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Category: Military Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Leads Entire Senate Democratic Caucus in Demanding Trump Remove Military Forces From Los Angeles

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Leads Entire Senate Democratic Caucus in Demanding Trump Remove Military Forces From Los Angeles

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in demanding that President Trump immediately withdraw all military forces from Los Angeles and cease all threats to deploy the National Guard or active-duty servicemembers to American cities.

    The letter comes after Trump’s unprecedented move to federalize and deploy the California National Guard without the consent of the California Governor and mobilize U.S. Marine Corps elements, deploying approximately 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 active-duty Marines to Los Angeles amid unrest created by the President’s indiscriminate and intentionally inflammatory immigration enforcement raids across the region. The first 200 Marines arrived at the Los Angeles Federal Building yesterday, marking the first time in over 30 years that the Marines have been deployed in the United States.

    Trump deployed these military personnel without the request or support of Governor Newsom, manufacturing a crisis and repeatedly escalating the conflict in order to create a spectacle. The federalizing of California’s National Guard marked the first time the Guard had been deployed without a Governor’s consent since 1965.

    “We write to express deep concern over your decision to deploy the National Guard and United States Marine Corps to Los Angeles without consultation or coordination with the Governor and local leaders,” wrote Padilla and the entire Democratic Senate Caucus. “This unilateral action represents an alarming abuse of executive authority, continues to inflame the situation on the ground, and undermines the constitutional balance of power between the federal government and the states. We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles unless their presence is explicitly requested by the Governor and local leaders.”

    The Senators slammed the deployment of military personnel as an abuse of power that undermines state and local leadership, interferes with critical law enforcement operations, and wastes military resources and taxpayer dollars. They also expressed concern for the dangerous precedent Trump’s misguided deployment of military forces could set for mobilizing military personnel to other cities across the country.

    “For the federal government to deploy military forces into American cities without consulting the Governor and local leaders is a dangerous misuse of federal power that has actively disrupted local law enforcement efforts to maintain peace and order,” continued the Senators. “Deploying military personnel should always be a last resort – not a first step – and should only occur when local law enforcement makes a specific request for such federal resources. The decision to use military personnel to create a spectacle has escalated tensions on the ground and created confusion among local law enforcement. Significantly, it also pulls military assets away from other critical missions and is a waste of taxpayer dollars.”

    “We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles in recent days and to cease any further threats of deploying National Guard or active-duty military personnel into American cities absent a request from the Governor,” concluded the Senators. “Respect for our Constitution and for our civilian law enforcement demands nothing less.”

    The Trump Administration has consistently utilized excessive force and aggressive tactics in its immigration enforcement operations in Los Angeles and across the country. This pattern of unnecessary violence was evident on Thursday when Senator Padilla was forcibly removed from Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s press conference, thrown to the ground and handcuffed after simply trying to ask a question.

    The legality of Trump’s federalizing of California’s National Guard without the Governor’s consent is currently being disputed in federal court. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals recently issued a stay to pause a lower court’s ruling, which had returned command of the California National Guard to Governor Newsom.

    The district court ruled that the President did not follow the statutorily mandated procedure necessary to deploy the National Guard and ordered him to return control of the Guard to California. The Court ruled that Trump violated the 10th Amendment and 10 USC 12406, the provision that authorizes the President to federalize the Guard in the event of insurrection or rebellion. The court held that California was also likely to prevail on the merits of its suit — there was no rebellion or insurrection, and local, county, and state law enforcement were fully capable of enforcing the law.

    “At this early stage of the proceedings, the Court must determine whether the President followed the congressionally mandated procedure for his actions. He did not. His actions were illegal—both exceeding the scope of his statutory authority and violating the Tenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. He must therefore return control of the California National Guard to the Governor of the State of California forthwith,” wrote the court.

    “We’re talking about the president exercising his authority, and the president is, of course, limited to his authority,” the court continued. “That’s the difference between a constitutional government and King George. It’s not that a leader can simply say something, and it becomes it.”

    In addition to Senator Padilla, the letter to President Trump was signed by the entire Senate Democratic Caucus, including Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear President Trump,

    We write to express deep concern over your decision to deploy the National Guard and United States Marine Corps to Los Angeles without consultation or coordination with the Governor and local leaders. This unilateral action represents an alarming abuse of executive authority, continues to inflame the situation on the ground, and undermines the constitutional balance of power between the federal government and the states. We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles unless their presence is explicitly requested by the Governor and local leaders.

    For the federal government to deploy military forces into American cities without consulting the Governor and local leaders is a dangerous misuse of federal power that has actively disrupted local law enforcement efforts to maintain peace and order. Deploying military personnel should always be a last resort – not a first step – and should only occur when local law enforcement makes a specific request for such federal resources. The decision to use military personnel to create a spectacle has escalated tensions on the ground and created confusion among local law enforcement. Significantly, it also pulls military assets away from other critical missions and is a waste of taxpayer dollars.

    We are particularly concerned by the precedent that this ill-conceived deployment of military personnel to Los Angeles sets for other cities and states. Governors are the Commanders in Chief of their National Guards when operating within state borders. As Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said last year when serving as Governor of South Dakota, “If Joe Biden federalizes the National Guard, that would be a direct attack on states’ rights.”

    We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles in recent days and to cease any further threats of deploying National Guard or active-duty military personnel into American cities absent a request from the Governor. Respect for our Constitution and for our civilian law enforcement demands nothing less.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RAF King’s Birthday Honours 2025Kings’ Birthday Honours List 2025 – Military Division.13 Jun 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 – Military Division

    PROMOTIONS IN AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MOST HONOURABLE ORDER OF THE BATH

    As Knight Commander  

    Air Marshal J.J. Stringer CBE 

    As Companion (CB)  

    Air Vice-Marshal M.W.J Chappell  

    Air Vice-Marshal A.P.T. Smith 

    PROMOTIONS IN AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE

    As Commanders (CBE) 

    Air Commodore I.J. Sharrocks OBE 

    Group Captain A. Burton 

    As Officers (OBE)

    Group Captain A.P. Baron 

    Group Captain P. Baroni 

    Group Captain R.L. Dixon  

    Wing Commander G.A. Lonsdale 

    Wing Commander T.C. Page 

    Wing Commander A.N. Pandya 

    As Members (MBE)

    Acting Wing Commander D.C. McCrae 

    Squadron Leader C.B.M. Emmerson 

    Squadron Leader J.R. Rushton 

    Squadron Leader T.A. Smith 

    Squadron Leader M.D. Sugden 

    Squadron Leader D.J. Taudevin 

    Squadron Leader J.K. Wilyman 

    Flight Lieutenant R.K. Mehta 

    Flight Lieutenant M.W. Norman 

    Captain R.M. St J. Sheehan (British Army) 

    Warrant Officer C. Hamilton 

    Staff Sergeant E. Oppong (British Army) 

    Sergeant G.L. Jones 

    Corporal E-J. Bangura 

    King’s Volunteer Reserves Medal

    Sergeant D.J. Tyler 

    Associate Member of The Royal Red Cross 

    Flight Sergeant (now Acting Warrant Officer) S.L. Roberts 

    King’s Birthday Honours list 2025 – Civilian Division

    PROMOTIONS IN AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE CIVILIAN DIVISION OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE

    As Members (MBE) 

    Mr R.P. O’Connor  

    Reverend J.M. Pitkin 

    British Empire Medal  

    Mr J.R. McGlasson 

    MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL

    Warrant Officer M.A. Coupland 

    Warrant Officer N. Dutton 

    Master Aircrew P.A. Goss 

    Master Aircrew R.A. Jones 

    Master Aircrew T.J.M. Millar 

    Warrant Officer M. Rees-Martin MBE 

    Warrant Officer D.K. Rose 

    Master Aircrew D.V. Russell 

    Master Aircrew S.F. Severn 

    Warrant Officer S.W. Thorpe 

    Flight Sergeant (now Acting Warrant Officer) O.R. Watkins 

    Flight Sergeant R.C. Atha 

    Flight Sergeant S.J. Dutton 

    Flight Sergeant D. Farrell 

    Flight Sergeant R.E. Mauchline 

    Flight Sergeant R.M. Pugh 

    Acting Flight Sergeant C.M. Irvine 

    CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander K.E. Ingram MBE 

    Squadron Leader (now Wing Commander) A.H. Stewart 

    Squadron Leader N.J.D. Bell 

    Flight Lieutenant A. Carter 

    Flight Lieutenant G. Feetham 

    Sergeant P.M. Taylor 

    Acting Sergeant N.T. Egan 

    Corporal G.P. Dutton 

    Corporal L.D. Evans 

    Corporal J.F. Scott 

    Acting Corporal D.J. Purves 

    Air Specialist Class 1 B. Dudgeon 

    Team Commendations 

    Air Finance Strategic Financial Planning Team 

    Department of Medicine, RAF R&S, RAF Cranwell 

    Protector Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation, RAF Waddington 

    Tactical Operations Centre Light eXperimental (TOC-X) Delivery and Innovations Team 

    27 Squadron Engineering 

    DEPUTY CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF & AIR AND SPACE COMMANDER COMMENDATIONS

    DEPUTY CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader E.L. Brooks 

    Squadron Leader R.J. Kemplay 

    Flight Lieutenant M.J. Wade 

    Mrs N.J. Skelton 

    Team Commendations 

    Project NEXUS – DEIMOS Team 

    Qatar Air Programme Office 2024 

    Trial CHAINMAIL 2 Team 

    R&S Select Processing Team 

    Ground Combat and Security Profession Enlisted Aviator Career Management Team 

    ANY Desk Career Management 

    AIR AND SPACE COMMANDER COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander T.P. Nassif 

    Squadron Leader B.P. Burton 

    Squadron Leader P.M. Dunkley 

    Squadron Leader S.E. Evans 

    Major M.G. Fairchild (US Space Force) 

    Squadron Leader E.E. Leonard 

    Squadron Leader C.J. Marsh 

    Squadron Leader L.M. Ryder 

    Squadron Leader D.A. Yule 

    Flight Lieutenant (now Acting Squadron Leader) B.L. Dzekashu 

    Lieutenant M.P. Anelli (Royal Navy) 

    Warrant Officer G. Pringle 

    Chief Petty Officer T.A. Fenwick (Royal Navy) 

    Flight Sergeant D.J. Gillam 

    Flight Sergeant G.L. Hobbs 

    Acting Flight Sergeant (now Chief Technician) J.W. Kelly 

    Sergeant (now Staff Sergeant) R. Limbu (British Army) 

    Sergeant T.A. Marley 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (now Acting Corporal) J.P.J. Eldridge 

    Air Specialist Class 1 T.D. Magill 

    Mr A.P. Bowell 

    Mrs C. Sherman 

    Team Commendations 

    RAF Pay Team, London Main Building 

    11 Group A5 

    Engineering Profession Advisor Team 

    RAF Medical Board 

    Engineering Team, Number II (Army Cooperation) Squadron, RAF Lossiemouth 

    Air Battlespace Training Centre, RAF Waddington  

    45 Squadron Mission Aircrew ISR Acoustics Team 

    RAF Coningsby Duty Fire Crew 

    Spitfire Crash Incident Officers 

    RAF Cranwell ACE Team 

    RAF Odiham Project PALES Team 

    AIR OFFICERS COMMANDING COMMENDATIONS

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 1 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Lieutenant Commander P. Armstrong (Royal Navy) 

    Lieutenant Commander N.E. Baker (Royal Navy) 

    Squadron Leader D.C.D. Berris 

    Squadron Leader K.M. Hickinbotham 

    Squadron Leader S.I. Roxburgh 

    Flight Lieutenant D.A. Breslin 

    Flight Lieutenant M.R. Crosby-Jones 

    Flight Lieutenant A.M. Dale 

    Flight Lieutenant K. Jamison 

    Flight Lieutenant L.O. Matthews 

    Flight Lieutenant W.L.D. Mountfield 

    Flight Lieutenant D. Scarr 

    Flight Lieutenant R. Wallace 

    Lieutenant W.R. Sankey (Royal Navy) 

