Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: McCaul Announces 2025 Congressional Art Competition

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Michael McCaul (10th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) announced the 2025 Congressional Art Competition, a contest for high school students in the 10th Congressional District, is officially open.

    “Texas’ 10th district is home to many exceptionally talented students,” said Rep. McCaul. “Art has a profound impact, and I’m always impressed by the skill and emotion our students pour into their work. Each year, I look forward to seeing their incredible submissions.”

    The winning selection will be displayed for one year in the United States Capitol, alongside artwork from students across the nation. Additionally, first-place Congressional Art Competition winners and one guest will receive round-trip tickets to attend the Winner’s Celebration on June 11th in Washington, D.C.

    Artwork entered in the contest may be up to 26 inches high, 26 inches wide, and 4 inches in depth. Submissions cannot weigh more than 15 pounds. If your artwork is selected as the winning piece, it must be framed by the entrant and still measure no larger than the above maximum dimensions. Types of artwork include:

    • Paintings – including oil, acrylics, and watercolor
    • Drawings – including pastels, colored pencil, pencil, charcoal, ink, and markers (It is recommended that charcoal and pastel drawings be fixed.)
    • Collages – must be two dimensional
    • Prints – including lithographs, silkscreen, and block prints
    • Mixed Media – use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor, etc.
    • Computer-generated art
    • Photography

    To participate, please submit the 2025 Student Release Form and original artwork to one of Rep. McCaul’s offices. Submissions must be received by April 18th, no later than 5:00pm CT.

    • College Station Office: 175 Century Square Drive, Suite 210, College Station, TX 77845
    • Austin Office: 11614 FM 2244 Suite 160, Austin, TX 78738

    For additional details on the competition, please visit https://mccaul.house.gov/services/art-competition . With questions, please contact staff member Destinee Vargas at Destinee.Vargas@mail.house.govor 979-431-6480.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: McCaul Statement on MS-13 Gang Leader’s Arrest

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Michael McCaul (10th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) — chairman emeritus and current vice chair of the House Homeland Security Committee — released the following statement on the Trump administration’s arrest of a top MS-13 gang leader.

    “Over the past four years, our nation saw a resurgence of violent gangs like MS-13, as President Biden’s weak and irresponsible immigration policies enabled aggravated criminals to roam freely in our communities. The swift apprehension of this dangerous MS-13 leader demonstrates, yet again, that President Trump’s border security policies are both effective and essential in keeping dangerous criminals off our streets. Americans can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing his administration will stop at nothing to make our communities safe again.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: McCaul Commends Trump Admin’s Strengthening of Export Controls

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Michael McCaul (10th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) — chairman emeritus of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs — released the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s announcement of new export control measures aimed at restricting critical technologies from reaching Chinese military-linked companies.

    “The administration’s new export controls are a critical step toward strengthening national security — putting a stop to the Chinese Communist Party’s continued exploitation and abuse of American technology to fuel its military buildup and surveillance state,” said Rep. McCaul. “While the CCP may try to steal our technology, that doesn’t mean we should be selling it to them. While chairman, I repeatedly urged the Biden administration to take this threat seriously, and I’m incredibly grateful President Trump and his team are demonstrating the boldness needed to keep sensitive U.S. technologies out of the CCP’s hands.”

    Background:

    Chairman Emeritus McCaul has long warned of the CCP’s strategy to co-opt dual-use technologies for military and intelligence purposes. Today’s announcement marks a significant advancement in securing U.S. supply chains and safeguarding American innovation.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: McCaul, Barr, Moolenaar Reintroduce FIGHT China Act to Safeguard U.S. Investment from Fueling CCP Aggression

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Michael McCaul (10th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas), — chairman emeritus of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs — alongside Congressman Andy Barr (R-Ky.), and Chairman of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between Chinese Communist Party John Moolenaar (R-Mich.) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to prevent American capital from financing the Chinese Communist Party’s military buildup, technological dominance, and human rights abuses.

    The Foreign Investment Guardrails to Help Thwart (FIGHT) China Act establishes a comprehensive outbound investment screening regime that protects the savings and retirement accounts of hardworking Americans. The bill creates targeted restrictions to ensure U.S. investors are not unwittingly financing the CCP’s military and surveillance capabilities. 

    “The Chinese Communist Party will stop at nothing to prop up its military and surveillance state. Today, my colleagues and I are taking a critical step to protect U.S. national security by ensuring the CCP cannot exploit U.S. capital as a tool to accomplish those malign efforts,” said Congressman McCaul. “This is a proud moment for America. I urge my colleagues to swiftly pass this bill, which will help the Trump administration continue to defend against the generational threat posed by Communist China.” 

    “The CCP is using American capital to fuel its military ambitions and undermine our security. Under President Trump, we took bold action to counter China, but the Biden Administration failed to keep pace,” said Congressman Barr. “Now, with President Trump back in the White House, I am reintroducing the Foreign Investment Guardrails to Help Thwart (FIGHT) China Act to stop U.S. investments from strengthening our greatest adversary and ensure we put America’s interests first. I look forward to working with President Trump to sign this into law.” 

    “Reintroducing this legislation is a crucial step in stopping American investments from fueling China’s military buildup and technological ambitions. The CCP has long leveraged U.S. capital to advance its agenda, compromising our national security,” said Congressman Moolenaar. I’m proud of the bipartisan efforts that resulted in this legislation last year, and I look forward to building on this legislation alongside the Trump administration to make outbound investment restrictions law and protect our national security. We must halt the flow of American capital to the CCP and safeguard our future from foreign threats.”

    “As the ongoing threats from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) continue, Congress is taking a significant step to safeguard American economic interests and protect national security,” said Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. “President Trump has made clear the past few decades of investments propping up Chinese aggression must come to an end. The introduction of the Foreign Investment Guardrails to Help Thwart (FIGHT) China Act is an important step to protect our nation’s long-term investments, and we look forward to working with President Trump and his administration to uphold American leadership and maintain a strong, unified position against the CCP’s threats.” 

    Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) has introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Demands Answers about ICE Enforcement Policies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    Has not received substantive response six weeks after questions to Secretary Noem on who is being detained, and why

    MEMPHIS – Six weeks after his initial request, Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today renewed his demand for information about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies, priorities and transparency from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Earlier today, the Trump Administration asked the Supreme Court to consider the challenge to the deportations of Venezuelans accused without evidence of being members of a terrorist gang.

    Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

    “It is unacceptable that my letter seeking information about people being detained and deported by ICE has been ignored for six weeks while the District court seeking the same information has been treated with contempt by Trump Administration lawyers. The American public wants clarity on who is being rounded up, and why, after clear indications many were victims of careless errors. I demand that my questions be answered.”

    Congressman Cohen’s original February 13 letter reads in part:

    “I believe it is essential to focus our limited interior enforcement resources on apprehending and deporting those who are most disruptive to our communities, especially violent criminals. In your public statements, you appear to agree with that sentiment and describe your agency’s focus on the ‘worst of the worst.’ However, there have been conflicting reports about who Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is detaining, and I would appreciate clarification. 

    “ICE has not released comprehensive data for its apprehensions and removals this year. The limited data points that have been posted on social media do not indicate any prior criminal offenses.”

    The letter then asks Secretary Noem to answer a series of questions about the apprehension of unauthorized migrants; whether they had been convicted of violent crimes and, if so, in what jurisdictions; how many have been sent to Guantanamo Bay and, of those, which had prior convictions for violent crimes, and in which jurisdictions. 

    See that letter here.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen says President Trump’s Executive Orders Show he neither Understands nor Respects the Constitution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee and its Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government, today discussed President Trump’s efforts to upend the judicial system at a hearing entitled “Judicial Overreach and Constitutional Limits on the Federal Courts.” Trump’s efforts include extorting law firms, damaging independent agencies, and proposing to end national injunctive relief, and impeaching judges who make rulings with which he disagrees.

    Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

    “The judicial branch in our country plays a critical role in checks and balances, which the Constitution mandates. Our president doesn’t understand that or respect it. In my opinion he is, accordingly, the one doing the ‘overreach,’ not the judiciary…He can’t with an executive order – a press release on nice stationery – overrule the Constitution. Nor can he declare a third term for himself, which he’ll probably do eventually…

    “He’s also gone after lawyers and law firms and it’s no mystery why he did it…If lawyers are afraid to bring actions against the administration or the president, then the courts won’t be able to do anything…I’m a member of the bar. I respect the bar and I understand its importance to the American jurisprudence system…”

    See his entire statement and questions to hearing witnesses here.

    Witnesses at today’s hearing were:

    • Kate Shaw, Professor of Law, University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School;
    • Newt Gingrich, former Georgia Congressman (1979-1999) and former Speaker of the House (1995-1999);
    • Paul J. Larkin, Senior Legal Research Fellow, The Heritage Foundation; and
    • Cindy Romero, former resident of Aurora, Colorado

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Requests List of Companies Seeking Clean Air Act Exemptions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    Urgent request for the EPA to identify operations in Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today wrote to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin requesting a list of companies operating in Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District which have requested a Presidential Exemption under the Clean Air Act.

