Engineering Squadrons Fortify Pacific Airfields, Advance Agile Combat Employment

Oct. 19, 2026 |

Air Force civil engineers recently completed a deployment to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, to revitalize historic runways and infrastructure abandoned after World War II on the neighboring island of Tinian, Northern Mariana Islands, helping prepare the Pacific theater for future operational requirements.

Virginia Air National Guard service members assigned to the 203rd Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers, 192nd Mission Support Group, 192nd Wing, deployed to Guam and Tinian and traded their traditional red unit caps for the 513th Expeditionary Red Horse hat. 

The deployment unified three distinct units under the 513th flag: Virginia's 203rd Red Horse; the Florida Air National Guard's 202nd Red Horse; and the active duty 819th Red Horse, stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana.

Together, these airmen, traditionally nicknamed "dirt boys" for their heavy equipment and pavement specialty, fortified airfields to bring the Air Force's agile combat employment operational concept to life. The ACE framework relies on dispersing forces rapidly across remote, austere spoke locations to complicate adversary targeting and increase survivability.

"The work is vast in nature and truly historical," said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Neil V. Keane, 203rd Red Horse senior enlisted leader. "Currently, the deterrence package we are advancing is more than $11 billion to date across the Pacific Air Forces area of responsibility. This underscores the importance of our mission and urgency to set and sustain the theater."

The effort demanded extreme adaptability in civil engineering. Shortly after arriving in the theater earlier this year, the unified squadron sheltered in place as two Category 5 typhoons battered the Mariana Islands. Once the storms cleared, the team pivoted to recovery operations before resuming construction under unforgiving geological and logistical constraints.

"First, the ground here isn't standard dirt — it's near-solid coral and limestone," said Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Steven Bond, 203rd Red Horse Guam operations superintendent. "When we tried using our standard dozers, excavators and graders to carve out the airfield ramps, they barely made a scratch. We ended up using an asphalt milling machine guided by 3D GPS to cut through the rock."

Supply chain limitations added another challenge.

"We don't have dedicated military cargo planes to move our heavy engineering assets," Bond said. "To get around this, we must rely entirely on civilian maritime vessels to ship our dozers, materials and tools from island to island."

Throughout the storm recovery and construction, the 192nd Wing Chaplain Corps deployed religious support teams to support airmen on the ground. The first team, consisting of Air Force Chaplain (Maj.) Robert Hunter and Air Force Master Sgt. Stephen Scull, 192nd Religious Affairs noncommissioned officer in charge, coordinated more than 500 pounds of essential gear and requested supplies to Tinian. 

The second rotation, consisting of Air Force Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Matthew Incorvaia and Air Force Staff Sgt. Wleed Muhmmad, 192nd Religious Affairs airman, assembled and distributed 48 morale care packages across the island.

"I was amazed by the resiliency of our 203rd Red Horse members and their willingness to care for one another and the families within these communities while working through their own challenges related to the aftermath of these storms," Hunter said. "On deployments, sometimes it's the little things that provide a positive morale boost that can make a difference over the weeks and months."

The squadron's long-term footprints will outlast their rotation. Across Andersen Air Force Base, Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, and Misawa Air Base, Japan, engineers were able to complete various stages of assembly for 20 arch-shaped, heavy-gauge steel warehouses designed to safeguard regional prepositioned war material kits.

Headquartered at the State Military Reservation in Virginia Beach, Virginia, the 203rd is the Virginia Air National Guard's largest squadron. Red Horse units operate as self-sufficient, highly mobile heavy-construction teams capable of building expeditionary bases, revetments and runways in high-threat, bare-base environments.

"We are directly posturing the U.S. military to provide a combat-credible deterrence in the Pacific," Bond said. "Success means knowing these runways and warehouses are going to stand for decades. Even if future priorities or missions change, this infrastructure will be ready."

The unified 513th Expeditionary Red Horse successfully completed its deployment, overcoming a 12-day advanced departure schedule to secure a massive strategic footprint across the Pacific theater before handing operations off to the incoming rotation.

With main troop movements complete, the squadron's hard work directly sets the region up for agile combat employment operations that disperse forces across remote locations to increase survivability. 

Future planning is already underway as the team coordinates with regional planning and engineering groups for potential joint construction in the Philippines, Japan and Australia, while incoming forces are positioned to immediately continue concrete foundation work, warehouse construction and asphalt paving operations.

Arctic Experiment Explores Ways to Close Air Surveillance Gaps

Oct. 20, 2026 | By Air Force Capt. Kitsana Dounglomchan, 11th Air Force |

U.S. military personnel, scientists and international partners conducted live-fly testing in Alaska last month during the final event of a three-year Arctic air domain awareness experiment series, collecting data to assess technology that could help close surveillance gaps across the state.

The experiment examined whether an existing high-frequency transmitter, paired with a newly developed, low-cost receiver array, could detect aircraft beyond the coverage of current long-range radar sites. The effort focused on improving awareness across a region where vast distances, harsh weather and limited infrastructure present challenges for air surveillance.

