2017 Year in Photos

Operations

Around the world, service members and Defense Department civilians are performing real-world combat and deterrence missions every day.

A Marine fires a howitzer in the early morning, creating a yellow flare.

Howitzer Blast - A Marine fires an M777A2 howitzer in the early morning in Syria, June 3, 2017. Marines conducted 24-hour all-weather fire in support of U.S. Central Command's Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Matthew Callahan

Airmen secure a load of cargo in an aircraft at night.

Securing Cargo - Airmen secure a load of cargo in a C-130H Hercules at Qayyarah Airfield West, Iraq, Feb. 3, 2017. Airmen assigned to the 737th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron delivered 30,000 pounds of cargo to aid in the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jordan Castelan

A boom operator concentrates as she prepares to refuel an aircraft.

Fuel Focus - A KC-135 Stratotanker boom operator prepares to refuel an aircraft above Southwest Asia, July 20, 2017, while supporting U.S. Central Command's Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve. The operator is assigned to the 340th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Trevor T. McBride

Nine aircraft fly over coastline in a "V" formation.

Flight Might - Marine Corps and Air Force aircraft conduct a mission with the South Korean air force over the Korean Peninsula, Sept. 18, 2017. The forces conducted the mission in response to North Korea's intermediate range ballistic missile launch Sept. 14. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Steven Schneider

A U.S. soldier shakes hands with a boy in Iraq

Mosul Handshake - A soldier shakes hands with a boy while patrolling to support Operation Inherent Resolve in Mosul, Iraq, July 4, 2017. The soldier is assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team. Army photo by Cpl. Rachel Diehm

Airman looks through night vision goggles.

Airdrop Over Syria - A C-130H Hercules loadmaster prepares for an airdrop of container bundles to coalition ground forces fighting Islamic State of Iraq and Syria forces in Syria, July 27, 2017. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Trevor T. McBride

Marines carry weapons as they depart a helicopter

Supporting Afghan Soldiers - Marines arrive for an advisory meeting with Afghan soldiers at Camp Hanson, Afghanistan, June 13, 2017. Marines and sailors supported Afghanistan's 215th Corps during three offensive operations to clear insurgents from the Nad-e Ali and Marjah districts. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Lucas Hopkins

A sailor maintains a crane for a Seahawk helicopter.

Crane Check - Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandi Handley maintains the search and rescue crane for an MH-60R Seahawk helicopter aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz in the Persian Gulf, Aug. 8, 2017. Handley is an aviation ordnanceman, and the USS Nimitz is deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Navy photo by Seaman Kennishah J. Maddux

Soldiers fire mortar rounds from a trench during a fire mission in Iraq.

Mortar Might - Soldiers fire mortar rounds during a fire mission supporting the Iraqi army's 9th Division near Tarab, Iraq, March 14, 2017. Army photo by Sgt. Thomas Carwell

Three jets fly ahead of three carriers in formation in the ocean.

Strike Group - Three F/A-18E Super Hornets assigned to Strike Fighter Attack Squadron 115 fly in formation over the aircraft carriers USS Ronald Reagan, USS Theodore Roosevelt and USS Nimitz and their strike groups, along with ships from the South Korean navy, as they transit the Western Pacific, Nov. 12, 2017. The strike groups operated in international waters as part of a three-carrier strike force exercise. Navy photo by Lt. Aaron B. Hicks

Two ships conduct a night replenishment at sea as yellow lights flare.

Night Replenishment - The USS Fitzgerald conducts a night replenishment with the USNS Pecos in the Sea of Japan, May 5, 2017. The Fitzgerald is supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class William McCann

Army helicopters lift off from a runway in Afghanistan

Afghan Mission Prep - Army AH-64E Apache pilots prepare to depart for a mission in Kunduz, Afghanistan, May 31, 2017. The pilots, assigned to the 7th Infantry Division's Task Force Griffin, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, supported Operation Freedom's Sentinel and the Resolute Support mission. Army photo by Capt. Brian Harris

A destroyer launches a missile at night, creating smoke and light.

Strike Operations - The guided missile destroyer USS Porter conducts strike operations against Shayrat airfield in western Syria while in the Mediterranean Sea, April 7, 2017. The Porter is supporting U.S. national security interests in Europe. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Ford Williams

A sailor looks at the regional air and surface picture in a ship's command center.

Information Station - Navy Lt. Arwyn Stone looks at the regional air and surface picture while serving as the tactical actions officer in the command information center aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Mahan in the Arabian Sea, Jan. 5, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Tim Comerford

An Army commander promotes a soldier to sergeant.

Paratrooper Promotion - Army Maj. Gen. Joseph M. Martin, commanding general of the Combined Joint Forces Land Component Command and the 1st Infantry Division, promotes a soldier supporting U.S. Central Command’s Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve to sergeant in Mosul, Iraq, June 29, 2017. Army photo by Cpl. Rachel Diehm

Marines fire an illumination mortar round at night on an airfield.

Light the Night - Marines fire a 120 mm illumination mortar round at Bost Airfield in Lashkar Gah, Afghanistan, May 22, 2017. The Marines fired two of the rounds to set the base plate of the mortar into the ground. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Justin T. Updegraff

An aircraft takes off with a full moon in the sky.

Moonlight Mission - An F-15E Strike Eagle takes off in Southwest Asia, July 7, 2017. The aircraft, assigned to the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, is supporting U.S. Central Command's Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Damon Kasberg

An airman directs troops bringing a patient onto a C-130J Hercules for transport.

Transport Timing - Air Force 1st Lt. Sarah Jun directs troops bringing a patient onto a C-130J Hercules for transport from a military hospital at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, to the Craig Joint Theater Hospital at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Feb. 22, 2017. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Katherine Spessa

A sailor waves an aircraft onto a runway with yellow lights in the background.

Lightning Launch - Sailors prepare an F-35C Lightning II to launch on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in the Atlantic Ocean, Sept. 4, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Josue Escobosa

Army helicopter pilots fly over rocky mountains.

Afghan Landscape - An Army CH-47 Chinook helicopter flies in the hills near Jalalabad, Afghanistan, April 5, 2017, during operations in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel and Resolute Support. Army photo by Capt. Brian Harris

Airmen see St. Elmo's fire while flying an aircraft into a thundercloud.

St. Elmo's Fire - St. Elmo's fire branches across the windscreen of a KC-10 Extender tanker aircraft as it passes through a thundercloud, March 22, 2017. St. Elmo's fire occurs when the electric field around an aircraft causes air molecules to ionize. The airmen are assigned to the 78th Air Refueling Squadron. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Brian Kelly

Relieving Troopers - Soldiers relieve personnel and resupply ammunition during a mission supporting the Iraqi army near Tarab, Iraq, March 18, 2017. The soldiers are assigned to U.S. Central Command’s Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Jason Hull

A rocket launching at night surrounded by clouds of smoke.

Artillery Rocket - An Army high mobility artillery rocket system fires in support of ground forces in Afghanistan, May 5, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Sean Furey

A Marine surveys the road and traffic from an armed vehicle.

