Squadron KC-10A Extender aircraft commander, smiles during a flight over Northern California, Oct. 1, 2022. Airmen assigned to the 6th ARS represented Team Travis in a Parade of Heavies flyover during the California Capital Airshow at Mather Airport in Sacramento, California.

F-16 pilot, 1LT Craig Hollis, 523rd Fighter Squadron based at Cannon Air Force Base, checks the missile launcher release on his Fighting Falcon during a preflight walk-around inspection. The 552nd is flying missions in support of the world's largest joint service, multi-national tactical air operations exercise. Subject Operation/Series: ROVING SANDS '97 Base: Cannon Air Force Base State: New Mexico (NM) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A Japan Air Self-Defense Force C-130H Hercules loadmaster talks over inter-plane radio during Cope North 24 at Northwest Field, Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 16, 2024. Agile combat employment capabilities are continually refined by exercising various operations from dispersed, austere locations. Air Force

970311-F-0994L-516. Complete Scene Caption: Loadmaster MASTER Sergeant Tom Barnes of Curwensville, Pennsylvania, assigned to the 61st Airlift Squadron (AS) from Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, waits for an Air Mobility team at Tuzla Air Base (AB), Bosnia. Air Mobility Personnel serving Temporary Duty load and unload Air Transports at Tuzla AB, Bosnia, through the day. Loadmasters and Air Mobility personnel work together completing a hasty trade downloading and uploading cargo with engines running. The Green Hornets are deployed to Ramstein AB, Germany, for a 100-day Temporary Duty (TDY) tour assisting Operation JOINT GUARD (previously Operation JOINT ENDEAVOR). Flying C-130s every day to the Former Yugoslav region (primarily Tuzla) they pick up and deliver cargo and passengers in support of JOINT GUARD. JOINT GUARD is the multi-national peacekeeping mission that provides a climate of stability in the war-torn land of Bosnia-Herzegovina. Subject Operation/Series: JOINT GUARD Bas

010328-F-5872L-005. Complete Scene Caption: Sergeant (SGT), Kenneth Soedt, USA, CH-47 Chinook helicopter Engineer, assigned to Detachment 1, Company F, 106th Division, Iowa National Guard, Davenport, IA performs a preflight inspection of the aircraft, before flying to Asuncion, Paraguay during Operation NEW HORIZONS. The mission flown to support personnel at Asuncion, Paraguay is part of Combined Task Force Guarani Springs, which will conduct engineering and medical operations in Paraguay from 10 March to 30 June 2001 enabling joint service training between US and Paraguayan military personnel. The task force will renovate, construct and improve infrastructure of four schools; four water wells; and conduct three Medical Readiness Training Exercises (MEDRETES) as agreed to by the government of Paraguay. Subject Operation/Series: NEW HORIZONS Base: Asuncion Country: Paraguay (PRY)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Robert Elston, a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic, right, and Capt. Ryan Waterman, a pilot, both with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232, shake hands during Cope North 24 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 20, 2024. Allies and partners train together during the multilateral exercise, Cope North 24, to improve shared tactics and multilateral defense capabilities. Elston is a native of Tennessee. Waterman is a native of California. Marine Corps

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Maggie Sanchez, a boom operator with the 161st Air Refueling Wing, conducts aircraft status checks on a KC-135 Stratotanker during a multi-day readiness exercise, at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Oct. 12-17, 2022. The exercise focused on demonstrating the Department of the Air Forces priority of Agile Combat Employment (ACE), which uses multi-capable Airmen to facilitate a proactive and reactive operational scheme of maneuver to increase resiliency and survivability while generating combat power.

050901-N-4781D-003. Base: USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Scene Major Command Shown: USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7)

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Joe Thomas, a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 469, scans the horizon off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 3, 2022. HMLA-469 conducted a Strike Coordination and Reconnaissance drill in order to increase proficiency and lethality throughout the squadron.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jayden Schneider a UH-1Y Venom crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), observes the flight deck prior to landing aboard USS Michael Monsoor (DDG 1001), a Zumwalt-class destroyer, off the coast of Camp Pendleton, California, April 20, 2022. The training mission was held as a means of maintaining naval integration, operational capabilities and assuring 3rd MAW remains mission ready.

