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VIANO AIR BASE, ITALY, Dec. 2, 2024 -- Military working dog RRyker looks at the camera for a photo, after a K9 demo at Aviano Air Base, Italy, Dec. 2, 2024. Military working dogs help protect Airmen by detecting drugs, deterring hostile actions, locating bombs and assisting local law enforcement in keeping the public safe. U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Jakel.

Additional reimbursement authorized for pet transportation from countries with higher rabies risk
Defense Travel Management Office
WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Starting Nov. 25, service members performing a permanent change of station move from certain high-risk countries may be approved reimbursement up to $4,000.
In January, the Defense Department authorized the reimbursement of pet relocation expenses for a single household pet (a cat or a dog), such as transportation and quarantine fees, during a PCS move, up to $550 within the continental U.S. and up to $2,000 to or from a location outside the continental U.S.
In August, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention implemented a regulation requiring a higher level of screening for dogs returning to the U.S. from certain countries that pose a high risk for dog rabies and significantly reduced the number of ports of entry for dogs from those countries.
In response to the new CDC regulation, the department has updated the Joint Travel Regulations to accommodate service members transporting a dog during a PCS move from a high-risk country. Effective Nov. 25, service members on a PCS move from one of the high-risk countries (listed in JTR Supplement Locations Authorized to Exceed $2,000 Pet Allowance Limitation) may receive reimbursement up to $4,000 when both Patriot Express capacity and regularly scheduled commercial airline service are not available for pets. The reimbursement of pet transportation expenses over $2,000 must be approved through the Secretarial Process.
For more information, see frequently asked questions related to pet transportation.

U.S. Marines from Marine Corps Installations West stand shoulder to shoulder before executing Operation Clean Sweep at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 21, 2024. Operation Clean Sweep is a joint initiative between Marine Corps Installations West and I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton to improve living conditions for Marines and Sailors. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jeslianne A. Torres.

Camp Pendleton Marines and Sailors improve barracks conditions
by Staff Sgt. Jennifer Andrade, I Marine Expeditionary Force
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif., Nov. 22, 2024 – U.S. Marines and Sailors aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton successfully completed the first iteration of Operation Clean Sweep, a deliberate maintenance stand-down that addressed the backlog of barracks maintenance requests through self-help projects and a surge of contracted labor, from Oct. 16-30, 2024.
To provide unit oversight of barracks procedures and maintenance, 120 barracks buildings and more than 12,000 rooms were formally assigned to commanding officers across Camp Pendleton before the operation began. I Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Installations West Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton personnel then completed more than 4,500 self-help projects during the 15-day stand-down to revitalize barracks negatively affected by deferred maintenance.
Working side-by-side, officers, staff non-commissioned officers and junior Marines repaired dry-wall, painted walls, repaired and replaced window screens, and conducted grounds maintenance – not only improving living conditions but enhancing camaraderie and esprit de corps.
“The success of this operation is a testament to the dedication and teamwork of our Marines and Sailors at all ranks,” said Lt. Col. Robert Hillery, I MEF G-4 operations officer. “The all-hands effort to tackle the maintenance backlog and the bottom-up feedback provided by our junior Marines to shape the operation and its future iterations was a powerful reminder of our shared mission and values.”
During this first iteration of Operation Clean Sweep, MCI-West Public Works Department deployed six task-organized Direct Maintenance Teams to address work orders citing plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and carpentry issues. The DMTs successfully completed more than 2,000 work orders, to include repairing or replacing more than 390 washers and dryers. Additionally, more than 6,000 air conditioners were purchased for barracks rooms which are anticipated to arrive in time to combat rising summer temperatures in southern California.
Tackling the maintenance backlog as a Navy-Marine Corps team, U.S. Navy Seabees with Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit 303, Naval Construction Group 1, supported projects across the base. By empowering Marines and Sailors with valuable knowledge in the completion of self-help projects, the Seabees ensured the success of enduring maintenance efforts that aim to provide our Marines and Sailors the high standard of living that they deserve.
"The barracks aren’t a junior Marine problem, they’re an everybody problem. Between the Direct Maintenance Teams from Public Works, our planners and engineers, the Seabees, and the Marines of all types, everyone rolled up their sleeves and got after it,” said Cmdr. Stephen Ramsey, MCI-West public works officer. “The teamwork was infectious, there was a powerful sense of common purpose just like on a deployed operation."
Over the next fiscal year, I MEF and MCI-West will continue investing in updated HVAC, plumbing repairs, washer and dryer units, and improved furnishings to further improve quality of life and increase operational readiness across the force. Additionally, Marine Corps Community Services plans to install eight additional Mobile Exchanges that operate 24-hours a day. While maintenance efforts are still ongoing at Camp Pendleton and separate iterations are planned for other west coast bases, the initial Operation Clean Sweep has saved more than 3 million dollars in contract labor costs and successfully returned 446 previously unoccupiable barracks rooms to acceptable habitability standards.
Operation Clean Sweep is the first step in a larger I MEF and MCI-West Barracks 360 Reset initiative, which aims to improve the living conditions and operational readiness of Marines and Sailors through increased oversight by command teams, a dedicated effort to reduce the maintenance backlog and shared ownership of the barracks.

Centcom destroys threatening weapons systems in Syria
by Matthew Olay, DOD News
Dec. 3, 2024 -- U.S. Central Command this morning successfully engaged and destroyed several weapon systems that posed a threat to U.S. and coalition forces in Syria, the Defense Department announced.
The weapons destroyed — which included three truck-mounted multiple rocket launchers, a T-64 tank and multiple mortars — presented a "clear and imminent threat" to U.S. and coalition forces in the vicinity of eastern Syria's Mission Support Site Euphrates, Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder told the media this afternoon.
"The self-defense strike occurred after the mobile multiple rocket launchers fired rockets that landed in the vicinity of MSS Euphrates, and mortars were fired toward U.S. forces," Ryder said.
He added that, while DOD is still assessing who was operating the weapons, Iranian-backed militia groups are operating in the region that have attacked MSS Euphrates in the past.
This morning's incident was the second time in less than a week that Centcom forces were used to neutralize a hostile threat in the region.
On Nov. 29, Centcom employed A-10 fighter aircraft to successfully engage a hostile target that imposed a threat to U.S. and coalition forces at MSS Euphrates.
"Individuals were observed preparing a rocket rail," Ryder said of the threat. "These self-defense actions likewise eliminated threats to our personnel at MSS Euphrates," he added.
When questioned as to whether either of the past week's engagements was indicative of Centcom working with the Syrian Democratic Forces as part of the greater civil war going on throughout the region, Ryder repeatedly made clear that U.S. forces in the region are primarily focused on protecting their own personnel and partnering with the SDF to counter ISIS.
"To be clear, these self-defense actions successfully eliminated imminent threats to U.S. personnel and were not linked to any broader activities in northwest Syria by other groups," Ryder said.
"Our focus is on protecting our forces and also preserving our efforts to conduct counter-ISIS operations in partnership with the SDF," he added.

USS Boxer and 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit return home after Indo-Pacific deployment
From U.S. Third Fleet Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO, Nov. 25, 2024 – Sailors assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) and embarked elements of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) returned to homeport in San Diego and Camp Pendleton, this week after a deployment to the U.S. 7th and 3rd Fleet areas of operations.
As part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and the 15th MEU (ARG-MEU), more than 2,500 Sailors and Marines participated in a wide range of joint and combined exercises and provided foreign disaster support, showcasing the ready and responsive combined-arms team of the Navy and Marine Corps.
“The tactical expertise, professionalism, and stealth of the Sailors and Marines who make up our amphibious force team is unmatched, and that was proven time and time again throughout our deployment to the 7th Fleet area of operations,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Tate Robinson, commodore of Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 5. “From exercising and training alongside our allies and partners to supporting foreign disaster response missions, our Navy and Marine Corps team demonstrated the true flexibility and maneuverability of the ARG-MEU construct, and I could not be more honored to serve alongside each and every member of this team.”
During deployment, Boxer and the 15th MEU participated in exercise Ssang Yong. The exercise strengthened the Republic of Korea-U.S. alliance through bilateral, joint training, contributing toward combined amphibious capability in defense of the Korean Peninsula.
In September, Boxer also sailed alongside and participated in a personnel exchange with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kongo-class guided-missile destroyer JS Kongo (DDG 173) and conducted three replenishments-at-sea with the Royal New Zealand Navy's Polar-class sustainment vessel HMNZS Aotearoa (A11) before returning to the Republic of Korea to participate in the Republic of Korea Armed Forces Day celebration. As part of the celebration, Boxer and the 15th MEU welcomed more than 245 visitors to the ship for tours, giving the Sailors and Marines an opportunity to showcase their equipment, expertise, and professionalism while building relationships with the local community.
Later in September, the H-1 Helicopter detachment from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165, Reinforced temporarily transferred to the expeditionary sea base USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5), marking the first time a full H-1 detachment operated from this class of ship. The detachment, consisting of UH-1Y Venom and AH-1Z Viper helicopters, conducted day and night close-air support training missions with live ordnance, enhancing the capability and capacity of the MEU’s Marine Air Ground Task Force.
After departing the Republic of Korea, Boxer and the 15th MEU rapidly shifted course to head to the Philippines at the direction of U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command to support U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) efforts in foreign disaster response operations following Typhoon Krathon (locally know as Julian) at the request of the Philippine government. The Boxer ARG-MEU provided critical logistics support, transporting much-needed foreign disaster response supplies to remote locations in the Philippines alongside USAID, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and personnel from I Marine Expeditionary Force’s Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia (MRF-SEA). The foreign disaster response mission exemplified the benefits of the unique construct of the ARG-MEU, providing commanders the flexibility to respond to crises with air and sea-based connectors, ultimately enhancing maneuverability and ability to respond whenever and wherever called upon.
Following foreign disaster response in the provinces of Cagayan and Batanes, Philippines, the BOX ARG-MEU remained in the region to participate in Exercise KAMANDAG 8, an annual Philippine and U.S. Marine Corps-led exercise aimed at enhancing shared defense and humanitarian capabilities through realistic training scenarios and information exchanges. This year’s iteration included participants from Australia, France, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Thailand, and the United Kingdom.
“Together, the entire 15th MEU and the three ships of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group have demonstrated an exceptional level of versatility, resilience, and operational capability,” said Col. Sean Dynan, commanding officer, 15th MEU. “From crisis response during foreign disaster relief to supporting 10 theater exercises, the accomplishments of our amphibious force reflect the skill, resilience, dedication and professionalism of every Marine and Sailor. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together and the lasting impact this deployment will have on future operations in the Indo-Pacific working with our allies and partners."
Boxer is the flagship of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group. In addition to Boxer and the 15th MEU Command Element, units assigned to the ARG-MEU during the deployment included the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Somerset (LPD 25), Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49), Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 5, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, Tactical Air Control Squadron (TACRON) 11, Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 5, Assault Craft Units (ACU) 1 and 5, Beachmaster Unit (BMU) 1, Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 1/5, Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 15, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) (reinforced) 165, and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225 with embarked F-35B Lightning II aircraft. Harpers Ferry and Somerset returned to San Diego, Aug. 13 and Oct. 18, 2024, respectively.
Throughout the deployment, Boxer executed more than 3,500 launches and recoveries of U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aircraft, completing more than 2,100 flight hours in support of the 15th MEU Air Combat Element, VMM-165 (REIN), VMFA-225, and the HSC-23 detachment. Embarked aircraft on Boxer include MH-60S Nighthawk helicopters, MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, AH-1Z Viper helicopters, UH-1Y Venom helicopters, and F-35B Lightning II vertical and/or short take-off and landing aircraft.
Boxer’s air department team received more than 350 pallets of food, stores, and equipment via vertical replenishment (VERTREP) and over 1 million gallons of JP-5 via underway replenishment (UNREP) and in port replenishment. Additionally, the Amphibious Air Traffic Control Center (AATCC) conducted more than 500 instrument approaches, both day and night, while the flight deck and hangar deck conducted more than 2,100 aircraft movement evolutions and 240 aircraft elevator movements in direct support of daily operations.
Boxer completed eight underway replenishments in the Indo-Pacific region with the Henry J. Kaiser-class underway replenishment oilers USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) and USNS Yukon (T-AO 202), the Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ships USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE 7), USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10) USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14) and HMNZS Aotearoa, , and USNS Yukon, transferring more than 5 million gallons of fuel over the deployment period.
Boxer and the 15th MEU transited over 3,200 nautical miles in support of deterring aggression, crisis response, presence operations, and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific. Boxer conducted routine port visits to Guam, Japan, and the Republic of Korea.
The 15th MEU is based at Camp Pendleton and is part of I Marine Expeditionary Force. As a premiere global crisis response force, 15th MEU is trained and ready to operate within the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility with the Navy’s U.S. 3rd Fleet.
Boxer is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship homeported in San Diego. Commissioned Feb. 11, 1995, Boxer is the sixth ship to bear the name. Boxer’s crew is made up of approximately 1,200 officers and enlisted personnel and can accommodate up to 1,800 Marines.
As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic and relevant training necessary to execute the U.S. Navy’s timeless role across the full spectrum of military operations—from combat missions to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. U.S. 3rd Fleet works together with our allies and partners to advance freedom of navigation, the rule of law, and other principles that underpin security for the Indo-Pacific region.

