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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson Celebrates Intown Community School’s Designation as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    DECATUR, GA – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today that Intown Community School, located in Georgia’s 4th Congressional District on Lavista Road, has been named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.

    This prestigious honor, awarded to just 356 schools nationwide this year, recognizes institutions for their overall academic excellence or significant progress in closing achievement gaps among student groups.

    “Intown Community School’s designation as a National Blue Ribbon School is a testament to the dedication and hard work of its students, teachers, staff, and families,” said Congressman Johnson. “This recognition reflects the school’s commitment to creating an environment where all students can excel, and I could not be prouder of their accomplishments. Intown is setting a strong example for schools across the district and the nation.”

    The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, now in its 41st year, has honored more than 10,000 awards to approximately 9,700 schools. Schools selected for this recognition serve as models of effective teaching and learning practices that can be emulated by educators across the country. The National Blue Ribbon School flag, presented during the recognition ceremony, is a symbol of the school’s exemplary performance and commitment to educational excellence.

    Intown Community School will formally receive its award during the National Blue Ribbon Schools awards ceremony, which will take place in Washington, D.C., on November 7-8, 2024, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel. At the event, each school will be presented with an award plaque and a flag in recognition of their outstanding achievement.

    For more information on the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, please contact Program Director Aba Kumi at Aba.Kumi@ed.gov or (202) 401-1767.

    About Congressman Hank Johnson:
    Hank Johnson represents Georgia’s 4th Congressional District, where he is a staunch advocate for civil rights, public safety, and economic justice. Learn more at https://hankjohnson.house.gov/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murkowski Joins Senate Resolution Standing with Israel on One-Year Anniversary of Horrific Terrorist Attacks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski

    10.07.24

    Washington, D.C. — On the one-year anniversary of the brutal Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) joined forty-eight of her Senate colleagues condemning the attacks, while supporting a path towards the survival and security of Israel, as well as the safe release of United States hostages from the Gaza Strip.

    “Our prayers continue to be with the families and victims of the barbaric terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas one year ago,” said Senator Murkowski. “As on day one, we stand with our ally Israel as they defend their people and their sovereignty. We also continue to pray for those in the region and hope for a resolution that will bring a stop to hostilities, safe return of those taken hostage by Hamas, and an end to the rise in antisemitism here at home that has made Jewish Americans feel threatened. The United States is committed to providing Israel the resources they need to defend themselves and providing humanitarian aid to the innocent civilians caught up in Hamas’ deadly war of terror.”

    You can read S.Res.890 below.

    “Condemning the brutal Hamas-led terrorist attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and supporting an outcome that ensures the forever survival of Israel, the complete denial of the ability of Hamas to reconstitute in the region, and the safe release of United States hostages from the Gaza Strip.

    Whereas Hamas is a foreign terrorist organization designated by the Secretary of State under section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189), whose founding charter states a commitment to destroying Israel and any nation that would support it, including the United States;

    Whereas, on October 7, 2023, Iran-backed Hamas terrorists led an attack on Israel, killing approximately 1,200 individuals, including 40 United States citizens, taking 251 individuals hostage, and launching thousands of rockets toward Israel;

    Whereas Israel, like other sovereign states, has a right to defend itself;

    Whereas, after a year of continued and growing hostilities by Iranian proxies, Israel has launched operations to defend its people, eradicate Hamas terrorists, and rescue hostages held in the Gaza Strip;

    Whereas Iran-backed Hamas has proven that it has no desire for peace in the region and has repeatedly broken negotiated ceasefire agreements and initiated attacks against Israel; and 

    Whereas, since October 7, 2023, Iran-backed terrorists continue rocket attacks on innocent civilians, disrupting major shipping and trade routes throughout the region, lobbing attacks on United States personnel and bases across the region, and killing and injuring more than 186 troops: Now, therefore, be it

    Resolved, That the Senate—

    1. condemns Iran-backed Hamas for its brutal attacks on Israel;
      1. condemns Iran-backed Hamas for killing and taking hostage United States citizens;
      1. condemns Iran-backed Hamas for its use of rape as a weapon of war and for its inhumane treatment, torture, and killing of hostages;
      1. condemns the destructive and antisemitic protests in which property has been damaged, flags have been torn down, burned, and replaced with Hamas flags, and Jewish Americans have felt their safety threatened; and
      1. supports an outcome that will—
        1. ensure the forever survival of Israel;
        1. destroy the ability of Hamas to reconstitute any leadership role in the region; and

    (C) safely release and return all United States hostages.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Cassidy Releases Statement, Joins Republican Resolution Recognizing One-Year Anniversary of October 7

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) released a video statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7 terrorist attacks that killed over a thousand Israelis and Americans. Cassidy, also joined U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and the entire Republican Conference in introducing a resolution condemning Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, supporting the forever survival of Israel, and calling for the safe release of American hostages.
    “October 7 left an indelible mark on the Jewish State of Israel. In the last year, we have seen Hamas for the pure evil it is. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to stand with Israel, reinforce our efforts to bring all the remaining hostages, including American citizens, home, and pledge to always stand up to antisemitism,” said Dr. Cassidy.  
    “This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Senator Ernst. “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.”
    The entire Senate Republican Conference stands united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war.The resolution reiterates Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasizes the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of that day are never repeated.
    The full transcript of Cassidy’s video is below.
    October 7, 2023, left an indelible mark on the Jewish State of Israel.
    Young men and women who started their day at a music festival ended it with fresh scars of war.
    Israelis and Americans left their homes never to return, instead being raped, murdered, and taken hostage.
    I was part of the first Congressional delegation to visit Israel after the horrific attacks. What I saw was a nation, accustomed to terrorist attacks, left in shock.
    They had the same shock Americans experienced after 9/11.
    I sat with the families who grieved for the loss of their loved ones and others who prayed for the safe return of their children held hostage.
    In the last year, we have seen Hamas for the pure evil it is. While Israel tries to save as many lives as possible during the midst of war, Hamas continues to target innocent civilians and use Palestinians as human shields. 
    Sadly, we have also seen Hamas’s terrorist rhetoric take hold across our college campuses.
    No Israeli should live in fear of bombs hitting their house, and no student should live in fear of walking across their campus.
    Today, we reaffirm our commitment to stand with Israel.
    We reinforce our efforts to bring all the remaining hostages, including American citizens, home.
    And pledge to stand up to antisemitism always.
    Background
    As ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Cassidy is leading multiple legislative efforts to address antisemitism on college campuses in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks. This includes the Protecting Students on Campus Act, bipartisan legislation that ensures students know how to file civil rights complaints if they experience discrimination on college campuses. Cassidy has also repeatedly called on HELP Committee Chair Bernie Sanders (I-VT) to hold hearings on antisemitism to ensure universities and the Department of Education are protecting Jewish students from discrimination and harm.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Mike Lawler Releases Statement Slamming Supreme Court for Texas Abortion Ruling

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Congressman Mike Lawler Releases Statement Slamming Supreme Court for Texas Abortion Ruling

    Washington, D.C., October 7, 2024

    Today, Congressman Mike Lawler slammed the Supreme Court’s decision to let stand a decision barring emergency abortions.

    “When the life or health of an expectant mother is at risk during a pregnancy, there is no question that she should be allowed to receive a safe and legal abortion. Period. Full stop,” said Congressman Lawler. 

    “I do not and will not support any efforts to establish a national abortion ban, whether it be through Congress or the judicial system,” concluded Congressman Lawler. “The Supreme Court’s decision today is appalling and contradicts prior rulings.”

