Military Ceremony Interactions

Images of military personnel in formal ceremonies, including command changes and inspections, showcasing uniforms, flags, and a sense of professionalism.

The 8th Theater Sustainment Command hosted U.S. Army Pacific Commands Commanding General, Gen. Charles A. Flynn on a tour of Stock 3 Fix-Forward (Afloat) (APS-3) area of operation on the U.S. Naval Ship Watson at Honolulu, Hawaii, Nov. 30, 2022. The APS-3 mission demonstrates the 8th Theater Sustainment Commands command and control of the APS-3 operations and assesses the operational flexibility to ensure strategic readiness. As the U.S. Indo-Pacific materiel integrator, the 8th TSC synchronizes capabilities and resources across the theater, enabling both our land forces and those of our allies and partners. Our mission is to plan, integrate, and synchronize theater distribution and sustainment operations with our joint logistics enterprise partners, stabilizing and securing the Indo-Asia Pacific Region. (Photos by Sgt. Kyler L. Chatman, 8th TSC Public Affairs)

U.S. Army Col. Frankie Cochiaosue, 733d Mission Support Group incoming commander, assumes command from U.S. Air Force Col. Gregory Beaulieu, 633d Air Base Wing commander during the 733d MSG change of command ceremony at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, June 23, 2022. Cochiaosue holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering Psychology from the U.S. Military Academy, West Point, a Masters of Public Administration and Policy from Webster University, and a Master of Science in National Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy.

The 8th Theater Sustainment Command hosted U.S. Army Pacific Commands Commanding General, Gen. Charles A. Flynn on a tour of Stock 3 Fix-Forward (Afloat) (APS-3) area of operation on the U.S. Naval Ship Watson at Honolulu, Hawaii, Nov. 30, 2022. The APS-3 mission demonstrates the 8th Theater Sustainment Commands command and control of the APS-3 operations and assesses the operational flexibility to ensure strategic readiness. As the U.S. Indo-Pacific materiel integrator, the 8th TSC synchronizes capabilities and resources across the theater, enabling both our land forces and those of our allies and partners. Our mission is to plan, integrate, and synchronize theater distribution and sustainment operations with our joint logistics enterprise partners, stabilizing and securing the Indo-Asia Pacific Region. (Photos by Sgt. Kyler L. Chatman, 8th TSC Public Affairs)

Polish Land Forces Gen. Jarosław Mika, general commander of Branches of the Armed Forces, speaks with U.S. Army Col. Stephen E. Capehart, commander of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Gary Kurtzhals, command sergeant major of the 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3/4 ABCT, during the opening ceremony of the Abrams Tank Training Academy at Biedrusko, Poland, Aug. 10, 2022. The Abrams Tank Training Academy was established to teach Polish tank crewmen on operations, tactics and maintenance of the M1 Abrams tanks, bringing the U.S. and Poland closer as allies.

Brig. Gen. Lori Robinson, Deputy Commanding General of Support with 2nd Infantry Division/ROK Combined Division, conducts a maintenance terrain walkthrough of the 2nd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade footprint on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea, Sept. 15, 2022. The purpose of the maintenance terrain walkthrough is to ensure a high level of awareness and command interest in field maintenance by ensuring senior Command Groups understand how their maintenance program operates.

U.S. Army Col. Matthew Hill, center-left, 11th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB) commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Manuel Rios, center-right, the 11th CAB senior enlisted leader, stand at the position of attention during a ceremony at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, May 30, 2022. The commanding officers and command sergeants major of Base Support Battalion - Kuwait and the 11th CAB hosted the Memorial Day ceremony to pay respects to the origin of the holiday and continue the tradition of wreath-laying to honor fallen service members.

U.S. ARMY JAPAN held a patching ceremony at Yano Field in CAMP ZAMAJAPAN on JUNE 17th, 2022, authorizing both U.S Army Soldiers and JapanSelf-Defense Force members to wear the new patch that symbolizes theirenduring bilateral relationship.

Col. John Morris (left), incoming commander of the Combat Aviation Brigade (Iron Eagles), accepts the colors from Maj. Gen. Sean Bernabe (center), 1st Armored Division commanding general, during the change of command ceremony Jun. 22 in Fort Bliss, Texas.

Tech. Sgt. Cody Sharkey pins the Senior Airman rank on newly promoted Senior Airman Richard Martinez during the April 2022 unit training assembly roll call at Nevada Air National Guard Base, Reno.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Rashnique Edmond, 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, 1st Armored Division, receives Army achievement medal from Maj. Gen. Sean C. Bernabe, commanding general of the 1st Armored Division, for earning 2nd place Iron Noncommissioned Officer during the award ceremony at the conclusion of the Iron Squad Competition at Fort Bliss, Texas, April 22, 2022.The Iron Squad Competition is a four-day event designed to test each squad and individual competitors physical stamina, Warrior Tasks and Battle Drill skills and military knowledge. The winning squad will advance to compete in the III Corps Best Squad Competition later this year at Fort Hood.

