Recognition and Awards

Various ceremonies where military personnel receive accolades and recognition, demonstrating pride, unity, and the importance of leadership in the armed forces.

An airman in the Joint Honor Guard takes part in the honor cordon as Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosts United Kingdom Secretary of State for Defense Ben Wallace for talks at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., May 11, 2022. (DoD photo by Lisa Ferdinando)

2nd Brigade Combat Team Commando Warrior DFAC host Fort Drum Burger Competition on Aug. 23, 2022. Eight culinary specialists competed for the 1st place burger trophy created by local woodcraft shop MAG's Creations in Fort Drum, NY.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Imelda Edge, 18th Wing Staff Agency professional military education instructor from Houston, Texas was selected as the 18th Wings Supervisor of the Month at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The Supervisor of the Month program is an opportunity for outstanding non-commissioned officers to be recognized by KAB leadership as well as showcase these leaders to their peers.

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Eduardo Davila, assigned to 55th Signal Company (Combat Camera) receives the Army Achievement Medal from U.S. Army Maj. Octavia Blackwell, the commander of 55th Signal Company (Combat Camera), after the awards ceremony for the 2022 Spc. Hilda I. Clayton Best Combat Camera Competition at Fort A.P Hill, Virginia, May 23, 2022. The annual multi-day competition tests the physical, tactical and technical proficiency of visual information and public affairs specialists across the DOD and participating international competitors.

An airman in the Joint Honor Guard takes part in the honor cordon as Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosts United Kingdom Secretary of State for Defense Ben Wallace for talks at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., May 11, 2022. (DoD photo by Lisa Ferdinando)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 17, 2021) Aviation BoatswainÕs Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Tremisha Oxford, from Birmingham, Alabama, assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), receives congratulations from Command Master Chief DeÕAndre Beaufort during a frocking ceremony for newly advanced petty officers, July 17, 2021. Gerald R. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting Full Ship Shock Trials. The U.S. Navy conducts shock trials of new ship designs using live explosives to confirm that our warships can continue to meet demanding mission requirements under the harsh conditions they might encounter in battle.

U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Shanett Robinson, Surgeon Directorate, assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), congratulates competitors on their performance during an army combat fitness test for best medic competition assessment and selection, Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Feb. 13, 2024. SETAF-AF hosted a best medic competition assessment and selection from 13-14 Feb., at Caserma Del Din and Caserma Ederle in order to select the best medics to represent 173rd Airborne Brigade in the FY24 Army Best Medic Competition. The 24-hour selection program measures a range of critical skills, including trauma care, emergency medicine, and physical fitness. Through rigorous and competitive scenarios, the selection program serves to elevate and showcase the proficiency of medics, fostering a culture of excellence within military medical teams. Army

U.S. Army Paratroopers assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division return home in Fort Bragg, N.C., June 28, 2022. Elements of the 82nd Airborne Division deployed to Poland to support the United States decision to increase its presence and activities in Europe as part of our Nations strong and unremitting commitment to our NATO Allies.

Col. Mark Denton and Sgt. Maj. Maurice Parker attended Arcugnano's memorial ceremony as an effort to foster and maintain relationships with the local Italian community.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Vanity Cross-Williams 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing Diversity and Inclusion Team co-manager, asks questions to a panel of Hispanic Airmen assigned to the 70th ISRW during a Hispanic Heritage Month Festival, Sept. 30, 2022, at the Church at Severn Run, Severn, Maryland. The 70th ISRW Diversity and Inclusion Team hosted the event in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, which is recognized annually from Sept. 15 - Oct. 15, to highlight Hispanic heritage and the impact Hispanic people have had on the United States.

Master Sgt. Marquitta Stubbs, 343rd Training Squadron Military Training Flight Chief, poses at the Security Forces Academy, on Oct. 4, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Military Training Leaders go through a four-week course at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, for their initial training. The course teaches the role of the MTL in conducting military training and counseling of non-prior service Airmen and Guardians attending technical training schools.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Chyna Gibbs, a combat marksmanship coach assigned to Weapons and Field Training Battalion, Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, explains proper wrist form to a Jordanian Soldier assigned to the Quick Response Force Brigade during an all-female marksmanship subject matter expert exchange between U.S. Marines and Jordanian Soldiers in Zarqa, Jordan, Feb. 21, 2024. U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command and the Jordanian Armed Forces developed the exchange to highlight the similarities in marksmanship training and the impacts that inclusivity has within our militaries. Marine Corps

NEWPORT, R.I. (Sept. 14, 2012) Chief Navy Counselor Zeporah Dasher has her combination cover adjusted by Senior Chief Electrician's Mate Mechelle Washington during the chief petty officer pinning ceremony at Naval Station Newport. Fourteen first class petty officers were advanced to the rank of chief petty officer during the ceremony.

