NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-Evening Report: Ice Age shelter high up in the Blue Mountains reveals Aboriginal heritage from 20,000 years ago

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Erin Wilkins, Aboriginal Cultural Educator, Trainer and Facilitator, Indigenous Knowledge

    Artist’s impression of Dargan Shelter as it would have looked during the last Ice Age. Painting by Leanne Watson Redpath

    Travel back 20,000 years into the last Ice Age, to a time when the upper reaches of the Blue Mountains were treeless and the ridgelines and mountain peaks laden in snow and ice.

    At an elevation of 1,073 metres, you will find Dargan Shelter, an ancient rock shelter resembling a large amphitheatre. Looking around, you could easily assume this cold and barren high country was too difficult for people to spend time in.

    But our new research, published today in Nature Human Behaviour, indicates Dargan Shelter was occupied as early as the last Ice Age and repeatedly visited during this cold period.

    Our excavation results provide the earliest known evidence of high-altitude occupation in Australia, establishing the Blue Mountains as Australia’s most archaeologically significant periglacial landscape – that is, an area which goes through seasonal freezing and thawing.

    Cultural perspectives

    This is a highly significant landscape concentrated with tangible and intangible cultural values for Aboriginal people.

    For millennia, Aboriginal people have passed down the knowledge and stories of Country.

    Knowing our Ancestors have lived here, in this Country, for thousands of years was on our minds as the team headed down into the site where we would sit alongside our Ancestors of yesterday.

    We chose this site because of its location on a known Aboriginal travelling route, high elevation and its potential to hold deep deposits.

    Archaeologically, a deep and undisturbed deposit is one of the most important things to look for. The sediment buildup over time preserves cultural material, and allows us to reconstruct past activities by associating cultural objects within distinct layers or bands of time.

    Members of the season 3 team at Dargan Shelter. Back to front, left to right: Tyrone Pal, Rodney Lawson, Wayne Brennan, Duncan Wright, Eitan Harris, Juliet Schofield, Michael Spate, Wayne Logue, Lauren Roach, Rebecca Chalker, Dominic Wilkins, Phil Piper, Amy Way, Imogen Williams.
    Amy Way

    When we enter the site, we pay respects to the Country and Ancestors before us. As part of the opening of the site for the archaeological works, a lyrebird song and dance were performed and, magically, a handful of lyrebirds began approaching the cave and singing out as if they were communicating between the current and old worlds through song.

    We do not know who exactly the Aboriginal people who moved through the Blue Mountains in the deep past were, nor where they came from. But Dargan Shelter was probably an important stopover point for people to attend gatherings and ceremonies that could have included people from the western interior, the Cumberland coastal plains, and Country to the north and south.

    Finds from the Dargan Shelter excavation

    New evidence provides definitive proof of repeated occupation in this once frozen high-altitude landscape. It is now believed to be the oldest occupied site in Australia at high elevation.

    We unearthed 693 stone artefacts, including 117 flakes from stratigraphic layers older than 16,000 years, and documented a small amount of faded rock art, including a child-sized hand stencil and two forearm stencils.

    Charcoal from hearths (campfires) underwent radiocarbon dating, indicating Dargan Shelter had been continuously occupied since 22,000 to 19,000 years ago.

    Stone artefacts excavated at Dargan shelter dating to the last ice-age, showing the range of non-quartz raw material used during that time. (A) hornfels; (B) black quartzite hammerstone from the Hunter region; (C) exotic coarse grained unidentified siliceous stone possibly from Jenolan; (D) Local Burragorang claystone; (E) exotic fine grained siliceous stone possibly from Jenolan;
    Amy Way

    Among the findings, most of the stone tools were locally sourced and made. But, very interestingly some stones from the Jenolan Caves area, approximately 50 kilometres to the south-west, and the Hunter Valley region, 150 km to the north, were also found. This indicates people were travelling into this mountainous region from both the north and south.

    We found a sandstone grinding slab, dated to 13,000 years ago, consistent with shaping bone or wooden artefacts such as needles, awls, bone points and nose points. A basalt anvil with impact marks consistent with cracking hard woody nuts and seed shells was dated to 8,800 years ago.

    Greater Blue Mountains and world heritage

    The Blue Mountains was listed as a UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage area in 2000 for its outstanding biodiversity values.

    Although the cultural heritage is remarkably intact and connected with an environmental system and natural features, the parallel nomination for cultural values listing failed due to a paucity of archaeological and cultural heritage information.

    Our new research should be considered in a nomination for the UNESCO World Heritage area to also encompass cultural heritage alongside biodiversity.

    The Blue Mountains landscape shrouds a silent yet rich tapestry of Aboriginal heritage.

    Our people have walked, lived and thrived in the Blue Mountains for thousands of years. The mountains are a tangible connection to our Ancestors who used them as a meeting place for sharing, storytelling and survival. They are a part of our cultural identity.

    We need to respect and protect our heritage for the benefit of all Australians.

    Archaeological works in progress: Imogen Williams, Rebecca Chalker and Tyrone Pal excavating the Ice Age layers.
    Amy Way

    Our results align Australia for the first time with ice age data from the world’s other inhabited continents, including sites in other places not traditionally thought of as cold climates, such as Mexico and Spain.

    We now have a truly global story of people entering and living in high-altitude landscapes during the last ice age.

    The continuation of research projects like this one, and the invaluable evidence it provides across the region, will allow Aboriginal people with connections to the Blue Mountains to begin to stitch back together much of the history and many of the stories that until now have had gaps.

    The more we discover and piece together the movements, ceremonies and stories, the stronger we are as a community.

    Amy Mosig Way receives funding from the Australian Museum Foundation and is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney.

    Erin Wilkins, Leanne Watson, and Wayne Brennan do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Ice Age shelter high up in the Blue Mountains reveals Aboriginal heritage from 20,000 years ago – https://theconversation.com/ice-age-shelter-high-up-in-the-blue-mountains-reveals-aboriginal-heritage-from-20-000-years-ago-247358

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Freehold Royalties Declares Dividend for June 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, June 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Freehold Royalties Ltd. (Freehold) (TSX: FRU) announces that its Board of Directors has declared a dividend of Cdn. $0.09 per common share to be paid on July 15, 2025 to shareholders of record on June 30, 2025.

    These dividends are designated as “eligible dividends” for Canadian income tax purposes.

    Freehold is uniquely positioned as a leading North American energy royalty company with approximately 6.1 million gross acres in Canada and approximately 1.2 million gross drilling acres in the United States. Freehold’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange in Canada under the symbol FRU.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army to change names of seven installations

    Source: United States Army

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Army will take all necessary actions to change the names of seven Army installations in honor of heroic Soldiers who served in conflicts ranging from the Civil War to the Battle of Mogadishu. Five of them received the Medal of Honor, three received the Distinguished Service Cross and one received the Silver Star.

    Fort Pickett (formerly Fort Barfoot) will be named in honor of Distinguished Service Cross recipient 1st Lt. Vernon W. Pickett for his extraordinary heroism during World War II. While pinned down by enemy machine gun fire, Pickett crawled forward and destroyed two enemy positions with grenades. After being captured, he escaped from a transport train with fellow POWs and rejoined his unit before being killed in action.

    Fort Hood (formerly Fort Cavazos) will be named in honor of Distinguished Service Cross recipient Col. Robert B. Hood for his extraordinary heroism during World War I. Amid intense shelling near Thiaucourt, France, then-Capt. Hood directed artillery fire under enfilading machine-gun fire. After his gun crew was lost to enemy fire, he rapidly reorganized and returned fire within minutes, restoring combat capability.

    Fort Gordon (formerly Fort Eisenhower) will be named in honor of Medal of Honor recipient Master Sgt. Gary I. Gordon for his valor during the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, Somalia. Gordon volunteered to be inserted to defend wounded crew members at a helicopter crash site and held off an advancing enemy force, protecting the pilot after exhausting all his ammunition.

    Fort Lee (formerly Fort Gregg-Adams) will be named in honor of Medal of Honor recipient Pvt. Fitz Lee for his heroism during the Spanish-American War. During a coastal assault in Cuba, Lee voluntarily disembarked under direct enemy fire to rescue wounded comrades from the battlefield.

    Fort Polk (formerly Fort Johnson) will be named in honor of Silver Star recipient Gen. James H. Polk for his gallantry in action as commanding officer of the 3rd Cavalry Group (Mechanized) during operations across Europe in World War II. Then-Col. Polk led reconnaissance and combat missions under fire, spearheading Third Army advances as part of Task Force Polk. He later served as commander in chief of U.S. Army Europe.

    Fort Rucker (formerly Fort Novosel) will be named in honor of Distinguished Service Cross recipient Capt. Edward W. Rucker for extraordinary heroism in World War I. Flying deep behind enemy lines, then-1st Lt. Rucker and his fellow aviators engaged a numerically superior enemy force in a daring aerial battle over France, disrupting enemy movements and completing their mission against overwhelming odds.

    Fort A.P. Hill (formerly Fort Walker) will be named in honor of Medal of Honor recipients Lt. Col. Edward Hill, 1st Sgt. Robert A. Pinn and Pvt. Bruce Anderson for extraordinary heroism during the Civil War. Then-Capt. Hill, Pinn and Anderson executed significant actions separately at Cold Harbor, Virginia; Chapin’s Farm, Virginia; and Fort Fisher, North Carolina, in support of the U.S. Army.

    The Secretary of the Army will take immediate action to implement these redesignations, which are in accordance with Section 1749(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020.

    For more information, please contact usarmy.pentagon.hqda-ocpa.mbx.mrd-press-desk@army.mil.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army to cease procurement of M10 Booker Combat Vehicles

    Source: United States Army

    Washington (June 11, 2025) – In response to current world events and in support of the strategic objectives outlined in the Army Transformation Initiative, the U.S. Army has issued a termination for convenience of the current low-rate initial production of the M10 Booker Combat Vehicle and will not enter into full-rate production as originally planned.

    The Army will request to reallocate the remaining funds in fiscal 2025 to accelerate fielding of war-winning capabilities and anticipates additional significant savings to be fully realized within the next 18-24 months.