Researchers used the University of Alaska Fairbanks' High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program facility and a receiver array in Cold Bay developed by industry partners to collect data on participating aircraft over the Gulf of Alaska and the Bering Sea. Industry partners also supported the effort throughout the three-year experiment series by designing and executing the field experiment in partnership with government, scientific and operational participants.

"Understanding what this technology can do in the Arctic starts with collecting data under real operating conditions," said Carolyn Stwertka, Alaskan Command chief scientist. "Working with operational units allows us to compare the experimental observations with known aircraft positions and assess where this approach could help address gaps in air surveillance."

The team completed testing and met or exceeded its test execution objectives. Initial results show the system successfully achieved beyond-visual-line-of-sight aircraft detections and correlated them with the targeted flights. Thorough data analysis is ongoing.

The effort brought together Alaskan Command, U.S. Northern Command, the Air Force Research Laboratory, Defence Research and Development Canada, and scientific and operational partners.

Participating aircraft included an E-3 Sentry, HC-130J Combat King IIs and KC-135 Stratotankers. The aircraft served as cooperative targets, providing known positions against which researchers could compare the experimental data.

The event marked the conclusion of live-fly testing in the experiment series, which explored how existing infrastructure and emerging technology could complement current surveillance capabilities.

For Alaskan Command, the effort supports a broader focus on strengthening Arctic defenses through scientific collaboration and operational experimentation. Improving the ability to detect and track aircraft across Alaska and its approaches helps commanders assess potential threats and make informed decisions in defense of the homeland.

Exercise Keen Sword 2027 Begins in Japan

Oct. 20, 2026 | By Air Force Tech. Sgt. Tristan Truesdell, U.S. Forces Japan |

Multilateral Exercise Keen Sword 2027 began yesterday with an opening ceremony on Ishigaki Island, Japan.

About 45,000 Japan Self-Defense Forces troops, 11,000 U.S. service members and forces from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand and the Philippines are participating alongside observers from South Korea and the United Kingdom. The exercise runs through Oct. 29.

This is the 18th iteration of the biennial field training exercise. Training includes air and missile defense, facility protection and repair, logistics and resupply, casualty evacuation, and maritime operations.

"Today, it is a great privilege and significance to commence Keen Sword 27 in Ishigaki, Japan's westernmost point," said Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Adm. Tawara Tateki, commander of the JSDF Joint Operations Command. "Those gathered here today are under different national flags and represent different cultures, yet we share the same fundamentals, values of freedom and rules of law. We also share a common responsibility to preserve these values for future generations. In this sense, we are truly like-minded partners."

Tateki added that Keen Sword 27 is an exercise dedicated to preserving peace and stability.

"It is essential that Japan, [the] U.S. and participating like-minded countries leverage each other's strengths and transform our militaries into the capabilities and readiness to be able to act precisely in times of need," he said.

The exercise's bilateral and multilateral training scenarios help participating forces improve interoperability, information sharing and defensive coordination across multiple domains under realistic conditions.

"Today, four decades strong, Keen Sword stands as the absolute pinnacle of combat-ready exercises in the Pacific, with the most capable and consequential alliance in the world training alongside our international partners," said U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George Rowell, deputy commander of U.S. Pacific Command. "Over the coming days, I have no doubt that we will train as one team to test our concepts, refine our command and control, and validate our ability to deter aggression and prevail in crisis or conflict."

Rowell noted that deterrence in the 21st century is not built on words or declarations; rather, it is built through demonstrated competence, cohesion and warfighting readiness.

"Keep drilling, keep learning and remain ready, together," he said.

Meet the Army Athletes Competing in the United World Wrestling Championships

Oct. 19, 2026 | By Stephen Warns, Army World Class Athlete Program |

Six soldier-athletes from the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program will carry Army pride and medal ambitions to the 2026 United World Wrestling Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan, Oct. 24 through Nov. 1. 

The four Greco-Roman wrestlers and two women's freestyle wrestlers account for 20% of Team USA's 30-person roster, underscoring the program's significant contribution to the nation's international wrestling success. 

"It's always an honor to go out there and represent the World Class Athlete Program, the Army and the United States on the global stage," said Army Sgt. 1st Class Spenser Mango, the Army's Greco-Roman wrestling coach and two-time Olympian, participating in his 14th world championships as a competitor and coach. "It doesn't get better than that."

Army Sgt. Kamal Bey, 82 kg 

This is the fifth world championships for Bey, who finished 10th at 77 kg in last year's world championships in Zagreb, Croatia.

Bey said moving up to 82 kg was more of a health decision to prepare his body before cutting down to 77 kg for the Olympic push, but he's not giving up anything by moving up a weight class.

"It definitely feels good," said Bey, a 2024 Olympian whose military occupational specialty is culinary specialist. "I'm filling out the weight class. I got in the weight room, worked with the coaches, and I'm getting bigger, stronger, faster, and most importantly, I'm healing up. I'm not giving up anything by moving up to 82 kg; I'll tell you that."  

Bey's experience makes him an important resource to his teammates competing on the world stage, some for the first time.

"He's been doing this for a while," said Army Spc. Timothy Young, who will represent Team USA at 97 kg. "I'm always taking whatever I can from him because he's done this a few times."