    Acting Flight Lieutenant V. Logan 

    Warrant Officer C.P. Harker 

    Flight Sergeant D.T. Best 

    Flight Sergeant J.A. Bracewell 

    Chief Petty Officer G. Parker (Royal Navy) 

    Chief Technician W.A. Byrne 

    Sergeant N.J. Lindley 

    Acting Sergeant R.G. Archer 

    Acting Sergeant J.A. Grimmer 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) T.A. Bond 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) O-J. Whitehead 

    Mr L. Maple 

    Mr S. Williams 

    Team Commendations 

    Number 54 Squadron – Protector Training Flight 

    BBMF CAw Management 

    Number 56 Squadron E-7 Wedgetail Operator Subject Matter Expert Team 

    BAE Systems Civilian Qualified Flying Instructor 

    Joint Air Delivery Test & Evaluation Unit – Engineering Section, RAF Brize Norton 

    29 Squadron Typhoon Display Team, RAF Coningsby 

    Number 14 Squadron Shadow Qualified Flying Instructors, RAF Waddington 

    A Flight, ISR Enabling Squadron, 1ISR Wing, Royal Air Force Waddington 

    Number 99 Squadron C-17 ZZ173 Air Ground Engineers, RAF Brize Norton 

    Royal Air Force Falcons 2024 Parachute Display Team, RAF Brize Norton 

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 2 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader S.J. Jackson 

    Squadron Leader D.C. Netherton 

    Squadron Leader R.D. Scothern 

    Flight Lieutenant D. Anderson 

    Flight Lieutenant P. Crutchlow 

    Flight Lieutenant L.J. Eagle 

    Flight Lieutenant B.R. Garwood 

    Flight Lieutenant A.J. Mawdsley 

    Acting Flight Lieutenant R. Howarth 

    Flying Officer P. Shingler 

    Chief Technician A.J. Hunt 

    Flight Sergeant E.L. Dye 

    Flight Sergeant M. Eastaugh 

    Flight Sergeant M.J. Ellson 

    Flight Sergeant J.H.R. McClymont 

    Flight Sergeant G. Teague 

    Flight Sergeant N.H. White 

    Sergeant S.B. Brandt 

    Sergeant D.J. Cooper 

    Sergeant A.C. Lockwood 

    Sergeant P.R. Stockley 

    Corporal M.T. Ferguson 

    Corporal T.M. Grainger 

    Corporal G.F.E. Melling 

    Corporal C.J. Mills 

    Corporal S.A. Palmer 

    Corporal G.J. Sutton 

    Corporal R.P. Worthington 

    Acting Corporal R.P. Swatman 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) J.G. Evans 

    Air Specialist Class 1 H.C. Rhind-Tutt 

    Mr I. Aitkenhead 

    Mr A. Barber 

    Mr D. Clarke 

    Mr A. Stewart 

    Team Commendations

    Crisis Response Team 

    RAF Police Support to Operation ROMAJI 

    Royal Air Force Benson Air Traffic Control Squadron 

    Tactical Communications Wing Project LETSRIG Team 

    Air Control Essentials Course Training Team 

    144 Signals Unit Deployable Air Defence Flight and 19 Squadron Portreath Detachment 

    RAF Regiment Apprenticeship Centre 

    Medical and Dental Servicing Section 

    Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron Operation LORIEN Recovery Team 

    A Life Saving Team at RAF Waddington 

    RAF Odiham Wildlife Control Unit 

    RAF Odiham Catering Flight 

    Royal Air Force Lossiemouth Mobility Support Section 

    Royal Air Force Coningsby Armament Engineering Flt 

    RAF Leeming Police and Security Flt 

    RAF Boulmer Beacon Community Centre 

    78 Squadron Flight Safety Team 

    Project KIMBINU GRIFFIN 

    RAF Marham Force Protection Training Flight 

    Polytunnel and Wellness Area Team (Whole Force Personnel and Families) 

    RAF Marham Physical Education Flight 

    HQ 2 Group Force Generation Team 

    1 AMW HQ Plans Team 

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 11 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader J. Ives 

    Squadron Leader G. Ivison 

    Squadron Leader M.J. Pickford 

    Squadron Leader S. Wain 

    Flight Lieutenant E.D.M. Haylock 

    Flight Lieutenant B.A. Ter Haar 

    Colour Sergeant S.C. Hopkins (British Army) 

    Air Specialist Class 1 T. Ogden 

    Air Specialist Class 1 J. Smart 

    S. Fogden 

    Team Commendation

    11 Group A7 Operational Training Centre 

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 22 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Acting Major C. Reid (British Army) 

    Acting Squadron Leader J.C. Blackie  

    Acting Squadron Leader R.D. Jones  

    Flight Lieutenant J. Orrell 

    Flight Lieutenant S.S. Toomer 

    Flight Lieutenant I.A. Torrance 

    Warrant Officer 2 K.A. Feldsmann (British Army) 

    Warrant Officer 2 D. Rai (British Army) 

    Flight Sergeant T.J. Elton  

    Staff Sergeant J.L. Willis (British Army) 

    Sergeant D.S. Wilkinson 

    Mrs S. Gwilliam 

    Team Commendations

    School of Army Aeronautical Engineering Aviation Academy 

    No 1 Radio School, Cyber Security Flight 

    Number 1 Radio School, Digital Systems and Applications Flight 

    Central Flying School (Helicopters) Squadron Training Team 

    Whittle Section, Trainee Support Squadron, No 1 School of Technical Training 

    Assurance and Governance Squadron, Learning and Development Wing 

    Defence College of Technical Training HQ Finance Team 

    Hawk Syllabus Development Team 

    Headquarters Defence College of Technical Training – TDA Plans Team 

    Essex Wing Warrant Officer’s Team, Royal Air Force Air Cadets  

    CHAPLAIN-IN-CHIEF (ROYAL AIR FORCE) COMMENDATIONS

    Reverend (Squadron Leader) N. Galloway MBE 

    Mr P. Morcombe 

    COMMANDER UK SPACE COMMAND COMMENDATION

    Captain C.M. Reeds (British Army) 

    Team Commendations  

    No.1 Space Operations Squadron Training Team 

    DIRECTOR CAPABILITY AND PROGRAMMES COMMENDATIONS

    C. Young 

    DIRECTOR SUPPORT COMMENDATIONS

    Flight Sergeant C.D. Andrews 

    Mr A. Collinson 

    K. Patel  

    DIRECTOR DIGITAL COMMENDATIONS

    Flight Lieutenant R.S. Hall 

    Flight Lieutenant A.C. Metcalfe 

    Flying Officer D. Huckstepp

    DIRECTOR RESERVES COMMENDATIONS

    Flight Sergeant C.G. Smith 

    Team Commendations 

    RAuxAF100 Standard Parade Delivery Team 

    501 Sqn Operation SILK PURSE Team 

    COMMANDER JOINT AVIATION COMMAND COMMENDATIONS

    Commander Joint Aviation Command Commendations    

    Flight Lieutenant C. Rudyk-Smith 

    Flight Lieutenant M.A. Stoodley 

    Flight Sergeant N.K-C. Bargery 

    Chief Technician S.A. Grant 

    Chief Technician C.J.M. Maisey 

    Chief Technician R.N. McCarthy 

    Sergeant D.J. Dickson 

    Sergeant K.S. Potts 

    Sergeant R.S. Worker 

    Acting Sergeant J.P. Jenkins 

    Corporal D.J. White 

    Team Commendations 

    Chinook CAMO Team 

    7 Sqn R1 Detachment 

    CAE Aircrew Training Service (Puma staff) 

    VICE CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander H.M. Parr 

    Squadron Leader J.P.J. Casson 

    COMMANDER UNITED KINGDOM STRATEGIC COMMAND COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander D.E. Wilson 

    Squadron Leader (now Acting Wing Commander) S. Davies 

    Squadron Leader M. Bradley 

    Squadron Leader F.A. Merino 

    Squadron Leader L.G.J. Scott 

    Sergeant (now Acting Flight Sergeant) L.P. Buttery 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (now Acting Corporal) A.R. Harvey 

    DEPUTY COMMANDER UNITED KINGDOM STRATEGIC COMMAND COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader M.J. Rankine 

    Squadron Leader A.F. Xavier 

    Flight Sergeant A. Maltman 

    COMMANDER FIELD ARMY AND COMMANDER STANDING JOINT COMMAND (UK) COMMENDATIONS AND COMMANDER ALLIED RAPID REACTION CORPS COMMENDATIONS

    COMMANDER FIELD ARMY COMMENDATION

    Flight Lieutenant D. Graham 

    COMMANDER STANDING JOINT COMMAND (UK) COMMENDATION

    Squadron Leader R.A. Lee 

    Warrant Officer C.L. Wheeler 

    COMMANDER ALLIED RAPID REACTION CORPS COMMENDATIONS

    Sergeant C.A. Brown 

    Royal Air Force Operational Honours List

    APPOINTMENT TO THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE

    As Officer (OBE)

    Group Captain H.M. Bishop  

    Distinguished Flying Cross  

    Flight Lieutenant J.A. Chadwick 

    Air Force Cross 

    Acting Squadron Leader (now Squadron Leader) J.M.G. Hawkins 

    Flight Lieutenant S.B. Watson 

    King’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air  

    Flight Lieutenant M.M.T. Howell 

    King’s Commendation for Valuable Service 

    Squadron Leader (now Wing Commander) I.D.E. Robinson 

    Squadron Leader G.R. McKay 

    Squadron Leader B.R.M. Tripp 

    Flight Sergeant J.P. Graham 

    CHIEF OF JOINT OPERATIONS, JOINT COMMANDER’S COMMENDATIONS

    Chief of joint Operations Commendation

    Squadron Leader D.G. Tipler 

    Joint Commanders Commendation  

    Wing Commander A.P. Machin 

    Lieutenant Colonel A.A.R. Townend (British Army) 

    Squadron Leader F.Y. Allery 

    Squadron Leader J. Marlowe 

    Squadron Leader E.M. Thomas 

    Flight Lieutenant B.F.J. Brook 

    Team Commendations 

    Crew of Custom46 XIII Sqn RAF 

    Op Underhill Atlas Team 

    Op Underhill Planning and Liaison Team 

    Royal Air Force Non-Operational Gallantry Award – Commendation  

    Air and Space Commander Commendation  

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) J.D. Coombs-Hoar 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: King’s Birthday Flypast 202514 Jun 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    Flying high over Buckingham Palace, the Royal Air Force had the pleasure of parading a selection of RAF aircraft to celebrate the Official Birthday of His Majesty King Charles III. 

    At 13:00 twenty-nine aircraft took to the skies above the crowds on The Mall and over Buckingham Palace, watched over by Their Majesties’ The King and Queen, alongside other members of the Royal family.  

    The stunning formation was led by four Chinook helicopters from No 18 & 27 Squadrons of RAF Odiham, following the King’s Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour). 

    The aircraft came from nine different RAF stations, many of whom flew in the VE80 celebrations in May this year. 

    It is an enormous privilege to be part of His Majesty The King’s Birthday celebrations, where the Flypast is an opportunity for the Royal Air Force to honour His Majesty The King, our Commander-in-Chief, on the occasion of his Official Birthday. 

    This year, the flypast will comprise twenty-nine aircraft, including the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, rotary wing assets from the Joint Aviation Command, training aircraft from No.22 Group and front-line aircraft from across No.1 Group representing the Air Mobility, Combat Air and ISTAR Forces; as always the flypast will conclude with the iconic Red Arrows.”

    Air Vice-Marshal Jackson,
    Air Officer Commanding 1 Gp

    The aircraft, whose main purpose is to secure our skies and protect our citizens at home and abroad have a broad range of uses. These include training, air transport, lift capabilities, air-to-air refuelling, maritime, humanitarian missions, and fast jet combat. 

