24 heartwarming photos of America's commander-in-chief with the military

Reuters

As America's commander-in-chief, President Obama is the supreme commander of the US's armed forces. 

In this role, Obama has the final say on all matters of the country's military. But, additionally, as the head of the military, Obama must also cater to the morale of the US military and ensure that the nation's nearly 1.3 million active soldiers and veterans feel cared for.

Below are some of our favorite photos of Obama interacting with US military service members and veterans.

A soldier hugs the President as he greeted U.S. troops at Bagram Air Field in Afghanistan.

Obama claps as he passes by 'The President's Own' US Marine Band on the White House grounds.

Obama greets US troops as he holds a Veterans Day event at the US Army Garrison at Yongsan military base in Seoul November 11, 2010.