Which of the following is NOT considered an official military ceremony?

The annual holiday party is not considered an official military ceremony. Official military ceremonies are characterized by their structured protocols, significance in military tradition, and often involve formal recognition or transition of command, personnel, or statuses within the military.

In contrast, an annual holiday party is typically a social event focused on fostering camaraderie and celebration among service members, rather than adhering to formal military protocols or traditions. While these events are important for morale and team building, they do not carry the official status or elements of ceremony that characterize the other options, such as the change of command, retirements, and unit activations, all of which involve formal processes, official recognition, and adherence to military customs. These ceremonies serve specific purposes related to duty, honor, and the transition of roles within the military structure.