Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)
Blog
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MIL-OSI Submissions: Environment – First global gathering of Food and Plastics Networks to prevent devastating environmental impacts
Source: WRAPPact Network Connect 2025 – First global gathering of Food and Plastics Networks share actions to cut food and plastic waste and prevent devastating effects on planet.
Representatives from 15 countries met in Mexico this week for Pact Network Connect 2025, a three-day programme focussed on addressing the issue of our broken food systems, and the spiralling environmental cost of plastic pollution and waste.
Convened by global environmental action NGO WRAP, Pact Network Connect 2025 was the first time the two networks – 13 international Plastics Pacts run in conjunction with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation – and 11 Food Pacts met as one to share experiences and strategies to strengthen collaborative efforts on the two environmental crises.
The Pacts represent collaborative action initiatives formed in country by private and public sector organisations, charities and NGOs. Representatives from the Pact Secretariats joined investors and philanthropic organisations to co-design solutions to key food and plastics triggers. Focus was on generating practical steps and actions to tackle plastics pollution within the 19 countries comprising the Plastics Pact Network – and share more widely, and address food waste and loss in the 10 countries encompassing the first Food Pact Network.
Harriet Lamb, CEO WRAP, “The numerous Pacts are the engine rooms driving forward a new circular economy for plastics and food. They give me hope that we can correct the failures of our food and plastic systems. They show that ahead of securing global inter-governmental agreements at scale, companies, ngos and governments can get behind voluntary action as an agile and effective front runner along the road to transformation. We’re delighted to be in Mexico, bringing together leaders from the food and plastics Pacts for the first ever joint global meeting to share solutions and accelerate change.”
Pact Network Connect 2025 built on the learnings and progress achieved in the first Plastic Pact Network meeting, held in South Africa in 2024 inspiring the move to bring together both Food and Plastics Pacts to amplify impact. The Plastics Pact Network meeting had an added sense of urgency this year, given the lack of agreement on key elements for a global treaty to end plastic pollution at INC5 negotiations in Busan 2024. To achieve this, we need ambitious regulation to complement and accelerate voluntary efforts and create a level playing field for all businesses. The Plastics Pacts are uniquely placed to inform and enable policymaking and treaty implementation through the Network’s large repository of tools, insights, guidance, and standardised definitions.
Marta Longhurst, Pacts and Field-building Lead Ellen MacArthur Foundation, “The Plastics Pacts have proved that such a network can deliver real impact towards eliminating plastic waste and pollution. Thanks to Plastics Pacts, tens of billions of problematic or unnecessary plastic items have been eliminated; design for reusability, recyclability, and composability in practice and at scale has increased by 23%; and incorporation of recycled content back into packaging has increased by 44%. We are pleased to see the tangible impact of the Plastics Pacts, and to see this knowledge shared and applied to other sectors to accelerate the transition to a circular economy worldwide.”
The Plastics Pact Network is a global coordinated response to the hazards plastics pose to people and the planet. Managed through a partnership between WRAP and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, in just six years the Plastic Pacts have led work tackling pollution and delivering impact on national and global scales. The Network includes over 900 local and global organisations across a 19-country membership. Its members have eliminated more than 360,000 tonnes of problematic and unnecessary plastics and increased recycled content in their packaging by 44% – reducing virgin plastic by 2.2 million tonnes by 2022. All Plastics Pacts align in a common vision to create a circular economy for plastics and eliminate waste and pollution.
Alejandra Kopaitic, Directora Consumo y Producción Sustentable y Pacto Chileno de los Plásticos, “Pact Network Connect is a key event when many countries can share experiences, foster regional collaboration, and strengthen our global partnerships. It will enrich the Chilean Plastics Pact as part of this international network committed to systemic change. We are here to listen, learn, and collaborate, while showcasing the work we are doing in Chile and aligning our goals with international experience and best practices.”
Ninel Escobar, Director of Climate Change WWF Mexico, “In México, between 38% and 58% of plastic waste is mismanaged. Resolving this problem requires us to work along the whole life cycle of plastic, using a systemic approach. We are pleased to join our Pact partners at Pact Network Connect to share our experiences of resolving these complex problems.”
The Food Pact Network connects collaborative action initiatives within individual countries to a global community dedicated to reducing food loss and waste. This is the first time the group has joined forces in person as the Food Pact Network, and through the universal adoption of the principles of Target-Measure-Act the Pacts are changing how food is produced and consumed to support the UN Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 to halve global food waste by 2030.
Notes
The Plastics Pact Network includes: ANZPAC Plastics Pact, The Canada Plastics Pact, Polski Pakt Plastikowy – The Polish Plastics Pact, The U.S. Plastics Pact, Pacto Português para os Plásticos- The Portuguese Plastics Pact, The South African Plastics Pact, UK Plastics Pact, Pacte National sur les emballages plastiques – French Plastics Pact, Circula El Plástico – The Chilean Plastics Pact, The Kenya Plastics Pact (KPP), Colombia Plastics Pact, India Plastics Pact and Mexico Plastics Pact.
The Food Pact Network includes: Courtauld Commitment 2030 (UK), South Africa Food Loss and Waste Initiative, Pacific Coast Food Waste Commitment, Pacto Por La Comida (Mexico), GRASP 2030 (Indonesia), Brasil Sem Desperdisio (Brazil, launching in 2025), U.S. Food Waste Pact, Samen Tegen Voedselverspilling (Netherlands) , Kai Commitment (New Zealand) and the International Food Waste Coalition.
WRAP is a global environmental action NGO catalysing policy makers, businesses and individuals to transform the systems that create our food, textiles and manufactured products. Together these account for nearly 50% of global greenhouse emissions. Our goal is to enable the world to transition from the old take-make-dispose model of production to more sustainable approaches that will radically reduce waste and carbon emissions from everyday products. To do so we examine sustainability challenges through the lens of people’s day-to-day lives and create solutions that can transform entire systems to benefit the planet, nature and people.
Our work includes: UK Plastics Pact, Courtauld Commitment 2030, Textiles 2030 and the campaigns Love Food Hate Waste and Recycle Now. We run Food Waste Action Week and Recycle Week.
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MIL-OSI Submissions: Innovation – A robot cleaning up the Hofvijver in The Hague
Source: The HagueAnd a new electric boat cleans up the bigger pieces of waste in the canals
The Hague, the Netherlands, 24 January 2025 — The Municipality of The Hague has launched a pilot project to keep the historic Hofvijver plastic-free. Using the remote-controlled Jellyfishbot, plastic and other litter are being efficiently removed from this iconic body of water in the heart of the city.
The initiative was introduced following an increase in complaints about litter in the Hofvijver, the famous lake located in front of the Dutch parliament buildings. The pilot project, which began at the end of 2024 and will run for one year, aims to determine the effectiveness of the Jellyfishbot in improving water quality. If successful, the technology may be deployed to other locations in the city, such as canals, where it could assist in cleaning water surfaces and even mapping underwater areas and quay walls. This project is led by the Urban Management team of the Municipality of The Hague, which is dedicated to enhancing the local living environment throughout the city.
Alderman Robert Barker (Animal Welfare, Outdoor Space, and Environment) stated: “Unfortunately, too much waste still ends up in the Hofvijver. This is bad for the water quality and all plants and animals in and around the water. That is why we do our best to keep this historic piece of water in the middle of the city clean. This innovative robot can make a great contribution to that.”
