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Category: Military Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Veteran US pilot keeps memories of ‘Flying Tigers’ alive

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    GUIYANG, July 19 (Xinhua) — Jeffrey Green, a veteran pilot and chairman of the U.S.-China Aviation Heritage Foundation, has dedicated himself for nearly 30 years to preserving the legacy of the Flying Tigers and strengthening the friendship between China and the United States.

    D. Green’s connection with China began when he was invited to make a documentary on the “Flying Tigers” while working as a consultant on combat aviation history for the National Geographic military channel in the United States.

    The Flying Tigers, officially known as the American Volunteer Group of the Chinese Air Force, was formed in 1941 by American General Claire Lee Chennault. American airmen came to China to help the Chinese people fight the Japanese invaders.

    While losing over 2,000 men, the Flying Tigers pilots shot down over 2,600 Japanese fighters, providing significant assistance in the fight against Japanese aggression.

    In 1995, a group of Flying Tiger veterans invited D. Green to join their delegation to Beijing to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. This visit marked his first trip to China.

    After returning to the United States, Green and the veterans, determined to keep the memory of the Flying Tigers alive, founded the U.S.-China Aviation Heritage Foundation in 1998. Since then, the nonprofit organization has been dedicated to studying, promoting, and perpetuating the shared history of U.S.-China wartime cooperation.

    Over the years, the foundation has sponsored nearly 500 veterans and hundreds of their family members and descendants to travel to China. These encounters have produced many emotional and inspiring stories.

    “Every time I learned something that almost no one else knew, I was able to categorize it, creating a kind of library of these thoughts,” Greene said. “But they didn’t have many opportunities to tell their stories. As a result, they just got lost.”

    In 2022, the foundation launched the Flying Tigers Friendship School and Youth Leadership Program to encourage cross-cultural exchanges and pass on the Flying Tigers spirit to younger generations.

    “Young people are the key to intercultural exchanges between our two countries and the hope for the healthy development of China-US relations,” said D. Green.

    To date, nearly 100 high schools and universities in China have applied to participate in the program, signing memorandums of understanding to establish exchange partnerships.

    In a January 2025 letter to Green, former US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns praised the fund’s work, saying it “helps develop people-to-people ties, which are a cornerstone of the US-China bilateral relationship.”

    From Sunday to Thursday, Green led a delegation to Guizhou Province in southwest China to launch the new Flying Tigers Friendship School program and visit historic sites including the 24-Turn Road, which handled more than 2,000 trucks carrying military supplies daily during World War II, and Jiuzhou Airport in Huangping County, which was the Flying Tigers’ base.

    Next year, he plans to bring American students to Guizhou Province to see firsthand the living history of the two countries’ wartime cooperation.

    Now 71, Green has visited China nearly 200 times since the 1990s, bringing veterans, organizing memorial events and building new bridges between the peoples of China and the United States.

    “The Chinese have never forgotten what the Flying Tigers did for them. Eighty years ago, the Chinese and Americans together accomplished something almost impossible, which shows that if we work together, we can win,” said D. Green. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: BAY Miner Launches Groundbreaking Zero-Fee Cloud Mining Platform: A New Chapter in Direct Crypto Wealth Building

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, UK, July 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a bold move reshaping the future of cryptocurrency mining, BAY Miner has officially launched its powerful zero-commission cloud mining app, allowing global users to earn Bitcoin (BTC) and Ripple (XRP) instantly — with no hardware, no overhead, and no hidden costs. This high-impact launch is not a trial or a soft rollout — it’s a fully operational service backed by cutting-edge infrastructure, designed for scale and ready to transform the digital investment landscape.

    Direct, Transparent, and Built for the Future

    Positioned as one of the most direct and aggressive cloud mining solutions to date, BAY Miner removes the complexity and cost associated with traditional crypto mining. With just a smartphone or desktop browser, users can activate cloud-based mining services and receive daily rewards in BTC or XRP — all without touching a mining rig or worrying about energy bills.

    Unlike other platforms that layer fees into confusing contracts or maintenance agreements, BAY Miner offers a 100% zero-fee mining model. Every fraction of a coin mined is automatically and transparently deposited into the user’s wallet. No deductions. No fine print.

    Designed for Serious Crypto Growth — Not Gimmicks

    BAY Miner’s platform is tailored for investors who seek real results and demand maximum transparency. The mobile-optimized app features:

    • Activate now: Get a $15 welcome bonus right after signing up and start mining for free.
    • Daily Earnings Dashboard: Real-time data tracking and earnings overview.
    • Global Access: Available in all major regions, with optimized mining farms in place.
    • Military-Grade Security: End-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication ensure complete safety.
    • Flexible contract mechanism: You can choose from multiple contracts such as daily, weekly, and monthly, and switch freely according to your target income.

    Benefit Example (Visualization)

    BTC[Free Computing Plan]: Investment amount: $100, contract period: 2 days, daily income of $4, expiration income: $100 + $8

    LTC[Core Contract Plan]: Investment amount: $600, contract period: 6 days, daily income of $7.20, expiration income: $600 + $43.2

    DOGE[Core Contract Plan]: Investment amount: $5,000, contract period: 30 days, daily income of $75, expiration income: $5,000 + $2,250

    BTC[Electricity Contract Plan]: Investment amount: $10,000, contract period: 45 days, daily income of $165, expiration income: $10,000 + $7,425

    (The above profit examples may change slightly depending on market conditions and network performance. For the latest contract and profit details, please visit the official website www.bayminer.com.)

    This isn’t a soft launch — it’s a firm statement that BAY Miner is here to lead.

    Aggressive Market Penetration Strategy Underway

    To reinforce its position, BAY Miner has committed to a full-scale advertising and press campaign, already rolling out across digital media, global blockchain publications, financial platforms, and influencer networks. The company’s goal is crystal clear: rapid user acquisition backed by direct, measurable crypto payouts.

    “We built this platform for those tired of promises and ready for profits,” said BAY Miner’s spokesperson. “We’re not talking about what mining could be — we’re showing users what mining is when done right.”

    From YouTube ads and press releases to Telegram promotions and direct partnerships, BAY Miner is leaving no stone unturned.

    Built for Beginners. Powered for Pros.

    Whether you’re new to cryptocurrency or managing an advanced portfolio, BAY Miner offers a seamless gateway into automated, zero-effort digital mining.

    Users can select mining plans based on performance needs, investment size, or preferred currency, with all configurations maintained by BAY Miner’s professional technical team. There is no need for equipment maintenance, software updates, or troubleshooting — users simply log in and monitor growth.

    With one account, users get access to:

    • Dedicated servers operating 24/7
    • Automatic payouts in BTC and XRP
    • Zero hidden costs or locked contract periods
    • Lifetime access to performance analytics and earnings reports

    Why BAY Miner Stands Apart

    In an increasingly competitive cloud mining space, credibility, clarity, and consistency have become rare. BAY Miner stands out by focusing on long-term sustainability over short-term hype.

    • Performance Backed by Real Infrastructure: BAY Miner operates powerful, eco-optimized data centers in regions with favorable energy economics.
    • Regulatory Awareness: The company maintains compliance with local jurisdictions and international crypto mining standards.
    • User-Centric Design: Every step, from onboarding to withdrawal, is simplified for clarity and speed.

    Thousands of Users. Millions in Mining Power. Growing Daily.

    Since its initial rollout, BAY Miner has seen massive adoption — with thousands of users now benefiting from consistent crypto earnings. Early testimonials praise both the system’s reliability and the transparency of its financial operations.

    “I activated my account and began receiving XRP rewards on the same day,” shared investor Sarah O. from Dubai. “BAY Miner didn’t just promise earnings — they delivered.”

    Ready to Build Your Digital Wealth? Start Today.

    As cryptocurrency continues to grow in both value and adoption, BAY Miner offers an accessible and scalable way to take part in this financial revolution. There are no delays, no capital barriers, and no technical complications.

    To Get Started:

    1. Visit: https://www.bayminer.com
    2. Download the App: https://bayminer.com/xml/index.html#/app
    3. Register Your Free Account
    4. Select a Plan and Start Mining Instantly

    Whether you’re diversifying your portfolio or looking to enter the crypto space with confidence, BAY Miner is the premier no-fee mining platform designed to meet your goals.

    About BAY Miner

    BAY Miner is a global innovator in cloud-based cryptocurrency mining. Specializing in zero-commission XRP and BTC mining, the company provides powerful, secure, and scalable mining services to thousands of users worldwide. With a commitment to transparency and next-gen blockchain infrastructure, BAY Miner aims to make crypto mining efficient, profitable, and accessible for all.

    For media inquiries, partnerships, or more information: info@bayminer.com

    Your next crypto move begins now. BAY Miner — transparent, aggressive, and ready to mine.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa condemns Israeli attacks on Damascus and its announcement that it will continue to occupy Southern Syria

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    South Africa strongly condemns Israel’s latest attacks on the Syrian capital Damascus, on 16 July 2025, on the Syrian Ministry of Defence and air strikes near the Presidential Palace, which are a flagrant violation of the country’s territorial integrity and international law.

    Israel’s announcement on 17 July 2025, that it will continue to occupy Syrian territory south of the capital Damascus is a serious threat to Syria’s sovereignty. Israel’s redeployment of forces in the Golan Heights, its occupation of Quneitra near the Golan Heights, and its airstrikes on Suwayda, Daraa, and in the centre of Damascus are a military escalation that threatens security and stability in the country and the region.

    The United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, has called on Israel to cease any violations of Syria’s sovereignty and respect the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement. South Africa concurs with the UN Secretary-General, who also condemned Israel’s “escalatory airstrikes” and called for an immediate de-escalation of violence and measures to facilitate humanitarian access.

    – on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • ‘Step toward justice’: Tharoor applauds US for naming TRF a global terrorist organisation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As the United States has designated The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of the Pakistan-based LeT, as a global terrorist organisation, the move has been welcomed by former diplomat and senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor. The Thiruvananthapuram MP expressed hope on Saturday that the decision would increase international pressure on Pakistan to act against terror outfits operating from its soil.

    This follows US President Donald Trump’s strong call for justice in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 people.

    In a post on X, Shashi Tharoor said, “I welcome the US @StateDept’s designation of TheResistanceFront, the Lashkar proxy that claimed credit for #Pahalgam, as a terrorist organisation, adding pressure on Pakistan to curb its activities & bring it to heel.”

    In another post, Tharoor shared his insights from recent meetings in Washington.

    “In my private conversations in Washington, when I asked people bluntly why the US was still allowing Pakistan to get away with providing a safe haven to terrorist organisations, I was pointed to Pakistan’s alleged cooperation with the US on counter-terror operations, notably the recent surrender of the individual allegedly responsible for the Abbey Gate bombing that had killed 23 US Marines at Kabul Airport,” the Congress MP stated.

    Highlighting the need for consistent global action, Tharoor added, “Our scepticism about the quality and sincerity of Pakistani actions against terrorism reflects our own experience with those terror agencies that are directed against us, rather than those that the US deems hostile, such as ISIS–Khorasan. This is a step towards bridging the gap in perceptions between the US and us on this. It will help in our efforts to list TRF at the @UN as well.”

    The TRF had claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack, the deadliest terrorist strike on Indian civilians since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Following the incident, US President Trump had personally called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to offer condolences and express unwavering US support in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

    On Thursday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio formally announced the inclusion of TRF in the list of designated Foreign Terrorist Organisations (FTOs) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs).

