Veterans News & Updates

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/

The identities of three lance corporals whose bodies were found in a car at the Camp Lejeune military post in North Carolina have been made public by the Marine Corps. According to a Facebook post from the Pender County Sheriff's Office, the three men were discovered unconscious in a car at the Speedway convenience station in Hampstead, North Carolina, early on Sunday morning. One of the dead Marines has been named by the 2nd Marine Logistics Group as Tanner J. Kaltenberg, a 19-year-old from Madison, Wisconsin, who enlisted in the military in May 2021. Merax C. Dockery, 23, from Pottawatomie, Oklahoma, enlisted as a lance corporal in the United States Marine Corps in June 2020. Finally, in July 2019, 23-year-old Ivan R. Garcia of Naples, Florida, became active. All three were vehicle operators for the 2nd Marine Logistics Group's Combat Logistics Battalion 2. The Pender County Sheriff's Office became aware of the tragedy after receiving a report of a missing person. The law enforcement personnel that arrived on site found the three deceased Marines. While assuring the public that there was no real danger, the sheriff's office noted on Facebook that an investigation was still underway. Neither the Marine Corps nor the sheriff's office have said what killed the three service members. The 2nd Marine Logistics Group's commanding officer, Brig. Gen. Michael McWilliams released a statement expressing his condolences to the loved ones and fellow service members of Lance Cpl. Kaltenberg, Dockery, and Garcia. He emphasized that at this time of unprecedented difficulty, their focus was on helping individuals who had suffered the worst losses. This heartbreaking news came from yet another recent disaster involving Marines. A month ago, the Los Angeles Times reported four people perished in a catastrophic automobile wreck on a California highway; three of them were Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton. The three Marines' deaths outside of Camp Lejeune are still being investigated, the military and the general public have come together to grieve their loss, and the military is still investigating the incident. During this time of significant loss, the families and friends of the fallen will have the undivided support of their fellow Marines and the community. Reference is taken from: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/07/25/3-marines-found-dead-car-outside-camp-lejeune-identified.html

During joint drills on Thursday, the U.S. Marines and their Philippine allies demonstrated their aircraft superiority over the South China Sea. There have been rising tensions in the area after two Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter planes flew over Zambales province as part of the Marine Aviation Support Activity (MASA), a two-week yearly exercise involving over 2,700 alliance soldiers and their families. The main training exercises were held at Subic Bay in Zambales, with further drills planned for Cagayan, Tarlac, Palawan, and Cebu until July 21. U.S. Marines demonstrated their expertise by loading 1,000-pound laser-guided missiles into five F/A-18 Hornets at the former U.S. The navy facility in Subic Bay was deactivated during the Cold War in the early 1990s. However, bad weather prevented a fake assault on a ship 12 nautical miles off San Antonio, facing the South China Sea. U.S. Marine Corps 3rd Aircraft Wing Spokesman Second Lt. Madison Walls said four Hornets were sent to the Philippines to work with local forces to launch coordinated assaults. The major purpose of the exercises, Walls underscored, was to strengthen the alliance with friendly states and not to address any particular issues in the area. According to reports from the Manila administration, the combined U.S.-Filipino manoeuvres occurred while Chinese harassment of the Philippine Coast Guard continued. These drills came during heightened tensions between China and the U.S. over Taiwan, which Beijing views as a renegade province. The Chinese military exercised near Taiwan the same day a U.S. Navy aircraft flew over the Taiwan Strait under the watchful eye of Chinese air force fighters. These developments highlighted the geopolitical complexity of the South China Sea area. The two countries conducted joint exercises one day after the seventh anniversary of an international arbitration court judgment in favor of the Philippines in a territorial dispute case against Beijing over the South China Sea. China has continued to assert its sovereignty over the vast majority of the South China Sea, which includes the EEZs of Taiwan, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, and a separate dispute with Indonesia over the Natuna Islands. Concerned by U.S. military planes and Chinese navy ships in the Philippines, Senator Imee Marcos has demanded that both fleets be subject to equal supervision by Philippine government institutions. She expressed concern that the unreported U.S. military flights would increase tensions in the area. Nationalist organizations in the Philippines are worried that the country may be drawn into a war if China invades Taiwan, an American ally, because of the Philippines' decision in February to offer the United States wider access to its bases. The United States and the Philippines have been legally obligated to aid one another in the event of an attack by a third party since they signed a Mutual Defense Treaty in 1951. Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo, the spokeswoman for the Philippine Air Force, informed the public that all troops taking part in the joint exercises had the appropriate diplomatic clearances and that the Department of Foreign Affairs had reported their presence. With complicated geopolitical circumstances, the drills intended to bolster partnerships with regional allies and maintain stability. Finally, the U.S. Marine planes' participation in joint exercises with the Philippine military over the South China Sea demonstrated the two countries' commitment to preserving peace and stability despite continuing tensions and disagreements. The drills highlighted the necessity of partnerships in solving regional concerns while showcasing the U.S. Marine Corps airborne might and capabilities. Reference Link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/07/us-marine-jets-fly-over-south-china-sea-during-philippine-drills/

U.S. and United Nations officials were alarmed on Tuesday when an American soldier stationed in South Korea who was due for disciplinary action crossed into North Korea. It happened in Panmunjom's Joint Security Area (JSA), where soldiers from both Koreas are stationed and often find themselves on opposite sides of critical situations. Following a civilian tour of the JSA, the soldier allegedly crossed the Military Demarcation Line into North Korea without proper clearance, as stated in a tweet by the United Nations command. According to eyewitnesses, the soldier yelled and ran between several buildings after seeing one of the JSA structures, perplexing the tour group. The Associated Press and CBS News, citing U.S. officials, reported that the dead serviceman was Pvt. Travis King. Lloyd Austin, the Defense Secretary of the United States, acknowledged the occurrence but did not identify the service member involved. He said they think the soldier is in North Korean custody and are attempting to contact his family. King was brought back to the US to face disciplinary proceedings before the incident. The unexpected border crossing occurred when he entered the JSA tour through airport security. U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said the administration was ready to take the necessary action to address the crisis. The reasons for the soldier's defection to North Korea are unknown. If confirmed, this would be the first defection by an American service member in almost 40 years and the sixth since the Korean War ended in 1953. Detained Americans have long been used as leverage by North Korea in its political and diplomatic dealings. The dictatorship is notoriously hazardous and secretive, and it is widely believed that the safety of its population takes a back seat to the development of illegal nuclear weapons and missiles. Defections of American service members to North Korea have occurred in the past. In the 1960s, four soldiers defected and were exploited as performers in anti-American films and other forms of propaganda by North Korea. One was permitted to leave North Korea to be with his Japanese wife after over two decades, while the rest remained there until their deaths. The incident involving Travis King has prompted fears for his safety and the possibility of increased diplomatic ties between the United States and North Korea. Since the North Korean dictatorship has a history of harsh treatment towards prisoners, experts expect the U.S. government will act cautiously and take precautions to safeguard the safety of its citizens. Pyongyang's use of imprisoned Americans as political leverage emphasizes the gravity of the situation. To ensure the safety of its people, the United States administration must act cautiously toward North Korea without disrespecting the country's complicated geopolitical dynamics. In conclusion, the United States and the United Nations are on high alert following the surprise crossing of an American soldier into North Korea. Given North Korea's history of employing imprisoned Americans as political pawns, this situation presents fresh possibilities for diplomatic interaction with the regime. As the world watches, efforts are being made to obtain the soldier's release and determine his intentions. Reference is taken from: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/07/us-soldier-scheduled-for-disciplinary-action-crosses-border-into-north-korea/