Kabul View - Marine Corps Sgt. Tasheena Aguilera, an operations advisor, mans her vehicle's gun turret during a mission in Kabul, Afghanistan, Jan. 26, 2017. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jose A. Rodriguez Jr.

A sailor, shown from the back in silhouette, looks out from the deck of an aircraft carrier.

Lookout Light - Navy Seaman Skye Escobar takes the starboard lookout watch on the USS Nimitz in the Persian Gulf, Sept. 3, 2017, as the aircraft carrier supports Operation Inherent Resolve. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Ian Kinkead

Humanitarian Help

The global reach of the U.S. military is on full display when delivering assistance to those in need.

A sailor holds an infant patient in her arms.

Patient Arms - Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Kara Irons holds an infant patient at a hospital during a clinic held in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala, Sept. 26, 2017, as part of Southern Partnership Station 17. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brittney Cannady

Flames and smoke are visible from the cockpit of an aircraft.

Fighting Fire - An Air National Guardsman in a C-130J Hercules aircraft follows a Forest Service plane under a large column of smoke while preparing to drop fire retardant on the Pier Fire, southeast of Fresno, Calif., Aug. 29, 2017. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Jeff Allen

Chennai Chums - Sailors participate in a tug-of-war match with students in Chennai, India, July 12, 2017, during Exercise Malabar 2017 with Indian and Japanese forces. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Erickson B. Magno

Eye-Hand Coordination - Army Capt. Frances Silva gives an eye exam during a community health engagement at Suba Buan Bau for Pacific Partnership 2017 in Kuching, Malaysia, April 19, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Chelsea Troy Milburn

A sailor talks with students during a community engagement event.

School Smiles - Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Sarah Perez talks with students during a community event at the Kalutara-Molkawa School near Kalutara, Sri Lanka, June 15, 2017, during humanitarian assistance efforts following record flooding. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Fulton

Sailors use a circular saw to cut pieces of exterior trim.

Skilled Work - Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Allison Machicek and Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Justin Hargett cut trim for a school during a humanitarian mission in Kuching, Malaysia, April 17, 2017, as part of Pacific Partnership 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Chelsea Troy Milburn

Sailors shovel gravel for a five-stall bathroom they are building for a school.

Seabees Work - Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Viktoria Thompson, left, and Petty Officer 3rd Class Anatoliy Morsov shovel gravel for a school bathroom they are building as part of a humanitarian mission in Svay Rieng province, Cambodia, Jan. 9, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Benjamin A. Lewis

A sailor sings to children who surround him and smile.

Singing Sailor - Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Vince Moody sings with children during a community event as part of Pacific Partnership 2017 in Hambantota, Sri Lanka, March 13, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Fulton

A sailor mixes cement during the construction of a classroom.

Mixing Cement - Navy Seaman Javaugh Reid mixes cement during the construction of a classroom as part of exercise Cobra Gold, a humanitarian mission, at Ban Nong Muang School in Thailand's Rayong province, Feb. 10, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Wesley Timm

Two Fijian boys hold soccer balls as they race in front of a crowd.

Catch Me! - Two Fijian boys race during an event with U.S. service members at a school in Lautoka, Fiji, July 14, 2017. The service members were participating in Pacific Angel 2017. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Benjamin W. Stratton

An airman takes a student's blood pressure as others observe.

Medical Training - Air Force Senior Airman Arlinda Haliti shows Vietnamese nursing student volunteers how to take blood pressure readings in Tam Ky, Vietnam, Sept. 11, 2017, during the Pacific Angel 17-2 humanitarian mission. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Kamaile Casillas

A U.S. Marine and Philippine soldier install electrical wire casing in a new classroom.

Electrical Work - Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Eli Schmidt, left, and Philippine army Pvt. Ibarra Dalurio install electrical wire casing in a classroom during a humanitarian mission in Ormoc City, Philippines, April 29, 2017, as part of Exercise Balikatan 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Markus Castaneda

A sailor cleans a child’s teeth as she holds a large stuffed animal.

Tyrannosaurus Tooth - Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Billy Gibson cleans a child’s teeth at a Continuing Promise 2017 medical site in Mayapo, Colombia, March 26, 2017. Continuing Promise is a U.S. Southern Command training mission. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brittney Cannady

Flood Assistance - Sailors work with Sri Lankan marines to repair a levee in Matara, Sri Lanka, June 12, 2017, during humanitarian assistance operations following severe flooding and landslides that devastated many regions of the country. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Fulton

A sailor performs an oral exam on a young patient.

Take a Look - Navy Lt. Farid Hamidzadeh performs an oral exam on a patient at the Continuing Promise 2017 medical site in Mayapo, Colombia, March 25, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Shamira Purifoy

A Marine plays hand games with a girl student at a school.

Play Pal - Marine Corps 1st Lt. Kellie Darmody plays with a student during Cobra Gold 2017 at Juksamed School in Thailand, Feb. 8, 2017. The exercise focused on supporting the humanitarian and medical needs of regional communities. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Wesley Timm

New Friends - Navy Capt. Darren McPherson, commander of the USS Lake Erie, shows Sri Lankan children how to "low-five" in Colombo, Sri Lanka, June 12, 2017. The USS Lake Erie arrived in Sri Lanka to support humanitarian assistance operations in the wake of severe flooding and landslides. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Lucas T. Hans

A sailor bids farewell to Thai students with a group hug.

Armful Farewell - Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Samantha Clark bids farewell to Thai students during a ceremony as part of Cobra Gold 2017 in Rayong province, Thailand, Feb. 21, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Markus Castaneda

A soldier carries a resident through floodwaters

Resident Assistance - A Texas Army National Guardsman carries a resident from her flooded home in Houston following Hurricane Harvey, Aug. 27, 2017. U.S. Northern Command supported the Federal Emergency Management Agency in assisting with disaster response efforts. Army National Guard photo by Lt. Zachary West

A soldier lifts a crying child into the arms of a woman during a rescue operation

Welcoming Arms - Soldiers help residents into a military vehicle in Sugar Land, Texas, Aug. 29, 2017, following Hurricane Harvey. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Robert Shelley

A woman holds her hand over her mouth and cries as a sailor puts his hand on another civilian's shoulder.

Offering Comfort - Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Jansen Schamp reassures civilians after a rescue at Pine Forest Elementary School in Vidor, Texas, Aug. 31, 2017, following Hurricane Harvey. U.S. Northern Command provided search and rescue assistance in Hurricane Harvey’s aftermath. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Christopher Lindahl

An aerial shows extensive flooding in a residential area from Hurricane Harvey in Texas.

Extensive Flooding - An aerial view shows extensive flooding from Hurricane Harvey in a residential area in Southeast Texas, Aug. 31, 2017. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Daniel J. Martinez

Two soldiers wearing dust masks push a refrigerator outside amid debris.

