Category: Military Intelligence

MIL-OSI Security: Somerset County Man Sentenced to 64 Months’ Incarceration for Concealing Material Support to Hamas

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

TRENTON, N.J. – A Somerset County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to time served – 64 months – for concealing his attempts to provide material support to Hamas, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger, Assistant Attorney General Matt Olsen of the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Security Division, FBI-Newark Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado Jr., and FBI Assistant Director for Counterterrorism David J. Scott announced.

Jonathan Xie, 25, of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty by videoconference before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp to an information charging him with one count of concealing attempts to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. Judge Shipp imposed the sentence today in Trenton federal court.

“Jonathan Xie not only admitted sending money that he hoped would be used by the terrorist organization Hamas to fund violent acts against civilians in Israel, he professed his desire to travel to Gaza to join them. Brandishing a gun and holding a Hamas flag, he also posted that he was going to shoot everybody at a pro-Israel march and ruminated how one could go on a rampage by ramming pro-Israel demonstrators with a car. This supporter of Hamas learned the true cost of supporting terrorists.”

U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger

“Xie is an unfortunate example of an emerging and extremely dangerous threat the FBI Newark Joint Terrorism Task Force is seeing with much more frequency,” Newark FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado said. “The average age of the international and domestic terrorism subjects we investigate is under 21 years old, and they’re being radicalized in only a few months. Xie was a teenager when he decided to send money in support of a terrorism organization and then threaten to carry out a plan to kill pro-Israeli people. We need this case to serve as a warning to parents and guardians – pay attention to what your teenagers are doing online.”

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

Xie knowingly concealed and disguised the nature, location, source, ownership and control of his attempt to provide material support and resources to Harakat alMuqawamah al-Islamiyya and the Islamic Resistance Movement, an organization that is commonly referred to as Hamas. Xie admitted that he knew Hamas was a designated foreign terrorist organization and has engaged in terrorist activities. He said he attempted to conceal his attempted support believing it would be used to commit or assist in the commission of a violent act.

In December 2018, Xie sent $100 via Moneygram to an individual in Gaza who Xie believed to be a member of the Al-Qassam Brigades – a faction of Hamas that has conducted attacks, to include suicide bombings against civilian targets inside Israel. At approximately the same time that Xie sent the money, he posted on his Instagram account “Just donated $100 to Hamas. Pretty sure it was illegal but I don’t give a damn.”

In April 2019, Xie appeared in an Instagram Live video wearing a black ski mask and stated that he was against Zionism and the neo-liberal establishment. When asked by another participant in the video if he would go to Gaza and join Hamas, Xie stated “yes, If I could find a way.” Later in the video, Xie displayed a Hamas flag and retrieved a handgun. He then stated “I’m gonna go to the [expletive] pro-Israel march and I’m going to shoot everybody.” In subsequent Instagram posts, Xie stated, “I want to shoot the pro-israel demonstrators . . . you can get a gun and shoot your way through or use a vehicle and ram people . . . all you need is a gun or vehicle to go on a rampage . . . I do not care if security forces come after me, they will have to put a bullet in my head to stop me.”

In April 2019, Xie sent a link to a website for the Al-Qassam Brigades to an FBI employee who was acting online in an undercover capacity. Xie described the website as a “Hamas” website and stated he had previously sent a donation to the group. Xie then sent screenshots of the website to the undercover employee and demonstrated how to use a new feature on the website that allows donations to be sent via Bitcoin. On April 18, 2019, when the undercover employee asked whether Bitcoin was anonymous, Xie responded: “yah… i think thats why hamas is using it now because money transfer is not that anonymous.”

In addition to the prison term, Judge Shipp sentenced Xie to 20 years of supervise release, including six months of home detention with location monitoring for the first six months.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger and Assistant Attorney General Olsen credited special agents of the FBI and task force officers of the Joint Terrorism Task Force, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado; and the U.S. Department of Defense, Army Counterintelligence, 902d Military Intelligence Group, with the investigation leading to the sentencing. He also thanks the U.S. Secret Service for its assistance.

The government is represented by Joyce M. Malliet, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s National Security Unit and Trial Attorney Taryn Meeks of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Counterterrorism Section of the National Security Division (currently detailed to the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section).

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Active-Duty Service Members Delivering Life-Saving Supplies to North Carolinians

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Active-Duty Service Members Delivering Life-Saving Supplies to North Carolinians

Active-Duty Service Members Delivering Life-Saving Supplies to North Carolinians

WASHINGTON — At the direction of the Biden-Harris Administration, through the Department of Defense and in coordination with FEMA, 400 active-duty service members are now in western North Carolina communities to speed the delivery of life-saving resources to residents after Tropical Storm Helene.

In support of the state and North Carolina National Guard, these mobilized Title 10 troops will focus their efforts on moving valuable commodities—like food and water—to distribution sites, prioritizing survivors in hard-to-reach areas along the route.

“Today, FEMA and state of North Carolina welcomed the first 400 of America’s finest soldiers of the XVIII Airborne Corps including members of the 82nd Airborne and other units stationed at from Fort Liberty, North Carolina who are now supporting the residents and affected counties devasted by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. This support includes command and control personnel, transportation, infrastructure support, supplies and services, fuel and other support to people,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “We are thankful for President Biden‘s leadership and the support of the Department of Defense and U.S. Northern Command in providing up to 1,000 general purpose troops to assist FEMA, the North Carolina National Guard and other response agencies with ongoing Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.”

This operation enhances work already underway by FEMA and our whole community partners to deliver critical resources to the people who need them the most in North Carolina. FEMA has delivered more than 5.4 million meals and 6.3 million liters of water and continues to funnel more resources into the state. In addition, FEMA has already paid out more than $17 million in housing and other types of assistance to over 19,000 North Carolina households. With 600 staff on the ground in North Carolina and more arriving daily, we are reaching more people and helping them recover faster.

For North Carolinians seeking general information, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

amy.ashbridge
Fri, 10/04/2024 – 21:33

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Florida Colleagues To POTUS: Expedite Resources To Floridians
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)

GAINESVILLE, FL — Hurricane Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm, causing catastrophic damage along Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s crucial for the federal government to expedite state-requested resources and authorize key policy flexibilities in order for Floridians to make a swift recovery.

U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Florida colleagues sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging the direction of federal agencies to expedite requested resources and implement emergency policy flexibilities to help the people of Florida.
- “Mr. President: In the wake of Hurricane Helene, we write to urge you to direct federal agencies to expedite state-requested resources and actions and to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response.”
The full text of the letter is below.

Dear Mr. President:

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, we write to urge you to direct federal agencies to expedite state-requested resources and actions and to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response. Specifically, we urge you to direct federal agencies to act on the following items:

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
- Temporary Housing Assistance
On September 29, 2024, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) requested FEMA to authorize Emergency Non-Congregate Sheltering, including in the form of Recreational Vehicles (RVs) and travel trailers in accordance with FEMA Policy 104-009-18, as well as in the form of Direct Housing Assistance in Individual Assistance-designated counties. On October 1, 2024, FDEM requested FEMA to authorize Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for survivors of Hurricane Helene, including to modify FEMA Policy 104-21-0008 to add Friends and Family and Damaged Dwelling categories to the list of eligible survivor locations for TSA. We urge you to approve these requests as quickly as possible.

Further, with respect to the swift delivery and deployment of FEMA temporary housing resources in impacted communities, we urge you to direct FEMA to authorize the use of travel trailers and manufactured homes in Special Flood Hazard Areas to ensure that housing unit recipients are able to stay on their properties while they rebuild permanent structures. Due to the nature of Florida’s low elevation, FEMA’s regulatory requirements with regard to temporary housing in flood zones significantly restricts federal housing assistance in the state. Enabling disaster survivors to remain on their properties following a disaster is crucial to the recovery process, as doing so reduces the need for survivors to commute from a remote location for the purposes of rebuilding and looking after their properties and affairs. There is a precedent for FEMA allowing this policy flexibility. Following Hurricane Ian, the provision of temporary housing resources was severely delayed due to FEMA regulations that prevented the placement of manufactured housing units and travel trailers in these flood zones. However, FEMA ultimately authorized this flexibility following months of delays in temporary housing assistance.
- Issue Storm-Specific Guidance for Debris Removal, Demolition, and Disposal
In the wake of Major Disasters, FEMA may waive program requirements with respect to prior approval for debris removal, demolition, and waste disposal, and issue disaster-specific guidance to inform local communities on how they can remain in compliance with regulations and law while accounting for policy waivers in order to remain eligible for reimbursement. We have heard from local governments, in designated counties, that the issuance of storm-specific guidance for Hurricane Helene debris removal, demolition, and waste disposal would enable them to confidently remove hazardous debris in an expedited manner without having to risk failing to comply with regulation or law. We urge you to direct FEMA to issue storm-specific guidance for Hurricane Helene as quickly as possible.
- Ensure Sand Removal, Screening, and Placement is Eligible for Category A Debris Removal Public Assistance Reimbursement
Hurricane Helene washed tons of sand into the streets and rights-of-way of municipalities in designated counties along the Gulf Coast of Florida, impeding public transportation and evacuation routes. Sand is an irreplaceable material for Florida’s outdoor economy, and composes the dunes and shorelines that protect infrastructure from storm surge, erosion and tidal flooding. The collection and removal of sand from streets and rights-of-way, screening of sand to remove debris, and placement of screened sand along shorelines is time-intensive and may be too costly for non-federal entities to expense themselves. We request you ensure the removal of sand debris, screening of sand for debris, and placement of sand on productive shorelines are eligible activities for FEMA reimbursement under Category A Public Assistance, just as it was following Hurricane Ian.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE):
- Emergency Permitting Procedures
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations allow the authorization of emergency permitting procedures to expedite emergency work and repair in emergency situations that may result in hazards to life, loss of property, or economic hardship.[2] The severe impacts of Hurricane Helene pose such hazards, as navigation channels along the Gulf Coast of Florida have been impeded by debris from damaged and destroyed structures and infrastructure. These channels must be cleared of hazards to promote safe navigation, and to enable recovery in remote coastal areas that require maritime access. Further, terrestrial infrastructure, including shoreline infrastructure, may require expedited permitting procedures to prevent economic hardship and hazards to public safety from possible future severe weather.
- Issue Flood Control and Coastal Emergencies (FCCE) Shoreline Easement Policy Memorandum
The failed Army Corps of Engineers policy implementation of Section 103 of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) 1986 (33 U.S.C. 2213) has caused many hurricane risk reduction projects in Florida, including several in Hurricane Helene’s disaster areas, to become effectively defunct due to burdensome perpetual easement requirements. Pinellas County, which suffered more deaths than any other county in Florida due to Hurricane Helene, primarily from storm surge, is ground zero for this federal policy failure that has led to the erosion of shorelines and dunes that are proven to mitigate storm surge impacts. Section 361 of the Senate-passed Water Resources Development Act of 2024 contains language that would give policy flexibility to local project sponsors receiving supplemental FCCE funds to construct emergency FCCE projects with less-than-permanent easements.[3] We urge you to direct the USACE to issue a policy memorandum on an expedited basis to implement this policy, which passed the Senate unanimously, so that local project sponsors have certainty they will be able to secure less-than-permanent easements in anticipation of receiving FCCE funds from a possible forthcoming disaster supplemental. This policy would also enable local project sponsors to begin implementing hundreds of millions of dollars of supplemental FCCE funds appropriated in December 2022 that have been impeded by failed USACE policy implementation.
- Operation Blue Roof
Hurricane Helene made landfall with winds of 140 miles per hour and higher wind gusts. Due to the large size and fast forward movement of the hurricane, Helene projected strong winds over a large area, damaging roofs in the process. Operation Blue Roof is an emergency program of the Army Corps of Engineers, in consultation with FEMA, for the deployment of blue plastic tarps to protect damaged homes from future rain damage. Please consider activating Operation Blue Roof if FEMA, USACE, and partners assess sufficient need.

U.S. Department of Agriculture:
- Block Grant Authority for Agricultural Disaster Relief
The State of Florida has requested Agriculture Secretary Vilsack to designate an Agricultural Disaster for the state, a request we support. In addition to expediting an Agricultural Disaster designation, we urge you to recognize block grants to states as a valid method of disbursing supplemental disaster assistance to growers. We would also welcome your support for explicitly including this authority in a forthcoming disaster supplemental. Supplemental disaster assistance appropriated in December 2022 has been slow to reach growers, in part due to manpower constraints on the USDA’s ability to process and administer disaster loss claims. Providing agricultural assistance via block grants to states allows state agencies to use their own employees as a force multiplier to process claims in an expedited manner, and disburse aid to agricultural producers more quickly.

Thank you for your attention to these important matters. We look forward to working with you on behalf of Floridians.

Sincerely,

###

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: 82nd Airborne activated for Helena Relief

Source: US Army (video statements)

Active duty Soldiers, paratroopers and CH-47 Chinooks from the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade are actively engaged in support of response efforts to assist their fellow citizens from North Carolina for hurricane recovery efforts due to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

About the U.S. Army:
The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
Visit: https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BNL7-22-0029_N_OSOC_OCPA_YT_ocpagen_xx_xx

Connect with the U.S. Army online:
Web: https://www.army.mil
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army

#USArmy #Soldiers #Military

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ez9wCCGEBrQ

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congresswomen Escobar, Strickland, and Jacobs introduce the Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act of 2024
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16)

Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), and Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (CA-51) introduced the Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act of 2024. The Senate companion has been introduced by Senator Jeanne Shaheen.

Studies have shown that servicemembers face unique challenges accessing contraception and family planning counseling, especially when deployed. With that in mind, the Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act of 2024:
1. Requires that all people enrolled in TRICARE have coverage of contraceptives without cost-sharing, the same as civilians;
2. Requires the Department of Defense to develop a comprehensive family planning education program for all servicemembers, ensuring that military families have the information necessary to make informed decisions; and
3. Guarantees access to emergency contraception for survivors of sexual assault upon their request.
Permanently alleviating these challenges is particularly important at a time when our military continues to confront recruitment and retention challenges.

“The Department of Defense provides health care to nearly 1.62 million women of reproductive age, but many military dependents face co-pays on birth control when their civilian counterparts don’t,” Congresswoman Escobar said. “No military family should have fewer rights than those they serve to protect. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues, Sara Jacobs and Marilyn Strickland, in introducing a long overdue, commonsense piece of legislation to ensure military families have access to the care they need.”

Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Given all that we ask from our service members and their families, it’s absolutely shameful that they can be forced to pay more than civilians for contraception – an essential part of health care. Research tells us that even small copays of contraception can prevent people from getting the care they need, pushing some to forgo contraception completely, choose less effective methods, or use it inconsistently. That’s an unacceptable risk for our service members and endangers our military readiness. I’m proud to co-lead the Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act to fix this glaring oversight and ensure that our military can get the contraception they need.”

“Answering the call to serve often means making a great number of sacrifices for your country, and being able to start a family should not be one of them,” said Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10). “All Americans deserve access to contraceptives.”

“At this critical moment for reproductive health access, we are grateful for the introduction of this bill by Representatives Escobar, Jacobs, and Strickland to lift barriers to birth control for service members and their families,” said Jackii Wang, Senior Legislative Analyst for Reproductive Rights & Health at the National Women’s Law Center. “Being able to decide if, when, and how to become a parent is a decision that everyone should have, including those in the Armed Forces. The Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act is critical to ensuring that service members have the freedom to control their own futures.”