U.S. Army Master Sgt. Tameka Horne is laterally appointed to Sgt. Maj. by her parents, Mr. Rayvon and Mrs. Margaret Horne, at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, on Jan 5, 2024. Sgt. Maj. Horne is currently assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) as the G4 logistics planner. SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe & Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis response options in Africa and Europe.

210812-N-OX029-2036NORFOLK (Aug. 12, 2022) - Aviation Ordnance 3rd Class Aujane Haynes receives Junior Sailor of the Quarter from Capt. Nakia Cooper, commanding officer of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1). The CO recognized Haynes in front the entire ship's crew during an all-hands call for her outstanding performance.

U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Paulette Melton, an inventory management specialist, with 2nd Combat Readiness Regiment, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, congratulates Sgt. Jean Pierre St Surin, an inventory management specialist, with 2nd CRR, 2nd MLG, after his meritorious promotion to sergeant on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 27, 2024. St Surin was meritoriously promoted after displaying outstanding military performance, appearance, demeanor, and a high level of leadership that significantly impacts mission accomplishment. Marine Corps

A U.S. Marine participant of the Destructive Weather Exercise (DWX) checks into the COVID-19 screening sector during the annual DWX on Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 15, 2022. MCB Camp Lejeune holds the annual DWX to test the bases emergency response capabilities and simulate the event of a weather emergency in order to promote flexibility and readiness.

031028-M-8049T-066. Base: Marine Corps Base, Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

LCPL Susanna Appleton, a military police officer with the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) participates in an interview skills exercise during a State Partnership Program (SPP) in St. George, Antigua, Aug. 5, 2022. Florida National Guardsmen from the 107th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (MPAD) shared their knowledge on videography, military journalism, photography, and community engagement with their partner nation counterparts as part of the exchange program. The FLARNG SPP program focuses on developing and strengthening relationships with partner nations in support of peacekeeping operations around the world.

U.S. Army Pfc. Ralph Pierre, Staff Sgt. Brandon Mings and Sgt. Kurtavious Bell, assigned to the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, stand together during a redeployment ceremony at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Aug. 29, 2022. The 1st ABCT Soldiers deployed to Germany to assure allies and to deter Russian aggression while also supporting a range of other requirements in the area.

Maj. Kamisha Smith becomes the 117th Maintenance Squadron Commander at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard base, Birmingham, Ala., Sept. 11, 2022.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (May 16, 2022) Legalman 1st Class Ayanna Higgins, pins Senior Chief Yeoman Jason Martin during a pinning ceremony onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY). For 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet's forward-deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families.

U.S. Army Soldier Staff Sgt. Smith gets promoted to Sergeant 1st Class. She has been a committed and dedicated team member.

070131-A-4124M-017. Base: Camp Itami Country: Japan (JPN)

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Cecil Durham, a career recruiter with Recruiting Station Richmond, 4th Marine Corps District, gets pinned on during his promotion ceremony at the American Civil War Museum, Richmond, Virginia on July 27, 2022. Promotion ceremonies are a significant achievement in a service members career and testaments to their commitment, mastery of duties and skills, and leadership capabilities.

U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswains Mate (Equipment) Airman Leo Sainfils, from Orlando, Florida, assigned to the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), folds the ensign after evening colors, aboard the ship, in Newport News, Virginia, Oct. 13, 2022. The John C. Stennis is in Newport News Shipyard working alongside NNS, NAVSEA and contractors conducting Refueling and Complex Overhaul as part of the mission to deliver the warship back in the fight, on time and on budget, to resume its duty of defending the United States.