    The letter reads in part:

    “I am writing to request a comprehensive list of companies that have a headquarters or facility within Tennessee’s Ninth Congressional District that have requested a Presidential Exemption under the Clean Air Act, as outlined by the EPA on March 24, 2025.

    “Several communities in Memphis, and especially in Southwest Memphis, have long endured the cumulative effects of industrial pollution, resulting in higher rates of respiratory illness, cancer and other chronic health conditions. The potential for companies operating in these areas to obtain exemptions from critical environmental safeguards under the Clean Air Act would further exacerbate these public health disparities and increase the risk of long-term environmental harm.

    “In addition to the names of any companies that operate within Tennessee Ninth Congressional District that requested this exemption, please also include the details of their exemption request, including any emissions standards or limitations subject to the request, facility(ies) and/or affected sources, the length of compliance period being requested, any explanation why the technology to implement the standard is not available, and any explanation why an extension is in the national security interests of the United States. Please also include which of these companies, if any, expressed an intention to submit proprietary information.

    “I would also like to know how your agency plans to announce which companies are granted a presidential exemption and which applied but were denied. I expect all of this information to be made easily available to the public, as the Trump Administration repeatedly states that it is the ‘most transparent administration in history.’

    “Given the existing concerns and the pressing need for stronger protections, I believe it is imperative for the community to understand which companies may be seeking to circumvent current regulations.”

    Congressman Cohen requested that the information be made available by the end of this week.

    See the entire letter here.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Announces $465,506 Cancer Research Grant to St. Jude

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will receive a grant of $465,506 from the National Cancer Institute to study epigenetic reprogramming of T cell exhaustion to enhance tumor immunotherapy.

    Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

    “I am pleased to see this investment in cancer research at our premiere children’s medical center, but I remain concerned with the Trump Administration’s apparent decision to abandon much of the federal support for life-saving medical research. I commend St. Jude researchers for their outstanding work and hope it will continue to be robustly underwritten by our National Institutes of Health.”

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Introduces the ‘‘Making Any Reimbursement Against the Law for Guarding Overnight Act’’ or the ‘‘MARALAGO Act’’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    Prohibits Secret Service from spending federal dollars for lodging or meals at a facility owned or controlled by a president

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today introduced the ‘‘Making Any Reimbursement Against the Law for Guarding Overnight Act’’ or the ‘‘MARALAGO Act’’ of 2025. The legislation prohibits the Secret Service from spending federal dollars to pay a President or former President (or an entity that he or she owns or controls) for lodging, meals, and other incidental expenses while the Secret Service is protecting the President or former President at his or her residence.

    Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

    “Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach isn’t just Donald Trump’s home; it is a hotel and restaurant.  When the Secret Service travels to Mar-a-Lago to protect the President, Donald Trump turns around and sends the hotel bill to taxpayers.  

    “In his previous term, Donald Trump charged the Secret Service more than $800 per night at least 11 times to stay at his properties, including Mar-a-Lago.  It also paid $17,000 per month to rent a cottage at his Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club. This continued into his post-presidency, when Trump continued to bill the Secret Service $396.15 per night to stay at his Florida resort.  Between January 20, 2021 and April 30, 2021, spending records show the Secret Service paid more than $40,000 for hotel rooms at Mar-a-Lago.  

    “Secret Service protection should not be a financial conflict for a president. If he believes he needs protection at his property, the agents should deliver as they would with any president who has a home residence by protecting the home, but should sleep elsewhere. When they protected Biden in Delaware, they didn’t stay at Biden’s home.”

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Kustoff Op-Ed: Swatting: A frightening hoax demanding serious attention

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Kustoff recently penned an op-ed for the Washington Examiner titled, “Swatting: A frightening hoax demanding serious attention.” In the op-ed, Congressman Kustoff highlights his bill that will impose strict penalties for swatting.

    “As a former United States Attorney, I have seen firsthand the chaos swatting creates, the danger it presents to everyone involved, and the fear it instills in families and communities,” said Congressman Kustoff. “That is why I introduced the Preserving Safe Communities by Ending Swatting Act of 2025 in the House of Representatives. This bipartisan legislation would impose strict penalties for swatting, including up to 20 years in federal prison if someone is seriously hurt as a result of a swatting attack.”

    Click here for the full op-ed or read below:
    In an era where technology connects us like never before, it is both shocking and disheartening that this same connectivity is being weaponized to create chaos and fear in communities across the nation with the advent of swatting. 

    The Department of Homeland Security defines swatting as “making malicious hoax calls to emergency services to falsely report an ongoing emergency such as a violent crime or explosive device at a certain location.” The intent is to prompt a large-scale response from law enforcement. This dangerous trend has escalated into a national crisis, warranting immediate attention from policymakers, law enforcement, and the public.

    Swatting incidents have surged in recent years, with schools being a primary target. According to reports, the 2022-2023 school year saw a staggering 546% increase in false active shooter calls compared to just four years prior. These hoaxes disrupt educational activities, sow panic, and place students and staff in potentially life-threatening situations. In 2023, at least 723 swatting hoaxes targeted K-12 schools, with 210 incidents occurring in just one month.

    Meanwhile, businesses and political officials on both sides of the aisle are also increasingly targeted. High-profile executives and organizations across industries have faced swatting attacks, causing significant operational disruptions and emotional distress.

    One of my constituents was asleep when their phone rang loudly just after 1:00 AM. It was the local police asking them to step outside. When my friend opened the door, they saw police officers and SWAT team members surrounding the house.

    The police explained that someone had called a suicide hotline, claiming to be inside the house. The caller reported wearing a bulletproof vest and said they had three children tied up in their rooms. They also claimed that their spouse had a bomb strapped to them and threatened to harm everyone unless the police arrived immediately.

    Thankfully, authorities quickly determined that the call was a hoax.

    The consequences of swatting extend far beyond temporary panic. These incidents strain law enforcement resources, diverting attention from genuine emergencies. Financially, the costs of a single swatting event can range from $10,000 to $25,000, encompassing police deployment, property repairs, and follow-up investigations. More importantly, the emotional toll on victims — students, employees, and families — is immeasurable. In worst-case scenarios, swatting has resulted in tragic loss of life, as split-second decisions in high-pressure situations can lead to fatal mistakes.

    As a former United States Attorney, I have seen firsthand the chaos swatting creates, the danger it presents to everyone involved, and the fear it instills in families and communities. 

    That is why I introduced the Preserving Safe Communities by Ending Swatting Act of 2025 in the House of Representatives. This bipartisan legislation would impose strict penalties for swatting, including up to 20 years in federal prison if someone is seriously hurt as a result of a swatting attack. 

    Right now, our ability to deter and crack down on swatting is not working. Implementing strict penalties will send a clear message that intentionally deceiving law enforcement will not be tolerated. Swatting endangers lives, wastes critical emergency resources, and undermines public safety. We have an urgent need for robust legal recourse to crack down on swatting. 

    The Preserving Safe Communities by Ending Swatting Act represents a critical step toward holding perpetrators accountable and deterring future incidents. We can no longer afford to let this dangerous trend go unchecked. Swatting affects everyone, including our children. I call on my colleagues in Congress to support this critical legislation. The time for action is now.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: PASSED: Kustoff Bill to Replace Checks Stolen in the Mail Passed by the House of Representatives

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House of Representatives unanimously passed, H.R. 1155, the Recovery of Stolen Checks Act, introduced by Reps. David Kustoff (R-TN), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), and Terri Sewell (D-AL). This bipartisan legislation would give victims of mail theft the option to receive their payment from the Department of Treasury electronically.
     
    Click here to watch Congressman Kustoff remarks during debate or read them as prepared below:
    Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 
     
    And I do want to thank Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO) for his leadership on this issue and this important piece of legislation, as well as the leadership of Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) and Terri Sewell (D-AL). 
     
    Over the last several years, the number of government checks stolen from the mail has increased dramatically. 
     
    If I could, I would like to share a few statistics: 

    • Between 2019 and 2022 there was an 87% increase in theft from mailboxes, according to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
    • According to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), reports of check fraud doubled from 2021 to 2022.
    • FinCen’s most recent report on check fraud (published September 2024) found that between February to August 2023, the bureau received 15,417 individual reports about mail theft-related check fraud.

    This has been an ongoing problem in my district in West Tennessee, as it has been throughout the country. It is well past time that we get mail theft in the United States under control.
     
    That starts with giving federal law enforcement officers the tools and resources they need to detect, investigate, and prosecute the criminals behind these thefts.
     
    We also have to ensure that victims of mail theft are taken care of, and that they can access timely relief.

    That’s why this bill H.R. 1155, the Recovery of Stolen Checks Act, is so important.
     