Carrier USS George Washington forward deploys to Yokosuka
by Ensign Kenadall Hill
YOKOSUKA, Japan -- The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) returned to Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan as the United States’ only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, Nov. 22.
This marks the second time George Washington has served as the forward-deployed naval forces-Japan (FDNF-J) aircraft carrier. In 2008, it became the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to be forward-deployed to Japan before being relieved by USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in 2015.
“A US carrier represents the most advanced maritime capability we have, and it's the most advanced investment we can make in the security of Japan and of the Western Pacific,” said Vice Adm. Fred Kacher, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. “The George Washington returns with modernized, cutting-edge technology that represents our investment in deterrence and security in this region.”
During George Washington’s transit from Norfolk, Virginia to Japan, the crew completed Exercise Southern Seas in U.S. 4th Fleet and a seven-week transit from San Diego.
“Arriving here in Yokosuka has been a milestone for this crew for many months, and for some the journey started in April when we departed from Virginia,” said Capt. Tim Waits, commanding officer of George Washington. “I could not be more proud of this team. Not only have we arrived safely and on time, but from day one of deployment we have met every goal, exceeded all expectations, and were ready for tasking the day we arrived in the 7th Fleet area of operations.”
George Washington, with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, recently participated in the multi-domain exercise Freedom Edge with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Republic of Korea Navy in the East China Sea. U.S. participation included Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, the first F-35C Lightning II squadron to join FDNF-J, adding fifth generation strike fighter jets to the roster of forward-deployed carrier-based aircraft in the Indo-Pacific region.

SECNAV announces service life extensions for 12 destroyers to 'Keep more ready players on the field'
WASHINGTON – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced on October 31 that the Department of the Navy plans to operate 12 Arleigh Burke class (DDG 51) Flight I Destroyers beyond their 35-year expected service life.
The decision, based upon a hull-by-hull evaluation of ship material condition, combat capability, technical feasibility and lifecycle maintenance requirements, will result in an additional 48 ship-years of cumulative ship service life in the 2028 to 2035 timeframe. The Navy has proposed DDG service life extension funding in the FY26 budget request, and will update the shipbuilding plan accordingly.
“Extending these highly-capable, well-maintained destroyers will further bolster our numbers as new construction warships join the Fleet,” said Secretary Del Toro. “It also speaks to their enduring role in projecting power globally, and most recently in the Red Sea, their proven ability to defend themselves, as well as our allies, partners and friends from missile and drone attacks.”
At the Secretary’s request, the Navy conducted a thorough evaluation of each DDG-51 Flight I ship (DDG 51-71) over the past ten months, and determined the 12 destroyers could and should remain operational beyond their expected service life. The final determination of each ship’s service life is based on maximizing the service life of each ship before it required another extensive and costly docking availability.
The service life extensions meet the intent of Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti and the CNO’s NAVPLAN which directs the Navy to “get more ready players on the field.”
“Today’s budget constrained environment requires the Navy to make prioritized investments to keep more ready players on the field,” said Adm. Franchetti. “The Navy is actively pulling the right levers to maintain and grow its Battle Force Inventory to support the United States’s global interests in peace and to win decisively in conflict.”
The Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer is critical to the Navy’s mission and has proven itself most capable in contested environments, like the Red Sea.

DOD lays out plan to implement National Defense Industrial Strategy
October 29, 2024--In January the Defense Department released the National Defense Industrial Strategy, a first-of-its kind roadmap detailing priorities for how the department would strengthen the defense industrial base — the collection of private sector companies of all sizes responsible for building military hardware and weapons systems. Read more....

With industry help, DOD strives to be leader in microchip research, production
by David Vergun
Microchips enable virtually every military system, from ships, planes, tanks, long-range munitions, radar and communication gear to night vision, satellites, sensors — making them vital to the Defense Department.
Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks spoke Oct. 29, to industrial, government and academic leaders at the 2024 Microelectronics Commons Annual Meeting in Washington.
"Every day, from the Indo-Pacific to the North Atlantic to the Middle East and beyond — from the ocean floor to outer space to cyberspace — as American warfighters stand the watch, they depend on chips to help them defend our country, our allies and partners, and our interests," Hicks said. Read more...

An F-35B Lightning II aircraft lands aboard the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Izumo-class multi-functional destroyer JS Kaga (DDH-184) off the southern coast of California to begin developmental testing. U.S. Navy photo by Darin Russell.

F-35B test jet begins sea trials with Japanese multi-functional destroyer in eastern Pacific Ocean
by Michael Land
October 22, 2924--A U.S. F-35 Lightning II aircraft landed aboard Japan’s Izumo-class multi-functional destroyer JS Kaga (DDH-184) for the first time Oct. 20 off the southern coast of California to begin developmental test aboard the allies’ largest ship.
Royal Navy Lt. Cmdr. Nick Baker, a test pilot with the F-35 Patuxent River Integrated Test Force (Pax ITF), flew a specially instrumented F-35B short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the 5th generation air system and touched down about 3:15 p.m.
Sea trials will leverage the ship’s recent modifications to conduct fixed-wing aircraft operations. Changes to the Kaga included painting its flight deck with heat-resistant material that tolerates the F-35B’s vectored-thrust engines, installing lights for nighttime operations, and reshaping the flight deck’s bow from a trapezoid to a rectangular shape.
The trials will also pave the way for allies’ increased ability to operate in conjunction with each other.
“This test is essential for strengthening Japan's defense capabilities and is of utmost importance. We will do our best to achieve good test results together with the ITF,” said Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Capt. Shusaku Takeuchi, commanding officer, JS Kaga. “This test does not merely enhance the capabilities of the Maritime Self-Defense Force. It also improves the interoperability between Japan and the U.S., strengthening the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. alliance, thereby contributing to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.”
The F-35 is detached from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two Three (VX-23), Naval Air Station Patuxent River (NAS Pax River), Maryland. It joins a test team from the Pax ITF, who embarked the ship in San Diego.
In addition to F-35 test pilots, the Pax ITF team includes aircraft maintainers, flight test engineers, flight test control engineers, flight deck personnel, logisticians, and others, with support from the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
"We are proud to be part of this joint effort to test the compatibility of F-35B aboard JS Kaga,” said Seth Dion, Pax ITF team lead. “Our team has prepared meticulously for this mission, and we are committed to working closely with our allies to achieve our shared goals and strengthen our partnership."
The sea trials are scheduled to take approximately three weeks.
JS Kaga set sail from its homeport at Kure Naval Base, Japan, in early September.

Welcome Home to our returning Sailors & Marines

SAN DIEGO (Oct. 15, 2024) U.S. Navy Cmdr. Matthew Den Herder greets family members following the return of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) to San Diego after a scheduled nine-month deployment, Oct. 15, 2024. Theodore Roosevelt, the flagship of the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group, returned to its homeport after conducting operations in the U.S. 3rd, 5th, and 7th Fleet areas of operation as part of a routine deployment in support of global maritime security operations. As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic and relevant training necessary to execute the U.S. Navy’s timeless role across the full spectrum of military operations-from combat missions to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close coordination with other numbered fleets to provide commanders with capable, ready forces to deploy forward and win in day-to-day competition, in crisis, and in conflict. U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Aaron Haro Gonzalez

Cmdr. Michael McInerney, from Virginia Beach, Va., commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59) reunites with his family during the ship’s homecoming ceremony at Naval Base San Diego, Oct. 15, 2024, following an eight-month deployment. The Russell departed San Diego on Feb. 10, and joined the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group in the U.S. 3rd, 5th, and 7th Fleet areas of operation to conduct global maritime security operations supporting regional stability. U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Maria G. Llanos

Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group returns to San Diego after 9-month deployment
SAN DIEGO – The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), the flagship of the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG) returned to its homeport of San Diego Oct. 15 after conducting operations in the U.S. 3rd, 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation as part of a routine deployment in support of global maritime security operations.
TRCSG is a multiplatform team of ships, aircraft, and more than 6,000 Sailors, capable of carrying out a wide variety of missions around the globe. Deploying units of the strike group include Theodore Roosevelt, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 23, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70). While the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Russell (DDG 59), USS Halsey (DDG 97) and USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118) also returned to their respective home ports, Lake Erie and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) remain deployed in the 7th Fleet area of operations supporting global maritime security operations.
TRCSG deployed to the Indo-Pacific region to support regional security and stability, keep sea lanes open, and to reassure our allies and partners of the U.S. Navy’s unwavering commitment to the region. The strike group was later ordered to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to strengthen U.S. military force posture and capabilities throughout the Middle East in light of escalating regional tensions.
“The strike group’s ability to quickly adjust from operations in 7th Fleet to 5th Fleet is a testament to both the flexibility of our naval forces as well as the strength and training of our Navy Sailors,” said Commander, Carrier Strike Group 9, Rear Adm. Christopher Alexander. “We had the distinct honor to strengthen our skills and relationships with 10 allied and partner nations, demonstrating our nation’s commitment to the freedom of navigation.”
CVW 11 consisted of nine squadrons: the “Blue Blasters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34, the “Fist of the Fleet” of VFA-25, the “Flying Checkmates” of VFA-211, the “Black Knights” of VFA-154, the “Liberty Bells” of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 115, the “Rooks” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 137, the “Wolf Pack” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 75, the “Eightballers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 and the “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40.
As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic and relevant training necessary to execute the U.S. Navy’s timeless role across the full spectrum of military operations—from combat missions to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close coordination with other numbered fleets to provide commanders with capable, ready forces to deploy forward and win in day-to-day competition, in crisis, and in conflict.

