Military Command Ceremonies

Various military personnel conducting formal ceremonies, including assumption of command and color casing, showcasing unity and tradition in military culture.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Karl Agudo and Maj. Jacques Lamoureux, the respective outgoing and incoming commander of the 378th Expeditionary Contracting Squadron, listen to the remarks of 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, June 24, 2022. 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.

Task Force Thunder, 155th Armored Brigade Combat Team, Mississippi Army National Guard, took command of the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine mission under 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) from Task Force Bowie, 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 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.

U.S. Air Force Col. Jon T. Hannah, 422d Air Base Group commander, speaks during an assumption of command ceremony at RAF Croughton, England, June 27, 2022. This will be the last ceremony Hannah presides over as the commander of the 422d ABG.

The 387th Military Police company conducted a color casing ceremony at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, Oct. 15, 2022. The 387th Military Police company has a rich history for its short span. It was first federally recognized on Nov. 6, 2006 in New Albany. The unit then deployed in 2009 with the 384th Military Police Combat support company to Mosul, Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2010, the 387th Military Police Company responded to an earthquake in Haiti and again deployed two years later with the 381st Military Police Support Company in Afghanistan under Task Force Guardian in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2015, the unit was transferred to Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuver Training Center. Then, in 2017 the unit mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. At the end of the ceremony, 387th Military Police Company commander, Cpt. Jay Ciesielczyk addressed the formation. I know the unit that receives you will be fortunate to have you in the

U.S. Space Force Gen. John W. Raymond, Chief of Space Operations, answers questions from members of Team Kirtland during an all-call at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Oct. 12, 2022. During the all-call Team Kirtland members asked Gen. Raymond about recruiting and the threats the Space Force encounters.

U.S. Army Col. Ronald D. Hogsten, commander of the 298th Regiment Multi-functional Regional Training Institute (RTI), Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG), delivers remarks during the change of command ceremony in Waimanalo, Hawaii, January 7, 2024. The change of command ceremony is a time-honored tradition within the Army which commemorates the relinquishment of command by passing the units colors from one officer to another.

Lt. Col.Michael J. Esposito addresses the battalion after assuming command of Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 29th Infantry Division from Lt. Col. John R. Roche, September 11, 2022, 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. Air Force Lt. Col. Jeremy Lock, the incoming 378th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron commander and Lt. Col. Jeffrey Hughes, outgoing 378th ECES commander listen to remarks delivered by Brig. Gen. William Betts during the 378th ECES change of command ceremony, at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, July 19, 2022. During the ceremony Betts presented Hughes with a Meritorious Service Medal, and welcomed Lock into his new role as the 378th ECES commander.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Donald S. Gallagher, center, 20th Security Forces career field manager, speaks with 422nd Security Forces Squadron defenders during a visit to Royal Air Force Croughton, England, May 23, 2022. Gallagher and Brig. Gen. Roy W. Collins, Headquarters U.S. Air Force director of security forces and deputy chief of staff for logistics, engineering and force protection, visited RAF Croughton to present the 2021 Air Force Best Small Security Forces Squadron to the 422nd Security Forces Squadron.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Karl Agudo and Maj. Jacques Lamoureux, the respective outgoing and incoming commander of the 378th Expeditionary Contracting Squadron, listen to the remarks of 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, June 24, 2022. 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.

Gen. Glen VanHerck, Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command, answers questions from National Air and Space Intelligence Center staff following a coining presentation in the NASIC Forum at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Jan. 11, 2023. VanHerck coined three individuals from NASIC for their exemplary performance.

Lt. Col. Seth Kaste speaks during a formal change of command ceremony for the Wisconsin National Guards 54th Civil Support Team Oct. 7 at the Armed Forces Reserve Center in Madison, Wis. Kaste, who had served previously in the 54th CST, takes command as outgoing commander Lt. Col. Matthew Kelly assumes his new assignment as administrative officer and rear detachment commander for the Wisconsin Army National Guards 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade. The 54th CST is the states full-time response team for emergencies or terrorist events that involve weapons of mass destruction, toxic industrial chemicals or natural disasters. The unit is designed to rapidly deploy, assist local first-responders in determining the nature of an attack or hazardous materials scenario, and provide medical, communications, technical support and advice. Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs photo by Vaughn R. Larson

U.S. Army Lt. Col. David G.Goodall, commander of the 1st Battalion, 131st Aviation Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, Alabama Army National Guard (Task Force Yellowhammer), speaks during a transfer of authority ceremony at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, Oct. 11, 2022. The transfer of authority ceremony signifies the start of the task forces rotation in Kosovo and their commitment to keeping a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all communities in Kosovo.