    Formerly known as the Mobile Protected Firepower, the M10 Booker low-rate initial production contract was awarded in June 2022 to General Dynamics Land Systems for the production and fielding of up to 96 vehicles. The ongoing contract termination process will ultimately determine the disposition of the remaining assets.

    Although M10 Booker production will conclude, the Army appreciates the efforts of the team and Soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division who worked on the program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army Launches Detachment 201: Executive Innovation Corps to Drive Tech Transformation

    Source: United States Army

    New Executive Innovation Corps brings top tech talent into the Army Reserve to bridge the commercial-military tech gap, with four tech leaders set to join as officers.

    WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army is establishing Detachment 201: The Army’s Executive Innovation Corps, a new initiative designed to fuse cutting-edge tech expertise with military innovation. On June 13, 2025, the Army will officially swear in four tech leaders.

    Det. 201 is an effort to recruit senior tech executives to serve part-time in the Army Reserve as senior advisors. In this role they will work on targeted projects to help guide rapid and scalable tech solutions to complex problems. By bringing private-sector know-how into uniform, Det. 201 is supercharging efforts like the Army Transformation Initiative, which aims to make the force leaner, smarter, and more lethal.

    The four new Army Reserve Lt. Cols. are Shyam Sankar, Chief Technology Officer for Palantir; Andrew Bosworth, Chief Technology Officer of Meta; Kevin Weil, Chief Product Officer of OpenAI; and Bob McGrew, advisor at Thinking Machines Lab and former Chief Research Officer for OpenAI.

    Their swearing-in is just the start of a bigger mission to inspire more tech pros to serve without leaving their careers, showing the next generation how to make a difference in uniform.

    * * *

    The United States Army is the land service branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and the oldest established military force in the country. Committed to defending the nation and supporting global stability, the Army leads the way in innovation, resilience, and readiness. Learn more at www.army.mil

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army’s 250th birthday celebration on June 14, 2025

    Source: United States Army

    WASHINGTON – Members of the media are invited to cover the celebration of the Army’s 250th birthday on June 14, 2025.

    The festival is at the National Mall in Washington D.C. and begins with an Army Fitness competition at 9:30 a.m. Festival exhibits open at 11 a.m. The festival will provide opportunities to interact with Soldiers, Army astronauts, NFL representatives, and Medal of Honor recipients. There will be military demonstrations, equipment displays, a cake cutting ceremony and opportunities to take part in a variety of activities.

    All press have access to cover the fitness event and the exhibits which are open to the public. If press registered for the parade they are automatically registered for the festival. If press have not registered for the parade, they will still have access to the festival. In other words, press do not need credentials for the festival.

    Press covering the festival may arrive as early as 8 a.m. and should enter through the festival entrance at 7th St. SW and Jefferson St. SW.

    First stop for the press should be the Media Operations Center (Tent #48) located behind the main stage. From there, press will be directed to the media tents (Tents #43&44).

    Soldiers, historians in uniform, and other experts will be available throughout the day for interviews.

    The media can move from the festival to the parade through the pedestrian checkpoint located at 14th St. NW, south of Constitution Ave. NW beginning at 2 p.m.

    The screening checkpoint for the general public attending the parade will be open at 2 p.m. at the following locations:

    • 14th Street between Constitution and Independence Avenue
    • C Street NW between 18th and 19th Street

    At 6:30 p.m. the Army Birthday Parade will celebrate the Army’s history and will feature Army equipment, flyovers and 6,700 Soldiers in uniforms from the past and the present. The day will end with an enlistment and reenlistment ceremony, a parachute demonstration by the Golden Knights and a fireworks display.

    All press access for the parade is controlled by the America250 Commission. If press did not request parade access through the America250 Commission, they can still access the parade with the general public. For more information about press access to the parade, please contact press@america250.org.

    WEATHER

    The weather is being closely monitored and taken into consideration, but at this point nothing has changed. New developments, if any, will be announced by the Army or the America250 Commission.

    To learn more about road/metro closures, and prohibited items, visit:

    For questions about parade credentialing, visit:

    To learn more about the Army’s 250th birthday, visit:

    Livestreams on June 14:

    The U.S. Army Fitness Competition – 9:20 a.m. to 12 p.m.,

    The 250th Army Birthday Festival is made possible through the support of 22 sponsors. This includes presenting sponsors General Dynamics and USAA, and festival entertainment sponsor the Gary Sinise Foundation. Platinum sponsors include the Wounded Warrior Project, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service, the Association of the United States Army, Bell Textron, Wal-Mart, GOVX, Leonardo DRS, RTX Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Leidos and BAE Systems. Gold sponsors include Armed Forces Mutual, Boeing, First Command, General Electric Aerospace, T-Mobile, King George, InterContinental Hotels Group and the NFL. Sponsorship does not imply U.S. Army or federal endorsement.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national admits to transporting child sexual abuse material across state lines to Mexico

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAREDO, Texas – A 39-year-old Mexican national has pleaded guilty to transportation of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    On March 12, Raul Velasco-Leon was traveling from Tennessee and approached the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge attempting to enter Mexico. While on the primary lane, authorities selected Velasco-Leon for further inspection and referred him to secondary.

    They conducted a search of his belongings and found what appeared to be a piece of youth-sized clothing with the words “Girl Power” tucked inside a jean pocket. Law enforcement also discovered multiple electronic devices, including 10 USB flash drives, two cell phones and a laptop. On one of the devices, they discovered six files containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) of minor victims approximately 10 years of age.

    The files contained approximately five photographs and one video that contained CSAM. The five images, displayed via video chat, depicted female minor victims showing their genital areas. The video had a split screen with the adult male, later determined to be Velasco-Leon, masturbating while the top of the screen displayed a montage of CSAM including a female minor victim being forced to perform oral sex on an adult male.

    Velasco-Leon admitted he had been engaged in a video chat and when he saw the CSAM, he would watch and screen record it.

    U.S. District Judge John A. Kazen will impose sentencing at a later date. At that time, Velasco-Leon faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

    “This case is about protecting kids both north and south of the border from the defendant’s predatory behavior,” said Ganjei. “Although Velasco-Leon was about to depart the United States for Mexico, given his conduct, his stay in the U.S. is about to become much, much longer.”

    “This guilty plea is a critical step in holding Velasco-Leon accountable for the disturbing crimes he committed,” said Acting Deputy Special Agent in Charge Mauro Lopez of Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) Laredo. “HSI remains committed to identifying, investigating and bringing to justice those who exploit children. We will continue working tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to ensure predators face the full consequences of their actions and that victims are not forgotten.”

    ICE-HSI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine A. Cortez is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national admits to transporting child sexual abuse material across state lines to Mexico

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAREDO, Texas – A 39-year-old Mexican national has pleaded guilty to transportation of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    On March 12, Raul Velasco-Leon was traveling from Tennessee and approached the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge attempting to enter Mexico. While on the primary lane, authorities selected Velasco-Leon for further inspection and referred him to secondary.

    They conducted a search of his belongings and found what appeared to be a piece of youth-sized clothing with the words “Girl Power” tucked inside a jean pocket. Law enforcement also discovered multiple electronic devices, including 10 USB flash drives, two cell phones and a laptop. On one of the devices, they discovered six files containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) of minor victims approximately 10 years of age.

    The files contained approximately five photographs and one video that contained CSAM. The five images, displayed via video chat, depicted female minor victims showing their genital areas. The video had a split screen with the adult male, later determined to be Velasco-Leon, masturbating while the top of the screen displayed a montage of CSAM including a female minor victim being forced to perform oral sex on an adult male.

    Velasco-Leon admitted he had been engaged in a video chat and when he saw the CSAM, he would watch and screen record it.

    U.S. District Judge John A. Kazen will impose sentencing at a later date. At that time, Velasco-Leon faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

    “This case is about protecting kids both north and south of the border from the defendant’s predatory behavior,” said Ganjei. “Although Velasco-Leon was about to depart the United States for Mexico, given his conduct, his stay in the U.S. is about to become much, much longer.”

    “This guilty plea is a critical step in holding Velasco-Leon accountable for the disturbing crimes he committed,” said Acting Deputy Special Agent in Charge Mauro Lopez of Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) Laredo. “HSI remains committed to identifying, investigating and bringing to justice those who exploit children. We will continue working tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to ensure predators face the full consequences of their actions and that victims are not forgotten.”

    ICE-HSI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine A. Cortez is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alleged Members of Major Guatemalan Drug Trafficking Organization Indicted

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – A federal grand jury indictment was unsealed in San Diego Friday alleging that 13 Guatemalan nationals are part of a Guatemala-based cocaine trafficking organization operating out of La Mesilla and Democracia, Huehuetenango, Guatemala, which is on the Guatemala-Mexico border.

    The indictment was returned on May 31, 2019. Among the individuals charged are Baldemar Calderon-Carrillo, aka “Don Valde,” and his son, Walfre Donaldo Calderon-Calderon, aka “El Teniente Jr.”

    On June 13, 2025, federal agents in San Diego received information that Calderon-Carrillo, the lead defendant in the indictment, had been killed during a June 8, 2025, shootout with Mexican authorities. U.S. agents continue to obtain information confirming the details of Calderon-Carrillo’s death. Video of the incident was posted on various news outlets and in social media showing Mexican law enforcement in a shootout with members of a drug trafficking organization.

    In January 2023, one of Calderon-Carrillo’s sons, Edgar Yovani Calderon-Calderon, aka “Panon,” who is charged in the same indictment, was arrested in Paris, France. Edgar Yovani Calderon-Calderon was extradited to the United States from France in March 2024 and pleaded guilty in February 2025 to international cocaine distribution conspiracy charges.

    As part of his plea agreement, Calderon-Calderon admitted that since at least 2017, up to and including May 31, 2019, he conspired with others to distribute cocaine in Guatemala and elsewhere, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe the cocaine would be unlawfully imported into the United States.

