NewzIntel.com

Category: Military Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Video: VA Ready: Ensuring Veteran Care during Crisis through Lifesaving Exercises

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Each year, the Veterans Health Administration’s (VHA) Office of Emergency Management (OEM) conducts disaster-related exercises throughout the nation at strategic hubs, known as Federal Coordinating Centers (FCC), intended for receiving and coordinating patient care.

    For calendar year 2025, the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System (CAVHS) kicked-off the season’s first large FCC exercise at the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport on March 25 in Little Rock, Arkansas. More than 100 representatives from VHA, Department of Defense, Arkansas Department of Emergency Management and Department of Health, the Little Rock Airport and more took to the severity of a mass casualty scenario requiring federal patient movements during a natural disaster.

    (Video by Kurt Rauschenberg, VHA OEM Public Affairs, and Tech.Sgt. Christopher Sherlock, 189th Airlift Wing).

    #emergencymanagement #VAReady #VHAOEM

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fx7me6ejJ0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Red Warning issued for Winds in Wellington – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Thursday 1st – Friday 2nd May – MetService has issued a Red Warning for Winds in Wellington from 10am Thursday to 3am Friday. This is the first Red Warning issued for Wellington. MetService Red Warnings are reserved for the most extreme weather events where significant impact and disruption is expected.

    Wind speeds have already reached at least 150 km/h in exceptionally exposed areas and 118 km/h elsewhere, with winds expected to peak early afternoon, with gusts of 140 km/h possible. The combined effects of heavy rain (the region is currently under an Orange Warning for Heavy Rain), high tides and large waves of 7 metres have the potential to exacerbate the impacts from the damaging gusts affecting the area. In addition, the unusual direction of these very strong winds – being from the southwest rather than the more common strong northerly winds, is also expected to increase the likelihood of wind-induced damage.

    Impacts include falling trees and flying debris. Destructive winds is also expected to cause widespread damage including powerlines and roofs, with dangerous driving conditions and significant disruption to transport, communications, and power supply.

    A Red Warning signifies that people need to act now as immediate action is required to protect people, animals and property from the impact of the weather. People are encouraged to stay indoors or seek sturdy shelter away from trees. Avoid travel if possible, and follow any advice from Civil Defence and other agencies.

    This is the first Red Warning MetService has issued this year, and it’s the 16th Red Warning weather event since the highest alert level was introduced back in May 2019. Keep up to date with weather and warnings via metservice.comor our free MetService weather app.

    MetService also now provides push notifications for Red Severe Weather Warnings via our app. More information can be found here about enabling them.: https://metservice.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=63982abb40666393e6a63259d&id=68e2d48ca4&e=852c839bf9

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville op-ed: Pete Hegseth Isn’t the Hero We Deserve, But the Hero We Need

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    “When President Trump nominated Pete Hegseth to serve as Secretary of the Department of Defense, he intentionally picked someone who understands what it means to fight for this country—not from behind a desk, but from the frontlines”
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) penned an op-ed in Breitbart defending the great work Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is doing at the Pentagon amid a flurry of attacks from the Mainstream Media. As Alabama’s representative on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Tuberville played a pivotal role in getting Secretary Hegseth confirmed and continues to support the Secretary’s work to refocus the Pentagon on lethality, not woke politics.
    Read excerpts below or the full piece here.

    “It’s no secret in Washington that the globalist Democrats and woke media are working together with one singular goal in mind: to take down Donald Trump and derail his America First agenda. The latest target? President Trump’s Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth. I’m convinced that many Democrats would rather see America and its leaders fail than see this country succeed. It’s sad, but true.
    When President Trump nominated Pete Hegseth to serve as Secretary of the Department of Defense (DOD), he intentionally picked someone who understands what it means to fight for this country—not from behind a desk, but from the frontlines. Pete didn’t inherit stars on his uniform. He earned his stripes in the Middle East. He’s one of the few in Washington who’s been in the fight and experienced the traumas of war. He knows firsthand what the warfighter goes through each and every day, which is why military recruiting has skyrocketed under his leadership.
    Predictably, Democrats, the Swamp, and RINO Republicans immediately banded together in opposition to Hegseth’s nomination. I’m convinced that their only real opposition to Hegseth was because he was not a part of the Military Industrial Complex. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I enthusiastically supported Hegseth’s nomination because of his outsider status—and I’m continuing to fight for him today.
    Unfortunately, the smears have only gotten worse since his confirmation. Globalists, the media, and some Republicans are working overtime to try to take Hegseth down. Their latest obsession are the various publicity stunts coming from several disgruntled former employees who were fired by Secretary Hegseth. It’s clear as day that these efforts to embarrass Hegseth are nothing more than desperate attempts to salvage reputations and distract from the successes he is already having at the Pentagon.
    The truth is, Hegseth inherited a complete mess at DOD. The Pentagon has failed an audit seven years in a row. And thanks to the Biden administration’s horrible withdrawal from Afghanistan, our enemies were emboldened. Instead of working to deter World War III, however, Joe Biden’s Pentagon was more focused on social justice. In 2024 alone, the Biden Defense Department requested more than $114 million for DEI initiatives. Meanwhile, recruitment was at historic lows. Military readiness was slipping. And the world saw a weakened United States. […]
    The Swamp doesn’t like people it can’t control. But America loves leaders who tell the truth and fight for what matters. Pete Hegseth is one of those leaders. So, let’s be clear: Pete’s not the problem. He’s the solution. And while the Swamp keeps losing its ever-loving mind because we have leaders who are putting America First again, Secretary Hegseth will keep marching forward, focused on the only thing that matters—making our military the strongest, fiercest, and most respected fighting force the world has ever known.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Statement on Awarding of Virginia-Class Submarines Contract to Newport News Shipbuilding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower, released the following statement after the Department of the Navy awarded a contract to Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Newport News Shipbuilding to start construction on two Virginia-class submarines, which Kaine successfully pushed to get additional funding for last year:
    “I’m thrilled the Navy has awarded two additional Virginia-class submarines to Newport News Shipbuilding. This is a testament to the hard work and leadership of Virginia’s shipbuilders and defense industry. I was proud to secure funding for these submarines in legislation we passed last year. This funding is critical to ensuring the Navy has the resources it needs to provide competitive wages for shipbuilders and advance the AUKUS agreement that will help ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in Congress to get our shipbuilding programs back on track.”
    Kaine has played a key role in securing more resources for the submarine industrial base, including additional funding for the Virginia-class submarine program that is currently facing significant delays because of workforce challenges and supply chain disruptions. The on-time completion of Virginia-class submarines, which are built in Virginia and Connecticut, is critical to fulfill the Australia-U.K.-U.S. (AUKUS) partnership, through which the U.S. will sell at least two Virginia-class submarines to Australia to boost security and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific, and counter Chinese military aggression in the region. Kaine has been a strong champion of AUKUS in Congress and has helped get signed into law provisions to implement and strengthen AUKUS.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Kelly, Sen. Young, Rep. Garamendi, Rep. Kelly Introduce SHIPS for America Act to Boost American Shipbuilding, Strengthen US Economy and National Securit

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Trent Kelly (R-Miss)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Senator Todd Young (R-IN), Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8), and Representative Trent Kelly (R-MS-1) re-introduced the Ship-building and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security (SHIPS) for America Act, comprehensive legislation to revitalize the United States shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries. Other cosponsors in the Senate include Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Senator John Fetterman (D-PA).

    There are currently 80 U.S.-flagged vessels in international commerce while China has 5,500. The SHIPS for America Act aims to close this gap and boost the U.S. Merchant Marine by establishing national oversight and consistent funding for U.S. maritime policy, making U.S.-flagged vessels commercially competitive in international commerce by cutting red tape, rebuilding the U.S. shipyard industrial base, and expanding and strengthening mariner and shipyard worker recruitment, training, and retention.

    “After decades of dangerously neglecting our shipbuilding industry, we’re finally doing something about it. The SHIPS for America Act is the most ambitious effort in a generation to revitalize the U.S. shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries and counter China’s dominance over the oceans,” said Senator Kelly, a U.S. Navy veteran and the first U.S. Merchant Marine Academy graduate to serve in Congress. “Building and staffing more U.S.-flagged ships will create good-paying American jobs, make our supply chains more resilient, lower costs, and strengthen our ability to resupply our military at times of war. We’ll keep working with our colleagues in Congress, this administration, and our partners in the industry to make our country safer and competitive by passing the SHIPS for America Act.”

    “America has been a maritime nation since our founding, and seapower was a significant contributor to our rise to being the most powerful nation on earth. Unfortunately, the bottom line now is America needs more ships. Shipbuilding is a national security priority and a stopgap against foreign threats and coercion. Our bill will revitalize the U.S. maritime industry, grow our shipbuilding capacity, rebuild America’s shipyard industrial base, and support nationwide workforce development in this industry. This legislation is critical to our warfighting capabilities and keeping peace with China,” said Senator Young, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate.

    “Strengthening America’s shipbuilding capacity and revitalizing our commercial maritime industry is critical to national security and economic resilience. Under President Trump’s leadership, we’re prioritizing these vital sectors. I’m proud to work alongside Senator Mark Kelly, Senator Todd Young, and Congressman John Garamendi to help safeguard our maritime future,” said Congressman Kelly.

    “With China’s growing influence in the global maritime sector, the United States can no longer afford to overlook our maritime industries. The SHIPS for America Act will give our shipyards and merchant mariners the tools they need to rebuild America’s maritime industry and create good-paying American jobs,” said Congressman Garamendi. “I’m proud to lead this effort alongside Senator Kelly, Senator Young, and Representative Kelly to strengthen America’s national security, economic strength, and global leadership on the high seas.”

    “Because of our vast geography, the maritime industry is uniquely vital to Alaska, with many of our coastal communities relying on a strong U.S.-flagged fleet for everything from everyday logistics, to commercial fishing and homeland defense. I am proud to cosponsor the SHIPS Act, which advances common-sense solutions that will invest in the workforce and revitalize our nation’s shipbuilding, increasing Alaska’s resilience and security,” said Senator Murkowski.

    When it comes to maintaining our competitive edge against China, failure is not an option. The SHIPS for America Act will help the United States compete with China’s production of ships while creating new manufacturing jobs in shipyards across the nation,” said Senator Fetterman. “Not only will this strengthen our national security, but it’ll also grow our local economies and support working families right here in Pennsylvania. I’m proud to support this commonsense, bipartisan legislation that will help us build more ships in America and stand up to China.”

    The SHIPS for America Act would:
    • Coordinate U.S. maritime policy by establishing the position of Maritime Security Advisor within the White House, who would lead an interagency Maritime Security Board tasked with making whole-of-government strategic decisions for how to implement a National Maritime Strategy. The bill also establishes a Maritime Security Trust Fund that would reinvest duties and fees paid by the maritime industry into maritime security programs and infrastructure supporting maritime commerce.
    • Establish a national goal of expanding the U.S.-flag international fleet by 250 ships in 10 years by creating the Strategic Commercial Fleet Program, which would facilitate the development of a fleet of commercially operated, U.S.-flagged, American crewed, and domestically built merchant vessels that can operate competitively in international commerce.
    • Enhance the competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels in international commerce by establishing a Rulemaking Committee on Commercial Maritime Regulations and Standards to cut through the U.S. Coast Guard’s bureaucracy and red tape that limits the international competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels, modify duties to make cargo on U.S.-flagged vessels more competitive, requiring that government-funded cargo move aboard U.S.-flagged vessels, and requiring a portion of commercial goods imported from China to move aboard U.S.-flagged vessels starting in 2030.
    • Expand the U.S. shipyard industrial base, for both military and commercial oceangoing vessels, by establishing a 25 percent investment tax credit for shipyard investments, transforming the Title XI Federal Ship Financing Program into a revolving fund, and establishing a Shipbuilding Financial Incentives program to support innovative approaches to domestic ship building and ship repair.
    • Make historic investments in maritime workforce by supporting a Maritime Workforce Promotion and Recruitment Campaign, allowing mariners to retain their credentials through a newly established Merchant Marine Career Retention Program, investing in long-overdue infrastructure needs for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and supporting State Maritime Academies and Centers for Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education. The bill also makes long-overdue changes to streamline and modernize the U.S. Coast Guard’s Merchant Mariner Credentialing system.

    The legislation will be introduced in two pieces in the Senate, the SHIPS for America Act and the Building SHIPS in America Act.

