Veterans News & Updates

Two dogs have made it to the finals of the American Humane Hero Dog Awards competition thanks to their extraordinary acts of service and devotion. Both Maverick and Buda are heroes who have made substantial contributions to their communities and the lives of American soldiers. Therapy Dog Maverick: United Service Organizations (USO) therapy dog Maverick is a six-year-old European Blue Great Dane now stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. His dedication to the troops stationed there has landed him in the top five nominees for the annual Hero Dog Awards. Kelly Brownfield, who takes care of Maverick and also manages the USO facility at Fort Leonard Wood, said that the service dog is a source of inspiration for the military personnel stationed there. Maverick's duties include treating victims of trauma, injuries, and stress, as well as bringing consolation to service personnel on suicide watch and accompanying youngsters to military funerals. Brownfield said that the most satisfying aspect of Maverick's work is seeing the joy on the faces of service members and their families, even in the midst of adversity. She was pleased to have contributed to the establishment of the USO K-9 program in Missouri, which was inspired by her experience with her former therapy dog, Bandit. Coast Guard K-9 Buda: Maritime Security Response Team West in San Diego, California, employs a German shorthaired pointer named Buda, who is 4 years old. His handler, Petty Officer 1st Class Chase Leamer, is a Maritime Enforcement Specialist and an explosives detection canine handler for the United States Coast Guard. Leamer and Buda have an impressive record of accomplishment, having completed 185 operational deployments during which they made seizures totaling $195 million in contraband, conducted vessel sweeps, responded to bomb threats, and deployed to protect dignitaries and high-profile events like the Super Bowl and the World Athletic Championship. Leamer felt tremendous pride in being the Coast Guard's representative at the Hero Dog Awards in the military category. He stressed that this tournament is a great way to honor military working dogs like Buda, who are seldom thanked for their service until after they have retired. Leamer recognizes that winning the entire tournament would be fantastic, but he is overjoyed to have made it to the top five as a military finalist. Challenges and Rewards: Brownfield and Leamer, two different handlers, discussed the difficulties of their jobs. Brownfield said that participating in the military's therapy dog program may be emotionally draining since the dogs see the hardships that military families go through firsthand. She takes comfort in seeing Maverick make other people happy despite their difficulties. Leamer described the unusual routine of Coast Guard dog handlers, who take their canine companions, like Buda, home with them every night. Participation in community activities, particularly those geared at teaching and engaging with children, as well as intensive training, are all part of this round-the-clock commitment. Leamer acknowledged that the constant state of duty in caring for Buda had an impact on his personal life. But he hasn't wavered in his commitment to foiling terrorist plots and protecting the thousands of attendees at his concerts. The wonderful link between people and their faithful canine partners is on full display as two extraordinary canines, Maverick and Buda, compete for the title of American Humane Hero Dog. They will continue to inspire and motivate everyone they touch, no matter the result, because of their steadfast dedication to serving U.S. soldiers and their communities. Reference Link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/09/pics-two-hero-dogs-recognized-for-supporting-us-troops/

U.S. CAPITAL -- The government has taken Washington's first steps to compensate those whose water supply was tainted at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina's Marine Corps base. More than 100,000 service members and their families have come forward, alleging that they suffered health problems as a result of drinking the poisonous water from the base, and many are calling for justice. Recent events follow the 2022 passage and implementation of the PACT Act, which seeks to compensate military personnel who are exposed to harmful chemicals, such as burn pits, during foreign military operations. Those who were harmed by the tainted water at Camp Lejeune between the years of the mid-1950s and the mid-1980s may submit damage claims to the Navy and bring lawsuits if they are not addressed within six months, according to provisions included in the PACT Act. After the first anniversary of the statute in August came and went without any settlements, federal authorities were under increasing pressure to resolve the over 93,000 claims at the Navy's Judge Advocate General's Office and the over 1,100 cases filed in federal court. The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Navy responded to this mounting demand for action on September 6 by introducing the "elective option," which offers settlements between $100,000 and $550,000 depending on the length of time spent at Camp Lejeune and the degree of health harm sustained. Tier 1 illnesses covered by this plan include kidney cancer, liver cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemia, and bladder cancer, and sufferers may earn between $150,000 and $450,000 in compensation. Amounts ranging from $100,000 to $400,000 are available to those with "Tier 2" illnesses such as multiple myeloma, Parkinson's disease, kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, systemic sclerosis, or scleroderma, again depending on the length of the exposure. When death is unexpectedly brought on by one of these conditions, the government will also pay $100,000. According to Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, the "Elective Option" is an important mechanism for expediting the determination of claims filed under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act and providing relief to eligible claimants. Navy Undersecretary Erik Raven stressed how the procedure would simplify settlements and how it would seek to resolve issues in a fair and timely manner. However, a team of plaintiffs' lawyers, headed by Ed Bell of Georgetown, S.C.'s Bell Legal Group, found the settlement proposals to be unsatisfactory. Since July, federal courts in North Carolina have assigned them to handle the plaintiffs' claims. Breast cancer survivor Mike Partain voiced his displeasure, noting that the window of opportunity to exercise an optional choice is too small. Marine Corps veteran and accountability advocate Jerry Ensminger also voiced his displeasure with the settlements on offer. He threatened legal action if the settlement offer did not meet his needs. An estimated one million Marines, family members, and others were exposed to the polluted water at Camp Lejeune, and the entire cost of settlements and verdicts in the case might surpass $20 billion. An attorney representing 4,800 victims says the government's compensation program is a good first step, and he recommends it to families looking for closure. He cautioned that there is a major downside in pursuing cases because it may take years. There is still disagreement between plaintiffs' counsel and the DOJ on how and when to begin trials. In the coming months, four federal courts in North Carolina will decide on these issues. The plaintiffs' attorney Ed Bell requests that trials begin in early 2024, arguing that the government has had plenty of time to prepare. However, concerns have been raised that certain lawyers are pushing for trials that would increase their fee structure. Rep. Darrell Issa has proposed a measure that would restrict lawyer fees in Camp Lejeune disputes to between 12 and 17 percent. Nothing has happened in the House or Senate despite these bills being introduced. As victims of the tragedy at Camp Lejeune weigh their choices, the road to justice and compensation remains long, and the fight for fairness and resolution rages on. Reference is taken from the following link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/09/long-road-to-compensation-for-camp-lejeune-victims-takes-a-turn/