U.S. Air National Guard Master Sgt. Eric Hurley assigned to the 163 Attack Wing, March Air Reserve Base (left) and Marine Corp Staff Sgt. Kevin Rodriguez assigned to the Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) - 764, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing coordinate refueling of the MQ-9 Reaper on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, CA July 21, 2022.The 163d accelerated change by pioneering the first ever refuel of the MQ-9 Reaper using a Forward Area refueling Point provided by the VMM - 764s V-22 Osprey.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Daniel Nielsen, a loadmaster with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 152, inspects panels on a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft during Ryukyu Vice 23.1 at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 7, 2022. Ryukyu Vice is a joint, fixed-wing aviation command and control exercise that provides critical training to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing tactical air control personnel through offensive, defensive and counter-air live-flight scenarios.

Sgt Adam T. Frascht, a crew member on the Marine Corps KC-130J Hercules with Marine Aerial Refuel and Transport Squadron 352, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, waits for takeoff during a pre-flight check, during the Marine Corps 2022 MCAS Air Show MAGTF Demo at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 22, 2022. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

US Air Force Captain Thomas Bremer from the German Air Force witnesses a mid-air refueling of A-10 Thunderbolt's during his orientation flight on a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 108th Air Refueling Wing, Air National Guard, McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey. CPT Bremer, a Reserve Security Forces Commander is part of an Officer Exchange Program in cooperation with the 177th Fighter Wing out of Atlantic City, New Jersey. The orientation flight took place at McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey. State: New Jersey (NJ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

STS-130 TCDT - CREW ARRIVAL

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Angel Becerra, a fixed wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242, stands by to conduct pre-flight inspections to support exercise RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 2, 2022. RF-A serves as an ideal platform for international engagement, enabling the exchange of tactics, techniques and procedures while improving interoperability in order to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.

LT. Justin Ryan of Attack Squadron 35 (CA-35) is welcomed by Meyera E. Obendorf, the mayor of Virginia Beach, Va., upon his arrival at the air station. VA-35 has returned to Oceana following its deployment to the Persian Gulf region aboard the aircraft carrier USS SARATOGA (CV-60) for Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD DESERT STORM Base: Naval Air Station, Oceana State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Captain Jason Bentley, a pilot with the 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron pilots a C-130J while wearing a festive Santa hat during Operation Christmas Drop 2022, Dec. 5, 2022. Operation Christmas Drop is the longest running Department of Defense humanitarian mission that delivers critical aid to island communities throughout the western Pacific while also providing an opportunity for aircrew to hone important skills needed for future operations.

031011-F-8170B-083. Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 66th PJS, 6CTS

U.S. Air Force Maj. Keegan Reilly, 50th Air Refueling Squadron pilot, awaits takeoff on a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing during an Agile Combat Employment capstone exercise at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Tennessee, Aug. 25, 2022. The ACE concept underpins the Air Forces ability to mitigate the risks of adversarial technological advances through maneuverability and speed to prevail in conflict. The capstone exercise included 72-hours of continuous air refueling operations and a historic 56-hour KC-135 flight in a simulated contested environment focused on a notional theater of operations.

USAF STAFF Sergeant Vance Martin, a crew chief with the 561st Fighter Squadron, Nellis AFB, Nevada cleans the glass canopy of a F-4G Phantom Wild Weasel aircraft. From AIRMAN Magazine April 1995 issue article "Watch Out for Flying Weasels". Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

060511-N-5549O-050. Base: USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76)

A Pararescueman from the 23rd Wing, Moody AFB, demonstrates capabilities during AGILE FLAG 22-2, at Avon Park Auxiliary Air Field, Florida, July 23, 2022. AGILE FLAG 22-2 marks a significant milestone in standardizing the way Air Combat Command organizes, trains, and equips for Agile Combat Employment after a period of experimentation.