    Background:
    Since first introducing the SHIPS for America Act in December, the urgency to boost American shipbuilding has emerged as a priority of bipartisan consensus this year, particularly after the U.S. Trade Representative revealed its findings regarding China’s shipbuilding dominance and President Trump signed a shipbuilding executive order.

    Sen. Kelly earned his B.S. degree in marine engineering and nautical science from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and later an M.S. degree in aeronautical engineering from the United States Naval Postgraduate School. He spent 25 years in the United States Navy as a pilot and is the first ever USMMA alumnus to serve in Congress. In 2023, he was elected chair of the USMMA Board of Visitors for the 118th Congress.

    The following organizations have endorsed the SHIPS for America Act:
    Keystone Shipping Company, American Shipbuilding Suppliers Association, Navy League, General Dynamics-NASSCO, American Waterway Operators, American Maritime Partnership, San Jacinto College, Oceantic Network, California State University Maritime Academy, Maine Maritime Academy, Senesco Marine, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Great Lakes Maritime Academy, USMMA Alumni Association and Foundation, American Maritime Officers, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots, Maritime Institute for Research and Industrial Development (MIRAID), International Propeller Club, Crowley, American Maritime Officers Service, The Pasha Group, Saltchuk, Tropical, Saltchuk Marine, Overseas Shipholding Group, Core Power, Govini, US Ocean, Small Shipyard Grant Coalition, The American Club, Transportation Institute, Blue Water Autonomy, American Bureau of Shipping, With Honor Action, Texas A&M Maritime Academy, National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA), American Iron and Steel Institute, Shipbuilders Council of America, Maritime Association of the Port of NY/NJ, United Steelworkers, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Matson, American Legion, Inc., Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (M.E.D.A.), Ocean Shipholdings, Inc, Offshore Marine Service Association (OMSA), Hanwha Philly Shipyard, Ports America, Seafarers International Union (SIU), U.S. Marine Management, AUVSI, Maritime Accelerator for Resilience, Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., Chamber of Shipping of America, National Association of Waterfront Employers (NAWE), Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), California Forever, International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), Alliance for American Manufacturing, Nucor, Steel Manufacturers Association, Blue Sky Maritime, New American Industrial Alliance, and Ship Operations and Marine Technical Support (SOMTS).

    See what maritime leaders and stakeholders are saying about the SHIPS for America Act:
    “The USA Maritime coalition supports the SHIPS for America Act and has been honored to work with Senators Kelly and Young and Congressmen Garamendi and Kelly as the bill has taken shape over the last two years. This bill represents the most comprehensive maritime policy initiative in more than half a century. Now, more than ever, the United States needs a strong, vibrant and growing Merchant Marine, capable of carrying a substantial portion of our foreign commerce and supporting our military in time of war. This initiative will ensure our country has the U.S.-Flag ships and American mariners needed to preserve, protect and defend America and our economic security. We look forward to continuing to work with Congress on this legislation,” said Brian W. Schoeneman, Chair, USA Maritime.

    “The Shipbuilders Council of America commends Senator Kelly, Congressman Kelly, Senator Young, and Congressman Garamendi for their leadership in advancing the SHIPS for America Act. This legislation represents a significant step forward in strengthening the nation’s shipyard industrial base and establishing a comprehensive national maritime strategy. We are encouraged by its focus on bolstering American shipbuilding and ensuring a robust maritime sector capable of supporting our nation’s economic and national security. SCA is committed to continuing its engagement with these Congressional members and staff to refine and enhance the legislation, especially to better support our domestic ship repair industry, and we look forward to collaborating with policymakers to ensure the success of initiatives that secure the future of America’s shipyard industrial base and maritime workforce,” Matthew Paxton, President, Shipbuilders Council of America.

    “The Navy League applauds the introduction of the SHIPS for America Act, a landmark legislative achievement that will comprehensively meet the needs of the U.S. merchant marine and bolster our shipbuilding industrial base. In today’s global threat environment, arguably the most perilous since the end of the Cold War, the United States must not only maintain the finest Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard on the seas, but also ensure a robust U.S.-flag merchant marine and a resilient shipbuilding industrial base. These elements are crucial for safeguarding our national and economic security in the event of large-scale military conflict. The SHIPS for America Act addresses these vital considerations and reaffirms that America is, and always will be, a maritime nation,” said Mike Stevens, CEO, Navy League.

    “In any conflict with China, the outcome will hinge on our ability to project power across the Pacific via military sealift. The vast majority of the USN Strategic Sealift Officers are service-obligated graduates of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. We are deeply grateful to the sponsors of the SHIPS for America Act for recognizing that the USMMA campus at Kings Point, NY, built in the 1940s, urgently requires modernization to meet the demands of today’s national security threats,” said Captain James F. Tobin ’77, President/CEO, USMMA Alumni Association and Foundation.

    “The Masters, Mates & Pilots strongly supports the SHIPS for America Act. This comprehensive and pragmatic maritime policy initiative will create and support jobs for American mariners, ensuring that our country has the maritime manpower needed to protect and enhance our nation’s economic and military security,” said Captain Don Josberger, International President, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots.

    “The International Propeller Club is a steadfast advocate for the SHIPS for America Act. Our nation’s maritime industry is at a critical crossroads. This comprehensive maritime policy initiative will protect and enhance foreign policy, national security, and economic prosperity through increased U.S.-flag shipping capability and a revitalization of the domestic shipbuilding industry,” said Maria Conatser, International President, International Propeller Club.

    “The Consortium of State Maritime Academies strongly supports the SHIPS for America Act, and is grateful for the bipartisan and bicameral leadership of Sen. Kelly, Sen. Young, Rep. Kelly, and Rep. Garamendi. The Consortium is united in our goal of working with our elected officials to support passage of this Act. Once enacted, the SHIPS Act will result in the United States Merchant Marine once again playing a leading role on the global stage, and the growth of the American maritime industry, a strategically important industry that provides thousands of well paid positions for the nation,” said the Consortium of State Maritime Academies.

    “With Honor Action applauds Senator Mark Kelly, a Navy veteran, and Senator Todd Young, a Marine Corps veteran, for proposing real solutions to revitalize our nation’s shipbuilding base and create more job opportunities for Americans. As advocates for bipartisan, principled veteran leadership in Congress, we are pleased to see veterans who have chosen to continue to serve in Congress working together to address the critical issues facing our nation,” said Ryan Barcott, Co-Founder and CEO, With Honor.

    “NDTA supports the strategic rebuilding of the United State’s fleet of ships who fly our flag. We must have a fleet of ocean-going vessels to protect the economic security of our nation. The SHIPS for America Act is truly a significant step in the right direction. Everyone in America needs to get educated about the importance of this bill. Rebuilding our U.S. fleet, our shipbuilding capacity, and workforce is a national imperative,” said William A. Brown, Vice Admiral, USN (Retired), President and CEO, NDTA The Association for Global Logistics and Transportation.

    “U.S. economic and national security is inexorably tied to our nation’s shipbuilding capacity. Yet, for too long, China has dominated this critical sector, costing the U.S. tens of thousands of jobs across the shipbuilding supply chain and leaving us less secure as we rely on foreign-made vessels to meet our needs. Our union commends Sens. Kelly and Young and Reps. Garamendi and Kelly as they introduce the SHIPS for America Act. USW members stand ready to contribute their skills in manufacturing the plate steel, coatings, cable, glass, rubber, engines and countless other products we’ll need to revitalize American shipbuilding,” said Dave McCall, President, USW International.

    “In the United States, we have a small number of shipyards focused on building Navy and Coast Guard ships, and a far smaller amount focused on building ocean-going vessels for commercial use. At the shipbuilding supplier level, we have many components that are provided by a manufacturer who may be one of the few, if not the sole, remaining means of production. As noted in the SHIPS Act, we must work with our industrial partners in NATO and Allied nations, but also invest in our American workforce and capabilities. The elements of Buy America legislation incorporated in this Bill are important to reaching this goal,” said Roger Camp, President and CEO, American Shipbuilding Suppliers Association.

    “The reintroduction of the SHIPS for America Act marks as a vital step forward in strengthening our maritime supply chain and revitalizing the U.S. commercial shipbuilding industry. This legislation will help ensure that American goods move on American-built ships, operated by American mariners, supporting our economic security and national resilience. We appreciate the inclusion of legislation that would authorize terminal operators to establish tax free accounts for the purchase of cargo handling equipment knowing this will help our industry provide state-of-the-art services. Ports and terminal operators across the country are ready to meet the future with modern infrastructure and a highly skilled workforce – but we need a commercial fleet that can match that capability. The SHIPS for America Act helps close that gap and brings long-overdue investment to a sector critical to our competitiveness. NAWE applauds Senators Kelly and Young for their bipartisan leadership and looks forward to working alongside Congress to advance this important legislation,” said Carl Bentzel, President, National Association of Waterfront Employers (NAWE).

    “Hanwha Philly Shipyard recognizes and commends U.S. Senators Mark Kelly and Todd Young, and Congressmen Trent Kelly and John Garamendi for their maritime policy leadership in reintroducing the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act. This bill offers tangible incentives to the domestic maritime industry with the goal of expanding the U.S. flag ocean-going fleet. It supports a major recapitalization of the shipbuilding infrastructure in the U.S., provides substantial incentives for the purchase of U.S.-built commercial vessels, and supports the national security and naval shipbuilding goals of the U.S. We see tremendous value in this legislation and believe it would have a long-term positive impact on Hanwha Philly Shipyard, other shipbuilders in the U.S. and Hanwha’s investments in America’s shipping industry and maritime industrial base,” said David Kim, CEO, Hanwha Philly Shipyard.

    “For too long, the United States has allowed its maritime strength to decline. In an era of rising great-power competition, revitalizing our maritime capabilities and sending strong signals to the private sector is more essential than ever. The American Legion, on behalf of our 1.6 million dues-paying members, is proud to support this legislation,” said James A. LaCoursiere, Jr., National Commander, The American Legion.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer Meets North Dakota Midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Discusses USNA Mission and Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    ***Click here for media resources.***
    ANNAPOLIS, M.D. – Each year, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) nominates North Dakotans to the five service academies where they receive a world-class education and begin their careers in the Armed Services. Today, Cramer caught up with two of the Midshipmen he nominated, Midshipman Loren Steinberg and Midshipman Rebecca Van Vleet at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.
    “What a privilege to have breakfast this morning with North Dakota Midshipmen Loren Steinberg and Rebecca Van Vleet and the Deputy Commandant of Midshipmen, Captain David S. Forman,” said Cramer. “They make North Dakota proud with their hard work, service, and dedication. Midshipman Steinberg then graciously showed me around the Yard before I sat down with U. S. Naval Academy Superintendent Vice Admiral Yvette M. Davids to hear more about the Naval Academy’s role in preparing the Navy’s next generation of leaders.”

    The United States Naval Academy and other service academies attract some of the brightest and most dedicated North Dakotans to begin their service with the rigorous education provided by the decorated members of our Armed Services and their civilian counterparts. 
    To learn more about the nomination process to attend one of the service academies, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Paterson Man with Multiple Felony Convictions Admits to Illegally Possessing Firearms, Ammunition, Fentanyl, And Cocaine

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

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Paterson, New Jersey man admitted to illegally possessing two firearms and ammunition, possessing fentanyl and cocaine with intent to distribute, and distributing cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Alina Habba.

    Lamont Baker, 33, of Paterson, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi in Newark federal court to four counts of a Superseding Indictment charging him with one count of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, one count of possession of fentanyl and cocaine with intent to distribute, and two counts of distribution of cocaine.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    On September 14, 2022 and September 20, 2022, law enforcement conducted controlled purchases of cocaine from Baker.  On those dates, Baker traveled from his residence to a predetermined location to sell cocaine.

    On September 29, 2022, law enforcement searched Baker’s residence and car, and recovered two firearms (including one with a defaced serial number), ammunition (including hollow point rounds), fentanyl, and cocaine, along with several hundred dollars in U.S. currency and materials used to package, store, and transport drugs for distribution.  In 2008, Baker was convicted for his participation in a robbery and in 2021, he was convicted of aggravated assault with a firearm.

    The count of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  Each count of possession of fentanyl and cocaine with intent to distribute, and distribution of cocaine, carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.  Sentencing is scheduled for September 17, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks Jr. for the investigation leading to the guilty plea.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Specht of the Special Prosecutions Division.

