NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez and New Mexico Delegation Help Unlock Federal Funds to Support Ongoing Ruidoso Flood Response

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 10, 2025, President Trump granted a Direct Federal Assistance emergency declaration for Ruidoso, providing critical federal resources to help the community recover and rebuild after major flooding on Tuesday. This federal emergency declaration comes after U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) and all members of New Mexico’s Congressional delegation joined Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in urging the President to declare the Ruidoso flooding a federal emergency. 

    “The impacts of this historic flood require federal resources for adequate recovery and ongoing mitigation efforts, there’s no other way around it,” said Vasquez. “Working with local, state and federal officials, we successfully unlocked crucial disaster funding to address the immediate needs of recovery operations. I will continue to work closely with my colleagues and the Governor to ensure the best and most efficient use of these funds and ensure New Mexicans who were impacted are taken care of.”

    At a press conference this morning, emergency management personnel on the ground said there was a possibility of additional rains and flooding in the Ruidoso area on Saturday, July 12, and that they would continue to monitor the situation and provide timely updates to the public.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Letlow Announces Key Economic Development Designation for Ouachita River

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today Congresswoman Julia Letlow announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has designated the Ouachita River as a U.S. Marine Highway, further unlocking the 605-mile river’s potential to spur economic development in North Louisiana.

    Letlow called for the designation in a March letter to DOT Secretary Sean Duffy, touting the river’s capability to facilitate commerce, reduce highway congestion, and move freight. The designation enables local agencies, industries, and shippers to become eligible for federal infrastructure grants.

    “The Ouachita River is a wonderful natural resource with vast economic potential, especially in a region built by commodities which rely on reliable modes of transportation. This designation will spur rural economic development and increase opportunities for infrastructure improvements and job creation,” said Congresswoman Julia Letlow. “I want to thank the Trump Administration and Secretary Duffy for looking out for North Louisiana and working with me to unlock our region’s potential.”

    The designation comes as part of the United States Marine Highway Program, which was created by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 and aims to create more public benefits from the use of America’s navigable waterways. The program is administered by the U.S. Maritime Administration and allocates grants on a competitive basis to projects on designated U.S. Marine Highway Routes. 

    Officials with the Ouachita River Valley Association praised the designation, highlighting the opportunities the river can provide for Louisiana.

    “The designation of the Ouachita River as U.S. Marine Highway M-167 provides opportunities for public and private entities along the Ouachita River eligible to apply for federal grants. This is a great opportunity for our area,” said Randy Denmon, President, Ouachita River Valley Association.

    “This is actually pretty huge! The Ouachita River brings so much to the people within the Ouachita River Basin and we are excited to announce this major development. It is a major step in the revitalization of the river,” said Brandon Waggoner, Vice President, Ouachita River Valley Association.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strong Votes to Fully Fund Veterans, Bolster Military Readiness

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Dale Strong, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, voted today in support of H.R. 3944, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026. The vital legislation championing veterans, supporting military families, and prioritizing infrastructure upgrades, passed the House of Representatives on a 218-206 vote.

    Once enacted, this bill will provide essential funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD) to support critical investments in military infrastructure, readiness, and the well-being of service members, veterans, and their families.  

    “I’m proud to support this bill, which delivers on our promises to America’s veterans by fully funding their health care and benefits,” said Rep. Strong. “It will help improve the lives of our troops and their families with better access to childcare, safer housing, and stronger base infrastructure. This funding bill also makes an effort to fund key construction projects to support readiness and our national security, expands mental health services, combats veteran homelessness, and makes smart investments in the Indo-Pacific to push back against China’s growing threat.”

    NORTH ALABAMA WINS

    Representative Strong successfully secured pivotal provisions directly benefiting North Alabama:  

    Advancing U.S. Space Command Headquarters Plans  

    One provision advances the U.S. Space Command (USSPACECOM) Headquarters process and requires a detailed funding plan and report for the necessary facilities investments.  

    “During the entire USSPACECOM basing process, Redstone Arsenal ranked as the #1 location for the headquarters. Four subsequent DoD Inspector General and GAO reports confirmed that the Air Force made the right choice — Redstone is what is best for national security, the taxpayer, the personnel, and their families,” said Strong.

    Ensuring Fair Veteran Cemetery Placement  

    Strong was also successful advancing a provision directing the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) to conduct a report evaluating its veteran population data collection methodology. A 2019 U.S. Government Accountability Office report indicated that if U.S. Census Bureau data were used rather than NCA’s current methodology, North Alabama would rank 2nd in need for a VA cemetery.

    “Nearly 60,000 veterans call Alabama’s Fifth Congressional District home. Those veterans and their families deserve the opportunity to choose a final resting place closer to home. Currently, the closest VA cemeteries are in Corinth, MS, Montevallo, AL, and Chattanooga, TN. I firmly believe that a more accurate data evaluation would make North Alabama a top candidate for a National or VA-grant funded state cemetery,” said Strong.  

    Other wins that will benefit North Alabama include a provision that expresses Congressional support for DoD range operations and supporting facilities, such as Redstone Test Center at Redstone Arsenal, and language directing the Veterans Health Administration to submit a report and recommended legislative changes to improve reimbursement rates, locality adjustments, prescription drug prices for veterans living in VA State Veteran Homes, like the Floyd E “Tut” Fann Home in Huntsville, AL.  
     

    KEY TAKEAWAYS  

    Champions our veterans by:  

    • Fully funding veterans’ health care programs.  
    • Fully funding veterans’ benefits and VA programs.  
    • Supporting President Trump’s efforts to combat veteran homelessness by investing in the new Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment program.  
    • Maintaining funding levels for research, mental health programs, and other programs relied upon by veterans.  

    Supports the Trump Administration and the mandate of the American people by:  

    • Protecting the 2nd Amendment rights of veterans by preventing the VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge’s consent.  
    • Syncing up with President Trump’s Executive Orders on no funds for DEI, gender affirming care, and protecting Hyde-like language at the VA.  
    • Prohibiting the VA from processing medical care claims for illegal aliens.  

    Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by:  

    • Providing robust funding for military construction, enabling continued investment in the Indo-Pacific region, and infrastructure necessary to support advanced weapons systems.  
    • Maintaining the prohibitions on the closure of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and the use of military construction funds to build facilities for detainees on U.S. soil.  
    • Prohibiting the VA from purchasing resources directly or indirectly from the People’s Republic of China.  

    DETAILED FUNDING SUMMARY  

    Department of Defense (Military Construction and Family Housing)  

    Provides $18 billion for the Department of Defense (DoD) military construction and family housing for the following:

    • Planning and design of future barracks to address barrack deficiencies identified by the Government Accountability Office.  
    • Demolition of excess and obsolete infrastructure, saving taxpayers money and lowering long-term facility maintenance costs at DoD.  
    • Guard and Reserve facility construction.  
    • Military Family Housing.  
    • Child development centers to improve the quality of life of military families.  

    Department of Veterans Affairs  

    Provides $452.64 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs for the following:  

    • Fully funds veterans’ medical care  
    • Fully funds veterans’ benefits and toxic exposures-related needs for the Toxic Exposures Fund (TEF).  
    • Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment program, an innovative effort to end veteran homelessness.  

    The Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 is the first of 12 annual Appropriations bills to pass the House of Representatives.  

    “I want to thank Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, as well as the MilCon-VA subcommittee Chairman Judge John Carter and Ranking Member Debbie Wasserman-Schultz for their hard work on this critical funding bill,” said Strong.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Speaker Appoints Strong to Serve on Commission Dedicated to Holding China Accountable

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON—Today, Speaker Mike Johnson appointed Representative Dale Strong to serve as a Commissioner on the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC).  