    It is a great honour to be part of an event that will bolster our national pride, and to be part of something much greater than myself. My role will include coordinating with civil air traffic and assisting the safe passage of all the aircraft back to their bases.”

    Sergeant Mcglasson,
         ATC, 78 Sqn   

    A Lancaster from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, RAF Coningsby followed the Chinooks.  

    Wing Commander Andrew Watson, a Typhoon pilot and Officer Commanding 12 Squadron had the task of overseeing the whole flypast. The planning for the whole event has been meticulous over many months. The culmination is the spectacle that was seen by millions of people worldwide. 

    It is a huge personal honour being Mission Commander and coordinating such an impressive array of aircraft fit for His Majesty The King’s Birthday. I cannot be more impressed by the focus and professionalism of both air and ground crew in bringing this spectacle to life.”

    Wing Commander Watson,
    Mission Commander & OC 12 Sqn 

    Other aircraft in the formation included a Phenom, Typhoon, an F35 and a C17 Globemaster.  

    The flypast is also thought to be the first time anywhere in the world that a national aerobatic squadron has switched to both a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend for propulsion and a renewable biofuel – known as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). This is a premium quality fuel, with a chemical structure almost identical to the regular diesel traditionally used by the aerobatic team for its vapour trails.

    In addition to reducing its carbon footprint, the move demonstrates the RAF’s commitment to new technology as well as becoming more energy secure and less reliant on fossil fuels.

    The event culminated in a spectacular show of red, white and blue from the pilots of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows. 

    It is a privilege to be a member of the Red Arrows. To me, the Red Arrows are an icon of the United Kingdom – so knowing that you had a key role to play in them bringing joy and excitement to thousands of people as they fly over the Mall is something I am incredibly proud of. 

    As head of all engineering and logistics on the team, I am even more proud to lead the amazing and diverse team of over one hundred ‘Blues’ that not only make major flypasts happen, but work tirelessly for twelve months a year, every year, to deliver a colourful and dynamic aerobatic show. 

    Working with the smoke generation system is the most unique part of the job. The vibrant vapour that we generate is what sets the team apart and so to be the first team in the world to move to a fully sustainable option is really exciting.”

    Squadron Leader King
    Snr Engineering Officer, RAF Aerobatic Team

    The aircraft of the Armed Forces have a long and proud history of taking part in this occasion, with the first King’s Birthday Flypast taking place in 1913 and most recently formed part of Their Majesties’ Coronation in 2023 and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. 

    The flypast has much poignancy for one of the Chinook pilots, Master Aircrew (MACr) Ruffles. The King’s Birthday Flypast was one of MACr Ruffles’ last flights as he leaves the RAF after forty years’ service and nine thousand hours flying with helicopters.

    Being part of the King’s Birthday Flypast after forty years of service especially on the 80th anniversary of VE Day is an honour I’ll carry with me for many years to come. It’s been a test of resilience, teamwork and dedication. But through it all, the bond with my fellow crew members, the sense of purpose and the pride in serving at such a high level has made every moment worthwhile.”

    Master Aircrew Ruffles
    27 Squadron, Chinooks

    The King’s Birthday Flypast concluded Trooping the Colour which took place on Horse Guards Parade, a ceremony dating back to the reign of King Charles II, becoming an annual event in 1760. Over 1,400 officers and soldiers form the parade, together with two hundred horses; over four hundred musicians from ten bands and Corps of Drums marched and played in unison. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Larsen Releases Statement on Today’s Peaceful Demonstrations Against the Trump Administration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Today Representative Rick Larsen released the following statement to those demonstrating peacefully against the Trump administration:

    “Today, people all across Northwest Washington state are gathering to demonstrate peacefully against the excesses and corruption of the Trump administration.

    “Excesses like the President spending more than 20 days golfing just so far this year, costing taxpayers millions in security and travel expenses. Corruption like the President accepting a $400 million luxury jet as a gift from a foreign country.

    “And, most recently, the President has hijacked a parade to celebrate the Army’s 250th birthday and turned it into a self-indulgent boondoggle. The Army estimates that the parade will cost $45 million.

    “At the same time, Republicans in Congress are trying to pass huge funding cuts to programs that help families afford groceries. The Republican Rip-Off budget puts 14,000 people in Northwest Washington state at risk of losing food assistance.

    “The food assistance program costs $6 per day per person. I did the math so you don’t have too – for the cost of the parade, Trump and Republicans could help more than 20,000 people access affordable groceries every day for a year.

    “This Administration is also trying to cut 80,000 jobs at the Department of Veteran Affairs. If Republicans really cared about celebrating the Army, then they wouldn’t be attacking the system that millions of veterans rely on for health care and other essential services.

    “I’m not able to attend the demonstrations of patriotism in Northwest Washington state today, but I want to thank every person who is showing up to make their voice heard. By rallying, by speaking up, by advocating for your communities, you are holding this administration accountable.

    “I am standing with you, and I will continue alongside all of you to fight the excesses and corruption of this administration.”

    Watch Rep. Larsen’s full statement here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Three killed, 172 injured in Iranian rocket attacks on Israel

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    JERUSALEM, June 14 (Xinhua) — Three Israelis were killed and 172 wounded in rocket attacks from Iran on Friday night and Saturday morning, Israeli state-run Kan TV reported.

    According to the channel, the two victims, 73-year-old Israel Aloni and 60-year-old Eti Cohen Angel, were killed in a rocket attack on the central city of Rishon LeZion on Saturday. The attack left 27 people injured and several homes severely damaged.

    Earlier on Friday evening, another woman was killed in an Iranian strike on a Tel Aviv neighborhood.

    Of the injured, one person is in serious condition, 15 were moderately injured, and the rest were lightly injured. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), seven of the wounded are soldiers, all of whom were lightly injured.

    Iran fired hundreds of rockets in five barrages, IDF says. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran appoints new army commander and IRGC Aerospace Force commander

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    TEHRAN, June 14 (Xinhua) — Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has appointed a new commander-in-chief of the army and commander of the aerospace force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

    On Saturday, A. Khamenei appointed Majid Mousavi as the commander of the IRGC Aerospace Forces, the semi-official Iranian news agency Mehr reported.

    Mousavi, who previously served as deputy commander of the IRGC Aerospace Forces, was appointed to the post after his predecessor, Amir Ali Hajizadeh, was killed in Israeli airstrikes on Tehran on Friday.

    Also on Friday, the Iranian leader appointed former Iranian Defense Minister Amir Hatami as army commander-in-chief, Iran’s official IRNA news agency reported.

    Khatami replaced Abdolrahim Mousavi, who was appointed chief of the general staff of the Iranian armed forces on Friday following the death of the incumbent Mohammad Bagheri in Israeli airstrikes earlier in the day.

    On Friday morning, Israel launched airstrikes on the Iranian capital Tehran and other cities in the country.

    In addition to M. Bagheri and A. A. Hajizade, the head of the IRGC, Hossein Salami, and the commander of the central headquarters of the Iranian Armed Forces “Khatam al-Anbiya” /air defense forces headquarters/ Gholam Ali Rashid were also killed. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israeli army says nine Iranian nuclear scientists killed

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    JERUSALEM, June 14 (Xinhua) — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Saturday that its strikes killed nine senior Iranian nuclear officials.

    It is noted that they fell victim to fire from fighter jets acting on data from the Military Intelligence Directorate. The scientists were killed at the start of the Israeli operation, which was carried out on Friday morning.

    The dead played an important role in the Iranian nuclear project and had decades of accumulated experience in developing nuclear weapons, the IDF emphasized, noting that they included experts in nuclear and chemical engineering, physics, materials science and mechanics.

    Israel carried out airstrikes early Friday on Tehran and other Iranian cities. The IDF said the strikes were intended, among other things, to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Tehran has repeatedly denied it seeks them. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Two Israeli fighter jets shot down – Iranian media

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    TEHRAN/JERUSALEM, June 14 (Xinhua) — Iran’s air defense forces shot down two Israeli F-35 fighter jets and a large number of micro-drones. The female pilot of one of the downed drones was captured, Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported.

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) denied the report. IDF spokesman Avichai Adrai called the claims “completely baseless.”

    The statements came amid heightened tensions following Israel’s large-scale strikes on Iranian military and nuclear facilities.

    According to the Iranian Press TV channel, Iranian air defenses shot down an Israeli drone near the Fordow nuclear facility, located near the city of Qom.

    On Friday, Israel launched airstrikes on Tehran and other Iranian cities.

    Iran’s permanent representative to the UN, Amir Saeed Iravani, said at least 78 people had been killed and 320 wounded in the Israeli attacks in the country.

    Among the dead were also Chief of the General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces (AF) Mohammad Bagheri, head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Hossein Salami, commander of the central headquarters of the Iranian Armed Forces “Khatam al-Anbiya” Gholam Ali Rashid and commander of the IRGC Aerospace Forces Amir Ali Hajizadeh. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: U.S. marines move into Los Angeles amid protests over immigration raids

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    About 200 U.S. marines have been deployed to Los Angeles, the second largest city in the United States, to protect a federal building there, the military said on Friday, after a week of protests over the current administration’s immigration raids in the city.

    U.S. Army Major General Scott Sherman, commander of the Task Force 51, which includes more than 4,000 California Army National Guard soldiers and about 700 marines, said at a press briefing that those marines had completed civil disturbance training.

    But Sherman said the marines will not participate in law enforcement activities.

    Some of the marines were seen standing guard outside the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles area. The 17-story federal building on Wilshire Boulevard is home to many of Los Angeles’ federal offices, including the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Los Angeles field office.

    U.S. President Donald Trump has made decisions to dispatch over 4,000 National Guard members and about 700 active-duty marines to the Los Angeles area despite the objection of California Governor Gavin Newsom and other local officials.

    About 2,800 service members, including 2,100 National Guard soldiers and 700 Marines, were deployed to the greater Los Angeles area, said U.S. Northern Command in a news release on Wednesday, adding that the Marines had completed required training and would be serving alongside National Guard soldiers within the next 48 hours.

    The Marines were reportedly undergoing civil disturbance training at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach in Orange County, located south of Los Angeles.

    The Trump administration won a swift legal victory on Thursday night when a federal appeals court blocked a lower court’s order issued just hours earlier that would have returned 4,000 California National Guard troops to state control, allowing the military deployment in Los Angeles to continue.

    The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued an emergency stay just hours after U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer ruled Thursday evening that Trump had illegally federalized California’s National Guard and violated the Constitution.

    The appellate court’s new order not only allows the National Guard troops to continue operating under federal command but also indicates that the legal battle between Washington and the Golden State will continue.

    The dramatic legal reversal capped a day of courtroom confrontation between the Trump administration and California over the unprecedented federal takeover of state military forces.

    Hundreds of people have been arrested in Southern California since the protests over federal immigration enforcement started a week ago, with more protests planned in the coming weekend across the region and the country. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Multiple agencies inspect wreckage of crashed Air India Flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Investigative teams from various agencies, including the National Security Guard (NSG), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), reached the crash site of Air India Flight AI-171 on Saturday to examine the debris.

     

    Teams from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) also inspected the wreckage of the ill-fated London-bound aircraft.

     

    Residents of the neighbourhood where the plane crashed recalled their harrowing experience, describing it as feeling like an earthquake or a bomb blast.

     

    Rekha Kshtriya, a local resident for over 13 years, said she was doing her regular chores when she heard a deafening noise. She immediately rushed outside toward the site. She recalled that around 1:30 PM, the sound was so intense it felt like her eardrums would burst. Her house and furniture began to shake violently, and the noise resembled a bomb explosion. Upon stepping outside, she saw wreckage scattered everywhere, the sky filled with black smoke, and tall flames rising from the crash site.

     

    Another resident, Priyanshu, said the entire area was engulfed in smoke and the fire quickly spread from one building to another. He too described it as feeling like an earthquake or a blast.