SCHRIEVER SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- United States Space Force (USSF) Lt. General Stephen Whiting, Commander of Space Operations Command, presents Delta 9 outgoing commander, USSF Colonel Casey Beard with the Legion Of Merit medal during the unit's change of command ceremony at Schriever SFB, Colorado June 21, 2022. During the ceremony, Whiting transferred command of the Delta From Colonel Beard to incoming commander, USSF Colonel Mark Bigley.

U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Thomas receives the guidon from Lt. Col. John McDaniel Jr., the incoming commander of the 291st Digital Liaison Detachment, Maryland Army National Guard, at a change of command ceremony in Adelphi, Md., August 14, 2022. Col. Kristine Henry relinquished command to McDaniel during the ceremony.

U.S. Army Cpl. Andrew Somerville, a wheeled vehicle mechanic, and U.S. Army Cpl. Giuseppe Conigliaro, an automated logistical specialist, with Task Force Paxton, Pennsylvania Army National Guard are promoted to the rank of specialist during a promotion ceremony held in Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Feb. 15, 2024.. Somerville and Conigliaro were pinned by 1st Sgt. Madia Nieves, India Company, 328th Brigade Support Battalion first sergeant. Promotion ceremonies in the U.S. Army are important occasions that recognize the dedication, hard work, and accomplishments of soldiers as they advance in their military careers. Army National Guard

Brig. Gen. Lori Robinson, Deputy Commanding General of Support with 2nd Infantry Division/ROK Combined Division, conducts a maintenance terrain walkthrough of the 2nd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade footprint on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea, Sept. 15, 2022. The purpose of the maintenance terrain walkthrough is to ensure a high level of awareness and command interest in field maintenance by ensuring senior Command Groups understand how their maintenance program operates.

A soldier receives an award from Col. Andrew Kiser, commander of 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during a formation on April 29, at Ft. Carson, Colo. The brigade held the formation to publicly recognize excellent performance across the organization and to hold a standing power throw competition. U.S. Army photo by Maj. Jason Elmore

Soldiers assigned to the 135th Quartermaster Company, 87th Division Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Division Sustainment Brigade, receive the DUI-Free streamer for their guidon, Feb. 10, 2023 on Fort Stewart, Georgia, for having no incidents of Soldiers driving under the influence. The streamer marks the units discipline and dedication to the prevention of alcohol misuse and potentially deadly behaviors. Col. David Key and Command Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Campbell, the 3rd DSB command team, affixed the streamer to the guidon and expressed their gratitude to the Soldiers' and leaders' commitment to the safety and welfare of Soldiers, families and community members.

During a change of command ceremony on Camp Walker, Republic of Korea, Brig. Gen. Frederick L. Crist, commanding general, 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, salutes Lt. Gen. Willard M. Burleson III, commanding general, Eighth Army.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Mark A. Black, 160th Forward Resuscitative Surgical Detachment commander holds the unit guidon during a change of command ceremony, Aug 4, 2022 at Rhine Ordnance Barracks, Kaiserslautern, Germany. Black assumed command of the unit from Lt. Col. Michael P. Meissel.

Command Sgt. Maj. Will Haddon, Col. Michael Johnson, brigade commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Julio Santos, incoming brigade command sergeant major, march back to the viewing platform after completing the traditional change of responsibility during the 110th Aviation Brigade change of responsibility ceremony at Howze Parade Field, Fort Rucker, Alabama, July 7, 2022.

U.S. Space Force Lt. Col. Matthew Lintker, left, commander of the 18th Space Defense Squadron, unsheathes the guidon in front of U.S. Space Force Maj. Nathan Glandon, incoming commander of the 18th SDS Detachment 1, during an activation and assumption of command ceremony at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, July 14, 2022. In unified action with mission partners, the 18 SDS Det. 1 will deliver a timely and threat-focused understanding of the space situation in direct support of the Joint Task Force-Space Defenses protect and defend mission.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. John M. Klein, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center commander, receives a briefing on recent excersices held by the 571 MSAS, Feb. 21, 2024. General Klein toured multiple Contengency Response Squadrons and saw the 621st CRW's ability to rapidly train and respond to new threats globally. Air Force

U.S. Army Maj. Andrew DeLaney, right, assumes command of the North Carolina Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team during a change of command ceremony at the Carolina Beach Road Armory in Wilmington, North Carolina, Dec. 2, 2022. DeLaney takes command from U.S. Army Lt. Col. Benjamin R. Wynn who led the battalion through various training, missions, and deployments.