For Bey, there's no better feeling than representing the United States on all fronts, not only as a citizen but as a soldier.

"When WCAP and All-Army post about us and share what we're doing, I know it gives fellow soldiers something to be proud of," Bey said. "It shows that somebody just like them is out there accomplishing amazing things. It also shows civilians there are different avenues within the Army to achieve success. I don't think there's any other country in the world I'd rather represent."

Army Sgt. Dalton Roberts, 60 kg 

This will be the third world championships for Roberts, a motor transport operator who relishes being one of the senior competitors for both Army WCAP and Team USA.

"I'd say the team cohesion is really high," Roberts said. "In Greco-Roman wrestling, there's always been a strong brotherhood, so that's nothing new, but something feels different this year. We all get along well, we push each other, and we hold each other accountable."

Working with new sports psychologists, new strength and training coaches, and more international travel has boosted the team's confidence going into the world championships, Roberts said, adding it has also boosted his own confidence.

"I believe I can accomplish what I want; I just have to put it all together on the day of competition," he said. "I believe this year is the time to do it."

Representing the Army and the United States on the world stage is a privilege Roberts doesn't take for granted.

"It's a beautiful thing, and it's an honor," he said. "I carry a great deal of pride on my shoulders when I get these opportunities. It's awesome."

Army Staff Sgt. Xavier Johnson, 63 kg 

Johnson, a motor transport operator, returns to the world championships after making his senior-level debut in Belgrade, Serbia, in 2023. The difference this time is perspective.

Johnson admitted he was initially caught up in the magnitude of his first world championships. Three years later, he views himself as a seasoned competitor who belongs among the world's best athletes.

"It's not a mistake that I got here," he said. "It was supposed to happen the way it happened."

He has also approached his weight management more scientifically. Although cutting to 63 kg remains demanding, Johnson said this cycle has been easier than previous attempts because he began managing his weight earlier and more deliberately.

Johnson believes WCAP's qualifiers are carrying teammates who could not compete because of injuries or military requirements. That collective responsibility — and the emergence of strong domestic Greco-Roman programs — has given the Army wrestlers added motivation.

"This is bigger than just myself," Johnson said. "It's for the people behind me as well."

Army Spc. Timothy Young, 97 kg 

Young, a unit supply specialist, made his first world championships by turning a difficult moment at the U.S. Open in Las Vegas in April into a defining tournament.

After losing his second match in the best-of-3 final, Young recognized that nobody would give him a place on the world team. He responded by increasing his aggression.

"This isn't going to be just given to me," he said. "I have to go out there and take it if I really want this."

Traveling to a previous world championships as a teammate's training partner made the goal feel attainable.

Former world champion and WCAP coach Dremiel Byers, a member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, told Young the experience would leave him hungrier.

Young said Byers was right.

"Ever since I've been at WCAP, he's the one coach where I'm like, 'This is the guy I want in my corner,'" Young said. "He's definitely one person I can trust."

A tall wrestler for his class, Young intends to maximize his leverage from the top position, securing his lock quickly and lifting opponents before they can defend.

"I get really excited when I get my chance on top. I'm like, 'This is it right here,'" Young said. "My coach tells me: 'Tim, get right to your lock, get them up and send them. Don't waste any time. Just lock it and get it up.'" 

Young said competing in his first world championships fulfills his four core principles.

"I get to go out there and represent God, family, country and wrestling," he said. "It just feels really good. I get to honor all of them every time I step on the mat."

Army Spc. Abby Nette, 59 kg

Nette, a culinary specialist, returns to the world championships for the first time since placing 10th in 2022, carrying sharper execution and a clearer competitive identity.

She attributes much of her renewed purpose to her father, who died in 2025. Before his death, he urged her to keep moving forward and told her how proud he was.

"Now I do it for both of us," Nette said.

Nette said she has finally learned to trust the complete wrestler she has become, and she understands how her individual strengths work together.

"For the first time ever, I know exactly who I am," she said.

She also draws confidence from WCAP's institutional support. Nette said she never has to enter a competition questioning whether her unit and the Army stand behind her.

"That's something beautiful about WCAP," she said. "It's also a privilege to represent the United States of America and the U.S. Army. As a U.S. soldier, that's really cool to say."

Army Spc. Aduago Nwachukwu, 62 kg 

Nwachukwu, who earned a silver medal on Oct. 16 at the 2026 Under-23 World Championships in Las Vegas, begins her second senior world championships campaign after placing seventh in 2025.

Her preparation has centered on disciplined weight management while transitioning from the U-23 world championships to the senior tournament. Instead of regaining substantial weight between events, she remained close to 62 kg, expecting the controlled cut to improve her performance.

Nwachukwu's confidence comes from results. She has defeated wrestlers who later competed for senior world medals, which convinced her she can reach the podium — and the top step.

"I'm on that level where I know I can be a world champion," she said.

For Nwachukwu, competing as a member of the Army WCAP also represents a rare union of service and sport.

"Serving your country while doing the thing you love most is a blessing and a privilege," she said. "I always tell people it's the best thing you could ever do."