Snowy Climb: Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center instructors hike alongside Argentine marines to the summit of a mountain range at Martial Glacier in Ushuaia, Argentina, Sept. 6, 2024. The hike fosters camaraderie and mutual reliance between U.S. and Argentine forces, which aims to strengthen their ability to work together for future exercises. USMC photo by Marine Corps Cpl. Samuel Qin.

Election season: What servicemembers need to know
by Sgt. Amanda McLean Army News Service
WASHINGTON - For all servicemembers, navigating between personal political views and their duty to be apolitical, can be a delicate balancing act.
With campaign season here and political polarization increasing, service members need to be aware of political activities in which they may and may not engage.
“Maintaining the hard-earned trust and confidence of the American people requires Soldiers to avoid any action that could imply endorsement of a political party, political candidate, or campaign by any element of the Army,” said Donald Lobeda, associate deputy general counsel, Army Office of the General Counsel.
The Department of Defense Directive 1344.10 serves as the guiding principle for active-duty military personnel on how to maintain the armed forces as an apolitical force.
Military personnel are permitted to participate in political activities, such as exercising their right to vote and attending political events as spectators- as long as they are not in uniform. However, servicemembers are subject to restrictions involving political activities. For instance, active-duty members may not campaign or speak for a partisan political candidate.
Active-duty military should also keep these three things in mind when engaging in political activities:
1. Don’t engage in political fundraising. Servicemembers may not solicit, accept, or receive political contributions at any place or at any time.
2. Servicemembers may not be a nominee or candidate for any civil office unless the Secretary of the Army grants permission.
3. Whether Army, Navy, Air Force, Space Force or Coast Guard Marine Corps, no service resources are allowed to be used for political activities or to conduct political activities in the workplace.
“Bottom line is that all servicemembers should avoid conduct that might cause a person to think that their political activities imply, or appear to imply, military sercvice sponsorship, approval, or endorsement of a political candidate, party, campaign, or cause,” said Lobeda.
Active-duty military should use discretion and carefully consider the potential consequences of their actions pertaining to politics, whether they are on-duty or off-duty, whether they are engaged in conduct on-line or in the real world.

Austin deploys missile battery, personnel to Israel
by Matthew Olay, DOD News
Oct. 15, 2024--Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III over the weekend authorized the deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense, or THAAD, missile battery and its associated United States military crew to Israel, the Pentagon announced today.
The THAAD will be used to bolster Israel's missile defense capabilities in the wake of Iran's targeted attacks on that nation on April 13 and Oct. 1st of this year, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh told the media.
An advance team of military personnel and some of the initial components needed to operate the missile battery arrived in Israel yesterday, with additional personnel and components scheduled to arrive in the coming days with a goal of making the THAAD fully capable in the near future, Singh said. "This decision was made as part of the broader adjustments the U.S. military has made in recent months to support the defense of Israel and protect Americans from attacks by Iran and Iranian-aligned militias," Singh said.
When asked by the media why a THAAD is suddenly needed in the region now, Singh pointed out that Iran's attack on Israel earlier this month was nearly double the size of the April 13 attack, and that the earlier attack included mostly unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles being launched at Israel rather than missiles of the ballistic variety.
"On April 13, we had more of our fighters in the air shooting down UAV's and cruise missiles, [but] our fighters are not going to engage these types of ballistic missiles," Singh said, adding that it was U.S. Navy destroyers that engaged Iran's ballistic missiles during the April attack and that the THAAD is intended to do the same, only from land.
"Now, should Iran choose to [attack] again with … more ballistic missiles … a THAAD adds capability to Israel's air defenses," Singh said. "It can help shoot those [ballistic missiles] down and protect innocent civilians there; and that includes Americans who are in Israel," she added.
As Singh noted, Secretary Austin's decision to deploy a THAAD battery to Israel is in line with a number of steps the DOD has recently taken to bolster the defense posture of U.S. forces throughout the Middle East.
In late September, Austin ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group to remain in U.S. Central Command's area of operations beyond its regular rotation date; and the Pentagon at the same time announced that U.S. forces rotating into the Middle East will augment rather than replace forces already there.
"We've made some of these force posture adjustments in the past [and] we are always nimble and always able to adjust as needed," Singh said, referencing the THAAD deployment. "[So], this was a decision the secretary decided to make."
While there is no specific timeline available for how long the THAAD will be in Israel, Singh did refer to the system as a "temporary provision" of air defense capabilities to assist in protecting Israel.

DOD finishes 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' discharge reviews
by Jim Garamone, DOD News
The Defense Department has finished its proactive review of service members administratively separated from the services for their sexual orientation during the Don't Ask, Don't Tell era. 
DOD officials made the announcement Oct. 15.  
The Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy was in effect from Feb. 28, 1994, until Sept. 20, 2011. During that time, gay, lesbian and bisexual service members could not be open about their sexual orientation. Under the policy, the services wouldn't "ask" sexual orientation, and gay and lesbian service members couldn't "tell." If their sexual orientation became known, service members were separated. 
More than 13,000 service members were separated from the military under the policy. 
"Even though the majority of service members discharged for their sexual orientation during [Don't Ask, Don't Tell] were honorably separated, nearly 2,000 were separated with less than fully honorable characterizations," said Christa A. Specht, director of legal policy at the Pentagon's Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness.  
Following the repeal of the policy in 2011, those separated under it could appeal for an upgrade, and many did. After applying to the Military Department Review Boards, 85 percent of those who applied received some form of relief. Others affected by the change likely had no idea such relief was possible, Specht said, and did not apply.  
Last year, Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks initiated the record review with an eye toward upgrading those discharges. Rather than wait for requests, DOD looked at all the records of eligible former service members separated under Don't Ask, Don't Tell and processed them through the services.  
That process is now complete, Specht said, and DOD has submitted corrected records and mailed letters advising affected individuals how they can obtain copies of their new discharge certificates. 

Space commander outlines role of partnerships amid growing threats
by Joseph Clark
The collective efforts of the United States and its allies to safeguard their shared interests in space are critical amid increasing threats in the domain, the commander of U.S. Space Command said Sept. 25.
Space Force Gen. Stephen N. Whiting said the risks posed to critical U.S. and allied space capabilities are accelerating as Russia and China, in particular, field an array of capabilities. Read more....

Senate confirms more than 6,000 military leaders forpromotions, new positions
by C. Todd Lopez
Sept. 25, 2024 -- The U.S. Senate has confirmed, via voice vote, the promotions of some 6,030 military officers across the Department of Defense to both new ranks and in some cases to new jobs.
"Last night, the Senate confirmed more than 6,000 of our highly qualified military nominees in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy and Space Force," said Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh.
Less than a year ago, hundreds of similar nominations were held up in the Senate due to a blanket hold on confirmations implemented in February 2023.
"We're very glad that the Senate has confirmed these officers for critical positions during this time and for our national security," she said.
Among those names submitted to and confirmed by the Senate were Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven S. Nordhaus, who was promoted to general and who will serve as chief of the National Guard Bureau; Navy Vice Adm. Alvin Holsey, promoted to admiral, who serve as commander of U.S. Southern Command; Air Force Lt. Gen. Randall Reed, to general, to serve as commander of U.S. Transportation Command; and Air Force Lt. Gen. Xavier T. Brunson, to general, to serve as commander of U.S. Forces Korea.

Chief of Naval Operations discusses Navigation Plan 2024
by Joseph Clark, DOD News
The Navy’s top admiral underscored the imperative for the nation’s sea service to continue to meet the demands of an evolving technology and national security landscape.
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti discussed her recently released Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy 2024 during a discussion recently. 19 hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a public policy think tank in Washington.
Read more....

USS Preble departs San Diego for Japan, shifts homeport
Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88) departed San Diego Sept. 22, 2024, shifting its homeport to Yokosuka, Japan. The move is part of a scheduled rotation of forward-deployed naval forces in the Pacific a permanent change of station move for for the crew and family members.
Preble replaces USS Benfold (DDG 65), which will depart Yokosuka and shift its homeport to Everett, Washington.

USS Leyte Gulf decommissioned
From USS Leyte Gulf Public Affairs
NORFOLK, Va. - The crew of the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) held a decommissioning ceremony onboard Naval Station Norfolk on September 20th.
Over 500 attendees including plankowners and former crew members joined together to celebrate the ship's distinguished 37 years of naval service. Vice Adm. Eugene Black III, Leyte Gulf’s 14th commanding officer, served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker, wishing the current crew fair winds and following seas as they bade their ship farewell.

An Abrams tank fires at a target during night live-fire training near Pocheon, South Korea, Aug. 12, 2024. The training was part of Operation Pacific Fortitude, which supports the U.S. alliance with South Korea by deploying forces and transporting equipment to validate unit readiness. Photo by Army Cpl. David Poleski.

DoD announces launch of online housing feedback system
The Department of Defense announced Aug. 12 the launch of the DoD Housing Feedback System (DHFS), an initiative designed to enhance transparency and accountability in DoD privatized military housing.
The new system allows active-duty Service members and their authorized dependents to submit feedback on their current leased unit, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed in a timely manner.
The system opens an additional, high-visibility communication channel for active-duty service members living in privatized military housing and their authorized dependents to submit public feedback related to the condition of their current housing unit and receive a response from their privatized landlord.
The DHFS is intended to augment, not replace existing processes for submitting maintenance work order requests. Privatized military housing residents should continue to submit work order requests through their community’s property manager or other regular channels to receive corrective action for maintenance issues.
The launch of this initiative is part of the department’s ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life for our Service members and their families.