     

    Bahadur Kshtriya, who lives about 500 metres from the crash site, said he and a few friends, along with security personnel, helped rescue five individuals from the rubble. He noted that the survivors were in extremely critical condition. He added that when they arrived, smoke and fire were everywhere. Near a student mess, they found people shouting for help. With assistance from Army personnel, they managed to pull out five students alive. Later, they found a body buried in the debris in a severely damaged condition.

    The AI-171 Boeing Dreamliner 787-8 aircraft, en route to London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad International Airport on Thursday. According to the airline, only one of the 242 people on board survived the crash.

    ANI

  • MIL-OSI China: Israel reports 41 wounded, heavy damage in Iran’s retaliatory attack

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Nearly 100 missiles were launched from Iran toward central and northern Israel in two massive barrages, causing significant damage and injuring 41 people, according to the Israeli military and the national emergency service, Magen David Adom (MDA).

    The MDA reported two people critically injured, two moderately, four lightly-moderately, while the remaining individuals suffered light injuries or trauma-related symptoms, including panic attacks.

    Following the launches, air defense sirens were activated, sending millions of residents to protected rooms and shelters for more than an hour.

    Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Effie Defrin said that most missiles were intercepted by the air defense system or did not reach their target. He noted that the injuries reported occurred inside buildings, with several caused by shrapnel from intercepted missiles.

    Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said following the launches that “Iran crossed red lines when it dared to fire missiles at civilian population centers in Israel.”

    “We will continue to protect the citizens of Israel,” he said, warning that the country would “ensure that Tehran pays a very heavy price for its criminal actions.”

    Meanwhile, the IDF denied Iranian media reports that Iran had downed an Israeli fighter jet and detained its pilot.

    In a separate statement, the IDF said it had attacked earlier Friday Iranian Air Force bases in western Iran, destroying Tabriz Airbase, without providing further details.

    It added that the IDF attacked and destroyed dozens of Iranian air defense targets, drones, and surface-to-surface missile launchers.

    “The IDF is prepared to continue to operate as necessary,” the statement read. “The IDF is continuously conducting situational assessments and will continue to update on developments.” 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Govt forms high-level committee to probe Air India plane crash, review SOPs

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The government has constituted a high-level multi-disciplinary committee to examine the causes that led to the crash of Air India Flight AI-171 from Ahmedabad to Gatwick Airport (London) on June 12, which left 241 people dead.

    According to an order issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the committee will examine the causes of the crash, review existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and guidelines issued to prevent and handle such incidents, and suggest comprehensive measures for the future. The order clarified that this panel will not serve as a substitute for other inquiries already underway by relevant organisations but will focus specifically on the formulation of preventive SOPs and post-crash protocols.

    The committee will have access to all relevant records, including flight data, cockpit voice recordings, aircraft maintenance logs, air traffic control logs, and witness testimonies. It is expected to submit its report within three months.

    The committee will be chaired by the Union Home Secretary and will include officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Indian Air Force, the Gujarat Home Department, the State Disaster Response Authority, and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, among others. Aviation experts, accident investigators, and legal advisors may also be brought in, as deemed necessary.

    As part of its mandate, the committee will assess the emergency response by all stakeholders, including rescue operations and inter-agency coordination at both the central and state levels. It will also examine existing guidelines, study past air crashes in India, and recommend policy changes, operational improvements, and training enhancements.

    The panel will develop a comprehensive SOP that incorporates international best practices, outlining clear roles for all relevant central and state government agencies in managing and responding to air crash incidents.

    The government confirmed that the committee will conduct site inspections and interviews with crew members, air traffic controllers, and other personnel. In case of foreign nationals or aircraft manufacturers being involved, the committee will coordinate with international agencies as well.

    Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad International Airport on Thursday. Out of the 242 people on board, only one survived.

    In the aftermath of the crash, the Tata Group, which owns Air India, has set up a dedicated helpline number (1800 5691 444) for inquiries. International callers can reach the airline at +91 8062779200. The group has also announced a compensation of ₹1 crore for the families of each deceased passenger.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strategic Command personnel recognised in King’s Birthday Honours List 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Strategic Command personnel recognised in King’s Birthday Honours List 2025

    Past and present members of Strategic Command have been recognised in His Majesty, King Charles’ Birthday Honours List 2025 for their services to Defence.

    MOD Copyright

    The following individuals from Strategic Command have been recognised:

    Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB)

    • British Army Major General Z Stenning OBE

    Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)

    • Royal Air Force Air Commodore I Sharrocks OBE
    • British Army Colonel I Gibbs KHS
    • British Army Colonel G Sefton

    Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

    • Royal Navy Captain E Morgan RD
    • Royal Air Force Group Captain R Dixon
    • British Army Lieutenant Colonel S Elford
    • British Army Acting Colonel J Green
    • Royal Air Force Wing Commander A Pandya
    • Civil Service R Jacob

    Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) – Operations

    • British Army Lieutenant Colonel J D’Arcy

    Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

    • British Army Acting Lieutenant Colonel W Hodgson
    • British Army Acting Lieutenant Colonel D Love
    • British Army Lieutenant Colonel J Lyon
    • British Army Acting Lieutenant Colonel A Morrissey
    • British Army Major M Murphy
    • Royal Air Force Squadron Leader J Rushton
    • Royal Air Force Squadron Leader T Smith
    • Royal Air Force Squadron Leader D Taudevin
    • Royal Air Force Squadron Leader J Wilyman
    • Royal Air Force Flight Lieutenant R Mehta
    • British Army Warrant Officer Class 1 A Johnston
    • Civil Service M Hartley
    • Civil Service W Robinson
    • Civil Service M Thoburn

    Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) – Operations

    • British Army Major W Cook

    Ordinary Associate of the Royal Red Cross (ARRC)

    • British Army Warrant Officer Class 1 A Coull
    • Royal Air Force Flight Sergeant S Roberts

    King’s Commendation for Valuable Service (KCVS)

    • British Army Lieutenant Colonel M Long QGM
    • British Army Major B Carter
    • Royal Air Force Squadron Leader G McKay

    Meritorious Service Medal (MSM)

    • Royal Navy Warrant Officer 1 (Medical Assistant) M Carron
    • Royal Air Force Acting Warrant Officer O Watkins

    Commander Strategic Command Commendation

    • Royal Navy Commander A Riddett
    • Royal Air Force Wing Commander D Wilson
    • British Army Major J Jones
    • Royal Air Force Squadron Leader F Merino
    • Royal Air Force Squadron Leader L Scott
    • British Army Warrant Officer 1 K Roberts
    • Royal Air Force Corporal A Harvey
    • German Air Force Lieutenant Colonel M Paun
    • Civil Service R Gittins
    • Civil Service R Hallmark
    • Civil Service L Metherell
    • Civil Service S Stephens
    • Civil Service I Whiteside

    Commander Strategic Command Commendation Team Awards

    • Integration Design Authority (IDA) Team
    • Fleet Operational Standards and Training (FOST) Safety Centre

    Deputy Commander Strategic Command Commendations

    • British Army Lieutenant Colonel A Cameron
    • British Army Major R Keeson
    • British Army Major T Williams
    • Royal Navy Lieutenant R Buts
    • Royal Air Force Squadron Leader M Rankine
    • Royal Air Force Squadron Leader A Xavier
    • Royal Air Force Flight Sergeant A Maltman
    • Civil Service P Norman
    • Civilian M Rawlings

    Deputy Commander Strategic Command Team Commendations

    • Defence Centre of Training Support (DCTS) Team Award, Defence Academy
    • Headquarters Management Team

    First Sea Lord Commendations

    • Royal Navy Warrant Officer 1 G Bennett

    Chief of the General Staff (CGS) Commendations

    • British Army Acting Major G Harvey
    • British Army Warrant Officer 1 M Hemmings
    • British Army Warrant Officer 1 I Reason

    Commander Field Army Commendations

    • British Army Major J Shirley-Mansell
    • British Army Acting Major M Woodward

    Joint Commander’s Commendations

    • British Army Acting Major D King
    • Royal Air Force Flight Lieutenant B Brook
    • British Army Warrant Officer 2 B Lockyer

    Chief of Joint Operations (CJO) Commendations

    • Royal Navy Lieutenant Commander A Collings
    • British Army Major A Tulett
    • Royal Air Force Squadron Leader D Tipler

    Commander SJC(UK) Commendations

    • British Army Major D Connolly
    • British Army Lieutenant S Gorniak
    • British Army Acting Warrant Officer 1 G Hudson
    • British Army Staff Sergeant C Brittan
    • British Army Sergeant J Obazee

    Commander Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (COMARRC) Commendations

    • British Army Major R Gibbs

    Chief of the Air Staff Commendations

    • Royal Air Force Wing Commander A Stewart

    Air & Space Commander (ASC) Commendation

    • British Army Staff Sergeant R Limbu

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu briefs PM Modi on Iran strikes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a phone call from his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday evening, during which the two leaders discussed the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran. The conversation comes in the backdrop of “Operation Rising Lion” — Israel’s latest offensive targeting Iranian nuclear sites.

    According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, Netanyahu briefed PM Modi on the latest developments. The PM conveyed New Delhi’s deep concern over the unfolding situation and stressed the need for “early restoration of peace and stability in the region.” The two leaders agreed to remain in touch, the statement said.

    Later, in a post on X, PM Modi said, “Received a phone call from PM Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel. He briefed me on the evolving situation. I shared India’s concerns and emphasised the need for early restoration of peace and stability in the region.”

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also received a call from his Israeli counterpart, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar. In a separate post on X, Jaishankar said: “Received a call this afternoon from FM Gideon Sa’ar of Israel regarding ongoing developments.”

    Earlier in the day, the Ministry of External Affairs said India was “deeply concerned” about the rising tensions and reports of attacks on nuclear facilities. “We are closely monitoring the evolving situation,” the MEA said in a statement, calling on both countries to avoid any steps that could escalate the crisis.

    India also reiterated its readiness to support peace efforts, stating that “existing channels of dialogue and diplomacy should be utilised to work towards de-escalation and resolving underlying issues.”

    “India enjoys close and friendly relations with both countries and stands ready to extend all possible support,” the MEA added.

    The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Friday said they had carried out a “precise, preemptive strike” in Iran, claiming the attacks were aimed at disrupting Tehran’s nuclear capabilities and came in response to continued “aggression” from the Iranian regime.

    ANI

  • Rajkot schools shut today to mourn ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    All government and private schools in Rajkot district will remain shut on Saturday as a mark of respect following the death of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani in the Air India Flight AI-171 crash near Ahmedabad on Thursday.

    The Rajkot district administration made the announcement late Friday evening and requested all educational institutions to observe a two-minute silence in Rupani’s memory.

    Rupani, 68, was among the 241 people on board the flight headed to London’s Gatwick Airport when the aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff in the Meghani Nagar area. The crash left several dead and many others injured.

    Rupani, who began his political career in Rajkot and represented the city as an MLA for multiple terms, served as Gujarat CM between 2016 and 2021. During his tenure, he was credited with initiating key infrastructure and administrative reforms.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who visited the crash site on Friday, also met survivors undergoing treatment at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. Later, he visited Rupani’s family at the GujSail building and offered condolences.

    “Vijaybhai’s passing is unimaginable. We worked together for decades, including during very difficult times,” the PM said on X.

    Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel called the incident a “tragedy beyond words” and said the state had responded swiftly and with empathy, under the guidance of PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

    Soon after the crash, over 600 fire personnel and more than 100 ambulances were rushed to the site. Rescue efforts involved teams from the Army, NDRF, SDRF, RAF, police, and fire services. A green corridor was created to ensure the quick transfer of the injured to hospitals.

    Senior IAS officers, counsellors, forensic and DNA teams were also deployed to support victim identification and provide psychological support to affected families. Emergency control rooms at Civil Hospital and the SEOC remain operational round-the-clock.