    “This action demonstrates the Trump Administration’s commitment to protecting our national security interests, countering terrorism, and enforcing President Trump’s call for justice for the Pahalgam attack,” Rubio had said.

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had raised the issue during recent meetings with Rubio and at the Quad foreign ministers’ meeting in Washington, underscoring India’s call for coordinated global action against terror proxies like TRF.

    Meanwhile, an all-party parliamentary delegation led by Shashi Tharoor visited Washington last month to brief US lawmakers and officials about the role of TRF and Pakistan’s continued support for terror infrastructure. The designation is being hailed as a milestone in India-US counter-terror cooperation and a major step forward in holding state sponsors of terrorism accountable.

    –IANS

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi, Mauritanian President Ghazouani exchange congratulations on 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties 2025-07-19 15:16:52 Chinese President Xi Jinping and Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani exchanged congratulations Saturday on the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

    BEIJING, July 19 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping and Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani exchanged congratulations Saturday on the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

    Over the past 60 years, regardless of changes in the international landscape, the two sides have always respected each other and treated each other as equals, setting a model of mutual support and win-win cooperation between developing countries, Xi said.

    He noted that in recent years, China-Mauritania relations have been developing in a sound and stable manner, with growing political mutual trust and fruitful exchanges and cooperation across various fields.

    Xi recalled that he met with President Ghazouani last year during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit, where they reached important consensuses and jointly announced the elevation of China-Mauritania relations to a strategic partnership, marking a new chapter in bilateral ties.

    Xi said he attached great importance to developing China-Mauritania relations and is willing to work with Ghazouani to take the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties as a new starting point to carry forward the traditional friendship, deepen mutual trust and cooperation, and jointly open up a new future for the development of the China-Mauritania strategic partnership, so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples.

    For his part, Ghazouani said that over the past 60 years, his country and China developed a solid friendship featuring close cooperation at all levels and mutual support on international occasions.

    During the FOCAC Beijing Summit last September, he and Xi jointly lifted the exemplary bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, he said, calling the move a reflection of the deepening of bilateral ties, which will benefit the friendly people of the two countries, and help promote the security, prosperity and well-being of people around the world.

    On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang exchanged congratulatory messages with his Mauritanian counterpart, Mokhtar Ould Diay.

    In his message, Li said China is willing to make joint efforts with the Mauritanian side to take the 60th anniversary of bilateral ties as an opportunity to fully implement the important consensuses reached between Xi and Ghazouani, consistently enriching the content of the bilateral strategic partnership.

    For his part, Ould Diay said Mauritania firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is willing to work with China, under the wise guidance of the two presidents, to strengthen the bilateral strategic partnership, serving the development of both countries. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ICE deportation action lands Marshallese, Micronesians in Guantánamo ‘terror’ base

    By Giff Johnson, editor, Marshall Islands Journal/RNZ Pacific correspondent

    United States immigration and deportation enforcement continues to ramp up, impacting on Marshallese and Micronesians in new and unprecedented ways.

    The Trump administration’s directive to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to arrest and deport massive numbers of potentially illegal aliens, including those with convictions from decades past, is seeing Marshallese and Micronesians swept up by ICE.

    The latest unprecedented development is Marshallese and Micronesians being removed from the United States to the offshore detention facility at the US Navy base in Guantánamo Bay — a facility set up to jail terrorists suspected of involvement in the 9/11 airplane attacks in the US in 2001.

    Marshall Islands Ambassador to the US Charles Paul this week confirmed a media report that one Marshallese was currently incarcerated at Guantánamo, which is also known as “GTMO”.

    The same report from nationnews.com said 72 detainees from 26 countries had been sent to GTMO last week, including from the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia.

    A statement issued by the US Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE operations, concerning detention of foreigners with criminal records at GTMO said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was using “every tool available to get criminal illegal aliens off our streets and out of our country.”

    But the action was criticised by a Marshallese advocate for citizens from the Compact countries in the US.

    ‘Legal, ethical concerns’
    “As a Compact of Free Association (COFA) advocate and ordinary indigenous citizen of the Marshallese Islands, I strongly condemn the detention of COFA migrants — including citizens from the Republic of the Marshall Islands — at the US Naval Base in Guantánamo Bay,” Benson Gideon said in a social media post this week.

    “This action raises urgent legal, constitutional, and ethical concerns that must be addressed without delay.”

    Since seeing the news about detention of a Marshallese in this US facility used to hold suspected terrorists, Ambassador Paul said he had “been in touch with ICE to repatriate one Marshallese being detained.”

    Paul said he was “awaiting all the documents pertaining to the criminal charges, but we were informed that the individual has several felony and misdemeanor convictions. We are working closely with ICE to expedite this process.”

    Gideon said bluntly the detention of the Marshallese was a breach of Compact treaty obligations.

    “The COFA agreement guarantees fair treatment. Military detention undermines this commitment,” he said.

    Gideon listed the strong Marshallese links with the US — service in high numbers in the US military, hosting of the Kwajalein missile range, US military control of Marshall Islands ocean and air space — as examples of Marshallese contributions to the US.

    ‘Treated as criminals’
    “Despite these sacrifices, our people are being treated as criminals and confined in a facility historically associated with terrorism suspects,” he said.

    “I call on the US Embassy in Majuro to publicly address this injustice and work with federal agencies to ensure COFA Marshallese residents are treated with dignity and fairness.

    “If we are good enough to host your missile ranges, fight in your military, and support your defence strategy, then we are good enough to be protected — not punished. Let justice, transparency, and respect prevail.”

    There were 72 immigration detainees at Guantánamo Bay, 58 of them classified as high-risk and 14 in the low-risk category, reported nationnews.com.

    The report added that the criminal records of the detainees include convictions for homicide; sexual offences, including against children; child pornography; assault with a weapon; kidnapping; drug smuggling; and robbery.

    Civil rights advocates have called the detention of immigration detainees at Guantanamo Bay punitive and unlawful, arguing in an active lawsuit that federal law does not allow the government to hold those awaiting deportation outside of US territory.

    In other US immigration and deportation developments:

    • The delivery last month by US military aircraft of 18 Marshallese deported from the US and escorted by armed ICE agents is another example of the ramped-up deportation focus of the Trump administration. Since the early 2000s more than 300 Marshall Islanders have been deported from the US. Prior to the Trump administration, past deportations were managed by US Marshals escorting deportees individually on commercial flights.
    • According to Marshall Islands authorities, there have not been any deportations since the June 10 military flight to Majuro, suggesting that group deportations may be the way the Trump administration handles further deportations.
    • Individual travellers flying into Honolulu whose passports note place of birth as Kiribati are reportedly now being refused entry. This reportedly happened to a Marshallese passport holder late last month who had previously travel
    • led in and out of the US without issue.

    Most Marshallese passport holders enjoy visa-free travel to the US, though there are different levels of access to the US based on if citizenship was gained through naturalisation or a passport sales programme in the 1980s and 1990s.

    US Ambassador to the Marshall Islands Laura Stone said, however, that “the visa-free travel rules have not changed.”

    She said she could not speak to any individual traveller’s situation without adequate information to evaluate the situation.

    She pointed out that citizenship “acquired through naturalisation, marriage, investment, adoption” have different rules. Stone urged all travellers to examine the rules carefully and determine their eligibility for visa-free travel.

    “If they have a question, we would be happy to answer their enquiry at ConsMajuro@state.gov,” she added.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ICE deportation action lands Marshallese, Micronesians in Guantánamo ‘terror’ base

    By Giff Johnson, editor, Marshall Islands Journal/RNZ Pacific correspondent

    United States immigration and deportation enforcement continues to ramp up, impacting on Marshallese and Micronesians in new and unprecedented ways.

    The Trump administration’s directive to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to arrest and deport massive numbers of potentially illegal aliens, including those with convictions from decades past, is seeing Marshallese and Micronesians swept up by ICE.

    The latest unprecedented development is Marshallese and Micronesians being removed from the United States to the offshore detention facility at the US Navy base in Guantánamo Bay — a facility set up to jail terrorists suspected of involvement in the 9/11 airplane attacks in the US in 2001.

    Marshall Islands Ambassador to the US Charles Paul this week confirmed a media report that one Marshallese was currently incarcerated at Guantánamo, which is also known as “GTMO”.

    The same report from nationnews.com said 72 detainees from 26 countries had been sent to GTMO last week, including from the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia.

    A statement issued by the US Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE operations, concerning detention of foreigners with criminal records at GTMO said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was using “every tool available to get criminal illegal aliens off our streets and out of our country.”

    But the action was criticised by a Marshallese advocate for citizens from the Compact countries in the US.

    ‘Legal, ethical concerns’
    “As a Compact of Free Association (COFA) advocate and ordinary indigenous citizen of the Marshallese Islands, I strongly condemn the detention of COFA migrants — including citizens from the Republic of the Marshall Islands — at the US Naval Base in Guantánamo Bay,” Benson Gideon said in a social media post this week.

    “This action raises urgent legal, constitutional, and ethical concerns that must be addressed without delay.”

    Since seeing the news about detention of a Marshallese in this US facility used to hold suspected terrorists, Ambassador Paul said he had “been in touch with ICE to repatriate one Marshallese being detained.”

    Paul said he was “awaiting all the documents pertaining to the criminal charges, but we were informed that the individual has several felony and misdemeanor convictions. We are working closely with ICE to expedite this process.”

    Gideon said bluntly the detention of the Marshallese was a breach of Compact treaty obligations.

    “The COFA agreement guarantees fair treatment. Military detention undermines this commitment,” he said.

    Gideon listed the strong Marshallese links with the US — service in high numbers in the US military, hosting of the Kwajalein missile range, US military control of Marshall Islands ocean and air space — as examples of Marshallese contributions to the US.

    ‘Treated as criminals’
    “Despite these sacrifices, our people are being treated as criminals and confined in a facility historically associated with terrorism suspects,” he said.

    “I call on the US Embassy in Majuro to publicly address this injustice and work with federal agencies to ensure COFA Marshallese residents are treated with dignity and fairness.

    “If we are good enough to host your missile ranges, fight in your military, and support your defence strategy, then we are good enough to be protected — not punished. Let justice, transparency, and respect prevail.”

    There were 72 immigration detainees at Guantánamo Bay, 58 of them classified as high-risk and 14 in the low-risk category, reported nationnews.com.

    The report added that the criminal records of the detainees include convictions for homicide; sexual offences, including against children; child pornography; assault with a weapon; kidnapping; drug smuggling; and robbery.

    Civil rights advocates have called the detention of immigration detainees at Guantanamo Bay punitive and unlawful, arguing in an active lawsuit that federal law does not allow the government to hold those awaiting deportation outside of US territory.

    In other US immigration and deportation developments:

    • The delivery last month by US military aircraft of 18 Marshallese deported from the US and escorted by armed ICE agents is another example of the ramped-up deportation focus of the Trump administration. Since the early 2000s more than 300 Marshall Islanders have been deported from the US. Prior to the Trump administration, past deportations were managed by US Marshals escorting deportees individually on commercial flights.
    • According to Marshall Islands authorities, there have not been any deportations since the June 10 military flight to Majuro, suggesting that group deportations may be the way the Trump administration handles further deportations.
    • Individual travellers flying into Honolulu whose passports note place of birth as Kiribati are reportedly now being refused entry. This reportedly happened to a Marshallese passport holder late last month who had previously travel
    • led in and out of the US without issue.