The U.S. Navy claims that early on Wednesday morning, Iran attempted to seize control of two oil tankers in the area of the Strait of Hormuz but failed. During the incident, Iranian navy ships approached the commercial boats, but they retreated when the Navy intervened, allowing the tankers to continue their journeys without incident. The U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet spokesperson, Cmdr. Tim Hawkins has verified that the Iranian navy attempted to remove commercial tankers as they were legitimately transiting international waters. The prompt action of the U.S. Navy, however, stopped the seizures. There were no injuries or major damage to the intended ship despite gunfire from an Iranian navy warship. This oil ship was Greek-owned but operated in the United States and flew the Bahamas flag. Approximately 28 nautical miles from Muscat, Oman, the incident occurred while the aircraft was en route from the United Arab Emirates to Singapore. The U.S. Navy has pointed out that Iran has taken possession of five commercial ships in the last two years and has routinely harassed other boats. Thus far, this recent incident sheds light on a worrying pattern. This year alone, Iran has taken control of three oil tankers in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a conduit for oil shipments from the Persian Gulf. Iranian officials have said their actions are to blame for the fake lease documents and judicial complaints. In April, commandos from the Iranian navy used a helicopter to board an oil tanker headed for the United States in the Gulf of Oman and capture control of the vessel. The incident prompted a warning from the United States Navy's 5th Fleet, highlighting Iran's ongoing interference with navigational rights and harassment of commercial boats. Threatening maritime security and the global economy, the 5th Fleet said, "Iran's continuing harassment of vessels and interference with navigational rights in regional seas are cause for worry." The strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz can be seen in its role as a passageway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, making it an important hub for oil transfer. It plays a crucial role in international commerce, especially in the energy industry. The latest Iranian attempt to seize oil tankers highlights the threats commercial boats face and the need for increased security in the area. The swift action taken by the U.S. Navy in foiling Iran's arrest efforts indicates their dedication to maintaining peace in the seas and defending international trade. The world community will keenly watch any problems with oil exports due to their potential impact on the global economy. "As tensions rise in the area, it is more important than ever for countries to abide by international law, honor maritime rights, and avoid taking any steps that might compromise marine safety," the report said. Recent episodes involving Iran's attempts to seize oil tankers underline the need to maintain calm in the Strait of Hormuz's important waterways via continued diplomatic efforts to resolve these issues. Source Link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/07/iran-tried-to-capture-2-oil-tankers-fired-on-one-us-navy-says/

A poignant service was performed at Keene's Mountain View Cemetery to honor Andrew Charles Schricker and Marion McDowell Schricker's ashes. This solemn event follows the deaths of Andrew Schricker in 2004 and Marion in 2000 after almost two decades. The couple was buried in the McDowell family grave beside Marion's parents. Torrington, Connecticut native and Vietnam War vet Steve Anderson uncovered and reburied the Schrickers' remains. Anderson's trip started in September 2020, when the ashes of Sherry Collins, who died in 2013, were discovered while remodeling her former home. One of the renovators found two wooden boxes in the attic with the Schrickers' names. The renovators approached Torrington City Hall for guidance. Anderson was called in due to his engagement in genealogical programs and his prior work with the remains of World War II warriors. Even though the veteran's body had lain untreated for over a decade, Anderson felt obligated to care for it. It took around two and a half years to dig out Schricker's military documents and plan a proper burial. Anderson used findagrave.com to locate Marion's family grave at Mountain View Cemetery. Anderson used Andrew Schricker's New Hampshire Union Leader obituary to confirm that Schricker served in the Army Air Forces during World War II. He was also a member of the Army Air Force. Anderson had initially planned for the Patriot Guard to form a select flag line for the burial. But for this, Anderson needed further proof of Schricker's military service, which proved difficult. Anderson could not see his service records because the National Personnel Records Center did not authorize him. Anderson obtained the files in May thanks to the Missing in America Project. Anderson went to the Keene Parks and Recreation Department in June with all the necessary documentation to request permission to bury the two boxes in the cemetery. Anderson rode his motorbike from Torrington to Keene with an ash urn strapped to his back. N.H. Patriot Guard Riders attended the event on June 23 to show their respect for the veteran and his wife. The couple was buried next to Marion's parents during the tearful service. Anderson was overjoyed to learn that Andrew Schricker was a veteran; he thought it was the cherry on top. Bringing the ashes home and putting them to rest beside their parents and parents-in-law was a truly satisfying moment. Andrew Charles Schricker and Marion McDowell Schricker's funeral and burial symbolize the eternal debt of appreciation and respect given to the heroic servicemen and women of World War II. The detailed work of Steve Anderson and the cooperation of many groups have resulted in the couple's burial at the appropriate site, guaranteeing that their sacrifice and legacy will be remembered for future generations. Reference Link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/07/19-years-after-death-a-world-war-ii-veteran-laid-to-rest-in-new-hampshire/