Navy christens future USNS Point Loma
The Navy christened future USNS Point Loma (EPF 15), the second of the Spearhead-class Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) Flight II configurations, Aug. 10, in Mobile, Ala. The ship is named in honor of the community of Point Loma and its decades long relationship with the Navy, beginning with the establishment of the Naval Coaling Station, La Playa, in 1901, and later the Naval Supply Center San Diego in 1943. This is the second ship to honor the Point Loma community.
www.navy.mil/Resources/Fact-Files/Display-FactFiles/Article/2226179/expeditionary-fast-transport-epf/

Disability income for veterans will no longer disqualify them from rental assistance
Homeless veterans denied federal rental assistance because their monthly disability checks from the Department of Veterans Affairs exceeded income limits will now be able to receive the housing subsidies through a joint program run by the VA and Department of Housing and Urban Development. “For a very small percentage of homeless veterans, the amount of VA service-connected benefits received due to the severity of their disabilities results in the veteran being over the low-income limit,” said Terrence Hayes, the VA press secretary.

Active duty Army officer, 2nd Lt. Alma Cooper, crowned Miss USA
U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Alma Cooper was crowned Miss USA 2024 on Sunday, August 4, becoming the first active-duty officer to claim the tiara.
The 22-year-old West Point graduate majored in math and is currently studying statistics at Stanford.
Cooper highlighted her ethnicity, saying she’s a “proud Afro Latina woman,” and humble beginnings as the daughter of a migrant worker.
“I’m living the American dream,” she told the judges. “If there’s anything that my life and my mother have taught me, it’s that your circumstances never define your destiny. You can make success accessible through demanding excellence.”
Cooper will compete in the Miss Universe contest in Mexico later this year.
“I think the biggest thing I learned at West Point is your character and how fundamental it is — and how you lead and how you carry yourself throughout your life.”
Her title follows the January victory at the Miss America pageant of Air Force 2nd Lt. Madison Marsh, who is the first active-duty officer to win that crown.

Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group departs Guam and Saipan
by PO3 Aleksandr Freutel
PACIFIC OCEAN — The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), USS O’Kane (DDG 77), and USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. (DDG 121) departed Naval Base Guam, August 8, 2024, after conducting a scheduled four-day port call to the island.
The USS Spruance (DDG 111) departed Saipan, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, the same day following a four-day port call.
The ships of Carrier Strike Group Three (CSG-3) had transited the Pacific Ocean prior to pulling into port. Port calls provide Sailors and Marines opportunities for volunteer projects around the islands and the opportunity to experience new cultures and take a break from the demands of being at sea.
“The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is thrilled to make our first port stop in Guam and Saipan, islands of rich history and deep ties with the United States Navy,” said Rear Adm. Adan Cruz, commander, CSG-3. “Guam and Saipan are vital strategic hubs for the U.S. Navy, and the gracious welcome we received is indicative of our continued strong bond in the Western Pacific.”On arrival to Guam, 20 Sailors and Marines assigned to USS Abraham Lincoln and Carrier Air Wing Nine re-united with their families on the pier for a homecoming ceremony attended by over 75 family members.
During the port visit, Sailor’s and Marines strengthened ties with local communities by giving back through multiple volunteer opportunities. Volunteer opportunities provide a positive lasting impact and give back to the community to return its hospitality. Sailors and Marines participated in a wide variety of volunteer projects including beach, pier and hiking trail clean-ups, as well as Island Girl Power, a charitable organization whose mission is to empower young Guamanian girls.
Additionally, Sailors and Marines experienced the rich natural beauty of the islands through tours organized by Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) including tours, snorkeling, Jet Ski rentals, and cultural barbecues.
“The Abraham Lincoln team pursues and achieves greatness every day, and the hard work and efforts we have seen thus far on deployment are an excellent example of that,” said Capt. Pete Riebe, commanding officer of USS Abraham Lincoln. “After a busy few weeks conducting flight operations, replenishments-at-sea, and training across the strike group, we are grateful for the opportunity to enjoy the beauty and culture of Guam on our first port call.”
The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group consists of USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), embarked staffs of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) Three and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21, squadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) Nine, USS O’Kane (DDG 77), USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. (DDG 121), and USS Spruance (DDG 111) of DESRON 21.
CVW-9 consists of an F-35C squadron, the “Black Knights” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314; three F/A-18E/F Super Hornet squadrons, the “Tophatters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14; “Black Aces” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41, the “Vigilantes” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151; “Wizards” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133, operating the EA-18G Growler; “Wallbangers” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 117, operating the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye; “Chargers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14 operating the MH-60S Sea Hawk; and “Raptors” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, operating the MH-60R Sea Hawk.

Several U.S. personnel injured in rocket attack at Iraq base housing
Several U.S. personnel were injured Aug. 5 in a rocket attack on a military base in Iraq, a defense official said. “We can confirm that there was a suspected rocket attack today against U.S. and coalition forces at al Asad Air Base, Iraq,” said the official who spoke on condition of anonymity. “Initial indications are that several U.S. personnel were injured. Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment.” Two Katyusha rockets were fired at the base in western Iraq, Reuters reported. The latest incident comes after Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Aug. 2 ordered additional warships and a fighter squadron to the Middle East to bolster defenses in the region. The decision to move U.S. forces came ahead of an anticipated Iranian attack in response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week.

U.S. to depart final base in Niger, nearly ending withdrawal
The U.S. recently departed from a second and final base in Niger, all but ending a monthslong withdrawal from what was once a vital partner in the fight against terrorism, two American defense officials confirmed. One of the officials stressed that this didn’t mean America’s exit was complete. But Air Base 201 was the final U.S. military site in the West African country after forces exited Air Base 101 in the capital of Niamey this July. Shortly after a group of U.S. officials visited in March, a spokesman for the Nigerien military announced in a televised address his government was ending its counterterrorism agreement with the U.S. The news came as a surprise in Washington, where officials tried to understand whether it was official policy.

Predator's Run: Marines conduct a preflight inspection on an MV-22B Osprey during Predator's Run at Royal Australian Air Force Base Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, July 24, 2024. Predator's Run is a littoral-focused, multilateral training exercise. USMC photo by Sgt. Cristian Bestul.




Navy Demonstrates ‘Game-Changing’ System to Rearm Warships at Sea: Sailors from the Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group and USS Chosin (CG 65) carefully guide a missile canister using the U.S. Navy’s Transferrable Rearming Mechanism as they demonstrate the ability to reload a Vertical Launching System cell on July 10 at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division’s Underway Replenishment Test Facility. U.S. Navy photo by Dana Rene White.

Navy’s 70+ acre Old Town Campus revitalization moves forward
SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Navy’s proposal to revitalize the 70.3-acre Naval Base Point Loma Old Town Campus to provide new facilities for Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWAR) continues to move forward. The Navy is working closely with selected developer Manchester Financial Group/Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate (Manchester/Edgemoor) to potentially revitalize the Navy’s Old Town Campus in San Diego, California. Read more....

U.S. intends to reconstitute U.S. Forces Japan as Joint Forces Headquarters
Through a phased approach, the U.S. plans to convert U.S. Forces Japan into a joint force headquarters which will report to the commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, the U.S. secretary of defense said today following the conclusion of a two-plus-two ministerial meeting in Tokyo.
"The United States will upgrade the U.S. Forces Japan to a joint force headquarters with expanded missions and operational responsibilities," said Austin. Read more....

Prepare for VA’s secure sign-in changes coming in 2025
VA is committed to making it as easy as possible for veterans to manage their benefits and health care online while protecting their identities and data.
As part of this commitment, and in an effort to streamline veterans’ sign-in options, VA will transition to two modern, secure, sign-in options in 2025: a Login.gov or ID.me account.
After this transition, veterans, beneficiaries and caregivers looking to access VA’s online services (VA.gov, the VA: Health and Benefits mobile app, and other VA online services) will need to sign in with either a Login.gov or ID.me account.
Veterans and other beneficiaries will no longer be able to use usernames and passwords for My HealtheVet after Jan. 31, 2025, or DS Logon after Sept. 30, 2025.
VA will provide information and support throughout this transition. Veterans can begin this transition now by visiting www.va.gov/sign-in-changes to learn how to create a verified Login.gov or ID.me account.
The process takes about 10 minutes. Importantly, veterans who do not transition before these deadlines will be able to resume accessing their data, benefits and services online as soon as they create a Login.gov or ID.me account.
This transition only impacts account-based online services. Many VA webpages are accessible without signing in—such as finding information about VA locations, downloading VA forms, learning more about the PACT Act, how to file claims, and more.

99 year old Veteran receives Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Eighty-one years after serving as an Aviation Radioman-gunner in World War II, a 99-year-old Navy Veteran received a Distinguished Flying Cross and an Air Medal, July 25, 2024 at the California State Capitol Building in Sacramento.
Richard E. “Dick” Miralles, assigned to Bombing Squadron (VB) 21 of Carrier Air Group (CVG) 11, received the Air Medal (first through 14th Strike/Flight) and Distinguished Flying Cross (with three gold stars in lieu of fourth) awards for meritorious achievement in aerial flight during 85 combat missions as an Aviation Radioman 2nd Class from 16 August 1942 to 25 July 1943. Read more....

George Washington, Ronald Reagan conduct hull swap in San Diego
NAS NORTH ISLAND - Aircraft carriers USS George Washington (CVN 73) and USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) conducted a hull swap here that sends Ronald Reagan to Bremerton, Wash., and returns George Washington to Yokosuka, Japan, as the Navy’s only forward-deployed Naval Forces-Japan aircraft carrier effective Aug. 1.
The hull swap was planned in coordination with the government of Japan, and as a part of the 50-year lifespan of the U.S. Navy’s Nimitz-class aircraft carriers.
“USS Ronald Reagan has served exceptionally as America’s forward deployed aircraft carrier for nearly a decade, projecting credible combat power while sailing and flying where international law allows and doing so with allies and partners throughout the Indo-Pacific,” said Rear Adm. Greg Newkirk, commander of Task Force 70 and Carrier Strike Group 5. “Reagan’s crew and those who have served aboard over the past several years should be tremendously proud of what they accomplished.”
George Washington relieving Ronald Reagan marks the second time the ship will serve as the FDNF-J aircraft carrier. In 2008, George Washington became the first nuclear powered aircraft carrier to serve as FDNF-J and was relieved by Ronald Reagan seven years later after a historic tri-carrier hull swap.