Stella Polaris
Alongside the Jellyfishbot project in the Hofvijver, another new boat is now being used to clean up larger debris in the city’s waters. The service vessel is deployed for monitoring and maintenance purposes, retrieving large objects such as reels and planks from the water, and installing signs or mirrors when necessary. The previous service vessel, named Die Haghe, was built in 1986 and featured a Hatz diesel engine. The use was no longer viable due to CO2 emissions and height restrictions preventing it from passing under movable bridges. As a result, a new electrically powered service vessel, Stella Polaris, has been introduced. This eco-friendly boat can navigate all inner waters of The Hague and is stationed at its dedicated berth in the Poolsterhaven.
Alderman Arjen Kapteijns (Energy Transition, Mobility and Raw Materials): “It is important that we keep our beautiful city clean, not only for nature, but also for our residents. This innovative technology offers us the opportunity to dispose of waste effectively and sustainably.”
Read the full story about cleaning up the waters in The Hague on Stories of Purpose from The Hague: https://storiesofpurpose.thehague.com/impact/robot-mission-jellyfishbot-cleaning-hofvijver
About The Hague & Partners
The Hague & Partners is the official marketing & acquisition organisation for the promotion of The Hague, focused on residents, visitors, conferences, businesses, and institutions. www.thehague.com
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MIL-OSI USA: Boozman Joins Legislation to Protect Survivors of Abortion
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senator James Lankford (R-OK) to introduce the Born–Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act to protect newborns who survive abortions by requiring they receive care from health care practitioners.
The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act adds clear expectations of care, hospital transfer requirements, mandatory reporting, private rights of action for moms and reasonable criminal penalties for health care professionals who violate the law. Current law does not provide measures to enforce the protection of these infants, which has allowed the current practice of leaving a child to die after a botched abortion to continue.
“As a society, we should always uphold the dignity of every life. Neglecting to provide life-saving care after a failed abortion is a cruel and inhumane violation of the oath every medical provider swears by to ‘do no harm,’” said Boozman. “I am proud to join my colleagues to protect vulnerable babies regardless of the circumstances of their birth.”
“No child should be denied medical care simply because they are ‘unwanted.’ Today, if an abortion procedure fails and a child is born alive, doctors can just ignore the crying baby on the table and watch them slowly die of neglect. That’s not an abortion, that’s infanticide,” said Lankford.
This legislation is endorsed by March for Life Action, American Association of Pro-Life OBGYNs Action, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, Concerned Women for America LAC, National Right to Life, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, Live Action, Americans United for Life, Family Research Council, Students for Life Action, Alliance Defending Freedom, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Heritage Action, Family Policy Alliance, Human Coalition, Liberty Council Action, Ethics and Public Policy Center, Christian Employers Alliance, Advancing American Freedom, Focus on the Family, First Rights Global, AdvanceUSA, Coalition for Jewish Values, National Association of Evangelicals, Eagle Forum, Christian Legal Society, Christian Medical and Dental Associations, Faith and Freedom Coalition, Christ Medicus Foundation, Christians Engaged, Children’s AIDS Funds International, Capability Consulting and Catholic Health Care Leadership Alliance.
The Born–Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act is cosponsored by Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jim Risch (R-ID), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Katie Britt (R-AL), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Roger Wicker, (R-MS), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Hoeven (R-ND), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Ted Budd (R-NC), Tim Scott (R-SC), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John Curtis (R-UT), Todd Young (R-IN), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), John Barrasso (R-WY), John Kennedy (R-LA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Rick Scott (R-FL), Steve Daines (R-MT), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Mike Lee (R-UT), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Dave McCormick (R-PA).
Click here to read the text of the legislation. -
MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Wicker Introduce Legislation to Block Taxpayer Funded Abortions
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
WASHINGTON ––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) introduced the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act to make the Hyde Amendment, which prevents the use of taxpayer dollars to fund abortions, permanent.
Under current law, the Hyde Amendment must be reauthorized by Congress every year.
“There has a been longstanding, bipartisan agreement that Americans should not be forced to subsidize abortions with their hard-earned tax dollars,” said Boozman. “Recent attempts to undermine that standard are troubling and we should set a standard across the federal government that protects the consciences of millions in the pro-life community.
“Millions of Americans share my belief that unborn life should be protected in the womb. Using taxpayer dollars to fund abortions is wrong,” Wicker said. “My Senate Republican colleagues, and I will continue fighting to preserve life.”
The legislation is also cosponsored by Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jim Banks (R-IN), John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Curtis (R-UT), Steve Daines (R-MT), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Kennedy (R-LA), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Todd Young (R-IN).
Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ-04).
The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2025is endorsed by multiple pro-life groups. Here’s what they are saying about the bill.
“No matter which party holds power in Washington, Americans should never be forced to fund the violence of abortion with their tax dollars. For nearly 50 years, the Hyde Amendment and its family of policies have protected babies in the womb and their mothers from abortion by prohibiting taxpayer funding of abortion on demand. Despite Americans’ strong support of this policy, pro-abortion members of Congress attack the Hyde family in every spending bill. The No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act would finally apply Hyde principles permanently across the whole federal government, including stopping abortion subsidies in Obamacare,” said Vice President of Government Affairs of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America Marilyn Musgrave.
“This Act rightly prevents hard-earned taxpayer dollars from paying for harmful abortions. We at March for Life Action will continue to advocate for legislation that ensures our taxpayer dollars promote life-saving, pro-women, and pro-family policies,” said March for Life Action President Jeanne F. Mancini. -
MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow Metro – Virtual Troika, FPS and Biometrics: How the Ticket Sales System in Moscow Changed in 2024
Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –
Source: Moscow Metro
Maxim Liksutov reported that digital methods of paying for public transport are gaining popularity. For example, virtual Troika cards have already been used more than 2.5 million times. This year, passengers have issued more than 120,000 such cards.
Moscow metro. Moscow Metro.
Linking bank cards in the Moscow Metro application
The service allows you to pay for previous trips in just a couple of clicks, removing the card from the stop list. You can also view the history of card use in public transport. Passengers have linked about 250,000 bank cards to the application.
Biometric payment on MCD (Moscow Central Diameters)
In 2024, biometric payment became available at the Nakhabino, Kalanchevskaya, Likhobory and Zelenograd-Kryukovo stations. All passengers registered in the system can pay for travel using biometrics on Diameters.
Accelerated Payment System (APS)
This Russian service has been implemented in the Moscow Metro ticket offices and machines. With its help, passengers can buy or top up a Troika or Moskvich card using a smartphone from any manufacturer.
Biometric payment for students
Students have been given the opportunity to pay for travel on the metro and the Moscow Central Circle using biometrics. This convenient payment method is available to more than 550,000 students in Moscow.
Virtual card “Troika”
This service allows you to pay for travel using any smartphone on all types of public transport. With the virtual Troika, passengers spend less than a minute to buy a ticket and confirm their trip.
Online activation of replenishment of the Troika card
Yellow terminals are no longer needed! At the request of passengers, automatic activation of online replenishment of Troika and Moskvich cards has been introduced at the metro and MCC turnstiles. In addition, the service has been implemented in an open beta version on all 3,000 tram validators.