    Calderon-Calderon admitted that he participated in the distribution of large quantities of cocaine in Guatemala on behalf of a drug trafficking organization based in La Mesilla, Huehuetenango, Guatemala. From Huehuetenango, the cocaine was transported to co-conspirators operating near the Guatemala-Mexico border, into Mexico, and ultimately smuggled into the United States.  As part of his plea agreement, Calderon-Calderon admitted that the conspiracy involved at least 550 kilograms of cocaine. On May 30, 2025, Calderon-Calderon was sentenced to 87 months in prison.

    The remaining defendants charged in the indictment are fugitives.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Mokhtari. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and French authorities provided substantial assistance to secure the arrest and extradition of Edgar Yovani Calderon-Calderon.

    DEFENDANTS                                                               Case Number 19-cr-2025-DMS              

    Baldemar Calderon-Carrillo, aka “Don Valde”                     Age: 67           Guatemala

    Amado Calderon-Calderon, aka “Don Juan”                         Age: 46           Guatemala

    Walfre Donaldo Calderon-Calderon,  aka “El Teniente Jr.”  Age: 43           Guatemala

    Ceidner Ivan Calderon-Villatoro, aka “Chene”                     Age: 35           Guatemala

    Edgar Yovani Calderon-Calderon, aka “Panon”                    Age: 45           Guatemala

    Boris Brandon Calderon-Villatoro, aka “Leon”                     Age: 31           Guatemala

    Fredy Estuardo Villatoro-Calderon, aka “Nalo”                    Age: 31           Guatemala

    Juan Carlos Escobedo-Herrera, aka “Ducati”                        Age: 34           Guatemala

    Marvin Waldemar Mendez-Aldana, aka “Don Pelado”         Age: 44           Guatemala

    German Zaldana-Lima, aka “Gorgo”                                     Age: 50           Guatemala

    Arnoldo Bexsael Morales-Aguilar, aka “Bex”                       Age: 57           Guatemala

    Ranferi Godinez-Vasquez, aka “Chilo”                                 Age: 31           Guatemala

    Maximo Morales-Godinez, aka “Max”                                  Age: 37           Guatemala

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Count 1 – International Cocaine Distribution Conspiracy – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 959, 960, 963

    Maximum penalty: Life in prison; a maximum $10 million fine

    All defendants

    Count 2 – Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine – Title 46, U.S.C., Sections 70503, 70506(b)

    Maximum penalty: Life in prison; a maximum $10 million fine

    Defendant Walfre Donaldo Calderon-Calderon only

    INVESTIGATING AGENCY

    Homeland Security Investigations

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alleged Members of Major Guatemalan Drug Trafficking Organization Indicted

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – A federal grand jury indictment was unsealed in San Diego Friday alleging that 13 Guatemalan nationals are part of a Guatemala-based cocaine trafficking organization operating out of La Mesilla and Democracia, Huehuetenango, Guatemala, which is on the Guatemala-Mexico border.

    The indictment was returned on May 31, 2019. Among the individuals charged are Baldemar Calderon-Carrillo, aka “Don Valde,” and his son, Walfre Donaldo Calderon-Calderon, aka “El Teniente Jr.”

    On June 13, 2025, federal agents in San Diego received information that Calderon-Carrillo, the lead defendant in the indictment, had been killed during a June 8, 2025, shootout with Mexican authorities. U.S. agents continue to obtain information confirming the details of Calderon-Carrillo’s death. Video of the incident was posted on various news outlets and in social media showing Mexican law enforcement in a shootout with members of a drug trafficking organization.

    In January 2023, one of Calderon-Carrillo’s sons, Edgar Yovani Calderon-Calderon, aka “Panon,” who is charged in the same indictment, was arrested in Paris, France. Edgar Yovani Calderon-Calderon was extradited to the United States from France in March 2024 and pleaded guilty in February 2025 to international cocaine distribution conspiracy charges.

    As part of his plea agreement, Calderon-Calderon admitted that since at least 2017, up to and including May 31, 2019, he conspired with others to distribute cocaine in Guatemala and elsewhere, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe the cocaine would be unlawfully imported into the United States.

    Calderon-Calderon admitted that he participated in the distribution of large quantities of cocaine in Guatemala on behalf of a drug trafficking organization based in La Mesilla, Huehuetenango, Guatemala. From Huehuetenango, the cocaine was transported to co-conspirators operating near the Guatemala-Mexico border, into Mexico, and ultimately smuggled into the United States.  As part of his plea agreement, Calderon-Calderon admitted that the conspiracy involved at least 550 kilograms of cocaine. On May 30, 2025, Calderon-Calderon was sentenced to 87 months in prison.

    The remaining defendants charged in the indictment are fugitives.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Mokhtari. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and French authorities provided substantial assistance to secure the arrest and extradition of Edgar Yovani Calderon-Calderon.

    DEFENDANTS                                                               Case Number 19-cr-2025-DMS              

    Baldemar Calderon-Carrillo, aka “Don Valde”                     Age: 67           Guatemala

    Amado Calderon-Calderon, aka “Don Juan”                         Age: 46           Guatemala

    Walfre Donaldo Calderon-Calderon,  aka “El Teniente Jr.”  Age: 43           Guatemala

    Ceidner Ivan Calderon-Villatoro, aka “Chene”                     Age: 35           Guatemala

    Edgar Yovani Calderon-Calderon, aka “Panon”                    Age: 45           Guatemala

    Boris Brandon Calderon-Villatoro, aka “Leon”                     Age: 31           Guatemala

    Fredy Estuardo Villatoro-Calderon, aka “Nalo”                    Age: 31           Guatemala

    Juan Carlos Escobedo-Herrera, aka “Ducati”                        Age: 34           Guatemala

    Marvin Waldemar Mendez-Aldana, aka “Don Pelado”         Age: 44           Guatemala

    German Zaldana-Lima, aka “Gorgo”                                     Age: 50           Guatemala

    Arnoldo Bexsael Morales-Aguilar, aka “Bex”                       Age: 57           Guatemala

    Ranferi Godinez-Vasquez, aka “Chilo”                                 Age: 31           Guatemala

    Maximo Morales-Godinez, aka “Max”                                  Age: 37           Guatemala

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Count 1 – International Cocaine Distribution Conspiracy – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 959, 960, 963

    Maximum penalty: Life in prison; a maximum $10 million fine

    All defendants

    Count 2 – Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine – Title 46, U.S.C., Sections 70503, 70506(b)