    The incident has sparked widespread grief across the political spectrum, with tributes pouring in for Rupani, remembered by many as a grounded and affable leader who maintained strong ties with his constituency till the end.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Flag Day, Norton Introduces Bill to Allow President to Order Nation’s Flag at Half-Staff Upon Death of D.C. Mayor, Like Governors

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ahead of Flag Day, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) introduced a bill to add the Mayor of the District of Columbia to the list of principals for whom the president shall order the nation’s flag be flown at half-staff. Current law states that the president shall order the flag to be flown at half-staff “upon the death of principal figures of the United States Government and the Governor of a State, territory, or possession, as a mark of respect to their memory.” Norton said D.C. mayors, who perform many of the same functions as state and territorial governors, clearly qualify as principals and should receive equal recognition.

    “Even though the District is not yet the 51st state it strives to be, we should treat a deceased mayor in the same respect as comparable figures of states, territories, or possessions, which are named in the statute,” Norton said. “I can only assume that the omission of the District of Columbia was an oversight and not meant to disrespect a deceased D.C. mayor or the residents of the District of Columbia. Adding D.C.’s mayor to the list of officials who can be honored with flags flown at half-staff is a small but, to D.C. residents, significant way to ensure residents receive the equal treatment they deserve.”

    Norton has successfully gotten other congressional recognition of the District of Columbia in situations where the District was overlooked while honoring the states. As a result of her work, the District of Columbia War Memorial honors only District residents who served in World War I; D.C.’s Frederick Douglass and Pierre L’Enfant statues sits in the Capitol alongside statues from the 50 states; the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013 requires the armed services to display the District flag whenever the flags of the states are displayed; D.C. has a coin after it was omitted from legislation creating coins for the 50 states; the U.S. Postal Service created a D.C. stamp, like the stamps for the 50 states; and the National Park Service added the D.C. flag alongside the state flags across from Union Station.

    Norton’s introductory statement follows.

    Statement of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton on

    the Introduction of a Bill to Permit the Flag of the United States to be Flown at Half-Staff in the Event of the Death of a Mayor of the District of Columbia

    June 13, 2025

    Today, I introduce a bill that would make a small but respectful change to federal law by adding the Mayor of the District of Columbia to the list of named principals for whom the President shall order the U.S. flag be flown at half-staff.  Current law states that the President shall make this order “upon the death of principal figures of the United States Government and the Governor of a State, territory, or possession, as a mark of respect to their memory.”  Surely the D.C. Mayor, who has the same responsibilities as governors of states and territories, should qualify as such a principal.  This bill is part of our series of bills to ensure equal treatment for the over 700,000 D.C. residents.  In the 116th Congress, the House Committee on the Judiciary passed this bill.

    Congress has already acknowledged that D.C. is entitled to a place among the states for certain honors.  For example, legislation we got enacted gave D.C. a coin after D.C. was omitted from legislation creating coins for the states and required the armed services to display the D.C. flag whenever the flags of the states are displayed.  We got D.C.’s Frederick Douglass and Pierre L’Enfant statues placed in the Capitol, alongside two statues from each state.  We also successfully worked with the U.S. Postal Service to create a D.C. stamp, like the stamps for the states, and with the National Park Service to add the D.C. flag alongside the state flags near Union Station. 

    I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Recognizes Army Birthday, Opposes President Trump’s Vanity Parade

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) led his congressional colleagues in sending a letter to the Trump administration to recognize the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and raise serious questions about how much the President’s upcoming military parade will cost and impact readiness. The letter was signed by Crow, Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA-06), and 18 other members.

    “We fully support commemorating the Army’s founding. However, the size, scope, and execution of the upcoming 250th Birthday Parade in Washington, D.C., raise serious concerns, at a time when the Army faces severe budget constraints, and the Trump administration is supposedly focused on reducing unnecessary government spending,” the letter reads.

    “Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to our troops who put on the uniform. The Army’s 250th birthday is an important milestone worthy of recognition, but President Trump is doing it wrong. We should not be pulling thousands of troops away from their training and their families so the President can boost his ego. Spending tens of millions of taxpayer dollars on Donald Trump’s vanity parade, at the same time this administration is firing veterans and cutting the VA, is wrong,” said Congressman Crow. 

    Estimates say this parade will cost upwards of $45 million, and could require millions to repair the streets. Over 6,600 soldiers will be brought in from around the country to participate in this weekend’s event. Additionally, hundreds of ground equipment and aircraft will be moved from strategic positions around the country to D.C. for this event, potentially impacting military readiness. The president has long desired a personal military parade, and will come at the taxpayer expense while this administration claims it is prioritizing rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse.

    A PDF of the letter can be found here, with full text appearing below: 

    June 11, 2025

    Dear Secretary Driscoll, 

    We are excited to celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States Army. Since its founding on June 14, 1775, the Army has served as a bedrock of American strength—defending liberty and responding to crises around the world. As Members of Congress, we join the nation in honoring this extraordinary legacy and the soldiers who uphold it. 

    We fully support commemorating the Army’s founding. However, the size, scope, and execution of the upcoming 250th Birthday Parade in Washington, D.C., raise serious concerns, at a time when the Army faces severe budget constraints, and the Trump administration is supposedly focused on reducing unnecessary government spending. Given President Trump’s longstanding personal desire for a military parade, we have important questions about the pressure that may have been put on the Army to plan a far more militaristic parade with greater cost and operational impact than the Army would have independently chosen. 

    We also have important questions regarding the cost, funding, operational justification, and the treatment of participating troops. Cutting costs at the margin by not serving soldiers hot meals, while sending dozens of unnecessary armored vehicles, does not prioritize the troops and is irresponsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. A celebration of this magnitude must reflect our principles: respect for service, fiscal responsibility, and a clear-eyed view of readiness. 

    To that end, we request your response to the following: 

    Funding Sources  

    • What is the total estimated cost of the parade?  
    • What is the estimated cost for each unit participating? Please provide sources of funding for personnel transportation, lodging, meals, equipment transport, and other associated costs for each participating unit. 

    Troop Accommodation  

    • Why are soldiers being housed on cots in federal office buildings instead of standard military or contracted lodging? How much money does this save compared to housing them in hotels?
    • Why are soldiers being provided MREs for breakfast and lunch, with only one hot dinner meal each day?  
    • How much money is the Army saving by only having one hot meal per day as opposed to three? 

    Readiness Impact  

    • Are any of the participating units currently preparing for, or recently returned from, an operational deployment?  
    • What measures are being taken to ensure that participation in this event does not disrupt training schedules, pre-deployment certification, or force availability? 

    Use of Heavy Equipment  

    • Who requested or ordered the inclusion of tanks and other heavy armored vehicles in the parade? When was this request made, and what were the details of the request?  
    • What operational or ceremonial purpose does the participation of 24 of the same vehicle serve, as opposed to including just two or four of each vehicle type?  
    • How much of the total cost of the parade is due to the requirements associated with including these armored vehicles? 

    Infrastructure and Mitigation  

    • What steps are being taken to predict and prevent potential damage to roads and other infrastructure in Washington, D.C.?  
    • Has the Army assessed the cost of any potential damage, and who will bear those costs?  
    • Will the Army conduct the repairs? If yes, how quickly do you expect to be able to do so? 

    White House Involvement  

    • Has the White House played any role in the planning or direction of this event? If so, please provide a detailed description of the extent and nature of that involvement. 

    This anniversary should unite the country around the shared sacrifice and service of our military—not distract from the Army’s core mission or become a partisan spectacle. We ask that your office provide answers to the above questions and share any relevant planning materials, budget justifications, and interagency communications by June 26th, 2025. 

    Thank you for your leadership, and for your continued commitment to the men and women of the United States Army. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FY26 Defense Appropriations Bill Approved by Appropriations Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42)

    Today, the House Appropriations Committee approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Bill introduced by Defense Subcommittee Chairman Ken Calvert.

    “Keeping Americans safe amidst mounting national security threats around the world requires a significant and multi-faceted investment in our military,” said Chairman Calvert. “The FY26 Defense Appropriations Bill provides the resources necessary for maintaining American military superiority, leveraging our technological innovation into tactical advantages on the battlefield, and supporting the Defense Department’s most valuable assets – our warfighters. Together, with the significant defense funding advancing through Congress as part of the reconciliation process, the FY26 bill will lift total defense spending over $1 trillion in the next fiscal year, representing a historic commitment to strengthening and modernizing America’s national defense. I’m thankful for the contributions of Chairman Cole and my colleagues in shaping this important bill.”

    The Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Bill
     
    In accordance with Chairman Calvert’s national security priorities, the bill invests in America’s military superiority, shapes a more efficient and effective Department of Defense, protects from threats at America’s border, and takes care of our troops and their families.

    Champions America’s military superiority by:

    • Enhancing investments in 5th and 6th generation aircraft including the F-35, F-47, and F/A-XX. 
    • Supporting the modernization of the nuclear triad: the B-21 Raider, the Columbia Class Submarine, and Sentinel.
    • Targeting resources for unmanned aerial systems, uncrewed maritime platforms, and land-based counter-unmanned aerial systems to advance capabilities and strengthen our national defense.
    • Investing in national security space, including proliferated missile warning, missile tracking satellites, and next generation intelligence collection systems to ensure national leaders have real-time global situational awareness.
    • Allocating approximately $13 billion for missile defense and space programs to augment and integrate in support of the Golden Dome effort.
    • Providing over $2.6 billion for hypersonics programs.
    • Reversing the “divest to invest” trend by preserving F-15s and U-2s while investing in next-generation fighters and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.
    • Continuing to prioritize innovation through over $1.3 billion combined for the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT), and Office of Strategic Capital (OSC).
    • Strengthening our defense industrial base by investing $131 million in a Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network.
    • Supporting our close ally Israel by providing $500 million for the Israeli Cooperative Missile Defense Programs, and $122.5 million for U.S.-Israel cooperative development programs.

    Cares for our troops and their families by:

    • Including an increase of 3.8% in basic pay for all military personnel effective January 1, 2026.
    • Continuing historic pay increases enacted in Fiscal Year 2025 for junior enlisted servicemembers.
    • Improving quality of life, readiness, and continuity for servicemembers by slowing permanent change of station moves, saving over $662 million.

    Shapes a more efficient and effective Department of Defense by:

    • Reducing $3.6 billion and almost 45,000 civilian full-time equivalents to capture Workforce Acceleration and Recapitalization Initiative efforts.
    • Prioritizing fiscal sanity and eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse through codifying both the Department’s cooperation with DOGE and streamlined functions and management improvements at the Pentagon.
    • Requiring detailed reporting on the Department’s proposed allocations and expenditures of reconciliation.

    Combats international actors who facilitate drug trafficking and manufacturing by:

    • Providing $1.15 billion for counter drug programs, which is $245 million above the budget request.
    • Increasing funding for the National Guard Counterdrug Program.
    • Transferring Mexico from U.S. Northern Command’s jurisdiction to U.S. Southern Command for better coordination and prioritization.

    A summary of the bill is available here.

    Bill text is available here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Calvert Statement on Israeli Strikes On Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42)

    Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Defense Appropriations issued the following statement in support of Israel:

    “Israel has taken the necessary steps to ensure their safety and survival. The extensive air strikes against Iran were targeted; intended to take out senior military leadership and nuclear enrichment and military facilities.  

    Iran was given numerous chances to abandon their nuclear enrichment and weaponization activities but chose to push forward despite warnings from President Trump and Israel.  The Iranian Regime has been the largest state sponsor of terrorism in the world; they have armed Hamas and Hezbollah and have repeatedly threatened our shared interests with Israel.  They were the orchestrators of October 7th which saw 1,195 Israelis and 46 Americans murdered, and hundreds taken hostage. From the Beirut bombing in 1983 to the 2024 drone attacks against U.S. assets in Jordan, which resulted in the death of three American troops, they have the blood of hundreds of Americans on their hands. Their day of reckoning has come.  

