VMFA-312’s Change of Command 

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Clayton Gard III, outgoing commanding officer, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312, presents the squadron colors to Lt. Col. Matthew Gaede, incoming commanding officer, VMFA-312, during a Change of Command Ceremony on June 1 at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. The passing of the colors from the outgoing commanding officer to the incoming commanding officer signifies the continuation of trust and allegiance of the Marines to their squadron’s commander. Sgt. Cheyeanne Campbell/USMC ••• Top photo: U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Clayton Gard III, commanding officer, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312, Marine Aircraft Group 31, MCAS Beaufort, exits a F/A-18 hornet after his final flight My 31 with VMFA-312 at MCAS Beaufort. The final flight commemorates an aviator’s career accomplishments and is a tradition for pilots detaching from their units. Lance Cpl. Nathan Saucier/USMC