    Maximum penalty: Life in prison; a maximum $10 million fine

    Defendant Walfre Donaldo Calderon-Calderon only

    INVESTIGATING AGENCY

    Homeland Security Investigations

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capitol Hill Touts Benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    Across Capitol Hill, members of Congress have been sharing with their constituents the benefits of President Donald J. Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill — which include the largest tax cut in history, higher wages and take-home pay, unprecedented spending cuts, border security, protecting Medicaid, modernizing air traffic control, and much more.
    Here are what some members of Congress are saying around the country:
    Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) on FoxNews.com: How Senate Republicans are restoring rule of law and securing border for years to come
    “While Democrat allies riot in the streets, Republicans are standing up for what’s right. Today, as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I released legislative text for my committee’s section of the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’ The Judiciary Committee’s provisions provide historic investments to strengthen our nation’s border security and immigration system, support local law enforcement and protect American families from violence like we’ve seen in Los Angeles. The costs of the judiciary section are offset by immigration application fees, which inject accountability into the immigration system.”
    Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) in Cowboy State Daily: Trump’s Border Triumph — Making America Secure Again
    “The Senate is currently developing President Trump’s comprehensive legislative package, known as the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act, with the goal of passage by July 4th. This legislation contains several immigration measures that I believe are essential. The bill provides funding to help finish President Trump’s border wall, and gives Border Patrol and ICE agents the resources, technology, and personnel they need to carry out the mission … The American people were clear last November when they voted and told Washington, D.C. that it is time to fully secure our border and deport illegal aliens. These provisions give President Trump and his administration the resources they need to continue delivering on this mandate.”
    Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) on FoxNews.com: Trump’s One Big, Beautiful Bill will keep our border the most secure it’s been in history
    “Our country stands at a crossroads. Thanks to President Donald Trump’s and Homeland Security Secretary Noem’s leadership, our border is secure. We can either capitalize on this success and give law enforcement the resources it needs to keep it secure by passing the One Big, Beautiful Bill, or we can let the sacrifice of our men and women on the ground be in vain.”
    Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) in The Hill: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act delivers for America. Now the Senate Must Deliver Too.
    “The House of Representatives has delivered on the American people’s mandate by passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the most comprehensive and consequential set of conservative reforms in our nation’s history. This transformative package includes record levels of tax cuts, spending reduction, and border and national security investment. The ball is now in the Senate’s court and their mission is simple: move the One Big Beautiful Bill to the president’s desk as soon as possible.”
    Rep. Michael Baumgartner (R-WA) in the Ritzville Adams County Journal: One ‘Big, Beautiful, Bill Act’ is good for us
    “This legislation delivers on the promises made to the American people: to secure the border, cut taxes, unleash American energy and restore fairness to our economy. It reflects what voters demanded and what I pledged to deliver.”
    Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY) in the Lexington Herald-Leader: Senate must pass Trump’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’
    “Last month, I voted to pass President Trump’s Big, Beautiful Bill. It was an easy vote. The president’s leadership produced a transformational legislative win that will deliver an across-the-board tax cut for families, small businesses, farmers and seniors. On top of tax relief for Kentuckians still rebounding from four years of runaway inflation under Joe Biden, we surge resources to help law enforcement seal the Southern border and provide $1.6 trillion in deficit reduction, all while strengthening Medicaid for Kentuckians who need it. That’s why my message to U.S. senators, especially from Kentucky, is very simple: pass the Big, Beautiful Bill, and send it to the president’s desk. Kentuckians can’t afford to wait, literally.”
    Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI) in The Detroit News: One Big Beautiful Bill corrects nation’s course
    “After the last four years of chaos in America under the Biden-Harris administration — from our overwhelmed southern border to reckless binge spending driving up our national debt — we are one bad decision, or one failure to act, away from catastrophe. That’s why I supported the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which will deliver middle-class tax relief, secure our borders, bolster our defense, and restore the kind of fiscal responsibility that northern Michigan families have practiced for generations. This bill will turn the tide against out-of-control spending and help rescue our economy.”
    Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL) in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Floridians benefit from Trump’s tax cuts. We can’t let Democrats take them away.
    “As Floridians begin to recover from the disastrous Biden administration, the last thing they need is a massive tax hike – but that’s exactly what will happen if Congress doesn’t act. That’s why Republicans are working to extend President Donald Trump’s 2017 tax cuts and ensure all Americans get the relief they deserve.”
    Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA) in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Sens. Ossoff, Warnock should support Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’
    “Georgia’s Democratic U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock should not oppose President Trump’s ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ Act (OBBBA) … the most consequential piece of legislation of our generation. It is a legacy defining bill that I was proud to support when it passed the House of Representatives, advancing President Trump’s full domestic agenda that more than 77 million Americans overwhelmingly voted for back in November. That’s exactly why Ossoff and Warnock are going to fight this bill at every turn.”
    Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) on Indianz.com: Promises Made, Promises Kept
    “Last November, the American people gave their Representatives a mandate when they overwhelmingly voted for change. 77 million Americans made it very clear to us that they wanted a secure border, the resurgence of American energy dominance, lower taxes, a lethal military focused on warfighting instead of woke initiatives, and a more efficient federal government that roots out fraud, waste, and abuse of taxpayer dollars — essentially the platform that President Trump ran on. Now, less than six months into the new Trump Administration, the United States House of Representatives has already delivered on these promises by passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”
    Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA) on RealClearPolitics.com: A Big, Beautiful Win for America
    “The American Dream is back in reach and our nation is back on the path to prosperity, security, and sanity, thanks to the actions of the House of Representatives last week. With the House’s passage of President Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill,’ we’ve shown that it is possible to return common sense to our government, protect taxpayers, secure our borders, and chart a course for national Golden Age – all in one package.”
    Rep. Troy Downing (R-WY) in the Billings Gazette: We are staring down the barrel of a 26% tax increase
    “We are staring down the barrel of a 26% tax increase. If Congress does not take action to extend the President Donald Trump’s tax cuts by Jan. 1 of next year, the average Montana family of four will be out more than $1,400 per year … Put plainly, a vote opposing an extension of the TCJA is a vote to raise taxes — on the rich, on the poor, on you, on your neighbor, on family farms, on the coffee shop down the street. Republicans will prevent Democrats from walking America off a fiscal cliff and avoid this catastrophic tax hike that threatens the financial security of countless Montanans.”
    Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL) in the Tallahassee Democrat: Floridians: Don’t let Washington raise your taxes while you’re not looking
    “Across Florida’s 2nd Congressional District, families have already been stretched thin by rising costs – at the grocery store, at the gas pump, and on their utility bills. The last thing they need is a tax hike. But unless Congress acts soon, that’s exactly what nightmare is coming … Preventing this tax hike should be a bipartisan priority. We owe it to the people we serve to protect and build on the progress our nation has made. Congress must act to make the TCJA permanent – to protect prosperity, promote growth, and preserve the American Dream for the next generation.”
    Rep. Gabe Evans (R-CO) in Newsweek: House Republicans Are Keeping Our Promises on Border Security
    “Americans are desperate to feel safe in our own neighborhoods, but time and time again dangerous illegal immigrants stole from, raped, assaulted, and killed innocent Americans. It is an honor to sit on the House Homeland Security Committee and help lead the charge to secure our borders and follow through on our public safety promises to our constituents. As a part of Congress’ reconciliation package, Homeland Republicans recently advanced recommendations for border security funding to protect Americans, including over $46 billion to complete the border wall system. This money will provide an additional 701 miles of primary wall, construction of 900 miles of river barriers, and even technology like sensors. A physical border is key to keeping the bad guys out.”
    Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-IA) in the Times-Republican: Iowa families will benefit from President Trump’s ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’
    “The other week, my Republican colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives and I passed President Trump’s ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill.’ This legislation contains numerous provisions to put more money back in the pockets of Iowa families … President Trump’s ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ will finally give our families room to breathe again. Estimates suggest that families could see up to $13,300 more in take-home pay, with workers potentially gaining up to $11,600 in higher wages over four years. With provisions that end taxes on tips, overtime, and auto loan interest for American-made cars, working parents can be certain that the extra effort they’re putting in for their families will pay off.”
    Rep. Michelle Fischbach (R-MN) in the Park Rapids Enterprise: One Big Beautiful Bill Act helps families and small businesses
    “The One Big Beautiful Bill Act protects Medicaid for those who need and deserve it … It makes the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent, which have been so beneficial for families and small businesses to grow and thrive, even during the uncertain economic times we experienced over the last several years. This bill permanently doubles the guaranteed standard deduction and expands it by $2,000 for every American family. It creates new tax relief for seniors by adding an additional $4,000 deduction for those aged 65 and over. It makes the 199A small business deduction permanent and expands it to 23% for the over 60,000 small businesses in CD7. It makes the doubled death tax exemption permanent and expands it for the nearly 30,000 farms in CD7, helping families pass down their life’s work to the next generation. It prevents the child tax credit from being cut in half and expands the credit to $2,500 to support 74,460 families in CD7. It eliminates tax on tips and overtime pay. And, it expands 529 education plans so families can make the right choices for them, including using 529s for K-12 education materials, universities or trade schools.”
    Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO) in The Washington Times: One Big Beautiful Bill Act provides a flight path for a modern air traffic control system
    “This has been a difficult year for U.S. aviation, with a string of tragic crashes that have killed passengers and crew. Additionally, we have seen reports about failing technology that has caused repeated air traffic control outages and flight delays. Meanwhile, a shortage of certified air traffic controllers has put additional strain on our aviation system. President Trump, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and House Republicans are saying ‘enough is enough,’ and we are doing something about it.”
    Rep. Mark Green (R-NC) on RealClearPolitics.com: ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ Will Give Americans a Secure Border
    “The only way for us to make good on our promises to the American people is to codify President Trump’s agenda. Funding common-sense and effective border security measures through reconciliation is the first step.”
    Rep. Michael Guest (R-MS) in The Hill: Investing in border security is a win for every American
    “Since President Trump entered office in January of 2025, our border security has increased, the flow of illegal drugs has dropped dramatically, and illegal border crossings have plummeted to levels not seen in modern history. The success of the Trump administration’s leadership at our borders cannot be underestimated. Now, Congress must do its job to enshrine into law the work of President Trump.”
    Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-KY) on FoxNews.com: GOP fights to protect Medicaid for America’s most vulnerable while Democrats fearmonger
    “It is a top priority of House Republicans to eliminate the waste, fraud and abuse in the programs and safeguard expectant mothers, their children, low-income seniors and especially individuals living with disabilities who are receiving Medicaid coverage. Regrettably, Democrats continue to fuel the falsehood that 13 million individuals will lose healthcare coverage under OBBBA.”
    Rep. Mike Haridopolous (R-FL) in Florida Today: “One Big Beautiful Bill” is a win for Florida families, workers
    “America voted for change last November, and now we’re delivering it. Over the past four years, families have been hit with rising prices, shrinking paychecks, and a government that grew too big and too careless with your tax dollars. People are working harder than ever, but they’re falling behind. That’s not right, and that’s why my Republican colleagues and I in Congress are fighting hard to pass the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ This bill is about getting back to basics: Rewarding work, cutting waste, and putting American families first.”
    Rep. Erin Houchin (R-IN) in Newsweek: The Truth About the One Big Beautiful Bill—and What Democrats Don’t Want You to Know
    “Democrats have spent weeks fearmongering about so-called cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security in the One Big Beautiful Bill. Let’s be clear: those talking points are false, and they know it. What this bill actually does is protect and preserve these critical safety net programs for the people they were designed to serve—pregnant women, children, individuals with disabilities, and seniors. It does so by taking on the real problem: waste, fraud, and abuse that have run rampant in our federal health programs for decades.”
    Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) in the Washington Examiner: The ‘big, beautiful bill’ protects Medicaid for those who need it
    “When I came to Congress, I promised the people of Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District that I would pursue practical solutions to improve the lives of working families — without the drama, the headlines, or the politics. That commitment is reflected in the House’s recently passed “big, beautiful bill,” a practical, solutions-oriented piece of legislation that restores accountability to our safety net programs. Unfortunately, misinformation has clouded the bill’s intent, particularly when it comes to Medicaid. Let me set the record straight: This legislation does not cut Medicaid for those who truly need it. Instead, it strengthens the program for low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities while rooting out waste and holding bad actors accountable.”
    Rep. David Kustoff (R-TN) in the Washington Examiner: The ‘one big, beautiful bill’ will restore the American dream
    “Unfortunately, if Congress does not act, many of the provisions in TCJA will expire at the end of the year. If that happens, the average family in my district of West Tennessee will face a nearly 26% tax hike. A child inheriting the family farm could pay such steep estate taxes that he is forced to sell it. And a small business owner competing with larger corporations could see her taxes nearly double. These are not just numbers on a chart in Washington. These provisions affect each and every one of us. If they expire, the American dream could be unachievable for many of our citizens.”
    Rep. Tracey Mann (R-MO) in the Kansas City Star: Kansas deserves the gift of Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill
    “I recently voted in the U.S. House of Representatives to advance the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which would provide working- and middle-class Americans with the largest tax cuts in history and make long overdue investments into our nation’s border security by funding the completion of the border wall. The legislation would equip Customs and Border Patrol with modern technology to assist with intercepting drug and human smuggling while increasing detention capacity for Immigration and Customs Enforcement as it works to deport violent criminals and gang members who are in the country illegally.”
    Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) in the Pawnee Republican: Building Certainty for Small Businesses
    “For workers and entrepreneurs, few places are as ripe with economic opportunity as the United States of America. Our world-leading workforce, natural resources, educational institutions, rule of law committed to protecting capital investment, and unique features such as deepwater ports providing access to export goods and services to consumers across both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans provide opportunities for American families with few rivals elsewhere around the globe. Despite these economic strengths, there is much we can improve. The federal government remains inefficient, and we must address issues such as our spending-driven budget deficit. Likewise, too many work-capable Americans remain on the sidelines despite millions of good jobs available in our economy. Efforts to address the waste, fraud, and abuse in federally funded programs are vitally important for the fiscal health of our country, as are expanded efforts to help sidelined Americans connect with good jobs. For this reason, the reconciliation bill passed by the House enhances accountability for state administration of federal benefit programs and improves incentives for beneficiaries to find meaningful work.”
    Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO) on FoxNews.com: It’s time for Congress to deliver President Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ to his desk
    “Republicans have a historic opportunity to deliver America First tax reforms that reward hard work, bring jobs back home, expand opportunity, and most importantly, rebuild the American economy for hardworking families across our nation. President Donald Trump has been crystal clear about what he wanted Congress to deliver – 77 million Americans raced to the ballot box in support of his vision of lower taxes for those whose sweat moves our economy forward. Now, The One, Big, Beautiful Bill passed by the Ways and Means Committee delivers for those workers. It makes permanent the expiring provisions of the successful 2017 Trump tax cuts, provides additional tax relief to American families, and rewards those who manufacture more at home and hire more American workers. The additional tax relief includes eliminating taxes on tips, overtime pay, and auto loan interest, and delivering tax relief for seniors. Now, Congress must not fail the American people.”
    Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI) in Leader Publications: Empowering Hardworking Americans through one big beautiful bill
    “The One Big Beautiful Bill Act represents the culmination of each instructed committee’s plan to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse in Washington and make vital investments in our communities. In total, the bill would provide over $1.6 billion in savings, allowing the federal government to be better stewards of American tax dollars and put us back on the path to fiscal prosperity.  The cornerstone of the package is the permanent expansion of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which revitalized our economy, unleashing unprecedented job growth and higher wages for working families. Two years after being signed into law, real median household income increased by $5,000 and real wages rose by 4.9%, allowing families to pocket more of their hard-earned money. The reforms also incentivized businesses to invest more in the U.S., ending the decades-long trend of U.S. companies shipping operations overseas.”
    Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA) in The Virginian-Pilot: Voting for spending bill kept my word to Virginians
    “Let me set the record straight: I kept my word. I fought for Virginians, and I voted to protect working families, strengthen our safety net, and invest in national security and economic opportunity. Before this bill even came to a vote, I raised my voice publicly to demand protections for the vulnerable. In April, I wrote to House leadership making clear that balancing the budget must not come at the expense of pregnant women, children, seniors or individuals with disabilities. I demanded reforms that would support patients, help new mothers and expand savings for working-class families. This bill delivers on that promise.”
    Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-IN) in Goshen News: The One, Big, Beautiful Bill Explained
    “The One Big Beautiful Bill isn’t some bloated spending package. It doesn’t give any money to the Department of Education, HUD, or the EPA. What it does is straightforward: cut taxes, rein in federal spending, permanently secure the border, and reform welfare. When I’m meeting with Hoosier manufacturers and small business owners or chatting with friends at the grocery store, they’re clear about one thing: They’re taxed enough. And I agree. That’s why it makes the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts permanent. That means bigger paychecks, more investment in America, and strong incentives for companies to stay in the U.S. rather than send jobs overseas.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Kicks Off Paris Air Show at SENEDIA Breakfast, Underscoring New England Businesses’ Importance to National Security and Defense