Refrigerator Removal - Army Pfc. Cody Hughes, left, and Sgt. Robert Brown remove a refrigerator from a home that was devastated during Hurricane Irma in Marathon, Fla., Oct. 3, 2017. U.S. Northern Command engaged with federal, state, territorial and international partners to support Hurricane Irma relief efforts. National Guard photo by David Sterphone

A nurse provides care to a patient on a hospital ship.

Comfort Care - Navy Lt. j.g. Shiju SantaNivas treats a patient aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Oct. 4, 2017. The ship is providing humanitarian assistance to Puerto Rico following hurricanes Irma and Maria. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Stephane Belcher

Two sailors help put protective helmets on two young people outside.

Safety Adjustments - Sailors adjust helmet straps to prepare two residents to evacuate the island of Dominica, Sept. 25, 2017, following Hurricane Maria. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Sean Galbreath

First responders pull two inflatable boats through waist-high water in a downtown street.

City Scene - Marine Corps reservists, Texas State Guardsmen and Texas Highway Patrol officers pull rubber raiding craft through a flooded street in Houston during search and rescue operations following Hurricane Harvey, Aug. 31, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Niles Lee

Barrier Boost - Marines attach a barrier to a V-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft while working to reinforce the Guajataca Dam in Puerto Rico in Hurricane Maria’s aftermath, Oct. 3, 2017. The Defense Department charged U.S. Northern Command with leading DoD’s Hurricane Maria relief efforts in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Army photo by Pfc. Deomontez Duncan

A soldier hands water and food to a woman.

Look of Relief - A soldier hands food and water to a resident of Jayuya, Puerto Rico, Oct. 5, 2017, following Hurricane Maria. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Pablo N. Piedra

Two soldiers jump on a felled tree trunk.

Jump Job - Army Sgt. Kenneth Douglas, right, and Spc. Roman Zorko jump on a tree trunk to finish the break from a handsaw in Lakeland, Fla., Sept. 15, 2017, following Hurricane Irma. Army photo by Sgt. Youtoy Martin

A sailor holds the hand of a hurricane victim during a helicopter ride.

Helicopter Comfort - Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Erick Sotelo comforts an evacuee during a flight from Dominica to a nearby island following Hurricane Maria, Sept. 25, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Sean Galbreath

Medical personnel in blue surgical clothes perform surgery in an operating room.

Comfort Operation - Sailors operate on a patient aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort in the Caribbean Sea near San Juan, Puerto Rico, Oct. 18, 2017, while supporting Hurricane Maria relief efforts. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Stephane Belcher

Three soldiers help a woman out of a wheel chair.

Field Hospital - Army Sgt. Gerard Wilson, right, helps Anniealdd Brown into a hospital bed in a field hospital in Beaumont, Texas, Sept. 3, 2017, during Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. Wilson is a radiology specialist. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Joshua L. DeMotts

An airman carries a dog and walks in front of family following him.

Dogged Service - Air Force Senior Airman Austin Hellweg leads a family to an HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter in Beaumont, Texas, Aug. 31, 2017, for transport during Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jordan Castelan

A helicopter evacuates residents from a mountain community.

Mountain Evacuation - An MH-60S Seahawk helicopter performs humanitarian aid operations on the island of Dominica, Sept. 24, 2017, following the landfall of Hurricane Maria. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Michael Molina

A woman holding a baby is surrounded by people with their heads lowered.

Comfort Prayer - Sailors and family members pray for Sara Victoria Llull Rodriguiz aboard the USNS Comfort in the Caribbean Sea, Oct. 17, 2017. Rodriguiz was the first child born on the hospital ship since 2010. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Ernest R. Scott

Training

The greatest fighting force in history achieves its prowess the old-fashioned way: by planning and practicing.

Marines jump from an aircraft at night with city lights in the distance.

Night Jump - Marines depart an Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft during a training event at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Jan. 11, 2017. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Washburn

Soldiers carry weapons as they race through trees and plants.

Full-Speed Ahead - Soldiers race through trees and vegetation as they begin the Marne Mile during the Gainey Cup competition at Fort Stewart, Ga., March 30, 2017. Army photo by Sgt. Robert Harris

A bald eagle soars as a soldier parachutes from a helicopter,

Airborne Bonding - A bald eagle soars as a soldier parachutes after jumping from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during training at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 27, 2017. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Daniel Love

A Marine shouts in a wooded area as red smoke billows in the background.

Platoon Call - Marine Corps 1st Lt. Harry J.D. Walker yells to his platoon while taking simulated fire during Korean Marine Exchange Program 17-14 in South Korea, Aug. 11, 2017. The program is a regularly scheduled training event between U.S. and South Korean troops. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aaron S. Patterson

An aircraft receives fuel from another aircraft over the Florida coast.

Raptor Refueling - An F-22 Raptor receives fuel from a KC-10 Extender over the Florida coast during Response 17, a crisis mobilization exercise, March 7, 2017. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Mark C. Olsen

Marine Corps recruits aim weapons as they post security during basic training.

Recruit View - Marine Corps recruits Kyle Turner and Michelle Sajous simulate providing security during basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., June 6, 2017. Turner and Sajous were assigned to Platoon 4022, Papa Company, 4th Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Richard Currier

A sailor trains underwater with a camera.

Subaquatic Shutterbug - Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Austin Simmons conducts annual underwater photography training off the coast of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, Feb. 8, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Blake Midnight

Three silhouetted Marines sprint through smoke.

Smoky Sprint - Marines sprint through smoke during an integrated training exercise to increase readiness at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., Jan. 30, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aaron S. Patterson

A soldier, shown in silhouette, parachutes toward the ground against an orange sky.

September Heat - A soldier descends to the ground at Rivolto Air Base in Udine, Italy, Sept. 26, 2017, during Exercise September Heat 2017. The soldier is assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team. Army photo by Paolo Bovo

A Marine dog handler controls Dundee, a military working dog.

Canine Control - Marine Corps Cpl. Courtney Zielinski controls Dundee, a military working dog, during bite training at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, July 14, 2017. Zielinski is a dog handler assigned to the Provost Marshal's Office, K-9 section. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Rebecca L. Floto

An Army captain helps her team prepare a howitzer.

Artillery Officer - Army Capt. Nargis Kabiri, commander of Alpha Battery, 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery Regiment, helps her team prepare an M119 howitzer during training at Fort Stewart, Ga., Aug. 22, 2017. Army photo by Pfc. Zoe Garbarino

Training Raid - Marines aboard a rubber combat raiding craft conduct a simulated beach raid off Okinawa, Japan, March 12, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Chris Williamson

An airman rappels into a cave complex with blue skies overhead.

'Eager' Rappel - A special tactics airman rappels into the Al-Badia cave complex in Mafraq governorate, Jordan, May 13, 2017, during a personnel rescue scenario as part of Eager Lion, an annual U.S. Central Command exercise. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Ryan Conroy

An airman wipes sweat from his face after tending to simulated injured patients.

Wiped - Air Force Senior Airman Andrew Brock wipes sweat from his face after tending to simulated injured patients during an air show training exercise at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., April 20, 2017. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jodi Martinez

Soldiers fire a live round from a battle tank.