An Army Ranger stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington state is now being held on suspicion of opening fire into a crowd and killing two people at an electronic music event over the weekend. James Kelly, a 26-year-old joint fire support expert serving with the 75th Ranger Regiment, was taken into custody on Tuesday and lodged in the Grant County Jail, awaiting further investigation and legal action. The event occurred Saturday at the Beyond Wonderland festival, about 149 miles east of Seattle. According to the report, law enforcement shot Kelly after the incident, and he subsequently required medical attention. He was later discharged from the hospital and is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday afternoon. Brandy Escamilla, 29, and Josilyn Ruiz, 26, a couple who were engaged to be married, were the victims of this unfortunate incident. Both victims died of gunshot wounds. The other gunshot victims were 20-year-old Lily Luksich of Mill Creek, Washington, and 31-year-old Andrew Cuadra of Eugene, Oregon. Lt. Col. Michael Burns, a U.S. Army Special Operations Command representative, sent condolences to the victims and their families in reaction to the tragic events on behalf of the command. Lt. Col. Burns reaffirmed that the leadership is taking the accusations against Specialist James Kelly seriously and is fully working with the relevant authorities. Sheriff Joe Kriete of the Grant County Sheriff's Office posted further information on Facebook on Tuesday. According to Sheriff Kriete, Kelly was first hospitalized for a gunshot wound but has now been sent to the Grant County Jail. Two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree assault, and one case of first-degree assault with domestic abuse are among the charges against him that are the subject of an ongoing investigation. The hometown of Kelly has been revealed to be Strongsville, Ohio. Kelly holds two Army Achievement Medals and the Parachutist Badge, commemorating his military achievements despite not participating in combat deployments. Locals still grieve the loss of innocent lives and are in disbelief at the occurrence. Law enforcement officials are still looking into the incident's circumstances to bring justice to the victims and their families. The community has been shocked by the arrest of Army Ranger James Kelly in connection with the shooting at a music festival in Washington state. Authorities are working to identify the reasons underlying this unfortunate tragedy in light of the tragic loss of two lives and the injuries suffered by others. Reference is taken from the below link: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/06/21/army-ranger-arrested-after-2-killed-shooting-music-festival-washington-state.html

Military aircraft, salvage equipment, and ships are being sent to a remote area of the Atlantic Ocean to aid in the hunt for a private submersible that went lost on its way to the Titanic ruins. Five people, including the pilot, a famous British explorer, two famous Pakistani business family members, and a Titanic expert, were aboard the submersible Titan. According to Department of Defence spokesperson Sabrina Singh, two C-130 Hercules aircraft from the U.S. Transportation Command have been actively involved in search-and-rescue efforts since Sunday. The Air National Guard, the Coast Guard, and the Navy are all stepping in to help. According to Singh, the Coast Guard oversees the operation, with the Defence Department working closely with them to ensure the crew's safety. The military's priority has been conducting extensive scans of the region to ensure no leads are lost in the hunt for the missing submersible. The search for the Titan has been difficult thus far. During a press conference, Coast Guard authorities said that rescue crews had searched an area of the Atlantic Ocean of around 7,600 square miles without success. During the ongoing search, time is essential. U.S. Transportation Command has sent three C-17 Globemaster III planes to the region and commercial rescue supplies to ramp up the mission. Several additional assets have been sent along with the planes. The New York Air National Guard's HC-130J Combat King, search and rescue aircraft, has been sent to the area and is now on its way back, as stated by Governor Kathy Hochul. Major General Ray Shields praised the 106th Rescue Wing's airmen for their devotion and readiness, and prompt reaction to the Coast Guard's request for aid. Air Station for the Coast Guard, the C-130 Hercules aircraft from Elizabeth City, and a Canadian P-8 aircraft with the capacity to use underwater sonar has also joined the hunt. The U.S. Coast Guard, Cutter, Sycamore, and supplementary aircraft are en route to the area to provide extra support. Aircraft and coast guard boats from Canada are also on the way. The Navy has approached the Coast Guard with an offer of aid and advice. To collect things from the ocean bottom, the Navy will send experts and a Flyaway Deep Ocean Salvage device (FADOSS), a portable motion-compensated lift device. The Navy's Supervisor of Salvage has years of