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Paris, France) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a top member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services and Appropriations Committees and the top Democrat on the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, welcomed Granite State and other New England businesses to the Paris Air Show at the Southeastern New England Defense Industry Alliance (SENEDIA)’s New England Breakfast. A primary focus of Senator Shaheen’s bipartisan Congressional delegation to the Paris Air Show is to connect smaller, regional businesses with leaders in the aerospace and defense industries. Aerospace represents New Hampshire’s largest export sector, including over $30 million in exports in aerospace products to France last year. Click here to view photos of the event.

    “The Paris Air Show is the world’s largest, so it’s a great opportunity for American businesses to showcase their capabilities, connect with key players in the industry and strengthen relationships with partners,” said Senator Shaheen. “SENEDIA’s breakfast reception brought together a number of companies with business in New England to encourage additional engagement – supporting jobs back home and bolstering our national defense and security.” 

    First held in 1909, the Paris Air Show is the largest air show and aerospace-industry exhibition event in the world. Last year, Shaheen co-led the bipartisan Congressional delegation to the Farnborough Air Show with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Dingell Announce Legislation to Strengthen Home and Community-Based Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) announced the introduction of the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Relief Act, legislation to provide dedicated Medicaid funds for home and community-based services (HCBS) for older adults, children, and youth and adults with disabilities for two years. The HCBS Relief Act would decrease the need to move people into congregate settings and allow them to receive the services and support they need from their own homes. The bill is also designed to support service provider agencies and direct care workers who provide services in homes.

    Millions of Americans rely on HCBS for daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, meal preparation, taking medication, employment support, mobility assistance, and more. Chronic underfunding of Medicaid services has led to an impending crisis, forcing millions of people with disabilities and older adults into institutions.

    “Right now, millions rely on HCBS for basic everyday needs – help getting dressed, taking medications, preparing meals, and so much more,” said Senator Luján. “To support Americans who depend on home and community-based care, I’m proud to introduce my HCBS Relief Act. My bill would address chronic underfunding that has pushed families into crisis and forced many into institutions simply because they can’t access support at home.”

    “We know that the majority of individuals who require long-term care would prefer to receive it in their own homes and communities. No one should have to wait years to get the care they deserve, and no care worker should have to live below the poverty line to give this care,” said Representative Dingell. “Medicaid is the single largest payer of long-term care in our country. At a time when Medicaid is facing unprecedented, historic cuts, it’s more important than ever that we prioritize home and community-based services. This legislation will provide much-needed investment in our care workforce, making it easier for those who need care to get it, and supporting the caregivers doing this crucial work.”

    Last week, Senator Luján joined Senate Finance Committee Democrats at a press conference to announce the HCBS Relief Act and a series of additional proposals to strengthen the Medicaid program and empower federal watchdogs to take on fraud in the federal health care system. The press conference came as congressional Republicans continue to jam their reconciliation bill that rips away affordable health care from millions of Americans through the House and Senate behind closed doors.

    In the Senate, the HCBS Relief Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    Full bill text of the HCBS Relief Act is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 16, 2025 1930 UTC Day 3 Severe Thunderstorm Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 161930

    Day 3 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0230 PM CDT Mon Jun 16 2025

    Valid 181200Z – 191200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM LOWER
    MICHIGAN SOUTHWESTWARD INTO OKLAHOMA…

    …SUMMARY…
    Scattered thunderstorms with severe wind gusts and hail are expected
    on Wednesday from the southern Plains to the southern Great Lakes,
    and over a small part of the Mid Atlantic.

    …Synopsis…
    On Wednesday, an upper trough will move from the central Plains
    across the mid to upper MS Valley, with a lead wave moving from MO
    into Lower MI. A surface low is expected from eastern IA into lower
    MI during the day, with a trough extending southwestward across IL,
    MO, and OK. A very moist and unstable air mass will exist ahead of
    this main front with upper 60s to lower 70s F dewpoints.

    To the east, a weak surface trough is forecast to develop over the
    Mid Atlantic, where strong heating will lead to an unstable air mass
    beneath modest southwest flow aloft around western Atlantic high.

    …MI southwestward into OK…
    Scattered storms may be ongoing Wednesday morning from IA into MO
    and northeast OK, with remnant MCS activity. It appears the greatest
    ascent will move across northern areas coincident with the shortwave
    trough, from northern IL into lower MI. Here, shear profiles will
    likely support supercells, including hail and perhaps tornado
    threat.

    Farther south, stronger instability and PWAT will exist along the
    front but with weaker shear. Substantial convection is expected with
    areas of damaging winds likely. Some of these storms may move south
    to southwest due to propagation. Given steep midlevel lapse rates,
    sporadic hail may occur as well.

    …Eastern PA and MD…NJ…DE…
    Moderate instability is forecast to develop around the DelMarVa and
    into eastern PA and NJ, with primarily tall/moist CAPE profiles as
    seen on forecast soundings. Sufficient surface convergence is likely
    to initiate scattered storms during the afternoon from eastern PA
    into eastern MD, moving across NJ and DE by late afternoon/early
    evening. Given the favorable time of day, high PWAT and modest
    westerly flow aloft, some of these storms may produce locally
    damaging gusts, and perhaps small to marginal hail.

    ..Jewell.. 06/16/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS03 PTSDY3 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 3 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 0730Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 16, 2025 1730 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 161728

    Day 2 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1228 PM CDT Mon Jun 16 2025

    Valid 171200Z – 181200Z

    …THERE IS AN ENHANCED RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS OVER MUCH OF
    KANSAS AND INTO WESTERN MISSOURI…

    …SUMMARY…
    Severe thunderstorms producing damaging winds, hail, and possibly a
    few tornadoes are expected Tuesday across parts of the central
    Plains and lower to mid Missouri Valley. Outside of this area,
    marginally severe storms will be possible across a large part of the
    central U.S. Storms with isolated severe winds gusts may develop in
    parts of the central Appalachians and Mid-Atlantic.

    …Synopsis…
    On Tuesday, a low amplitude upper trough will move from the Rockies
    into the Plains, providing cooling aloft. To the north, an upper
    wave will lift out of the Great Lakes, while modest southwest flow
    aloft develops over the Appalachians north of an upper high.

    At the surface, a low will develop over the TX Panhandle, and a
    front associated with the northern wave will stall from Lake MI into
    the central Plains. South of this boundary, a very moist air mass
    with 70s F dewpoints will exist over a large area. As the upper
    trough moves into the Plains, a low-level jet will increase during
    the evening with over 50 kt into KS.

    …Central Plains…
    Areas of morning thunderstorms are expected from parts of southern
    NE into eastern KS, though the exact location is uncertain.
    Nonetheless, any early activity should generally dissipate during
    the day, with very strong instability developing along and south of
    I-70 in KS/MO. Southwest winds across the southern High Plains will
    extend a low-level lapse rate plume into southwest/central KS, while
    mid 70s F dewpoints develop over eastern OK and KS. Meanwhile, the
    air mass over NE/CO/WY will likely destabilize/recover during the
    afternoon with pockets of strong instability.