Post Command Sgt. Maj. Philson Tavernier speaks with Sgt. Danielle Hicks, with 1st Battalion, 61st Infantry Regiment, during a recent walkthrough of senior enlisted leaders through the Freddie J. Stowers Single Soldiers Complex Oct. 6. (Photo by Nathan Clinebelle)

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Jazmine Harrington, 14th Aircraft Maintenance Unit weapons load team member, tightens a bolt on an F-16 Fighting Falcon during the second quarter load crew competition at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 1, 2022. These competitions test weapons load crews ability to provide safe, reliable, timely and effective munitions on aircraft, enabling Misawa to remain mission-capable and deter adversaries in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Andre Smith, a senior line corpsman assigned to Second Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, opens a gift from Brenda Wilson, the acting Mayor of the City of Havelock, at the Service Person of the Quarter ceremony at Hancock Lodge, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Oct. 25, 2022. Smith was recognized and celebrated as the Service Person of the Quarter by the Havelock Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee for his contributions both on and off the installation.

Sgt. Juantivia Prather, 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), after crawling out of the mud in the obstacle course as part of the 98th Training Divisions 2022 Best Warrior Competition at Fort Benning, Ga., on Jan. 28, 2022. The Best Warrior Competition recognizes Soldiers who demonstrate commitment to the Army values, embody the Warrior Ethos, and represent the Force of the Future. (U.S. Army Reserve Photo by Sgt. Jeffery Harris)

U.S. Marine Corps. Col. Lonnie Cobb, Marine Aircraft Group 49 commander, visits with guests before a change of command ceremony on July 16, 2022 at Joint Base McGuire Dix Lakehurst. The change of command ceremony is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit from one officer to another. The mission of MAG 49 is to organize, train, and equip combat ready squadrons to augment and reinforce the active Marine forces in time of war, national emergency, or contingency operations, and to provide personnel and assault support capabilities to relieve operational tempo for active duty forces.

230127-N-DK722-1025 (Jan. 27, 2023) LAGOS, Nigeria - A Liberian Navy Liaison Officer listens to opening remarks during the Obangame Express 2023 opening ceremony, aboard the Nigerian Navy landing ship tank NNS Kada (LST 1314) in Lagos, Nigeria, Jan. 27, 2023. Obangame Express 2023, conducted by U.S. Naval Forces Africa, is a maritime exercise designed to improve cooperation, and increase maritime safety and security among participating nations in the Gulf of Guinea and Southern Atlantic Ocean. U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.

Lt. Col. Tchoia Brown shakes hands with a student during a graduation ceremony for the Inter-American Air Forces Academy, Aug 8, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio - Lackland. Approximately 200 students from 10 partner nations and the U.S. graduated from IAAFA during B-Cycle graduation.

Master Sgt. Yolanda L. Richardson, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence's new G-4 noncommissioned officer in charge, stands for a photo at Fort Rucker, Alabama, September 27, 2022.

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (May 16, 2022) Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class Christopher Donigan, assigned to the aircraft carrier Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) stands next to a poster he created representing the Soloman Islands during Asian American and Pacific Islander month celebration. The month of May celebrates the service and sacrifices of Asian/Pacific Islanders throughout the United States. John F. Kennedy is the second Ford-class aircraft carrier and is under construction at Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division.

Master Sgt. Jacqueline Payne, installation personnel readiness noncommissioned officer in charge, 131st Force Support Squadron, wipes a tear during her retirement ceremony at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Base, St. Louis, Missouri, Oct. 16, 2022. Payne served for 23 years.

221006-N-LN093-1018 PHOENIX (Oct. 6, 2022) U.S. Navy Construction Electrician 1st Class Charlette Smith, a native of Oxford, Mississippi, assigned to Navy Talent Acquisition Group Phoenix, poses for a photo at Navy Talent Acquisition Station Goodyear. Thomas was featured as a recruiter in spotlight for Navy Recruiting Command, which consists of a command headquarters, three Navy Recruiting Regions, and 26 Navy Talent Acquisition Groups that serve more than 1,000 recruiting stations across the world. Their combined goal is to attract the highest quality candidates to assure the ongoing success of Americas Navy.

The Havoc family and the S6 team had the opportunity to witness Spc. Braddock's promotion ceremony to Cpl. on December 1, 2022. Braddock has been a member of the Havoc family, and during that time, he has demonstrated true leadership qualities as well as a great desire to guide and instruct our soldiers.