    “I am proud to be appointed to the CECC as a Commissioner this Congress. The Chinese Communist Party is relentless in its efforts to undermine America, not just through open confrontation but by exploiting our laws, infiltrating our institutions, and using covert tactics to weaken our economy and security from within,” said Representative Dale Strong. “This commission plays a critical role in shining a light on abuses and holding the Chinese government accountable.”

    “For 25 years, the Congressional-Executive Commission on China has done vital work to hold the Chinese Communist Party accountable and educate the western world about their abuse of human rights and the rule of law,” said Speaker Johnson. “I am honored to appoint my friend Dale Strong to serve on the Commission to continue carrying out this longstanding, bipartisan priority and to ensure that the CCP’s abuses do not go unchecked.”

    BACKGROUND:  

    Congress created the CECC in 2000 with the mandate to monitor the rule of law in China and to provide transparency and accountability on the actions of the Chinese government.

    The Commission submits an annual report to Congressional leadership and the President to inform U.S. policy decisions. The CECC holds formal hearings and roundtables with academics, government officials, business representatives, and other experts to gather information for the report. Most recently, the CECC has reported on China’s use of forced labor, proliferation of mass biometric surveillance systems, cultural and religious suppression, and imprisonment of political dissidents.  

    The bipartisan group is composed of 23 members: nine Senators, nine members of the House of Representatives, and five senior Administration officials appointed by the President.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney participates in a virtual meeting in support of Ukraine

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, participated in a virtual meeting of the Coalition of the Willing.

    The meeting was co-chaired by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, and the President of France, Emmanuel Macron. It was also attended by many of Canada’s closest allies and partners, including the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and representatives of the United States – senators Lindsay Graham and Richard Blumenthal as well as U.S. Special Envoy General Keith Kellogg.

    The Coalition unequivocally condemned Russia’s latest strikes against Ukraine. They affirmed collective efforts to exert pressure on Russia, including through further sanctions as well as military and financial assistance to Ukraine. Prime Minister Carney raised Canada’s robust support to Ukraine, most recently through a major sanctions package targeting Russia’s shadow fleet and energy revenues; an additional $2 billion in new military support, with funding for drones, ammunition, and armoured vehicles, among other capabilities; and the disbursement of a $2.3 billion loan, to help rebuild Ukraine’s infrastructure and public systems.

    The Coalition underscored their steadfast support for Ukraine’s long-term security and sovereignty, and actions to establish a post-ceasefire force. To advance a just and lasting peace, the Coalition of the Willing will have new permanent headquarters in Paris, with plans in place for a future co-ordination cell in Kyiv.

    Associated link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder on Employment Insurance measures introduced to support Canadian workers and employers

    Source: Government of Canada News

    On March 21, 2025, the Government of Canada introduced three temporary Employment Insurance (EI) measures designed to improve access and entitlement to income supports for workers whose jobs are affected by the continued threat of tariffs.  The three measures, in place until October 11, 2025, are:

    • Waiving the one-week EI waiting period;
    • Suspending the treatment of monies paid on separation; and
    • Artificially adjusting the EI unemployment rate by one percentage point in all EI regions, up to a maximum of 13.1%, with no region seeing less than 7.1%. This temporary measure will reduce the hours required to qualify for regular benefits to no higher than 630 hours and increase the weeks of entitlement by up to four additional weeks.

    Waiving the waiting period:

    Temporarily waiving the standard one-week waiting period means that some EI claimants could receive an extra week of benefits. This also helps workers adjust more easily to a drop in income after a layoff. This temporary measure applies to all EI claims, including regular, special and fishing benefits. This measure applies to claims with a benefit period that begins on or after March 30, 2025, but no later than October 11, 2025
    .
    Allowing claimants to receive EI benefits sooner by suspending the rules around treatment of severance:

    Suspending the rules around treatment of severance, vacation, and other monies paid upon separation means that monies paid or payable by reason of a lay-off or separation from employment (severance, vacation) are not considered earnings for EI benefit purposes. Because of this, EI claimants do not need to exhaust those payments before they are able to start receiving EI benefits, allowing them to receive benefits sooner.  This measure applies to claims with a benefit period that begins on or after March 30, 2025, but no later than October 11, 2025.

    Artificially adjusting the regional EI unemployment rates

    Across Canada, regional unemployment rates determine the number of hours or earnings required to access EI regular or fishing benefits, the number of weeks of regular benefit entitlement that a worker can receive, and the weekly benefit rate that they can receive. Each EI region’s unemployment rate is updated monthly, using the average of the last three or twelve months, based on data from Statistics Canada.

    When there is an increase in the regional rate of unemployment, the number of hours a worker in that region needs to qualify for regular benefits decreases and the number of weeks of regular benefit entitlement increases.

    The new temporary measure increases the EI unemployment rate by one percentage point in all EI regions, to a maximum of 13.1%, with no region seeing less than 7.1%. The new temporary regional unemployment rates better reflect the regional labour market conditions after tariffs have been imposed, including job losses. The new temporary rates are designed to increase access to EI regular and fishing benefits, increase the duration of EI regular benefits, and increase the benefit rate for all benefit types for those eligible.

    Additional details:
     

    • Claimants require no more than 630 hours of insurable employment in their qualifying period to qualify for regular benefits (in comparison with up to 700 hours normally.)
    • EI fishing benefit claimants require no more than $3,800 in earnings to qualify for EI fishing benefits (in comparison to up to $4,200 normally).
    • The minimum number of weeks of regular benefit entitlement on a claim is at least 17 weeks (in comparison to a minimum of 14 weeks in some regions normally). For some claimants, it will result in up to four additional weeks of EI regular benefit entitlement.
    • Establishing a minimum unemployment rate also means that the benefit rate of an EI regular or special benefit claimant is calculated using no more than their 20 best weeks of earnings in their qualifying period (in comparison to up to 22 weeks normally).
    • Similarly, for EI fishing benefit claimants, the benefit rate is calculated using a divisor no higher than 20 (in comparison to up to 22 normally).

    This measure applies to claims that begin on or after April 6, 2025, but no later than October 11, 2025.

    Work-Sharing Program

    The Work-Sharing Program is a component of the Employment Insurance (EI) program. When employers face difficulties beyond their control and are temporarily reducing their company’s activities, they may be eligible to participate in a Work-Sharing agreement to help avoid laying off employees.

    Under a Work-Sharing agreement, employers can reduce the employees’ working hours by between 10% and 60%. To help compensate for the days or time not worked, eligible employees may receive Employment Insurance (EI) benefits. 

    By participating in Work-Sharing, employers benefit from: retaining skilled employees and avoiding the expense of hiring and training new employees when work activity returns to normal. 

    Employees benefit from: avoiding the hardship of being laid off; maintaining their work skills and connection to the labour market; and receiving EI benefits for the days not worked. 

    On March 7, 2025, the Government of Canada announced temporary special measures to the Work-Sharing Program to help make the program more accessible to employers and workers. With these special measures, employer eligibility under the Program is expanded to include:  
     

    • businesses that have been in operation in Canada for 1 year;  
    • non-profit and charitable organizations experiencing a reduction in revenue levels as a direct or indirect result of the tariffs;  
    • cyclical or seasonal employers; and,  
    • employers experiencing a decrease in work activity over the past six months of less than 10% and allowing utilization of Work-Sharing to exceed 60%.  

    In addition, employee eligibility has also been expanded to include workers who are:  
     

    • not year-round, permanent, full-time or part-time employees, specifically seasonal or cyclical employees; and   
    • assisting the employer recovery efforts.  

    Under the new temporary Work-Sharing special measures, the maximum duration of a Work-Sharing agreement is also extended from 38 weeks to up to 76 weeks. Additionally, while temporary special measures are in place, the requirement to serve a cooling-off period between successive Work Sharing agreements is being waived. As well, recovery measures can focus on maintaining business viability in the face of tariffs (rather than a return to normal business).  

