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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Member of Armed Services Committee, Peters Helps Advance Strong National Defense Bill to Bolster Michigan’s Defense Capabilities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    WASHINGTON, DC – As a member of the Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped advance the annual National Defense Authorization Act out of committee. Peters successfully authored and secured provisions in the bipartisan bill to strengthen U.S. national security, invest in Michigan’s military facilities and robust defense sector, support our nation’s long-term strategic efforts to combat aggression by adversaries like China and Russia, fund initiatives to clean up PFAS contamination, and give our servicemembers a pay raise. The bill now advances to the full Senate for consideration.
    “Across Michigan, our servicemembers, defense manufacturers, and top-notch military installations play an essential role in keeping our nation safe and secure,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to secure investments in this bill to bolster those defense assets and capabilities, while supporting statewide economic growth. This bill also helps us meet the rising threats posed by our adversaries like China and Russia to protect both folks at home and our troops serving around the world.”
    The National Defense Authorization Act sets annual policy for the Department of Defense (DOD) and has been signed into law for more than 60 consecutive years. 
    Peters led or supported the following provisions, including authorizing more than $18 million in funding for Michigan’s military facilities: 
    Investing in Michigan’s Military Facilities
    $9 million for Runway Improvement at Selfridge Air National Guard Base: This funding would allow for runway improvements at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County to prepare for basing of future missions, including the KC-46 Tankers and F-15EX fighter jets that were announced for Selfridge following years of persistent work and advocacy by Peters. 
    $5.2 million to Construct Two New Taxiways at Selfridge: This funding would support the construction of two new taxiways at Selfridge to prepare for basing of future missions including Selfridge’s two missions. This includes $2.8 million for the construction of Taxiway Alpha and $2.4 million for the construction of Taxiway Bravo.
    $4.4 million for Camp Grayling All-Domain Warfighting Training Complex: This funding would kickstart the Camp Grayling All-Domain Warfighting Training Complex (ADWTC) critical for military training exercises like Northern Strike. The ADWTC provides a state-of-the-art facility where servicemembers can plan, lead, and execute realistic training. The ADWTC is critical for growing military training exercises like Northern Strike and ensuring this critical exercise remains the premier training exercise in the country.
    Permanent Funding for Northern Strike: Peters secured report language urging permanent funding for the annual Northern Strike Exercise, which is the largest all-domain reserve forces exercise. Northern Strike provides a realistic training environment and robust training experiences for units and leaders to strengthen joint all-domain warfighting – and helps keep Michigan central to our national defense operations.
    Bolstering Collaborative Combat Aircraft Production: Senator Peters secured language in the bill that directs the Air Force to move forward with initial full-scale production of Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). Peters has pushed forand secured language to support the development and integration of CCAs, including during a hearing last year with the former Secretary of Defense and a recent hearing with the current U.S. Air Force Secretary. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Peters has also secured language to help position Selfridge Air National Guard Base as a potential location for CCA fielding. He led a provision included in recent government funding legislation requiring a report regarding basing criteria of CCAs. This report will include an evaluation of whether existing Air National Guard bases with legacy fighter missions, such as Selfridge, may be appropriate locations for the basing of CCAs.
    Connected Vehicle Cybersecurity Center at Selfridge: Peters led a provision in the bill underscoring the growing threat of cyberattacks on both manned and unmanned military vehicles and platforms, as well as critical infrastructure that interacts with advanced vehicles. The provision recognizes the work of the Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) in Warren, Michigan to identify cyber vulnerabilities to secure joint ground vehicle platforms and prevent cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. The bill encourages vehicle cybersecurity at places like GVSC who is working to establish its Connected Vehicle Cybersecurity Center, which will also be located in Michigan at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. In addition to supporting our Armed Forces and servicemembers, the Connected Vehicle Cybersecurity Center will support Michigan’s auto industry and help establish Southeast Michigan as a hub for all auto-cyber activity in the country. Peters has continuously used his role on the Armed Services Committee to support the GVSC, and recently warned DOD officials about the consequences of potential cuts at the GVSC.
    Emergency Response Authority Act: Peters successfully secured an amendment to give states more flexibility in deploying Army Guard and Reserve (AGR) personnel with specialized skills for emergency response. This proposal would allow AGR forces to respond to state declared emergencies, such as floods, hurricanes and other natural disasters, for a total of 14 days per person. This provision empowers states to respond to major disasters more quickly and effectively.
    Supporting Our Servicemembers and Their Families
    Pay Raise for Servicemembers: This bill includes pay raises of 3.8 percent for military servicemembers. 
    Addressing PFAS Contamination
    Improving Transparency of PFAS Cleanup & Remediation Efforts: Peters successfully included a provision that requires DOD to submit annual reports detailing site-specific funding, progress, and barriers for all interim PFAS remediation and cleanup efforts. This includes timelines, performance metrics, and the status of the actions. Peters’ provision also requires DOD to create a public online dashboard within one year to display updated PFAS cleanup data, funding, timelines, and community points of contact. Peters has worked with communities across Michigan for years on PFAS remediation efforts. Peters convened the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, and convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how local, state and federal governments are coordinating responses to address PFAS contamination. He has also passed numerous bills into law to help address PFAS contamination and protect Michiganders. Michigan is home to a number of military installations where PFAS contamination has been detected, including Camp Grayling and the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda.
    Ensuring Access to Clean Drinking Water for Communities Affected by PFAS Contamination: The bill contains a Peters led initiative to direct DOD to provide bottled water to communities with private drinking water wells with high levels of PFAS contamination as a result of DOD activities. 
    Supporting Michigan’s Defense Sector
    Bolstering Infantry Squad Vehicle Production: The bill also authorized $34.4 million to maintain continued production and fielding of General Motors (GM) Defense’s Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV). GM Defense conducts its testing, research, and development of projects at the Milford Proving Ground in Oakland County, where two of its key programs of record were conceived, and employs over 50,000 people in Michigan.
    Supporting Munition Production in Grayling: The bill includes $31.9 million to support production of the Army’s Individual Assault Munitions (IAM), which will soon be made at a new production facility being constructed in Grayling, Michigan. This new facility is expected to employ 70 people in 2025 and expand to an estimated 100 employees by 2027. 
    Boosting Made in Michigan Ground Vehicle Production: The bill authorizes robust funding for the Army to produce new, modernized Strykers as well as Abrams tanks. This funding would help ensure that Made in Michigan testing and development of ground vehicles like the Strykers are operating with cutting edge technology designed to keep our servicemembers safe.
    Bolstering Military Aircraft Engine Industrial Base: Peters secured a provision that requires the Secretary of Defense to provide a roadmap for bolstering our military aircraft engine industrial base to support existing and planned platforms. 
    Expanding Fuel Cell Use: This provision Peters secured authorizes $5 million for research and development of multi-modular fuel cells, primarily to be used in electric vehicle charging stations and mobile generators. This research will help increase the reliability of power for military installations and improve DOD’s energy management and efficiency plans. 
    Strengthening Cybersecurity and Advanced Technology Capabilities
    Protecting Against Phishing Attacks: This report language, secured by Peters, requires DOD to issue a strategy on implementing the adoption of phishing-resistant authentication across the Department. There has been an increase in phishing attempts targeting officials at DOD to retrieve personal information that allows hackers and foreign adversaries to gain access to delicate national security information. This provision would ensure that DOD takes steps to protect sensitive national security information and protect American lives.
    Preventing Manipulation of DOD-Generated Media: Peters secured an amendment he led which would require DOD to implement digital content provenance across the Department. Digital content creation, editing, and distribution tools are increasingly more accessible, and can be easily weaponized against the U.S. by our foreign adversaries who seek to threaten our national security, spread anti-American propaganda, and weaken our institutions. The amendment would help prevent DOD media content from being manipulated and used maliciously against our country by creating a pilot program to implement authenticity information on DOD-generated media. This builds on Peters’ bipartisan Digital Defense Content Provenance Act, which he secured in a previous national defense bill and requires DOD to create a course at the Defense Information School to teach personnel about the threats posed by synthetic media such as deepfakes, as well as emerging technologies and key concepts of digital content provenance. The bill also created a pilot program at DOD to assess the feasibility of establishing content standard technologies on DOD-produced and owned media content.
    Strengthening U.S. Cyber Workforce: Peters secured a provision that would require a report on the implementation of the DOD Cyber Workforce Strategy. DOD has struggled to attract and retain a skilled cyber workforce. The DOD Cyber Workforce Strategy was designed to identify difficulties and provide specific activities to increase applications and retainment of the cyber workforce, both military and civilian. A skilled DOD cyber workforce benefits all Americans.
    Enhancing DOD Weapons Systems to Protect Against Real-Time Cybersecurity Threats: The bill includes specific directives for the DOD to enhances its weapons systems with technology to track cybersecurity threats. This will all for weapons systems at Military bases in Michigan and across the country to track cyber threats in real time and constantly update the health and security of their cybersecurity operations. 
    Developing U.S. Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Capabilities: The bill would provide increased funding for the development of new and innovative design and production of low-cost, uncrewed systems. The bill would also require a strategy to develop a secure domestic supply chain of critical components for small UAS systems.
    Advancing Counter-UAS Technologies: The bill would authorize increased funding for various counter-UAS activities, and require a strategy for countering drone technologies and assessing resources or authorities needed for drone incursion response to ensure we are equipped for the future of warfare. It would direct the Army, Navy, and Air Force to provide briefings on their respective service plans for counter-UAS capabilities. 
    Supporting U.S. Security Interests Around the World
    Planning for Enhanced Operations in Artic Region: The bill includes a provision authored by Peters that recognizes the current geopolitical challenges and opportunities presented by the Artic region, and supports efforts to better understand the emerging need to enhance operations in the region. Specifically, the bill encourages the Secretary of Defense to partner with interagency organizations, including the Center for Arctic Security and Resiliency and the Joint All Domain Weather Operations Center, to coordinate federal agency planning for Arctic operations as well as testing of systems to support Arctic operations.
    Support Israel’s Defense Against Emerging Threats: Peters secured funding in the bill to help increase U.S. collaboration with Israel to develop emerging defense technologies to meet the warfare challenges of the future. Peters also secured a provision that would establish a cooperative program between the U.S. and Israel for advancing C-UAS technologies and joint research. Peters introduced bipartisan legislation last Congress to bolster collaboration between the United States and Israel on emerging technologies.
    Strengthen Efforts to Combat Anti-Tunneling Activity: The bill authorizes additional funding to strengthen current collaborative efforts between the U.S. and Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to combat Hamas and strengthen anti-tunneling activity in the Gaza strip. As part of the DOD’s collaboration with the IDF, Israel shares its counter-tunnel technology with the DOD and Department of Homeland Security to combat growing threats at our borders, as well as similar threats faced on the Korean Peninsula and in multiple locations in the Middle East. 
    Support for Taiwan: This bill would strengthen security cooperation across the defense industrial bases of U.S. allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan. The bill would support Taiwanese defense needs and strengthen U.S.-Taiwanese defense collaboration. The bill would also direct the Defense Department to assess Taiwan’s critical digital infrastructure and identify potential actions to help strengthen it.