Royal Netherlands Army Maj. Monique Van Der Steen speaks with Soldiers from Burundi following the Justified Accord 2024 welcome brief at the Humanitarian Peace Support School, Nairobi, Kenya, Feb. 26, 2024.. JA24 is U.S. Africa Command's largest exercise in East Africa, running from February 26 - March 7. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), and hosted in Kenya, this year's exercise will incorporate personnel and units from 23 nations. This multinational exercise builds readiness for the U.S. joint force, prepares regional partners for UN and AU mandated missions, and increases multinational interoperability in support. Army

Air Combat Command's Sword Athena 2022 team members briefed Gen. Mark Kelly, commander of ACC in hopes of receiving his support of their efforts. Sword Athena members, alumni and ACC leaders look forward to the fourth year of identifying challenges within the Air Force and the pursuit of creating solutions.

040630-M-0374B-011. Base: USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49)

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Marlonzo W. Bowier, a native of Trenton, New Jersey and corporals course instructor for Combat Logistic Battalion 5, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, addresses the corporals at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Feb. 5, 2024. Corporals course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become successful small-unit leaders using realistic problem-based situations that a Marine corporal will encounter. Marine Corps

Army officer candidate Isiah Davis is pinned second lieutenant by his mother during the officer commissioning ceremony at the Kentucky State Capitol rotunda in Frankfort, Ky. on Sept. 24, 2022. Davis and six other officer candidates were commissioned as officers in the Kentucky National Guard by friends and family.

Spc. Alfonso Davis reunites with his family in Huntsville, Ala. after spending 9-months on deployment on June 6, 2018.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III passes the guidon to U.S. Marine Corps Gen Michael Langley, Commander, U.S. Africa Command, Kelley Barracks, U.S. Army Garrison Stuttgart, Germany, 09 August 2022. Gen Langley took command of AFRICOM upon U.S. Army Gen Stephen Townsend's retirement. (DoD photo by U.S Air Force Staff Sgt. Julian W. Kemper).

U.S. Army Spc. Sherayne Graham, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, XVIII ABN Corps HHBN, poses in front of an Army poster at Fort Bragg, N.C., July 28, 2022. Spc. Graham exemplifies the Army values by working hard as a utilities equipment repairer for HHC.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (Aug. 5, 2022) - Ensign Joshua Cannon, a Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay Sailor, receives his officer combination cover from Cmdr. Mike Mosi, NSA Souda Bays executive officer, during Cannons commissioning ceremony at the base gym Aug. 5, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to be where they are needed when they are needed to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Andrea Rosembert, the administrative non-commissioned officer for Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, grades Southern High Schools Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps program after their inspection as part of an island-wide JROTC drill meet in Dededo, Guam, Feb. 17, 2024. Okkodo High School held the drill competition with active duty service members serving as judges to evaluate each schools performance in unarmed, armed, and color guard competitions with both regulation and exhibition routines. Marine Corps

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), along with service members from the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Air Force, and the U.S. Coast Guard, place U.S. flags at every gravesite at Arlington National Cemetery as part of Flags-In, Arlington, Va., May 26, 2022.On this day, over 1,000 service members placed flags at more than 250,000 headstones and at the bottom of about 7,000 niche rows at Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Soldiers and Airmens Home National Cemetery.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Dwayne Calvon, 224th Sustainment Brigade Headquarters and Headquarters Company, California National Guard, poses for a photo in a studio at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, Calif., July 26, 2022.

U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Bianca Caraballo addresses questions and discusses techniques with members from Caribbean partner nations during Tradewinds 2022 in Belize City, Belize, on May 10, 2022. Tradewinds 2022 is focused on foreign military interaction, maritime interdiction, ground security, and field training exercises supporting U.S. SOUTHCOM's Campaign Plan.

HONOLULU (Oct. 21, 2022) - Chief Yeoman Nigel Lampkin, from Blackshear, Georgia, assigned to the Emory S. Land-class submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40), receives his anchors from Chief Logistics Specialist Frank Brzeznski (left) and Chief Yeoman Greg Joseph during the ships chief petty officer promotion ceremony aboard the USS Missouri Memorial in Honolulu, Oct. 21, 2022. Frank Cable, forward deployed to the island of Guam, repairs, rearms, and re-provisions submarines and surface vessels in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Charmaine Kelley, the 86th Airlift Wing Command Chief, sits in studio with AFN Kaiserslautern, at Vogelweh Air Base, Germany, September 12, 2022. Kelley hosted a radio segment where she interviews various organizations from around the Kaiserslautern Military Community.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Jaila Cruz, 386th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron retail sales supply technician, wins Marauder of the Week at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, Oct 21, 2022. There’s been a lot of good things that have happened and a lot of challenging things but it’s helping me grow as an Airman."