“The city ticket system fully meets the needs of passengers. We offer innovative solutions that have no analogues in the world in terms of scale and convenience. For example, biometric payment. In addition, in 2024, on the instructions of Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, new digital services were launched in transport, which made travel even more convenient. Next year, we will continue to develop the most advanced domestic solutions for passengers,” said Maxim Liksutov.
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MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Helps Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Firefighters with Service-Related Cancers
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
(Washington, DC) – This week, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) helped introduce the bipartisan Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, led by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND). The bipartisan legislation, which passed unanimously (21-0) out of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee last year, would expand access to federal support for the families of firefighters and other first responders who pass away or become permanently disabled from service-related cancers. Currently, firefighters are only eligible for support under the Public Safety Officer Benefits (PSOB) program for physical injuries sustained in the line of duty or for deaths from duty-related heart attacks, strokes, mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and 9/11 related illnesses.
“Every day, firefighters put themselves in immediate danger to protect their communities, often resulting in long-term health risks associated with serving in the line of duty,” said Shaheen. “It’s outrageous that when these heroes lose their lives or face severe disabilities due to service-related cancers, many of their families do not receive the same benefits as those who die in the line of duty. It’s time to fix this injustice by passing this bill that would give these families and firefighters the support they deserve.”
In addition to Shaheen, Klobuchar and Cramer, this legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Banks (R-IN), Barrasso (R-WY), Blackburn (R-TN), Blumenthal (D-CT), Coons (D-DE), Cornyn (R-TX), Cruz (R-TX), Duckworth (D-IL), Durbin (D-IL), Fetterman (D-PA), Fischer (R-NE), Graham (R-SC), Hirono (D-HI), Justice (R-WV), Kelly (D-AZ), Markey (D-MA), Padilla (D-CA), Rounds (R-SD), Schiff (D-CA), Sheehy (R-MT), Smith (D-MN), Warner (D-VA), Warren (D-MA), Welch (D-VT), Whitehouse (D-RI) and Wyden (D-OR).
The Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program provides benefits to the survivors of firefighters; law enforcement officers; and other first responders who are killed as the result of injuries sustained in the line of duty. The program also provides disability benefits where first responders become permanently or totally disabled. The Public Safety Officers’ Educational Assistance (PSOEA) program, a component of the PSOB program, provides higher-education assistance to the children and spouses of public safety officers killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. The PSOB and PSOEA programs are administered by the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA).
The legislation is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), as well as the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association (Metro Chiefs), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), National Narcotics Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and Sergeants Benevolent Association of the NYPD.
As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen has consistently secured resources to support New Hampshire firefighters. During the ongoing FY 2025 appropriations process, Shaheen has pushed to increase funding to $385 million for both the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programs, an increase of $122 million over FY 2024. In August, Shaheen celebrated the announcement of more than $2.9 million in federal funding to support Granite State firefighters. -
MIL-OSI USA: Statement of U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner on the Passing of Henry Marsh III
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued the following statement on the passing of Henry Marsh III:
“It is with a heavy heart that Lisa and I join the Commonwealth and the nation in mourning the passing of Henry Marsh III, a true giant of the civil rights movement and a tireless champion for justice and equality.
“From his pivotal role in desegregating Virginia’s public schools to his years of service on the Richmond City Council, as the first Black Mayor of Richmond, in the Virginia Senate, and as Commissioner of the Virginia Department of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, Henry Marsh’s legacy is one of courage, integrity, and relentless pursuit of justice. Lisa and Henry worked closely together to commission the statue depicting Barbara Johns on Capitol Square – honoring at the seat of our government a pivotal figure and moment in the struggle for civil rights in Virginia.
“Henry taught us all that the fight for civil rights is never truly over – that it is one of constant effort, requiring us to stay vigilant and engaged. As we remember Henry’s remarkable life, let us also rededicate ourselves to carrying forward the cause for which he dedicated so much of his own. My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who were blessed to know him.”
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MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine, Griffith Announce over $26 Million in Federal Funding for Lee County Sewer Improvement Project
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) and U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA) announced $26,250,000 in federal funding from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the Lee County Sewer Improvements Project. The funding was awarded courtesy of the disaster relief package that the lawmakers pushed for and passed in December 2024 as part of legislation to fund the government.
“High-quality water infrastructure is crucial to the health and well-being of our communities,” said the lawmakers. “We’re thrilled to have helped secure this substantial funding for Lee County that will modernize and expand public wastewater collection for the region.”
The project, which has received critical support through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will provide wastewater service to hundreds of households and over 1,000 residents in Lee County, Virginia. The project will also serve as the basis for expansion of Lincoln Memorial University, which is an integral driver of the region’s economy.
This funding proved more urgently needed in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The storm caused significant damage to wastewater infrastructure across Southwest Virginia. This project will help to ensure that the community’s wastewater systems are better protected against future disaster events.
The lawmakers have been longtime supporters of this project. Sens. Warner and Kaine requested funding for the project as part of Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations process, and earlier this month, the lawmakers wrote to the Office of Management and Budget and the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works to request funding for this project made available by the December 2024 funding bill.
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MIL-OSI China: Xi extends Spring Festival greetings to all Chinese during inspection tour
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, talks with local people while visiting a food market in Shenyang, capital city of northeast China’s Liaoning Province, Jan. 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua] SHENYANG, Jan. 24 — President Xi Jinping has extended Spring Festival greetings to Chinese people of all ethnic groups, compatriots in Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, as well as overseas Chinese during an inspection trip to the northeastern province of Liaoning from Wednesday to Friday.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, wished all Chinese people happiness and health, and the country peace and prosperity in the upcoming Year of the Snake.
The Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, falls on Jan. 29 this year. It is the most important holiday on the Chinese calendar and an occasion for family reunions.
For more than a decade, Xi, as the Party and the state’s top leader, has made it a tradition to spend time with ordinary people, especially those in difficulties, during the holiday season.
On Wednesday afternoon, Xi made his first stop at Zhujiagou Village, administered by the city of Huludao. Having suffered severe flooding in August last year, the village launched post-disaster reconstruction and 41 affected households moved into new residences before the start of winter.
At the entrance to the village, Xi looked at the affected areas, asking in detail about the summer flooding and the relocation of villagers at that time, as well as the subsequent relief work. He urged local officials to ensure the villagers stay warm throughout the winter.
During visits to two village households, the president inspected the structural integrity of their homes, checked their preparations for holiday celebrations, and asked whether government subsidies for rebuilding had been adequately provided. He also inquired about the villagers’ main sources of income.
Noting that natural disasters had hit a number of regions across China during the past year, Xi said: “As the Spring Festival draws near, on behalf of the Party Central Committee, I extend sincere regards and festive greetings to all those affected and those working on the frontlines of post-disaster reconstruction!”
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, learns about measures in place to optimize public services as well as details of progress made in improving people’s life while visiting a residential community in Shenyang, capital city of northeast China’s Liaoning Province, Jan. 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua] On Thursday morning, Xi went to the provincial capital Shenyang, where he talked with merchants and customers at a food market to learn about the market supply during the holiday season.
He later visited a residential community in Shenyang, and acknowledged the significant improvements in living conditions following a general revamping there.
At the community service center, Xi joined residents who were writing Spring Festival couplets, while children were tying Chinese knots that symbolize auspiciousness. He also enjoyed a Chinese bamboo flute performance, encouraging the performers to further promote fine traditional Chinese culture.