    Most Marshallese passport holders enjoy visa-free travel to the US, though there are different levels of access to the US based on if citizenship was gained through naturalisation or a passport sales programme in the 1980s and 1990s.

    US Ambassador to the Marshall Islands Laura Stone said, however, that “the visa-free travel rules have not changed.”

    She said she could not speak to any individual traveller’s situation without adequate information to evaluate the situation.

    She pointed out that citizenship “acquired through naturalisation, marriage, investment, adoption” have different rules. Stone urged all travellers to examine the rules carefully and determine their eligibility for visa-free travel.

    “If they have a question, we would be happy to answer their enquiry at ConsMajuro@state.gov,” she added.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • ‘Symbol of courage and patriotism’: PM Modi remembers Mangal Pandey on birth anniversary

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid rich tributes to freedom fighter Mangal Pandey on his birth anniversary, describing him as a “pioneering warrior” who stood up to British rule and remains a symbol of courage and patriotism.

    In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Heartfelt tributes to the great freedom fighter Mangal Pandey on his birth anniversary. He was a pioneering warrior of the country who challenged British rule. His story of courage and valour will continue to be a source of inspiration for the people of the nation.”

    Mangal Pandey played a crucial role in sparking the Revolt of 1857 – often regarded as India’s first war of independence – a turning point that eventually led to the end of East India Company rule and the beginning of direct governance by the British Crown under the Government of India Act, 1858.

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah also honoured Pandey’s legacy, calling him an “unparalleled warrior” and a powerful symbol of patriotism. “Mangal Pandey, with the spark of his valour, turned the 1857 uprising into a massive flame, shaking the foundations of British rule,” Shah wrote on X.

    BJP National President J.P. Nadda saluted Pandey’s sacrifice, calling him the pioneer of India’s freedom struggle. “His legacy will continue to motivate future generations to serve the nation,” he said.

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh echoed similar sentiments, crediting Pandey with awakening a new consciousness of freedom. “By initiating the struggle against British rule, he awakened a new consciousness of freedom in the country,” Singh said in his tribute.

    Born in Nagwa village in Ballia district of present-day Uttar Pradesh, Mangal Pandey joined the Bengal Army in 1849 and was serving as a sepoy in the 34th Bengal Native Infantry when he famously defied colonial authority in March 1857. His act of resistance at the Barrackpore Cantonment served as a catalyst for the broader uprising that followed.

    — IANS

  • Amarnath Yatra proceeds peacefully, over 2.73 lakh pilgrims have had darshan

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The annual Amarnath Yatra continues to progress smoothly, with over 2.73 lakh pilgrims having had darshan at the holy cave shrine in the last 16 days since the pilgrimage began on July 3, officials confirmed.

    On Saturday, a fresh batch of 6,365 pilgrims departed from Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in two escorted convoys. The first convoy, comprising 92 vehicles, left at 3:25 a.m. with 2,851 pilgrims heading to the Baltal base camp, while the second convoy of 119 vehicles departed at 3:53 a.m., carrying 3,514 yatris to the Pahalgam base camp.

    Rituals associated with the Yatra are also underway. On July 10, the Bhumi Pujan of the Chhari Mubarak-the sacred mace of Lord Shiva-was performed at the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam. The ceremony was led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the custodian of the mace. The Chhari Mubarak was taken from its seat at Dashnami Akhara in Srinagar to Pahalgam and later returned to its original place. It will begin its final journey to the cave shrine on August 4 and reach on August 9, marking the culmination of the Yatra on Shravan Purnima, which also coincides with Raksha Bandhan.

    In the wake of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow—where 26 civilians were killed—authorities have implemented extensive multi-layered security measures. An additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been deployed to strengthen the existing presence of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police forces.

    Pilgrims can undertake the 38-day Yatra via two routes: the traditional Pahalgam route, a 46 km trek taking four days via Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni; or the shorter Baltal route, involving a 14 km trek that allows a return the same day. However, helicopter services have not been made available this year due to security concerns.

    The cave shrine, located at an altitude of 3,888 metres, houses a naturally formed ice stalagmite, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The formation is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle.

    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Announce Legislation to Protect Workers from Extreme Heat

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    July 18, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, both D-Ore., said today they have joined Senate colleagues in introducing legislation that would implement federal enforceable workplace heat stress protections in Oregon and nationwide.

    “As evidenced by this week’s high temperatures in Oregon, record-hot weather is here to stay thanks to the growing climate crisis,” Wyden said. “I applaud this legislation that takes common-sense steps to protect workers from preventable hazards like heatstroke. With the ongoing climate crisis driving up temperatures, I will keep battling for more protections for the hard-working Oregonians most exposed to dangerous heat conditions.”

    “Climate chaos is creating hotter, longer summers, putting many workers at risk of heat-related health issues on the job. Many Oregonians work outdoors – in our fields, in our forests, and off our shores and protecting them from the dangers of extreme heat is critical,” said Merkley. “The Asunción Valdivia Heat Stress Injury, Illness, and Fatality Prevention Act will provide essential safeguards in the workplace and help save the lives of working Americans.”

    The Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act would protect the safety and health of indoor and outdoor workers exposed to dangerous heat conditions in the workplace. The legislation would protect workers against occupational exposure to excessive heat by requiring the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to establish an enforceable federal standard to protect workers in high-heat environments with common-sense measures like paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water, limitations on time exposed to heat, and emergency response for workers with heat-related illness. The bill also directs employers to provide training for their employees on the risk factors that can lead to heat illness and guidance on the proper procedures for responding to symptoms.

    The bill is named in honor of Asunción Valdivia, who died in 2004 after picking grapes in California for 10 hours straight in 105-degree temperatures. Mr. Valdivia fell unconscious, but instead of calling an ambulance, his employer told Mr. Valdivia’s son to drive his father home. On his way home, he died of heat stroke at the age of 53.

    According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2024 was the warmest year on record for the United States. The past decade, including 2024, was the hottest on record, marking a decade of extreme heat that will only get worse. Heat-related illnesses can cause heat cramps, organ damage, heat exhaustion, stroke, and even death. Between 1992 and 2017, heat stress injuries killed 815 U.S. workers and seriously injured more than 70,000. The failure to implement simple heat safety measures costs U.S. employers nearly $100 billion every year in lost productivity.

    From 2011-2020, heat exposure killed at least 400 workers and caused nearly 34,000 injuries and illnesses resulting in days away from work; both are likely vast underestimates. Farm workers and construction workers suffer the highest incidence of heat illness. And no matter what the weather is outside, workers in factories, commercial kitchens, and other workplaces, including ones where workers must wear personal protective equipment , can face dangerously high heat conditions all year round.

    The bill was led by U.S. Senators Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., and Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., and U.S. Representatives Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, D-Va., and Alma Adams, D-N.C. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del., Cory Booker, D-N.J., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., Patty Murray, D-Wash., Jack Reed, D-R.I., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Peter Welch, D-Vt., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.

    The Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act has the support of a broad coalition of more than 250 groups, including: Rural Coalition, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, AFL-CIO, UNITE HERE!, Communication Workers of America, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, Sierra Club, United Farm Workers, Farmworker Justice, Public Citizen, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, Union of Concerned Scientists, United Steelworkers, National Resources Defense Council, American Lung Association, and Health Partnerships.

    “Every worker safety rule in America is written in blood,” said UFW President Teresa Romero. “The UFW has been fighting for heat safety protections for decades. Over 20 years later, Asuncion Valdivia’s death still hurts. There are so many other farm workers — many whose names we do not know — who have also been killed by extreme heat on the job in the years since. Enough is enough. Every farm worker deserves access to water, shade, and paid rest breaks — it’s past time for Congress get this done.”

    “Everyone deserves safe working conditions, but powerful corporations have not done enough to protect their workers from hot working environments, exacerbated by the climate crisis,” said Liz Shuler, President of the AFL-CIO. “Extreme heat is increasingly causing indoor and outdoor workers to collapse or even die on the job, and our union family has already lost too many members to preventable, work-related heat illness. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) must issue a strong heat rule, not a weak one, to ensure workers have specific protections they need and to be able to raise unsafe working conditions without fear of retaliation.”

    “It’s long past time for meaningful legislation to protect Teamsters and other workers from the effects of prolonged heat exposure and dangerous heat levels while at work,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “Paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water, and limitations on time exposed to heat are simple common sense steps that should be mandated immediately. Waiting to implement these measures is unacceptable and will result in the further loss of lives.”

    The full text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Historic MRC strike and allied air defense enables combined maneuver in Northern Australia

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    Northern Territory, Australia — In a historic first for the Indo-Pacific, U.S. and Australian forces executed a fully integrated precision fires sequence, July 15-16, 2025, leveraging the U.S. Army’s Mid-Range Capability (MRC), also known as the “Typhon” missile system, in coordination with the U.S Army’s 3rd Multi-Domain Task Force (MDTF), the Australian National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), and key enablers from the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D) 25.3 Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) to clear air and sea domains in support of joint and combined littoral maneuver during Exercise Talisman Sabre 25.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Marks Two Major Milestones For Project Ultra, Outlines Future Of Drone & Counter-Drone Initiative

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    07.18.25
    Senator Highlights Weekly Unmanned Cargo Flights Between Grand Forks & Cavalier, Secured Increased $100 Million Contract Ceiling for Project ULTRA
    EMERADO, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today outlined two major milestones for Project ULTRA, which further solidify North Dakota’s leadership in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-UAS technology development:
    Project ULTRA has started conducting unmanned cargo flights between Grand Forks Air Force Base and Cavalier Space Force Station.
    Under this initiative, the project partners will fly unmanned aircraft carrying up to 25 pounds of cargo between the two military installations on a weekly basis for the next year.
    Importantly, this is the first such UAS operation on a military base flying through the national airspace (NAS) and without a chase plane.
    By conducting such operations on a routine basis, Project ULTRA is writing the playbook for similar UAS operations at bases across the country.

    Hoeven has secured an agreement in principle with the Department of Defense (DoD) to increase the contract ceiling for Project ULTRA to $100 million, up from $18 million.
    The higher funding ceiling creates the opportunity for all military services to connect with expertise in the private sector utilizing Project ULTRA.
    This will enable DoD to more cost-effectively and quickly develop the capabilities it needs, including counter-drone technology.