    These measures are in place from March 7, 2025, until March 6, 2026.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal government extends Employment Insurance temporary measure to help workers impacted by U.S. tariffs

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 10, 2025                 Gatineau, Quebec                Employment and Social Development Canada 

    Tariffs imposed on Canadian goods by the United States and other trading partners continue to hurt Canadian workers and employers. In response, the federal government introduced measures to support workers with timely and reliable access to Employment Insurance (EI) benefits, particularly those in sectors and regions heavily impacted by US tariffs.

    Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, and the Honourable John Zerucelli, Secretary of State (Labour), announced the extension of the temporary adjustment to EI regional unemployment rates until October 11, 2025.

    This decision continues to reduce the hours required to qualify for regular benefits to no higher than 630 hours and increases the weeks of entitlement by up to four additional weeks.

    The Government continues to be engaged in negotiations on a broader trading arrangement with the United States with a primary focus on getting the best deal for Canadian workers and businesses. At the same time, it is equally important to help affected Canadian workers access the income support they need during this difficult and uncertain time.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Leader of Mexican Sex Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 188 Months in Prison

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Defendant is the Last Member of a Family-Run Sex Trafficking Ring to be Sentenced

    Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, Hugo Hernandez-Velazquez was sentenced by United States District Judge William F. Kuntz to 188 months’ imprisonment for sex trafficking multiple victims by force, fraud, and coercion.  The defendant was extradited from Mexico to the United States in February 2021.  He pleaded guilty to one count of sex trafficking in April 2023.  Hernandez-Velazquez will be deported to Mexico after completing his sentence.

    Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI New York), announced the sentence.

    “For years, the defendant and his siblings operated an illegal, abusive, and exploitative sex trafficking operation that stripped victims of their dignity and subjected them to inhumane violence,” stated United States Attorney Nocella.  “It is my hope that the prosecution of their tormentors and the punishment meted out will provide a measure of closure for the brave survivors who assisted the investigation and will help them on their path to healing.”

    “For nearly a decade, the defendant and his family oversaw a vicious sex trafficking campaign wrought with violence, manipulation, coercion, and outright force against women whom they lured into romantic relationships through false promises of love and support,” stated HSI Special Agent in Charge Patel.  “Every day, victims are targeted for human trafficking and other vile forms of exploitation and abuse, often at the hands of their own spouses or purported caretakers.  Today’s sentencing is no doubt a direct result of the bravery of each survivor who courageously spoke up.  Together with our partners, HSI is unflinchingly committed to investigating and vigorously pursuing anyone, anywhere, who sexually exploits the very individuals they claim to care for.”

    Mr. Nocella commended HSI New York’s Trafficking in Persons Unit for leading the investigation of the Hernandez-Velazquez Sex Trafficking Organization; thanked the HSI Mexico City Attaché Office, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Department of State, Interpol, International Affairs Department of the Attorney General’s Office in Mexico, the Law Enforcement Unit of the State of Tlaxcala Attorney General’s Office, Interpol Mexico, and the New York City Police Department for their assistance; and praised the government of Mexico for its role in advancing bilateral anti-trafficking enforcement efforts.  Mr. Nocella also acknowledged the non-governmental victim service providers and advocates for their dedicated efforts to restore and improve the lives of survivors of trafficking and their families.

    Between approximately 2001 and 2009, the defendant and his siblings, Ernesto, Giovanni and Arcelia Hernandez-Velazquez, ran the Hernandez-Velazquez Sex Trafficking organization (the family organization) based in Mexico.  The family organization used force, fraud, and coercion to cause young women in Mexico to engage in prostitution in the United States.  Members of the family organization lured victims into romantic relationships through false promises of love and support.  The victims were pressured to travel to the United States with promises of a better life with their trafficker.  Once smuggled into the United States, the victims were forced to engage in prostitution.  The family organization maintained a base in Queens, New York, where victims would reside while they were forced to work in New York and other states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.  The defendant subjected his victims to physical beatings, forced abortions, and threats. The defendant also threatened violence to the victims’ families to force the victims to continue prostituting on his behalf.

    Judge Kuntz previously sentenced Hernandez-Velazquez’s siblings who also pleaded guilty to sex trafficking: Ernesto Hernandez-Velazquez and Giovanni Hernandez-Velazquez were each sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment; and Arcelia Hernandez-Velazquez, who pleaded guilty to a Mann Act Violation, was sentenced to time served after approximately 60 months in U.S. custody.

    The investigation, prosecution, bilateral enforcement action, and extradition of the defendant from Mexico was coordinated through the U.S.-Mexico Bilateral Human Trafficking Enforcement Initiative.  Since 2009, the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security have collaborated with Mexican law enforcement counterparts in a Bilateral Human Trafficking Enforcement Initiative to dismantle human trafficking networks operating across the U.S.-Mexico border, bring human traffickers to justice, restore the rights and dignity of human trafficking victims, and reunite victims with their children.  These efforts have resulted in successful prosecutions in both Mexico and the United States, including U.S. federal prosecutions of over 175 defendants in multiple cases in Georgia, New York, Florida, and Texas, in addition to numerous Mexican federal and state prosecutions of associated sex traffickers. 

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Human Trafficking and Civil Rights Section.  Assistant United States  Attorney Erin Reid is in charge of the prosecution.

    The Defendant:

    HUGO HERNANDEZ-VELAZQUEZ (also known as “Norberto Hernandez Velasquez” and “La Gallina”)
    Age:  48
    Mexico

    Defendants Previously Sentenced:

    ERNESTO HERNANDEZ-VELAZQUEZ (also known as “Chapas”)
    Age:  45
    Queens, New York

    GIOVANNI HERNANDEZ-VELAZQUEZ
    Age:  37
    Mexico

    ARCELIA HERNANDEZ-VELAZQUEZ (also known as “La Gordis”)
    Age:  46
    Queens, New York

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 19-CR-306 (S-1) (WFK)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Carjackers Sentenced To Seven Years In Prison

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Two armed carjackers were sentenced to prison today for firearms offenses, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Joseph Jaream Stephens, 23, and Davon Omarion Long, 19, both of Charlotte, were each sentenced to seven years in prison and were ordered to serve five and three years, respectively, under court supervision upon completion of their prison terms.

    Alicia Jones, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.

    According to court documents and court proceedings, on April 19, 2024, Long and Stephens approached a vehicle being fueled at the pump of a gas station located on W. Sugar Creek, in Charlotte. Armed with a handgun, Stephens approached from the rear driver’s side and confronted the driver, while Long approached the passenger side of the vehicle and pointed a handgun at two passengers. All three victims abandoned the vehicle and fled. After the victims fled Long got into the front passenger seat, and Stephens got into the driver’s seat. Stephens was unable to re-start the vehicle and both defendants fled on foot. Both men were apprehended across the street from the carjacking in a motel parking lot.

    On February 14, 2025, the defendants pleaded guilty to possession and brandishing of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. They remain in custody pending transfer to the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

    The ATF and CMPD handled the investigation.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Johnstown Residents Each Sentenced to Eight Years or More of Prison for Trafficking Crack Cocaine

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Two residents of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, were sentenced in federal court on their convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute crack cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    The sentences imposed by United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan were:

    Defendant Age Sentence
    Kevin Johnson 39 100 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release
    Daniel Culmer 58 96 months in prison, to be followed by six years of supervised release

    According to information presented to the Court, from in and around March 2021 to July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Johnson conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture of crack cocaine. From in and around April 2021 to July 2021, Culmer conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture of crack. Johnson and Culmer were intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that they distributed to others. At the time of his offense, Culmer was on supervised release for a prior federal conviction in 2018 in the Western District of Pennsylvania for distributing heroin.

    Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of the defendants. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former City of Raleigh Firefighter Pleads Guilty to Dark Web Drug Trafficking Scheme

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A former City of Raleigh firefighter and his wife have pleaded guilty today to running a large-scale drug trafficking operation involving cocaine, methamphetamine, and other narcotics. Nicholas Banister, 36, and Amanda Banister, 36, admitted to using the dark web and cryptocurrency to distribute drugs across Eastern North Carolina.

    “The defendant, a Raleigh firefighter, served in a position of public trust, but was hiding in plain sight as he and his wife sold numerous types of illegal narcotics around businesses the community frequently visits,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar.  “I’m proud of our federal and state partners at the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement (NC ALE) for their hard work, which is holding these individuals accountable and making our community safer.”

    “It is unfortunate to see someone we trust to help keep us protected involved in criminal activities that jeopardize public safety,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones. “ATF realizes the danger and violence associated with drug trafficking, and we’re proud to work with our local and state law enforcement partners to break up those networks and better protect our communities.”

    “A primary focus for ALE is reducing crime associated with alcohol establishments and protecting the safety of our communities. In this case, undercover ALE special agents conducted a comprehensive investigation that led to the arrest and conviction of two individuals — one of whom had taken an oath to protect others but instead chose to put lives at risk,” said Bryan House, Director of North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement. “We’re hopeful this case, along with our continued efforts, will have a positive impact on our state.”

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, Banister conspired with his wife to sell cocaine and methamphetamine on four occasions to an undercover law enforcement officer at the Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh. The NC ALE executed a search warrant at Banister’s residence in Raleigh, where they found 1,324.43 grams of methamphetamine, 844 grams of cocaine, over 7 kilograms of marijuana, 382 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, Xanax and Ecstasy pills, 216 units of LSD, 15 grams of dimethyltryptamine (DMT), two firearms, a digital wallet used to store cryptocurrency and $213,810 in U.S. currency. Banister had been selling cocaine, methamphetamine, and LSD every other week for at least a year prior to his arrest. Banister purchased the narcotics from the dark web using cryptocurrency, had them shipped to North Carolina, and then sold them to various buyers, primarily in the Glenwood South area. Banister utilized the Snapchat application to advertise narcotics by providing a “menu” for buyers. The following appeared on Banister’s Snapchat account and was presented in court:

    Banister was employed with the City of Raleigh Fire Department at the time of the charged offenses.

    Both Banister and his wife face a mandatory minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment when sentenced at a later date.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after arraignment by U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert T. Numbers II. The NC ALE and the ATF investigated the case and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) Aria Q. Merle prosecuted the case. SAUSA Merle is a prosecutor with the Wake County District Attorney’s Office assigned to the United States Attorney’s Office to prosecute federal violent crimes and other criminal matters. 

    A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-cr-00106-D.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Defends Religious Freedom in Football Game Prayer Case

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) led an amicus brief today to protect Americans from religious discrimination by state governments. Senator Lee filed the brief to defend free speech and religious observance from infringement by government entities as part of the case Cambridge Christian School v. Florida High School Athletic Association.

    “When the government blocks Christian schools from praying before their own football games, something is very wrong,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Even after the Supreme Court has repeatedly warned about the dangers of expansive definitions of government speech, some lower courts are creating new loopholes and ignoring protections for freedom of speech and religion. This overstep represents a serious danger to even private expressions of faith, and must be overturned. I pray the Supreme Court grants this case, corrects the lower court’s error, and upholds the First Amendment.”

    Joining Senator Lee in filing the amicus brief are U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), John Cornyn (R-TX), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Josh Hawley (R-MO), James Lankford (R-OK), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Tim Scott (R-SC), as well as U.S. Representatives Lauren Boebert (R-CO), John McGuire (R-VA), Andy Ogles (R-TN), Keith Self (R-TX), and Daniel Webster (R-FL).

    Background

    Cambridge Christian School was set to play another Christian high school in the Florida state football championship game. Both schools wished to begin their game with prayer over the loudspeaker, but the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) refused their request – despite allowing it three years prior.

    The FHSAA originally argued that the prayer might have been viewed as a government endorsement of religion. After realizing that defense failed under controlling precedent, they changed their tune. The FHSAA now argues that the prayer would have qualified as “government speech,” giving them the right to deny the request. The Eleventh Circuit accepted this argument despite countless instances of private, non-government speech occurring over the loudspeaker at these football games.

    The court essentially backdoored in a new way to silence Americans by allowing the government to reclassify speech whenever it sees fit.

    The Establishment Clause, Free Speech Clause, and Free Exercise Clauses are meant to work together to prevent the government from impinging on freedom of religion. But actors who are hostile to religion exploit the government-speech doctrine to undermine the constitutional rights of religious persons and groups. As Justice Samuel Alito has noted, that doctrine is “susceptible to dangerous misuse” and courts “must exercise great caution before extending government-speech precedents.” This decision by the Eleventh Circuit is one of those dangerous extensions.

    Senator Lee’s amicus brief argues:

    • The Eleventh Circuit erred in its application of the government-speech doctrine, thus creating a loophole for government to stifle private speech.
    • The Eleventh Circuit’s misclassification of the speech of private actors as government speech would (a) chill otherwise protected speech, and (b) cause confusion as to what is and is not government speech.  
    • The Supreme Court should adopt an analytical framework to resolve these types of disputes.

    Read the full text of the amicus brief here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Robert Garcia and Senator Alex Padilla Reintroduce the ‘Clean Shipping Act’ to Reduce Port Pollution and Protect the Health of Port Communities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Garcia California (42nd District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) and Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) reintroduced the Clean Shipping Act. This bill establishes a path to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from large ships that come to U.S. ports, protecting the health of port communities and addressing the environmental and climate impacts of shipping pollution. Specifically, the bill would mandate that by 2050, ships must cut all greenhouse gas pollution, and by 2035, they must emit zero emissions while parked at ports. The bill is co-led by Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44). The bill text can be found here. 

    “Our nation’s ports, particularly the Port of Long Beach, are crucial parts of the economy that drive our supply chain at home. However, they’re also among the largest sources of pollution in our coastal communities,” said Congressman Robert Garcia. “Ship pollution is harmful for the health of people living near ports, and disproportionately affects low-income, working-class neighborhoods and communities of color. That’s why I’m proud to introduce a bill that addresses greenhouse gas pollution and creates a path to fully eliminate emissions. We must protect people’s health and stop our climate crisis, while ensuring good-paying jobs for the future.”

    “California’s ports are the powerhouse of our country’s economy, moving critical freight and providing good-paying jobs, all while leading the nation’s decarbonizing efforts. But neighboring communities have been forced to shoulder the brunt of global shipping pollution for too long,” said Senator Alex Padilla. “Our legislation would strengthen the sustainability of our shipping industry by reducing emissions in maritime transportation while simultaneously protecting coastal communities. The health of our communities and our planet requires us to be forward-looking and ambitious — we owe future generations nothing less than bold, transformative action.”

    “I’m proud to reintroduce the Clean Shipping Act because people deserve to breathe clean air, and this bill will help make that a reality. Communities near the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach—many of them communities of color—continue to suffer from toxic air pollution caused by ships. This bill sets a clear path to zero-emission shipping. It’s a critical step to clean up our air, protect public health, and take on the climate crisis. Port communities have waited long enough, we must act now,” said Congresswoman Nanette Barragán.

    “In order to protect our ocean and stay competitive with the rest of the world, we need federal leadership to help modernize and clean up U.S. shipping. By driving the shipping sector to develop, scale and deploy zero-emission technologies, we can spur job creation, help tackle the climate crisis and help create cleaner air for the millions of Americans living near ports. We commend Representative Garcia and Senator Padilla for their leadership on this issue and look forward to working with members of Congress to make this bill a reality,” said Caroline Bonfield, Ocean Conservancy’s Shipping Emissions U.S. Policy Manager

    “The Clean Shipping Act of 2025 will send a clear signal to the shipping industry that they must reduce their emissions by phasing out the use of fossil fuels and transition to a cleaner future. Technology-forcing policies like this legislation will enable large-scale investment in sustainable maritime fuels and technologies and establish a level playing field, minimizing the risk for manufacturers and suppliers. For far too long, dirty ships have brought significant levels of air pollution into U.S. port communities. We commend Representative Garcia and Senator Padilla for reintroducing this important bill and leading the effort to help protect communities disproportionately impacted by these harmful emissions,” said Antonio Santos, Federal Climate Policy Director, Pacific Environment.