ST. LOUIS (Aug. 18, 2022) Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Danielle Nelms, assigned to Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Mid America, stands at attention at Busch Stadium during the 64th Annual Recruit Cardinal Company swear-in ceremony, Aug. 18, 2022. Cardinal Company is named after the St. Louis Cardinals, who together with NTAG Mid America and the St. Louis Navy League, have sponsored the group annually since 1958. Every year, Cardinal Company is composed of NTAG Mid America Future Sailors who march from the Gateway Arch to Busch Stadium, taking the oath of enlistment while on the baseball field. NTAG Mid America, part of Navy Recruiting Command, recruits the next generation of Navy Sailors throughout areas encompassing Missouri, Kansas, central and southern Illinois, and a portion of Kentucky.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Noelle Valentine, 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing Commanders Executive Administrator Office noncommissioned officer in charge, serves as a panel discussion moderator during a Martin Luther King Jr. celebration event, Jan. 12, 2024, at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland. The 70th ISRW Diversity and Inclusion team hosted the event, which consisted of a panel discussion that allowed members to share personal experiences and highlight the importance of unity and inclusivity within our society.

An audience made up of african partner forces listen to a Tactical Combat Casualty Care course held by members of the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa during Cutlass Express 2024 at Camp Doraleh, Djibouti Feb. 27, 2023. CJTF-HOA partnered with members of the U.S. Coast Guard to go over a series of combat medical procedures. Army National Guard

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Oranjel Leavy, the outgoing sergeant major of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, delivers remarks during the 15th MEU relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, April 6, 2023. During the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Oranjel Leavy relinquished his post to Sgt. Maj. John Schlaud, after serving as the 15th MEU sergeant major since June 2021.

Retired Air Force colonel and State Rep. Pamela Stevenson, left, reads a summary of Senior Airman Ethan Halls accomplishments to the Kentucky General Assemblys Interim Joint Committee on Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection during its regular meeting at the state Capitol in Frankfort, Ky., Feb. 13, 2024. Hall, a C-130J Super Hercules crew chief for the Kentucky Air National Guards 123rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, was recognized for exceptional performance. Air National Guard

U.S. Air Force Capt. Joe Giles, assigned to the 633d Logistics Readiness Squadron, left, and Chief Master Sgt. Clyde Rankins, 633d Logistic Readiness Squadron deployment and distribution flight chief, hug in celebration of Rankins ranking up at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Nov. 30, 2022. Giles formally presided over Rankins promotion ceremony, giving a speech about Rankins accomplishments and impact as a leader throughout his career.

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. - Otis Jones, former vice superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy, is promoted from colonel to brigadier general in an official ceremony with his family pinning on his new rank, June 29, 2022. Jones' last official duty day at the school was July 1, 2022. He leaves the Academy to serve as the commander of the 86th Airlift Wing at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. (U.S. Air Force photo/Joshua Armstrong)

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Brian Carthon, incoming commanding officer of II Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion, prays with his wife during the II MSB change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 8, 2022. Lt. Col. Robert Fairley relinquished command of II MSB to Carton during the change of command ceremony.

220419-N-LY580-1001 ALEXANDER CITY, Ala. (April 19, 2022) Benjamin Russell High School Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) Naval Science Instructor Ron Rowe (left) measures for proper placement of the foul anchor device on the cover of Cadet Regina Crew during a uniform inspection.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Lance J. Langfeldt, 6th Marine Corps District commanding officer, left, and Sgt. Maj. Frank O. Robinson, the 6MCD sergeant major, right, congratulate Sandra Blackmon, the command secretary for 6MCD, for earning the Pacesetter Award at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, April 26, 2022. Blackmon was recognized publicly for her exceptional contributions in support of the district's mission as the command secretary for 6MCD.