Capt. Krystal Parrish, the outgoing commander of the 274th Movement Control Team, 3rd Division Sustainment Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, passes the units guidon to the Lt. Col. Melissa Hoaglin, the battalion commander of Special Troops Battalion, 3rd DSB, 3rd ID, on Fort Stewart, Georgia, Dec. 9, 2022.The passing of the guidon or colors signifies the passing of responsibilities as the commander.

Task Force Thunder, 155th Armored Brigade Combat Team (ABCT), Mississippi Army National Guard, took command of the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine (JMTG-U) mission under 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) from Task Force Bowie, 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT), Arkansas Army National Guard, on Jan. 5, 2024. Under the guidance of U.S. European Command, U.S. Army Europe and Africa, and Security Assistance Group-Ukraine, 7ATC leads the training and is supported and supported by a myriad of other organizations from across the U.S. Army. This training of Armed Forces of Ukraine has been conducted in Germany since April 2022.

The 40th Chief of Staff of the Army, Gen. James C. McConville promotes Joseph Duncan, a Soldier of the 97th Military Police Battalion, through the 1st Infantry Division, from the rank of Private First Class to Specialist on Fort Riley, Kansas, Aug. 25, 2022. Duncan was recognized for assisting a suicidal Soldier and making sure the Soldier received the resources they needed.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Megan Ford, 81st Training Group military training leader, provides an overview of the dorm area to Lt. Gen. Leah Lauderback, Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Cyber Effects Operations, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, the Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia, on the balcony of the Levitow Training Support Facility at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, August 15, 2022. Lauderback and her team also toured the 333rd Training Squadron and 336th Training Squadron to meet and greet squadron personnel, understand the squadron's mission and be briefed on new innovations.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Clinton K. Murray (right), Regional Health Command Europe commander, passes the unit colors to Col. Scott J. Rankin (left), Dental Health Command Europe incoming commander during assumption of command ceremony in Sembach, Germany, Sep. 22, 2022. DHCE oversees command and control functions of three Dental Health Activities located throughout Europe.

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Rodney Plamondon, CSM of the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, passes a saber to Command Sgt. Maj. Alexandre Santana, incoming CSM of the 578 BEB, during a change of responsibility ceremony at Kearny Mesa Recreation Park, Calif., on June 4, 2022. The change of responsibility ceremony is a traditional event meant to reinforce noncommissioned officer authority in the U.S. Army and highlights their support to the chain of command.

U.S. Army Master Sgt. Andrew R. Colburn, Senior Enlisted Advisor with the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Center-Europe holds the unit colors during the assumption of responsibility ceremony, Sep 15, 2022 in Kaiserslautern, Germany. Colburn assumed responsibility from Master Sgt. Charles W. Douglas.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Michael Deprey, incoming commander of the 908th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, takes command from Brig. Gen. William Betts, commander of the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, during the unit's change of command ceremony at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oct. 14, 2022. During the change of command ceremony, Maj. Bobby Budde relinquished command. The primary purpose of a change of command is for subordinates to witness an officer formally assume responsibility, authority and accountability for the unit. These ceremonies preserve the tradition of military service and stimulate unit esprit de corps.

U.S. Army Col. Carrie Perez, commander of the 36th Sustainment Brigade and Command Sgt. Maj. Ernesto Castillo, senior enlisted advisor to Perez, render a salute prior to casing their brigades flag during a transfer of authority ceremony, Nov. 3, 2022, at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The transfer of authority ceremony signifies the end of the responsibilities of Task Force Phoenix followed by the assumption of responsibility by Task Force Hellfighter.

U.S. Soldiers with the 28th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade, family and friends gather for a change of responsibility ceremony at Muir Army Airfield. During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. Sean Livolsi passed the brigades senior enlisted leader responsibilities to Command Sgt. Maj. Jeff Huttle.

From left, Joe E. Gallagher, Deputy to the Commanding General; Col. Judson Gillett, 31st ADA commander; Col. Jennifer Schulke, Air Defense Artillery capability manager; Col, Rhett Taylor, Fort Sill Garrison commander, meet Lt. Gen. Leon Thurgood, Director of Hypersonic, Directed Energy, Space and Rapid Acquisition

The 121st Air Refueling Wing Mission Support Group holds a Change of Responsibility ceremony at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio, May 15, 2022. Chief Master Sgt. Jason Wheeler formally received responsibility of the 121st Mission Support Group from Chief Master Sgt. Chris Combs.

United States Space Force Gen. John W. Jay” Raymond, Chief of Space Operations, presents United States Air Force 2nd Lt. Shelby Casper, 460th Healthcare Operations Squadron, with a coin, to commemorate her dedication and perseverance to the mission at Buckley Space Force Base, Colo., Oct. 12, 2022. Raymond selected and coined nine individuals from the installation for their vital roles in safeguarding the health of more than 148,400 joint total force, coalition personnel, retirees, dependents, and their families.