    Right now, it can take up to four months for the IRS to issue a replacement for a stolen check. That’s a long time. 
     
    And due to the sheer frequency of mail theft that is happening right now, many taxpayers are having their replacement checks get stolen as well. 
     
    This is truly unacceptable – and outdated IRS regulations are partially to blame.
     
    Frankly, the IRS’s current process makes no sense.
     
    It exacerbates check fraud, it creates more bureaucratic hurdles for U.S. taxpayers, and it ultimately makes it more difficult for Americans to access their hard-earned dollars.
     
    For many American families, a delay in getting their tax refund has the potential to cause serious financial strain. 
     
    The Recovery of Stolen Checks Act will give victims of mail theft the option to receive their replacement payment through direct deposit, instead of having to risk mailing another check.
     
    This is a simple fix that will help expedite relief to affected taxpayers, keep government checks out of the hands of criminals, and ultimately make our government more efficient.
     
    I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan, commonsense piece of legislation which passed out of the Ways and Means Committee unanimously by a vote of 41 to 0.
     
     
    The Recovery of Stolen Checks Act passed unanimously out of the House Committee on Ways and Means on February 12, 2025. Click here for the full text of the bill. 
     

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: PASSED: Kustoff Bill to Help Americans Recover from Natural Disasters Passed by the House of Representatives

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House of Representatives unanimously passed H.R. 517, the Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act, that was introduced by Reps. David Kustoff (R-TN) and Judy Chu (D-CA). This bipartisan legislation will provide relief to taxpayers impacted by natural disasters and emergencies. 

    Click here to watch Congressman Kustoff’s remarks on the floor of the House of Representatives. 
     
    “When disaster strikes, victims should be focused on rebuilding, recovering, and caring for their loved ones. They should not have to worry about complying with bureaucratic red tape from the IRS,” said Congressman Kustoff. “I am proud to see the House of Representatives pass my bill, the Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act. This commonsense legislation will make much needed changes to the tax code and ensure communities have the flexibility they need to start the recovery process.”

    “A slow Washington bureaucracy should not stand in the way of recovery after a hurricane, tornado, or other natural disaster destroys a community. Victims of such catastrophes should be able to have their tax filing deadlines postponed regardless of whether the federal or state government declares a disaster first. I want to thank Representative Kustoff for putting forward a common-sense idea that helps the people of West Tennessee and all Americans hit by a natural disaster,” said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO). 
     
    Background:
    Currently, the U.S. Department of Treasury has the authority to postpone tax filing deadlines to taxpayers affected by federally-declared disasters. However, this does not extend to state-level emergencies. The Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act would authorize the Treasury, in consultation with FEMA, to extend relief to impacted taxpayers as soon as the governor of a state declares a disaster or state of emergency. This legislation would also expand the current mandatory extension following a federally-declared disaster declaration from 60 to 120 days.

    The Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act unanimously passed out of the House Committee on Ways and Means on February 26, 2025. Click here to read the full text of the bill.
     

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA News: President Trump’s Bold Trade Action Draws Praise

    Source: The White House

    Today, President Donald J. Trump made clear to the world that the days of economic surrender are over. After being sold out by career politicians for generations, President Trump is enacting fair trade policies that will restore our workforce, rebuild our economy, and finally put America First.

    The move drew immediate praise:

    Coalition for a Prosperous America Chairman Zach Mottl: “A permanent, universal baseline tariff resets the global trade environment and finally addresses the destructive legacy of decades of misguided free-trade policies. President Trump’s decision to implement a baseline tariff is a game-changing shift that prioritizes American manufacturing, protects working-class jobs, and safeguards our economic security from adversaries like China. This is exactly the type of bold action America needs to restore its industrial leadership. Today’s action will deliver lasting benefits to the U.S. economy and working-class Americans, cementing President Trump’s legacy as one that ushered in a new Golden Age of American industrialization and prosperity.”

    National Cattlemen’s Beef Association SVP of Government Affairs Ethan Lane: “For too long, America’s family farmers and ranchers have been mistreated by certain trading partners around the world. President Trump is taking action to address numerous trade barriers that prevent consumers overseas from enjoying high-quality, wholesome American beef. NCBA will continue engaging with the White House to ensure fair treatment for America’s cattle producers around the world and optimize opportunities for exports abroad.”

    Steel Manufacturers Association President Philip K. Bell: “President Trump is a champion of the domestic steel industry, and his America First Trade Policy is designed to fight the unfair trade that has harmed American workers and weakened manufacturing in the United States. The recently reinvigorated 232 steel tariffs have already started creating American jobs and bolstering the domestic steel industry. President Trump is working to turn America into a manufacturing powerhouse and the steel tariffs are driving that movement. President Trump’s initial 232 steel tariffs and the historic tax cuts led to investments of nearly $20 billion by steel manufacturers in the United States. Since the revised tariffs took effect, Hyundai Steel announced a $5.8 billion steel mill in Louisiana, demonstrating that the tariffs are working to bring more steel investments and production to the United States. The domestic steel market is stronger when other nations are forced to compete on a level playing field. On a level playing field, American workers can outcompete anyone. We look forward to continuing working with President Trump and his administration to ensure a level playing field for Americans and a robust domestic steel industry that strengthens our national, economic and energy security.”

    Alliance for American Manufacturing President Scott Paul: “Today’s trade action prioritizes domestic manufacturers and America’s workers. These hardworking men and women have seen unfair trade cut the ground from beneath their feet for decades. They deserve a fighting chance. Our workers can out-compete anyone in the world, but they need a level playing field to do it. This trade reset is a necessary step in the right direction.”

    National Electrical Contractors Association CEO David Long: “President Trump has consistently prioritized policies that put the electrical industry as a priority, and we recognize his commitment to strengthening our nation’s economy. As these new tariffs take effect, we look forward to working with the Administration to ensure that electrical contractors and the entire electrical industry can continue powering America efficiently while navigating potential cost and supply chain challenges.”

    Bienvenido Empresarios: “As an organization committed to empowering Hispanic Americans and strengthening our nation’s future, Bienvenido supports policies that build a more resilient American economy, safeguard our communities, and reassert U.S. leadership on the global stage. President Trump’s emphasis on using economic leverage — including tariffs — reflects a broader strategy to counter China, confront the deadly fentanyl crisis, and bring critical industries back home. Now is a time for tough, decisive action when national security and American livelihoods are at stake. Our hope is that these measures lead to stronger enforcement, fairer trade, and long-term prosperity for all Americans.”

    America First Policy Institute: “Tariffs worked then—and they’ll work again. Under President Trump, tariffs brought back jobs, lowered inflation, and strengthened national security. It’s not just economic policy—it’s America First in action.”

    Speaker Mike Johnson: “President Trump is sending a clear message with Liberation Day: America will not be exploited by unfair trade practices anymore. These tariffs restore fair and reciprocal trade and level the playing field for American workers and innovators. The President understands that FREE trade ONLY works when it’s FAIR!”

    Gov. Jeff Landry: “Pro Jobs. Pro Business. Pro America.”

    Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso: “President Trump is acting boldly to put America first. America needs fair and free trade. We can’t allow other countries to keep abusing our workers and job creators. It’s time we had a level playing field. I applaud President Trump’s 100% commitment to Made in America.”

    Sen. Jim Banks: “The decision by President Trump today to impose reciprocal tariffs will be so good for Indiana. … Those are the manufacturing jobs that President Trump is bringing back from overseas.”

    Sen. Bill Cassidy: “The president’s trade agenda can pave the way for stronger trade deals, fairer rules, and real results. I am excited to work with President Trump to make it happen. Louisiana’s workers and families deserve nothing less.”

    Sen. Roger Marshall: “President Donald Trump is fighting for long-term solutions to put America’s farmers and ranchers first.”

    Sen. Ashley Moody: “It’s liberation day in America! Today, @POTUS sent a message to the world that the era of America being taken advantage of is over.”

    Sen. Markwayne Mullin: “President Trump is going to charge foreign countries roughly half of what they *already* charge us to do business. Literally who can argue with this?”

    Sen. Pete Ricketts: “President Trump is delivering on his campaign promises to level the playing field and stand up for the American people. Reciprocal tariffs will ensure equal treatment for American businesses. @POTUS is working to reshore jobs lost overseas and secure our supply chains. He is working to open new markets for our nation’s agriculture products. He is demonstrating to foreign adversaries like China that we will no longer be taken advantage of.”

    Sen. Rick Scott: “The days of the U.S. being taken advantage of by other countries are OVER! Pres. Trump is making it clear that he will ALWAYS put American jobs, manufacturing and our economy first. As Americans, let’s stand with him and support one another by buying products MADE IN AMERICA.”

    Sen. Eric Schmitt: “President Trump is bringing America back. We won’t be ripped off by other countries anymore. We’re bringing back manufacturing, unleashing energy production, and paving the way for prosperity.”