Col. Calvin Powell incoming 39th Air Base Wing commander, renders his first salute during a change of command ceremony at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, June 30, 2022. During the ceremony, Col. Jason Gingrich relinquished command of the 39th ABW to Maj. Gen. Derek France, Third Air Force commander, who then charged Powell with leading the wing. The 39th ABW is charged with defending NATOs southern flank under the auspices of 3rd AF, U.S. Air Forces in Europe - Air Forces Africa and U.S. European Command. The wing projects global power through strategic deterrence, agile combat support and enduring partnerships to defend U.S. interests and allies.

Col. Johnny R. Sutton, 5th Armored Brigade commander, discusses mobilization force generation installation training capabilities provided by the 5th Armored Bde. to chaplain teams with units across First Army participating in an annual symposium to strengthen partnerships, talk resource management, systems requirements, and facilitate observer coach/trainer development in preparation for large-scale mobilization operation contingencies here Sept. 12-15.

U.S. Army Capt. Olivia Schretzman, 511th Engineer Dive Detachment commander, delivers remarks to 1st Lt. Adriel Moran, 511th Engineer Dive Detachment executive officer, during a pre-deployment ceremony at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, September 9, 2022. A group of Soldiers with the detachment are deploying to support Operation Spartan Shield 2023, as a part of Task Force Spartan.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Eric J. Tolska speaks at a change of command ceremony for the 1st Assault Helicopter Battalion, 150th Aviation Regiment on June 24, 2022 on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Lt. Col. Eric J. Tolska replaced Lt. Col Ryan J. Smith who was promoted to another assignment in the National Guard. (U.S. Army National Guard photos by Pfc. Michael Hayes)

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.

Col. Paul W. Dahlen, commander of the 191st Regional Support Group, addresses the audience during the Transfer of Authority ceremony between his group and the 120th RSG at the 33rd Airlift Base in Powidz, Poland on July 1. The 191st RSG supported more than 14,000 troops at any given moment for the span of nine months, and established operations in southeast Poland to set up a forward operating site to accommodate the 82nd Airborne Division, which arrived in early February in support of Ukraine after the Russian invasion.

Incoming Army Field Support Battalion-Benelux Commander Lt. Col. Blake Smith , makes a speech during change of command ceremony June 16 at the Zutendaal Army Prepositioned Stocks-2 worksite in Belgium. (photo by Henri Cambier)

U.S. Army Col. Brian Ducote, Commander of Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolves Task Force Warrior, gives a speech in remembrance of all fallen service members during a Memorial Day ceremony at Erbil Air Base, Iraq, May 30, 2022. During the ceremony, officials reflected on the origins and purpose of Memorial Day and honored those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to their countries.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Jason Gillespie, sergeant major of Marine Air-Ground Task Force Training Command, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), speaks to guests during the Service Members of the Quarter Honoree Luncheon at MCAGCC, Twentynine Palms, California, Aug. 31, 2022. The Armed Services YMCA hosted the luncheon to congratulate the honorees on their outstanding service.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. John Lodes, battalion commander of the 1st Battalion, 107th Aviation Regiment (AOB), delivers comments during the Air Operations Battalion (AOB) transfer of authority ceremony from the 1-107th AOB to the 1st Battalion, 58th Aviation Regiment (AOB) at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, June 15, 2022. The 1-107th AOB conducted over 12,500 aircraft movements and throughput of over 2,400 passengers without incident during their deployment in support of CJTF-HOA.

U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., speaks at an all-call with Airmen during a visit to the179th Airlift Wing at Mansfield Lahm Air National Guard Base, Ohio, Apr. 2, 2023. The visit to Mansfieldwas an opportunity for senior leadership to visit with Airmen and learn about the historic missionconversion of the unit into the Air National Guard's first-ever cyberspace wing.