    As antisemitism rears its ugly head around the world, the reason for the state of Israel has become abundantly clear.  Israel is the ancestral homeland of the Jewish people, and since its inception they have only wished to live in peace with their neighbors but they will not hesitate to defend their nation, and their people, with every tool in their arsenal – as any nation would. Allowing Iran to obtain nuclear weapons, which would enable them to destroy the state of Israel was a red line.  ‘Never again’ is now, and I support Israel’s continued operations to ensure the survival of their people and their home.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa Applauds Trump Executive Order to Overhaul Wildfire Prevention and Response

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.— Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) joined President Trump at the White House for the signing of a new Executive Order aimed at restoring commonsense to wildfire prevention and response. The order, titled Empowering Commonsense Wildfire Prevention and Response, takes direct steps to improve coordination across agencies, cut unnecessary regulations, and strengthen the tools and partnerships needed to prevent catastrophic wildfires.

    “As peak wildfire season continues, President Trump is continuing to take decisive action to increase preparedness to combat these preventable disasters,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “By consolidating Federal wildland fire programs between agencies and increasing Federal and local partnerships, every firefighter will be part of a stronger and better coordinated response. The President’s action also modernizes the tools available to predict and detect wildfires, which will not only hasten reaction times but also enhance preparation and prevention efforts. Strengthening State and local response, and land management practices will decrease future out of control fires. I look forward to seeing implementation of this Executive Order.”

    Background:

    • Directs the Department of the Interior and Department of Agriculture to consolidate federal wildland fire programs for better coordination.
    • Modernizes detection and prediction efforts by deploying tools like AI, data-sharing platforms, satellite imagery, and advanced weather forecasting.
    • Removes outdated regulations that delay prescribed fire use, fire-retardant deployment, and other proactive fuel reduction efforts.
    • Promotes the use of woody biomass and other forest byproducts to lower wildfire risk.
    • Prioritizes sale of surplus Department of Defense aircraft and parts to support wildfire response.
    • Declassifies historical satellite data to improve fire modeling and prediction.
    • Strengthens federal partnerships with state and local governments to streamline and improve wildfire mitigation efforts.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressmen Amo and Lynch Call for Oversight of Air Traffic Safety After Recent Fatal Air Crash and Near Misses

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    Since the start of 2025, the U.S. has experienced the deadliest domestic plane crash in a generation and several near misses.

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) and Congressman Stephen Lynch (D-MA) are calling on the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study relocating the Air Traffic Safety Oversight Service (AOV). To improve the safety of our national airspace system, this review would explore if AOV realignment could strengthen the independence and effectiveness of safety oversight of the air traffic control system.

    Excerpts from Congressmen Amo and Lynch’s letter to GAO:

    “​​The AOV plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of our national airspace system. Specifically, the AOV establishes safety standards and provides independent oversight of the Air Traffic Organization (ATO). The AOV’s core functions include validating ATO safety processes, approving new and modified separation standards and waivers, evaluating hazard mitigation controls, and overseeing the ATO’s Safety Management System. AOV also participates in operational reviews, develops regulatory guidance, and contributes to international standards. The AOV conducts oversight through audits, inspections, investigations, surveillance, and coordination with other FAA safety divisions. Its work is fundamental to maintaining public trust and upholding the FAA’s core mission of safety.”

    “Ensuring AOV’s independence is critical as modernization initiatives, such as NextGen and the integration of unmanned aerial systems, add new complexities to air traffic operations. Recent events, such as the January 2025 fatal midair collision near Washington National Airport (DCA), underscore the importance of strong, independent oversight. That incident, involving American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, tragically claimed 67 lives and brought to light potential safety oversight gaps. In its aftermath, the National Transportation Safety Board issued a recommendation urging the FAA to permanently restrict certain helicopter operations near DCA when specific runways are active, citing an “intolerable risk to aviation safety.” Further concern has been raised by the FAA’s recent decision to halt an independent air traffic oversight panel, highlighting the need to reevaluate the FAA’s internal oversight structures.

    “Amid ongoing modernization, the increasing complexity of air traffic operations, and the recent fatal midair collision near DCA, it is timely to reassess whether moving AOV outside the FAA but within the federal government could enhance the independence, accountability, and effectiveness of aviation safety oversight.”

    Read the Full Letter Here.

    BACKGROUND

    On January 29, 2025, American Airlines Flight 5342 collided with a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter as the passenger jet approached DCA.

    Additionally, there have been several additional near misses of commercial aircraft at airports around the U.S. and notable air traffic control outages at several major airports. 

    In the January 29, crash 3 servicemembers operating the helicopter, and all 64 passengers and crew on the American Airlines flight were killed in the collision, including Rhode Island residents Christine and Spencer Lane. The mother and son were traveling with the Boston Skating Club returning from the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships where Spencer had competed. 

    On June 12, 2025, Congressman Amo and Congressman Ron Estes sent a letter to the Department of Transportation Inspector General calling for an audit of airspace around DCA.

    On May 23, 2025, Congressman Amo, Congressman Suhas Subramanyam, and Congressman Don Beyer led 16 of their colleagues inrequesting that the Department of Transportation facilitate an independent review of Washington, DC airspace as part of the Appropriations Committee’s Fiscal Year 2026 transportation funding bill.

    On March 3, 2025, Congressman Amo supported the House passage of a resolution to commemorate the victims of the DCA crash.

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 14, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 14, 2025.

    Fijian in Abu Dhabi worried about Pacific communities in Middle East
    By Susana Suisuiki, Presenter/producer of RNZ Pacific Waves Fiji’s Embassy in Abu Dhabi says it is closely monitoring the situation in Iran and Israel as tensions remain high. Israel carried out a dozen strikes against Iranian military and nuclear sites on Friday, claiming it acted out of “self-defence”, saying Iran is close to building a

    Eugene Doyle: Team Genocide and the West’s war on Iran
    COMMENTARY: By Eugene Doyle I have visited Iran twice. Once in June 1980 to witness an unprecedented event: the world’s first Islamic Revolution. It was the very start of my writing career. The second time was in 2018 and part of my interest was to get a sense of how disenchanted the population was —

    Greta Thunberg tried to shame Western leaders – and found they have no shame
    ANALYSIS: By Jonathan Cook in Middle East Eye If you imagined Western politicians and media were finally showing signs of waking up to Israel’s genocide in Gaza, think again. Even the decision this week by several Western states, led by the UK, to ban the entry of Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir, two far-right

    News of the Air India plane crash is traumatic. Here’s how to make sense of the risk
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hassan Vally, Associate Professor, Epidemiology, Deakin University simonkr/Getty Images On Thursday afternoon local time, an Air India passenger plane bound for London crashed shortly after takeoff from the northwestern Indian city of Ahmedabad. There were reportedly 242 people onboard, including two pilots and ten cabin crew. The

    News of the Air India plane crash is traumatic. Here’s how to make sense of the risk
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hassan Vally, Associate Professor, Epidemiology, Deakin University simonkr/Getty Images On Thursday afternoon local time, an Air India passenger plane bound for London crashed shortly after takeoff from the northwestern Indian city of Ahmedabad. There were reportedly 242 people onboard, including two pilots and ten cabin crew. The

    Selwyn Manning Analysis: Israel clearly saw an opportunity to strike Iran. Here’s the trip-wire… UPDATED
    Analysis and Notes by Selwyn Manning: Prep for Radio New Zealand – Israel Strikes Against Iran – June 13, 2025. Listen to the audio from 3:00 minutes in. Over the last 24 hours, the atomic control agency IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) formed a view at its UN Geneva meeting, that there was so-called evidence

    Selwyn Manning Analysis: Israel clearly saw an opportunity to strike Iran. Here’s the trip-wire…
    Analysis and Notes by Selwyn Manning: Prep for Radio New Zealand – Israel Strikes Against Iran – June 13, 2025. Listen to the audio from 3:00 minutes in. Over the last 24 hours, the atomic control agency IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) formed a view at its UN Geneva meeting, that there was so-called evidence

    Why did Israel defy Trump – and risk a major war – by striking Iran now? And what happens next?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amin Saikal, Emeritus Professor of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies, Australian National University; and Vice Chancellor’s Strategic Fellow, Victoria University Alarmed by an intelligence assessment that Iran will be able to produce nuclear weapons within months if not weeks, Israel has launched a massive air campaign

    Just one man survived the Air India crash. What’s it like to survive a mass disaster?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Erin Smith, Associate Professor and Discipline Lead (Paramedicine), La Trobe University Vishwashkumar Ramesh, a British citizen returning from a trip to India, has been confirmed as the only survivor of Thursday’s deadly Air India crash. “I don’t know how I am alive,” Ramesh told family, according to

    Speculation about the cause of Air India crash is rife. An aviation expert explains why it’s a problem
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Natasha Heap, Program Director for the Bachelor of Aviation, University of Southern Queensland It has only been a few hours since Air India flight AI171 crashed in Ahmedabad, killing more than 260 people, yet public speculation about the causes of the disaster is already rife. Parts of

    What do we know about the Air India crash? How did one man survive? What now? An aviation safety expert explains
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Guido Carim Junior, Senior Lecturer in Aviation, Griffith University The back of Air India flight 171 after it crashed into a residential building in Ahmedabad. Sam Panthaky / AFP via Getty Images An Air India flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad in northwest India on Thursday

    The Daily Blog calls for NZ to immediately expel Israeli envoy for unprovoked attack on Iran
    OPINION: By Martyn Bradbury, editor of The Daily Blog The madness has begun. We should have suspected something when the cloud strike shut down occurred. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu needs to continue war so that he is never held to account. This madness is the last straw. NZ must immediately expel the Israeli Ambassador

    Trump may push Albanese on defence spending, but Australia has leverage it can use, too
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thomas Corben, Research Fellow, Foreign Policy and Defence, University of Sydney Ahead of a prospective meeting between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and US President Donald Trump at the G7 Summit Canada, two key developments have bumped defence issues to the top of the alliance agenda. First, in

    How long is a vagina? And how do I know if mine is ‘short’?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Keersten Fitzgerald, Lecturer in General Practice, University of Sydney Jarrod Simpson/Getty We often use the word vagina to describe everything “down there”, but that’s not actually anatomically correct. The vagina is the stretchy, muscular tube that connects the external genitalia, or vulva, to the cervix, which is

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 13, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 13, 2025.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Unmanned aerial vehicle troops created in Belarus

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    MINSK, June 14 /Xinhua/ — Unmanned aerial vehicle troops have been created in Belarus. This was announced on Friday by Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, First Deputy Defense Minister of Belarus Pavel Muraveiko. The corresponding information was published by the press service of the Defense Ministry of Belarus on the same day.

    “Currently, unmanned aerial vehicle troops have been created as an independent component of the special forces of the Armed Forces within the general structure,” P. Muraveiko noted in his report to the President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko during his visit to the 927th center for the training and use of unmanned aerial vehicles.

    According to him, these troops are tasked with conducting aerial reconnaissance, inflicting fire damage on the enemy, guiding and adjusting fire, and performing support functions in the interests of other special forces. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Peters Introduces Bill to Prevent Renaming of Navy Ships Named for Great Americans Like Harvey Milk

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) introduced the “Preserving Great Americans’ Legacies Act,” legislation to prevent the United States Navy from renaming the USNS Harvey Milk and other ships named for other great Americans and civil rights leaders. Reports from earlier this month indicate that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth ordered the Secretary of the Navy to rename the USNS Harvey Milk during national Pride Month as part of the Administration’s broader efforts to demonize American citizens it does not like. Milk was a veteran, political leader, and advocate for the LGBT community. He served as a diving officer during the Korean War before being forced out of service with an “other than honorable” discharge due to his sexual orientation.  

    Secretary Hegseth also ordered the review of other ships, including those named for American icons such as abolitionist Harriet Tubman, labor organizer Cesar Chavez, and former Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, among others. Every one of these ships was built in San Diego, which is a proud military town and partner in the national defense. 