US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Steven "Pigpen" Schrader, Commander, 510th Fighter Squadron, Aviano Air Base, Italy, climbs out of his F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft after completing over 3000 flying hours during his Air Force career. Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA)

011212-F-4816B-036. Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ACC

DN-SD-03-09019. Base: Naval Air Station, Oceana State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DF-ST-87-07590. Subject Operation/Series: GALLANT EAGLE '86 Base: Cannon Air Force Base State: New Mexico (NM) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Date: 05-13-13Location: Ellington, 276Subject: T-38 flight prep at EFD for Steve Swanson (Exp. 39/40) and Reid Wiseman (Exp. 40/41)

000715-N-7412M-004. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH 2000 Country: United Arab Emerites (UAE)

JSC2004-E-54716 (14 December 2004) --- Astronaut Mark E. Kelly, STS-121 pilot, in a T-38 trainer jet, prepares for a flight at Ellington Field near Johnson Space Center.

First Lieutenant (1LT) Jerrad Krapp, a KC-135 Stratotanker co-pilot, 92nd Air Refueling Wing (ARW), Fairchild Air Force Base (AFB), Washington, prepares his aircraft for takeoff in support of exercise NORTHERN EDGE 2002. Base: Eielson Air Force Base State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: PACAF

First Lieutenant Lennon, USMC, (right) and Corporal David Easter, USMC, (left), both members of Alpha Company, Second Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), watch for the blast of unexploded munitions about to be destroyed by Explosive Ordnance Disposal Marines near the Kandahar International Airport, Kandahar, Afghanistan, during OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: Kandahar International Airport Country: Afghanistan (AFG) Scene Major Command Shown: 26 MEU

Airmen from the 366th Fighter Wing, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, arrive at a forward operating location at Wendover Air Force Base, Utah, May 20, 2022 while participating in the Raging Gunfighter exercise. Raging Gunfighter is an Air Combat Command exercise designed to simulate operating a Lead Wing from an Austere Environment. The purpose of the exercise is to prepare the 366th Fighter Wing and its Airmen for potential future operations in accordance with the National Defense Strategy

970418- F-7850M-002. Subject Operation/Series: ROVING SANDS Base: Cannon Air Force Base State: New Mexico (NM) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ACC

030114-F-9528H-031. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Unknown

U.S. Air Force aircew assigned to the 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, prepare to board the B-52H Stratofortress at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, as part of a routine Bomber Task Force mission, Feb. 5, 2024. Bomber missions enable crews to maintain a high state of readiness and proficiency and validate our always-ready global strike capability. Air Force

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Dustin Ditzenberger, a CH-53E helicopter mechanic with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 462, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, conducts maintenance on a CH-53E Super Stallion during Mountain Training Exercise 1-23 (MTX) at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Calif., Oct. 6, 2022. HMH-462 supported 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division during MTX while enhancing self-deployment capability and advancing mission skill progression in a high-altitude, austere environment.

JOINT BASE PEARL HABROR-HICKAM, Hawaii (July 22, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Michael Elliot, a loadmaster with Marine Aerial Refueler transport Squadron 152, conducts pre-flight checks on a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft in support of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29- Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The worlds largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

020513-M-0175R-007. Base: Macon State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: 24 MEU

U.S. Air Force Captain Josh Klapak, a pilot assigned to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, Fairchild Air Force Base, performs preflight checks on a KC-135 Stratotanker before a refueling sortie for RED FLAG-Alaska 22-2, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, June 22, 2022. This exercise reinforces the United States continued commitment to the region as a Pacific nation, leader and power.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Tanner Todd, 349th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, prepares to refuel a F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 335th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron during Air Mobility Commands Employment Concept Exercise 22-08 Aug. 29, 2022, in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. Todd, along with Senior Airman Juan Boykin, 344th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, refueled two F-15Es from the 335th EFS during the KC-46A Pegasus first combat sortie.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Michael Kelvin, 555th Fighter Squadron F-16C Fighting Falcon pilot fastens the seat of Senior Airman Sierra Glassburner, 555th Fighter Squadron independent duty medical technician, both from the 31st Fighter Wing, Aviano Air Base, Italy, before taking flight at Royal Air Force Base Lakenheath, United Kingdom, Sep. 6, 2022, before an incentive flight, during the Royal Air Forces Cobra Warrior 2022 exercise. NATO is demonstrating a collective resolve, and, by doing so, is sending a powerful message that we are prepared and committed to peace and security for as long as it takes.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Michael Kelvin, 555th Fighter Squadron F-16C Fighting Falcon pilot fastens the seat of Senior Airman Sierra Glassburner, 555th Fighter Squadron independent duty medical technician, both from the 31st Fighter Wing, Aviano Air Base, Italy, before taking flight at Royal Air Force Base Lakenheath, United Kingdom, Sep. 6, 2022, before an incentive flight, during the Royal Air Forces Cobra Warrior 2022 exercise. NATO is demonstrating a collective resolve, and, by doing so, is sending a powerful message that we are prepared and committed to peace and security for as long as it takes.