Camp Pendleton, California - September 19, 2023 - A Marine was killed on August 17 during a live-fire training exercise at Camp Pendleton, and a subsequent safety report from the Navy has provided new details about the incident. The report's finding that the Marine died from a careless discharge is a grim reminder of the dangers military personnel confront every day. Last month, a report from the Naval Safety Command was released detailing fatal occurrences in the Marine Corps and the Navy during the previous decade. According to the report, on that day, a military man at Camp Pendleton was killed during a live-fire small weapons training exercise because of a careless discharge. In the first draft of the report, four days after the sad death of Lance Cpl. Joseph Whaley at the School of Infantry-West on the base, the occurrence was reported as a "Ground Class-A Mishap" fatality happening on August 21. However, the Naval Safety Command has recently updated the date, confirming that Whaley's unfortunate death was also the result of a negligent discharge on August 17. In response, Safety Command Spokesperson Jeffrey Jones said, "There is just one occurrence, not two. The accident report has been revised to include the right date. The Marine Corps had previously confirmed the date of Whaley's death, but no other information about the circumstances of his passing had been disclosed at that time. Similarly, the Navy and the Marine Corps have not provided details on the negligent discharge incident, leaving open the issue of whether or not it might have been averted and whether or not other service members were involved. Nearly two weeks earlier, Military.com asked for proof that the Marine Corps report of Whaley's death was related to the Navy safety report, but they never heard back. Maj. Joshua Pena, a spokesman for the Marine Corps headquarters, was notified of the impending publication of the report and repeated his August remarks. According to the Marine Corps, they are still looking into what happened to Whaley. While in the Basic Reconnaissance Course, which trains Marines in amphibious reconnaissance, patrolling, surveillance, and communication, Whaley, a native of Tennessee, tragically lost his life. Prior to enrolling in the Basic Reconnaissance Course, Whaley had previously completed rifleman training at the School of Infantry-East at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Whaley's relatives were not reachable for comment despite repeated attempts. Whaley was a successful high school football player in Tennessee and was a passionate outdoorsman, according to his obituary. The Marine Corps has suffered many high-profile casualties this summer, including Whaley's. Carbon monoxide poisoning from the vehicles was ruled the cause of death for three Camp Lejeune Marines who were discovered dead in their vehicle in July. It was unclear what exactly led to their being exposed to the poisonous gas. In addition, four more Marines were killed in August accidents. Maj. Andrew Mettler, the plane's pilot, was killed on August 24 when his F/A-18D Hornet crashed near Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. Soon later, during a multinational exercise, a V-22 Osprey crashed off the northern coast of Australia, killing everybody aboard. A Marine Corps University student in Quantico, Virginia, was discovered dead in his car earlier this month; the circumstances surrounding his death are unclear. These events emphasize the constant necessity for safety precautions and attentiveness during training exercises and bring attention to the dangers and sacrifices that are inherent to military service. Reference Link: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/09/19/marine-died-negligent-discharge-during-live-fire-training-camp-pendleton-navy-report-indicates.html#google_vignette