    Sen. Tommy Tuberville: “For too long, other countries have ripped us off with bad trade deals – resulting in American jobs and manufacturing moving overseas. But change is coming. The Golden Age of America’s economy is here. Happy Liberation Day.”

    House Majority Leader Steve Scalise: “The United States and American workers will no longer be ripped off by other countries with unfair trade practices. Thank you President Trump for putting America’s workers and innovators first with reciprocal tariffs that level the playing field and make trade FAIR.”

    House Majority Whip Tom Emmer: “For too long, foreign countries have taken advantage of us at the expense of American workers. President @realDonaldTrump says NO MORE.”

    House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain: “Tariffs work! @POTUS has proven tariffs are an effective tool in achieving economic and strategic objectives. The President’s long-term strategy will pay off.”

    Rep. Elise Stefanik: “I strongly support President Trump’s America First economic policies to strengthen American manufacturing and create millions of American jobs. For too long, Americans have suffered under unfair trade practices putting America Last. We will not allow other countries to take advantage of us and we must put America and the American worker first.”

    Rep. Jason Smith: “America shouldn’t reward countries that discriminate against American workers and manufacturers. On Liberation Day, President Trump is correcting this and demanding fair treatment for American producers.”

    Rep. Mark Alford: “The days of the United States being taken advantage of are OVER. Republicans are putting American workers FIRST.”

    Rep. Jodey Arrington: “For too long, our leaders have allowed other nations to rip us off through numerous unfair trade practices resulting in suppressed wages, lost opportunities, and unrealized economic growth. Just as he did in his first term, President Trump is fighting to ensure an even playing field for our manufacturers, farmers, and workers so we can unleash American prosperity and Make America Great Again.”

    Rep. Brian Babin: “Trump’s tariffs aren’t starting a trade war—they’re ending one. For decades, other countries ripped off American workers with unfair tariffs and barriers. Now, we’re finally fighting back.”

    Rep. Andy Biggs: “Past administrations have allowed the United States to be ripped off by allies and adversaries alike. President Trump said “NO MORE!” The Art of the Deal.”

    Rep. Vern Buchanan: “For too long, unfair trade practices devastated America’s manufacturing base and stole millions of blue-collar jobs. It’s time to level the playing field and bring those jobs back. @POTUS is fighting for American workers.”

    Rep. Michael Cloud: “America-First means putting the American people first. We will no longer be taken advantage of as a nation and people.”

    Rep. Andrew Clyde: “For far too long, the U.S. has been ripped off by countries across the globe with unfair trade practices. Now, we’re finally leveling the playing field. THANK YOU, President Trump, for putting American workers and manufacturing FIRST.”

    Rep. Mike Collins: “This is fair. Whether it’s our military or economy, other countries have taken advantage of the U.S. for far too long. That time is over.”

    Rep. Chuck Edwards: “Many countries are taking advantage of the United States by imposing tariffs against us while we don’t have reciprocal tariffs against them. @POTUS has used tariffs to produce successful trade deals for us in his first term, and I support his plan to use them again to create a more level playing field and secure fairer trade deals for America. The quicker other countries agree to fairer trade deals, the quicker the tariffs can end.”

    Rep. Scott Franklin:“For years the US handcuffed itself and played nice while other countries imposed massive tariffs and took advantage of us. We’re done putting America last. @POTUS is leveling the playing field, ending trade imbalances and prioritizing American workers and manufacturing again!”

    Rep. Russell Fry: “HAPPY LIBERATION DAY. Thanks to @POTUS, America is DONE being taken advantage of. A new era has begun.”

    Rep. Lance Gooden: “For decades, Washington allowed Texans to be ripped off by foreign countries. Those days are now over. @POTUS is committed to making America wealthy again!”

    Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene: “If you want to do business in America, you need to play by our rules. For too long, American businesses, big and small, have been ripped off by bad trade deals and unfair competition. President Trump is putting a stop to it. He’s standing up for our workers, our companies, and our consumers.”

    Rep. Abe Hamadeh: “The America First Republican party is the party of the working class, the forgotten men and women. On this Liberation Day, we further our commitment to them, that we will reshore our manufacturing, restore fair trade, and rebuild the greatest economy in the world.”

    Rep. Pat Harrigan:“If you want access to the most powerful economy in the world, treat us fairly. If not, don’t expect a free ride. That’s real leadership and @POTUS is delivering it!”

    Rep. Andy Harris: “President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs will put the American worker first and bring fairness back to international trade. America is being respected again.”

    Rep. Diana Harshbarger: “President Trump is bringing back the American Dream. Our taxpayers have been ripped off by foreign countries for far too long, but those days are over. President Trump is right to impose these reciprocal tariffs.”

    Rep. Clay Higgins: “@POTUS’ trade agenda puts American industry and America first. I support the President’s action to protect our domestic producers.”

    Rep. Wesley Hunt: “Today, President Trump empowered the American middle class.  His policies on tariffs will bring automotive manufacturing back to America.”

    Rep. Nicole Malliotakis: “Since President Trump has been elected, we’ve attracted $5 trillion in private investment, foreign & domestic companies have announced Made in USA manufacturing, countries have reduced tariffs or changed foreign policies. President Trump is sticking up for American workers & farmers, repatriating our supply chain and protecting our national security.”

    Rep. Addison McDowell: “My district was hit hard over the years by unfair trade deals. Finally, we have a President who wants to put the American worker FIRST.”

    Rep. Mary Miller: “America will no longer be taken advantage of! This is how you put America First.”

    Rep. Riley Moore: “For decades, foreign countries have enjoyed free access to the greatest consumer marketplace on the face of the planet, all while still charging our domestic producers hefty duties or imposing significant barriers to access their markets. Today that ends. President Trump is the only president in my lifetime to acknowledge how unfair trade has gutted the heartland and shipped countless jobs overseas. By finally reciprocating in-kind, we’ll force foreign competitors to the negotiating table, lower trade barriers, and ultimately create real free and fair trade across the board. I’m confident this move will boost our domestic manufacturing industry and fuel demand for American products across the globe.”

    Rep. Tim Moore: “President Trump is leveling the playing field for American workers and bringing back MADE IN AMERICA!”

    Rep. Troy Nehls: “President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs make it clear that our country will not be ripped off anymore. We are bringing back American manufacturing and putting America First.”

    Rep. Ralph Norman: “Happy LIBERATION Day … ✅Protect the American worker ✅Strengthen manufacturing ✅Reduce unfair trade practices … Our economy will be competitive again!!”

    Rep. Andy Ogles: “He’s resetting the negotiating table. He’s resetting the deck here to say, ‘You know what? For too long, you’ve taken advantage of our free market and you’ve literally leached jobs away from the American people … Let’s have a serious conversation and let’s do something that’s fair and mutually beneficial for both sides.’”

    Rep. Guy Reschenthaler: “I fully support President Trump’s critical efforts to right this generational wrong, bring manufacturing jobs home, and rejuvenate American working families. Made in America is back.”

    Rep. John Rutherford: “Tariffs help bring American jobs back home, incentivize buying American, AND put pressure on Canada and Mexico to stop the flow of fentanyl and illegal immigrants from their countries into ours. Even the Biden Admin kept or increased tariffs that President Trump imposed during his first presidency. Under Trump, inflation stayed around 2% and our GDP grew to 3%. Smart tariffs are a long-term investment in the American economy that are worth the short-term cost.”

    Rep. Greg Steube: “What many fail to realize: Trump’s reciprocal tariffs are a long-overdue response to years of unfair trade policies against America. For decades, America has been ripped off by other countries who have repeatedly slapped tariffs on our goods, blocked our products, and flooded our markets with theirs. The numbers don’t lie–the rest of the world has profited at the expense of American workers and businesses. President Trump is finally putting America First by taking bold, necessary actions that past leaders wouldn’t take.”

    Rep. Marlin Stutzman: “If Australia doesn’t want our beef – WE DON’T WANT THEIRS! Thank you @POTUS for opening the door of fair treatment for America’s Cattlemen”

    Rep. Tom Tiffany: “Gone are the days of America being taken advantage of by foreign countries. The American worker comes FIRST.”

    Rep. William Timmons: “President Trump’s tariffs are a necessary move to protect American workers and rebuild our economy. We are finally breaking free from decades of unfair trade deals that gutted our industries. These tariffs will bring jobs back to our districts, strengthen manufacturing, and ensure our children inherit a country that is not just a consumer, but a producer. Thank you, @POTUS.”

    Rep. Beth Van Duyne: “For far too long, the United States has been taken advantage of by our foreign trade partners. The American people re-elected President Trump to bring back truly fair trade with other countries. Reciprocal tariffs are a first step to have a level playing field for American products and to start bringing back manufacturing to our country!”

    Rep. Daniel Webster: “President @realDonaldTrump is delivering on his mandate to restore America’s economic strength. For too long, unfair trade deals have hollowed out our factories and shipped American jobs overseas. By standing up to bad actors like China and Venezuela and enforcing fair trade, President Trump is defending American industries and putting American workers first.”