NAVAL AIR STATION NORTH ISLAND, Calif. (July 23, 2024) Sailors man the rails on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), as it pulls into Naval Air Station North Island, California, July 23. As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific in addition to providing realistic and relevant training necessary to flawlessly execute our Navy’s timeless roles of sea control and power projection. U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close coordination with other numbered fleets to provide commanders with capable, ready forces to deploy forward and win in day-to-day competition, in crisis, and in conflict. U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Ryan Freiburghaus.

NATO's nuclear deterrence posture seen as robust
by David Vergun, DOD News
NATO has put a lot of effort and resources into its nuclear deterrence mission, said Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy Vipin Narang, who spoke July 19 at a virtual Center for a New American Security fireside chat on Adapting NATO’s Nuclear Posture to Current Threats.
Narang said that overall, he’d give NATO’s nuclear posture a grade of A-plus. He provided some examples:
The U.S. and the Netherlands have fielded the first nuclear-certified F-35A jets
The legacy B-61 nuclear weapons are being replaced by upgraded ones.
NATO has reinvigorated its nuclear consultations and planning.
The transition to the Sentinel ICBM from the Minuteman III will continue.
The transition to Sentinel is crucial to national security, Narang said.
NATO has superior conventional forces, as compared with Russia, and three of its member states, the U.S., the United Kingdom and France, all have nuclear weapons.
The United States has an impressive nuclear triad consisting of intercontinental ballistic missiles, ballistic missile submarines and bomber aircraft, he said, noting that each leg of the triad has its own inherent strengths.
The robust nuclear and conventional forces of NATO are vital to deterring conflict.
If nuclear weapons are employed against NATO, it will be necessary to support and sustain the conventional fight and a potential nuclear response at the same time, he said.

Flag officer announcement - Boyle
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III announced recently that the president has nominated Vice Adm. Michael E. Boyle for reappointment to vice admiral, with assignment as director, Navy Staff, N09B, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C. Boyle recently served as commander, 3rd Fleet, San Diego.

5G technology development for use across the fleet
The Navy fleet could soon start reaping the benefits of 5G technology. For the past several years, in collaboration with Office of the Under Secretary of Defense, Research and Engineering FutureG office, Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic has developed and tested 5G capabilities in naval ship environments and is primed and ready to deploy those capabilities on board Navy ships. This same technology used by just about every civilian with a cell phone is now ready and waiting to start making an impact on improving shipboard quality of life and quality of work, that combined is known as Quality of Service for Sailors.


U.S. Navy Sailors, American Red Cross volunteers and volunTEENs pose for a group photo do conclude the volunTEEN summer program at Naval Medical Center San Diego, July 10, 2024. NMCSD’s mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMCSD employs more than 5,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere. U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Jacob Woitzel.

USS San Diego to forward deploy to Japan, USS Green Bay to return
Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan/Navy Region Japan Public Affairs
The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22) will move to Sasebo, Japan, to join the Forward Deployed Naval Forces Japan (FDNF-J), the U.S. Navy announced today. This will be executed as a permanent change of station for the crew and family members.
San Diego will replace USS Green Bay (LPD 20), which has been forward deployed to Sasebo for a decade. Green Bay will return to the United States at its new homeport of San Diego. The forward presence of San Diego supports the United States’ commitment to the defense of Japan, enhances the national security of the United States and improves its ability to protect strategic interests. San Diego will directly support the Defense Strategic Guidance to posture the most capable units forward in the Indo-Pacific Region.

U.S. Marines with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Color Guard present the colors during the San Diego Padres’ Military Salute to the Marine Corps at Petco Park Stadium, San Diego, July 14, 2024. U.S. Marines attended the San Diego Padres’ Military Salute to the Marine Corps to honor the commitment of U.S. Marines and connect with the San Diego community. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Mary Jenni.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES Wearing a pink ribbon in her hair, Navy Ensign Megan Neyen leads a huddle of rugby players from all services in a cheer ‘For Those Who Can’t’ at the conclusion of the 2024 Armed Forces Women’s Rugby Championships in San Diego, Calif. July 13, 2024. Team Army wore the motto “For Those Who Can’t’ on their uniforms to honor injured or deceased female service members. DoD photo by EJ Hersom.

U.S. to expand control of land sales to foreigners near 56 additional military sites
U.S. Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, or CFIUS, is an interagency committee authorized to review certain transactions involving foreign investment in the United States and certain real estate transactions by foreign persons, in order to determine the effect of such transactions on the national security of the U.S. Read more....

VA awards $26.8M in grants to support legal services for vets experiencing or at risk for homelessness
WASHINGTON - On July 1, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced it will award $26.8 million in legal services grants to a total of 108 public and non-profit organizations, all with the goal of increasing access to legal services for eligible veterans experiencing or at risk for homelessness.
These grant funds, made available as part of VA’s Legal Services for Homeless Veterans and Veterans At-Risk for Homelessness Grant Program, more than double the total dollars and mark a 37 percent increase in grantees over last year’s inaugural grant cycle.
This grant program is enabled by the Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 and ensures at least 10 percent of funding supports the provision of legal services for women veterans. Individual grant awards are up to $300,000 for a 14-month grant cycle starting Aug. 1, 2024. Grant recipients will deliver a variety of legal services to vets:
•Providing representation in landlord-tenant disputes to prevent eviction.
•Assisting with court proceedings for child support, custody, or estate planning.
•Helping veterans obtain benefits like disability compensation.
•Defending veterans in criminal cases that can prolong or increase their risk of homelessness, such as outstanding warrants, fines, and driver’s license revocation.
•Upgrading characterization of discharges or dismissals of former members of the Armed Forces.

Marine Corps Installations West welcomes new commanding general
Brig. Gen. Jason G. Woodworth relinquished command of Marine Corps Installations West Marine Camp Pendleton to Brig. Gen. Nick I. Brown during a ceremony at Camp Pendleton June 27. Read more...

Pacific Fleet boss awards Sailor for money-saving initiative
by Lt. Zachary Anderson, USS Boxer (LHD 4)
SAN DIEGO - While visiting USS Boxer earlier this month, Adm. Stephen T. Koehler, commander, Pacific Fleet, presented Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Jim GarciaAcevedo with a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for the additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, of 300 sound-powered phone caps, saving the Navy $12,000 in production costs.
In June 2022, Pacific Fleet leadership directed commanders at every echelon to optimize pride, performance and operational readiness through the Shipshape and Seaworthy initiative.
“Upgrading one of our communication systems was a cross-sectional effort involving multiple departments and rates - reinforcing that seamless integration of specialties is what makes Boxer, and more broadly, the Surface Force great,” said Boxer Commanding Officer Capt. Brian Holmes. “I see firsthand how hard this crew works day in and day out, so it is immensely gratifying for the highest levels of Navy leadership to recognize our Sailors’ efforts.”

Navy relaxes career-ending mandate for Sailors who fail two consecutive fitness tests
by Caitlyn Burchett, Stars and Stripes
The Navy will no longer automatically end the careers of Sailors who fail two consecutive fitness tests, according to a service policy released last week.
Previously, Sailors who failed one physical fitness assessment would be placed in their command’s mandatory fitness program. They also would be restricted from advancing until they passed the next fitness test. A second consecutive failure would prohibit Sailors from advancing or reenlisting, according to a prior policy.
The new policy, which became effective June 18, relaxes the career-ending mandate, instead leaving the decision to a Sailor’s commanding officer.
“Commanding officers are able to evaluate a Sailor’s physical readiness progress or lack of progress in performance evaluations, giving them the ability to manage risk, recognize earnest effort, and best take care of their people,” Vice Adm. Rick Cheeseman, chief of naval personnel, said in the administrative message.
While Sailors will still be ineligible for advancement if they fail a fitness assessment, the failure will no longer be noted on annual evaluations.




Carrier Drill: Sailors participate in a crash and salvage drill on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson in San Diego, May 2, 2024.Photo by Navy Seaman Kenneth Ostas.



Camp Pendleton pilots awarded for lifesaving actions at Dallas airport
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (June 12, 2024) - Two Marines assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, were recognized June 10, 2024, for their lifesaving actions helping a man suffering a medical emergency at the at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport May 23, 2024.
Capt. Steven M. Maire and Capt. Joseph H. Carey were each presented a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal by the 15th MEU's commanding officer, Col. Sean Dynan, in front of a formation of approximately 200 Marines and Sailors with VMM-165 (Rein.) at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California. Read more....

Vice Adm. Wade takes the helm from Vice Adm. Boyle at 3rd Fleet
by MC2 Maria Llanos , Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet
Vice Adm. John Wade assumed command of U.S. 3rd Fleet (C3F) during a change of command ceremony on Naval Base Point Loma, June 7. He relieved Vice Adm. Michael “Fonz” Boyle, who took command of C3F in June 2022.
Adm. Stephen Koehler, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet and presiding officer of the change of command, opened the ceremony by welcoming Wade and praising Boyle for his leadership during his time as the C3F commander.
“Fonz has embodied professionalism at 3rd Fleet and achieved success across every mission set he encountered,” said Koehler. “Most important has been his relentless drive for rehearsal. Deeper than ideas and concepts, he has pushed and driven the actual processes and orders that are required to make things come alive. It is so vital to get to the actual mechanics to win and that’s exactly what Fonz has done.”
Koehler welcomed Wade saying, “John is handpicked to come here, he’s the exact leader that we need to continue to move the ball down the field. I’m confident with John in command that when called upon, 3rd Fleet will continue to have the fighting force to overmatch and beat any adversary.”
While in command of the Navy’s largest numbered fleet, Boyle employed more than 100 ships and submarines, nearly 400 aircraft and more than 68,000 personnel, and ensured maritime tasking success across exercises and real-world events, by providing and employing combat ready forces in support of national objectives. He trained, certified, and deployed five carrier strike groups, two amphibious ready groups, 14 submarines, and eight independent deploying ships.

Quiz: How Well Do You Know Your Stars and Stripes?
You probably know the 50 states and 13 colonies help make up the American flag, but do you know its history or etiquette? Put your knowledge to the test. Click here...

	Golden Wrench Award Coronado, CALIF - Fleet Readiness Center Southwest commanding officer, CAPT Luis Rivera, presents a Golden Wrench Award to Ms. Syndy Shelton, a Human Capital Management Specialist.

Ms. Shelton's initiative, diligence, drive, and dedication were demonstrated by outstanding support for the Navy's Learning Management System, Waypoints. During a rotational assignment at NAVAIR, Ms. Shelton supported the Waypoints Integrated Product Team and helped deploy Waypoints as the learning management system solution for the Department of Navy civilian workforce. Ms. Shelton's personal initiative and organizational skills have been exceptional. She provided timely recommendations and solutions, responded to help desk inquiries, and conducted testing and training. She has received Department of Navy System of Command praise for her professionalism and productivity. Her efforts have had a significant impact on improving the Waypoints program, benefiting approximately 950,000 users. Ms. Shelton's dedication to aviation maintenance excellence and to our nation's warfighters makes her most deserving of the Golden Wrench Award.