    All of Project ULTRA’s funding is made available through annual defense appropriations legislation, which Hoeven helps write as a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee. These efforts are further bolstered by legislation Hoeven drafted authorizing the Air Force to conduct a pilot project that would use drones to resupply remote facilities that support nuclear missiles, like those in Minot. Hoeven’s legislation is included in the Senate’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act.
    “Today marks two major milestones for Project ULTRA – the beginning of weekly UAS cargo flights between two military bases and an increase of the initiative’s contract ceiling to $100 million,” said Senator Hoeven. “We’re leveraging this funding and the ecosystem we’ve been building in our state since 2005 to connect all of our military branches with even more private sector partners to realize a wide range of new capabilities, from innovative and efficient uses of UAS to protecting our military bases against threats from drones. That’s a big deal, because drone technology is front and center everywhere you look, whether in Ukraine and Russia, the Middle East, our military or the civilian sector. North Dakota will continue leading the way, due in large part to the good work of GrandSKY, the Northern Plains UAS Test Site and their partners to deliver results for our military that are on-time and on-budget.”
    The Project ULTRA partners undertaking the unmanned cargo flights include:
    GrandSKY.
    The Northern Plains UAS Test Site.
    Grand Forks County.
    Skyways, which is providing the aircraft.
    Simulyze, which is providing the traffic management system.
    Representatives from the Air Force, Navy and NASA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski Helps Advance First Four Spending Bills with Alaska Wins

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    07.18.25
    Washington, DC – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, voted to advance four bills for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) that contain significant investments for Alaska. The four appropriations bills that passed committee are for Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies (AG); Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon); Commerce, Justice, and Science and Related Agencies (CJS); and Legislative Branch (LEG). All were approved in committee, and will now advance to the Senate floor for consideration.
    “With crucial investments in affordable housing, infrastructure, public safety, and fisheries, we are addressing some of the most pressing challenges faced by Alaskans, and helping the sustainability and future of not only our communities, but our way of life. I am proud to fight for Alaskan priorities and ensure that our state’s needs are met,” said Senator Murkowski.
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE COMMERCE, JUSTICE, AND SCIENCE (CJS) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Supporting NOAA’s Mission in Alaska
    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a vital partner for the state of Alaska, leveraging partnerships at federal, state, local, and Tribal levels. NOAA provides everything from real time weather forecasts to fisheries monitoring, so that our communities are safe and our way of life is sustainable. To that end, Senator Murkowski prioritized ensuring the agency had programmatic support from the CJS Appropriations Bill to further advance their core missions in Alaska.
    One of the largest wins included $75 million for NOAA to recapitalize vessels, so that the fleet can continue to provide state-of-the-art weather forecasts and fisheries monitoring. The budget also included a $1 million increase for the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) Regional Observations, which directly supports Alaska’s Ocean Observing System.
    Wins for NOAA Fisheries that will support sustainable seafood harvesting and conserving habitat:
    $10 million increase for Fisheries Surveys to support the historical levels of Alaska trawl surveys and exploring shifting fish stocks
    $3.125 million for the Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP), an increase of $250,000. This program was established to develop improved fishing practices and gear technologies in the effort of reducing bycatch.
    $4 million for the Fishery Survey Contingency Fund, which was established through the U.S. Treasury to compensate Alaska fishermen for economic losses.
    $5.5 million increase for Salmon Management Activities, which will be used to support the production of 42 million hatchery fish, to help increase the harvest for Tribal, commercial, and recreational fisheries.
    $41.5 million for the Pacific Salmon Treaty, a $500K increase from last fiscal year. This funding will go towards joint United States/Canada management of salmon fishing to prevent over-fishing and provide for optimum harvest
    $58.4 million for Observers and Training, including $2 million for the North Pacific Observer Program. These programs are essential for the conservation and management of fisheries in the Bering Sea, Aleutian Island, and Gulf of Alaska
    Wins for NOAA Weather & Climate Monitoring Systems
    $5 million increase for the National Data Buoy Center (NDBC). The NDBC is a network of monitoring infrastructure that collects and analyzes real-time data to ensure maritime safety.
    $10 million increase for Analyze, Forecast, and Support – includes language supporting tsunami detection and response systems relevant to Alaska.
    Advancing Connectivity in Alaska
    Senator Murkowski has set herself apart with her focus on broadband infrastructure in Alaska, shepherding record investment to the state through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021. She continues to be a leader in the space, inserting report language in the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program that acknowledges Alaska’s challenges with short construction seasons and logistics, laying the groundwork for future flexibility and support if needed. She also directed the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to consider supplemental funding that would ensure rural and remote Tribal projects are completed.
    Promoting Public Safety in Alaska
    Public safety in Alaska is always foremost on Senator Murkowski’s mind—particularly in our rural communities. She used the CJS bill as a vehicle for direct investment towards advancing that goal. The bill includes an increase in funding for the Tribal Youth Program, which does everything from improvements to the juvenile justice system, invest in alcohol and substance abuse prevention programs, and offer mental health services for Tribal youth. She was able to secure a 5% Tribal Set-Aside in the Crime Victims Fund along with strong report language that supports Tribal flexibility and streamlined access. The Senator also included increased funding for Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction, with language supporting Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) efforts and improved Department of Justice (DOJ) grant coordination for Native communities. Additionally, the bill follows up on the Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on MMIW with a directive for immediate reporting.
    Alaska faces some of the highest rates of sexual assault per capita of any state, and Senator Murkowski was intent on using the CJS bill to address this crisis. She approved an almost tripling of the Sexual Assault Forensic Exam Grants funding, which will support training and resources for forensic examination of sexual assault survivors. The Senator also included report language directing the Office for Victims of Crime/Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention to support Alaska-specific Child Advocacy Centers.
    The bill also includes funding increases for Transitional Housing Assistance, Underserved Populations Program, Regional Information Sharing Systems, and Veterans Treatment Courts.
    Investing in Arctic Research
    As the leading expert in Congress on Arctic policy and polar affairs, Senator Murkowski uses her position to advance American priorities in the North. The bill provides $9.1 billion, just $60 million below the last enacted level – preserving support for critical Arctic scientific research despite tight fiscal constraints. Arctic research remains a priority, with the National Science Foundation (NSF) playing a key role in supporting long-term monitoring, infrastructure development, and partnerships with Alaska-based institutions and Indigenous communities.
    In addition to broader programmatic funding to help Alaskans, Murkowski was able to secure investments in this bill that are specific to local 17 Alaska communities or entities, projects that have been requested and prioritized by local governments and organizations:
    Anchorage: $305,000 to support the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in Alaska so they can further advance their mission of catching child sexual predators
    Anchorage: $1.5 million for the University of Alaska Anchorage to acquire specialty equipment that will help propel the institution to be a leader in biotechnological innovation, leveraging Alaska’s Arctic environment
    Bethel: $70,000 for the purchase and installation of a new security system at the Bethel Police Department’s headquarters
    Cordova: $355,000 to update equipment for climate and ecosystem monitoring as part of a ten-year long study of the region
    Fairbanks: $1.5 million to develop drone-borne maritime lidar to count salmon.
    Statewide: $498,000 for the creation and deployment of a Mobile Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) that will provide coordinated care to survivors of sexual assault in rural communities where traditional, stationary services may not be readily available
    Southeast: $500,000 for Sealaska Heritage Institute to develop and implement a sustainable workforce development program to address growth in fisheries and ocean sciences in Southeast Alaska over the next ten years
    Ketchikan: $3 million to upgrade its radio communication system, which has been identified as an essential public safety need in the after-action plan following recent landslides to improve disaster response and community resilience
    Statewide: $2 million for the Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation to modernize and revitalize Alaska’s seafood industry by investing in processing innovation, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements.
    Statewide: $2.5 million for the North Pacific Research Board to investigate how ecosystem changes in the Northern Bering Sea influence species of commercial, ecological, and subsistence importance to inform local, state, and federal fisheries management
    Statewide: $1 million to help implement Next Generation 911, which will improve location accuracy and system resiliency for emergency call centers
    Statewide: $500,000 for the Bering Sea Fisherman’s Association to enable Tribes and Tribal organizations to participate as Cooperating Agencies in environmental analysis and management decisions made by federal agencies that affect subsistence resources.
    Statewide: $165,000 for the Alaska Ocean Observing System to purchase an Imaging Flow CytoBots (IFCBs) to continue monitoring for harmful algal blooms.
    Statewide: $1 million for Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center to support Tribes in implementing survivor-centered and trauma-informed programs in Tribal justice systems
    Statewide: $3.5 million for the Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (ANDVSA) to support their mission of serving survivors of gender-based violence
    Unalaska: $3.5 million for the Bristol Bay Science and Research Institute to genetically analyze chum salmon from the pollock fishery bycatch in the Bering Sea to determine when and where Western Alaska chum salmon are being caught
    Valdez: $5.5 million to replace obsolete and failed emergency services communication towers and equipment
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES (AG) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Investments in housing and community development
    Affordable housing remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Alaska and our country. Senator Murkowski was intent on using the AG spending bill to address this challenge, particularly in rural communities where the cost of development remains prohibitively high. She supported $1.715 billion for the Rental Assistance Program, which will help low-income families around the country with for affordable rental housing in rural areas. She was able to secure $25 million for very low-income housing repair grants so that Alaskans can stay in their homes safely.
    Also included in the legislation was $1.25 billion for direct loans to improve critical infrastructure such as public safety buildings and community centers in rural communities.
    Updating Alaska’s clean water and utility infrastructure
    Senator Murkowski has made it her mission to ensure Alaska has the infrastructure to support daily life – no matter what community Alaskans’ call home. She was able to include $65 million for Rural Water and Waste Disposal Grants, and inserted report language that would prioritize Alaska Native communities. She also was able to secure $8 million for the High Energy Cost Grant Program, which assists energy providers in lowering energy costs for families with extremely high per-household energy costs.
    Bolstering food security and agriculture
    Senator Murkowski has been focused on bolstering Alaska’s food security for many years. She was able to secure a number of Alaska-specific wins, including:
    $5 million for Micro-Grants for Food Security, with report language prioritizing eligibility for reindeer herders, greenhouse growers, and hydroponic farmers
    $5 million for Alaska Native-Serving Institutions to promote equal access to education in rural Alaska and provide sustainable food and energy solutions for Alaska Native communities
    $3.5 million for the Geographically Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Transportation Program, helping offset high freight costs for Alaskan producers
    $3 million for the FDPIR 638 Contracting Authority Pilot, with direction for the USDA to allow direct purchases of traditional foods directly from small indigenous producers
    $888.9 million for the Summer Food Service Program, with report language supporting the continued implementation of non-congregate meal service to ensure low-income students can eat while school is out
    $1.826 billion for Agricultural Research Service, with continued funding for research on cover crops and cereal grains for northern climates and permafrost regions
    In addition, the bill includes $80 million for The Emergency Food Assistance Program’s storage and distribution funding to ensure rural food banks can receive supplies; a $3 billion increase for Child Nutrition programs, including School Breakfast and School Lunch programs, and the Child and Adult Care Food Program, as well as a $603 million increase to fully fund Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The bill also directs USDA to work with states, tribes, and local stakeholders to use federal nutrition dollars for the direct purchase of foods from local and regional producers for the various food assistance programs.
    In addition to programmatic funding to help Alaskans, Murkowski was able to secure investments in this bill that are specific for 10 Alaska communities, projects that have been requested and prioritized by local governments and organizations:
    Bethel: $605,000 to establish a permanent Food Bank and Pantry in Bethel
    Eagle: $750,000 for the construction of a fire hall/public safety building for the local fire department and Emergency Medical Services team
    Houston: $1.95 million for the construction of Public Works Facility so preventive maintenance can be performed on equipment
    Kenai: $2.045 million for the installation of telecommunications infrastructure to improve emergency response times and enhance public communications
    Nunapitchuk: $55,000 to develop a Preliminary Investigation Feasibility Report whether the Native Village of Nunapitchuk can pursue a community-wide relocation project in the Nunavakanukakslak Lake-Johnson River Watershed
    Petersburg: $225,000 to purchase emergency response equipment for the local fire department
    Statewide: $4.2 million for Alaska Municipal League to purchase heavy equipment for several communities designed to conduct road improvements and maintain infrastructure in rural Alaska
    Statewide: $750,000 to expand veterinary care in rural Alaska to prevent zoonotic disease outbreaks in communities off the road system
    Whittier: $310,000 for the removal and abatement of asbestos hazards in community housing where 85% of the city’s residents live
    Wrangell: $2.438 million to rehabilitate Wrangell’s Public Safety Building and Emergency Operations Center
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES (MILCON) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Ensuring Alaska’s military bases are state-of-the-art facilities
    Senator Murkowski is committed to supporting servicemembers in Alaska to ensure they have access to up-to-date resources as they protect and defend our nation, but also bolster their personal well-being as they adapt to life in Alaska. She secured over $400 million in programmatic funding for a Joint Integrated Testing and Training Center (JITTC) at JBER for the Air Force, a base supply complex at JBER for the Air National Guard, and a barracks at Fort Wainwright for the Army.
    Supporting Alaska’s veterans
    Senator Murkowski was able to secure funding for the construction of State Extended Care Facilities and Veterans Cemeteries. She also secured report language directing the VA to focus on benefits eligibility education for veterans who lack a direct road connection to a VA facility. She also secured her annual bill language to allow for care-sharing agreements between Federally Qualified Health Centers in the State of Alaska and Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations which are party to the Alaska Native Health Compact with the Indian Health Service. She made certain that the VA received full funding for mental health programs, telehealth programs, women veteran gender-specific care programs, homelessness programs, and for the Office of Rural Health.
    In addition to programmatic funding, Murkowski was able to secure investments in this bill that are specific for 3 of Alaska military installations, projects that have been requested and prioritized by the Department of Defense:
    JBER: $45 million to complete the runway extension project for the Air Force.
    Eielson Air Force Base: $6.7 million to finish planning and designing of a new permanent party dormitory for the Air Force.
    Fort Wainwright: $7.7 million to begin the planning and designing of a new dining facility for the Army.
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH (LEG) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Senator Murkowski inserted report language in the Legislative Branch FY26 Appropriations Act that incentivizes the Senate Dining Room and food-service facilities in the Capitol to source domestic seafood products, including wild-caught Alaska salmon.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Topnotch Crypto Launches Revolutionary AI-Powered Cloud Mining Platform Ahead of 2025 Cryptocurrency Surge

