U.S. Department of Defense

11/17/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 11/17/2025 08:45

Los Angeles MEPS Launches Selfie Station

The Los Angeles Military Entrance Processing Station, the busiest MEPS in the nation, added a new feature that's already making waves: a patriotic selfie station designed to honor the moment young Americans take their first step into military service.

Los Angeles Military Entrance Processing Station
An applicant takes a selfie at the Los Angeles Military Entrance Processing Station. Applicants at the Los Angeles MEPS are celebrating their first step into military service at a new patriotic selfie station that connects them to a nationwide community of service members.
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VIRIN: 251027-D-E7460-1020K

The station features a vibrant backdrop showcasing the crests of all six armed forces alongside the U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command emblem.

The new area was designed to foster a sense of pride and excitement about the possibility of serving the nation. The selfie station allows prospective recruits to document this moment.

The idea came from a desire to create a positive and shareable experience for future service members and their families during what can be a stressful and momentous occasion. Applicants are encouraged to take photos at the station after completing initial processing, and prior to shipping to basic training, providing a memorable keepsake and a platform to share their commitment to service.

The station is already proving to be a popular addition, with applicants and their families eagerly posing for photos. MEPS personnel are encouraging those who share their photos on social media to use the hashtag #Iansweredthecall to connect with a broader community of future service members and veterans.

Los Angeles Military Entrance Processing Station
Army 1st Sgt. Randy Ward, Los Angeles Military Entrance Processing Station senior enlisted advisor, and Army Lt. Col. Matthew Paquin, Los Angeles MEPS commander, join an applicant for a photo at the new selfie station. Applicants are celebrating their first step into military service.
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VIRIN: 251027-D-E7460-1125K


"Seeing the crests of all the services together is a powerful visual reminder of the opportunities available," said Randy, a recent applicant who used the station. "It really solidified my decision to pursue a career in the Army."

The LA MEPS selfie station represents a forward-thinking approach to recruitment, leveraging social media and a positive experience to connect with the next generation of service members.
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U.S. Department of Defense published this content on November 17, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on November 17, 2025 at 14:46 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]