Before leaving, Xi waved to the crowd and extended festive greetings. “Having a good Spring Festival means a great start to the new year,” he told the residents.
MODERNIZATION, REVITALIZATION
Inspecting a cold rolling mill of Bensteel Group in the city of Benxi on Thursday afternoon, Xi said that the manufacturing sector should keep pursuing higher-standard, smarter, and more eco-friendly development, and make more technology-intensive products with higher added value.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a cold rolling mill of Bensteel Group in Benxi City, northeast China’s Liaoning Province, Jan. 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua] After listening to the work report from local officials of Liaoning on Friday morning, Xi urged the province, which already has a relatively complete industrial system, to accelerate the modernization of this system.
Traditional industries should strengthen industrial foundation reengineering and seek breakthroughs on major technologies and equipment to continuously boost core competitiveness, he said, while also highlighting the importance of ecological protection.
The full revitalization of Northeast China relies fundamentally on reform and opening up, and more efforts should be made to strengthen the rule of law in government operations and optimize the business environment, Xi added, urging officials to improve their capabilities and performance in line with the country’s further opening up.
Noting that Liaoning is rich in agricultural resources and has a solid foundation for development, Xi said the province should adhere to the integrated development of urban and rural areas.
He also stressed enhancing cultural confidence and strength, unswervingly upholding the leadership of the Party and exercising full and rigorous Party self-governance.
Xi urged more efforts to care for disadvantaged groups, ensure smooth transportation, provide sufficient market supplies, enrich people’s cultural life, and strengthen workplace safety during the holiday season.
Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, accompanied Xi on the inspection tour.
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MIL-OSI China: First China-Europe Express cargo ship completes maiden voyage
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
WILHELMSHAVEN, Germany, Jan. 24 — The first container ship of the “China-Europe Express”, the fastest direct route connecting Europe and China’s Yangtze River Delta region, arrived at its destination at the Jade Weser Port in Wilhelmshaven on Friday.
The “KAWA Ningbo” cargo ship, carrying over 1700 containers of new-energy and other high-value goods, completed its non-stop voyage in 26 days, well below the shipment time of 45 days in the past.
“The launch of the ‘China-Europe Express’ route not only provides convenience for the exchange of goods between China and Europe, but also plays a positive role in stabilizing the global product and supply chains, vividly interpreting the profound connotation of jointly building the ‘Belt and Road,’” remarked Cong Wu, consul general of the Chinese General Consulate in Hamburg at a ceremony marking the completion of the voyage.
Cong further emphasized that the steady development of this new route would undoubtedly create new cooperation opportunities for both regions and inject fresh vitality into bilateral economic growth.
Frank Doods, State Secretary in the Lower Saxony Ministry of Economics, Transport, Construction and Digitization, praised the route for bringing rich development opportunities to the city of Wilhelmshaven where the port is located and the broader Lower Saxony. He also expressed optimism about deepening economic ties between Germany and China.
This milestone route was established through a partnership agreement signed at the China International Import Expo last year. The maiden voyage departed from east China’s Ningbo-Zhoushan Port on Dec. 30. The route is set to operate on a monthly basis, enabling regular freight exchange between China and Europe.
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MIL-OSI China: China becomes largest online retail market for 12 consecutive years
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, Jan. 24 — China has become the world’s largest online retail market for 12 consecutive years, with online retail sales reaching 15.5 trillion yuan (about 2.16 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2024, the Ministry of Commerce said Friday.
China’s wholesale and retail industries have made steady progress driven by various policies, providing strong support for expanding domestic demand and forging a new development paradigm, Vice Commerce Minister Sheng Qiuping told a press conference.
Sheng said that the added value of the wholesale and retail industries reached 13.8 trillion yuan in 2024, accounting for 10.2 percent of the GDP and playing a vital role in smoothing circulation, creating jobs and reducing logistics costs.
The ministry will work with relevant departments to further enrich supporting policies, implement detailed measures and accelerate the promotion of high-quality development of wholesale and retail industries, so as to further smooth the circulation of the national economy, Sheng added.
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MIL-OSI USA: Relief Still Available to Kansas Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Hit by Spring Drought: Don’t Miss the Deadline to Apply for an SBA Disaster Loan!
Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Kansas of the deadlines to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought that occurred in the counties listed below.
Declaration Number
Primary
CountiesNeighboring
CountiesIncident
TypeIncident Date
Deadline
20423 Meade and Sedgwick Butler, Clark, Cowley, Ford, Gray, Harvey, Haskell, Kingman, Reno, Seward and Sumner in Kansas;
Beaver in OklahomaDrought April 23, 2024, and continuing 02/24/25 20425 Haskell and Seward Finney, Grant, Gray, Kearny, Meade and Stevens in Kansas;
Texas and Beaver in OklahomaDrought April 30, 2024, and continuing 02/26/25 Under these declarations, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs that suffered financial losses as a direct result of the drought. The SBA cannot provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the drought and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred.
“When disasters hit rural communities, access to working capital offers a lifeline to impacted small businesses and private nonprofits,” said Randle Logan, acting associate administrator for the SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience. “SBA’s EIDL program is designed to help keep businesses operational during recovery, covering financial obligations and necessary expenses until normal operations resume.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amount terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
For more information and to apply online visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
For KS 20423 submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than Feb. 24. For KS 20425 submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than Feb. 26.
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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
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MIL-OSI USA: Relief Still Available to Texas Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Hit by Spring Drought: Don’t Miss the Deadline to Apply for an SBA Disaster Loan!
Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Texas of the Feb. 24, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought that began April 23, 2024.
The disaster declaration covers the counties of Brewster, Crane, Crockett, Dimmit, Frio, Irion, Jeff Davis, La Salle, Maverick, Pecos, Reagan, Reeves, Schleicher, Sutton, Terrell, Upton, Val Verde, Ward, Webb and Zavala.
Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs that suffered financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the drought and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred.
“When disasters hit rural communities, access to working capital offers a lifeline to impacted small businesses and private nonprofits,” said Randle Logan, acting associate administrator for the SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience. “SBA’s EIDL program is designed to help keep businesses operational during recovery, covering financial obligations and necessary expenses until normal operations resume.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amount terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
For more information and to apply online visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than Feb. 24.
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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
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MIL-OSI USA: Relief Still Available to Oklahoma Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Hit by Spring Drought: Don’t Miss the Deadline to Apply for an SBA Disaster Loan!
Source: United States Small Business Administration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Oklahoma of the Feb. 24, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought that began April 30, 2024.
The disaster declaration covers the counties of Beaver, Ellis, Harper, and Texas in Oklahoma, as well as Clark, Meade and Seward counties in Kansas, and Lipscomb and Ochiltree counties in Texas.
Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs that suffered financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the drought and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred.
“When disasters hit rural communities, access to working capital offers a lifeline to impacted small businesses and private nonprofits,” said Randle Logan, acting associate administrator for the SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience. “SBA’s EIDL program is designed to help keep businesses operational during recovery, covering financial obligations and necessary expenses until normal operations resume.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amount terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
For more information and to apply online visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than Feb. 24.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
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MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Lee introduce bill to permanently stop funding for abortions overseas
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) in introducing the Protecting Life in Foreign Assistance Act.