Alaska, Anchorage (AMN) Anchorage saw a rare convergence of events on Monday, with Vice President Joe Biden visiting the city and an F-16 roaring low over its downtown. When President Obama was in town, a NORAD fighter jet was sent to intercept a Piper Super Cub that had flown into restricted airspace and guide it safely to the Lake Hood airfield. North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) spokesman Captain Alexandra Hejduk said that the organization responded quickly to the airspace invasion because it was prepared for such an event. Two F-16 fighter aircraft were sent from Eielson Air Force Base in Fairbanks to Anchorage to intercept the Super Cub and establish radio contact with the pilot. Capt. Hejduk added that communicating with the lost pilot via radio and leading them safely out of the restricted area were the major goals of the fighter jet escort. To get the attention of the pilot, they may conduct risky movements like the "wing rock" or the "head butt," but usually far ahead of the aircraft and not too far behind the aircraft. This method often causes the pilot to reestablish radio communication, at which point they are given clearance to leave the restricted area. "If they do that and the pilot still isn't responding, they'd do a flare," said Captain Hejduk. An F-16 dropped a flare southeast of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) to attract the attention of the pilot. Whether the airspace breach was accidental or intentional is one of the many unanswered questions surrounding the Anchorage incident. However, the efforts of the fighter jet prevented a crisis from occurring during the President's visit. Capt. Hejduk stressed that temporary flight limitations are not unusual and may be applied for a variety of reasons, including wildfires, big events, or military actions. NORAD plays a critical role in enforcing these limits regularly, and it’s just part of what they do. Monday's trip with a Piper Super Cub had mysterious beginnings, but airport police cars brought it safely to Lake Hood. According to FAA spokesperson Rick Breitenfeldt, an inquiry has been opened into the event, and the agency will take measures ranging from warnings to license suspensions or revocations if necessary. The FAA has not commented on the current inquiry, and the name of the pilot of the Piper Super Cub has not been revealed. Pilots flying to and from fall hunting camps, remote cabins, and other destinations bring several light aircraft to and from Anchorage. The incident has prompted widespread consternation among pilots. Mark Phillips, a seasoned Alaska pilot and the treasurer of the Alaska Airmen's Association, called it a "pretty big blunder," given the specific FAA restrictions in effect for Anchorage owing to its heavy air traffic from planes of all sizes and the city's five airports. No pilot wants to be flying along and suddenly see an F-16 fighter jet outside their window demanding their attention. He stressed the necessity of completing pre-flight preparations and an understanding of airspace regulations. As a result of this accident, it's more important than ever for pilots in Alaska to study up on airspace rules and regulations before taking off on their journeys. The source link is given below: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/09/alaska-pilots-who-stray-into-closed-airspace-face-sanctions-jet-escorts/ Watch the video by clicking the following link: https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/anchorage/2023/09/13/video-shows-f-16-fighter-jet-dropping-flares-above-anchorage-hillside-during-biden-visit/

A 3-year-old German Shepherd military working dog named Csubi enthusiastically posed in front of the American flag on August 30 while flashing his trademark slobbery smile and wagging tail. Csubi, like any other hardworking pilot, sat for a formal portrait to honor his accomplishments. Cannon Air Force Base's canine personnel are recognized as more than just equipment; they are vital partners in achieving the base's goals. The Kennel Master at Cannon Air Force Base, Staff Sergeant Allison Boehler, stressed the significance of paying tribute to the canine service members. Boehler said, "We treat them like airmen. All of the pilots and their canines will be getting professional portraits shot. We don't think of them as equipment; rather, they're like extra team members while we're in the air. Indeed, they are an ally of ours." Csubi's path to becoming a military member was everything but easy. He had spent over a year stationed at Cannon, studying for his certification. Senior airman Jacob Crawshaw is Csubi's devoted handler, and the two of them are together almost always. They undergo intense training, keep watch over the base, and actively look for any dangers in the region. Crawshaw refers to Csubi with great fondness, calling him his "best buddy" and emphasizing the unbreakable relationship they have formed through their daily labor together. Csubi is one of several military working canines who have been handpicked during puppyhood and trained at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. According to Boehler, the selection committee looks for pups with plenty of enthusiasm and a desire to meet new people. These canine recruits spend a year in a foster system enjoying their "puppy period" before beginning their intensive training. According to Boehler, "They throw toys within a puppy litter and see what sort of dog is going to have the urge to play with the toy," which sheds insight into the thorough selection procedure. Your dog is likely not a suitable candidate if they don't show much enthusiasm when presented with the toy or incentive. When it comes to protecting the people and property at Cannon Air Force Base, the whole K-9 team receives intensive training in detecting skills and bite work. Csubi and the other canine airmen not only keep watch over the base 24/7 but also take part in outreach programs to spread the word about what the Air Force can do for the local population. Cannon Air Force Base makes sure that the furry heroes' achievements are recognized and appreciated despite the lack of formal military ranks for them. For example, Csubi has been given the honorary rank of staff sergeant to emphasize further the point that these canines are more than just tools; they are valuable partners who need to be treated with dignity. For Boehler, "it's more of a custom, simply so that way we are constantly reminded that our dog is not equipment, that they are our partner and we treat them as such." Csubi and other military working dogs like him serve a crucial role in keeping Cannon Air Force Base safe and secure. They are seen as more than just pets; their commitment, devotion, and limitless energy are recognized and respected. Reference is taken from the following link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/09/paw-prints-we-treat-them-like-airmen-military-dogs-work-as-partners/