Battle Tank Test - Soldiers fire a live round from an M1A2 battle tank during a test in Swietozow, Poland, Jan. 16, 2017, as part of an effort to improve U.S. responsiveness to potential crises. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke

Paying Attention - Army Sgt. Jazmyn Medina, a reservist assigned to the 56th Military Police Company, takes notes for a mission during a combat support training exercise at Fort Hunter Liggett, Calif., July 22, 2017. Army Reserve photo by Master Sgt. Michel Sauret

A reflection of midshipmen searching for surface contacts

Lens Look - Naval Academy midshipmen aboard the USS Carney search for surface contacts before a live-fire gunnery exercise in the Mediterranean Sea, June 8, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Weston Jones

A soldier applies face paint using a vehicle's mirror.

Paint Prep - A soldier applies face paint to prepare for a live-fire training event in Koren, Bulgaria, July 15, 2017, during Saber Guardian 17, a U.S. European Command exercise led by U.S. Army Europe. Army photo by Spc. Winterlyn Patterson

U.S. and Norwegian troops trek through snow uphill.

Reflective Walk - U.S. and Norwegian explosive ordnance disposal teams participate in a cold-weather endurance march during Exercise Arctic Specialist 2017 in Ramsund, Norway, Feb. 5, 2017. Navy photo by Lt. j.g. Seth Wartak

Water Training - Soldiers maneuver a Humvee through a water obstacle during training at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., March 12, 2017. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Sean F. Harding

An airman seen from underwater swims a 100-meter challenge.

Aquatic Airman - An airman swims a 100-meter challenge during a test for the German Armed Forces Badge for military proficiency at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., June 13, 2017. New Jersey Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Matt Hecht

A soldier weaves her way through an obstacle.

Weaving Work - Army Pfc. Linaeja White weaves her way through an obstacle at Fort Stewart, Ga., June 2, 2017. White, a medic assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade's Special Troops Battalion, participated in the brigade’s Women's Mentorship Network. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Ben K. Navratil

Airmen work to extinguish a large blaze at night.

Night Blaze - Airmen extinguish a fire during a training scenario at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., June 27, 2017. The airmen are assigned to the 20th Civil Engineer Squadron fire department. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Christopher Maldonado

Marines aim their weapons as they approach a building at night.

Night Drills - Marines conduct drills to clear rooms at night during Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course 2-17 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., April 12, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Artur Shvartsberg

Airmen in blue gowns and masks train during a simulated surgery as part of an exercise.

Simulated Surgery - Air Force Tech. Sgt. Mary Lou Sales assists in a simulated exploratory laparotomy surgery during exercise Patriot Warrior at Fort McCoy, Wis., Aug. 14, 2017. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Corban Lundborg

A Navy air-cushion landing craft departs the well deck of a ship.

Baltic Sea Rainbow - A Navy air-cushion landing craft departs the well deck of the USS Arlington during a beach landing in Ventspils, Latvia, June 6, 2017, as part of exercise Baltops 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Ford Williams

Marines stand under a hovering helicopter as they prepare to attach a barrier to it.

Stallion Overhead - Marines prepare to attach a concrete barrier to a CH-53E Super Stallion during helicopter external load training at Arta Beach, Djibouti, Feb. 16, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Brandon Maldonado

An airman low crawls while navigating an obstacle course.

Crawl Course - Air Force Capt. Natassia Cherne low crawls while navigating an obstacle course during Scorpion Lens at Fort Jackson, S.C., Jan. 29, 2017. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class James R. Crow

Soldiers trek through snow, leaving long trails.

Straight Shooters - Soldiers advance through snow during a stress shoot as part of the Vermont Best Warrior Competition at Camp Ethan Allen Training Site, Jericho, Vt., March 18, 2017. Army National Guard Photo by 1st Lt. Benjamin Haulenbeek

A Marine camouflages himself with tall grasses.

Camouflage Face - Marine Corps Lance Cpl. William Pearn maneuvers around a training area during a stalking exercise as part of Forest Light 17 at Somagahara, Japan, March 10, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Juan C. Bustos

A Marine with breathing gear walks on his hands underwater.

Underwater Walk - A Marine takes a combatant diver course at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan, May 11, 2017. The eight-week course teaches circuit diving, diving physics and medical aid. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Isaac Ibarra

A soldier rappels down a wall at night with a bright light shining.

Rappel Silhouette - A soldier rappels down a wall at night during air assault training to measure aptitude at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., May 17, 2017. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Zachary Wolf

A Marine folds him arms as he jumps from a tower into a pool.

Pool Plunge - Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Bando Camposvilla jumps from a 10-foot-high tower into a pool during swim qualifications at Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan, June 25, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aaron S. Patterson

Soldiers participate in a sunrise run past trees.

Sunrise Runners - Georgia Army National Guardsmen run at sunrise during annual training at Fort Stewart, Ga., Jan. 11, 2017. Georgia Army National Guard photo by Capt. William Carraway

An airman spreads his arms as he jumps from an aircraft.

High Spirits - Airmen and soldiers perform a high-altitude, low-opening jump from an MC-130J Commando II during training over Okinawa, Japan, April 24, 2017. Air Force photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier

An airman with a white glove holds a folded flag at eye level.

Proper Fold - Air Force Airman 1st Class Lola Alcon ensures the flag is properly folded during the funeral detail portion of the graduation ceremony for the honor guard at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., Sept. 8, 2017. Air Force photo by Samuel King Jr.

Marines and Jordanian troops participate in training under green smoke.

Smoky Scuffle - Marines participate in a nonlethal weapons and tactics course training event with Jordanian troops during Eager Lion, an annual U.S. Central Command exercise in Jordan, May 11, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Vitaliy Rusavskiy

A German shepherd lunges toward an arm during training in the snow.

Dangerous Darla - Darla, a German shepherd assigned to the Army's 549th Military Working Dog Detachment, conducts aggression training at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, March 21, 2017. Air Force photo by Justin Connaher

Dozens of guardsmen check for hot spots across a field.

Hot Spot Checks - Oregon Army National Guardsmen check for hot spots during a firefighting training exercise in Salem, Ore., Aug. 28, 2017. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class April Davis

A wild horse lies on the road, blocking an Army convoy.

Horse vs. Humvees - A wild horse blocks an Army convoy during training operations at Fort Polk, La., June 17, 2017. Soldiers ultimately drove the vehicles around the horse. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Daniel Love

A soldier pulls the lanyard on a howitzer during a live-fire exercise.

Howitzer Power - Army Spc. Vincent Ventarola pulls the lanyard on a M777 howitzer during a live-fire training exercise as part of Dynamic Front II at the 7th Army Training Command's Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, March 9, 2017. Army photo by Gertrud Zach

An airman clenches his teeth while hanging from a bar and holding his head over it.

Exertion Expression - Air Force Staff Sgt. Garion Reddick clenches his teeth as he holds himself up during a test for a German Armed Forces Badge for military proficiency at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Sept. 17, 2017. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Matt Hecht

A helicopter carries a Humvee as the sun's rays spread over a mountain range.