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of the 118th Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Statement on One Year Since Hamas’ Attack on Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, issued the following statement on the one-year mark of the brutal terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel that killed 1,200 people and took hundreds hostage:

    “One year ago, the world watched in horror as Hamas terrorists flooded into Israel and unleashed a heinous, barbaric attack killing 1,200 and taking hundreds hostage. That day marked the worst terrorist attack in Israel’s history and is a stain upon the world forever. Innocent men, women and children were tortured, mutilated and murdered.

    “There are still 101 hostages—including Americans Keith Siegel, Edan Alexander, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Omer Neutra, Itay Chen, Judith Weinstein and Gadi Haggai—being held by terrorists in Gaza. We mourn the loss of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an Israeli American who was kidnapped on October 7th and murdered just over a month ago. There is no time to waste in getting the hostages out alive and returning the remains of those who have been killed to their families.

    “I’ve been clear that Israel has a right to defend its people. It is now time to implement a ceasefire that brings the hostages home and ends the suffering in Gaza, where innocent civilians have been caught in the crossfire. There must be a long-term resolution that provides for the security of the Israeli people and provides Palestinians with self-determination for their own future. A two-state solution is the only path towards achieving security, dignity and safety for all Israelis and Palestinians.”

    Shaheen is a strong supporter of Israel and a two-state solution. Through her leadership on the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations, Armed Services and Appropriations Committees, Shaheen has advocated for support for Israel and its people. In response to the horrific terror attack on October 7th, Shaheen swiftly condemned Hamas and called for enduring support for Israel. Shaheen introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Hamas for using sexual and gender-based violence as a weapon of war against Israelis. She has been a leading voice of support for hostages around the world, including those Americans and Israelis held in Gaza. Shaheen joined letters in support of a strong humanitarian response in Gaza and a pathway to safety for Americans stuck in Gaza. In recent months, she has urged Israel and Hamas to agree to a ceasefire to get the hostages out and humanitarian aid into Gaza.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Radix showcases the Future of Asset Integrity, Autonomous Operations at The Future Digital Twins Conference, Amsterdam

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AMSTERDAM and HOUSTON, Oct. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Radix, a global technology solutions company, is set to showcase its innovative approaches to asset integrity and energy transition at the 2nd Future Digital Twin & Generative AI Conference at the Energy Transition Campus Amsterdam (ETCA). 

    The conference, organized in collaboration with Shell, brings together industry experts, operators, and technology leaders to address the most pressing challenges in the oil, gas, and energy sectors, focusing on the role of digital twin technology in accelerating the global energy transition.

    John DeKoning, President EMEA at Radix, expressed his enthusiasm for the company’s role in this significant gathering and said: “As industries move towards more sustainable and autonomous operations, Radix is committed to driving this change. We are excited to be part of this important event and showcase our digital twin solutions that are helping industries achieve operational excellence and sustainability.” 

    The event’s key panel, “Maximizing Data Intelligence & Preventing Digital Twin Failure,” features Radix’s Trudi Hable, John DeKoning, and industry leaders, including Arnout Roos, Dr. Edmary Altamiranda, and Dr. Subrata Bhowmik. The panel dives into critical discussions on preventing digital twin failures, addressing data fragmentation, and building trust in the technology through secure, scalable solutions.

    Breakout Session on Future Asset Integrity
    In a special breakout session titled “The Future of Asset Integrity and Autonomous Operations in 2025”, John DeKoning explores solutions for aging industrial assets, the lack of standardization, and workforce challenges. He will discuss recent use cases that demonstrate how the latest digital twin technologies, combined with best practices, enable industries to achieve asset integrity and autonomous operations in a cost-effective manner.  

    “The key to solving these complex challenges lies in leveraging technology in innovative ways, especially through digital twins and AI applications. We believe that by 2025, industries will be equipped with scalable, high-impact solutions to ensure operational excellence and sustainability,” DeKoning added.

    Accelerating Energy Transition
    Radix’s participation in the Energy Transition Campus Amsterdam underscores its commitment to working with global partners to build a sustainable future. By leveraging advanced technologies like digital twins and generative AI, Radix aims to empower industries to meet their net-zero goals and accelerate the energy transition.  

    Trudi Hable, Head of Partnerships North America at Radix, said: “Digital twins are not just a technology; they are a transformative approach to reimagining how industries operate, maintain asset integrity, and ultimately meet their sustainability goals. This is what we aim to showcase at the Future Digital Twin & Generative AI conference in Amsterdam.”

    “Radix Engineering is a highly valued member of our campus, with their expertise in innovative engineering, operational excellence, and creating new energy solutions for partners like Shell. Their focus on improving asset performance to minimize disruption and reduce carbon emissions aligns with our commitment to achieve the transition to cleaner energy.” – Ferry Winter, Director, Shell Energy Transition Campus Amsterdam

    Radix is thrilled to make its debut at the Future Digital Twin & Generative AI conference, reinforcing its leadership role in providing cutting-edge solutions that enhance operational efficiency, data intelligence, and sustainability for industries globally.

    About Radix

    Founded in 2010, Radix is a privately held global technology solutions company providing consulting, engineering, operations technology, and data and software technology solutions.

    Radix combines key capabilities and practices to empower customers to thrive along their digital transformation journey. Radix provides technology-based, data-driven solutions to industrial and non-industrial companies worldwide. Radix has experience leading projects in more than 30 countries and has more than 1,700+ employees around the globe, with North American headquarters in Houston, Texas, main headquarters in Rio de Janeiro, additional offices in Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte, and a presence in Singapore and Amsterdam. To learn more, visit http://www.radixeng.com.

    About SHELL

    Shell is a global group of energy and petrochemical companies, employing 103,000 people and with operations in more than 70 countries. We use advanced technologies and take an innovative approach as we seek to help the world build a sustainable energy future.

    Shell is a customer-focused organisation, serving more than 1 million commercial and industrial customers, and around 33 million customers daily at more than 47,000 Shell-branded retail service stations.

    For more information:
    Citalouise Geiggar, Ph.D.
    citalouise.geiggar@radixeng.com
    Radix

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4c3fc0d0-1935-4d92-a174-c4797345f429

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Alford Statement on First Anniversary of October 7th Terrorist Attack on Israel

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

    RAYMORE, Mo. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) released the following statement to mark the first anniversary of the vicious terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas, which killed over 1,200 innocent people and was the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust. Iran-backed Hamas terrorists took more than 200 people hostage in the attack, including American citizens.
     
    “We were sickened by the devastating attack on Israel by the Iran-backed terrorist group Hamas one year ago. These vicious terrorists butchered innocent people, murdering men, women, and children. The horrors are nothing short of heartbreaking. One year later, the people of Israel are still living October 7th every single day. One year later, they are still forced to continue fighting to defend themselves against the many enemies trying to destroy them. One year later, Hamas continues to hold innocent people hostage,” said Congressman Alford.
     
    “On this solemn day, we reaffirm America’s commitment to our great ally Israel. We must stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them in this fight and ensure that they have the time, space, and resources needed to wipe out Hamas,” Congressman Alford continued.
     
    Last week, Congressman Alford released a video documenting his trip to Israel in April 2024. In the video, Alford gives a firsthand look at the horrific damage from the brutal attack by Hamas terrorists.
     
