A Navy Chief’s Retirement Ceremony | Naval Air Station North Island


There’s something incredibly moving about photographing a Navy retirement ceremony—especially when it takes place in a hangar that’s seen so much history, hard work, and heart.


Chief Cronin's retirement at Naval Air Station North Island was one for the books. As a highly respected leader, the Chief drew a crowd of family, shipmates, and friends from near and far. The hangar, normally filled with the hum of CMV-22 Ospreys, was instead filled with laughter and hugs.


I’ve had the chance to work with this squadron before, and I truly love photographing in this space. The light, the scale, and the aircraft create such a powerful backdrop—but it’s the people that bring it to life. This ceremony wasn’t just about closing a chapter; it was a celebration of leadership, loyalty, and a legacy that clearly meant a lot to so many.


From the meaningful speeches to the final salute, every part of this day was packed with emotion and honor. It was a privilege to document it all—and to preserve the memories for the Chief’s family as they step into this next season of life.


Planning a military event or ceremony at NAS North Island?

Whether it’s a homecoming, retirement, or promotion, I’d love to help you capture it authentically. These are the moments that deserve to be remembered.


Ready to book your session or learn more? Reach out here — I’d love to connect.

Military service members in white uniforms salute during a ceremony with military flags displayed in the background.
Military color guard stands at attention in front of large American flag display during ceremonial event.
Naval officer stands at attention during military ceremony with American flag and blue chairs in background.
Military service members in white uniforms stand at attention before an American flag in black and white.
Military members and civilians attend a ceremonial event in front of a large American flag backdrop.
Military event with podium and speakers on stage against large American flag backdrop with Navy flags displayed.
Attendees seated in rows with international flags displayed during a formal ceremonial event.
Naval personnel speaking at podium during military ceremony with flags in background.
Military service members embrace during formal ceremony in front of American flag backdrop.
Naval officer speaks at wooden podium during military ceremony with American flag backdrop.
Two naval officers in white uniforms exchange documents during formal ceremony against American flag backdrop.
Military ceremony staged in front of large American flag with audience members viewing.
Naval officers exchanging documents during a ceremony in front of an American flag backdrop.
Military personnel hold ornate anchor plaque during ceremonial presentation with American flag background.
Naval officers pose with ceremonial plaque during formal military event with American flag display.
A large group in white and tan uniforms poses together in front of a military aircraft on a sunny day.
A group of United States Navy service members in white uniforms standing together on a ship deck.
A family group poses together in coordinated navy and white outfits next to a military aircraft.
A group stands on an airfield tarmac near an aircraft with a distinctive yellow and navy blue tail emblem.
A Navy service member in white uniform stands with crossed arms in front of a military aircraft tail.
A naval service member in dress white uniform displays colorful military ribbons and aviation wings on their chest.
Military dress uniform displaying colorful service ribbons, medals and naval aviator wings on white fabric.
U.S. Navy service members in white uniforms stand together next to a military aircraft on a bright sunny day.
Military service member in dress whites standing with companion wearing a navy blue outfit against light background.