NAVWAR named Navy’s best place to work in 2023 rankings
by Lily Chen, Naval Information Warfare Systems Command
Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWAR) was named as the top Navy organization in the 2023 Best Places to Work in the Federal Government rankings, listed first out of 17 Department of Navy (DON) agency subcomponent organizations.
The annual report, published by the Partnership for Public Service and Boston Consulting Group, offers the most comprehensive assessment of how federal public servants view their jobs and workplaces, providing employee perspectives on leadership, work-life balance, pay, professional development among other issues.
”NAVWAR is committed to doing everything we can to cultivate a world-class workforce. Our leadership has not only stated that our workforce is the priority, but they have also invested in programs that empower a culture of excellence, focus on continuous learning and career development opportunities, and inspire a mission mindset,” said Francesca Ramos, director of civilian human resources at NAVWAR. “These are all things that get our workforce highly engaged and motivated to do their best work in support of the fleet and warfighter.




SAN DIEGO (May 20, 2024) Family and friends wait pierside as the Los-Angeles class fast-attack submarine USS Greeneville (SSN 772) arrives at its new homeport at Naval Base Point Loma following a 30 month Engineered Overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. Greeneville will be joining the four submarines already assigned to Submarine Squadron 11. U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Tiarra N. Brown.

USS Greeneville arrives at new homeport of Naval Base Point Loma
by MC1 Tiarra Brown, Commander, Submarine Squadron 11
NAVAL BASE POINT LOMA – The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Greeneville (SSN 772) and its crew of approximately 155 Sailors arrived at its new homeport of Naval Base Point Loma, San Diego, May 20, 2024.
Greenville is conducting a homeport shift to San Diego following completion of a 30 month Engineered Overhaul (EOH) at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. Prior to beginning its EOH, Greeneville was homeported at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.
Read more....



NAVAL BASE CORONADO (May 17, 2024) - Sailors assigned to Unmanned Surface Vessel Squadron 3 (USVRON 3) stand in formation and shout the command motto during the unit's establishment ceremony on Naval Amphibious Base Coronado May 17, 2024. The squadron is comprised of Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Crafts (GARCs). The 16-foot GARCs built by Maritime Applied Physics Corporation enable research, testing, and operations that will allow integration throughout the surface, expeditionary, and joint maritime forces. U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Claire M. DuBois.

SURFOR establishes Unmanned Surface Vessel Squadron (USVRON) Three
by Karli Yeager, Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet
SAN DIEGO – Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (CNSP) established Unmanned Surface Vessel Squadron (USVRON) Three at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado during a ceremony, May 17. USVRON Three will oversee a fleet of small, unmanned surface vessels (sUSV) known as Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC).
Read more...



USMC requiring more notice from retiring Marines
A recent Marine Corps Administrative message changes the notice Marines are required to give when they want to retire from 4 months to 6 months. Effective immediately, Marines must submit their requests for retirement not more than 18 months and not less than six months before the day they would like to retire. Previously, they had to submit their requests not more than 14 months and not less than four months out, according to the separation and retirement manual.
The new time limits also apply to Marines who resign from the Corps.

Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month was in April but help is available any time
The Department of Defense (DoD) recognizes April as a call to action for Service members to use their individual and collective strength to advance meaningful change in preventing and responding to sexual violence through this year's enduring theme – "STEP FORWARD. Prevent. Report. Advocate."
DoD emphasizes the link between military readiness and healthy unit climates during Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month by continuing to take unprecedented action toward preventing harmful behaviors within our total force. Military units and organizations with respectful, healthier workplaces tend to experience fewer harmful behaviors, including sexual assault, and the Department continues to invest significant resources to fuel needed change.
In 2023, the Department introduced its STEP FORWARD campaign to increase awareness of sexual assault and resources to enhance response. As it continues its STEP FORWARD campaign in 2024, the Department continues with unprecedented initiatives to change harmful behaviors, improve command climate, provide support to victims of sexual assault, and promote sexual-assault prevention year-round.
"Secretary Austin has been clear: countering sexual assault is a top priority for the Department. The STEP FORWARD campaign helps us inform everyone about the fundamental changes within the DoD taking aim at sexual assault," said Dr. Nate Galbreath, acting director of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office. "Each of us has a moral duty to step forward to prevent this crime, increase reporting, and advocate for a safer military community."
If you or someone you know in the DoD community has experienced sexual assault, please consider reaching out to DoD Safe Helpline for 24/7, anonymous, one-on-one support at 877- 995-5247 or SafeHelpline.org/live-chat.
More information on SAAPM and the STEP FORWARD campaign can be found at https://www.sapr.mil/saapm.
More information about the new Integrated Primary Prevention Workforce can be found here: https://www.prevention.mil/Resources/Tools

DeCA plans home delivery from stateside commissaries
by Kelly Agee, Stars and Stripes
Commissaries at military bases in the United States will soon offer home delivery, according to the Defense Commissary Agency. Commissaries at military bases in the United States will soon offer home delivery, according to the Defense Commissary Agency. (Jeremy Stillwagner/Stars and Stripes) Commissary customers across the United States will soon be able to order groceries delivered to their homes, according to the Defense Commissary Agency. DeCA anticipates starting home delivery by midsummer, but only from its 178 stateside location. DeCA is still soliciting bids on a contract to deliver groceries to the homes of eligible consumers, after which it will determine where it will roll out the delivery option, he said. DeCA has been running a pilot program for nearly two years at Fort Belvoir and Norfolk Naval Station, both in Va.; Scott Air Force Base, Ill, Fort Liberty South, N.C., MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., Lewis Main at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar and Naval Station San Diego, both in California. Read more...

NORAD commander: Incursions by unmanned aircraft systems on southern border likely exceed 10,000 a month
by Matthew Olay, DOD News
There are likely more than 1,000 incursions by unmanned aircraft systems along the U.S.-Mexico border each month, said the U.S. Northern Command’s top general during testimony recently at a Senate Armed Services Committee posture hearing.
“I don’t know the actual number — I don’t think anybody does — but it’s in the thousands,” said Air Force Gen. Gregory M. Guillot in response to one senator’s query.
When asked about the period of time that it takes to reach that number of incursions, Guillot responded, “I would say in probably over a month. We... probably have over 1,000 a month.”
Though the exact number of UAS incursions along the border remains unknown, Guillot, who took over as commander of Northcom and the North American Aerospace Defense Command on Feb. 5, said he learned the approximate number recently while talking to officials with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Justice.
“The number of incursions was something that was alarming to me as I took command last month,” Guillot said.

All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office
DoD report discounts sightings of ET technology
by C. Todd Lopez, DOD News
The Defense Department’s All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office released a report in March detailing its review of nearly 80 years of reports on government offices and special access programs related to unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UAP—a new term for what was once referred to as unidentified flying objects.
“AARO has found no verifiable evidence that any UAP sighting has represented extraterrestrial activity,” said AARO acting Director Tim Phillips during a Wednesday briefing at the Pentagon. “AARO has found no verifiable evidence that the U.S. government or private industry has ever had access to extraterrestrial technology. AARO has found no indications that any information was illegally or inappropriately withheld from Congress.”
The 63-page “Report on the Historical Record of U.S. Government Involvement with Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena” provides conclusions drawn following an examination of historical documents and conclusions drawn by U.S. government programs that did work related to UAP dating back to 1945.
AARO’s work also involved investigating claims that there were secret or hidden U.S. government programs related to UAP that might not have been reported to Congress. The AARO team looked into those claims to verify if such programs actually existed.
“AARO assesses that alleged, hidden UAP programs either do not exist or were misidentified, authentic national security programs unrelated to extraterrestrial technology exploitation,” Phillips said. “We assess that claims of such programs are largely the result of circular reporting in which a small group of individuals have repeated inaccurate claims they have heard from others over a period of several decades.
Also, part of the report were assessments of claims made by about 30 individuals AARO interviewed, including former and current U.S. government employees who were allegedly involved in such programs or heard stories about those programs and subsequently misinterpreted what they saw or heard.
“AARO, as designed by Congress, had unprecedented access to classified programs,” Phillips said. “Nobody blocked where we could go or the questions we asked. Nobody in the government influenced the findings in the report. As a career intelligence officer, I am just amazed at the access we had to some of our nation’s most sensitive programs. Nobody said, ‘No.’”
Lawmakers directed AARO to produce the report as part of the fiscal year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. Today’s report is the first volume of AARO’s findings and covers a period from 1945 through October 2023. A second volume, which will be released later this year, will cover findings from interviews and research completed between November 2023 and April 2024.

VA funding bill that strengthens gun rights for veterans passes Senate
In March the Senate passed a spending bill for the Department of Veterans Affairs that strengthens gun rights for certain veterans and averts a partial government shutdown.
Most of the controversial riders, including prohibitions on abortions for veterans and gender-affirming care for transgender veterans, were stripped from the final bill. However, a gun rights provision championed by Republicans, as well as some moderate Democrats in the Senate, stayed.
The measure would stop the VA from reporting to a federal gun background check system when veterans are found mentally incapable of managing their financial affairs. Opponents of the decades-old policy argued it infringed on veterans’ rights to firearms and relied on an overly broad definition of incompetence.

The rating symbol for the newly established Navy Robotics Warfare Specialist (RW) rating, announced in NAVADMIN 036/24, comprises an airplane propeller and lightning bolt crossed over a treaded wheel, all layered over a single wave.

Navy pins first Robotics Warfare Specialist
From MC1(SW/AW) Jeanette M. Mullinax,
Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
The Chief of Naval Personnel, Vice Adm. Rick Cheeseman, and the Navy’s Personnel Plans and Policy Division (N13) Director, Rear Adm. Jim Waters, pinned Master Chief Christopher Rambert as the Navy’s first Robotics Warfare Specialist during an office call at Naval Support Facility Arlington, Virginia, Feb. 27, 2024.
The rating insignia reveal followed the U.S. Navy’s announcement in NAVADMIN 036/24, establishing the branch’s enlisted career field for operators, maintainers, and managers of robotic and autonomous systems. Read more....