    Congressman Alford plans to return to Israel later this month and hold a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
     

    Click here to download video/audio
     
    The video includes firsthand accounts on the devastation from U.S. Representatives Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) and Celeste Maloy (UT-02) as well as Asher Afriat with the American Israel Education Foundation (“AIEF”). The video closes with remarks from Rachel Goldberg-Polin, the mother of Hersh Goldberg-Polin who was taken hostage by Hamas for almost 11 months and murdered.Welcome to Online Text Editor (formerly EditPad.org) – your online plain text editor. Enter or paste your text here. To download and save it, click on the button below.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Becca Balint on One Year Since October 7th Attack

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Rep. Becca Balint on One Year Since October 7th Attack

    Burlington, VT, October 7, 2024

    Burlington, VT – Rep. Becca Balint released the following statement marking one year since the October 7th attack:

    “One year ago, today became the deadliest day in Israeli history. Over 1,200 people were murdered by Hamas and hundreds taken hostage, devastating communities, and families in Israel and around the world. This is a day of trauma and pain for the global Jewish community. Our collective anguish could not be deeper. 

    “Today, I mourn the lives lost and call for an immediate end to the violence and suffering. The United States must be a forceful voice for a ceasefire, a release of all hostages, and delivering vital humanitarian assistance in order to bring about long-term peace and security for Israelis, Palestinians, and the entire region.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: SECNAV Del Toro As-Written Remarks at the OJAG Change of Command and VADM Crandall Retirement

    Source: United States Navy

    Introduction/Thank You

    Good morning, everyone!

    It is an honor to be here with you this morning to celebrate the service of Vice Admiral Crandall and to welcome Vice Admiral French as he assumes the role of Judge Advocate General of the Navy and command of the Office of the Judge Advocate General.

    First and foremost, I would like to thank Vice Admiral Crandall’s family and friends here with us today.

    To Vice Admiral Crandall’s wife, Barb, thank you for your dedication and all you have sacrificed on behalf of the Navy.

    You have been a valued member of our Navy team since your husband’s time in NROTC over forty years ago.

    I thank you for your selfless volunteer work with the Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society and the Navy Officer’s Spouses Club, along with organizations outside of the Navy such as the annual Alzheimer’s Walk for Life and Christ Church Washington Parish for Calvary Women’s Services.

    All this while working part-time as the office manager and paralegal at a law firm in Burke, Virginia.

    While we are celebrating your husband’s achievements today, we are also celebrating yours, and I wish you the best in your retirement. Congratulations.

    To Mr. Darse Crandall and Mrs. Ruth Ann Crandall, thank you for raising an incredible son who dedicated his career and indeed his life in service of our great Nation.

    Kathie and Amy, it is wonderful to have you here in celebration of your nephew and brother.

    And to Admiral Crandall’s sons William, Andrew, and Edward, thank you for your support throughout your father’s distinguished career.

    I also want to welcome and thank Vice Admiral French’s family for being here today.

    To Vice Admiral French’s children, Lieutenant Caity French and First Lieutenant Andy French, I thank you not only for your unwavering support of your father throughout his career, but also for your own service in the United States Navy and United States Army, respectively.

    As we all know, families truly are the backbone of our armed forces, and I was blessed to have the support of my wife Betty and our sons throughout my career in the Navy and now.

    I welcome and thank our Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Franchetti, for her leadership of our United States Navy.

    General Dunford and General Milley, thank you for your guidance of our service men and women around the world during your tenures.

    Admiral Richardson and Admiral Gilday, thank you for being here and for your leadership of our Sailors and service to this great Nation.

    Deputy Assistant to the President Geltzer, I thank you for your presence today and for your important work at the National Security Council.

    Thank you to General Counsel Krass, former General Counsel Preston, General Counsel Coffey, and General Counsel Beshar for your service within the Department of Defense, for our service members, and for the civilians who support them.

    Welcome to Chief Justice Ohlson, Senior Judge Effron, and Judge Maggs. Thank you for your presence today and your work at the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.

    And to all of our general officers, flag officers, senior enlisted leaders, distinguished visitors, guests, family, and friends: welcome, and thank you for joining us for this ceremony.

    I am humbled and honored to be a part of this momentous occasion today—the changing of command from one accomplished officer to another, and to celebrate the service of Vice Admiral Crandall.

    World Today/OJAG Accomplishments

    Our Navy JAG Corps is essential to ensuring our Sailors are ready.

    And this is vital, because as you have seen and read in the news, we face tremendous uncertainty in the world today.

    For the first time since World War II, we face a comprehensive maritime power—our pacing challenge—in the Indo-Pacific.

    The People’s Republic of China continues to exert its excessive maritime claims through their navy, coast guard, and maritime militia.

    In Europe, Russia is well into the third year of its full-scale and illegal invasion of Ukraine.

    Ukraine is fighting not just for their own liberty and freedom—they are fighting to protect democracy in Europe and indeed around the world.

    In the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, we are working alongside our NATO allies and Middle East Partners to ensure the safety of innocent, civilian mariners and protecting our commercial shipping against Iranian-aligned Houthi attacks.

    Immediately following Hamas’s brutal attack against the people of Israel on October 7th, our Sailors and Marines were on station, the ready integrated force the world needed.

    Our Navy-Marine Corps Team is at the forefront of defending and preserving global stability, and we remain committed to ensuring freedom of navigation of the world’s seas and oceans.

    Our mission would be impossible without the essential work of our Navy JAG Corps. And Vice Admiral Crandall’s leadership of the twenty-three hundred attorneys, enlisted Legalmen, and civilian employees of the Navy JAG Corps community was integral to their many successes.

    Throughout his time as Judge Advocate General of the Navy, Vice Admiral Crandall provided tailored legal advice for high-profile cases and the most sensitive matters affecting the Department of the Navy.

    Under his supervision, the JAG Corps teams adeptly operated a full federal court-martial system, with counsel and judges executing military justice matters from investigation to final appeal.

    He implemented a total overhaul of the Navy’s legal technology, modernizing the Navy’s case management and tracking systems, and implementing deliberate, repeatable processes to ensure these systems continue far into the future.

    While accomplishing all of this, he also led the Navy’s implementation of Congressional and DoD reforms, including establishing and reaching full operational capability for the Office of Special Trial Counsel.

    This worldwide military justice organization prosecutes “covered offenses”—violations of certain Punitive Articles of the UCMJ—and overall increases readiness of our Fleet and Force.

    Throughout his tenure, the JAG Corps has grown significantly, adjusting to unprecedented demands and cases. And throughout this growth and extraordinary change, Vice Admiral Crandall has never forgotten about the Sailors and civilians of the JAG Corps.

    He, in fact, committed to and prioritized strengthening the cooperation between the Department of the Navy’s uniformed and civilian lawyers, and graciously welcomed my General Counsel aboard in early 2022.

    Vice Admiral Crandall, I could create a laundry list of your accomplishments over the past three years as Judge Advocate General of the Navy, but we would be here all day.

    And although I know you may be eager to begin charging by the hour, I’m afraid you’re going to have to take these remarks pro bono.

    The tremendous work you accomplished during your tenure as principal military legal counsel to both myself and the Chief of Naval Operations cannot be overstated.

    Thank you for your tireless pursuit of justice and protection of the law.

    Because of your efforts, experience, and vision, you leave a lasting legacy for others to follow.

    Closing

    I thank you all once again for this opportunity to speak at this incredible occasion.

    Vice Admiral Crandall, thank you for your four decades of honorable and faithful service to the United States Navy and this great Nation. It is my sincere hope that you and Barb enjoy a wonderful and fulfilling retirement.

    Vice Admiral French, I wish you the best of luck as you assume command of the Office of the Judge Advocate General. Admiral Franchetti and I look forward to working with you and benefitting from your sound counsel.

    You should have no trouble tracking me down if there is anything you need.

    And I certainly look forward to hearing about the continued success of our Navy JAG Corps.

    May God bless our Sailors, Marines, civilians, and their families with fair winds and following seas. Thank you.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Statement from Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander, U.S. Central Command, Marking the One Year Since the October 7th Attack.