Marine Corps Battalion Redesignates as First Medium Missile Battalion

Oct. 19, 2026 | By Marine Corps Sgt. Alexis French, 2nd Marine Division |

History was made at the home of the 2nd Marine Division as the 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, redesignated from an artillery battalion to a medium missile battalion during a ceremony Oct. 9 at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, creating a first-of-its-kind unit in the Marine Corps.

In accordance with the commandant's planning guidance, the battalion was selected to redesignate to align with the Marine Corps Force Design 2030 plan, supporting modernization efforts by adding the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System to its arsenal.

"The medium-range missile battalion employs the NMESIS," said Marine Corps Lt. Col. Joseph Mozzi, battalion commander. "[The NMESIS] is the Marine Corps' emerging ground-based anti-ship missile capability, and it will also be a ground-based, long-range precision fires platform."

First introduced to the 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment in 2024, the interdiction system combines a remotely operated ground unit for expeditionary fires carrier with a launcher that can fire two Naval Strike Missiles, providing sea denial, sea control and a defense against maritime threats.

"The requirement for the Marine Corps to have a land-based capability to conduct sea denial was identified as a crucial step to facilitate the maritime component commanders to fight for sea control," Mozzi said.

In an ever-changing battlefield, adaptability is crucial to the success of defensive powers. Integrating the NMESIS provides the service with a rapidly deployable system that can function in austere, expeditionary environments.

During Large Scale Exercise 2021, the Marine Corps successfully tested the system off the coast of Hawaii with a Naval Strike Missile fired toward a surface target at sea. With an effective range of more than 130 nautical miles and the ability to target surface ships and fixed ground targets, Marine Corps leaders said the Naval Strike Missile is a critical asset for denying adversaries access to key portions of contested waters.

"Projecting combat power ashore from the sea is historically what [Marines] do," said Marine Corps Col. William Soucie, 10th Marine Regiment commander. "What we will be able to do with [the NMESIS] is shoot in support of not only maneuver that's already ashore [but] we will also be able to shoot in support of maneuver[s] at sea."

The redesignation is the first artillery battalion modernization in the Marine Corps. Redesignating as a medium missile battalion offers the division new capabilities while still retaining lightweight howitzer capabilities.

The NMESIS does not replace the battalion's cannon artillery; rather, Soucie said it complements it. The regiment will retain artillery capabilities in another battalion, while the new system within the 1st Battalion will seamlessly integrate to provide close and continuous fires to units ashore and at sea.

As a unit in the service-retained force, the 1st Battalion was a candidate for artillery modernization because it gives the II Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, and the Marine Corps as a whole, greater flexibility during a crisis.

"While the transition of the weapons platform is interesting, what makes the story compelling is that the Marines and sailors in that formation are not changing," Soucie said. "They are just as good as they have always been. And they will make the platform successful, and whatever mission they are assigned [to] successful, because they are phenomenal."

Department of War Announces Research Security Mitigation Results From Academic Institutions

Oct. 19, 2026 |

The Department of War announced today the successful completion of its initial research security audits of 30 universities. All 30 universities have fully mitigated identified relationships with foreign entities of concern included on the most recent NDAA Section 1286 list, published in July 2026. Overall, the audits resulted in more than 80 termination-related actions across the 30 universities. These actions included the termination of relationships with entities on the NDAA Section 1286 list, as well as precautionary terminations involving entities not specifically identified on the list.

While the Department worked collaboratively with all 30 universities, several went above and beyond by quickly terminating problematic relationships with entities on the NDAA Section 1286 list and implementing significant mitigation measures to safeguard research. These institutions include:

1. Oklahoma State University
2. The Pennsylvania State University
3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
4. University of South Carolina
5. University of Southern California
6. University of Texas at Austin
7. Virginia Tech

"These academic institutions that went above and beyond deserve immense credit for setting the benchmark in domestic research security," said Joseph Jewell, Assistant Secretary of War for Science and Technology. "Rather than settling for minimum compliance, these institutions took bold, self-initiated steps to protect their labs, faculty, and intellectual property from foreign exploitation. Their proactive commitment ensures that groundbreaking research directly empowers the American warfighter and strengthens our Nation's technological edge."

The Department will continue to update the NDAA Section 1286 list, as appropriate, and assess universities that retain problematic relationships with entities on the list.

"I am proud that the Department of War went 30-for-30 in working with these top-tier research universities to terminate relationships with malign foreign entities. The Department commends the institutions that took decisive action to mitigate relationships that could expose American research to foreign exploitation," said Emil Michael, Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering. "Our work will continue. Institutions that fail to meet research security standards are on notice: taxpayer dollars will not support institutions whose partnerships put the American warfighter or the Nation’s technological advantage at risk."

The Department will continue this effort alongside partners in Congress, specifically the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, and the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to Visit Ohio and Wisconsin, for the Arsenal of Freedom Tour

Oct. 19, 2026 |

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth will travel tomorrow to Dayton, Ohio, and Eau Claire, Wisconsin, as part of the Arsenal of Freedom Tour.

In Dayton, Secretary Hegseth will visit SNC and deliver remarks to the workforce. He will be accompanied by Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink.