Command Sgt. Maj. Thinh Huynh makes remarks after relinquishing responsibility of 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division during the change of responsibility ceremony on Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, June 7, 2022. Huynh assumed responsibility in the summer of 2020 and lead the unit through the COVID-19 pandemic, fought to maintain readiness, and still continued to culminate the training cycle with multiple deployments in support of Operation Pathways.

U.S. Army Lt. Col Nathan Speanburg, outgoing commander, 572nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont Army National Guard, offers remarks during the unit's change of command ceremony held at the Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport, North Clarendon, Vt., July 10, 2022.

Command Sgt. Maj. Edward Bailey stands at attention during a change of responsibility ceremony held at Fort Belvoir, Va., Jan. 21, 2024. Command Sgt. Maj. Edward Bailey assumed responsibility as Military Intelligence Readiness Command command sergeant major from outgoing command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Brian Bertazon.

Col. Joshua Pope, incoming 7th Maintenance Group commander, gives his first speech as the group commander at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, May 13, 2022. Pope took command of approximately 1,500 Airmen who are responsible for maintaining a large portion of the 7th Bomb Wings B-1B Lancer fleet.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Christopher G. Beck, the Deputy-Commanding General of Maneuver, III-Corps, participates in a safety briefing with 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, at Fort Riley, Kansas, July 19, 2022. The DCG-M visited Fort Riley to observe 2ABCT's vehicle staging and inspections as the unit prepares to deploy to the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California.

The 387th Military Police company conducted a color casing ceremony at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, Oct. 15, 2022. The 387th Military Police company has a rich history for its short span. It was first federally recognized on Nov. 6, 2006 in New Albany. The unit then deployed in 2009 with the 384th Military Police Combat support company to Mosul, Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2010, the 387th Military Police Company responded to an earthquake in Haiti and again deployed two years later with the 381st Military Police Support Company in Afghanistan under Task Force Guardian in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2015, the unit was transferred to Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuver Training Center. Then, in 2017 the unit mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. At the end of the ceremony, 387th Military Police Company commander, Cpt. Jay Ciesielczyk addressed the formation. I know the unit that receives you will be fortunate to have you in the

U.S. Army Capt. Levi Rowley, incoming commander of Headquarters and Headquarter Company, 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, gives remarks during his change of command ceremony at Kearny Mesa Armory, Calif., on June 4, 2022. The change of command is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility from one commanding officer to another.

Chief Master Sgt. Jerry Ratliff, 386th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron fire chief, gets promoted during a ceremony at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait. He was promoted by Lt. Col. Sylvester dAgrella, 386th ECES commander, on Sept. 17, 2022. Ratliffs family was able to watch his promotion ceremony via cellphone streaming. Nearly 100 firefighters, friends, fellow chiefs and leaders took part in the ceremony. Ratiff, who is deployed from the 132nd Civil Engineer Squadron, Iowa Air National Guard, joined the top 1-percent of enlisted members upon promoting to his new rank.

U.S. Army Col. Deon D. Maxwell Sr., USAMMC-E commander addresses the audience during a change of command & relinquishment of responsibility ceremony, July 8, 2022 at Kaiserslautern, Germany. Maxwell Sr. assumed command of the unit from Col. Shane A. Roach and Master Sgt. Charles W. Douglas assumed responsibility from Sgt. Maj. Francis V. Famularcano.

Brig. Gen. Michael Simmering, deputy commanding general - operations, 1st Armored Division, delivers the opening remarks during the Fort Bliss Partners in Education Kick-Off Event Sept. 30, 2022 at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center. We think we need to take a more proactive role in our community, Simmering said. We cant simply support the few schools out there that have large military populations and not allow our Soldiers to be seen by the greater community. We need to be out there with you, the educators on the edge helping make the children of today into the citizens, soldiers, and quite honestly, the leaders that will lead this nation into the future.

U.S. Army Reserve Command Sgt. Maj. Craig Hyson, principal enlisted advisor for the 7th Mission Support Command provides remarks following his award presentation, Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, at Kleber Kaserne, Kaiserslautern, Germany. Hyson thanked the Soldiers, civilians, and families of the 7th MSC for welcoming him into the unit three years ago, as he assumed responsibility as the principal enlisted advisor.

Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Leonard R. Siems, deputy garrison chaplain, delivers the keynote speech during the National Day of Prayer ceremony at Centennial Park May 5.