    Rep. Tony Wied: “President Trump has made it clear with these reciprocal tariffs that we will no longer allow other countries to take advantage of us. His goal is simple: to bring jobs and manufacturing back to our country and open up foreign markets to American products. If companies want to avoid these tariffs, they will do business in the United States. I applaud the President for taking a stand against years of unfair trade practices and making sure we put American workers and consumers first. It’s time our foreign trading partners finally live up to their end of the bargain.”

    Rep. Roger Williams: “For too long, America Last policies have put the U.S. auto industry at a disadvantage. As a car dealer and small business owner, I support @POTUS’ Executive Order to increase competition, boost revenue, and bring back American jobs.”

    U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer: “Today, President Trump is taking urgent action to protect the national security and economy of the United States. The current lack of trade reciprocity, demonstrated by our chronic trade deficit, has weakened our economic and national security. After only 72 days in office, President Trump has prioritized swift action to bring reciprocity to our trade relations and reduce the trade deficit by leveling the playing field for American workers and manufacturers, reshoring American jobs, expanding our domestic manufacturing base, and ensuring our defense-industrial base is not dependent on foreign adversaries—all leading to stronger economic and national security.”

    Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick: “Today, the world starts taking us seriously. Our workforce will finally be treated fairly.”

    Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent: “President Trump signed the Declaration of Economic Independence for the American people. For decades, the trade status quo has allowed countries to leverage tariffs and unfair trade practices to get ahead at the expense of hardworking Americans. The President’s historic actions will level the playing field for American workers and usher in a new age of economic strength.”

    Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins: “FARMERS COME FIRST — @POTUS is leveling the playing field, ensuring American farmers and ranchers can compete globally again!”

    Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “Thank you, @POTUS! ‘Made in America’ is not just a tagline — it’s an economic and national security priority.”

    Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem: “For too long, America has been targeted by unfair trade practices that made our supply chain dependent on foreign adversaries, eroded our industrial base, and hurt American workers. This has gravely impacted our national security. President Trump’s strong action will help make America safe again. @DHS, primarily through @CBP, is ready to collect these new tariffs and put an end to unfair trade practices. Thank you President @realDonaldTrump for putting America FIRST.”

    Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer: “Promises made, promises kept”

    Secretary of Energy Chris Wright: “President Trump is a businessman; he’s a negotiator. The result of that has been and will continue to be improvements for the American people. We are in the midst of a negotiation, and he is fighting every day to make the cost-of-living conditions better for Americans.”

    Secretary of Education Linda McMahon: “At the White House this afternoon, we celebrated Liberation Day — setting our economy on the path of future prosperity for our children. Business owners, workers, and taxpayers have been waiting for strong economic leadership. @POTUS’ actions today prove we are done being taken advantage of in international trade.”

    Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum: “President Trump’s Liberation Day reciprocity plan is commonsense. If you tariff us, we’ll tariff you. This will strengthen our economy and make America wealthy again!”

    Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy: “Today is the day we will liberate ourselves from unfair trade practices and outdated ways of thinking. Tariffs are an important tool in the President’s toolbox to stop foreign countries from ripping us off, protect America’s workers, and restore U.S. manufacturing. I stand with @POTUS as he finally levels the playing field. Happy Liberation Day!”

    Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner: “For four years, Americans couldn’t afford groceries, let alone a house. This Liberation Day, @POTUS is bringing manufacturing and jobs back. President Trump is making the American Dream achievable again!”

    Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin: “Massive announcement by @POTUS today restoring U.S. dominance, cementing his America First vision, and Powering the Great American Comeback.”

    Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler: “Small businesses will no longer be crushed by foreign governments and unfair trade deals. Instead, we will put American industry, workers, and strength FIRST. Thank you @POTUS for bringing back Made in America!”

    National Security Advisor Mike Waltz: “Economic security is national security. Thank you President Trump for putting America first.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Congressman Vicente Gonzalez Floor Speech Condemning Trump Administration’s Unjust Removal of Sergeant Freddy Gonzalez from Military Website

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (15th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) delivered a speech from the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives about the Trump Administration’s shameful removal of Edinburg hometown hero, U.S. Marine Sergeant Alfredo “Freddy” Gonzalez, from the Naval History website.  

    Watch the full video on Congressman Gonzalez’s YouTube page.  

    Transcript below:  

    Thank you. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of our south Texas war hero, Sergeant Alfredo “Freddie” Gonzalez, a hero who will never be forgotten. 

    Sergeant Gonzalez was killed in action February 4, 1968, and history is clear he was a marine sergeant in charge of a third platoon command near Hue City, Vietnam. His company came under heavy fire for days.  

    Sergeant Gonzalez maneuvered his men and retired fire and personally carried wounded warriors out of harm’s way. He didn’t ask what ethnicity these men were, or religion, or what region of the country they came from. 

    They were all Americans, fighting one of the most atrocious and unpopular wars in our history.  

    Freddie was awarded the medal of honor. Not because he asked for a special privilege or recognition, or job, Freddie was dead.  

    He was recognized by his men for his bravery, for going beyond his call of duty to save other American lives while losing his own.  

    This administration’s appalling efforts to erase history under the disguise of eliminating DEI Has seen no boundaries.  

    Prompting indiscriminate removals of Latinos and women and other minorities from our nation’s archives.  

    Removing the Tuskegee air men who proudly defended our country in Europe during World War II.  

    Removing our Navajo code talk yours who helped us defeat Japan.  

    Removing our most recent and honorable general Colin Powell for god’s sake, for god’s sake, have you no shame? Have you no decency?  

    This is not about eliminating DEI, this is straight up old-fashioned racism against some of the most deserving Americans in our history.  

    And I ask my friends on the other side of the aisle who have worn our uniform and some who have fought for our freedom to stand with me. 

    To stand on the right side of history with the American people and oppose these un-American, unpatriotic policies coming from this administration from folks who never had the gall to serve themselves.  

    Let’s grow a spine in this house and preserve the American values that actually made us great. And I yield back. 

     

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Gonzalez Announces over $3.5 Million in Energy Revenues for the 34th Congressional District of Texas

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (15th District of Texas)

    Funds will support coastal conservation, hurricane protection, and infrastructure improvements

    BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) announced that four counties in the 34th Congressional District of Texas will receive $3,541,595.29 in energy revenues from offshore oil and gas production. This funding comes from the U.S. Department of Interior’s Fiscal Year 2025 energy revenues as directed by the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) of 2006 to support coastal conservation, restoration, hurricane protection programs, infrastructure projects and more. 

    “GOMESA funds reflect the prosperity of American oil and gas companies and their commitment to meeting market demands through domestic energy supply,” said Congressman Gonzalez. “Thanks to this funding, South Texas communities can utilize funds to further support conservation efforts, invest in hurricane preparedness, and implement marine and coastal resilience management plans.” 

    The Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) of 2006 created a revenue-sharing model for oil- and gas-producing Gulf states to receive a portion of the revenue generated from offshore oil and gas leasing in the gulf. The Act also directs a percentage of revenue to the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).  

    The State of Texas will receive a total of $95,539,986.21 in disbursements, including $76,431,988.96 for the state alone and $3,541,595.29 for counties within the 34th Congressional District of Texas. 

    The counties and their allocations are as follows: 

    · Cameron County: $1,087,926.78   

    · Kenedy County: $1,068,458.89   

    · Kleberg County: $768,163.51   

    · Willacy County: $617,046.11   

    More information on the revenue allocations can be found here

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Gonzalez Statement on Shameful Removal of Hometown Hero Sgt. Freddy Gonzalez from Naval History Website

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (15th District of Texas)

    EDINBURG, TEXAS –  On Friday March 28, 2025, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) released a statement following the shameful removal of Marine Corps Sergeant Freddy Gonzalez, a venerated Edinburg Vietnam Veteran, from the Naval History online database due to the Trump Administration’s purge of thousands of records of women and minorities from government websites.  

    “Sgt. Freddy Gonzalez served his country in Vietnam, tragically lost his life at the age of 21 while protecting his platoon, received the Presidential Medal of Honor for his bravery and sacrifice, and has an active duty U.S. Navy missile destroyer named after him in his honor — yet, all that the Trump Administration will see him as is a name that deserves to be erased simply because he is Hispanic. This is a grave disrespect to Sgt. Gonzalez’s memory and a punch to the gut for South Texas and all of our servicemembers. Has the President no shame?” 

     

    Declaración del Congresista Gonzalez sobre la Vergonzosa Eliminación de un Héroe Local, Sargento Freddy Gonzalez, del Sitio Web de la Historia Naval

    EDINBURG, TEXAS – Viernes, Marzo 28, 2025, el Congresista Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) publico una declaración tras la vergonzosa eliminación del Sargento del Cuerpo de la Marina de Estados Unidos o “U.S. Marine Corps” Freddy Gonzalez, un respetado veterano de la guerra de Vietnam y originario de Edinburg, de la base de datos de la Historia Naval. Esto es debido a la eliminación de miles de registros de mujeres y minorías de los sitios web gubernamentales por parte de la Administración del presidente Trump.
     