Humvee Overhead - A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter carries a Humvee during lift training at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, March 8, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jesus Sepulveda Torres

A soldier in a green light watching troops at night.

Storm Stare - A soldier watches through a night-vision device as troops move to cover at Fort Bragg, N.C., Aug. 2, 2017, during Panther Storm, a deployment readiness training exercise. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Andrew Lee

At the Top: Listening, Learning, Leading

The words and deeds of America's military decision-makers echo throughout the world.

Honor Cordon - President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump walk through an honor cordon during his inauguration at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Jan. 20, 2017. DoD photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Marianique Santos

President Donald J. Trump reaches to shake the hand of a service member.

Presidential Visit - President Donald J. Trump arrives at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base in Houston, Sept. 2, 2017, following Hurricane Harvey. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Daniel J. Martinez

President Donald J. Trump presents the Medal of Honor to a former combat medic.

Medal of Honor - President Donald J. Trump presents the Medal of Honor to former Army Spc. 5 James C. McCloughan, who served as a combat medic during the Vietnam War, at the White House in Washington, July 31, 2017. Army photo by Eboni Everson-Myart

President Donald Trump speaks to people at a table during a briefing.

Hurricane Update - President Donald J. Trump receives a Hurricane Harvey response update from federal, state and local agencies and relief organizations in Corpus Christi, Texas, Aug. 29, 2017. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Patrick Kelley

President Donald J. Trump greets sailors aboard the Navy's newest aircraft carrier.

Greeting Sailors - President Donald J. Trump greets sailors aboard the future USS Gerald R. Ford, the Navy's newest aircraft carrier, in Newport News, Va., March 2, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Cathrine Mae O. Campbell

The U.S. vice president waves to service members on a ship.

Friendly Hello - Vice President Mike Pence waves to service members on the USS Ronald Reagan in Yokosuka, Japan, April 19, 2017. White House photo by D. Myles Cullen

The U.S. vice president shakes hands with a South Korean general.

Leader Handshake - Vice President Mike Pence greets South Korean Gen. Leem Ho-young, deputy commanding general of Combined Forces Command, in South Korea, April 17, 2017. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Sean K. Harp

The U.S. vice president gives an address as some troops stand on an airplane's wing.

Speech View - Vice President Mike Pence addresses U.S. and Georgian military leaders and troops in Tbilisi, Georgia, Aug. 1, 2017, during Noble Partner 2017, a U.S. Army Europe-led exercise. Army photo by Capt. Judith Marlowe

Oath of Office - President Donald J. Trump swears in James N. Mattis as the 26th secretary of defense during a ceremony in the Hall of Heroes at the Pentagon, Jan. 27, 2017. DoD photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Jette Carr

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis smiles as he shakes hands with Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford outside the Pentagon.

First Full Day - Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Defense Secretary James N. Mattis share a light moment as Mattis arrives at the Pentagon for his first full day as secretary, Jan. 21, 2017. DoD photo by D. Myles Cullen

President Donald J. Trump and the vice president talk with Defense Secretary James N. Mattis.

Pentagon Chat - President Donald J. Trump speaks to Defense Secretary James N. Mattis as Vice President Mike Pence looks on at the Pentagon, July 20, 2017. DoD photo by Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Dominique A. Pineiro

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis walks with the Egyptian defense minister on a red carpet.

Cairo Honor Cordon - Defense Secretary James N. Mattis walks with Egyptian Defense Minister Sedki Sobhy past an honor cordon at the Defense Ministry in Cairo, April 20, 2017. DoD photo by Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brigitte N. Brantley

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis participates in a cemetery ceremony.

Cemetery Ceremony - Defense Secretary James N. Mattis participates in a ceremony at Seoul National Cemetery during a visit to Seoul, South Korea, Feb. 3, 2017. DoD photo by Army Sgt. Amber I. Smith

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis walks up steps with the German defense minister.

Pentagon Arrival - Defense Secretary James N. Mattis welcomes German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen with an enhanced honor cordon at the Pentagon, Feb. 10, 2017. DoD photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Jette Carr

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis shakes hands with his Kuwaiti counterpart at the Pentagon.

Minister Meeting - Defense Secretary James N. Mattis meets with Kuwaiti Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Muhammad al-Khaled al-Hamad al-Sabah at the Pentagon, Sept. 7, 2017. DoD photo by Army Sgt. Amber I. Smith

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis shakes hands with a soldier in a line of soldiers.

Training Meeting - Defense Secretary James N. Mattis meets with German, Lithuanian, Dutch, Belgian and U.S. service members at Pabrade Training Area, Lithuania, May 10, 2017. DoD photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Jette Carr

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis gestures as he meets with the Australian defense minister.

Table Talk - Defense Secretary James N. Mattis, center left, meets with Australian Defense Minister Marise Payne at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Feb. 16, 2017. DoD photo by Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brigitte N. Brantley

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis walks with civilian and military leaders in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan Walk - Defense Secretary James N. Mattis, third from left, and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg walk to a meeting with deployed forces in Afghanistan, Sept. 27, 2017. DoD photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Jette Carr

Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford stands next to Chinese Army Gen. Fang Fenghui as both leaders salute.

Welcome Ceremony - Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Chinese Army Gen. Fang Fenghui, chief of the joint staff, participate in a ceremony at the People's Liberation Army headquarters in Beijing, Aug. 15, 2017. DoD photo by Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Dominique A. Pineiro

Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, observes a military exercise.

Exercise Review - Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, observes an attack exercise by Chinese troops in Shenyang, China, Aug. 16, 2017. DoD photo by Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Dominique A. Pineiro

Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, watches a demonstration of missile capabilities.

Missile Demonstration - Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, receives a demonstration of the capabilities of ground-based interceptor missiles at Fort Greely, Alaska, Aug. 19, 2017. DoD photo by Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Dominique A. Pineiro

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis and Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford salute the flag.

9/11 Honors - Defense Secretary James N. Mattis and Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, take part in a 9/11 ceremony at the Pentagon, Sept. 11, 2017. DoD photo by Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Dominique A. Pineiro

Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, shakes hands with a veteran wearing medals.

Chairman Handshake - Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, shakes hands with a World War II veteran during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, May 9, 2017. DoD photo by Matty Stern

Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, speaks with soldiers in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan Chat - Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, speaks with Army National Guardsmen outside the NATO Resolute Support Mission headquarters in Kabul, Afghanistan, June 28, 2017. DoD photo by Army Sgt. James K. McCann

Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, shown in silhouette, climbs the stairs to an aircraft.

Stairway Silhouette - Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, departs Ramstein Air Base, Germany, April 3, 2017. DoD photo by Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Dominique A. Pineiro

The deputy defense secretary speaks during a ceremony with sailors behind him.

POW/MIA Ceremony - Deputy Defense Secretary Patrick M. Shanahan speaks during the National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony at the Pentagon, Sept. 15, 2017. DoD photo by Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brigitte N. Brantley

The deputy defense secretary stands with his hand over his heart during a ceremony.