    “The shipping industry has been polluting communities for decades, but we have the power to make shipping cleaner. Port expansions across the country have been especially devastating for communities living closest to the harbors where large ships spew toxic diesel exhaust that worsens air quality and contributes to the climate crisis. People living near ports deserve to breathe clean air, and the Clean Shipping Act will help make that a reality,” said Katherine García, Director of the Clean Transportation for All Campaign, Sierra Club. 

    “GreenLatinos endorses the urgently needed Clean Shipping Act, which protects Latino/e and other vulnerable communities from further exposure to port pollution and takes important steps to reduce harm from toxic ship fuels. 1 in 3 Latines live in the top 20% of most pollution-impacted communities. Pollution burdened communities are facing even more exposure as idling ships wait days to enter port and offload their cargo. We urge Congress to act swiftly in passing this vital legislation and protect our coastal communities from the harms of port emissions,” said Andrea Marpillero-Colomina, Policy Advisor, GreenLatinos.

    “The Clean Shipping Act of 2025 will help us work toward a future where healthy port communities thrive and everyone benefits from leveraging the tremendous potential of the ocean and ocean industries as powerful sources of climate solutions. We are grateful for the leadership of Congressman Garcia and Senator Padilla for advancing this legislation for our ocean, climate, and communities,” said Sarah Guy, Executive Director, Ocean Defense Initiative. 

    The global shipping industry accounts for nearly 3% of all global greenhouse gas emissions, and that number is expected to rise if no action is taken. Additionally, almost 40% of Americans live near ports, where people’s health is harmed by air pollution. This especially impacts working-class neighborhoods and communities of color. 

    The Clean Shipping Act is endorsed by Breathe Southern California, CleanEarth4Kids.org, Don’t Waste Arizona, Environmental Investigation Agency, Friends of the Earth, GreenLatinos, Intheshadowofthewolf, Long Beach Alliance for Clean Energy, Milwaukee Riverkeeper, Ocean Conservancy, Ocean Defense Initiative, Pacific Environment, Restoring Earth Connection, San Pedro & Peninsula Homeowners Coalition, Seattle Cruise Control, Sierra Club, Sunflower Alliance, 350 Bay Area Action, 350 Sacramento, Turtle Island Restoration Network, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, ABB, Evolve Hydrogen Inc., Maritime Battery Forum, and Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association

    Congressman Garcia, a co-chair of the Congressional PORTS Caucus, is committed to advocating for bold climate action and environmental justice, which includes improving port infrastructure. Congressman Garcia first introduced the Clean Shipping Act alongside Senator Padilla in 2023. During his time in Congress, Congressman Garcia has helped secure over $283 million in federal grant money for the completion of the Port of Long Beach Pier B Port Project, which will significantly reduce truck traffic and harmful emissions while improving safety, local congestion, and yielding nationwide economic benefits. Congressman Garcia also helped secure two federal grants through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law totaling nearly $44 million to reduce truck emissions at port facilities located in the Port of Long Beach. As Mayor of Long Beach, Congressman Garcia worked with the Port of Long Beach to navigate the historic surge in volume in freight in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Taxpayer-Funded Benefits Are for American Citizens — Not Illegals

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    Today, at the direction of President Donald J. Trump, the Administration is taking the biggest step in more than 30 years to protect taxpayer-funded benefits for American citizens — NOT illegal aliens. The move, which preserves roughly $40 billion in benefits for American citizens, overturns decades of bureaucratic defiance and builds on President Trump’s executive order directing an END to the subsidization of open borders.
    Under President Trump, hardworking Americans will no longer be forced to front the cost of benefits for illegals:
    The Department of Health and Human Services is restricting illegal aliens from 13 additional public programs, including Head Start, health workforce scholarships and loans, mental health and substance abuse support, family planning, and more.
    The Department of Education is ending free tuition for illegal aliens at post-secondary career and technical education programs.
    The Department of Agriculture is restricting illegal aliens from federally funded food assistance programs.
    The Department of Labor is barring illegal aliens from accessing federal workforce development resources and grants.
    The Department of Justice is closing longstanding loopholes that have allowed illegal aliens to access taxpayer-funded benefits.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper Statement on House Passage of Republican’s Budget Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado

    The budget will increase prices for Coloradans, strip health care from 17 million Americans, increase the deficit, and give tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper released the following statement after the House voted to pass the Republicans’ extreme budget reconciliation bill.

    “House Republicans – including our colleagues from Colorado – didn’t need to do this.

    “Excessive tax cuts for the wealthy few are NOT worth mortgaging our future economy, sacrificing health care for 17 million Americans, and forfeiting our clean energy dominance.

    “The choice should have been clear.”

    The Republicans’ reconciliation bill includes a $3 trillion tax cut for the wealthiest Americans. It pays for those tax cuts by taking healthcare away from 17 million Americans, forcing rural hospitals in Colorado to close their doors, gutting clean energy investments, and ballooning our national debt by trillions of dollars.

    On Tuesday, Hickenlooper voted NO on the Senate budget resolution after Republicans voted down critical Democratic-led amendments to prevent cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and Inflation Reduction Act clean energy funding.

    Yesterday, while the House considered the legislation, Hickenlooper held a statewide press conference with Colorado Governor Jared Polis, and U.S. Representatives Diana DeGette, Joe Neguse, Jason Crow, and Brittany Pettersen to call on House Republicans to reject the extreme legislation and highlight the harm it will cause Colorado.

    The bill now heads to President Trump to be signed into law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Update 301 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) remains connected to its last remaining main power line following the recent loss of all off-site power on 4 July, an ongoing situation that highlights the heightened nuclear safety and security risks during the conflict, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said today.

    The loss of power– the ninth since the start of the conflict in February 2022 – forced the ZNPP to rely on its backup diesel generators for almost four hours as the plant’s one remaining back-up line remains disconnected after being reportedly damaged by military activity on 7 May. The IAEA team based at the ZNPP site— Europe’s largest nuclear facility — was informed this week that the emergency diesel generator fuel tanks used during the loss of power have since been replenished and the site has enough fuel to enable operation of emergency diesel generators for approximately 20 days, in case of a loss of off-site power event.

    The IAEA team at South Ukraine nuclear power plant (SUNPP) reported that the plant also lost its connection to one 750 kilovolt (kV) off-site power line on 4 July, for approximately the same time as the ZNPP lost off-site power. During that time, the SUNPP continued to receive off-site power from its other 750 kV line and all of its 330 kV power lines. There was no impact on the one unit currently operating, while the other two units continue planned maintenance and refueling activities.

    The IAEA team continued to assess the availability of spare parts necessary for the continued safe operation of the plant by visiting the storage areas for the parts in the thermomechanical and electrical warehouses located within the ZNPP’s site perimeter and will be requesting the findings of recent audits by the ZNPP of spare parts. The team is also expecting to be updated on the delayed procurement of spare parts needed so that the ZNPP can commence annual maintenance of all 20 emergency diesel generators which are essential to safety in case of a loss of off-site power event.

    Also this week, the IAEA team reported that maintenance activities continue at the site, including on one safety train of unit 2 and on the main transformer of unit 4, while maintenance on one safety train of unit 5 is expected to be completed on Friday. Recently, the team also visited all main control rooms where it confirmed the number of operating staff present and recorded safety parameters for all units.