                                                               ###

    Defense counsel: Christopher Adams, Newark, N.J.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Business First Bancshares, Inc. Appoints Alejandro M. Sanchez to its Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BATON ROUGE, La., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Business First Bancshares Inc. (Nasdaq: BFST), the holding company for b1BANK, has announced the appointment of Alejandro M. Sanchez to the Business First Bancshares, Inc. Board of Directors and b1BANK Board of Directors, effective March 27, 2025.

    Sanchez is the president and CEO of Salva Financial Group of Florida, a consulting group advising financial institutions on strategic planning, regulatory compliance and crisis management. He also serves as an executive advisor to Nasdaq and holds board positions with Popular, Inc. (Nasdaq: BPOP), the holding company for Popular Bank and Republic Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: RBCAA), the holding company for Republic Bank & Trust, contributing expertise in governance, risk management and audit oversight.

    Sanchez led the Florida Bankers Association as president and CEO from 1998 to 2023, advocating for the state’s banking industry. He was nominated by President George W. Bush as one of three Presidential appointees for the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board from 2002 to 2010 and was invited by President Obama to serve an additional two years.

    “Alex’s deep experience guiding financial institutions through complex regulatory environments and strategic transformations aligns closely with our growth strategy and governance objectives,” said Jude Melville, chairman and CEO of b1BANK. “His leadership and seasoned perspective will help us thoughtfully navigate opportunities and challenges, enhancing our capacity to serve our clients and communities effectively.”

    “It is an honor to join the Business First Bancshares board,” said Sanchez. “I look forward to contributing to the company’s strategic vision and ongoing success.”

    Sanchez holds a Doctorate from the University of Iowa College of Law and a Bachelor of Science from Troy University. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1976 to 1981.

    About Business First Bancshares Inc.

    As of March 31, 2025, Business First Bancshares, Inc., (Nasdaq: BFST) through its banking subsidiary b1BANK, has $7.8 billion in assets, $7.1 billion in assets under management through b1BANK’s affiliate Smith Shellnut Wilson, LLC (SSW) (excludes $0.9 billion of b1BANK assets managed by SSW) and operates Banking Centers and Loan Production Offices in markets across Louisiana and Texas providing commercial and personal banking products and services. b1BANK is a 2024 Mastercard “Innovation Award” winner and multiyear winner of American Banker Magazine’s “Best Banks to Work For.” Visit b1BANK.com for more information.

    Media Contact: Misty Albrecht
    b1BANK
    225.286.7879
    Misty.Albrecht@b1BANK.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1b9e3cc0-4786-4497-9e7c-ce188ece6be6

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Works to Expand Military Recruitment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a combat veteran, introduced the Service Enlistment and Recruitment of Valuable Engagement (SERVE) Act to enhance military recruitment by promoting the benefits of service and expanding access for high school students. Representatives Jen Kiggans (R-Va.), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), and Lance Gooden (R-Texas) are leading this bipartisan effort in the House of Representatives.
    After reports that Army recruitment is making historic gains this year, the legislators are working to build on that progress and keep numbers up across the service branches.
    “For me, choosing to serve our country opened the door for the American Dream, allowed me to afford college, and paved the way for a life committed to service,” said Senator Joni Ernst, a combat veteran who served in the military for 23 years. “By increasing avenues to the benefits and pathways of a career in the military, we can unlock even more opportunities and brighter futures for our next generation. The call to service is loud and clear, and through the SERVE Act, our nation can bolster recruitment efforts and build the most lethal, efficient, and effective force in the world.”
    “America’s military is only as strong as the young men and women who step forward to serve,” said Rep. Kiggans. “Right now, many students aren’t being provided information about the amazing opportunities and experiences military service can offer. The SERVE Act is about turning that around by reconnecting our youth with a powerful call to service and opening doors to leadership, education, and purpose. This bipartisan, bicameral bill sends a clear message that we believe in our next generation, and we’re ready to invest in their future and the future security of our nation.”
    “As someone who has proudly served in uniform, I understand the transformative power of military service. The SERVE Act will ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to learn about the benefits and responsibilities of serving our nation. By enhancing access to military recruiters and expanding programs like JROTC, we’re not only strengthening our armed forces but also investing in the leadership potential of our youth. This bipartisan effort reflects our commitment to national security and to providing young Americans with pathways to personal and professional growth,” said Rep. Houlahan.
    “The SERVE Act restores a culture of service and ensures that every young American can understand the benefits of military life. By giving recruiters meaningful access to our schools, we strengthen national security and give students a shot at purpose, higher education, and a future filled with opportunity,” said Rep. Gooden.
    Specifically, the SERVE Act:

    Increases recruiter access in high schools,
    Expands opportunities for students to get involved in JROTC even if they don’t have a program housed at their high school,
    Incentivizes schools by designating those with military enlistment rates above the state average as “HERO schools,”
    Supports pathways towards a military career by prioritizing graduates from high-enlistment schools for service academies, and
    Creates a “National Week of Military Recruitment” to further promote and engage on the benefits of military service.

    Background:
    Ernst has worked to support our military men and women receive the benefits they have earned, including by exposing that the Biden administration’s student loan “cancellation” undermined G.I. benefits earned from service, holding the VA accountable for misusing taxpayer dollars, stopping Big Tech from shadow banning military recruitment content, and ensuring junior servicemembers receive proportional pay raises to strengthen our nation’s fighting force.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Salem County Resident Admits Filing False Tax Returns

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CAMDEN, N.J. – A former resident of Salem County admitted to filing false tax returns and causing a tax loss of approximately $590,000, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Michael DiPaolo, Jr., 47, of Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Edward S. Kiel to an information charging him with one count of filing a false income tax return.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:                                                                               

    From 2018 through 2022, DiPaolo was the manager of a restaurant in Salem County, New Jersey, and received income from the restaurant.  DiPaolo received and failed to report more than $1,700,000 in income from 2018 through 2022.  By failing to report the income, DiPaolo avoided approximately $590,000 in federal income taxes.

    The count of filing a false tax return is punishable by a maximum of 3 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000, or twice the gross loss or gain, whichever is greatest.

    Sentencing is scheduled for September 3, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, with the investigation leading to this guilty plea.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel A. Friedman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division.

                                                                           ###

    Defense counsel:

    Michael S. Adelman, Esq., Cherry Hill, New Jersey

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Warriors of the North

    Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)

    —————
    @UsAirforcesecurity forces from the @319thRWparticipated in Readiness Exercise FTX 25 to showcase capabilities and enhance lethality and readiness at Grand Forks Air Force Base, N.D.

    For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
    —————
    Keep up with the Department of Defense on social media!

    Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Instagram: http://instagram.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/DeptofDefense

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxzuyI7lc-g

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov visited the Military Innovation Technopolis “Era”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov visited the Military Innovation Technopolis (VIT) “Era”, where he familiarized himself with innovative equipment samples and held a strategic session.

    The event was attended by members of the Military-Industrial Commission Board, representatives of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, central military command bodies, defense industry enterprises and research organizations.

    The main topic of the strategic session was the issue of increasing the effectiveness of combating unmanned aerial vehicles and FPV drones of the enemy at the tactical level. The First Deputy Prime Minister noted that drones allow Russian troops to solve a wide range of tasks. At the same time, the enemy is also actively using the advantages of UAVs.

    “Under these conditions, we need to respond quickly and implement an approach similar to solving the problem of counter-battery warfare. On this topic, a pilot combat testing of advanced systems and complexes was organized in the SVO zone. Representatives of the industry worked directly in the combat units. As a result, a positive result was obtained, and now the Directorate of Missile Troops and Artillery is replicating the developed technical solutions. A similar procedure is needed for counter-UAV means. It is important to form sets of means for detecting, guiding, controlling, suppressing and destroying drones and FPV drones. Moreover, they must work in a single circuit, according to a single plan and concept,” Denis Manturov emphasized.

    The meeting also considered promising examples of the nomenclature and tactics of using enemy unmanned aerial vehicles during the conduct of the SVO. Based on the identified principles of application, requirements were developed for industry representatives to improve the efficiency of UAV detection and destruction tools.

    As part of the event, leading enterprises of the military-industrial complex presented modern and promising models of drone detectors, electronic jamming systems, portable devices for suppressing UAV control channels, portable electronic warfare systems, and much more.

    The session participants discussed the accumulated experience of using air defense systems, as well as the possibilities for increasing the effectiveness of suppressing unmanned aerial vehicles during combat operations.

    An exhibition of new models and technologies developed by representatives of innovative scientific and technological centers and innovative development funds of Russia was opened for the participants of the strategic session.

    In particular, automated systems for identifying, guiding and controlling UAVs were presented to intercept and destroy enemy drones without the involvement of an operator.

    The manufacturers also presented an updated system of drone detectors with the ability to intercept video channels and control channels of unmanned aerial vehicles with the function of recording and analyzing frequencies used by enemy UAVs to increase the efficiency of electronic warfare systems.

    In addition, the participants of the strategic session were shown specialized systems controlled remotely. Such installations use artificial intelligence technologies that allow detecting, classifying targets and tracking them until their complete destruction without operator intervention.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, MANNION SLAM RUMORED ‘DOGE’ CUTS TO DFAS ROME WORKFORCE, DEMAND DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE IMMEDIATELY REVERSE COURSE & PROTECT THE MOHAWK VALLEY WORKERS VITAL TO AMERICA’S MILITARY…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Nearly 100 Full-Time DFAS Rome Workers Have Already Left Amid ‘DOGE’ Chaos, And ‘DOGE’ Has Already Targeted Nearly 100 Probationary Workers To Be Fired, Which Is Currently Under Litigation  – In Total, This Would Slash DFAS Rome Workforce By Over 20%, With More Rumored Cuts Still On Horizon

    DFAS Rome’s Civilian Workforce Manages All Financial Services for Military Operations, Providing Defense Department And Our Troops With Mission-Critical Accounting Services, Logistical Support, And More

    Schumer, Gillibrand, Mannion: Protecting DFAS Rome Is Essential To Supporting Our Brave Warfighters And Their Families

    Amid ‘DOGE’ chaos and cuts impacting hundreds of workers at DFAS Rome, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman John Mannion urged the U.S. Department of Defense to preserve the civilian workforce at DFAS Rome, as they are vital to supporting the DOD and the brave men and women of our armed forces, including warfighters.

    Schumer said that, “’DOGE’ needs to get their hands off DFAS Rome. The world-class workers at DFAS Rome support America’s Armed Forces, and protecting the DFAS Rome workforce is vital to protecting our national security, our troops and the Mohawk Valley economy.”

    “‘DOGE’s shoot-first-and-ask-questions-later approach to DFAS Rome’s workforce will undermine their ability to effectively execute its vital mission in support of our Armed Forces and the DOD. DFAS in Rome is not only vital to the Department of Defense but also to the City of Rome and Mohawk Valley’s economy. This proposal would hurt every level of our Armed Forces, undermine America’s national security, and hurt the Mohawk Valley community,” said Senator Schumer. “I am all for cutting out inefficiency, but you use a scalpel, not a chainsaw. You don’t fire hardworking Americans, like those at DFAS, who have dedicated their careers to supporting our military servicemembers, families, and all DoD operations. The civilian workforce of DFAS Rome is not ‘government waste’ – they are what makes America great. That’s why I’m demanding the Department of Defense oppose and immediately reverse any plans to reduce DFAS Rome’s civilian workforce.”

    “DFAS employees in Rome and across the country provide mission-critical support to every level of our armed forces,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Firing these workers will jeopardize our national security, harm Rome’s economy, and make it more difficult for servicemembers, veterans, retirees, and military families to resolve payroll issues and get the health and retirement benefits they’ve earned. I’m urging the Department of Defense to immediately reverse its plans to cut DFAS employees, and I will stand steadfast in my commitment to protect these crucial workers.”

    Representative John W. Mannion said, “DFAS was created to bring consistency and accountability to the Department of Defense’s financial operations—critical principles it continues to uphold every day in service to our warfighters, their families, and American taxpayers. Workforce reductions at DFAS Rome undermine this mission and threaten jobs that are vital to the Mohawk Valley economy. These cuts are unnecessary and contradict our shared commitment to a responsive, effective, and fully supported Department of Defense.”

