The Many Faces of a Soldier – Non-Combat Moments

Soldiers are often remembered or portrayed primarily as fighters on the battlefield, especially in movies, books, and popular media. This image of the soldier as a combatant — brave, armed, and in the middle of conflict — is deeply rooted in public perception.

However, this view is only part of the story.

In reality, soldiers fulfill a wide range of roles that go far beyond combat. They build infrastructure, deliver humanitarian aid, respond to natural disasters, train foreign forces, support peacekeeping missions, and engage in diplomacy and community service. Many never see direct combat but still play essential roles in keeping military operations running smoothly and effectively.

Let’s look at these pictures!

U.S. Army Trumpets Blend Ceremony and Spirit at the 2024 American Holiday Festival

A conductor cues the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets during the 2024 American Holiday Festival in Washington, D.C., on December 7. This elite ensemble is part of The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” which provides ceremonial and musical support for top U.S. government officials and major national events.

Known for their striking fanfare and precision, the Herald Trumpets perform at state functions, public celebrations, and international ceremonies. Their role helps strengthen the connection between the Army and the American people through music, tradition, and patriotic spirit.

Fort McCoy Celebrates Thanksgiving with Soldiers, Civilians, and ‘Celebrity’ Servers

On November 6, 2024, soldiers and civilians came together at Dining Facility 1362 on Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, to celebrate a special Thanksgiving meal. The event featured a traditional holiday feast, complete with classic Thanksgiving dishes, and was made even more festive by the presence of “celebrity” servers.

Among those serving the meal were Garrison Deputy Commander Lt. Col. Michael Corkum, Garrison Commander Col. Sheyla Baez, 181 Commander Col. Charles Wells, 1st Sgt. Thomas Ninkovich, and Maj. Randy Downs. The gathering was organized by the Food Services Division of the Fort McCoy Logistics Readiness Center, aiming to foster a sense of community, gratitude, and camaraderie among service members and support staff.

NC National Guard Assesses Community Needs During Tropical Storm Helene Relief Efforts

On October 14, 2024, North Carolina National Guardsmen from the 113th Sustainment Brigade went door-to-door in Waynesville, North Carolina, to assess the needs of local residents and distribute essential resources.

Their efforts were part of a broader humanitarian response coordinated by Joint Task Force–North Carolina, which mobilized military assets to support relief operations following the impact of Tropical Storm Helene.

Sgt. 1st Class Elizabeth Marks Wins Team USA’s First Medal at Paris 2024, Breaking American Record

Sgt. 1st Class Elizabeth Marks proudly poses for a photo during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Summer Games, where she delivered a standout performance for Team USA.

She secured the team’s first medal of the games by winning silver in the women’s 50-meter freestyle S6 event. In doing so, Marks not only earned her sixth Paralympic medal but also broke her own American record with an impressive time of 32.90 seconds.

Florida National Guard Conducts High-Water Rescue During Hurricane Debby Flood Response

Soldiers from the 868th Engineer Company carried out a high-water rescue operation in Live Oak, Florida, in response to severe flooding caused by Hurricane Debby. As part of the Florida National Guard’s ongoing emergency response efforts, these soldiers worked to assist residents affected by the storm, ensuring their safety and providing critical support during the crisis.

U.S. Army South Leaders Welcome Students on First Day at Booker T. Washington Elementary in San Antonio

On August 13, 2024, Maj. Gen. Phil Ryan, commander of U.S. Army South, and Lt. Col. Laura Hamilton, commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, U.S. Army South, welcomed a student on the first day of school at Booker T. Washington Elementary in San Antonio, Texas.

This visit reflects a long-standing partnership between Army South and the school, which the unit adopted nearly two decades ago. Throughout the school year, Army South personnel regularly participate in events and activities with students and faculty.

Families Celebrate Class of 2028 During Reception Day Parade at West Point

Families of the U.S. Military Academy Class of 2028 proudly gathered to witness the Reception Day parade at West Point, a cherished tradition that marks the official welcome of new cadets into the Corps.

The event is a significant milestone, symbolizing the beginning of their journey through rigorous academic, military, and leadership training. For many families, it’s a moment of pride and emotion as they watch their loved ones take their first steps toward becoming future Army officers.

Families Welcome Home 200 NJ Army National Guard Soldiers After Historic Deployment in Support of Operation Inherent Resolve

On December 3, 2024, family members and friends gathered at the National Guard Armory in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, to warmly welcome home 200 U.S. Army Soldiers from the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT), New Jersey Army National Guard. Their return, just in time for the holiday season, marked a joyful and emotional reunion.

These soldiers were part of a larger deployment of over 1,500 troops who served in Iraq, Kuwait, and Syria in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. This mission represented the largest deployment of New Jersey Army National Guard personnel since 2008.

Old Guard Honors Fallen Heroes During 75th Anniversary of Flags In at Arlington National Cemetery

On May 25, 2023, soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as “The Old Guard,” honored fallen service members by placing American flags at gravesites in Section 25 of Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.

This solemn tradition, known as Flags In, marked its 75th anniversary that year. More than 1,000 service members participated in the tribute, placing over 260,000 flags at every headstone in Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery. The event serves as a powerful reminder of the nation’s gratitude and enduring respect for those who gave their lives in service.

Lt. Gen. Jody Daniels Shares Leadership Insights at Inaugural Army South Women, Peace, and Security Symposium

Courtesy: U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Alan Brutus

Lt. Gen. Jody Daniels, Chief of the Army Reserve and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Reserve, shared personal insights and leadership experiences with soldiers during the inaugural Army South Women, Peace, and Security Symposium. The event took place in San Antonio, Texas, on February 22–23, 2023, and focused on promoting gender perspectives in military operations and leadership.

Army Spc. Tristan Znati Connects with Local Children at Tree-Planting Event in Damerjog, Djibouti

On January 7, 2022, Army Spc. Tristan Znati took part in a tree-planting event in Damerjog, Djibouti, where he was seen engaging warmly with local children. The event served as both an environmental initiative and a community outreach effort, reflecting the U.S. military’s commitment to building positive relationships and promoting sustainability in the regions where they operate.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin Engages with U.S. Military Academy Cadets at Annual Army-Navy Football Game

On December 11, 2021, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III engaged with cadets from the U.S. Military Academy during the annual Army-Navy football game at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.