Maj. Gen. Levon E. Cumpton, the adjutant general of the Missouri National Guard, meets with members of the 139th Airlift Wing during a base tour at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, Sept. 20, 2022. Cumpton was briefed on the 139th Airlift Wings North Site Development Plan.

SCHRIEVER SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- U. S. Space Force (USSF) Lt. Gen. Stephen Whiting, left, Commander of Space Operations Command, presents the Space Delta 9 guidon to incoming unit commander, USSF Colonel Mark Bigley at a change of command ceremony at Schriever SFB, Colorado June 21, 2022. During the ceremony, Whiting transferred command of the Delta from USSF Colonel Casey Beard to Bigley who is now responsible for executing the organization's mission of orbital warfare.

U.S. Army Soldiers with the Pennsylvania National Guards 56th Striker Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, prepare to board a plane at Harrisburg International Airport on Jan. 1, 2024. The Soldiers are leaving their homes and families for about a year to deploy to Africa to support U.S. Africa Command and partner forces with security objectives in the region. Maj. Gen. Mark McCormack, the commanding general of the 28th Infantry Division, Brig. Gen. Laura McHugh, the Deputy Adjutant General-Army, Command Sgt. Maj. Shawn Phillips, the State Command Sergeant Major, and other officials greeted Soldiers as they boarded their planes to leave Pennsylvania.

Command Sgt. Maj. Michael J. Coffey (Left), the United States Military Academy Command Sergeant Major, presents the Sergeant Audie Murphy Award (SAMA) to Sgt. 1st Class Larry Ward, with 1st Battalion 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at West Point, NY on July 29, 2022. The SAMA is an award for noncommissioned officers whose leadership achievements and performance merit special recognition.

U.S. Soldiers with the 28th Financial Management Support Unit, 213th Regional Support Group, Pennsylvania National Guard, deactivate their unit and activate the 28th Finance Battalion during a ceremony in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, Feb. 4, 2024. The incoming commander for the battalion, Lt. Col. Glenn Sudol, was welcomed while the outgoing commander of the 28th FMSU, Maj. Scott Buckmaster, was recognized for his service. Army National Guard

Col. Brian D. Moore, 51st Maintenance Group commander, left, recives the 51st Aircraft Maintnance Squadron guidon from Lt. Col. Jared C. Struck, outgoing 51st AMXS commander, right, during the 51st AMXS Deactivation Ceremony at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, June 1, 2022. Struck took over as the 51st Aircraft Maintnance Squadron commander June 4, 2020 and led over 500 Airmen while maintaining a fleet of F-16 and A-10 aircraft.

U.S. Army Soldiers and civilians receive a coin from Brig. Gen. Joseph D'costa, the Deputy Commanding General for Sustainment of Eighth Army, on behalf of Lt. Gen. Willard M. Burleson III, Eighth Army Commanding General, for contributions made in support of USAG Humphreys' annual Fall Fest celebration. Awardees were presented with Lt. Gen. Burleson's coin before the start of the Command Community Information Exchange (CCIE) briefing held at the Morning Calm Conference Center on Nov. 2, 2022. The CCIE is held monthly to share information and discuss concerns with the USAG Humphreys community.

Right, U.S. Army Lt. Col Brian M. Travis outgoing commander of Allied Forces South Battalion (AFSOUTH), passes the Colors to U.S. Army Col. Miles T. Gengler, U.S. Army NATO Brigade Commander, during a change of command ceremony at Joint Forces Command Naples, Italy, June, 22, 2022

The U.S. Army Reserves 200th Military Police Command welcomed Brig. Gen. Cary Cowan Jr. as its new commanding general during a change-of-command ceremony Aug. 26 on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. Cowan assumed command from Maj. Gen. John Hussey during the ceremony, which was presided over by Maj. Gen. Gregory Mosser, U.S. Army Reserve Command deputy commanding general.

Technical Sergeant Jonathan Kuehne, 22nd Security Forces kennel master shows a group of United States Air Force Academy cadets a bite suit after a demonstration July 21, 2022, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. The USAFA cadets visited various organizations around base to get a more in depth look at the relationship between officers and their troops, as well as see the way the Air Force culture is shifting.

Headquarters Detachment, Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center held an award ceremony for Annual Training 2022 at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, August 5, 2022.

U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Douglas Stewart, Headquarters, Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 172nd Cavalry Regiment (Mountain), Vermont Army National Guard, left, addresses troops at the Ethan Allen Firing Range, Jericho, Vt., Oct. 15, 2022. This formation marks the last in which Stewart participates before retirement from service.