The bill would permanently codify the Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance policy (formerly the Mexico City Policy), which forbids the funding of foreign non-governmental organizations that perform or promote abortions. The Mexico City Policy was first instituted by Pres. Ronald Reagan and has since been rescinded and reinstated by various presidential administrations. Pres. Donald Trump expanded this policy to close previously existing loopholes and renamed it the Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance policy.
“America shouldn’t fund abortions in foreign countries—no matter which party holds the White House. It’s time for Congress to show some moral clarity on this issue once and for all by passing this bill,” said Kennedy.
“In our quest to build a society where every precious human life is protected, we cannot allow the tax dollars of American families to be used against the most vulnerable people in our country and across the world: the unborn,” said Lee.
Sens. Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) cosponsored the legislation.
Text of the Protecting Life in Foreign Assistance Act is available here. -
MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Joins Warren, Fellow Senate Armed Services Committee Democrats in Joint Statement on New Hegseth Report
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
January 22, 2025
[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee—joined U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) in releasing the following statement on the sworn affidavit containing abuse allegations against Pete Hegseth, nominee for U.S. Secretary of Defense:
“In a sworn statement under the penalty of perjury, a new report shows U.S. Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth was ‘erratic and aggressive’ toward his second wife over many years, to the point that she feared for her safety. The report also details repeated instances of his drinking alcohol in excess, including the need to be dragged out of a strip club while in uniform. This affidavit is part of a disturbing pattern of behavior that has been documented through numerous public and private reports. The affidavit also raises additional questions about the thoroughness of his FBI background check during a rushed confirmation process.
“Despite repeated requests, Mr. Hegseth has refused to meet with the vast majority of Democratic members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. We request that Mr. Hegseth meet privately with every interested lawmaker on the committee before the Senate votes on his nomination so that we can have frank discussions about the new information that has come to light. It would be irresponsible and contrary to our constitutional duty for the Senate to vote to confirm this nomination before such meetings have occurred.”
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MIL-OSI: Purpose Investments Inc. Announces Final Annual 2024 Capital Gains Distributions for Purpose Fund Corp.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
TORONTO, Jan. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Purpose Investments Inc. (“Purpose”) is pleased to announce the final annual 2024 capital gain distributions for Purpose Fund Corp. The distributions represent capital gains realized by Purpose Fund Corp. during the year.
Shareholders of record at the close of business on January 30, 2025, will receive the 2024 annual capital gains distribution on February 5, 2025, and such gains will be applicable for the 2025 tax year. The final year-end capital gain distribution for Purpose Fund Corp. will be paid in cash.
Details of the per-unit distribution amounts are as follows:
Fund Name Ticker
SymbolExchange Final Annual
Capital Gains
Distribution
Per ShareNAV Per
Share (as of
Jan 23, 2025)Final Distribution
(% of Jan 23,
2025 NAV)Purpose Core Dividend Fund – ETF
SeriesPDF TSX $0.1800 $33.85 0.53% Purpose Tactical Hedged Equity Fund
– ETF SeriesPHE TSX $0.0800 $36.72 0.22% Purpose Tactical Hedged Equity Fund
– Non-Currency Hedged – ETF SeriesPHE.B TSX $0.6700 $42.83 1.56% Purpose Diversified Real Asset Fund
– ETF SeriesPRA TSX $0.2100 $30.15 0.70% Purpose Best Ideas Fund – ETF
SeriesPBI TSX $1.5700 $48.09 3.26% Purpose Best Ideas Fund – Non-
Currency Hedged – ETF SeriesPBI.B TSX $2.5700 $64.21 4.00% Purpose International Tactical
Hedged Equity Fund – ETF SeriesPHW TSX $0.3500 $19.73 1.77% Purpose Canadian Financial Income
Fund – ETF SeriesBNC TSX $1.2000 $29.24 4.10% Purpose Enhanced Dividend Fund –
ETF SeriesPDIV TSX $0.0150 $9.46 0.16% Purpose Core Equity Income Fund –
ETF SeriesRDE Cboe
Canada$0.1600 $27.40 0.58% Purpose Tactical Asset Allocation
Fund – ETF SeriesRTA Cboe
Canada$0.9500 $31.31 3.03% Purpose Tactical Thematic Fund –
ETF SeriesRTT Cboe
Canada$0.7000 $24.81 2.82% Purpose confirms that Big Banc Split Corp. will not declare a 2024 annual capital gain distribution.
About Purpose Investments Inc.
Purpose Investments is an asset management company with more than $23 billion in assets under management. Purpose Investments has an unrelenting focus on client-centric innovation and offers a range of managed and quantitative investment products. Purpose Investments is led by well-known entrepreneur Som Seif and is a division of Purpose Financial, an independent technology-driven financial services company.
For further information, please contact:
Keera Hart
Keera.Hart@kaiserpartners.com
905-580-1257Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, and expenses may all be associated with investment fund investments. Please read the prospectus and other disclosure documents before investing. Investment funds are not covered by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government deposit insurer. There can be no assurance that the full amount of your investment in a fund will be returned to you. If the securities are purchased or sold on a stock exchange, you may pay more or receive less than the current net asset value. Investment funds are not guaranteed; their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.
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MIL-Evening Report: RNZ Pacific – 35 years of broadcasting trusted news to the region
By Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor, RNZ Pacific manager
RNZ International (RNZI) began broadcasting to the Pacific region 35 years ago — on 24 January 1990, the same day the Auckland Commonwealth Games opened.
Its news bulletins and programmes were carried by a brand new 100kW transmitter.
The service was rebranded as RNZ Pacific in 2017. However its mission remains unchanged, to provide news of the highest quality and be a trusted service to local broadcasters in the Pacific region.
Although RNZ had been broadcasting to the Pacific since 1948, in the late 1980s the New Zealand government saw the benefit of upgrading the service. Thus RNZI was born, with a small dedicated team.
The first RNZI manager was Ian Johnstone. He believed that the service should have a strong cultural connection to the people of the Pacific. To that end, it was important that some of the staff reflected parts of the region where RNZ Pacific broadcasted.
He hired the first Pacific woman sports reporter at RNZ, the late Elma Ma’ua.
Linden Clark (from left) and Ian Johnstone, former managers of RNZ International now known as RNZ Pacific, and Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor, current manager of RNZ Pacific . . . strong cultural connection to the people of the Pacific. Image: RNZ The Pacific region is one of the most vital areas of the earth, but it is not always the safest, particularly from natural disasters.
Disaster coverage
RNZ Pacific covered events such as the 2009 Samoan tsunami, and during the devastating 2022 Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haʻapai eruption, it was the only news service that could be heard in the kingdom.More recently, it supported Vanuatu’s public broadcaster during the December 17 earthquake by providing extra bulletin updates for listeners when VBTC services were temporarily out of action.
Cyclones have become more frequent in the region, and RNZ Pacific provides vital weather updates, as the late Linden Clark, RNZI’s second manager, explained: “Many times, we have been broadcasting warnings on analogue shortwave to listeners when their local station has had to go off air or has been forced off air.”
RNZ Pacific’s cyclone watch service continues to operate during the cyclone season in the South Pacific.
As well as natural disasters, the Pacific can also be politically volatile. Since its inception RNZ Pacific has reported on elections and political events in the region.
Some of the more recent events include the 2000 and 2006 coups in Fiji, the Samoan Constitutional Crisis of 2021, the 2006 pro-democracy riots in Nuku’alofa, the revolving door leadership changes in Vanuatu, and the 2022 security agreement that Solomon Islands signed with China.