Col. Kenneth McGhee gives a speech at the 91st Security Forces Group Change of Command on June 28, 2022, at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. Col. Thomas Segars relinquished command of the 91st Security Forces Group to Col. Anthony McCarty.

U.S. Air Force Col. Dan Cooley, 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing incoming commander, speaks to Airmen during his change of command ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, July 7, 2022. The wing provides rapid global mobility support en route in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East through aircraft maintenance, aerial port operations, command and control, expeditionary aircrew support, and aeromedical evacuation.

Command Sgt. Maj. Rocky Kunkel, the incoming senior enlisted advisor for the "Hound Battalion," 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, speaks to Soldiers, Families and distinguished guests during the battalion's change of responsibility ceremony on Cottrell Field at Fort Stewart, Georgia, June 22, 2022. A change of responsibility ceremony is rich in symbolism and heritage within the military and reinforces the role of the noncommissioned officer in the Army, highlighting their role as a bridge between the commander and the formation's enlisted Soldiers.

The 121st Air Refueling Wing holds a promotion ceremony for Chief Master Sgt. Stephen Caron at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio, Feb. 4, 2024. Family and friends joined Caron to celebrate his ascension to the 9th and highest enlisted rank in the U.S. Air Force. Air National Guard

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. Army Col. Damon Wells, incoming commander of the 4th Infantry Division Artillery (4 ID), delivers a speech during the 1st Infantry Division Artillery, 4 ID Transfer of Authority in Adazi, Latvia, Feb. 3, 2023. The 4 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. Air National Guard Lt. Col. Steven Schultz, commander, 114th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, speaks during his change of command ceremony at Joe Foss Field, South Dakota, Aug. 7, 2022. Schultz was previously the director of operations for the 114th Fighter Wing Operational Support Squadron.

TINIAN, Northern Mariana Islands (Sept.14, 2022) - Capt. Lance Flood, 30 NCR outgoing commander, delivers his remarks followed by the reading of his orders, during a change of command ceremony held at the 107th Seabee Memorial in Tinian, Northern Mariana Islands, Sept. 9.Capt. Flood demonstrated innovative leadership. His efforts have made the Fleet more ready today and set the path toward shaping the Naval Construction Force of tomorrow.30 NCR conducts tactical and operational level planning, maintains major contingency response capability, and executes general engineering across the full range of military operations within the USINDOPACOM area of responsibility, fulfilling CTF 75 requirements in order to support the combatant command and other service component efforts to protect and defend the United States, its territories, allies, and interests; promote regional security and deter aggression. 30 NCR oversees all naval construction force units deployed throughout the USINDOPACOM ar

Army Chief of Staff, Gen. JamesMcConville,speaks at the activation ceremony of the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division on Pershing Field at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson June 6th, 2022.The activation returns the historic 11th Airborne Division to the Army's active rolls, with a focus on operations in extreme cold weather and mountainous high altitude environments. The ceremonies at Fort Wainwright and JBER also include the reflagging of 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division and 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, into 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team and 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division, respectively.

SEOUL, Republic of Korea (Dec. 14, 2017) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson speaks with Sailors at an All Hands Call in Seoul during a routine visit to the peninsula. The purpose of Richardson's visit is to engage with senior Republic of Korea and U.S. military leadership and to conduct an All Hands Call with Sailors in the Korean theater.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Jalil Samavarchian, Chief of Headquarters Air Force Enlisted Force Development, briefs Airmen and officers during an enlisted force development panel at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richarson, Alaska, March 30, 2023. The panel highlighted initiatives taken by senior leadership to assist in the effective development of the enlisted force.

Sgt. Maj. Ralph Martinez, U.S. Army Chaplain Corps regimental sergeant major, speaks to U.S. Army Pacific Soldiers May 2 during the Spiritual Readiness Initiative training at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. The SRI was introduced while Maj. Gen. Thomas L. Solhjem, U.S. Army chief of chaplains, and Martinez conducted their battlefield circulation meetings with Commanders, spouses and UMTs.