    “El Sargento Freddy Gonzalez sirvió a su país en la guerra de Vietnam, perdió la vida trágicamente a los 21 años mientras protegía a su pelotón. El Sgt. Gonzalez recibió la Medalla Presidencial de Honor por su valentía y sacrificio y tiene un destructor de misiles de la Marina de los EE. UU. en servicio activo nombrado en su honor. Sin embargo, la Administración del presidente Trump solo lo ve como un nombre que merece ser borrado simplemente por ser hispano. Esto es una grave falta de respeto a la memoria del Sargento Gonzalez y un golpe para el sur de Texas y todos nuestros militares. ¿Acaso el presidente no tiene vergüenza? 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto to President Trump: Stop Taxing American Families and Threatening Our Tourism Economy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) released the following statement after President Donald Trump announced sweeping new tariffs on American allies that will raise the cost of groceries, energy, and household goods for Nevada families.

    “President Trump promised to lower costs on day one, but instead he’s raising taxes on hardworking American families and threatening Nevada’s travel and tourism economy. That’s unacceptable,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I agree we should bring manufacturing back to America, but we can’t do that by jacking up prices on families. These blanket tariffs on some of our closest allies are going to do serious harm to hardworking Nevadans and their businesses.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “THE TRUMP TARIFFS ARE GOING TO RAISE COSTS ON EVERYDAY AMERICANS”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Brooklyn, NY – Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360 where he highlighted that Donald Trump’s reckless handling of tariffs is creating chaos and raising costs and Democrats will continue to push back in support of American workers. 

    ANDERSON COOPER: Joining me now is House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Leader Jeffries, what’s your response to these tariffs?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: The Trump tariffs are going to raise costs on everyday Americans, in an environment where there’s already a high cost of living. Trump promised that he would lower costs, in fact, on day one. But what we’ve seen under his reckless leadership is that costs aren’t going down in America, they’re going up. Inflation is going up. The stock market is going down. Consumer confidence is going down. And the retirement security of the American people is going down. This is not Liberation Day in America. It’s Recession Day because Donald Trump’s reckless policies are driving us toward a painful recession.

    ANDERSON COOPER: He’s saying, look, America has been taken advantage of by these other countries. He listed the tariffs they have on American goods coming into this country. And that long term, this is going to bring manufacturing back to America and make Americans wealthy.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: We certainly need to bring manufacturing jobs back to the United States of America, it’s something that we as House Democrats are committed to doing, building upon the work that was done in the prior administration. But these ham-handed tariffs done in such a over-the-top fashion is not strategic. Nothing that Donald Trump and Elon Musk and the administration have been doing over the last 70-plus days is strategic. It’s chaos. It’s crisis. It’s confusion. There’s a lot of corruption wrapped up into it and it’s causing great harm. They are crashing the economy in real time here in the United States of America.

    ANDERSON COOPER: It’s not really a surprise he’s done this. This is what he ran on. Though the details obviously were kind of open ended until they were revealed today. Do you think that this is in any way just a negotiation tactic that, you know, essentially we heard from the Treasury Secretary, his advice to countries—all the countries of the world essentially is sit back, relax and take this and just let’s see how, you know, just take it for a while, take it in and, you know, just breathe deep.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: They seem to want other countries in the world to behave like House and Senate Republicans who are just sitting back and taking it—orders from Donald Trump and Elon Musk. Not my expectation that you’re going to see countries around the world do that. And it’s unfortunate because there is an opportunity to work together in a manner that is designed to improve the economy. Listen, on the campaign trail, Donald Trump promised pretty much every day that he was on the campaign trail, that he’s going to lower the high cost of living in America. America right now is too expensive for everyday Americans, for hardworking American taxpayers, for young people. We have to do better. This is the wealthiest country in the history of the world, and we should not have a situation where people are struggling to live day to day, paycheck to paycheck, can’t get ahead and can barely get by. But what Donald Trump is doing through his mismanagement of the economy is actually making things worse, when he promised to make things better.

    ANDERSON COOPER: The Senate voted 51 to 48 tonight to adopt a resolution aimed at blocking the proposed tariff on Canadian imports. Four Republicans, I mentioned, crossing the line to vote with Democrats. That’s not expected to go anywhere. Realistically, what can Democrats do to fight against this?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, we have to continue to raise the public pressure so that the public is aware of the reckless nature of these Trump economic policies to hopefully give House Republicans some backbone as it relates to doing what is in the best interest of their constituents. I‘m thankful for what was done in the United States Senate. There was bipartisan support, and there would be bipartisan support in the House if congressional leadership were willing to allow the bill to be voted in an up or down fashion in the House. But we don’t expect that because House Republican leaders are basically taking orders from Donald Trump and Elon Musk. They don’t work for the American people. And that’s that’s shameful.

    ANDERSON COOPER: Leader Hakeem Jeffries, I appreciate your time. Thank you very much.

    Full interview can be watched here. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Mast Will Fight Democrats’ Attempt to Block President Trump’s Tariffs

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast issued the following statement in response to House Democrats announcing their intention to force a vote on President Trump’s ability to impose tariffs on American competitors.

    “Once again, Democrats are asking you to suspend common sense and believe that it’s bad for President Trump to fight for American workers and fight foreign tariffs with our own tariffs,” Chairman Mast said. “Democrats are too week to fight against anybody other than their own citizens.”

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Photo & Video Chronology — April 2, 2025 — Kīlauea summit views after episode 16

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Episode 16 of the ongoing Halemaʻumaʻu eruption ended at 12:03 p.m. HST on April 2 when high fountaining at the south vent stopped.  Fountains from the south vent sustained heights of 600-700 feet (180-210 meters) for over 23 hours, then dropped to less than 300 feet (90 meters) at 9:50 a.m. HST this morning, April 2.  Overall, episode 16 lasted just over 37 hours.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Alkaline ionized water increases green tea polyphenols by up to 2.8 times

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Alkaline ionized water increases green tea polyphenols by up to 2.8 times

    Osaka, Japan, April 3, 2025 – Panasonic Corporation today announced that its Living Appliances and Solutions Company (Panasonic) has confirmed that green tea made with alkaline ionized water contains up to 2.8 times more polyphenols than green tea made with natural drinking water. This was achieved through joint research with Panasonic Appliances (China) Co., Ltd., Panasonic R&D Center Suzhou Co., Ltd., and Bei Wang, a professor at the School of Food and Health, Beijing Technology and Business University.
    In recent years, the number of people regularly drinking water has been increasing due to heightened health awareness, leading to a growing demand for safe and healthy water. The government is also considering strengthening the legal regulations related to water quality and reviewing the standards for water quality. Furthermore, many people use water purifiers to filter water before drinking it.
    Under such circumstances, as part of the personal care business, Panasonic recognized the potential of green tea,*1, *2 which is frequently consumed and offers various health benefits from its polyphenol content. Panasonic conducted joint research with Professor Bei Wang, a food science specialist in China, the world’s largest producer of green tea. A verification using alkaline ionized water with different pH values showed that the amount of polyphenols contained in green tea is greater when using alkaline ionized water than natural drinking water, and the higher the alkalinity, the higher the polyphenol content. It is hoped that this will enable tea to contain abundant polyphenols derived from green tea when brewed with alkaline ionized water. Please note that these are the results of the verification test described later and do not guarantee the effects in the actual usage environment or when drinking.
    With the aim of contributing to society by providing safe and secure drinking water, Panasonic will continue improving water purification and conditioning technology while pursuing its potential.

    Comments from Professor Bei Wang*3

    Tea polyphenols are essential components that determine the color, aroma, taste, and efficacy of tea leaves. They are also among the most important functional components of green tea, which has numerous health benefits, such as oxidation resistance, blood lipid adjustment, virus resistance, antibacterial effects, tumor resistance, and neuroprotection. The results of an omnibus experiment conducted at a laboratory in Beijing Technology and Business University revealed that green tea made with alkaline ionized water (pH values 8.14, 8.79, and 9.19) produced by Panasonic’s alkaline water ionizer contains more tea polyphenols than green tea made with unprocessed natural drinking water. This discovery not only provides valuable experiences to tea lovers, but it has also successfully harmonized modern science and technology with traditional food culture.

    Profile

    Bei Wang: Professor, Doctor Supervisor, and Assistant Dean of School of Food and Health, Beijing Technology and Business University. Professor Wang has extensively conducted big data research on food flavor and sensory omics and has been involved in more than 40 projects related to the food flavor and nutrition science, some of which were supported both by National Natural Science Foundation of China, . She has also published more than 100 high-level SCI research papers and obtained nearly 20 invention patents in China, as well as two USA patents and three software copy right. In addition, she has won first prize at the Shanghai Science and Technology progress Awards, first prize of China Business Federation Science and Technology Progress Award, and First Prize of the State Administration for Market Regulation Research Achievement Award for Market Regulation of China.