US Air Force SENIOR AIRMAN Mark Soper, a KC-135 Stratotanker Boom Operator, from the 344th Aerial Refeuling Squadron, McConell Air Force Base, Kansas, passes fuel to a Danish F-16 Falcon (Not shown) during a refueling mission in a forward location in the European Theatre. This mission is in direct support of Joint Task Force Noble Anvil. Subject Operation/Series: NOBLE ANVIL Country: Unknown

041106-M-9529D-004. Country: Iraq (IRQ)

A Royal Australian Air Force C-130J Hercules loadmaster assigned to 37 Squadron, RAAF Base Richmond, Australia, prepares to perform a cargo drop in support of RED FLAG-Alaska 22-3 over the Joint-Pacific Alaska Range Complex, Alaska, Aug. 11, 2022. International participation is a traditional part of RF-A and includes allies from various countries such as New Zealand, Japan, Australia, and others.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Benjamin Rodriguez, station captain for section one, Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, sets up his radio prior to a live-fire mock aircraft scenario at Landing Zone Westfield, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Aug. 5, 2022. The ARFF Marines conducted the monthly training in order to enhance their firefighting skills in preparation of emergencies.

CPT Jim Fussel, 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing, prepares for flight aboard an F-4 Phantom II aircraft during Exercise Opportune Journey 4. Subject Operation/Series: OPPORTUNE JOURNEY 4 Base: Naval Air Station, Barbers Point State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DF-ST-86-04185. Base: Osan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Clayton Gard, left, commanding officer, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312, Marine Aircraft Group 31, and Sgt. Zachary Summers, powerline Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge, VMFA-312, Marine Aircraft Group 31, stand in front of an F/A-18 Hornet at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, Sept. 19, 2022. VMFA-312 offered flights for Marines who reenlisted as a way to reward their dedication to the Marine Corps.

220801-N-XN177-1063 PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 1, 2022) - U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Muhammed Taha, from Indianapolis, dons a flight deck helmet aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 1, 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.

On the job portrait of CHIEF MASTER Sergeant Jim Monaco, USAF, a KC-135 Stratotanker boom operator with the 141st Air Refueling Squadron, New Jersey, Air National Guard, prepares to fuel an aircraft over Eastern Turkey as part of OPERATION NORTHERN WATCH. Subject Operation/Series: OPERATION NORTHERN WATCH Base: Incirlik Air Base, Adana Country: Turkey (TUR)

Disaster Assistance Response Teams (DART) - Marine Safety Office St. Louis - 26-HK-121-34. Hurricane Katrina

US Marine Corps (USMC) Lance Corporal (LCPL) James Buttrey, piers through the drivers hatch of his Light Amphibious Vehicle (LAV -25) while on patrol at Kadena AB, Japan. The LAV-25 is temporarily assigned to Kadena to provide security and is utilized to cross-train USMC and US Air Force (USAF) Security Personnel during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. US Marine Corps (USMC) Lance Corporal (LCPL) James Buttrey, piers through the drivers hatch of his Light Amphibious Vehicle (LAV -25) while on patrol at Kadena AB, Japan. The LAV-25 is temporarily assigned to Kadena to provide security and is utilized to cross-train USMC and US Air Force (USAF) Security Personnel during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.