Brig. Gen. Edward H. Bailey, Commanding General, Medical Readiness Command, Pacific discusses the re-designation of the Regional Health Command - Pacific (RHC-P) to the Medical Readiness Command, Pacific (MRC, P) at a re-designation ceremony on October 18, 2022, at Fort Shafter Army Base. (U.S. Army Photo)

United States Air Force Lt. Gen. Ricky N. Rupp, U.S. Forces Japan and 5th Air Force commander, delivers a speech during the 35th Fighter Wing change of command ceremony at Misawa Air Base, Japan, June 30, 2022. A change of command is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit from one commanding or flag officer to another.

North Carolina National Guardsmen Chief Warrant Officer 5 Thomas Mcauliffe of the 449th Combat Aviation Brigade gives a speech during a retirement ceremony for Chief Warrant Officer 5 Ronald Williams, a safety officer of the 449th CAB, in Morrisville, N.C., June 5, 2022. In honor of Williams 34 years of service, he conducted one last flight for the NCNG with his son, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Derek Williams, master gunner for the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 130th Aviation Regiment, 449th CAB. (U.S. Army National Guard taken by Sgt. Hannah Tarkelly)

Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson, chief, National Guard Bureau, addresses a formation of Moldovan military personnel during a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Moldovan Military Vehicle Maintenance Facility in the Republic of Moldova, June 10, 2022. Hokanson joined Army Maj. Gen. Todd Hunt, the adjutant general, North Carolina National Guard, to recognize Moldova's 23-year security cooperation with North Carolina.

TINIAN, Northern Mariana Islands (Sept.14, 2022) - Capt. Dean Allen, 30 NCR incoming commander, delivers his remarks as he assumed command of the 30th Naval Construction Regiment (30 NCR), during a change of command ceremony held at the 107th Seabee Memorial in Tinian, Northern Mariana Islands, Sept. 9.30 NCR conducts tactical and operational level planning, maintains major contingency response capability, and executes general engineering across the full range of military operations within the USINDOPACOM area of responsibility, fulfilling CTF 75 requirements in order to support the combatant command and other service component efforts to protect and defend the United States, its territories, allies, and interests; promote regional security and deter aggression. 30 NCR oversees all naval construction force units deployed throughout the USINDOPACOM area of responsibility.

Lt. Col. W. Sterling Anderson, the deputy Air Reserve Component Advisor assigned to Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central), provides a brief to Airmen assigned to the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing, June 10, 2022 at Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates. The intent of the briefing was to provide Guard and Reserve members with information about benefits and programs that are available to them during and after deployments.

Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Stephen Messenger spoke to members of the garrison workforce during his Town Hall sessions on October 27, 2022. He discussed his assessment from his first 90 days in command, results from the command climate survey, and his vision and goals for the future. The installation held two sessions for the workforce, and recorded the event for those who could not attend. Col. Messenger assumed command on July 14, 2022.

Col. Brad Bane, the 405th Army Field Support Brigade Commander, makes a speech during change of command ceremony June 16 at the Zutendaal Army Prepositioned Stocks-2 worksite in Belgium. (photo by Henri Cambier)

TINIAN, Northern Mariana Islands (Sept. 14, 2022) - Guest speaker Rear Admiral Benjamin Nicholson, Commander, Joint Region Marianas, delivers his remarks during a change of command ceremony held at the 107th Seabee Memorial in Tinian, Northern Mariana Islands, Sept. 9.30 NCR conducts tactical and operational level planning, maintains major contingency response capability, and executes general engineering across the full range of military operations within the USINDOPACOM area of responsibility, fulfilling CTF 75 requirements in order to support the combatant command and other service component efforts to protect and defend the United States, its territories, allies, and interests; promote regional security and deter aggression. 30 NCR oversees all naval construction force units deployed throughout the USINDOPACOM area of responsibility.

Tripler Army Medical Center Command Team and Staff gathered in the Kyser Auditorium to observe the Awards presentation.