Hospital Corpsman Second Class Charles Brown Jr. saved the life of a Marine Corps Officer Candidate in late June, 2021 by proving immediate aid to him when he succumbed to hyperthermia during an introductory physical fitness test. He received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal during a ceremony Friday, April 15.Brown serves aboard Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point in the Laboratory, facilitating rapid and accurate processing of samples to ensure patient wellness and service member medical readiness.

Command Sgt. Maj. Andre McKinley, assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 347th Regiment (Training Support Battalion), 85th Support Command, gives a speech to the Soldiers and audience members during a relinquish of responsibility ceremony at Cashe Garden on Fort Stewart June 28, 2023.

MIAMI (Feb. 24, 2024) Machinist's Mate Auxiliary 2nd Class Wayne Thomas, left, and Engineman 1st Class Delory Tate, both recruiters with Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Miami, share their Navy Experience with students during the Black College Expo presented by National College Resources Foundation and held in the Florida Memorial University gymnasium. Sailors with NTAG Miami and Navy Recruiting Command (NRC) met with attendees at the event. Headquartered in Millington, Tennessee, NRCs mission is to recruit the highest caliber Sailors to meet the needs of the Fleet. Navy

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - On a surprise trip from Iraq, 19-year-old Spc. Anthony W. Avant, Jr. visited his mother, Master Sgt. Veronica L. Avant, here the weekend before Fathers Day - both are residents of El Monte, Ca. but call Chicago home. He serves in Mosul with the 137th Quarter Master Co. and she servies with the 311th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Kuwait.

U.S. Navy Aviation Support Equipment Technician Second Class Patrice Brooks, a native of Jamaica, with Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) Iwakuni, poses for a picture at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Feb. 16, 2024. As the command career counselor for AIMD Iwakuni and president of CSADD, Brooks holds a responsibility to ensure all Sailors under her guidance are well prepared to advance their careers and be valuable contributors to the community. Marine Corps

Sgt. Antoinette Wolliston with the Fort McCoy Religious Support Office provided narration during the 2022 Memorial Day Prayer Luncheon on May 26, 2022, at McCoys Community Center at Fort McCoy, Wis. Reverend Laurie Graber and her husband Tom Graber gave a presentation as guest speakers for the event. Both Grabers discussed their ministry and the importance of Memorial Day. Were several participants in the luncheon that included special guest speakers, special prayers provided by clergy, and music to honor fallen veterans for Memorial Day. Nearly three dozen community members attended the event that also included a free lunch. The event was organized by the Fort McCoy Religious Support Office.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Angela Finley, left, fleet management and analysis noncommissioned officer in charge, and Tech. Sgt. Vanarith Chhoeun, vehicle management superintendent, both with the 726th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron (EABS), pose for a photo in front of an Oshkosh P-19 Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting Vehicle for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage month, Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, May 5, 2022. This month recognizes the innumerable contributions, vibrant cultures, and rich heritage of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders that enrich America and strengthen our Union.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. R. Scott Dingle, U.S. Army Surgeon General and Commanding General, U.S. Army Medical Command, left, greets Pfc. Corine Hamilton after field practice for Team Army at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Orlando, Florida, during the 2022 Department of Defense Warrior Games, Aug. 19, 2022. The DoD Warrior Games will be conducted on Aug. 19 - 28, hosted by the U.S. Army at Walt Disney World Resort. Men and women from the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and U.S. Special Operations Command are joined in competition by athletes with the Canadian Soldier On organization for a variety of adaptive sports ranging from archery to wheelchair rugby.

U.S. Armed Forces personnel from the greater New Orleans areas participate in the 7th Annual Bells Across America ceremony for fallen active duty soldiers at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans in Belle Chasse, Louisiana on Sept. 22, 2022. Bells Across America is hosted by the Navy Gold Star Program.

SALEM, Mass. - Maj. Gen. Joseph C. Carter, The Adjutant General, Massachusetts National Guard, introduces Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick at a bill signing ceremony designating the City of Salem as the birthplace of the National Guard held at the Salem city hall, Aug. 19, 2010.

