DOD In Photos: 2021

This collection showcases the work of military photographers in 2021, when U.S. service members continued to conduct around-the-clock training and operations worldwide to ensure the nation’s security, even while responding to the coronavirus pandemic.

Mountain Motivation

Marines observe the range before training with M240B machine guns in front of Mount Fuji in Japan, July 16, 2021. The training was part of Eagle Wrath, an annual Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 exercise designed to increase proficiency in conducting contingency missions in a forward operating environment. Photo By: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Justin J. Marty

“The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.”

High Jumpers

Air Force pararescuemen prepare to jump in a linked formation from an HC-130J Combat King II near Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Oct. 22, 2021. Photo By: Air Force Staff Sgt. Melanie Bulow-Gonterm

Crucible Circle

Recruits with Echo Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, begin the first day of the Crucible on Page Field at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. September 9, 2021. The Crucible is the culminating event of recruit training and tests the intestinal fortitude, physical stamina, and teamwork of every recruit before they earn their Eagle, Globe and Anchor and the title Marine. Photo By: Marine Corps Sgt. Dana Beesley

Friendly Fist Bump

An airman interacts with children during an event to present school supplies and sports equipment to students at Moi Air Base, Kenya, May 12, 2021. Photo By: Air Force Staff Sgt. Daniel Garcia

Chit Chat

Maryland National Guard members of Maryland’s Vaccine Equity Task Force support the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home Vaccination & Education event in Charlotte Hall, Md., Oct. 20, 2021. Photo By: Army National Guard Sgt. Arcadia Hammack

Decorated Veteran

World War II veteran Harold Stephens receives a lei from a student at Mokapu Elementary School at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Dec. 6, 2021, while visiting as part of an event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Photo By: Marine Corps Cpl. Brandon Aultman