Human interest, culture
Human interest and cultural stories are also a key part of RNZ Pacific’s programming.The service regularly covers cultural events and festivals within New Zealand, such as Polyfest. This was part of Linden Clark’s vision, in her role as RNZI manager, that the service would be a link for the Pacific diaspora in New Zealand to their homelands.
Today, RNZ Pacific continues that work. Currently its programmes are carried on two transmitters — one installed in 2008 and a much more modern facility, installed in 2024 following a funding boost.
Around 20 Pacific region radio stations relay RNZP’s material daily. Individual short-wave listeners and internet users around the world tune in directly to RNZ Pacific content which can be received as far away as Japan, North America, the Middle East and Europe.
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MIL-OSI Video: President Trump Delivers Remarks in California
Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)
Pacific Palisades, CA
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong resident rescued from detention in Southeast Asian country to return to Hong Kong next Monday (with photo)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong resident rescued from detention in Southeast Asian country to return to Hong Kong next Monday (with photo)
Hong Kong resident rescued from detention in Southeast Asian country to return to Hong Kong next Monday (with photo)
******************************************************************************************The Security Bureau (SB) today (January 25) said that a Hong Kong resident who had been detained for illegal work in Myanmar was recently rescued and safely arrived in Thailand earlier. With the co-ordination by the SB’s dedicated task force in Thailand over the past few days and the concerted efforts by different parties, the individual will return to Hong Kong next Monday (January 27) together with the dedicated task force. Members of the dedicated task force had met with the Hong Kong resident at a detention centre last night (January 24) after his transferral to Bangkok. The task force members expressed sympathy to the individual, who expressed gratitude for the visit to Thailand by the task force members to follow up on his case. He was also very pleased to learn that he will be able to return to Hong Kong next Monday. He was in good mental and physical conditions. The task force members immediately made arrangements for his return to Hong Kong, and will continue to follow up to investigate his case after his return. The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, was very relieved that one more Hong Kong resident was rescued and able to return to Hong Kong to re-unite with his family before the Chinese New Year. He thanked sincerely for the support and assistance, as well as the importance attached to the case, by the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Chinese Embassy in the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the Chinese Embassy in the Kingdom of Thailand, the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chiang Mai, the Consulate General of Myanmar in Hong Kong, the Royal Thai Consulate-General, Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Bangkok and the relevant Thai authorities, enabling the return of the Hong Kong resident to Hong Kong within a short period of time as far as practicable. He also commended the dedicated task force for the committed efforts in following up the case and assisting the Hong Kong resident’s return to Hong Kong as soon as possible. The dedicated task force, comprising members from the SB, the Hong Kong Police Force and the Immigration Department, has been contacting and liaising with different parties since their arrival in Thailand on January 21. They met with the Chinese Embassy in the Kingdom of Thailand, the Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau of the Royal Thai Police, Mr Phanthana Nutchanart; the officer-in-charge of the Immigration Detention Centre of the Royal Thai Police; the Director of Special Investigation and the Director of Human Trafficking under the Ministry of Justice of Thailand to discuss the arrangements for the rescued Hong Kong resident to return to Hong Kong as soon as possible and follow up on the remaining cases. The dedicated task force will continue to maintain close liaison with the relevant parties and proactively follow up on the remaining 10 request-for-assistance cases in which the individuals have not yet returned to Hong Kong.
Ends/Saturday, January 25, 2025Issued at HKT 8:20NNNN
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MIL-OSI Security: Casper man sentenced to 10 years for transportation of a minor for sex
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
James Warren Martin, 38, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, with a lifetime of supervised release, for transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. This sentence is to run concurrently with his 37-to-45-year sentence imposed in Wyoming’s Seventh Judicial District state court for his victimization of the same minor. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Jan. 23, in Casper.
According to court documents, the defendant was brought to the attention of law enforcement in October of 2022 when the minor victim’s family member and guardian reported to the Casper Police Department that a male, identified as James Warren Martin, was grooming the girl. Detectives began investigating Martin. Then, on Nov. 16, 2022, Martin picked up the girl from school and fled the state with her. An Amber Alert was issued in Wyoming. Investigators determined that Martin and the minor victim may have been in Arizona. An Amber Alert was also issued in Arizona.
A deputy with the La Paz County (Ariz.) Sheriff’s Office located Martin and the minor victim in Arizona. Law enforcement arrested Martin and rescued the girl. Electronic evidence showed Martin intended to take the girl to Mexico. Evidence also proved Martin had sexual intercourse with the girl after taking her from Wyoming. Martin was interviewed and ultimately confessed to having sexual intercourse with the girl numerous times in Natrona County, Wyoming in the years before taking her to Arizona.
Martin was indicted on Jan. 11, 2023, and entered federal custody on July 15, 2024. He pleaded guilty on Oct. 29, 2024.
The Casper Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, and La Paz County Sheriff’s Office in Arizona investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the federal crime. The Natrona County District Attorney’s Office prosecuted the accompanying state crimes.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
Case No. 23-CR-00005
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MIL-OSI Security: Lincoln County Man Convicted of Methamphetamine Trafficking
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Waynesburg, Ky., man Steven Fellmy, was convicted on Thursday, by a federal jury sitting in Lexington, for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to the evidence at trial, on August 8, 2023, a Simpsonville Police Department Detective relayed an anonymous tip to the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, which concerned the transport of a large quantity of methamphetamine from Anderson County into Mercer County. As a result, Fellmy was traffic stopped in Mercer County, by a Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputy. At the scene, a Harrodsburg Police Department K9 positively alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. Law enforcement then searched the vehicle, which led to the recovery of 193.5 grams of 95% pure methamphetamine. On his person, Fellmy also had 9.439 grams of methamphetamine and 22.529 grams of heroin.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Jim Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; Chief Scott Elder, Harrodsburg Police Department; Chief Thomas Brummer, Simpsonville Police Department; and Sheriff Ernie Kelty, Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, jointly announced the jury’s verdict.
The investigation was conducted by DEA, Harrodsburg Police Department, Simpsonville Police Department, and Mercer County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Baker is representing the United States in the case.
Fellmy is scheduled to appear for sentencing on April 17, 2025. He faces up to life imprisonment and a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years imprisonment because he has a prior felony conviction for a crime of violence. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal sentencing statutes before imposing its sentence.
— END —
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MIL-OSI Security: Florida Resident Charged In Scheme To Submit Fraudulent Asylum Applications
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Defendant Allegedly Falsified Stories of Political Persecution in Clients’ Asylum Applications
SAN FRANCISCO – A federal grand jury has indicted Carlos Adolfo Haeckermann Cardenas on charges of aiding and abetting false statements on asylum applications.
According to an indictment filed Nov. 13, 2024, and unsealed Jan. 23, 2025, Haeckermann, 62, of Doral, Florida, held himself out to provide individuals with assistance in applying for immigration documents and benefits, including asylum. Between 2019 and 2021, Haeckermann submitted or assisted in the submission of more than 100 asylum applications to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and charged his clients, including some who resided in the Northern District of California, thousands of dollars to help them apply for asylum.
The indictment further alleges that it was Haeckermann’s practice to draft his clients’ personal statements, which frequently included stories of political persecution that formed the basis for the asylum claims. In so doing, Haeckermann allegedly included false and embellished details that were intended to substantiate his clients’ asylum claims and increase the chances that his clients would be granted asylum.