    DFAS / AFGE President Edward Abounader said, “For over 20 years Senator Schumer has been a staunch advocate for DFAS Rome and its employees, and we deeply appreciate his continued support alongside Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Mannion. With our workforce already down hundreds of employees and additional cuts on the horizon, it’s time for all of us to come together and fight to protect DFAS Rome before it’s too late. On behalf of the hard-working employees at DFAS Rome and DFAS locations across the country, I would like to thank our Senator Schumer, Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Mannion for standing up for the critical work we do to assist our Nations Warfighters through diligent fiscal oversight as the premier Government Working Capital Fund for the Department of Defense.”

    According to local representatives tied to DFAS Rome, ‘DOGE’ is actively attempting to cut around 100 full-time DFAS Rome workers because of their probationary status, but those workers are currently still on the jobs because of pending litigation. Since ‘DOGE’ has begun their plans to cut the federal workforce, 60 people at DFAS Rome have taken the ‘fork in the road’ offer for early retirement, while an approximately additional 40 have resigned since February amid fear of the impact ‘DOGE’ would have on their jobs. DFAS Rome is currently unable to replace any of this lost workforce because of the ongoing federal hiring freeze, and according to local representatives tied to DFAS Rome given the ongoing ‘DOGE’ chaos they expect to lose more workers to resignations and retirements.

    Even worse, there is also concerns of rumored even deeper cuts under consideration, as well as an attack on the DFAS union’s Master Collective Bargaining Agreement, which could put hundreds of additional workers at risk and create an existential threat to the future of DFAS Rome.

    The lawmakers in a letter to the U.S. Department of Defense explained these firings and inability to hire new workers would cripple a significant portion of DFAS Rome’s 1,100+ workforce, most of whom are civilians. DFAS Rome’s civilian workforce provides mission-critical financial services and logistical support to our Armed Forces and every element of DoD operations, from facilities sustainment and foreign military sales (FMS) to forward deployment. The lawmakers explained that DFAS Rome provides support services directly to servicemembers and their families, such as payroll, benefits enrollment, and reimbursement for travel related to deployment or Permanent Change of Station (PCS) for active duty servicemembers.

    The lawmakers added that the first round of cuts carried out by DOGE and DoD earlier this year has already set several of DFAS Rome’s operational cells responsible for providing these support functions—including the call center and travel section—on a trajectory towards mission failure. The impacts of these cuts will inevitably impose additional burdens and stress factors on our military servicemembers and their families that are otherwise avoidable, and will ultimately degrade readiness, recruitment, and retention among our Armed Forces.

    Schumer and Gillibrand have a long history of fighting to preserve jobs at Rome’s DFAS. Last year, the senators helped protect hundreds of DFAS employees in Rome from job displacement caused by automation and “rapid deployment” of bots. In 2020, the senators secured language in the FY2021 NDAA increasing Congressional oversight over DFAS personnel changes and adding additional protection for DFAS employees by requiring DoD to justify that proposed changes would yield significant cost savings before transitioning any functions that would result in the reduction or transfer of DFAS employees. In 2018, the senators went to bat for DFAS in the Senate, successfully ensuring that the Senate NDAA did not contain the 25% cut to agencies that employ civilian workers the House version did. In doing so, the Senators saved approximately 200 DFAS jobs. In 2017, after years of advocacy, the senators announced that a US Army pilot program jeopardizing over 1000 DFAS Rome jobs had concluded and there would be no changes or layoffs. Those advocacy efforts included FY2015 NDAA language requiring the Army Secretary to certify benefit prior to transferring functions away from DFAS, a personal call from Schumer to Army Secretary John McHugh, and a joint letter with Senator Gillibrand to Secretary McHugh.

    The Defense Finance and Accounting Service was created in 1991 to standardize and improve accounting and financial operations for DoD. They provide payroll services for DoD military and civilian personnel, retirees and other major contractors and vendors. DFAS operates as a separate and unique entity in DoD, to ensure transparency and accountability on behalf of DoD financing and accounting.

    Schumer, Gillibrand, and Mannion’s letter to U.S. Department of Defense Secretary Hegseth can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Speaker Johnson Presents Congressional Gold Medal to the Six Triple Eight

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    WASHINGTON — Tuesday afternoon, Speaker Johnson hosted a bipartisan Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony to honor the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, commonly known as the Six Triple Eight. The battalion was the first and only all-Black, all-female unit to serve overseas in Europe during World War II. The Six Triple Eight, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams Earley, was instrumental in clearing the U.S. Army’s backlog of over 17 million pieces of mail in only three months, twice as fast as projected.

    The ceremony was held in Emancipation Hall in the U.S. Capitol and featured remarks from Speaker Johnson, Leader Thune, Leader Schumer, Leader Jeffries, Senator Moran, Senator Rosen, Representative Moore, former Representative LaTurner, and Colonel Edna Cummings. Stanley Earley III and Judith Earley, children of Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams Earley, accepted the medal on behalf of the 855 women who served in the Six Triple Eight.

    Watch the Speaker’s remarks here

    Read Speaker Johnson’s remarks below:

    It’s a beautiful spring afternoon. We’re so happy to have you all, and I want to welcome my colleagues in Congress, of course, officials of the United States Army, distinguished guests. We’re so happy to have you at the United States Capitol today. We are honored to be joined by over 300 descendants and family members of the six triple eight.

    What a testament this is to the enduring impact of these remarkable women that we honor today. This ceremony reflects one of the highest and most cherished traditions of our republic, one that’s roots stretch back all the way to General George Washington, Ulysses S Grant and the Wright brothers.

    The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor this body can bestow. It’s reserved for those whose courage and service shaped our country and our nation’s story. It’s in this spirit that we gather to award this medal to the 6888, the Central Postal Directory. It’s 6888, but we call it the six triple eight.  

    This battalion was the first and the only unit of African American women to serve overseas during World War II. As tens of thousands of Allied forces made their final push across Europe, the mail system was stretched thin from scarce resources. It was crippling under the weight of wartime logistics.

    Then, just as today, letters of home were very, very important. They were lifelines that grounded the soldiers. They reminded our brave heroes of all they were fighting for, it was actually waiting back at home. Morale reports during the war underscore just how important mail was to the soldiers’ spirit, so much so that the phrase no mail, low morale became widespread. It was later adopted by the army as the official motto of the six triple eight yet for all the importance of mail, millions of undelivered letters piled up in dark warehouses across Europe, and those letters might well have stayed there, were it not for the work of the women that we celebrate today?

    Under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams Earley, the battalion – Parenthetically, I just want to note she sounds like a Marvel, hero, that name is so awesome. Charity Adams Earley. The battalion deployed to England and got to work on the on the backlog. They worked in three ships, around the clock, day in and day out, to sort through the literal mountains of mail that had accumulated, all while navigating troop movements that turned on a dime, incomplete addresses, illegible writing, and thousands of soldiers who shared the same names.

    Listen to this. This is just one example. Okay, my name is Mike Johnson. Right, at this time, I know it’s sad. At this time, Michael was the ninth most popular name, and Johnson was one of the top five surnames. So, my staff did the math. They said, Sir, it’s pretty safe to assume that roughly 30,000 Mike Johnson’s served in World War II, and that’s enough to fill Fenway Park.

    Now just imagine the challenge that these ladies have. They were trying to get the right letter to the right soldier, and that’s the kind of that’s the kind of challenge that they faced. With great ingenuity, they maintained a tracking system of 7 million ID cards to solve the issue of soldiers curing names. They didn’t have all the high-tech gadgets that we have today. They had to do it manually.

    Processing roughly 65,000 pieces of mail per shift, they cleared the entire backlog in no less than three months.

    Listen to this. By the war’s end, the Six Triple Eight had sorted over 17 million pieces of mail. They got the job done, even in the face of inadequate supplies and even in the face of discrimination, both for women within the Army and back home. These women were valiant members of our Greatest Generation, artists, academics, athletes, women who wanted went on to pursue higher education, to build families, to buy homes, and shape the very foundation of the American middle class.

    We remember women like Margaret Sales, who enlisted on her 20th birthday. She enlisted on her 20th birthday, and she had dreams of pursuing music and teaching. We remember women like Romay Davis. She used the GI Bill to attend fashion school, and decades later, earned her black belt in her 70s. Tough ladies.

    We also, of course, remember the incomparable Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams Earley who guided her unit. She faced all those challenges and she guided her unit with unshakable grace and resolve. And even after earning her degree in mathematics, Latin and physics, she returned to her studies after the war, and she said this famously, “After handling 855 women, any course in college would be a cinch.”

    We’re blessed that two members of the Six Triple Eight are still with us today, watching from home. They are, and we want to salute them from here in the chamber. Fannie McClendon, who hails from my home state of Louisiana, all right. She went on to serve her country as a Major in the Air Force. We also have Anna Mae Robertson watching at home. Just last month, she celebrated her 101st birthday. Ms. Anna Mae, you got a big group here.

    Okay, these women and the entire Six Triple Eight, are great American patriots, loyal to a nation that, for far too long, failed to return that favor. And I’m glad to say that that’s changing, and we’re doing that here today.

    This remarkable story has rightly captured imaginations, it has now inspired books and movies, stirred the conscience of millions of Americans who are just now hearing and sharing this incredible story. Today here in the people’s house, we add to that story. So, thank you all for being here. We are honored to host you and to celebrate these exceptional women. God bless you.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INS KOCHI ARRIVES AT MALE, MALDIVES FOR HANDING OVER MNDF CGS HURAVEE

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 6:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Navy’s frontline Guided Missile Destroyer, INS Kochi, arrived at Male, Maldives, on 28 Apr 25 with Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF) CGS Huravee, which underwent Normal Refit at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai from Dec 24 till Apr 25.

    Shri G. Balasubramanian, High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, handed over MNDF CGS Huravee to Maj Gen Ibrahim Hilmy, Chief of Defence Force, MNDF, at a ceremony held at the MNDF Coast Guard Jetty.

    INS Kochi’s visit highlights the strong maritime links between India and the Maldives and emphasises the Indian Navy’s commitment to security, peace and freedom of navigation in the region. In keeping with the two nations’ friendly relations, Maldivian authorities warmly welcomed the ship.

    As part of the ship’s visit, Capt Mahesh C Moudgil, Commanding Officer, INS Kochi, called on Maj Gen Ibrahim Hilmy, Chief of Defence Force, MNDF and Brig Gen Mohammed Saleem, Commandant, Coast Guard MNDF.

    During the ship’s stay in harbour, bilateral meetings, cross-deck visits and sports fixtures have been planned between the Indian Navy and the MNDF.

    INS Kochi was commissioned on 30 Sept 15 and is part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet, which is based in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command.

    ****

    VM/SKS     

    (Release ID: 2125571) Visitor Counter : 33

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: TRANSCRIPT: LEADER JEFFRIES REMARKS ON PRESIDENT TRUMP’S FIRST 100 DAYS

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

    Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries delivered the following speech on what a disaster for the American people that Donald Trump’s first 100 days have been and how costs, chaos and corruption are all up, thanks to the President and his Rubber Stamp Republicans.

    Good morning. Good morning. Thank you. Thank you, everyone. Good morning. Good morning. Thank you. Good morning. Good morning. Good morning.

    Right at the top, let me make one thing clear: The Trump administration has been a disaster. 100 days in, Donald Trump and Elon Musk have failed to make your life more affordable. They failed to make you safer. They failed to make us more respected around the world. But their biggest failure is this: they have failed to appreciate the strength of the American people.

    During the dawn of the Republic, it was once observed that when people fear the government, there is tyranny. When the government fears the people, there is liberty.

    Donald Trump and Republicans thought they could shock and awe us into submission. They thought we would be too complacent to stand up for liberty and justice for all. They thought we would walk away from the principle of equal protection under the law. They thought wrong. They thought wrong. They thought wrong.

    Trump’s unconstitutional assault on the American way of life is unprecedented, but the so-called dictator on day one is learning an important lesson. Americans don’t bend the knee to bullies. In the face of tyranny, we join together. In the face of tyranny, we rise up together. In the face of tyranny, we get into some good trouble together. And we’re just getting started.

    100 days in, Donald Trump has the lowest approval rating of any president in modern American history. 100 days in, voters have elected Democrats in Republican-held districts all across the country, including in Iowa and Pennsylvania. 100 days in, Elon Musk spent $25 million to buy a state supreme court seat in Wisconsin, and lost by double digits. 100 days in, more than 200 different lawsuits have been filed against the unconstitutional and unlawful executive orders of Donald Trump, and the American people are winning in court. 100 days in, principled opposition to Republican extremism is taking shape from sea to shining sea. The American people are rising up and making it clear that the Trump administration has a lot to fear.