    Storm evolution is a bit complex for Tuesday and for some areas will
    depend on early day storms and outflows. But in general, robust
    storms will develop late in the afternoon over much of central into
    eastern KS, near the instability axis and downstream of the
    low-level lapse rate plume, and, over much of eastern WY/CO and into
    western NE where hail and damaging gusts will be possible.

    Of particular concern are potential supercells and eventual damaging
    MCS development over the Enhanced Risk area late in the day and into
    the evening. A conditional risk for tornadoes will exist with
    initial activity, should sufficient SRH remain along any residual
    outflows from early day storms. Isolated very large hail will also
    be probable with slow-moving, large cells. With time,
    clustering/aggregating outflows should yield a severe MCS, which may
    occur in earnest as activity from the High Plains pushes east late.

    …WV into VA and western MD…
    Strong heating will occur over much of the southeastern states
    beneath the upper ridge, with southwest winds aiding theta-e
    advection northward into WV/VA/MD. Midlevel moisture will also exist
    across the region, with scattered storms developing during the
    afternoon over the higher terrain. Some clustering may occur, with a
    small area of locally damaging wind potential late in the day as
    storms continue east toward northern VA and western MD.

    ..Jewell.. 06/16/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS02 PTSDY2 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 2 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 0600Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 16, 2025 2000 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 161954

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0254 PM CDT Mon Jun 16 2025

    Valid 162000Z – 171200Z

    …THERE IS AN ENHANCED RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS THIS AFTERNOON
    AND EVENING OVER PARTS OF NEBRASKA AND PARTS OF MINNESOTA…

    …SUMMARY…
    Scattered severe thunderstorms capable of producing severe/damaging
    gusts, large to very large hail, and a few tornadoes are forecast
    today across parts of the northern/central Plains into the Upper
    Mississippi Valley.

    …20z Update…
    Only minor adjustments were made to trim probabilities behind the
    low/cold front in the Midwest and northern Plains. Otherwise, the
    forecast remains on track with no large changes needed.

    Scattered thunderstorm activity is expected to intensify across
    portions of MN/IA this afternoon, with potential for damaging winds,
    large hail, and a couple of tornadoes. See MCD#1311 for additional
    information.

    Across the northern Plains, a couple of supercells have developed in
    southeastern SD producing a few instances of severe hail. Additional
    development is expected across portions of NE/KS this afternoon,
    with potential for large to very large hail and damaging winds. See
    previous discussion of more information.

    ..Thornton.. 06/16/2025

    .PREV DISCUSSION… /ISSUED 1125 AM CDT Mon Jun 16 2025/

    …MN/IA…
    Morning water vapor imagery shows a shortwave trough over the
    eastern Dakotas. As this trough moves eastward this afternoon, a
    surface low will deepen over central MN with a trailing cold front
    sweeping across the state. Morning convection is getting out of the
    way, which should allow several hours of strong
    heating/destabilization. Afternoon MLCAPE values of 3000+ J/kg are
    expected, with little inhibition. This should lead to rapid
    thunderstorm development by mid-afternoon near the surface low, with
    at least widely scattered development southward along the cold front
    into northern IA. Low-level winds are somewhat veered but strong.
    This coupled with favorable westerly flow aloft should promote a few
    supercells capable of large hail and damaging winds. A tornado or
    two is also possible.

    …NE/KS…
    The aforementioned cold front will sag southward into northern NE by
    early evening. A strong southerly low-level jet south of the front,
    along with steep mid-level lapse rates and large CAPE, will promote
    the development of scattered intense storms along the front.
    Supercells capable of very large hail and damaging winds are
    expected, along with perhaps a tornado. Congealing outflows from
    high-based convection are expected to move into the region during
    the mid-evening from the west, resulting in upscale convective
    growth and an increasing risk of damaging winds.

    …MS/AL…
    Strong heating is occurring today across much of MS and western AL,
    where dewpoints are in the mid 70s. Clusters of thunderstorms are
    forming over LA, which are expected to propagate northeastward
    across the region through the day. Steep low-level lapse rates,
    large CAPE, and relatively strong ambient low-level wind fields will
    pose some of risk of gusty/damaging wind gusts in the strongest
    cells today.

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 0100Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 16, 2025 1630 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 161625

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1125 AM CDT Mon Jun 16 2025

    Valid 161630Z – 171200Z

    …THERE IS AN ENHANCED RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS THIS AFTERNOON
    AND EVENING OVER PARTS OF NEBRASKA…AND PARTS OF MINNESOTA….

    …SUMMARY…
    Scattered severe thunderstorms capable of producing severe/damaging
    gusts, large to very large hail, and a few tornadoes are forecast
    today across parts of the northern/central Plains into the Upper
    Mississippi Valley.

    …MN/IA…
    Morning water vapor imagery shows a shortwave trough over the
    eastern Dakotas. As this trough moves eastward this afternoon, a
    surface low will deepen over central MN with a trailing cold front
    sweeping across the state. Morning convection is getting out of the
    way, which should allow several hours of strong
    heating/destabilization. Afternoon MLCAPE values of 3000+ J/kg are
    expected, with little inhibition. This should lead to rapid
    thunderstorm development by mid-afternoon near the surface low, with
    at least widely scattered development southward along the cold front
    into northern IA. Low-level winds are somewhat veered but strong.
    This coupled with favorable westerly flow aloft should promote a few
    supercells capable of large hail and damaging winds. A tornado or
    two is also possible.

    …NE/KS…
    The aforementioned cold front will sag southward into northern NE by
    early evening. A strong southerly low-level jet south of the front,
    along with steep mid-level lapse rates and large CAPE, will promote
    the development of scattered intense storms along the front.
    Supercells capable of very large hail and damaging winds are
    expected, along with perhaps a tornado. Congealing outflows from
    high-based convection are expected to move into the region during
    the mid-evening from the west, resulting in upscale convective
    growth and an increasing risk of damaging winds.

    …MS/AL…
    Strong heating is occurring today across much of MS and western AL,
    where dewpoints are in the mid 70s. Clusters of thunderstorms are
    forming over LA, which are expected to propagate northeastward
    across the region through the day. Steep low-level lapse rates,
    large CAPE, and relatively strong ambient low-level wind fields will
    pose some of risk of gusty/damaging wind gusts in the strongest
    cells today.

    ..Hart/Wendt.. 06/16/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 2000Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 1311

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 1311

    Mesoscale Discussion 1311
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0125 PM CDT Mon Jun 16 2025

    Areas affected…central MN

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch likely

    Valid 161825Z – 162030Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…80 percent

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms should intensify ahead of an eastward-moving
    surface cyclone, starting in west-central Minnesota. A few
    supercells capable of large hail, damaging winds, and a couple
    tornadoes are possible. A watch will likely be needed with
    uncertainty on southern extent of the threat.

    DISCUSSION…Initial low-topped convection has increased near the
    southeast ND/west-central MN border area in vicinity of a surface
    cyclone. A corridor of greater insolation persists ahead of this low
    into the Brainerd Lakes area, northwest of regenerative elevated
    convection across east-central MN to northeast IA. This should yield
    further low-level destabilization and increasing moderate buoyancy
    into late afternoon. While 12Z CAMs largely underplayed the morning
    elevated convection, the RRFS has consistently signaled the
    surface-based convection may remain largely confined to near the
    surface low/warm front across central MN. Low-level shear is modest,
    but a belt of stronger 700-mb winds attendant to the shortwave
    impulse should support a few supercells in an emerging cluster that
    spreads east into early evening.

    ..Grams/Hart.. 06/16/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…DLH…MPX…FGF…

    LAT…LON 46899636 47209562 47399446 47159349 46869297 46519268
    46079291 45669405 45579426 45459485 45389538 45389596
    45819613 46349643 46899636

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK TORNADO INTENSITY…85-115 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…55-70 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK HAIL SIZE…1.50-2.50 IN

    Top/All Mesoscale Discussions/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 1312

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 1312
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0149 PM CDT Mon Jun 16 2025

    Areas affected…southeast SD and northeast NE

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch possible

    Valid 161849Z – 162045Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…60 percent

    SUMMARY…An isolated large hail and localized severe gust threat
    may persist through mid-afternoon. Greater coverage of storms, with
    increasing severe hail/wind threats, is anticipated in the late
    afternoon to early evening. Area is being monitored for a severe
    thunderstorm watch, with timing and spatial extent the primary
    near-term uncertainties.

    DISCUSSION…A few storms, likely rooted near 700 mb, have formed
    near the surface cold front. With appreciable MLCIN still present in
    the warm-moist sector ahead of this, convection may struggle to
    propagate off the boundary. Most CAM guidance has been too slow with
    this initial development, rendering uncertainty regarding the
    overall spatial extent of severe potential over the next couple
    hours. Surface dew points have largely mixed into the upper 50s to
    low 60s to the east-southeast of this activity, with richer
    boundary-layer dew points and CU development confined to central NE
    westward. Despite the uncertainty on storm coverage, low to
    mid-level wind profiles are sufficient for transient, high-based
    supercells.

    ..Grams/Hart.. 06/16/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…FSD…OAX…LBF…

    LAT…LON 43819868 43989814 43949746 43819682 43609646 43019646
    42609659 42099699 41989717 41869806 42139872 42929908
    43269909 43819868

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK TORNADO INTENSITY…UP TO 95 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…55-70 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK HAIL SIZE…1.50-2.50 IN

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 423 Status Reports

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Search by city or zip code. Press enter or select the go button to submit request
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    Watch 423 Status Reports

    Watch 423 Status Message has not been issued yet.

    Top/Watch Issuance Text for Watch 423/All Current Watches/Forecast Products/Home

    Weather Topics:Watches, Mesoscale Discussions, Outlooks, Fire Weather, All Products, Contact Us

    NOAA / National Weather ServiceNational Centers for Environmental PredictionStorm Prediction Center120 David L. Boren Blvd.Norman, OK 73072 U.S.A.spc.feedback@noaa.govPage last modified: June 16, 2025
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 423

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 423
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    255 PM CDT Mon Jun 16 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Central Minnesota
    Western Wisconsin

    * Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 255 PM until
    900 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms will intensify this afternoon near a cold
    front sweeping eastward across the Minnesota, with a few supercells
    expected. Large hail is the main concern, but the strongest storms
    may also pose a risk of damaging winds and a few tornadoes.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 70 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 20 miles west of Alexandria MN to 80
    miles northeast of Minneapolis MN. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 27030.