It was Haeckermann’s practice to send completed applications back to his clients for them to sign and submit rather than to list himself as a third-party preparer and to submit the applications himself. At times, the indictment says, Haeckermann solicited his clients for additional payments in exchange for falsified documents that Haeckermann told his clients were necessary to support their asylum claims.
Haeckermann made his initial appearance in San Francisco on Jan. 22, 2025. He is next scheduled to appear in federal court on Mar. 26, 2025, before the Hon. Vince Chhabria, U.S. District Judge.
United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Criminal Fraud Investigations Branch Chief Jeff Rusinek made the announcement.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment on each count, as well as a maximum fine of $250,000 on each count. Any sentence following a conviction would be imposed by a court only upon consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Parker is prosecuting the case. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by DSS and USCIS, with significant assistance from USCIS’s Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate.
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: New podiatry clinic brings much-needed service to Wairoa
Source: New Zealand Government
A new monthly podiatry clinic has been launched today in Wairoa and will bring a much-needed service closer to home for the Wairoa community, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
“Health New Zealand has been successful in securing a podiatrist until the end of June this year to meet the needs of the Wairoa community. The podiatrist has a special interest in diabetes and will travel to Wairoa with a nurse, for monthly clinics which will be held at Queen St Practice,” Mr Brown says.
“Primary and community healthcare, like this podiatry clinic, play a key role in preventing illness, treating disease early and reducing the impact of long-term conditions. Keeping people well improves their quality of life and reduces the pressure on our hospitals.
“I am aware the community is also working closely with government agencies on addressing access to other healthcare services such as the provision of aged care services for their elderly.”
This six-month initiative funded by Health NZ will be reviewed in June. Further engagement with the community will continue throughout the year, including on the Wairoa Ageing Well Project.
“For the estimated 400 – 600 people in the area with diabetes, as well as those with other issues, having this service on their doorstep will be a great addition to improving the range of timely, quality healthcare that can be delivered locally.” Mr Brown says.
“Investments like this are important to ensure all New Zealanders can access timely, quality healthcare and is made possible by the Government’s record investment of $16.8 billion in health in Budget 2024.”
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MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Demands Insurance Companies Answer for ‘Morally Obscene’ Disaster Claim Denials
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)
Today, Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) sent a letter to insurance companies regarding reports that claims related to Hurricane Helene are being denied after Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton devastated American communities. In his letter, the Senator calls on them to publicly testify before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Disaster Management—which Senator Hawley chairs—and pushes for answers about their claim processing practices.
“These reports [of coverage denials] are outrageous. Americans purchase insurance so that when disaster strikes, they and their loved ones will have some recourse. That is the reason insurance companies exist in the first place,” wrote Senator Hawley. “Denying coverage to American policyholders, at a time when so many of them have been displaced and left grieving, is not merely a betrayal—it is morally obscene.”
The letter comes on the heels of President Trump’s Friday visit to western North Carolina to meet with hurricane victims who are still struggling with the destruction and loss caused by the hurricane. During his press conference, President Trump invited victims to share their stories and specifically name the insurance companies denying their claims.
Read the full letter here or below.
January 24, 2025
Dear Insurer:
Earlier this year, American communities were devastated by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Countless Americans lost loved ones, homes, businesses, and beloved towns in the violence of the storm. Now, all across the eastern seaboard, thousands are struggling to recover and rebuild their lives.
Widespread reports indicate that some companies are standing in the way. Seizing the opportunity to limit their own liabilities, insurance companies processing claims related to these hurricanes are reportedly engaged in a pattern of denying homeowner insurance claims.1 If this is true, Americans who’ve already lost nearly everything now face the ultimate insult: loss of any chance to rebuild. They will be left with virtually nothing.
These reports are outrageous. Americans purchase insurance so that when disaster strikes, they and their loved ones will have some recourse. That is the reason insurance companies exist in the first place. Denying coverage to American policyholders, at a time when so many of them have been displaced and left grieving, is not merely a betrayal—it is morally obscene.
In the wake of these reports of denials of coverage, I invite you to publicly testify before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Disaster Management, which has jurisdiction over disaster recovery efforts.
In the interim, please provide answers to the following questions:
1. How many insurance claims, brought by homeowners in the wake of Hurricane Helene and Milton, has your company denied?
2. On what grounds were these claims denied? Please provide an itemized breakdown.
3. What is your average response time when customers submit a claim after a disaster?
I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Josh HawleyUnited States Senator -
MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Joins Colleagues In Urging President Trump to Exempt All VA Employees from Federal Hiring Freeze
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
While The Trump Administration Has Backtracked To Exempt Health Care Employees From Freeze Following Rosen-Backed Letter, Other Personnel Are Still Being Affected
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined a letter urging President Trump to exempt all Veterans Affairs (VA) employees from the federal hiring freeze he issued this week. In response to this letter, the Trump Administration has announced it’s exempting health care and law enforcement positions, but other jobs related to veteran’s benefits are still affected. The hiring freeze will negatively impact Nevada’s veterans, including by blocking the hiring of personnel needed to process benefits.
“As written, this Memorandum could dramatically impair the ability of veterans across the country to get the timely care and benefits they desperately need,” wrote the Senators. “It could also delay or deny various other services across VA – from burial services to job training to assistance for homeless veterans to life-saving assistance from the Veterans Crisis Line.”
“Mr. President, to prevent the delay or denial of life-saving services and benefits for our nation’s heroes, we urge you to provide an immediate, clear, and full exemption to VA personnel from your hiring freeze,” they continued. “We are hopeful to work with you to build upon our nation’s promise to these men and women, but we also vow to fight every effort that dishonors their service and reneges upon that sacred promise.”
The full letter can be found HERE.
Senator Rosen has worked consistently to deliver for Nevada’s veterans. Earlier this year, a bipartisan bill she supported to expand veterans’ benefits outreach became law. Senator Rosen’s bipartisan bill to require the VA to maintain a permanent helpline for veterans to use for information on VA services is now law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025. She also successfully pushed President Biden to include the construction of a new VA hospital in Reno in his 2024 Budget Request and helped introduce and pass bipartisan legislation to officially authorize its construction. -
MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Set to Open Altadena Disaster Recovery Center
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: FEMA Set to Open Altadena Disaster Recovery Center
FEMA Set to Open Altadena Disaster Recovery Center
LOS ANGELES – FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Altadena to assist Californians who experienced damage to their primary home, personal property loss or have disaster-caused emergency needs related to the wildfires. At DRCs, you can get help applying for federal assistance, speak to representatives from state and federal agencies, receive updates on your FEMA application for assistance and learn about the appeals process. Additionally, the DRC located at the Pasadena City College Community Education Center’s last day of operations is Friday, Jan. 31.The Altadena location will open Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. PST.Altadena Disaster Recovery Center540 W. Woodbury Rd.Altadena, CA 91001Hours of operation – Daily: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.Other DRC locations include:UCLA Research Park West10850 West Pico Blvd.1Los Angeles, CA 90064Hours of operation – Daily: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pasadena City College Community Education Center (last day of operations is January 31st)3035 East Foothill Blvd.Pasadena, CA 91107Hours of operation – Daily: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.There are other ways to apply for assistance aside from going to a DRC. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app. You may also call 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone, or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For the latest information about California’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4856. Follow FEMA Region 9 @FEMARegion9 on X or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process. Visit CA.gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance.
