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Category: Military Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Titus, Van Drew Introduce Legislation to Expand Accessible Transportation Options for Individuals with Disabilities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01) and Congressman Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02) reintroduced their Disability Access to Transportation Act (DATA). This bipartisan legislation establishes a one-stop pilot program to help paratransit riders avoid excessive wait times between multiple trips, streamlines the process for submitting accessibility complaints, and assists local communities with identifying gaps in transportation accessibility.

    “True community living is not possible without the ability to easily move from one location to another,” said Congresswoman Titus. “I’m proud to build upon the Americans with Disabilities Act so we can eliminate lingering barriers to adequate and accessible transportation.”

    “This bill is about making paratransit work better for the people who rely on it,” said Congressman Van Drew. “Right now, the system is too rigid and does not reflect how people actually live their lives. These individuals already deal with enough challenges, and this bill is a commonsense fix that can really make their day a little easier. I am proud to join Congresswoman Titus to push for a smarter, more flexible system that actually works for the people it is meant to serve.”

    The Disability Access to Transportation Act includes:

    • Findings that highlight the ongoing need to improve access to and modernize transportation systems for those with disabilities;
    • The creation of a new one-stop paratransit pilot program authorized at $75 million annually through FY29, which will allow for a brief stop on a multi-legged paratransit trip to prevent long wait times between having to book individual trip segments. This will allow people with disabilities to perform activities like stopping at a bank or pharmacy or dropping children off at daycare without needing to book two separate trips that could each take up to 90 minutes. The pilot program also prioritizes projects that use real-time tracking and on-demand scheduling technologies;
    • Requires the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board to finalize minimum standards for pedestrian facilities in the public right-of-way, and requires the Secretary of Transportation to undertake a rulemaking to implement those standards;
    • Streamlines the accessibility complaint reporting process at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA); and
    • The creation of an accessibility data pilot program to improve data collection and identify gaps in services to aid in transportation planning.

    The bill has been endorsed by the United Spinal Association; Access Ready Inc.; American Council of the Blind; Family Voices; Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund; Paralyzed Veterans of America; and Cure SMA.

    “Paratransit is clunky, outmoded, and outdated. In an era of on-demand ride hailing, it’s clear that reforms are needed to take advantage of technological innovation,” said Steve Lieberman, Senior Director of Advocacy & Policy for United Spinal Association. “The Disability Access to Transportation Act would provide an opportunity for people with disabilities to be able to drop off their dry cleaning on their way to work, or pick up a prescription on the way home. We hope that all members of Congress support this sensible, bipartisan legislation.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Looking back on Tuesday 24 June, the start of the 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    News item | 24-06-2025 | 23:00

    The 2025 NATO Summit officially opened today in The Hague. Heads of government, ministers, experts and defence industry representatives as well as young people, academics and opinion leaders came together at various locations to discuss security, cooperation and innovation. Below is an overview of the day’s main events.

    Enlarge image
    Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    NATO Public Forum – live on YouTube

    The two-day NATO Public Forum began today and is being broadcast live online for everyone to watch. Participants from the Netherlands and around the world, including heads of government, ministers, young people, academics and opinion leaders discussed the themes of this year’s Summit and developments in the world that affect our security.
    On Wednesday 25 June the Forum will again be broadcast live on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ YouTube channel under NATO Public Forum Live. More information about the programme is available at www.natopublicforum.org.

    Meeting between defence ministers and industry

    The NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum also took place today. Ministers, experts and business leaders from NATO countries came together to discuss how the defence industry can quickly be scaled up and strengthened. The goal is a stronger, sustainable and future-proof defence industry.

    Meeting between NATO, EU and Ukraine

    NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and the EU and Ukraine met for talks in The Hague.

    President Zelenskyy visits House of Representatives and Prime Minister

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the House of Representatives, where he addressed members of parliament. In the morning, he had a special meeting with Prime Minister Dick Schoof at the Catshuis. This visit was not part of the official summit programme.

    Royal dinner at Huis ten Bosch Palace

    On Tuesday evening, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima hosted heads of state and government from NATO countries for an informal dinner. Leaders from Australia, New Zealand and Ukraine were also present, as was South Korea’s national security director and the presidents of the European Commission and the European Council.

    Enlarge image
    Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Working dinners for ministers of NATO countries

    Foreign ministers met for a working dinner of the NATO-Ukraine Council. At the same time, defence ministers convened for a working dinner of the North Atlantic Council. Both meetings took place at World Forum in The Hague and were preceded by a joint reception.

    The 2025 NATO Summit will continue on Wednesday 25 June at the World Forum in The Hague.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Making the UK the best place to do business: Modern Industrial Strategy set to deepen global collaboration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    Making the UK the best place to do business: Modern Industrial Strategy set to deepen global collaboration

    • English
    • Español de América Latina

    Modern Industrial Strategy will make the UK the best country to invest in and grow a business, delivering on the Plan for Change.

    UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy

    • Strategy developed in partnership with business, marking a new era of collaboration between government and high growth industries.
    • New Industrial Strategy to unlock billions in investment and support 1.1 million new well-paid jobs over the next decade. *New Global Talent Taskforce and £54m fund will attract world-class researchers, top talent and their teams to the UK.
    • Electricity costs for thousands of businesses to be slashed by up to 25%.

    The plan focuses on 8 high growth sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services and Life Sciences, where there is potential for faster growth.

    The modern Industrial Strategy unveiled today, Monday 23 June, sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business.

    It includes targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow, while introducing reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes:

    • Slash electricity costs by up to 25% from 2027 for electricity-intensive manufacturers in growth sectors and foundational industries in their supply chain, bringing costs more closely in line with other major economies in Europe.

    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank financial capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital. The includes an additional £4bn for Industrial Strategy Sectors, crowding in billions more in private capital. By investing largely through venture funds, the BBB will back the UK’s most high-growth potential companies.

    • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators. 

    • Boosting R&D spending to £22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8, with more than £2bn for AI over the Spending Review, and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors. Regulatory changes will further clear the path for fast-growing industries and innovative products such as biotechnology, AI, and autonomous vehicles.

    • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migration reforms and the new Global Talent Taskforce. The Taskforce and a £54m Global Talent Fund will support top talent to relocate to the UK.

    • Deepening economic and industrial collaboration with our partners, building on our Industrial Strategy Partnership with Japan and recent deals with the US, India, and the EU.

    • Reducing planning timelines and cutting costs for developers, by hiring more planners, streamlining pre-application requirements and combining environmental obligations, removing burdens on businesses as well as accelerating house building. 

    • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.

    • Supporting the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more.

    • Upskilling the nation with an extra £1.2 billion each year for skills by 2028-29, and delivering more opportunities to learn and earn in our high-growth sectors including new short courses in relevant skills funded by the Growth and Skills Levy and skills packages targeted at defence digital and engineering.

    • Supporting 5,500 more SMEs to adopt new technology through the Made Smarter programme while centralising government support in one place through the Business Growth Service.

    The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and there’s potential for faster growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services. Each growth sector has a bespoke 10-year plan that will attract investment, enable growth and create high-quality, well-paid jobs. 

    Five sector plans have been published in tandem:

    Advanced Manufacturing

    Backing the Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight.

    Clean Energy Industries

    Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion.

    Creative Industries

    Maximizing the value of the UK’s Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports.

    Digital and Technologies

    Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme, £187 million for training one million young people in tech skills and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as cyber security in Northern Ireland, semiconductors in Wales and quantum technologies in Scotland. 

    Professional and Business Services

    Ensuring the UK’s Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

    In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long-term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in people’s pockets as part of the plan for change.

    This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.

    Regarding the launch of the New Industrial Strategy, British Ambassador to Chile, Louise de Sousa, said:

    The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy is our ten-year plan to strengthen infrastructure, reduce costs for businesses and simplify regulation.

    With a highly skilled workforce and unrivalled global business connectivity, the UK provides an ideal location to scale, invest and grow business, by accessing the G7’s lowest corporation tax and a generous R&D tax.

    This being and internation strategy from the start, the plan will provide local businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators the stability and ease needed to make long-term investment decisions, which, in turn will help strengthening the already strong economic ties between UK and Chile.

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create 1.1 million good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on the UK Government’s Plan for Change.

    Further information

    If you want to know more about this matter, please contact the Communications Office.

    For more information about the activities of the British Embassy in Santiago, follow us on:

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    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Condemns Trump Administration’s Unlawful Withholding of Federal Funding Over Immigration Policy

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla Condemns Trump Administration’s Unlawful Withholding of Federal Funding Over Immigration Policy

    WATCH: Padilla slams Trump Administration’s dangerous overreach that is harming American communitiesWASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, addressed a spotlight hearing entitled, “Defending the Rights of the People: States and Congressional Allies Fight Back Against Trump’s Constitutional Abuses,” to warn against the dangers of the Trump Administration’s unprecedented withholding of federal funding over disagreements in immigration policy, which is hurting American communities, the economy, and public safety. Padilla questioned a panel of state attorneys general who are combating the Trump Administration’s egregious and unlawful actions through litigation.
    As President Trump attacks our constitutional order to advance his own interests and fails to confront political violence, the legislative branch and state governments must play a central role in defending the rule of law and protecting the American people. Padilla spoke about the importance of the legislative branch using its power to prevent the Trump Administration’s dangerous overreach. He highlighted that California contributes about $83 billion more in funding to the federal treasury than it receives, yet the Trump Administration has repeatedly targeted the state and threatened to withhold federal funding to implement their “un-American,” radical agenda.
    Padilla called out his Republican colleagues for expressing so many concerns about states’ autonomy when it comes to issues like gun ownership and reproductive rights, only to roll over as Trump has attacked blue states over political disagreements, particularly on immigration.
    “As we sit here today, we witness a Trump Administration and a Donald Trump that is running roughshod over states that he disagrees with, and it’s been curiously quiet on the other side of the aisle right now. I wonder to myself, where’s the outrage over Donald Trump’s threat to withhold funds from states … just based on any particular item of his agenda that a state disagrees with? Where’s the outrage when the Trump Administration ignores the law about spending levels that Congress, on a bipartisan basis, authorized and acted upon? Where’s the outrage when the President seeks to make it harder for eligible citizens to register and to vote?”
    “Where’s the outrage when the President sends armed forces into a state, into communities domestically, over the objections of the governor of that state, let alone local mayors and local law enforcement, all in order to stoke tensions that have already been heightened after a series of increasingly aggressive, performative, cruel immigration raids in places like restaurants, agricultural fields, construction sites?”
    Padilla blasted the Trump Administration for trying to withhold federal funding from states like California if they do not enforce the President’s cruel immigration policies, and he clarified that immigration enforcement is the job of the federal government, not of state and local law enforcement. He heard from New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin about the dangers of the Trump Administration’s cuts to law enforcement funding and coordination, making communities less safe. Padilla detailed that President Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops and active-duty Marines to Los Angeles has also made local law enforcement’s job more challenging while inflaming tensions. He also emphasized that indiscriminate immigration enforcement and punishing sanctuary cities further threatens public safety by keeping immigrants from reporting crimes out of fear.
    “That’s been the situation, the concern, frankly, in Los Angeles these last couple of weeks between the increasingly cruel and extreme ICE raids and detention, immigration enforcement actions, et cetera, but the way the Administration has gone about it raises the tensions in Los Angeles over the objections of local leadership and local law enforcement, the federalization of National Guard troops, and deployment into our communities. … What I hear from local law enforcement is that it makes the job of local law enforcement harder because there’s no communication, no coordination. So not only is it unnecessary, it’s frankly counterproductive, and putting [the] general public and law enforcement officials in danger.”
    “I think there’s a big either misunderstanding, intentionally or unintentionally, of what sanctuary policy represents, because that’s what the Administration is holding against the state of California and so many others. All sanctuary means is a state or a local jurisdiction would not commit their state or local resources for the enforcement of federal immigration laws. It is a job of the federal government to enforce federal laws, not state and locals to do that work.”
    Video of Senator Padilla’s full remarks is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Rand Paul Cosponsors Accountability Reporting for NATO Freeloaders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul

    As NATO convenes today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul cosponsored legislation by Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) addressing inadequate burden sharing among the United States’ allies and NATO member nations.

    The Allied Burden Sharing Report Act and the NATO Burden Sharing Report Act would incentivize delinquent nations to contribute their fair share for defense measures by requiring the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) to compile annual reports on allied nations’ defense contributions and their ability to fulfill commitments. U.S. Senators Rand Paul (R-KY) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) cosponsored both pieces of legislation.

    “Our NATO allies expect the U.S. to be the sugar daddy and the world’s policeman while they sit back and let us do the heavy lifting. President Trump was right, it’s time for them to pull their own weight. Congress must stop giving blank checks to our allies and start demanding accountability. That’s why I’m pushing for the NATO Burden Sharing Report Act and the Allied Burden Sharing Report Act, to show the American people exactly who’s paying the bills and who’s shirking their share,” said Sen. Paul.

    “America has shouldered the burden of NATO freeloaders for decades,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Year after year, our so-called allies shirk their commitments while we pay for the conflicts raging in their backyards. By imposing annual reporting requirements, my legislation will identify delinquent allies – promoting accountability and putting them on notice to pay their fair share.”

    Background:

    NATO allies committed to spending 2% of their annual GDP on defense measures over a decade ago, but many have failed to deliver – instead allowing the U.S. to carry the burden of European security. Even as conflict in Ukraine continues in their own backyards, a significant portion of NATO members remain delinquent on their defense commitments. It is unreasonable for the U.S. to continue subsidizing the security of a peripheral theater, while allies neglect to carry their fair share.

    As the alliance convenes today, President Donald Trump has rightfully demanded greater burden sharing and higher defense spending. As the Summit opens, Senator Lee is introducing two pieces of legislation to support this burden sharing agenda. The Allied Burden Sharing Report Act and NATO Burden Sharing Report Act require regular reporting on allies’ contributions to the common defense.

    These bills promote burden sharing accountability, removing any doubt as to who the delinquent allies are and equipping Congress with the information it needs to perform necessary oversight.

    The Allied Burden Sharing Report Act:

    Requires DOD to prepare an annual report on the defense spending of all 59 U.S. allies – including:

    • Annual defense spending of each allied nation, both as a nominal figure and percentage of GDP
    • Activities of each allied nation that contribute to military or stability operations in which the Armed Forces of the U.S. are a participant or could be called upon per the obligations of a cooperative defense agreement of which the United States is a signatory
    • Any limitation placed by an allied nation on the use of such contributions
    • Any actions undertaken by the U.S. or by other countries to minimize such limitations

    The NATO Burden Sharing Report Act:

    Applies only to NATO member countries and includes all of the above reporting requirements plus:

    • A description of each member’s hard vs. soft power contributions for Ukraine
    • Defense industrial base health and comparative advantages
    • Size and structure of armed forces
    • Any areas where the country would be fully reliant on allied assets
    • FMS deliveries or contracts in the previous year
    • Any change in defense spending over the previous year and anticipated future spending

    Coutesy of Sen. Mike Lee: One-Pager | Bill Text – Allies | Bill Text – NATO

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal, Booker, and Barragán Reintroduce Legislation to Eliminate Barriers to Health Care for Immigrants

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, along with Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Nanette Barragán (CA-44), today introduced the Health Equity and Access under Law (HEAL) for Immigrant Families Act. This bicameral bill, co-sponsored by 55 members of Congress and endorsed by more than 100 organizations, removes unnecessary and cruel barriers to health care for millions of immigrants of all statuses.

    Immigrants in the United States are far more likely to be uninsured than U.S. citizens. In 2023, half of all undocumented immigrant adults and one in five lawfully present immigrant adults were uninsured. Just 6 percent of naturalized citizen adults and 8 percent of U.S.-born citizens are uninsured.

    “Health care is a human right that must be accessible to everyone — regardless of immigration status,” said Representative Jayapal. “As a proud immigrant myself, I know that the HEAL Act is a necessary first step to allow more people across America to access the health care they need to live, making all of our communities healthier. As Republicans in Congress work to strip health coverage away from millions of Americans and further decimate our already broken immigration system, we’re working to ensure everyone in this country is able to see a doctor when they need it.”

    “Everyone deserves access to comprehensive, affordable, quality care, and the HEAL Act lifts unnecessary barriers to medical care for immigrants,” said Senator Booker. “A more equitable health care system will help create healthier communities and ensure that all families, regardless of immigration status, have access to the care they need.” 

    “Access to healthcare shouldn’t depend on your immigration status,” said Representative Barragán. “Healthcare is a basic human right, and it’s time we break down the needless barriers that keep immigrant families from the care they need to survive and thrive. The HEAL Act is a step toward addressing racial health disparities and expanding quality healthcare to everyone in our communities.”

    “Withholding health care from immigrants is cruel and doesn’t make our communities safer or healthier,” said Senator Warren. “While the Trump administration continues playing political games with immigrant families, Democrats are fighting to make sure a person’s immigration status doesn’t prevent them from getting life-saving care.”

    “As the Trump Administration guts access to health care and basic services for immigrant communities, breaking down barriers to health care for immigrants isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s critical for protecting our public health and economy,” said Senator Padilla. “California is the fourth-largest economy in the world not despite immigrants, but because of their contributions to our workforce. Everyone deserves access to affordable, quality health care no matter their immigration status, and I will keep fighting to continue expanding coverage for these hardworking members of our communities.”

    The HEAL for Immigrant Families Act will:

    • Restore Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) eligibility to lawfully present immigrants;
    • Remove discriminatory Medicare restrictions based on length of U.S. residency for green card holders;
    • End the exclusion of undocumented immigrants from Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces
    • Ensure access to public and affordable coverage for Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients;
    • Create a state option to expand Medicaid and CHIP to immigrants regardless of immigration status.

    “Rep. Jayapal and Sen. Booker continue to be courageous and powerful champions for immigrant communities by reintroducing the HEAL for Immigrant Families Act,” said Lupe M. Rodríguez, executive director, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice. “While immigrant families are currently being attacked and torn apart, this bill promotes a vision for what we want for our collective future. A future that supports immigrant communities by removing long standing systemic barriers to health coverage to help our communities access affordable health care. We are especially grateful that Sen. Booker and Rep. Jayapal are introducing this critical legislation today as we mark three years since the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision that overturned the constitutional right to abortion. That decision has disproportionately harmed immigrant communities, for whom abortion bans, misinformation, and the threat of being detained and separated from our families has increased the barriers that keep us from getting the health care we need,” said Lupe M. Rodríguez, Executive Director, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice. “We urge Congress to protect immigrant communities and pass this bill.”

    “The reproductive justice movement teaches us that true justice means being able to have children, not have children, and raise our families in safe, supportive communities,” said Sung Yeon Choimorrow, executive director, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF). “None of that is possible without health care. In a country that has always been shaped by immigrants, we cannot keep allowing people and families, including the Asian American immigrants who make up more than a quarter of immigrants in the U.S., to be shut out from basic health care because of harmful, outdated policies. These are our mothers, our sisters, and our neighbors. The HEAL Act tears down the barriers facing our communities and reaffirms that everyone deserves the right to care, regardless of background, income, or immigration status.”

    “Everyone deserves access to health care, no matter who they are or where they come from,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Action Fund. “It is unacceptable and cruel that many are denied affordable, high-quality, and comprehensive health care because of their immigration status. Amid the ongoing attacks on our immigrant communities and our health care, I thank Reps. Jayapal and Barragán and Senator Booker for reintroducing this critical bill that would break down unjust barriers to care for our immigrant families.”

    “As a physician, I’ve witnessed the barriers immigrant families face when trying to access health care. Insurance coverage is a cornerstone of meaningful access; without it, care remains out of reach for too many,” said Dr. Jamila Perritt, MD, MPH, FACOG, President and CEO, Physicians for Reproductive Health. “At a time when attacks on immigrant communities are escalating, we must act now to ensure that everyone—regardless of status—has the right to timely, compassionate, and comprehensive health care. That’s why I join physicians across the country in calling for a swift passage of the HEAL Act. Expanding health coverage to immigrant communities ensures they receive the care they deserve, regardless of their immigration status. Health is a human right and no one should be excluded from receiving healthcare. Congress must pass HEAL – our patients are counting on it.”

    “With immigrant families under constant attack, it’s more important than ever to work toward a better, more inclusive future when everyone can get the care we all need,” said Adriana Cadena, campaign director, Protecting Immigrant Families Coalition. “We are proud to champion the HEAL Act – a critical step toward that better future.” 

    “Now more than ever, it is critical to affirm that everyone—including immigrants—should have access to health care coverage,” said Wendy Cervantes, Director, Immigration and Immigrant Families, CLASP. “Immigrants already face many restrictions to such care and an onslaught of attacks on them and their families’ health and well-being, ranging from the fear created by the Administration’s mass deportation efforts to the deeply harmful budget reconciliation bill currently under consideration. The HEAL for Immigrant Families Act is a critical step in moving us back in the right direction by giving children and families access to the health care they need to thrive. CLASP is grateful to Representative Jayapal and Senator Booker for their leadership in promoting a vision that supports health care for all.”

    The legislation is also co-sponsored by U.S. Representatives Becca Balint (VT-AL), Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), André Carson (IN-07), Troy Carter (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Jerry Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24), and U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Edward Markey (D-MA), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).

    The legislation is endorsed by AAPI Equity Alliance; AAPI NJ; Advocates for Youth; AFL-CIO; Alianza Nacional de Campesinas; All* Above All; Alliance of Filipinos for Immigrant Rights and Empowerment; American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU); American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; American Muslim Health Professionals (AMHP); Amica Center for Immigrant Rights; Arkansas Black Gay Men’s Forum; Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF); Asian American Federation of Florida; Asian Americans United (AAU); Asian Caribbean Exchange; Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence; Asian Pacific Islanders Civic Action Network, Massachusetts; Asian Texans for Justice Action Fund; ASISTA; Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations; Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network; Ayuda; CA LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network; California Partnership to End Domestic Violence; CASA; Catholics for Choice; Center for Gender & Refugee Studies; Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law; Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP); Center for Reproductive Rights; Center for Victims of Torture; Children’s HealthWatch; Cleveland Jobs with Justice; Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA); Coalition on Human Needs; Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking; Community Catalyst; Doctors for America ; End SIJS Backlog Coalition; Equality California; Esperanza United; First Focus Campaign for Children; Florida Asian Services ; Freedom Network USA; Georgia Conservation Voters; Global Refugee Awareness Healing Center; Global Urban Cultural Community; Guttmacher Institute; Haven Services Inc. dba Haven Neighborhood Servic; Health Action New Mexico; Healthy Teen Network; Her Justice ; Hispanic Federation; Ibis Reproductive Health; ICAH (Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health); Immigrant Legal Resource Center; Immigrant Welcome Network Johnson County; Immigration Institute of the Bay Area; In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda ; Inclusive Counseling; Indivisible; Institute for Women’s Policy Research; Ipas US; Jacobs Institute of Women’s Health; Justice for Migrant Women; Justice in Aging; KAN-WIN; Kids in Need of Defense (KIND); Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA); Laotian American National Alliance (LANA); Latino; Legal Voice; Maine Equal Justice; MANA, A National Latina Organization; Midwest Access Coalition; Moonbow; National Abortion Federation; National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA); National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF); National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health; National Council of Jewish Women; National Employment Law Project; National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association; National Health Care for the Homeless Council; National Health Law Program; National Immigration Law Center; National Korean American Service and Education Consortium; National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice; National Network of Abortion Funds; National Network To End Domestic Violence ; National Organization for Women ; National Partnership for New Americans; National Partnership for Women & Families; National Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance; National Women’s Law Center Action Fund; NIRH Action Fund; NIWAP, Inc.; Northwest Health Law Advocates (NoHLA); Oasis Legal Services; OCA South Florida Chapter; Our Justice; Oxfam America; People Power United; Physicians for Reproductive Health; Planned Parenthood Federation of America; Plascencia Consulting; Population Connection Action Fund; Positive Women’s Network-USA; Power to Decide; PowHerNY; Prevention Institute; Protecting Immigrant Families; QASPIRA Association; Religious Community for Reproductive Choice; Reproductive Freedom For All; Reproductive Health Access Project; Reproductive Justice Action Collective (ReJAC); Sadhana: Coalition of Progressive Hindus; Sarin Gal; Shriver Center on Poverty Law; SIECUS: Sex Ed for Social Change; Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF); SiX Action; South Asian Public Health Association (SAPHA); South Asian SOAR; State Voices Florida; Survivor Justice Center; The Children’s Partnership; The National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health (NPWH); The TransLatin@ Coalition; UCSF Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health; UnidosUS; Union for Reform Judaism; United Parent Leaders Action Network; URGE: Unite for Reproductive & Gender Equity; Voices for Utah Children; Women of Reform Judaism; Women’s Law Project; Women’s Refugee Commission.

    Issues: Health Care, Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: The One Big Beautiful Bill Advances President Trump’s Commitment to Peace through Strength

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

    WASHINGTON — The world is being reminded that peace is only possible when America leads from a position of strength. And that’s why the One Big, Beautiful Bill advances President Trump’s bold Peace through Strength agenda and charts America’s path to strength, security, and sovereignty.

    “While Congressional Democrats feign concern about the safety and wellbeing of U.S. service members, House Republicans are working to deliver legislation that actually accomplishes that and supports them. Amid this global threat landscape, there’s never been a better time for a piece of legislation, a once in a generation opportunity like the One Big Beautiful Bill,” Speaker Johnson said. “The One Big Beautiful Bill is a generational investment in American military might, and we need to get it to President Trump’s desk as soon as possible.”

    Historic Investment for President Trump’s Golden Dome

    • $25 billion to develop this cutting-edge missile defense system. This system will defend Americans against hypersonic missiles, ballistic threats, and next-generation aerial attacks from our adversaries like China and Iran.

    Puts American Troops First

    • $8.5 billion to improve the quality of life for our servicemembers. This includes funds to improve military barracks and housing; enhance healthcare services; expand educational opportunities and professional assistance programs for military spouses; childcare assistance; among other programs to support servicemembers.

    A Down Payment on the Future of America’s National Security

    • $34 billion to expand the size and capabilities of our naval fleet
    • $21 billion to restock America’s arsenal of munitions and ramp up domestic production of rare earth and critical minerals
    • $13 billion to modernize the nuclear deterrence and readiness of nuclear forces
    • $11 billion to expand military exercises and improve the readiness of Indo-Pacific forces 
    • $7 billion to accelerate delivery of next-generation aircraft and autonomous systems

    BOTTOM LINE: The One Big Beautiful Bill is critically important and urgent to guarantee America’s ready, capable, and lethal fighting force.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Nominees for Central, European Commands Testify on Growing Adversarial Threats

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    U.S. forces in the Middle East are laser-focused on warfighting, lethality and readiness, and they are performing superbly, Navy Vice Adm. Charles B. Cooper II, deputy commander of U.S. Central Command, said at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing.

    MIL Security OSI –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tren de Aragua Leader Added to FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives

    Source: US FBI

    Select image to view poster

    FBI Houston Field Office Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Douglas Williams announced the addition of Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list. Mosquera Serrano, 37, is the first Tren de Aragua (TdA) member featured on the notorious list. SAC Williams was joined by U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas Nicholas Ganjei, who provided remarks on the federal charges Mosquera Serrano faces.

    Fugitive Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano, an alleged senior leader of Tren de Aragua, is wanted for numerous federal charges. He is the 536th addition to the FBI’s list of notorious fugitives and the first TdA member to appear on the list. TdA is a violent transnational gang and designated foreign terrorist organization that originated in Venezuela and now operates throughout Latin America and the United States. Tren de Aragua is allegedly responsible for sending gang members to the U.S. who engage in drug trafficking, human trafficking, weapons trafficking, and violent crime. Mosquera Serrano should be considered armed and dangerous.

    “Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano’s leadership fuels an organization that thrives on brutal murders, forced prostitution, kidnappings, and the destruction of lives across continents,” said Douglas Williams, special agent in charge of FBI Houston. “Today’s announcement makes it clear: No border will shield him from justice. With the public’s help, we will eradicate TdA and end their transnational campaign of terror and crime.”

    A federal arrest warrant was issued for Mosquera Serrano in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas after he was charged with conspiring to provide and providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization, as well as conspiracy and distribution of cocaine in Colombia intended for distribution in the U.S. This case is being investigated as part of Joint Task Force Vulcan, a national task force created in 2019 to eradicate MS-13 that now also targets TdA.

    If you have any information about Mosquera Serrano’s location, please contact the FBI via WhatsApp or Telegram (neither government-operated nor government-controlled platforms) at 281-787-9939. You may also contact your local FBI office or the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You can also submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

    The U.S. Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program is offering a reward of up to $3 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano. Investigators believe that Mosquera Serrano may be in Venezuela or Colombia. Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano’s description can be found at fbi.gov/wanted/topten/giovanni-vicente-mosquera-serrano.

    Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano is FBI Houston’s third Top Ten fugitive currently on the list. The two others are Wilver Villegas-Palomino, a ranking member of the Colombian National Liberation Army (ELN); and Yulan Adonay Archaga Carias, the alleged leader of MS-13 for Honduras.

    The FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list was established in March 1950. Since its inception, 536 fugitives have been placed on the list, 497 of whom were apprehended or located; 163 were a direct result of citizen cooperation. You can visit our Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list FAQ page to learn more about the list.

    SAC Williams and U.S. Attorney Ganjei made the announcement alongside SAC Joseph Burnette of the Diplomatic Security Service’s Houston Field Office; Acting SAC William Kimbell of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Houston Division; SAC Chad Plantz of Homeland Security Investigations’ Houston Office; Acting ASAC Derrick McCullar of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives’ Houston Field Division; Regional Director Gerald Brown of the Texas Department of Public Safety; Chief Deputy Tommy Diaz of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office; and Executive Assistant Chief Keith Seafous of the Houston Police Department.

    FBI Houston would like to thank our partners assisting with this investigation, especially the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas; the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Houston Division and Bogotá Office; the U.S. Department of State; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; the Texas Department of Public Safety; the Houston Police Department; the Harris County Sheriff’s Office; the Colombian National Police; the Colombian Attorney General’s Office; and the FBI’s legal attaché office in Bogotá.

    MIL Security OSI –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Grills Navy Secretary Phelan on Politicization of Civilian Hiring, Navy Hospital Staffing Cuts Eliminating Health Care on Base for 15,000 Servicemembers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI: Murray Sounds Alarm on Chronic Staffing Shortages at Naval Hospital Bremerton, Presses for Answers from Defense Health Agency

    ***WATCH: Senator Murray’s questioning*** 

    Washington, D.C. — Today, at a Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee hearing on the President’s fiscal year 2026 budget request for the Department of the Navy, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, questioned Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan and Acting Chief of Naval Operations Admiral James W. Kilby about the Trump administration’s litmus tests to hire for civilian roles, staffing cuts at Naval Hospital Bremerton, and frigate production.

    [CIVILIAN STAFFING]

    Senator Murray began her questioning by addressing how OPM has encouraged federal workers across the country to leave their jobs, including civilian workers that support key installations and operations, stating: “Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, located in my home state of Washington, is one of the largest shipyards in the country, and the only shipyard on the entire west coast that can dry dock Nimitz Class aircraft carriers. It’s a huge asset to the Navy and the overall Indo-Pacific strategy. Right now, PSNS is undergoing important renovations to address seismic vulnerabilities and prepare for the new Ford Class aircraft carriers. This administration, however, is actively encouraging our shipbuilders to leave their jobs and putting up absurd barriers to hiring new civilian workers. Almost 2,000 naval shipyard workers have already taken the deferred resignation under the threat of looming mass layoffs. And Trump’s Office of Personnel Management is insisting on approving civilians one-by-one, which is creating massive slowdowns and ballooning waitlists to hire the workers that we need at every base in this country. And on top of that, on May 29th, OPM added a requirement for new civilian nonpartisan hires to write about how they would ‘advance the President’s Executive Orders and policy priorities’ as part of the application process.”

    “Secretary Phelan, how does a welder’s fluency in, or support of Trump’s Executive Orders relate to their qualifications as a welder?” asked Senator Murray.

    Secretary Phelan answered, “I did visit Puget Sound and saw a lot of the impressive work that was done there. As to your question on—I believe what you’re referring to is the civilian loyalty oath—and my understanding is the Department of the Navy continues to use the same appointment affidavit it’s been using since 2002 for civilian hires. And we are waiting for guidance from the Department of Defense as it relates to any revisions.”

    Senator Murray pressed, “Well will you push back on OPM’s political purity tests, and object to them individually approving civilian hires?”

    “I will have to wait to see what it is they recommend before I can tell you that,” Secretary Phelan responded.

    “Well from my position, a nonpartisan government hire should not need to articulate which Trump policy they like best just to get hired. And a welder should not need to share their favorite Trump Executive Order. This is putting us behind. So, I just think this is something that we all need to take notice of. And I hope, as you get your guidance, that you push back on that,” said Senator Murray.

    [NAVAL HOSPITAL BREMERTON]

    Senator Murray continued her questioning by turning to the issue of staffing cuts at Naval Hospital Bremerton (NHB) completely eliminating on-base health care for servicemembers and their family at Naval Base Kitsap: “Naval Base Kitsap, also in my state, is the third largest Navy base in the United States. It’s home to 15,000 servicemembers, nearly 18,000 family members and retirees. But since 2022, the Defense Health Agency has repeatedly ordered the base’s hospital to cut critical staff and medical care—which has been devastating for our servicemembers and their families’ access to health care. Right now, in fact, Naval Hospital Bremerton’s Internal Medicine department has no—zero—physicians for over 2,000 patients. Instead of hiring anyone, DHA is forcing patients to travel over an hour, on a good day, each way, to Madigan Army Medical Center at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Mr. Secretary, this is just unacceptable.”

    Senator Murray asked, “Can you fill me in on what the Navy is doing to fill those vacancies at Bremerton?”

    “As you know, I’ve been visiting a number of different installations of ours, and from some of the conditions of the barracks to some of the conditions in the medical facilities, et cetera, we have issues at most of them. On that specific one I’m going to have to get back to you and get some more detail on it. Which, I will do,” Secretary Phelan responded.

    “Admiral, do you have anything to add?” Senator Murray asked Admiral Kilby.

    Admiral Kilby replied, “I agree with your assessment ma’am, there are challenges with DHA across the board, for the Navy. And we’re working, like all the other services, to make sure we’re providing the best health care we can for our servicemembers and our families.”

    “This is a readiness issue. It’s a retention issue. It’s personal for these families. So please, if you could get back to me about what steps we are going to take to fix this,” said Senator Murray.

    [NAVAL STATION EVERETT FRIGATES]

    Senator Murray then asked about years of delays on frigate production, stating: “Finally, let me ask you about Naval Station Everett. It was designated as the home station for the new class of Frigates in 2022.  However, the design delays have postponed production for the last three years. I understand you and the Department leadership are considering several options for the future of the Constellation-class frigate—and I’d emphasize this committee needs the budget details to put this bill together. So, if you can make sure we have that and talk for a minute about what you see as the implications for Everett under the different scenarios the Department might propose for the frigate program.”

    Secretary Phelan replied, “Let me take that one from the record and come back to you.”

    “I would appreciate the response to that. Thank you very much,” concluded Senator Murray.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump Announces Appointments to the Homeland Security Advisory Council

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: President Trump Announces Appointments to the Homeland Security Advisory Council

    resident Donald J

    Trump and Secretary Noem appointed new members to the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC) and announced the date of the council’s first meeting

    Formed on March 19, 2002, the HSAC leverages the experience, expertise, and national and global connections of its membership to provide the Secretary of Homeland Security with real-time, real-world and independent advice on homeland security operations

    This new-look, America First HSAC will draw upon a deep well of public and private sector experience from homeland security experts committed to fulfilling President Trump’s agenda

    The Homeland Security Advisory Council will hold its first meeting at DHS headquarters in Washington, D

    C

    on July 2nd, 2025

    Appointed Members:

    Henry McMaster, Governor, South Carolina, Chair
    Joseph Gruters, State Senator, Florida, Vice Chair
    Marc Andreessen, Co-Founder and General Partner, Andreessen Horowitz
    David Chesnoff, Attorney, Chesnoff and Schonfeld

    Christopher “Chris” Cox, Founder, Bikers for Trump
    Mark Dannels, Cochise County Sheriff, Arizona
    Richard “Bo” Dietl, CEO and Founder, Beau Dietl & Associates
    Matthew Flynn, Attorney, Steptoe

    Former Deputy Assistant to the President

    Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense

    Rudolph W

    Giuliani, Former Mayor, New York City
    Harvey C

    Jewett IV, Retired President of Super 8 Motels Inc

    , Retired President and Chief Operating Officer, Rivett Group LLC

    , President Great Plains Education Foundation, Inc

    Steve Kirby, Founding Partner, Bluestem Capital Company
    Mark Levin, Broadcast News Analyst, The Mark Levin Show
    Corey Lewandowski, Chief Advisor to the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security
    Nicholas Luna, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Implementation, The White House
    George Lund, CEO and Chairman, Torch Hill Investment Partners
    Edward McMullen Jr, Senior Policy Advisor, Adams and Reese LLP

    Former Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein,
    Georgette Mosbacher, Co-Chair, Three Seas Programming, Atlantic Council’s Europe Center, Former Ambassador to Poland
    James “Jim” Pallotta, Managing Partner and Founder, The Raptor Group

    Omar Qudrat, CEO, Maden, Founder, Muslim Coalition for America, Major, U

    S

    Army Reserve
    Stephen Sloan, Global Head of Private Market Secondaries, Portfolio Advisors and Co-Founder, Cogent Partners
    Robert “Bob” Smith, Former U

    S

    Senator, New Hampshire
    Alexei Woltornist, Co-Founder and President, ATHOS

    Former Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Department of Homeland Security

    To learn more about the Homeland Security Advisory Council, including its previous taskings, reports, and recommendations, visit DHS

    gov/Homeland-Security-Advisory-Council

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman Holds Hearing on Department of Veterans Affairs Budget and Welcomes Secretary’s Support for Key Suicide Prevention Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), Chairman of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee, led a hearing examining the fiscal years 2026 and 2027 budget request for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and secured Secretary Doug Collins’ support for reauthorizing a Boozman-authored program to enhance mental health outreach and suicide prevention in veteran communities.

    The senator reviewed the Department’s proposed budget in his opening statement and highlighted several important priorities.

    “The PACT Act has certainly been a dramatic change for veterans, and I also think VA has a good story to tell about its implementation, the new veterans enrolling, and the number of PACT Act-related claims received and processed. It also created the Toxic Exposure Fund, and this year’s budget request represents more than a $22 billion increase,” Boozman said. “The budget request includes a large increase for the Electronic Medical Records program. With well more than $12 billion of taxpayer money invested, it’s time to start seeing a return on this investment.”

    Boozman also urged Collins to lay out how he intends to lead the VA’s approach to combat the consistently high rates of suicide in the veteran community. 

    “I know something that’s very important to you is veteran suicide, which it is to me and so many other members of this committee, on both sides of the aisle. The VA has numerous suicide prevention initiatives and yet we still see elevated suicide rates among veterans relative to their civilian counterparts,” Boozman said.

    “This is the one that keeps me up at night,” Collins said. “What has happened since 2008 is a number that’s not really changed: 17 to 22 veterans taking their own life [daily]. Of those numbers, half of them have not had contact with the VA, they’ve not been in our system.”

    “Things like the Fox Grant Program, which I encourage to be renewed,” Collins continued. “Ninety-five organizations have been a part of that and they’re reaching out and helping veterans who are not enrolled in our system. They’re bringing them in.”

    The Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program was signed into law as a provision of the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act and is currently scheduled to sunset in 2025. The senator, also a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, has pushed for its renewal and expansion as well as having previously encouraged the VA to explain its impact and provide an endorsement of a reauthorization.

    Click here to watch part of Boozman’s opening statement. Click here to watch his questions for VA Secretary Collins.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War will be one of the main themes of the exhibition “Far East Street” within the framework of the EEF-2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    11 regions of the Far East and federal ministries will present their key projects at the exhibition “Far East Street”, which will be held as part of the Eastern Economic Forum – 2025. Among the main topics are the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and the victory over militarist Japan, support for a special military operation, the implementation of city master plans, and advanced technological developments.

    From September 3 to 6, the exhibition will be available to forum participants, and on September 7 and 8, it will be open to everyone. The exhibition is organized by the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Office of the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of Russia in the Far Eastern Federal District.

    “The exhibition “Far East Street” shows participants and guests of the Eastern Economic Forum qualitative changes in the economy and social sphere. This is a unique opportunity to introduce thousands of guests from dozens of countries of the world to the cultural features and unique traditions of various peoples, to attract investors and tourists to these territories. Everyone who comes to the EEF will be able to not only learn about the technological achievements of the Far Eastern regions, but also watch performances by creative groups, learn about the features of Kamchatka, Chukotka, Buryatia, Yakutia and other regions. Each region talks about its features, what it is proud of, presents plans for the future. This year, each Far Eastern region will pay special attention to two topics – the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and support for a special military operation. On “Far East Street” you can learn about the exploits of our fathers and grandfathers, about those guys who are defending the independence of the Motherland today, and about the support that the Far East provided then and provides now,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized. – Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev.

    Currently, the appearance of the pavilions and the content of the exhibits are being updated.

    “The Far East Street exhibition is a vivid embodiment of the dynamic development of the macro-region, its economic potential and rich cultural heritage. The EEF is becoming a platform where the successes of the implementation of state policy to strengthen the Far East as a strategic center of national development are demonstrated. New opportunities for investment, tourism and international cooperation are created here, which is fully consistent with the course for sustainable growth and prosperity of Russia in the Asia-Pacific region. This will traditionally be reflected in the expositions of the regions,” said Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia, Executive Secretary of the Organizing Committee for the Preparation and Holding of the Eastern Economic Forum.

    The Kuril landing operation on Shumshu, which took place in August-September 1945, was the last major episode of the Soviet-Japanese War and the end of World War II. The operation was aimed at liberating the Kuril Islands, which at that time were under the control of Japan. An installation dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War will be placed inside the Sakhalin Region pavilion. The exhibition “Roads of Victory” will tell about the Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk operation and the landing on Shumshu. It is planned to show a film about the expedition to the island, videos about the reconstruction of battles in the Kholmsky and Smirnykhovsky districts. The Tourism zone will present new programs: military-historical tours “Battle for Shumshu” and “Liberation of the South of Sakhalin”, seasonal offers for winter and summer recreation, as well as gastronomic tours and the project “Far East – Land of Adventures”. In a separate zone “UAV and BEK” data on the implementation of unmanned aircraft systems will be presented. This topic will be dedicated to a separate exposition aimed at promoting Sakhalin’s achievements in this area.

    In the Khabarovsk Krai pavilion, the combined zone “Everything for Victory” and “Aircraft and Shipbuilding” will tell about the industrial potential of the region, about the parade dedicated to the victory over militarist Japan and the end of World War II, on September 3. It is planned to use models of aircraft and ships as exhibition samples, and samples of products for the needs of the SVO will be demonstrated in holographic niches.

    A special place in the Magadan Region exposition will be given to the historical heritage – the role of Kolyma in the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, as well as its contribution to ensuring the country’s success during the special military operation. The small pavilion of the Magadan Region will house the “Kolyma – from Victory to Victory” zone, which will introduce visitors to facts about the contribution of Kolyma residents to the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and support for the SVO.

    An interactive stand in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War will be installed next to the Amur Region pavilion. Here visitors will be able to see unique historical materials, photographs, and veterans’ memories. Interactive elements will be presented that will allow you to delve deeper into the events of those years.

    The “Air Defense, Civil Defense and Emergencies” zone of the Primorsky Krai pavilion will be represented by a stand in the form of three vertical screens and will tell about the region’s contribution to the military-industrial complex of Russia, ensuring information and security of the population and participation in a special military operation. The stand can be controlled using a joystick. The section will show animated videos telling about Primorye residents – heroes of the Great Patriotic War. About 200 thousand residents of Primorsky Krai took part in the military operations of the Great Patriotic War – both on the European fronts and in China and the Korean Peninsula, where they fought against the Kwantung Army of Japan. Their feat became an integral part of the overall victory. It will also tell about modern fighters participating in the Air Defense. The format of the materials varies – from documentary biographies to artistic sketches reflecting the strength of spirit, courage and dedication of the people.

    The exploits of Yakutians in the Great Patriotic War and the special military operation will also be presented at the exhibition “Far East Street”. Snipers from Yakutia, such as Fyodor Okhlopkov and Ivan Kulbertinov, were known for their outstanding results and received wide recognition. In honor of Fyodor Okhlopkov, the All-Russian Long-Range Shooting Tournament is being held in Yakutia. In addition, the entire country knows the crew of the “Alyosha” tank, which performed a heroic feat during the SVO. Yakut enterprises supply electric enduro motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and other equipment to the front lines. In particular, for their active civic position and assistance in the special military operation, the companies “Timir AT” and “Yakt-Sokol” were awarded the public and business prize “Star of the Far East” in the nomination “Everything for Victory”.

    The “80 Years of Victory” zone in the Zabaikalsky Krai pavilion will be dedicated to the achievements of the Great Patriotic War, as well as the heroes of the special military operation. The exposition will use augmented reality technologies with biographical materials about the participants of these events.

    The Buryatia exposition will be presented in two pavilions. An outdoor exhibition area, an area for holding master classes, and a new space will appear – a spiritual cleansing area. A Buryat yurt will be installed here, inside which the Center for Eastern Medicine will operate. As part of the exposition, those wishing to will be able to compete in national sports and take part in the games of the peoples of Buryatia. A separate exposition will be placed demonstrating Buryatia’s contribution to the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and support for a special military operation.

    The attention of visitors to the exhibition “Far East Street” will be attracted by the interactive museum of Kamchatka military glory, installed in the “Will of Man” zone of the regional pavilion. Guests will be able to learn about the exploits of the heroes of the Great Patriotic War and the special military operation.

    The Jewish Autonomous Region will dedicate a “living newspaper” to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and the exploits of the heroes of the special military operation. The structure with built-in screens and texts in the style of a printed spread will tell about fellow countrymen – participants of the Great Patriotic War and the Special Military Operation.

    The Chukotka exposition is dedicated to three significant dates: 95 years of the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, 80 years of the Great Victory, and 10 years of the Eastern Economic Forum. The exposition will include a “Chukotka for Victory” zone, which will show video materials about Chukotka’s contribution to the victory during the Great Patriotic War. There will also be an interactive wall with images of defenders of the Fatherland: a pilot, a reindeer herder, and a soldier. The central element of the zone will be an art object dedicated to the participants of the special military operation.

    The unified exposition of the Ministry for the Development of the Far East and Arctic and the Far East and Arctic Development Corporation “Developing the Far” will be dedicated to the mechanisms of state investment support operating in the macroregion, as well as socially significant programs implemented on the instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin, aimed at improving the quality of life of people. Thematic multimedia expositions “Travel”, “Study”, “Work” and “Live” will tell about the dynamics of the development of the economy of Far Eastern cities, opportunities for obtaining higher and professional education, tourist routes and hospitality facilities for recreation and new experiences. Each thematic zone will be equipped with multimedia equipment and filled with text and video content.

    Participants of the All-Russian travel competition “The Far East – Land of Adventures” will share their personal experiences of traveling around the Far East with the guests of the exhibition – in the pavilion you can see their video diaries, study the routes they have taken and get inspired for new trips.

    Traditionally, the Ministry of Sports will present its expositions on the “Far East Street”. The “Sport is the Norm of Life” pavilion will become a platform for discussing current topics in the industry, and sports activities can be enjoyed in the “GTO Arena” pavilion.

    The exhibition will open the “House of the Falcon” pavilion. It is also planned to expand the “Arab Village” exposition, which won recognition from participants last year and was timed to coincide with the international forum “Day of the Falcon”.

    The central venue will traditionally host cultural program events with the participation of representatives from all Far Eastern regions.

    The 10th anniversary Eastern Economic Forum will be held from September 3 to 6 on the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok. The organizer of the EEF is the Roscongress Foundation.

    The Roscongress Foundation is a socially oriented non-financial development institution and a major organizer of national and international congress, exhibition, business, public, youth, sporting and cultural events, created in accordance with the decision of the President of Russia.

    The Foundation was established in 2007 to promote the development of economic potential, advance national interests and strengthen Russia’s image. The Foundation comprehensively studies, analyses, formulates and covers issues on the Russian and global economic agenda. Provides administration and facilitates the promotion of business projects and the attraction of investments, promotes the development of social entrepreneurship and charitable projects.

    The Foundation’s events bring together participants from 209 countries and territories, more than 15,000 media representatives work annually at Roscongress venues, and more than 5,000 experts in Russia and abroad are involved in analytical and expert work.

    The Foundation interacts with UN structures and other international organizations. It develops multi-format cooperation with 226 foreign economic partners, associations of industrialists and entrepreneurs, financial, trade and business associations in 89 countries of the world, with 358 Russian public organizations, federal and regional executive and legislative bodies of the Russian Federation.

    Official telegram channels of the Roscongress Foundation: in Russian – T.Ta/Roscongress, in English – T.Ta/Roscongress, in Spanish – T.Ta/RoscongressP, in Arabic – T.Ta/Roscongressarabik. Official website and information and analytical system of the Roscongress Foundation: Roscongress.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Conducts Mission Stop in Nuku’Alofa, Tonga, June 23, 2025 [Image 6 of 11]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga (June 23, 2025) Hospitalman Anthony Carretocardona conducts an eye exam for a local resident at Vaiola Hospital as part of Pacific Partnership 2025 (PP-25) in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, June 23, 2025. PP-25 medical teams are providing free eye exams and prescription glasses at Vaiola Hospital and Mu’a Health Center while in Nuku’alofa, Tonga. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Courtesy Asset)

    Date Taken: 06.23.2025
    Date Posted: 06.23.2025 23:29
    Photo ID: 9128314
    VIRIN: 250623-N-RM599-9743
    Resolution: 4032×3024
    Size: 3.05 MB
    Location: NUKU’ALOFA, TO
    Web Views: 7
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    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

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    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Conducts Mission Stop in Nuku’Alofa, Tonga, June 24, 2025 [Image 1 of 4]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga (June 24, 2025) U.S. Navy Cmdr. Samantha Jennings, center, Family Nurse Practitioner deployed in support of Pacific Partnership 2025 (PP-25), sits down with a local patient for a health consultation at Mu’a Health Centre during PP-25 in Nuku’Alofa, Tonga, June 24, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

    Date Taken: 06.24.2025
    Date Posted: 06.24.2025 14:58
    Photo ID: 9129426
    VIRIN: 250624-N-ED646-1522
    Resolution: 8007×5345
    Size: 7.24 MB
    Location: NUKU’ALOFA, TO
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    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Conducts Mission Stop in Nuku’Alofa, Tonga, June 24, 2025 [Image 4 of 4]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga (June 24, 2025) U.S. Navy Cmdr. Shirleen Sulatan, center, Nurse Practitioner deployed in support of Pacific Partnership 2025 (PP-25), assists a local patient during a health consultation at Mu’a Health Centre as part of PP-25 in Nuku’Alofa, Tonga, June 24, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

    Date Taken: 06.24.2025
    Date Posted: 06.24.2025 14:58
    Photo ID: 9129430
    VIRIN: 250624-N-ED646-7460
    Resolution: 8500×5669
    Size: 8.41 MB
    Location: NUKU’ALOFA, TO
    Web Views: 2
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    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon launches new military benefit, providing even more flexibility

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon launches new military benefit, providing even more flexibility

    NEW YORK, N.Y. – Building on its commitment to the military community, Verizon has introduced a new short-term military suspension option designed to meet the unique needs of service members. Alongside exclusive discounts and benefits across mobile and home, Verizon is substantially improving flexibility, choice and value to those who serve.

    Military customers deployed for less than 90 days, even within Verizon’s coverage area, can now take advantage of Verizon’s new Military Short Term Suspend option. During deployment, the customer’s line will be temporarily suspended and charged $10/month or their monthly service price, whichever is lower.

    Additionally, long-term suspension options remain available for eligible customers on deployment from 90 days to 3 years, allowing them to avoid charges for services and features on the suspended line, including device payment installments, for the entire duration of the service suspension. For disconnection, customers have two options: they can either pay off the remaining balance or return their device in good working order to have the remaining installment balance waived. To learn more and check your eligibility, please visit verizon.com/support/military-veterans-faqs/

    These enhanced benefits are a part of Verizon’s customer experience transformation, announced earlier today, which aims to empower customers with simpler, more personalized support. This evolution, a key component of Verizon’s multi-year consumer plan, brings immediate and ongoing improvements to customer care, digital services, and retail, setting a new industry standard across every aspect of service.

    “We have set standards in network reliability, choice and innovation on behalf of customers, and are committed to continuously raising the bar on how we support their individual needs – which means reliability and flexibility so they can stay connected, on their terms,” said Sowmyanarayan Sampath, Verizon Consumer CEO. “Our military personnel in training or those on short-term domestic assignments deserve an option tailored to their needs.”

    Exclusive Offers and Benefits for Those Who Serve

    Eligible military customers can enjoy 4 lines starting at $25/line per month on Unlimited Welcome1 (plus taxes and fees) and Fios Home Internet from just $45/month with Auto Pay. By bundling mobile and home services, customers with the military discount can unlock an additional $15 in savings on Fios Home Internet for as low as $30/mo with Auto Pay2, while retaining myPlan benefits such as Verizon’s 3-year price lock guarantee (applicable to base monthly rate only), depending on the choice of plan.

    Verizon also provides career opportunities, competitive savings and exclusive benefits for military members, veterans and their families. These include:

    • 25% off accessories online and 10% off in-store
    • Dedicated parking at select Verizon retail locations
    • Premium phone setup experience at select locations
    • Extensive career tools and resources

    To learn more about these benefits, resources and Verizon’s investment in those who serve, please visit verizon.com/military.

    Special Pricing For Military Personnel With Tracfone

    Tracfone, a leading prepaid brand powered by Verizon’s award-winning network, is paving the way in the no-contract industry by honoring those who serve. Tracfone is proud to support veterans and active-duty personnel customers with 10% off all $20/mo or higher Unlimited Talk and Text Plans, providing even more value for those who serve. Veterans and active-duty personnel can easily verify their eligibility through secure ID.me, making it simple to start saving. For more information, visit Tracfone.com/deals/military-discount.

    1 For eligible military; approved verification documents req’d. Unlimited Welcome: $30/line/mo for 4 lines, less $20 account discount. Auto Pay and paper-free billing req’d. Unlimited 5G / 4G LTE: For Unlimited Welcome plan, in times of congestion, your data may be temporarily slower than other traffic. Domestic data roaming at 2G speeds.

    2 For eligible military. Approved verification documents req’d. One offer per account. New Fios 300 Mbps customers receive a $5/mo. discount. Auto Pay: $10/mo. discount with Auto Pay & paper-free billing. Mobile + Home Discount: Enrollment req’d. for $15/mo discount. For existing postpaid mobile customers with a Verizon mobile plan (excludes prepaid, business and data-only plans) and Fios home internet. Fios 300 Mbps: $99 setup and other terms may apply. Availability varies. Subj. to credit approval. Wired and wireless speeds vary due to device limits, multiple users, network & other factors. See verizon.com/yourspeed for more info.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Opening Statement at SAC-D Hearing on FY 26 Budget Request for the Navy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, convened today’s hearing “A Review of the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Request for the Navy”. Prepared text of his opening statement follows:
    “I’ll begin by welcoming Secretary of the Navy John Phelan, Acting Chief of Naval Operations Admiral James Kilby, and Commandant of the Marine Corps General Eric Smith. I’m grateful to each of you for your willingness to lead at a pivotal moment for the Department, and to the sailors, Marines, and civilian personnel who advance Navy and Marine Corps missions and keep America safe every day.
    “I’m particularly grateful to the sailors who have stood watch in the Gulf and the Red Sea over the last 20 months helping to defend Israel, US interests, and freedom of navigation against Iranian-backed terrorists. And to the crews deployed there right now who launched Tomahawk cruise missiles as part of the joint operation to strike what I hope is a fatal blow to Iran’s nuclear aspirations.
    “I also want to recognize the Marine Corps, whose fallen comrades were among the earliest victims of Iran’s decades-long war against the United States and Israel — those taken hostage with U.S. Embassy personnel in Tehran and the hundreds killed in Beirut in 1983, before any of us on this dais showed up in Washington.
    “Generations of servicemembers carry the scars of Iran-backed attacks on American personnel in the region over the decades. Their sacrifices remind us that ‘Death to America’ is more than rhetoric.
    “For too long, Tehran itself faced negligible costs for the actions of their terrorist proxies. Thanks to Israel’s initiative in turning the tables – and the President’s decision to back them up – the Islamic Republic is finally paying a steep price.
    “This weekend’s events are yet a further reminder of the challenges facing the joint force today. And my colleagues and I hope to understand the extent to which you think the President’s budget request would provide the resources necessary to meet, deter, and defeat them.
    “Each of the Services is grappling in its own way with the reality of renewed major-power competition and with the increasing alignment of America’s adversaries. As you know, major transformations test assumptions and service culture. They test the capacity of the industrial base. And, importantly, they hinge on transparent working relations with Congress and on robust and consistent full-year investments in major priorities.
    “I’ll offer just a few observations in this vein. First, the good: Secretary Phelan, I’ve appreciated your recognition of Congress’ role in equipping the Navy and Marine Corps and the collaborative approach you’ve taken with this subcommittee. Your willingness to communicate transparently will continue to benefit our shared mission of restoring the Navy’s preeminence. I also appreciate your persistent engagement with the maritime industrial base. Your travels to see our shipbuilding challenges across the country, firsthand, have not gone unnoticed. We will not solve this problem without the private sector.
    “Likewise, General Smith – The Marine Corps spent years developing a clear rationale for major transformation, made tough and deliberate choices, and engaged Congress effectively along the way. Marine Corps Force Design 2030 continues to offer other services valuable lessons as they pursue transformation efforts of their own. I look forward to hearing how the Marine Corps’ own transformation to meet future threats is going: the good, the bad, and the ugly. But, to be quite frank, the decisions this Administration has made on resourcing the Department of Defense – a full-year CR that failed to address rising costs of operations and maintenance and major modernization requirements, a one-time reconciliation investment that risks new cliffs for sustainment, and a base request for FY26 even lower than the previous Administration’s FY25 request – make each of your jobs more difficult.
    “At the most basic level, an FY26 base defense topline that doesn’t keep pace with inflation – let alone with the ‘pacing’ threat of the PRC – does not show we’re serious about the tasks before us. Neither does pretending that one-time injections of funding are a substitute for consistent appropriations. For example, none of you needs me to point out the breadth of bipartisan support for accelerating procurement of Virginia-class submarines. If the Administration shares our interest in meaningfully expanding shipbuilding capacity, why are investments like this one not built into the base budget request? Why are we allocating funds under extraordinary parliamentary authorities for capabilities that would otherwise have been funded in an annual appropriation? Will the Navy even be able to complete two Virginia class subs with reconciliation money before the funding expires? 
    “Leaving aside the color of money, we’ll also want to hear your assessment of the impediments to delivering essential capabilities like submarines, destroyers, and amphibious vessels at the speed of relevance. This subcommittee has been consistently generous, but despite pouring billions more dollars into the effort, the timeline for producing a Virginia-class sub continues to stretch longer. Of course, we don’t just need to build platforms faster. We need to figure out how to make munitions more efficiently – especially the exquisite missile defense interceptors and long-range fires on which current operations are relying so heavily. How has the Navy handled the high operational tempo in the Red Sea? How does the FY26 request reflect the urgent need to deepen our magazines in a more cost-effective manner?
    “Finally, I’m curious about the lessons your services are taking from current conflicts. What has the Navy learned from the demands of long deployments and the costs of air wing accidents on the U.S.S. Truman? What lessons is the service taking from Ukraine’s decimation of Russia’s Black Sea fleet? How is the Navy approaching force protection itself? Is it hardening major assets, both in port and at sea? Does it have sufficient resources to do so?
    “What is the Marine Corps learning from Russia’s ground war in Ukraine? How does information-sharing at the cutting-edge of modern warfare inform the service’s ongoing transformation effort? To what extent is success in the face of unique Indo-Pacific circumstances dependent on things outside your control, like logistics and transportation provided by other services or commands?
    “I will be curious for each of your observations. I would just suggest that any honest accounting of the task at hand will have to reckon with the deficiencies of the defense topline. If our objective is to build a force capable of projecting power globally to deter, fight, and prevail against Chinese aggression, possibly while engaged in conflict in other theatres, I don’t see how this budget request gets us there. So we’ll look forward to your testimony in just a moment.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1860, Women Veterans Cancer Care Coordination Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Bill Summary

    H.R. 1860 would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to designate care coordinators for veterans with breast or gynecologic cancer. The bill also would extend a temporary limitation on certain pension payments through September 2032.

    Estimated Federal Cost

    The estimated budgetary effects of H.R. 1860 are shown in Table 1. The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 550 (health) and 700 (veterans benefits and services).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Budgetary Effects of H.R. 1860
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035
     

    Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending

    		    

    Estimated Budget Authority

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    -39

    1

    1

    1

    5

    -30

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    -39

    1

    1

    1

    5

    -30
     

    Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation

    		    

    Estimated Authorization

    *

    2

    2

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    13

    28

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    2

    2

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    13

    28

    Basis of Estimate

    For this estimate, CBO assumes that H.R. 1860 will be enacted in fiscal year 2025 and that outlays will follow historical spending patterns for similar VA programs.

    Provisions that Affect Spending Subject to Appropriation and Direct Spending

    Section 2 would require VA to designate or hire a care coordinator for breast and gynecologic cancer in each of the department’s 18 Veterans Integrated Services Networks (VISN) within one year of enactment. The coordinators would monitor and integrate care for those cancers that veterans receive from the department directly and through the VA-funded Community Care program. The coordinators also would collect and report information on the outcomes of veterans’ cancer treatment.

    Under section 2, VA would need one full-time employee in each VISN. CBO estimates that annual compensation and operating expenses would amount to $215,000 per person, on average. Implementing section 2 would therefore cost $38 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    CBO expects that some of the costs of implementing the bill would be paid from the Toxic Exposures Fund (TEF) established by Public Law 117-168, the Honoring our PACT Act. The TEF is a mandatory appropriation that VA uses to pay for health care, disability claims processing, medical research, and IT modernization that benefit veterans who were exposed to environmental hazards.

    Additional spending from the TEF would occur if legislation increases the costs of similar activities that benefit veterans with such exposure. Thus, in addition to increasing spending subject to appropriation, enacting section 2 would increase amounts paid from the TEF, which are classified as direct spending. CBO projects that the proportion of costs paid by the TEF will grow over time based on the amount of formerly discretionary appropriations that CBO expects will be provided through the mandatory appropriation as specified in the Honoring our PACT Act.

    CBO estimates that over the 2025-2035 period, implementing section 2 would increase spending subject to appropriation by $28 million and direct spending by $10 million.

    Direct Spending

    In addition to expanding benefits that would partly be covered by the TEF, enacting H.R. 1860 would affect direct spending by extending a statutory limitation on VA pension payments. In total, enacting the bill would decrease net direct spending by $30 million over the 2025-2035 period (see Table 2).

    Under current law, VA reduces pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes to $90 per month. That required reduction expires November 30, 2031. Section 3 would extend that reduction for 10 months, through September 30, 2032. CBO estimates that extending that requirement would reduce VA benefits by $10 million per month. (Those benefits are paid from mandatory appropriations and are therefore considered direct spending.) As a result of that reduction in beneficiaries’ income, Medicaid would pay more of the cost of their care, increasing spending for that program by $6 million per month. Thus, enacting section 3 would reduce net direct spending by $40 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    Table 2.

    Estimated Changes in Direct Spending Under H.R. 1860
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035

    Cancer Care Coordinators

    		                      

    Estimated Budget Authority

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    5

    10

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    5

    10

    Pensions

    		                      

    Estimated Budget Authority

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    Total Changes

    		                        

    Estimated Budget Authority

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    -39

    1

    1

    1

    5

    -30

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    -39

    1

    1

    1

    5

    -30

    Spending Subject to Appropriation

    The discussion above in “Provisions That Affect Spending Subject to Appropriation and Direct Spending” describes the costs of implementing the care coordination program for veterans with breast or gynecologic cancer. CBO estimates that establishing the program would increase spending subject to appropriation by $28 million over the 2025‑2035 period.

    Section 2 also would require VA to submit a report comparing health outcomes of veterans who receive care for breast and gynecologic cancer through VA facilities and community care providers. Based on the costs of similar reporting requirements, CBO estimates that preparing the report would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025‑2035 period. Any such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    Pay-As-You-Go Considerations

    The Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 establishes budget-reporting and enforcement procedures for legislation affecting direct spending or revenues. The net changes in outlays that are subject to those pay-as-you-go procedures are shown in Table 1.

    Increase in Long-Term Net Direct Spending and Deficits

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1860 would not increase net direct spending by more than $2.5 billion in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1860 would not increase on‑budget deficits by more than $5 billion in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    Mandates

    The bill contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

    Mandates: Grace Watson

    Estimate Reviewed By

    David Newman
    Chief, Defense, International Affairs, and Veterans’ Affairs Cost Estimates Unit

    Kathleen FitzGerald 
    Chief, Public and Private Mandates Unit

    Christina Hawley Anthony
    Deputy Director of Budget Analysis

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Blue Navy Recovery Launches to Simplify Unclaimed Property Recovery in California and Georgia, Securing Over $6 Million in Recovered Funds for Americans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Irvine, CA, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Blue Navy Recovery, a trusted unclaimed property recovery firm, officially launched its services in California and Georgia with the mission to make reclaiming state-held assets simple, transparent, and accessible. As part of its debut, the company announced a major milestone—successfully returning over $6 million in lost and forgotten funds to rightful owners.

    Blue Navy Recovery’s official site, guiding users in California and Georgia through the unclaimed property process.

    With a deep understanding of the bureaucratic challenges faced by individuals attempting to recover unclaimed property in California and Georgia, Blue Navy Recovery has developed a model centered on transparency, accessibility, and results. The company handles every aspect of the recovery process—from document preparation and verification to communications with state agencies—allowing claimants to avoid the delays and confusion that often accompany the traditional self-filing route. By eliminating upfront fees and operating on a contingency basis, Blue Navy ensures that its services remain accessible to all, regardless of financial background.

    Founded by individuals who experienced the frustrations of dealing with state-run claims systems firsthand, Blue Navy Recovery was built on the premise that reclaiming what is rightfully yours should not be a convoluted or intimidating process. This user-centric philosophy has driven the company’s growth and underpinned its reputation as a trusted partner in asset recovery. With consistent praise from clients on platforms like Google and Yelp, the firm has continually demonstrated its commitment to client satisfaction and operational excellence.

    “Reaching the $6 million threshold is not just a financial benchmark—it’s a validation of the trust our clients place in us,” said David Dorfman, Managing Partner at Blue Navy Recovery. “Each successful claim represents a real person or family reclaiming money that had all but disappeared into the system. It’s a privilege to play a role in returning these assets and creating financial relief or opportunity for our clients.”

    As unclaimed property continues to grow nationwide—with billions sitting idle in state treasuries—Blue Navy Recovery is poised to expand its reach and impact. The company plans to further invest in its streamlined recovery process and explore service enhancements that support even faster claims processing. Whether assisting a retiree tracking down a forgotten pension or a young professional discovering an old security deposit, Blue Navy remains committed to making unclaimed property recovery straightforward and stress-free. For answers to common questions about the recovery process, visit the unclaimed property recovery FAQ section on Blue Navy’s website.

    Q: What is unclaimed property recovery? 

    Unclaimed property recovery is the process of reclaiming money or assets that have been turned over to the state due to inactivity or lost contact. This could include forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, or stock dividends. 

    Q: How do I recover unclaimed property in California or Georgia? 

    In California and Georgia, you must submit a claim through the state’s unclaimed property division. Blue Navy Recovery simplifies this process by preparing your documents, guiding you through verification, and managing communication with the state. 

    Q: Is Blue Navy Recovery legit? 

    Yes — Blue Navy Recovery is a trusted, BBB-accredited business with a proven track record of successfully recovering unclaimed funds for clients. We never charge upfront and only earn a percentage when your claim is paid.

    For more information about California unclaimed property, Georgia unclaimed funds, and Blue Navy Recovery, please visit the company’s website at https://bluenavy.org/.

    Blue Navy Recovery’s client portal streamlines the claims process across California and Georgia.

    About Blue Navy Recovery

    Blue Navy Recovery is a professional unclaimed property recovery firm that helps individuals and families recover lost or forgotten funds held by the state. With deep experience navigating the claims process in California and Georgia, we’ve helped return millions of dollars to rightful owners. We handle the paperwork, follow-ups, and filing — so you don’t have to. Our team only collects a percentage of the recovered amount, with no upfront cost. 

    Press inquiries

    Blue Navy Recovery
    https://www.bluenavy.org
    David Dorfman
    david@bluenavy.org
    (619) 215-1972

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: US attack on Iran lacks legal justification and could lead to more nuclear proliferation

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Hastings Dunn, Professor of International Politics in the Department of Political Science and International Studies, University of Birmingham

    After a stern warning from Donald Trump, Israel and Iran appear finally to be observing a US-brokered ceasefire announced by Donald Trump overnight on June 23. But just as it remains unclear what the state of the conflict is, many other uncertainties remain when it comes to the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

    We still don’t know the extent to which Iran’s stock of enriched uranium and the capability to use it have been destroyed. But leaving aside such practical considerations, the US bombing raid also constituted an attack on the prevailing international legal order.

    In some ways, the US actions echo the 1981 Israeli strike on Osirak when the Israeli Air Force attacked and partially destroyed Iraq’s Osirak nuclear reactor, killing ten Iraqi soldiers and one French technician.

    However, the US attack can be seen as more serious because it has been launched in a far more fragile and geopolitical environment. Moreover, the state violating the legal rules is the erstwhile guardian of the legal order –– the USA.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    The attacks appear to be the logical follow through of Trump’s withdrawal from the joint comprehensive plan of action (JCPOA) in 2018. This was the Obama-era agreement that significantly limited Iran’s enrichment of nuclear material. For Trump, that negotiated deal was imperfect, as it relied on ongoing Iranian restraint. His decision to unleash US bombers was designed to end the nascent Iranian nuclear threat once and for all.

    But such unilateral actions rarely result in such black and white results. And this situation shows every indication of being no different. It is for this reason that negotiated solutions and agreed legal frameworks are generally regarded as better long-term solutions than military force.

    A significant inhibition on the use of force to remove nuclear threats has been its lack of justification under international law. When the administration of George W Bush decided to launch its invasion of Iraq in 2003, the US, UK and Australian governments that spearheaded the invasion relied on the express legal justification that Iraq was already in breach of existing UN security council resolutions that required it to be disarmed of all weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

    For his part, Trump relied on the argument that Iran’s nuclear facilities already posed an imminent threat to US security. This argument had been undermined by none other than Trump’s director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, just weeks previously.

    Gabbard testified before Congress in March that the US “continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Khamenei has not authorised the nuclear weapons programme he suspended in 2003”.

    Tulsi Gabbard delivers the annual threat assessment in March 2025.

    Trump, who has a habit of ignoring his intelligence community, dismissed Gabbard’s assessment saying, “I don’t care what she said. I think they’re very close to having it”.

    No legal justification

    One thing that is striking about the June 22 US bombing campaign is the cursory attention given to any substantive legal justification. It’s a distinct contrast to Bush’s attempts – however much this strained the law to breaking point – to justify his 2003 use of force.

    The US ambassador to the United Nations, Dorothy Camille Shea, made only the most limited of references to the legality of the action in her speech to the UN security council a day after the US strikes.

    George W Bush’s ‘Mission accomplished’ speech.

    In our book Drones, Force, and Law we demonstrate how the defining mark of an international society is that states recognise the need to give an account of their behaviour in terms of the accepted legal rules.

    Even when policymakers know that they are breaking established interpretations of the law, they rarely admit this publicly. They seek to offer a legal justification – however strained and implausible – that is in conformity with the rules.

    If a state openly admitted that it was violating the law, giving a justification for its conduct only in terms of that state’s values and beliefs, then it would be treating others with contempt. It would, to quote the respected Australian international relations theorist, Hedley Bull, “place in jeopardy all the settled expectations that states have about one another’s behaviour”.

    This is exactly what Trump is doing by not seeking to expressly justify the US’ use of force in legal terms. This invites others to mount a broader assault on international law itself as something that is both fragile and hypocritical in the hands of the powerful.

    Unintended consequences

    The US has justified its attack as aimed at preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. But a perverse consequence of the attack is that it is likely to further erode the norm against proliferation. There are two key arguments here.

    The first is that all three Iranian facilities attacked were, before Israel initially attacked Iran on June 12, under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards. So, by attacking these installations, the US – like Israel four decades ago with its attack against Osirak – was signalling that it had no confidence in the multilateral mechanisms of non-proliferation. It was essentially saying that it has to rely on unilateral action.

    The second consequence is that a strike aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons may instead push it – and others – to accelerate weaponisation efforts. These US attacks may confirm for many the earlier lessons from Iraq, as well as subsequently in Libya and Ukraine. States without nuclear weapons are vulnerable to regime change or military action.

    If this is the lesson that is drawn by those who live in dangerous neighbourhoods and who are increasingly worried about their security, then the US action could serve as a further spur to nuclear proliferation.

    Trump has shown a worrying propensity to ignore legal constraints on his power both domestically and internationally. This action, less than six months into his administration, is an alarming harbinger of his contempt for the internationally agreed legal rules restricting the use of force.

    David Hastings Dunn has previously received funding from the ESRC, the Gerda Henkel Foundation, the Open Democracy Foundation and has previously been both a NATO and a Fulbright Fellow.

    Nicholas Wheeler has formally received funding from the Economic and Social Research Council and the Open Society Foundations.

    – ref. US attack on Iran lacks legal justification and could lead to more nuclear proliferation – https://theconversation.com/us-attack-on-iran-lacks-legal-justification-and-could-lead-to-more-nuclear-proliferation-259638

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: President Trump Announces Appointments to the Homeland Security Advisory Council

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    President Donald J. Trump and Secretary Noem appointed new members to the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC) and announced the date of the council’s first meeting.

    Formed on March 19, 2002, the HSAC leverages the experience, expertise, and national and global connections of its membership to provide the Secretary of Homeland Security with real-time, real-world and independent advice on homeland security operations.

    This new-look, America First HSAC will draw upon a deep well of public and private sector experience from homeland security experts committed to fulfilling President Trump’s agenda.

    The Homeland Security Advisory Council will hold its first meeting at DHS headquarters in Washington, D.C. on July 2nd, 2025.

    Appointed Members:

    • Henry McMaster, Governor, South Carolina, Chair
    • Joseph Gruters, State Senator, Florida, Vice Chair
    • Marc Andreessen, Co-Founder and General Partner, Andreessen Horowitz
    • David Chesnoff, Attorney, Chesnoff and Schonfeld.
    • Christopher “Chris” Cox, Founder, Bikers for Trump
    • Mark Dannels, Cochise County Sheriff, Arizona
    • Richard “Bo” Dietl, CEO and Founder, Beau Dietl & Associates
    • Matthew Flynn, Attorney, Steptoe. Former Deputy Assistant to the President. Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense.
    • Rudolph W. Giuliani, Former Mayor, New York City
    • Harvey C. Jewett IV, Retired President of Super 8 Motels Inc., Retired President and Chief Operating Officer, Rivett Group LLC., President Great Plains Education Foundation, Inc.
    • Steve Kirby, Founding Partner, Bluestem Capital Company
    • Mark Levin, Broadcast News Analyst, The Mark Levin Show
    • Corey Lewandowski, Chief Advisor to the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security
    • Nicholas Luna, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Implementation, The White House
    • George Lund, CEO and Chairman, Torch Hill Investment Partners
    • Edward McMullen Jr, Senior Policy Advisor, Adams and Reese LLP. Former Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein,
    • Georgette Mosbacher, Co-Chair, Three Seas Programming, Atlantic Council’s Europe Center, Former Ambassador to Poland
    • James “Jim” Pallotta, Managing Partner and Founder, The Raptor Group.
    • Omar Qudrat, CEO, Maden, Founder, Muslim Coalition for America, Major, U.S. Army Reserve
    • Stephen Sloan, Global Head of Private Market Secondaries, Portfolio Advisors and Co-Founder, Cogent Partners
    • Robert “Bob” Smith, Former U.S. Senator, New Hampshire
    • Alexei Woltornist, Co-Founder and President, ATHOS. Former Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Department of Homeland Security

    To learn more about the Homeland Security Advisory Council, including its previous taskings, reports, and recommendations, visit DHS.gov/Homeland-Security-Advisory-Council.

    MIL Security OSI –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: President Trump Announces Appointments to the Homeland Security Advisory Council

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    President Donald J. Trump and Secretary Noem appointed new members to the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC) and announced the date of the council’s first meeting.

    Formed on March 19, 2002, the HSAC leverages the experience, expertise, and national and global connections of its membership to provide the Secretary of Homeland Security with real-time, real-world and independent advice on homeland security operations.

    This new-look, America First HSAC will draw upon a deep well of public and private sector experience from homeland security experts committed to fulfilling President Trump’s agenda.

    The Homeland Security Advisory Council will hold its first meeting at DHS headquarters in Washington, D.C. on July 2nd, 2025.

    Appointed Members:

    • Henry McMaster, Governor, South Carolina, Chair
    • Joseph Gruters, State Senator, Florida, Vice Chair
    • Marc Andreessen, Co-Founder and General Partner, Andreessen Horowitz
    • David Chesnoff, Attorney, Chesnoff and Schonfeld.
    • Christopher “Chris” Cox, Founder, Bikers for Trump
    • Mark Dannels, Cochise County Sheriff, Arizona
    • Richard “Bo” Dietl, CEO and Founder, Beau Dietl & Associates
    • Matthew Flynn, Attorney, Steptoe. Former Deputy Assistant to the President. Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense.
    • Rudolph W. Giuliani, Former Mayor, New York City
    • Harvey C. Jewett IV, Retired President of Super 8 Motels Inc., Retired President and Chief Operating Officer, Rivett Group LLC., President Great Plains Education Foundation, Inc.
    • Steve Kirby, Founding Partner, Bluestem Capital Company
    • Mark Levin, Broadcast News Analyst, The Mark Levin Show
    • Corey Lewandowski, Chief Advisor to the Secretary, Department of Homeland Security
    • Nicholas Luna, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Implementation, The White House
    • George Lund, CEO and Chairman, Torch Hill Investment Partners
    • Edward McMullen Jr, Senior Policy Advisor, Adams and Reese LLP. Former Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein,
    • Georgette Mosbacher, Co-Chair, Three Seas Programming, Atlantic Council’s Europe Center, Former Ambassador to Poland
    • James “Jim” Pallotta, Managing Partner and Founder, The Raptor Group.
    • Omar Qudrat, CEO, Maden, Founder, Muslim Coalition for America, Major, U.S. Army Reserve
    • Stephen Sloan, Global Head of Private Market Secondaries, Portfolio Advisors and Co-Founder, Cogent Partners
    • Robert “Bob” Smith, Former U.S. Senator, New Hampshire
    • Alexei Woltornist, Co-Founder and President, ATHOS. Former Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Department of Homeland Security

    To learn more about the Homeland Security Advisory Council, including its previous taskings, reports, and recommendations, visit DHS.gov/Homeland-Security-Advisory-Council.

    MIL Security OSI –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 8 people killed, 84 injured as a result of missile strike on central Ukraine – head of Dnipropetrovsk OVA

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    KYIV, June 24 (Xinhua) — At least eight people were killed and 84 others were wounded on Tuesday in a Russian missile strike on Ukraine’s fourth-largest city of Dnipro, located in the central Dnipropetrovsk region, the head of the Dnipropetrovsk Regional Military Administration (OVA) Serhiy Lysak said on Telegram.

    According to him, 62 victims were hospitalized, seven of them are in serious condition.

    S. Lysak added that due to the Russian attack in Dnepr, civilian infrastructure was damaged, including a dormitory, a gymnasium and an administrative building, and a train was also damaged.

    In addition, the head of the OVA reported that the Russian Federation attacked the city of Samara, which is located approximately 26 km from the Dnieper. There, according to S. Lysak, two people were killed and 11 more were injured. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Defense Employee Charged with Unlawful Retention of Classified Documents

    Source: US State of California

    A civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) was arrested and made her initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents.

    Ewa Maria Ciszak, 64, of Huntsville, Alabama, is charged with knowingly removing and retaining classified documents and materials.

    According to court documents unsealed today in the Northern District of Alabama, Ciszak has been employed at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) since January 2023. As part of her duties, she held a security clearance and had access to classified materials related to the national defense of the United States. Beginning in approximately February 2025, and continuing through June 18, 2025, Ciszak allegedly removed classified documents from MDA facilities without authorization and transported them to her personal residence and vehicle, which were not authorized for classified material storage.

    On June 18, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant authorized by the U.S. District Court, federal agents executed a search of Ciszak’s home, person, and vehicle. Agents recovered multiple documents bearing classification markings up to the SECRET level. Some of the documents had been placed in her personal backpack that day and transported directly from MDA to her home.

    Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama, and Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Birmingham Field Office and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations are investigating the case. Valuable assistant was provided by the FBI Atlanta Field Office’s Savannah Resident Agency and the Missile Defense Agency.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Cornelius for the Northern District of Alabama and Trial Attorneys Chantelle Dial and Adam Barry of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum 2025 – Time to ‘unite, innovate & deliver’

    Source: NATO

    On Tuesday (24 June 2025), Secretary General Mark Rutte called on NATO Allies, partners and industry to “unite, innovate and deliver” to ensure the Alliance is able to “win this new war of production”.

    Speaking at the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum in The Hague, Mr Rutte emphasised the significant steps the Alliance is taking to strengthen its defence industrial capacity, increase cooperation, enhance innovation, and expand hundreds of new and existing production lines.  “There’s no defence without a strong defence industry, and there’s no European security without a strong transatlantic bond,” Mr Rutte said.

    Urging Allies and industry to do more, better and together, the Secretary General highlighted the clear demand signal NATO is sending to the defence industry, through the massive uplift Allies have agreed in capability targets.

    Joined onstage by the President of the European Commission Ursula Von der Leyen, Mr Rutte welcomed the European Union’s Readiness 2030 plan that promises to unleash up to 800 billion euros for defence, and encouraged the removal of barriers to transatlantic defence cooperation.

    President Zelenskyy of Ukraine also made a speech at the event urging further security assistance and increased defence industrial cooperation between NATO Allies and Ukraine. Mr Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine’s growing defence industry and its world-leading drone production in particular, as an attractive basis for further collaboration.

    The NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum brought together defence ministers, industry leaders and experts from across the Alliance and beyond to identify practical solutions to strengthen transatlantic defence industrial cooperation, boost production capacity, support innovation, and harness the potential of the commercial space sector.

    At the start of the event, business leaders from Europe and North America presented the Secretary General with an ambition statement, reflecting their collective commitment to support NATO’s Industrial Capacity Expansion Pledge for the ‘prosperity, security and resilience of the Transatlantic economy and society’. NATO also released its first public version of the Updated Defence Production Action Plan, which outlines NATO’s commitment to aggregate demand, boost capacity and strengthen engagement with industry.

    MIL Security OSI –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Department of Defense Employee Charged with Unlawful Retention of Classified Documents

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    A civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) was arrested and made her initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents.

    Ewa Maria Ciszak, 64, of Huntsville, Alabama, is charged with knowingly removing and retaining classified documents and materials.

    According to court documents unsealed today in the Northern District of Alabama, Ciszak has been employed at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) since January 2023. As part of her duties, she held a security clearance and had access to classified materials related to the national defense of the United States. Beginning in approximately February 2025, and continuing through June 18, 2025, Ciszak allegedly removed classified documents from MDA facilities without authorization and transported them to her personal residence and vehicle, which were not authorized for classified material storage.

    On June 18, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant authorized by the U.S. District Court, federal agents executed a search of Ciszak’s home, person, and vehicle. Agents recovered multiple documents bearing classification markings up to the SECRET level. Some of the documents had been placed in her personal backpack that day and transported directly from MDA to her home.

    Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama, and Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Birmingham Field Office and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations are investigating the case. Valuable assistant was provided by the FBI Atlanta Field Office’s Savannah Resident Agency and the Missile Defense Agency.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Cornelius for the Northern District of Alabama and Trial Attorneys Chantelle Dial and Adam Barry of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Department of Defense Employee Charged with Unlawful Retention of Classified Documents

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    A civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) was arrested and made her initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents.

    Ewa Maria Ciszak, 64, of Huntsville, Alabama, is charged with knowingly removing and retaining classified documents and materials.

    According to court documents unsealed today in the Northern District of Alabama, Ciszak has been employed at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) since January 2023. As part of her duties, she held a security clearance and had access to classified materials related to the national defense of the United States. Beginning in approximately February 2025, and continuing through June 18, 2025, Ciszak allegedly removed classified documents from MDA facilities without authorization and transported them to her personal residence and vehicle, which were not authorized for classified material storage.

    On June 18, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant authorized by the U.S. District Court, federal agents executed a search of Ciszak’s home, person, and vehicle. Agents recovered multiple documents bearing classification markings up to the SECRET level. Some of the documents had been placed in her personal backpack that day and transported directly from MDA to her home.

    Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama, and Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Birmingham Field Office and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations are investigating the case. Valuable assistant was provided by the FBI Atlanta Field Office’s Savannah Resident Agency and the Missile Defense Agency.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Cornelius for the Northern District of Alabama and Trial Attorneys Chantelle Dial and Adam Barry of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Defence Minister McGuinty to visit Latvia

    Source: Government of Canada News

    June 24, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    The Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, will make his inaugural visit to Latvia from June 25 to 26, 2025. During his trip, he will participate in a flower laying ceremony ahead of his first bilateral meeting with Andris Sprūds, Defence Minister of Latvia. Minister McGuinty will also personally thank Canadian Armed Forces members deployed in the country for their service.

    The Minister will attend the Transfer of Command Authority ceremony for the Canadian-led North Atlantic Treaty Organization Multinational Brigade in Latvia, where he will deliver remarks. Following the ceremony, Minister McGuinty will hold an audio-only callback with media.

    Minister McGuinty’s visit underscores Canada’s steadfast dedication to NATO and its commitment to supporting deterrence and defence efforts in the region.

    Media Callback Details:

    • Date: June 26, 2025
    • Time: 5:30 p.m. EEST
    • Registration: Media are requested to pre-register by emailing  mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca. Further information will be provided upon registration.
       

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: International Convention Gavels

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    This article was featured in the Summer 2025 IAM Journal and was written by IAM Communications Representative Bill Harkum.

    The gavels used at the 2024 International Convention in New York City symbolize the diverse crafts and skills of our membership. Four unique gavels were produced by four proud lodges within the Eastern Territory.

    The IAM Ritual used at union meetings tells us that by tra­dition, two raps of the gavel are a call to order for the gathered members. Three raps of the gavel require the members to stand and be silent. One rap of the gavel means members take their seats and maintain order.

    THREE RAPS OF THE FIRST GAVEL

    One gavel was made by Local S6 members in Maine, home to Bath Tron Works and members who build ships for the U.S. Navy. Derek Bozeman of IAM Local S6 collaborated with Jeremy Tripp, a member of Bath Maine Draftsmen Association Local 3999, collaborated to produce a gavel out scrap ship material and stainless steel. The result is an impressively balanced and weigh­ ted gavel that looks like materials representing the yard of this ship building facility.

    Tripp said “we were able to incorporate a lot of the identity of the yard, the shipyard, into it.”

    The shine of the stainless steel against an inlaid TAM brass coin and a brass outline of a Navy ship as a crown piece above the hammerhead shows the skill and crea­tivity to turn a simple tool into a showpiece.

    “The pride, execution and talent that went into this gavel speaks for itself when you see it,” said IAM District 4 Business Representative Chris Wiers.

    THREE RAPS OF THE NEXT GAVEL

    The next gavel is from Local 175 in York, a home of Harley-Davidson motorcycles manufacturing. Using scrap steel, three members of the lodge fashioned a Harley handlebar and throttle into a gavel, and a Harley gas tank into a strike plate.

    “The theme was, ‘We make the eagle fly,”‘ said Sam Santiago, one of the Local 175 craftsmen to do the intricate work by hand.

    William Anthony IV is the member who artistically trimmed, bent, and hand painted the steel to look like bird feathers. Scott Karaschak produced the handle bar and motorcycle throttle body used in the gavel itself.

    “I am in total awe of what our members did at local 175, from the beginning to the finished product,” said TAM District 98 Assistant Directing Business Representative Kermit Forbes Jr.

    THREE RAPS OF THE NEXT GAVEL

    The next gavel is made by a member of Local 1943 at Cleveland-Cliffs in Middletown, Ohio. This factory is the largest producer of flat-rolled steel in North America, much of which is used in automobile production.

    Michael Wilhelm is a maintenance technician, responsible for attending to and fixing the machinery within this steel mill, for over a decade. He’s known for always staying busy, and finding projects to work on, regardless of the rest cycles in the plan. Wilhelm made all the parts and components of this gavel by band.

    The gavel is made from flat stainless steel and some brass. It features a rotating center coil, driven by a step down motor that Wilhelm had to specially tweak to appear to be levitating inside the hammer head. It has a micro furnace with burner boxes at the corners, and a blower motor to move the air from the furnace.

    “Mike is a real go-getter. No idle time, always working,” said Local 1943 President and Directing  Business  Representative Shawn Coffey. “I knew it would be a success and he would knock it out of the park.”

    THREE RAPS OF THE NEXT GAVEL

    The final gavel was made by IAM Local 4 member John Wible at the Winpisinger Center in Hollywood, Md. It is the only gavel for this convention made from wood, and the craftsmanship is just as intricate as its steel siblings used at the International Convention.

    Wible is a full time mainte­nance technician at the Winpisin­ger Center. When not at work he is a life member and volunteer firefi­ghter at this local fire department. “We are so proud of every gavel that’s being made. It showcases the talent our members have, the creativity that our members have,” said IAM Eastern Territory Gene­ral Vice President David Sullivan. ‘The gavel is very, very important to our process, and anybody who has the honor to swing that gavel, needs to respect that gavel, and respect our members, and always do what’s right for our members.” 

    All four gavels are now on dis­ play at IAM Headquarters.

    One rap of the gavel so that all can be seated.

    Watch Video Here

    The post International Convention Gavels appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025
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