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Houston, Texas, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Topnotch Crypto, a visionary leader in blockchain innovation, today proudly announces the launch of its revolutionary AI-powered cloud mining platform. This cutting-edge platform promises to redefine cryptocurrency mining by leveraging artificial intelligence and cloud computing to deliver unparalleled efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability.

    As cryptocurrency ushers in a wave of growth in 2025, Topnotch Crypto helps miners and investors seize the opportunity and mine Bitcoin efficiently.

    Artificial Intelligence: The Catalyst for Mining Evolution

    Historically, cryptocurrency mining was done with expensive hardware, a considerable amount of technical knowledge, and a huge amount of energy usage, among other things. Topnotch Crypto, gives users the ability to mine crypto without hardware expenses or technical hurdles, and still allows users to mine both profitably and efficiently, all thanks to a marketplace disruption that combines advanced AI algorithms that verify and optimize all aspects of mining from start-to-finish. 

    The AI can watch the network difficulty, energy costs, and profitability of mining in real-time and use all these variables to change mining parameters, reallocate standing computational power, determine when preventative maintenance will be needed, and maximize machine uptime and outputs, all in real-time. This all takes the potential for human error out of the process and decreases operational cost. 

    Overall, our AI based platform allows you the ability to mine cryptocurrencies at anytime, or anywhere, with almost no knowledge requirements or upfront capital. This degree of autonomy allows mining to expand to everyone. 

    User-Friendly and Scalable for All

    We built Topnotch Crypto’s cloud mining platform to be inclusive and flexible. Its user-friendly interface allows rookie users to mine in just a few minutes. More advanced and institutional users can take advantage of customizable and scalable contracts.

    Whether you’re an individual investor interested in generating passive income, or a large corporation looking to diversify your crypto portfolio, Topnotch allows for all sizes. Users can also easily scale mining power up and down depending on the market shifts and investment strategy.

    Topnotch’s mobile and desktop interfaces allow for easy on-the-go management so users can have control of their mining operations anywhere, at any time.

    Positioning for the 2025 Cryptocurrency Boom

    Market analysis suggests that 2025 will be a pivotal year for cryptocurrency. Adoption on an institutional level will be skyrocketing, and regulations across the globe will be relatively mature. Additionally, prices for Bitcoin and other large coins will have skyrocketed.

    At this time, Topnotch Crypto gives its users a unique advantage with its new AI powered mining platform. Users can mine before the boom and accumulate ownership of cryptocurrencies at a lower price, thus exponentially multiplying their profits when demand does catch up to prices.

    Unwavering Commitment to Security and Transparency

    As an industry suffering from security risks, Topnotch Crypto’s dedication to user assets and data has never been more essential. By utilizing end-to-end encryption, mufti-factor authentication and smart contracts on the blockchain, Topnotch Crypto is able to build a stronghold focused on protecting user assets and data against hacks and unauthorized access.

    Transparency is equally important. Users have access to detailed real time dashboards showing hash rates, user earnings, AI optimizations and transaction history. Every payout is verified on-chain as verifiable proof of the mining activity.

    Together, security and transparency can ensure user confidence and foster long-term trust.

    Leading the Charge Toward Sustainable Mining

    With concerns about the environment growing ever since the industry has become known for its high energy consumption, it is taking a toll on the image of cryptocurrency mining. Topnotch Crypto is setting a standard for the industry to follow, and they are tackling the issue in an environmentally friendly manner.

    Topnotch Crypto operates from energy-efficient data centres that utilize renewable sources of energy, such as solar and wind. Also, through Artificial Intelligence, the energy usage is continually optimized to eliminate waste and further reduce the carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.

    With this level of commitment to sustainability, Topnotch Crypto is positioning itself along with the global ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) initiatives, appealing to investors who care about the environment. 

    Platform Features That Set Topnotch Crypto Apart

    • AI Mining Optimization: Ensured productivity and performance maximized with real-time and automated changes to mining parameters. 

    • Zero threshold to participate: Register with your email address and receive a $15 newbie gift, and enjoy the free mining experience.

    • Security: Military grade encryption methods and blockchain smart contracts. 

    • Flexible and scalable packages: Built for independent miner users, although methodologies developed will also be able to scale for institutional clients. 

    • Withdrawals and reporting: You can access all your earnings or gains immediately,  along with blockchain verifiable proof of payment. 

    • Any Time, Anywhere: You can access either your desktop or favorite mobile device from anywhere in the world. 

    • Eco-Friendly Infrastructure: Committed to sustainable mining and utilizing electricity from renewable sources, with AI monitoring.

    About Topnotch Crypto

    Topnotch Crypto leads the blockchain industry in the area of democratizing access to cryptocurrency mining and investment. We use a combination of AI and cloud computing, with security and sustainability, to provide unique, innovative, solutions that empower every person around the world to participate in the digital economy, confidently.

    For more information, visit https://topnotchcrypto.com

    Media Contact: info@topnotchcrypto.com

    Embrace the future of cryptocurrency mining today. Join the AI-powered revolution and prepare for the 2025 crypto boom with Topnotch Crypto. 

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or a trading recommendation. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and may result in the loss of funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bill to Fund Key Military Construction Projects in Maine Clears Appropriations Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Published: July 18, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured significant funding and provisions for Maine in the Fiscal Year 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.
    The measure, which was advanced by a vote of 26-3, provides $153.5 billion in discretionary funding, including $19.8 billion in defense funding and $133.6 billion in nondefense funding.
    “The dedicated men and women that make up the Maine National Guard and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard workforce play an important role in strengthening our national security. This significant investment would help to ensure our military’s readiness and safety while reducing maintenance costs,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to champion this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”
    Bill Highlights:
    Local Projects: $9 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects that support the Maine National Guard and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
    Power Reliability & Water Resiliency Upgrades: Nearly $228 million for the first increment of Power Reliability & Water Resilience Upgrades at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The project would increase reliability, resiliency, and capacity of electric and water utility systems that support nuclear-powered submarines and nuclear support facilities.
    Multi-Mission Drydock #1: Nearly $221 million for the sixth increment of the Multi-Mission Drydock #1 at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
    Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP): Report language on the SIOP emphasizing its importance and urging the Navy to prioritize the timely funding of public shipyard infrastructure.
    GI Bill Apprenticeship Program: Report language driving attention on the underutilization of apprenticeship and on-the-job training under the GI Bill.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: US, Australian C-17s spearhead multinational joint force entry during Talisman Sabre 25

    Source: United States Airforce

    QUEENSLAND, Australia (AFNS) —  

    Multiple U.S. Air Force and Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster IIIs executed a joint force-entry operation into Australia, deploying U.S. Army and international paratroopers in support of Talisman Sabre 25.

    Originating from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, the mission spanned the immense distances of the Pacific, sustained by U.S. Air Force aerial refueling operations. It culminated in the precision insertion of 314 U.S. Army 11th Airborne Division, Australian Defence Force and German Army paratroopers into a designated drop zone in eastern Australia.

    “We employ large formations to quickly and effectively place mass at the time and place of our choosing,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christopher Bukowski, 535th Airlift Squadron, 15th Wing, director of operations. “Executing a drop like this at speed and scale, and in conjunction with our allies and joint partners, is crucial to honing that skill and sending a deterrent message to our adversaries.”

    The one-way, trans-Pacific journey spanned over 6,200 miles and was conducted by 13 C-17 aircraft assigned to the 15th Wing, Pacific Air Forces, 437th Airlift Wing, Air Mobility Command, and 164th Airlift Wing, Tennessee Air National Guard, underscored the robust U.S.-Australia partnership and shared commitment to regional defense.

    “Through the strategic employment of U.S. Air Force mobility aircraft, our highly proficient teams—operating in close coordination with partners and allies — refined the ability to project personnel and mission-critical material across the vast Pacific with precision and speed,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Ana Donohue, 535th Airlift Squadron C-17 pilot. “This critical capability was showcased during a recent joint forcible entry operation, where the air domain proved to be the decisive bridge between strategic airlift and ground-based objectives, enabling the rapid achievement of essential outcomes across a geographically expansive and demanding operational theater.”

    The meticulous planning required for this complex joint force-entry operation extended months in advance of the Talisman Sabre 2025 exercise, highlighting the extensive coordination between allied forces.

    Talisman Sabre, the largest bilateral military exercise between Australia and the United States, is pivotal to advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific. It fortifies relationships and interoperability among key allies and partners, concurrently enhancing collective capabilities to address a spectrum of complex security challenges.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Rescue squadrons unite, strengthen interoperability during REFORPAC

    Source: United States Airforce

    Resolute Force Pacific highlights how exercises strengthen combined capability and coordination for real-world contingencies across the Indo-Pacific region.

    MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) —  Airmen of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force Air Rescue Wing, the U.S. Air National Guard’s 102nd Rescue Squadron, and the 130th Rescue Squadron came together for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific 2025 at Misawa Air Base, July 15.

    The event featured aircraft from both nations, including a JASDF UH-60J helicopter and U-125A search-and-rescue coordination aircraft, as well as a U.S. Air Force HC-130J Combat King II from the 102nd Rescue Squadron.