    ■What is alkaline ionized water?

    Figure 3 Generation of alkaline ionized water using electrolysis technology

    Alkaline ionized water is generated by electrolyzing filtered, purified water in an electrolytic cell. The cathode (negatively charged electrode) attracts hydroxide ions and hydrogen, generating alkaline ionized water, while the anode (positively charged electrode) attracts hydrogen ions and oxygen, generating mildly acidic water (Figure 3).

    Notes:
    *1 Reference: Saori Nakagawa, Takahiro Hoshi, Atsushi Kubo, and Susumu Yamato, “Determination of Tea Polyphenols in Bottled Japanese Tea Drinks and Differences in Polyphenol Content in Tea Leaves from Different Variety,” BUNSEKI KAGAKU, vol. 62, No. 1, pp. 51-55, 2013
    *2 Reference: Hirofumi Tachibana, “Molecular Nutritional Study on the Bioregulatory Effects of Green Tea Polyphenols,” Journal of Japan Society of Nutrition and Food Science, vol. 72, No. 5, pp. 205-210, 2019
    *3 Panasonic asked Professor Wang for comments and edited them for publication.

    Media Contact:

    Living Appliances and Solutions Company, Panasonic CorporationPublic Relations, Corporate Policy Department, Corporate Planning CenterEmail: las-pr@gg.jp.panasonic.com

    About Panasonic Corporation
    Panasonic Corporation offers products and services for a variety of living environments, ranging from homes to stores to offices and cities. There are five businesses at the core of Panasonic Corporation: Living Appliances and Solutions Company, Heating & Ventilation A/C Company, Cold Chain Solutions Company, Electric Works Company and China and Northeast Asia Company. The operating company reported consolidated net sales of 3,494.4 billion yen for the year ended March 31, 2024. Panasonic Corporation is committed to fulfilling the mission of Life Tech & Ideas: For the wellbeing of people, society and the planet, and embraces the vision of becoming the best partner of your life with human-centric technology and innovation. Learn more about Panasonic: https://www.panasonic.com/global/about/

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Carter Statement on the Trump Tax and Its Impact on Louisiana’s Second Congressional District

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:

    In Louisiana’s Second Congressional District, we know the value of hard work—and we know when we’re being taken for granted. From New Orleans to Baton Rouge, from the River Parishes to the West Bank, families and small businesses will be paying more for everyday goods. And while some call it inflation, let’s be honest: this is the Trump Tax.

    “When Donald Trump imposes tariffs, he isn’t taxing foreign governments—he’s taxing us. Prices will go up on goods we rely on: clothing, food, appliances, and construction materials. Our port workers, truck drivers, shipbuilders, and small business owners will all feel the sting of these costs passed down from Washington.

    “The Trump Tax will hit our district hard. We are home to major shipping corridors, import/export businesses, manufacturing plants, and a vibrant hospitality industry—all sectors impacted by increased costs under Trump’s tariff policies. When the price of goods goes up, it doesn’t just hurt the consumer—it hurts the economy of the entire district.

    “Trump is raising taxes on working people in the 2nd District while giving billionaires and big corporations massive tax breaks. That’s not leadership—that’s a betrayal of the people who keep this country running.

    “I will continue to fight for economic justice, to lower costs, and to hold those accountable who are raising taxes on working families while calling it something else. In Louisiana’s Second District, we know a bad deal when we see one. And the Trump Tax is a bad deal for all of us.”

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy announces $32.4 million in Hurricanes Laura, Ida aid for Louisiana

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $32,386,791 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants for Louisiana disaster aid. 
    “Louisiana is working hard to rebuild from the catastrophic damage that Hurricanes Laura and Ida left behind. This $32.4 million will help our communities recover from the costs they sustained during these disasters,” said Kennedy. 
    The FEMA aid will fund the following:
    $13,358,873 to St. John the Baptist Parish for debris removal operations resulting from Hurricane Ida.
    $6,209,552 to the Terrebonne Parish School Board for management costs resulting from Hurricane Ida. 
    $5,286,570 to the Terrebonne Parish School Board for permanent repairs resulting from Hurricane Ida. 
    $1,725,740 to the West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital for permanent work resulting from Hurricane Laura.
    $1,562,360 to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development for debris removal operations resulting from Hurricane Laura.
    $1,515,422 to the Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District to replace equipment due to Hurricane Laura damage.
    $1,415,716 to the Jefferson Parish School Board for permanent repairs to the Ralph J. Bunche Elementary School campus resulting from Hurricane Ida.
    $1,312,558 to the Orleans Levee District Non-Flood Protection Asset Management Authority for permanent repairs resulting from Hurricane Ida damage.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Major Trump Tariff Announcement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    04.02.25

    Cantwell Statement on Major Trump Tariff Announcement

    Auto tariffs could increase car prices by up to $15,000 – the Port of Vancouver, WA is the largest importer of Subarus in the U.S.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Donald Trump announced a “National Economic Emergency,” and signed an executive order declaring a 10% minimum baseline tariff on all countries as well as additional tariffs on nearly 60 countries. The baseline tariff will go into effect April 5 and additional reciprocal tariffs will go into effect April 9. Also included in today’s announcement, Trump reiterated his intention to impose a 25% tariff on all imported automobiles starting at 12AM on April 3. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, released the following statement:

    “As a representative of one of the most trade dependent economies in America, I disagree with President Trump’s tariffs. His announcement today will hurt sectors we care about: agriculture, manufacturing, and tech,” Sen. Cantwell said. “And ultimately, consumers will pay the price. It’s time for Congress to take action to counter the president’s trade war.”

    Trump’s reciprocal tariffs set to take effect April 9 include:

    • China – 34% 
    • EU – 20%  
    • Vietnam – 46% 
    • Taiwan – 32% 
    • Thailand –36% 
    • Indonesia – 32% 
    • Switzerland – 31% 
    • India – 26% 
    • South Korea – 25% 
    • Japan – 24% 
    • Malaysia – 24% 
    • Israel – 17%  
    • Cambodia – 49%

    In Washington state, two out of every five jobs are tied to trade and trade-related industries. 

    Today’s announcement is in addition to previous tariffs President Trump announced over the past few weeks, including on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China.  More information about how those tariffs will affect consumers and businesses in the State of Washington can be found HERE.  

    Those tariffs will also have significant impacts nationwide:

    • A 25% tariff on all Canadian and Mexican goods would add an estimated $144 billion a year to the cost of manufacturing in the United States.
    • Tariffs on Canada and Mexico could increase U.S. car prices by as much as $15,000.
    • According to the Yale Budget Lab, Trump’s proposed tariffs would result in the highest U.S. effective tariff rate in more than 80 years, and depending on the level of retaliation by other trading partners, will result in increased costs of between $1,600 and $2,000 per household. According to their analysis, food, clothing, cars, and electronics will all see above-average price increases.

    The tariffs could also impact West Coast ports that import automobiles, such as the Port of Vancouver, WA, which is the largest gateway for Subaru imports in the country. In 2023, 98,000 Subarus came through the Port of Vancouver.

    Last month, Sen. Cantwell joined the Washington Council of International Trade for a Q&A session on the whiplash caused by the administration’s chaotic tariff policies – and how they particularly harm the Pacific Northwest, which is among the most trade-dependent regions in the country. Sen. Cantwell said that the current administration’s approach to trade focuses on punitive tariffs, even with America’s largest trading partners and closest allies, as opposed to innovation and alliance-building. That ethos is fundamentally at odds with how the Pacific Northwest has historically built its trade-oriented economy.

    Sen. Cantwell has remained a steadfast supporter of increased trade to grow the economy and keep prices in check in the State of Washington and nationwide. Sen. Cantwell was the leading voice in negotiations to end India’s 20% retaliatory tariff on American apples, which was imposed in response to tariffs on steel and aluminum and devastated Washington state’s apple exports. India had once been the second-largest export market for American apples, but after President Trump imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum in his first term, India imposed retaliatory tariffs in response and U.S. apple exports plummeted. The impact on Washington apple growers was severe: Apple exports from the state dropped from $120 million in 2017 to less than $1 million by 2023.  In September 2023, following several years of Sen. Cantwell’s advocacy, India ended its retaliatory tariffs on apples and pulse crops which was welcome news to the state’s more than 1,400 apple growers and the 68,000-plus workers they support.