Roger Johnson (right), 47th Operations Group T-6A Texan II civilian simulator instructor, instructs 2nd Lt. Valerie Calvert, 47th Student Squadron student pilot, while flying in a simulator at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, Jan. 8, 2024. Strong mentorship helps develop student pilots, molding them into the next generation of aviators. Mentoring, at its core, is a partnership that facilitates the sharing of knowledge, experience and wisdom.

A C-130 pilot from the 153d Airlift Wing equipped with USDA Forest Service MAFFS II (Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System) prepares for flight.

A1C Joel Bell, crew chief from the 14th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Misawa, Japan, signals aircrewmen during Cope Thunder North, an exercise that tests aircrews' skills in strike, support, air defense and combat rescue roles. Units from the Canadian Forces, the U.S. Marine Corps, Alaska Air National Guard, Strategic Air Command and other Pacific Air Forces units are participating in the exercise.. Subject Operation/Series: COPE THUNDER NORTH Base: Eielson Air Force Base State: Alaska(AK) Country: United States Of America(USA)

Aviation Anti-submarine Warfare Operator 3rd Class Felgenhour communicates with a Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 9 (HS-9) SH-3H Sea King helicopter crewmate before taking off from the aircraft carrier USS SARATOGA (CV-60). Country: Adriatic Sea

011212-F-1166S-003. Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: Air Mobility Command

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 63rd Air Refueling Squadron conduct a pre-flight briefing at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Jan. 4, 2023. The 63rd ARS conducted air refueling operations with F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft assigned to the 4th Fighting Wing, Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina.

JSC2006-E-27882 (22 June 2006) --- Astronaut Steven G. MacLean, STS-115 mission specialist representing the Canadian Space Agency, photographed in a T-38 trainer jet, prepares for a flight at Ellington Field near Johnson Space Center.

220724-N-CY569-1009 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 24, 2022) Rear Adm. Michael Sciretta, right, commander, Standing NATO Maritime Group 2, speaks with Rear Adm. Paul Spedero Jr., commander, Carrier Strike Group 8, on the flag bridge of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), during a scheduled visit, July 24, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Adrianna Swearingen, Northside Elementary School media specialist, poses for a photo at Eglin Air Force Base, March 29, 2023. Ms. Swearingen was voted Bay County Teacher of the Year for her excellence in teaching. An incentive flight is a special way Tyndall gives back to the surrounding communities that support Team Tyndall.

DF-ST-88-01224. Subject Operation/Series: IMMEDIATE FALCON Base: Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma State: Arizona (AZ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

An F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft pilot, from the 555th Fighter Squadron, Aviano Air Base, Italy, gets ready to launch in Sidi Slimane Air Base, Morocco. 160 people deployed to Morocco in support of Exercise AFRICAN EAGLE. African Eagle is a biannual exercise designed to practice dissimilar air to air training with the Royal Moroccan Air Force. An F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft pilot, from the 555th Fighter Squadron, Aviano Air Base, Italy, gets ready to launch in Sidi Slimane Air Base, Morocco. 160 people deployed to Morocco in support of Exercise AFRICAN EAGLE. African Eagle is a biannual exercise designed to practice dissimilar air to air training with the Royal Moroccan Air Force.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Calvin Conner, 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron pilot, prepare to exit an F-15EX Eagle during post flight recovery after arriving for The Great Texas Airshow Apr. 21, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. The U.S. Air Force is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a The Great Texas Airshow as a key event. The airshow features the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron Thunderbirds performing for people to display the pride, precision and professionalism the U.S. Air Force represents. Through air shows and flyovers, they aim to excite and inspire. In addition to showcasing the elite skills all pilots must possess, the Thunderbirds demonstrate the incredible capabilities of the Air Forces premier multi-role fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

041112-F-1740G-008. Base: Yokota Air Base Country: Japan (JPN)

. jsc2023e047400 (Aug. 1, 2023) --- NASA astronaut and SpaceX Crew-8 Mission Specialist Jeanette Epps is seated inside a T-38 trainer jet at Ellington Field in Houston, Texas.

Expedition 43 Commander (Soyuz 41) astronaut Terry Virts during his T-38 Ops flight at Ellington Field. Photo Date: October 22, 2013. Location: Ellington Field - Hangar 276.

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