    Counter Chinese Communist Party Aggression: The bill includes numerous provisions to counter aggression from the Chinese government, including a provision requiring a report on the intelligence capabilities of the People’s Republic of China and the Russian Federation in the Republic of Cuba.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Member of Armed Services Committee, Peters Helps Advance Strong National Defense Bill to Bolster Michigan’s Defense Capabilities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    WASHINGTON, DC – As a member of the Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped advance the annual National Defense Authorization Act out of committee. Peters successfully authored and secured provisions in the bipartisan bill to strengthen U.S. national security, invest in Michigan’s military facilities and robust defense sector, support our nation’s long-term strategic efforts to combat aggression by adversaries like China and Russia, fund initiatives to clean up PFAS contamination, and give our servicemembers a pay raise. The bill now advances to the full Senate for consideration.
    “Across Michigan, our servicemembers, defense manufacturers, and top-notch military installations play an essential role in keeping our nation safe and secure,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to secure investments in this bill to bolster those defense assets and capabilities, while supporting statewide economic growth. This bill also helps us meet the rising threats posed by our adversaries like China and Russia to protect both folks at home and our troops serving around the world.”
    The National Defense Authorization Act sets annual policy for the Department of Defense (DOD) and has been signed into law for more than 60 consecutive years. 
    Peters led or supported the following provisions, including authorizing more than $18 million in funding for Michigan’s military facilities: 
    Investing in Michigan’s Military Facilities
    $9 million for Runway Improvement at Selfridge Air National Guard Base: This funding would allow for runway improvements at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County to prepare for basing of future missions, including the KC-46 Tankers and F-15EX fighter jets that were announced for Selfridge following years of persistent work and advocacy by Peters. 
    $5.2 million to Construct Two New Taxiways at Selfridge: This funding would support the construction of two new taxiways at Selfridge to prepare for basing of future missions including Selfridge’s two missions. This includes $2.8 million for the construction of Taxiway Alpha and $2.4 million for the construction of Taxiway Bravo.
    $4.4 million for Camp Grayling All-Domain Warfighting Training Complex: This funding would kickstart the Camp Grayling All-Domain Warfighting Training Complex (ADWTC) critical for military training exercises like Northern Strike. The ADWTC provides a state-of-the-art facility where servicemembers can plan, lead, and execute realistic training. The ADWTC is critical for growing military training exercises like Northern Strike and ensuring this critical exercise remains the premier training exercise in the country.
    Permanent Funding for Northern Strike: Peters secured report language urging permanent funding for the annual Northern Strike Exercise, which is the largest all-domain reserve forces exercise. Northern Strike provides a realistic training environment and robust training experiences for units and leaders to strengthen joint all-domain warfighting – and helps keep Michigan central to our national defense operations.
    Bolstering Collaborative Combat Aircraft Production: Senator Peters secured language in the bill that directs the Air Force to move forward with initial full-scale production of Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). Peters has pushed forand secured language to support the development and integration of CCAs, including during a hearing last year with the former Secretary of Defense and a recent hearing with the current U.S. Air Force Secretary. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Peters has also secured language to help position Selfridge Air National Guard Base as a potential location for CCA fielding. He led a provision included in recent government funding legislation requiring a report regarding basing criteria of CCAs. This report will include an evaluation of whether existing Air National Guard bases with legacy fighter missions, such as Selfridge, may be appropriate locations for the basing of CCAs.
    Connected Vehicle Cybersecurity Center at Selfridge: Peters led a provision in the bill underscoring the growing threat of cyberattacks on both manned and unmanned military vehicles and platforms, as well as critical infrastructure that interacts with advanced vehicles. The provision recognizes the work of the Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) in Warren, Michigan to identify cyber vulnerabilities to secure joint ground vehicle platforms and prevent cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. The bill encourages vehicle cybersecurity at places like GVSC who is working to establish its Connected Vehicle Cybersecurity Center, which will also be located in Michigan at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. In addition to supporting our Armed Forces and servicemembers, the Connected Vehicle Cybersecurity Center will support Michigan’s auto industry and help establish Southeast Michigan as a hub for all auto-cyber activity in the country. Peters has continuously used his role on the Armed Services Committee to support the GVSC, and recently warned DOD officials about the consequences of potential cuts at the GVSC.
    Emergency Response Authority Act: Peters successfully secured an amendment to give states more flexibility in deploying Army Guard and Reserve (AGR) personnel with specialized skills for emergency response. This proposal would allow AGR forces to respond to state declared emergencies, such as floods, hurricanes and other natural disasters, for a total of 14 days per person. This provision empowers states to respond to major disasters more quickly and effectively.
    Supporting Our Servicemembers and Their Families
    Pay Raise for Servicemembers: This bill includes pay raises of 3.8 percent for military servicemembers. 
    Addressing PFAS Contamination
    Improving Transparency of PFAS Cleanup & Remediation Efforts: Peters successfully included a provision that requires DOD to submit annual reports detailing site-specific funding, progress, and barriers for all interim PFAS remediation and cleanup efforts. This includes timelines, performance metrics, and the status of the actions. Peters’ provision also requires DOD to create a public online dashboard within one year to display updated PFAS cleanup data, funding, timelines, and community points of contact. Peters has worked with communities across Michigan for years on PFAS remediation efforts. Peters convened the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, and convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how local, state and federal governments are coordinating responses to address PFAS contamination. He has also passed numerous bills into law to help address PFAS contamination and protect Michiganders. Michigan is home to a number of military installations where PFAS contamination has been detected, including Camp Grayling and the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda.
    Ensuring Access to Clean Drinking Water for Communities Affected by PFAS Contamination: The bill contains a Peters led initiative to direct DOD to provide bottled water to communities with private drinking water wells with high levels of PFAS contamination as a result of DOD activities. 
    Supporting Michigan’s Defense Sector
    Bolstering Infantry Squad Vehicle Production: The bill also authorized $34.4 million to maintain continued production and fielding of General Motors (GM) Defense’s Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV). GM Defense conducts its testing, research, and development of projects at the Milford Proving Ground in Oakland County, where two of its key programs of record were conceived, and employs over 50,000 people in Michigan.
    Supporting Munition Production in Grayling: The bill includes $31.9 million to support production of the Army’s Individual Assault Munitions (IAM), which will soon be made at a new production facility being constructed in Grayling, Michigan. This new facility is expected to employ 70 people in 2025 and expand to an estimated 100 employees by 2027. 
    Boosting Made in Michigan Ground Vehicle Production: The bill authorizes robust funding for the Army to produce new, modernized Strykers as well as Abrams tanks. This funding would help ensure that Made in Michigan testing and development of ground vehicles like the Strykers are operating with cutting edge technology designed to keep our servicemembers safe.
    Bolstering Military Aircraft Engine Industrial Base: Peters secured a provision that requires the Secretary of Defense to provide a roadmap for bolstering our military aircraft engine industrial base to support existing and planned platforms. 
    Expanding Fuel Cell Use: This provision Peters secured authorizes $5 million for research and development of multi-modular fuel cells, primarily to be used in electric vehicle charging stations and mobile generators. This research will help increase the reliability of power for military installations and improve DOD’s energy management and efficiency plans. 
    Strengthening Cybersecurity and Advanced Technology Capabilities
    Protecting Against Phishing Attacks: This report language, secured by Peters, requires DOD to issue a strategy on implementing the adoption of phishing-resistant authentication across the Department. There has been an increase in phishing attempts targeting officials at DOD to retrieve personal information that allows hackers and foreign adversaries to gain access to delicate national security information. This provision would ensure that DOD takes steps to protect sensitive national security information and protect American lives.
    Preventing Manipulation of DOD-Generated Media: Peters secured an amendment he led which would require DOD to implement digital content provenance across the Department. Digital content creation, editing, and distribution tools are increasingly more accessible, and can be easily weaponized against the U.S. by our foreign adversaries who seek to threaten our national security, spread anti-American propaganda, and weaken our institutions. The amendment would help prevent DOD media content from being manipulated and used maliciously against our country by creating a pilot program to implement authenticity information on DOD-generated media. This builds on Peters’ bipartisan Digital Defense Content Provenance Act, which he secured in a previous national defense bill and requires DOD to create a course at the Defense Information School to teach personnel about the threats posed by synthetic media such as deepfakes, as well as emerging technologies and key concepts of digital content provenance. The bill also created a pilot program at DOD to assess the feasibility of establishing content standard technologies on DOD-produced and owned media content.
    Strengthening U.S. Cyber Workforce: Peters secured a provision that would require a report on the implementation of the DOD Cyber Workforce Strategy. DOD has struggled to attract and retain a skilled cyber workforce. The DOD Cyber Workforce Strategy was designed to identify difficulties and provide specific activities to increase applications and retainment of the cyber workforce, both military and civilian. A skilled DOD cyber workforce benefits all Americans.
    Enhancing DOD Weapons Systems to Protect Against Real-Time Cybersecurity Threats: The bill includes specific directives for the DOD to enhances its weapons systems with technology to track cybersecurity threats. This will all for weapons systems at Military bases in Michigan and across the country to track cyber threats in real time and constantly update the health and security of their cybersecurity operations. 
    Developing U.S. Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Capabilities: The bill would provide increased funding for the development of new and innovative design and production of low-cost, uncrewed systems. The bill would also require a strategy to develop a secure domestic supply chain of critical components for small UAS systems.
    Advancing Counter-UAS Technologies: The bill would authorize increased funding for various counter-UAS activities, and require a strategy for countering drone technologies and assessing resources or authorities needed for drone incursion response to ensure we are equipped for the future of warfare. It would direct the Army, Navy, and Air Force to provide briefings on their respective service plans for counter-UAS capabilities. 
    Supporting U.S. Security Interests Around the World
    Planning for Enhanced Operations in Artic Region: The bill includes a provision authored by Peters that recognizes the current geopolitical challenges and opportunities presented by the Artic region, and supports efforts to better understand the emerging need to enhance operations in the region. Specifically, the bill encourages the Secretary of Defense to partner with interagency organizations, including the Center for Arctic Security and Resiliency and the Joint All Domain Weather Operations Center, to coordinate federal agency planning for Arctic operations as well as testing of systems to support Arctic operations.
    Support Israel’s Defense Against Emerging Threats: Peters secured funding in the bill to help increase U.S. collaboration with Israel to develop emerging defense technologies to meet the warfare challenges of the future. Peters also secured a provision that would establish a cooperative program between the U.S. and Israel for advancing C-UAS technologies and joint research. Peters introduced bipartisan legislation last Congress to bolster collaboration between the United States and Israel on emerging technologies.
    Strengthen Efforts to Combat Anti-Tunneling Activity: The bill authorizes additional funding to strengthen current collaborative efforts between the U.S. and Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to combat Hamas and strengthen anti-tunneling activity in the Gaza strip. As part of the DOD’s collaboration with the IDF, Israel shares its counter-tunnel technology with the DOD and Department of Homeland Security to combat growing threats at our borders, as well as similar threats faced on the Korean Peninsula and in multiple locations in the Middle East. 
    Support for Taiwan: This bill would strengthen security cooperation across the defense industrial bases of U.S. allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan. The bill would support Taiwanese defense needs and strengthen U.S.-Taiwanese defense collaboration. The bill would also direct the Defense Department to assess Taiwan’s critical digital infrastructure and identify potential actions to help strengthen it.
    Counter Chinese Communist Party Aggression: The bill includes numerous provisions to counter aggression from the Chinese government, including a provision requiring a report on the intelligence capabilities of the People’s Republic of China and the Russian Federation in the Republic of Cuba.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Capito Announces Funding for Statewide Truck Parking Project