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Thomas Galoff, participates in a retirement ceremony near Camp Ripley's Town Hall, June 4, 2022. Galoff will retire this summer from his fulltime position with more than 40 years of service. He began his career in 1980 with the Wisconsin National Guards 724th Engineer Battalion as a combat engineer and heavy equipment operator. (Minnesota National Guard Photo by Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)

Major General Joseph A. Ryan, Commanding General of 25th Infantry Division, remarks on positive cooperation with allied observers for Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 23-01 at Schofield Army Barracks, Hawaii, Nov. 4, 2022. JPMRC's realistic training provide capable and ready land forces positioned throughout the Indo-Pacific, bolstering allies and partners and ensuring that the 25th Infantry Division is prepared for any contingency or conflict

220819-N-YR675-9219 VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Aug. 19, 2022). Rear Adm. Brad Andros, director, J10 Directorate of Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction, speaks during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Navy Special Operations Memorial. The memorial will be located at the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 2 compound on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, and the memorial will feature the names of fallen Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians and Navy Divers. EODGRU 2 is a critical part of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Force (NECF) that clears explosive hazards to provide access to denied areas; secures the undersea domain for complete freedom of maneuver; builds and fosters relationships with a constellation of capable and trusted partners; and protects the homeland and American way of life.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Marybeth Koller, commander of the 106th Communications Squadron, discusses the enhanced mission capabilities following the unit's transition from the 106th Communications Flight to the 106th Communications Squadron in a ceremony at F.S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base, Westhampton Beach, New York, February 4, 2024. This milestone event underscored the squadron's commitment to advancing cyber defense and communication support for the Air National Guard and beyond. Air National Guard

Lt. Col. Adam Dykstra, 1st Cyber Battalion outgoing commander, reflects on his time in command during the battalions change of command ceremony held June 15 in Signal Theater at Fort Gordon, Georgia. (Photo by Shatara Riis)

U.S. Air Force Col. Pete Boone, commander, 156th Wing, attends a State Partnership Program meeting with leadership of the Dominican Republic armed forces at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, Aug. 24, 2022. During the SPP meeting, leadership with the 156th Wing and the Dominican Republic armed forces discussed best practices.

Lt. Col. Joshua M. Fields, a Breese, Illinois native, assumed command of the 98th Signal Battalion, in a change of command ceremony at the Student Union Cooley Ballroom, on the University of Arizona campus, where Col. Eric L. Rahman, 505th Signal Brigade commander, was present to transfer the unit colors from Lt. Col. Carey M. McCroskey, outgoing commander, to Lt. Col. Fields, June 11, 2022. The 98th ESB conducts strategic signal operations to enable mission command for Joint and Department of Defense organizations, sending lifesaving communications within their footprint.

U.S. Army Col. James Cassarella, shares words of appreciation for hotel staff, Soldiers and Airmen who contributed to organizing the U.S. Property and Fiscal Office national conference held at the Gettysburg Wyndham.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Luis Martinez, the 156th Contingency Response Group deputy commander, discusses the capabilities of the CRG to leadership with the Honduran armed forces during a State Partnership Program meeting at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, Jan. 19, 2023. During the SPP meeting, leadership with the 156th Wing, PRANG and the Honduran armed forces discussed capabilities and future plans.

Blanchfield Army Community Hospital conducted a change of Responsibility ceremony where Command Sgt. Maj. Marlon E. Faulds relinquished responsibility of his position to Master Sgt. Johnny D. Thompson, December 9, 2022, at Wilson Theater on Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

Clewiston, Fla. - Jan.25, 2023 --The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District, celebrated the completion of construction for the Herbert Hoover Restoration Project around Lake Okeechobee. Col. James Booth, Jacksonville District Commander, addresses the guests during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

U.S. Air Force Col. Kyle Benwitz, 515th Air Mobility Operations Wing commander, gives a speech during the Operation Christmas Drop push ceremony on Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Dec. 5, 2022. Operation Christmas Drop 2022 is a humanitarian airlift mission that delivers donated food, clothing, and other goods to island communities in the region.

Outgoing Western Sector Senior Enlisted Advisor, CSM Michael Jackson bids farewell to the U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command leadership and staff.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jefferson D. Burges, Commander of the 54th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 173rd Airborne Brigade, provides remarks during assumption of responsibility ceremony at Caserma Del Din, Oct. 4, 2022, Vicenza, Italy. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility.