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    Oct. 7, 2024

    Release Number 20241007 – 01

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    A year ago today, on October 7, 2023, the Iranian-backed Hamas terrorist organization brutally murdered over 1,200 innocent civilians, including more than 40 American citizens, and took 251 more innocent people hostage, including 12 Americans. This was the worst terrorist attack in Israel’s history. We honor the memory of those killed and continue to work to secure the return of the hostages and our American citizens.

    On October 5 and 6, I met with Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, as well as key members of the Israeli Defense Forces, operational units, and other Israeli national security leadership.

    Minister Gallant and I discussed the current security situation in Israel, efforts to defend Israel, and efforts to further deter common threats. Lt. Gen. Halevi and his staff provided me with a situational assessment of Iran’s ballistic missile attack on Israel on Oct. 1 that targeted Israel and resulted in the death of a Palestinian man in Jericho. We discussed ongoing Iranian-backed threats to the region and efforts to stabilize the region, ensure Israel’s security, and deter Iran’s malign and reckless activities.

    Before departing, I reiterated the strength of our ironclad military-to-military commitment between CENTCOM and the Israeli Defense Forces. We will continue to consult with our Israeli partners about their defense and how to monitor and counter further threats like the one that took the lives of so many on Oct. 7.

    On this day of remembrance, we honor the spirit of the people of Israel, we affirm our commitment to the return of the hostages, and we mourn the victims of Oct. 7.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Cyber Resiliency is Readiness

    Source: United States Navy

    Throughout the course of the month, we will reflect upon our individual and collectives roles as “Cyber Warriors”, and the critical contribution of cyber to the Navy’s warfighting and business support missions!

    Each Monday during the month of October, we will transmit a new message focused on different elements of cybersecurity and the roles we all play in them. Cybersecurity is the foundation of everything we do, whether you are a fire control technician, 9-1-1 dispatcher, or contracting officer, the steps you take to keep the Navy cyber secure are critical to our mission success.

    The CNO’s North Star states “By 2027, the Navy will be more ready for sustained combat as part of a Joint and Combined force, prioritizing the People’s Republic of China as the pacing challenge and focusing on enabling the Joint warfighting ecosystem.” To meet CNO’s goals, it is critical we as a Navy continue to improve our cyber posture, hardening our cyber defenses and improving our resiliency so that Sailors can continue to operate in a contested cyber environment. According to the Office of the Director National Intelligence, China remains the most active and persistent cyber threat to U.S. Government, private-sector, and critical Infrastructure networks.

    Even now, state-sponsored cyber actors are seeking to pre-position themselves on our information technology networks for disruptive or destructive cyberattacks. In the event of a major conflict, the Navy must be prepared to sustain and counter aggressive cyber operations against both critical infrastructure and military assets.

    A key part of that preparation is improving the Navy’s cyber resiliency, which is our ability to anticipate, withstand, recover from, and adapt to adverse conditions, attacks, or compromises on systems. The goal is to ensure that critical systems have the ability to deliver capabilities and execute supported missions in a contested cyber environment. By improving our resiliency we are improving our readiness.

    Cyber Resiliency is a cornerstone to our Navy’s ability to achieve the CNO’s North Star and compete in the globally interconnected battlespace of 21st century conflict.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: SECNAV Del Toro As-Written Remarks at the USNA vs. Bucknell Superintendent’s Tailgate

    Source: United States Navy

    Introduction/Thank You

    Good morning, everyone! It is incredible to be here with you all to kick off another great year of Navy Football!

    Vice Admiral Davids, thank you for that kind introduction, and for your stewardship of our beloved alma mater.

    I am proud to serve alongside you in your capacity as the 65th Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy, and I know you are excited to experience your first full academic year with the first class selected under your watch—the Great Class of 2028!

    To our many distinguished guests, supporters of the Naval Academy, USNA alumni, and family and friends of current and former Midshipmen here with us this morning—thank you.

    Thank you for your support of this institution, and for your love, dedication, and devotion to supporting our Brigade of Midshipmen.

    Right now, as we gather here in Annapolis, graduates of this institution are serving around the globe, deterring our adversaries and addressing challenges posed by our competitors.

    We are serving in capacities across the entire spectrum of leadership opportunities within our Department, from Secretary of the Navy and Acting Undersecretary of the Navy to the most junior Ensigns and Second Lieutenants.

    While the roles and responsibilities of each position vary, one constant remains—each one of us are entrusted with the lives of Sailors and Marines, our fellow Americans.

    Every Midshipman on the field and in the stands before us today represents a link in the chain of our legacy—a legacy that dates back to 1845.

    It is our responsibility to ensure they are ready to lead in every domain they operate in, from the seabed to the stars, and that they are prepared to withstand the pressures of deployment, separation from their loved ones, and for the harsh realities of combat.

    These men and women are indeed more than just college students, for this is “Not College.” They are officers-in-training who represent the future of our Fleet and our Force.

    All of us gathered here today play a key role in their development, and I cannot thank you enough for the support you all provide to our Midshipmen as they answer the call to serve our great nation.

    Again, it is an honor to be with you all today.

    And I would be remiss if I did not close with Go Navy, Beat Bucknell!

    And more importantly, BEAT ARMY!

    Thank you.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Protestor Federally Charged with Damaging U.S. Government Property at Union Station

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

                WASHINGTON – Zaid Mohammed Mahdawi, 26, of Richmond, Virginia, was arrested this morning in connection with a federal criminal complaint charging him with destruction of federal property. The complaint alleges that Mahdawi spray-painted the monument at Columbus Circle in front of Union Station in Washington, D.C., on July 24, 2024.

                The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani of the FBI Washington Field Office Counterterrorism Division, and Chief Jessica M. E. Taylor of the U.S. Park Police (USPP).

                Mahdawi will make his initial appearance this afternoon in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. He is charged with destruction of government property.

                “Politically motivated destruction or defacing of federal property is not protected speech, it is a crime,” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “Anyone engaged in such conduct in the District of Columbia should expect to get federally prosecuted. Our community has zero tolerance for those who want to destroy or deface our monuments and other federal property.”  

                “The FBI does not conduct investigations based solely on First Amendment activities,” said Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani of the FBI Washington Field Office Counterterrorism Division. “The FBI investigates people only when we receive information or allegations that they are, or may be, violating federal law or posing a risk to national security. We are committed to working closely with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to bring to justice any individuals who commit federal crimes, including destruction of federal property.”

                According to court documents, on July 24, 2024, an organization was granted a permit to demonstrate in the area of Columbus Circle, located at Massachusetts Ave. NE, and E St. NE, directly in front of Union Station. From about 3 p.m. until 5 p.m., demonstrators who had gathered in Columbus Circle pulled down flags affixed to the flagpoles; burned flags and objects; sprayed graffiti on multiple statutes and structures; and interfered with law enforcement’s ability to place individuals under arrest.

                Between 3:30 p.m. and 3:45 p.m., an individual later identified as Mahdawi climbed the monument located in the center of Columbus Circle, which was captured on video footage filmed by USPP from an observation post looking down at Columbus Circle. The same event was captured in open-source video and photos later posted to various internet platforms. After climbing to a ledge, Mahdawi began to spray paint the monument.

                Footage obtained from a review of open-source videos posted to X (formerly Twitter) showed Mahdawi using red spray paint to write “HAMAS IS COMIN” on the Columbus statue. After completing the phrase, Mahdawi spray-painted an inverted red triangle above the slogan.

                On July 30, 2024, the U.S. Park Police issued a bulletin seeking information on five individuals who engaged in criminal activity on July 24, 2024. The same day the bulletin was posted, the U.S. Park Police received a tip that they forwarded to the FBI. Through that tip and other leads, FBI was able to identify Mahdawi. Additionally, law enforcement databases revealed that Mahdawi had previously been arrested in Richmond, Virginia, on two occasions (December 2023 and April 2024).