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee and a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced a $24,837,048 grant for the West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) BUILD program. 
    This funding, which was made available through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, will construct truck parking capacity expansion improvements at three existing West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) facilities along I-81, I-64, and I-79 in Berkeley, Cabell, Monongalia Counties. Chairman Capito authored a letter in support of the WVDOH’s application for this project earlier this year. 
    “Efforts to upgrade facilities along West Virginia portions of major interstates will enhance the safety of our drivers, support the regional and national movement of goods, and encourage economic investments across our state. As Chairman of the EPW Committee, I made this investment a priority and I’m thankful DOT recognized its importance. This support will help WVDOT and WVDOH continue their mission of safe and efficient transportation in West Virginia,” Chairman Capito said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Capito Announces Funding for Statewide Truck Parking Project

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee and a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced a $24,837,048 grant for the West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) BUILD program. 
    This funding, which was made available through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, will construct truck parking capacity expansion improvements at three existing West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) facilities along I-81, I-64, and I-79 in Berkeley, Cabell, Monongalia Counties. Chairman Capito authored a letter in support of the WVDOH’s application for this project earlier this year. 
    “Efforts to upgrade facilities along West Virginia portions of major interstates will enhance the safety of our drivers, support the regional and national movement of goods, and encourage economic investments across our state. As Chairman of the EPW Committee, I made this investment a priority and I’m thankful DOT recognized its importance. This support will help WVDOT and WVDOH continue their mission of safe and efficient transportation in West Virginia,” Chairman Capito said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Foreign Relations Democrats Demand Answers From Secretary of State Rubio Regarding State Department Layoffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    July 11, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and his colleagues in writing a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressing deep concerns with imminent Reductions in Force (RIFs) at the State Department, and requested answers on the Trump administration’s process for carrying out these layoffs. 
    “RIFs should remain a tool of last resort, and if implemented must be conducted according to long-standing procedures that prioritize transparency and a merit-based process for both career civil service employees and Foreign Service Officers (FSOs). During a time of increasingly complex and wide-spread challenges to U.S. national security, this administration should be strengthening our diplomatic corps—an irreplaceable instrument of U.S. power and leadership—not weakening it. However, RIFs would severely undermine the Department’s ability to achieve U.S. foreign policy interests, putting our nation’s security, strength, and prosperity at risk,” the senators wrote. 
    Since January, the Foreign Service has shrunk by nearly 25 percent and the number of civil service employees has also decreased due to agency closures, early retirement, and buyouts. 
    “While every administration is entitled to set new priorities and engage in reorganization of executive agencies, we are deeply concerned by the breadth of these RIFs and the lack of clarity and transparency of the Department’s RIF process,” the senators continued. 
    The senators requested a response to the following questions by no later than July 18, 2025: 
    RIF Criteria:
    When were RIF lists created, by whom, and against what criteria?
    Is the Department choosing to RIF based on current office assignment rather than globally ranking FSOs and civil servants based on grade and skillsets?  If so, why?
    Are the lists being updated to reflect Permanent Changes in Station (PCS) or curtailments?
    How many veterans and consular coned generalists are included on the list?
    It can take years of training for an FSO or civil servant to master diplomatic and negotiation skills, including obtaining fluency in critical languages. Why are skilled officers, including those with specialized language skills not being reassigned? How will the Department fill these specialized skill and experience gaps?
    Foreign Service Officers:
    Why is the administration preventing FSOs from transferring into critical vacancies?
    Why is the administration preventing candidates who accepted a “handshake” from being paneled to a position they were chosen for based on merit?
    What is the rationale for conducting RIFs before the reorganization takes effect?
    How many vacant FSO positions will there be worldwide after RIFs are processed? How does the Department plan to fill mission critical posts?
    Why is the Department processing RIFs prior to determining the number of vacant positions remaining following your reorganization efforts?
    How is the Department protecting the pipeline of FSOs to ensure no critical skill gaps in the future?
    Civil Service:
    Civil service employees often come to the Department with specialized experience.  How is the Department working to retain critical, hard to replace employees in the civil service?
    How is the Department working to ensure key specialties, knowledge, and personnel are retained and transferred during the reorganization?
    Why is the Department refusing to process any lateral moves by civil service employees who have been offered other civil service positions within the Department?
    If reducing waste, fraud, and abuse is the goal of the reorganization, why is the Department not efficiently allowing these experienced civil service employees to laterally move into vacant positions they were chosen for based on merit?
    If remaining officers are going to be asked to take on additional work, how will they be remunerated for their time and effort? 
    Will the hiring and lateral transition freezes be lifted once RIFs are complete?
      