    When my oldest son JJ was 9 years old, he played travel baseball with a group of his friends. Many of you know that travel sports can be taxing on the schedule. It’s a labor of love for our children. During the season, it seems like almost every weekend for several months, you’re on the road. And so, this one particular Memorial Day weekend, JJ had a baseball tournament in a little town off the beaten path somewhere in the Northeast. 

    Travel sports can take you to some interesting places. I decided to make it a road trip and bring my youngest son, Joshua, with us. He was just 6 years old at the time. And so I said to him, he’s gonna come on this trip, and it’ll be like a vacation. What did I say that for, y’all? 

    When I mentioned vacation, he had visions of Atlantis. So we pulled up to the motel where we were staying, and the situation was a bit shaky. My 6 year old looked at the motel, looked at me, looked at the motel and looked at me and said: “Dad, is this where we’re staying?” I said, “Yes, Joshua, why do you ask?” He responded, “Oh my God, Dad, this is a debacle.” 6 years old. I looked at him and asked, “What does the word debacle mean?” He responded quickly. He said: “I don’t know Dad, it’s something bad.”

    This is the moment we are in right now in the United States of America, with Donald Trump and the Republicans in charge. 

    Crashing the economy is something bad. Destroying Medicaid as we know it is something bad. Taking a chainsaw to Social Security is something bad. Raising costs on hardworking American taxpayers is something bad. Firing federal workers, including thousands of veterans who served this country, is something bad. Canceling medical research for children with cancer is something bad. Destroying the retirement accounts of everyday Americans is something bad. Trying to whitewash the most painful parts of our history is something bad. Targeting law-abiding immigrant families is something bad. Undermining the rule of law is something bad. 

    The first 100 days of the Trump administration have been a debacle. Enough. Enough. America is better than this. 

    When the new Congress began in January, Democrats were prepared to get to work in a bipartisan way. The Trump administration chose a different path. Far-right Republicans are tearing America apart, targeting our democratic way of life and tarnishing our reputation as the land of the free. It is wrong, and we will continue to push back aggressively. Donald Trump and the Republicans in Congress have given us 100 days of chaos, 100 days of cruelty and 100 days of corrupt behavior. That is not constructive leadership, it’s a recipe for disaster. 

    The American people deserve common sense leadership, the American people deserve compassionate leadership, the American people deserve courageous leadership that changes things for the better. Our message to the American people is simple: We hear you. We see you. We feel you. Democrats are determined to make life better for you.

    Donald Trump and his sycophants spent yesterday bragging about the speed with which they’ve moved during these first 100 days. They’re right.  Never has a president failed so spectacularly, so often, so quickly as Donald Trump. The White House referred to its strategy for the first 100 days as “shock and awe.” Well, they’re half right. It is shocking how rapidly this administration collapsed into chaos, cruelty and corruption. It is shocking how quickly MAGA Republicans turned their backs on working class Americans. It is shocking how spineless Republicans have been in the United States Congress. And it is shocking and tragic and infuriating how much damage Donald Trump and the Republican party’s policies have already done.

    Here’s the thing. They expected us to step back. But the American people are here to fight back. On the campaign trail, Donald Trump promised to end inflation. He promised to lower costs on day one.  When he was asking for your vote, Donald Trump told you he would make life more affordable for everyday Americans. Now that he’s in office, it’s a different story.

    In March, President Trump was asked if he was worried that car prices would go up because of his tariffs. His reply? “I couldn’t care less.” The cost of living in the United States is too high. America is too expensive. And Donald Trump couldn’t care less. He couldn’t care less that housing costs are too high. He couldn’t care less that grocery costs are too high. He couldn’t care less that childcare costs are too high. He couldn’t care less that health insurance costs are too high. He couldn’t care less that utility costs are too high. Donald Trump couldn’t care less. Prices everywhere are too high, and Donald Trump couldn’t care less. 

    100 days in, Donald Trump is making life harder for you and your family. And every day his costly tariffs stay in place, life in America gets more expensive. American families will pay thousands of dollars more per year. Small businesses are shutting down. Corporations are not hiring. Businesses are unable to invest because of the uncertainty that has been created.  Inflation is on the rise, life is getting more expensive and the reckless economic policies of Donald Trump and House Republicans are driving us toward a recession.

    Republicans in Congress could put a stop to this insanity at any time. Since they won’t, next November, we will. Yes, we will. Yes, we will. Which brings me to Elon Musk. I knew he would get that reaction. 

    We all agree that government should be more efficient. But like most things in life, there’s the American way and then there’s the cruel way. 100 days in, it’s clear that DOGE is not the American way. Cancelling medical research for children with cancer is cruel. Denying relief for communities reeling from natural disasters is cruel. Firing thousands of our veterans, like Joseph Quintinella of Virginia, who served this country in the Marines, is cruel. 

    But their cruelty doesn’t stop there. Republicans actually believe that Social Security is a Ponzi scheme. And they want to take a chainsaw to it. During the first 100 days of the Trump administration, Social Security has faced an unprecedented attack. Social Security offices have been closed, wait times have dramatically increased and people are being denied access to benefits that they have earned. Republicans continue to insist that Social Security is an entitlement program. They think they are entitled to destroy it. 

    When I was 15 years old, I got my working papers and secured my first job. I was a messenger dropping off packages from office building to office building in Midtown Manhattan. My salary was $3.35 per hour. That was the minimum wage back in the day. And I thought that I had made it big, particularly upon learning that as a high school student who worked part time, I wouldn’t have to pay any income tax. So I couldn’t wait to get my first check. 

    On a piece of paper, I multiplied $3.35 by the number of hours I expected to work during my first pay period. I figured out the total, and in my mind, that money was already spent. I couldn’t wait to go to Albee Square Mall in downtown Brooklyn and get some new sneakers so I could dress like Run DMC. But then the check came, and some money was missing. 

    I had two questions, y’all: Who is FICA, and why is he taking my money? 

    Here’s what I learned. All of us pay the FICA tax in connection with Social Security and Medicare. We pay the FICA tax on our first job. We pay the FICA tax on our last job. We pay the FICA tax on every single job we have throughout our lifetime. 

    Social Security and Medicare are not entitlement programs. They are earned benefits. Earned benefits. You work hard for those benefits, pay into those benefits and deserve those benefits. They are earned benefits. 

    Democrats will make sure that Donald Trump and House Republicans keep their hands off your Social Security and your Medicare. Hands off today. Hands off tomorrow. Hands off this week. Hands off next week. Hands off this month. Hands off next month. Hands off this year. Hands off next year. Hands off Social Security and Medicare Forever. Forever. Forever.

    Now, if this administration actually had some common sense, it would look at the damage that it’s done, the rejection from the people, the historic unpopularity of this president, and they would change course. But Donald Trump is doubling down. And instead of being a check and balance on this president’s abuse of power, Republicans in Congress are nothing more than a rubber stamp for his extreme agenda.

    Recently, I met a woman named Mary Beth. She lives in Canton, North Carolina, a town of 4,400 people that is still rebuilding from Hurricane Helene. She has custody of her four grandchildren, ages 10, 12, 15 and 16. Their parents can no longer care for them due to addiction, domestic violence and homelessness. The moment you talk to Mary Beth, you know that caring for those grandkids is everything. 

    And she’s doing it on a fixed income, working part time making $8 an hour at a coin laundry— and is no longer employed—to supplement the disability support that she had received. Mary Beth has had to skip refilling her prescriptions to make sure her grandkids don’t have to skip any meals. 

    Medicaid is the only reason her grandchildren are able to see a doctor, including the youngest, who is dealing with ADHD and autism. Mary Beth works hard, loves her family and is a patriotic American. And Mary Beth is here with us today. 

    But her family, just like millions of others throughout America, is now at risk of losing their healthcare. Why? Republicans are trying to slash Medicaid by up to $880 billion, the largest healthcare cut in American history.  

    And why are Republicans trying to rip healthcare away from working people, from Americans with disabilities, from children, from grandmothers like Mary Beth? So that they can give their billionaire donors like Elon Musk another tax cut. These healthcare cuts will hurt families, hurt women, hurt children, hurt veterans, hurt seniors and hurt disabled Americans. Hospitals will close, nursing homes will shut down and people will die. 

    Here’s the thing, in the United States of America—this is the wealthiest country in the history of the world—healthcare is not a privilege, healthcare is a right for every single American. For every single American. 

    If we were in the majority right now, none of this would be happening. But even in the minority, we are going to do everything we can to protect the healthcare of the American people.

    And we’ll keep reminding our Republican colleagues—especially the ones who vote like extremists but then go home and pretend to be moderates when it’s time to run for re-election— that the people are watching. It’s time for Republicans in Congress to stop being a rubber stamp for Donald Trump’s extreme agenda.

    You don’t work for Donald Trump. You don’t work for Elon Musk. You don’t work for the far-right extremists. You work for the American people.

    As Democrats, we will fight as hard as we can, fight as hard as we can, over the next two years to stop bad things from happening. We will protect our system of free and fair elections.

    And then work hard to convince the American people to entrust us with the majority next November. At that point, we will be able to do much, much more for you.

    We will build an affordable economy that works for everyday Americans. We will confront the climate crisis with the fierce urgency of now. We will block any budget that goes after your Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. And we will hold the Trump administration accountable for its corrupt abuse of power.

    Over these next 100 days, House Democrats are going to lay out a blueprint for a better America. And you will see a vision for this country’s future that isn’t about Donald Trump. It’s all about you. All about you. How can we make your life better? How can we put more money in your pocket? How can we lower your costs? How can we help you give your kids the future they deserve? These are the questions we are thinking about each and every day.

    Now, the American Dream isn’t about getting something for nothing. You have to work for it. But if you work hard and play by the rules, here’s what you should be able to have: A good-paying job. An affordable home. High-quality healthcare. Education for your children. And the ability to retire with grace and with dignity. That’s the American Dream. That’s the American Dream. That’s the American Dream. And when we’re back in charge, that’s what we will fight hard to deliver for you. 

    In January—late January—I had the opportunity to visit the Altadena community in Los Angeles County that was devastated by the wildfires. I met someone named Jackie Jacobs, an amazing 88-year-old woman who was raised in the Jim Crow South before moving to California. Her home was tragically burned to the ground.  She and her husband, David, who have been married for more than 50 years, barely managed to escape the raging wildfires. All they had was the clothing on their backs. They lost everything else. Photos gone. Possessions gone. Property gone. But the first thing Mrs. Jacobs said to us while touring the devastation was that she gave all glory, all praise and all honor to Almighty God—just as the Scripture teaches us. She believed that things would work out. Several of us teared up. Mrs. Jacobs lost everything, but she never lost her faith. She never lost her faith.

    Republicans have shown that their recipe for governing is chaos, cruelty and corruption. These first 100 days have not been easy. Everything we care about is under assault. The economy is under assault. Healthcare is under assault. Social Security is under assault. Veterans are under assault. Farmers are under assault. The right to organize is under assault. Public schools are under assault. The American way of life is under assault. Democracy itself is under assault. Everything we care about is under assault. 

    But just like Mrs. Jacobs, we must never lose faith. We must never lose faith. Faith in our community. Faith in our country. Faith in a brighter future. Faith in Almighty God. 

    America is a resilient nation. We are a resilient people. We have a resilient Constitution. We will never give up.  We will never give in. We will always show up. We will always speak up. We will always stand up. We will continue our march toward a more perfect union. We will not rest until we end this national nightmare and deliver an America with liberty and justice for all.

    God bless you. God bless our troops. May God continue to bless the United States of America.