NAVAL BASE CORONADO (Feb. 17, 2024) - The crew of the expeditionary sea base USS John L. Canley (ESB 6) mans the ship during its commissioning ceremony on Naval Base Coronado Feb. 17, 2024. The ship is named for Medal of Honor recipient John Lee Canley, a retired Marine Corps Sergeant Major and Vietnam war veteran. U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Claire M. DuBois

USS John L. Canley commissioning recognizes legacy of Vietnam vet, Medal of Honor recipient
by Julie Ann Ripley, Naval Surface Force Pacific Fleet
CORONADO - With several Medal of Honor recipients in attendance, Expeditionary Sea Base USS John L. Canley (ESB 6) commissioned at Naval Air Station North Island here Feb. 17.
The first of its name, ESB 6 honors Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) John L. Canley, who was awarded the Medal of Honor 50 years after his actions during the Battle of Hue City. Canley served as company gunnery sergeant, Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division (Alpha/1/1) in the Republic of Vietnam from Jan. 31 to Feb. 6, 1968. Canley passed away in Bend, Ore., on May 11, 2022.
During the ceremony, guest speaker, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, reflected on the importance of what matters to the future.
“As the world’s problems grow increasingly more complex and stability more uncertain, we need to tap into America’s most precious resource - its people - to solve the issues of the future,” said Del Toro.
“Because better technology and more ships will go to waste without the courageous Americans who will answer the call to service to their country.”
In office when Canley received the Medal of Honor, Gen. Joseph P. Dunford, Jr., 19th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and 36th Commandant of the Marine Corps, began by honoring Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipients Col. (Ret.) Robert J. Modrzejewski and Col. (Ret.) Jay R. Vargas, seated in the front row. Read more...

Air Force to re-introduce warrant officer rank, other major changes
by C. Todd Lopez, DOD News
AURORA, Colo. - To best optimize itself for Great Power Competition, the Air Force plans to, among other things, bring back warrant officers within the cyber and information technology professions, said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin during a presentation Feb. 12 at the Air Force Association’s 2024 Warfare Symposium.
That change was among two dozen announced by senior Air Force officials. Each change is specifically designed to prepare the service for strategic power challenges from competitors like China and Russia.
“Both China and Russia are actively developing and fielding more advanced capabilities designed to defeat U.S. power projection,” said Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall. “The need for modernization against capable, well-resourced strategic adversaries never stops. But modernization isn’t the only thing we need to do to be competitive. Today we are announcing 24 key decisions we have made to improve both the readiness of the current force and our ability to stay competitive over time, to continuously generate enduring competitiveness.”

Navy’s naming of newest destroyer honors Black World War II hero
The Navy will name its newest Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer for World War II hero Charles Jackson French, who saved 15 of his fellow sailors from certain death by exposure or execution. In a daring feat of strength and endurance following an enemy attack that sank USS Gregory on Sept. 5, 1942, French swam his shipmates out of danger by towing their life raft with a line tied around his waist. The feat earned him the nickname “The Human Tugboat” and “Hero of the Solomons.”

Retired officers, enlisted members can rejoin active duty to offset personnel shortfalls
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
ARLINGTON, Va. - The Secretary of the Air Force has reimplemented the Voluntary Retired Return to Active Duty Program in an effort to leverage the talents of our highly trained and experienced officer and enlisted military retirees to help minimize the service’s critical manning shortages. Application window opened Feb. 8.
Applications must be submitted by Jan. 31, 2026, and the program allows up to 1,000 retired officer or enlisted personnel to active duty at any given time. Additionally, under this VRRAD program, the period of active duty service is limited to no more than 48 months. Personnel will only fill vacant active duty authorizations. Retired applicants selected for Extended Active Duty can expect to return to active duty anywhere from 4 to 6 months from their date of application.
Information about the Voluntary Retired Return to Active Duty Program, to include detailed official program guidance, eligibility criteria and application requirements, can be found here.


For service members, access to mental health care streamlined under Brandon Act
Jan. 22, 2024 | by C. Todd Lopez
Last year, the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness signed policy implementing within the Defense Department and across the military services the requirements laid out under the Brandon Act. 
Within the DOD and military services, the Brandon Act allows service members to request a mental health evaluation just by making the request to their supervisor.  Read more....




SPARKED UP: Marine Corps Cpl. Conlon Kane cuts metal with an air carbon arc cutting system during a bridge demolition operation as part of Strategic Mobility Exercise II at San Clemente Island, Calif., Jan. 6, 2024. Photo by Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jennifer Sanchez




Sexual assault now tried outside military chain of command
Dec. 28, 2023 |DOD News
Beginning today, the decision to prosecute sexual assault and several other serious crimes has moved from an accused service member's chain of command to new Offices of Special Trial Counsel, which have general or flag officer leaders who report directly to the secretaries of the military departments. 
This military justice reform is an important step in restoring faith that the system is fair, just and equitable, said senior Defense Department and military officials, who emphasized that the offices will be staffed by specially trained, independent military attorneys uniquely qualified to address complex cases. The OSTCs will handle cases professionally, applying the best practices and procedures of civilian prosecution offices, a senior DOD official said.
The covered offenses that fall under the authority of the new OSTCs include: murder, manslaughter, kidnapping, domestic violence, stalking, child pornography and most sexual assault and sexual misconduct.  
Sexual harassment will become a covered offense on Jan. 1, 2025, for crimes committed after that date where a formal complaint is made and substantiated. 

CORPS CARRY: Marine Corps Sgt. Evan Carlton carries equipment off a Navy utility landing craft during Steel Knight at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 2, 2023. The exercise is designed to train Marines in the planning, deployment and command and control of a joint force. USMC photo by Sgt. Anabel Abreu Rodriguez.

NSA focuses on talent as pace of technology quickens
by Joseph Clark. DOD News
The National Security Agency’s ability to recruit and retain top talent is key to meeting the demands of the future, agency Director Army Gen. Paul M. Nakasone, said recently.
Nakasone said the rapid evolution of technology continues to reshape the national security landscape and how his agency responds to new threats, but people remain central to the NSA’s mission.
“A lot of times we think about the incredible technological capabilities and the high-speed computers that are there, but, at the end of the day, what makes us the agency that we are is our talent,” he said during a discussion in Washington hosted by the Intelligence and National Security Alliance, a trade organization focused on public-private national security partnerships.
Earlier this year, the National Security Agency launched its largest hiring surge in three decades with a goal of hiring more than 3,000 new employees by the end of 2023.
Nakasone said the NSA is “moving very quickly” to meet that goal, but said numbers are only part of the overall objective.
He said the agency has also focused on improvements to its recruiting and retention practices to ensure it attracts a “future-ready workforce.”
“How do we think about a population that is over 50 percent today millennials and [Generation Z]?” he said. “Ten years ago, 70 percent of our workforce was baby boomers. Five years ago, Gen Z and millennials overtook baby boomers. Five years from now, 70 percent will be Gen Z and millennials.

DOD officials underscore 'ironclad' commitment to Philippines after China's unsafe maneuvers
by Joseph Clark, DOD News
Defense officials remain in close consultation with counterparts from the Philippines following the latest unsafe operational behavior by Chinese military vessels against Philippine vessels operating lawfully in the South China Sea over the weekend, Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said today.
Ryder underscored the United States' "ironclad" commitment to upholding its obligations under its mutual defense treaty with the Philippines and urged "all nations to work together in the region to ensure that ships and aircraft can sail wherever international law allows."
"We're going to continue to consult very closely with our Philippine allies and our partners in the region," he told reporters during a briefing at the Pentagon.
Chinese vessels carried out unsafe maneuvers against Philippine vessels operating outside the Scarborough Reef on Saturday and again near the Second Thomas Shoal on Sunday.
During the encounters, the Chinese vessels employed water cannons and forced a collision which caused damage to Philippine vessels undertaking official supply missions.
Chinese military ships operating near the Scarborough Reef also used acoustic devices to incapacitate Filipino crew members.
"By impeding the safe operations of Philippine vessels carrying provisions to Filipino service members stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, the PRC interfered in lawful Philippine maritime operations and in Philippine vessels' exercise of high seas freedom of navigation," State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement on Sunday. "Obstructing supply lines to this longstanding outpost and interfering with lawful Philippines maritime operations undermines regional stability."

San Diego Humane Society can help you protect your pet
Having a missing pet can be one of the most stressful experiences for a pet owner, but there are steps you can take now to help your pet find their way home should they ever become lost. Our campus vaccine clinics offer microchips for just $25, providing permanent protection for the entirety of your pet’s life. Along with a collar and ID tag, and a license for dogs, microchips provide peace of mind and can bring lost pets home without ever needing to enter a shelter. New microchip appointments open each week for our campuses in El Cajon, Escondido, Oceanside and San Diego

With a third of homeless veterans living in California, Newsom backs new housing strategy
California has poured billions of dollars into finding homes for unhoused veterans, but the number of former military service members living on the street has held steady for almost a decade. Today, a third of the nation’s unhoused veterans are in California.
Gov. Gavin Newsom proposes a significant change in the state’s strategy for ending veteran homelessness. His plan, included in a $6.4 billion mental health bond he’s sending to voters in the March primary election, would set aside funding specifically for veterans with serious behavioral health conditions. Read more....

VA announces extension of program to stop foreclosures on VA backed loans
The Department of Veterans Affairs will extend a pandemic-era program that helps financially-strapped veterans keep their homes after criticism that it wasn’t doing enough to prevent those with VA-backed loans from foreclosure. The VA also called on mortgage servicers to pause foreclosures of VA-guaranteed loans through May 31, to allow the VA to present workable home retention solutions, VA Press Secretary Terrence Hayes said .Through VASP, the VA will purchase defaulted VA loans from mortgage servicers, modify the loans, and then place them in the VA-owned portfolio as direct loans.

U.S. has 4 objectives in Middle East
by David Vergun, DOD News
11/6/23
The Defense Department currently has four lines of effort in the Middle East, said Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, who briefed the media today.
1 Protection of U.S. forces and citizens in the region.
2 Flow of critical security assistance to Israel as it defends against further Hamas terrorist attacks.
3 Coordination with the Israelis to help secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, to include American citizens.
4 Strengthening of force posture across the region to deter any state or nonstate actors from escalating the crisis beyond Gaza.
Strengthened force posture includes the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Groups, which are currently in the U.S. Central Command area, along with an Ohio-class submarine.
Over the past few weeks there have been attacks by Iranian proxy groups at al-Asad air base, Iraq, and al-Tanf, Syria, on U.S. forces there, Ryder said.The attacks, by drones and missiles, resulted in several dozen injuries, including a mix of minor injuries and traumatic brain injuries, he said.
Some of those injured didn't immediately report their condition, he said.
"The reporting data is highly dependent on self-reporting when individual injuries are not visually evident to medical personnel providing care directly following an incident," he said.

Navy christens, launches fleet replenishment oiler USNS Robert F. Kennedy
The Navy christened and launched the USNS Robert F. Kennedy (T-AO 208) as the newest John Lewis-class fleet replenishment oiler on Saturday, Oct. 28, in San Diego.
The Honorable Nancy Pelosi, Speaker Emerita, U.S. House of Representatives, delivered the christening ceremony's principal address. Remarks were also provided by the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy, Rear Admiral Brendan McLane, Special Assistant to Commander, U.S. Third Fleet, Mr. Steven Cade, Executive Director, Military Sealift Command, and Mr. Dave Carver, President, General Dynamics NASSCO. The ship’s sponsor is the Honorable Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, eldest daughter of Robert F. Kennedy. Read more...