    Reassignment Process:
    Will there be a competitive reassignment for high-performing, mission-critical personnel following the RIFs?  If so, what is the timeline and criteria for this reassignment process?  How will the Department communicate these details with its employees?
    The letter is cosigned by Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.).
    To read the full text of the letter, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Foreign Relations Democrats Release Statement on State Department Personnel Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    July 11, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and all Democrats on the Committee in a statement on announced plans by the State Department to terminate more than 1,300 personnel.
    “As the U.S. retreats, our adversaries—like the People’s Republic of China—are expanding their diplomatic reach, making Americans less safe and less prosperous. If this administration is serious about putting ‘America first,’ it must invest in our diplomatic corps and national security experts—not erode the institutions that protect our interests, promote U.S. values and keep Americans abroad safe.
    “The Administration’s decision to fire hundreds of members of the Civil Service and Foreign Service at the Department of State undermines our national security. While there are targeted reforms that our government can pursue to maximize the impact of every tax dollar, that’s not what this is. Blanket and indiscriminate cuts—the legacy from Elon Musk’s failed DOGE effort—weaken our government’s ability to deliver for the American people in a cost-effective manner. There are active conflicts and humanitarian crises in Ukraine, Sudan, Gaza, Haiti and Myanmar—to name a few. Now is the time to strengthen our diplomatic hand, not weaken it. From pursuing peaceful resolutions to out-competing China diplomatically and economically, we can’t afford to not have experienced diplomats at the table. 
    “We will continue to fight on behalf of the public servants and their families who now face job loss after careers spent advancing America’s interests and values in challenging and often high-risk environments. We call on Secretary Rubio to ensure that any proposed reorganization, including reductions in force, is carried out transparently and in full accordance with U.S. law.”
    The statement was signed by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Objects to Transfer of DHS Funds, Details ICE’s Rampant Overspending Under Secretary Kristi Noem

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    July 11, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, on Friday objected to the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) transfer notification that would move more than $430 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and other programs within DHS to cover costs relating to overspending and self-inflicted shortfalls, including $212 million to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, Murphy detailed her failure to properly manage DHS’ budget, which put the agency at risk of running out of money in violation of appropriations law.
    “Just as Americans are asked to do nearly every day – to live within their means – ICE is not free to spend more than Congress has authorized. Congress provided reprogramming and transfer authorities to the Department in acknowledgement that there may be circumstances when urgent and unforeseen issues arise that justify the shifting of resources outside of their original purpose. Yet, not one of the proposed purposes in this notification reflects an urgent and unforeseen need. In fact, most of these are self-inflicted shortfalls that were plainly foreseen given the department’s willful and consistent overspending. ICE doesn’t get to spend and spend without limitations and submit the bill to Congress. They must live within their means, just as American families must,” Murphy wrote.
    Murphy detailed how ICE has pillaged other DHS programs to cover its reckless overspending: “If DHS moves forward with this proposal, it means that in total, over $524 million has been moved from other critical programs to ICE alone. Combined with the additional $485 million ICE received in the FY25 full-year CR, ICE will have received over $1 billion in additional funding over their appropriated amount this fiscal year to cover the administration’s overspending – with clear indication that even that amount is insufficient. For example, at the time of the submission of this notice, ICE had approximately 55,000 detention beds, 13,500 above the FY24 funded level of 41,500, which costs American taxpayers an additional half a billion annually. By early July, the agency has now committed to fund over 60,000 beds, all without Congressional approval.”
    Murphy argued that DHS violated the law by misappropriating funds designated for the Shelter and Services Program: “Furthermore, earlier this year DHS transferred $32 million from SSP to ICE, the full amount permissible under law, and has recently asserted that “shelter” means “detention” (so that the entire fund can be raided for detention beds), and as I understand it, has plans to fund various immigration enforcement efforts with these humanitarian funds. The clear purpose of the shelter and services fund is to support humanitarian services – food, housing, and medical care for example – to non-federal entities supporting noncitizens released from custody. Therefore, using these funds to detain noncitizens, or to give to state and local law enforcement to arrest and detain noncitizens, is a patently clear purpose violation.”
    He concluded: “Since the start of this administration, the White House and DHS have directed ICE to spend at an indefensible and unsustainable rate to build a mass deportation army and acquire detention beds far above the level negotiated and funded by Congress…I strongly object to the reprogramming and transfer requests. As DHS acquires over $165 billion as a part of the Republican reconciliation package, it is my strong desire that more of the work of the Appropriations Committee is transparent so that Americans can understand how their government spends their tax dollars.”
    Full text of the letter is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Objects to Transfer of DHS Funds, Details ICE’s Rampant Overspending Under Secretary Kristi Noem