                The flags that were pulled down from the flag poles, and the statues and structures in Columbus Circle, are all property of the federal government. The National Park Service estimated that the cost to clean and repair the site at about $11,282.23.

                This case is being investigated by the USPP’s Intelligence and Counterterrorism Unit and the FBI Washington Field Office, with assistance from the FBI Richmond Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Martin.

                A criminal indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Bay Roberts — Bay Roberts RCMP looks to identify suspect in early morning break-in at Harbour View Grocery, stolen vehicle recovered

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Bay Roberts RCMP is looking to identify an unknown male suspect involved in an early morning break, enter and theft that occurred on October 6, 2024, at Harbour View Grocery in Clarke’s Beach. A stolen vehicle was used during the commission of the crime.

    Shortly before 5:00 a.m. on Sunday, a passerby reported the incident to police after they witnessed the suspect climb out of a smashed window at the front of the business. The suspect departed the scene in a silver Chevrolet Cruze prior to police arrival.

    Video surveillance confirmed that the man forced entry into the store at approximately 4:45 a.m. and departed in the car with the store’s cash register, which contained an undisclosed amount of money.

    The suspect is described as a Caucasian man in his 20’s, with a slim build. He was seen wearing black pants, a grey hoodie with the hood up, a black jacket, a white baseball cap and a pair of white and black shoes. See attached photos of the suspect and vehicle.

    Later on Sunday, a silver four-door Chevrolet Cruze, that had been stolen sometime overnight from a residential property in South River, was recovered. This vehicle had a mismatched driver-side door that was of a darker color that the remainder of the car. Police suspect this vehicle was used in the commission of the break, enter and theft at Harbour View Grocery. The vehicle was seized as part of the investigation.

    Bay Roberts RCMP is continuing to investigate a number of other property crimes that occurred on Sunday in the Brigus area which may be linked to this suspect and vehicle.

    Anyone having information about this crime or the identity of the person responsible is asked to contact Bay Roberts RCMP at 709-786-2118. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit http://www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    The investigation is continuing.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Virginia Man Found Guilty of Felony and Misdemeanor Charges for Actions During January 6 Capitol Breach

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

                WASHINGTON – A Virginia man was found guilty today of felony and misdemeanor charges related to his conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

                Robert William DeGregoris, 33, of Aldie, Virginia, was found guilty of civil disorder, a felony, and misdemeanor offenses of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, and impeding passage through the Capitol grounds or building.

                DeGregoris was convicted following a bench trial before U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras. Judge Contreras will sentence DeGregoris on Feb. 7, 2025.

                According to evidence presented during the trial, DeGregoris was identified in publicly available images and open-source video on the Lower West Terrace of the U.S. Capitol building near an area known as the “Tunnel.” The Tunnel was the site of some of the most violent attacks against law enforcement on January 6th. There, DeGregoris can be seen in video footage climbing on the side of the entrance to the Tunnel and later near a line of Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers at about 4:01 p.m.

                DeGregoris then attempted to forcibly enter the Tunnel and can be seen on Capitol building closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage reaching toward the nearest MPD officer. At approximately 4:01 p.m., CCTV footage depicts DeGregoris possibly striking the helmet of the nearby officer.  A few seconds later, DeGregoris was sprayed with Oleoresin Capsicum spray by a nearby officer. However, despite being sprayed, DeGregoris continued to push with other rioters against the MPD front line for several more minutes.

                Evidence showed that at approximately 4:07 p.m., DeGregoris was turned with his back toward the front line of MPD officers as he pushed against the MPD line and a rioter next to him sprayed officers with pepper spray. Approximately 20 seconds later, DeGregoris can be seen assisting other rioters by helping to push a ladder toward the MPD officers.

                After being sprayed with Oleoresin Capsicum and prior to departing the restricted area of the Capitol building grounds, DeGregoris posted a photograph of himself on social media accounts with the captioned statement “Took some pepper spray & tear gas breaching the front doors….Worth it.”

                The FBI arrested DeGregoris on Jan. 25, 2023, in Virginia.

                This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

                The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

                In the 44 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,504 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 560 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Texas Men Face Federal Charges for Robbing an ATM Repairman at Truist Bank in Murfreesboro

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    NASHVILLE – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Robert Bailey, Jr., 24, Demond Johnson, Jr., 19, and Ryan Smith, Jr., 26, all of Houston, Texas, with one count of bank larceny, announced Thomas J. Jaworski, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.

    According to the indictment and publicly available information, on November 14, 2023, the defendants stole over $50,000 from an ATM outside of Truist Bank on Old Fort Parkway in Murfreesboro while it was being repaired. Smith was arrested on Interstate 24 while riding in an Uber. Johnson was arrested at the Nashville International Airport. Bailey was able to catch a flight to Houston and was arrested on a later date. Law enforcement officers in Houston seized the bag containing the stolen money when it arrived at the Houston Hobby Airport.

    If convicted, each defendant faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a minimum fine of $250,000.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Nashville Field Office and Houston Field Office, the Murfreesboro Police Department, and the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph P. Montminy is prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    # # # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Child Sexual Abuser Sentenced to 52 and One Half Years in Prison

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

                WASHINGTON – Matthew Stitt Johnson, 34, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 52.5 years in prison for two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and one count second-degree child sexual abuse with aggravating circumstances for abusing three minor children.

                The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge David Geist of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                Johnson pleaded guilty on August 29, 2022, before U.S. District Court Judge Jia M. Cobb. In addition to the 52.5-year prison term, Judge Cobb ordered Johnson to register as a sex offender.

                According to the government’s evidence, Johnson sexually abused three children, an eight-year-old, a five-year-old, and an eight-month-old infant, between 2015 and 2020. Johnson took videos of his sexual abuse of the five-year-old child and the eight-month-old infant. While the five-year-old and her sister reported the abuse to their mother, the abuse was not reported to law enforcement.

                In May 2021, law enforcement received a tip that Johnson downloaded child pornography from a cloud-based service and subsequently executed a search warrant on his home. Videos depicting the sexual abuse of the five-year-old and eight-month-old victims were discovered in Johnson’s cell phones along with 13,000 images of child pornography. Johnson distributed the images of his sexual abuse of children in internet forums dedicated to trading child pornography, particularly trading images of the rape and torture of infants and toddlers, and actively sought out and distributed other child pornography images over a two-year period.

                This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The task force is composed of FBI agents, along with other federal agents and detectives from northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. The task force is charged with investigating and bringing federal charges against individuals engaged in the exploitation of children and those engaged in human trafficking. The investigation received valuable assistance from the MPD’s Narcotics and Special Investigation Division, Human Trafficking Unit. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Platt and Janani Iyengar with the valuable assistance of Victim/Witness Advocate Yvonne Bryant.

                This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative. In February 2006, the Attorney General created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Canadian National Pleads Guilty to Possession of Sex Abuse Videos of Toddler and Prepubescent Boys

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

           WASHINGTON – Matthew Norman Ballek, 32, of Saskatchewan, Canada, pleaded guilty today to a federal child pornography charge stemming from his distribution of child pornography to an undercover law enforcement agent in January 2024, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves; FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge David Geist, of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division; and Chief Pamela A. Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                Ballek pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to one count of possession of child pornography. The Honorable Reggie B. Walton scheduled a sentencing hearing for March 21, 2025.