Honor Cordon - Deputy Defense Secretary Patrick M. Shanahan stands with Somali Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khayre during an honor cordon at the Pentagon, Sept. 25, 2017. DoD photo by Army Sgt. Amber I. Smith

The vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff talks with U.S. athletes at the Invictus Games

Invictus Reception - Air Force Gen. Paul J. Selva, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, attends a reception for the U.S. team at the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Sept. 23, 2017. DoD photo by Army Sgt. James K. McCann

The vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shakes hands with a French general.

Arrival Ceremony - Air Force Gen. Paul J. Selva, right, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, welcomes French Army Gen. Pierre de Villiers at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., Feb. 6, 2017. DoD photo by Army Sgt. James K. McCann

The vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff presents a gold medal to a U.S. team member.

Awarding the Gold - Air Force Gen. Paul J. Selva, center left, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, presents a gold medal to Army veteran Kelly Elmlinger during the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Sept. 24, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

The senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff dines with sailors.

Dinner Conversation - Army Command Sgt. Maj. John W. Troxell, the senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, dines with sailors during a visit to Recruit Training Command at Naval Station Great Lakes, Ill., Sept. 21, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Sean Kent

The senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff listens as a Marine recognizes fellow Marines.

Marine Recognition - Army Command Sgt. Maj. John W. Troxell, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, listens as the senior enlisted advisor for Marine Rotational Force Europe recognizes fellow Marines at Vaernes Garnison, Norway, June 17, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Emily Dorumsgaard

The senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff talks with participants of a hiking event.

Cateran Yomp - Army Command Sgt. Maj. John W. Troxell, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, talks with participants of the 2017 Cateran Yomp near Blairgowrie, Scotland, June 10, 2017. The event, which involved walking up to 54 miles, raised money for British Army families. DoD photo by Army Sgt. James K. McCann

The senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff feeds a horse.

Horse Hunger - Army Command Sgt. Maj. John W. Troxell, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, feeds a horse while visiting soldiers assigned to the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as "The Old Guard," at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., Jan. 30, 2017. DoD photo by Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Dominique A. Pineiro

The senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff walks with soldiers.

Old Guard Visit - Army Command Sgt. Maj. John W. Troxell, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, walks with soldiers assigned to the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as "The Old Guard," at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Jan. 30, 2017. DoD photo by Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Dominique A. Pineiro

The commander of U.S. Africa Command salutes sideboys as he arrives on a ship.

Mediterranean Moment - Marine Corps Gen. Thomas D. Waldhauser, commander of U.S. Africa Command, salutes sideboys as he arrives aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde in the Mediterranean Sea, Sept. 6, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brent Pyfrom

The commander of U.S. Central Command visits with sailors on a ship.

Bridge Basics - Army Gen. Joseph L. Votel, commander of U.S. Central Command, visits with sailors on the bridge aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz in the Persian Gulf, Aug. 24, 2017. The Nimitz is supporting Operation Inherent Resolve. Navy photo by Seaman Emily Johnston

The commander of U.S. European Command NATO's supreme allied commander for Europe coins an airman during training.

Coin Company - Army Gen. Curtis M. Scaparrotti, commander of U.S. European Command and NATO's supreme allied commander for Europe, coins a member of the 48th Fighter Wing during training at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, April 19, 2017. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Eli Chevalier

The commander of U.S. Northern Command and North American Aerospace Defense Command receives a tour of a combat hospital.

Hurricane Tour - Air Force Gen. Lori J. Robinson, commander of U.S. Northern Command and North American Aerospace Defense Command, tours the 14th Combat Support Hospital in Humacao, Puerto Rico, Oct. 16, 2017. The Army unit augmented local hospitals affected by Hurricane Maria. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Nicholas Dutton

The commander of U.S. Pacific Command visits an engine room on a new cutter.

New Cutter - Navy Adm. Harry B. Harris Jr., commander of U.S. Pacific Command, listens during a tour of the engine room aboard the Oliver Berry at Coast Guard Base Honolulu, Nov. 20, 2017. The new cutter has an improved effectiveness in search and rescue. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Tara Molle

The commander of U.S. Southern Command shakes hands with soldiers.

Ceremonial Handshake - Navy Adm. Kurt W. Tidd, commander of U.S. Southern Command, shakes hands with U.S. Special Forces soldiers after the closing ceremony of Fuerzas Comando in Paraguay, July 27, 2017. Army photo by Sgt. Joanna Bradshaw

An army general leans over to shake the hand of a person in a wheelchair.

Socom Handshake - Army Gen. Raymond A. Thomas III, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, speaks with Team Afghanistan competitor Mohammad Fayaz Yousofi on opening day of the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Sept. 23, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

The commander of U.S. Strategic Command speaks with civilians and service members.

Priorities and Questions - Air Force Gen. John E. Hyten, commander of U.S. Strategic Command, speaks to civilians and the command's junior enlisted members at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., Nov. 8, 2017. Hyten thanked the troops for their service, discussed his priorities and answered questions. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jonathan Lovelady

The commander of the U.S. Transportation Command meets with the oldest living Tuskegee airman.

Honoring an Airman - Air Force Gen. Darren W. McDew, commander of U.S. Transportation Command, meets with retired Air Force Lt. Col. Bob Friend at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., May 8, 2017. Friend, the oldest living Tuskegee Airman, flew more than 142 combat missions over Europe during World War II and received the Medal of Honor in March 2007. Air Force photo by Maj. Nichole L. Downs

Warrior Athletes: Going for Gold

When the country's best are wounded, ill or injured, many of them find a way to demonstrate their resilience through adaptive sports.

A wounded warrior does the backstroke in a pool.

Backstroke Warrior - Air Force Tech Sgt. Lara Mastel pushes off for the women’s 50-meter backstroke competition at the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Sept. 29, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

A Marine veteran runs with a smile on her face, holding an American flag.

Celebratory Run - Marine Corps veteran Cpl. Jessica-Rose Hammack celebrates after winning a bronze medal during the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Sept. 25, 2017. The event brings together wounded and injured veterans and service members from 17 nations for 12 adaptive sporting events. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

A female soldier grits her teeth as she throws a shot put.

Shot Put Power - Army Spc. Stephanie Morris throws a seated shot put during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games, a Paralympic-style competition, in Chicago, July 5, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

An airman races a recumbent cycle with the Chicago skyline in the background.

Skyline Cycling - Air Force Master Sgt. Israel “DT” Del Toro of Team Special Operations Command races a recumbent cycle during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, July 6, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

A sledge hockey player pushes another sledge hockey player.

Ice Check - Army Sgt. 1st Class Brant Ireland, center, checks Marine Corps Sgt. Ivan Sears during a sledge hockey exhibition game at the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Sept. 28, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

An Army veteran runs with yellow prosthetic legs as his shadow follows.