Lt. Gen Theodore D. Martin, Commanding General, U.S. Army Combined Arms Center, visits Soldiers from 1st Air Cavalry Brigade during Combined Resolve 17. Combined Resolve 17 is a United States Army Europe and Africa directed, 7th Army Training Command executed training event at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center to exercise combined arms operations in a multinational environment. The exercise features approximately 4,800 Soldiers from Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Italy, Kosovo, Lithuania, Moldova, North Macedonia, Poland, and the United States. (U.S. Army video by Sgt. Jason Greaves)

1st Lt. Jake Standridge, a lieutenant in 2-2 Stryker Brigade Combat Team, welcomes a service member from the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) during the Future Leaders Intensive Program at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. on Feb. 12, 2024. JGSDF lieutenants spent a day in the life of an Army lieutenant to promote interoperability and share leadership skills. Army

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christopher Hergenreter, center, 422nd Air Base Squadron incoming commander, assumes command from Col. Jon Hannah, left, 422nd Air Base Group commander, during a 422nd ABS change of command ceremony at Royal Air Force Croughton, England, June 6, 2022. The ceremony is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of a units authority and responsibility from one commander to another.

Command Chief Master Sgt. Steven Best engages with service members from the 123rd Airlift Wing, after assuming the role of wing command chief for the Kentucky Air National Guard in Louisville, Ky., May 3, 2022. Best has served with the wing since 1998 in the 123rd Logistics Readiness Squadron, and was awarded First Sergeant of the Year for the wing in 2015.

Maj. Nathan Bukowski was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel by Maj. Gen. William Blaylock, Commanding General of the 35th Infantry Division on Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, April 22, 2022.

U.S. Army Gen. Gary Brito, incoming commander of U.S Army Training and Doctrine Command, receives the unit colors from Gen. James McConville, Chief of Staff of the Army, during a change of command ceremony September 8, 2022 at Fort Eustis, Virginia. Brito, a Hyannis, Massachusetts native, will serve as the 18th Commanding General of TRADOC.

Maj. Daniel Finney, incoming 317th Maintenance Squadron commander, takes the guidon from Col. Jeffrey Darden, 317th Maintenance Group commander during a change of command ceremony at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, 17 Jun 2022. Finney takes command of a squadron that is responsible for performing on-and-off equipment maintenance on 28 C-130J aircraft and components supporting the group's global reach airlift mission.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Michael Dryer, 1st Space Battalion commander, takes the guidon as Cpt. Jordan Dea, 22nd Space Company Joint Tactical Ground Station (JTAGS) 1st Space Battalion outgoing commander, relinquishes command during a change of command ceremony at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 19, 2022. JTAGS primary mission is to provide in theater ballistic missile early warning. This is achieved by manning and operating forward-based JTAGS units in Italy, Qatar, Korea and Japan.

Lt. Col. Alfred Grethe, the Senior National Representative for Germany, congratulates a U.S. Soldier during a German Armed Forces Badge of Marksmanship awards ceremony at Union III forward operating base in Baghdad, Iraq, April 14, 2022. The German Armed Forces Badge of Marksmanship is awarded to soldiers proficient in marksmanship and is an official military award authorized for wear by enlisted service members.

Brig. Gen. Christine A. Beeler passes the colors to Col. Justin L. Dearmond, charging the new commander during the 408th Contracting Support Brigade change of command and responsibility ceremony at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, July 15, 2022. The change of command and responsibility ceremony is part of Army heritage, celebrating the achievements of the outgoing commander and command sergeant major, while welcoming the incoming leadership to the command.

Lt. Gen. Stephen N. Whiting, Space Operations Command Commander, presents challenge coins to Clear Space Force Station Arctic Airmen and Guardian superior performers in their duties to protect and defend the homeland. The Clear SFS members provide strategic missile warning, missile defense, and Upgraded Early Warning Radar as an integral part of deterrence in support of Homeland Defense. Clear SFS is home to Arctic Airmen and Guardians assigned to the 13th and 213th Space Warning Squadrons, providing 24/7 missile warning, missile defense, and space domain awareness.

U.S. Army and KATUSA Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, USAG Humphreys celebrate winning the annual Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) Inclusion Cup at the BOSS 4th Quarter Awards Ceremony held at Humphreys Family Theater, Sept. 27, 2022. HHC also received an award for the Best BOSS Inclusion Video, Best Brigade BOSS Board, and Best Battalion BOSS Board in the USAG Humphreys BOSS Program for Fiscal Year 22.

U.S. ARMY JAPAN held a patching ceremony at Yano Field in CAMP ZAMAJAPAN on JUNE 17th, 2022, authorizing both U.S Army Soldiers and JapanSelf-Defense Force members to wear the new patch that symbolizes theirenduring bilateral relationship.