               According to plea documents, in January 2024, a member of the FBI–MPD Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force was monitoring an online dating application in an undercover capacity. Law enforcement has learned that the application is sometimes used by individuals who have a sexual interest in children. Ballek contacted the undercover agent and, believing he was communicating with a pedophile, expressed an interest in child pornography. Ballek later sent the undercover agent three video files via an encrypted messaging application. Those video files depicted adult men raping toddler and prepubescent boys. Ballek was arrested in the District of Columbia on February 7, 2024. The FBI seized and forensically examined Ballek’s phone, which contained 10 unique videos and at least 21 unique still images that constitute child pornography.

               Ballek has remained in custody since his February 7, 2024, arrest.

               Ballek faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. In addition, Ballek must pay mandatory restitution of at least $3,000 to any identified victim. The statutory sentences for federal offenses are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only. Any sentence will be determined by the Court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

               In addition, Ballek will be required to register as a sex offender and be subject to deportation proceedings and other adverse immigration consequences following any prison term.

               This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.

               This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office and MPD’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The task force is composed of FBI agents, along with other federal agents and detectives from northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. The task force is charged with investigating and bringing federal charges against individuals engaged in the exploitation of children and those engaged in human trafficking.  

               The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul V. Courtney and Karen L. Shinskie.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: World Cotton Day: The Role of Nuclear Science

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    (Photo: F. Llukmani/IAEA)

    To mark World Cotton Day, the IAEA Director General has highlighted how nuclear science helps optimize the growth of the world’s most important natural fibre, at celebrations in Benin this morning. 

    In his recorded message to over 400 attendees at the World Cotton Day celebration, Rafael Mariano Grossi spoke of the Agency’s role in the international ‘Partnership for Cotton’ and the importance of the crop.  

    “Cotton really is a crop worth celebrating: It produces useful natural fibres. It alleviates poverty in some of the world’s least developed countries. It supports the income of women. And it removes harmful carbon from the atmosphere,” the Director General said. 

    The IAEA has over six decades of experience developing and sharing nuclear techniques that help get the best out of soil, water and crops like cotton, as part of the work carried out by the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre for Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture. 

    The centre’s laboratories in Seibersdorf conduct applied research and through the Agency’s Technical Cooperation Programme, the developed technology is then transferred to countries and eventually to farmers to employ these techniques in the field.  

    For example, IAEA/FAO scientists use irradiation to speed up the evolution of cotton seeds and develop varieties that are more resilient to drought, heat or disease.  

    And in Pakistan, for example, this technique, known as mutation breeding (see Plant mutation breeding), has helped develop 32 new cotton varieties since 1970. Now, more than 40 per cent of the cotton-producing areas in Pakistan are benefiting from the use these new varieties with improved traits adapted to climate change. 

    THE SCIENCE Plant mutation breeding

    Plant mutation breeding is the process of exposing plant seeds, cuttings or other planting material to radiation, such as gamma rays or X-rays, and then planting the seeds or cultivating the irradiated material in a sterile rooting medium, which generates a plantlet. The individual plants are then multiplied and examined for their traits. Those exhibiting the desired traits continue to be cultivated. 

    Plant mutation breeding does not involve gene modification, but rather uses a plant’s own genetic material and mimics the natural process of spontaneous mutation. 

    More about plant breeding here. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Madison Man Convicted of Sexual Exploitation

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A jury has convicted a Madison man of child exploitation, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Carlton L. Peeples.

    The jury returned a guilty verdict against Anthony Ray Lawrence, 37, of Madison, after 3 days of testimony before U.S. District Court Judge Madeline H. Haikala. Lawrence was convicted of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.

    According to evidence presented at trial, between April and May 2023, Lawrence used a social media application to engage with someone he thought to be a 14-year-old female but who actually was an undercover law enforcement officer. He told the undercover officer that he used the application to meet younger girls. On May 1, 2023, Lawrence traveled from Madison, Alabama, to Homewood, Alabama, to engage in a sexual act with a minor. At the time of his arrest, Lawrence possessed condoms and sexual lubricant. He had rented a hotel room nearby.

    If you suspect or become aware of possible sexual exploitation of a child, please contact law enforcement. To alert the FBI Birmingham Office, call 205-326-6166. Reports can also be filed with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) or online at http://www.cybertipline.org.

    The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    The FBI investigated the case along with the Homewood Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel S. McBrayer and R. Leann White are prosecuting the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update 253 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been informed both by the Russian Federation and Ukraine about the assassination last week of an individual in the city where most staff of the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) live, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    The person, identified as Mr Korotkyi, reportedly died in a car bomb explosion on Friday morning in Enerhodar, which is located a few kilometres from the ZNPP. In a letter to the IAEA, Russia affirmed he was “one of the key staff members responsible for ensuring nuclear security” at the plant. Ukraine told the IAEA he was not a ZNPP staff member anymore.

    The IAEA is also aware of a public statement issued the same day by Ukraine’s military intelligence indicating that this person’s alleged actions after Russia took control of the ZNPP in March 2022 were the reason he was targeted. In addition, the country’s military intelligence posted an image of a destroyed car, and suggested others may also face “retribution”.

    In follow-up communication with the IAEA, Ukraine said it “does not attack civilians”. Ukraine did not confirm or deny any responsibility for the attack.

    In a letter to the IAEA, the Russian Federation said Mr Korotkyi was “head of the permits bureau” at the ZNPP and called the attack a “horrific crime” committed by Ukraine.

    Director General Grossi reiterated that while the IAEA does not have forensic capabilities or authorities to investigate the incident, maintaining nuclear safety and security remains of paramount importance to prevent a nuclear accident during the conflict. With this vital objective, the IAEA in March 2022 established seven indispensable pillars for nuclear safety and security that have been supported by all IAEA Member States.

    Pillar 3 states that “the operating staff must be able to fulfil their safety and security duties and have the capacity to make decisions free of undue pressure”.

    “Any targeting of employees of nuclear power plants would constitute a blatant violation of this pillar fundamental for overall nuclear safety and security,” Director General Grossi said.

    “In addition, any statements indicating further retaliatory measures – potentially affecting staff of the Zaporizhzhya NPP – would be unacceptable and contrary to the safety pillars established by the IAEA,” he said. “Any such threats deny staff who are not responsible for the overarching political and military situation the minimum standards of working conditions to do their jobs properly.”

    Director General Grossi once again called for maximum restraint during the conflict and said any action targeting staff at the ZNPP – in order to address issues related to its status – has a direct impact on nuclear safety and security and must cease.

    “The only way to avert the threat of a nuclear accident with transboundary radiological consequences during this war is to fully respect and adhere to the seven indispensable pillars for nuclear safety and security as well as the five concrete principles for the protection of the Zaporizhzhya NPP,” he said.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Commission on Crime and Delinquency Joins Victim Service Agencies in York to Highlight Support for Survivors of Domestic Violence and 2024-25 Shapiro-Davis Budget Investment for Victims Compensation

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 07, 2024 – York, PA

    Commission on Crime and Delinquency Joins Victim Service Agencies in York to Highlight Support for Survivors of Domestic Violence and 2024-25 Shapiro-Davis Budget Investment for Victims Compensation

    In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) visited the York County Victim/Witness Unit today to highlight the support and services offered to survivors of domestic violence and the importance of the $5 million investment in the Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) in the Shapiro-Davis 2024-25 state budget.

    “During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, it is essential to recognize the critical support available through PCCD’s Office of Victims’ Services and Pennsylvania’s Victims Compensation Assistance Program,” said Kathy Buckley, Director of Victims’ Services for PCCD. “VCAP not only provides financial assistance to crime survivors during a difficult time of their lives, but also empowers them to reclaim their independence after experiencing trauma. This financial support also plays a key role in ensuring safety and recovery for domestic violence survivors. By raising awareness, we can help ensure that every survivor knows they are not alone and that resources are available to support their healing journey.”