experience recovering underwater objects, including crashed aircraft. The projected 14,000-foot depth of the Atlantic Ocean around the Titanic wreckage may seem impossible, but the Navy is up to the challenge. The Navy has proven its proficiency in deep-sea recovery operations by setting a salvage depth record in 2021 by retrieving an MH-60S helicopter from a depth of 19,075 feet off the coast of Okinawa, Japan and by successfully retrieving an F-35C Lightning II fighter from a depth of 12,400 feet in the South China Sea in March 2022. The Navy has been exceptionally quiet about its recovery efforts, but experience tells us they are still on time. It took over a month from when a naval navigation alert was issued to when it was announced that the F-35C had been recovered. There is still hope that the joint efforts of military and civilian groups, using their modern technology, will be able to find the missing Titan submersible. With unwavering power and skill, the effort to bring the five people back to the surface continues. Reference is taken from the given Source Link: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/06/20/heres-how-military-helping-search-lost-titanic-bound-sub.html

Former White House military valet and Navy veteran Walt Nauta has been accused alongside former President Donald Trump in a case concerning the misuse of classified documents. The Department of Justice under President Joe Biden issued allegations alleging that Nauta moved boxes of papers around to Trump and lied to investigators about their location. Guam native Walt Nauta had a successful military career that started in 2001. According to the BBC, he worked through the ranks and is now the country's senior chief culinary expert. Trump saw Nauta's potential when working in the White House cafeteria and promoted him from dishwasher to military assistant. When Trump left office, Nauta resigned from the Navy to remain in service to the former president at Mar-a-Lago. The U.S. Department of Justice has filed several criminal allegations against Nauta, including conspiracy to obstruct justice, corruptly concealing a document or record, and making false statements. Nauta is charged with helping Trump by moving boxes of documents out of the White House and then lying to investigators about where they ended up. Nauta said, "I wish, I wish I could tell you. I have no idea. I don't have any idea what to say", indicating that he did not know where the items were.  On Tuesday, Nauta and Trump both appeared in federal court. His arraignment, which will begin official proceedings, is scheduled for June 27. There has been a lot of discussion and speculation regarding the potential implications of the combined indictment of Nauta and Trump in this case. When the case was unsealed earlier this week, Trump called Nauta "a wonderful guy" and slammed the DOJ for singling him out. Trump took to Truth Social, his preferred social media platform, to express his dismay: "I have just learned that the 'Thugs' from the Department of Injustice will be Indicting a wonderful man, Walt Nauta, a member of the U.S. Navy, who served proudly with me in the White House, retired as Senior Chief, and then transitioned into private life." Trump said that the FBI and Department of Justice were crooked because they tried to ruin Nauta's life so he wouldn't speak negatively about the former president. Many people will be keeping an eye on the court dispute between Nauta and Trump as it develops. The dual indictment of a Navy veteran and a former president in a case involving classified documents is a major turn in the continuing political and legal environment. These allegations may have far-reaching effects, impacting public trust in the government and the security of classified documents. The case's resolution is still in the air as arraignment in Nauta and subsequent legal proceedings have not yet occurred. The proceedings will continue to attract attention as the public awaits more details about the claims and their possible consequences for the Navy veteran and the former president. Reference is taken from: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/06/navy-veteran-charged-alongside-trump-in-classified-documents-case/

Recent reports have indicated that 22 US service members were injured when a US helicopter crashed shortly after takeoff in northern Syria. The helicopter disaster happened over the weekend, and it featured an MH-47 Chinook that had an issue with one of its rotors and had to make an emergency landing. On Tuesday, a Pentagon spokeswoman, Sabrina Singh, briefed the media about what had happened. Singh said that everyone involved in the crash was stable and that 10 wounded military personnel were transported out of the country for medical care. She did not elaborate on the kind or extent of their wounds, though. Additional information was obtained from US Central Command, the organization that filed the original complaint, and Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, a military facility often the first stop for wounded service personnel. There was no answer to these inquiries. Since 2015, the United States has largely had a military presence in Syria to aid the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces in their battle against the