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    July 11, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, on Friday objected to the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) transfer notification that would move more than $430 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and other programs within DHS to cover costs relating to overspending and self-inflicted shortfalls, including $212 million to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, Murphy detailed her failure to properly manage DHS’ budget, which put the agency at risk of running out of money in violation of appropriations law.
    “Just as Americans are asked to do nearly every day – to live within their means – ICE is not free to spend more than Congress has authorized. Congress provided reprogramming and transfer authorities to the Department in acknowledgement that there may be circumstances when urgent and unforeseen issues arise that justify the shifting of resources outside of their original purpose. Yet, not one of the proposed purposes in this notification reflects an urgent and unforeseen need. In fact, most of these are self-inflicted shortfalls that were plainly foreseen given the department’s willful and consistent overspending. ICE doesn’t get to spend and spend without limitations and submit the bill to Congress. They must live within their means, just as American families must,” Murphy wrote.
    Murphy detailed how ICE has pillaged other DHS programs to cover its reckless overspending: “If DHS moves forward with this proposal, it means that in total, over $524 million has been moved from other critical programs to ICE alone. Combined with the additional $485 million ICE received in the FY25 full-year CR, ICE will have received over $1 billion in additional funding over their appropriated amount this fiscal year to cover the administration’s overspending – with clear indication that even that amount is insufficient. For example, at the time of the submission of this notice, ICE had approximately 55,000 detention beds, 13,500 above the FY24 funded level of 41,500, which costs American taxpayers an additional half a billion annually. By early July, the agency has now committed to fund over 60,000 beds, all without Congressional approval.”
    Murphy argued that DHS violated the law by misappropriating funds designated for the Shelter and Services Program: “Furthermore, earlier this year DHS transferred $32 million from SSP to ICE, the full amount permissible under law, and has recently asserted that “shelter” means “detention” (so that the entire fund can be raided for detention beds), and as I understand it, has plans to fund various immigration enforcement efforts with these humanitarian funds. The clear purpose of the shelter and services fund is to support humanitarian services – food, housing, and medical care for example – to non-federal entities supporting noncitizens released from custody. Therefore, using these funds to detain noncitizens, or to give to state and local law enforcement to arrest and detain noncitizens, is a patently clear purpose violation.”
    He concluded: “Since the start of this administration, the White House and DHS have directed ICE to spend at an indefensible and unsustainable rate to build a mass deportation army and acquire detention beds far above the level negotiated and funded by Congress…I strongly object to the reprogramming and transfer requests. As DHS acquires over $165 billion as a part of the Republican reconciliation package, it is my strong desire that more of the work of the Appropriations Committee is transparent so that Americans can understand how their government spends their tax dollars.”
    Full text of the letter is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Gaza: Acute malnutrition reaches all-time high in two MSF facilities

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

    Gaza, 12 July 2025— Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) teams are witnessing a sharp and unprecedented rise in acute malnutrition among people in Gaza, Palestine. In Al-Mawasi clinic, in southern Gaza, and in the MSF Gaza City clinic in the north, we are seeing the highest number of malnutrition cases ever recorded by our teams in the Gaza Strip. A sustained flow of food and medical supplies must be urgently allowed into the Strip.

    More than 700 pregnant and breastfeeding women, and nearly 500 children with severe and moderate malnutrition are currently enrolled in ambulatory therapeutic feeding centres in both clinics. Patient enrolment in the MSF Gaza City clinic almost quadrupled in under two months, from 293 cases in May, up to 983 cases at the beginning of July. Of this July cohort, 326 are children between six and 23 months old.

    “This is the first time we have witnessed such a severe scale of malnutrition cases in Gaza,” says Mohammed Abu Mughaisib, MSF deputy medical coordinator in Gaza. “The starvation of people in Gaza is intentional, it can end tomorrow if the Israeli authorities allow food in at scale.”

     

    The existence of malnutrition in Gaza is the result of deliberate, calculated choices by the Israeli authorities: restrict the entry of food to the bare minimum for survival, dictate and militarise the means of its distribution, all while having destroyed the majority of local food production capacity. People are risking their lives in the immediate term to obtain inadequate food rations, as a wider system collapse is ongoing – sewage contamination is occurring because infrastructure is destroyed, restrictions on fuel are limiting the production of clean water, appalling living conditions in overcrowded camps are impacting people’s health and compromising people’s immunity.

     

    “Due to widespread malnutrition among pregnant women and poor water and sanitation services, many babies are being born prematurely,” says Joanne Perry, MSF doctor. “Our neonatal intensive care unit [in Al-Helou hospital] is severely overcrowded, with four to five babies sharing a single incubator.”

    “This is my third time in Gaza, and I’ve never seen anything like this,” says Dr Perry. “Mothers are asking me for food for their children, pregnant women who are six months along often weigh no more than 40 kilogrammes. The situation is beyond critical.”

    Before October 2023, Gaza was heavily reliant on the entry of goods and supplies from outside, with an average of 500 trucks entering the Strip every day. Since 2 March, not even 500 trucks have entered in total. With border crossings for aid frequently closed or operating under heavy limitations, and with local food production nearly impossible due to ongoing hostilities and destruction, markets are either empty, or the available food is unaffordable for most.  

    Inevitably, prices of food have skyrocketed across Gaza, placing even basic staples out of reach for most people. For example, one kilogramme of sugar costs on average US$766, while a kilogramme of potatoes or flour costs nearly $30, according to the World Food Programme. Due to this, many families are surviving on just one portion of food a day – often only rice, lentils, or pasta – with no access to bread, fresh vegetables, or enough protein.

    Parents are also deliberately skipping meals to feed their children. Even malnourished women, who do receive therapeutic food, end up giving their own treatment supplements to their children.

    “I’m a mother, and I can’t blame them because I would do the same,” says Nour Nijim, MSF nursing team supervisor. “But I feel helpless as a healthcare provider. People are hungry and ask us for therapeutic food, but we don’t have enough and can only prescribe them to people diagnosed with malnutrition.”

     

    The malnourished patients we are seeing are only the visible tip of a much larger crisis. At MSF clinics, injured patients beg for food instead of medicine – their wounds failing to heal because of protein deficiency. Our doctors are observing rapid weight loss, prolonged infections, and visible fatigue among patients and their caregivers.

     

    MSF urgently calls for unrestricted humanitarian access, a sustained flow of food and medical aid into Gaza, and the protection of civilians.

     

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Loeffler Joins President Trump to Offer Federal Support in Wake of Texas Disaster

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    KERR COUNTY, TEXAS — Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), joined President Donald J. Trump in Kerr County, Texas to offer federal disaster relief after storms devastated the region. Alongside Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner, Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins, and members of Congress, Loeffler met with local leaders and received updates from state emergency management officials.

    “The tragic loss of life in Texas Hill Country is truly heartbreaking – but the strength and the support of this community is clear,” said Administrator Loeffler. “Our commitment extends far beyond today’s visit, and this Administration is mobilizing every available resource to aid in recovery. As President Trump said, the full force of the federal government is behind Texas – including the SBA, where we are already offering disaster loans and on-the-ground support for residents and small businesses. Our prayers remain with the people of Texas, and we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with them on the road to recovery.”

    As the agency announced earlier this week, SBA disaster relief is now available for Texas small businesses, residents, and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding in seven counties. The disaster declaration covers the primary Texas county of Kerr which is eligible for both physical disaster loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the SBA. Small businesses and most PNP organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA EIDLs: Bandera, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kimble, and Real.

    Currently, the SBA has more than 70 staffers on the ground in Texas to assist with disaster recovery. The agency has also opened its first Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Kerr County, where individuals may come to receive hands-on assistance with disaster loan applications:

    SBA Business Recovery Center

    The YES Center at First Presbyterian Church

    823 North Street

    Kerrville, TX 87028

    Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM CT

    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM CT

    Texans affected by the flooding are encouraged to visit www.sba.gov/texas-floods or call SBA’s customer service center at 1-800-659-2955 to learn more about available aid.

    # # #

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Loeffler Joins President Trump to Offer Federal Support in Wake of Texas Disaster

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    KERR COUNTY, TEXAS — Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), joined President Donald J. Trump in Kerr County, Texas to offer federal disaster relief after storms devastated the region. Alongside Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner, Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins, and members of Congress, Loeffler met with local leaders and received updates from state emergency management officials.