    …Hart

    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 423
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    255 PM CDT Mon Jun 16 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Central Minnesota
    Western Wisconsin

    * Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 255 PM until
    900 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms will intensify this afternoon near a cold
    front sweeping eastward across the Minnesota, with a few supercells
    expected. Large hail is the main concern, but the strongest storms
    may also pose a risk of damaging winds and a few tornadoes.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 70 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 20 miles west of Alexandria MN to 80
    miles northeast of Minneapolis MN. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 27030.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW3
    WW 423 TORNADO MN WI 161955Z – 170200Z
    AXIS..70 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    20W AXN/ALEXANDRIA MN/ – 80NE MSP/MINNEAPOLIS MN/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 60NM N/S /68SE FAR – 53NNW EAU/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 27030.

    LAT…LON 46889582 46719205 44689205 44869582

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU3.

    Watch 423 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (60%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham on Passing of Former Chairman Bagley

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    Acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham on Passing of Former Chairman Bagley | CFTC

    /PressRoom/SpeechesTestimony/phamstatement061625
    Skip to main content

    June 16, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Commodity Futures Trading Commission acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham today issued the following statement on the passing of the Hon. William T. Bagley, the CFTC’s first chairman:
    “Chairman Bagley was instrumental in laying the foundation for what has become the world’s preeminent derivatives regulator. As the first CFTC chairman, he shepherded our agency through its first years, executing on once-novel Congressional authorities and establishing a regulatory framework to expand risk mitigation tools for America’s growers, producers, builders and merchants. Fifty years after Chairman Bagley first opened the doors at the CFTC, this framework continues to be critical in driving the American economy forward. We celebrate Chairman Bagley’s life and legacy and owe him a debt of gratitude for his years of service to our markets, our economy, and our Nation.  On behalf of the entire CFTC community, I extend my condolences to Chairman Bagley’s family.

    -CFTC-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Report for the first quarter 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Oslo, 16 June 2025

    Highlights in the quarter

    Interoil’s Total operated production for the three-month period amounted to 97,506 barrels of oil equivalent (boe), representing a decline from 103,738 boe recorded in the same period of 2024. Operations in Argentina were negatively impacted by the failure of two compressor engines, which led to a sustained drop in gas production from January until the compressors were repaired in February. Despite the lower production, revenue increased to USD 5.7 million, up from USD 5.3 million in the previous year, driven by a favourable rise in gas prices.

    Interoil Colombia successfully completed a downhole intervention to the Vikingo well.

    In January, at the Company’s request, bondholders approved amendments to the bond terms to settle the full January 2025 interest payment in kind by issuing and delivering additional bonds.

    In January, Interoil launched its well service campaign in the Mana Field, aiming to service five wells. The campaign sought to recover up to 50 bopd and 600,000 scfpd of gas. As of the date of this report, seven wells have been brought back online, delivering a combined flow of 117 bopd, and 82,000 scfpd of gas.

    For more information, please see enclosed Interoil Exploration and Production ASA’s Report for the fourth quarter of 2024.

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5 -12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    Please direct any further questions to ir@interoil.no (mailto:ir@interoil.no)

    About Interoil

    Interoil Exploration and Production ASA is a Norwegian based exploration and production company – listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with focus on Latin America. The Company is operator and license holder of several production and exploration assets in Colombia and Argentina with headquarter in Oslo.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Report for the first quarter 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Oslo, 16 June 2025

    Highlights in the quarter

    Interoil’s Total operated production for the three-month period amounted to 97,506 barrels of oil equivalent (boe), representing a decline from 103,738 boe recorded in the same period of 2024. Operations in Argentina were negatively impacted by the failure of two compressor engines, which led to a sustained drop in gas production from January until the compressors were repaired in February. Despite the lower production, revenue increased to USD 5.7 million, up from USD 5.3 million in the previous year, driven by a favourable rise in gas prices.

    Interoil Colombia successfully completed a downhole intervention to the Vikingo well.

    In January, at the Company’s request, bondholders approved amendments to the bond terms to settle the full January 2025 interest payment in kind by issuing and delivering additional bonds.

    In January, Interoil launched its well service campaign in the Mana Field, aiming to service five wells. The campaign sought to recover up to 50 bopd and 600,000 scfpd of gas. As of the date of this report, seven wells have been brought back online, delivering a combined flow of 117 bopd, and 82,000 scfpd of gas.

    For more information, please see enclosed Interoil Exploration and Production ASA’s Report for the fourth quarter of 2024.

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5 -12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    Please direct any further questions to ir@interoil.no (mailto:ir@interoil.no)

    About Interoil

    Interoil Exploration and Production ASA is a Norwegian based exploration and production company – listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with focus on Latin America. The Company is operator and license holder of several production and exploration assets in Colombia and Argentina with headquarter in Oslo.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Seven NFB shorts celebrating GGPAA laureates launching June 14 at 9 p.m. EDT on NFB platforms, CBC Gem and ICI TOU.TV. NFB’s GGPAA film collection reaches 125 films.

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 14, 2025 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)

    Seven National Film Board of Canada (NFB) short films celebrating Canadian performing arts excellence will premiere online Saturday, June 14, at 9 p.m. EDT, immediately following the 2025 Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards (GGPAA) celebration at Ottawa’s National Arts Centre.

    Canadians will be able to watch these cinematic tributes to this year’s laureates on NFB platforms as well as CBC Gem (in English) and ICI TOU.TV (in French).

    Each year, the NFB works to find the right combination of director, concept and laureate—producing portraits of distinguished Canadians that also stand on their own as innovative short works of cinema. This year’s films are directed by accomplished Canadian filmmakers Tara Johns and Monique Leblanc.

    The NFB’s GGPAA film collection now totals 125 shorts, created over a 17-year partnership with the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards Foundation that began back in 2008.

    Laureates and their films

    • Directed by Tara Johns and produced by Robert Vroom
      • Legendary Toronto-born music producer and Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award laureate Bob Ezrin struggles to write his memoir in That Damn Book. Daunted by the pressure of doing justice to a life filled with rock legends, career milestones and family memories, he turns to Alice Cooper—and his own children—for guidance. It turns out the true story he has to tell isn’t just about star-studded accomplishments, but the family and love that gives meaning to it all.
      • In I’m Just Me, a struggling actor—sporting the literal head of a wolf—seeks guidance from a five-star-rated, fox-headed psychiatrist. As their therapy session spirals into a comically surreal commentary on the anxieties of artistic ambition and self-worth, the mask slips to reveal none other than Graham Greene, the southwestern Ontario-bornlegendary actor and Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award.
      • Time Flies features revered Montreal-based contemporary composer and Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award laureate Denis Gougeon balancing the roles of pilot and air traffic controller. Evoking both the flights of imagination and precision required to create his music, Gougeon recounts a musical journey of self-discovery that’s led to his compositions being performed all over the world, while he remains grounded in Quebec.
      • In The ’Hood in Me, veteran Montreal comic actor and Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award laureate Patrick Huard (as Pops) guides young Nathan on a whimsical journey of life lessons in a backstreet curiosities shop. Through his own stories of resilience, creativity and responsibility, Pops tests Nathan’s qualifications as apprentice. At first, it does not go well.
      • A Sonic Rematriation is a hybrid music video and spoken-word film honouring National Arts Centre Award recipient Jeremy Dutcher, Wolastoqiyik member of the Tobique First Nation in northwest New Brunswick, and his reclamation of ancestral songs and the mother tongue of the Wolastoqiyik. Featuring intimate Wolastoqey language performances, archival voices and dreamlike visuals, the film traces Dutcher’s liberation from smoke-bound silence to fiery, unbound song.
    • Directed by Monique Leblanc and produced by Christine Aubé
      • The founder of Red Sky Performance, Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award laureate Sandra Laronde has revolutionized Indigenous storytelling. Embodied Stories captures her artistic journey through dance productions and her AI film Land Dances Us, as well as stunning imagery of the Temagami region in Ontario—her childhood home and creative wellspring.
      • The recipient of this year’s Ramon John Hnatyshyn Award for Voluntarism in the Performing Arts, April Hubbard is a Halifax-based performance artist, arts administrator and Mad Disability advocate. Leading by Example follows her trajectory from excluded performer to revolutionary force in Nova Scotia’s arts scene as she transforms artistic spaces. Hubbard shatters perceptions through captivating performances while creating accessible opportunities for all artists—embodying a creative liberation that transcends physical limitations and a vision that knows no boundaries.

    About the directors

    Tara Johns

    Tara Johns is an Alberta-born writer-director who’s built her cinematic career in Montreal. Tara’s debut short film, Killing Time, was awarded Best Canadian Short at the 2001 Toronto Worldwide Short Film Festival and named one of the Top 10 Best Québécois Shorts of the Decade at the Rendez-vous du cinéma québécois. Tara was most recently tapped by MarVista Entertainment to direct Our Christmas Mural for Hallmark and is currently in development on her new original feature project, Good Bones, with Palomar Films.

    Monique Leblanc

    Director, actress, screenwriter, writer and producer Monique LeBlanc is a prominent figure in Eastern Canada’s film industry, working in both documentary and fiction. Acclaimed recent credits include her 2020 adaptation of Louise Dupré’s book of poetry, Higher Than Flames Will Go (2020), and The Geographies of DAR (2023), her fourth feature documentary and fifth collaboration with the NFB. 

    – 30 –

    Stay Connected

    Online Screening Room: nfb.ca
    NFB Facebook | NFB Twitter | NFB Instagram | NFB Blog | NFB YouTube | NFB Vimeo
    Curator’s perspective | Director’s notes

    About the NFB

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sherrill Statement On The Indictment of Rep. McIver

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) released the following statement denouncing the Trump Administration’s weaponization of the Justice Department through their indictment of Representative LaMonica McIver (NJ-10):

    “This indictment against Rep. McIver is extreme and purely political. The Trump DOJ is weaponizing the justice system to go after a Member of Congress for doing their job. 