    VCAP serves as a critical financial lifeline for people who have experienced crime victimization by covering costs for medical bills and counseling, loss of earnings, loss of support, stolen cash, relocation, funeral, crime scene cleanup, and more. Over the past five years, PCCD has paid more than 76,000 VCAP claims totaling $65 million in eligible expenses for Commonwealth residents. In York County alone during that time period, VCAP has paid 2,822 claims totaling more than $2 million to support individuals in York County who have experienced crime victimization.

    List of Speakers:
    Faith Uhler-Myers, Deputy Administrator of York County DA’s Office Victim/Witness Unit
    Kathy Buckley, Director of Victims’ Services, PCCD
    Angie Cardona, Amber Fullwood, & Megan Pace, Domestic Violence Coordinators York Victim/Witness Unit
    Paula Copeland, Chief Services Officer of YWCA York
    Sarah Harvey, Director of YWCA Hanover Safe Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Slotkin Statement on Anniversary of October 7 Attacks

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin (MI-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-07) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attacks:

    “Today marks one year since 1,200 Israelis were murdered, the single largest loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust. Thousands were wounded, women were raped, and hundreds were taken hostage during Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel. 

    “Today is a somber day, an opportunity to remember and honor the parents, children, friends, and neighbors lost in an indiscriminate massacre defined by sheer hate.

    “It is also an important moment to acknowledge the trauma that persists in Israeli society, as those touched by that day continue to grapple with the loss. A year later, more than 60 hostages – including four Americans – remain in Hamas captivity, and more than 100,000 Israelis are displaced from their homes. 

    “But it’s also the bitter anniversary of a year of pain, and the cycle of violence that came after the attack. It is hard to overstate how this crisis has roiled the state of Michigan for 365 days. And one of the saddest things about what’s happened is that, in talking to both Jewish Americans and Arab and Muslim Americans nearly each day since, both communities experienced mirror-image pain this year. Both communities see themselves and their children in the faces of the wounded and killed. Both communities feel like other Americans don’t care about their dead. Both communities feel like some who used to support them no longer do. Both are pained by the sharp rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia. Both sides fear for their kids, and their experience at college. And both sides are struggling to find a path forward to feel hopeful about.

    “As the Jewish prayer says, ‘As long as we live, they too will live, for they are now a part of us, as we remember them.’ I’m sending my thoughts to all those in mourning today and to everyone who was touched by this tragedy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hudson, Tillis Lead NC Colleagues in Urging HHS & FEMA to Operationalize Greensboro Migrant Facility to Support Western North Carolina’s Recovery from Helene

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC) and Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) led Republican Members of North Carolina’s Congressional Delegation in a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell on the urgent need to operationalize urging the Greensboro Influx Care Facility (ICF) to assist in Western North Carolina’s recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene.

    In addition to Representative Hudson and Senator Tillis, the letter was signed by Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), and Representatives Chuck Edwards (R-NC), David Rouzer (R-NC), Dan Bishop (R-NC), Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Greg Murphy (R-NC), and Patrick McHenry (R-NC).

    The lawmakers wrote, “As you may know, Health and Human Services (HHS) currently operates GCC as an Influx Care Facility (ICF) meant to house and support unaccompanied alien children (UAC) in the case of an emergency. However, in June 2024, HHS’s Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) at the Administration for Children & Families (ACF) announced that GCC has “ramped down its operations to facility upkeep.”

    “Based on our understanding of this facility, we think that it could be incredibly useful in supporting the people of western North Carolina as the region recovers from Hurricane Helene,” the lawmakers continued. “For example, GCC could be used to temporarily house those displaced by the storm or to serve as a staging area for aid workers stationed in the state.”

    “Our delegation is grateful for the work that has been done by your agencies so far to assist the people of North Carolina. However, much more can and should be done to expediently aid those whose lives have been upended by this storm. We believe operationalizing GCC for the purposes of aid and recovery is an effective way to do so,” the lawmakers concluded.

    Read the full letter HERE.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: DelBene Statement on Anniversary of Hamas Terrorist Attack

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (1st District of Washington)

    DelBene Statement on Anniversary of Hamas Terrorist Attack

    Kirkland, WA, October 7, 2024

    Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) issued the following statement on the first anniversary of Hamas’ terrorist attack in Israel:

    “A year ago, Hamas brutally attacked Israel, murdering nearly 1,200 innocent people and taking over 250 hostages, including American citizens. I remain committed to Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law and bringing home the remaining hostages as soon as possible.

    “We cannot lose sight of the innocent Israelis and Palestinians whose lives and livelihoods have been shattered in the wake of this tragedy. A negotiated ceasefire remains the best path forward to achieve lasting peace, surge humanitarian assistance to the many in Gaza who need it, and work towards a two-state solution.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grothman’s Statement on One-Year Anniversary of the Attack on Israel

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah 6th District Wisconsin))

    Grothman’s Statement on One-Year Anniversary of the Attack on Israel

    Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the unprovoked Hamas attack on Israel.

    “As we mark the one-year anniversary of the horrific attack on Israel, we are reminded of the profound impact that day had on countless lives and the enduring scars it left on the Israeli people. The coordinated assault by Hamas, targeting innocent civilians, including women and children, was a stark reminder of the evil that exists in this world,” said Congressman Grothman. “Israel has every right to continue defending itself against such unprovoked aggression, and it is essential that the United States continues to stand firmly with our strongest ally in the Middle East. The resilience of the Israeli people in the face of this tragedy is a testament to their strength and unity.”
    “The details of the attack are even worse than publicly known because they are too graphic to be printed. Civilians who tried to help hostages were targeted by Hamas in Gaza. We remind the world that the conflict which spun from this attack on Isarel could end anytime if Hamas surrendered.”

    “As we remember the victims and honor their memory, we must also acknowledge that many hostages remain in the hands of Hamas, enduring torture, and pray for their safe return home. We also grieve with the families of the hostages who were brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists. We must recommit ourselves to combating terrorism and ensuring that no nation faces such violence alone.”

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    U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) is serving his fifth term representing Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada to Unlock Critical Minerals Development in Northern Ontario with New Funding

    Source: Government of Canada News

    With the launch of the Critical Minerals Strategy in December 2022, the Government of Canada signalled the need for strategic investments in clean energy and transportation infrastructure to realize Canada’s critical mineral potential. To contribute to the implementation of the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy, Budget 2022 proposed up to $1.5 billion over seven years, starting in 2023–24, for infrastructure investments to support expanded sustainable critical mineral production and unlock critical mineral rich regions.

    The Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) is Natural Resources Canada’s flagship program under the Critical Minerals Strategy to support enabling clean energy and transportation infrastructure projects necessary to increase Canada’s supply of responsibly sourced critical minerals, and the development of domestic and global value chains for the green and digital economy. 

    With the launch of the Critical Minerals Strategy in December 2022, the Government of Canada signalled the need for strategic investments in clean energy and transportation infrastructure to realize Canada’s critical mineral potential. To contribute to the implementation of the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy, Budget 2022 proposed up to $1.5 billion over seven years, starting in 2023–24, for infrastructure investments to support expanded sustainable critical mineral production and unlock critical mineral rich regions.

    The projects announced today include:

    Green TM Resources Canada Ltd

    Green TM Resources Canada Ltd is planning to upgrade 112 kilometres of existing roads and replace three bridges to support the development of a lithium mine near Armstrong, Ontario. The road improvements would link the future Seymour Lithium Project mine site to existing road infrastructure, provide a route for non-residential traffic to bypass local residential areas and support a significant increase in Canada’s lithium supply, which is an essential component in the battery supply chain. These road improvements would be integral to advancing critical minerals development in Ontario, in partnership with the Whitesand First Nation. Pending final due diligence, Natural Resources Canada has conditionally approved an investment of up to $5.5 million under the CMIF for this project. 