In Eau Claire, Secretary Hegseth will visit Riverside and deliver remarks to the workforce alongside Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Col. Lloyd L. 'Scooter' Burke

Oct. 19, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

Army Col. Lloyd L. "Scooter" Burke served on active duty for 30 years and saw three wars. He received the Medal of Honor in 1952 for the courage and leadership he displayed as a young officer during the Korean War. 

Burke was born Sept. 29, 1924, in Tichnor, Arkansas, to Arthur Dewey Burke, a lumber mill foreman, and Betty. He was the second oldest and had four siblings: Claude, Dorothy, Donna and Betty. His family nicknamed him Scooter because, as a child, he was always scooting around the house and yard. 

In 1930, his family moved to Clarendon, Arkansas, and a few years later, they moved down the road to Stuttgart, Arkansas. After graduating from Stuttgart High School in 1942, Burke enrolled at Henderson State Teachers College in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. However, he dropped out in 1943 to enlist in the Army. 

He served two years in Italy as a combat engineer during World War II, rising to the rank of sergeant.  

After being honorably discharged on Jan. 28, 1946, he returned to Henderson State, majored in chemistry and joined the ROTC program.  

In 1946, he married Virginia Fletcher, and they had three children. They divorced in February 1975, and three years later, Burke married Maxine Hardin. 

Following graduation in June 1950, Burke was commissioned as an Army second lieutenant, just as the Korean War was starting. After infantry officer training at Fort Benning, Georgia, he was assigned to Company G, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, and boarded a troop transport ship to South Korea. 

On Nov. 26, 1950, near Samso-ri, North Korea, his unit encountered an enemy roadblock on a ridge, manned by Chinese soldiers who had recently come to the aid of their communist ally. 

Burke led his company in five attacks that cleared the impasse, earning him the Distinguished Service Cross — the second-highest Army medal for valor. 

From December 1950 to January 1951, the soldiers battled south of the 38th Parallel to establish defensive lines against overwhelming enemy forces.  

On Oct. 28, 1951, Burke's unit was on Hill 200 near Chong-dong, North Korea. His Medal of Honor citation states that intense enemy fire had pinned down leading elements of his company when Burke left his command post to rally and urge the men to follow him toward three bunkers impeding their advance. 

Dashing to an exposed vantage point, he threw several grenades at the bunkers and then returned for an M1 rifle and the grenade projection adapter, which allowed him to fire grenades instead of throwing them. 

He made a lone assault — killing the crew of a bunker. He lobbed grenades through the opening of another bunker and, with his pistol, killed three of its occupants who were attempting to surround him.

Ordering his men forward, Burke charged the third bunker, catching several enemy grenades in midair and hurling them back at the enemy. Inspired by his display of valor, his men stormed the hostile positions but were again pinned down by increased fire.  

Grabbing an M1919 Browning machine gun and three boxes of ammunition, Burke dashed through the impact area to an open knoll, set up his gun and poured crippling fire into the ranks of the enemy, killing approximately 75.  

Although wounded, he procured more ammunition and destroyed two mortar emplacements and a machine-gun position with his accurate fire. Cradling the weapon in his arms, he then led his men forward, killing about 25 more enemy forces and securing the objective.

After being treated for his wounds, he flew back to the U.S., where President Harry S. Truman awarded him the Medal of Honor during a ceremony at the White House, April 11, 1952. 

Burke chose to remain on active duty and was assigned as an infantry school instructor at Fort Benning from 1952 to 1955. He served as a company commander with the 13th Infantry Regiment at Fort Carson, Colorado, deploying to Smith Barracks in Baumholder, West Germany, until April 1958. 

He was assigned to the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas, for two years, followed by four years as an Army staff officer at the Pentagon. In July 1964, Burke returned to Fort Riley and became the battalion commander of the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. 

In June 1965, his unit deployed to South Vietnam, tasked with protecting Bien Hoa Air Base and the surrounding area. On July 22, 1965, while flying in a UH-1 Huey helicopter, enemy fire from the Viet Cong riddled the bird, causing it to crash. Burke sustained multiple back, foot and leg injuries that required months of recovery and surgeries. 

Following his recovery, he served as the chief Army liaison to the House of Representatives from 1966 until his retirement. He rose to the rank of colonel and retired June 30, 1978.  

After his retirement, Burke moved to Hot Springs, Arkansas, where he and other veterans advocated for the building of the Korean War Veterans Memorial on the National Mall in Washington. He participated in the memorial's dedication in July 1995. 

Burke died of a heart attack June 1, 1999, and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. 

In 2004, the U.S. Post Office in Stuttgart, Arkansas, was named for him, and in 2017, the youth services center at Camp Humphreys, South Korea, was dedicated to Burke. A highway historical marker also stands at his birthplace in Tichnor, Arkansas. Tichnor and Stuttgart claim Burke as their native son. The ROTC program at this alma mater is nicknamed Burke's Raiders in his memory.

Army Task Force Partners With Acquisition Directorate to Accelerate Counter-Drone Tech in Africa

Oct. 16, 2026 | By Army Capt. Tucker Chase, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa |

U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa announced a partnership with the Army's Global Tactical Edge Acquisition Directorate to test emerging drone systems in Africa and deliver them to soldiers within 180 days. 