    The IAEA team reported hearing military activity on most days over the past week, including gunfire near the plant on 4 July and three explosions close to the plant on 5 July.

    The IAEA team at the Rivne nuclear power plant (NPP) reported that one reactor continues its planned maintenance and refueling activities, and one other unit was required to temporarily reduce reactor power to enable for the inspection and repair of one of the turbines. The repairs were successfully completed, and the reactor has returned to nominal full power.

    IAEA teams present at all sites — the Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine NPPs and the Chornobyl NPP site — reported hearing air raid alarms on most days over the past week. At the Khmelnytskyy NPP the team was informed that drones were observed as close as five kilometres from the site, while the team at the Rivne NPP had to shelter at its hotel on two separate days and the teams at the Khmelnytskyy and Rivne NPPs sheltered at site today. The team at the Chornobyl NPP site reported hearing the sounds of a drone and anti-aircraft fire at the Chornobyl NPP site on the evening of 9 July, and were informed by the site management that a drone had reportedly flown over the open switchyard and was intercepted by the military. 

    As part of the IAEA’s comprehensive assistance programme to support nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, the Chornobyl NPP site received equipment aimed at enhancing the nuclear security measures at the site and the Khmelnytskyy and South Ukraine NPPs received equipment aimed at enhancing radiation monitoring capabilities. Additionally, the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center and the hydrometeorological organizations of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine received multipurpose radiation monitoring devices.

    These deliveries were funded by the European Union, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, and brought the total number of IAEA-coordinated deliveries since the start of the armed conflict to 146.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Kaitaia

    Source: New Zealand Police

    One person has died following a single vehicle crash in Kaitaia overnight.

    Emergency services were called to the crash on Allen Bell Drive at around 2.10am.

    Sadly, the passenger of the vehicle died at the scene.

    Two others were transported to hospital with moderate to serious injuries.

    Police are providing support to the next of kin.

    The Serious Crash Unit have completed a scene examination and enquiries into the cause of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor moves to prevent illegal immigrants from utilizing taxpayer-funded workforce programs

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration today announced new guidance to ensure illegal immigrants are not allowed access to federal workforce development resources and related grants. Coinciding with similar measures being taken across the federal government, this announcement is the department’s latest effort to carry out President Trump’s executive order 14218, Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders.

    Under this guidance, all grantees funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and related programs must verify valid work authorization before providing participant-level services. This action replaces the Biden Administration’s guidance that incentivized illegal immigration and reinforces the department’s commitment to ensuring taxpayer-funded workforce resources remain focused on strengthening the American workforce.

    “America’s workforce is stronger than ever under President Trump’s leadership because he is committed to upholding the rule of law and putting American workers first,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “Our updated guidance makes clear that taxpayer-funded workforce services are reserved for individuals who are authorized to work in the United States, as required by federal law. By ensuring these programs serve their intended purpose, we’re protecting good-paying jobs for American workers and reaffirming this Administration’s commitment to securing our borders and ending illegal immigration.” 

    This guidance directs the public workforce development system to update all policies and procedures to verify work authorization and maintain proper documentation in participant case files. This ensures employers can have confidence that partnering with the workforce system will help them hire workers who are both equipped with the skills to succeed and have the necessary approval to work in the United States.

    The guidance applies to programs including WIOA Title I Adult, Dislocated Worker, Youth programs (including statewide employment and training services funded by the Governor reserve), WIOA National Dislocated Worker Grants, Wagner-Peyser Act Employment Service, Reentry Employment Opportunities and other programs authorized under Section 169 of WIOA, YouthBuild, the National Farmworker Jobs Program, and the Senior Community Service Employment Program. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor cites Georgia-based Keystone Foods for exposing workers to fire, explosion hazards

    Source: US Department of Labor

    ATLANTA – U.S. Department of Labor safety inspectors cited Keystone Foods, a distributor for Tyson Foods, for allegedly failing to protect employees against fire and explosion hazards at its Camilla, Georgia, poultry plant.   

    The department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration determined that on Dec. 26, 2024, two workers at the plant, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tyson Foods Inc., were seriously burned when a hose filled with oil ruptured, igniting the oil mist and causing a fire and explosion in the boiler room. Inspectors concluded Keystone Foods did not ensure workers followed proper internal procedures nor the manufacturer’s guidelines when conducting maintenance on its boiler pump. 

    OSHA issued Keystone Foods a citation for a serious violation under the OSH Act’s general duty clause and proposed penalties of $16,550.

    The company has 15 business days from receipt of their citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. 

    Visit OSHA’s website for information on developing a workplace safety and health program. Employers can also contact the agency for information about OSHA’s compliance assistance resources and for free help on complying with OSHA standards. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Labor Department cites Georgia counter manufacturer for exposing workers to hazardous levels of crystalline silica

    Source: US Department of Labor

    Brazilian Stone Design LLC to pay $33K in penalties after OSHA finds 7 serious violations

    ATLANTA – U.S. Department of Labor safety inspectors determined that Brazilian Stone Design LLC, a Powder Springs stone countertop manufacturer, exposed workers to respirable crystalline silica.

    The department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited the employer, which fabricates and sells kitchen and bathroom countertops, with seven serious citations. The employer will pay $33,000 in penalties.

    The employer was cited for allegedly exposing workers to high airborne concentrations of respirable crystalline silica and failing to require the use of respirators; perform fit testing and training for workers wearing respirators; conduct air monitoring; and administer an effective hearing conservation program.

    To help protect workers, OSHA has issued two respirable crystalline silica standards, one for construction and the other for general industry and maritime. Learn more about crystalline silica.

    Visit OSHA’s website for information on developing a workplace safety and health program. Employers can also contact the agency for information about OSHA’s compliance assistance resources and for free help on complying with OSHA standards.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ivey Deploys Search and Rescue Team to Texas

    Source: US State of Alabama

    MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday announced Alabama is assisting Texas in their search and rescue mission following the devastating flooding. The 40-person team being deployed includes Alabama Task Force 1 out of Mobile, Tuscaloosa Fire and Saraland Fire.

    “Search and rescue remains the goal, and Alabama is going to do all we can to lend a helping hand to Texas,” said Governor Ivey. “We are heartbroken in Alabama to have lost two of our own. I pray for Sarah Marsh’s family as they navigate the unimaginable loss of their precious daughter. My prayers are also with the Santanas as they grieve the loss of Camille and are still searching for three members of their family. Truly, we are all grieving alongside these Alabamians, as well as those in Texas and across our country.”

    Immediately following the devastation, Governor Ivey aligned state resources so that the state could quickly act, upon Texas’ call. Yesterday when speaking with reporters, Governor Ivey reiterated Alabama stands ready to assist in the search and rescue efforts.

    This multi-disciplined team is capable of conducting search and rescue response efforts for all hazards, including locating, accessing, medically stabilizing and extricating survivors from impacted structures and areas. Specialized operational personnel include rescue, canine search, medical, hazmat, technical search and communications.

    The governor continued, “I am grateful to all those who are part of the search and rescue mission, and I pray for their safety and for the success of their mission. Y’all, pray for Texas!”

    The team is deploying at 3:00 p.m. today on Thursday. This task force operates in 12-hour periods for up to 14 days.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa: Justice Committee Chairperson Welcomes Apartheid Cop’s Sentence for Killing Caiphus Nyoka

    Source: APO


    .

    The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Xola Nqola, has welcomed the 15-year prison sentence handed down to former apartheid police officer Mr Johan Marais for the 1987 killing of student activist Mr Caiphus Nyoka.

    Mr Marais was sentenced today in the Pretoria High Court. He is one of three individuals charged in connection with Mr Nyoka’s murder and pleaded guilty, stating that he had been ordered to assassinate Mr Nyoka.