U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Christen Huey interviews former NBA basketball player Adonal Foyle at the California Air National Guards 129th Rescue Wing, Feb. 3, 2024, during the Golden State Warriors Hoops for Troops chalk talk event at Moffett Air National Guard Base near Mountain View, California. Foyle spoke about his journey to the NBA, the importance of Black History Month, and challenges he faced as a professional athlete. He also spoke about resiliency and pushing through the mental and physical aspects of an injury to regain mobility and confidence. Hoops for Troops is a year-round initiative by the NBA to honor Americas service members, veterans and military families. Air National Guard

Staff Sgt. Clausele Barthold, a French/Creole speaking linguist attached to Lima Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, speaks with locals in Leogane, Haiti, Jan. 24. The Marines flew into the area earlier in the day establishing a new humanitarian aid receiving area for Haitian earthquake victims at a missionary compound.

Commandant of the Marine Corps, General David H. Berger and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black, takes a photo with U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Stacy Blackburn-Hoelscher, veteran, and a family member, during the 2022 DoD Warrior Games in Orlando, Fla. on Aug. 20, 2022. The annual event celebrates the resiliency and dedication of wounded, ill, and injured U.S. Service Members and veterans.

Soldiers with the 1946th Financial Management Support Detachment, District of Columbia National Guard, are greeted by family, friends, senior leadership and D.C. National Guard Family Programs reps at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Feb. 16, 2024. Guard members returned from a nine-month deployment to Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, providing financial management support to Kosovo Forces assigned to the NATO peacekeeping mission. Air National Guard

Former 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) BOSS President Cpl. Quincey VanHook gives speech during the grand opening of the new BOSS center at Camp Bull” Simons, Fla. Oct. 14, 2022.

Retail Services Specialist 2nd Class Calvin Thomas Jr., assigned to Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella, Site Souda Bay, poses for a portrait inside the NSA Souda Bay Post Office on Oct. 19, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

French Army 1st Lt. Francesca narrates the Remembrance Day ceremony inside the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation building, Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Nov. 11, 2022. Distinguished visitors, veterans, friends, and family members gathered at the MWR building to commemorate all wars and honor the service of armed forces past and present.

040625-F-7834C-054. Base: University Of Oklahoma State: Oklahoma (OK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass (left) speaks with Willie Lee Edwards, Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) store manager, during a visit at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, Aug. 8, 2022. Bass visited AAFES to ensure Airmen at Laughlin are provided the necessary products and services.

Distinguished visitors gather to observe members of joint service components as they provide dental, medical, optometry, physical and mental health, nutrition and pharmaceutical services during a medical mission centered between Meigs, Hamilton and Rhea counties in support of Birchwood Cares, Innovative Readiness Training at the Birchwood Community Center and Rhea County Middle School, Tenn., June 3, 2022. Birchwood Cares, Innovative Readiness Training is a Department of Defense sponsored training event that links community partners with joint force partners to provide medical care for surrounding communities while simultaneously providing hands-on training to joint members.

The U.S. Military Academy Equal Opportunity Office hosted the annual Black History Month Observance on Feb. 16 at the West Point Club.With the years theme, African Americans and the Arts, among the performances at the event were the Cadet Gospel Choir singing The Best is Yet to Come, and Capt. Aniya Knotts, who sang Lift Every Voice and Sing, and the Cadet Jazz Club performing musical numbers with their instruments.The guest speaker was Archie Elam, a 1976 USMA graduate, who while assigned to the 18th Airborne Corps when deployed to the Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, he led 36,000 troops to the deepest attack behind enemy lines in U.S. Army history, more than 250 miles, to cut off the Iraqi Army escaping Kuwait and helped destroy the Republican Guard.Elam spoke about his father growing up and then joining the Army and serving during World War II, Korea and Vietnam. He talked about his experience at the academy and in the Army, and how that all intertwined with his experienc

DF-SD-03-15399. Base: Mcentire Ang Station State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Anthony Mills, a food services force manager, is pinned with a new rank by his wife Paula Mills, during a promotional recognition ceremony at Camp Smith Training Site, N.Y., Sept. 16, 2022. First Sergeant Mills was promoted from the rank of Sergeant First Class. His leadership and actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and he will serve as the senior enlisted advisor to the commander at the emerging 1501st Quartermaster company.

Families and friends of the South Carolina Air National Guard's 169th Fighter Wing greet their loved ones at McEntire Joint National Guard Base, S.C., as they return from Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Oct. 19, 2016. Approximately 300 U.S. Airmen and 12 F-16 Fighting Falcon jets from the 169th Fighter Wing deployed to Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, as the 157th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron in support of the U.S. Pacific Command Theater Security Package.

Ms. Dawn Holmes-Cooney, sexual assault response coordinator assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing, sings the U.S. national anthem during a change of command ceremony at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, June 29, 2022. During the ceremony, Col. Jason Camilletti relinquished command of the 48th FW to Maj. Gen. Derek France, Third Air Force commander, who then charged Campo with leading the wing.

220810-N-RB283-10237MIDPAC team hard at work in the office at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, July 14, 2022. Featured are YN1 Lauren Walker, MM1 Natasha Stanley, LSCS Techur Johanes, DCCS Holeo Gumbs.

Command Master Chief Curtis Blunt, command master chief, III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF), speaks to recruits inside a compartment of the USS John F. Kennedy recruit barracks during his visit to Recruit Training Command (RTC). III MEF, headquartered in Okinawa, Japan, is sponsoring a recruit division, Division 263, for the first time in its history. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy's only boot camp.

050121-F-5040D-057. Base: Andersen Afb State: Guam (GU) Country: United States Of America (USA)

AS2(AW) Enrique Whittaker, assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 14, pauses for photos with members of his command and family during his re-enlistment ceremony aboard the decommissioned Iowa-Class Battleship USS Wisconsin (BB-64). The ceremony was facilitated and hosted by the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, one of ten U.S. Navy Museums within the Naval History and Heritage Command. The museum is located next door to the battleship in Downtown Norfolk, Virginia and hosts military ceremonies without cost for area commands.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Marshalee Clarke, commanding officer of Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools, poses for a photo during a Woman Marine Commanders Assembly, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, April 5, 2023. The 14 women commanders organized the informal meeting to discuss a variety of topics, ranging from personal experiences, MAGTF operations, readiness, and challenges facing their respective units.

Soldiers assigned to 330th Movement Control Battalion arrive at Fort Bragg N.C. Dec. 12th. The 330th Movement Control Battalion completed a nine-month deployment to EUCOM in support of Atlantic Resolve.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Mervin T. Mills, Virgin Islands National Guard, Joint Force Headquarters, is being promoted to Chief Warrant Officer 5 by the Virgin Islands National Guard Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Kodjo Knox-Limbacker at the Virgin Islands National Guard JFHQ, June 04, 2022. Mr. Mills is joined by his wife Mrs. Marcia Mills and his mother Martha Mills for the pinning of this promotion ceremony, held at the Readiness Training Institute building.

221203-N-BS627-1132 SIMI VALLEY, CA (Dec. 3, 2022) Chief Aviation Boatswains Mate (Equipment) Lavon Turner, from Meridian, Mississippi, and assigned to the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), sings the national anthem prior to the keynote speaker address from Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III during the Reagan National Defense Forum (RNDF) at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum Dec. 3, 2022. The RNDF, which took place Dec. 2-3, 2022, brought together leaders from across the political spectrum and key stakeholders in the defense community, including Members of Congress, current and former Administration officials, senior military leadership, industry executives, technology innovators, and thought leaders with a mission to review and assess policies that strengthen Americas national defense in the context of the global threat environment.

Lt. Col. Megan Davis, 303rd Intelligence Squadron incoming commander, smiles at her family during the squadrons assumption of command at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, July 18, 2022. An assumption of command is a military tradition, which represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility for a flight, squadron, group, wing or MAJCOM from a presiding officer to an incoming commander.

MOBILE, Ala. (Feb. 27, 2019) Command Master Chief of Program Executive of Ships and SEA 21 (TEAM SHIPS) Antonio D. Perryman, from Mobile, speaks to students during a Navy Day at Baker High School held in support of Mobile Navy Week. The Navy Week program serves as the Navy's principal outreach effort in areas of the country without a significant Navy presence.

Sgt. 1st Class Natasha Handy, assigned to the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa presents Aly Rohling with a bouquet of red roses signifying the bonds of appreciation and respect for her dedicated service, during the SETAF-AF Change of Command Ceremony at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy, July 14, 2022. Maj. Gen. Todd Wasmund assumed command of SETAF-AF from Maj. Gen. Andrew Rohling, the outgoing commanding general.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael E. Langley is promoted by his family during a ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., August 6, 2022. Gen. Langley, who began his career in the Marine Corps as an artillery officer in 1985, is the first Black Marine to be promoted to the rank of General.

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