The command's first accelerated capability event is scheduled for spring 2027 in Tan-Tan, Morocco. It will focus on counter-unmanned aircraft systems and force protection, targeting capability gaps in protecting early-entry command posts and operating locations against small UAS. 

Africa offers an open spectrum, uncongested airspace and diverse terrain that training ranges in the United States and Europe cannot easily match. These conditions allow soldiers to validate solutions in theater and scale them across the service. 

Operating under the Army Pathway for Innovation and Technology Office, the acquisition directorate embeds personnel within Army service component commands. These teams translate urgent commander priorities into executable requirements, giving field commanders access to acquisition authorities at the tactical edge. The teams already operate within U.S. Army Europe and Africa, U.S. Army Pacific and U.S. Army Central. 

Army Col. Christopher Hill, director of the Global Tactical Edge Acquisition Directorate, described the organization as the Army's answer for putting innovative solutions in the hands of the warfighter.

"[Army service component commands have] always had priorities, they've always had capability gaps, but the two things they've never had is acquisition authority and research, development, test and evaluation dollars," he said. 

Because the directorate maintains visibility across multiple commands, Hill said its personnel can align modernization efforts, maximize funding and transition proven theater solutions Army wide. 

The unit assigned a team to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa this summer to link immediate operational needs with rapid acquisition resources. Together, the commands will use the accelerated capability event framework as a fast-track pathway to identify, evaluate and deliver field-ready technology. 

Through a three-phase model, submission and preparation, soldier-led demonstrations and follow-on operational evaluation, capability events deliver rapid solutions within an accelerated acquisition timeline.

New York National Guard Battalion Mobilizes for Southern Border Mission

Oct. 15, 2026 | By Eric Durr and Army Sgt. Richelle Cruickshank, New York National Guard |

One hundred and twenty New York Army National Guard soldiers assigned to the 204th Engineer Battalion recently took part in mobilization ceremonies at the armory in Binghamton, New York, for a federal deployment to the southern border. 

The battalion's Headquarters and Headquarters Company held a ceremony Oct. 8, while families of the Forward Support Company held their official send-off Oct. 11.

The two ceremonies marked the beginning of a yearlong mobilization to Texas in support of U.S. Border Patrol. 

Called Operation Ardent Vanguard, the U.S. Northern Command mission supports the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Army forces provide support through border defense, detection, monitoring and infrastructure support along the southern border. 

The Forward Support Company provides logistics support, including maintenance, fuel transportation, supplies and materials to the 204th Engineer Battalion.

The Headquarters and Headquarters Company will provide mission command for the Army task force operating in the region, with Army Lt. Col. Kevin O'Reilly, battalion commander, serving as the task force commander. 

Soldiers in both companies have spent 12 months preparing for the deployment. 

Speaking to the soldiers and their families, O'Reilly said the Binghamton-based National Guard units have a history of service going back to the Civil War. 

O'Reilly connected that legacy of service to the battalion's upcoming mission, emphasizing the importance of supporting national security efforts along the border. 

"This is a long mission; stressors will come up on mission and at home," he said. "Look to your left and right. We are a team, and we are going to help each other." 

O'Reilly urged members of the unit to remain connected and support one another through difficult circumstances.

"Don't internalize and think you are alone," he said. "I charge you to look out for each other. No matter what we face, we will overcome." 

During the Headquarters and Headquarters Company ceremony, O'Reilly and Army Command Sgt. Maj. Jay Symonds, the battalion's senior enlisted leader, cased the battalion colors. 

The military tradition symbolizes the unit's transition to a deployed status while preserving the history, honors and legacy represented by its colors. 

The 204th Engineer Battalion has 700 soldiers located at armories in Binghamton, Kingston, Horseheads, Walton and Cortlandt Manor, New York. 

In 2025, the New York National Guard deployed the headquarters detachment of the 104th Military Police Battalion and the 442nd Military Police Company on a similar support mission.

Navy Accepts Next-Generation Aircraft to Modernize Strategic Communications

Oct. 16, 2026 | By Katherine Coughlan, Airborne Strategic Command, Control and Communications Program Office |

The Navy accepted a newly manufactured C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft from Lockheed Martin during a ceremony in Marietta, Georgia, Oct. 15, marking the first step toward fielding the future E-130J Phoenix II.

The aircraft will serve as the host platform for the Navy's next-generation "Take Charge and Move Out" mission system, providing survivable, reliable and secure communications among the president, the secretary of war and U.S. Strategic Command.

The new airframe begins a planned transition, honoring decades of service from the legacy E-6B Mercury aircraft while laying the foundation for the future fight. The program designation Phoenix II symbolizes rebirth and nods to the EC-130Q Hercules platform the Navy used to execute the Take Charge and Move Out mission during the Cold War.

This modernized capability ensures the nation's nuclear command, control and communications architecture remains resilient and reliable. The updated platform also delivers the enhanced endurance, capacity and operational reach necessary to support mission success in complex global environments.