    Mr Nqola said: “This sentence is indeed welcome. A young man was robbed of his life, a bright future. The committee would like to see the finalisation of all apartheid crimes. This will bring some closure for the families and friends of our liberation struggle heroes, even if it does not bring back their loved ones.”

    He added: “We commend the prosecuting team for ensuring that justice is done. This should be a message to all those unfinalised matters that the committee would like we want it to proceed in this manner.”

    Mr Nqola emphasised that the committee will continue to monitor similar cases, as survivors and families should not have to wait decades for justice.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Speaks on the Anniversary of Vermont Floods 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch’s Disaster AID Act filed on the anniversaries of Vermont’s July 2023 and July 2024 floods    
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) commemorated the anniversaries of the July 2023 and July 2024 floods today from the Senate Floor. Senator Welch also urged Congress to take up his Disaster Assistance Improvement and Decentralization (AID) Act, new legislation filed this morning that would cut red tape at FEMA and empower state and local governments to access recovery assistance when it is needed. The Disaster AID Act will support hazard mitigation efforts, make the delivery of disaster aid more efficient and effective, provide technical assistance to small towns, and expedite funding for disaster response. 
    “We had back-to-back floods in 2023 and 2024, doing about a billion dollars-worth of damage. By the end of last year, every county in Vermont—all 14 counties—were hit by flooding. That billion dollars in damages affected homes, it affected businesses, it affected farms,” said Senator Welch. “We’re far from alone in Vermont in having suffered enormous damage from wild weather events… This type of wild weather event can hit any one of our states at any time of its own choosing, and all of our states have been affected at one time or another.”  
    “So, my hope is that we can come together as a Congress to fix FEMA so that its capacity to help our communities—when they have been hurt so hard through no fault of their own—that they’ll be able to get the capacity to make decisions, act, and get their community back on its feet.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 

    Over the course of consecutive summers in July 2023 and July 2024, Vermont experienced severe storms which caused catastrophic flooding, washouts, and mudslides. Homes, farms, businesses, and public infrastructure were destroyed, and communities were left reeling. In the immediate aftermath of the destruction, FEMA provided lifesaving on-the-ground assistance, working with local organizations and the state. In the long-term, however, FEMA’s response has not met the needs of communities.    
    Many of Vermont’s towns operate with limited resources and lack the administrative capacity needed to navigate the complex web of federal disaster assistance—especially in the aftermath of a brutal flood. FEMA has failed to provide necessary support and burdensome FEMA policies have slowed or blocked communities from accessing federal funds. Towns were not empowered to capitalize on their understanding of conditions on the ground. To make matters worse, under the Trump Administration, communities must now contend with uncertain federal funding streams, including for reimbursement of projects already approved and under way.   
    Last week, Senator Welch visited with Vermonters in communities across the state that were impacted by the July 2023 and July 2024 floods—including in Killington, Ludlow, Weston, Barre and Montpelier.  He will travel across northern Vermont in the coming weeks. 
    Senator Welch has been outspoken in opposing any attempt by the Trump Administration to dismantle FEMA. Earlier this year, Senator Welch published a guest essay in The New York Times entitled: “Don’t Kill FEMA. Fix It.” In his piece, Senator Welch outlined why President Trump’s actions to undermine and potentially dissolve FEMA are misguided—but also committed to working to reform the agency’s long-term recovery process.   
    In December 2024, Senator Welch helped shape and pass a comprehensive disaster aid package, which delivered more than $100.4 billion of relief for states like Vermont recovering from climate disasters. The disaster aid package contained many of Senator Welch’s top priorities for the State: dedicated help for Vermont’s flood-impacted farmers, flexible spending through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Relief fund, money for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, and support for businesses, among many other important provisions.    
    Learn more about Senator Welch’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada and European Commission to discuss launching industrial dialogue

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 10, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario 

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, will hold a joint media availability with Stéphane Séjourné, the visiting European Commission Executive Vice-President for Prosperity and Industrial Strategy.

    Date: Friday, July 11, 2025

    Time: 1:15 pm (ET)

    Location: Ottawa, Ontario

    Members of the media are asked to contact ISED Media Relations at media@ised-isde.gc.ca to receive event location details and confirm their attendance.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Carroll County, New Hampshire

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Carroll County, New Hampshire

    Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Carroll County, New Hampshire

    Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Carroll County, New Hampshire

    Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements

    The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials

    Significant community review of the maps has already taken place

    Before the maps become final, community stakeholders can raise questions or concerns about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods

    The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around July 16, 2025

    The affected communities in Carroll County, New Hampshire are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register at the following website: https://www

    federalregister

    gov/documents/2025/05/22/2025-09209/proposed-flood-hazard-determinationsResidents may submit an appeal if they think modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect

    An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim

    Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress

    If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment

    The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals

    Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps

    To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA)

    A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA

    Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

    dhs

    gov

    The preliminary maps may also be viewed at the following websites:FEMA Map Service Center – http://msc

    fema

    gov/portalPreliminary Map Products Download Page – https://hazards

    fema

    gov/femaportal/prelimdownloadFlood Map Changes Viewer – http://msc

    fema

    gov/fmcvFor more information about the flood maps, please contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

    dhs

    gov

    There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone

    Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www

    floodsmart

    gov

    adrien

    urbani
    Thu, 07/10/2025 – 16:37

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

    Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

    Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Belknap County, New Hampshire

    Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements

    The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials

    Significant community review of the maps has already taken place

    Before the maps become final, community stakeholders can raise questions or concerns about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods

    The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around July 16, 2025

    The affected communities in Belknap County, New Hampshire are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register at the following website: https://www

    federalregister

    gov/documents/2025/06/12/2025-10700/proposed-flood-hazard-determinationsResidents may submit an appeal if they think modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect

    An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim

    Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress

    If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment

    The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals

    Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps

    To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA)

    A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA

    Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

    dhs

    gov

    The preliminary maps may also be viewed at the following websites:FEMA Map Service Center – http://msc

    fema

    gov/portalPreliminary Map Products Download Page – https://hazards

    fema

    gov/femaportal/prelimdownloadFlood Map Changes Viewer – http://msc

    fema

    gov/fmcvFor more information about the flood maps, please contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

    dhs

    gov

    There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone

    Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www

    floodsmart

    gov

    adrien

    urbani
    Thu, 07/10/2025 – 16:34

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

    Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Belknap County, New Hampshire

    Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Belknap County, New Hampshire

    Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements

    The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials

    Significant community review of the maps has already taken place

    Before the maps become final, community stakeholders can raise questions or concerns about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods

    The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around July 16, 2025

    The affected communities in Belknap County, New Hampshire are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register at the following website: https://www

    federalregister

    gov/documents/2025/06/12/2025-10700/proposed-flood-hazard-determinationsResidents may submit an appeal if they think modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect

    An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim

    Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress

    If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment

    The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals

    Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps

    To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA)

    A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA

    Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

    dhs

    gov

    The preliminary maps may also be viewed at the following websites:FEMA Map Service Center – http://msc

    fema

    gov/portalPreliminary Map Products Download Page – https://hazards

    fema

    gov/femaportal/prelimdownloadFlood Map Changes Viewer – http://msc

    fema

    gov/fmcvFor more information about the flood maps, please contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema

    dhs

    gov

    There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone

    Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www

    floodsmart

    gov

    adrien

    urbani
    Thu, 07/10/2025 – 16:34

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Meet Mineral Mappers Flying NASA Tech Out West

    Source: NASA

    NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey have been mapping the planets since Apollo. One team is searching closer to home for minerals critical to national security and the economy.
    If not for the Joshua trees, the tan hills of Cuprite, Nevada, would resemble Mars. Scalded and chemically altered by water from deep underground, the rocks here are earthly analogs for understanding ancient Martian geology. The hills are also rich with minerals. They’ve lured prospectors for more than 100 years and made Cuprite an ideal place to test NASA technology designed to map the minerals, craters, crusts, and ices of our solar system.
    Sensors that discovered lunar water, charted Saturn’s moons, even investigated ground zero in New York City were all tested and calibrated at Cuprite, said Robert Green, a senior research scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. He’s honed instruments in Nevada for decades.
    One of Green’s latest projects is to find and map rocky surfaces in the American West that could contain minerals crucial to the nation’s economy and security. Currently, the U.S. is dependent on imports of 50 critical minerals, which include lithium and rare earth elements used in everything from rechargeable batteries to medicine.
    Scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) are searching nationwide for domestic sources. NASA is contributing to this effort with high-altitude aircraft and sensors capable of detecting the molecular fingerprints of minerals across vast, treeless expanses in wavelengths of light not visible to human eyes.