Shadow Speed - Army veteran Stefan LeRoy competes in the 1500-meter run at the start of the athletics finals in the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Sept. 25, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

A Marine takes a shot during wheelchair basketball practice.

Jump Shot - Marine Corps Sgt. Mike Nicholson takes a shot during wheelchair basketball practice for the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, June 29, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

Two swimmers embrace after competing in an event.

Celebrating Warriors - Kristen Esget, a former Coast Guard yeoman, hugs Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Danielle Pothoof after competing in the 50-meter breaststroke during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games event in Chicago, July 8, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

An airman makes a face as he prepares to throw a shot put.

Shot Put Look - Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jason Caswell competes in shot put during the 2017 Invictus Games, an international Paralympic-style event, in Toronto, Sept. 24, 2017. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

A retired Marine competes in a race during an international event.

Invictus Effort - Retired Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Sarah Rudder competes in the 200-meter dash during Invictus Games 2017, an international Paralympic-style event, in Toronto, Sept. 24, 2017. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Daniel Luksan

A sledge hockey player faces a red wall as he prepares for a match.

Hockey Prep - A sledge hockey player prepares to take part in an exhibition match during the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Sept. 29, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

A visually impaired runner holds a yellow strap connected to a young runner.

Warrior Connection - Visually impaired runner retired Army Spc. Michael Stephens races with 8-year-old Mika Blow before official races begin for the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, July 2, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

A sailor with half his bald head submerged swims the breaststroke.

Breaking the Surface - Navy Lt. Andrew Hoyle swims the 50-meter breaststroke during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, July 8, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

An athlete in a wheelchair holds up a basketball before throwing it.

Free Throw - Army veteran RJ Anderson shoots a free throw in Long Island, N.Y., Sept. 19, 2017, as the U.S. wheelchair basketball team trains for the 2017 Invictus Games. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

A Marine and an Army veteran compete in a wheelchair racing event

Resolute Racers - Marine Corps Cpl. Dakota Q. Boyer, left, and Army veteran Jhoonar Barrera compete in a wheelchair racing event during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, July 2, 2017. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

A retired sailor hits a ball during sitting volleyball drills.

Volleyball Bounce - Retired Navy Seaman Steven Davis practices sitting volleyball drills during the Navy Wounded Warrior Walter Reed Adaptive Sports training camp in Bethesda, Md., June 10, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Charlotte C. Oliver

Marine Reach - Anthony McDaniel, a Marine Corps veteran, reaches for a ball during a wheelchair rugby game during the 2017 Invictus Games at the Mattamy Athletics Center in Toronto, Sept. 27, 2017. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

A female Marine teaches runners to start from blocks during track practice.

Running Ambassador - Marine Corps veteran Sarah Rudder teaches other runners to start from blocks during track practice for the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, June 30, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

An Army veteran throws a seated shot put.

Shot Put - Army veteran Staff Sgt. Ryan Murphy of Team Special Operations Command throws a seated shot put during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, July 5, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

Prince Harry awards a medal to a Marine as she lowers her head.

Medal Moment - Prince Harry awards Marine Corps veteran Lance Cpl. Sarah Rudder a gold medal for her 100-meter race win during the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto on Sept. 24, 2017. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

A Navy veteran makes a pass after a collision toppled him.

Toppling Pass - Navy veteran Chief Petty Officer Hector Varela makes a pass after a collision toppled him during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games wheelchair basketball gold medal round in Chicago, July 7, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

A cyclist competes in an event with the Chicago skyline behind him.

Cycling Warrior - Army Sgt. 1st Class Brandt Ireland competes in cycling during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, July 6, 2017. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

Visually impaired runners join hands to finish their race as a team.

Finishing Together - Visually impaired athletes Ivan Castro, left, a retired Army major; Bradley Snyder, center, a retired Navy lieutenant; and Sean Johnson, right, a retired Army staff sergeant, finish the 1,500-meter race as a team at the Invictus Games 2017 in Toronto, Sept. 25, 2017. DoD photo by Sgt. Cedric R. Haller II

An Navy veteran gets a high-five from a dog on a green field.

Victory High-Five - Navy veteran Ron Condrey gets a high-five from Via, his military service dog, after winning the silver medal in a track event during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, July 2, 2017. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

A female soldier competes in wheelchair racing.

Tough Competition - Army Staff Sgt. Rachel Salemink competes in wheelchair racing during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games at Lane Technical College Preparatory High School in Chicago, July 2, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

A Marine veteran rests in a hammock during competitions.

Warrior Rest - Matthew Francis, a former Marine Corps staff sergeant, takes a break from the archery competition during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, July 3, 2017. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

Marine Corps veteran Sgt. Michael Nicholson competes in a finals 50 meter freestyle swimming event.

Marine Might - Marine Corps veteran Sgt. Michael Nicholson competes in a 50-meter freestyle swimming finals event during the 2017 Invictus Games, an international Paralympic-style event, in Toronto, Sept. 29, 2017. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

Two Navy veterans celebrate winning gold in sitting volleyball.

Big Win - Navy veterans Brian Canich, left, and Ryan Shannon celebrate winning gold in sitting volleyball during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, July 7, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

A female athlete with a prosthetic leg stretches after a run.

Warrior's Stretch - Christy Wise, a Warrior Games athlete, stretches after a run during a track and field session at the Air Force team’s training camp at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., April 27, 2017. Air Force photo by Samuel King Jr.

Steady Hands - A metal rod serves as a guide to help a visually impaired archer find his mark during practice for the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, June 29, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

A Marine speeds past a British athlete in a wheelchair track event.

Gold Speed - Marine Corps Sgt. Ivan Sears, foreground, speeds past a British athlete to take gold in the 400-meter wheelchair race during the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Sept. 24, 2017. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

Wheelchair athletes cheer as their basketball team wins.

Team Triumph - Isaac Rios Jr., a former Army staff sergeant; Michael Nicholson, a former Marine Corps sergeant; and Roosevelt Anderson Jr., a former Army sergeant, react as the U.S. defeats the Netherlands in the wheelchair basketball finals of the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Sept. 30, 2017. DoD photo by Roger L. Wollenberg

An Army veteran hugs his 8-year-old son after winning gold in an archery event.

Victory Hug - Army veteran Joshua Lindstrom hugs his 8-year-old son after winning gold in an archery event during the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, July 3, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

Dozing Warrior Doggie - A wounded warrior’s service dog takes a short nap on the final day of the Air Force training camp at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., April 28, 2017. Air Force photo by Samuel King Jr.

Air Force sitting volleyball team members join hands as a sign of camaraderie

Camaraderie Grip - Air Force sitting volleyball team members join hands during practice for the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago, June 29, 2017. DoD photo by EJ Hersom

Military Life

Along with the many sacrifices of service, there is also uncommon camaraderie, timeless tradition and peerless pride.

A Marine holds a family member after returning from a deployment.

Homecoming Happiness - A Marine holds a family member at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., May 15, 2017, after returning from supporting operations in the Middle East. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Zachary M. Ford

A sailor re-enlists another sailor as they sit on a ship's yardarm.