    “Secretary Hegseth claims that this hateful move would return a ‘warrior ethos’ to the force, but renaming these ships won’t help better train or equip a single servicemember,” said Rep. Scott Peters.  “While Hegseth works to erase the names of these important civic leaders from the fleet, the President also publicly commits to renaming military bases for Confederate leaders. That is a clear values statement by the Administration about the America it envisions and asks our servicemembers and their families to serve. It is unacceptable and unreflective of our country. Every sailor deserves to serve on and fight from a ship named after an American who embodies those values we wish to see in our military. That is why the Navy named these ships after such important leaders.”  

    The Preserving Great Americans’ Legacies act is co-sponsored by Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-12), House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member and Equality Caucus Chair Mark Takano (CA-39), and Representatives Juan Vargas (CA-52), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Mike Levin (CA-49), Hank Johnson (GA-4), Jill Tokuda (HI-2), Troy Carter (LA-2), Linda Sanchez (CA-39), John Garamendi (CA-8), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-8), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (Del-DC).  

    It is also supported by Equality California, Silver State Equality, and VoteVets.  

    “Just days into Pride Month, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed plans to strip Harvey Milk’s name from a Navy ship. Milk is a global civil rights icon for LGBTQ+ civil rights, and this move is a petty and political act of erasure from the Trump administration,” said Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang. “We’re proud to support Rep. Peters’ Preserving Great Americans’ Legacies Act, which would block efforts to rename ships honoring leaders in civil rights, labor, and social justice. We must protect these legacies.”  

    “The Preserving Great Americans’ Legacies Act is about honoring the legacies of Americans who expanded freedom, justice, and equality — values that every service member swears to defend. Renaming ships that bear the names of Harvey Milk, Harriet Tubman, or Ruth Bader Ginsburg is not just unnecessary — it’s a political stunt that disrespects the very principles they stood for. We applaud Representative Peters for leading this important effort to ensure our Navy continues to reflect the diversity, courage, and moral leadership that defines the best of our country.” – VoteVets 

    Read the full text of the bill here.  

    Read a one-pager of the bill here.  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley, CA Delegation Members Demand Trump Withdraw National Guard and Marines from LA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – This week, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26), Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), and 38 members of the California Delegation demand that President Donald Trump immediately withdraw the National Guard and U.S. Marines from Los Angeles, California. In a bicameral letter sent today, the lawmakers condemn the deployments as an unlawful overreach that bypassed state and local authority and urge the immediate withdrawal of the National Guard and Marines.

    “We are writing to express grave concern regarding the deployment of the National Guard and the activation of 700 Marines to Los Angeles. These actions were taken without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom and over the objections of local law enforcement. It constitutes a clear violation of constitutional principles and law, and a grave overreach of executive authority,” wrote the lawmakers.

    “This deployment does not appear to be motivated by any public safety emergency that could not be dealt with successfully by local authorities. Instead, it coincides with a broader federal enforcement escalation involving mass ICE raids, militarized immigration tactics, and the use of tear gas and riot control methods in civilian areas. These actions undermine civil liberties, destabilize communities, erode public trust in government institutions, and violate the law,” continued the lawmakers.

    As protests erupted in Los Angeles in response to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and detentions, the Trump administration escalated the situation by authorizing the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines, without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom and over the objections of local elected and community leaders. They argue the legal authority Trump cited doesn’t apply, making the deployment plainly unlawful.

    “As federal officials, we must prioritize de-escalation and adherence to the constitutional principles that govern the balance of power between federal and state and local governments. For these reasons, we urge you to immediately withdraw the National Guard and U.S. Marines from Los Angeles and to refrain from further deployments of any military personnel in circumstances that violate constitutional boundaries and escalate domestic tensions,” stated the lawmakers.

    The bicameral letter was also signed by Representatives Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Pete Aguilar (CA-33), Ami Bera (CA-6), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gilbert Cisneros Jr. (CA-31), Lou Correa (CA-46), Jim Costa (CA-21), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Laura Friedman (CA-30), John Garamendi (CA-8), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jared Huffman (CA-2), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Doris Matsui (CA-7), Dave Min (CA-47), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Scott Peters (CA-50), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Mark Takano (CA-39), Mike Thompson (CA-4), Norma Torres (CA-35), Derek Tran (CA-45), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Maxine Waters (CA-43), and George Whitesides (CA-27).

    The full letter can be found here and below: 

    President Donald J. Trump

    The White House

    1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

    Washington, D.C. 20500

    RE: Deployment of National Guard Troops to Los Angeles 

    Mr. President, 

    We are writing to express grave concern regarding the deployment of the National Guard and the activation of 700 Marines to Los Angeles. These actions were taken without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom and over the objections of local law enforcement. It constitutes a clear violation of constitutional principles and law, and a grave overreach of executive authority. 

    On June 6 and 7, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out a series of immigration raids in downtown Los Angeles, which were met with widespread public protests. On the evening of June 7, you issued a formal memorandum titled “Department of Defense Security for the Protection of Department of Homeland Security Functions,” authorizing the deployment of 2,000 California National Guard personnel to Los Angeles for a 60-day period. This action bypassed the state governor’s authority and proceeded despite active objections from local law enforcement already managing the situation. By the time National Guard troops arrived on Sunday morning, protests had largely subsided, and the streets were calm. Instead, the National Guard presence contributed to a renewed escalation of tensions. The overwhelming majority of protestors have done so peacefully. State and local authorities have already said that they can and will arrest and prosecute the very few who have committed acts of violence. 

    This deployment does not appear to be motivated by any public safety emergency that could not be dealt with successfully by local authorities. Instead, it coincides with a broader federal enforcement escalation involving mass ICE raids, militarized immigration tactics, and the use of tear gas and riot control methods in civilian areas. These actions undermine civil liberties, destabilize communities, erode public trust in government institutions, and violate the law. 

    Your memorandum cited 10 U.S.C. §12406 as the legal basis for your actions. That provision allows the President to call the National Guard into federal service only in three specific circumstances: 

    (1) the United States, or any of the Commonwealths or possessions, is invaded or is in danger of invasion by a foreign nation; 

    (2) there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States; or 

    (3) the President is unable with the regular forces to execute the laws of the United States 

    10 U.S.C. §12406 also requires that “Orders for these purposes shall be issued through the governors of the States.” None of these enumerated circumstances exist and no order was issued through the governor of our state. Therefore, your order is plainly unlawful. 

    In addition, on June 8, U.S. Northern Command announced the activation of 700 active-duty U.S. Marines to the Los Angeles area under the same Task Force. The deployment of active-duty Marines marks a significant escalation in the federal government’s response, blurring the line between military and civilian law enforcement roles. The deployment of active-duty military personnel into domestic operations raises serious legal and constitutional questions. Marines are trained for combat, not law enforcement. The introduction of Marines in securing largely peaceful protests is an unnecessary escalation in a situation that has already been inflamed because of escalatory actions. 

    As federal officials we must prioritize de-escalation and adherence to the constitutional principles that govern the balance of power between federal and state and local governments. For these reasons, we urge you to immediately withdraw the National Guard and U.S. Marines from Los Angeles and to refrain from further deployments of any military personnel in circumstances that violate constitutional boundaries and escalate domestic tensions.

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress, Immigration, Military

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Statement on Trump’s Military Parade

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed, a West Point graduate and former U.S. Army paratrooper who served in the 82nd Airborne, issued the following statement:

    “The U.S. Army and our military personnel are worthy of celebration and recognition each and every day.  They have our unwavering gratitude and support. 

    “As a proud Army veteran, I, like all Americans, understand that the strength of our military is its people – generations of brave men and women who defend our nation and stand a post for freedom.  They are not props.  They serve the American people and deserve principled policy, leadership, and action that demonstrates our support for them and matches their enduring sacrifice.

    “While this parade is a reminder that a president gets to give the military its marching orders, it’s really a demonstration of how this president prioritizes his own image above the needs of the American people, particularly those in uniform, whom he has frequently ridiculed. 

    “Given the chaotic state of affairs – with Marines deployed in Los Angeles, President Trump threatening to “have troops everywhere” within the United States, and unfolding attacks in the Middle East — locking down the nation’s capital to parade tanks and military hardware through the streets is not an appropriate way to honor servicemembers.  That sounds like something an isolated, insecure despot would do for his own aggrandizement.  

    “Our military has important missions to accomplish.  The tens of millions of dollars expended for this event could be better allocated to improve the lives and readiness of our servicemembers and their families.

    “I think we should be celebrating the Army’s 250th anniversary, but doing it in the dignified way that the Army itself had originally planned, which was an appropriate, right-sized, static celebration on the Mall and a fitting salute to the generations of brave Americans who have served and continue to serve our nation with great courage and distinction.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Georgians from Payment Scams

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Warnock, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Georgians from Payment Scams

    The Task Force for Recognizing and Averting Payments Scams (TRAPS) Act, would create a task force to combat the growing issue of payment scams

    A champion of consumer protections, Senator Reverend Warnock has a long history of combating payment scams, including fighting to protect students and seniors

    Senators Reverend Warnock: “Scams and financial schemes continue to target Georgians’ bank accounts, especially our seniors who work their entire lives to build savings”

    Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Mike Crapo (R-ID) Mark Warner (D-VA), and Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced the bipartisan Task Force for Recognizing and Averting Payments Scams (TRAPS) Act. The legislation would create a task force to combat the growing issue of payment scams. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that losses to fraud have soared 25 percent over the last year to $12.5 billion nationwide.

    “Scams and financial schemes continue to target Georgians’ bank accounts, especially our seniors who work their entire lives to build savings,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “The Task Force for Recognizing and Averting Payments Scams (TRAPS) Act better equips law enforcement and regulators to fight back and provide much-needed protection for fraud victims, and helps prevent scams before they happen.”

    Payment scams occur when a scammer induces a victim, usually under false pretenses to voluntarily send them money. The Senators’ legislation would bring together industry, law enforcement, financial regulators and telecommunication regulators to decide best practices for identifying and preventing future scams.

    Specifically, the TRAPS Act would:

    1.    Create a task force, chaired by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and composed of the prudential regulators, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Federal Communications Commission, Federal Trade Commission, U.S. Department of Justice and representatives from industry. 

    2.    Direct the task force to examine the payments landscape and compile a report to recommend legislative and regulatory changes, including best practices to coordinate state, local and federal efforts.

    3.    Require the task force to update the report annually for three years.

    The TRAPS Act is supported by AARP, Early Warning Services, Electronic Transactions Association, GoWest Credit Union Association, American Bankers Association, Consumer Bankers Association, National Bankers Association, the Defense Credit Union Council and America’s Credit Unions.

    “Criminals continue to target vulnerable Americans through creative ways to trick them out of their hard-earned money,” said Senator Crapo.  “We can–and should–better equip law enforcement and regulators with the tools to go after scammers and prevent scams before they happen.”

    “The evolving sophistication of financial scams emphasizes the urgent need for unified and proactive defense,” said Senator Warner. “The TRAPS Act will bridge the gap between law enforcement, regulators and the financial industry in order to better protect Americans’ financial welfare and hold those who prey on hard-working individuals accountable.”


    “Combatting the global rise in fraud starts with making certain federal regulators and law enforcement agencies are coordinating effectively to address these threats,”     said Senator Moran.  “Establishing a task force to promote inter-agency cooperation on preventing payment scams and other fraud is yet another step in protecting the financial security of Kansans.”

    Senator Warnock has long been a champion of consumer protections and ensuring our nation’s seniors aren’t taken advantage of financially. During a Senate Again Committee hearing, Senator Warnock highlighted the need for government agencies to increase efforts to better protect seniors from Artificial Intelligence (AI) scams. Senator Warnock also introduced a consumer protection bill aiming to restore the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) longstanding authority to return money to consumers victimized by illegal scams, fraud, and other deceptive practices.