Brig. Gen. Carl Danberg addresses personnel assigned to Kaua'i Community College Tropic Care site during a distinguished visitor tour in Lihue, Hawai'i, on June 16 2022. Tropicare 2022 provides real world training in a joint civil and military environment while strengthening community relationships by providing medical, dental, and optometry services to the people of Hawai'i.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Timothy P. Herrington was recognized for more than 28 years of service to the Mississippi Army National Guard during a retirement ceremony held at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center, Mississippi, August 6, 2022. Herrington previously served as a commissioned officer obtaining the rank of colonel. Herrington was present the Legion of Merit, the Mississippi Magnolia Cross and was promoted to the rank of brigadier general. His wife, Carmen, was presented the Mississippi Magnolia Necklace and a certificate of appreciation. (U.S. Army National Guard photos by Sgt. Jovi Prevot)

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Wigberto Quiles, the commander of the 191st Regional Support Group, Puerto Rico Army National Guard, explains the importance of retention during a reenlistment ceremony at Camp Santiago Joint Training Center, Salinas, Puerto Rico, July 19, 2022. More than 120 service members volunteered to continue their commitment to serve in the Puerto Rico Army National Guard.

U.S. Air Force Col. Kyle Brad Head, out-going 23rd Mission Support Group commander, gives a speech during a change of command ceremony at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, June 17, 2022. Head led a group of more than 1,500 military and civilian members providing support and services to 36,000 active duty, retired military and family members during his command.

A video of Lt. Gen. Gregory M. Guillot, Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central) commander, plays during the 380th Air Expeditionary Wings change of command ceremony June 7, 2022 at Al Dhafra Air Base United Arab Emirates. Although unable to attend personally, Guillot wanted to express his thanks to the outgoing commander, Brig. Gen. Andy Spoo Clark, and shared words of confidence to the new commander, Brig. Gen. David Shotgun Lopez.

Col. Jason Eckberg, 9th Reconnaissance Wing Vice Commander speaks at the opening ceremony for Recce Connect Day on Beale AFB, Cali. on Sept. 16, 2022. Recce Connect Day was held as opportunity to unite the Beale AFB community.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Daniel St. Clair, 104th Fighter Wing cyberspace officer, listens as Maj. Gen. Duke A. Pirak, Deputy Director of the Air National Guard, speaks with 104th Fighter Wing communication flight members June 12, 2022, at Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts. Maj. Gen. Pirak assists with formulating, developing and coordinating policies, plans and programs affecting more than 108,300 Air National Guard members and civilians.

Col. Tanner Woolsey, 607th Air Operations Center incoming commander, speaks at an assumption of command ceremony at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Jan. 11, 2024. Prior to taking command, Woolsey served as the Chief of Combat Plans and Integrated Air and Missile Defense Divisions at the 613th Air Operations Center, assigned to Headquarters, Pacific Air Forces, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. David Cochrane, incoming commander of 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, delivers his remarks during a change of command ceremony at Jasionka, Poland, May 20, 2022. Lt. Col. Cochrane took command from Lt. Col. Roger Wang Jr.The Division headquarters and its 3rd Brigade Combat Team have been deployed to Poland as part of the strong and unremitting commitment to NATO allies against any aggression.

Major General Patrick B. Roberson, commander, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School, speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony to dedicate the two newest buildings on the USAJFKSWCS campus at Fort Bragg, NC June 23, 2022. Chapman Hall, named for SFC Nathan R. Chapman, will house advanced skills, network courses, five training battalion headquarters and six company headquarters. Volckmann Hall, named for BG Russell W. Volckmann, will contain the 1st SWTG(A) headquarters, the Warrant Officer Institute and the Special Forces Officer Course.

Maj. Donald Schmidt, the executive officer of the "Gila Battalion," 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, discusses the progress that LGBTQ service members have made in the U.S. Armed Forces during his keynote speech for the 3rd Infantry Division Pride Month Observance at Fort Stewart, Georgia, June 8, 2022. The selfless and dedicated service of brave LGBTQ Army Soldiers and civilians has made our military stronger and the nation safer.

Gen. Arnold W. Bunch, Jr., Air Force Materiel Command commander, speaks to headquarters staff members during a retreat ceremony in his honor May 24, 2022, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

Lt. Col. Stephen Frodsham, 192nd Wing inspector general, retires from the Virginia Air National Guard after a career of more than 22 years, on April 1, 2023, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.

Fort McCoy Garrison Commander Col. Stephen Messenger spoke to members of the garrison workforce during his Town Hall sessions on October 27, 2022. He discussed his assessment from his first 90 days in command, results from the command climate survey, and his vision and goals for the future. The installation held two sessions for the workforce, and recorded the event for those who could not attend. Col. Messenger assumed command on July 14, 2022.