Capt. Elizabeth Adriano, Commanding Officer, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command San Diego; Rear Adm. Guido F. Valdes, Commander, Naval Medical Forces Pacific; Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro; Vice Adm. Michael E. Boyle, Commander, U.S. Third Fleet; and Paul Williamson, Wounded Warrior Regiment, pose for a photo during a ceremony at Naval Medical Center San Diego, Oct. 27. At the ceremony, Secretary Del Toro announced that a future Bethesda-class expeditionary medical ship will be named USNS Balboa (EMS 2), The future USNS Balboa honors the legacy and commitment of Navy doctors, nurses, corpsmen, and staff of Balboa Naval Hospital in caring for the needs of U.S. Service Members. U.S. Navy photo by CPO Shannon Renfroe.

SECNAV Del Toro names future medical ship USNS Balboa (EMS2)
Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced today that a future Bethesda-class expeditionary medical ship will be named USNS Balboa (EMS 2), during a ceremony at Naval Medical Center San Diego, Oct. 27.
The future USNS Balboa honors the legacy and commitment of Navy doctors, nurses, corpsmen, and staff of Balboa Naval Hospital in caring for the needs of U.S. Service Members.
The name selection follows the tradition of naming expeditionary medical ships after U.S. military hospitals. Read more....

U.S. to build new nuclear gravity bomb
by Stephen Losey, Defense News
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Defense Department on Friday, Oct. 27, announced the government is moving forward with developing a new version of the B61 nuclear gravity bomb.
The bomb, designated B61-13, would have a yield similar to the B61-7 and replace some of those older gravity bombs, the Pentagon said in its announcement. The B61-7's yield is higher than the B61-12, the most recent bomb being added to the military’s arsenal. Read more....

USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125) arrives at homeport in San Diego
From Ensign Sarah Beauchamp
The first Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125), arrived at its new homeport in San Diego Oct. 25.
The Navy commissioned Jack H. Lucas, Oct. 7, 2023, during a ceremony in Tampa, Florida under the leadership of Carrier Strike Group 11. The destroyer is assigned to U.S. 3rd Fleet. Read more....

FLAME FIGHTERS: U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Kyle Datu and Staff Sgt. Matt Trevizo, 99th Civil Engineering Squadron fire protection specialists, extinguish a fire during an aircraft live fire training exercise at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Oct. 12, 2023. Propane ignitors are built in multiple positions throughout and around the training fuselage providing firefighters with a more realistic training environment. U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Zachary Rufus

Read us on line with a fresh issue weekly, find us in print on base and in the community twice a month!
Great news for trees! With prices ever increasing, and more readers getting their news on line, we are switching our print issues to twice a month and staying online with weekly issues. We will have fresh print issues out on the 1st and 16th of each month. We will be posting new issues weekly on line in our downloadable pdf format right here at www.afdispatch.com (see weekly links on the right side below the ads or current issue link at top of left column) and we are also viewable for the page turners on issuu.com/armedforcesdispatchnewspaper (click link under the rolled up newspaper at the top right of this page). Its a win-win -- saving money, saving trees, reducing our carbon footprint, while serving our readers the news they want and helping our advertisers reach the military market. Thank you to our advertisers who support our military readers! We're still kicking it in our 63rd year in San Diego thanks to you!

Service members get extended parental leave
by David Vergun , DOD News
The Defense Department issued a new policy to provide 12 weeks of paid, non-chargeable parental leave to service members who have a child through birth, adoption or a long-term foster care placement of at least 24 months.
These 12 weeks of parental leave, which became effective Dec. 27, come in addition to authorized convalescent leave for service members who give birth. Read more....

Vietnam War 50th Commemoration observed through Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2025 Vietnam Veterans Day: March 29th

The Vietnam War 50th Commemoration celebration is March 29, and is the nation’s opportunity to celebrate the veterans’ and families’ service and sacrifice.
We honor all who served on active duty and their families at any time between Nov. 1, 1955 - May 15, 1975, regardless of duty location.
Vietnam veterans represented nearly 10 percent of their generation. They fought under challenging conditions, and when their service ended, were not always welcomed when they returned home.
President Obama highlighted that one of our country’s most painful times was Vietnam and how we treated our service members who served there.
“You were often blamed for a war you didn’t start when you should have been commended for serving your country with valor,” he said. “You came home and sometimes were denigrated when you should have been celebrated.”
The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that more than 6 million U.S. Vietnam veterans live in America and abroad today, along with 9 million family members of those who served during this timeframe.
The U.S. Vietnam War Commemoration was authorized by Congress, established under the Secretary of Defense and launched by President Obama in 2012.
By Presidential proclamation, the Vietnam War Commemoration will continue through Veterans Day, November 11, 2025.
In 2012, then-President Obama signed a presidential proclamation, designating March 29 as the annual observance of Vietnam War Veterans Day. The signing of the proclamation marked the 50th anniversary of the departure of the last American troops from Vietnam - March 29, 1973.
The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017 was signed into law by President Trump, designating every March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day.
You’re invited to you to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. Since its inception, the Commemoration publicly thanked more than 3 million Vietnam Veterans at over 21,000 ceremonies.The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration continues through Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2025.
Lapel pins will bepresented to Vietnam Veterans at many locations across America.
Living U.S. Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time during the period from November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, regardless of location, are eligible to receive a lapel pin. Vietnam Veterans who cannot attend an event can receive a lapel pin by providing us a current mailing address.

Navy, California move forward on EV pilot programs
by Brian O’Rourke, Navy Region Southwest
SAN DIEGO - The California Energy Commission recently approved nearly $2 million for electrification programs at Navy and Marine Corps installations in California.
At their business meeting Jan. 25, the CEC approved funding for the Navy Electric Vehicle Pilot Program ($414,000) and the Electrification Blueprint Studies ($1,500,000) for three Navy and three Marine Corps installations. This is the first execution of projects that the Navy began working on with the CEC following a Memorandum of Understanding signing in December 2021.
“We’re excited to be moving forward with these critical energy projects at Navy bases throughout the Southwest,” said Rear Adm. Brad Rosen, commander of Navy Region Southwest. “Our partnership with the California Energy Commission is unique to the Navy, and this forward momentum can only increase the chances of similar partnerships becoming available in the future.”
The Navy programs receiving this critical funding are:
• Defense Innovation Unit Electric Vehicle Pilot: The CEC funds will be used to procure and install 10 Level 2 and four Level 3 chargers at Naval Base San Diego for charging personal and government vehicles. The Navy will measure uptime, usage, duty cycle, vehicle types, ratio of government to personal vehicles, and max charging power
• Electrification Blueprints: Electrification Blueprints will be created for three installations chosen by Navy Region Southwest and three installations chosen by Marine Corps Installations West: NB San Diego, Naval Base Ventura County, Naval Air Station Lemoore, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar and Marine Corp Air Ground Combat Center 29 Palms.
This project will develop specific transportation electrification blueprints for each selected base, to support the transportation electrification requirements of their civilian and military workforce.
The blueprint will provide quantitative analysis cost benefit analysis of leveraging innovative technologies in the electrification of transportation infrastructure, particularly those related to vehicle-to-grid integration (VGI) and EVSE to grid.



USS Nimitz Superhornet launch
Sailors monitor the launch of an F/A-18E Super Hornet on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

‘Military Spouse Licensing Relief Act’ signed into law
Military spouses who hold professional licenses will find a smoother transition when transferring their professional licenses during moves across state lines under a newly enacted federal law.
The new law requires states to recognize service members and spouses’ valid professional licenses from other states for any job if they moved because of military orders. This law DOES NOT include law licenses.
Representative Mike Garcia spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in late December in support of his bill, the Military Spouse Licensing Relief Act. This bill was included in H.R. 7939 (Veterans Auto and Education Improvement Act of 2022), which passed the U.S. House and Senate, and was signed into law by President Biden January, 5, 2023.
During his speech, Congressman Garcia made the following statement:
“In the midst of one of the most challenging times for our military in terms of recruitment and retention, what this bill does is allow military spouses to cross-deck their professional licenses -- if they’re a realtor, a nurse, a teacher, a beautician, a cosmetologist, whatever their profession is – across state lines,” said Garcia. “This bipartisan bill above all things would ease the burden for our military families. This is a win for our military families, for our national security, for our local communities who are in desperate need of these professionals, and even for our government who now enjoys the tax revenue from these dual-income families. And hopefully this translates into better recruitment and retention for our military.”
Currently, 34 percent of military spouses require a professional license for their line of employment. While military spouse unemployment hovers over 20% (over five times above the national average), this legislation is critical to assisting our military families and spouses who make countless sacrifices to support their servicemember family members.



Miramar Veterinary Clinic offers services for your pets by appointment only
Veterinary Treatment Facility
MCAS Miramar Building 6360
Hours: Mon.-Fri.: 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (858) 307-6552/1773
Open for retail sales (flea and heartworm prevention, oral care) and drug/food prescription refills (if applicable) daily. Routine wellness checkups and vaccinations available, as well as minor sick call. Appointments can be made in person or by phone. Walk-ins aren’t accepted. Dogs and cats of all active duty military members and retirees with medical benefits are eligible to be seen at the facility. The facility always recommends that patrons of the clinic keep their own civilian veterinarian in case of emergency, or if the facility is unable to fulfill their needs.



Camp Pendleton takes big steps toward wildlife preservation
by Lance Cpl. Nataly Espitia , Camp Pendleton
Camp Pendleton honors, protects, and conserves the Earth every day of the year. Plenty of land and resources go into the conservation and care for wildlife aboard the installation.   Read more....



Resources for struggling veterans
Veterans from all eras are reacting to the events around the world, and may question the meaning of their service or whether it was worth their sacrifice. US Dept of Veterans Affairs in California offers the following information. Read more...








United Through Reading®
Service members invited to record stories for family
United Through Reading® (UTR) is a free program helping ease the stress of separation for military and veteran families by having the service members or Veteran read children’s books aloud for their family to watch at home during times of physical separation. It is available for any type of separation, including but not limited to, deployment, training, geobaching, or shift work.
UTR provides service members and veterans a chance to make lasting connections from afar through the power of shared storytime. The recording and the book are given to the child and family at home at no cost.
Being a parent is not required; service members can send the recording & book(s) to any special child in their life such as younger sister or brother, niece, nephew, grandchild, or godchild.
The recording can be made via UTR’s free and secure UTR App, at one of UTR’s story stations, or at the Mobile Story Station at a community event. For more information visit unitedthroughreading.org or e-mail military@utr.org