A 44-year-old Florida man got into trouble when U.S. Coast Guard officers swooped in to grab him during his courageous and audacious effort to traverse the hazardous seas of the Atlantic Ocean to reach London. When Coast Guard personnel deemed Reza Baluchi's attempt to cross the Atlantic in a makeshift hamster wheel "manifestly dangerous," they took immediate and robust action. Baluchi is now facing federal charges after the spectacular rescue 70 miles off Tybee Island, Georgia coast. Baluchi's unorthodox boat resembled a giant metal drum and was driven by a runner inside via inflated buoys and paddles. However, Coast Guard officers had severe reservations about the vessel due to its unconventional design. A criminal complaint states, "USCG officials decided Baluchi was undertaking a manifestly hazardous cruise based on the vessel's condition, which was afloat due to the wires and buoys." https://t.co/kfxvEX5V4L Florida man arrested by Coast Guard for trying to cross Atlantic in human-sized hamster wheel pic.twitter.com/rtoIKobwOs — Global News (@Fashion6001) September 6, 2023 The officials from the Coast Guard were trying to stop Baluchi from continuing on his dangerous voyage when things took a disturbing turn. According to reports, Baluchi said he had a bomb on board and threatened to kill himself with a 12-inch knife, leading to a lengthy standoff. Baluchi's capture at the USCG Base in Miami Beach, Florida, on September 1 after days of careful talks. It was not Baluchi's first time engaging in risky behavior. According to official reports, Coast Guard actions prevented him from completing the mission in 2014, 2016, and 2021. Baluchi is now facing multiple federal charges related to his latest antics, including obstruction of boarding and disobeying a Captain of the Port's orders. Baluchi attempted to explain his actions in an exclusive interview with FOX 35. He said he was trying to help people experiencing homelessness, the Coast Guard, the police, and the fire departments, among other philanthropic organizations. Baluchi said, "I'm not only trying to help the homeless; I also want to help the Coast Guard, the police, and the fire department. They serve the public, ensure the safety of others, and aid those in need." Baluchi has not been discouraged by his arrest or his unsuccessful efforts. He declared to himself, "I'll never give up my goal," and he sounded determined. Four or five times, they've tried to stop me, but I've never given up. Baluchi's unconventional and high-risk initiatives have piqued the public's interest, prompted legitimate safety concerns, and burdened emergency services' resources. Baluchi's several brushes with the Coast Guard highlight the thin line between bold ambition and carelessness at sea. Reference is taken from the following link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/09/pic-coast-guard-arrests-man-in-giant-hamster-wheel-on-ocean/

Kentucky's Monticello - Concerns have been raised over the potential relocation of a beloved World War I doughboy monument that has stood at a busy crossroads in the heart of Monticello, Kentucky, for over a century. The destiny of the proposed relocation is unclear, but it has created a passionate discussion among locals and government officials. Hundreds of citizens have contacted Magistrates Jeff Dishman and Jonathan Dobbs, expressing their desire to keep the famous doughboy monument in its present position, as disclosed by the magistrates. Veterans have considered starting a petition to stop the transfer, and the magistrates are prepared to take legal action to protect the monument if necessary. Dobbs remarked on the statue's longstanding presence in the city's heart, calling it "an iconic figure that has been there for a hundred years." As part of a larger plan to revitalize Michigan Avenue (KY 92) in the heart of Monticello, it has been proposed that the Doughboy monument be moved there. The problem begins at the road's junction with Main Street, where a sharp 90-degree curve presents difficulties for big rigs. State Representative Ken Upchurch, a Republican from Monticello, has been pushing for the realignment of KY 92 to improve traffic flow after many incidents involving trucks crashing into surrounding buildings. The existing location of the monument may be affected by the planned realignment since it involves re-routing Michigan Avenue. However, it should be noted that the project's ultimate layout is still up in the air. According to Amber Hale, who works with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the state is actively looking into several options and partnering with the community to find a solution that works for everyone. The monument could be relocated to the plaza in front of the neighboring judicial center, to a corner of the square close to its existing placement, or to the empty land on Main Street just down the street from the county courthouse. The Downtown Monticello Foundation was responsible for clearing this property after a fire. Residents of Monticello and all of Wayne County have a soft spot for the doughboy statue. The idea of commemorating local World War I veterans emerged immediately after the armistice was signed in 1918. In a tiny town park, a plaque honoring the local troops was installed next to a doughboy statue on a granite pedestal. About 3,500 people showed out on a windy Sunday in April 1923 to see the unveiling of "The Spirit of the American Doughboy." Indiana-based artist and sculptor E.M. Viquesney created this bronze statue of a soldier with a weapon and grenade in his hands. This famous sculpture now belongs to a larger cultural canon. The Tour of Honour, which organizes motorcycle rides to war monuments nationwide to honor soldiers and collect money for charity, features this statue as one of eight Viquesney-designed doughboy sculptures in Kentucky. The statue's value is widely acknowledged even though views on its relocation differ. Some say the doughboy should remain in its current place to honor its historical significance, while others advocate relocating it. No matter what happens, the monument will always have a special place in the hearts of Monticello's citizens, and the discussion about its future will only get more heated. Tom Simmons, the county attorney, said it best when he described the "heavy feelings" on both sides and the need for a peaceful conclusion. The source link is given below: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/09/potential-of-moving-ww-i-statue-stirs-controversy-heavy-feelings-in-kentucky-town/