Senior Leaders of the Michigan National Guard celebrate the newly promoted U.S. Army Pfc. Maverick Sincic, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battery 119th Field Artillery Regiment Michigan Army National Guard, at Forward Operating Site Adazi, Latvia, May 26, 2022. Summer Shield is one of U.S. Army Europe and Africas multinational training exercises in Eastern Europe that make up Defender Europe 22. Defender demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africas ability to conduct large-scale ground combat operations across multiple theaters supporting NATO.

Sgt. Maj. David Merritt, the Operations and Planning Sergeant Major for the Illinois Army National Guard, is congratulated by Brig. Gen. Mark Alessia, Director of the Illinois National Guard Joint Staff, after Merritts retirement ceremony retirement ceremony at the Illinois Military Academy on Camp Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois July 22. Merritt has 30-years of military service. He enlisted into the Army in August of 1992 as a private, serving five years as a Petroleum Supply Specialist at Fort Hood, TX and Fort Lewis, WA. He then enlisted into the Illinois Army National Guard as a traditional Soldier in August of 1997. He will continue to reside in East Peoria after his retirement with his wife, Wendy and two sons, Gunner and Tavin.

Lt. Col. Gregory Polk, the Task Force Pioneer commander, shakes hands with a U.S. Soldier during an award ceremony at Union III forward operating base in Baghdad, Iraq, April 22, 2022. As part of Army tradition, Task Force Pioneer facilitates mass ceremonies to present awards and recognize exemplary accomplishments.

Headquarters Detachment, Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center held an award ceremony for Annual Training 2022 at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, August 5, 2022.

Maj. Gen. Kenneth Kamper, commanding general, Fires Center of Excellence and Fort Sill welcomed Col. Curtis King as the 45th Commandant of the U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery School, Chief of Air Defense Artillery and Deputy Commanding Officer of the Fires Center of Excellence and Fort Sill during a ceremony July 7, 2022.

Maj. Gen. Sean M. Salene, the U.S. Central Command's Director of Strategy, Plans, and Policy (J-5), walks with Colonel Brian T. Hobbins, the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing deputy commander, September 27, 2022 at Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates. Salene met with key leaders at the U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi and the 380th AEW. Meetings focused how U.S. Forces in the UAE coordinate with their Emirati Partners to maintain regional security.

Col. Lisa Pierce joins soldiers from across Camp Arifjan, Kuwait in the singing of the Army Song to close the day's ceremonies. Members of various faiths joined together in solidarity during the National Day of Prayer.

Lt. Col. Gregory Polk, the Task Force Pioneer commander, salutes a U.S. Soldier during an award ceremony at Union III forward operating base in Baghdad, Iraq, April 22, 2022. As part of Army tradition, Task Force Pioneer facilitates mass ceremonies to present awards and recognize exemplary accomplishments.

A guidon bearer from the Wisconsin Army National Guards 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade holds the unit's colors during a Transfer of Responsibility ceremony at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Nov. 5, 2022. During the ceremony, the 157th MEB assumed responsibility for the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa headquarters staff mission.

U.S. Air Force Col. Robert McAllister, the A2/3/5 director assigned to the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, awards Lt. Col. Ralph Foshee, the commander of the 968th Expeditionary Airborne Air Control Squadron, case the 968th EAACS colors 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.

Maj. David Ratté, 436th Security Forces Squadron commander, sings the Air Force Song during a change of command ceremony held at The Landings on Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, June 21, 2022. Ratté was previously the 768th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron defense force commander.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Eric Engstrom (left), motor sergeant, and U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Trevor Hale (right), allied trades warrant officer, both assigned to the 237th Brigade Support Battalion, 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, wait for the units call-to-duty ceremony to begin, Sep. 24, 2022, at Stow-Munroe Falls High School, Ohio. The ceremony saw family, friends, and state officials gather to support and send-off the 237th BSB as they deploy in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

U.S. Soldiers, assigned to Palehorse Troop, 4th Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, learn to assemble the RQ-11 Raven, a Small Unmanned Aircraft System, during a situational training exercise at the 7th Army Training Command's Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Oct. 13, 2022. 2CR provides the 7th ATC with a lethal and agile force capable of rapid deployment throughout the European theater in order to assure allies, deter adversaries, and when ordered, defend the NATO alliance.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Brian Welde is officially recognized as commander of the 378th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron, during an assumption of command ceremony held at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, May 6, 2022. The primary purpose of an assumption of command is for subordinates to witness an officer formally assume responsibility, authority and accountability for the unit. These ceremonies preserve the tradition of military service and stimulate unit esprit de corps.