The event spotlighted the close partnership between the Navy and the defense industrial base. The newly delivered aircraft is the extended C-130J-30 variant, part of an initial procurement of three aircraft the Navy acquired in September 2024.

During the ceremony, Lockheed Martin representatives presented a commemorative plaque and ceremonial key to Navy Capt. Roger Davis, Airborne Strategic Command, Control and Communications Program Office commander.

"Today's delivery from the historic Marietta line represents far more than a new airframe; it marks the foundation of our future strategic deterrence posture," Davis said. "Through our close partnership with Lockheed Martin and our industry team, we are ensuring our nation maintains an unshakeable communications lifeline to our ballistic missile submarine fleet."

The ceremony also recognized the sailors assigned to Strategic Communications Wing 1 at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, who will operate and maintain the modernized fleet. Before the ceremony, select sailors participated in a fleet engagement day, which included simulator flights, production line tours and program briefings.

"Strategic deterrence is only as credible as our ability to communicate, and that mission rests in the hands of SCW-1's world-class sailors," said Navy Capt. David Gardner, the wing's commodore. "The E-130J will provide our sailors unmatched capability and next-generation survivable and reliable communications, ensuring our team continues to be the unbreakable link between the president and strategic nuclear forces."

Clean Fuel, Ready Jets: Air National Guard Logistics Squadron Keeps Operations Moving

Oct. 14, 2026 | By Air Force Senior Airman Juan Broyles, 162nd Wing |

Sustaining the high-tempo flying operations of the Air National Guard's 162nd Wing is a complex logistical science. Long before F-16 Fighting Falcon wheels leave the tarmac, airmen assigned to the 162nd Logistics Readiness Squadron are working around the clock, managing fuel distribution, chemical purity and supply logistics to ensure exceptional engine performance during flight.

"What we do as a [petroleum, oils and lubricants] flight is supply clean, dry and serviceable fuel throughout the wing," said Air Force Master Sgt. Travis Iverson, squadron fuels superintendent.

Beyond driving the green trucks on the flight line, the unit ensures fuel quality through laboratory analysis and filtration during transit and delivery. Testing verifies that fuel is free of water, sediment and chemical contaminants to ensure proper engine combustion and prevent mechanical failure.

"When we say 'dry,' we mean there's no water, no sediment, no chemicals or anything that doesn't need to be in there," said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Aaron Beeman, squadron fuels technician. "For the plane's fuel to go through the engine, to mix with the air itself and burn and produce the thrust that they need, it needs to be clean."

In addition to jet fuel for the wing's F-16 pilot training mission, the flight handles liquid oxygen for pilot breathing systems needed during high-altitude sorties. The flight also supplies gasoline for a vast fleet of aerospace ground equipment, including security forces vehicles, fire trucks and civil engineering machinery.

The team coordinates fuel shipments and maintains reserves while tracking inventory and spending. 

"We make sure all the transactions for the jets and all the gallon numbers are correct," said Air Force Staff Sgt. Justin Butler, squadron fuels accountant. "We manage high-volume, multimillion-dollar jet fuel sales on a monthly basis."

The team's reach extends beyond internal wing support. They provide fuel testing services to Army aviation units and select Marine Corps components, while strictly adhering to environmental compliance guidelines for all fuel handling and storage procedures.

"Everyone just sees big green trucks out on the flight line and putting gas on the jets," Iverson said. "However, there's a lot of behind-the-scenes stuff we do, such as inventory management, all the lab and testing of the fuel that we do and also the accounting side."

Wherever fuel is needed, the flight meets the demand with airmen ready to ensure mission objectives keep moving forward.

Ultimately, this comprehensive approach to chemical purity and supply logistics keeps the Air National Guard's premiere F-16 fighter pilot training unit fueled up and ready to fly.

Lightning Academy Bolsters Army Fast Rope Training

Oct. 14, 2026 | By Army Sgt. Duke Edwards, 25th Infantry Division |

Air sweeps across the Schofield Barracks training area in Hawaii from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter hovering in place, from which Army Capt. Liam Davenport leverages the past three days of progressive training, sending soldiers down two fast ropes to the ground during the culminating event of the Fast Rope Insertion/Extraction System Master Course.

The course, conducted Oct. 5-7, supports the 25th Infantry Division's dedicated effort to increase the number of qualified system masters throughout the formation. Expanding their expertise provides units with personnel capable of safely controlling fast-rope operations, giving commanders another option to rapidly insert and maneuver soldiers and equipment across restrictive terrain in the Pacific region.

Dense jungles, water obstacles and limited helicopter landing zones can restrict how forces move.

"In the Pacific, getting to the objective can be as challenging as the mission itself," said Army Staff Sgt. Eljay Basug, a course senior instructor assigned to Lightning Academy, 25th Infantry Division.

The fast-rope system provides an alternative when those conditions prevent an aircraft from landing, allowing units to rapidly insert personnel closer to an objective and lower equipment into otherwise difficult-to-access areas.

The three-day course develops that expertise through progressive instruction. Students begin with classroom training covering their duties and responsibilities, operational procedures, equipment and knots before conducting introductory descents from a low platform. 