    Full speech can be viewed here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA welcomes ANZMIN joint statement supporting cross-strait peace and stability

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA welcomes ANZMIN joint statement supporting cross-strait peace and stability

    Date：2024-12-07
    Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    December 7, 2024No. 452  Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles and Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong met with New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters and Minister of Defence Judith Collins in Auckland on December 6 for the second Australia-New Zealand Foreign and Defence Ministerial Consultations (ANZMIN) this year. In the joint statement issued after the meeting, they reiterated the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, opposed unilateral changes to the status quo, and expressed concern over the situation in the South China Sea. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) welcomes and appreciates this statement. Australia and New Zealand are important friends of Taiwan in the Indo-Pacific region, and bilateral relations with both countries have made significant strides in recent years. Given that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea has become a global consensus, MOFA invites the international community to continue expressing its concerns and take practical action to uphold the rules-based international order. The Taiwan government will continue to promote values-based diplomacy and work with like-minded countries to advance democracy, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA responds to China’s military activities around first island chain; urges international community to jointly safeguard cross-strait peace and stability

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA responds to China’s military activities around first island chain; urges international community to jointly safeguard cross-strait peace and stability

    Date：2024-12-11
    Data Source：Department of Policy Planning

    December 11, 2024 
    No. 457 

    China has recently deployed large numbers of PLA Navy and China Coast Guard vessels around the first island chain for days-long military exercises. It has also repeatedly dispatched military aircraft and vessels to harass Taiwan, unilaterally disrupting peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, unnecessarily escalating regional tensions, and interfering with regular international shipping and trade. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) demands that the Beijing authorities immediately cease their military intimidation and all other unreasonable behavior that is jeopardizing regional peace and stability.
     
    An international consensus has been reached on the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region. Although cross-strait and regional developments are closely followed by the international community, China continues to ramp up rhetorical and military intimidation against Taiwan. China’s large-scale military buildup around the first island chain has created uncertainty and risk, giving countries in the region cause for concern. This underscores the fact that China is a destabilizing force that is undermining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. 
                                    
    China’s provocative actions toward Taiwan and other countries in the region are a clear violation of the United Nations Charter, which stipulates that all countries must refrain from the threat or use of force to infringe on the territorial sovereignty of another country. MOFA solemnly demands that China immediately stop violating international law and demonstrate that it can be a responsible major power. 
     
    Taiwan will do its utmost to fulfill its international responsibilities, calmly respond to China’s military threats, staunchly safeguard its sovereignty and national security, and firmly defend democracy and freedom. MOFA urges democratic partners worldwide to unite with Taiwan to jointly counter authoritarian expansionism and encroachment, prevent repeated attempts to unilaterally and deliberately disrupt the status quo, uphold the rules-based international order, and together preserve peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Declines Prosecution of Company That Self-Disclosed Export Control Offenses Committed by Employee

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Company’s Prompt Self-Disclosure and Extraordinary Cooperation Led to Employee’s Successful Prosecution for Unlawfully Exporting Software to a Restricted Chinese University

    Note: View the declination letter here.

    The Justice Department today announced that it has declined the prosecution of Universities Space Research Association (USRA) after it self-disclosed to the Department’s National Security Division (NSD) criminal violations of U.S. export control laws committed by its former employee, Jonathan Soong. Soong pleaded guilty to willfully violating the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by exporting U.S. Army-developed aviation software to a university in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) that had been placed on the Commerce Department’s Entity List and was sentenced to 20 months in prison.

    “If we stay vigilant, all of us — including our citizens, small businesses, and large corporations — can play a critical role in protecting our country,” said Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “A criminal who compromised our national security was brought to justice because his employer caught him and immediately turned him in. We decline to prosecute his employer and are ready to work together with such responsible corporate actors who are committed to joining us in this fight to protect our country from foreign adversaries.”

    “USRA discovered that one of its employees was funneling sensitive aeronautics software to a Beijing university in violation of export control laws and at risk to our national security,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Robbins for the Northern District of California. “What the company did next made all the difference in the Government’s decision not to prosecute it: the company took swift and proactive measures to disclose the employee’s wrongdoing, provide all known facts, and cooperate – and continue to cooperate – with the government’s investigation.”

    According to court documents, in April 2016, USRA contracted with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to, among other things, license and distribute for a fee aeronautics-related and U.S. Army-owned flight control software. Soong was employed by USRA as a program administrator under the contract and was responsible for performing due diligence on prospective purchasers to ensure that the sale or transfer of software licenses complied with applicable law, including by checking the Entity List. Soong willfully exported software subject to the EAR to Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, also known as Beihang University (Beihang), a university in the PRC, knowing that an export control license was required for the export to Beihang because it was on the Entity List. Beihang was on the Commerce Department’s Entity List due to its involvement in the development of military rocket systems and unmanned air vehicle systems. Soong further used an intermediary to complete the transfer and export of the software to Beihang to avoid detection, and embezzled tens of thousands of dollars in software license sales by directing purchasers to make payment to an account he personally owned and controlled.

    This scheme continued until NASA inquired about the sales of software licenses to PRC-based purchasers and USRA began to investigate. Soong initially lied to USRA and fabricated evidence that he had conducted due diligence on the purchasers and provided it to USRA’s counsel to provide to NASA, but after USRA’s counsel investigated further and confronted Soong with evidence that contradicted his statements, he admitted to knowing that Beihang was on the Entity List when he exported the software to Beihang and that a license had been required for the export.

    Within days of learning that Soong had willfully violated U.S. export control laws, and before USRA had completed its own investigation to understand the scope of the misconduct, USRA self-disclosed the crime to NSD and fully cooperated with the ensuing criminal investigation, which eventually established that Soong had acted alone at USRA. USRA’s cooperation included proactively identifying, collecting, and disclosing relevant evidence to investigators, including foreign language evidence and evidence located overseas, and providing detailed and timely responses to the government’s requests for information and evidence. USRA remediated the root cause of the misconduct by disciplining a supervisory employee who failed appropriately to supervise Soong, and by significantly improving its internal controls and compliance program. USRA also compensated the government both for the funds Soong embezzled, and for the time Soong had spent embezzling funds instead of performing his duties under USRA’s contract with NASA.

    The Justice Department declined USRA’s prosecution after considering the factors set forth in the Department’s Principles of Federal Prosecution of Business Organizations and the National Security Division Enforcement Policy for Business Organizations (NSD Enforcement Policy). The NSD Enforcement Policy creates a presumption that companies that (1) voluntarily self-disclose to NSD potentially criminal violations arising out of or relating to the enforcement of export control or sanctions laws, (2) fully cooperate, and (3) timely and appropriately remediate will generally receive a non-prosecution agreement, unless aggravating factors are present.  In appropriate cases, the NSD Enforcement Policy authorizes prosecutors to go further, and exercise discretion to decline a company’s prosecution. This is the second time that NSD has exercised its discretion to decline the prosecution of a company under the NSD Enforcement Policy.

    The case was investigated by the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security; the Department of Defense’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service; and the FBI. The NASA Office of Inspector General; U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Army Counterintelligence; and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations provided valuable assistance.

    Trial Attorney Rachel Craft of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara Valliere for the Northern District of California prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Highlights Proactive Steps Connecticut Is Taking To Address ‘The Link’ Between Child Abuse and Animal Cruelty

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (NEWINGTON, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today joined other state officials and animal welfare advocates for a news conference at the headquarters of the Connecticut Humane Society in Newington to commemorate Child Abuse Awareness Month and Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month and highlight the proactive work being done among Connecticut state agencies to cross report accounts of animal cruelty for assessment and possible investigation to determine the safety of children in households where these reports have occurred.

    Numerous studies have shown that there is a strong correlation between instances of animal abuse, child maltreatment, and other forms of interpersonal violence, including domestic violence and elder abuse. Professionals refer to this correlation as “The Link.”

    Over the last several years, staff from Connecticut state agencies, including the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Connecticut Department of Agriculture (DOAG), have been strengthening their partnerships to respond to “The Link” by cross reporting these instances to each other. Upon receiving reports of reasonable suspicion of animal cruelty from state, regional, and municipal animal control officers, DOAG staff are mandated to forward that information to staff from DCF, who then review whether any children in those homes could be impacted.

    “It’s clear that in homes where animal cruelty has occurred, child abuse or other forms of domestic violence may be present,” Governor Lamont said. “By cross reporting this information between state agencies, our staff can proactively investigate whether other forms of violence are occurring in a home and take measures to protect any children, adults, or animals who may be impacted.”

    “Our continued collaboration with DCF and other state and local partners is essential to increasing education and outreach around the link between child abuse and animal cruelty,” Connecticut Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt said. “Through training and education, animal control officers are key partners in recognizing and responding to signs of cruelty and sharing that information appropriately to protect the safety and wellbeing of both children and animals.”

    “Our animals, like our children, are vulnerable to abuse and neglect in every community and deserve our full protection,” Connecticut Children and Families Commissioner Jodi Hill-Lilly said. “That’s why we’re increasing staff support, improving data collection, and strengthening our cross-reporting partnership with the Department of Agriculture to address The Link between animal abuse and other forms of child abuse and neglect. This includes mandatory training for frontline staff to identify signs of abuse during home visits. We’re grateful to Governor Lamont, the Department of Agriculture, and our advocacy partners for their support in protecting our most vulnerable.”

    Connecticut has seen demonstrated increases in animal cruelty reports over the past several years, due in part to increased education and outreach efforts by both DCF and DOAG. For example, DCF has made cross reporting a part of the agency’s mandated reporter training. More recently, across its 14 offices, DCF has also more than doubled the number of cross-reporting liaisons who are responsible for helping to triage cases between DCF social workers and animal control officers and provide monthly training and educational support to teams of staff.

    In 2024, DOAG sent DCF 90 reports, while in that same year DCF sent a total of 107 reports to DOAG. Last year, “The Link” was apparent in 16 reports that met the standard for an abuse/neglect investigation based on the initial information provided in the written report. Of those 90 reports, 13 were made on families that were already involved with and receiving supports from DCF.

    The partnership between DOAG and the DCF Child Abuse and Neglect Careline continues to be strengthened to ensure reports are received immediately, allowing DCF to proceed as necessary and DOAG to close the loop with local animal control officers.

    “The Connecticut Humane Society has and will always stand as a voice for the voiceless,” James Bias, executive director of the Connecticut Humane Society, said. “We recognize that acts of animal cruelty are rarely isolated and are too often linked to cases of child abuse. It is so important that every report is taken seriously, and every investigation is pursued with urgency. Accountability is essential to ending the cycles of both animal cruelty and child abuse. These are the most vulnerable of our community, and they deserve more.”

    A review of research studies shows that:

    • Animals were harmed in 88% of homes where a child was physically abused.
    • 75% of female survivors of domestic violence report their pets were threatened or intentionally harmed by their partner.
    • Children exposed to domestic violence are three times more likely to be cruel to animals.
    • 45% of caseworkers working with the elderly encountered animal abuse or neglect co-occurring with elder abuse.

    “There is a well-documented link between animal cruelty and child abuse, with studies consistently showing that violence toward animals often occurs with domestic violence, including abuse of children,” Robin “Zilla” Cannamela, president and co-founder of Desmond’s Army Animal Law Advocates, said. “As Desmond’s Army often sees in court, abusers may harm or threaten pets as a mean of controlling victims making it more difficult for them to seek help or leave unsafe situations. Recognizing this critical connection, Desmond’s Army Animal Law Advocates has expanded its mission to support not only animals but also help the people who love them. As part of this effort, our organization now offers to pay up to $300 for the first month of boarding cost for pets of domestic violence victims entering a licensed safe facility. This compassionate initiative helps remove a significant barrier for survivors, giving them the freedom to escape abuse without the fear of abandoning their pets. This initiative also teaches children that pets are important family members deserving protection from harm.”

    Anyone can make a report of animal cruelty by contacting their local animal control department in the town where those concerns have been noted or by contacting DOAG’s Animal Control Office at 860-713-2506 or AGR.AnimalControl@ct.gov. Those making a report can remain anonymous.

    A reasonable suspicion of child maltreatment can be made to DCF’s Child Abuse and Neglect Careline by dialing 1-800-842-2288. The hotline is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Callers can remain anonymous.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Declines Prosecution of Company That Self-Disclosed Export Control Offenses Committed by Employee

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Company’s Prompt Self-Disclosure and Extraordinary Cooperation Led to Employee’s Successful Prosecution for Unlawfully Exporting Software to a Restricted Chinese University

    Note: View the declination letter here.

    The Justice Department today announced that it has declined the prosecution of Universities Space Research Association (USRA) after it self-disclosed to the Department’s National Security Division (NSD) criminal violations of U.S. export control laws committed by its former employee, Jonathan Soong. Soong pleaded guilty to willfully violating the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by exporting U.S. Army-developed aviation software to a university in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) that had been placed on the Commerce Department’s Entity List and was sentenced to 20 months in prison.

    “If we stay vigilant, all of us — including our citizens, small businesses, and large corporations — can play a critical role in protecting our country,” said Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “A criminal who compromised our national security was brought to justice because his employer caught him and immediately turned him in. We decline to prosecute his employer and are ready to work together with such responsible corporate actors who are committed to joining us in this fight to protect our country from foreign adversaries.”

    “USRA discovered that one of its employees was funneling sensitive aeronautics software to a Beijing university in violation of export control laws and at risk to our national security,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Robbins for the Northern District of California. “What the company did next made all the difference in the Government’s decision not to prosecute it: the company took swift and proactive measures to disclose the employee’s wrongdoing, provide all known facts, and cooperate – and continue to cooperate – with the government’s investigation.”

    According to court documents, in April 2016, USRA contracted with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to, among other things, license and distribute for a fee aeronautics-related and U.S. Army-owned flight control software. Soong was employed by USRA as a program administrator under the contract and was responsible for performing due diligence on prospective purchasers to ensure that the sale or transfer of software licenses complied with applicable law, including by checking the Entity List. Soong willfully exported software subject to the EAR to Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, also known as Beihang University (Beihang), a university in the PRC, knowing that an export control license was required for the export to Beihang because it was on the Entity List. Beihang was on the Commerce Department’s Entity List due to its involvement in the development of military rocket systems and unmanned air vehicle systems. Soong further used an intermediary to complete the transfer and export of the software to Beihang to avoid detection, and embezzled tens of thousands of dollars in software license sales by directing purchasers to make payment to an account he personally owned and controlled.

    This scheme continued until NASA inquired about the sales of software licenses to PRC-based purchasers and USRA began to investigate. Soong initially lied to USRA and fabricated evidence that he had conducted due diligence on the purchasers and provided it to USRA’s counsel to provide to NASA, but after USRA’s counsel investigated further and confronted Soong with evidence that contradicted his statements, he admitted to knowing that Beihang was on the Entity List when he exported the software to Beihang and that a license had been required for the export.

    Within days of learning that Soong had willfully violated U.S. export control laws, and before USRA had completed its own investigation to understand the scope of the misconduct, USRA self-disclosed the crime to NSD and fully cooperated with the ensuing criminal investigation, which eventually established that Soong had acted alone at USRA. USRA’s cooperation included proactively identifying, collecting, and disclosing relevant evidence to investigators, including foreign language evidence and evidence located overseas, and providing detailed and timely responses to the government’s requests for information and evidence. USRA remediated the root cause of the misconduct by disciplining a supervisory employee who failed appropriately to supervise Soong, and by significantly improving its internal controls and compliance program. USRA also compensated the government both for the funds Soong embezzled, and for the time Soong had spent embezzling funds instead of performing his duties under USRA’s contract with NASA.

    The Justice Department declined USRA’s prosecution after considering the factors set forth in the Department’s Principles of Federal Prosecution of Business Organizations and the National Security Division Enforcement Policy for Business Organizations (NSD Enforcement Policy). The NSD Enforcement Policy creates a presumption that companies that (1) voluntarily self-disclose to NSD potentially criminal violations arising out of or relating to the enforcement of export control or sanctions laws, (2) fully cooperate, and (3) timely and appropriately remediate will generally receive a non-prosecution agreement, unless aggravating factors are present.  In appropriate cases, the NSD Enforcement Policy authorizes prosecutors to go further, and exercise discretion to decline a company’s prosecution. This is the second time that NSD has exercised its discretion to decline the prosecution of a company under the NSD Enforcement Policy.

    The case was investigated by the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security; the Department of Defense’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service; and the FBI. The NASA Office of Inspector General; U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Army Counterintelligence; and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations provided valuable assistance.

    Trial Attorney Rachel Craft of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara Valliere for the Northern District of California prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Calls Out Republicans’ “Silence Of The Lambs” During Trump’s First 100 Days In Office

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    April 30, 2025

    Durbin announces his plan to come to the Senate Floor to highlight the President’s latest outrage—and the GOP’s inevitable silence in the face of it—until Republicans start using the voices they were elected to raise

    WASHINGTON – On President Donald Trump’s 100th day in office, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) called out his Republican colleagues for their silence as the President tests—and violates—the bounds of our Constitution, amasses power for himself as he tanks our economy, violates the rights of Americans, and destroys our image abroad.

    “The jury’s in. At the end of 100 days, the major polling firms across the United States went out and asked the American people so what do you think? What’s your impression of this new President? What’s your impression of the MAGA agenda? The results that came back don’t surprise me, but they might surprise some,” Durbin said. “Overwhelmingly, on every major issue that this administration has taken a position, the American people have said we don’t like it. We’re not happy with what’s happening in this country today.”

    Durbin continued, “For a hundred days, President Trump and his administration, mainly billionaire buddies like Elon Musk, have brought us chaos, wreaked havoc, sowed division. President Trump has undermined the Constitution, our system of checks and balances, and the rule of law. And through it all, I’m sad to report, my Republican colleagues have remained silent.”

    Durbin went on to outline some of the atrocities the Trump Administration has committed in the first 100 days of his second term, including the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia; Trump’s ill-conceived, mindless tariff tax war; threatening to withhold federal funds from higher education institutions to coerce them to give up their constitutional rights; and the Secretary of Defense violating national security protocol and sharing classified war plans in a Signal chat that mistakenly included a journalist.

    “Unelected billionaire Elon Musk and his DOGE brothers gut the federal government, leading to cuts to life-saving medical research, Americans unable to get their Social Security benefits, and threats to Medicaid. What was the response from the Republican side to these outrageous developments under the Trump Administration? Silence,” Durbin said.

    Durbin continued, “Never in our nation’s history has a co-equal branch of government so willfully rolled over and ceded their power. It is in fact the ‘silence of the lambs.’ The President is testing and violating the bounds of our Constitution, amassing power for himself as the economy tanks, violating the rights of Americans, and destroying our image abroad.”

    Durbin concluded, “My congressional Republican [colleagues] have the power to join us in an historic stand on so many areas that this President has violated. They have majorities in both chambers of Congress and, at private moments, many of them express outrage and horror at Trump’s dangerous abandonment of law, norms, and the will of the American people. But as our constituents suffer, out of fear of retaliation, Republicans remain silent. When we are elected Members of Congress, we swear an oath to the Constitution, not to any politician or any president. It’s time both parties remember that and lived accordingly. So, I’m coming to the floor regularly to highlight the President’s latest outrage and the GOP’s inevitable silence in the face of it. Until they start using the voices they were elected to raise, we are going to continue to have a pending constitutional crisis in this country.”

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Panetta Introduces Bill to Raise Cost of Living Adjustment for Local Military Personnel and Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) authored and introduced legislation that would address the absence of Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) for military service members and Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees stationed in California’s 19th Congressional District.  California’s 19th Congressional District is home to seventeen military installations and more than 15,000 military and defense personnel, and is among the most expensive areas to live in the nation

    Cost of Living Adjustments are additional compensation for servicemembers and DoD civilians assigned to high-cost areas, intended to offset regional price disparities.  While San Francisco receives one of the highest COLA rates at 5%, neighboring areas within California’s 19th Congressional District, despite similar economic pressures, do not.  A recent report by the Bureau of Economic Analysis found that $100 worth of goods nationwide only buys $87 and $88 in the Salinas-Monterey and Santa Cruz-Watsonville metro areas.  That makes California’s 19th Congressional District one of the ten most expensive regions in the country. 

    “Many servicemembers and DoD civilians stationed in California’s 19th Congressional District are struggling to keep up with the high cost of living in one of the most expensive regions in the country,” said Rep. Panetta.  “My legislation would push the Department of Defense to reassess how COLA is calculated and ensure that our region, and military families who call it home, get a fair evaluation.  Our national security professionals serve us day-in and day-out, the least we can do is ensure that they have the compensation they deserve to continue that steadfast service.”

    The bill would direct the Pentagon to submit a detailed report to Congress assessing how COLA rates are determined, whether current methods accurately reflect economic realities, and if the district should qualify for COLA based on modern cost factors.  It would specifically require the Department of Defense to evaluate housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare costs in California’s 19th Congressional District, and to compare the treatment of Monterey with nearby Santa Clara County, where COLA is currently granted.  The legislation would also ensure that housing benefits like Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) are not factored into COLA eligibility, as they serve different purposes.

    The legislation would not only provide Congress with transparency of how COLA decisions are made, but it could also prompt the Pentagon to reassess outdated formulas that fail to reflect the real cost of living on California’s Central Coast.

    Installations in California’s 19th Congressional District include:

    • Naval Postgraduate School
    • Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center
    • Naval Support Activity Monterey
    • Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center
    • Naval Research Lab
    • Coast Guard Station Monterey
    • Camp Roberts
    • Defense Manpower Data Center
    • Presidio of Monterey
    • Defense Personnel Security Research Center Operations
    • 514th Signal Company
    • Gourley VA-DOD Outpatient Clinic
    • California Medical Detachment
    • Army Analytics Group
    • Fort Hunter Liggett
    • Governor’s Military Council
    • Monterey Bay Defense Alliance

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: Justice Department Declines Prosecution of Company That Self-Disclosed Export Control Offenses Committed by Employee

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    Note: View the declination letter here.

    The Justice Department today announced that it has declined the prosecution of Universities Space Research Association (USRA) after it self-disclosed to the Department’s National Security Division (NSD) criminal violations of U.S. export control laws committed by its former employee, Jonathan Soong. Soong pleaded guilty to willfully violating the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by exporting U.S. Army-developed aviation software to a university in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) that had been placed on the Commerce Department’s Entity List and was sentenced to 20 months in prison.

    “If we stay vigilant, all of us — including our citizens, small businesses, and large corporations — can play a critical role in protecting our country,” said Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “A criminal who compromised our national security was brought to justice because his employer caught him and immediately turned him in. We decline to prosecute his employer and are ready to work together with such responsible corporate actors who are committed to joining us in this fight to protect our country from foreign adversaries.”

    “USRA discovered that one of its employees was funneling sensitive aeronautics software to a Beijing university in violation of export control laws and at risk to our national security,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Robbins for the Northern District of California. “What the company did next made all the difference in the Government’s decision not to prosecute it: the company took swift and proactive measures to disclose the employee’s wrongdoing, provide all known facts, and cooperate – and continue to cooperate – with the government’s investigation.”

    According to court documents, in April 2016, USRA contracted with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to, among other things, license and distribute for a fee aeronautics-related and U.S. Army-owned flight control software. Soong was employed by USRA as a program administrator under the contract and was responsible for performing due diligence on prospective purchasers to ensure that the sale or transfer of software licenses complied with applicable law, including by checking the Entity List. Soong willfully exported software subject to the EAR to Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, also known as Beihang University (Beihang), a university in the PRC, knowing that an export control license was required for the export to Beihang because it was on the Entity List. Beihang was on the Commerce Department’s Entity List due to its involvement in the development of military rocket systems and unmanned air vehicle systems. Soong further used an intermediary to complete the transfer and export of the software to Beihang to avoid detection, and embezzled tens of thousands of dollars in software license sales by directing purchasers to make payment to an account he personally owned and controlled.

    This scheme continued until NASA inquired about the sales of software licenses to PRC-based purchasers and USRA began to investigate. Soong initially lied to USRA and fabricated evidence that he had conducted due diligence on the purchasers and provided it to USRA’s counsel to provide to NASA, but after USRA’s counsel investigated further and confronted Soong with evidence that contradicted his statements, he admitted to knowing that Beihang was on the Entity List when he exported the software to Beihang and that a license had been required for the export.

    Within days of learning that Soong had willfully violated U.S. export control laws, and before USRA had completed its own investigation to understand the scope of the misconduct, USRA self-disclosed the crime to NSD and fully cooperated with the ensuing criminal investigation, which eventually established that Soong had acted alone at USRA. USRA’s cooperation included proactively identifying, collecting, and disclosing relevant evidence to investigators, including foreign language evidence and evidence located overseas, and providing detailed and timely responses to the government’s requests for information and evidence. USRA remediated the root cause of the misconduct by disciplining a supervisory employee who failed appropriately to supervise Soong, and by significantly improving its internal controls and compliance program. USRA also compensated the government both for the funds Soong embezzled, and for the time Soong had spent embezzling funds instead of performing his duties under USRA’s contract with NASA.