    Rock Tech Lithium Inc.

    Rock Tech Lithium Inc. is planning to upgrade and extend a 10-kilometre access road and bridge north of Nipigon, Ontario, that would enable the transportation of lithium from its Georgia Lake Project mine site, an open pit and underground mine in advanced exploration. The project has the potential to increase lithium production in Northern Ontario, a region of strategic importance, and to contribute to the development of the domestic electric vehicle value chain. Pending final due diligence, Natural Resources Canada has conditionally approved an investment of up to $1.4 million under the CMIF for this project. 

    Frontier Lithium Inc.

    Frontier Lithium Inc. is planning two projects to develop the Pakeagama (PAK) Lithium Project in Northwestern Ontario. They plan to undertake preconstruction and project development activities, including Indigenous engagement, for a 56-kilometre, two-lane access road that would link the PAK resource to the Ontario highway system. They also plan to conduct studies related to engineering, design and permitting for a substation and transmission line to enable grid connection to the Wataynikaneyap (Watay) Power transmission line. These projects in combination have the potential to increase access and electrification to the region, and once completed, the grid connection would help to support the development and decarbonization of the PAK Lithium Project. Pending final due diligence, Natural Resources Canada has conditionally approved two investments for a total of up to $6.1 million under the CMIF for these projects.

    Generation PGM Inc

    Generation PGM Inc. is planning to complete engineering, design work and feasibility studies for road and rail links to support the movement of copper from its mining project located near Marathon, Ontario, to smelters. As part of this work, they intend to upgrade the five-kilometre site access road and develop a new, four-kilometre access road and a transload facility to transfer concentrates. Pending final due diligence, Natural Resources Canada has conditionally approved an investment of up to $771,100 under the CMIF for this project.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Matt Gaetz Spotlights Partisan Smear Against DHS Inspector General Joseph Cuffari Following Swamp Screed Report Recommending His Firing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Matt Gaetz (1st District of Florida)

    Washington, D.C. — Today, in the wake of last week’s swamp screed report recommending President Joe Biden fire the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Inspector General (IG) Joseph Cuffari, U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) sent a letter to IG Cuffari highlighting the partisan campaign against him.

    Rep. Gaetz’s letter comes after a panel of Biden-Harris appointees on the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity (CIGIE) released a 1,000-page report accusing IG Cuffari of misconduct in what appears to be partisan retaliation to his diligent oversight of DHS. IG Cuffari investigated and exposed multiple Biden-Harris DHS failures, including the crisis at the southern border, the attempted assassinations of President Trump, and the mishandling of funds by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). During a Judiciary Committee hearing in July, FBI Director Christopher Wray was in agreement with Rep. Gaetz that it would not be a “good idea” to fire IG Cuffari.

    Full text of Congressman Gaetz’s letter to Inspector General Cuffari can be found HERE. Additionally, exclusive coverage of the letter by Daily Caller can be found HERE.

    LETTER TEXT

    Dear Inspector General Cuffari:

    Testifying before Congress shortly after the first assassination attempt on former President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, FBI Director Christopher Wray expressly noted that “I don’t think [it] would be a good idea” to remove you from your duties during the pendency of your investigation into that incident. I agree with Director Wray: It would look like a cover-up on the part of President Biden and Vice President Harris. Given two assassination attempts on former President Trump, your continued oversight responsibilities related to the Southern border crisis, and now the numerous whistleblowers coming forward about FEMA mismanagement of the Hurricane Helene response, removing you might be politically convenient for those in power, but Americans would see it as a dirty trick.

    You have independent oversight over the nerve center of the D.C. swamp, and the knives are out for you. I am very concerned that Vice President Harris and others who want to cover up the open border and the assassination attempts on former President Trump will be calling for your firing and privately leaning on President Biden to remove you. I am confident the Vice President would love to have the President remove you before the election, or in the lame duck period, politically the best time to effectuate such a coup. The bureaucracy is trying to give them a fig leaf to get away with it and to pretend it is anything other than a cover- up: last week’s long-awaited 1000-page screed attacking you.

    It is telling, and rather gross, that this report comes out right before the November election. After all, your office has oversight over parts of the Department of Homeland Security that might be asleep at the wheel as our election technology is penetrated by foreign adversaries.

    I, much of Congress, and the American people stand with you. Keep uncovering the truth and performing your constitutional duties faithfully.

    Sincerely, 

    Matt Gaetz​​​​​
    Member of Congress

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    For updates, subscribe to Congressman Gaetz’s newsletter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hudson, Tillis Lead NC Colleagues in Urging HHS & FEMA to Operationalize Greensboro Migrant Facility to Support Western North Carolina’s Recovery from Helene

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC) and Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) led Republican Members of North Carolina’s Congressional Delegation in a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell on the urgent need to operationalize urging the Greensboro Influx Care Facility (ICF) to assist in Western North Carolina’s recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene.

    In addition to Representative Hudson and Senator Tillis, the letter was signed by Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), and Representatives Chuck Edwards (R-NC), David Rouzer (R-NC), Dan Bishop (R-NC), Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Greg Murphy (R-NC), and Patrick McHenry (R-NC).

    The lawmakers wrote, “As you may know, Health and Human Services (HHS) currently operates GCC as an Influx Care Facility (ICF) meant to house and support unaccompanied alien children (UAC) in the case of an emergency. However, in June 2024, HHS’s Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) at the Administration for Children & Families (ACF) announced that GCC has “ramped down its operations to facility upkeep.”

    “Based on our understanding of this facility, we think that it could be incredibly useful in supporting the people of western North Carolina as the region recovers from Hurricane Helene,” the lawmakers continued. “For example, GCC could be used to temporarily house those displaced by the storm or to serve as a staging area for aid workers stationed in the state.”

    “Our delegation is grateful for the work that has been done by your agencies so far to assist the people of North Carolina. However, much more can and should be done to expediently aid those whose lives have been upended by this storm. We believe operationalizing GCC for the purposes of aid and recovery is an effective way to do so,” the lawmakers concluded.

    Read the full letter HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer Honors October 7 Victims, Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    BISMARCK, N.D. – A year ago today, Iran-backed Hamas terrorists launched a heinous attack on Israel, killing approximately 1,200 individuals and taking 251 hostages, in addition to launching thousands of rockets toward Israel. One year later, 97 hostages still remain unaccounted for, including seven Americans. 
    U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and every Republican Senator in introducing a resolution to condemn the brutal assault that occurred on October 7, 2023. The resolution reiterates support to “ensure the forever survival of Israel; destroy the ability of Hamas to reconstitute any leadership role in the region; and safely release and return all United States hostages.”
    “As hard as it is to believe, it was one year ago today that Hamas launched an attack with the sole purpose of eradicating Israel, kidnapping and slaughtering thousands of Israeli citizens and dozens of Americans in the process,” said Cramer. “Despite the reckless language of the left, we stand in support of Israel, unequivocally, our friend and our close ally. The United States must do everything we can to champion the continued existence and flourishing of Israel, and deny Hamas the opportunity to rebuild itself.”
    Additional cosponsors include U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Boozman (R-AR), Mike Braun (R-IN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Susan Collins (R-ME), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Ron Johnson (R-WI), John Kennedy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Rand Paul (R-KY), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Thune (R-SD), Thom Tillis (R-NC),  Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), J.D. Vance (R-OH), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Todd Young (R-IN).
    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –