Category: Military Intelligence

MIL-OSI: Silynxcom Announces Results for First Half of 2024; Significant Revenue Growth and Improvement in Gross Margin

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NETANYA, Israel, Oct. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silynxcom Ltd. (NYSE American: SYNX) (“Silynxcom” or the “Company”), a manufacturer and developer of ruggedized tactical communication headset devices as well as other communication accessories, reported its consolidated financial results as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2024.

Key Financial Highlights for the First Half of 2024:

Revenues – for the six months ended June 30, 2024 were $5,356 thousand, an increase of 73% from the equivalent period in 2023.
Gross profit – for the six months ended June 30, 2024 was $2,650 thousand, an increase of 121% from the equivalent period in 2023.
Gross margin for the six months ended June 30, 2024 was 49.47%, compared to 38.59% in the equivalent period in 2023.
Cash and Cash Equivalents – On January 17, 2024, Silynxcom successfully completed its initial public offering (the “IPO”), raising $5 million in gross proceeds by issuing 1.25 million ordinary shares, adding to a cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities balance of $3,659 thousand as of June 30, 2024, up from $568 thousand as of December 31, 2023, demonstrating strong liquidity to support ongoing investments and operations.
Operating profit – Operating profit was $267 thousand for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared to an operating loss of $2,328 thousand for the equivalent period in 2023, reflecting a decrease in share-based compensation expenses. Non-IFRS operating profit amounted to $695 thousand for the six months ended June 30, 2024, representing an increase of more than 46% compared to $476 thousand for the equivalent period in 2023. A reconciliation between operating profit (loss) and non-IFRS operating profit (loss) is provided in Appendix A of this press release.
Net loss – Net loss was $696 thousand for the six months ended June 30, 2024, including $879 thousand in listing expenses, compared to a net loss of $2,326 thousand for the equivalent period in 2023. Non-IFRS net income for the six months ended June 30, 2024 totaled $611 thousand, representing an increase of more than 27% compared to $478 thousand for the equivalent period in 2023. A reconciliation between net income (loss) and non-IFRS net income is provided in Appendix A of this press release.

“The first half of 2024 was a period of business expansion, growth and strategic investment for Silynxcom, as highlighted by our public listing on the NYSE American following a successful IPO in January 2024,” said Nir Klein, Chief Executive Officer of Silynxcom. “Our revenue increased during the first half of 2024 and we became cashflow positive, which we believe underscores our successful market expansion and enhanced financial stability.”

“In 2023, we laid the foundation for new and advanced products and increased compatibility for leading systems in our target markets. In addition, we forged new relationships with key players in the global defense and law enforcement sectors, which have already led to purchase orders in 2024,” added Mr. Klein.

Recent Corporate Highlights:

In April 2024, the Company announced the strengthening of its collaboration with 3M PELTOR to deliver next generation headset solutions.
The Company expanded sales in the Asia Pacific region.
Since October 2023, the Company has secured orders amounting to $4.85 million from the Israel Defense Forces and Israeli police forces.
In February 2024, the Company announced a third order from a leading global defense firm, bringing its total orders from this client to over $4.5 million.
The Company received its first order for the newly designed in-ear headset with an encrypted security system intended for use by law enforcement.
In March 2024, the Company launched a new system for law enforcement, compatible with commonly used terrestrial trunked radio and P25 systems.

Use of Non-IFRS Financial Results

In addition to disclosing financial results calculated in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, this press release contains certain financial measures that are not prepared under IFRS. These measures may be different from non-IFRS financial measures used by other companies. The Company defines non-IFRS operating profit (loss) as operating profit (loss) excluding the effect of share-based compensation expenses. The Company defines non-IFRS net income as net income (loss) excluding the effect of share-based compensation expenses and listing expenses. The Company’s management believes the non-IFRS financial information provided in this press release is useful to investors’ understanding and assessment of the Company’s ongoing operations because it provides management and investors with measurements of the Company’s operations and profitability excluding the impact of share-based compensation, an item that the Company does not consider to be indicative of its core operating performance, and listing expenses that are non-recurring and expensed in connection with the Company’s IPO. Management also uses both IFRS and non-IFRS information in evaluating and operating business internally and as such deemed it important to provide all this information to investors. The non-IFRS financial measures disclosed by the Company should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with IFRS and the financial results calculated in accordance with IFRS and reconciliations to those financial statements should be carefully evaluated. Reconciliations between IFRS measures and non-IFRS measures are provided in Appendix A to this press release.

About Silynxcom Ltd.

For over a decade, the Company been developing, manufacturing, marketing, and selling ruggedized tactical communication headset devices as well as other communication accessories, all of which have been field-tested and combat-proven. The Company’s in-ear headset devices, or In-Ear Headsets, are used in combat, the battlefield, riot control, demonstrations and weapons training courses. The In-Ear Headsets seamlessly integrate with third party manufacturers of professional-grade ruggedized radios that are used by soldiers in combat or by police officers. The Company’s In-Ear Headsets also fit tightly into the protective gear to enable users to speak and hear clearly and precisely while they are protected from the hazardous sounds of combat, riots or dangerous situations. The sleek, lightweight, In-Ear Headsets include active sound protection to eliminate unsafe sounds, while maintaining ambient environmental awareness, giving their customers 360° situational awareness. The Company works closely with its customers and seek to improve the functionality and quality of the Company’s products based on actual feedback from soldiers and police officers “in the field.” The Company’s headset devices are compatible and easily integrate with various communication equipment devices currently being used by tens of thousands of military and law enforcement personnel in leading military and law enforcement units around the globe. The Company sells its In-Ear Headsets and communication accessories directly to military forces, police and other law enforcement units around the world. The Company also deals with specialized networks of local distributors in each locale in which it operates and has developed key strategic partnerships with radio equipment manufacturers.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other federal securities laws and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. For example, the Company uses forward-looking statements when it discusses its belief that its revenue increase and cashflow positive status underscores the Company’s successful market expansion and enhanced financial stability. Forward-looking statements are based on Silynxcom’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. For a more detailed description of the risks and uncertainties affecting the Company, reference is made to the Company’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including, but not limited to, the risks detailed in the Company’s annual report for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on April 30, 2024. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of the date of this press release and Silynxcom undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

Investor Relations Contact:
Silynxcom Ltd.
ir@silynxcom.com


Silynxcom Ltd. Consolidated Statements of Financial Position U.S dollars in thousands

	June 30,			December 31,
	2024				2023
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents		668				568
Marketable securities		2,991				–
Deposits with banking corporations		39				29
Trade receivables, net		2,060				2,452
Other current assets		347				430
Inventory		2,577				2,482
		8,682				5,961

Non-current assets
Property, plant & equipment, net		114				94
Long-term deposits		66				16
Right of use assets		64				95
		244				205

Total assets		8,926				6,166

Current liabilities
Current maturities of loans from banking corporations		60				73
Lease liabilities – current		49				60
Loans from related parties		11				43
Trade payable		947				1,315
Warrants at fair value		–				165
SAFE		–				409
Other accounts payables		1,053				1,791
		2,120				3,856

Non-current liabilities
Loans from banking corporations		–				26
Commitment to issue shares		148				–
Lease liabilities		13				33
Liabilities for employee benefits, net		29				30
		190				89

Shareholders’ equity
Share capital		–				52
Premium and other capital reserves		26,043				20,900
Capital reserve for transactions with controlling shareholders		1,542				1,542
Accumulated loss		(20,969	)			(20,273	)
		6,616				2,221

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity		8,926				6,166


Silynxcom Ltd. Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss U.S dollars in thousands

	For the six month period ended June 30
	2024		2023

Revenue	5,356		3,096

Cost of revenue	2,706		1,901

Gross profit	2,650		1,195

Research and development expenses	259		569

Selling and marketing expenses	699		1,989

General and administrative expenses	1,425		965

Operating profit (loss)	267		(2,328	)

Listing expenses	879		–

Finance expenses	232		35

Finance income	148		37

Income (loss) before income tax	(696	)	(2,326	)

Income tax expenses	–		–

Net income (loss)	(696	)	(2,326	)


Silynxcom Ltd. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows U.S dollars in thousands

	For the six month period ended June 30
	2024			2023
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income (loss)		(696	)		(2,326	)

Adjustments Required to Present Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Income and expenses not involving cash flows

Depreciation and amortization		54			67
Increase (decrease) in liability for employee benefits, net		(1	)		(1	)
Revaluation of derivatives measured at fair value through profit and loss		–			(31	)
Other finance expenses					11
Other finance expenses		20			11
Share-based compensation		428			2,804
		501			2,850
Changes in asset and liability line items:

Decrease (increase) in trade receivable		392			1,993
Decrease (increase) in other current assets		114			(227	)
Decrease (increase) in inventory		(95	)		(231	)
Increase (decrease) in trade payables		(368	)		(1,021	)
Increase (decrease) in other accounts payables		(488	)		(635	)
		(445	)		(121	)

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities		(640	)		403

Cash flows from investing activities
Increase in long-term bank deposit		(10	)		(11	)
Increase in long-term deposit others		(50	)		–
Purchase of marketable securities, net		(2,961	)		–
Purchase of property, plant and equipment		(42	)		(4	)

Net cash used in investing activities		(3,063	)		(15	)

Cash flows from financing activities
Repayment of loans from related parties		(32	)		(17	)
Repayment of warrants		(165	)		–
Repayment of loans from banking corporations		(39	)		(40	)
Repayment to former share holders		(250	)		–
Issuance of Ordinary Shares in the IPO, net		4,324			–
Repayment of lease liabilities		(33	)		(44	)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		3,805			(101	)
Exchange rate differentials for cash and cash equivalent balances		(2	)		(5	)

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		100			282

Balance of cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		568			69

Balance of cash and cash equivalents as at end of year		668			351


Appendix A RECONCILIATION OF IFRS TO NON-IFRS MEASURES (Unaudited) U.S. dollars in thousands

	For the six month period ended June 30
	2024			2023

IFRS Operating profit (loss)		267			(2,328	)

Share-based compensation in Selling and marketing expenses		142			1,623

Share-based compensation in General and administrative expenses		138			546

Share-based compensation in Research and development expenses		84			355

Share-based compensation in Cost of revenue		64			280

Non-IFRS Operating profit		695			476



IFRS Net income (loss)		(696	)		(2,326	)

Listing expenses		879			–

Share-based compensation expenses		428			2,804

Non-IFRS Net income		611			478

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Translation: National Defense and Security Council on the situation in Lebanon and recent developments in the Middle East crisis.

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

The Head of State chaired a National Defense and Security Council on the situation in Lebanon and recent developments in the Middle East crisis, on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at the Elysée Palace, in the presence of the Prime Minister, the Minister of the Interior, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the Minister of the Armed Forces.

Faced with the dangerous escalation of tensions in the Middle East, the President of the Republic reaffirmed France’s commitment to peace and security for all in the region. In this regard, he condemned in the strongest possible terms Iran’s new attacks against Israel. Committed to Israel’s security, France today mobilized its military resources in the Middle East to counter the Iranian threat. The Head of State also reiterated France’s demand that Hezbollah cease its terrorist actions against Israel and its population.

The President of the Republic also expressed France’s willingness to act for Lebanon. He called for Israel to end its military operations as soon as possible. He considered that too many civilians are already victims. He hoped that Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity would be restored in strict compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. In this regard, he reaffirmed France’s commitment to UNIFIL. He noted that it is also up to the Lebanese to come together at this critical moment. France will stand alongside all those who act in this direction and will very soon organize a conference in support of the Lebanese people and their institutions.

The President of the Republic reiterated his determination to obtain a long-term settlement that ensures the security of the populations on both sides of the Blue Line. The displaced must be able to return home in complete safety, in Israel as well as in Lebanon. The United Nations Security Council must be notified and be able to express its views on the current situation.

The President of the Republic has instructed the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs to travel to the Middle East again. There he will consult with all those who have a role to play in initiating de-escalation and finding lasting solutions to the current crisis in all its aspects, particularly the situation in Lebanon and Gaza.

Attentive to the security and protection of our compatriots in Lebanon and the Middle East, the Head of State requested that all necessary measures be taken to assist them and, if necessary, help them. He also requested that the greatest vigilance be observed and that adequate measures be taken to prevent the possible repercussions of these latest developments in the Middle East on the national territory and ensure the security of everyone.

The President of the Republic concluded that it was necessary for all actors involved in the crisis in the Middle East to exercise the greatest restraint.

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
MIL-OSI Translation: Minutes of the Council of Ministers of October 1, 2024.

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

BILL

MODERNIZATION OF THE ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT FUNDS REGIME

The Minister of Economy, Finance and Industry presented a bill ratifying Ordinance No. 2024-662 of July 3, 2024, modernizing the alternative investment fund regime.

This order was adopted on the basis of Article 40 of Law No. 2023-973 of October 23, 2023 relating to the green industry.

It introduces numerous measures to modernise and simplify the alternative investment fund (AIF) regime in order to make our asset management law more attractive and competitive, to take maximum advantage of the entry into force of Regulation (EU) 2023/606 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2023, known as “ELTIF 2.0” on 10 January 2024 and thus increase long-term financing of the European economy, necessary in particular to finance the transition to carbon neutrality.

In this respect, the order modifies several provisions of the Monetary and Financial Code:

– it modernises the regime of so-called “professional” FIAs, in particular by simplifying the rules for the composition of this type of FIA and creating a new corporate form without legal personality for specialised professional funds;

– it adapts the rules applicable to so-called “non-professional” FIAs, in order to ensure their complementarity with ELTIF 2.0 funds;

– it allows corporate mutual funds (FCPE) to invest in ELTIF 2.0 funds.

DECREE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE NEEDS OF DEFENSE AND NATIONAL SECURITY AND THEIR ARTICULATION WITH THE DIFFERENT LEGAL REGIMES RELATING TO CRISIS PREPARATION AND MANAGEMENT

The Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans presented a draft decree relating to requisitions for the needs of defence and national security and their articulation with the various legal regimes relating to the preparation and management of crises.

This decree is issued for the application of Article 47 of Law No. 2023-703 of August 1, 2023 relating to military programming (LPM) for the years 2024 to 2030 and containing various provisions relating to defense. This article carried out a complete renovation of the requisition system under the Defense Code, which appeared obsolete, complex to implement and based on criteria whose scope was uncertain.

Article 47 of the LPM now distinguishes:

– on the one hand, requisitions aimed at dealing with threats to the life of the Nation, decided by presidential decree deliberated in the Council of Ministers to respond to situations whose territorial scope exceeds that which the prefectural authorities can deal with on the basis of the general code of local authorities in the event of a threat to public order (article L. 2212 1, defense code);

– on the other hand, requisitions aimed at dealing with emergency situations involving the safeguarding of national defence interests, decided by decree of the Prime Minister, in the absence of any other means available in good time, to enable the State to conduct the operations necessary for its defence (article L. 2212-2, defence code).

This decree is intended to define the procedural arrangements for implementing this new requisition regime and the prior constraints which constitute its corollary, by considerably simplifying the legal framework previously applicable, which did not allow the public authorities to mobilise it effectively to respond to crisis circumstances.

The dedicated book of the defense code is thus reduced from 182 to 30 articles, while clarifying the procedure for ordering the census of people, goods and services likely to be subject to a requisition measure as well as the conditions under which they can be subject to tests and exercises, thus contributing to the construction of a global policy of resilience of the Nation in the face of the risks and threats it faces.

To meet this same purpose, this decree also proceeds, in a continuum logic, to the articulation between, on the one hand, the requisition measures and the prior constraints which constitute their corollary and, on the other hand, the different legal regimes relating to the preparation and management of crises linked to national defence, in connection with the prerogatives devolved to the public authorities by the defence code in matters of military defence and civil defence.

Finally, taking into account the specific issues raised by the potential use of the requisition system, the decree defines a legal framework adapted to the specificities of all overseas communities, in particular to take into account their geographical isolation and their distance from mainland France.

INDIVIDUAL MEASURES

The Council of Ministers adopted the following individual measures:

On the proposal of the Keeper of the Seals, Minister of Justice:

– Ms Christine MAUGÜÉ, State Councilor, is appointed President of the Administration Section of the Council of State, effective October 8, 2024.

On the proposal of the Minister of the Interior:

– Mr. Laurent BUCHAILLAT, State administrator, is appointed prefect of Tarn;

– the functions of prefect of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region and prefect of the Côte d’Or exercised by Mr. Franck ROBINE are terminated, as of September 21, 2024;

– the functions of prefect of the Brittany region, prefect of the West defense and security zone, prefect of Ille-et-Vilaine exercised by Mr. Philippe GUSTIN are terminated;

– the functions of delegated prefect for defense and security with the prefect of the Hauts-de-France region, prefect of the North defense and security zone, prefect of the North exercised by Mr. Louis-Xavier THIRODE are terminated, as of September 26, 2024;

– the functions of delegated prefect for equal opportunities with the prefect of the Hauts-de-France region, prefect of the North defense and security zone, prefect of the North exercised by Ms Virginie LASSERRE are terminated;

– the functions of Prefect of Nièvre exercised by Mr. Michaël GALY are terminated;

– the functions of Prefect of Aube exercised by Ms. Cécile DINDAR are terminated.

On the proposal of the Minister of National Education and the Minister of Higher Education and Research:

– the functions of rector of the Limoges academy exercised by Ms Carole DRUCKER-GODARD are terminated.

On the proposal of the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs:

– the functions of Director General of Globalization, Culture, Education and International Development exercised by Mr. Aurélien LECHEVALLIER are terminated, effective September 22, 2024.

On the proposal of the Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans:

– various individual measures were adopted concerning general officers of the army, the navy, the air and space force, the general directorate of armaments and the army commissariat service;

– the functions of Director General of Digital and Information and Communication Systems exercised by Mr. Vincent TEJEDOR are terminated.

On the proposal of the Minister of National Education and the Minister of Labor and Employment:

– the functions of High Commissioner for Vocational Education and Training exercised by Mr. Geoffroy de VITRY are terminated.

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
MIL-OSI Russia: Government meeting (2024, No. 29)

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

1. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Federal Law “On the State Defense Order” (in terms of creating legal grounds for the Federal Treasury to exercise its powers for automated monitoring of prices for products under the state defense order in the state integrated information system for managing public finances “Electronic Budget”)

The bill is aimed at identifying risks affecting the cost of products supplied under state defense orders, in the order of a preventive risk-oriented approach for the response of state customers of state defense orders, implementing organizations, and federal executive bodies to such facts.

2. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Article 32 of the Federal Law “On Special Economic Zones in the Russian Federation” and Article 22 of the Land Code of the Russian Federation”

The bill proposes to lift restrictions on residents of special economic zones attracting additional borrowed financing by transferring lease rights as collateral to credit institutions.

3. On amendments to the distribution of subsidies to the budgets of constituent entities of the Russian Federation for the creation of modular non-capital accommodation facilities during the implementation of investment projects for 2024, approved by Appendix 31 (Table 140) to the Federal Law “On the Federal Budget for 2024 and for the Planning Period of 2025 and 2026”

The draft order is aimed at approving the subject-by-subject distribution of funds within the framework of the implementation of the state program of the Russian Federation “Tourism Development”.

4. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations to the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia in 2024 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation for the purpose of providing a subsidy from the federal budget to the autonomous non-profit organization “Center for Support of Engineering and Innovation” for the provision of grants to Russian organizations for conducting research and development work

The draft order is aimed at supporting innovative projects for the development and creation of production in priority industries, including in the areas of transport and oil and gas engineering.

5. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Federal Law “On the State Corporation for Space Activities “Roscosmos””

The bill is aimed at improving the regulation of legal relations related to the management of state property and clarifying certain powers of the state corporation.

6. On the allocation of budgetary allocations to Rosavtodor in 2024 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation to ensure the accelerated implementation of measures for the construction and reconstruction of highways

After the completion of construction of a number of sections of the federal highway M-7 “Volga”, they will become part of the M-12 “Vostok” highway as part of its extension from Kazan to Yekaterinburg.

7. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation to the Russian Emergencies Ministry in 2024 for the purpose of providing another interbudgetary transfer to the budget of the Kursk region for the financial support of certain measures to eliminate the consequences of the attack of the Ukrainian armed forces on the territory of the Kursk region, meaning the provision of financial assistance to affected citizens in connection with the complete loss of their essential property

Moscow, October 2, 2024

The content of the press releases of the Department of Press Service and References is a presentation of materials submitted by federal executive bodies for discussion at a meeting of the Government of the Russian Federation.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

http://government.ru/meetings/52881/

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: President Biden Approves Governor Cooper’s Request for Active-Duty Military Personnel and Equipment for Western North Carolina

Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: President Biden Approves Governor Cooper’s Request for Active-Duty Military Personnel and Equipment for Western North Carolina

President Biden Approves Governor Cooper’s Request for Active-Duty Military Personnel and Equipment for Western North Carolina
bconroy
Wed, 10/02/2024 – 16:37

Today, President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for active-duty military personnel and equipment to support ongoing rescue, relief and recovery operations in Western North Carolina. The Governor previously requested Department of Defense aviation resources which were approved to surge personnel and equipment to western North Carolina communities as state, federal and local partners work together to effectively use all resources.

The active-duty military personnel are in addition to more than 1,000 North Carolina National Guard soldiers currently deployed who are surging food, water, supplies and conducting search and rescue operations. The NC National Guard has already performed more than 1,400 rescues and delivered more than 700,000 pounds in supplies.

“We are bolstering our massive relief and rescue effort in communities impacted by Hurricane Helene and I am grateful for President Biden’s approval of our requests,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “The North Carolina National Guard is already on the ground working with federal, state, non-profit and local emergency responders around the clock to save lives, deliver critical supplies, and restore communications and utilities.”

President Biden and Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III have authorized the movement of up to 1,000 active-duty military personnel to support the delivery of food, water and other critical aid to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.

The active-duty soldiers are part of an Infantry Battalion Task Force, formed from the XVII Airborne Corps to include members of the 82^nd Airborne and other units stationed at Fort Liberty, NC. The task force includes a Forward Support Company with the necessary support structures (fuel, water, mechanics, etc.) to support stabilizing critical lifelines and essential services for communities in North Carolina. Soldiers are assembling and moving to the affected areas within the next 24 hours.

###

Oct 2, 2024

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Loudermilk Highlights DoD IG Report Flaws, Sets Record Straight on January 6, 2021 National Guard Delay

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Barry Loudermilk (R-GA)

Washington D.C. (September 25, 2024) | This week, Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Chairman of the House Administration Committee’s Oversight Subcommittee, held time on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, where he highlighted the flaws within the DoD IG’s report of the events of January 6, 2021.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

President Trump ordered Senior DoD leaders to “make sure it was safe,” a directive which they ignored.

In newly obtained DoD IG transcripts, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mark Milley, specifically recalled a conversation between the Acting Secretary of Defense, Chris Miller, and President Trump, where the President gave directives for them to ENSURE they had “sufficient National Guard or Active duty soldiers to make it a safe event” and to “do whatever you have to do, just make sure it’s safe.”

In turn, President Trump was told by Secretary Miller that they had a plan, and they’ll have it covered. DESPITE this directive from the President, Miller, in his DoD IG interview, dismissed it, stating: “I interpreted it as President Trump banter.”

According to D.C. National Guard Commanding General William Walker, had he been present at this meeting, he would have interpreted the President’s directive with greater urgency. And yet, these facts were HIDDEN from the American public for years by this Administration.

The January 6 Select Committee claimed that he wanted the chaos, they pushed that he called for an insurrection, but nothing could be further from the truth.

DoD Officials were concerned about the “optics” of having soldiers at the Capitol.

Director of the Army Staff, Lieutenant General Walter Piatt later would say: “was optics a concern for us as we prepared to use soldiers downtown in Washington D.C? Absolutely.”

As “optics” concerns were being discussed and Secretary McCarthy claimed he was ‘developing a plan’, the D.C. National Guard was ready to move, less than 2 miles from the Capitol – awaiting Secretary McCarthy’s authorization. During these crucial hours, Secretary McCarthy stated a concept of operations plan or “CONOP” was being developed – yet McCarthy never communicated with the Capitol Police nor D.C. National Guard

What’s more, the National Guard already had a plan. Secretary McCarthy had previously observed rehearsals of the National Guard executing a Civil Disturbance mission. Therefore, McCarthy used this CONOP as a delay tactic as he knew that the D.C. National Guard was prepared to execute this mission.

Over 2 hours were wasted to allegedly develop his “plan,” and to this day, his CONOP has never been produced. Why has no one, including the DoD IG, seen this alleged “plan?” You don’t have to be the Secretary of the Army to see this for what it was: a way to delay the deployment of the National Guard—who was ready and waiting less than two miles from the Capitol.

The DoD IG knew there were inconsistencies in their report, and published it anyways.

Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy was asked specifically about his actions following Miller’s 3:04pm order by the Select Committee, multiple Senate Committees, and the DoD IG. When asked by the DoD IG in March 2021, Secretary McCarthy stated that one of his staff conveyed the order to deploy to the DC National Guard within minutes of Miller’s verbal order.

The DOD IG report alleged that McCarthy personally conveyed this order to deploy within minutes without explanation or providing evidence to support this assertion. Major General Walker, the DC National Guard Commanding General has consistently refuted that any order was relayed at 3:04pm.

Almost one year later in testimony to the Select Committee, McCarthy testified that he completed his “CONOP” around 4:35pm and called Sec Def Miller and received his approval. In testimony to the Select Committee when asked about the 4:35pm call McCarthy finally admitted that he never directly spoke to Major General Walker at 4:35pm.

Instead, Secretary McCarthy changed his story and told the Select Committee that a member of his staff who “had the authority to speak as the Secretary of the Army” was communicating with the D.C. National Guard on his behalf on January 6. This revision to his previous version of events is significant. The individual McCarthy claimed made this call “on his behalf” testified to the DoD IG that it was Secretary McCarthy who conveyed the order at 4:35pm.

Let me pause here. The conflicting testimony raises serious doubts about the actions of numerous senior DoD officials failing to follow direct orders resulting in the delayed deployment of the DC National Guard. The ONLY reason Congress is now aware of these significant conflicting versions of events is because of the courageous DC National Guardsmen who testified in front of my Subcommittee, AND because my Subcommittee forced the DoD IG to produce the witness interviews revealing these conflicting versions of events which I’ve now shared publicly.

As Secretary McCarthy’s story changed, it started to align with Major General Walker’s testimony. Yet the DoD IG report alleged that General Walker’s congressional testimony was untrue or “mischaracterized” without any evidence to support an allegation that Walker committed perjury.

Whistleblowers alerted to the flaws in the DoD IG report.

In April 2024, members of the National Guard came forward as Whistleblowers to set the record straight. Risking their own careers, these Whistleblowers came forward to ensure the name and reputation of the men and women of the National Guard would not be tarnished.

The D.C. National Guard is the only military organization within the Department of Defense over which the President of the United States has direct and immediate command authority. The President’s command authority has been delegated to the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of Defense has further delegated operational control of the D.C. National Guard to the Secretary of the Army.

On January 6, 2021, the D.C. National Guard reported to the Secretary of the Army, Ryan McCarthy. On January 5, Secretary McCarthy, took it upon himself to place unprecedented restrictions on the D.C. National Guard to prevent any movement to the Capitol without his explicit permission.

This tied the hands of the National Guard and placed sole tactical and operational command of their movements in the hands of McCarthy.

To watch Rep. Loudermilk’s full remarks on the U.S. House floor, click here.

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

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FBI Charges Chinese Nationals with Spying at Camp Grayling

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

Headline: FBI Charges Chinese Nationals with Spying at Camp Grayling

Today, the Detroit News reported the FBI has charged five Chinese nationals who studied at the University of Michigan with espionage related charges. The five individuals are accused of taking photos of military equipment at Camp Grayling. While the students were taking photos, the Michigan Army National Guard was hosting training for the Taiwanese military.

“This case shows once again that CCP espionage can happen anywhere in America and we must be vigilant. The CCP obviously has an interest in Camp Grayling and this is further evidence it would be a mistake for Michigan leaders to allow Gotion to build in our state. State funding for Gotion’s plan to bring Chinese nationals to Mecosta County is an open invitation for further spying on Camp Grayling. For national security reasons, Governor Whitmer and the legislature must revoke state funding for Gotion immediately,” said Congressman John Moolenaar.

“Additionally, as chairman of the Select Committee on China, my committee recently issued a report on research security at our nation’s universities. All of our nation’s universities must shut down their joint institutes with Chinese universities, and enact stricter guardrails on emerging technology research. American universities must realize they are a target for espionage and protect the critical taxpayer-funded research they do,” he continued.

Last month, Moolenaar along with Chairwoman Virginia Foxx of the Committee on Education and Workforce released a report on research security at American universities. The five Chinese nationals charged with espionage were students at the University of Michigan through the schools joint partnership with Shanghai Jiao Tong University in Shanghai.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Texas Hospital CEO to Pay Over $5.3M to Settle Kickback Allegations Involving Laboratory Testing

Source: United States Attorneys General

Former hospital chief executive officer (CEO) Jeffrey Madison, of Georgetown, Texas, has agreed to pay $5,343,630 to resolve allegations under the False Claims Act involving illegal payments to physicians for laboratory referrals in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute. Madison also has agreed to cooperate with the Justice Department’s investigations of, and litigation against, other participants in the alleged schemes.

“The Justice Department will continue to pursue individuals — including C-suite executives — who commit health care fraud,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Kickbacks to physicians from laboratories or other healthcare providers can undermine healthcare decision-making, subject patients to unnecessary medical services and waste taxpayer funds.”

The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting or receiving remuneration to induce referrals of items or services covered by Medicare, Medicaid and other federally funded health care programs. The Anti-Kickback Statute is intended to ensure that medical providers’ judgments are not compromised by improper financial incentives and are instead based on the best interests of their patients.

The settlement announced today resolves allegations in a lawsuit alleging that Madison, the former CEO of Little River Healthcare (Little River), a critical access hospital in Rockdale, Texas, caused the submission of false claims for laboratory testing to Medicare, Medicaid and TRICARE from January 2015 to June 2018. Madison allegedly agreed to a kickback scheme in which Little River paid commissions to recruiters who used purported management service organizations (MSOs) to pay kickbacks to doctors to induce their laboratory testing referrals to Little River. The settlement resolves allegations that Madison knowingly signed, and caused others to sign, false certifications in Medicare cost reports regarding Little River’s compliance with the Anti-Kickback Statute, and thereby caused the submission of false claims to federal health care programs.

In addition, the settlement resolves allegations in the same lawsuit that, after defendant Doyce Cartrett Jr., M.D., of Silsbee, Texas, informed Little River of his potential laboratory testing referral volume, Madison agreed to have Little River pay Cartrett $2,000 per month in kickbacks disguised as purported medical director fees from February 2015 to May 2017, to induce Cartrett to shift his laboratory testing referrals to Little River. Madison allegedly agreed for Little River to pay the monthly fees, even though Little River did not receive any genuine medical director services from Dr. Cartrett.

Madison did not contest, and accepted responsibility for, the allegations against him in the United States’ amended complaint. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Madison was excluded from participating in federal healthcare programs for 25 years. The lawsuit is captioned United States, et al. ex rel. STF LLC v. True Health Diagnostics LLC et al., No. 4:16-cv-547 (EDTX).

“Seeing past a corporate entity and holding individuals responsible for making the decisions to engage marketers to pay providers for their laboratory referrals is what justice requires,” said U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs for the Eastern District of Texas. “This settlement is a testament to our continued efforts to combat fraud against our federal healthcare programs and to hold accountable all participants who profited from knowingly violating the laws meant to guard against overutilization of medical services and protect the public fisc.”

“Illegal kickback payments, even when disguised as medical director fees, undermine and corrupt the medical decision-making process,” said Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Both the payer and recipient benefit from these schemes, but it is ultimately the taxpayers who foot the bill. HHS-OIG will continue collaborating with law enforcement and prosecutors to protect the Medicare trust fund that millions of Americans depend on.”

“Our nation’s uniformed military service members and their families should never have to question the integrity of their healthcare providers,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan Settle of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southwest Field Office. “Medical decisions influenced by greed destroy the fundamental element of trust in patient care. This settlement reinforces the commitment the DCIS shares with our law enforcement partners and the Justice Department to pursue all available remedies against those who conspire to commit fraud against our Military Health System.”

The settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas, with assistance from HHS-OIG and DCIS. The United States has recovered over $52 million relating to conduct involving MSO kickbacks to health care providers, which includes recoveries from 46 physicians.

Trial Attorneys Christopher Terranova and Gavin Thole of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Gillingham and Betty Young for the Eastern District of Texas handled the case.

The government’s pursuit of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

Settlement

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Brown Pushes Administration to Maintain Funding for Stryker Vehicles, Fights for Workers at Lima’s JSMC

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown called on the Biden administration to maintain funding for the Stryker Family of Vehicles, manufactured in part at the Joint Systems Manufacturing Center (JSMC) in Lima.
In a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Director of the Office of Management and Budget Shalanda Young, and Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth, Brown details how critically important this combat system is to the U.S. Military and our defense industrial base. Brown lays out how the reduction in funding could threaten military readiness and hurt the JSMC’s skilled workforce, including members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 2075, who support the manufacturing of the M1 Abrams tanks.
“It’s my understanding that the Army’s Future Years Defense Program (FYDP) fiscal year (FY) 2025 through FY 2029 proposes to drastically reduce Stryker procurement funding by more than $1.6 billion, or 496 vehicles. These shortsighted cuts would impose significant costs on the U.S. Army and Stryker’s domestic industrial base, and I urge you to reconsider this proposal and replace it with one that recognizes the value of the Stryker FoV and maintains an investment in this essential technology and the manufacturing community supporting it.,” wrote Brown to the administration officials.
Brown continued, “Cutting Stryker funding threatens both military readiness and the industrial base – both workforce and manufacturers – that ensure our continued military superiority. Of particular concern is the impact such disinvestment could have on the JSMC’s skilled workforce – which also supports the M1 Abrams tank. Reduced funding would impose a deep workforce reduction that could only be revived with much effort and at great cost. In addition, cuts to the Stryker F0V would impact hundreds of manufacturers – and their employees – throughout the nation. In fact, 80 suppliers in Ohio alone support the Stryker program – many of them small businesses that would likely need to shut down or shift work elsewhere if the Army maintains its plan of deep reductions.”
Recently, Brown was able to secure $402 million for the Stryker vehicle production and $773 million for the M1 Abrams tank production in the Senate version of the bipartisan FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the country’s annual national defense bill. The bill text has been negotiated by both parties in the Senate and represents an important step forward in process of making the national defense bill law. It is expected be voted on by the Senate in the coming months.
The full letter is HERE or below.
Dear Secretary Austin, Director Young, and Secretary Wormuth:
As the U.S. Army works to sustain and modernize its Stryker Family of Vehicles (FoV), I ask that you maintain funding for this critically important combat system, which is manufactured in part at the Joint Systems Manufacturing Center (JSMC) in Lima, Ohio. It’s my understanding that the Army’s Future Years Defense Program (FYDP) fiscal year (FY) 2025 through FY 2029 proposes to drastically reduce Stryker procurement funding by more than $1.6 billion, or 496 vehicles. These shortsighted cuts would impose significant costs on the U.S. Army and Stryker’s domestic industrial base, and I urge you to reconsider this proposal and replace it with one that recognizes the value of the Stryker FoV and maintains an investment in this essential technology and the manufacturing community supporting it.
The Stryker FoV are the Army’s workhorse – a proven combat vehicle fleet that provides highly-mobile, versatile, and essential support for U.S. servicemembers and our allies. To date, the Stryker FoV has logged over 30 million combat miles in more than 23 deployments and is currently a key deterrent force in Europe and the Indo-Pacific. Despite the Stryker FoV’s proven capabilities, the Army’s FYDP for FY 2025-29 proposes a Stryker vehicle reduction of 58 percent from previous FYDPs and sends a dangerous signal that the Army intends to phase out Stryker production with no replacement in place.
Cutting Stryker funding threatens both military readiness and the industrial base – both workforce and manufacturers – that ensure our continued military superiority. Of particular concern is the impact such disinvestment could have on the JSMC’s skilled workforce – which also supports the M1 Abrams tank. Reduced funding would impose a deep workforce reduction that could only be revived with much effort and at great cost. In addition, cuts to the Stryker F0V would impact hundreds of manufacturers – and their employees – throughout the nation. In fact, 80 suppliers in Ohio alone support the Stryker program – many of them small businesses that would likely need to shut down or shift work elsewhere if the Army maintains its plan of deep reductions.
Even without a reduction to the Stryker FoV, I am concerned the Army currently has no plan to modernize the Stryker platform beyond its current configuration. Future planning is necessary to ensure the Stryker FoV’s operational effectiveness for the envisioned, complex battlefield of the future.
I urge you to invest in our national security by keeping the funding at $1.6 billion over the next 4 years and reconsider plans to shift investment away from this essential line of equipment and the talented, domestic manufacturing base behind it. Additionally, I respectfully request a briefing on the Army’s plan for the Stryker platform and the plan to address the risks inherent in its current funding position.
Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Secures Additional Provisions for Servicemembers, Veterans in Senate’s Bipartisan National Defense Bill Final Text

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) announced that she has secured additional provisions for Nevada veterans and servicemembers in the final text of the Senate’s bipartisan national defense bill. This is in addition to the Rosen-backed bills, amendments, and provisions already included in the text of the bill passed by the Senate Armed Services Committee. The final Senate text of the legislation includes Senator Rosen’s bipartisan bill to maintain a permanent helpline to assist veterans with all services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and a Rosen-backed bipartisan bill to better inform students about military careers.
“As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I helped draft the Senate’s annual defense package to enhance our national security and deliver for our servicemembers, veterans, military families, and Nevada’s military and nuclear security installations,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud that two additional bipartisan bills I led are included in the final Senate bill to support our veterans and help inform young people about military careers. I’ll keep working across the aisle to ensure we have the resources to confront international threats and advance our state’s priorities.”
Additional Rosen-led bipartisan bills in the final Senate version of the FY25 NDAA include:
Bipartisan Veterans Assistance Helpline Act: Requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to maintain a permanent helpline for veterans to use in order to quickly obtain information and assistance with all services from the VA.
Bipartisan Military and Educational Data Integration Act: Requires the Department of Defense to create a data-sharing program to enable state education systems to access military enlistment data, allowing high schools to track the outcomes of students who enter military service after graduation.
The Senate’s bipartisan national defense bill already includes many Rosen-led victories for Nevada, including preventing any funding from being authorized for storing defense nuclear waste at Yucca Mountain. Other provisions will directly benefit Nevada’s servicemembers and national security installations, such as funding for Nevada’s first certified small arms training range for the Nevada National Guard at Hawthorne Army Depot, which she secured; requiring a plan for providing the VA with the documentation needed to help veterans who served near nuclear testing to submit claims for the radiation exposure benefits they deserve; increasing land in Nevada for Tribal housing; expanding health care coverage for veterans’ families; and creating programs to strengthen collaboration with Israel, Taiwan, and other allies in the areas of space, artificial intelligence, and the defense industrial base.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Response and Recovery Efforts Underway Across Multiple Affected by Hurricane Helene

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Response and Recovery Efforts Underway Across Multiple Affected by Hurricane Helene

Response and Recovery Efforts Underway Across Multiple Affected by Hurricane Helene

WASHINGTON – First responders across local and state governments, the private sector, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and the federal family continue working to address the immediate needs of survivors and their communities.

These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across affected states impacted by Hurricane Helene.

President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance that is available for survivors in designated counties in Florida, Georgia North Carolina, South Carolina 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 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.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55506″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/857edeb73204d77dbc46b266f2c2e336.jpeg?itok=L9ZoNHwY” alt=”Caption: Asheville, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – Volunteers distribute supplies to those affected by Hurricane Helene.” class=”image-style-large”>
Asheville, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – Volunteers distribute supplies to those affected by Hurricane Helene.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55523″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/dda6592057e439dfd4aa24c9e7690799.jpg?itok=I_98rZYb” alt=”Caption:

Valdosta, Ga. (Sept. 30, 2024) – FEMA helps survivors of Hurricane Helene by distributing water, MREs, and tarps in Lowndes County, Georgia.

” class=”image-style-large”>

Valdosta, Ga. (Sept. 30, 2024) – FEMA helps survivors of Hurricane Helene by distributing water, MREs, and tarps in Lowndes County, Georgia.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55516″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/64ca229be08c2e8e9e6957d8554c1b59.jpg?itok=9v_5E7Gt” alt=”Caption: Steinhatchee, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene.” class=”image-style-large”>
Steinhatchee, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55497″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/ad690fcdc4cec543993db83fbbc20de4.jpg?itok=cwpj5KSr” alt=”Caption:

Fletcher, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help Hurricane Helene survivors, including registering them for aid.

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Fletcher, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help Hurricane Helene survivors, including registering them for aid.

SWANNANOA, North Carolina – Volunteers serve hot food to survivors in downtown Swannanoa. (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=”55553″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/c08e18a8e81aa97721e01330817a1619.jpg?itok=TLOxdx_N” alt=”Caption: Swannanoa, N.C. – (October 1, 2024) – The town of Swannanoa in Western North Carolina reels in the wake of devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.” class=”image-style-large”>
Swannanoa, N.C. – (October 1, 2024) – The town of Swannanoa in Western North Carolina reels in the wake of devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.

GREENVILLE, South Carolina – Members of the South Carolina Army National Guard distribute meals and water to disaster survivors in Greenville. (Photo Credit: FEMA)

ASHEVILE, North Carolina – Members of the North Carolina Army National Guard work alongside volunteers at William W. Estes Elementary School to load meals and water for disaster survivors. (Photo Credit: FEMA)

STEINHATCHEE, Florida. – FEMA speaks with a Hurricane Helene survivor. Agency personnel are on the ground helping survivors register for disaster assistance. (Photo Credit: FEMA)

ASHEVILLE, North Carolina: The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response deployed a National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) team to provide 24-hour emergency department surge support at Mission Hospital in Asheville. This is one of four sites in western North Carolina receiving NDMS medical support. (Source: HHS)

FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages: Disaster Multimedia Toolkit.

amy.ashbridge
Wed, 10/02/2024 – 20:04

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Libya: Reveal fate and whereabouts of 19 men forcibly disappeared a year ago

Source: Amnesty International –

The self-proclaimed Libyan Arab Armed Forces (LAAF) must reveal the fate and whereabouts of former Minister of Defence Al-Mahdi al-Barghathi and 18 of his relatives and supporters who were abducted in Benghazi by armed men, said Amnesty International marking a year since their enforced disappearances.

“For a year, families of Al-Mahdi al-Barghathi and his relatives and supporters have been living in anguish, not knowing whether their loves ones are dead or alive. The injustices they suffered reveal the shocking lengths to which LAAF is prepared to go to eliminate any actual or perceived challenge to their absolute grip on power, and the near absolute impunity enjoyed by LAAF-affiliated armed groups,” said Bassam Al Kantar, Amnesty International’s Libya Researcher.

“The Tripoli-based Government of National Unity, as well as LAAF, as the de facto authorities in eastern Libya, must ensure impartial, independent and effective investigations into crimes that took place, including revealing the fate and whereabouts of those forcibly disappeared and the causes and circumstances of deaths in custody.”

Al-Mahdi al-Barghathi, a rival of LAAF General Commander Khalifa Haftar, returned to his hometown of Benghazi on 6 October 2023 following tribal reconciliation efforts. Following his return LAAF-affiliated armed groups raided his mother’s home in the al-Salamani neighbourhood. Ensuing armed clashes between LAAF affiliated armed groups including Tariq Ben Zeyad (TBZ) and the Internal Security Agency (ISA), on the one hand, and fighters loyal to Al-Mahdi al-Barghathi, on the other, left at least 15 dead and more injured, amid an internet shutdown by LAAF.

For a year, families of Al-Mahdi al-Barghathi and his relatives and supporters have been living in anguish, not knowing whether their loves ones are dead or alive.

Bassam Al Kantar, Amnesty International

On 7 October, LAAF affiliates took hostage 36 women and 13 children from Al-Barghathi’s family. They were released after Al-Mahdi al-Barghathi and his son were taken into LAAF custody, along with 38 other Al-Barghathi family members and supporters. The fate and whereabouts of at least 19 of them remains unknown, amid fears they may have been extrajudiciallyexecuted after being captured. Six others have been confirmed dead; at least two of them in suspicious circumstances after being captured alive. The remaining 15 are believed to be held in LAAF detention centres.

Amnesty International interviewed the families of eight detainees, including two men who died in custody, as well as lawyers and political activists. The organization reviewed medical and forensic reports, pictures, videos and official documents.

MIL OSI NGO –

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

Source: US Army (video statements)

Day two of the 2024 U.S. Army Best Squad competition! Day two assessed the mastery of some of the most basic Soldier skills such as land navigation, weapons familiarity, vehicle familiarity, and an expert physical fitness assessment.

: 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=_5YR4WbaUjY

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper and President Biden Survey Damage from Hurricane Helene During Aerial Tour, Hold Briefing for Federal Officials at State Emergency Operations Center
Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper and President Biden Survey Damage from Hurricane Helene During Aerial Tour, Hold Briefing for Federal Officials at State Emergency Operations Center

PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper and President Biden Survey Damage from Hurricane Helene During Aerial Tour, Hold Briefing for Federal Officials at State Emergency Operations Center
mseets
Wed, 10/02/2024 – 19:44
Today, Governor Roy Cooper and President Joe Biden took an aerial tour of areas damaged by Hurricane Helene before holding a briefing on storm impacts at the State Emergency Operations Center. During the briefing, President Biden announced the approval of 100% FEMA Reimbursement for six months, a significant funding commitment from the federal government. The briefing was attended by President Biden, United States Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, United States EPA Administrator Michael Regan, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and other top state and federal officials.

Prior to the visit, President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for active-duty military personnel and equipment to support ongoing operations in Western North Carolina. The active-duty military personnel are in addition to more than 1,000 North Carolina National Guard soldiers currently deployed who are surging food, water, supplies and conducting search and rescue operations. The NC National Guard has already performed more than 1,400 rescues and delivered more than 700,000 pounds in supplies.

“The damage caused by Hurricane Helene to Western North Carolina is immense, and we are continuing our unprecedented efforts to surge resources into affected communities,” said Governor Cooper. “We’re grateful to President Biden, FEMA and all of our federal partners for their support and commitment to helping our state respond, recover and rebuild from this disaster.”

State, federal and local partners continue to work together to surge resources into Western North Carolina in response to unprecedented damage from Hurricane Helene across the region. Throughout the week, Governor Roy Cooper has traveled to Western North Carolina to assess storm response, meet with those affected and thank volunteers for their hard work.

Photos of the Governor’s briefing with President Biden can be found here.

Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

Efforts are underway to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, utilizing both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. FEMA has delivered 1.89 million meals and 2.5 million liters of water. More than 21,000 people have been registered for assistance.
- Buncombe County – Biltmore Baptist Church, 35 Clayton Road, Arden, NC 28704
- McDowell County – Grace Community Church, 5182 Highway 70 West, Marion, NC 28752
- Watauga County – First Baptist Church, 375 West King Street, Boone, NC 28607
Points of distribution for commodities have been established in each impacted county. These locations are also providing free public Wi-Fi for area residents. Seek information from local governments for counties not listed below.
- Ashe County – Westwood Elementary School, Mountain View Elementary School
- Buncombe County – UNC-Asheville, Asheville Buncombe Tech Ferguson, WNC Ag. Center, Asheville-Buncombe Tech Conference Center, Biltmore Baptist Church, The Greens at Weaverville, Fletcher Nursing and Rehabilitation.
- Henderson County – First Baptist Church Hendersonville, Greens at Hendersonville
- Madison County – Madison County Cooperative Extension Service
- McDowell County – Nebo Crossing Church, Grace Community Church
- Mitchell County – First Baptist Spruce Pine
- Polk County – Polk County High School
- Rowan County – Rowan-Cabarrus YMCA
- Watauga – Cove Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Zionville VFD, Foscoe Christian Church, Watauga EOC, Holmes Convocation Center, Meat Camp Road, Town of Boone PD, First Baptist Boone.
Power Outages

Across the region, approximately 408,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than one million. Power has been restored to more than 500,000 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 26 shelters have been opened in Western North Carolina, housing 1,244 people. Plans are in place to open additional shelters as needed to accommodate additional needs.

Search and Rescue Operations

Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Western North Carolina. A total of 55 search and rescue teams from North Carolina and beyond, consisting of more than 1600 personnel have conducted search and rescue operations during this event. More than 500 people have been rescued by the NC National Guard. More than 150 pets have also been rescued.

Road Closures

Travel remains dangerous, with approximately 450 roads closed as of Wednesday afternoon. 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 has dispatched the following resources to assist with the recovery process:
- 1,600 employees, plus 68 contract crews
- 220+ employees in less-impacted areas have been sent to western N.C.
- 1,500+ trucks, graders & backhoes/loaders
- 1,000+ chainsaws
- 8,000+ 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

Fifty-six storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We do expect that these numbers 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 Deployed

Gov. Cooper has activated more than 1000 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen to both conduct search and rescue operations and deliver critical supplies to Western North Carolina. As of Wednesday, 300 specialized vehicles and aircraft have been deployed in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions.

Volunteers and Donations

As of Wednesday morning, the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund has raised $2.3 million dollars to help those in Western North Carolina.

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

President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for an expedited request declaring a Major Disaster for 25 North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This declaration paves the way for Public Assistance to help our hard-hit local governments, as well as access to FEMA’s Individual Assistance program.

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, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, 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.

Written Pool Report of Briefing Provided by Adam Wagner, Raleigh News & Observer

Air Force One landed at Raleigh-Durham International Airport around 4:21 pm.

President Joe Biden and Gov. Roy Cooper disembarked about 10 minutes later.

They were joined by U.S. Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, EPA Administrator Michael Regan and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.

They were met on the tarmac by a reception line that included Congresswoman Deborah Ross, NC Attorney General Josh Stein, NC State Auditor Jessica Holmes, Morrisville Mayor TJ Crawley, Raleigh Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan Melton, Durham Mayor Leo Williams and Wake County Commission Chairwoman Shnica Thomas.

Everyone drove to the N.C. Emergency Operations Center, where a briefing was assembled in the situation room. Biden sat with Cooper on his right and Mayorkas to Cooper’s right. N.C. Emergency Management Director Will Ray on Biden’s left and Regan to the left of Ray. Behind them, screens showed several maps of North Carolina. In front of them were gathered numerous members of North Carolina’s emergency management team, including several members of the National Guard.

Cooper discussed the damage, saying Hurricane Helene had wiped towns “off the map, bridges damaged or completely destroyed, critical infrastructure and water systems, electrical grids, communications all remain seriously damaged. Countless homes and businesses that are lost.

He continued, “An entire region of our state is still in a dangerous situation.”

Cooper then said 92 search and rescue teams have saved “countless” lives before thanking the 18 states that have sent assistance to North Carolina. Cooper also said North Carolina is “grateful” for Biden and FEMA’s aid.

“This is going to be a long and difficult recovery, but talking with person after person in Western North Carolina, I know that we can come back and that we will come back because the people of Western North Carolina are resilient,” Cooper said.

Cooper then called on “my friend” before turning it over to Biden.

Biden also thanked Cooper, a Democrat; South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, a Republican; and “all the elected officials who have focused on the task at a hand. In a moment like this, we put politics aside. Or at least we should put it all aside, and we have here. There are no Democrats or Republicans, only Americans. And our job is to hep as many people as we can as quickly as we can and as thoroughly as we can.”

Wednesday, Biden said, he’d approved a request from Cooper for the federal government to cover all of the costs of debris removal for the next six months. Cooper then led a round of applause.

Biden said there are 70 dead North Carolinians and a hundred more who are still missing. From the air, Biden said, he could see damaged homes that had clearly been washed downstream. Chimney Rock, he said, was “reduced to piles of wood and debris. As you look down, that’s what you see as we flew over in a circle in the helicopter.”

Biden also discussed his order that the Department of Defense move up to 1,000 soldiers from Fort Liberty up tp participate in the disaster response. Biden also said 50 StarLink satellites have been deployed, with more on the way. And FEMA is making hotel rooms and temporary housing available to victims of the storm.

Biden then said that in the car from the airport to the Emergency Operations Center, he’d been discussing how the storm is showing how neighbors can help each other in the wake of disaster.

“Volunteers, first responders are standing side by side. People lean on each other to pick up the pieces that are left over and that’s the best of America. I firmly believe and I’ve been saying it and saying it and saying it for three years, there’s nothing beyond our capacity to do — nothing, nothing, nothing. This is the United States of America for God’s sake. Whenever we’ve worked together, we’ve never failed to get something done,” Biden said before thanking first responders.

Ray then welcomed Biden before giving an operational update on Helene’s impacts.

Ray said “extreme and unrelenting” rain caused the damage to Western North Carolina. There are about 350,000 remaining power outages in Western North Carolina, Ray said. The storm caused flash flood emergencies in 21 different Western North Carolina. Ray said North Carolina is focused on life safety missions, increasing the speed of commodity distribution in Western NC and helping with infrastructure like healthcare, water, power and communications.

There are 26 open shelters in counties with just over 1,200 occupants.

There are North Carolina search and rescue teams operating, along with 13 from other states and 18 from the federal government, Ray said. There have been more than 5,000 search and rescue “interactions” which can include rescues, evacuations or shelter assessments.

“The teams continue to do really incredible work in some pretty austere conditions,” Ray said.

North Carolina has 26 aircraft in the area that have lifted over 700,000 ponds of cargo into the region.

Ray also said that more than 33,000 North Carolinians have applied for FEMA Individual Assistance programs.

The open press section of the meeting lasted about 17 minutes.

The full briefing ended around 5:50 pm.

###
Oct 2, 2024

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Lessons from Cyclone Gabrielle: 5 key health priorities for future disaster response

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Holly Thorpe, Professor in Sociology of Sport and Gender, University of Waikato

Getty Images

“The climate crisis is a health crisis.” So says World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus.

The World Economic Forum agrees. Its report this year highlighted how climate change is taking a toll on global health due to increasingly frequent extreme weather events.

These issues are on the official agenda here too, especially since severe tropical cyclone Gabrielle caused extensive damage in the South-west Pacific and northern New Zealand in early 2023.

Between February 13 and 14 it slammed into Te Tairāwhiti/East Coast and Te Matau a Māui/Hawkes Bay, with disastrous results for the land and its inhabitants. Communities were displaced, homes destroyed, power and telecommunications cut, water systems compromised, and many roads and bridges badly damaged.

Shortly after Gabrielle hit, Manatū Hauora/Ministry of Health commissioned us to investigate the impacts of adverse weather events on health systems and community health and wellbeing.

Our community research teams interviewed 143 residents in the two affected regions. They included first responders, heath workers, council staff and members of the public. Their stories were emotional, powerful and insightful.

Our recently published report amplifies these community voices and local knowledge, and offers recommendations about planning for future, inevitable events. Here we offer five key messages.

1. Prioritise vulnerable people

Many older people and those with disabilities or existing health conditions were deprioritised or simply forgotten during evacuations and in the days and weeks after the cyclone. As one community responder in Tairāwhiti recalled:

Some of them couldn’t move out because they were so old and frail. The water was so powerful, they couldn’t move anywhere. Some just stayed in their room until somebody turned up. For instance, there was a lady [who] was stuck in her wheelchair, and by the time people found her, the water was at her neck.

Our report identified the need for health and social services to work more closely to ensure at-risk, vulnerable older people and those with disabilities or complex needs are prioritised during evacuations, so their medical and physical needs are met during and after an extreme weather event.

2. Invest in mental health support and trauma recovery

Those in the most affected communities had high levels of stress, grief and trauma during and after emergencies and evacuations.

Staff and volunteers in front-line roles during the state of emergency experienced similar mental health effects. Many felt mental health support was not there when they needed it most.

Almost everyone we spoke to had some negative mental health impacts. These included sleep disruption, rain anxiety and stress from road closures, insurance claims and land instability.

Māori participants also told of their grief over environmental damage and destruction, highlighting the links between whenua (land) and hauora (health). They described drawing on cultural practices to support whānau recovery. For example, a leader of local volunteer efforts spoke about the personal impact of the cyclone:

I was not good […] it was seeing the impact on how it was for your own community whānau. I think it hit me quite a bit later on. I fell into depression […] It just built up over time. I’m still in healing therapy for the last probably six to seven months since Gabrielle, just trying to get my wairua [spirit] and my tinana [body] and everything back in place.

Overall, the research shows a need for greater awareness and investment in weather-related trauma recovery and mental health support.

3. Ensure medical supplies can reach remote areas

Rural and isolated communities had heightened health challenges, particularly due to road and communication failures.

Transporting medical staff into these communities often required creative solutions (driving, using helicopters or hiking through bush and across farmland when roads were damaged, for example).

Access to medicines was a major concern. It took co-ordinated effort to get pharmaceuticals to such communities. Helicopters were crucial in getting supplies and patients in and out of remote areas. Not everyone who needed attention received it, however.

The most effective responses involved organisations (such as the NZ Police and Civil Defence) working together with communities. As one police officer told us:

Our whānau up the coast needed medicine, prescriptions. Getting access from the helicopter to the home was a challenge. So, the police leant in and helped out. We used [an all-terrain vehicle] to get to places and spaces to get medicine in.

People need to be prepared for power and telcommunications failures.
Getty Images

4. Resource and co-ordinate local support networks

Fiscally challenged health systems were stretched during the emergency and struggled with power and telecommunications outages. But we heard of many health workers going “above and beyond” to care for patients and communities.

Many continued working even when their own families, homes and communities were directly under threat. Anticipating this and supporting these workers will be important as adverse weather becomes more frequent with climate change.

We also found marae, schools, local social services and non-profit organisations played key roles after the cyclone, but were often outside the direct ambit of the health system.

Often the people working in these organisations have strong community relationships and knowledge that is essential to supporting emergency and recovery processes. These connections should be mapped and integrated for future events.

5. Shift resources and build common will

Local communities are full of knowledge. Many have learnt from recent events to better prepare their families, workplaces and organisations.

Whānau told us about the importance of having cash in case of power outages and telecommunications failure. Others identified battery-powered radio as a critical source of information when systems were down. Pharmacists and doctors told of the importance of hard-copy evidence of prescriptions, to be able to dispense when electronic systems are out.

Checking in on neighbours, sharing resources and making time for a cup of tea were all important for people in the recovery and rebuilding phases. A key lesson is to harness the power of community connections, trust and relationships in climate change resilience and recovery.

Although knowledge, experience and wisdom lie in the hands of communities, our research highlights how financial resources mostly sit with central government. The challenge is to shift resources and build common will for climate action, before the inevitable next event.

The report is receiving attention in parliament. We hope local experience can be central to planning around the health impacts of climate change and decision-making at all levels.

We acknowledge the important contributions of our wider research team and community partners, particularly Manu Caddie (Te Weu Charitable Trust), Josie McClutchie (project lead), Dayna Chaffey, Haley Maxwell and Hiria Philip-Barbara (community researchers) in Tairāwhiti, and Emma Horgan and John Bell (Sustainable HB Centre for Climate & Resilience) in Hawkes Bay.

Holly Thorpe received support from the Manatū Hauora/Ministry of Health funding secured to conduct this research.

Fiona Langridge received support from the Ministry of Health funding secured to conduct this research.

George Laking received funding from The Ministry of Health to conduct the research. He is an Executive Board member of OraTaiao, the New Zealand Climate and Health Council.

Judith McCool receives funding from the Ministry of Health (Polynesia Health Corridors) and the Health Research Council.

– ref. Lessons from Cyclone Gabrielle: 5 key health priorities for future disaster response – https://theconversation.com/lessons-from-cyclone-gabrielle-5-key-health-priorities-for-future-disaster-response-239392

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: South Pacific defence meeting fosters collaboration

Source: New Zealand Government

This week’s South Pacific Defence Ministers’ Meeting (SPDMM) has concluded with a renewed commitment to regional security of all types, Defence Minister Judith Collins says.

Defence Ministers and senior civilian and military officials from Australia, Chile, Fiji, France, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Tonga gathered in Auckland to discuss defence and security cooperation in the South Pacific.

“We all want to see regional security, and that means protecting our maritime areas, improving the effectiveness of our Defence Forces and adapting to the impacts of climate change,” Ms Collins says.

“The South Pacific is our home. We all benefit from working together and sharing knowledge to support a secure, stable and prosperous region.

“This year’s meeting further fostered the spirit of collaboration among trusted partners.

“Members shared their views on security challenges, as well as the role of emerging technology, in responding to these challenges, and collective approaches to improving the effectiveness of the region’s Defence Forces.”

“Members agreed on the importance of working with civilian agencies when it comes to supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, and in the areas of combating maritime security threats such as illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing and transnational organised crime.

“These are issues that have significant impact on many South Pacific nations which, like New Zealand, have large Exclusive Economics Zones.”

SPDMM member countries discussed approaches to non-traditional security challenges, where South Pacific militaries have come together in response to regional security challenges, and co-deploying to help communities recover from cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, bushfire and floods.

“SPDMM is a unique dialogue and coordination platform that enables collective action and leadership among South Pacific Nations. In a region this size it is vital we work together on our shared challenges with our shared values,” Ms Collins says.

“It has been an absolute honour to host SPDMM 2024 in Auckland and I wish Chile all the best for SPDMM 2025.”

A full summary of key outcomes from the 2024 South Pacific Defence Ministers meeting can be found in the Joint Communique.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development to grace closing ceremony of 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 at Ranchi tomorrow

Source: Government of India (2)

Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development to grace closing ceremony of 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 at Ranchi tomorrow

Event celebrates collective efforts towards a healthier & nourished India

More than 11 thousand Saksham Anganwadi Centres located across India to be inaugurated virtually

Exhibition showcasing aspects of Mission Poshan 2.0 at venue

Around 12 crore activities conducted in this Poshan Maah by States/UTs so far

Posted On: 29 SEP 2024 10:07AM by PIB Delhi

The closing ceremony of 7^th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 will be held tomorrow,30^th September, 2024 at Shaurya Sabhagaar, Ranchi in the august presence of Shri Santosh Gangwar, Governor, Jharkhand; Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development; Smt. Baby Devi, Minister, WCD&SS, Govt. of Jharkhand; Shri Sanjay Seth, Minister of State, Defence, Govt. of India; Secretary, Ministry of Women and Child Development; and other officers from the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India and State Govt of Jharkhand.

The 7^th Rashtriya Poshan Maah (1^st-30^th September, 2024), focused on Anaemia, Growth Monitoring, Complementary Feeding, and Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi, along with Technology for better governance. The month-long campaign also emphasised on ‘Environmental Sustainability’ through the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative in which plantation was encouraged across all Anganwadi centres. Till date around 12 crore activities have been conducted in this Poshan Maah by States/UTs.

Convergence with Ministries/ Departments has always been the core of Jan Andolans since nation’s first nutrition-centric Jan Andolans started in 2018, as it helps reaching out to a variety of audience especially the grassroots.

Saksham Anganwadis are strengthened, upgraded and rejuvenated Anganwadis for improved nutrition and Early Childhood Care and Education delivery (ECCE). Some of the special features of a Saksham Anganwadi Centre include- improved infrastructure including LED screens, water filtration system for clean drinking water; material for Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), BALA (Building as a Learning Aid) Paintings; and Poshan Vatika that gives access to diverse food plants and herbs that help the mission to fight malnutrition. More than 11 thousand Saksham Anganwadi Centres located across India will be inaugurated virtually during the Poshan Maah closing ceremony.

An exhibition showcasing aspects of Mission Poshan 2.0 will also be organised by the State Govt of Jharkhand at the venue.

The closing event of Poshan Maah 2024 celebrates the collective efforts towards a healthier and nourished India.It not only recognises the dedication of all participating states, but also underscores the vital role of stakeholders’ collaboration, strengthening the grassroots movements through continued Jan Andolans while ensuring enhanced participation of beneficiaries and communities through Saksham Anganwadi Centres. The event will be webcast across India through the weblink: https://webcast.gov.in/mwcd/

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SS/MS

(Release ID: 2060026) Visitor Counter : 87

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Defence Accounts Department to celebrate 277th Annual Day

Source: Government of India

Defence Accounts Department to celebrate 277th Annual Day

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh to launch various publications & initiatives of the Department in New Delhi

Posted On: 29 SEP 2024 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

Defence Accounts Department (DAD) will celebrate its 277^thAnnual Day on October 01, 2024. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh will grace the main celebrations at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. He is scheduled to launch various publications and initiatives of DAD, including Defence Travel System 2.0, SPARSH Audit Manual, Comprehensive Statistical Handbook on Defence Expenditure 2024 and Market Intelligence Report 2023-24.

A short film on DAD is also scheduled for release. In addition, the Raksha Mantri Excellence Awards 2024 will be conferred on the employees of DAD, who have shown exemplary performance in their areas of work and implementing the key initiatives of the Department.

Service Chiefs & Principal Staff Officers of the Armed Forces and Secretaries & other senior Government officials are expected to be in attendance on the occasion.

Tracing its roots to the appointment of the Military Pay Master in 1747, DAD has continuously re-invented itself to provide exemplary services to the Armed Forces, and in turn to the Nation, in the fields of Internal Audit, Accounting, Financial Advice & Defence Pensions Management.

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SR/Savvy

(Release ID: 2060105) Visitor Counter : 62

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Aviation Education – NMIT Aeronautical engineering programme takes flight in Nelson

Source: Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology

In response to a domestic and global shortage in aviation engineers, NMIT has extended its aeronautical engineering programme.

A refreshed Certificate programme, developed in consultation with national industry partners, is kicking off in Nelson in 2025, complementing NMIT’s popular Woodbourne-based programmes. This means budding engineers can choose both their location and their time commitment – with either a one or two-year programme available – before embarking on a career in aviation, ultimately helping to address the shortfall in aviation engineers.

NMIT has a proud history as New Zealand’s only tertiary institute training our future aeronautical engineers. Current programmes are all based at Woodbourne Airbase, and a close relationship with New Zealand Defence Force and the commercial aviation industry has meant NMIT’s programmes have grown and developed according to the needs of the industry and learners. The programmes have an excellent reputation with aircraft maintenance engineers in the aviation industry in New Zealand and abroad.

The updated Level 3 Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering (Specialist Support) (General Aviation) means students can complete their qualification in one year. They can then choose to continue into the Level 4 Certificate programme or enter the workforce.

The first Nelson-based cohort in the updated Level 3 Certificate programme will begin in February 2025. A newly fitted-out hangar-style building on NMIT’s Hardy Street campus offers world-class specialist equipment. With the choice of either Nelson or Woodbourne to study in 2025, word has already spread, and the programme is gaining a lot of interest, with the February intake almost full.

The programme equips students with core aircraft maintenance skills such as using aeronautical engineering tools, adhering to safety protocols, and performing aircraft repairs and overhauls. It also delves into aircraft systems, the role of human factors in engineering, and the importance of teamwork. It attracts learners already in the aviation industry who want to level up their skills, as well as those wanting to pursue a career in aviation in New Zealand or overseas.

Reid Carnegie, Curriculum Area Manager for Aviation says the programme ticks a lot of boxes.

“We’ve historically seen high demand for the two-year Certificate and we’ve been looking at ways to expand and update the programme. We know aviation engineers are highly sought-after and it’s crucial we keep meeting the needs of the industry. After listening to our industry partners, including Air New Zealand, we’re confident this new format and additional location will prove very popular,” he says.

As the next step, from 2026 the Level 4 Certificate will become a one-year qualification in block course format, meaning learners can either study fulltime or continue working throughout the year and attend one-week blocks of learning as they work towards the Certificate.

International students enrolling in NMIT’s Level 3 and then the Level 4 Aviation Engineering programme can apply for a New Zealand study visa. Studying these programmes meets the visa requirements, allowing students to live, study, and work in New Zealand. After completing their studies, students may also be eligible for a post-study work visa. For assistance with the visa application process, students can visit Immigration New Zealand or contact NMIT’s International Enrolment team to enquire about this programme.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Joint statement following the Strategic Dialogue between Canada, Kingdom of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden

Source: Government of Canada News

Between September 27 and 29, 2024, the foreign ministers of Canada and the Nordic countries met in New York and Iqaluit, Nunavut, for the Canada-Nordic Strategic Dialogue.

September 29, 2024 – Iqaluit, Nunavut – Global Affairs Canada

Between September 27 and 29, 2024, the foreign ministers of Canada and the Nordic countries met in New York and Iqaluit, Nunavut, for the Canada-Nordic Strategic Dialogue. This meeting delivers on the commitment for foreign ministers to hold a strategic dialogue, made at the Prime Minister level meeting in Iceland, on June 26, 2023. On September 27, 2024, the foreign ministers of Canada, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden and the State Secretary to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland met in New York. On September 28 and 29, they traveled to Iqaluit, Nunavut where they were joined by the Foreign Minister of the Faroe Islands and an official from the Government of Greenland (Naalakkersuisut). In Iqaluit, Iceland was represented by the Deputy Permanent Secretary of State / Arctic Ambassador.

Canada and the Nordic countries enjoy a strong and deepening partnership, anchored in our common democratic values, shared interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic region, as well as our commitment to the rules-based international order, multilateral cooperation, international law, democracy, human rights, and tackling disinformation. The transatlantic relationship is key to our collective security, and we will work together to strengthen this relationship. This is the foundation upon which we commit to work pragmatically together to address complex global challenges, including those arising from challenges to the global order.

In New York, substantive issues were discussed relating to Russia’s illegal and full-scale invasion of Ukraine, transatlantic cooperation, and the concerning developments taking place in the Middle East, including the Gaza Strip. The foreign ministers reiterated their steadfast support to Ukraine in the face of continued Russian aggression and re-affirmed their commitment to continue to provide Ukraine the means to defend itself for as long as it takes. They also condemned the hostile hybrid operations Russia conducts in response to support given to Ukraine.

The Iqaluit portion of the Dialogue focused on Arctic issues. As Arctic nations, Canada and the Nordic countries share a deep commitment to multilateral cooperation and international law, including UNCLOS. Inclusive engagement with those who live there, including Indigenous peoples, is essential to ensure a stable, prosperous and secure Arctic region. The foreign ministers committed to work together to achieve these goals. To this end, they agreed to explore means through which to deepen security dialogue amongst all like-minded states in the Arctic.

In Iqaluit, the delegation heard valuable perspectives from the Government of Nunavut, Inuit leaders including from Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, National Defence officials and Canadian Rangers on the context, realities and challenges experienced by northerners in the Canadian Arctic. The foreign ministers expressed their strong concern over the intensifying impacts of climate change, notably in the Arctic. They re-affirmed their commitment to work pragmatically together to address complex climate change challenges, to promote sustainable economic growth in the Arctic, to foster regional stability and to support closer collaboration, including North-to-North and Indigenous-to-Indigenous connections.

Canada and the Nordic countries will continue to explore opportunities to deepen collaboration in addressing wildland fires in the North and securing healthy oceans and ecosystem-based resources as part of a comprehensive, knowledge-based, and sustainable approach to ocean management.

The foreign ministers recognize that our countries possess significant deposits of critical minerals and confirm their commitment to promote the responsible development of sustainable and resilient critical mineral value chains and to work together to advance economic well-being, defence and security, infrastructure, energy security and connectivity, including in the Arctic.

The foreign ministers agreed to continue the dialogue on shared policy priorities and to further strengthen the transatlantic cooperation between Canada and the Nordic countries.

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Supports Continued FEMA, Federal Family Helene Response
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Biden-Harris Administration Supports Continued FEMA, Federal Family Helene Response

Biden-Harris Administration Supports Continued FEMA, Federal Family Helene Response
WASHINGTON — Together with state, tribal and federal partners, the Biden-Harris Administration and FEMA are actively supporting Hurricane Helene response and recovery efforts. People should be aware of ongoing post-storm hazards that can be life-threatening. Everyone in affected areas should continue to follow instructions from local officials to stay safe.

Yesterday, President Joseph R. Biden approved Major Disaster declarations for Florida and North Carolina. These designations help individuals so they can start their recovery. These declarations also provide federal assistance to help communities clean up and start the rebuilding process.

At the direction of President Biden, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is on the ground in Georgia today and will be in North Carolina tomorrow to survey damage and assessing the need for federal resources.

FEMA has more than 800 deployed staff supporting states affected by the hurricane. Our distribution centers are fully stocked and ready to provide commodities and equipment to any impacted state as requested. FEMA is coordinating a federal force of more than 3,200 personnel each contributing their expertise and manpower to this mission.

Emergency declarations are still in effect for Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama. Under an emergency declaration, FEMA can provide support for urgent disaster response activities. FEMA and state partners continue to assess affects from the hurricane in these states to determine if further federal assistance is needed. Visit FEMA.gov to learn how a disaster gets declared.
- Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas activated the Surge Capacity Force (SCF). The SCF makes rostered federal employees available to support FEMA’s response and recovery missions.
- Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) deployed a total of 24 teams with more than 1,302 personnel to affected states. All teams are equipped with Swift Water Rescue Capabilities. In Florida, eight US&R teams are actively responding. Four team are in North Carolina, two are in Tennessee. Additional teams and four Swift Water Mission Ready Packages are in route to the impacted areas.
- U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Crews saved or assisted 11 lives and four pets in the Hurricane Helene response to date. USCG units in the affected areas are ready to support search and rescue, conducting post-storm assessments and providing interagency support. More than 8,000 personnel are assisting in response efforts.
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has teams positioned to provide temporary emergency power, with others prepared to deploy if needed. In addition to temporary emergency power, personnel assist the states with assessments of critical infrastructure including water/wastewater treatment facilities, debris management, and road and bridge inspections as needed. USACE is also providing technical expertise for flood responses. They have activated eight emergency operation centers in the affected regions to coordinate operations.
- Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) declared Public Health Emergencies for Florida and Georgia to address the health impacts of Hurricane Helene. The declarations give the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility in meeting emergency health needs of their beneficiaries. HHS staff are assessing public health and health care infrastructure. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response medical responders are in Alabama, Florida and North Carolina to help secure heal care services. These personnel include Health Care Situational Assessment teams and National Disaster Medical System Disaster Medical Assistance Teams along with several tons of medical equipment and supplies to provide medical surge support. A Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team Subject Matter Expert activated for North Carolina. HHS is offering free crisis counseling through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Distress Helpline. Call or text 1-800-985-5990. Español: Llama o envía un mensaje de texto 1-800-985-5990 presiona “2.” For Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL Callers: To connect directly to an agent in American Sign Language, click the “ASL Now” button below or call 1-800-985-5990 from your videophone. ASL Support is available 24/7. FAQs for ASL NOW users.
- Department of Energy (DOE) activated the Energy Response Organization (ERO) and is closely monitoring impacts and restoration efforts related to Helene, including power, fuel, and supply chain interruptions. The ERO and field responders are in contact with industry partners and local officials. DOE responders deployed to the Florida Emergency Operations Center, Georgia Emergency Operations Center, and the North Carolina Emergency Operations Center.
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is working closely with federal, state, local and Tribal partners to help water systems, prepare for debris management and ensure facilities, including Superfund sites, maintain critical public health and environmental protections. The agency has personnel on the ground in regional and national operations centers who are offering technical assistance and guidance to those affected by Helene.
- American Red Cross (ARC) has more than 745 Red Cross responders deployed to affected areas with another 320 responders in route. As of Sunday morning, systems reporting indicates 2,033 people are still in 73 shelters. As anticipated, ARC is seeing this count rise as they continue to gain connectivity and more clarity about the evolving need in the Carolinas. More than 45 Emergency Response Vehicles are supporting this event and two dozen additional vehicles are moving into position throughout affected areas. Anyone who needs a safe place to go can find information on redcross.org or by texting GETEMERGENCY to 90999 to download the free Red Cross Emergency app.
- Salvation Army is increasing its services in response to community needs. In Florida, they are providing meals through 17 mobile feeding units: five in Live Oak and 12 in Perry, where they are serving hot meals. Teams are also assisting survivors and responders along Florida’s west coast, delivering cleanup kits, blankets, and meals. In Georgia, The Salvation Army is serving meals at six shelters and will begin operations in Douglas/Alma and Vidalia on Sunday through mobile feeding units. In South Carolina, they are supporting meal service at the Greenwood County shelter and have activated a mobile unit. In Tennessee, Salvation Army is working alongside Baptist Kitchen, serving meals at two state shelters. Two mobile units are in Johnson City and Newport will start meal service beginning Monday. Full details and service locations are available at disaster.salvationarmyusa.org.
- USA.gov published a one-stop-shop for hurricane information.
amy.ashbridge
Sun, 09/29/2024 – 17:32

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Meeting of Solidarity with Cuba concludes in Bogotá

THOUSAND OSI Translation. Region: Spanish/Latin America/UN –

Source: Republic of Cuba

Meeting of Solidarity with Cuba Concludes in BogotáBogotá, September 29, 2029.- With a tribute to Cuba by the graduates of the Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), the XXXIII National Meeting of the Colombian Movement of Solidarity with the Caribbean nation will conclude this Sunday in this capital. During the course of the day, the final declaration of the event will also be read and the pro tempore coordination of the presidency of the movement will be delivered, which on this occasion will fall to the activists of the city of Cali. Since last Friday, the delegates participated in conferences and talks that allowed them to update themselves on the situation of the largest of the Antilles, and to learn how the intensification of the economic blockade of the United States towards the island causes havoc in the social sphere. The president of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples and Hero of the Republic, Fernando González, invited to the meeting, informed those present in a pair of interventions about the importance of the work that The delegates also commemorated the 64th Anniversary of the Foundation of the Committees for the Defense of the Cuban Revolution, founded in 1960 to safeguard the work of the nascent Revolution. Prior to the event, the deputy director of the Fidel Castro Center and deputy to the National Assembly of People’s Power (unicameral parliament), Elier Ramírez, emphasized to the audience that, despite the policy of suffocation applied by the United States, his country works and resists, inspired by the example left by the leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro. Since last Friday, the work days of the meeting were transformed into a platform to demand the cessation of all unilateral measures applied against the island and in defense of its right to self-determination. The delegates also commemorated with a cultural event the 64th Anniversary of the Foundation of the Committees for the Defense of the Cuban Revolution, founded in 1960 to safeguard the work of the nascent Revolution. Prior to the event, there were Also in this capital there will be a cycle of Cuban cinema and meetings between guests from the Caribbean country and young university students. (Cubaminrex)

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
MIL-OSI China: Honoring role models, Xi makes rallying call for making China stronger

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

Xi Jinping walks into the venue of the presentation ceremony of the national medals and honorary titles of the People’s Republic of China with the recipients at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. China held a high-profile ceremony on Sunday morning to award the highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING, Sept. 29 — Chinese President Xi Jinping awarded the highest state honors on Sunday ahead of the National Day, urging the nation to learn from heroes and role models to pool strength for building a strong China.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, presented medals to recipients of national medals and honorary titles at a ceremony held ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, which falls on Oct. 1.

Four people, including veteran war hero Huang Zongde and medical scientist Wang Zhenyi, were awarded the Medal of the Republic. Ten individuals, including border patrolman Bayika Kalidibek, technician Xu Zhenchao, and acclaimed actress Tian Hua, were awarded national honorary titles.

Dilma Rousseff, former Brazilian president and president of the New Development Bank, received the Friendship Medal.

Addressing the ceremony at the Great Hall of the People, Xi said the CPC has led the Chinese people in creating the twin miracles of rapid economic growth and long-term social stability.

The country is now in a crucial period for building a great modern socialist country in all respects and achieving national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization, he said.

“All Party members and people of all ethnic groups should take heroes and role models as examples, unite and strive forward to form a mighty force to build a strong China,” Xi stated.

Xi emphasized the need to bear in mind the ambition of making the country greater. “We should be loyal to the country, love the country, integrate personal development goals into the overall national development, and realize personal value in fulfilling duties for the country and serving the people,” he said.

He encouraged the Chinese people to hone their skills and contribute to building a strong China.

He urged them to strive for extraordinary achievements in ordinary job posts, and contribute to overcoming challenges related to development and reform while safeguarding social harmony and stability.

“A great era calls for heroes and fosters heroes. A galaxy of heroes emerging generation after generation will ensure the lasting success of the Party and the people’s cause,” Xi remarked.

Lauding Rousseff as an outstanding representative of China’s old and good friends, Xi said the Chinese people will never forget international friends who have made significant contributions to the country’s development and the friendship between the Chinese and foreign peoples.

The Chinese people stand ready to work together with people from various countries to safeguard world peace and promote common development, he added.

Speaking at the ceremony, Huang Zongde, 93, said that the honor belongs to every member of the people’s armed forces and all the heroes who sacrificed their lives for China’s national independence, the liberation of the people, and the endeavor to make China prosperous and strong.

In her address, Rousseff said the medal fills her with immense honor, pledging continued efforts to help strengthen the mutually beneficial cooperation between Brazil and China.

About 1,000 people, including senior leaders Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng, attended the ceremony, which was presided over by Cai Qi.

Xi and other leaders had group photos taken with the award recipients after the ceremony.

Xi Jinping walks into the venue of the presentation ceremony of the national medals and honorary titles of the People’s Republic of China with the recipients at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. China held a high-profile ceremony on Sunday morning to award the highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. [Photo/Xinhua]

Xi Jinping walks into the venue of the presentation ceremony of the national medals and honorary titles of the People’s Republic of China with the recipients at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 29, 2024. China held a high-profile ceremony on Sunday morning to award the highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. [Photo/Xinhua]

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Xi urges boosting building of community for Chinese nation

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

BEIJING, Sept. 29 — The National Conference on Commending Models for Ethnic Unity and Progress was held in Beijing on the morning of Sept. 27. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president, and chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended the conference and delivered an important speech. He emphasized the need to comprehensively implement the Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, especially the important thinking on strengthening and improving work on ethnic affairs. He stressed that, with a focus on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation, it is imperative to continuously advance the cause of ethnic unity and progress, promote the high-quality development of the Party’s work on ethnic affairs in the new era, boost the building of a community for the Chinese nation, and tirelessly strive for the building of a strong country and realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through Chinese modernization.

Li Qiang presided over the conference, and Wang Huning read out the commendation decision, with Zhao Leji, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, and Li Xi in attendance.

At 10 a.m., the conference began, and all attendees stood up and sang the national anthem of the People’s Republic of China.

Wang Huning read out the Decision of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council on Commending Model Groups and Individuals for Ethnic Unity and Progress. A total of 352 model groups and 368 model individuals were honored.

Amid the joyful music, President Xi and others presented awards to representatives of the commended model individuals and exemplary groups.

Amid a warm applause, Xi delivered an important speech. On behalf of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, Xi first extended congratulations to the commended model groups and individuals, and expressed sincere greetings to comrades on the work front of ethnic affairs and people from all walks of life who care about and support the cause of ethnic unity and progress.

Xi pointed out that the CPC has always attached great importance to work on ethnic affairs. For over 100 years, we have persisted in combining Marxist ethnic theory with the specific realities of China’s ethnic issues and with the best of traditional Chinese culture, creatively blazing a right path with Chinese characteristics to solve ethnic issues. On this path, the CPC has united and led the people of all ethnic groups in the country to achieve national independence and people’s liberation, creating a new situation of developing equal, united, mutually supportive, and harmonious relations among all ethnic groups. It has promoted unprecedented progress in the economic and social development in ethnic regions and improved their lives. China’s ethnic minorities, regions of ethnic groups, relations between different ethnic groups, and the Chinese nation have undergone profound and historic changes.

Xi said that since the 18th CPC National Congress, we have continuously promoted the efforts to adapt Marxist ethnic theories to the Chinese context and the needs of the times, and made it clear that fostering a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation should be a focus in the Party’s work on ethnic affairs in the new era and a focus in the work on all fronts in ethnic regions. As a result, the Party’s important thinking on strengthening and improving the work on ethnic affairs has been formed, and we have promoted ethnic regions to join the other parts of the country in securing a victory in the fight against poverty, finished the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects, and embarked on a new journey to build China into a modern socialist country in all respects. The Party has achieved new historic progress in its work on ethnic affairs.

Xi pointed out that on the path with Chinese characteristics to handling ethnic affairs with a focus on the fundamental and overall interests of the Chinese nation, we have maximized the cohesion among all ethnic groups, so that they can strive in unity to achieve shared prosperity and development. On that path, we have adhered to the principle of equality among all ethnic groups and opposed oppression and discrimination among different ethnic groups, which ensure that people of all ethnic groups truly enjoy equal political rights and jointly run the country. On that path, we have handled well the relation between maintaining national unity and implementing regional ethnic autonomy, combining unity with autonomy, and integrating ethnic and regional factors, to see that the Chinese nation becomes a community with a stronger sense of identity and a greater level of cohesion. Practice has proven that this path is a completely correct one.

Xi emphasized that the Chinese nation, with a civilization spanning over 5,000 years, is a great nation. All ethnic groups have collectively developed the vast territory of the motherland, created a unified multi-ethnic country, written the glorious history of China, developed the brilliant Chinese culture, and cultivated the great national spirit. The intermingling of bloodlines of all ethnic groups has laid the historical foundation for the formation and development of a community for the Chinese nation. The shared convictions of all ethnic groups have served as the endogenous driving force for the founding of a unified multi-ethnic country. The cultural connections among all ethnic groups are the cultural genes that have shaped the pluralistic and integrated civilization of the Chinese nation. The economic interdependence of all ethnic groups is the powerful force for building a unified economy. The emotional bonds among all ethnic groups are the strong ties that bind the Chinese nation as one family. The formation and development of a community for the Chinese nation is the will of the Chinese people of all ethnic groups, the trend of the times, and a historical inevitability.

Xi stressed the importance of steadfastly adhering to the leadership of the Party, and guiding people of all ethnic groups to continuously strengthen their identification with the great motherland, the Chinese nation, Chinese culture, the CPC, and socialism with Chinese characteristics. Efforts should be made to sharpen the awareness that people from all ethnic groups are in the same community, where they share weal and woe, stick together in life and death, and continuously consolidate the common ideological and political foundation for all ethnic groups to strive in unity.

Xi called for further efforts to build a shared spiritual home for the Chinese nation and deepen inculcation of public awareness of patriotism, collectivism and socialism with core socialist values as guidance. He also stressed that people from all ethnic groups should be helped to develop a correct understanding of state, history, ethnicity, culture and religions, and efforts should be intensified on historical and cultural education for young people. He added that the use of standard spoken and written Chinese should be promoted in an all-round way to provide strong spiritual and cultural support for building a community for the Chinese nation.

Xi noted that to advance Chinese modernization and achieve common prosperity, not a single ethnic group should be left behind. It is imperative to speed up high-quality development in regions with large ethnic minority populations, promote closer economic connection and integration among all regions, and take solid steps to promote common prosperity among all ethnic groups. It is essential to remain committed to ensuring and improving the people’s wellbeing in the course of pursuing development, and do more practical work to meet people’s needs, deliver real benefits to the people and win their approval, so as to meet the people’s aspirations for a better life.

Xi stressed that all-round integration among all ethnic groups should be facilitated to promote exchanges and interactions among them. It is a must to coordinate planning of socioeconomic development and allocation of public resources, strengthen infrastructure construction such as transportation and other facilities in border and ethnic regions, proactively promote the people-centered new urbanization, and orderly boost population flow among ethnic groups and make it possible for people from different ethnic groups to dwell as neighbors, so that they would cling together like pomegranate seeds.

Xi pointed out the necessity to govern ethnic affairs in accordance with the law, and continuously improve the capability for governing ethnic affairs. It is a must to uphold and improve the system of regional ethnic autonomy, gradually improve relevant laws, regulations and differentiated policies to support regional development, and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of all ethnic groups in accordance with the law. It is also a must to strengthen publicity and education on the rule of law, and guide people from all ethnic groups to enhance their awareness of the state, citizenship and the rule of law.

Xi stressed that CPC committees and governments at all levels should place work on ethnic affairs high on their agenda, study and resolve key issues in this regard in a timely manner, strengthen the efforts to foster high-caliber officials and talents in ethnic regions, and attach importance to fostering officials from ethnic minority groups and put them on posts where they can put to the best use their capabilities. It is necessary to improve the institutional mechanism for forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation, give full play to the leading role of role models, and create a favorable atmosphere for society-wide attention and support for work on ethnic affairs.

While presiding over the conference, Li Qiang pointed out that, in his speech, General Secretary Xi comprehensively summarized the great achievements the country has made in promoting ethnic unity and progress over the past 75 years since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, especially in the new era. The speech profoundly revealed the root and soul of the formation and development of the sense of community for the Chinese nation, and clearly put forward the overall requirements for consolidating the sense of community for the Chinese nation and promoting the building of a community for the Chinese nation on the new journey in the new era. With profound insight and broad vision, it is a programmatic document for promoting the building of a community for the Chinese nation. We must conscientiously study, understand, and thoroughly implement it. We must fully implement General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important thinking on strengthening and improving work on ethnic affairs, profoundly understand the decisive significance of “Two Affirmations,” resolutely act on “Two Upholds,” closely focus on consolidating the strong sense of community for the Chinese nation, promote the high-quality development of the Party’s work in this regard, and make unremitting efforts for building a modern socialist country in all respects.

Representatives of the commended model individuals and groups delivered speeches at the meeting.

Some members of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and members of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, leaders of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, the State Council, the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and the Central Military Commission attended the conference.

Representatives of the commended exemplary groups and individuals, leading officials of the relevant departments from various provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities, the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, and leading officials from central authorities attended the conference.

Notes:

“Two Affirmations”:

The Party has established Comrade Xi Jinping’s core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and defined the guiding role of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.

“Two Upholds”:

“Two Upholds” refer to upholding General Secretary Xi Jinping’s core position on the CPC Central Committee and in the Party as a whole, and upholding the Central Committee’s authority and its centralized, unified leadership.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Statement From Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder

Source: United States Department of Defense

Secretary Austin has been receiving updates from and providing guidance to his team throughout the weekend on the latest developments in the Middle East. He and DoD leaders remain focused on the protection of U.S. citizens and forces in the region, the defense of Israel, and the de-escalation of the situation through deterrence and diplomacy. Secretary Austin stressed that the United States is determined to prevent Iran and Iranian-backed partners and proxies from exploiting the situation or expanding the conflict. Secretary Austin made clear that should Iran, its partners, or its proxies use this moment to target American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take every necessary measure to defend our people.

The United States retains the capability to deploy forces on short notice. The Department of Defense continues to maintain a significant amount of capability in the region and to dynamically adjust our force posture based on the evolving security situation. The Secretary has directed that the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN Carrier Strike Group (CSG) remain in the USCENTCOM theater and that the USS Wasp Amphibious Ready Group / Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU) will continue to operate in the Eastern Mediterranean. This afloat posture is complemented by DoD’s elevated fighter and attack squadron presence, including F-22, F-15E, F-16, and A-10 aircraft, and we will further reinforce our defensive air-support capabilities in the coming days.

The Secretary has also increased the readiness of additional U.S. forces to deploy, elevating our preparedness to respond to various contingencies. And DoD maintains robust and integrated air-defense capabilities across the Middle East, ensuring the protection of U.S. forces operating in the region.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: It would be a mistake for Israel to invade Lebanon – here’s why

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Vanessa Newby, Assistant Professor, Leiden University

The death of Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut on September 27 has left the militant Lebanese organisation leaderless at a critical time. Two days earlier in a speech broadcast around the world, the head of the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) northern command, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, had told his soldiers to prepare for a possible incursion into Lebanon.

There is every reason to believe Friday’s airstrike, which targeted Hezbollah’s headquarters building in the southern Beirut suburb of Dahiyeh, was in preparation for a possible incursion. It came after days of strikes which Israel claims have eliminated much of Hezbollah’s senior leadership.

Halevi told his troops on September 25 that they would “go in, destroy the enemy there, and decisively destroy” Hezbollah’s infrastructure. As Hezbollah is embedded within the Lebanese population, this strategy promises the deaths of innocent civilians.

Since 2006, both Hezbollah and the IDF have sought to avoid a direct confrontation. For years, they have played tit-for-tat with the rationale of proportionality to prevent an all-out war.

Although the horrific October 7 attacks on Israel by Hamas triggered a resumption of hostilities, until last week both sides were calling for restraint. What has changed? Is a ground invasion now inevitable? And if so, what would that mean for Hezbollah and Lebanon?

Israel has a track record of engaging in military adventures in Lebanon that have only ever served to make its opponents stronger in the long term. The destruction of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) did not prevent the emergence of Hamas – indeed, it helped to create it. Similarly, Israel’s pursuit of the PLO in south Lebanon triggered the creation of Hezbollah. Despite five invasions since 1978, Israel has shown itself incapable of successfully occupying even the smallest sliver of Lebanese land.

While both sides have been preparing for a new conflict for years, the trigger for the escalation began on September 18, when Israel struck the first blow by detonating thousands of pagers and mobile devices owned by Hezbollah operatives, killing at least 32 and injuring several thousand people.

This technological attack had been years in the making and could be described as a strategic masterstroke to disable the enemy. The timing appears to have been because Hezbollah was becoming suspicious about the devices, so the IDF had to act or lose the “surprise”. This suggests operational considerations are taking precedence over strategic and political ones, which research suggests is rarely a good idea.

Nonetheless, these strikes are believed to have crippled Hezbollah’s command in the short term, and emboldened the IDF’s leadership. On September 18, Israel’s defence minister, Yoav Gallant, told Israeli troops: “We are at the start of a new phase in the war — it requires courage, determination and perseverance.” While he made no mention of the exploding devices, he praised the work of Israel’s army and security agencies, noting their results were excellent.

A tactic used in recent days by the IDF is one that has been developed over many years on the “Blue Line” – the de facto border that divides Israel and Lebanon. Emboldened by the failure of the IDF to defeat it in the July war of 2006, Hezbollah’s senior operatives have been active and visible on the Blue Line, which is monitored closely by the IDF.

This has enabled the IDF to photograph, identify and track senior Hezbollah leadership, which is why since October 7 we have seen a succession of assassinations of its key operatives, including Ibrahim Aqeel, a commander of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan force, and more recently, Mohammed Sarour in Beirut, as well as many others.

The IDF now believes it has Hezbollah on its knees – or at least, on one knee. The escalation we are currently witnessing is because the IDF is driving home its advantage and applying the same strategy as in Gaza: bombing any area it can plausibly claim to be a Hezbollah target.

This has had devastating consequences for the Lebanese population. The Health Ministry stated on Friday that 1,540 people had been killed since October 8 2023, with thousands of innocent civilians injured. Over 70,000 civilians have reportedly registered in 533 shelters across Lebanon, with an estimated 1 million people having been displaced from their homes.

Can Hezbollah fight back?

The death of Nasrallah has left Hezbollah temporarily leaderless, while the killing of several of its senior figures has deprived it of seasoned commanders, many of whom had recent combat experience in Syria. And the bombing of south Lebanon is reducing Hezbollah’s supply of rockets and other weapons.

However, Israel should not assume that Hezbollah is out of the game or underestimate the group. Hezbollah’s real strength has always lain in its ability to melt into the population – and it will be ready to commence a war of attrition with hit-and-run tactics if the IDF makes the mistake of putting boots on the ground again. The fact that all five previous invasions failed should be an indication that the outcome may be a repeat of what occurred between 1982 and 2006.

Furthermore, while Iran’s response to the escalation has been muted thus far, it is unlikely to abandon Hezbollah. A long, drawn-out, low-intensity conflict would favour the kind of asymmetric tactics used by the “axis of resistance”, which also includes Lebanon’s neighbour, Syria.

By bombing and displacing the Lebanese population, the IDF aims to reduce morale. It is now destroying private homes and public buildings on the grounds they are Hezbollah ammunition and weapons depots.

In Lebanon, the Palestine issue has always been regarded as the primary cause of the civil war that took place from 1975 to 1990. As such, the IDF is banking on Lebanese people turning against Hezbollah for bringing a new war down on them as a result of its rocket barrages into northern Israel, in solidarity with Hamas since the October 7 attack.

But, while there are many people in Lebanon who do not support Hezbollah and its activities in south Lebanon, the IDF should remember the past. Even if sentiment against Hezbollah is high today, indiscriminate bombing of the kind we are currently witnessing in Lebanon will not be tolerated by the population indefinitely.

It’s worth noting that in 1982, when the IDF invaded south Lebanon, some Lebanese welcomed them with rice and flowers – viewing them as liberators from the PLO. But that welcome did not last long.

In 2006, the IDF applied a similar strategy, targeting civilian evacuation convoys and UN compounds. And once again, the tide of public opinion swiftly swung back in favour of “al-muqawimah” (the resistance).

The stated IDF aim is to drive Hezbollah back north of the Litani river, to force it to comply with UN resolution 1701 and allow displaced people in northern Israel to return to their homes. But it is naive of Israel and the IDF to think that an invasion or a bombing campaign, no matter how successful in the short term, will enable Israeli civilians to live in peace along the Blue Line for the long term.

Ultimately, the only way forward is for both parties to come to the table and negotiate. The human cost of Israel’s current strategy in Lebanon is appalling to contemplate, and in all likelihood will create more hatred – fostering a new generation of anti-Israel fighters, rather than creating the basis for a durable peace.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

This article was written with assistance from John Molloy, lt. col. (rtd.) Irish Defence Forces and former senior Unifil political & civil affairs officer, 2008-2017.

– ref. It would be a mistake for Israel to invade Lebanon – here’s why – https://theconversation.com/it-would-be-a-mistake-for-israel-to-invade-lebanon-heres-why-240028

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Quick tour of an M1A2 Abrams!

Source: US Army (video statements)

: AEMO

About the U.S. Army:

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Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
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Connect with the U.S. Army online:
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hD3ieSwGE0Q

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Xi encourages industrial workers to contribute to full revitalization of northeast China

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

Xi encourages industrial workers to contribute to full revitalization of northeast China

BEIJING, Sept. 29 — Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, recently sent a reply letter to representatives of industrial workers from China First Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (CFHI), expressing warm encouragement and earnest expectations for them.

Xi said he visited CFHI twice and was deeply impressed by the persistent pursuit of technological innovation and product quality by the workers there. In recent years, CFHI workers have focused on tackling core technological challenges in major equipment manufacturing and made many new breakthroughs, demonstrating patriotism and creativity of Chinese industrial workers in the new era.

Xi stressed that manufacturing is the foundation of a country and the basis of a strong nation, expressing his hope that on the new journey in the new era, the workers will adhere to the original aspiration of serving the country with skills, promote the spirit of model workers, the value of work and the spirit of workmanship, diligently hone skills, improve competence, and continue to contribute wisdom and strength to building a country that is strong in manufacturing and to promoting the full revitalization of northeast China. Centrally administered enterprises should boost reform and innovation, enhance their core functions and competitiveness, and strive to become stronger, better and bigger. They should contribute more to the endeavor to build a great country and realize national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization.

CFHI is a leading equipment manufacturer headquartered in the city of Qiqihar, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, Xi has inspected CFHI’s manufacturing bases twice and made instructions on its reform and innovation as well as operation and management. Representatives of the company’s industrial workers awarded the title of role model wrote a letter to Xi recently, highlighting their efforts to strengthen technological research and development following Xi’s instructions, and expressing their determination to contribute to the full revitalization of northeast China and the cause of building China into a great country.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Xi says great times call for heroes

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

BEIJING, Sept. 29 — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday said great times call for heroes and foster heroes.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a ceremony conferring the country’s highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

A galaxy of heroes emerging generation after generation will ensure the lasting prosperity of the Party and the people’s cause, Xi said.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Xi says Chinese people will never forget international friends

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

BEIJING, Sept. 29 — President Xi Jinping said on Sunday the Chinese people will never forget international friends who have made prominent contributions to China’s development and the friendship between Chinese and foreign peoples.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a ceremony awarding the country’s highest state honors ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

Xi lauded Dilma Rousseff, recipient of the Friendship Medal, as an outstanding representative of China’s old friends and good friends who have shared the same aspirations and stood together with the Chinese people over the past 75 years.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025

Category: Military Intelligence

BILL

MODERNIZATION OF THE ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT FUNDS REGIME

DECREE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE NEEDS OF DEFENSE AND NATIONAL SECURITY AND THEIR ARTICULATION WITH THE DIFFERENT LEGAL REGIMES RELATING TO CRISIS PREPARATION AND MANAGEMENT

INDIVIDUAL MEASURES

1. Prioritise vulnerable people

2. Invest in mental health support and trauma recovery

3. Ensure medical supplies can reach remote areas

4. Resource and co-ordinate local support networks

5. Shift resources and build common will

Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development to grace closing ceremony of 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 at Ranchi tomorrowEvent celebrates collective efforts towards a healthier & nourished India

Defence Accounts Department to celebrate 277th Annual DayRaksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh to launch various publications & initiatives of the Department in New Delhi

Source: Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology

Can Hezbollah fight back?

Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development to grace closing ceremony of 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 at Ranchi tomorrow

Event celebrates collective efforts towards a healthier & nourished India

Defence Accounts Department to celebrate 277th Annual Day

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh to launch various publications & initiatives of the Department in New Delhi