barbara.murien…
Fri, 01/24/2025 – 23:57 -
MIL-OSI USA: FAQ: Direct Housing Updates
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: FAQ: Direct Housing Updates
FAQ: Direct Housing Updates
FEMA continues to house survivors of the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires through its Direct Housing Program. Currently all households that remain eligible for the Direct Housing Program are licensed into direct housing units. Participants will continue to be housed as long as they remain eligible for the program and should remain in contact with their FEMA recertification advisor. Q&A for Direct Housing Participants Q. Why are participants being asked to relocate? A. There are various reasons why survivors in Direct Lease units may need to be relocated, with safety always being a top priority. FEMA’s goal is to ensure all survivors have a safe, sanitary, and habitable place to live. Currently, FEMA is focused on efforts to bring survivors back to West Maui, closer to their homes, while reducing their overall footprint on the island. This includes prioritizing properties nearer to Lahaina.Q. What happens if a participant is offered housing to return to West Maui and declines? A. Wildfire survivors in FEMA’s Direct Housing Program that have previously expressed interest in returning to West Maui are currently being contacted by FEMA. If they choose to decline the West Maui unit, they may remain in their current housing situation. However, they will not be offered another West Maui unit after declining the initial offer. Q. What happens to participants if their landlord’s contract is not extended? A. Wildfire survivors in FEMA’s Direct Housing Program may remain in the program through Feb. 10, 2026, as long as they continue to meet eligibility requirements. If their current unit’s contract is not extended and they must move out, an alternative housing solution will be provided by FEMA to accommodate them, as long as they remain eligible or until the end of the Direct Housing Program. Q. How will displaced families be informed about having to move if their current property owner’s contract is not extended? A. Tenants will be informed by FEMA in advance if they will be required to move to another location. FEMA will then provide alternative housing solutions for these households. Q. How do wildfire survivors feel reassured about their housing security? A. While housing situations may change, participants in the Direct Housing Program can rest assured that if they continue to meet the requirements in their license agreement they may remain in the program and will be housed until they find their permanent housing solution or until the program ends. Q. When will Direct Housing participants be required to begin paying rent? A. All Direct Housing households will begin paying rent to FEMA on March 1, 2025. Q. When will households be notified of the requirement to begin paying rent? A. Households received 30- 60- and 90-day notices informing them of the rent requirement that will begin on March 1, 2025, and of the process to appeal the rental amount. Q. How is the rental amount determined? A. The rental amount is based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) 2025 Fair Market Rent on Maui along with the household’s ability to pay. Q. If individuals have questions about the rental requirement and the appeal process who do they talk to?A. Direct Housing households are encouraged to talk to their recertification advisor if they have any questions on the appeal process and what documentation is needed to be considered for rent reduction.For Direct Housing households with further questions call the Individual Assistance Housing Hotline at 808-784-1600.
shannon.carley
Sat, 01/25/2025 – 00:27 -
MIL-OSI USA: News 01/23/2025 Blackburn, Cruz, Self, Colleagues Introduce MACARTHUR Act Reaffirming West Point’s Commitment to Meritocracy and American Leadership
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) along with Representative Keith Self (R-Texas-03) introduced the Maintaining Academy Culture and Assuring Retention of Tradition, Honor, and Unity of the Republic (MACARTHUR) Act, after the United States Military Academy at West Point decided to remove the phrase “Duty, Honor, Country” from its mission statement. Sen. Cruz’s legislation would restore the phrase in the mission statement.
Sen. Blackburn said, “Under the leadership of President Trump, our military will return to its core mission of protecting the security of our country above all else and defending the Constitution. The United States Military Academy is responsible for teaching the future generation of servicemembers about the values of ‘Duty, Honor, Country’ as they prepare to serve our nation, and there is no reason why this phrase should have been removed from its mission statement. The MACARTHUR Act will officially restore these virtues to the mission of our nation’s oldest service academy.”
Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “For centuries, the United States Army has set the global standard for military excellence because its leaders embrace a lifetime of selfless service and embody the values of ‘Duty, Honor, Country.’ West Point’s removal of these core values from its mission statement risks eroding the foundation of American military leadership. I am proud to introduce the MACARTHUR Act to restore these principles, reaffirm West Point’s mission, and emphasize the meritocracy that has shaped American military excellence for generations—ensuring our armed forces remain the most capable, disciplined, and formidable fighting force in the world.”
Rep. Self said, “On November 5th, 2024, President Trump overwhelmingly won a mandate to restore greatness to America. This mandate includes our military institutions, which have been weakened and neutered by wokeism. During my time as a cadet at West Point and throughout my 25-year military career, I was inspired by West Point’s motto: ‘Duty, Honor, Country.’ This hallowed phrase, emphasized by General Douglas MacArthur in his farewell speech to West Point in 1962, embodies the dedication of service that our men and women in uniform exemplify. Congress should pass this legislation to reaffirm ‘Duty, Honor, Country’ as the motto of the U.S. Military Academy, so these three words can continue to inspire future generations of America’s warfighters.”
Sen. Scott said, “The days of the Biden administration working to make our armed forces woke are over. It is time to return our military to the most lethal fighting force in the world, and that starts with maintaining a culture at the United States Military Academy guided by the principles of duty, honor, country. I am looking forward to seeing this legislation across the finish line, and thank my colleague Senator Ted Cruz for sponsoring this bill to reaffirm West Point’s mission of building our nation’s best military leaders.”
Sen. Britt said, “Our nation’s preeminent service academies train, educate, and empower the next generation of servicemembers and leaders. The MACARTHUR Act recognizes and reaffirms West Point’s guiding principle of ‘Duty, Honor, Country’ to ensure its foundational values continue to shape the character of cadets for decades to come. As we work to return the Pentagon’s focus to the lethality of our Armed Forces, I’m proud to join Senator Cruz in protecting the venerated legacy and integrity of our country’s oldest service academy.”
Sen. Tuberville said, “Over the last four years, the Biden administration has taken our military away from its core mission. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris caving to the woke left has weakened our military and made our world less safe. It’s time to refocus our military to its core mission so that America remains the strongest fighting force in the world. This starts with our new recruits and military academies. I’m proud to join this fight with Senator Cruz to return our military to its core mission and the ideals of ‘Duty, Honor, Country.’”
CO-SPONSORS:
Senators Blackburn and Cruz was joined by Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Katie Britt (Ala.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) in introducing the legislation.
Rep. Self led the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
BACKGROUND:
West Point first began using the phrase “Duty, Honor, Country” in 1898. The significance of that phrase gained prominence during General Douglas MacArthur’s memorable 1962 speech to the Corps of Cadets, in which MacArthur celebrated “Duty, Honor, Country” as essential virtues for military officers. His speech transformed those three words from an informal motto to a revered creed that would shape West Point’s identity.
In 1998, West Point added “Duty, Honor, Country” to its official mission statement: To educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country; professional growth throughout a career as an officer in the United States Army; and a lifetime of selfless service to the nation.
In March 2024, West Point leadership revised that mission statement, removing “Duty, Honor, Country.” To build, educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets to be commissioned leaders of character committed to the Army Values and ready for a lifetime of service to the Army and Nation.
Read the full text of the bill here.