    The collaboration is called GEMx, the Geological Earth Mapping Experiment, and it’s likely the largest airborne spectroscopic survey in U.S. history. Since 2023, scientists working on GEMx have charted more than 190,000 square miles (500,000 square kilometers) of North American soil.
    Mapping Partnership Started During Apollo
    As NASA instruments fly in aircraft 60,000 feet (18,000 meters) overhead, Todd Hoefen, a geophysicist, and his colleagues from USGS work below. The samples of rock they test and collect in the field are crucial to ensuring that the airborne observations match reality on the ground and are not skewed by the intervening atmosphere.
    The GEMx mission marks the latest in a long history of partnerships between NASA and USGS. The two agencies have worked together to map rocky worlds — and keep astronauts and rovers safe — since the early days of the space race.
    For example, geologic maps of the Moon made in the early 1960s at the USGS Astrogeology Science Center in Flagstaff, Arizona, helped Apollo mission planners select safe and scientifically promising sites for the six crewed landings that occurred from 1969 to 1972. Before stepping onto the lunar surface, NASA’s Moon-bound astronauts traveled to Flagstaff to practice fieldwork with USGS geologists. A version of those Apollo boot camps continues today with astronauts and scientists involved in NASA’s Artemis mission.

    Rainbows and Rocks
    To detect minerals and other compounds on the surfaces of rocky bodies across the solar system, including Earth, scientists use a technology pioneered by JPL in the 1980s called imaging spectroscopy. One of the original imaging spectrometers built by Robert Green and his team is central to the GEMx campaign in the Western U.S.
    About the size and weight of a minifridge and built to fly on planes, the instrument is called AVIRIS-Classic, short for Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer. Like all imaging spectrometers, it takes advantage of the fact that every molecule reflects and absorbs light in a unique pattern, like a fingerprint. Spectrometers detect these molecular fingerprints in the light bouncing off or emitted from a sample or a surface.  
    In the case of GEMx, that’s sunlight shimmering off different kinds of rocks.  
    Compared to a standard digital camera, which “sees” three color channels (red, green, and blue), imaging spectrometers can see more than 200 channels, including infrared wavelengths of light that are invisible to the human eye.
    NASA spectrometers have orbited or flown by every major rocky body in our solar system. They’ve helped scientists investigate methane lakes on Titan, Saturn’s largest moon, and study Pluto’s thin atmosphere. One JPL-built spectrometer is currently en route to Europa, an icy moon of Jupiter, to help search for chemical ingredients necessary to support life.
    “One of the cool things about NASA is that we develop technology to look out at the solar system and beyond, but we also turn around and look back down,” said Ben Phillips, a longtime NASA program manager who led GEMx until he retired in 2025.
    The Newest Instrument
    More than 200 hours of GEMx flights are scheduled through fall 2025. Scientists will process and validate the data, with the first USGS mineral maps to follow. During these flights, an ER-2 research aircraft from NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, will cruise over the Western U.S. at altitudes twice as high as a passenger jet flies.
    At such high altitudes, pilot Dean Neeley must wear a spacesuit similar to those used by astronauts. He flies solo in the cramped cockpit but will be accompanied by state-of-the-art NASA instruments. In the belly of the plane rides AVIRIS-Classic, which will be retiring soon after more than three decades in service. Carefully packed in the plane’s nose is its successor: AVIRIS-5, taking flight for the first time in 2025.
    Together, the two instruments provide 10 times the performance of the older spectrometer alone, but even by itself AVIRIS-5 marks a leap forward. It can sample areas ranging from about 30 feet (10 meters) to less than a foot (30 centimeters).
    “The newest generation of AVIRIS will more than live up to the original,” Green said.
    More About GEMx
    The GEMx research project will last four years and is funded by the USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative. The initiative will capitalize on both the technology developed by NASA for spectroscopic imaging, as well as the agency’s expertise in analyzing the datasets and extracting critical mineral information from them.
    Data collected by GEMx is available here.
    News Media Contacts
    Andrew Wang / Jane J. LeeJet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.626-379-6874 / 818-354-0307andrew.wang@jpl.nasa.gov / jane.j.lee@jpl.nasa.gov
    Karen Fox / Elizabeth VlockNASA Headquarters, Washington202-358-1600karen.c.fox@nasa.gov / elizabeth.a.vlock@nasa.gov
    Written by Sally Younger
    2025-086

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CISA Releases Thirteen Industrial Control Systems Advisories

    News In Brief – Source: US Computer Emergency Readiness Team

    CISA released thirteen Industrial Control Systems (ICS) advisories on July 10, 2025. These advisories provide timely information about current security issues, vulnerabilities, and exploits surrounding ICS.

    CISA encourages users and administrators to review newly released ICS advisories for technical details and mitigations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Roman Space Telescope Team Installs Observatory’s Solar Panels

    Source: NASA

    On June 14 and 16, technicians installed solar panels onto NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, one of the final steps in assembling the observatory. Collectively called the Solar Array Sun Shield, these panels will power and shade the observatory, enabling all the mission’s observations and helping keep the instruments cool.

    “At this point, the observatory is about 90% complete,” said Jack Marshall, the Solar Array Sun Shield lead at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “We just need to join two large assemblies, and then we’ll run the whole Roman observatory through a series of tests. We’re currently on track for launch several months earlier than the promised date of no later than May 2027.” The team is working toward launch as early as fall 2026.

    The Solar Array Sun Shield is made up of six panels, each covered in solar cells. The two central panels will remain fixed to the outer barrel assembly (the observatory’s outer shell) while the other four will deploy once Roman is in space, swinging up to align with the center panels.
    The panels will spend the entirety of the mission facing the Sun to provide a steady supply of power to the observatory’s electronics. This orientation will also shade much of the observatory and help keep the instruments cool, which is critical for an infrared observatory. Since infrared light is detectable as heat, excess warmth from the spacecraft’s own components would saturate the detectors and effectively blind the telescope.

    “Now that the panels have been installed, the outer portion of the Roman observatory is complete,” said Goddard’s Aaron Vigil, a mechanical engineer working on the array. Next, technicians will test deploy the solar panels and the observatory’s “visor” (the deployable aperture cover). The team is also testing the core portion of the observatory, assessing the electronics and conducting a thermal vacuum test to ensure the system operates as planned in the harsh space environment.
    This will keep the project on track to connect Roman’s inner and outer segments in November, resulting in a whole observatory by the end of the year that can then undergo pre-launch tests.

    To virtually tour an interactive version of the telescope, visit: https://roman.gsfc.nasa.gov/interactive/
    Download high-resolution video and images from NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio
    The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is managed at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, with participation by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California; Caltech/IPAC in Pasadena, California; the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore; and a science team comprising scientists from various research institutions. The primary industrial partners are BAE Systems Inc. in Boulder, Colorado; L3Harris Technologies in Rochester, New York; and Teledyne Scientific & Imaging in Thousand Oaks, California.
    By Ashley BalzerNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.

    MIL OSI USA News –