Jimmy Garoppolo, the newly traded quarterback for the Raiders of the National Football League, exchanged his usual "game-day nerves" for an amazing experience while flying in an F-16 with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds near Las Vegas, Nevada. Garoppolo spent time training with the famous Thunderbirds on a visit to Nellis Air Force Base, enduring and eventually mastering techniques that subjected him to 9Gs of force or 9 times the force of gravity. This amazing opportunity occurred as part of Team Whistle's exciting "I Could Do That" series sponsored by USAA. Garoppolo arrived at Nellis Air Force Base filled with pride, a feeling no doubt stoked by the presence of the Thunderbird team. The 135 U.S. Air Force's elite Thunderbirds team members represent the pinnacle of aviation competence and experience. As the grandson of a Marine Corps veteran, Garoppolo seized the chance to realize a lifelong dream and highlight the similarities between the lives of professional football players and military jet pilots. While flying near Las Vegas, the quarterback reached speeds of Mach 2, or around 1,500 miles per hour. During aerial combat exercises, he struggled to maintain consciousness under 2,000 pounds of pressure. In a thoughtful analysis, Garoppolo recognized the inherent similarities between athletes and pilots. He emphasized the need for preparation in both areas, noting that being well-prepared reduces the stress of being unprepared. As Garoppolo puts it, "Preparation is essential," the Thunderbirds' practices are remarkably comparable to those in the League. You have access to the very finest in their field. You might spend infinite time preparing for football, but when you're well-prepared, you're not anxious but enthusiastic to show off your hard work and study. USAA, a premier NFL Salute to Service Partner, graciously sponsored Garoppolo's exciting flying experience. This project was a natural fit with USAA's "Salute to Service" campaign, which is doing great work connecting current and past NFL players with the armed forces. The goal of this project is to improve relations between the two groups. The Thunderbirds represent the pride, accuracy, and professionalism of the United States Air Force through their breathtaking aerial demonstrations. The F-16 Fighting Falcon is the Air Force's primary multi-role fighter aircraft, and its impressive capabilities are shown at air shows and flyovers worldwide. Jimmy Garoppolo's courageous flyover with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds is a stunning fusion of two fields that call for extraordinary commitment and practice. Garoppolo not only met the great hurdles of fighter pilot training but also established a link between his athletic career and the noble quest for aerial perfection as he moved from the football field to the sky above. Reference is taken from the following link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/08/video-nfl-star-flies-with-us-air-force-thunderbirds-near-las-vegas/

Fox News recently caused a stir when it reported falsely that a Gold Star family had been forced to pay $60,000 to transport the remains of a Marine slain in Afghanistan, prompting the Marine Corps to engage in a behind-the-scenes dispute with the news network. The Marine Corps attempts to alter the story, and the network's subsequent activities are revealed in email exchanges acquired via a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. After visiting with the relatives of the victims of the Abbey Gate bombing, Republican Representative Cory Mills stated that the family of slain Marine Sgt. Nicole Gee was charged a large sum to transfer her remains. In 2021, 13 service members were killed in a suicide bombing outside the Kabul airport. The Marine Corps swiftly alerted Fox News of the error, and Gee's family never paid anything to transfer her remains. A representative for the Marine Corps disputed Fox News' version of events in a series of emails, accusing the network of using the tragedy of a Gold Star family to boost ratings. Fox News changed the title and some of the report's substance as requested by the Marine Corps, but they did not apologize to the Gee family. When the policy change at the Pentagon occurred, the initial Fox News headline read, "Family forced to pay to move corpse of Marine murdered." The first version of the title used the word "forced," but over time, it was changed to reflect the current meaning of the article. However, Fox News did not withdraw its original report, issue an apology, or provide a public explanation as requested by the Marine Corps. According to emails sent back and forth between the Marine Corps and Fox News, the latter felt the former had unfairly painted the former as disregarding the needs of deceased Marines. In an email, the official Marine Corps spokesman, Major James Stenger, vented his frustrations at the media's use of a grieving family's tragedy for clickbait. Fox News was criticized for posting the story without checking with Gee's family or the Marine Corps. The network did not immediately contact Gee's family or the Marine Corps for clarification; a comment was appended after the original posting. While online criticism over the perceived wrongdoing persisted, Fox News withdrew the item without explanation. After the Fox News link stopped working, Representative Mills removed the article from his website. A protocol at the Pentagon requires families to pay for funeral transportation up front and be reimbursed later, which was the basis for the initial narrative. Still, the group Honoring Our Fallen stepped in with a private jet contribution to take Gee's remains to Arlington National Cemetery. The charity stepped in before the refund procedure began, so the family didn't have to worry about any costs. Gee's mother-in-law, Christy Shamblin, expressed her concerns about the difficulties of the transportation strategy to Rep. Mills' staff. She spoke highly of the Marine Corps' transparency and honesty in making things right. As the situation develops, concerns about responsible reporting and the importance of facts remain. The conflict illustrates the difficulty of reporting sensitive issues and the possible fallout of inaccurate coverage, particularly when memorializing military men who have died in the line of duty. Reference is taken from the following Link: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/08/23/inside-marine-corps-fight-fox-news-over-false-gold-star-family-story.html