    “The tragic loss of life in Texas Hill Country is truly heartbreaking – but the strength and the support of this community is clear,” said Administrator Loeffler. “Our commitment extends far beyond today’s visit, and this Administration is mobilizing every available resource to aid in recovery. As President Trump said, the full force of the federal government is behind Texas – including the SBA, where we are already offering disaster loans and on-the-ground support for residents and small businesses. Our prayers remain with the people of Texas, and we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with them on the road to recovery.”

    As the agency announced earlier this week, SBA disaster relief is now available for Texas small businesses, residents, and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding in seven counties. The disaster declaration covers the primary Texas county of Kerr which is eligible for both physical disaster loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the SBA. Small businesses and most PNP organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA EIDLs: Bandera, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kimble, and Real.

    Currently, the SBA has more than 70 staffers on the ground in Texas to assist with disaster recovery. The agency has also opened its first Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Kerr County, where individuals may come to receive hands-on assistance with disaster loan applications:

    SBA Business Recovery Center

    The YES Center at First Presbyterian Church

    823 North Street

    Kerrville, TX 87028

    Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM CT

    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM CT

    Texans affected by the flooding are encouraged to visit www.sba.gov/texas-floods or call SBA’s customer service center at 1-800-659-2955 to learn more about available aid.

    # # #

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Loeffler Joins President Trump to Offer Federal Support in Wake of Texas Disaster

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    KERR COUNTY, TEXAS — Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), joined President Donald J. Trump in Kerr County, Texas to offer federal disaster relief after storms devastated the region. Alongside Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner, Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins, and members of Congress, Loeffler met with local leaders and received updates from state emergency management officials.

    “The tragic loss of life in Texas Hill Country is truly heartbreaking – but the strength and the support of this community is clear,” said Administrator Loeffler. “Our commitment extends far beyond today’s visit, and this Administration is mobilizing every available resource to aid in recovery. As President Trump said, the full force of the federal government is behind Texas – including the SBA, where we are already offering disaster loans and on-the-ground support for residents and small businesses. Our prayers remain with the people of Texas, and we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with them on the road to recovery.”

    As the agency announced earlier this week, SBA disaster relief is now available for Texas small businesses, residents, and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding in seven counties. The disaster declaration covers the primary Texas county of Kerr which is eligible for both physical disaster loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the SBA. Small businesses and most PNP organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA EIDLs: Bandera, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kimble, and Real.

    Currently, the SBA has more than 70 staffers on the ground in Texas to assist with disaster recovery. The agency has also opened its first Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Kerr County, where individuals may come to receive hands-on assistance with disaster loan applications:

    SBA Business Recovery Center

    The YES Center at First Presbyterian Church

    823 North Street

    Kerrville, TX 87028

    Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM CT

    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM CT

    Texans affected by the flooding are encouraged to visit www.sba.gov/texas-floods or call SBA’s customer service center at 1-800-659-2955 to learn more about available aid.

    # # #

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Loeffler Joins President Trump to Offer Federal Support in Wake of Texas Disaster

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    KERR COUNTY, TEXAS — Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), joined President Donald J. Trump in Kerr County, Texas to offer federal disaster relief after storms devastated the region. Alongside Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner, Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins, and members of Congress, Loeffler met with local leaders and received updates from state emergency management officials.

    “The tragic loss of life in Texas Hill Country is truly heartbreaking – but the strength and the support of this community is clear,” said Administrator Loeffler. “Our commitment extends far beyond today’s visit, and this Administration is mobilizing every available resource to aid in recovery. As President Trump said, the full force of the federal government is behind Texas – including the SBA, where we are already offering disaster loans and on-the-ground support for residents and small businesses. Our prayers remain with the people of Texas, and we will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with them on the road to recovery.”

    As the agency announced earlier this week, SBA disaster relief is now available for Texas small businesses, residents, and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding in seven counties. The disaster declaration covers the primary Texas county of Kerr which is eligible for both physical disaster loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the SBA. Small businesses and most PNP organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA EIDLs: Bandera, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kimble, and Real.

    Currently, the SBA has more than 70 staffers on the ground in Texas to assist with disaster recovery. The agency has also opened its first Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Kerr County, where individuals may come to receive hands-on assistance with disaster loan applications:

    SBA Business Recovery Center

    The YES Center at First Presbyterian Church

    823 North Street

    Kerrville, TX 87028

    Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM CT

    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM CT

    Texans affected by the flooding are encouraged to visit www.sba.gov/texas-floods or call SBA’s customer service center at 1-800-659-2955 to learn more about available aid.

    # # #

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Island Games come to Scotland

    Source: Scottish Government

    Games are part of a four-year pipeline of major events.

    The largest event ever hosted in Orkney begins today, as part of four years of international sport in Scotland which are expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors and provide a significant economic boost.

    Orkney is welcoming more than 1,600 athletes from 24 island groups for the 20th International Island Games, which run until 18 July. Orkney is the smallest island group to ever host the Games and competitors have come from as far afield as the Falklands, the Cayman Islands, Saaremaa in Estonia and Åland in Finland.

    It is the first of a series of high-profile sporting events being hosted in Scotland, which include this weekend’s Genesis Scottish Open, the 2026 Commonwealth Games, the 2027 Grand Départ of the Tour de France, the 2027 Open Championship and the 2028 UEFA European football championships.

    The Scottish Government invests in major events to maximise local and national economic benefits. At the end of 2024, it was revealed that the last Open Championship in Scotland added more than £300 million to the economy, highlighting the scale of opportunity for the next four years.

    Business Minister Richard Lochhead said:

    “The Orkney Island Games represent a significant opportunity to drive economic growth and build a lasting legacy for people and businesses in Orkney and beyond.

    “They also provide a taste of what is to come and illustrate our wider ambition to make sure every corner of Scotland benefits from the prestigious events we are increasingly able to attract.  

    “This is a team effort and the benefits go way beyond the events themselves. The global platform they provide enables us to highlight Scotland to tourists, businesses and potential inward investors across the world.”

    Background

    Information about the Orkney 2025 International Island Games is available online.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “OUR COMMITMENT IS TO MAKE SURE WE FIGHT FOR EVERY SINGLE AMERICAN ACROSS THE COUNTRY”

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

    Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference at CrescentCare, a federally qualified health center in Louisiana, with Rep. Troy Carter (LA-02) and Steering and Policy Committee Co-Chairs Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) and Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44) to highlight how Donald Trump’s budget devastates the healthcare of the American people and outline how House Democrats will hold House Republicans accountable for voting to pass their One Big Ugly Law.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Good morning. It’s an honor and a privilege to be here in the great state of Louisiana, in this all-American city. Certainly thankful for the leadership of Congressman Troy Carter, for his partnership and his friendship, standing up, fighting hard each and every day on behalf of the people that he is privileged to represent here in Louisiana’s Second Congressional District. Let me thank Alice and the people at CrescentCare for the work that you do on behalf of the people in this community and all across the city and the state to ensure that they have access to high-quality care that is both compassionate and comprehensive. And our commitment is to make sure that we fight for every single person in this state, every single American across the country, to ensure that they can get the high-quality, affordable healthcare that people in this country, the wealthiest country in the history of the world, deserve.

    We believe that access to high-quality and affordable healthcare shouldn’t simply be a privilege available to the wealthy and the well-off. It’s a right. It should be available to every single person in the state of Louisiana, and every single person in this great country. Unfortunately, the One Big Ugly Bill that has been jammed down the throats of the American people represents the largest assault on Medicaid and healthcare in American history. The One Big Ugly Bill will have devastating consequences for the people of Louisiana who rely upon Medicaid to get their health service, to address their medical needs, to be able to live with dignity and respect in a nursing home setting, to have hospitals that are available to them and not closed, particularly in parts of rural Louisiana, and to be able to get the type of compassionate primary care that exists at community-based health clinics like this one. But this struggle is not over. We’re just at the beginning. We’re going to fight hard to make sure that the devastating Medicaid cuts that are now part of this One Big Ugly Law that has been signed can be pushed back—not for Democrats, Independents and Republicans, but for all Americans. That is our struggle. That is our commitment. That is the fight that we are waging on behalf of the people of Louisiana and on behalf of the people of this great country.