    The Justice Department declined USRA’s prosecution after considering the factors set forth in the Department’s Principles of Federal Prosecution of Business Organizations and the National Security Division Enforcement Policy for Business Organizations (NSD Enforcement Policy). The NSD Enforcement Policy creates a presumption that companies that (1) voluntarily self-disclose to NSD potentially criminal violations arising out of or relating to the enforcement of export control or sanctions laws, (2) fully cooperate, and (3) timely and appropriately remediate will generally receive a non-prosecution agreement, unless aggravating factors are present.  In appropriate cases, the NSD Enforcement Policy authorizes prosecutors to go further, and exercise discretion to decline a company’s prosecution. This is the second time that NSD has exercised its discretion to decline the prosecution of a company under the NSD Enforcement Policy.

    The case was investigated by the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security; the Department of Defense’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service; and the FBI. The NASA Office of Inspector General; U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Army Counterintelligence; and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations provided valuable assistance.

    Trial Attorney Rachel Craft of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara Valliere for the Northern District of California prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: SecDef: “The men and women of America want to join the U.S. military led by President Donald Trump.”

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    #Trump #DonaldTrump #PresidentTrump #POTUS #USA #America #SecDef #Military #PeteHegseth #Hegseth

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JiWYBcYHcA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorneys for Southwestern Border Districts Charge More than 990 Illegal Aliens with Immigration-Related Crimes During the Fourth week in April as part of Operation Take Back America.

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Since the inauguration of President Trump, the Department of Justice is playing a critical role in Operation Take back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    Last week, the U.S. Attorneys for Arizona, Central California, Southern California, New Mexico, Southern Texas, and Western Texas charged more than 990 defendants with criminal violations of U.S. immigration laws.

    The Southern District of Texas filed 237 cases in immigration and security-related matters. As part of those cases, 124 face allegations of illegally reentering the country with the majority having felony convictions such as narcotics, firearms or sexual offenses, prior immigration crimes and more. A total of 106 people face charges of illegally entering the country, five cases involve various instances of human smuggling with the remainder relating to assault of an officer or other immigration-related crimes. As part of the cases filed this week, Carlos Verduco-Muniz faces charges of assault on a federal officer. He allegedly punched a Texas Military Department Specialist in the face during a pursuit to apprehend him near Rio Grande City. The charges allege he is a citizen and national of Mexico who was illegally present in the United States at the time of the assault.

    The Western District of Texas filed 344 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases. Among the new cases, Henry Cruz-Lemas, an illegal alien and a Honduran national previously convicted of aggravated kidnapping in September 2011 and sentenced to five years in prison. Cruz-Lemas was arrested on April 18 during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE ERO) investigation in San Antonio. He is charged with one count of illegal reentry of an alien. Jose Angel Escarcega-Briones, an illegal alien from Mexico, was found approximately four miles west of the Tornillo Port of Entry. Border Patrol Agents determined that he did not have immigration documents allowing him to be in the United States legally and that he has previously been removed from the United States five times. He has three prior convictions for illegal reentry as well as a federal drug trafficking conviction.

    The District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 232 defendants. Specifically, the United States filed 110 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 110 aliens for illegally entering the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States filed nine cases against 11 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona. The United States also charged one individual with failing to register, as required by law.

    The Southern District of California filed 134 border-related cases this week, including charges of transportation of illegal aliens, bringing in aliens for financial gain, reentering the U.S. after deportation, deported alien found in the United States, and importation of controlled substances.

    The Central District of California filed criminal charges against 32 defendants who allegedly illegally re-entered the United States after being removed. Many of the defendants charged were previously convicted of felonies before they were removed from the United States, offenses that include committing lewd and lascivious acts on a child under the age of 14 years. The crime of being found in the United States following removal carries a base penalty of up to two years in federal prison. Defendants who were removed after being convicted of a felony face a maximum 10-year penalty and defendants removed after being convicted of an aggravated felony face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.

    The District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies. In the one-week period ending April 25, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico: 67 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326), 10 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324), and 55 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325).

    We are grateful for the hard work of our border prosecutors in bringing these cases and helping to make our border safe again. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ocean County Man Sentenced to 180 Months in Prison for Receiving and Distributing Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TRENTON, N.J. – An Ocean County, New Jersey man was sentenced to 180 months in prison for receiving and distributing child pornography, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Christopher Budelman, 37, Brick, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Zahid N. Quraishi to an information charging him with two counts of receipt of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. Judge Quraishi imposed the sentence in Trenton federal court.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    In or around June 2022, while communicating via an online video chat site, Budelman enticed two minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct while he sexually pleasured himself. Budelman recorded and saved those video chats on his computer. Additionally, from in or around September 2021 to in or around June 2022, Budelman used two Kik Messenger accounts to send images and videos containing child pornography, including images and videos depicting prepubescent minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, to others.

    In addition to the prison term, Judge Quraishi sentenced Budelman to 10 years of supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, Atlantic City, New Jersey, under the direction of Special-Agent-in-Charge Ricky J. Patel in Newark; the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, under the direction of Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer; New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Superintendent Col. Patrick J. Callahan; and Brick Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Forrester, with the investigation leading to this sentencing.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Super Pitts of the Criminal Division in Trenton.

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

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    Defense counsel: John Bruno, Jr., Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: At Hearing, Warren Secures Commitment From Defense Nominee to Support AI Competition and Innovation in Defense Contracting

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    April 30, 2025

    Cadenazzi “thrilled” to work with Warren to stop anticompetitive practices in AI industry 

    Senator Warren plans to reintroduce the bipartisan Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act 

    Video of Exchange (YouTube)

    Washington, D.C. – At a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) secured a commitment from Mr. Michael P. Cadenazzi, nominee to be the next Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, to stop anticompetitive practices by Big Tech that could threaten our national security.

    Senator Warren explained that federal agencies should benefit from innovation in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector, but instead, a few Big Tech companies could lock the government into expensive, anticompetitive products. She highlighted lessons from recent White House guidance on the federal acquisition of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, explaining that the guidance could provide valuable takeaways to make sure Big Tech companies do not lock the government into expensive, anticompetitive products.

    This month, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a memo on “Driving Efficient Acquisition of Artificial Intelligence in Government.” The memo laid out guidance on proper practices, such as vendor lock-in protections and prohibiting the use of classified agency data. 

    Though the guidance does not apply to the Department of Defense (DoD), Mr. Cadenazzi agreed with OMB’s guidance on interoperability and believes “it’s a great thing for the [DoD] to secure.” Cadenazzi also said he’d be open to working with Senator Warren to limit contractors from training their commercial tools on government data. 

    Next week, Senator Warren plans to reintroduce the Protecting AI and Cloud Competition in Defense Act with Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO.). Senator Warren previously introduced the bipartisan act to ensure that the DoD’s procurement of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing tools prioritizes resiliency and competition, offering meaningful regulation to limit Big Tech monopolies from elbowing out competitors in the AI and cloud computing markets.

    “[G]overnment contracts for AI and cloud tools should, one, prevent lock-in and, two, protect government data,” said Senator Warren.

    “[A]rtificial intelligence represents the most promising capabilities for transformational productivity and impact of the department. I would be thrilled if confirmed to work with you and Senator Schmidt on this issue,” said Mr. Cadenazzi of the bill reintroduction. 

    Transcript: Hearing to examine the nominations of Michael Cadenazzi, of Rhode Island, to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense, and Scott Pappano, of Pennsylvania, to be Principal Deputy Administrator, National Nuclear Security Administration
    Senate Armed Services Committee
    April 29, 2025

    Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 

    Artificial intelligence presents big opportunities—and big risks—to national security. Federal agencies should benefit from AI innovation, but instead, a few Big Tech companies could lock the government into expensive, anticompetitive products.

    I’m working with Senator Schmitt on this, and last month, the Office of Management and Budget published guidance to ensure the government can “benefit from a competitive American AI marketplace.” The guidance doesn’t apply to DoD but is all the more important there given the billions DoD is set to give out in AI and cloud contracts. So today, I’d like to run through some lessons from OMB’s guidance.

    Number one: “interoperability.” A Big Tech contractor could build its cloud tool to work only with its own AI—which would trap DoD into paying sky-high prices, potentially for a subpar product. That’s why OMB encouraged agencies to require AI tools to work with other companies’ products.  

    Mr. Cadenazzi, do you agree that DoD would benefit from interoperability?

    Mr. Michael P. Cadenazzi: Senator, I appreciate the question. I’m not familiar with the term “interoperability” as defined in that particular report. But more broadly, in general, yes, it’s a great thing for the department to secure.

    Senator Warren: Okay, good. I’m going to take that as a yes, that you think the product should be able to work with other products. Work in connection.

    Mr. Cadenazzi: In general, more connectivity and flexibility to enable a networked approach is a good thing. 

    Senator Warren: Good. Okay, we’re at the same place then. Let’s do another: data use. The biggest AI contractors can also stomp out competition by training their models on troves of government data, so smaller companies don’t stand a chance. This is a disaster for competition and for data security. Data on the location of our service members or of DoD’s contracts shouldn’t be anywhere near a commercial AI model, for example. 

    The White House is clear here: it says contractors should not use government data to train publicly or commercially available AI algorithms without an agency’s permission. 

    So, Mr. Cadenazzi, do you agree it’s important for both competition and data security to limit contractors from training their commercial tools on government data? 

    Mr. Cadenazzi: Senator, I appreciate the question, and in general, yes, I’d say we want to make sure we’re following the law with regard to the application of these tools.

    Senator Warren: No, that’s not my question. This is not a question of law yet. This is just a question of what we should be doing in our acquisitions at DOD. 

    Mr. Cadenazzi: Senator, I’m not familiar with the White House’s particular guidance on this issue, but as you laid it out, it seems to make sense, and I would be supportive of discussing that with you if confirmed.

    Senator Warren: Okay. Look, government contracts for AI and cloud tools should, one, prevent lock-in and, two, protect government data. That’s all we’re talking about here. Senator Schmitt and I have a bipartisan bill to make sure DoD contracts do just that. Next week we will re-introduce the Protecting Cloud and AI Competition in Defense Act to make sure billions in DoD contracts go towards fueling innovation in AI and cloud technology – and not just helping the biggest companies get bigger on the taxpayer’s dime. 

    Mr. Cadenazzi, will you commit to working with me and Senator Schmitt to stop anticompetitive practices by Big Tech that could threaten our national security?  

    Mr. Cadenazzi: Senator, artificial intelligence represents the most promising capabilities for transformational productivity and impact of the department. I would be thrilled if confirmed to work with you and Senator Schmidt on this issue.

    Senator Warren: That looks good. I look forward to working with Senator Schmidt and with you and all of the members of this committee. I think we could make some real progress here. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Norcross Releases Statement on Republicans Plan to Raise Costs for Students

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), a member of the Education and Workforce Committee, released a statement on Republicans plan to raise costs for students and make it harder for them to find good-paying jobs.

    “Not only are Trump and his Republican friends in Congress trying to take away Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, they are now making draconian cuts to grants that support education for low-income and middle-class students. Families are struggling to make ends meet, and Trump’s only solution is to take funding away from working families and give their hard-earned money to his billionaire friends,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “By cutting the Pell Grant program that helps lower-income students afford college, eliminating an income-driven repayment program for student loans, and repealing regulations that are designed to protect students, Trump and House Republicans are doing everything they can to make education and good-paying jobs less accessible for American families.”

    Republicans plan to raise costs for students and make it harder for them to find good-paying jobs includes:

    • Cuts to Pell Grant eligibility by setting full-time attendance as 30 credits per year instead of 12 per semester – which would decrease the average Pell awards by 20%.
    • Eliminating an income-driven student loan repayment program.
    • Repealing regulations designed to protect students, including:
      • The bipartisan 90/10 regulation, which prevents for-profit colleges from duping veterans out of their hard fought GI bill benefits.
      • The Borrower Defense regulation, which provides student loan relief for millions of borrowers defrauded by their schools.
      • The Closed School Discharge regulation, which provides loan relief for students whose institutions closed before they completed their programs. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trilateral E-7A agreement marks new milestone with KC-46 certification

    Source: United States Air Force

    Headline: Trilateral E-7A agreement marks new milestone with KC-46 certification

    In a historic first, the U.S. Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, and Royal Air Force collaborated to rapidly improve global combat capability while gathering critical test data for future acquisition of the E-7A Wedgetail airborne early warning and control aircraft.

    MIL OSI USA News –