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JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. - U.S. Air Force, Col. John Creedon, 1st Fighter Wing commander, gives closing remarks during the National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Sept. 16, 2022. This event garners national participation and is a way JBLE can reassure its members that recognizing sacrifices to support combat missions is essential.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. John R. Evans, Army North commanding general, speaks at the proclamation signing of Month of the Military Child in the historic quadrangle, at Joint Base San Antonio - Fort Sam Houston, April 6, 2022. April is designated as the Month of the Military Child, underscoring the important role military children play in the armed forces community.

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Robert D. Davis, commander of the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, speaks during the change of command ceremony for the 908th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, at Prince Sultan Air Base, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, April 10, 2022. Lt. Col. Mark Melin took command of the 908th EARS from Lt. Col. Lindsey Bauer during the ceremony.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Kevin Tucei, a Mississippi native and the incoming command senior enlisted leader of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 252, gives a speech during a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Feb. 2, 2024. The ceremony represented a transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Sgt. Maj. Ryan Sweet, a North Carolina native and the outgoing command senior enlisted leader of VMGR-252, to Tucei. VMGR-252 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. Marine Corps

Maj. Gen. JP McGee, Commander of the 101st Airborne Division, gives a speech during the Air Assault course graduation being conducted at the Romanian Air Base, Mihail Kogalniceanu, Nov. 30, 2022. Soldiers that undergo and complete the air assault certification are examples of the army's ambition to promote effectiveness, readiness and lethality.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Katie Lunning, 133rd Medica Group, speaks at the 2023 Womens History Event in St. Paul, Minn., March 25, 2023. This year, the theme was Paving the Way Forward, which reflects that progress is a journey, and many courageous women came before us who helped open doors and broke the glass ceiling.

U.S. Army Col. Frankie Cochiaosue, 733d Mission Support Group commander speaks during the 733d MSG change of command ceremony at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, June 23, 2022. Cochiaosue leads over 1,100 personnel in four squadrons that provides installation support, base operations and quality of life programs to the JBLE-Eustis community consisting of over 20,000 service members, DoD civilians and family members.

Lt. Col. Julie Roloson, 341st Security Forces Squadron commander, left, and Lt. Col. Corrie Pecoraro, 341st Force Support Squadron commander, speak at an all-female officers' panel during a women's leadership symposium March 21, 2023, at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont. Roloson and Pecoraro addressed topics to include combating burnout and strategies to focus on overall well-being.

Maj. Gen. Todd Wasmund, the incoming U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa commander, addresses the audience during the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa Change of Command Ceremony at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy, July 14, 2022.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Josef Thrash III, the outgoing commander of HHBN III Corps, gives a speech on Fort Hood, Tx on June 28, 2022. Thrash talks about his time as commander of HHBN III Corps and thanks the soldiers, his family, and command team.

Lt. Col. Stephen McNamara assumed command of the 148th Air Support Operations Squadron during an assumption of command ceremony in Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania, Jan. 7, 2024. 148th ASOS personnel advise ground commanders in application of close air support and other air power into schemes of maneuver.

Capt. Michaela Bauman, the incoming commander of the 274th Movement Control Team, 3rd Division Sustainment Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division gives a speech during a ceremony marking her assumption of command on Fort Stewart, Georgia, Dec. 9, 2022. The change of command welcomes the new commander and gives a proper farewell to the outgoing commander.

The Inter-American Defense College and United States Northern Command hosts the inaugural North American Defense Framework for Women, Peace, and Security Workshop at IADC Kennedy Hall on Fort Lesley J. McNair in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 27-29, 2024. The event brought together military and civilian experts from Canada, Mexico, the United States, and the Bahamas. The collaborative event focused on integrating gender perspectives into military education, addressing gender-based violence, and enhancing gender equality in military operations. Participants, representing diverse ranks and branches, formulated actionable recommendations and formed partnerships, signifying a transformative shift toward a more inclusive defense framework. Air Force

Command Sgt. Maj. Scott Pierce speaks at a Change of Responsibility Ceremony on Aug. 3., as he finishes 30 months as the senior enlisted advisor for Troop Battalion at Madigan Army Medical Center on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. He is headed to the National Capital Region in the coming months to assume responsibility for the troops at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.

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