    The Louisiana state legislature, in an overwhelming and bipartisan way, passed a resolution, making clear that cuts to Medicaid will be devastating for the people of Louisiana, whether you’re in an urban part of the state, suburban part of the state, a small-town part of the state, a rural part of the state, it will be devastating, these cuts to Medicaid, to the people of Louisiana. The assault on healthcare is unacceptable, unconscionable and un-American. And I’m thankful for the leadership of Congressman Troy Carter in standing up for the people of this great state and helping to work with people from all across the political spectrum to do what is necessary to push back against the cuts that have now been enacted to educate the people of Louisiana and throughout the nation as to how damaging this One Big Ugly Bill will be to their quality of life. But most importantly, to assure everyone that our commitment is to continue to show up and stand up and speak up for your healthcare, for your quality of life, for an America where when you work hard and play by the rules, you can live a good life, have a good-paying job, good healthcare, good housing, good education for your children and, of course, a good retirement. That is our commitment to you, and we will not stop fighting until we can end this national nightmare and bring about an America that is the best version of herself.

    Full press conference can be watched here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “OUR COMMITMENT IS TO MAKE SURE WE FIGHT FOR EVERY SINGLE AMERICAN ACROSS THE COUNTRY”

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

    Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference at CrescentCare, a federally qualified health center in Louisiana, with Rep. Troy Carter (LA-02) and Steering and Policy Committee Co-Chairs Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) and Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44) to highlight how Donald Trump’s budget devastates the healthcare of the American people and outline how House Democrats will hold House Republicans accountable for voting to pass their One Big Ugly Law.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Good morning. It’s an honor and a privilege to be here in the great state of Louisiana, in this all-American city. Certainly thankful for the leadership of Congressman Troy Carter, for his partnership and his friendship, standing up, fighting hard each and every day on behalf of the people that he is privileged to represent here in Louisiana’s Second Congressional District. Let me thank Alice and the people at CrescentCare for the work that you do on behalf of the people in this community and all across the city and the state to ensure that they have access to high-quality care that is both compassionate and comprehensive. And our commitment is to make sure that we fight for every single person in this state, every single American across the country, to ensure that they can get the high-quality, affordable healthcare that people in this country, the wealthiest country in the history of the world, deserve.

    We believe that access to high-quality and affordable healthcare shouldn’t simply be a privilege available to the wealthy and the well-off. It’s a right. It should be available to every single person in the state of Louisiana, and every single person in this great country. Unfortunately, the One Big Ugly Bill that has been jammed down the throats of the American people represents the largest assault on Medicaid and healthcare in American history. The One Big Ugly Bill will have devastating consequences for the people of Louisiana who rely upon Medicaid to get their health service, to address their medical needs, to be able to live with dignity and respect in a nursing home setting, to have hospitals that are available to them and not closed, particularly in parts of rural Louisiana, and to be able to get the type of compassionate primary care that exists at community-based health clinics like this one. But this struggle is not over. We’re just at the beginning. We’re going to fight hard to make sure that the devastating Medicaid cuts that are now part of this One Big Ugly Law that has been signed can be pushed back—not for Democrats, Independents and Republicans, but for all Americans. That is our struggle. That is our commitment. That is the fight that we are waging on behalf of the people of Louisiana and on behalf of the people of this great country.

    The Louisiana state legislature, in an overwhelming and bipartisan way, passed a resolution, making clear that cuts to Medicaid will be devastating for the people of Louisiana, whether you’re in an urban part of the state, suburban part of the state, a small-town part of the state, a rural part of the state, it will be devastating, these cuts to Medicaid, to the people of Louisiana. The assault on healthcare is unacceptable, unconscionable and un-American. And I’m thankful for the leadership of Congressman Troy Carter in standing up for the people of this great state and helping to work with people from all across the political spectrum to do what is necessary to push back against the cuts that have now been enacted to educate the people of Louisiana and throughout the nation as to how damaging this One Big Ugly Bill will be to their quality of life. But most importantly, to assure everyone that our commitment is to continue to show up and stand up and speak up for your healthcare, for your quality of life, for an America where when you work hard and play by the rules, you can live a good life, have a good-paying job, good healthcare, good housing, good education for your children and, of course, a good retirement. That is our commitment to you, and we will not stop fighting until we can end this national nightmare and bring about an America that is the best version of herself.

    Full press conference can be watched here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “OUR COMMITMENT IS TO MAKE SURE WE FIGHT FOR EVERY SINGLE AMERICAN ACROSS THE COUNTRY”

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

    Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference at CrescentCare, a federally qualified health center in Louisiana, with Rep. Troy Carter (LA-02) and Steering and Policy Committee Co-Chairs Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) and Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44) to highlight how Donald Trump’s budget devastates the healthcare of the American people and outline how House Democrats will hold House Republicans accountable for voting to pass their One Big Ugly Law.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Good morning. It’s an honor and a privilege to be here in the great state of Louisiana, in this all-American city. Certainly thankful for the leadership of Congressman Troy Carter, for his partnership and his friendship, standing up, fighting hard each and every day on behalf of the people that he is privileged to represent here in Louisiana’s Second Congressional District. Let me thank Alice and the people at CrescentCare for the work that you do on behalf of the people in this community and all across the city and the state to ensure that they have access to high-quality care that is both compassionate and comprehensive. And our commitment is to make sure that we fight for every single person in this state, every single American across the country, to ensure that they can get the high-quality, affordable healthcare that people in this country, the wealthiest country in the history of the world, deserve.

    We believe that access to high-quality and affordable healthcare shouldn’t simply be a privilege available to the wealthy and the well-off. It’s a right. It should be available to every single person in the state of Louisiana, and every single person in this great country. Unfortunately, the One Big Ugly Bill that has been jammed down the throats of the American people represents the largest assault on Medicaid and healthcare in American history. The One Big Ugly Bill will have devastating consequences for the people of Louisiana who rely upon Medicaid to get their health service, to address their medical needs, to be able to live with dignity and respect in a nursing home setting, to have hospitals that are available to them and not closed, particularly in parts of rural Louisiana, and to be able to get the type of compassionate primary care that exists at community-based health clinics like this one. But this struggle is not over. We’re just at the beginning. We’re going to fight hard to make sure that the devastating Medicaid cuts that are now part of this One Big Ugly Law that has been signed can be pushed back—not for Democrats, Independents and Republicans, but for all Americans. That is our struggle. That is our commitment. That is the fight that we are waging on behalf of the people of Louisiana and on behalf of the people of this great country.

    The Louisiana state legislature, in an overwhelming and bipartisan way, passed a resolution, making clear that cuts to Medicaid will be devastating for the people of Louisiana, whether you’re in an urban part of the state, suburban part of the state, a small-town part of the state, a rural part of the state, it will be devastating, these cuts to Medicaid, to the people of Louisiana. The assault on healthcare is unacceptable, unconscionable and un-American. And I’m thankful for the leadership of Congressman Troy Carter in standing up for the people of this great state and helping to work with people from all across the political spectrum to do what is necessary to push back against the cuts that have now been enacted to educate the people of Louisiana and throughout the nation as to how damaging this One Big Ugly Bill will be to their quality of life. But most importantly, to assure everyone that our commitment is to continue to show up and stand up and speak up for your healthcare, for your quality of life, for an America where when you work hard and play by the rules, you can live a good life, have a good-paying job, good healthcare, good housing, good education for your children and, of course, a good retirement. That is our commitment to you, and we will not stop fighting until we can end this national nightmare and bring about an America that is the best version of herself.

    Full press conference can be watched here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mission Viejo Post Office Renamed in Honor of Fallen Hero Major Megan McClung

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Mission Viejo, CA – On July 3, 2025, the United States Postal Service (USPS) Post Office on 28081 Marguerite Parkway was officially redesignated as the Major Megan McClung Post Office Building, following a bipartisan effort by U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) to honor the fallen hero.