    “The goal of the capabilities briefing and aircraft tours was to enable partner nation integration and foster mutual understanding among our rescue squadrons,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Richard Conner, 130th Rescue Squadron HC-130J rescue loadmaster. “This lays the groundwork for future collaboration in the INDOPACOM area, which is a part of our unit’s mission.”

    The static display was one of many engagements conducted as part of REFORPAC, a Pacific Air Forces-led contingency readiness exercise nested under the Department of the Air Force’s new Department-Level Exercise series. This DLE is a first-in-a-generation approach to preparing for operations in contested, dynamic environments, spanning more than 50 locations and involving more than 12,000 joint and coalition personnel and over 400 aircraft.

    U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 102nd and 130th Air Rescue Squadrons are shown a Japan Air Self-Defense Force Air Rescue Wing UH-60J helicopter for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific 2025 at Misawa Air Base, July 15, 2025. The interaction reinforces REFORPAC’s goal to deepen allied coordination and advance shared security objectives in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Koby Mitchell)
    U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 102nd and 130th Rescue Squadrons are shown a Japan Air Self-Defense Force Air Rescue Wing U-125A search-and-rescue coordination aircraft for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) at Misawa Air Base, July 15, 2025. Events like this highlight how REFORPAC strengthens combined capability and coordination for real-world contingencies across the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Koby Mitchell)
    A Japan Air Self-Defense Force Airman assigned to the Air Rescue Wing displays the internals of a UH-60J helicopter for a cross-unit static display and capability exchange during exercise Resolute Force Pacific 2025 at Misawa Air Base, July 15, 2025. These exchanges support REFORPAC’s objective to improve understanding and reinforce multilateral response readiness in contested environments. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Koby Mitchell)

    Throughout the display, participating Airmen discussed aircraft capabilities and differences in personnel recovery methods.

    “One notable difference is in the pararescue insertion methods,” Conner said. “JASDF Pararescue typically insert via hoist from the UH-60J, since their fixed-wing aircraft belong to the Airlift Command. Meanwhile, our HC-130J enables personnel airdrops, which allows our Pararescue to get to the fight.”

    Conner also pointed out technical details that stood out during the tour.

    “I was surprised to see the UH-60J outfitted with external fuel tanks — that really extends its loiter time,” he added.

    More than a showcase of equipment, the event fostered personal relationships, improved operational communication and strengthened shared tactics.

    “This event is extremely important in building a framework for further cooperation,” Conner said. “It puts faces and names to specific units and enables us to fly real-world missions together during REFORPAC. By briefing and mission planning together, we’re able to execute helicopter air-to-air refueling and speak the same language and brevity terms while flying in close formation over the Sea of Japan.”

    The visit concluded with a group photo symbolizing shared commitment among the rescue units. A common thread across all participating squadrons stood out: their shared motto, That Others May Live.

    “Everyone got a kick out of the fact that our units all share the same motto,” Conner said. “It’s a powerful reminder that no matter the uniform, our mission is the same.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: REFORPAC 2025: US Air Force executes unprecedented surge into Pacific theater

    Source: United States Airforce

    JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (AFNS) —  Over the last week, U.S. Pacific Air Forces accomplished a rapid, mass deployment and reception of personnel, equipment and aircraft to multiple locations in the Indo-Pacific theater of operations for Exercise Resolute Force Pacific 2025.

    “We’ve seen amazing global teamwork completing an incredible lift to kick off REFORPAC,” said Gen. Kevin Schneider, PACAF commander. “Airmen have innovated and overcome tough obstacles to get critical pieces in place, demonstrating our collective capability to project decisive air power into and throughout the Indo-Pacific with dramatic speed and scale.”

    The U.S. Air Force, alongside its joint allies and partners, will continue to train and integrate over the next several weeks, enhancing interoperability and readiness across the Pacific theater. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, a new way the Air Force is exercising to conduct large operations in contested, dynamic environments. The aim is to improve interoperability and multilateral cooperation, leading to a stronger, more capable, deterrent force.

    The DLE series encompasses all branches of the Department of Defense, along with allies and partners, employing approximately 400 U.S. and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations spanning 3,000 miles.

    The monumental effort is made possible by extensive planning and coordination efforts throughout the Air Force, along with joint, allied and partner forces, which have shown the ready ability of combined joint forces to mobilize in great numbers for any contingency. In lockstep with PACAF, Air Mobility Command has provided critical airlift, air refueling and command and control capabilities to project, connect, maneuver and sustain joint forces.

    “We’re witnessing a complex operation in the Indo-Pacific driven by logistics – rapid, deliberate and mission-driven,” said Brig. Gen. Athanasia Shinas, mobilization assistant to PACAF’s director of logistics. “Our Total Force concept is critical to this capability, leveraging the unparalleled expertise and diverse talent drawn from every industry and sector of society through our Guard and Reserve. This integration creates extraordinary opportunities to strengthen our Total Force and coalition Airmen.”

    Airmen are exercising robust contested logistics and engineering capabilities, sustainment over vast distances, fuel resupply and access to forward operating locations.

    U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron stand by for mission operations in support of Department-Level Exercise 2025 as part of the 374th Air Expeditionary Wing at Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 14, 2025. Through this DLE, the Department of the Air Force is preparing to be a stronger, more lethal deterrent force, to provide an advantage against competitors and adversaries across all domains, and to ensure regional stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Kayla Karelas)
    U.S. Airmen assigned to the 106th Rescue Wing disembark from a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft ahead of their support for exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 2025 at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 11, 2025. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, employing more than 400 Joint and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations across 3,000 miles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Andre Medina)
    U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II’s from the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing park on the flight line in Guam for Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 25 exercise, July 12, 2025. REFORPAC is part of the first-in-a-generation Department-Level Exercise series, employing more than 350 Joint and coalition aircraft and more than 12,000 members at more than 50 locations across 3,000 miles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Andrea Posey)

    “This is a logistical movement at an unprecedented scale – an explosive surge into the theater driven by precision and a resilient joint network,” said Brig. Gen. Mike Zuhlsdorf, PACAF director of logistics, engineering and force protection. “What makes it exceptional is the partnership with local leaders abroad, as well as infrastructure; their participatory enthusiasm has turned REFORPAC into a truly integrated regional effort. This support brings essential access and shared purpose to an extraordinary training landscape.”

    The tested Agile Combat Employment operational strategy, used to support joint operations, has prepared sites throughout the theater. ACE preparations have included shoring up building infrastructure and ensuring a constant flow of critical supplies, all to facilitate uninterrupted mission execution during the exercise.

    “PACAF continually seeks to improve our readiness to respond to any contingency, defend the interests of the United States and work closely together with our allies and partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Schneider said.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Republicans Push Forward with Energy and Water Funding Bill that Weakens Our National Security and Increases Energy Costs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    **STATE-BY-STATE FACT SHEET** Republicans Slash Vital Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Funding for States

    Washington, DC — Today, House Democrats exposed how Republicans’ Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Subcommittee 2026 funding bill increases costs for American households, undermines infrastructure investments, and weakens our national security.

    The bill:

    • Increases energy costs, jeopardizes energy independence, and hurts United States’ competitiveness by slashing the Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy programs nearly in half, revoking more than $5 Billion from the Department of Energy’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law resources, and eliminating funding for the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations.
    • Weakens national security and leaves Americans more vulnerable to nuclear threats by cutting the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation account by 17 percent.
    • Abandons commitments to communities to clean up radioactive waste by eliminating funding for the Corps of Engineers’ Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program and cutting the Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management by 9 percent.

    “Sadly, this Republican Energy and Water bill did not have bipartisan input, and does not meet the moment to set the course for our nation’s future in the new age frontiers of energy and water,” Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) said. “This bill cedes American leadership in the global energy race to adversaries including the Chinese Communist Party. It weakens vital nuclear nonproliferation programs that help keep our country and world safe. By turning their backs on communities suffering from the long lasting impact of our early atomic weapons programs, Republicans show the callous disregard they have for America’s forgotten communities. We must invest in energy independence in perpetuity — or we will live to regret it, as our children and grandchildren inherit a future devoid of opportunity. The passage of this ill considered, and careless bill will hurt our communities from coast to coast, and is a true disservice to all the generations to come.”

    Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur’s full remarks are here.

    “House Republicans are wrapping up a long, chaotic week by advancing yet another funding bill that increases costs. This time, they are raising energy costs for American families and businesses,” Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) said. “Their cut of nearly half the budget for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is a direct attack on the programs that lower energy bills for working families, create good-paying jobs in our communities, and keep America competitive. Republicans’ funding bill undermines the very programs that help us stop the spread of nuclear weapons, detect nuclear activity, and uphold arms control efforts that make America and the world safer – and it underfunds efforts to clean up sites contaminated by our nation’s early atomic energy program. Instead of working with Democrats to lower prices and invest in technology that promotes our energy independence, House Republicans are pushing a bill that raises energy costs for families and businesses and eliminates good-paying jobs.”

    During today’s markup, Democrats fought to make changes to Republicans’ bill, including to:

    • Prohibit the implementation of tariffs that would raise consumer energy prices.
    • Prevent the Department of Energy and other agencies from terminating critical projects simply based on the alignment with administration policies.
    • Prohibit the Republican’s Bonanza for Billionaires efforts to modify or terminate clean energy tax credits.
    • Increase funds for the Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E).

    These changes were rejected by House Republicans.

    A summary of the bill is here. A fact sheet is here.
    The text of the bill, before the adoption of amendments in full committee, is here. The bill report, before the adoption of amendments in full Committee, is here. Information on Community Project Funding in the bill is here.
    A state-by-state breakdown of the amount of funding House Republicans are trying to slash from the Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) programs is here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: U.S., the Philippines Conduct Maritime Cooperative Activity

    Source: United States Navy

    The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the U.S. Navy, conducted a bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone, demonstrating a collective commitment to strengthen regional and international cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific, July 16.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Condemns Trump Administration for Letting a Credit Union off the Hook for Overcharging Military Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) and six of their colleagues sent a letter to the Trump administration condemning its decision to release Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) from its obligation to pay $95 million in penalties and restitution, effectively excusing them from accountability for charging millions in illegal surprise overdraft fees to their members who are primarily military families and veterans.

    Since the Consumer Bureau opened in 2011, Nevadans have submitted 580 complaints against NFCU, including 433 in just the past three years.

    “In 2024, the CFPB found that between 2017 and 2022, NFCU charged overdraft fees on ATM withdrawals and debit card purchases – even when accounts showed sufficient funds,” the senators wrote in a letter to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Acting Director Russell Vought. “In response, the Bureau issued a consent order requiring NFCU to pay $95 million in penalties and restitution: $80.6 million directly to harmed consumers and $15 million to the CFPB’s victims relief fund.”

    That order was rescinded on July 1, 2025.

    “As former CFPB officials have noted, this decision raises serious concerns about whether the Bureau is still capable – or even willing – to fulfill its legal mandate,” the senators continue. “At a minimum, the public and Congress deserve answers.”

    The letter is endorsed by the Consumer Federation of America. “The Trump-era CFPB cannot reverse this consent order and simultaneously claim that it is prioritizing the interests of servicemembers,” said Adam Rust, Director of Financial Services for the Consumer Federation of America. “This action has diverted millions of dollars owed to military families—an unacceptable breach of trust. Acting Director Vought owes the public a clear and immediate explanation.”

    Read the full letter, including the questions posed by the senators to Acting Director Vought, here.