“Service members and their families deserve access to the full range of sexual and reproductive health care — including birth control,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Action Fund. “They should have the freedom to control if, when, and how they build their families. This should not be up for debate. To truly support our service members and military families, we must protect and expand their access to the health care they need, when they need it. Thank you to Reps. Escobar, Strickland, and Jacobs for reintroducing this bill.”

Reproductive Freedom for All President and CEO Mini Timmaraju said: “With reproductive freedom under attack like never before, it is more urgent than ever that our lawmakers take bold action to safeguard and expand access to contraception for members of our military and their families. We are grateful to Reps. Escobar, Jacobs, and Strickland for fighting to ensure that everybody, including servicemembers, has the freedom to make their own decisions about their bodies, families, and futures.”

“Servicemembers deserve equal and affordable access to comprehensive contraceptive services for themselves and for their families,” said Freya Riedlin, Senior Federal Policy Counsel at the Center for Reproductive Rights. “With the vast majority of servicemembers being of reproductive age, the need to ensure comprehensive access to contraception and family planning services couldn’t be clearer. We commend Congresswomen Escobar, Strickland, and Jacobs for championing this vital bill.”

“Every person deserves to be able to determine if, when and how they build their families, including our service members and veterans. As physicians, we understand that access to contraceptive care is a key part of safeguarding our basic human right to bodily autonomy. We applaud the steps this bill takes to ensure that servicemembers and their families have meaningful access to the full spectrum of contraceptive care through the Access to Contraception for Servicemembers & Dependents Act,” Dr. Jamila Perritt, President & CEO of Physicians for Reproductive Health and ob/gyn in Washington DC, said.

“Everyone deserves access to the contraceptive method they want and need without cost being a barrier. The fact that this is not possible for all of our servicemembers and their families right now is deeply unfair and disrespectful of what they give to our country,” said Dr. Raegan McDonald-Mosley, CEO of Power to Decide. “As a practicing OB-GYN, it is so frustrating to see patients on TRICARE, counsel them about contraception and then not know whether they will be able to access the method they need. Thank you to Representatives Escobar, Jacobs, and Strickland for your leadership—it’s time to fix this.”

“Birth control and contraception are essential health care,” said Jocelyn C. Frye, President of the National Partnership for Women & Families. “Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, health plans for non-military families must cover contraceptives with no cost sharing. This bill would provide our service members and their dependents with the same benefits, allowing them to make decisions about their health and reproductive care without worrying about the costs they will incur. We appreciate Rep. Escobar’s leadership on this issue to ensure service members faithfully serving our country get the high-quality health care they deserve.”

Although the Affordable Care Act (ACA) guarantees that employer-sponsored and marketplace health plans cover preventive services without cost sharing, including all Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, granted, or cleared contraceptive methods, counseling, and related services, these protections do not apply to coverage through TRICARE, a health care program for uniformed servicemembers and their families.

In July 2022, the Department of Defense took a critical action in eliminating copayments for medical contraceptive services (i.e., intrauterine devices, birth control shot, birth control implant, and diaphragm measurement and fitting), and effective January 2023, certain TRICARE beneficiaries will no longer face cost-sharing or copayments for tubal ligation (surgical sterilization) services when obtaining care through a civilian provider. However, congressional action is needed to completely eliminate copayments for prescription contraceptives and ensure that servicemembers and their loved ones have equitable access to all methods of contraception.

Congresswomen Escobar, Jacobs, and Strickland are joined by co-sponsors Ro Khanna (CA-17), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Elissa Slotkin (MI-07), Patrick Ryan (NY-18), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Marc Veasy (TX-33), James McGovern (MA-02), Lori Trahan (MA-03), James Himes (CT-04), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Annie Kuster (NH-02), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Shelia Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Susan Wild (PA-07), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Andy Kim (NJ-03), Scott Peters (CA-50), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), John Larson (CT-01), Susan Wild (PA-07).

The Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act of 2024 is endorsed by Endorsements: National Partnership for Women & Families, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Center for Reproductive Rights, Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), Physicians for Reproductive Health, National Women’s Law Center, Power to Decide, Service Women’s Action Network.

Bill text can be found here.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Markey Discusses Flood Mitigation and Economic Development Efforts with Lawmakers, Community Organizations in the Berkshires

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

Left: Senator Markey presenting the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art with a certificate of Congressional Recognition on their 25th anniversary
Right: Senator Markey with A.J. Enchill, President and Executive Director of the Berkshire Black Economic Council, Destiny Saunders, co-founder of Dolc’e Rose Beauty Supply, and Pittsfield Mayor Peter Marchetti
Boston (October 4, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) was in the Berkshires this week to meet with local leaders, workers, and community organizations to discuss economic development initiatives, flood mitigation and infrastructure improvements, and expanding resources for small businesses.
In North Adams, Senator Markey celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA), which sees over 300,000 visitors each year from around the world. The museum, a converted factory complex, showcases all types of art and is a hub for both local and international artists.
Later in North Adams, Senator Markey joined Mayor Jennifer Macksey for a briefing on the Hoosic River Flood Mitigation Study, a project that aims to evaluate potential flood risk reduction measures and support development of a new flood mitigation system built with 21st-century engineering standards. The project affords flood protection to roughly 85 percent of North Adams’ industrial and commercial firms and about 25 percent of the residential property. Senator Markey, Mayor Macksey, city staff, and local advocates viewed existing damage to flood control infrastructure at three sites. Senator Markey led the effort to get the study included in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), advocated for $750,000 in funding for the Army Corps of Engineers this year, and has secured $950,000 in the pending appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25).
“When Mayor Macksey called earlier this year to let us know more support was needed from the federal government to continue the study, I went to work with my colleagues Congressman Neal and Senator Warren to advocate directly to the Army Corps of Engineers and ensure the necessary funds were allocated within the Corps Fiscal Year 2024 budget,” said Senator Markey. “This is the type of partnership that we need between local and federal government to mitigate the future impacts of our modern-day climate challenges. I applaud Mayor Macksey, all of the local officials, Senator Mark, Representative Barrett, and the dedicated advocates with the Hoosic River Revival who continue to keep this issue front and center.”
In Pittsfield, Senator Markey met with Mayor Peter Marchetti, city staff, Downtown Pittsfield Inc, 1Berkshire, the Berkshire Black Economic Council, and the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission to discuss economic development in the city. Senator Markey and Mayor Marchetti visited small, local businesses in downtown Pittsfield to assess progress that has been made.
“Over the past three years, we have brought $6 million in Congressionally-directed spending back to Pittsfield from the federal government. That is money that has gone toward economic development by investing in the Berkshire Black Economic Council’s business incubator, childcare through the YMCA, and so much more,” said Senator Markey. “We will continue to work with Mayor Marchetti, Senator Mark, Rep. Farley-Bouvier, and all our local partners to continue delivering results.”

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Army Best Squad: Day Four | U.S. Army

Source: US Army (video statements)

Testing Soldier expertise to challenge the 2024 Army Best Squad competitors with E3B and medical lanes.

: AMVID

About the U.S. Army:
The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

Connect with the U.S. Army online:
Web: https://www.army.mil
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
#USArmy #Soldiers #Military #ArmyBestSquad

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tg8tNaYdtnQ

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: 168th Security Forces FAST Team supports Pacific Angel 24-2 search and rescue exercise in Nepal

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

NEPAL –

The United States Air Force Security Forces watching over our aircraft as we depart on a mission may not always be at the forefront of our minds, but for the Defenders, security is their top priority. The 168th Wing Security Forces Defenders recently provided a Fly-Away Security Team (FAST) to support Pacific Angel 24-2 in Kathmandu, Nepal, Sept. 16-29, 2024.

PA 24-2 is a bilateral search and rescue exercise sponsored by the U.S. and hosted by the Nepal Army. It facilitates field training and the exchange of information among subject matter experts on adverse terrain personnel recovery operations, swift water, and flood personnel recovery operations, patient movement in search and rescue operations, and medical response to hazardous materials. The exercise aims to enhance collaboration by building military and civilian trust in search and rescue capabilities.

The FAST mission is to protect the aircraft in all areas throughout the mission to support humanitarian missions and Department of Defense anti-terrorism operations. These teams are responsible for safeguarding aircraft, crew members, and cargo from potential adversaries and play a key role in enhancing collaboration and trust for successful operations.

“As part of this mission, in particular, we prepared by having each of our members become subject matter experts and brief the team,” said Tech Sgt. Zachory Dominique, 168th Wing Security Forces. “For example, regarding customs and courtesies, we do not want to go to Nepal and be disrespectful – knowing the customs and courtesies beforehand better prepares us – simple things like that. We prepared for weather, terrain, and conditions as well. We went through our load out, ensured we had proper protective equipment, and ensured everything was operational. Everything we have been doing follows a PACE plan, an acronym for primary, alternate, contingency, and emergency, so if our plan fails, we have plans b, c, and d.”

The 168 SFS Defenders dedicated themselves to providing an impenetrable security perimeter around the military aircraft to protect aircrew and cargo. These highly trained and skilled defenders undergo rigorous selection and training processes to ensure they are prepared to handle any security threat. Their expertise lies in establishing and maintaining security measures to safeguard aircraft, personnel, and assets in challenging, high-risk environments.

The role of FAST defenders is critical in enabling the safe and successful execution of operations. Their presence deters potential threats and reassures aircrew, passengers, and support personnel operating in these environments. In addition to their security duties, FAST defenders are trained to respond to medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other crises, highlighting their versatility and readiness to support a wide range of missions.

The 168th FAST Defenders’ dedication and commitment to their mission make them an indispensable asset in ensuring the safety and security of air operations in austere environments. Their unwavering vigilance and expertise contribute to the overall success of humanitarian missions and DoD anti-terrorism efforts, earning them the reputation of being a formidable and reliable security force.

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Reverend Warnock Joins President Biden in Ray City to Survey Hurricane Helene Damage, Continues Push for Disaster Declaration in All Impacted GA Counties

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

ICYMI: Senator Reverend Warnock Joins President Biden in Ray City to Survey Hurricane Helene Damage, Continues Push for Disaster Declaration in All Impacted GA Counties

On Thursday, Senator Reverend Warnock accompanied President Biden to survey agricultural damage from Hurricane Helene at an impacted pecan farm in Ray City

Senator Reverend Warnock and his office have been working around the clock to marshal federal recovery resources to Georgia, including pushing senior Biden Administration officials to swiftly approve additional major disaster assistance for all of Georgia’s impacted 93 counties

During his visit, President Biden credited Senator Warnock for helping secure a wavier ensuring the federal government will shoulder 100% of debris removal and emergency protective measures costs in Georgia—WATCH VIDEO HERE

In Ray City, Senator Reverend Warnock pressed President Biden directly to approve Georgia’s remaining counties under the federal major disaster declaration without additional delay

Left: Senator Warnock greeting President Biden at Moody Air Force base in Valdosta, GA

Right: Senator Warnock delivering food for those impacted by the Hurricane in Valdosta

Washington, D.C. – On Thursday, October 3, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) joined President Biden in rural South Georgia to survey agricultural damage caused by Hurricane Helene and pledged his continued support to marshal federal resources and other assistance to Georgians in need.

The Senator and President Biden visited Shiloh Pecan Farm in Ray City, where they received a briefing from pecan farmer Buck Paulk on the extent of storm damage on his and other farms in the area and the urgency of providing additional disaster relief to mitigate the economic impacts of Hurricane Helene on the state’s agriculture industry. During his remarks in Ray City following the tour, President Biden publicly credited Senator Warnock for his work to help secure a waiver ensuring the federal government will cover 100% of the costs associated with debris removal and standing up emergency protective measures in Georgia’s impacted areas.

“Yesterday, I approved Governor Kemp’s request for the federal government to cover 100 percent of the cost for debris removal and emergency protective measures for three months, 100 percent. I must tell you, your Senator [Warnock] had a little bit to do with that when he called me,” said President Biden.

While in South Georgia, Senator Warnock also pushed President Biden on the urgent need to approve the remainder of Georgia’s 93 impacted counties under the President’s federal major disaster declaration issued September 30, unlocking additional critical federal recovery resources and assistance. To date the Administration has only approved 41 of the 93 counties the state requested for individual and public disaster assistance, prompting Senator Warnock this week to press senior FEMA, White House officials, and President Biden directly to approve Georgia’s remaining impacted counties under the major disaster declaration without additional delay. Following Senator Warnock’s pushes, President Biden and Administration leaders have stated federal officials are actively working to quickly approve assistance for all of Georgia’s counties impacted by the storm.

President Biden and Senator Warnock during the press conference in Ray City, GA

Senator Warnock and his office have been active in Georgia’s Hurricane Helene response efforts from the beginning, visiting Augusta on September 30 to deliver needed supplies and survey storm damage; making frequent contact with elected officials, hospital leaders, and other community leaders to address urgent needs and provide support; launching a new web clearinghouse of Federal and state hurricane recovery assistance and resources across the state; and advocating for swift congressional approval of additional federal disaster relief for impacted families and communities, especially Georgia’s farmers.

Senator Warnock and Brooks County Commissioner James Maxwell

VIEW FULL PHOTO ALBUM

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rubio, Scott, Florida Colleagues to POTUS: Expedite Resources to Floridians

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio
Hurricane Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm, causing catastrophic damage along Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s crucial for the federal government to expedite state-requested resources and authorize key policy flexibilities in order for Floridians to make a swift recovery.
U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Florida colleagues sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging the direction of federal agencies to expedite requested resources and implement emergency policy flexibilities to help the people of Florida.
“Mr. President: In the wake of Hurricane Helene, we write to urge you to direct federal agencies to expedite state-requested resources and actions and to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response.”
Joining Senators Rubio and Scott were U.S. Representatives Greg Steube (R-FL), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Kat Cammack (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), and Neal Dunn (R-FL).
The full text of the letter is below.
Dear Mr. President:
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, we write to urge you to direct federal agencies to expedite state-requested resources and actions and to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response. Specifically, we urge you to direct federal agencies to act on the following items:

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

Temporary Housing Assistance
On September 29, 2024, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) requested FEMA to authorize Emergency Non-Congregate Sheltering, including in the form of Recreational Vehicles (RVs) and travel trailers in accordance with FEMA Policy 104-009-18, as well as in the form of Direct Housing Assistance in Individual Assistance-designated counties. On October 1, 2024, FDEM requested FEMA to authorize Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for survivors of Hurricane Helene, including to modify FEMA Policy 104-21-0008 to add Friends and Family and Damaged Dwelling categories to the list of eligible survivor locations for TSA. We urge you to approve these requests as quickly as possible.
Further, with respect to the swift delivery and deployment of FEMA temporary housing resources in impacted communities, we urge you to direct FEMA to authorize the use of travel trailers and manufactured homes in Special Flood Hazard Areas to ensure that housing unit recipients are able to stay on their properties while they rebuild permanent structures. Due to the nature of Florida’s low elevation, FEMA’s regulatory requirements with regard to temporary housing in flood zones significantly restricts federal housing assistance in the state. Enabling disaster survivors to remain on their properties following a disaster is crucial to the recovery process, as doing so reduces the need for survivors to commute from a remote location for the purposes of rebuilding and looking after their properties and affairs. There is a precedent for FEMA allowing this policy flexibility. Following Hurricane Ian, the provision of temporary housing resources was severely delayed due to FEMA regulations that prevented the placement of manufactured housing units and travel trailers in these flood zones. However, FEMA ultimately authorized this flexibility following months of delays in temporary housing assistance.
Issue Storm-Specific Guidance for Debris Removal, Demolition, and Disposal
In the wake of Major Disasters, FEMA may waive program requirements with respect to prior approval for debris removal, demolition, and waste disposal, and issue disaster-specific guidance to inform local communities on how they can remain in compliance with regulations and law while accounting for policy waivers in order to remain eligible for reimbursement. We have heard from local governments, in designated counties, that the issuance of storm-specific guidance for Hurricane Helene debris removal, demolition, and waste disposal would enable them to confidently remove hazardous debris in an expedited manner without having to risk failing to comply with regulation or law. We urge you to direct FEMA to issue storm-specific guidance for Hurricane Helene as quickly as possible.
Ensure Sand Removal, Screening, and Placement is Eligible for Category A Debris Removal Public Assistance Reimbursement
Hurricane Helene washed tons of sand into the streets and rights-of-way of municipalities in designated counties along the Gulf Coast of Florida, impeding public transportation and evacuation routes. Sand is an irreplaceable material for Florida’s outdoor economy, and composes the dunes and shorelines that protect infrastructure from storm surge, erosion and tidal flooding. The collection and removal of sand from streets and rights-of-way, screening of sand to remove debris, and placement of screened sand along shorelines is time-intensive and may be too costly for non-federal entities to expense themselves. We request you ensure the removal of sand debris, screening of sand for debris, and placement of sand on productive shorelines are eligible activities for FEMA reimbursement under Category A Public Assistance, just as it was following Hurricane Ian.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE):

Emergency Permitting Procedures
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations allow the authorization of emergency permitting procedures to expedite emergency work and repair in emergency situations that may result in hazards to life, loss of property, or economic hardship.[2] The severe impacts of Hurricane Helene pose such hazards, as navigation channels along the Gulf Coast of Florida have been impeded by debris from damaged and destroyed structures and infrastructure. These channels must be cleared of hazards to promote safe navigation, and to enable recovery in remote coastal areas that require maritime access. Further, terrestrial infrastructure, including shoreline infrastructure, may require expedited permitting procedures to prevent economic hardship and hazards to public safety from possible future severe weather.
Issue Flood Control and Coastal Emergencies (FCCE) Shoreline Easement Policy Memorandum
The failed Army Corps of Engineers policy implementation of Section 103 of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) 1986 (33 U.S.C. 2213) has caused many hurricane risk reduction projects in Florida, including several in Hurricane Helene’s disaster areas, to become effectively defunct due to burdensome perpetual easement requirements. Pinellas County, which suffered more deaths than any other county in Florida due to Hurricane Helene, primarily from storm surge, is ground zero for this federal policy failure that has led to the erosion of shorelines and dunes that are proven to mitigate storm surge impacts. Section 361 of the Senate-passed Water Resources Development Act of 2024 contains language that would give policy flexibility to local project sponsors receiving supplemental FCCE funds to construct emergency FCCE projects with less-than-permanent easements.[3] We urge you to direct the USACE to issue a policy memorandum on an expedited basis to implement this policy, which passed the Senate unanimously, so that local project sponsors have certainty they will be able to secure less-than-permanent easements in anticipation of receiving FCCE funds from a possible forthcoming disaster supplemental. This policy would also enable local project sponsors to begin implementing hundreds of millions of dollars of supplemental FCCE funds appropriated in December 2022 that have been impeded by failed USACE policy implementation.
Operation Blue Roof
Hurricane Helene made landfall with winds of 140 miles per hour and higher wind gusts. Due to the large size and fast forward movement of the hurricane, Helene projected strong winds over a large area, damaging roofs in the process. Operation Blue Roof is an emergency program of the Army Corps of Engineers, in consultation with FEMA, for the deployment of blue plastic tarps to protect damaged homes from future rain damage. Please consider activating Operation Blue Roof if FEMA, USACE, and partners assess sufficient need.

U.S. Department of Agriculture:

Block Grant Authority for Agricultural Disaster Relief
The State of Florida has requested Agriculture Secretary Vilsack to designate an Agricultural Disaster for the state, a request we support. In addition to expediting an Agricultural Disaster designation, we urge you to recognize block grants to states as a valid method of disbursing supplemental disaster assistance to growers. We would also welcome your support for explicitly including this authority in a forthcoming disaster supplemental. Supplemental disaster assistance appropriated in December 2022 has been slow to reach growers, in part due to manpower constraints on the USDA’s ability to process and administer disaster loss claims. Providing agricultural assistance via block grants to states allows state agencies to use their own employees as a force multiplier to process claims in an expedited manner, and disburse aid to agricultural producers more quickly.
Thank you for your attention to these important matters. We look forward to working with you on behalf of Floridians.
Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA News: Letter to Congress on Disaster Needs

Source: The White House

Dear Speaker Johnson and Leaders Schumer, McConnell, and Jeffries,

I write to you regarding the needs of the Nation. As communities across the Southeast devastated by Hurricane Helene assess the extent of the damage, they are expecting their Federal Government to stand behind them in their most urgent time of need. I have seen firsthand the devastation that Hurricane Helene brought to communities across the Southeast. During my travels this week to North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and Georgia, I met with families, business owners, farmers, local and state officials, and first responders, all of whom shared with me their stories of survival—and resilience. As leaders, we have a responsibility to ensure that everyone in communities ravaged by natural disasters will have the Federal resources they need and deserve to respond to and recover from deadly storms and other natural disasters.

My Administration will be with those affected until the job is done, and we have a solemn obligation to provide confidence that the Federal Government will stand with them as they rebuild their lives and their communities. Furthermore, this responsibility extends to the many communities around the Nation that are still rebuilding from previous disasters.

Over the past 10 days, including in the lead up to Hurricane Helene making landfall, my Administration has provided robust and well-coordinated Federal support for the ongoing response and recovery efforts. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Department of Defense, and other Federal partners have quickly mobilized to support impacted citizens and communities in the six States where major disasters have been declared due to Hurricane Helene: Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. They are performing critical life-saving and life-sustaining missions and will continue to do so within present funding levels. As with other catastrophic disasters, it will take some time to assess the full requirements for response and recovery efforts, and I fully expect that the Congress will do its part to provide the funding needed.

While FEMA has the resources needed for the immediate emergency response phase, at least one other agency does not. Most urgently, the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster loan program will run out of funding in a matter of weeks and well before the Congress is planning to reconvene. I warned the Congress of this potential shortfall even before Hurricane Helene landed on America’s shores. I requested more funding for SBA multiple times over the past several months, and most recently, my Administration underscored that request as you prepared a continuing resolution to fund the Government. Now the need is even more urgent. Small businesses and individuals in affected areas depend on disaster loans as a critical lifeline during difficult times. In fact, for individual disaster survivors, SBA loans are often the largest source of Federal disaster recovery funds. Renters and homeowners use these loans to repair and rebuild their homes as well as replace or repair damaged property including their personal vehicles, while businesses use them to cover basic operating expenses. The Congress must act to restore this funding.

In addition, while FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund has the resources it requires right now to meet immediate needs, the fund does face a shortfall at the end of the year. Without additional funding, FEMA would be required to forego longer-term recovery activities in favor of meeting urgent needs. The Congress should provide FEMA additional resources to avoid forcing that kind of unnecessary trade-off and to give the communities we serve the certainty of knowing that help will be ongoing, both for the short- and long-term.

As the Congress heeds the call to assist the communities across the Nation recovering from Hurricane Helene, it must remember that many other communities are also in urgent need of disaster assistance. As recently as this summer, my Administration requested that the Congress provide additional disaster assistance to many communities across America. Many of the programs we requested to receive additional funding would also help response and recovery efforts related to Hurricane Helene. This includes funding for the Department of Housing and Urban Development to respond to devastating fires in Maui and tornados in Mississippi, Iowa, and Oklahoma as well as funding for the Department of Transportation to support rebuilding roads and bridges across the Nation, including the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland.

I urge you to keep faith with those communities and provide the requested additional funding to rebuild housing infrastructure, to support farmers and ranchers with crop losses, to address impacted schools, and to repair damaged Federal highways. In addition to FEMA’s ongoing support, these are the resources that communities need and deserve to fully respond to and recover from devastating events.

It is critical that Congress ensures that no critical disaster programs, such as the SBA disaster loan program, run out of funding during the Congressional Recess period. I also urge that after the Congress comes back into session on November 12th, you will act with all appropriate speed and provide comprehensive disaster relief so that the people, families, businesses, and communities affected by Hurricane Helene—as well as those still recovering from past disasters—are not only made whole, but can proceed in a way to make them more resilient in the face of future extreme weather events and other disasters.

My Administration will keep the Congress apprised of efforts to assess the full resource requirements associated with Hurricane Helene, including for long-term rebuilding and resilience efforts, as those estimates become available. I urge you to assist those impacted by this hurricane and every other disaster since the Congress last passed a comprehensive disaster package in 2022. We must stand with these communities on their long road to recovery.

Sincerely,

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Letter to Congress on Disaster Needs

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
Dear Speaker Johnson and Leaders Schumer, McConnell, and Jeffries,
I write to you regarding the needs of the Nation. As communities across the Southeast devastated by Hurricane Helene assess the extent of the damage, they are expecting their Federal Government to stand behind them in their most urgent time of need. I have seen firsthand the devastation that Hurricane Helene brought to communities across the Southeast. During my travels this week to North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and Georgia, I met with families, business owners, farmers, local and state officials, and first responders, all of whom shared with me their stories of survival—and resilience. As leaders, we have a responsibility to ensure that everyone in communities ravaged by natural disasters will have the Federal resources they need and deserve to respond to and recover from deadly storms and other natural disasters.
My Administration will be with those affected until the job is done, and we have a solemn obligation to provide confidence that the Federal Government will stand with them as they rebuild their lives and their communities. Furthermore, this responsibility extends to the many communities around the Nation that are still rebuilding from previous disasters.
Over the past 10 days, including in the lead up to Hurricane Helene making landfall, my Administration has provided robust and well-coordinated Federal support for the ongoing response and recovery efforts. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Department of Defense, and other Federal partners have quickly mobilized to support impacted citizens and communities in the six States where major disasters have been declared due to Hurricane Helene: Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. They are performing critical life-saving and life-sustaining missions and will continue to do so within present funding levels. As with other catastrophic disasters, it will take some time to assess the full requirements for response and recovery efforts, and I fully expect that the Congress will do its part to provide the funding needed.
While FEMA has the resources needed for the immediate emergency response phase, at least one other agency does not. Most urgently, the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster loan program will run out of funding in a matter of weeks and well before the Congress is planning to reconvene. I warned the Congress of this potential shortfall even before Hurricane Helene landed on America’s shores. I requested more funding for SBA multiple times over the past several months, and most recently, my Administration underscored that request as you prepared a continuing resolution to fund the Government. Now the need is even more urgent. Small businesses and individuals in affected areas depend on disaster loans as a critical lifeline during difficult times. In fact, for individual disaster survivors, SBA loans are often the largest source of Federal disaster recovery funds. Renters and homeowners use these loans to repair and rebuild their homes as well as replace or repair damaged property including their personal vehicles, while businesses use them to cover basic operating expenses. The Congress must act to restore this funding.
In addition, while FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund has the resources it requires right now to meet immediate needs, the fund does face a shortfall at the end of the year. Without additional funding, FEMA would be required to forego longer-term recovery activities in favor of meeting urgent needs. The Congress should provide FEMA additional resources to avoid forcing that kind of unnecessary trade-off and to give the communities we serve the certainty of knowing that help will be ongoing, both for the short- and long-term.
As the Congress heeds the call to assist the communities across the Nation recovering from Hurricane Helene, it must remember that many other communities are also in urgent need of disaster assistance. As recently as this summer, my Administration requested that the Congress provide additional disaster assistance to many communities across America. Many of the programs we requested to receive additional funding would also help response and recovery efforts related to Hurricane Helene. This includes funding for the Department of Housing and Urban Development to respond to devastating fires in Maui and tornados in Mississippi, Iowa, and Oklahoma as well as funding for the Department of Transportation to support rebuilding roads and bridges across the Nation, including the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland.
I urge you to keep faith with those communities and provide the requested additional funding to rebuild housing infrastructure, to support farmers and ranchers with crop losses, to address impacted schools, and to repair damaged Federal highways. In addition to FEMA’s ongoing support, these are the resources that communities need and deserve to fully respond to and recover from devastating events.
It is critical that Congress ensures that no critical disaster programs, such as the SBA disaster loan program, run out of funding during the Congressional Recess period. I also urge that after the Congress comes back into session on November 12th, you will act with all appropriate speed and provide comprehensive disaster relief so that the people, families, businesses, and communities affected by Hurricane Helene—as well as those still recovering from past disasters—are not only made whole, but can proceed in a way to make them more resilient in the face of future extreme weather events and other disasters.
My Administration will keep the Congress apprised of efforts to assess the full resource requirements associated with Hurricane Helene, including for long-term rebuilding and resilience efforts, as those estimates become available. I urge you to assist those impacted by this hurricane and every other disaster since the Congress last passed a comprehensive disaster package in 2022. We must stand with these communities on their long road to recovery.
Sincerely,
JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: National Day holiday brings box office surge

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

As a testament to its economic vitality, the weeklong National Day holiday has sparked a box office surge, underscoring the potential of China’s resurgent market.

As of Friday, the vacation starting from Tuesday has raked in 1.47 billion yuan ($209.4 million), a 45 percent increase compared to the same period in 2022 and slightly surpassing the year-on-year figure in 2023, according to Maoyan Pro, a real-time movie information tracker.

Fueled by the boom, this year’s box office tally has surpassed 36 billion yuan, deemed by many industry insiders as an inspirational sign to uplift morale following the sluggish previous seasons from the May Day holiday to the summer vacation and Mid-Autumn Festival.

The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death, the latest directorial work by Chen Kaige, the first Chinese filmmaker to win a Palme d’Or award at the Cannes Film Festival, is currently leading the holiday box office charts with earnings exceeding 500 million yuan.

As the second installment of Chen’s trilogy The Volunteers, an epic that chronicles the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea (1950-53), the 144-minute new movie recounts a pivotal battle in Cheorwon, where 25,000 Chinese People’s Volunteer Army soldiers engaged around 50,000 United States-led “United Nations Command” forces in 1951.

Yuan Yun’er, a Beijing-based critic, said the movie, which has garnered a rating of 7.2 points out of 10 on the popular review site Douban, is a poignant narrative that revisits the war pivotal to China’s destiny over 70 years ago.

Compared to the initial installment, The Volunteers: To the War, released last October, the new film presents a more intense plot from a human-interest perspective, with its depiction of war scenes being more grandiose and skillful in portraying details.

For example, a poignant detail stirring online discussion is a candy gifted by CPV Commander-in-Chief Peng Dehuai to a veteran officer, who passes it to his son, a CPV soldier, and eventually to his sister, an army interpreter, with the son’s touching act of licking the empty wrapper before his sacrifice resonating profoundly with viewers.

Zhi Feina, a film professor at the Chinese National Academy of Arts, remarked that the movie distinguishes itself, partly because its patriotic theme resonates with the collective emotions of the domestic audience, as China celebrates the National Day.

Following the war epic, director Lu Chuan’s sci-fi film Bureau 749 has secured the second spot on the holiday box office charts, amassing over 300 million yuan. The film, loosely inspired by Lu’s early work experience in an institute researching supernatural phenomena, narrates a near-future story about battling mysterious creatures that drag a city into an unprecedented crisis.

Ranked third in box office earnings at the festival, the crime drama Tiger Wolf Rabbit depicts the vengeful quest of three parents whose children are abducted by human traffickers. It has grossed over 230 million yuan.

Respectively, the fourth and fifth top earners are kungfu giant Jackie Chan’s comedy Panda Plan and Hong Kong iconic star Andy Lau’s action thriller High Forces.

A total of 10 movies were released on Monday and Tuesday, aiming to vie for audiences during the National Day holiday, one of the most lucrative box office seasons in China, according to the China Film Distribution and Exhibition Association.

Yu Chao, deputy general manager of Beijing’s Capital Cinema chain, said that the diversity in genres and the remarkable number of new films released showcase the potential of China’s movie market.

From sci-fi movie The Wandering Earth (2019) to the fantasy epic Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms (2023) and the latest blockbuster Bureau 749, Chinese audiences have demonstrated a strong interest in watching special effects-laden big-budget films, indicating opportunities for advancement in the Chinese film technology sector, Yu said.

He also highlighted the holiday’s new movie, A Tapestry of a Legendary Land. Adapted from the popular dance poem drama of the same name, the movie represents a new creative direction for domestic filmmakers.

The film, featuring the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) masterpiece Qianli Jiangshan Tu (A Panorama of Rivers and Mountains) through dance, demonstrates that stage performances translated into feature-length films can attract audiences with their established reputation and enhanced visual details on large cinema screens, added Yu.

Rao Shuguang, president of the China Film Critics Association, predicted this year’s box office revenue may exceed last year’s, driven by the momentum of the National Day holiday surge.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Leading the way to Chinese modernization through sci-tech innovation

Source: China State Council Information Office 2

The launch of the BeiDou-3 Navigation Satellite System’s (BDS-3) final two satellites in September marked the completion of China’s independently-developed satnav system, for which President Xi Jinping has given continuous support.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, has been closely following the development of the BDS-3 program.
He visited the satellite launch site, cared about and encouraged scientists and technicians in the BDS-3 program, officially announced the commissioning of the program, sent a congratulatory letter to an international summit on the application of BeiDou, and mentioned it as a highlight of China’s achievements in his New Year messages.
He has called for wider application of the BeiDou system to make new and greater contributions to China’s economic and social development, as well as the building of a human community with a shared future.
Under the new system of concentrating nationwide efforts and resources on key undertakings, sci-tech workers have surmounted a multitude of technological hurdles — successfully integrating BeiDou into both industrial applications and daily life.
BeiDou has become a standard configuration for mass consumer products such as smartphones and wearable devices. In the first half of 2024, over 98 percent of China’s 139 million units of smartphone shipments supported the BeiDou positioning system.
The growth of BeiDou mirrors the modernization drive underpinned by the modernization of science and technology, and shows how the Chinese leader values sci-tech innovation and its fruits for bolstering the economy and facilitating high-quality development.
At this year’s meeting with the country’s sci-tech workers in June, Xi said that Chinese modernization should be supported by sci-tech modernization, and achieving high-quality development relies on new driving forces cultivated by sci-tech innovation.
What he calls for is happening. China has moved up to 11th place in the rankings of the world’s most innovative economies, representing one of the fastest rises over the past decade, according to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
The country is also home to 26 of the world’s top 100 sci-tech innovation clusters, maintaining its position as the global leader for two consecutive years, the WIPO’s Global Innovation Index 2024 confirmed.
Xi has emphasized the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation by enhancing the principal position of enterprises in technological innovation.
The development of new energy vehicles is a good example. In 2014, during an inspection tour of SAIC Motor, a major Chinese carmaker, Xi called for the research and development of products that cater to diverse needs and highlighted the importance of new energy vehicles in enhancing China’s automotive industry.
In the following decade, the president became a big fan of electric cars, visiting automotive companies, touring laboratories, and showing great interest in trying new home-developed models. He encouraged carmakers to focus on product quality and cultivate market competitiveness.
Now new energy vehicles have become a highlight of China’s tech-intensive industry. Their penetration rate, a gauge of popularity, climbed to 53.9 percent in the domestic market in August, meaning that their sales volume exceeded that of traditional vehicles with internal combustion engines.
New energy vehicles are also gaining popularity in Southeast Asian, South American and European markets. In the first eight months of 2024, China exported 818,000 new energy vehicles, a year-on-year increase of 12.6 percent.
In addition to boosting economic growth through new energy industries, Xi also places great emphasis on the role of such industries in green development and promotes the sharing of green technologies — as harmonious coexistence between human and nature is one of the key features of China’s modernization.
He has repeatedly expressed China’s commitment to re-adjusting industrial structure and energy mix, vigorously developing renewable energy, and making faster progress in planning and developing large wind power and photovoltaic bases.
Over the past decade, China’s annual installation of renewable energy power generation capacity has accounted for more than 40 percent of the global total, while exceeding 50 percent in 2023.
China’s fast progress in developing renewable energy technologies and their massive applications have also significantly contributed to an over 60 percent reduction in wind power costs and a more than 80 percent drop in photovoltaic power costs globally. This has played a pivotal role in global efforts to cut carbon emissions and transit toward a greener economy.
At the same time, its renewable energy technology is still making breakthroughs, providing impetus for the future development of the industry. According to a study published in Nature at the end of September, Chinese chemists Yuan Mingjian from Nankai University cooperated with a scientist in Canada to prepare perovskite solar cell devices with high energy conversion efficiency and high operational stability, marking a major breakthrough in new-generation photovoltaic technology.
At a recent symposium on ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin, Xi mentioned that many African countries have been discussing cooperation with China concerning wind and photovoltaic power.
“Green and low-carbon cooperation has a promising future,” he said.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: IPhsa at ICMM: Strengthening Indo-Pacific Health Security

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

BRISBANE, Australia –

During the International Committee for Military Medicine (ICMM) 45^th World Congress “Military Medicine Shaping Global Health” held in Brisbane from September 22-27, 2024, the Indo-Pacific health security alliance (IPhsa) hosted a session co-chaired by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM). This gathering brought together regional and international stakeholders to discuss strategies for enhancing health security and future collaboration.

Key session highlights included the announcement of the next IPhsa event in Papua New Guinea (PNG) in 2025, as well as the continued participation of the African Partnership Outbreak Response Alliance (APORA) in sharing lessons learned. These discussions focused on best practices and expanding partnerships to address health threats in the Indo-Pacific.

CAPT Jeffrey Bitterman of INDOPACOM opened the session by emphasizing the critical importance of regional cooperation to address evolving health threats, including infectious diseases and natural disasters.

“By building health security capacity, together, we foster global stability, will cultivate key partnerships and mitigate harmful influences and enhance readiness in our collective interoperability. Collaboration with public health authorities, media organizations and other stakeholders is also crucial for building public trust and health security efforts”. – CAPT Bitterman, U.S. INDOPACOM Command Surgeon.

He underscored IPhsa’s milestones, such as the 2022 signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation and the 2024 Terms of Reference, which formalized military-civilian partnerships. He highlighted that strengthening preparedness and interoperability across sectors is key to protecting public health and maintaining regional stability.

A pre-recorded message from Mr. Ludy Prapancha Suryantoro of the World Health Organization emphasized the need for enhanced civil-military collaboration in health emergencies. He introduced the Civil-Military Mapping tool, designed to improve coordination and identify gaps in health emergency preparedness, especially in biosecurity/laboratories, CBRN, one health and disaster response.

ADF’s AIRCDRE Nicole dos Santos closed the session by reflecting on the significance of global health security as a cornerstone of national and regional safety. She drew upon themes of interconnectedness, referencing the term “Ubuntu” to highlight shared humanity and collective responsibility. AIRCDR dos Santos emphasized the growing convergence of geopolitical, geostrategic, and geoeconomic factors, noting the need for a multilateral, whole-of-government approach to health security. She celebrated IPhsa’s role in fostering collaboration between military and civilian sectors and called for sustained partnerships to face global challenges.

“Leading to improved global health security, we are very privileged to be a founding member of the alliance, and we look forward to contributing to the development of the Indo Pacific health security alliance over the coming years. As we progress and mature, we would like to welcome more of you to join the alliance and work with us to improve the health security of our region and our world for those who follow.” – AIRCDRE dos Santos, Director General Operational Health – Joint Health Command

As the session concluded, participants echoed the call for stronger cooperation and looked ahead to the upcoming IPhsa meeting in PNG in 2025, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration to bolster regional health resilience.

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets German Marshall Fund delegation

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

President Lai meets German Marshall Fund delegation
2024-10-04

On the afternoon of October 4, President Lai Ching-te met with a transatlantic delegation from the German Marshall Fund (GMF). In remarks, President Lai stated that as China continues to intimidate and threaten Taiwan both politically and militarily, Taiwan has continued to increase its defense budget and that it is aiming to strengthen resilience in national defense, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy to safeguard regional stability and ensure the sustainable development of democracy. The president stated that we seek to work with other democracies to uphold the democratic umbrella and that he looks forward to further advancing economic exchanges and cooperation with the United States and European Union as we unite to face the threats of authoritarian expansionism.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
I welcome the delegation led by GMF Senior Advisor Heather A. Conley. As Typhoon Krathon has been affecting Taiwan these few days, the presence of our esteemed guests from the United States and Europe here today demonstrates your staunch support for Taiwan and the solid stance our transatlantic partners have taken with Taiwan. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a very warm welcome to the delegation.
GMF has long paid close attention to cross-strait issues. For instance, it released a research report on United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758. The report pointed out that the resolution does not mention Taiwan and explained to the international community that China has distorted the content of the resolution and improperly linked it with its “one China principle.” I want to take this opportunity to thank Managing Director of the Indo-Pacific Program at the GMF Bonnie Glaser for her efforts and support in this regard.
In recent years, the US has continued to coordinate with its allies to reiterate the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. And the GMF has contributed greatly to garnering support for Taiwan among the transatlantic alliance. For this, I convey my heartfelt appreciation.
China continues to intimidate and threaten Taiwan both politically and militarily. It is expanding its military presence in the East and South China Seas and attempting to change the rules-based international order. In response, Taiwan has continued to increase its defense budget, established a new defense innovation unit, and set up the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee at the Presidential Office. Our aim is to strengthen resilience in national defense, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy. By making Taiwan more resilient, we are safeguarding regional stability and ensuring the sustainable development of democracy.
Indeed, Taiwan is determined to protect democracy. We seek to work with other democracies to uphold the democratic umbrella and avert the threats of expanding authoritarianism. In terms of Taiwan-US military cooperation, I would like to thank former US Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs Jessica Lewis for her tremendous assistance in facilitating the US government’s efforts to accelerate the provision of the defense capabilities Taiwan needs through such avenues as the presidential drawdown authority and Foreign Military Financing program.
Apart from military cooperation, economic cooperation is also crucial. We hope that Taiwan and the US can resolve the issue of double taxation as soon as possible. This would further enhance our bilateral trade and economic ties. We also look forward to signing a bilateral investment agreement with the EU to further advance economic exchanges and cooperation.
Facing the threats of authoritarian expansionism, democracies must unite. Only then will we be able to respond with our collective wisdom and strength. Taiwan needs the world, just as the world needs Taiwan. Taiwan will continue working together with our partners in the US and Europe. I look forward to our discussion.
Senior Advisor Conley then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for giving them his time and mentioning that this three-day visit, which coincided with the typhoon, demonstrated to them in very concrete terms the importance of the whole-of-society resilience. She said that they were also able to take a deep dive into what President Lai’s administration has put forward on the five pillars, the challenges of implementing this ambitious plan, and the importance of local governments and public opinion.
Noting that the GMF stands for the intersection of democracy, prosperity, and security, and connecting those dots, Senior Advisor Conley remarked how important those connections are in today’s world. She stated that the more complex the international challenges, the more important partners are to helping to solve those problems. That is why the GMF wanted to bring together a transatlantic delegation with colleagues from Europe and the US, she added, who bring together expertise in the technology and economic dimensions of security and civil society. She said that it has been a joy to be with them, to learn together, and to learn from experts in Taiwan as well.
Senior Advisor Conley said that over the past three days, they have had opportunities to brainstorm, provide new ideas, and take home new ideas, and that they look forward to writing about them and helping and continuing this important dialogue. In closing, on behalf of her colleagues and the GMF, she thanked President Lai for giving them an extraordinary three days of conversation and for making time out of his busy schedule in a week of a natural disaster in Taiwan.
The delegation also included former Permanent Representative of Italy to NATO Francesco M. Talò, Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces Lieutenant General Rajmund Andrzejczak, GMF Board of Trustees Chair Christopher Schroeder, Special Competitive Studies Project Senior Advisor Joe Wang, and Munich Security Conference Senior Fellow Nico Lange.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CAD holds youth activity in celebration of National Day (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     To celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and enhance young people’s understanding of the aviation development in Hong Kong, the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) today (October 5) held an aviation-themed youth activity at its headquarters.

     The CAD has all along been committed to enhancing young people’s understanding of Hong Kong aviation industry and inspiring young people’s interests in the industry through organising youth activities, with the aim of nurturing young talents for the industry and hence contributing to the development of our country.

     More than 140 participants from seven youth groups, namely the Scout Association of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association, the Hong Kong Air Cadet Corps, the Hong Kong Youth Aviation Academy, the Hong Kong Aerospace Leaders Association, the Hong Kong Road Safety Patrol and the Hong Kong Army Cadets Association, participated in the event today. Besides, nearly 30 participants from the Strive and Rise Programme joined the event today. The event offered a variety of activities, including thematic talks on aviation development in Hong Kong, career talks on CAD grades, demonstrations of air traffic control tower simulator and the Aviation Education Path guided tours.

     â€‹ The Director-General of Civil Aviation, Mr Victor Liu, at the opening ceremony, said that he was very pleased to share the joy of the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China with the young people at the event. He encouraged members of the youth groups to enhance knowledge on local aviation industry and equip themselves to uphold Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub. Mr Liu added that the CAD Aviation Education Path will set up new exhibition galleries with the themes on the “uprising of the two airlines” and the civil aviation development of China (including the development of home-grown aircraft), which will be open to the public upon completion.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Lu Chuan’s sci-fi gamble ‘Bureau 749’ debuts after 8-year struggle

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

Among the many ambitious projects in Chinese cinema, few stories rival that of director Lu Chuan’s epic undertaking, “Bureau 749.” The film, conceived as early as 2016, aimed to be a cutting-edge sci-fi spectacle with Hollywood-caliber visual effects. However, its path to completion became a tumultuous saga marked by financial hurdles, production challenges and a relentless pursuit of artistic vision.

The Sept. 29 premiere in Beijing was charged with emotion as cast, crew and audience members were moved upon finally seeing the film on the big screen. During the eight-year journey, more than 6,000 people contributed to the project, experiencing hardship, despair and joy along the way.

“It’s been really hard for us these past few years, and now it’s time for us to present it to the audience and let them enjoy it and judge,” Lu said.

“Bureau 749” draws inspiration from a real but enigmatic Chinese government agency that has become an urban legend. It’s known only for conducting research and expeditions to study unusual phenomena, including reportedly supernatural individuals and events. Lu has mentioned that he worked in that government organ for some time after graduating from the People’s Liberation Army Institute of International Relations. To reassure viewers, Lu invited former colleagues to the premiere.

Regardless of what he saw in that secretive agency, Lu gained imaginative ideas for filmmaking. He first showcased these concepts in his 2015 sci-fi monster and tomb raider blockbuster “Chronicles of the Ghostly Tribe,” before embarking on a new feature film dedicated entirely to the bureau in 2016. Lu also infused the project with personal meaning, making it a tribute to his youth.

“Bureau 749” stars young pop idol Karry Wang, actors Zheng Kai and Miao Miao — who met on set, married, and now have three children — along with Ren Min, Xin Baiqing and Li Chen. As they stood on stage at the premiere, they reflected on the passage of time and how their lives had evolved during the film’s production.

The film follows the agents of Bureau 749 as they attempt to use a mutant child’s superpowers to combat a massive alien monster threatening a Chinese city. It features more than 1,700 visual effects shots and presents epic-scale disaster and action sequences that are designed to wow viewers.

Lu envisioned and initiated the grand project with a budget of 350 million yuan ($50 million) during the golden era of Chinese cinema. The cameras started rolling in Chongqing in 2018, despite only 30% of the promised investment materializing. The situation soon changed dramatically as Chinese tax authorities tightened regulations on the film industry’s financial practices, causing some capital to retreat from movie businesses. The COVID-19 pandemic followed, further dimming the prospects for “Bureau 749.”

Initially, the director hired Hollywood’s top talents to realize his vision, including renowned cinematographer David Tattersall, who worked on classics like “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” and “The Green Mile.” Lu also brought in professionals who had worked on blockbusters such as “Avatar” and “Mad Max: Fury Road.” However, he soon discovered these experts were costly assets and had to let them go when financial crises arose. Lu was forced to cut spending in all aspects until the initial filming wrap in July 2019.

The post-production of a visual effects-heavy blockbuster at this level proved even more costly. At one point, Lu faced debts exceeding 25 million yuan, five lawsuits triggered by production and release delays, and contractual obligations to investors. Desperate to find funding, the director enrolled in an MBA program to learn about finance and took on various jobs. These included making a dozen commercials and creating online series. Every bit of money he earned went toward funding “Bureau 749.”

With unwavering persistence and support from industry peers, mentors and convinced investors, including Huayi Brothers Media, Huawen Picture and Beijing Culture, Lu overcame the darkest days and ultimately completed the film. After additional filming concluded on April 22, Lu posted on social media, “I have no regrets. After eight years of dragging this ship, we can finally reach the shore.”

At the premiere’s conclusion, when asked if he had anything else to say to the audience, Lu paused emotionally. After a moment’s reflection, he simply said, “Thank you.”

“Bureau 749” hit Chinese theaters during the seven-day National Day holiday starting Oct. 1, attracting flocks of viewers and grossing more than 300 million yuan within the first four days of the holiday. However, the various financial setbacks and production challenges have clearly impacted the film, resulting in inconsistent visual effects, plot issues and dated elements. Since its release, the film has garnered mixed reviews and sparked controversy.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marines Deliver Emergency Relief to Philippines

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan –

CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan – At the request of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin directed U.S. Indo-Pacific Command to support the U.S. Agency for International Development’s efforts in foreign disaster relief operations in the Philippines following Typhoon Krathon (locally known as Julian), which made landfall on the Province of Cagayan, Philippines Sep. 30.

III Marine Expeditionary Force, directed by USINDOPACOM, has sent personnel and equipment to transport foreign disaster relief (FDR) supplies via KC-130J Hercules aircraft to affected locations within the Republic of the Philippines. They will join personnel from I MEF’s 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Marine Rotational Force – Southeast Asia, who are already located in-country for training, to facilitate the efficient distribution of materials. Humanitarian assistance supplies include tarps, shelter kits, food packets, and other non-food items. Two Marine Corps KC-130Js departed Okinawa, Japan, and arrived in Manila on Oct. 5 in order to support the on-going relief efforts.

The U.S. military is providing air transport and other assistance in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines through the U.S. Department of Defense Overseas Humanitarian, Disaster, and Civic Aid Program.

FDR training is incorporated into nearly every major exercise conducted by Ill MEF. Recurrent crisis response training enhances operational readiness and develops joint interoperability during times of crises. The U.S. military has partnered and trained with our Philippine Allies regularly on FDR operations – including during exercises such as Balikatan and KAMANDAG – which prepare our forces for the challenges associated with extreme circumstances.

For more information or media coverage requests, please contact Capt. Mark McDonough, MRF-SEA Communication Strategy and Operations, at mark.mcdonough@usmc.mil

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: QUICK-SHIP BONUS! | U.S. Army

Source: US Army (video statements)

: AEMO

About the U.S. Army:

The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

Connect with the U.S. Army online:
Web: https://www.army.mil
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
#USArmy #Soldiers #Military #15K #QuickShip

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhAZ79Dujwg

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Celebrating Unity: Yongsan-Casey and Dongducheon celebrate ROK-US friendship at Camp Casey

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

DONGDUCHEON, South Korea –

U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan-Casey and Dongducheon city host a joint ROK-U.S. Friendship Festival on Camp Casey and in Dongducheon, South Korea, Sept. 28.

Over 4,000 South Korean citizens, ROK and U.S. Army Soldiers and government employees attended the festivities both on and off post in the fall afternoon, with endless entertainment, food and fun into the late evening.

Many Dongducheon and ROK/U.S.military leaders were in attendance including Col. Edward Cho, U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan-Casey Commander; Mayor Park Hyung Deok, Dongducheon Mayor; Honorable Kim, Sung Won, National Assembly of Dongducheon, Yangchu, Yeongcheo; and Kim, Seong Ho, Dongducheon City council chairman.

“The ROK-U.S. alliance has been in effect for over 74 years, and we’re more than just neighbors here in Dongducheon city,” said Cho. “The relationship is much deeper than that. It brings me great joy to see everyone together here as one community, celebrating life together.”

This year marks the 17th Dongducheon ROK-U.S. Friendship Festival, an empowering resource between the two nations in the city that has been home to Camp Casey since 1951. The Eighth Army Rock Band performed Korean and American hits on both stages, while South Korean pop singer “Ailee” headlined the night along with many other very talented traditional performers and entertainers.

“Today’s festival carries even greater significance as we celebrate Korean-American friendship with the opening of Camp Casey during this year’s U.S. Military Fall Festival,” said Park. “I hope you take the opportunity to move freely between the base and Bosan-dong Friendship Plaza, sharing and appreciating each other’s cultures as good neighbors.”

Many Soldiers, kids and families played various games including cornhole and rock climbing, and took part in face painting and bounce houses at Stewart Field. The Downtown Casey food court was available for Korean visitors as well who enjoyed American restaurants, some for the first time ever.

“It was great seeing the local community enjoying the festival,” said U.S. Army Pfc. Jackman Bartow, assigned to 503d Military Police Detachment, 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command. “I especially enjoyed getting to talk to the community about what we do as K-9 handlers, and I know Dexter (military working dog) definitely enjoyed the attention and atmosphere.”

Dongducheon city and Camp Casey will continue to organize and support events throughout the year that build upon the well-developed camaraderie shared among both communities.

The highlight of the on base festival concluded with an awe inspiring 10-minute of fireworks show at Stewart Field, wowing attendees and creating a lasting memory of the celebration.

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hurricane Helene Recovery progresses in Western North Carolina
Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: Hurricane Helene Recovery progresses in Western North Carolina

Hurricane Helene Recovery progresses in Western North Carolina
mseets
Sat, 10/05/2024 – 13:53
Governor Cooper Issues Executive Order to Increase Capacity of Healthcare to Respond to Helene

A vast array of relief resources continues to flow into Western North Carolina to assist in Hurricane Helene recovery.

More than 1,500 North Carolina National Guard personnel at work in Western NC are being supported by soldiers from the 18th Airborne Corps headquartered at Fort Liberty. Those soldiers are partnered with NCDOT to assist in clearing roads and with county emergency managers in distributing commodities. Soldiers are also assisting with search and rescue, and air traffic control – managing the large number of aircraft flying relief missions over western counties.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is assisting with assessing water and wastewater plants and dams

More than $27 million FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western NC disaster survivors and more than 83,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Nearly 1,400 people are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance.

More than 755 FEMA personnel are on the ground assisting in the western North Carolina relief effort. In addition to search and rescue and providing commodities, they are meeting with disaster survivors in shelters and neighborhoods to provide rapid access to relief resources. They can be identified by their FEMA logo apparel and federal government identification.

More than 1,100 responders from 34 states are supporting response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). This includes public health nurses, emergency management teams supporting local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs and more.

“Resources from around the nation are at work helping Western North Carolina’s storm response and recovery,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “We are grateful for assistance that’s supporting the thousands of our North Carolina responders.”

Governor Cooper issued an executive order that increases the capacity of the healthcare workforce to respond to Helene by making it easier for healthcare professionals licensed in other states, recent retirees, and others with necessary skills to assist with North Carolina’s response and recovery. In addition, the order authorizes the State Health Director to issue standing orders for emergency medications and authorizes the Department of Health and Human Services to modify or waive fees for replacement of vital records.

Beware of Misinformation

North Carolina Emergency Management and local officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. NCEM has launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm. FEMA is also maintaining a rumor response webpage.

Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

Efforts continue to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, utilizing both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. More than 97,000 hot meals have been prepared and served by mobile kitchens and another 25,000 are expected to be served today.

Food, water and commodity points of distribution have been opened throughout western North Carolina. For information on these sites in your community, visit your local emergency management and local government social media and websites or visit ncdps.gov/Helene.

Points of distribution for commodities have been established in each impacted county. Many of these locations are also providing free public Wi-Fi for area residents. Seek information from local governments for the most up-to-date location in your county.

Power Outages

Across Western North Carolina, approximately 173,000 customers remain without power at 11:30 a.m., down from a peak of more than one million. Power has been restored to more than 800,000 customers. Overall power outage numbers will fluctuate up and down as power crews temporarily take circuits or substations offline to make repairs and restore additional customers.

Missing Persons

To report a missing person or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state.

Shelters

A total of 22 shelters are open in Western North Carolina and housed more than 915 people and 102 pets last night. Plans are in place to open additional shelters as needed to accommodate additional needs. A shelter for those with special medical needs is caring for 13 people.

Search and Rescue Operations

Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Western North Carolina. A total of 53 search and rescue teams from North Carolina and beyond, consisting of more than 1600 personnel have conducted search and rescue operations during this event. Search and rescue teams have interacted with over 5400 people, including assists, evacuations and rescues.

Road Closures

Travel remains dangerous, with approximately 650 roads closed as of Saturday morning. As connectivity and reporting measures improve, this number may increase. NCDOT is asking people to refrain from unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. Road access is limited to local and hurricane response traffic as crews work to restore critical routes and access to communities isolated by damage. First responders also want to keep the roads as clear as possible to help ensure they may carry out all response missions. NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for travelers to avoid western N.C. NCDOT is currently using the following resources to assist with the recovery process:
- 2,050+ employees, plus 70 contract companies
- 900 trucks, graders & backhoes/loaders
- 5,000 barricades & signs
Cellphone Provider Coverage

Cellphone providers are working to fix the damage and coverage issues caused by the storm and get stopgap solutions, such as temporary cell phone towers, in place and rapid progress is being made. Restoring communications is critical to saving lives, finding where people are and getting in supplies, and Governor Cooper been in constant contact with cellphone companies urging action and offering support. Please turn your cell phone off and restart it periodically to allow it to reconnect when a network is reestablished.

Fatalities

Sixty-eight storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We do expect that this number will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911. To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, please call 211.

North Carolina National Guard and Military Response

Gov. Cooper has activated more than 1,500 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen to both conduct search and rescue operations and deliver critical supplies to Western North Carolina. As of Saturday, those troops had moved 3.5 million pounds of commodities. National Guard and military personnel from NC and other states are operating 50 helicopters, and more than 400 specialized vehicles in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions.

President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for active-duty military personnel and equipment to support ongoing operations in Western North Carolina.

Volunteers and Donations

Due to dangerous road conditions, and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is strongly discouraged. Instead, consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:

Storm Damage Cleanup

If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

Major Disaster Declaration and FEMA Assistance

More than $28 million FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western NC homeowners and renters and more than 70,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Nearly 1,400 people are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance.

The Major Disaster Declaration requested by Governor Cooper and granted by President Biden now includes 27 North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, with this week’s addition of Mecklenburg and Swain counties. This declaration paves the way for Public Assistance to help our hard-hit local governments, in addition to Individual Assistance for homeowners and renters. On Wednesday, President Biden announced the approval of 100% FEMA reimbursement for six months, a significant funding commitment from the federal government.

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Homeowners and renters in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can apply.

North Carolinians may apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app.

Additional Assistance

There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

If you would like general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

###
Oct 5, 2024

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hurricane Helene update #8 from Congressman Edwards
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11)

Dear Friend,

We are turning a corner. Resources are here, the community is coming together, and it has been made very clear that victims are not in this recovery effort alone. Let me repeat that: You are not alone, and you will not have to recover from this hurricane alone.

I want to start today’s update by applauding every single person who has reached out to offer aid, traveled to Western North Carolina to help, donated their time, money, or supplies, or prayed for the people of these mountains.

For every new community I have visited over the past week, I have seen dozens of new volunteers serving North Carolinians in need, and this help isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Volunteers, you depict hope, which is something that has been desperately needed in NC-11 over the past week. Thank you.

Today’s update is jam packed. New information or resources have been added in just about every category and I’ve added a few completely new categories as well. These include resources for farmers, prescription access for veterans and the uninsured, new federal nutrition program flexibilities, and arguably most in-demand – resources for how to vote in a post-Hurricane Helene environment.

Today is update number eight and I will, of course, be continuing to provide you with more information over the coming days and weeks. As always, please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family.

Food and Water
- Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews.
  - 96 water systems are on a boil advisory.
  - 37 treatment plants have reported having no power and 41 systems are out of water.
    
    Water restoration trends continue to move in a positive direction.
- The state of North Carolina is continuing to provide a minimum of 40 trailer loads of water and 20 trailer loads of food daily through at least October 6, per their promise to the people of Western North Carolina.
- The Federal Emergency Management Agency has promised 120 truckloads a day of food and water with no specified end date.
  - To date, FEMA has delivered 5.4 million meals and 6.3 million liters of water utilizing the $20 billion in funds that I helped to draft and pass for disaster relief just two days before Hurricane Helene hit.
- Walmart will also be hosting activities at the following locations:
  - Hendersonville, NC Store 1242
    
    250 Highlands Square Dr., Hendersonville, NC 28792
    
    Portable restrooms
    
    Serving hot meals at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily
  - Arden, NC Store 1179
    
    60 Airport Rd., Arden, NC 28704
    
    Portable restrooms
    
    Laundry
    
    Showers
    
    Wi-fi hotspot and charging stations
  - Resource pick-up locations are listed below by county. As I learn more, I will keep you posted:
    
    Buncombe County
    
    Buncombe County has begun water distribution at multiple sites. Each will be available daily from 1:00 -7:00 p.m.:
    
    Pack Square Park – you MUST bring your own container for this site
    
    80 Court Plz., Asheville, NC 28801
    
    William W. Estes Elementary School
    
    275 Overlook Rd., Asheville, NC 28803
    
    Sand Hill-Venable Elementary
    
    154 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806
    
    North Windy Ridge Intermediate School
    
    20 Doan Rd., Weaverville, NC 28787
    
    Fairview Elementary
    
    1355 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730
    
    The following major feeding site is available in Buncombe County, where citizens can access food, water and other basic necessities:
    
    Biltmore Baptist Church
    
    35 Clayton Rd., Arden, NC 28704
    
    Distribution and bulk pickup for volunteers looking to take bulk loads of supplies to in-need community members
    
    Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
    
    Community drive-thru for anyone in the community needing supplies
    
    Saturday hours: 3:00-6:00 p.m.
    
    Haywood County
    
    The following locations are providing community members with essential resources such as but not limited to, food, water, cleaning products, baby formula, and pet food, Monday through Fridays:
    
    Pigeon Community Center
    
    450 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC 28786
    
    Also offering hot meals every day at 2:00 p.m.
    
    Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    
    Cruso Community Center
    
    13186 Cruso Rd., Canton, NC 28716
    
    Daily Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
    
    First United Methodist Church
    
    566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, NC 28786
    
    Includes shower access.
    
    Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
    
    Maggie Valley Pavilion
    
    3935 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751
    
    Daily Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
    
    Woodland Baptist Church
    
    545 Crabtree Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786
    
    Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    
    Bethel Elementary School
    
    4700 Old River Rd., Canton, NC 28716
    
    Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    
    Jonathan Valley Elementary School
    
    410 Hall Dr., Waynesville, NC 28786
    
    Daily Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    
    Monday through Friday
    
    The following location offers hot meals daily:
    
    Maggie Valley Fire Department
    
    2901 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751
    
    The following location offers showers daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.:
    
    Calvary Baptist Church
    
    2701 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, NC 28751
    
    Henderson County
    
    Henderson County has stood up Resource Hub locations for water distribution and other supplies as they become available.
    
    Distribution takes place daily, starting at 9:00 a.m., at the following locations:
    
    Etowah Elementary: 320 Etowah School Rd., Etowah, NC 28729
    
    Rugby Middle School: 3345 Haywood Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28791
    
    East Henderson High School: 150 Eagle Pride Dr., East Flat Rock, NC 28726
    
    North Henderson High School: 35 Fruitland Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792
    
    Mills River Town Hall: 124 Town Center Dr., Mills River, NC 28759
    
    Fletcher Town Hall: 300 Old Cane Creek Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732
    
    Each family unit will be provided supplies for one day’s meal and water as available.
    
    Individuals are asked to enter the drive-through and remain in your car unless otherwise instructed by volunteers to ensure an efficient process.
    
    Madison County
    
    The following locations are offering food and water distribution in Madison County:
    
    5580 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753
    
    225 Carl Eller Rd., Mars Hill, NC 28754
    
    63 N. Serpentine Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743
    
    McDowell County
    
    McDowell County has established multiple points of distribution that are open daily from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m., depending on supply levels.
    
    Distribution takes place daily at the following locations:
    
    Hicks Chapel Church
    
    6008 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752
    
    Former TJ’s Discounts
    
    8153 US 221 N., Marion, NC 28752
    
    Old Fort Town Hall
    
    38 Catawba Ave., Old Fort, NC 28762
    
    New Manna Baptist Church
    
    225 E. Court St., Marion, NC 28752
    
    Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church
    
    7860 NC 226 S., Nebo, NC 28761
    
    Hot meals are also being provided at the following location:
    
    Grace Community Church
    
    5182 US 70 W., Marion, NC 28752
    
    Lunch is served every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
    
    Dinner is available from 4:00-5:30 p.m.
    
    Polk County
    
    The following locations are offering food and water distribution for residents in need:
    
    Mill Spring/Green Creek Community
    
    25 International Blvd., Mill Spring, NC 28756
    
    Columbus Community
    
    95 Walker St., Columbus, NC 28722
    
    Saluda Community Bus Parking Lot
    
    214 E. Main St., Saluda, NC 28773
    
    Tryon Community
    
    301 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782
    
    Sunny View
    
    86 Sunny View School Rd., Mill Spring, NC 28756
    
    The Roseland Center
    
    56 Peake St., Tryon, NC 28782
    
    Rutherford County
    
    The following locations are open from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. for citizens to get food and emergency supplies:
    
    Thomas Jefferson High School
    
    2527 US-221A Hwy., Mooresboro, NC 28114
    
    Florence Baptist Church
    
    201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043
    
    Rutherford County Health Department
    
    221 Callahan Koon Rd., Spindale, NC 28160
    
    Gilkey Church of God
    
    255 Oak Springs Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139
    
    Parks, Recreation, & Lake Office
    
    658 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746
    
    Lake Lure Baptist Church – also has bathroom and shower stations
    
    6837 US-74 ALT, Lake Lure, NC 28746
    
    Ingles at Lake Lure – meals only
    
    276 NC-9, Lake Lure, NC 28746
    
    Offers hot meals at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m.
    
    Father’s Vineyard – also has shower and charging stations
    
    724 Oakland Rd., Spindale, NC 28160
    
    Spencer Baptist Church – water distribution only
    
    187 N Oak St., Spindale, NC 28160
    
    United Way of Rutherford County – water distribution and charging stations only
    
    668 Withrow Rd., Forest City, NC 28043
Debris Removal
- If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.
- Additionally, the following counties have resources for where to take debris waste.
  - Haywood
    
    Household waste will be accepted at the Materials Recovery Facility at 247 Recycle Rd., Clyde and at Convenience Centers at Jonathan Creek, Beaverdam, Bethel, Hazelwood, Mauney Cove, Jones Cove and Highway 110.
    
    White Oak Landfill has reopened, as of noon on Tuesday, October 1
  - Henderson
    
    Henderson County Transfer Station is open and accepting storm debris with normal fees.
    
    Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service.
    
    The county will pick up storm debris for free if it is pushed to the right of way of a property.
    
    Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint etc.
    
    Please be patient.
    
    The county will pick up storm debris for free as quickly as possible.
Voter Information
- The North Carolina State Board of Elections has provided pertinent information and recommendations for voters in the Helene disaster area during the 2024 general election.
  - To review information on voting in the 2024 general election after Hurricane Helene, you can follow this link.
    
    The site provides information on absentee voting, how to change your polling location, county board of elections, office closures and more.
    
    For any additional questions on voting post-hurricane, please contact your county Board of Elections.
    
    Please note: Your county Board of Elections is the best place to get any questions answered.
    
    I have been permitted to share the above, nonpartisan information but am prohibited from answering any questions related to the 2024 general election.
United States Postal Service/Mail Services
- USPS anticipates continued improvement of mail delivery operations with local recovery efforts, to include power, connectivity, and roads.
- There are some facilities unable to provide full retail and mail delivery due to road closures and current conditions.
  - No drop shipments will be accepted at any of the locations listed below.
    
    The following sites are closed:
    
    Barnardsville – 28709
    
    Cedar Mountain – 28718
    
    Hot Springs – 28743
    
    Rosman – 28772
    
    Swannanoa – 28778
    
    The following sites are closed with alternative facilities listed:
    
    Alexander – 28701
    
    Alternative location: 270 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787
    
    Daily hours M-F: 8:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
    
    Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
    
    Bat Cave – 28710
    
    Alternative location: 1800 Four Season Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739
    
    Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
    
    Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
    
    Chimney Rock – 28720
    
    Alternative location: 2432 Memorial Hwy., Lake Lure, NC 28746
    
    Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., closed 12:00-1:00 p.m.
    
    Edneyville – 28727
    
    Alternative location: 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Ste. 11, Hendersonville, NC 28739
    
    Daily hours M-F: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
    
    Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
    
    Gerton – 28735
    
    Alternative location: 1352 Charlotte Hwy., Fairview, NC 28730
    
    Daily Hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    
    Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
    
    Green Mountain – 28740
    
    Alternative location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714
    
    Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    
    Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
    
    Marshall – 28753
    
    Alternative Location: 270 N. Main St., Weaverville, NC 28787
    
    Daily hours M-F: 8:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
    
    Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
    
    Micaville – 28755
    
    Alternative location: 670 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714
    
    Daily hours M-F: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    
    Open Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
    
    Montreat – 28757
    
    Alternative location: 2 Tucker Rd., Ridgecrest, NC 28770
    
    Daily hours M-F: 12:30-4:30 p.m.
    
    Penland – 28765
    
    Alternative location: 899 Oak Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777
    
    Daily hours M-F: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    
    Open Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
    
    The following sites are attempting delivery where safe to do so:
    
    Arden – 28704
    
    Asheville London Rd. – 28803
    
    Asheville S&DC – 28810
    
    Black Mountain – 28711
    
    Brevard – 28712
    
    Burnsville – 28714
    
    Candler – 28715
    
    Clyde – 28721
    
    Columbus – 28722
    
    East Flat Rock – 28726
    
    Etowah – 28729
    
    Fairview – 2873
    
    Fletcher – 28732
    
    Hendersonville Annex – 28792
    
    Horse Shoe – 28742
    
    Lake Toxaway (cash only/PO box) – 28747
    
    Marion – 28752
    
    Mars Hill – 28754
    
    Old Fort – 28762
    
    Rutherfordton – 28139
    
    Saluda – 28773
    
    Sapphire – 28774
    
    Spruce Pine – 28777
    
    Tryon – 28782
    
    Weaverville – 28787
    
    Due to internet outages and connectivity issues, the following sites are providing retail services with cash only, PO Box only:
    
    Dana – 28724
    
    Enka – 28728
    
    Flat Rock – 28731
    
    Hendersonville MPO – 28739
    
    Lake Lure (OIC) – 28746
    
    Little Switzerland – 28749
    
    Mountain Home – 28758
    
    Naples – 28760
    
    Pisgah Forest – 28768
    
    Ridgecrest – 28770
    
    Skyland – 28776
    
    Zirconia – 28790
    
    Bostic – 28018
  - Multiple United Parcel Service (UPS) sites continue to be affected by power, flooding, and downed trees/power and lines/storm related obstacles.
    
    The Hendersonville and Asheville UPS buildings in North Carolina are currently operational and are being powered by portable generators.
    
    Delivery of packages in these areas is increasing as road conditions improve daily.
Pharmacy Access
- The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response under the Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) for North Carolinians as of Friday, October 4.
  - The EPAP program helps uninsured residents replace prescription medication or certain medical equipment lost or damaged during Hurricane Helene.
  - Through the program, uninsured residents can:
    
    Request a free 30-day supply of certain prescription medications at any EPAP-participating pharmacy which can be renewed every 30 days while the EPAP is active.
    
    Replace certain medical equipment and supplies such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, blood sugar meters and blood sugar test strips for diabetics.
    
    Uninsured North Carolina residents affected by the recent hurricane can call the EPAP hotline, 855-793-7470, or visit the EPAP website to check their eligibility, determine if their medications or medical equipment are covered, or locate a participating pharmacy.
- For individuals able to safely travel to fill a prescription, CVS at the following locations are actively open as of October 2:
  - 324 Long Shoals Rd., Arden, NC 28704
  - 505 Smokey Park Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806
  - 371 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712
  - 3450 Hendersonville Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732
  - 1605 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792
  - 2001 Spartanburg Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28792
  - 111 S Main St., Rutherfordton, NC 28139
  - 773 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786
- You can also use this link to locate non-CVS pharmacy locations open to the public by county.
- How to Acquire a Prescription:
  - If a store is closed, you can still call the number and the pharmacy’s phone lines have been rerouted to a nearby CVS Pharmacy that is open to help patients access their prescriptions.
  - Patients can visit any CVS Pharmacy for assistance with immediate prescription needs.
Open Urgent Cares
- The following urgent cares are open and accessible for community members with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries:
  - Locations open between 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.:
    
    Mercy Urgent Care Weaverville
    
    61 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville, NC 28787
    
    Mercy Urgent Care West Asheville
    
    1201 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806
    
    Mercy Urgent Care Waynesville
    
    120 Frazier St., Ste. 6, Waynesville, NC 28786
  - Locations open between 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.:
    
    Mercy Urgent Care Brevard
    
    22 Trust Ln., Brevard, NC 28712
  - Locations open between 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.:
    
    Mercy Urgent Care Columbus
    
    140 West Mills St., Columbus, NC 28722
Resources for Veterans
- Legionnaires, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Posts that have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene may be eligible for financial assistance through the American Legion.
  - Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members may be eligible for up to $3,000.
  - Legion Posts may be eligible for up to $10,000.
    
    To learn more or to request assistance, please use this link.
    
    Applications must be submitted within 90 days of the disaster: Dec. 26, 2024.
- The Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and Master Sergeant Jerry K. Crump VA Clinic in Forest City are open for essential and emergency services.
  - Veterans can:
    
    Visit the Asheville VA Hospital pharmacy for medication refills or:
    
    Call the Regional Clinical Contact Center at (855) 679-0074 and press 1 for pharmacy representatives.
  - Local pharmacies in the VA’s community care network will also fill written prescriptions, or prescriptions as they appear on an active VA prescription bottle that is not older than six months and has available refills, to provide a 30-day supply.
- Hickory and Franklin outpatient VA clinics are now operating regularly.
  - Due to the damage and personal losses caused by Hurricane Helene to the staff of the VA, it will take some time to bring staffing to full capacity.
  - Please be patient as the VA works to rebuild their workforce.
Resources for Farmers
- The United States Department of Agriculture is beginning to put together a list of resources for farmers and other agricultural industry members.
  - If your agricultural operation has been impacted by Hurricane Helene, you can review this link, farmers.gov, for emergency and disaster assistance programs.
- On Monday, October 7, at 11:00 a.m., USDA is hosting a virtual briefing to share information on disaster assistance programs.
  - You can join the event on Microsoft Teams using this link.
  - Add the event to your calendar: Google, iCal, or Outlook.
Power and Gas
- 174,000 customers remain without power in Western North Carolina.
  - Duke Energy is on track to restore an additional 27,000 customers by Sunday evening, October 6.
    
    The remaining outages are in the hardest-hit areas of Western North Carolina.
  - In the areas where catastrophic damage exists, 105,000 customers are without power.
    
    Duke Energy is working closely with the state on plans to address these areas as quickly as possible.
  - The number of customers seeing their power turn back on each day is slowing, but that is only because Duke Energy has been conducting significant work to repair and bring back online the 360 substations that were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Helene.
    
    The substations are the backbone of our energy grid.
    
    Once restored, service for private homeowners and businesses will rapidly begin to come back online.
  - So far, 95 percent of substations have been restored and significant substation work is continuing today.
  - Power for the Greenwood Rock Quarry has been restored.
    
    Restoration of the quarry’s power will help NCDOT to address gravel needs for road repairs.
  - For more information on Duke Energy’s power restoration efforts, you can review the following links:
Roads
- A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for most of Western North Carolina.
  - Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel to the hardest hit communities.
  - Cherokee, Graham, Clay and Swain counties ARE FULLY OPEN to people who can access them through safe routes.
    
    Please DO NOT try to visit or travel through the areas hardest hit by the storm such as Henderson and Buncombe counties.
- NCDOT continues to make steady progress reopening roads in response to Hurricane Helene.
  - New road reopenings include:
    
    U.S. 19 – Partially open with two-lane two-way traffic into Tennessee
    
    U.S. 321 – Cleared to the Tennessee line with a few one-lane stretches.
    
    Bee Tree Road
    
    Clearing of this road has restored critical access to the reservoir in Buncombe County.
- NCDOT is partnering with Duke Energy to reopen roads leading to their substations to restore power.
- In addition to repair and debris removal efforts, NCDOT has provided support and helped coordinate relief efforts for many agencies near or in storm-impacted areas.
  - As of Friday, October 4, there has successfully been:
    
    472 evacuation trips
    
    2,003 people transported to safety
    
    523 trips to shelters
    
    2,076 people transported to the shelters
- Air traffic has increased 300% in Western North Carolina since Helene recovery began.
  - NCDOT’s aviation division is working to make sure flight operations are safe coming into and out of airports, including by:
    
    Scheduling landing/unloading times and aircraft parking so aircraft are spaced out and to reduce the risk of incidents.
    
    Establishing a first of its kind “corridors in the sky” to separate civilian and military aircraft in the air.
    
    Having search and rescue partners use short, time and location specific restrictions on air operations to enhance safety when multiple helicopters are engaged in search and rescue efforts.
  - The state of North Carolina is NOT turning away civil aviation support so long as it has been coordinated through the proper channels with NC Emergency Management.Air traffic has increased 300 percent in Western North Carolina since Helene recovery began.
    
    If you or someone you know is interested in providing civil aviation support and don’t know where to coordinate your efforts, please call my office and we will help you get in touch with the right folks.
- The United States Forest Service is now and has been active in the Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests for the last few days.
  - USFS’ primary mission is gaining access to remote communities through the forest.
    
    This access is being used to:
    
    Supplement normal transportation routes
    
    Help isolated communities get their water systems back online
- NCDOT has launched a detour map to show motorists how to get around closures on I-26 and I-40 at the Tennessee border.
  - You can access the map here.
Internet Access
- Internet providers are diligently working with local energy and cell providers to restore service for customers across Western North Carolina.
- To mitigate the lack of service, Optimum, formerly Altice USA, has set up an Optimum Wi-Fi Trailer that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations:
  - 717 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792
  - 1800 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville, NC 28792
Cell Service
- Even though you may have service again, you may notice it is different from your pre-storm service.
  - The temporary connection links put in place as a temporary fix while the fiber is being repaired can accommodate smaller amounts of traffic.
    
    Network capacity on temporary connection links may be maxed out more frequently, so service providers are encouraging customers to use the network sparingly to maintain room for first responders and community members who still need to reach help or critical resources.
    
    Support and recovery personnel are also encouraged to minimize cell usage.
  - Service providers are working to add additional capacity to cell sites and move mobile assets where needed to accommodate data increases, so I am requesting a little more patience on their behalf as providers work to fully restore our community’s network.
- Cell service providers have implemented disaster roaming for any phone located in Western North Carolina to maximize phone service for all users.
  - Disaster roaming allows users to connect to any mobile network during a disaster when other networks are down.
    
    This allows users to access emergency services, such as 911, even when their own network is out.
  - If you have service one moment, but experience a reduction in service the next, try restarting your phone to jumpstart disaster roaming again.
- AT&T has deployed its Mobile Connectivity Center to the following location:
  - Sam’s Club: 645 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28806
    
    The Mobile Connectivity Center is an air-conditioned mobile unit open to the public, equipped with laptops, charging stations and wi-fi.
    
    The public can use the center for various needs including contacting your insurance company, filling out paperwork or connecting with loved ones.
- Verizon has deployed Wireless Emergency Communication Centers to help hurricane survivors stay connected to their friends, family and other important contacts.
  - Wireless Emergency Communication Centers are generator-powered mobile units that have device charging and computer workstations, along with wireless phones, tablets, and other devices available for use.
  - Verizon’s Wireless Emergency Communication Centers have been set up at the following locations:
    
    A-B Technical Community College
    
    340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801
    
    Asheville YMCA
    
    30 Woodfin St., Asheville, NC 28801
  - Verizon also has charging stations at the following locations:
    
    YMCA of Western North Carolina
    
    348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752
    
    Two charging stations at this location
    
    WNC Agricultural Center
    
    761 Boylston Hwy., Fletcher, NC 28732
    
    Three charging stations at this location
    
    A-B Technical Community College
    
    340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801
    
    One charging station at this location
- T-Mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks (SatCOLTs) in Asheville, providing cellular voice and data along with wi-fi and charging stations at the following locations:
  - Asheville Middle School
    
    211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801
  - Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center
    
    285 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801
- Additional T-Mobile satellite cell on trucks are located in Hendersonville and at a Tractor Supply Co. in Asheville, with others planned for Mission Hospital in Asheville, Cherokee County Emergency Operations Center in Murphy, and in Cherokee.
North Carolina National Guard & Department of Defense
- More than 1,475 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far.
  - The total number of deployed guardsmen will continue to increase over the coming days.
- Further, more than 525 vehicles, including 90 high-water vehicles, and 50 rotary wing assets have been deployed to Western NC.
  - Georgia, Virginia, Kentucky, South Carolina and Ft. Liberty have all sent helicopters to assist with aerial initiatives in NC-11.
- As of the afternoon of October 3, the National Guard has:
  - Rescued more than 1,000 Western North Carolinians, including almost 200 by hoist, and 150 animals.
  - Delivered nearly 2 million lbs. of resources to impacted communities by air.
- The National Guard is continuing C-17 transport of supplies to Asheville.
- Although airspace is limited due to ongoing missions by the National Guard and Department of Defense, a process has been established for private pilots seeking to fly in humanitarian relief to coordinate with local authorities.
  - If you are looking to fly in resources and don’t know where to turn, call my office and we will get you in contact with the right coordinators.
- On October 2, the Secretary of Defense authorized the movement of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers, including soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division from Ft. Liberty (formerly Ft. Bragg).
  - Many of these soldiers have arrived in Western North Carolina and are supporting the delivery of food, water and other critical aid to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.
    
    400 soldiers have already been stationed in Western North Carolina, with hundreds of others being positioned nearby to await directives while logistics are being finalized.
  - The Department of Defense has also committed 22 helicopters to assist with search and rescue operations.
    
    Seven CH-47 Chinook helicopters from Ft. Liberty have already been flying resupply missions for the past two days.
- Here are a few key phone numbers from the NCNG:
  - HOTLINE: 888-892-1162
  - Emergency management watch: 919-733-3300
  - Donated goods: 919-825-2474
    
    These lines have very high call volumes. If you do not get through the first try, keep calling.
Asheville Regional Airport
- Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding.
- Commercial flights at Asheville Regional Airport have resumed.
- If you parked your car in an Asheville Regional Airport lot and could not retrieve the vehicle due to the storm, great news – none of the airport’s lots flooded and all cars are fine.
  - Stay safe and pick up your car when you are able.
- PLEASE NOTE:
  - No general aviation pilots are allowed to land at Asheville Regional Airport without prior clearance from FEMA to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel.
    
    Supply deliveries by civilian pilots ARE permitted to land at Asheville Regional Airport so long as they have prior clearance from FEMA.
    
    FEMA is not turning away any pilot that has gone through the proper channels to coordinate delivery and ensure the safety of his fellow aircraft and personnel.
Federal Nutrition Programs
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved flexibilities due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene.
  - SNAP
    
    North Carolina was granted a waiver for the 10-day reporting requirement for the replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits lost because of the hurricane.
    
    This waiver provides additional time beyond the standard 10-day time frame for households to report food losses and receive replacement benefits for food that was destroyed and previously purchased with SNAP benefits.
  - Child Nutrition
    
    The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was approved for a waiver pertaining to the child nutrition programs.
    
    Under the waiver approval, NCDPI’s local program operators may:
    
    Serve meals in a non-congregate setting
    
    Adjust the time of meal service
    
    Allow parent pick-up
    
    Allow service of meals at school sites
  - Food and Nutrition Services Program
    
    People and families in North Carolina who are enrolled in the Food and Nutrition Services program can now use their EBT card to purchase hot food.
    
    This flexibility will remain in effect until November 3.
  - Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC)
    
    Families participating in WIC who may have relocated to a new area can go to any NC WIC agency to:
    
    Have a new eWIC card issued
    
    Request replacement breastfeeding supplies or breast pumps
    
    Request replacement food that was purchased with current WIC benefits and lost due to Hurricane Helene
For NC-11 Medical Providers
- If you own a medical practice in NC-11 and are experiencing financial hardship due to Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina Medical Society will be reactivating its Financial Recovery Program (FRP) to help you recover and open your doors again.
  - The FRP will be back online to provide much needed assistance soon.
  - More information to follow.
- The Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available:
  - Accelerated payments to Medicare Part A providers affected by Hurricane Helene
  - Advance payments to Medicare Part B suppliers affected by Hurricane Helene
For Local Government Resource Requests
- For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered.
  - My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours.
For Individual Assistance through FEMA

North Carolina received a Major Disaster Declaration for the following counties: Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in one of the above-listed counties should apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies.
- Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.
Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. EST.
- To date, FEMA has paid out more than $17 million in housing and other types of assistance to more than 19,000 North Carolina households.
To Connect with a Loved One
- Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones or request a welfare check.
- People in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
  - Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations.
- If you are still trying to locate a friend or family member, please complete this form to notify local officials of their missing status.
  - The form was created by Buncombe County but information is being shared amongst all counties.
  - Regardless of which county your loved one was last known to be in, you can still submit the form.
    
    Buncombe County will share the information with the appropriate officials to initiate search and rescue efforts.
Resources for Utility & Other Status Updates

For information on the status of utilities, debris sites, etc., we want to share the following resources. As communications are restored and more information becomes available, these sites will continue to be updated.

Free Legal Assistance
- Legal Aid of North Carolina stands ready to provide free advice and legal counsel regarding natural disaster needs, including legal representation if necessary, including for civil legal issues involving:
  - Filing FEMA claims and appeals (a process which can be overwhelmingly bureaucratic and burdensome)
  - Replacement of lost or destroyed legal and government documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards
  - Medical and insurance claims
  - Home repair contracts
  - Utility disputes related to restoration of services
  - Consumer protection issues like construction fraud, price-gouging on repairs and identity theft
  - Housing issues such as unlawful eviction and foreclosures
  - Bankruptcy
  - Probate and clearing title for survivors living in generational homes without a clear title
  - Family law cases and children in need of services (unfortunately, domestic violence tends to rise following a natural disaster)
- If you need civil legal assistance, please contact Legal Aid of North Carolina via the following toll-free hotline:
  - (866) 219-LANC or (866) 219-5262
    
    The hotline is available from:
    
    8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursdays.
    
    Constituents can also apply online at legalaidnc.org/get-help/ between 1:00-4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday.
IRS Guidance for Taxpayers Impacted by Hurricane Helene
- Extension of certain tax filing deadlines:
  - IRS has extended various filing deadlines for taxpayers in impacted areas, including 2024 individual/business returns, certain quarterly estimated income tax payments, and certain payroll/excise taxes.
  - Tax relief for qualified payments, disaster-related losses:
    
    IRS released provided guidance to taxpayers on how to address disaster-related losses in their 2024 tax return, as well as providing guidance on how qualified disaster relief payments – like government assistance payments – are generally excluded from gross income.
Shelters
- For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of October 5:
  - Buncombe
    
    A-B Technical Community College
    
    340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801
    
    Gold’s Gym
    
    801 Fairview Rd, Asheville, NC 28803
    
    WNC Agricultural Center
    
    1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732
  - Haywood
    
    Haywood County Government Armory
    
    285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781
  - Henderson
    
    Edneyville Elementary School
    
    2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792
    
    Henderson County Recreation Center
    
    708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792
  - Madison
    
    Madison Early College High School
    
    5374 US Hwy 25-70, Marshall, NC 28755
  - McDowell
    
    Glenwood Baptist Church
    
    1550 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd., Marion, NC 29640
    
    YMCA of Western North Carolina
    
    348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752
  - Polk
    
    Polk County High School
    
    1681 NC 108 Hwy. E., Columbus, NC 28722
  - Rutherford
    
    Rutherfordton/Spindale Central High School
    
    641 US 221 Hwy. N., Rutherfordton, NC 28139
  - Transylvania
    
    Transylvania Parks & Rec
    
    1078 Ecusta Rd., Brevard, NC 28712
  - Yancey
    
    Cane River Middle School
    
    1128 Cane River School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714
With my warmest regards,

Chuck Edwards
Member of Congress

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: National Guard members from 18 states continue to support #Helene response efforts #nationalguard

Source: US National Guard (video statements)

As of October. 5, more than 6,100 National Guard Soldiers and Airmen from 18 states continue to conduct search and rescue missions, clear debris to reopen roads, transport and distribute food, water and other essential supplies, and more to support Hurricane Helene response efforts across the Southeast. (Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76DDEtQS36c

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Higgins Implores Biden to Execute Massive Military Airlift in Helene-Impacted Communities

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA)

“We need Soldiers and Marines on the ground, guiding in thousands of parachute-drop pallets of supplies. Harris-Biden had our DOD build a damn sea-dock in the Mediterranean Sea to deliver supplies to Gaza, I think they can at least allow our DOD to airlift supplies to Americans who are dying every hour from lack of food and water and shelter and emergency medical help. We can do this and by God our White House should act.”

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) delivered a letter to President Biden, imploring him to authorize Department of Defense assets to airdrop personnel and supplies to assist with disaster recovery efforts in states impacted by Hurricane Helene.

“The magnitude and scope of devastation left by Hurricane Helene is unlike that of any disaster I have previously witnessed. I am growing increasingly concerned that our traditional response model is incapable of meeting the demands of this moment. While I appreciate my colleagues from these areas who are working tirelessly to deliver relief, it is my belief that DOD assets should be made available to supplement FEMA and other federal response efforts,” wrote Congressman Higgins.

The letter continues, “Americans in many of these remote communities are left dying from hunger and thirst. The nature of this disaster has left them unreachable by traditional response mechanisms. With widespread destruction of infrastructure and difficult terrain, military assets are needed to airdrop personnel and supplies for life-saving operations. We should be running airlift operations and delivering hope in this time of despair.”

Read the full letter here.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Survivors Receive Assistance as Critical Response Efforts Continue Across Southeast

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Survivors Receive Assistance as Critical Response Efforts Continue Across Southeast

Survivors Receive Assistance as Critical Response Efforts Continue Across Southeast

WASHINGTON — While lifesaving and life-sustaining efforts remain top priorities in states affected by Helene, local and state governments, the private sector, faith-based groups and nonprofits continue working with the federal family to meet survivors’ immediate needs and distribute critical items.

In addition to the coordinated efforts, President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance in six states affected by Helene. This opens up federal help for survivors in designated areas in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Survivors may apply for assistance in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App.

Survivors may receive upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across states affected by Helene:

FAYETTEVILLE, North Carolina — FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell greets members the 82nd Airborne Division, U.S. Army Fort Liberty. (Photo credit: FEMA)

HUDSON, Florida – A Red Cross Disaster Health Services volunteer nurse assists a local resident who lost everything when storm surge inundated his home during Hurricane Helene. (Photo credit: American Red Cross)

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55903″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/5e54480e04f3e16955d689122e0ecf31.jpg?itok=kS7BMOuA” alt=”Caption:

Greenville S.C. – (Oct. 4, 2024) – FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance provides assistance for a second day at The Insurance Village Outreach event to help the people affected by Hurricane Helene.

” class=”image-style-large”>

Greenville S.C. – (Oct. 4, 2024) – FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance provides assistance for a second day at The Insurance Village Outreach event to help the people affected by Hurricane Helene.

THOMSON, Georgia – Emergency meals have arrived at the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) disaster relief supply drop and coordination site. (Photo credit: FEMA)

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55892″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/132150c1e8dff07f8aa8da63d75993aa.jpg?itok=h6GSZ162″ alt=”Caption: Erwin, Tenn. – (Oct. 3, 2024) – Town of Erwin Police Chief Regan Tilson and U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell observing the I-26 bridges that were damaged during Hurricane Helene in Unicoi County, Tennessee.” class=”image-style-large”>
Erwin, Tenn. – (Oct. 3, 2024) – Town of Erwin Police Chief Regan Tilson and U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell observing the I-26 bridges that were damaged during Hurricane Helene in Unicoi County, Tennessee.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55904″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/3230b35ef1a00392c67a98d6a11ae707.jpg?itok=l6laeryR” alt=”Caption:

Asheville, N.C. – (Oct. 4, 2024) – U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell meets firefighters at fire departments across Buncombe County, North Carolina, on Friday, October 4, 2024.

” class=”image-style-large”>

Asheville, N.C. – (Oct. 4, 2024) – U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell meets firefighters at fire departments across Buncombe County, North Carolina, on Friday, October 4, 2024.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55888″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/cf45e2e41e5390e0ff143b075323255e.jpg?itok=J_6FY5s_” alt=”Caption: Asheville, N.C. (Oct. 4, 2024) – Members of the New Jersey Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue Team conduct operations across Buncombe County in Asheville, North Carolina, on Friday, October 4, 2024.” class=”image-style-large”>
Asheville, N.C. (Oct. 4, 2024) – Members of the New Jersey Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue Team conduct operations across Buncombe County in Asheville, North Carolina, on Friday, October 4, 2024.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55909″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/bf686ab552646236c4753edeb16135f7.jpg?itok=x8YO29vd” alt=”Caption: In response to Hurricane Helene, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response deployed hundreds of responders and hundreds of tons of medical equipment to support North Carolina communities as part of the government-wide response to the devastation caused by the hurricane. Responders from ASPR’s National Disaster Medical System began providing care on October 1, 2024. To learn more about this response, visit aspr.hhs.gov/hurricane-helene. Photo provided by ASPR.” class=”image-style-large”>
In response to Hurricane Helene, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response deployed hundreds of responders and hundreds of tons of medical equipment to support North Carolina communities as part of the government-wide response to the devastation caused by the hurricane. Responders from ASPR’s National Disaster Medical System began providing care on October 1, 2024. Photo provided by ASPR.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55696″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/49be6c8521f269b0526916ae44778eea.jpg?itok=xHF581yf” alt=”Caption: Haywood County, N.C. – (Oct. 3, 2024) – Eastern Band of Cherokee’s Fire and Rescue along with FEMA Urban Search and Rescue’s Massachusetts Task Force 1 and other local responders conduct a recovery operation in Clyde, Haywood County, North Carolina, on Tuesday, October 2, 2024.” class=”image-style-large”>
Haywood County, N.C. – (Oct. 3, 2024) – Eastern Band of Cherokee’s Fire and Rescue along with FEMA Urban Search and Rescue’s Massachusetts Task Force 1 and other local responders conduct a recovery operation in Clyde, Haywood County, North Carolina, on Tuesday, October 2, 2024.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55746″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/df7c72e95a3da973a28f1ac268c88280.jpg?itok=j8m-HCBd” alt=”Caption:

Augusta, Ga. – (Oct. 3, 2024) – A utility worker repairs telephone lines in the Richmond-Augusta community in Augusta, GA, After Hurricane Helene swept thru the area. Patsy Lynch/FEMA

” class=”image-style-large”>

Augusta, Ga. – (Oct. 3, 2024) – A utility worker repairs telephone lines in the Richmond-Augusta community in Augusta, GA, After Hurricane Helene swept thru the area. Patsy Lynch/FEMA

FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages. Additional resources on FEMA’s website include a summary of response and recovery efforts and a Rumor Response webpage.

amy.ashbridge
Sat, 10/05/2024 – 21:13

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – HMNZS Manawanui crew and passengers rescued after ship runs aground in Samoa

Source: New Zealand Defence Force

Crew and passengers of Royal New Zealand Navy Ship HMNZS Manawanui were rescued in the early hours of the morning on Sunday in Samoa after the vessel was grounded off the southern coast of Upolu, Samoa.

The incident occurred on Saturday evening while conducting a hydrographic survey 1 nautical mile from shore.

The 75 crew and passengers from other government agencies began evacuating into lifeboats at 7.52 pm on Saturday 5 October.

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) worked closely with the Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ) who led the rescue effort. Numerous vessels responded to provide assistance, and a Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8A Poseidon was also deployed to assist.

Rescuers battled currents and winds that were pushing the life rafts and sea boats toward the reefs, and swells made the rescue effort particularly challenging.

“We are very grateful for the assistance of everyone involved, from RCCNZ who coordinated rescue efforts, to the vessels which responded and took our crew and passengers from Manawanui to safety,’’ Maritime Component Commander Commodore Shane Arndell said.

Those on board the life boats and sea boats from HMNZS Manawanui were transferred to vessels that responded to the rescue call and were transported ashore.

At this stage the exact cause of the grounding is unknown and this will need further investigation. At 6.40 am Sunday, the ship was listing heavily and smoke was visible from the ship. At 9.00 am it was known to have capsized and was below the surface. The NZDF is working with authorities to understand the implications and minimise the environmental impacts.

Support is being provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Samoan authorities to the crew and passengers from Manawanui and they are being accommodated in Samoa. The NZDF will be sending aircraft to Samoa to bring them back to New Zealand.

This was HMNZS Manawanui’s third deployment to the South West Pacific this year. The ship had a series of activities scheduled including in the Kermadec Islands, Samoa, Tokelau and Niue. They sailed from Devonport on 28 September and were due to return home on 1 November.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 1,000 UK troops show commitment to eastern Europe in NATO exercise
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

More than 1,000 British troops have begun one of the largest exercises this year in the Balkans, showing the UK’s commitment to the region’s security.
More than 1,000 British troops have begun one of the largest exercises this year in the Balkans, showing the UK’s commitment to the region’s security.

The training will develop the UK’s ability to operate alongside NATO allies and underlines Britain’s commitment to eastern Europe.

With 18 activities taking place across three months, one of the standout training exercises under Operation Chelonia involves the UK’s deployment of troops to Kosovo. These troops arrived via amphibious landing on a beach with no established infrastructure, via a world-leading motorised floating platform.

This training exercise takes place close to Pasha Liman Naval Base in Southern Albania.

Minister for the Armed Forces Luke Pollard said:

These exercises show our unwavering commitment to standing united with our allies and working hand in hand to boost our collective security. The UK has always had a major presence in the Western Balkans, and it’s important we demonstrate a united front to ensure regional security.

Working closely with our NATO partners, we are demonstrating our combined efforts to safeguard peace, stability, and security in the region.

The landing was led by the Strategic Reserve Force (SRF), a group of 600 Army personnel held at readiness to deploy at two weeks’ notice should pressures in the region escalate. In 2024, the SRF is led by the 1st Battalion of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment.

The scenario required the services of the Mexeflote, a world-leading modular motorised floating platform that can dock on the stern ramp of a ship, load with heavy military hardware (including trucks and main battle tanks if required), ferry the cargo to the beach and enable the cargo to be unloaded.

To put into context the scale of the operation, 26,000 linear metres of vehicles and equipment were landed on the beach. All equipment was brought to Albania from the UK aboard the 13,500 tonne Ro-Ro vessel, Hartland Point.

The Royal Air Force have also undertaken training in the region to ensure all personnel have the training they need to keep us secure at home and strong abroad.

The British Army have previously deployed at pace in Kosovo, with 200 personnel from the (1st battalion) of the Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment (PWRR) sent to the country last year under NATO command, following an increase in tensions in the north of the country.

Other nations involved in these key exercises with the UK include Serbia, Romania, Kosovo, Georgia, Croatia, and Moldova.

This exercise reaffirms the UK’s commitment to our allies in the region. Whilst Putin continues his illegal and reckless invasion of Ukraine and aggressive posturing, it is vital that the UK works consistently alongside our NATO allies to display a united front of our collective strength.

From our continued presence in Kosovo, to our counter-disinformation support in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the UK remains completely committed to upholding democracy and supporting our allies in the Western Balkans.

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Published 6 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: It’s LIFE changing!

Source: US Army (video statements)

: AEMO

About the U.S. Army:

The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

Connect with the U.S. Army online:
Web: https://www.army.mil
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
#USArmy #Soldiers #Military #ROTC #Shorts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5zKUHDr8VI

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Prime Minister to attend ASEAN Summit and 25th Meeting of Contact Group on Ukraine’s Defence

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today announced that he will participate in the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos, and the 25th meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group at Ramstein Air Base in Germany.

For nearly half a century, Canada and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have worked in partnership to promote peace, prosperity, and progress. As we create well-paying jobs, fight climate change, and grow our economies, Canada and ASEAN are working together to improve the lives of people in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

At the Summit, to be held on October 10-11, 2024, Prime Minister Trudeau will underscore Canada and ASEAN’s longstanding commitment to building a fairer and more prosperous future for people on both sides of the Pacific. As work continues toward a Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement, the Prime Minister will highlight progress made under the ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership and emphasize the importance of long-term sustainable growth that focuses on the well-being of all, empowers women and girls, and is anchored in the clean energy transition.

ASEAN is one of the fastest-growing economic regions in the world. That is why Canada is working to increase trade and investment with ASEAN and to put Canadians at the forefront of this immense opportunity. Together, ASEAN member states were Canada’s fourth-largest merchandise trading partner in 2023, with increased progress in agriculture, agri-food, and people-to-people digital trade. Indeed, increased trade and investment fosters jobs, innovation, and growth.

As part of theCanada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, Prime Minister Trudeau will also meet with ASEAN partners at the ASEAN-Canada Special Summit to strengthen collaboration and effectively support prosperity and stability across the region. The Prime Minister will also highlight Canada’s constructive role in addressing new and emerging challenges to peace and security, including malicious cyber activity and cybercrime threats.

This visit will mark the first official visit by a Canadian Prime Minister to Laos. As Canada and Laos celebrate 50 years of bilateral relations this year, Prime Minister Trudeau will seek to advance shared interests and further strengthen ties between our two countries.

The Prime Minister will then participate in the 25th meeting of the Contact Group on the Defense of Ukraine, which will take place at the US air base in Ramstein, Germany, on October 12, 2024.

At the meeting, which will be hosted by United States President Joe Biden, international leaders will reaffirm global solidarity with Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s unjustifiable war of aggression. Building on progress made at the NATO Summit in Washington DC, United States of America, earlier this year, Prime Minister Trudeau will emphasize the importance of maintaining international support for Ukraine and finding a just and lasting peace for Ukrainians.

The Prime Minister will also highlight the importance of addressing Ukraine’s immediate defence and security needs, including providing the country with military equipment, security assistance and training, and economic support. He will also highlight Canada’s commitment to Ukraine’s long-term security, as demonstrated by theCanada-Ukraine Security Cooperation Agreement, which was concluded earlier this year.

Canada will continue to work closely with its international partners to support Ukraine and Ukrainians in their struggle for freedom, independence and democracy.

Quote

“To meet common challenges, we need to find common solutions, and the ASEAN Summit and the Ukraine Defence Contact Group are helping us do just that. Whether it’s fighting climate change, creating good-paying jobs or strengthening democracy, Canada is playing a leading role in creating a better, safer and more just future for people around the world.”

Highlights

ASEAN is a regional intergovernmental organization with 10 member states. Its objectives are to: Accelerate economic growth, social progress and cultural development. Promote regional peace and stability, and respect for justice and the rule of law. Enhance regional collaboration in a range of economic, social, cultural, technical, scientific and administrative fields. The ASEAN region as a whole is Canada’s fourth largest trading partner. In 2023, bilateral trade reached more than $38.8 billion. Last year, Canada and ASEAN launched a Strategic Partnership to strengthen collaboration in strategic areas of mutual interest, including peace and security, and economic and socio-cultural cooperation. Canada became an ASEAN Dialogue Partner in 1977 and is one of 11 partners to have achieved this designation. Dialogue partners engage with ASEAN on political and security issues, regional integration, economic interests, interfaith dialogue, transnational crime and counter-terrorism, disaster risk reduction, and other areas. Other dialogue partners include Australia, China, the European Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy advances and defends Canada’s interests, helping to build a more secure, prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable region, and protects Canada’s national and economic security at home and abroad. The Ukraine Defense Contact Group was established by the U.S. Secretary of Defense in April 2022 to enable Allies and partners to synchronize donations, consult, and coordinate military assistance to Ukraine, while strengthening the capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which meets monthly at the ministerial level, now includes representatives from more than 50 countries. Since the launch of theOperation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has trained more than 43,000 members of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Canada announced an extension of the mission until March 2026, so that the CAF can continue to meet Ukraine’s training needs. Since 2022, Canada has provided more than $19.5 billion to support Ukraine in a variety of ways, including more than $12.4 billion in financial assistance, which allows the Ukrainian government to continue to function, including providing essential government services and pensions to Ukrainians. Other assistance includes more than $4.5 billion in military aid and military equipment donations, $358.2 million in humanitarian assistance, $442 million in development assistance, and more than $210 million in security and stabilization programming. According to expert estimates, since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, thousands of Ukrainian children have been deported, forcibly transferred or relocated from the territory of Ukraine to the temporarily occupied territories, and to Russia, in order to erase their identities. To date, hundreds of children have been repatriated to Ukraine and reunited with their families. Since 2014, Canada has imposed sanctions on more than 3,000 individuals and entities in Russia, Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine for their complicity in violating Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and their gross and systematic violations of human rights. Many of these sanctions have been implemented in coordination with Canada’s partners.

Related links

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025