Plans to honor the Doolittle Raiders, World War II pilots who spearheaded an assault on Japan, have been announced by the Air Force Academy football team. There has been a mixture of positive and negative reactions to the change. On October 21, when the Falcons take against the Navy Blue Angels, they plan to wear unique uniforms in tribute to the Raiders. On April 18, 1942, in response to the Japanese assault on Pearl Harbor, then-Lt led a crew of 80 pilots. Col. James Doolittle conducted a historic bombing raid against Tokyo and other Japanese military objectives. Although the attack did minor material damage, it significantly affected Japanese morale and improved American morale at a crucial point in the war. As part of the yearly Air Power Legacy Series, which honors major historical milestones of the Department of the Air Force and the Army Air Corps, the Air Force sports department has declared that the homage to the Raiders is appropriate. Due to the Association of Graduates in the General Doolittle Building on campus, the department stressed that recognizing the Raiders has long been considered. A chrome helmet reading "B-25" (the bombers employed in the attack) is featured on the front of the 2023 alternative uniforms, with aircraft nicknames or "Doolittle" featured on the rear. There's a picture of a B-25 on one side and a Raiders logo on the other. Steel and rivet-like motifs are used for the letters and numbers on the uniforms, and the Raiders' slogan, "Ever into Peril," is written on the bottoms. When the uniforms were finally shown, they were welcomed with praise and condemnation. One tweet titled "An Ambush" featured a player dressed as the Doolittle Raiders against a historical newspaper with the headline "Tokyo Bombed" to highlight the new outfits. The raid's significance is emphasized even more by a comment from Lt. Col. Doolittle. Some Twitter users were offended by the tweet because they felt it glamorized the bombing of a U.S. ally and because of the apparent parallels between football and war. When contacted about these tweets, the Air Force Academy said that although some hostility did arise, most reactions were positive and based on accurate reports of the attack and its aftermath. The Doolittle Raiders' sports department said the outfits this year had been highly welcomed. While some tweets received criticism, most responses backed the choice to commemorate the Raiders. It was especially true among Air Force fans and military supporters. As an example of the beautiful reception the Air Power Legacy Series has received from graduates and fans since its start in 2016, the Air Force Sports Department provided some background on the initiative. The presentation of the uniforms in this series has never failed to inspire feelings of patriotism and camaraderie. Even as the Air Force Academy football team prepares to wear uniforms inspired by the Doolittle Raiders, the event continues to divide views. When these historical personalities are portrayed in a sporting context, it begs the issue of balancing respect for the past with sensitivity to the needs of the present. The Source Link as Follows: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/08/video-air-force-unveils-football-uniform-honoring-wwii-raid-on-japan-not-everyone-is-happy/

Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) and a group of 30 House Republicans have teamed up to question Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough on whether or not there is an underreporting of veteran suicides. A 2022 interim report from America's Warrior Partnership (AWP) revealed a large discrepancy between the VA's reported veteran suicide rates and those indicated by the AWP's results, prompting the need for transparency. An analysis of federal and state statistics by AWP suggests a surprising 37% discrepancy between the VA's stated veteran suicide rate from 2014-2018 and the percentages generated from the letter sent by House Republicans, which was acquired exclusively by The Daily Caller. Rep. Biggs told The Daily Caller, "Incorrect data may lead to misallocation of resources in veteran care and diminished efficacy of VA programs," highlighting the possible consequences of such differences in reporting. By promising to keep watch on the department in charge of veterans' care, he further demonstrated his dedication to protecting their safety. The letter sent by House Republicans requests extensive explanations from the VA on the disparities. The letter primarily inquires about the VA's efforts to collect and provide the most accurate data on veteran suicides. The VA's collaboration with other state and federal agencies in compiling data related to veteran suicides is also discussed in the letter. The VA's attempts to improve data-gathering procedures on veteran suicides and a prospective proposal to update the methodology used to record such incidents are also under investigation by the House Republicans. This letter aims to provide light on the VA's efforts to identify and intervene with high-risk groups among veterans and its collaboration with veteran support organizations to strengthen suicide prevention initiatives. The letter from House Republicans is significant because it underscores their concern about the VA's dedication to investigating the causes of veteran suicides. There's a need for details on whether or not the VA is developing preventative measures to address this critical problem. House Republicans have come together to show their dedication to veterans' welfare, not just with heated rhetoric but with concrete actions to fill in any information or policy gaps. Letters to Secretary McDonough emphasize the need for open communication and responsibility for how veteran suicides are handled. Observing how the VA addresses these specific concerns will be interesting as the discussion continues. This bicameral endeavor, however, serves as a sobering reminder that the nation's veterans and their welfare are worthy of our undivided attention and care, regardless of our political affiliations. The nation will be watching closely in the coming days as the VA formulates its responses to see how dedicated the agency is to uncovering the truth behind the disparities in the veteran suicide rate and to the crucial task of preventing veteran suicides in the future. The Reference is taken from the following link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/08/is-the-va-undercounting-veteran-suicide-house-gop-demands-answers/