    “Every Member has a constitutional right to conduct oversight. That means the right to inspect a federal facility on behalf of their constituents. I will continue to stand with Rep. McIver because this sham prosecution is an attempt to intimidate Congress and stop us from holding Trump accountable.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill Joins First-Ever Democratic Veterans Caucus Following Growing Threats to Veterans, Military Families, and National Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), a former Navy helicopter pilot, joined fellow veterans in Congress to launch the Democratic Veterans Caucus — a new effort formed in response to alarming national security breaches at the Department of Defense, growing global threats, and ongoing attacks on veterans’ health care.

    The launch comes at a critical moment. The Trump Administration and House Republicans are pushing deep cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) — programs that serve as lifelines for millions of Americans, including 1.2 million veterans and their families.

    “Veterans served this country with honor and sacrifice. They kept their promises to defend our freedom, and now it’s our duty to keep our promises to them,” said Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill. “As a former Navy helicopter pilot, I am disgusted by the Trump Administration’s decision to cut their health care and food assistance to pay for tax breaks for billionaires. It is a betrayal not just of our veterans, but of the values this nation stands for. This caucus was formed to unite those of us who have worn the uniform and to fight back against these attacks. I will continue to stand in the breach to protect the care and services our veterans have earned.”

    Members of the Democratic Veterans Caucus Include:

    • Rep. Salud Carbajal (CA) – Marine Corps Reserve 
    • Rep. Gil Cisneros (CA) – Navy 
    • Rep. Herb Conaway (NJ) – Air Force 
    • Rep. Jason Crow (CO) – Army 
    • Rep. Don Davis (NC) – Air Force 
    • Rep. Chris Deluzio (PA) – Navy 
    • Rep. Jared Golden (ME) – Marine Corps 
    • Rep. Maggie Goodlander (NH) – Navy Reserve
    • Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (PA) – Air Force 
    • Rep. Ted Lieu (CA) – Air Force 
    • Rep. Seth Moulton (MA) – Marine Corps 
    • Rep. Jimmy Panetta (CA) – Navy Reserve 
    • Rep. Pat Ryan (NY) – Army 
    • Rep. Bobby Scott (VA) – Army 
    • Rep. Mikie Sherrill (NJ) – Navy
    • Rep. Mike Thompson (CA) – Army 
    • Rep. Derek Tran (CA) – Army 
    • Rep. Eugene Vindman (VA) – Army 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Sherrill Slams Hegseth for Operational, Managerial, and Budgetary Incompetence at the Department of Defense

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — In a high-profile House Armed Services Committee hearing today, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) confronted Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over what she called “months of dangerous dysfunction and incompetence” at the Department of Defense. 

    Just five months into Hegseth’s tenure, Sherrill laid out a searing case against his operational, managerial, and budgetary failures that are undermining national security and putting our service members at risk. And Hegseth failed to substantively answer any of Rep. Sherrill’s questions.

    Click here to listen to Sherrill’s full remarks. 

    Full remarks, as delivered:

    Rep. Sherrill:
    Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Secretary Hegseth, Chairman Caine, thank you both for being here today. Mr. Secretary. Your testimony over the last several days before Congress, I’ve heard you speak about all of your supposed accomplishments from your time at the Pentagon. I have to say, your training at Fox News has let you spin months of dangerous dysfunction and incompetence into catchy phrases like restoring the warrior ethos and increasing lethality.

    But the truth is, it’s really been chaos at the Pentagon under your leadership. You’ve clearly shown you’re unable to manage the Department of Defense. But what I’m most concerned about are three specific areas: Your operational incompetence, your managerial incompetence, and your budgetary incompetence. So let’s start with operational. According to news reports, in your first week on the job, you got confused in a National Security Council meeting and thought President Trump wanted you to stop all aid to Ukraine.

    In a well-functioning administration, you would have asked for clarification before making that seismic policy shift, but instead you ordered vital military aid heading to the frontlines turned around, costing the U.S. millions of dollars and depriving Ukrainian soldiers of equipment they needed to fight Russia. So, Mr. Secretary, can you explain how exactly you misunderstood such a monumental presidential order?

    Secretary Hegseth:
    One of many fake news headlines we’ve dealt with.

    Rep. Sherrill:
    So President Trump told you to halt military aid to Ukraine on January 30th.

    Secretary Hegseth:
    As is often the case, highly ideological and very ill informed reporters love to speculate about things they know nothing about, in order to spear President Trump and myself.

    Rep. Sherrill:
    So it sounds like actually the reporting is correct, because I will say if it wasn’t, why if it wasn’t a mistake, why did aid restart only a few days later?

    Secretary Hegseth
    Again, we would take complete issue with what would some call reporting and others call a hatchet job.

    Rep. Sherrill:
    So why did aid start just a couple days later?

    Secretary Hegseth:
    I’m saying the reporting is inaccurate, ma’am.

    Rep. Sherrill:
    I don’t think that’s correct. So let’s move on to your managerial incompetence. I think we can see why you misunderstood the president because you’re obviously misunderstanding my questions. Less than a month into the job, you fired the chairman of the Joint Chiefs, CQ Brown, and the Chief of Naval Operations, Lisa Franchetti, without cause. And to this day, you still have not provided an adequate explanation for removing them.

    As far as I can tell, you fired CQ Brown because he was Black and Lisa Franchetti because she is a woman. So nearly four months later, we still don’t have a new nominee for Chief of Naval Operations. News reports, and you can contest it, but I’d love to hear your answer, say that you haven’t nominated someone because qualified admirals keep turning the position down.

    So tell me, Mr. Secretary, when will Congress receive your nomination for the next Chief of Naval Operations?

    Secretary Hegseth:
    Ma’am, with all due respect, I would suggest not believing every headline you read.

    Rep. Sherrill:
    With all due respect, I’d like your nomination. When will we see it?

    Secretary Hegseth:
    There is not a single admiral or any military official has turned down a position that’s been–

    Rep. Sherrill:
    So when will we see your nominee for the Chief of Naval Operations?

    Secretary Hegseth:
    In due time, for all the right reasons.

    Rep. Sherrill:
    Again, I think we’ve seen the managerial incompetence. Okay, let’s move on to budgetary incompetence. You missed the deadline to submit a draft defense budget to Congress, which makes it impossible for us to complete our work on the NDAA or appropriations. It makes it more likely you’ll receive delays in funding you need for new acquisitions programs, and other priorities.

    Additionally, you’re blowing money on poorly conceived operations and vanity projects. For President Trump, retrofitting the Qatari jet to serve as Air Force One will cost about $400 million. The parade in DC this weekend will cost upwards of $40 million. Your bombing campaign in Yemen cost about 1 billion, and a week later they were having missile strikes in Israel.

    Your operations in LA will cost tens of millions of dollars, and you claim to be cutting costs at the Pentagon. But all I see are wasted dollars better spent addressing our most pressing threats like China. So, Mr. Secretary, what priorities have you cut funding for to pay for these projects?

    Secretary Hegseth:
    Ma’am, I would just say your list, left off securing the southern border.

    Rep. Sherrill:
    So, Mr. Secretary, what priorities have you cut funding for to pay for these projects?

    Secretary Hegseth:
    We make trade offs every day, and I would imagine what we want to spend on is quite different than what the previous administration did. Changes quickly and they’re reflected in this budget. And we’re very proud of them.

    Rep. Sherrill : 
    I think the American people can see why I’m so concerned about this incompetence. Thank you. And I yield back.
     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ecological Thresholds, Abiotic Stress, and Climate Change: A Conceptual Framework

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Published in the journal Ecosphere, the research introduces a conceptual framework that links climate-driven changes, abiotic stress (such as extreme temperatures, drought, or salinity), and the vulnerability of ecosystems to transformation. The authors argue that ecosystems already teetering near their physiological limits are especially prone to sudden change, providing examples of this climate-driven threshold behavior from four high-stress environments: coastal wetlands, coral reefs, drylands, and alpine ecosystems.

    Ecosystems don’t always respond gradually to environmental change. In some cases, a relatively minor shift—like a slight rise in temperature or a modest drop in soil moisture—can push a system past its breaking point.

    Photos of (a) coastal wetland, (b) coral reef, (c) dryland, and (d) alpine ecosystems. These ecosystems are chronically exposed to high levels of abiotic stress that approach physiological tolerance limits. As a result, these are ecosystems that can be transformed by small changes in climatic drivers that exceed critical physiological thresholds or alleviate stress near thresholds. 

    The framework zeroes in on ecosystems where foundation species—organisms that create and define habitat, like corals, seagrasses, or kelp—play a central role. These species often live close to the edge of their environmental tolerance. When conditions tip even slightly beyond that edge, it can result in rapid, widespread shifts in structure, function, and biodiversity.

    For example, coral reefs and coastal marshes, both highly stressed and dominated by a few foundation species, are vulnerable to collapse if temperatures or sea levels rise too far. Conversely, the study suggests that if stress is alleviated—for instance, with warming winters or increasing freshwater inputs— some foundation plant species could thrive and even expand into areas once considered inhospitable.

    The researchers emphasize that understanding where ecological thresholds lie is crucial for conservation and management. By identifying which systems are close to tipping points, managers can better prioritize efforts to either prevent collapse or support recovery. 

    Read the study, Ecological thresholds and transformations due to climate change: The role of abiotic stress, in Ecosphere.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor cites two event production companies after stagehand’s fatal injury at Orlando music festival site

    Source: US Department of Labor

    ORLANDO, FL – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited two event production companies following an inspection concerning an October 2024 employee fatality.

    Stage FX Inc. and James Thomas Productions LLC were cited with serious violations for allegedly failing to maintain structural stability during the erection of a stage and failing to provide proper employee training on the associated hazards. 

    James Thomas Productions paid $19,860 to address the violations, while Stage FX has contested the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

    Learn more about OSHA, preventing struck-by-hazards, and how to access the agency’s free compliance assistance resources. 

    MIL OSI USA News –