    For the past three months, President Trump has been sowing economic chaos across the country with unpredictable and ever-changing tariff announcements. His back-and-forth announcements and actions, which have whipsawed American businesses and consumers, as well as close neighbors and allies, include:

    • On January 31 — citing punishment for failing to crack down on fentanyl trafficking — the Trump administration announced plans to impose a 25% tax on many goods imported into the U.S. from Canada and Mexico and a 10% tax on goods imported from China, then abruptly postponed those tariffs.
    • Last month, he doubled down, announcing an additional 25% tax on all steel and aluminum imports.
    • At 12:01 a.m. ET on March 4, President Trump’s long-promised 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada and 10% tariff increase on goods from China took effect, causing stock prices in the United States to plummet.
    • Then, on March 5, he announced that automobiles from Canada and Mexico would be exempt from his tariffs for one month.
    • The morning of March 6, he announced that he would suspend the tariffs for some products from Mexico. Then, later that same afternoon, he announced he was suspending most new tariffs on products from both Mexico and Canada until April 2.
    • On March 11, Trump threatened to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum – increasing them to 50% – before reversing himself later the same day.
    • On March 13, he threatened 200% tariffs on alcoholic products from the European Union, including all wine and Champagne.
    • On March 27, he announced plans to impose a 25% tax on all imported sedans, SUVs, crossovers, minivans, cargo vans, and light trucks, as well as some auto parts, beginning on April 2.
    • On March 29, President Trump said, “I couldn’t care less,” if automakers raise the price of cars in response to his tariffs.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Thompson, Davis, Bresnahan, and Panetta Introduce Simplifying Veterans Assistance Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Thompson (5th District Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), Don Davis (NC-01), Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) today introduced the Simplifying Veterans Assistance Act to address complications with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Grant and Per Diem (GPD) program application process.
     
    The VA GPD program provides funding to community organizations that offer transitional housing and supportive services to homeless veterans. This program has helped countless veterans across the country achieve financial and housing stability, ultimately leading to self-determination and independence. Unfortunately, many community organizations serving homeless veteran populations are unable to access this program due to a complicated application process, unnecessary bureaucratic red tape, and a lack of communication from the VA.
     
    The Simplifying Veterans Assistance Act will direct the VA to provide guidance and best practices for entities applying for grants through the GPD program. The bill also ensures the VA provides at least two informational sessions so that eligible organizations can better understand the application process, ask questions, and receive additional support directly from VA staff.
     
    “We must equip organizations serving veterans with the tools they need to assist veterans experiencing homelessness,” Rep Thompson said. “This bipartisan legislation guarantees the VA will communicate with organizations in our communities so they can better serve our veterans. By providing clear guidance, we can ensure that no veteran is left behind due to bureaucratic obstacles.”

    “Community agencies dedicated to caring for homeless veterans should not be hindered from assisting them by difficult grant processes,” Rep. Bresnahan said. “These groups provide shelter and support for our nation’s heroes, and they deserve the same access to grants and resources as any other organization, regardless of their experience with per diem grants or whether they can afford a grants writer. I thank my colleague, Rep. Thompson, for calling attention to this issue and for providing a solution for veterans and the community agencies they depend on.”

    “No veteran who sacrificed for our nation should be without a roof over their head,” Rep. Davis said. “We must ensure that our homeless veteran centers, which play a crucial role in providing shelter to our veterans, have the resources they need to receive these grants.”

    “Many community organizations that support homeless veterans rely on VA grants but struggle with the application process due to a lack of resources,” said Rep. Panetta.  “Our legislation will make the VA’s Grant and Per Diem Program more accessible by providing critical guidance and training, so these organizations can focus on what matters most, helping veterans get back on their feet.  Our nation’s commitment to veterans must include ensuring that those who serve them have the tools they need to succeed.”

    This bill is supported by the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans and the National Alliance to End Homelessness.

     
    Click HERE to read the full text of the bill. 
     

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Thompson Helps Introduce Effort to Reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Thompson (5th District Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) today joined Reps. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA) and Joe Neguse (D-CO) in introducing the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act

    The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS), first enacted in 2000, provides funding for schools, roads, and essential services in counties with significant amounts of tax-exempt federal land tracts of land covered by national forests.

    “Without reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools Program, many local education agencies may miss future payments, through no fault of their own,” said Rep. Thompson. “This bipartisan coalition of members representing forested counties across the country shows the real appetite to get this done as soon as possible.”

    “For rural counties, including those in my own district, Secure Rural Schools funding is essential. This program ensures that schools stay open, roads are maintained, and emergency services are available, even when federal timber revenues fall short,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “In 2024 alone, California received $33.7 million through this program—funding that helps keep classrooms running and supports vital services like public safety and infrastructure. These funds replace the lost timber tax receipts that local governments once relied on. Without this funding, rural areas would struggle to provide even the most basic services. This bill ensures these counties have the resources they need for now, but we should be working to restore the timber industry so that these areas can actually provide revenue instead of relying on stopgap programs like SRS.”

    “The Secure Rural Schools program is a vital lifeline for folks in our rural and mountain communities. It unlocks funding for students and schools, wildfire mitigation initiatives, emergency search and rescue services, road maintenance, and more,” said Rep. Neguse. “I’m proud to co-lead this critical bill and will continue to advocate for the needs of folks across Colorado’s Western Slope.”

    Since its enactment, SRS has provided $7 billion in payments to more than 700 counties and 4,400 school districts across 40 states.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Thompson Announces Appointment of Juuso Young to the United States Military Academy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Thompson (5th District Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson today announced that Mr. Juuso Young, of Port Allegany, Pa. has accepted a fully qualified appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.

    Young is a senior at Port Allegany High School, he is the son of Ink and Andrew Young of Port Allegany, Pa. He is the grandson of Pat and Paul Young of Clearfield, Pa. 

    “Juuso is an accomplished young man in the classroom, on the football field, and throughout his community. His commitment to excellence will enable him to compete among the top students at the Military Academy,” Rep. Thompson said. “Juuso has proven himself as a leader, and I wish him the very best in this next chapter.”

    Young is currently serving as his Senior Class President. He is a varsity athlete in two sports, captain of the varsity football team, and a member of Keystone Boys State.

     
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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Thompson Announces Appointment of Avary Powell to the U.S. Naval Academy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Thompson (5th District Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson today announced that Ms. Avary Powell of Punxsutawney, Pa. has accepted a fully-qualified appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md.

    Powell is a senior at Punxsutawney Area High School, and is the daughter of Melissa and Mark Powell. She is the granddaughter of Margaret and David Young of Punxsutawney, Pa and Carol and Gary Stonbraker of Punxsutawney, Pa.

    “Avary is an outstanding young woman who excels academically and demonstrates strong leadership in her community,” Rep. Thompson said. “Her dedication and work ethic as a student will undoubtedly serve her well as she embarks on her military career at the United States Naval Academy. I have no doubt that she has the potential to one day lead the Academy. I wish her the very best as she begins her journey as a midshipman in Annapolis.”

    Powell is currently serving as her Senior Class Secretary and Vice President of the National Honor Society. She is a varsity athlete in two sports, captain of the varsity basketball and softball teams, and a member of Keystone Girls State.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Thompson Announces Appointment of Cory Matejovich to the USAFA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Thompson (5th District Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson today announced that Mr. Cory Matejovich, of Howard, has accepted a fully-qualified appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colo.

    Matejovich is a senior at Middletown Valley Academy, he is the son of Elizabeth and Todd Matejovich. He is the grandson of Marlene and Terry Matejovich of Johnstown, Pa., and Judy Fredericks of Huntington Beach, CA.

    “Cory is an exceptional young man whose dedication inspires us all,” Rep. Thompson said. “He is among the few Civil Air Patrolmen who earned a Spaatz Award. Col. Matejovich’s years of hard work, discipline, and leadership have exemplified the core values of the Civil Air and will serve him well at the academy.

    Matejovich serves as a Cadet Colonel with the Civil Air Patrol. He is also an Eagle Scout, a licensed private pilot, and one of only 2,567 individuals to earn a Spaatz Award since its inception in 1964. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boyle Statement on Trump’s Illegal Order to Dismantle the Department of Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brendan Boyle (13th District of Pennsylvania)

    PHILADELPHIA, PACongressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, released the following statement after Donald Trump announced he will sign an illegal order dismantling the Department of Education:

    “Donald Trump’s illegal executive order dismantling the Department of Education is a reckless assault on America’s children and middle-class families. Republicans claim this move promotes government efficiency and savings, yet simultaneously push a $4.5 trillion giveaway to billionaires like Elon Musk. Cutting critical educational resources for children while pushing handouts for the ultra-wealthy isn’t just irresponsible — it’s unconscionable.

    Dismantling the Department of Education would increase education costs for middle-class families already struggling financially. It would threaten teachers’ jobs, worsen classroom overcrowding, and reduce essential school services nationwide. If Republicans succeed, their plans would strip away protections for students with disabilities and limit access to college and vocational training by eliminating Pell Grants and critical career education programs.

    House Democrats stand united — in Congress and in the courts — to oppose this damaging agenda and defend public education for every child, regardless of their zip code.”

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    MIL OSI USA News