Private First Class Jaskirat Singh, aged 21, makes history as the first Marine to graduate from basic training while observing the Sikh articles of religion (a turban, beard, unshaven hair, and a steel bracelet). Singh's graduation from the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego following a court battle for religious accommodations was a significant turning point in his life. This victory resulted from a legal battle in April 2022, when Jaskirat Singh, Milaap Singh Chahal, and Aekash Singh filed a federal complaint against the Marine Corps for its policy prohibiting religious symbols from being worn during basic training. The three men's decision to join the Marine Corps as poolees was an act of service and devotion to their faith. However, the Marine Corps dress code prohibits them from wearing religious symbols. In December 2022, a federal appeals court decided that the Marine Corps reluctance to grant religious accommodations to the Sikh troops violated their religious liberty, marking a turning point in this legal dispute. Their ability to display religious symbols important to the Sikh religion, such as the turban, beard, uncut hair, and steel bracelet, was affirmed by the court. This decision highlighted the value of diversity and inclusion, setting a precedent for tolerating religious views within the military. Singh's resolve to serve his country while remaining faithful is groundbreaking. For young Sikhs who want to serve their country without sacrificing their faith, he sets an example. "My personal goal is that today's events may demonstrate to other young Sikhs that if they want to pursue a career in the military, they can do so while being faithful to their religion," Singh said following the emotional graduation ceremony. Men of the Sikh religion traditionally show their dedication by donning turbans, growing their hair and beards, and wearing steel bracelets. While Sikh active-duty Marines can now wear religious symbols, this does not include boot camp. Before Singh's historic achievement, the Marine Corps was the only military service that did not let Sikh recruits wear religious accouterments while attending basic training. Singh and his fellow Sikhs brought attention to the need for religious accommodation in the military during their legal fight. After the U.S. court denied the preliminary injunction, the case was appealed to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals in September 2022. With her ruling, Judge Patricia Millett brought attention to the necessity for religious accommodations in boot camp procedures on the part of the courts. Millett noted that the Marines had yet to show how their refusal of accommodations helped them achieve their goal of unit cohesiveness. After much legal wrangling, Singh was granted a preliminary injunction enabling him to fulfill uniform standards while wearing a cotton turban instead of the traditional metal one. The fact that Singh could practice his religion thanks to the court's order and the Marine Corps updated standards demonstrates the significance of honoring multiple faiths throughout the service. Singh's success is quite significant. Reiterating his dedication to his religion and his job as a Marine, Singh said, "I'm pleased to show that wearing a turban or a beard does not make me any different or less of a Marine, and I aim to prove that in the future." The story of Jaskirat Singh is one of faith, patience, and the ultimate victory of religious freedom in a society where tolerance and diversity are of the utmost importance. His graduation, while openly displaying his Sikh religious items, is a powerful symbol of the ideals of tolerance and acceptance upheld by the United States Military. Reference Link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/08/marine-who-sued-corps-for-turban-beard-graduates-basic-training/

Veterans and their families were thrown into chaos as they tried to file their PACT Act claims on the VA's website before the payout deadline. Error warnings were shown to around 18% of veterans and survivors who filed claims or notifications of intent to file claims due to problems with the online system. These documents were essentially disability benefits backdated to August 10, 2022. Veterans Affairs (VA) officials responded quickly, assuring veterans and survivors that their applications would be processed as usual despite the system congestion. They were confident that nobody would go without their promised benefits because of the glitch. The VA said that even if an applicant receives an error message when applying for PACT Act benefits, they should still be considered to have completed the filing process. The VA administration was eager to assure the public that the VA.Gov/PACT Act website was still up and operational. They stressed the importance of veterans and survivors promptly filing claims. The VA said that the website was experiencing technical issues but was not down and that people could still submit their claims. A VA representative declined to provide exact submission statistics in response to concerns about the recent spike. The agency has said that this data, which would shed light on the volume of claims being handled, will be made public year on the anniversary of the bill's signing. As of August 4, the VA has received a fantastic total of 408,581 claims, as seen on the PACT Act monitor. Nearly 79% of these claims had at least one disability claim granted. There was a lot of buzz about the PACT Act, which would increase healthcare and disability payments for veterans exposed to environmental toxins like burn pits while serving in the Middle East or Southeast Asia. Claim forms or notices of intent to file were due on August 9; however, the law enables veterans or their survivors to make claims linked to exposures at any time. As a result, they would be eligible for benefits that date back to the year before President Joe Biden signed the bill. Provisions for financing the VA's IT system improvements were included in the PACT Act so that the department could process the expected increase in claims, disability compensation payments, and new patients due to the new law. The VA was tasked with developing an information systems plan and an IT modernization strategy to track the growth and utilization of healthcare services. The VA hotline, 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411), saw an increase in calls as the deadline drew near. Connection delays, typically lasting between 10 and 30 seconds, have ballooned to between 10 and 15 minutes. The VA has promised that these problems will be fixed as soon as possible so that veterans and their families do not lose out on the benefits they are owed. Officials from the VA issued a statement reiterating their resolve to take swift action to resolve the issue. Veterans and their families were reassured that the technological changes would not affect the benefits they had earned. The VA advised people to keep submitting claims or expressing an intention to file so that their rights would be upheld while they worked to address these issues. Reference Link: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/08/09/va-pact-act-website-glitches-leave-it-unavailable-many-vets-ahead-of-deadline.html