Re-enlisting at Sea - Navy Lt. Cmdr. Ben McCarty, second from left, re-enlists Petty Officer 2nd Class Nikki Duffy on the yardarm of the USS Ross in the Mediterranean Sea, May 3, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Robert S. Price

A Marine arm wrestles an Omani soldier on the ground.

Muscle Morale - Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kyle Osborn arm wrestles an Omani soldier in Rabkut, Oman, Feb. 22, 2017, during Sea Soldier, a bilateral exercise led by U.S. Naval Forces Central Command. Such competitions kept the morale high between the two forces. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Robert B. Brown Jr.

A National Guardsman shares a kiss with a woman with a fence between them.

Chain-Linked Lips - A Virginia Army National Guardsman shares a kiss through a fence upon returning from Qatar to Roanoke, Va., March 25, 2017, following a deployment. Army National Guard photo by Cotton Puryear

A soldier climbs over a high wall during a competition.

Made It - Army Spc. Alisha Howell Sonntag climbs over a high wall while competing during the 377th Theater Sustainment Command Best Warrior Competition at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., April 10, 2017. Sonntag is assigned to the 143rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command. Army photo by Staff Sgt. David Clemenko

A sailor plays a musical instrument with a child.

Merry Music Makers - Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Christopher Jerome plays an instrument with a child while visiting an orphanage in Guatemala, Feb. 6, 2017, as part of Continuing Promise 2017, a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored deployment. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Shamira Purifoy

Soldiers carry flags as they march during a review.

Airborne Review - Soldiers carry flags as they march off Sicily drop zone during an airborne review at Fort Bragg, N.C., May 25, 2017. The review is the culminating event of 100th All American Week. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Ericka Engblom

A Marine dances with his 2-year-old daughter at an event.

Dad and Daughter Dance - Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Christopher M. Bess dances with his 2-year-old daughter during a father-daughter dance at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., April. 28, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Michael LaFontaine Jr.

A Marine sets off a confetti cannon as children participate in a running event.

Confetti Fun - Marine Corps 1st Sgt. Miguel Villegas sets off a confetti cannon to mark the start of an annual run at a school in San Clemente, Calif., Feb. 24, 2017. The Marines attended to show support for their community and motivate the students to enjoy the event. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Justin Huffty

A Reserve soldier does pushups in a headquarters.

Pushup Power - Army Reserve Sgt. Wenceslaus Wallace does pushups in a building in East Point, Ga., Jan. 21, 2017. Wallace is a team leader assigned to Company C, 324th Expeditionary Signal Battalion. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Ken Scar

Jump Kick - A soldier demonstrates combat techniques on a volunteer during a Ranger open house at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., April 29, 2017. The event allowed the public to learn how Rangers train and operate. Air Force photo by Samuel King Jr.

A sailor outlines a design on an aircraft towing tractor on a ship.

Carrier Creativity - Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Beulah Palmer outlines a design on an aircraft towing tractor aboard the USS Carl Vinson in the East China Sea, March 8, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Rebecca Sunderland

A soldier receives a haircut from another soldier outside.

Haircut Camaraderie - Army 1st Lt. Christopher McKinley receives a haircut from Sgt. Jeremy Hogel at an undisclosed location, March 12, 2017. McKinley and Hogel were supporting U.S. Central Command's Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Alex Manne

A sailor's family members embrace her after a ceremony.

Promotion Pride - Family members of Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer Latoya Bauman embrace her during a senior chief pinning ceremony at Naval Support Activity Mid-South in Millington, Tenn., June 7, 2017. Navy photo by Chief Petty Officer Dustin Kelling

A Marine plays the trombone to smiling students in Indonesia.

Trombone Buddies - Marine Corps Sgt. Colin Deeter plays the trombone in Surabaya, Indonesia, Sept. 12, 2017, during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training Indonesia, a U.S. Pacific Command-sponsored exercise. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Fulton

A sailor performs a backflip off a ship into the Mediterranean Sea.

Mediterranean Flip - Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Alix Sawin performs a backflip off the USS Mahan into the Mediterranean Sea during a swim call, June 4, 2107. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Tim Comerford

A sailor holds his son during a baptism ceremony on a ship.

Ford's First Baptism - Navy Lt. John "Jack" Curren holds his son during a baptism ceremony aboard the future USS Gerald R. Ford in Norfolk, Va., June 24, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Cathrine Mae O. Campbell

A 99-year-old retired soldier walks in the annual Bataan Memorial Death March.

Hero's March - Retired Army Col. Ben Skardon, 99, a survivor of the Bataan Death March, walks in the Bataan Memorial Death March with two Army medics at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., March 19, 2017. Army Reserve photo by Staff Sgt. Ken Scar

Two soldiers embrace loved ones as they return from deployment.

Hugs at Home - Family members welcome Oklahoma Army National Guardsmen home from the Middle East at the Armed Forces Reserve Center in Norman, Okla., April 29, 2017. Oklahoma Army National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Leanna Litsch

A soldier kneels as he pays respects to a close friend at a cemetery.

Flag for a Friend - Army Sgt. Daniel Trust pays respects to his close friend, Army Capt. Jeremy A. Chandler, during the Flags In ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., May 25, 2017. DoD photo by Sebastian J. Sciotti Jr.

Marines carry the casket of Sen. John Glenn, a former astronaut, in the rain.

Widow's Watch - Annie Glenn, seated, widow of Sen. John Glenn, watches as Marines carry the casket of her husband, a Marine Corps aviator and the first American astronaut to orbit the Earth, during his funeral at Arlington National Cemetery, Va., April 6, 2017. Army photo by Rachel Larue

A sailor jams on a keyboard at a band performance.

Jam Session - Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Daniel Park jams at a band performance during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training Thailand 2017 in Pattaya, Thailand, June 2, 2017. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Micah Blechner

A Marine present flowers to the mother of a Marine during his retirement ceremony.

Flowers for Mom - A Marine presents flowers to the mother of Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Ronald L. Bailey during Bailey’s retirement ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington in Washington, D.C., July 31, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alex A. Quiles

Marine Corps musicians play instruments and march in formation.

Marine Marchers - Members of “The Commandant’s Own,” the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, perform in Kingston, Ontario, Aug. 19, 2017. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Damon A. Mclean

Army drill team members perform at night.

Tattoo Curlicue - Army Drill Team members perform during a twilight tattoo event at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., June 14, 2017. Twilight tattoos are hourlong military performances. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Austin L. Thomas

A soldier helps a child put on her shoes.

Shoe Assist - A soldier helps a German child put on her shoes after she played in a bounce house during Friendship Fest 2017 at Storck Barracks in Illesheim, Germany, Sept. 22, 2017. Army photo by Spc. Thomas Scaggs

An airman kneels to proposed to his girlfriend at a base.

Surprise Proposal - Air Force Staff Sgt. Jeff Greenquist proposes to his girlfriend, Ashley Branham, at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Oct. 12, 2017, after returning from a six-month deployment to the Middle East. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Carlin Leslie