Islamic State (ISIS). Even though ISIS has been pushed out of most major cities in Syria and Iraq, the United States is still deploying around 900 troops there to avoid a comeback. On June 6th, US Central Command released a statement detailing the month of May's successful operations, which included the capture of 20 ISIS members, as well as the deaths of two. On the other hand, in early May, the leadership claimed credit for a drone hit on a top al-Qaida commander in northwest Syria. The leadership eventually had to back down from its original assertion when conflicting reports appeared in The Washington Post. Investigators are still gathering information to ascertain whether or not civilians were killed in the event. Central Command said that the weekend helicopter crash was not caused by enemy fire, and an inquiry has been launched to determine what went wrong. The well-being of the military members engaged is still the priority as the inquiry continues. This incident highlights the continued risks that military personnel in war zones confront despite attempts to reduce such dangers. The inquiry remains a top priority for the Pentagon and military officials, and they will take whatever steps are required to avoid future disasters like this one. Reported Source: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/06/13/us-helicopter-crashed-shortly-after-takeoff-syria-injuring-22-troops.html

WASHINGTON — Arkansas' U.S. House representatives want the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to remove LGBTQ+ pride flags from its facilities because they advocate a political viewpoint. On Tuesday, Representatives Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack, and Bruce Westerman of Alabama joined 27 other House Republican critics of the VA's policy in a letter. Members of Congress stated, "Veterans who have served our country deserve the opportunity to access a facility that is free from prejudice and political posturing." The brave men and women who served their nation without regard to party affiliation and the VA that cares for them and provides the benefits they've earned should do the same. Vets deserve to enter VA facilities that are free from political posturing. Read the letter CHM @RepBost and 30 House Republicans sent to VA on the decision to violate their own policy + permit social movement flags, like the Pride flag to be flown in place of the American flag. pic.twitter.com/KZpYkLxos2 — House Committee on Veterans' Affairs (@HouseVetAffairs) June 6, 2023 Denis McDonough, who has served as VA Secretary since February 2021, has allowed pride flags to be flown at VA institutions in June to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month. Last week, Vice President Joe Biden issued a proclamation declaring June as Pride Month, noting the increase in anti-LGBTQ initiatives. The VA's media relations director Susan Carter stated, "It is the VA's objective to provide LGBTQ+ veterans -- and all veterans -- with the world-class treatment and benefits they deserve in a safe, caring, and inclusive environment." Several members of the House Coalition have voiced their displeasure with the widespread adoption of the pride flag "at the expense of other traditional flags." Representatives Hill and Womack cited the American flag, state flags, and the prisoner of war/missing-in-action flag as examples of flags suitable to fly as a show of solidarity and freedom. The lawmakers mentioned the department's ban on flags that advocate for certain ideologies and points of view at VA graves. The lack of flags commemorating specified months at VA hospitals was also discussed. George Hardardt, a resident of Hot Springs Village, contacted VA officials in Arkansas and Washington, DC, to voice his opposition to flying the pride flag at VA facilities. Retired Marine Corporal Hardardt said the Biden administration was making a political statement by utilizing the flag to promote LGBTQ+ concerns. The flag is "a special interest and politically perceived flag," as Representative Westerman said in a call to Secretary McDonough to express his disappointment. He plans to back legislation that would make it illegal for VA hospitals to display pride flags in the future. I spoke directly to @SecVetAffairs on Friday and expressed my disappointment in his decision to encourage any special interest and politically perceived flag to be flown alongside the American flag. The VA's job is to serve our nation's veterans, not push a political agenda.??? — Rep. Bruce Westerman (@RepWesterman) June 6, 2023 Former Army explosive ordnance disposal technician and current member of Congress, Crawford called the VA's policy "particularly problematic," especially when applied to medical institutions. He stressed the need for non-partisanship in government agencies. The number of LGBTQ+ veterans in the United States military is estimated to be over 1 million by the Department of Veterans Affairs. LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators have been appointed in all VA healthcare systems as part of the agency's efforts to guarantee that all veterans and their families are treated fairly. In defense of LGBTQ+ service members, Danny Ingram, a veteran, and former Army soldier who is now the national president emeritus of American Veterans