An internal investigation into serious claims of rape and sexual assault at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London has surfaced, with suspicions that the previous service director purposefully concealed the probe from Congress and the public. On Tuesday, CNN reported that former Coast Guard Commandant Karl Schultz, who served from 2018 to 2022, is suspected of willfully concealing the results of the inquiry, known as "Operation Fouled Anchor." It has been revealed that between 1988 and 2006, the school saw a frightening 62 confirmed cases of rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment. That inquiry began in 2014 and was almost complete when Schultz took over. It's concerning that so many other accusations went unchecked. The report said senior Coast Guard officials were very cautious about the investigation's protection, even going so far as to request non-disclosure agreements from anybody who was given access to the case files. This secrecy was so pervasive that legislators were only made aware of the probe in June, long after Schultz had resigned. Adm. Linda Fagan, Schultz's replacement, testified before a congressional hearing regarding the delay in disclosure. She admitted that the Coast Guard had failed to disclose the severe claims during her presence. Schultz and his number two, Adm. Charles Ray, came under fire for keeping the investigation's results secret. It was the first time the two leaders had been accused of coordinating a cover-up in such a blatant manner. The arrangements to inform Congress and the Department of Homeland Security (the department that oversees the Coast Guard) were already in place in 2018, according to Adm. Paul Zukunft, Schultz's predecessor. Zukunft's surprise highlighted a lack of transparency and accountability inside the company as officials had yet to brief Congress or make public their conclusions. Schultz returned to the institution for many important events, including a 2019 graduation ceremony and a change of command function in 2021. He graduated from the Coast Guard institution in 1983 and then obtained a master's degree from the University of Connecticut. The allegations against Schultz have caused some to question the Coast Guard Academy's and the military's overall approach to sexual assault cases. Legislators and activist organizations have called for more investigation, prosecution, and assistance for victims of sexual assault in the armed forces. The allegations against Schultz and the claims of a cover-up are expected to have enduring implications for the image of the U.S. Coast Guard and the more extensive armed services as the specifics of the investigation continue to surface. As the public wants a more open and practical approach to addressing the severity of sexual assault within military institutions, calls for accountability and change are expected to increase. Reference Link: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/08/09/former-coast-guard-leader-buried-investigation-academy-sex-assault-report-says.html

In the instance of Staff Sgt. Steven Smiley, who was accused of negligent murder and other crimes in the 2021 death of Marine recruit Dalton Beals, the eight-person military jury deliberated for about two hours before reaching a decision. Smiley was found guilty of breaking a general order that forbids drill instructors from using derogatory language towards recruits after admitting to calling them names like "pig," "war pigs," and "sweet bacon" during training. The jury found him not guilty of negligent homicide, dereliction of duty resulting in death, obstruction of justice, cruelty, oppression, maltreatment of subordinates, and neglect in performing his duties. Smiley leaned forward with his head down and hands on the table as the judgment was announced, showing clear signs of grief. His distraught wife could be seen sitting behind him. Smiley apologized to the Beals family for their loss in court, stating, "I'm sorry for what happened to your kid." He said that he wouldn't know what to do if anything like that happened to his family. Smiley, who has been a Marine since 2009, recently shared that he wants to leave the military and become a firefighter/EMT in Wisconsin. His enlistment was complete at the time of trial, but he was placed on "legal hold" until the case's outcome. The jury had yet to determine the punishment as of 6 p.m. Unfortunately, a recruit, Dalton Beals, lost his life on June 4, 2021, during the Crucible. The Crucible is a grueling 54-hour event that puts participants through their paces by subjecting them to harsh circumstances such as starvation, sleep deprivation, and weariness. The prosecution claimed Smiley overworked the recruits, contributing to Beals' death from heat stroke. But defense witnesses included doctors who said Beals' death was due to a preexisting heart ailment. One of Smiley's lawyers, Colby Vokey, urged the jury to appreciate the gravity of the situation by pointing out that the prosecution had provided just some of the evidence. He pleaded with the jurors not to use Smiley as an excuse for a terrible incident. The prosecution's Lt. Col. Ian Germain argued that Smiley had neglected his responsibilities to the recruits under his charge. Germain said that Smiley overexerted them in dangerous circumstances and failed to notice Beals' symptoms of heat exhaustion. He blamed Smiley for Beals' death by saying that the recruit who sought to alert him to Beals' disappearance was disregarded. The murdered soldier's mother, Stacie Beveridge Beals, remained silent when the judgment was handed down. The trial has been an emotionally charged affair for everyone concerned, and the death of Dalton Beals has been a devastating sorrow for the Beals family. Given the complexities of the case and the difficulties drill instructors encounter in preparing recruits for the demands of military service, the jury's verdict is understandable. The trial exposed the tension between teaching recruits rigorously and keeping them safe. It was unclear what would happen to Staff Sgt. Steven Smiley, while the sentencing phase progressed, the conclusion was being followed keenly by the military and the public. Reference Link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/08/marine-drill-instructor-not-guilty-to-family-of-dead-recruit-he-said-im-sorry/