    The bill text for the TRAPS Act is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Regarding the Proposed Acquisition of the United States Steel Corporation by Nippon Steel Corporation

    Source: US Whitehouse

    class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 721 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (section 721), 50 U.S.C. 4565, it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Review by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States.  (a)  On March 14, 2024, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) received a voluntary notice describing the proposed acquisition by (1) Nippon Steel Corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of Japan (Nippon Steel); (2) Nippon Steel North America, Inc., a New York corporation (Nippon Steel NA); and (3) 2023 Merger Subsidiary, Inc., a Delaware corporation (together with Nippon Steel and Nippon Steel NA, the Purchasers), of United States Steel Corporation, a Delaware corporation (U.S. Steel, and such proposed acquisition, the Proposed Transaction).  CFIUS subsequently initiated a review and investigation of the Proposed Transaction, which ultimately concluded with a referral to the President on December 23, 2024, for decision pursuant to section 721(d).
    (b)  On January 3, 2025, pursuant to section 721(d)(1), then-President Biden issued an order titled “Regarding the Proposed Acquisition of United States Steel Corporation by Nippon Steel Corporation” (January 3 Order), which prohibited the Proposed Transaction.
    (c)  The statutory provision on which the January 3 Order was based authorizes the President to “take such action for such time as the President considers appropriate to suspend or prohibit any covered transaction that threatens to impair the national security of the United States.”  50 U.S.C. 4565(d)(1).  Consistent with that authority, section 3 of the January 3 Order reserved the President’s authority to issue further orders as “necessary to protect the national security of the United States.”
    (d)  Pursuant to the authority referred to in subsection (c) of this section, and the President’s authority to reconsider prior actions, on April 7, 2025, I issued a Presidential Memorandum, entitled “Review of Proposed United States Steel Corporation Acquisition” (April 7 Memo), which directed CFIUS to conduct a de novo review of the Proposed Transaction to assist me in determining whether further action in this matter may be appropriate.
    (e)  CFIUS submitted a recommendation to me on May 21, 2025, which, in accordance with the April 7 Memo, described CFIUS agency views regarding the risks to national security arising as a result of the Proposed Transaction, and included views on whether any measures proposed by U.S. Steel and the Purchasers are sufficient to mitigate those national security risks.  The recommendation included a statement describing the position of each member agency of CFIUS, including the reasons for such position.

    Sec. 2.  Findings.  (a)  I hereby affirm the following findings, made initially in the January 3 Order:
    (i)   there is credible evidence that leads me to believe that the Purchasers, through the Proposed Transaction, might take action that threatens to impair the national security of the United States; and
    (ii)  provisions of law other than section 721 and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) do not, in my judgment, provide adequate and appropriate authority for me to protect the national security in this matter.
    (b)  Based on the recommendation of and my review of the materials provided by CFIUS, including re-review of the prior assessment of risk, I additionally find that the threatened impairment to the national security of the United States arising as a result of the Proposed Transaction can be adequately mitigated if the conditions set forth in section 3 of this order are met.

    Sec. 3.  Actions Ordered and Authorized.  On the basis of the findings set forth in section 2 of this order, considering the factors described in subsection 721(f) of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as appropriate, and pursuant to my authority under applicable law, including section 721, I hereby order that:
    (a)  Section 2(a) of the January 3 Order is amended to read as follows:  “The Proposed Transaction, and any substantially similar transaction between the Purchasers and U.S. Steel, whether effected directly or indirectly by the Purchasers, through the Purchasers’ shareholders or shareholders’ immediate, intermediate, or ultimate foreign person beneficial owners, or through the Purchasers’ partners, subsidiaries, or affiliates, is prohibited, unless the Purchasers and U.S. Steel execute with the Department of the Treasury and any other appropriate member agencies of CFIUS, on or before the closing date of the Proposed Transaction, and remain in compliance thereafter with, a national security agreement (NSA) that is materially consistent, as so determined by the Department of the Treasury, with the draft NSA submitted to the Purchasers and U.S. Steel by the United States Government on June 13, 2025.”
    (b)  Section 2(e) of the January 3 Order is amended to read as follows:  “Without limitation on the exercise of authority by any agency under other provisions of law, and until such time as the Purchasers and U.S. Steel have either abandoned the Proposed Transaction to the satisfaction of CFIUS or entered into the NSA referred to in subsection (a) of this section, CFIUS is further authorized to implement measures, including monitoring and enforcement measures, it deems necessary and appropriate with regard to the Proposed Transaction to protect the national security of the United States, including measures available to it under section 721 and its implementing regulations, which include the remedies available for violations of any order, agreement, or condition entered into or imposed under section 721.”
    (c)  Sections 2(b) and 2(c) of the January 3 Order are stricken.

    Sec. 4.  Reservation.  I hereby reserve my authority to issue further orders with respect to the Purchasers or U.S. Steel as shall in my judgment be necessary to protect the national security of the United States.

    Sec. 5.  Publication and Transmittal.  (a)  This order shall be published in the Federal Register.
    (b)  I hereby direct the Secretary of the Treasury to transmit a copy of this order to the parties to the Proposed Transaction named in section 1 of this order.

                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        June 13, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: 250th Anniversary of the Founding of the United States Army

    Source: US Whitehouse

    class=”has-text-align-center”>BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
     
    A PROCLAMATION

     On June 14, 1775, the sword and shield of our Republic were forged when the Second Continental Congress voted to establish what would later become the United States Army.  Today, our Nation proudly celebrates 250 years of our Army’s strength, service, valor, and discipline.  We honor its heroic legacy as the guardian of our sovereignty and our fortress against tyranny — and we pay tribute to the millions of warriors who live by the motto:  This We’ll Defend.

    Following the first shots of the Revolutionary War at Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775, it became clear to the patriots that — despite their persistent efforts for peace — war against the British was necessary as a final recourse in defense of their freedom.  In the wake of the Boston Massacre, the Intolerable Acts, and the enduring injustice of taxation without representation, they established the First Continental Congress in the fall of 1774 to formally address their grievances.  After dozens of patriots perished at Lexington and Concord, the Colonies reconvened — and by June 14, the delegates had decided that there was only one path forward.

    On that spring day, in a momentous act of unity and resolve, the Congress passed a resolution to formally establish the instrument of our national defense in the form of the Continental Army.  “Resolved, that six companies of expert riflemen, be immediately raised in Pennsylvania, two in Maryland, and two in Virginia” the resolution reads.

    With the passing of that fateful resolution, the scattered militias of the American Colonies banded together as a single force — boldly declaring that they would never waver in defense of their liberty and their home.  The next day, George Washington was unanimously appointed as the Continental Army’s Commander-in-Chief.  Weeks later, on July 3, 1775, he took charge of his Army in Cambridge, Massachusetts.  “It is hoped that all Distinctions of Colonies will be laid aside so that one and the same Spirit may animate the whole, and the only Contest be, who shall render, on this great and trying occasion, the most essential service to the Great and common cause in which we are all engaged,” he wrote.

    In the days, weeks, and years that followed, that very same Army shocked the Redcoats at Trenton and Princeton, won their first great victory at Saratoga, secured the cause of independence at Yorktown, preserved the Union at Gettysburg, held the line at Chateau-Thierry, stormed the bloody beaches of Normandy, and to this day, gallantly defends our inheritance of freedom against every foe with unmatched tenacity, courage, and strength.  What was first formed as a ragtag army of farmers, frontiersmen, blacksmiths, and merchants now stands as the most dominant military force ever born of human will — guided by the promise to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.

    To ensure our Army’s storied legacy continues well into the future, as President, I have purged the sinister ideology of “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” from the ranks of our military.  I directed the Department of Defense to update its guidance regarding transgender — identifying medical standards to ensure our military remains the most lethal in the world.  In a long overdue redress of injustice, I reinstated American service members who were dismissed for refusing the COVID vaccine, with full back pay and benefits.  Every day, I am restoring a foreign policy of peace through strength — and as a result, military recruitment is soaring to historic highs.  Under my leadership, the United States military will remain the mightiest, fiercest, boldest, and most revered in the entire world.

    On this 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Army, we pay tribute to every legend of liberty who sacrificed their life to keep America safe, sovereign, and free.  As my Administration continues the work of protecting our homeland and upholding our way of life, we proudly summon the spirit, confidence, and resolve of the intrepid men who won our independence on the battlefield 250 years ago — and we vow that their legacy of courage will never perish, and that our sacred birthright of freedom will never, ever die.

    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 14, 2025, as a day in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Army.  This We’ll Defend.

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
    thirteenth day of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
     
     
     
                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Trump is gutting police and public safety funding in California

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 13, 2025

    What you need to know: Donald Trump is raiding public safety funds to bankroll his militarized birthday party this Saturday, while stripping local police departments, first responders, and communities across the country of the tools they need to keep Americans safe.

    Los Angeles, California – Donald Trump, a convicted felon who has prioritized pardoning individuals convicted of assaulting police, is gutting public safety funding — slashing billions from programs that help police departments, fight terrorism, prevent gun violence, and protect women and children from domestic violence — all while he adds to the nation’s debt to pay for militarizing Los Angeles and his ego-driven birthday party this Saturday.

    Trump doesn’t respect the rule of law and taxpayers. He uses our members of the military — our heroes — as his own chess pieces and he’s stacking the deck against our own state and local law enforcement. We’ve had enough.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Trump is defunding public safety

    President Trump is proposing to gut public safety funding across the country — putting the safety and lives of all Americans at risk.

    At a time when violent crime is dropping, Trump’s so-called “big beautiful bill” threatens to erase substantial progress on public safety, at a time when exactly the opposite is needed. 

    The President’s proposed funding cuts include: 

    • $1 billion from police departments to reduce violent crime, hate crime, and crime against women.
    • $646 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for violence and terrorism prevention.
    • $545 million from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), cutting its workforce by more than 2,000 personnel and reducing its capacity to keep criminals off the street. 
    • $491 million from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), making our cyber and physical infrastructure more vulnerable to attack.
    • $468 million from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), greatly reducing its ability to crack down on firearm trafficking and reduce gun violence.
    • $212 million from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), greatly reducing its capacity to help state and local law enforcement and weakening efforts to fight international drug smuggling impacting the United States.
    • $107 million from Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Public Safety and Justice, exacerbating current understaffing and making tribal communities less safe. 

    $134 million reasons why this is wrong

    As the federal government adds to the open deficit tab, taxpayers are footing the $134 million militarization display in Los Angeles where Trump illegally took control over state National Guard units. Trump federalized 4,000 National Guard soldiers and deployed 700 Marines to use as pawns in Los Angeles.

    Even as tensions rise in the Middle East, in an unprecedented move, there are now more American troops deployed in Los Angeles than in Iraq and Syria combined.

    Trump is adding to the national debt

    Trump’s budget proposal would push the country further into debt. Although he proposes cutting public safety funding, he proposes even more massive tax cuts for the wealthy, pushing the federal government further into the red. According to the Congressional Budget Office, his proposal would add $2.4 trillion to the deficit, before even considering interest costs. 

    Birthday display

    And, in a scene more common in authoritarian dictatorships, Trump is holding a massive $45 million birthday party for himself in Washington, D.C.

    Trump’s parade, set to destroy streets in Washington DC due to heavy military vehicles rolling through, including 28 M1A1 tanks, 28 Bradley Fighting Vehicles, 28 Stryker armored fighting vehicles and vehicles towing artillery, is being thrown in the face of Americans reeling from his attempt to militarize Los Angeles.

    The festivities will be visible on the ground and in the air – with more than 50 helicopters participating in a large flyover in the nation’s capital. See the Governor’s response to this fete here. 

    Hypocrisy on full display

    In 2020, Trump said he wouldn’t federalize National Guard members without the approval of a state’s Governor first. The head of his own Department of Homeland Security said just last year that federalizing the National Guard would be a direct attack on state rights. But now his administration is adding more National Guard soldiers and Marines to an already charged situation in Los Angeles when they are unneeded. There are 1,600 soldiers waiting for commands at armories in the area.

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