Capt. Darius Williams, 186th Air Operations Group, Mississippi Air National Guard, received an Army Achievement Medal by Brig. Gen. Michael R. Cleveland, Assistant Adjunct General, Mississippi National Guard at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, Feb. 21, 2024. Williams received this award for his efforts during PATRIOT 24 exercise. PATRIOT is a Domestic Operations disaster-response training exercise conducted by National Guard units working with federal, state and local emergency management agencies and first responders. Air National Guard

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. - Command Sergeant Major Ronald Krause (facing center) relinquished his authority as the senior enlisted leader and Keeper of the Colors for the 780th Military Intelligence (MI) Brigade (Cyber) in a Change of Responsibility ceremony hosted by Colonel Benjamin Sangster, the brigade commander, at the Post Theater, October 3.

Senior Enlisted Advisor Tony L. Whitehead, the SEA to the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, attends a joint professional development workshop on Feb. 02, 2023, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, in Anchorage, Alaska as part of a state visit. During the workshop, the director of psychological health for the Alaska Army National Guard provided a health and burnout prevention session to help service members understand signs of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. Whitehead provided a personal reflection on the topic and the importance of recognizing the signs and taking preventative measures.

Lt. Gen. Gangsoo Heo, the commanding general of the Republic of Korea Army 7th Corps, and the command group of the ROKA Capital Mechanized Infantry Division visit the 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division May 10, 2022. The visit consisted of discussions to further bolster and strengthen relationships between the organizations.

Alaska Air and Army National Guardsmen return to Fairbanks, Alaska, Sept. 30 from assisting Nome community residents affected by the remnants of Typhoon Merbok. The Alaska Joint Task Force members removed more than 180,000 pounds of storm-related debris and logged more than 3,000 work hours across 32 communities. (Alaska National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Julie Avey)

Senior Master Sgt. James M. Ethington, right, 131st Bomb Wing Human Resource Advisor, is presented with the Meritorious Service Medal by Maj. Charlie Dey, the 131st Bomb Wing Chaplain, during his retirement ceremony, May 15, 2022, at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Base, St. Louis, Missouri. Ethington served for 20 years.

Maj. Gen. Michael Turley, adjutant general; Command Sgt. Maj. Spencer Nielsen, senior enlisted leader; Brig. Gen. Charlene Dalto, Land Component commander; and other senior leaders with the Utah National Guard visit with approximately 45 Soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division Main Command Post Operational Detachment before their departure for a year-long deployment in support of U.S. European Command operations overseas at Roland R. Wright Air Base, Utah, Jan. 9, 2023. The 4th ID MCP-OD mission is to integrate with Active Component Division Headquarters and augment staff personnel to increase the capability of simultaneous mission execution, extended operations, and/or support the forward deployment of the Division HQ.

8th Army Commanding General (CG) Lt. Gen. Willard Burleson, U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence CG, Maj. Gen. Michael Talley and 18th Medical Command CG Brig. Gen. (P) Paula Lodi conversing during the 38th Parallel.

On 13 May 2022 at the Fort Dix School House Auditorium the HHC USASA Fort Dix had a Change of Command. The outgoing CDR MAJ William Jolly relinquished Command to MAJ Justin Warrick. Family and Soldiers were present during the ceremony held in the Fort Dix Schoolhouse Auditorium. Comments were made by Base Commander COL John Brierton and MAJ Foster as the narrator of the ceremony. MAJ Jolly has been the HHC Commander for the base shortly after his completion of the General Staff Course at Fort Belvoir. We welcome MAJ Warrick to his new position as the incoming CDR here at the USASA Fort Dix Base. Prior to his arrival at Fort Dix MAJ Warrick had Commanded the 80th Engineer Company, held a position as a Cybersecurity Course Manager, and instructed for the Army National Guard at Camp Robinson, Arkansas. (Photos taken by the Fort Dix TSC Training Support Center)

Left to right: U.S. Army Col. Daniel Miller, outgoing commander of 41st Field Artillery Brigade (41st FAB), Brig. Gen. Joseph Hilbert, Commanding General of 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) and Col. Wilbur Hsu, incoming commander of 41st FAB, stand in front of the formation during a Change of Command ceremony at the 7ATC's Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Aug. 3, 2022. Col. Daniel Miller relinquished command to Col. Wilbur Hsu.

From left, U.S. Air Force Col. Jun Oh, 374th Operations Group commander, Lt. Col. Joseph Walters, former 459th Airlift Squadron (AS) commander, and Lt. Col. Samuel Shamburg, 59th AS commander, conduct a change of command ceremony at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Jan. 11, 2024. The change of command ceremony formally transferred command of the 459th AS from Walters to Shamburg.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. John Klein, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center commander, coins Airman 1st Class Ricky Salone II, a water and fuels systems maintenance craftsman with the 628th Civil Engineer Squadron, at Joint Base Charleston, Oct. 20 2022. Klein visited EC units to see first-hand how they organize, train and equip warrior Airmen and to recognize exceptional performers.