for Equal Rights, came out. Since he enrolled when openly LGBTQ people were prohibited from serving in the military, Ingram fought for advocated for policy changes and saw "don't ask, don't tell" overturned. Happy Pride to LGBTQ+ Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors! Your service, your sacrifice – even in the face of discrimination – will never be forgotten. Proud to fly the Pride flag over VA, and proud to serve you each and every day. pic.twitter.com/ISX6wdfV5p — Secretary Denis McDonough (@SecVetAffairs) June 2, 2023 Pride flags at VA hospitals are not a political statement to Ingram and her husband but rather a sign of respect for individuals subjected to discriminatory practices in the past. The LGBTQ+ advocacy group, the Human Rights Campaign, declared a state of emergency for LGBTQ+ Americans in response to legislation targeting gender-affirming medical treatment and LGBTQ+ issues. They help LGBTQ+ people move to states with supportive laws. The VA has notified the House coalition in a letter and will respond directly to the legislator. Source Link: https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2023/jun/08/arkansas-us-house-members-push-against-va-pride/

A group of World War II veterans traveled to Normandy to commemorate the 79th anniversary of D-Day in a touching show of appreciation and remembering. Delta Air Lines and the American public came together to pay tribute to the brave men and women who served their nation during World War II. Andy Negra, a war veteran who served in the Army, almost didn't return to Normandy because he didn't have a passport. Negra was born in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, without a birth certificate, which presented an unforeseen challenge. Luckily, weeks before they departed from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Sabrina Cornelius, executive assistant in global sales for Delta Air Lines, stepped up to make sure both Negra and Jimmy Doi, another WWII veteran, acquired passports. After having the chance to help such courageous people, Cornelius said, "It is delightful. I feel very privileged. Being a part of this, even somewhat, has been an incredible experience. To see their joy at the prospect of a Delta flight to Normandy was priceless." Delta and the Best Defense Foundation worked together to organize the trip, the second year a U.S. passenger airline directly flew veterans to Normandy. Donnie Edwards, the founder of the Best Defense Foundation and former NFL player, recognized the importance of the trip. He remarked on the honor of providing these warriors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Edwards said, "The crew was honored to provide the elderly with such a once-in-a-lifetime chance despite their advanced years." There were a total of 43 veterans who made the trip. All of them had fought in WWII. The connection between duty and sacrifice united them, regardless of whether or not they had fought in Normandy on D-Day. The Dutchtown High School marching band from Henry County led a salute to the veterans' arrival at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport's international terminal. Travelers and bystanders crowded the airport to cheer and snap photos of the exciting scene. The schedule for the veterans' trip began with an arrival ceremony on June 1. It continued with dinners, parades, recognition ceremonies, and trips to the iconic Normandy beaches. Donnie Edwards said, "I'm so delighted to see how in tune and how proud the kids are to meet the World War II veterans and connect with them." The children's interactions with these real-life heroes inspired awe and thankfulness, leaving them with priceless memories. Andy Negra, who was drafted at the age of 19, spoke about his time serving in the military. Negra, a member of the 6th Armored Division, landed on Utah Beach on July 18 and participated in the Battle of the Bulge. He finally returned to Normandy after 79 years, and while there, he encountered an incredible coincidence. "The craziest thing is that when I arrived at Utah Beach, I was received by an American who lived four homes away from where I resided in my hometown," Negra stated, highlighting the unexpected ties established via wartime experiences. After Pearl Harbor, WWII veteran Jimmy Doi was sent from California to the Gila River War Relocation Center in Arizona. He joined the 442nd Regimental Combat Team in Italy. Doi reenlisted after the European war to locate his parents in Japan, which he did. John "Jack" Foy, a Third Army veteran, arrived in France after D-Day. Like Negra, Foy fought in the Battle of the Bulge. "At that time, everyone was so patriotic; as soon as you were 18, you signed up. Everyone did." Foy stated. "It means the world to me," Foy said of returning to the historic spot on the anniversary of D-Day, despite having visited France several times. The tour to Normandy showed WWII veterans' courage and sacrifice. They were recognized in Normandy for their immense efforts to freedom and peace. The tour showed the tenacious spirit of these exceptional people and reminded us of our appreciation for their service. Reference from: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/06/it-means-the-world-to-me-wwii-vets-return-to-normandy-in-honor-of-d-day/