    Senator Cortez Masto is a champion for our service members, veterans, and their families. She worked across the aisle to get legislation helping veterans exposed to Agent Orange and expanding benefits for women veterans signed into law. The Senator sent a letter to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Collins demanding he provide answers on the mass terminations of personnel across the VA, specifically those in Nevada, and how those terminations would impact services to Nevada veterans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Condemns Trump Administration for Letting a Credit Union off the Hook for Overcharging Military Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) and six of their colleagues sent a letter to the Trump administration condemning its decision to release Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) from its obligation to pay $95 million in penalties and restitution, effectively excusing them from accountability for charging millions in illegal surprise overdraft fees to their members who are primarily military families and veterans.

    Since the Consumer Bureau opened in 2011, Nevadans have submitted 580 complaints against NFCU, including 433 in just the past three years.

    “In 2024, the CFPB found that between 2017 and 2022, NFCU charged overdraft fees on ATM withdrawals and debit card purchases – even when accounts showed sufficient funds,” the senators wrote in a letter to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Acting Director Russell Vought. “In response, the Bureau issued a consent order requiring NFCU to pay $95 million in penalties and restitution: $80.6 million directly to harmed consumers and $15 million to the CFPB’s victims relief fund.”

    That order was rescinded on July 1, 2025.

    “As former CFPB officials have noted, this decision raises serious concerns about whether the Bureau is still capable – or even willing – to fulfill its legal mandate,” the senators continue. “At a minimum, the public and Congress deserve answers.”

    The letter is endorsed by the Consumer Federation of America. “The Trump-era CFPB cannot reverse this consent order and simultaneously claim that it is prioritizing the interests of servicemembers,” said Adam Rust, Director of Financial Services for the Consumer Federation of America. “This action has diverted millions of dollars owed to military families—an unacceptable breach of trust. Acting Director Vought owes the public a clear and immediate explanation.”

    Read the full letter, including the questions posed by the senators to Acting Director Vought, here.

    Senator Cortez Masto is a champion for our service members, veterans, and their families. She worked across the aisle to get legislation helping veterans exposed to Agent Orange and expanding benefits for women veterans signed into law. The Senator sent a letter to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Collins demanding he provide answers on the mass terminations of personnel across the VA, specifically those in Nevada, and how those terminations would impact services to Nevada veterans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MTA Installs Platform Barriers at More than 50 Stations

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has installed protective platform edge barriers at 56 subway stations. Halfway through 2025, the MTA is on track to deliver on Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State direction to install barriers at more than 100 subway stations by the end of the year. This directive is part of a larger set of initiatives Governor Hochul announced in her State of the State address to protect subway riders and workers. The MTA continues to upgrade station lighting with brighter, safer LED bulbs. LEDs are now installed in 342 stations, on schedule for all 472 subway stations to be upgraded by the end of the year. Safety in the subway system continues to improve with overall major crimes dropping by 3 percent from the same period last year and by almost 10 percent when compared to pre-pandemic levels.

    “New Yorkers’ safety will always be my number one priority, and customers need to both feel and be secure every time they ride the subway,” Governor Hochul said. “At my direction, the MTA has ramped up the installation of protective platform barriers, building on their efforts to brighten stations with LED lighting and equip every subway car with security cameras. Transit crime is down in 2025, and these efforts will make the subway system safer for everyone.”

    MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re making investments to ensure that our system not only is safe but — equally important — feels safe to riders. With new platform barriers, MTA’s thousands of new security cameras, increased deployments from the NYPD, and 10 percent less crime before COVID, it’s no wonder customer satisfaction has risen dramatically this year.”

    MTA Construction and Development President Jamie Torres-Springer said, “This is the new MTA in action: working better, faster, and cheaper to improve the rider experience and keep customers safe. Using in-house labor has driven down costs and increased our pace on this project, and we’re ready to make even greater strides in the second half of 2025.”

    NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow said, “Customers are telling us platform barriers make them feel safer and they want to see more of them. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s support, we’re getting barriers into stations quickly with more than 50 already installed and over 50 more on the way by the end of the year. I’m proud of the NYC Transit team for the incredible work they’re doing in-house to build and install barriers and look forward to keeping up the momentum.”

    Recent customer surveys have shown that 59 percent of riders wanted the installation of protective platform barriers throughout the system — including 88 percent of riders over the age of 65. A majority of respondents have also noted that they believe the presence of platform barriers in the station makes them feel safer and believe the barriers will protect against falls onto the tracks. Platform barriers are built and installed using in-house New York City Transit (NYCT) labor with in-house machinery in a NYCT facility resulting in lower costs and a faster installation timeline.

    The selection of stations for the installation process prioritizes feasibility, including stations with standard car-stopping positions in segments of the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, F, M and L trains. Among these train lines, stations with higher ridership levels and island platforms are prioritized.

    The following stations have platform barriers now installed:

    Brooklyn:

    • Clark St – 2, 3
    • Morgan Av – L
    • Grand St – L
    • Dekalb Av – L
    • Halsey St – L
    • Bushwick Av-Aberdeen St – L
    • Myrtle-Wyckoff Avs – L, M
    • Graham Av – L
    • Jefferson St – L
    • Bedford Av – L
    • Lorimer St – L
    • Wilson Av – L
    • Montrose Av – L
    • Eastern Pkwy-Brooklyn Museum – 2, 3
    • Grand Army Plaza – 2, 3
    • President St – 2, 3
    • Hoyt St – 2, 3
    • Beverly Rd – 2, 5
    • Sterling St – 2, 5
    • Winthrop St – 2, 5
    • Bergen St – 2, 3

    Manhattan:

    • 191 St – 1
    • 5 Av – 7
    • 1 Av – L
    • 6 Av – L
    • 125 St – 4, 5, 6
    • Bowery – J, Z
    • Fulton St – J, Z
    • Broad St – J, Z
    • Canal St – J, Z
    • Wall St – 2, 3
    • 23 St – 6
    • 125 St – 2, 3
    • Central Park North-110 St – 2, 3
    • 135 St – 2, 3
    • Astor Place – 6
    • 8 Av – L
    • Bleecker St – 6
    • Fulton St – 2, 3
    • Spring St – 6
    • 103 St – 6
    • Park Place – 2, 3
    • 28 St – 6
    • 68 St-Hunter College – 6
    • 33 St – 6
    • 96 St – 6
    • 77 St – 6
    • 145 St – 1
    • Grand Central-42 St – 7
    • Christopher St-Stonewall – 1

    Queens:

    • Flushing-Main St – 7
    • 46 St – M, R
    • 67 Av – M, R
    • 75 Av – E, F
    • Woodhaven Blvd – M, R
    • Jamaica Center-Parsons Blvd-Archer Av – E, J, Z

    Assemblymember Alex Bores said, “Protective platform edge barriers save lives. In addition to providing a safe place to stand, the barriers give riders peace of mind and encourage ridership; and a fully populated subway system is a safer system. Additionally, platform barriers are quick to install and extremely cost-effective, saving taxpayers money. I have advocated for these barriers from before my life in public office, and I am grateful to the Governor for incorporating these lifesaving tools into her comprehensive subway safety plan.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Annual Defense Funding Bill, Rep. Moore Votes “Yes”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Riley Moore (WV-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Early this morning, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4016, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026. Congressman Riley M. Moore, who is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, voted “Yes” on the bill.

    The legislation provides $831.5 billion for annual military expenses, including operations and maintenance; personnel; procurement; and research, development, test, and evaluation.

    Congressman Moore issued the following statement:

    “This defense funding bill makes critical investments to rebuild our military and prioritizes lethality after years of distraction with extreme left-wing ideology. I was proud to vote ‘Yes.’

    “The legislation ensures a 21st-century military by modernizing our nuclear triad, investing in hypersonics, propping up the Golden Dome, and developing the next generation of fighter aircraft. It also supports our troops by providing a 3.8% pay raise for all military personnel.

    “Our bill supports President Trump’s broader strategic vision of peace through strength. With it, we’re sending a clear message to our adversaries abroad: the days of prioritizing DEI trainings, drag queen shows on ships, transgender surgeries for troops, and funding abortion-related travel are over. From here on out, our sole focus is warfighting.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carter Brings Jobs, Opportunities to GA-01 Through Key Defense Appropriations Wins

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

    Headline: Carter Brings Jobs, Opportunities to GA-01 Through Key Defense Appropriations Wins

    Carter Brings Jobs, Opportunities to GA-01 Through Key Defense Appropriations Wins

    Washington, July 18, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) this week secured wins for Georgia’s First Congressional District (GA-01) in the Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2025, investing in key improvements for our nation’s defense readiness and strengthening the local economy. 

    “When GA-01’s military and economy are strong, the entire region benefits. I am proud to have brought critical funding home for our district, ensuring our bases remain among the best and most prepared in the nation while also supplying jobs and opportunities for servicemembers and civilians alike. With these funds, we will cement our district’s leadership in providing for our nation’s defense,” said Rep. Carter.                    

    Combined, these funds will benefit the GA-01 by providing jobs, stimulating the economy by supporting local businesses, and strengthening our military operations. 

    Specifically, this funding included: 

    • $474 million for the Compass Call Aircraft, procured through Gulfstream; 
    • Full funding for two Virginia-class submarines at Kings Bay Naval Base; 
    • Full funding for one Columbia-class submarine at Kings Bay Naval Base; and, 
    • $10 million for Infantry Support Weapons, procured through Daniel Defense.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What You Need to Know About NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 Mission

    Source: NASA

    Four crew members are preparing to launch to the International Space Station as part of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission to perform research, technology demonstrations, and maintenance activities aboard the orbiting laboratory.
    During the mission, Crew-11 also will contribute to NASA’s Artemis campaign by simulating Moon landing scenarios that astronauts may encounter near the lunar South Pole, showing how the space station helps prepare crews for deep space human exploration. The simulations will be performed before, during, and after their mission using handheld controllers and multiple screens to identify how changes in gravity affect spatial awareness and astronauts’ ability to pilot spacecraft, like a lunar lander.
    NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov will lift off no earlier than 12:09 p.m. EDT on Thursday, July 31, from Launch Complex 39A at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a long-duration mission. The cadre will fly aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, named Endeavour, which previously flew NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2, Crew-2, Crew-6, and Crew-8 missions, as well as private astronaut mission Axiom Mission 1.
    The flight is the 11th crew rotation mission with SpaceX to the space station as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. Overall, the Crew-11 mission is the 16th crewed Dragon flight to the space station, including Demo-2 in 2020 and 11 operational crew rotations for NASA, as well as four private astronaut missions.
    As support teams progress through Dragon preflight milestones for Crew-11, they also are preparing a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket booster for its third flight. Once all rocket and spacecraft system checkouts are complete and all components are certified for flight, teams will mate Dragon to Falcon 9 in SpaceX’s hangar at the launch site. The integrated spacecraft and rocket will then be rolled to the pad and raised vertically for the crew’s dry dress rehearsal and an integrated static fire test before launch.

    Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2017, Cardman will conduct her first spaceflight. The Williamsburg, Virginia, native holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in marine sciences from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. At the time of selection, she was pursuing a doctorate in geosciences. Cardman’s geobiology and geochemical cycling research focused on subsurface environments, from caves to deep sea sediments. Since completing initial training, Cardman has supported real-time station operations and lunar surface exploration planning. Follow @zenanaut on X and @zenanaut on Instagram.
    This mission will be Fincke’s fourth trip to the space station, having logged 382 days in space and nine spacewalks during Expedition 9 in 2004, Expedition 18 in 2008, and STS-134 in 2011, the final flight of space shuttle Endeavour. Throughout the past decade, Fincke has applied his expertise to NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, advancing the development and testing of Dragon and Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft toward operational certification. The Emsworth, Pennsylvania, native is a graduate of the United States Air Force Test Pilot School and holds bachelors’ degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, in both aeronautics and astronautics, as well as Earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences. He also has a master’s degree in aeronautics and astronautics from Stanford University in California. Fincke is a retired U.S. Air Force colonel with more than 2,000 flight hours in over 30 different aircraft. Follow @AstroIronMike on X and Instagram.
    With 142 days in space, this mission will be Yui’s second trip to the space station. After his selection as a JAXA astronaut in 2009, Yui flew as a flight engineer for Expedition 44/45 and became the first Japanese astronaut to capture JAXA’s H-II Transfer Vehicle using the station’s robotic arm. In addition to constructing a new experimental environment aboard Kibo, he conducted a total of 21 experiments for JAXA. In November 2016, Yui was assigned as chief of the JAXA Astronaut Group. He graduated from the School of Science and Engineering at the National Defense Academy of Japan in 1992. He later joined the Air Self-Defense Force at the Japan Defense Agency (currently the Ministry of Defense). In 2008, Yui joined the Air Staff Office at the Ministry of Defense as a lieutenant colonel. Follow @astro_kimiya on X.
    The mission will be Platonov’s first spaceflight. Before his selection as a cosmonaut in 2018, Platonov earned a degree in engineering from Krasnodar Air Force Academy in aircraft operations and air traffic management. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in state and municipal management in 2016 from the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok, Russia. Assigned as a test cosmonaut in 2021, he has experience in piloting aircraft, zero gravity training, scuba diving, and wilderness survival.

    Following liftoff, Falcon 9 will accelerate Dragon to approximately 17,500 mph. Once in orbit, the crew, NASA, and SpaceX mission control will monitor a series of maneuvers that will guide Dragon to the forward-facing port of the station’s Harmony module. The spacecraft is designed to dock autonomously, but the crew can pilot it manually, if necessary.
    After docking, Crew-11 will be welcomed aboard the station by the seven-member Expedition 73 crew, before conducting a short handover period on research and maintenance activities with the departing Crew-10 crew members. Then, NASA astronauts Anne McClain, Nichole Ayers, JAXA astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov will undock from the space station and return to Earth. Ahead of Crew-10’s return, mission teams will review weather conditions at the splashdown sites off the coast of California before departure from the station.
    Cardman, Fincke, and Yui will conduct scientific research to prepare for human exploration beyond low Earth orbit and benefit humanity on Earth. Participating crew members will simulate lunar landings, test strategies to safeguard vision, and advance other human spaceflight studies led by NASA’s Human Research Program. The crew also will study plant cell division and microgravity’s effects on bacteria-killing viruses, as well as perform experiments to produce a higher volume of human stem cells and generate on-demand nutrients.
    While aboard the orbiting laboratory, Crew-11 will welcome a Soyuz spacecraft in November with three new crew members, including NASA astronaut Chris Williams.  They also will bid farewell to the Soyuz carrying NASA astronaut Jonny Kim. The crew also is expected to see the arrival of the Dragon, Roscosmos Progress spacecraft, and Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus spacecraft to resupply the station.
    NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission will be aboard the International Space Station on Nov. 2, when the orbiting laboratory surpasses 25 years of a continuous human presence. Since the first crew expedition arrived, the space station has enabled more than 4,000 groundbreaking experiments in the unique microgravity environment, while becoming a springboard for building a low Earth orbit economy and preparing for NASA’s future exploration of the Moon and Mars.
    Learn more about the space station, its research, and crew, at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/station

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pettersen Votes Against Republican Defense Spending Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brittany Pettersen (Colorado 7th District)

    Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) released the following statement after voting against Republicans’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Department of Defense funding bill:

    “At a time when the United States should be showing strength and moral leadership on the global stage, this bill does the exact opposite. It abandons our allies, hands Putin a strategic win, and jeopardizes our military readiness with divisive policies and culture wars. 

    “Women and LGBTQ+ servicemembers make the same sacrifices all of our servicemembers make to defend our freedom, they all deserve our full respect. But Donald Trump has proven time and again that he does not support our troops – from calling them suckers and losers, to the devastating cuts he has made at the VA. This bill is yet another example of Trump’s horrific leadership as the Commander in Chief. This unserious funding bill is an attack on women and LGBTQ+ servicemembers, and serves as another example of Trump and his congressional leadership prioritizing culture wars instead of funding the support our troops need and deserve.

    “Despite including two of my amendments that would benefit Colorado, I could not in good conscience vote for a bill that otherwise undermines our values, weakens our global standing, and fails to support the servicemembers who put their lives on the line for this country.”

    Specifically, Republicans’ FY 26 Department of Defense spending bill:

    • Weakens Ukraine and empowers Russia by eliminating support for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.
    • Undermines democracy at home and abroad by allowing disinformation and extremist views to flourish.
    • Limits women’s access to abortion by preventing service personnel from traveling to seek reproductive health care. 
    • Harms our military readiness with divisive provisions that undermine morale and fail to support our service personnel, by:
      • Continuing DOGE and the Administration’s cuts to vital civilian positions;
      • Attacking the LGBTQ+ community with hateful policies; and 
      • Banning funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

    Two of Rep. Pettersen’s amendments were included in the FY 2026 Defense bill:

    • Pettersen’s amendment advances cutting-edge aerospace research and strengthens national security through lunar technology.
    • Pettersen’s other amendment supports using quantum computing to predict and prevent threats to our electrical grid, bolstering national security and grid resilience. 

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    To access downloadable, high-quality photos, click here. To stay up-to-date on what Pettersen is doing in Congress, follow her on Twitter here, Facebook here, or Instagram here. Residents can also sign-up for her e-newsletter subscription here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bacon Announces Priorities Included in Defense Appropriations Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

    Bacon Announces Priorities Included in Defense Appropriations Bill

    Secures over $2.3B for Nebraska Defense Research and Air Force Investments 

    Washington – Today, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) announced the successful inclusion of over $2.3 billion in critical Nebraska priorities in the Defense Appropriations bill passed by the House of Representatives with a bipartisan majority.  

    “Nebraska has long been recognized as an engine of innovation in the agriculture, medical, financial services, construction, transportation, and technology sectors. Additionally, over the last several years, Nebraska has earned a reputation as one of America’s leading centers of defense and national security research,” said Rep. Bacon. “With today’s House vote we’re a step further in cementing Nebraska’s growing leadership in national security.”

    Rep. Bacon’s Nebraska priorities incorporated in the Defense Appropriations bill passed today include:

    • $1.8 billion for development of the new E-4C Survivable Airborne Operations Center aircraft to be based at Offutt AFB
    • $474 million for 2 additional EA-37B Compass Call aircraft for the 55th Wing
    • $26 million to equip the new Nuclear Command, Control and Communications REACH facility in Bellevue 
    • $5 million for the Air Force Infectious Disease Aerial Transport training program at UNMC Omaha
    • $4.5 million for the University of Nebraska’s National Strategic Research Institute in Omaha
    • $5 million to upgrade RC-135 aircraft based at Offutt AFB
    • $4.8 million for commercial weather data to improve forecasting for the 557th Weather Wing

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nevada Nurse Practitioner Pleads Guilty to Fraudulent Medicare Wound Care Billing

    Source: US FBI

    LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas nurse practitioner pleaded guilty today to conspiring to fraudulently bill Medicare for amniotic wound allografts for patients that were medically unreasonable and unnecessary in exchange for illegal health care kickbacks.

    Mary Huntly, 67, was charged with one-count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and pay and receive health care kickbacks. United States District Judge James C. Mahan scheduled sentencing for October 15, 2025.

    According to court documents and admissions made in court by Huntly, she applied medically unnecessary allografts to Medicare beneficiaries that were procured through illegal kickbacks and bribes. Huntly admitted that, from September 2022 through April 2024, her wound care company fraudulently billed Medicare approximately $14,333,550, and Medicare paid approximately $9,105,563 based on those false claims.

    “The defendant applied medically unnecessary allografts for patients and received millions in illegal kickbacks from the fraudulent Medicare claims,” said United States Attorney Chattah for the District of Nevada. “We are committed to working with our partners at the FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS to pursue and hold criminal actors accountable for preying on vulnerable citizens and stealing from health care programs.”

    “Medicare and Medicaid, crucial components of our nation’s health care system, are funded by a limited pool of resources,” said Special Agent in Charge Amir Ehsaei for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Mary Huntly admitted to exploiting the system and taking advantage of America’s most vulnerable populations. She was a trusted healthcare provider, focusing on wound care, and her abuse is significant. The FBI and our federal partners will continue to bring rapacious healthcare professionals like Huntly to justice.”

    “Health care professionals who aim to enrich themselves by performing medically unnecessary procedures undermine the integrity of Federal health care programs and expose their patients to potential harm,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, working closely with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue those who commit health care fraud.”

    At sentencing, Huntly faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada; Special Agent in Charge Amir Ehsaei for the FBI Las Vegas Division; Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General; and Acting Special Agent in Charge John E. Helsing for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Western Field Office made the announcement.

    This case was investigated by the FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva of the District of Nevada and Trial Attorneys Monica Cooper of the Texas Strike Force and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Man Admits Role in $4.8 Million Health Care Fraud and Kickback Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Florida man today admitted his role in a health care fraud and kickback scheme that caused more than $4.8 million in losses to Medicare, United States Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Charles P. Kasbee, Jr., 48, of Palm Beach Shores, Florida, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz in Newark to an Information charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to violate the federal Anti-Kickback Statute.

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

    From February 2019 to September 2019, Kasbee and his co-conspirators participated in a scheme to submit claims to Medicare for medically unnecessary cancer genetic screening (CGX) tests that were procured through a web of bribes and kickbacks.  Kasbee utilized the services of marketing call centers, which employed deceptive telemarketing techniques to obtain Medicare beneficiaries’ personal and medical information.  Then, Kasbee and others arranged for CGX testing kits to be sent to the identified beneficiaries.  Once the CGX test kits were completed by the beneficiaries, the kits were shipped to a testing laboratory, which submitted claims for reimbursement to Medicare.  Kasbee received kickback payments exceeding $1,200 for each CGX test resulting in Medicare reimbursement.

    To conceal the scheme, Kasbee entered into contracts with his co-conspirators that falsely labeled kickback and bribe payments as “expenses.”  Then, Kasbee and his co-conspirators created false invoices that disguised the true reasons for the kickback and bribe payments.  Instead, Kasbee received payments based solely on the number of CGX tests that Medicare reimbursed, in violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute.    

    As a result of the health care fraud and kickback scheme, Kasbee and his co-conspirators caused a loss to Medicare of more than $4.8 million.

    Conspiracy to commit health care fraud carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  Conspiracy to violate the federal Anti-Kickback Statute carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for November 19, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark; the Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz; the U.S. Department of Defense, Office of the Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Silvestro; and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Christopher F. Algieri with the investigation leading to the charge.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Garrett J. Schuman of the Health Care Fraud and Opioid Enforcement Unit.

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    Defense counsel:  Joshua S. Lowther, Esq., Atlanta, GA

    MIL Security OSI –