U.S. Army National Guard Lt. Col. Matthew Brown, is promoted to colonel at the Vermont National Guard Library and Museum in Colchester Vermont, August 12, 2022. Col. Brown enlisted into the 3-172 Infantry (Mountain) in 1993 as a mechanic and commissioned through the Vermont State Officer Candidate Program in 1998 as an Armor Officer.

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) stand with their Moroccan counterparts during a wing exchange ceremony as part of African Lion 22, June 27, 2022. African Lion 22 is U.S. Africa Command's largest, premier, joint, combined annual exercise hosted by Morocco, Ghana, Senegal, and Tunisia, June 6 - 30. More than 7,500 participants from 28 nations and NATO train together with a focus on enhancing readiness for U.S. and partner-nation forces. AL22 is a joint all-domain, multi-component, and multinational exercise, employing a full array of mission capabilities with the goal to strengthen interoperadurbility among participants and set the theater for strategic access.

Maj. Gen. Michael Turley (left), the adjutant general for the state of Utah awards Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 Brian Searcy with the Legion of Merit for his services as command chief. The Utah Army National Guard welcomes its new command chief warrant officer during a change-of-responsibility ceremony, Dec. 5, 2022, in the Draper headquarters auditorium. During the ceremony, Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 Brian Searcy relinquishes the role of command chief of the Utah Army National Guard to Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 William Erickson.

U.S. Air Force Col. Jon T. Hannah, 422d Air Base Group commander, gives a round of applause to Maj. Amanda Altman, 422d Communications Squadron incoming commander, during an assumption of command ceremony at RAF Croughton, England, June 27, 2022. An assumption of command is a military tradition that represents the formal gaining of a units authority and responsibility by a commander.

060331-A-5399B-455. Base: Fort Hood State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: NORTHEAST

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Mark McCormack, commander of the 28th Infantry Division, greets Soldiers with Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 28th ID before they depart from Harrisburg International Airport as they begin a year-long deployment where they will serve in the Middle East in support of Operation Spartan Shield.

Maj. Gen. Michael Lutton, far left, 20th Air Force commander and Col. Anita Feugate Opperman, far right, 341st Missile Wing outgoing commander, applaud Col. Barry Little, right center, 341st Missile Wing incoming commander, while Chief Master Sgt. Michael Becker, left center, 341st MW command chief, looks on during a change of command ceremony July 18, 2022, at Malmstrom Air Force Base Mont. Before taking command, Little was the vice commander of 20th Air Force, the 341st MWs parent numbered air force.

The 2nd Infantry Division Artillery conducted a change of command ceremony July 6, 2022 on Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea. Col. David Pasquale, the outgoing commander, relinquished his responsibilities to Col. Alexander Lee during the ceremony.

Lt. Col. Brian Kroeller assumes command of the 142nd AMXS during a ceremony on Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Ore.

Lt. Col. Phillip Wagenbach, 15th Space Surveillance Squadron commander, assumes command after the activation of the new Space Force squadron at Kihei, Hawaii, May 26, 2022. The squadron is poised to execute a mix of research, operations, and customer support for the Space Development Agency.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Casey Wyman former 673d Comptroller Squadron salutes Col. Kirsten Aguilar, commander of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and the 673d Air Base Wing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, March 31, 2022. This ceremony represents the transfer of authority and responsibility of the 673d CPTS from Lt. Col. Casey Wyman to Maj. Robert C. Carter.

U.S. Army Capt. Alex Davison, commander assigned to Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division (3-1 ABCT) operationally controlled by the 1st Infantry Division (1 ID) alongside United Kingdom Army soldiers assigned to The Royal Lancers, Prince of Whales Troop discuss the M1A2 Abrams tanks capabilities and training in Bemowo Piskie, Poland, Oct. 27, 2022. The 3-1 ABCT is among other units assigned to the 1 ID, proudly working alongside NATO allies and regional security partners to provide combat-credible forces to V Corps, America's forward deployed corps in Europe.

Air Force Lt. Col. Keye Latimer, 88th Diagnostic and Therapeutic Squadron commander, welcomes Army Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Gragg, Defense Health Agency senior enlisted leader, outside Kittyhawk Pharmacy at Wright-Patterson Air Force base, Ohio on April 12, 2022. Gragg visited the medical center to see its missions and capabilities firsthand.

Staff Sgt. Justin Schaffer is awarded an impact Meritorious Service Medal by Maj. Gen. John B. Richardson, 1st Cavalry Division commanding general, for his ability to take action and apply training to save a Trooper's life at Fort Hood, Texas, July 11.

First sergeants from the 129th Rescue Wing, California Air National Guard, gather for a group photo after the wings Change of Command ceremony, April 2, 2022, at Moffett Air National Guard Base, California. From left: U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Stanford Dickson, Master Sgt. Patrick OHara, Master Sgt. Miguel Hernandez, Master Sgt. Octavio Bugarin and Senior Master Sgt. Jose Mercado.

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