    The plaque presentation ceremony featured remarks from Mission Viejo Postmaster Robert Garcia, Mayor Bob Ruesch, Supervisor Don Wagner, and Major McClung’s brother, Michael McClung, who reflected on her life of service and sacrifice.

    Major Megan McClung was raised in Mission Viejo, attending De Portola Elementary, La Paz Intermediate, and Mission Viejo High School before earning degrees from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1995 and Boston University in 2006. She faithfully served in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) for 11 years, leading with humility, positivity, and selfless commitment to the service. In her final month of deployment, she made the ultimate sacrifice in Operation Iraqi Freedom. She was the first female Marine officer to be killed in the Iraq War and the first woman graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy to fall in the line of duty.

    She received the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.

    “Major Megan McClung’s legacy speaks as loudly as her life, and her spirit of boldness, humility, and courage continue to inspire our community,” said Rep. Young Kim. “While we can never truly repay her for her sacrifice, I am glad that her legacy is preserved for generations to come in Mission Viejo. I am proud to have played even a small role in honoring her memory.”

    H.R. 3608, bipartisan legislation led by Rep. Kim, passed the House and Senate with unanimous support and was signed into law in 2024.

    Read more about Major Megan McClung’s life and legacy here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mission Viejo Post Office Renamed in Honor of Fallen Hero Major Megan McClung

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Mission Viejo, CA – On July 3, 2025, the United States Postal Service (USPS) Post Office on 28081 Marguerite Parkway was officially redesignated as the Major Megan McClung Post Office Building, following a bipartisan effort by U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) to honor the fallen hero.

    The plaque presentation ceremony featured remarks from Mission Viejo Postmaster Robert Garcia, Mayor Bob Ruesch, Supervisor Don Wagner, and Major McClung’s brother, Michael McClung, who reflected on her life of service and sacrifice.

    Major Megan McClung was raised in Mission Viejo, attending De Portola Elementary, La Paz Intermediate, and Mission Viejo High School before earning degrees from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1995 and Boston University in 2006. She faithfully served in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) for 11 years, leading with humility, positivity, and selfless commitment to the service. In her final month of deployment, she made the ultimate sacrifice in Operation Iraqi Freedom. She was the first female Marine officer to be killed in the Iraq War and the first woman graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy to fall in the line of duty.

    She received the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.

    “Major Megan McClung’s legacy speaks as loudly as her life, and her spirit of boldness, humility, and courage continue to inspire our community,” said Rep. Young Kim. “While we can never truly repay her for her sacrifice, I am glad that her legacy is preserved for generations to come in Mission Viejo. I am proud to have played even a small role in honoring her memory.”

    H.R. 3608, bipartisan legislation led by Rep. Kim, passed the House and Senate with unanimous support and was signed into law in 2024.

    Read more about Major Megan McClung’s life and legacy here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Peru Presents Credentials

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    The new Permanent Representative of Peru to the United Nations, Gustavo Lino Adrianzén Olaya, presented his credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres today.

    (As provided by the Protocol and Liaison Service)

    Gustavo Lino Adrianzén Olaya is a distinguished Peruvian lawyer and the current Permanent Representative of Peru to the United Nations (UN) since 1 July 2025.

    Throughout his career, he has held several high-level positions within the Peruvian Government, including President of the Council of Ministers (March 2024 – May 2025) and Minister of Justice and Human Rights (April – October 2015).  He previously served as Vice-Minister of Justice, as well as Public Prosecutor in the Ministry of Defense, and Specialized Public Prosecutor of the National Police of Peru.

    From February 2023 to March 2024, he served as Peru’s Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS).

    He holds a law degree from the University of Lima and a master’s degree in public administration and management from Spain’s National Institute of Public Administration.  He also earned an officially recognized law degree from the University of Alcalá de Henares in Spain.  His academic background is further enriched by postgraduate studies in human rights at specialized institutions in Geneva, Strasbourg, San José de Costa Rica and Florence.

    In October 2015, he was awarded the Order of Merit for Distinguished Services in the rank of Grand Cross in recognition of his public service.

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Sessions Votes Yes on Senate Amendment to One Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement regarding today’s vote on the Senate Amendment to HR 1, One Big Beautiful Bill Act

    “I am pleased to see this important legislation moving forward with Senate revisions that maintain the priorities of preventing a return to the Obama-era policies of higher taxes and excessive government spending, while protecting American taxpayers. This bill blocks a harmful tax increase and reins in reckless federal spending that began in 2009. Additionally, this legislation secures critical reimbursement to Texas for Operation Lone Star and extends the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee, which is tasked with rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse in federal programs. This is a major step toward protecting taxpayer dollars, securing our border, and putting hardworking Americans first.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Hill Country Flooding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement on the tragic flooding in Central Texas.

    Congressman Sessions said, “I am heartbroken by the tragic flooding in the Hill Country. Our prayers are with those who have been lost, those still missing, and all the families affected. We pray for comfort, strength, and healing. May God also watch over the emergency response team and volunteers continuing their courageous efforts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Hill Country Flooding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement on the tragic flooding in Central Texas.

    Congressman Sessions said, “I am heartbroken by the tragic flooding in the Hill Country. Our prayers are with those who have been lost, those still missing, and all the families affected. We pray for comfort, strength, and healing. May God also watch over the emergency response team and volunteers continuing their courageous efforts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Hill Country Flooding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement on the tragic flooding in Central Texas.

    Congressman Sessions said, “I am heartbroken by the tragic flooding in the Hill Country. Our prayers are with those who have been lost, those still missing, and all the families affected. We pray for comfort, strength, and healing. May God also watch over the emergency response team and volunteers continuing their courageous efforts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Hill Country Flooding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement on the tragic flooding in Central Texas.

    Congressman Sessions said, “I am heartbroken by the tragic flooding in the Hill Country. Our prayers are with those who have been lost, those still missing, and all the families affected. We pray for comfort, strength, and healing. May God also watch over the emergency response team and volunteers continuing their courageous efforts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Hill Country Flooding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement on the tragic flooding in Central Texas.

    Congressman Sessions said, “I am heartbroken by the tragic flooding in the Hill Country. Our prayers are with those who have been lost, those still missing, and all the families affected. We pray for comfort, strength, and healing. May God also watch over the emergency response team and volunteers continuing their courageous efforts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Hill Country Flooding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement on the tragic flooding in Central Texas.

    Congressman Sessions said, “I am heartbroken by the tragic flooding in the Hill Country. Our prayers are with those who have been lost, those still missing, and all the families affected. We pray for comfort, strength, and healing. May God also watch over the emergency response team and volunteers continuing their courageous efforts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Hill Country Flooding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement on the tragic flooding in Central Texas.

    Congressman Sessions said, “I am heartbroken by the tragic flooding in the Hill Country. Our prayers are with those who have been lost, those still missing, and all the families affected. We pray for comfort, strength, and healing. May God also watch over the emergency response team and volunteers continuing their courageous efforts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Sessions Votes Yes on Senate Amendment to One Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement regarding today’s vote on the Senate Amendment to HR 1, One Big Beautiful Bill Act

    “I am pleased to see this important legislation moving forward with Senate revisions that maintain the priorities of preventing a return to the Obama-era policies of higher taxes and excessive government spending, while protecting American taxpayers. This bill blocks a harmful tax increase and reins in reckless federal spending that began in 2009. Additionally, this legislation secures critical reimbursement to Texas for Operation Lone Star and extends the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee, which is tasked with rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse in federal programs. This is a major step toward protecting taxpayer dollars, securing our border, and putting hardworking Americans first.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Hill Country Flooding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)

    WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement on the tragic flooding in Central Texas.

    Congressman Sessions said, “I am heartbroken by the tragic flooding in the Hill Country. Our prayers are with those who have been lost, those still missing, and all the families affected. We pray for comfort, strength, and healing. May God also watch over the emergency response team and volunteers continuing their courageous efforts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –