NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Signs Special Session Legislation into Law

    Source: US State of Missouri

    JUNE 14, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Senate Bills (SB) 1, 3, and 4 into law following the special session he convened for disaster relief, property tax relief, economic development and business retention, and budget initiatives.

    “We are proud of how the General Assembly came together during this special session to deliver real results for Missourians,” said Governor Kehoe. “We called legislators back to Jefferson City because the stakes were too high to wait—families and communities needed disaster relief, taxpayers deserved certainty, and critical job-saving investments were on the line. Without action, thousands of Missourians would have been left without much-needed support, and the state would risk losing jobs and economic development opportunities that are key drivers for growth—not just for Kansas City, but for our entire state. These investments demonstrate that Missouri is committed to taking care of our own, staying competitive, and backing initiatives that secure long-term economic stability for our communities.”

    SB 1 appropriates $25 million in extraordinary support to the Missouri Housing Development Commission to provide additional emergency aid to low-income households impacted by severe weather. It also allocates $100 million to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) for disaster relief and $50 million to the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (DHEWD) for the University of Missouri for the planning, design, and construction of the Radioisotope Science Center at the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR). This legislation also provides non-General Revenue funding for a number of critical projects across the state, including:

    • $55 million to the Department of Agriculture (MDA) for new stalling barns at the Missouri State Fair
    • $13.25 million to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for State Parks capital improvements
    • $20.6 million to the Department of Conservation (MDC) for conservation projects across the state
    • $800,000 to DPS for Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Troop A headquarters improvements
    • $12.7 million to the Office of Administration (OA) for a new Troop E crime lab
    • $35 million to OA for national guard facilities
    • $48.1 million to the Department of Mental Health (DMH) for the new Kansas City region 200-bed mental health hospital
    • $2.1 million to OA for Supreme Court building improvements

    SB 3 ensures Missouri remains competitive in retaining major sports teams, while also delivering targeted tax relief for storm-impacted Missourians and supporting long-term economic growth. The legislation includes the following provisions:

    • Show-Me Sports Investment Act: Authorizes the state to partner with professional sports teams to help finance stadium construction through bond payments and one-time tax credits with built-in protections for taxpayers.
    • Tax Credits for Homestead Damage: Creates a tax credit of up to $5,000 for home or renter insurance deductibles incurred due to severe weather damage in a declared disaster area in 2025, with flexible carry-forward and transfer options.
    • Tax Credits for Certain Sporting Events: Updates two different tax credit programs related to amateur sporting events in Missouri, aimed at making them easier to use and more effective at attracting and supporting sports events while making a positive impact on the state’s economy.
    • Property Tax Credit: Requires certain counties to ask voters whether to freeze or modestly cap real property tax increases for eligible homeowners.

    SB 4 streamlines the delivery of disaster housing relief by allowing the immediate transfer of emergency aid to the Missouri Housing Development Commission when the Governor requests a presidential disaster declaration. The legislation also expands existing program eligibility from 50 percent to 75 percent of median household income and removes administrative burdens and costs to expedite aid for Missouri families.

    For additional provisions and more information on the legislation signed into law, click here. To view photos from the bill signing, click this link.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 2025–26 ACT Budget: what’s in it for Central Canberra

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Griffith shops will receive upgrades.

    In brief

    • The 2025–26 ACT Budget includes investment in community facilities in the inner north, inner south and the city.
    • These include shop and footpath upgrades.
    • This article overviews some of the facilities receiving support.

    The 2025–26 ACT Budget will support improvements to community facilities across the inner north, inner south and city.

    The investment will deliver practical improvements in the areas residents use most.

    Shop and amenity improvements

    Griffith shops will receive upgrades.

    New toilet facilities will be installed at both Red Hill and Downer shops.

    Sport and recreation upgrades

    There will be female-friendly changeroom upgrades at playing fields in Griffith, Ainslie and Reid.

    These are part of ACT-wide investment in inclusive sports facilities.

    Upgrades to community infrastructure and public spaces

    Footpaths across the region will be improved and better connected. This is part of an ACT-wide program.

    Lighting upgrades, including on City Walk, will improve safety and visibility.

    There will be stormwater upgrades at Dickson Shops.

    The Budget will also invest in concept design masterplanning to renew the City Hill park.

    More local healthcare options

    The ACT Government is investing in planning and feasibility work for the new Inner South Health Centre in Griffith.

    The facility will help meet the growing health needs of Inner South residents.

    Its delivery is part of ACT-wide investment in local community health.

    Read more like this:

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IDF says it has killed over 20 Iranian commanders

    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

    JERUSALEM, June 14 (Xinhua) — More than 20 senior Iranian military commanders have been killed since the start of Israel’s operation against Iran on Friday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Saturday.

    As noted in the statement, during the first strike within the operation, Israeli fighter jets, guided by intelligence data, eliminated the deputy chief of intelligence of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Iran (AF) Gholamreza Mehrabi and the chief of the General Staff of the AF Mohammad Bagheri.

    “G. Mehrabi played a key role in assessing intelligence, operational planning and preparing military operations against Israel,” the IDF said in a statement.

    According to the IDF, Bagheri controlled most of Iran’s long-range surface-to-surface missiles and cruise missiles, which are Iran’s main offensive weapons against Israel.

    Bagheri also oversaw Iran’s firepower systems and played an active role in decisions to attack Israel in April and October 2024, the statement said.

    The chief of the General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces was killed along with the commander of the Aerospace Forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC-AFS) Amir Ali Hajizadeh and several other high-ranking commanders in an underground headquarters in Tehran. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Death toll from floods in South Africa’s Eastern Cape rises to 86

    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

    CAPE TOWN, June 14 (Xinhua) — The death toll from devastating floods in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province has risen to 86, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu said on Saturday.

    He gave the latest figures to police and rescue workers involved in rescue operations in Umtata, the town worst hit by the disaster.

    “Unfortunately, of course, we know that many people have died and it is mentioned that the total number of victims in the province has reached 86 people. This is a great tragedy and we are all deeply saddened by what has happened,” said S. Mchunu.

    Severe weather, including heavy rain and snowfall, has wreaked havoc in parts of the Eastern Cape this week, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread damage to infrastructure.

    The floods, which began on Monday, also destroyed homes, government offices, roads, hospitals and schools, forcing hundreds of people to flee their homes.

    South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who visited the province on Friday, pledged that the government would continue to provide aid to affected communities. He also proposed declaring a national day of remembrance for those killed in the disaster. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fire at Scott Street, Perth

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    “I would like to send sincere condolences to the family and friends of the man who has tragically lost his life in this incident. My thoughts are also with all the other people who have been affected by this very serious fire. 

    “I wish to praise the significant immediate response from all the First Responders and especially our brave firefighters who hurried towards this major fire and put their lives at risk to rescue occupants from the building and tackle the blaze. National resources have been deployed including a dedicated height appliance which has been central to our brave firefighters’ efforts.  

    “Following the evacuation of all flats in the affected building and neighbouring properties in the early hours of Saturday, a rest centre was set up at the Salutation Hotel. Staff from our Housing Service, Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership and our social work teams have been in attendance at the hotel since the incident to give any support and practical help that we can. 

    “Importantly, we are working to make sure that everyone who has been displaced has suitable alternative accommodation in place. People have also been given food, hot drinks, clothes, replacement medication, nappies, baby milk, pay-as-you-go phones, toiletries, toys and help with their pets. 

    “A large-scale Red Cross team also attended this afternoon to provide further support for anyone that needed it, backing up the Council and HSCP effort through the night and day. 

    “I would like to thank everyone who has helped in the effort to support the householders, including our staff, volunteers and staff at the Salutation Hotel, and we will continue to do all we can to support people affected by the fire. What has been heartening to see at this sad time was the immediate practical support donated by local businesses and charities, from clothing to food and toiletries, and even a brand-new pram for one of the youngest children affected by this incident. 

    “Finally, I would also like to thank the people of Perth and local businesses for their patience and understanding as some unavoidable disruption continues in the city centre.”  

    Following the fire at Scott Street, Perth city centre roads will continue to be affected on Sunday 15th June.  

    Emergency services will remain on scene, and Scott Street and South Street will stay closed to traffic and pedestrians. 

    Detours and signage have been put in place around Perth city centre to provide guidance for drivers. Motorists and pedestrians should continue to avoid the area if possible.  

    Perth and Kinross Council will also continue to provide a range of support for people affected by the fire. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Releases Statement on the Tragic Shooting in Minnesota

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

     
    POMPANO BEACH, FL — Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) issued the following statement on the tragic shootings of Minnesota lawmakers and their families. 
     
    “I am devastated by the calculated, senseless violence that stole the lives of a Minnesota state representative and her husband and wounded a state senator and his wife. This attack on public servants—and on the sanctity of their own homes—strikes at the very heart of our democracy. 
     
    “Words cannot capture the grief their loved ones, constituents, and the entire state of Minnesota are enduring. As lawmakers, we devote our lives to safeguarding our communities—no one should face gunfire for answering that call to serve. 
     
    “Those responsible must be brought to justice. We must stand united against hatred, intimidation, and politically motivated violence. My prayers are with the victims, their families, and all Minnesotans as they recover and navigate through this unimaginable tragedy.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RAF King’s Birthday Honours 2025Kings’ Birthday Honours List 2025 – Military Division.13 Jun 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 – Military Division

    PROMOTIONS IN AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MOST HONOURABLE ORDER OF THE BATH

    As Knight Commander  

    Air Marshal J.J. Stringer CBE 

    As Companion (CB)  

    Air Vice-Marshal M.W.J Chappell  

    Air Vice-Marshal A.P.T. Smith 

    PROMOTIONS IN AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE

    As Commanders (CBE) 

    Air Commodore I.J. Sharrocks OBE 

    Group Captain A. Burton 

    As Officers (OBE)

    Group Captain A.P. Baron 

    Group Captain P. Baroni 

    Group Captain R.L. Dixon  

    Wing Commander G.A. Lonsdale 

    Wing Commander T.C. Page 

    Wing Commander A.N. Pandya 

    As Members (MBE)

    Acting Wing Commander D.C. McCrae 

    Squadron Leader C.B.M. Emmerson 

    Squadron Leader J.R. Rushton 

    Squadron Leader T.A. Smith 

    Squadron Leader M.D. Sugden 

    Squadron Leader D.J. Taudevin 

    Squadron Leader J.K. Wilyman 

    Flight Lieutenant R.K. Mehta 

    Flight Lieutenant M.W. Norman 

    Captain R.M. St J. Sheehan (British Army) 

    Warrant Officer C. Hamilton 

    Staff Sergeant E. Oppong (British Army) 

    Sergeant G.L. Jones 

    Corporal E-J. Bangura 

    King’s Volunteer Reserves Medal

    Sergeant D.J. Tyler 

    Associate Member of The Royal Red Cross 

    Flight Sergeant (now Acting Warrant Officer) S.L. Roberts 

    King’s Birthday Honours list 2025 – Civilian Division

    PROMOTIONS IN AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE CIVILIAN DIVISION OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE

    As Members (MBE) 

    Mr R.P. O’Connor  

    Reverend J.M. Pitkin 

    British Empire Medal  

    Mr J.R. McGlasson 

    MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL

    Warrant Officer M.A. Coupland 

    Warrant Officer N. Dutton 

    Master Aircrew P.A. Goss 

    Master Aircrew R.A. Jones 

    Master Aircrew T.J.M. Millar 

    Warrant Officer M. Rees-Martin MBE 

    Warrant Officer D.K. Rose 

    Master Aircrew D.V. Russell 

    Master Aircrew S.F. Severn 

    Warrant Officer S.W. Thorpe 

    Flight Sergeant (now Acting Warrant Officer) O.R. Watkins 

    Flight Sergeant R.C. Atha 

    Flight Sergeant S.J. Dutton 

    Flight Sergeant D. Farrell 

    Flight Sergeant R.E. Mauchline 

    Flight Sergeant R.M. Pugh 

    Acting Flight Sergeant C.M. Irvine 

    CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander K.E. Ingram MBE 

    Squadron Leader (now Wing Commander) A.H. Stewart 

    Squadron Leader N.J.D. Bell 

    Flight Lieutenant A. Carter 

    Flight Lieutenant G. Feetham 

    Sergeant P.M. Taylor 

    Acting Sergeant N.T. Egan 

    Corporal G.P. Dutton 

    Corporal L.D. Evans 

    Corporal J.F. Scott 

    Acting Corporal D.J. Purves 

    Air Specialist Class 1 B. Dudgeon 

    Team Commendations 

    Air Finance Strategic Financial Planning Team 

    Department of Medicine, RAF R&S, RAF Cranwell 

    Protector Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation, RAF Waddington 

    Tactical Operations Centre Light eXperimental (TOC-X) Delivery and Innovations Team 

    27 Squadron Engineering 

    DEPUTY CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF & AIR AND SPACE COMMANDER COMMENDATIONS

    DEPUTY CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader E.L. Brooks 

    Squadron Leader R.J. Kemplay 

    Flight Lieutenant M.J. Wade 

    Mrs N.J. Skelton 

    Team Commendations 

    Project NEXUS – DEIMOS Team 

    Qatar Air Programme Office 2024 

    Trial CHAINMAIL 2 Team 

    R&S Select Processing Team 

    Ground Combat and Security Profession Enlisted Aviator Career Management Team 

    ANY Desk Career Management 

    AIR AND SPACE COMMANDER COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander T.P. Nassif 

    Squadron Leader B.P. Burton 

    Squadron Leader P.M. Dunkley 

    Squadron Leader S.E. Evans 

    Major M.G. Fairchild (US Space Force) 

    Squadron Leader E.E. Leonard 

    Squadron Leader C.J. Marsh 

    Squadron Leader L.M. Ryder 

    Squadron Leader D.A. Yule 

    Flight Lieutenant (now Acting Squadron Leader) B.L. Dzekashu 

    Lieutenant M.P. Anelli (Royal Navy) 

    Warrant Officer G. Pringle 

    Chief Petty Officer T.A. Fenwick (Royal Navy) 

    Flight Sergeant D.J. Gillam 

    Flight Sergeant G.L. Hobbs 

    Acting Flight Sergeant (now Chief Technician) J.W. Kelly 

    Sergeant (now Staff Sergeant) R. Limbu (British Army) 

    Sergeant T.A. Marley 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (now Acting Corporal) J.P.J. Eldridge 

    Air Specialist Class 1 T.D. Magill 

    Mr A.P. Bowell 

    Mrs C. Sherman 

    Team Commendations 

    RAF Pay Team, London Main Building 

    11 Group A5 

    Engineering Profession Advisor Team 

    RAF Medical Board 

    Engineering Team, Number II (Army Cooperation) Squadron, RAF Lossiemouth 

    Air Battlespace Training Centre, RAF Waddington  

    45 Squadron Mission Aircrew ISR Acoustics Team 

    RAF Coningsby Duty Fire Crew 

    Spitfire Crash Incident Officers 

    RAF Cranwell ACE Team 

    RAF Odiham Project PALES Team 

    AIR OFFICERS COMMANDING COMMENDATIONS

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 1 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Lieutenant Commander P. Armstrong (Royal Navy) 

    Lieutenant Commander N.E. Baker (Royal Navy) 

    Squadron Leader D.C.D. Berris 

    Squadron Leader K.M. Hickinbotham 

    Squadron Leader S.I. Roxburgh 

    Flight Lieutenant D.A. Breslin 

    Flight Lieutenant M.R. Crosby-Jones 

    Flight Lieutenant A.M. Dale 

    Flight Lieutenant K. Jamison 

    Flight Lieutenant L.O. Matthews 

    Flight Lieutenant W.L.D. Mountfield 

    Flight Lieutenant D. Scarr 

    Flight Lieutenant R. Wallace 

    Lieutenant W.R. Sankey (Royal Navy) 

    Acting Flight Lieutenant V. Logan 

    Warrant Officer C.P. Harker 

    Flight Sergeant D.T. Best 

    Flight Sergeant J.A. Bracewell 

    Chief Petty Officer G. Parker (Royal Navy) 

    Chief Technician W.A. Byrne 

    Sergeant N.J. Lindley 

    Acting Sergeant R.G. Archer 

    Acting Sergeant J.A. Grimmer 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) T.A. Bond 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) O-J. Whitehead 

    Mr L. Maple 

    Mr S. Williams 

    Team Commendations 

    Number 54 Squadron – Protector Training Flight 

    BBMF CAw Management 

    Number 56 Squadron E-7 Wedgetail Operator Subject Matter Expert Team 

    BAE Systems Civilian Qualified Flying Instructor 

    Joint Air Delivery Test & Evaluation Unit – Engineering Section, RAF Brize Norton 

    29 Squadron Typhoon Display Team, RAF Coningsby 

    Number 14 Squadron Shadow Qualified Flying Instructors, RAF Waddington 

    A Flight, ISR Enabling Squadron, 1ISR Wing, Royal Air Force Waddington 

    Number 99 Squadron C-17 ZZ173 Air Ground Engineers, RAF Brize Norton 

    Royal Air Force Falcons 2024 Parachute Display Team, RAF Brize Norton 

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 2 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader S.J. Jackson 

    Squadron Leader D.C. Netherton 

    Squadron Leader R.D. Scothern 

    Flight Lieutenant D. Anderson 

    Flight Lieutenant P. Crutchlow 

    Flight Lieutenant L.J. Eagle 

    Flight Lieutenant B.R. Garwood 

    Flight Lieutenant A.J. Mawdsley 

    Acting Flight Lieutenant R. Howarth 

    Flying Officer P. Shingler 

    Chief Technician A.J. Hunt 

    Flight Sergeant E.L. Dye 

    Flight Sergeant M. Eastaugh 

    Flight Sergeant M.J. Ellson 

    Flight Sergeant J.H.R. McClymont 

    Flight Sergeant G. Teague 

    Flight Sergeant N.H. White 

    Sergeant S.B. Brandt 

    Sergeant D.J. Cooper 

    Sergeant A.C. Lockwood 

    Sergeant P.R. Stockley 

    Corporal M.T. Ferguson 

    Corporal T.M. Grainger 

    Corporal G.F.E. Melling 

    Corporal C.J. Mills 

    Corporal S.A. Palmer 

    Corporal G.J. Sutton 

    Corporal R.P. Worthington 

    Acting Corporal R.P. Swatman 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) J.G. Evans 

    Air Specialist Class 1 H.C. Rhind-Tutt 

    Mr I. Aitkenhead 

    Mr A. Barber 

    Mr D. Clarke 

    Mr A. Stewart 

    Team Commendations

    Crisis Response Team 

    RAF Police Support to Operation ROMAJI 

    Royal Air Force Benson Air Traffic Control Squadron 

    Tactical Communications Wing Project LETSRIG Team 

    Air Control Essentials Course Training Team 

    144 Signals Unit Deployable Air Defence Flight and 19 Squadron Portreath Detachment 

    RAF Regiment Apprenticeship Centre 

    Medical and Dental Servicing Section 

    Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron Operation LORIEN Recovery Team 

    A Life Saving Team at RAF Waddington 

    RAF Odiham Wildlife Control Unit 

    RAF Odiham Catering Flight 

    Royal Air Force Lossiemouth Mobility Support Section 

    Royal Air Force Coningsby Armament Engineering Flt 

    RAF Leeming Police and Security Flt 

    RAF Boulmer Beacon Community Centre 

    78 Squadron Flight Safety Team 

    Project KIMBINU GRIFFIN 

    RAF Marham Force Protection Training Flight 

    Polytunnel and Wellness Area Team (Whole Force Personnel and Families) 

    RAF Marham Physical Education Flight 

    HQ 2 Group Force Generation Team 

    1 AMW HQ Plans Team 

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 11 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader J. Ives 

    Squadron Leader G. Ivison 

    Squadron Leader M.J. Pickford 

    Squadron Leader S. Wain 

    Flight Lieutenant E.D.M. Haylock 

    Flight Lieutenant B.A. Ter Haar 

    Colour Sergeant S.C. Hopkins (British Army) 

    Air Specialist Class 1 T. Ogden 

    Air Specialist Class 1 J. Smart 

    S. Fogden 

    Team Commendation

    11 Group A7 Operational Training Centre 

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 22 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Acting Major C. Reid (British Army) 

    Acting Squadron Leader J.C. Blackie  

    Acting Squadron Leader R.D. Jones  

    Flight Lieutenant J. Orrell 

    Flight Lieutenant S.S. Toomer 

    Flight Lieutenant I.A. Torrance 

    Warrant Officer 2 K.A. Feldsmann (British Army) 

    Warrant Officer 2 D. Rai (British Army) 

    Flight Sergeant T.J. Elton  

    Staff Sergeant J.L. Willis (British Army) 

    Sergeant D.S. Wilkinson 

    Mrs S. Gwilliam 

    Team Commendations

    School of Army Aeronautical Engineering Aviation Academy 

    No 1 Radio School, Cyber Security Flight 

    Number 1 Radio School, Digital Systems and Applications Flight 

    Central Flying School (Helicopters) Squadron Training Team 

    Whittle Section, Trainee Support Squadron, No 1 School of Technical Training 

    Assurance and Governance Squadron, Learning and Development Wing 

    Defence College of Technical Training HQ Finance Team 

    Hawk Syllabus Development Team 

    Headquarters Defence College of Technical Training – TDA Plans Team 

    Essex Wing Warrant Officer’s Team, Royal Air Force Air Cadets  

    CHAPLAIN-IN-CHIEF (ROYAL AIR FORCE) COMMENDATIONS

    Reverend (Squadron Leader) N. Galloway MBE 

    Mr P. Morcombe 

    COMMANDER UK SPACE COMMAND COMMENDATION

    Captain C.M. Reeds (British Army) 

    Team Commendations  

    No.1 Space Operations Squadron Training Team 

    DIRECTOR CAPABILITY AND PROGRAMMES COMMENDATIONS

    C. Young 

    DIRECTOR SUPPORT COMMENDATIONS

    Flight Sergeant C.D. Andrews 

    Mr A. Collinson 

    K. Patel  

    DIRECTOR DIGITAL COMMENDATIONS

    Flight Lieutenant R.S. Hall 

    Flight Lieutenant A.C. Metcalfe 

    Flying Officer D. Huckstepp

    DIRECTOR RESERVES COMMENDATIONS

    Flight Sergeant C.G. Smith 

    Team Commendations 

    RAuxAF100 Standard Parade Delivery Team 

    501 Sqn Operation SILK PURSE Team 

    COMMANDER JOINT AVIATION COMMAND COMMENDATIONS

    Commander Joint Aviation Command Commendations    

    Flight Lieutenant C. Rudyk-Smith 

    Flight Lieutenant M.A. Stoodley 

    Flight Sergeant N.K-C. Bargery 

    Chief Technician S.A. Grant 

    Chief Technician C.J.M. Maisey 

    Chief Technician R.N. McCarthy 

    Sergeant D.J. Dickson 

    Sergeant K.S. Potts 

    Sergeant R.S. Worker 

    Acting Sergeant J.P. Jenkins 

    Corporal D.J. White 

    Team Commendations 

    Chinook CAMO Team 

    7 Sqn R1 Detachment 

    CAE Aircrew Training Service (Puma staff) 

    VICE CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander H.M. Parr 

    Squadron Leader J.P.J. Casson 

    COMMANDER UNITED KINGDOM STRATEGIC COMMAND COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander D.E. Wilson 

    Squadron Leader (now Acting Wing Commander) S. Davies 

    Squadron Leader M. Bradley 

    Squadron Leader F.A. Merino 

    Squadron Leader L.G.J. Scott 

    Sergeant (now Acting Flight Sergeant) L.P. Buttery 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (now Acting Corporal) A.R. Harvey 

    DEPUTY COMMANDER UNITED KINGDOM STRATEGIC COMMAND COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader M.J. Rankine 

    Squadron Leader A.F. Xavier 

    Flight Sergeant A. Maltman 

    COMMANDER FIELD ARMY AND COMMANDER STANDING JOINT COMMAND (UK) COMMENDATIONS AND COMMANDER ALLIED RAPID REACTION CORPS COMMENDATIONS

    COMMANDER FIELD ARMY COMMENDATION

    Flight Lieutenant D. Graham 

    COMMANDER STANDING JOINT COMMAND (UK) COMMENDATION

    Squadron Leader R.A. Lee 

    Warrant Officer C.L. Wheeler 

    COMMANDER ALLIED RAPID REACTION CORPS COMMENDATIONS

    Sergeant C.A. Brown 

    Royal Air Force Operational Honours List

    APPOINTMENT TO THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE

    As Officer (OBE)

    Group Captain H.M. Bishop  

    Distinguished Flying Cross  

    Flight Lieutenant J.A. Chadwick 

    Air Force Cross 

    Acting Squadron Leader (now Squadron Leader) J.M.G. Hawkins 

    Flight Lieutenant S.B. Watson 

    King’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air  

    Flight Lieutenant M.M.T. Howell 

    King’s Commendation for Valuable Service 

    Squadron Leader (now Wing Commander) I.D.E. Robinson 

    Squadron Leader G.R. McKay 

    Squadron Leader B.R.M. Tripp 

    Flight Sergeant J.P. Graham 

    CHIEF OF JOINT OPERATIONS, JOINT COMMANDER’S COMMENDATIONS

    Chief of joint Operations Commendation

    Squadron Leader D.G. Tipler 

    Joint Commanders Commendation  

    Wing Commander A.P. Machin 

    Lieutenant Colonel A.A.R. Townend (British Army) 

    Squadron Leader F.Y. Allery 

    Squadron Leader J. Marlowe 

    Squadron Leader E.M. Thomas 

    Flight Lieutenant B.F.J. Brook 

    Team Commendations 

    Crew of Custom46 XIII Sqn RAF 

    Op Underhill Atlas Team 

    Op Underhill Planning and Liaison Team 

    Royal Air Force Non-Operational Gallantry Award – Commendation  

    Air and Space Commander Commendation  

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) J.D. Coombs-Hoar 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: King’s Birthday Flypast 202514 Jun 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    Flying high over Buckingham Palace, the Royal Air Force had the pleasure of parading a selection of RAF aircraft to celebrate the Official Birthday of His Majesty King Charles III. 

    At 13:00 twenty-nine aircraft took to the skies above the crowds on The Mall and over Buckingham Palace, watched over by Their Majesties’ The King and Queen, alongside other members of the Royal family.  

    The stunning formation was led by four Chinook helicopters from No 18 & 27 Squadrons of RAF Odiham, following the King’s Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour). 

    The aircraft came from nine different RAF stations, many of whom flew in the VE80 celebrations in May this year. 

    It is an enormous privilege to be part of His Majesty The King’s Birthday celebrations, where the Flypast is an opportunity for the Royal Air Force to honour His Majesty The King, our Commander-in-Chief, on the occasion of his Official Birthday. 

    This year, the flypast will comprise twenty-nine aircraft, including the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, rotary wing assets from the Joint Aviation Command, training aircraft from No.22 Group and front-line aircraft from across No.1 Group representing the Air Mobility, Combat Air and ISTAR Forces; as always the flypast will conclude with the iconic Red Arrows.”

    Air Vice-Marshal Jackson,
    Air Officer Commanding 1 Gp

    The aircraft, whose main purpose is to secure our skies and protect our citizens at home and abroad have a broad range of uses. These include training, air transport, lift capabilities, air-to-air refuelling, maritime, humanitarian missions, and fast jet combat. 

    It is a great honour to be part of an event that will bolster our national pride, and to be part of something much greater than myself. My role will include coordinating with civil air traffic and assisting the safe passage of all the aircraft back to their bases.”

    Sergeant Mcglasson,
         ATC, 78 Sqn   

    A Lancaster from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, RAF Coningsby followed the Chinooks.  

    Wing Commander Andrew Watson, a Typhoon pilot and Officer Commanding 12 Squadron had the task of overseeing the whole flypast. The planning for the whole event has been meticulous over many months. The culmination is the spectacle that was seen by millions of people worldwide. 

    It is a huge personal honour being Mission Commander and coordinating such an impressive array of aircraft fit for His Majesty The King’s Birthday. I cannot be more impressed by the focus and professionalism of both air and ground crew in bringing this spectacle to life.”

    Wing Commander Watson,
    Mission Commander & OC 12 Sqn 

    Other aircraft in the formation included a Phenom, Typhoon, an F35 and a C17 Globemaster.  

    The flypast is also thought to be the first time anywhere in the world that a national aerobatic squadron has switched to both a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend for propulsion and a renewable biofuel – known as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). This is a premium quality fuel, with a chemical structure almost identical to the regular diesel traditionally used by the aerobatic team for its vapour trails.

    In addition to reducing its carbon footprint, the move demonstrates the RAF’s commitment to new technology as well as becoming more energy secure and less reliant on fossil fuels.

    The event culminated in a spectacular show of red, white and blue from the pilots of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows. 

    It is a privilege to be a member of the Red Arrows. To me, the Red Arrows are an icon of the United Kingdom – so knowing that you had a key role to play in them bringing joy and excitement to thousands of people as they fly over the Mall is something I am incredibly proud of. 

    As head of all engineering and logistics on the team, I am even more proud to lead the amazing and diverse team of over one hundred ‘Blues’ that not only make major flypasts happen, but work tirelessly for twelve months a year, every year, to deliver a colourful and dynamic aerobatic show. 

    Working with the smoke generation system is the most unique part of the job. The vibrant vapour that we generate is what sets the team apart and so to be the first team in the world to move to a fully sustainable option is really exciting.”

    Squadron Leader King
    Snr Engineering Officer, RAF Aerobatic Team

    The aircraft of the Armed Forces have a long and proud history of taking part in this occasion, with the first King’s Birthday Flypast taking place in 1913 and most recently formed part of Their Majesties’ Coronation in 2023 and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. 

    The flypast has much poignancy for one of the Chinook pilots, Master Aircrew (MACr) Ruffles. The King’s Birthday Flypast was one of MACr Ruffles’ last flights as he leaves the RAF after forty years’ service and nine thousand hours flying with helicopters.

    Being part of the King’s Birthday Flypast after forty years of service especially on the 80th anniversary of VE Day is an honour I’ll carry with me for many years to come. It’s been a test of resilience, teamwork and dedication. But through it all, the bond with my fellow crew members, the sense of purpose and the pride in serving at such a high level has made every moment worthwhile.”

    Master Aircrew Ruffles
    27 Squadron, Chinooks

    The King’s Birthday Flypast concluded Trooping the Colour which took place on Horse Guards Parade, a ceremony dating back to the reign of King Charles II, becoming an annual event in 1760. Over 1,400 officers and soldiers form the parade, together with two hundred horses; over four hundred musicians from ten bands and Corps of Drums marched and played in unison. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Three killed, 172 injured in Iranian rocket attacks on Israel

    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

    JERUSALEM, June 14 (Xinhua) — Three Israelis were killed and 172 wounded in rocket attacks from Iran on Friday night and Saturday morning, Israeli state-run Kan TV reported.

    According to the channel, the two victims, 73-year-old Israel Aloni and 60-year-old Eti Cohen Angel, were killed in a rocket attack on the central city of Rishon LeZion on Saturday. The attack left 27 people injured and several homes severely damaged.

    Earlier on Friday evening, another woman was killed in an Iranian strike on a Tel Aviv neighborhood.

    Of the injured, one person is in serious condition, 15 were moderately injured, and the rest were lightly injured. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), seven of the wounded are soldiers, all of whom were lightly injured.

    Iran fired hundreds of rockets in five barrages, IDF says. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China launches satellite for natural disaster monitoring

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

    JIUQUAN, June 14 — China launched an electromagnetic monitoring satellite on Saturday, which is expected to enhance the country’s “space-air-ground” integrated monitoring capabilities for major natural disasters.

    A Long March-2D carrier rocket lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 3:56 p.m. (Beijing Time), successfully sending the Zhangheng 1-02 satellite into its planned orbit, according to the China National Space Administration (CNSA).

    The CNSA said that this marks a significant step forward for China in the field of space-based observation of the Earth’s physical fields.

    Named after the ancient Chinese inventor Zhang Heng, who created the world’s first seismoscope over 1,800 years ago, the satellite was jointly developed by China and Italy. It is the first operational satellite dedicated to exploring the Earth’s physical fields under China’s medium and long-term civil space infrastructure development plan, according to the CNSA.

    With a designed lifespan of six years, the satellite is equipped with nine payloads, including an electric field detector co-developed by China and Italy, as well as a high-energy particle detector developed by Italy.

    It will carry out quasi-real-time monitoring of global electromagnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, the ionosphere and the neutral atmosphere, detecting electromagnetic anomalies caused by geological and human activities, as well as monitoring thunderstorm and lightning activity, according to CNSA.

    “Scientists will use these data to study the correlation between changes in the Earth’s physical fields and geological activities, and to support research on the prediction of earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, extreme weather, and space weather disasters,” said Peng Wei, deputy director of the system engineering department of the CNSA.

    The satellite will significantly enhance China’s early perception, risk assessment, and monitoring and early warning capabilities for major natural disasters, Peng added.

    It will also provide data support for emergency management, resource mapping, and communications and navigation industries, while fostering scientific and technological cooperation in related fields among countries and regions along the Belt and Road.

    The Zhangheng 1-01 satellite, launched in 2018, remains in normal operation, while the new satellite has richer physical measurements. Working in tandem, the two satellites will conduct collaborative observations, effectively improving the horizontal spatial and temporal resolution of observations, according to Peng.

    China and Italy have further deepened practical cooperation in satellite payload development, data sharing, and scientific research, said Peng.

    “The successful launch of this satellite marks another milestone in Sino-Italian aerospace collaboration, demonstrating closer scientific cooperation and exchanges between the two sides. It will also contribute to the well-being of the human community with a shared future,” he added.

    Francesco Longo, deputy director of engineering and technology of the Italian Space Agency, called the mission an important milestone. “We have a lot of expectations on the results that we acquire from this important Chinese-Italian mission.”

    He noted that, like China, Italy is a beautiful yet fragile country, prone to volcanoes, earthquakes and other events that can affect people’s lives. This mission, he said, will contribute to protecting and improving lives impacted by natural disasters.

    Longo also noted that adding this new satellite to the first, and eventually building a constellation, will double observation time, significantly boosting scientific prospects.

    The Italian team named the project Limadou, the pinyin transliteration of the Chinese name for the 16th-century Italian priest Matteo Ricci, in honor of his pivotal contributions to cultural exchanges between the East and the West.

    Both Marco Polo and Matteo Ricci served as bridges between Italian and Chinese cultures, and space, too, has the potential to unite all countries, Longo said.

    Saturday’s launch marked the 581st mission of China’s Long March rocket series.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China takes precautions against Typhoon Wutip

    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

    BEIJING, June 14 (Xinhua) — A number of Chinese departments held a meeting on Saturday to coordinate precautions as Typhoon Wutip (Butterfly), the first typhoon of the year, approaches and is expected to bring heavy rains to the country’s southern regions.

    Typhoon Wutip made landfall near Dongfang in southern China’s Hainan Province on Friday evening. It made a second landfall around 12:30 p.m. Saturday, when it hit the west coast of Leizhou in Guangdong Province, north of Hainan.

    Typhoon Wutip may cause prolonged, widespread and intense winds and rainfall, greatly increasing the risk of natural disasters, according to China’s National Flood and Drought Control Headquarters. The agency urged relevant departments and local authorities to remain highly vigilant.

    The department has dispatched three task forces to Hainan, Guangdong and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to coordinate disaster prevention efforts, and more than 3,000 local firefighters have been sent to the front lines.

    China’s Ministry of Emergency Management has put its emergency response forces and aviation on alert in case of possible natural disasters.

    Due to heavy rains caused by the typhoon, China’s Ministry of Water Resources has activated a Level 4 emergency response for floods in east China’s Zhejiang Province.

    The agency also called on local authorities to closely monitor weather changes and use hydraulic structures to ensure the safety of people’s lives and their property. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China steps up preparations for Typhoon Wutip

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

    BEIJING, June 14 — Multiple Chinese authorities convened on Saturday to put in place precautionary measures against Typhoon Wutip, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall to the southern parts of the country.

    The first typhoon of the year made its first landfall on Friday evening in Dongfang City in south China’s island province of Hainan. It then made a second landfall around noon on Saturday in Leizhou City, Guangdong Province, located just north of Hainan.

    According to the office of the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters, Typhoon Wutip is expected to trigger sustained, widespread and intense winds and rainfall, significantly increasing the risk of disasters. It urged relevant departments and local governments to remain on high alert.

    The office has dispatched three working teams to Hainan, Guangdong and Guangxi to guide disaster prevention efforts. Additionally, over 3,000 personnel from local firefighting units have been deployed to the frontlines.

    The Ministry of Emergency Management has mobilized emergency rescue forces and aircraft in preparation for potential disasters.

    Due to heavy rainfall caused by the typhoon, the Ministry of Water Resources has activated a Level-IV emergency response to flooding in Zhejiang Province on China’s eastern coast. The ministry has also urged local authorities to closely monitor weather changes and utilize water conservancy infrastructure to safeguard lives and property.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israeli army says nine Iranian nuclear scientists killed

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    JERUSALEM, June 14 (Xinhua) — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Saturday that its strikes killed nine senior Iranian nuclear officials.

    It is noted that they fell victim to fire from fighter jets acting on data from the Military Intelligence Directorate. The scientists were killed at the start of the Israeli operation, which was carried out on Friday morning.

    The dead played an important role in the Iranian nuclear project and had decades of accumulated experience in developing nuclear weapons, the IDF emphasized, noting that they included experts in nuclear and chemical engineering, physics, materials science and mechanics.

    Israel carried out airstrikes early Friday on Tehran and other Iranian cities. The IDF said the strikes were intended, among other things, to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Tehran has repeatedly denied it seeks them. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Feature Story: Green Hope for “Tears of Central Asia”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    TASHKENT, June 14 (Xinhua) — In late May, Wang Ping, a researcher at the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, arrived in the western city of Nukus, Uzbekistan, to participate in joint research with the Aral Sea International Innovation Center. He can no longer count how many times he has visited the city near the Aral Sea. This time, he and his colleagues brought two “treasures”: halophyte seeds (plants that easily adapt to life in saline soils) and solar panels.

    The Aral Sea, located in central Eurasia on the border of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, was once the fourth-largest lake in the world. Since the 1960s, under the influence of numerous factors such as increased human use of water and climate change, it has been rapidly drying up, shrinking by more than 90 percent. The shoreline has retreated, the soil has become more saline, and a desert of over 50,000 square kilometers has formed in its place. The Aral Sea has become a symbol of the catastrophe, known as the “tears of Central Asia.”

    The ecological crisis of the Aral Sea has caused not only a shortage of water resources, but also huge rock formations have formed on the seabed, causing dust and salt storms that damage vast territories. Desertification, soil salinization, loss of biodiversity – all this has a significant negative impact on the ecology and economy of the countries in the region. In April 2010, then UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, after visiting the Aral Sea, said that its drying up was “one of the worst ecological disasters on the planet.”

    For many years, scientists from China and Uzbekistan have been working together to find solutions to the Aral Sea’s environmental crisis, from joint scientific expeditions and soil reclamation to the creation of model regions where water-saving cotton-growing technologies are used.

    “Water shortage, soil salinization, lack of modern agricultural technologies and related systems – these are all acute problems holding back the development of Central Asia,” Wang Ping said.

    This time, Wang Ping brought to Nukus seeds of more than ten types of halophytes (saltwort, saxaul, wormwood, etc.), hoping to successfully grow them in laboratory conditions and then mass-produce them around the Aral Sea to restore biodiversity and combat salinization and dust storms.

    Wang Ping also told Xinhua that several months ago, the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography delivered about 1.5 tons of halophyte seeds to Tashkent for use in a salt-tolerant botanical garden that experts from the two countries are preparing to jointly develop. “These seeds will not only be directly used for saline land reclamation and ecological restoration, but also lay the foundation for local botanical diversity reserves, research and development.”

    “It’s cloudy today, which is good for field work. Let’s try to complete the drip irrigation of this experimental halophyte demonstration field,” says Wang Ping. In another Aral Sea town, Muynak, Wang Ping and his colleagues are installing a water-saving drip irrigation system in a field and leading a local cooperation team that is installing photovoltaic panels to harness solar energy for the halophyte irrigation system.

    In the past two years, Chinese researchers have been promoting the “integration, testing and demonstration project of applying photovoltaic technology to the management of the Aral Sea ecological environment.” In Nukus, the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography and the Aral Sea International Innovation Center launched a pilot project on cotton cultivation with an integrated solar energy, water and fertilizer system last year. With the help of membrane drip irrigation for cotton, photovoltaic generation and an intelligent integrated water and fertilizer supply machine, intelligent drip irrigation and fertilization of fields were realized, which led to an increase in cotton yield by more than three times, and the cost and water consumption were significantly reduced.

    The diligence of Chinese experts and the development prospects opened up by Chinese technology impressed many local farmers and agricultural experts. Local parliament members sent a letter of thanks to the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography and expressed hope for establishing long-term cooperation and expanding the experimental zone with funding from the Uzbek side.

    “The Aral Sea’s environmental crisis is a common problem for the region, and no country can cope with it alone,” said Uzbek political commentator Sharofiddin Tulaganov, noting that cooperation between Uzbekistan and China in the environmental management of the Aral Sea has already yielded noticeable results, and China’s contribution deserves respect.

    “This is not only about environmental management of the Aral Sea, but also about practical manifestations such as improving people’s well-being and building trust. By jointly promoting green and innovative development, we not only strive to restore the ecological environment of the Aral region, but also create a bright future of sustainable development for all of Central Asia,” he noted. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Calls on Israel to Stop Military Adventurism in Iran

    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

    UNITED NATIONS, June 14 (Xinhua) — China’s permanent representative to the United Nations Fu Cong called on Israel to immediately stop its military adventurism in Iran at an emergency meeting of the Security Council on Friday.

    China condemns Israel’s actions that violate Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, he said.

    China opposes the escalation of tensions and the expansion of conflicts and is deeply concerned about the potentially serious consequences of Israeli operations, the diplomat stressed.

    “A sharp escalation in the region is in no one’s interests. We call on Israel to immediately cease all military adventurism and avoid further escalation of tensions,” the Permanent Representative said.

    Fu Cong said China calls on all parties concerned to abide by the UN Charter and international law, resolve disputes through political and diplomatic means, and jointly maintain regional peace and stability.

    The Permanent Representative expressed concern about the potential negative impact of the current developments on diplomatic negotiations on the Iranian nuclear issue. China has always been committed to a peaceful settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue through dialogue and negotiations, and opposes the use of force, illegal unilateral sanctions and armed attacks on nuclear facilities used for peaceful purposes, he stressed.

    Iran’s right as a party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty to peaceful uses of nuclear energy must be fully respected, Fu Tsung noted.

    The international community should work together to promote a ceasefire in Gaza, reduce regional tensions and effectively contain the spread of the conflict, the diplomat said.

    Countries with significant influence over Israel must play a more constructive role, he said, adding that the Security Council must use all means provided by the UN Charter to ensure the implementation of relevant resolutions and play its proper role in maintaining regional peace and security. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Presale Hits Final Stretch: $7 Entry Before 233% Launch Surge, 10,000+ TPS Capacity Confirmed

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, June 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Solaris (BTC-S), the rapidly growing decentralized network, has entered Phase 7 of its presale, with tokens now priced at just $7—a steep discount ahead of its $20 public launch price, marking a projected 233% return for early contributors.

    With the presale closing July 31, 2025, and only limited allocation remaining, momentum is accelerating. To date, the project has raised over $3.8 million from 11,500+ contributors, drawing attention for its hybrid architecture and real-world usability.

    Built for Speed, Designed for Growth

    At the core of Bitcoin Solaris is its dual-layer consensus architecture—combining Proof-of-Work (PoW) security with a Delegated Proof-of-Stake (DPoS) execution layer. This enables:

    • 10,000+ transactions per second (TPS)
    • 2-second finality
    • 99.95% lower energy usage compared to traditional PoW mining
    • Browser and mobile-friendly mining options—no rigs required

    This structure ensures high throughput, low latency, and a seamless environment for smart contracts and scalable applications.

    How Bitcoin Solaris Could Actually Make People Rich

    This isn’t just a flashy project with technical jargon—it’s a system designed to generate daily passive income through real mining, smart staking, and active governance participation.

    With Bitcoin Solaris:

    • You can mine from your browser or phone (no expensive rigs needed)
    • Validators and miners earn continuous rewards from a dual-layer ecosystem
    • Real-world use cases are already built into the chain’s smart contract logic

    What makes it powerful is the opportunity for constant, compounding utility. Whether you’re staking, mining, or contributing via voting, you’re not just holding a token—you’re part of a working economy.

    This Isn’t Just a Token—It’s a Wealth Engine Built on BTC-S

    Inside the Tech: Why Bitcoin Solaris Processes 10,000+ TPS

    At the core of BTC-S is its dual-layer architecture. The Base Layer uses traditional Proof-of-Work (PoW)—the same battle-tested SHA-256 algorithm as Bitcoin. But then, it layers in a Delegated Proof-of-Stake (DPoS) Solaris Layer to handle massive scale.

    Here’s what that enables:

    • Base Layer: Up to 3,000 TPS; 5-minute block time; PoW security
    • Solaris Layer: Up to 10,000 TPS; 2-second finality; smart contract speed
    • Cross-layer security: Validators are rotated every 24 hours and anchored to the PoW chain for double security
    • Energy Efficiency: 99.95% lower consumption than traditional Bitcoin mining

    All this means that while Bitcoin can handle around 7 transactions per second, Bitcoin Solaris can scale to meet global consumer and enterprise demands without lag, congestion, or insane gas fees.

    Audited and Verified—Not Just Hype

    It’s easy to throw around buzzwords, but what sets BTC-S apart is verification. The project’s smart contracts have been fully audited by top firms. You can view the Cyberscope audit and Freshcoins audit for yourself.

    This gives investors and developers alike the confidence that BTC-S isn’t a flash-in-the-pan—it’s structurally sound.

    Tokenomics Built for Long-Term Wealth

    BTC-S isn’t flooding the market with supply. Its tokenomics are carefully structured to encourage healthy price action, long-term holding, and community contribution.

    Key highlights:

    • Total Supply: Capped and deflationary over time
    • Mining + Staking Rewards: 65% of supply reserved for ecosystem contributors
    • No VC Overload: Fair launch with a presale-first model
    • Development Fund: Ensures long-term growth, not short-term gimmicks

    This economic model is designed to reward early believers and avoid pump-and-dump cycles.

    Even Influencers Are Catching On

    Crypto influencers and analysts are starting to turn their attention to BTC-S—and not because they’re paid to shill. The fundamentals speak for themselves. In a recent review by Ben Crypto, the project was described as “one of the few early-stage tokens that actually has real technology behind it.”

    And across Telegram and X, thousands are discussing its hybrid consensus, mobile-first mining, and near-instant smart contracts. If you haven’t joined yet, now is your time.

    The Future of Wealth Starts with Smart Timing

    Bitcoin Solaris isn’t just another crypto project—it’s a second chance for those who missed Bitcoin’s early explosion. With its lightning-fast 10,000+ TPS architecture, audited smart contracts, powerful tokenomics, and mobile-accessible mining, BTC-S blends real-world utility with wealth-building potential.

    As the presale accelerates and adoption surges, the window to buy in before the price skyrockets is closing fast. If you’re looking for the best crypto to buy now, this is the moment to act.

    For more information on Bitcoin Solaris:
    Website: https://www.bitcoinsolaris.com/
     Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
     X: https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris

    Media Contact
    Xander Levine
    press@bitcoinsolaris.com
    Press Kit: Available upon request

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Bitcoin Solaris. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9291df7d-b87b-4e75-a671-fd6c0a503a99
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    The MIL Network –

  • Multiple agencies inspect wreckage of crashed Air India Flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Investigative teams from various agencies, including the National Security Guard (NSG), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), reached the crash site of Air India Flight AI-171 on Saturday to examine the debris.

     

    Teams from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) also inspected the wreckage of the ill-fated London-bound aircraft.

     

    Residents of the neighbourhood where the plane crashed recalled their harrowing experience, describing it as feeling like an earthquake or a bomb blast.

     

    Rekha Kshtriya, a local resident for over 13 years, said she was doing her regular chores when she heard a deafening noise. She immediately rushed outside toward the site. She recalled that around 1:30 PM, the sound was so intense it felt like her eardrums would burst. Her house and furniture began to shake violently, and the noise resembled a bomb explosion. Upon stepping outside, she saw wreckage scattered everywhere, the sky filled with black smoke, and tall flames rising from the crash site.

     

    Another resident, Priyanshu, said the entire area was engulfed in smoke and the fire quickly spread from one building to another. He too described it as feeling like an earthquake or a blast.

     

    Bahadur Kshtriya, who lives about 500 metres from the crash site, said he and a few friends, along with security personnel, helped rescue five individuals from the rubble. He noted that the survivors were in extremely critical condition. He added that when they arrived, smoke and fire were everywhere. Near a student mess, they found people shouting for help. With assistance from Army personnel, they managed to pull out five students alive. Later, they found a body buried in the debris in a severely damaged condition.

    The AI-171 Boeing Dreamliner 787-8 aircraft, en route to London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad International Airport on Thursday. According to the airline, only one of the 242 people on board survived the crash.

    ANI

  • MIL-OSI China: Israel reports 41 wounded, heavy damage in Iran’s retaliatory attack

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

    Nearly 100 missiles were launched from Iran toward central and northern Israel in two massive barrages, causing significant damage and injuring 41 people, according to the Israeli military and the national emergency service, Magen David Adom (MDA).

    The MDA reported two people critically injured, two moderately, four lightly-moderately, while the remaining individuals suffered light injuries or trauma-related symptoms, including panic attacks.

    Following the launches, air defense sirens were activated, sending millions of residents to protected rooms and shelters for more than an hour.

    Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Effie Defrin said that most missiles were intercepted by the air defense system or did not reach their target. He noted that the injuries reported occurred inside buildings, with several caused by shrapnel from intercepted missiles.

    Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said following the launches that “Iran crossed red lines when it dared to fire missiles at civilian population centers in Israel.”

    “We will continue to protect the citizens of Israel,” he said, warning that the country would “ensure that Tehran pays a very heavy price for its criminal actions.”

    Meanwhile, the IDF denied Iranian media reports that Iran had downed an Israeli fighter jet and detained its pilot.

    In a separate statement, the IDF said it had attacked earlier Friday Iranian Air Force bases in western Iran, destroying Tabriz Airbase, without providing further details.

    It added that the IDF attacked and destroyed dozens of Iranian air defense targets, drones, and surface-to-surface missile launchers.

    “The IDF is prepared to continue to operate as necessary,” the statement read. “The IDF is continuously conducting situational assessments and will continue to update on developments.” 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • North India to get relief from severe heat starting today, says IMD

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    After weeks of extreme heatwave conditions, North India is finally expected to get some relief starting Saturday, according to the latest forecast from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

    A shift in weather patterns is set to bring cooler temperatures, cloud cover, and rainfall to several states, easing the impact of the scorching summer.

    From Saturday, temperatures are expected to drop notably. The maximum temperature is likely to decrease to around 41 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is expected to settle near 29 degrees Celsius.

    The cooling trend will intensify further on Saturday, June 15, with the maximum temperature forecast to drop to 40 degrees Celsius, and the minimum to 28 degrees Celsius.

    Thunderstorms accompanied by rain are forecast over the coming days, contributing to relief from the oppressive heat.

    Delhi, currently grappling with temperatures hovering around 44 degrees Celsius, is also expected to experience a noticeable dip. By June 15 or 16, the national capital’s daytime temperature could fall to approximately 40 degrees Celsius, with light to very light rainfall and thunderstorm activity forecast in some areas.

    The IMD has predicted that on June 16 and 17, the sky will remain mostly cloudy across much of North India, with light to moderate rainfall likely in several regions, further improving weather conditions.

    However, despite the approaching relief, the IMD has issued a series of alerts. Punjab and Haryana remain under a Red Alert for the next two days due to persistent heat and possible thunderstorms.

    Rajasthan was under a Red Alert on Friday, shifting to an Orange Alert for the following two days. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir are on Orange Alert through the weekend.

    Authorities are urging residents to continue taking precautions, stay indoors during peak heat hours, remain hydrated, and monitor official weather updates regularly.

    —IANS

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China issues yellow alert for Typhoon Wutip

    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

    BEIJING, June 14 (Xinhua) — China’s National Meteorological Administration on Saturday issued a yellow alert for Typhoon Wutip. The first typhoon of the year is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the country’s southern regions.

    The typhoon, which was located at 19.8 degrees north latitude and 108.8 degrees east longitude at 5 a.m. Saturday, continues to move in a northeasterly direction at a speed of 20-25 km per hour, according to weather service data.

    Around midday Saturday, Wutip is forecast to make landfall again between the southern Chinese cities of Leizhou in Guangdong Province and Beihai in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region before decreasing in intensity.

    Let us recall that China has a four-level typhoon warning system, where red means the highest level of danger, followed by orange, yellow and blue. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Typhoon Wutip Makes Landfall Again in China’s Guangdong Province

    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

    GUANGZHOU, June 14 (Xinhua) — Typhoon Wutip, the first typhoon of the year, made landfall in southern China again. The typhoon made landfall on the west coast of Leizhou City in Guangdong Province at around 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, the provincial meteorological service said.

    At the time of its entry to the coastline, “Wutip” weakened to the level of a strong tropical storm. The maximum wind speed near its epicenter reached 11 points /30 m per second/, and the minimum pressure at the epicenter was 980 hPa.

    Earlier, at around 11:00 p.m. on Friday, Wutip made landfall near Dongfang City in Hainan Province. At that time, the maximum wind speed in the area of the typhoon’s epicenter was also 11 points.

    According to the weather service, “Wutip” will continue to move in a northeasterly direction at a speed of 20-25 km per hour, its trajectory will fall on the junction of Guangdong Province and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The intensity of the elements is expected to decrease. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Iran launches massive missile barrage against Israel following nuclear facility strikes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran launched a large-scale retaliatory missile and drone attack on Israel late Friday night, marking one of the most significant military confrontations between the two nations in recent history. Tehran named the assault “Operation Severe Punishment,” claiming it was a direct response to Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and top military leaders.

    The barrage triggered air raid sirens across Israel, sending millions of civilians rushing into bomb shelters. Explosions were reported in major cities including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with live footage capturing fireballs lighting up the night sky.

    Background of the Escalation

    The Iranian offensive came just hours after Israeli fighter jets conducted a surprise strike on Iran’s underground Natanz nuclear facility—widely believed to be at the core of Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. The attack, which Israeli officials framed as a preemptive measure to halt Iran’s nuclear weapons development, also resulted in the assassination of key Iranian military figures, including the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

    In response, Iran launched what officials described as “hundreds of missiles and drones,” targeting Israeli airbases, cities, and strategic infrastructure.

    Impact on Israel

    Israel’s Home Front Command declared a nationwide state of emergency, stating that “all of Israel is under attack.” The Iron Dome and other air defense systems were activated, but several projectiles still managed to breach Israeli defenses.

    Ben Gurion International Airport was shut down, and tens of thousands of Israeli troops were called into active service as part of a full-scale mobilization. In Tel Aviv, direct hits were reported in central areas. Paramedics treated at least five people for shrapnel wounds, and damage from missile debris was evident in several neighborhoods.

    This marks the first time Iranian missiles have successfully reached major Israeli population centers, heightening concerns of an extended and broader regional conflict.

    Iran’s Position

    Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that Israel had “initiated war” and warned that the Islamic Republic’s retaliation would be “painful and unrelenting.” Iranian state media framed the missile attack as just the beginning of a prolonged military campaign.

    “The Zionist regime has crossed all red lines,” one senior Iranian official told IRNA, the state news agency. “This retaliation is only the first step.”

    The IRGC confirmed it was fully mobilized for continued operations and warned that more strikes could follow, depending on Israel’s next move.

    International Concerns Mount

    The situation has drawn alarm from global powers, with calls for restraint amid fears that the tit-for-tat strikes could ignite a full-scale regional war. Both the United States and the United Nations have called for de-escalation, though neither side appears willing to back down at this stage.

  • Rajkot schools shut today to mourn ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    All government and private schools in Rajkot district will remain shut on Saturday as a mark of respect following the death of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani in the Air India Flight AI-171 crash near Ahmedabad on Thursday.

    The Rajkot district administration made the announcement late Friday evening and requested all educational institutions to observe a two-minute silence in Rupani’s memory.

    Rupani, 68, was among the 241 people on board the flight headed to London’s Gatwick Airport when the aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff in the Meghani Nagar area. The crash left several dead and many others injured.

    Rupani, who began his political career in Rajkot and represented the city as an MLA for multiple terms, served as Gujarat CM between 2016 and 2021. During his tenure, he was credited with initiating key infrastructure and administrative reforms.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who visited the crash site on Friday, also met survivors undergoing treatment at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. Later, he visited Rupani’s family at the GujSail building and offered condolences.

    “Vijaybhai’s passing is unimaginable. We worked together for decades, including during very difficult times,” the PM said on X.

    Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel called the incident a “tragedy beyond words” and said the state had responded swiftly and with empathy, under the guidance of PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

    Soon after the crash, over 600 fire personnel and more than 100 ambulances were rushed to the site. Rescue efforts involved teams from the Army, NDRF, SDRF, RAF, police, and fire services. A green corridor was created to ensure the quick transfer of the injured to hospitals.

    Senior IAS officers, counsellors, forensic and DNA teams were also deployed to support victim identification and provide psychological support to affected families. Emergency control rooms at Civil Hospital and the SEOC remain operational round-the-clock.

    The incident has sparked widespread grief across the political spectrum, with tributes pouring in for Rupani, remembered by many as a grounded and affable leader who maintained strong ties with his constituency till the end.

    IANS

  • UN Security Council meets as Iran launches missiles at Israel

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency session on Friday as Iran fired a barrage of missiles at Israel in retaliation for attacks on its nuclear facilities, prompting the UN nuclear watchdog chief to warn of “grave consequences” from military strikes on atomic sites.

    IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi stated, “Any military action that jeopardises the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond.”

    He added that the IAEA’s General Conference had declared military attacks on nuclear facilities to be in violation of the UN Charter and international law.

    UN Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo, addressing the emergency session requested by Iran, said, “We must at all costs avoid a growing conflagration which would have enormous global consequences.”

    She noted that Israel launched the attack on Iran at a time when “significant diplomatic developments” were underway, including scheduled talks between Washington and Tehran in Oman on Sunday. Iran has since withdrawn from those negotiations.

    “A peaceful resolution through negotiations remains the best means to ensure the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme,” she emphasised.

    A senior US State Department official, McCoy Pitt, told the Council that the United States remained open to diplomacy.

    “We seek a secure peace,” Pitt said. “As President Trump stated, the violence must come to an end, and Iran should make a deal so there is ‘no more death, no more destruction’. The United States will continue to seek a diplomatic resolution that ensures Iran will never acquire a nuclear weapon or pose a threat to stability in the Middle East.”

    “Iran’s leadership would be wise to negotiate at this time,” he added.

    During his first term, President Trump withdrew from an international agreement that aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for easing sanctions. However, in recent months, he had been pursuing a new agreement with Tehran—efforts that now appear to have been derailed by Israel’s strike.

    Iran’s Permanent Representative, Amir Saeid Iravani, said the Israeli attack was intended “to kill diplomacy, sabotage negotiations, and drag the region into a wider conflict.”

    He also accused Washington of complicity in the attack.

    Pitt denied that the US was involved, though he acknowledged that Washington had been informed in advance.

    Israel’s Permanent Representative, Danny Danon, defended the operation as “an act of national preservation.” He presented a photo of a countdown clock in Tehran, allegedly tied to a plan to annihilate Israel.

    Israel’s mission, he said, was to “neutralise the Iranian regime’s ability to follow through on its repeated public promise to destroy the State of Israel.”

    Danon claimed the strikes were precise and specifically targeted nuclear facilities.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Adams Votes No on Recissions Package, Cuts to Foreign Aid and Public Broadcasting

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

    WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) voted against the House GOP recissions package that would recklessly cut $9.4 billion from the federal budget. In addition to foreign aid, this bill targets NPR and PBS funding, threatening these sources of nonpartisan news, educational content, and emergency services for all Americans.

    “Republicans in Congress are pushing unnecessary, harmful cuts in their recissions package that will ultimately hurt our most vulnerable communities,” said Congresswoman Adams. “Public broadcasting, one of the main services they’re targeting, is about more than just nonpartisan news and education; it provides lifesaving emergency communications to our rural and underserved areas. Last year, when Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, public radio stations provided updates, shared resource information, and kept North Carolinians safe as they navigated the storm. House Republicans voted to abandon those communities today.”

    “The recissions package also puts the failure of Elon Musk’s DOGE on full display,” Adams continued. “While Elon Musk claimed he would cut $1 trillion from the federal government, the recissions package amounts to less than 1% of that. Meanwhile, House Republicans voted just last month to balloon the national debt by $3 trillion in their One Big Ugly Bill. It’s fiscal malpractice, not fiscal responsibility.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cole Secures $1.45 Billion in Disaster Recovery for American Communities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

    Washington, D.C. – Through his legislation, The American Relief Act, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) secured about $1.45 billion for the Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) Fiscal Year 2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant Program. This disaster recovery funding will be used by American communities that received major disaster declarations due to hurricanes, wildfires, severe storms and flooding, tornadoes, and other natural disasters occurring in 2023 or 2024. After the EDA money was announced, Congressman Cole released the following statement:

    “As a lifelong Oklahoman, I know just how much destruction natural disasters, like tornadoes, can cause. In fact, just last year, the towns of Sulphur and Marietta in Oklahoma’s Fourth District were devastated by tornadoes. Now, with this EDA grant funding, communities will be able to not only rebuild but also plan for long-term recovery and future resiliency,” said Congressman Cole.“I look forward to seeing this funding being put to good use and I thank President Trump and Secretary Lutnick for their commitment to helping Americans.”

    How to apply for assistance:

    If you are a state, local or tribal government, an economic development district, a higher education institution, an economic development organization, a public or private non-profit working with local government, or a public-private partnership for public infrastructure you are an eligible applicant for this disaster supplemental grant program.

    Additionally, projects must be located in, primarily serve, or demonstrably benefit one or more communities in areas that received a major disaster designation occurring in calendar years 2023 and 2024. You can check eligibility here.

    Readiness and implementation grant applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted or a Notice of Funding Opportunity is canceled.

    Industry Transformation grant applications are due Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 5:00 pm Eastern Time.

    Applications must be submitted online through the EDA’s portal. You can find the portal here. The required materials are detailed in Section D.2 of the Notice of Funding Opportunity.

    Please stay tuned for future announcements as additional disaster assistance is released and available to Oklahomans.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON, CLYBURN JOINED BY LEADER JEFFRIES TO REINTRODUCE LEGISLATION EXPANDING BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR GUN SALES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

    Washington – On Tuesday, Chairman of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA-04)and Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC-06) were joined by Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and other members of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force to announce legislation to close the Charleston loophole and establish universal background checks for firearm purchases — a policy that’s supported by over 90 percent of Americans. Watch a video of the press conference here.

    “Keeping guns out of the hands of people who are a danger to themselves or others just makes sense — and Americans overwhelmingly agree. That’s why 90 percent of non-gun owners and 90 percent of gun owners support universal background checks for firearm purchases. Background checks are quick and effective tools to keep our communities safe while still respecting the rights of law-abiding citizens. It’s time Republican leaders in the House get on board and help us pass this sensible legislation,” said Thompson. 

    “Next Tuesday, June 17, marks the 10th anniversary of the massacre at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina. On that horrific night in 2015, a shooter motivated by racial hatred opened fire during a bible study at this historic place of worship, killing nine worshipers. He was able to obtain the gun because of a provision in federal law that allows the sale to take place if the background check is still unresolved after three business days. Ten years ago, it became known as the Charleston loophole,” said Congressman Clyburn. “I am proud to join Rep. Mike Thompson in introducing The Enhanced Background Checks Act that would eliminate the three-day period and establish in its place a more thorough process that would keep guns out of dangerous hands, while protecting the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens.”

    “As House Democrats, we stand strongly behind this commonsense, life-saving legislation designed to improve public safety for communities across our nation. We just need a handful of Republicans to join us to advance and enhance the safety of the American people. I’m thankful for the leadership of Mike Thompson, Jim Clyburn and the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. We will continue to press forward with the fierce urgency of now until we crush the gun violence epidemic in the United States of America once and for all,” said Democratic Leader Jeffries. 

    Rep. Thompson reintroduced H.R. 18, the Bipartisan Background Checks Act. It is Co-Sponsored by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01). Rep. Clyburn introduced the Enhanced Background Checks Act. Both bills would expand requirements for background checks and reduce loopholes to help ensure people who are a danger to themselves or others can’t get a firearm. 

    Background checks are quick, effective, and Constitutional. More than 90 percent of both gun owners and non-gun owners support universal background checks. Recently, reporting revealed that the perpetrator in the horrific June 1st antisemitic attack in Boulder, Colorado originally planned a mass shooting but was unable to access a gun after failing a background check. This most certainly saved lives. 

    Chairman Thompson has introduced background check legislation every Congress since the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary shooting which killed 20 children and six adult staff members. The Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2025 (H.R. 18) is endorsed by 204 Members of Congress. Endorsing organizations include: GIFFORDS, Brady, Everytown for Gun Safety, March For Our Lives, Newtown Action Alliance, Sandy Hook Promise, and Equality California. 

    “At a moment where safety and security is a top concern and too many of our leaders fail to prioritize it, we are glad to see this reform introduced again. Background checks work and save lives. It’s a commonsense, bipartisan policy that keeps guns out of the hands of dangerous people. GIFFORDS is proud to endorse the Bipartisan Background Checks Act and thanks Reps. Thompson and Fitzpatrick for their leadership,” said Emma Brown, Executive Director, GIFFORDS.

    “Since its implementation in 1994, the Brady Background Check system has saved countless lives by preventing over 5 million transactions to prohibited purchasers. Yet, loopholes in the system, exacerbated by the rise of gun shows and sales facilitated by the internet, have allowed for far too many guns to be sold without background checks, leading to devastating consequences. H.R. 18 will fix this problem by expanding background checks to cover, with limited and reasonable exceptions, every transfer of firearms, fulfilling the mission of our namesakes, Jim and Sarah Brady. We applaud Representatives Mike Thompson and Brian Fitzpatrick for introducing this legislation and loudly call on Congress to pass this expansion of background checks, which the overwhelming majority of the American public supports,” said Kris Brown, President, Brady.

    “Background checks are the foundation of any common-sense approach to keeping guns out of dangerous hands, which is why the vast majority of Americans support them,” said John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety. “Everytown applauds Representative Thompson and Representative Fitzpatrick for championing this crucial and common-sense step to address America’s gun violence crisis.”

    “Young people across the country have made it clear: background checks are the bare minimum. We’re proud to support the Bipartisan Background Checks Act and will continue fighting until our laws reflect the demands of a generation that refuses to accept gun violence as normal,” said Jackie Corin, Executive Director, March For Our Lives.

    “Since the Sandy Hook shooting in 2012, over 1.3 million Americans have been shot and nearly 500,000 have been killed by guns,” said Po Murray, Chairwoman of Newtown Action Alliance. “Ensuring that every firearm sale includes a thorough background check is a proven and commonsense public safety measure that is supported by the majority of Americans – including gun owners. By closing the loophole on private transfers, this bill strengthens our communities without burdening law abiding citizens. We urge Congress to urgently pass H.R.18 to protect Americans and reduce gun violence.”

    “Keeping guns out of unauthorized hands is crucial in preventing tragedies like the one that took 26 precious lives, including my son Daniel, at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012. No community and no family should ever experience that kind of trauma. Background checks are a key piece of legislation that will save lives, and we call on every member of Congress to pass this bill to protect children and communities throughout our nation,” said Mark Barden, co-founder and CEO of the Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Restoring Access to Arkansas Campgrounds

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    Whether you’re camping or floating along the Buffalo National River, fishing for bass on Lake Ouachita, or hiking rugged trails for scenic views at Hawksbill Crag, the state of Arkansas, and the Fourth District, is a haven for all who enjoy spending their free time outdoors. The Natural State boasts some of the most unique, historic, and scenic outdoor opportunities in the country. As an avid outdoorsman, it is a great honor to represent a portion of this state in Congress and advocate for commonsense, conservative legislation that promotes our state’s natural beauty – conserving it for generations to come.

    This week solemnly marks the fifteenth anniversary of the catastrophic flood which struck the Albert Pike campgrounds on the Little Missouri River in remote Montgomery County, Arkansas on June 11, 2010. Twenty people lost their lives in this tragedy – children, parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends, all looking to enjoy some time away in the outdoors. Each of these individuals who lost their lives in this tragic flooding incident are still remembered today, and they will certainly never be forgotten.

    Many native Arkansans will tell you that an honored pastime is enjoying the overnight campgrounds at the Albert Pike Recreation Area. Social media pages were even created to memorialize the joy camping at these sites have brought to generations of Arkansans as well as citizens from other states enjoying our beautiful Arkansas federal lands – encouraging members to post about stories or pictures from memorable experiences. This community of support is why, when the U.S. Forest Service suspended overnight camping following the flooding, limiting the use of the recreation area to daytime use, many Arkansans expressed their dismay at the news that their overnight camping experiences would be put on hold.

    Following the closures, scores of tourists and locals urged legislators at the local, state, and federal levels to reopen the campgrounds. It became clear that federal action was needed to restore access and provide opportunities for locals and tourists to enjoy this beloved area once again. That’s why it was an honor to introduce the EXPLORE Act, a bipartisan piece of legislation aiming to improve outdoor recreation opportunities and access to public lands across the country – including the Albert Pike Recreation Area. 

    Within the EXPLORE Act, there were several measures directly impacting the Albert Pike Recreation Area such as safely reopening any existing campsites located outside of the 100-year flood plain, which is the land area with a 1% chance of flooding annually. In addition to these openings, the bill instructs the finding of fifty-four areas that could be suitable for overnight camping and establishing at least twenty-seven brand new overnight camping locations outside of the designated 100-year flood plain, with access to electricity and water, all to ensure the rehabilitation necessary to make publicly accessible areas available year-round.

    As we head into the summer months, there is no doubt Arkansans will be taking advantage of the Natural State’s abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Serving friends and family across the Fourth District is the honor of a lifetime, and I will undoubtedly continue to work to expand access to outdoor recreation from hiking and biking trails, to camping, and boating – connecting Arkansans deeper to the land they love so dearly.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Neguse, Sen. Gallego and Western Colleagues Launch Effort to Improve Wildfire Mitigation, Research, and Management

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    Washington, D.C. — As the once-so-called “fire season” stretches into a yearlong struggle for communities across the nation, Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse is launching a new effort to improve wildfire prevention, mitigation, and management. He is introducing a package of policy proposals initially derived from a 2024 report issued by the USDA’s Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission, which was created as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and tasked with outlining a holistic approach to addressing the rising threat of wildfires.

    Neguse, who co-chairs the Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus, has teamed up with a bipartisan, bicameral group of federal representatives to reintroduce the Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act, the Wildfire Coordination Act, and the Wildfire Risk Evaluation Act. All three bills are championed by Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego in the United States Senate and co-led by Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10) in the House of Representatives. In addition, the Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act is co-led by Congresswoman Young Kim (CA-39) and cosponsored by Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23). 

    “During my time in Congress, Colorado has experienced four of the five largest wildfires in our state’s history—meaning that my communities, along with the state and local agencies on the frontlines, have seen firsthand the increasing strain as these fires grow more frequent and severe. I’m proud to introduce legislation, rooted in the nonpartisan work of the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission, that invests in wildfire science and strengthens the long-term resilience of our communities to reduce the threat of future disasters,” said Congressman Neguse. 

    “As Arizona’s wildfire seasons get longer and wildfire landscapes evolve, it is vital we have the research and coordination tools to ensure effective mitigation and management,” said Senator Gallego. “These bills will improve the working relationship between federal agencies and with their state, local, and tribal counterparts. Wildfires don’t care about jurisdictional boundaries, and these bills reflect that.”

    “We’re in the middle of a yearslong megafire crisis and we can’t afford any more delays in tackling this threat,” said Congressman Harder. “Wildfires don’t care about your political party when they’re burning your house down, and neither should our solutions. America’s top firefighters and wildfire experts came together to tell us what they need to tackle the wildfire crisis, and this bipartisan package of bills is in direct response to their ideas. Our families and our communities are counting on us to get this done. 

    “Last fall, my district witnessed the devastating Airport Fire, which started in Trabuco Canyon and burned through 23,000 acres in Orange and Riverside counties. As wildfires grow in frequency and intensity, our mitigation tools must keep pace,” said Congresswoman Kim. “Effective wildfire prevention requires seamless coordination, which is why we must ensure federal, state, and local first responders can share information as effectively as possible. This bipartisan bill will help identify barriers and unlock opportunities to ensure communities like mine can better prevent and respond to these disasters.”

    Details on the bills are included below:

    The Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act provides recommendations for improving the effectiveness and efficiency of wildfire mitigation across land ownership boundaries by identifying gaps and opportunities in current federal rules and regulations and supporting increased collaboration.

    The Wildfire Coordination Act establishes an advisory board composed of members from various federal, State, local, Tribal, and non-federal partners that will be responsible for coordinating federal wildfire research, translating it into practical applications, and developing future research.

    The Wildfire Risk Evaluation Act requires a comprehensive review of the wildfire landscape in the United States every four years, outlining the changes in environments, assessing wildfire management challenges, and evaluating the intersection of wildfires and public health. This federal review will help inform the development of long-term strategies to enhance wildfire preparedness and response and strengthen interagency coordination. 

    This effort is supported by 20 local and national entities and organizations, including Grand Fire Protection District No. 1, Summit County, Summit Fire and EMS Fire Protection District, Red, White, and Blue Fire Protection District, Summit County Wildfire Council, Grand County Wildfire Council, Routt County Wildfire Council, Eagle County Wildfire Collaborative, Denver Water, Grassroots Wildland Firefighters, National Federation of Federal Employees, Alliance for Wildfire Resilience, American Property Casualty Insurance Association, Federation of American Scientists, International Association of Fire Chiefs, Megafire Action, National Association of State Foresters, Rural Voices for Conservation Coalition, and Tall Timbers. The Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act and the Wildfire Risk Evaluation Act are endorsed by The Nature Conservancy.  

    Quotes from endorsers can be found HERE. 

    And a one-pager can be found HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa Announces Major Grant Award for Redding Airport

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) released the following statement after the Federal Aviation Administration awarded $24,393,884 to rehabilitate the runway at Redding Regional Airport.  

    “Redding Regional Airport is an important rural hub for commercial travel, aerial firefighting, and general aviation in the North State,” said Rep. Doug LaMalfa. “This funding will renew the runway and improve overall safety, helping ensure that Redding remains a reliable option for commercial service. I’ve worked closely with local officials to make sure small, rural airports like this one aren’t overlooked when it comes to federal support.” 

    “The City of Redding and Redding Regional Airport greatly appreciate the years of collaboration with our federal partners that made securing this Federal Aviation Administration grant possible. This funding is vital to advancing the essential improvements to our airfield infrastructure,” said City of Redding Airports Manager Andrew Solsvig. “The airport runway is decades old and approaching the end of its useful life. This project is essential to ensure long-term safety and reliability of aircraft operations, while also bringing the airfield into compliance with federal regulations. Planned improvements include resurfacing the runway and blast pads, upgrading runway lighting to energy-efficient LEDs, and replacing all airfield signage.”

    “The city is immensely grateful for the work Congressman Doug LaMalfa and his team have done to make this grant happen,” said Council Member Tenessa Audette. “Redding and North State will be served in fire season, family season and every season in between with a new and improved runway.”

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

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    MIL OSI USA News –