Global Gateway honors Air Force heritage during 2026 Air Force Ball

Ramstein Air Base honor guardsmen prepare to present the colors during the 2026 Air Force Ball at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 26, 2026. The presentation of the colors is a ceremonial tradition observed at formal military events, reinforcing the customs and heritage shared across generations of service members. This year’s Air Force Ball theme, “The Global Gateway: Global Reach, Global Impact,” reflected the 86th Airlift Wing’s commitment to supporting missions and partnerships around the world. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason Jones Jr.)
Retired U.S. Air Force Maj. John Robbins, left, and Airman Jacob Rinkes, 86th Maintenance Squadron aerospace propulsion apprentice, cut a cake during the 2026 Air Force Ball at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 26, 2026. The cake-cutting tradition symbolizes the connection between generations of Airmen, honoring the legacy of those who served while celebrating those who will carry it forward. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason Jones Jr.)
U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Denny R. Davies, 86th Airlift Wing commander, provides remarks during the 2026 Air Force Ball at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 26, 2026. The 2026 Air Force Ball celebrated the shared heritage and traditions that connect generations of Airmen and continue to shape the legacy of the Global Gateway. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason Jones Jr.)
Guests socialize during the 2026 Air Force Ball at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 26, 2026. The annual celebration brought Airmen and families together to reflect on the heritage and traditions that have shaped the Air Force throughout its history. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason Jones Jr.)
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Iyana Mathurin, left, 86th Munitions Squadron stock piles supervisor, and Tech. Sgt. Michael Broccoli, right, 603rd Air Communications Squadron cybersecurity section chief, serve as the masters of ceremony during the 2026 Air Force Ball at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 26, 2026. The 2026 Air Force Ball commemorated the Air Force’s heritage while bringing together generations of Airmen to celebrate a shared legacy of service. This year’s theme, “The Global Gateway: Global Reach, Global Impact,” reflected the Global Gateway’s commitment to supporting missions and partnerships around the world. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jason Jones Jr.)