The course advances to a 40-foot tower, conducting day and night training iterations, mass exits and descents with equipment before transitioning to live aircraft operations. The progression allows students to build confidence and demonstrate the fundamentals at increasing heights before applying them from an aircraft.

"With [fast rope insertion/extraction], it allows units to bypass those obstacles and insert closer to the objective," Basug said. "It gives unit commanders a greater reach, greater flexibility [and] greater speed to accomplish the mission."

Expanding that capability requires more than increasing the number of soldiers who can descend a fast rope. While a basic roper has the individual skills to descend, a master provides the expertise needed to enable the operation. These masters inspect personnel and equipment, enforce safety standards and control the insertion.

Davenport, the air assault, rappel master and fast rope insertion/extraction system officer in charge assigned to Lightning Academy, 25th Infantry Division, said those responsibilities distinguish a master from a basic roper.

"The FRIES master is the one in the aircraft," he said. "He's on the comms with the pilot in command and the crew chiefs, verifying that they're over the target grid, verifying the calls [and] making sure that the ropers are good to go."

Unlike rappelling, which is taught during air assault training, fast ropers are not physically attached to the rope during their descent. Once on the ground, they can quickly clear the insertion point and transition to their follow-on mission.

"With fast roping specifically, it's getting in and out of objectives," Davenport said. "Whether that be a target building, open field, or even a ship."

Bolstering qualified FRIES masters across the division aims to push that expertise closer to the formations that may need it. Davenport said a future goal is for organizations throughout the 25th Infantry Division to have qualified masters capable of supporting fast rope training within their own formations.

Developing that expertise at the unit level increases the division's capacity to maintain and employ the capability beyond the schoolhouse, giving commanders additional options for moving forces based on the mission and terrain.

For the 25th Infantry Division, increasing the number of masters builds the personnel and expertise required to employ fast-rope operations across the formation. Distributing that expertise gives commanders greater flexibility to maneuver soldiers and equipment, overcome restrictive terrain and reach objectives throughout the Pacific.

10 Things Every Veteran Learned That Employers Should Appreciate

Military service teaches lessons that extend far beyond the uniform. Regardless of branch, specialty, or era of service, veterans learn habits, attitudes, and principles that become part of how they approach their responsibilities. Discipline, accountability, teamwork, adaptability, and leadership are not simply ideas discussed in a classroom; they are expectations reinforced through training and experience. Many of these lessons become second nature, carried into civilian life long after military service ends. Here are ten things veterans learned that employers should recognize and appreciate.

1. “Fifteen minutes early is on time. On time is late.”

Lesson: Punctuality and dependability. Veterans understand that showing up on time means showing up prepared. Other people depend on you being where you're supposed to be, ready to do your job.

2. “Lead by example.”

Lesson: Leadership through actions. Leadership isn't simply a title or rank. It's demonstrating the standards, work ethic, and integrity you expect from others.

3. “Adapt and overcome.”

Lesson: Flexibility and problem-solving. Plans change, resources disappear, and unexpected obstacles arise. The mission still needs to be accomplished. Veterans learn to adjust rather than give up.

4. “Leave no one behind.”

Lesson: Teamwork and loyalty. Success is measured by what the team accomplishes, not simply by individual performance. When a teammate struggles, you help them succeed.

5. “Attention to detail saves lives.”

Lesson: Accuracy and quality. Small mistakes can have enormous consequences. Veterans are taught that details matter and that doing a job correctly is just as important as getting it finished.

6. “Take responsibility. Own your mistakes.”

Lesson: Personal accountability. When something goes wrong, the first responsibility is to acknowledge the problem, correct it, and learn from it—not find someone else to blame.

7. “The mission comes first.”

Lesson: Commitment and follow-through. Veterans learn to focus on objectives, establish priorities, and see difficult assignments through to completion.

8. “If you see something that needs doing, do it.”

Lesson: Initiative. Not every problem requires someone to issue an order. Veterans learn to recognize what needs to be done, exercise judgment, and take appropriate action within their responsibilities.

9. “Train like you fight.”

Lesson: Preparation and continuous improvement. Performance under pressure depends on preparation beforehand. Practice, repetition, and learning from mistakes build competence and confidence.

10. “Stay calm and carry out the mission.”

Lesson: Composure under pressure. Stress, confusion, and competing demands are not reasons to lose focus. Veterans learn to assess situations, establish priorities, and make decisions when circumstances are difficult.

Training Prepares Soldier to Save Lives During Accident

Oct. 13, 2026 | By Joseph Jones, Madigan Army Medical Center  |

What began as a routine commute to work Oct. 5 quickly became anything but for Army Sgt. 1st Class Jeff Hytower, a practical nursing specialist assigned to Madigan Army Medical Center at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. 
 
He was driving to base when he encountered the aftermath of a serious vehicle crash on the interstate. Seeing that help might be needed, he turned around, activated his hazard lights and found a safe location to stop. 
 
"It was just instinct," Hytower said. "That's when training kicks in."

As he approached an overturned SUV, he quickly realized the emergency extended far beyond injuries from a vehicle collision. He saw a woman, presumably from the accident, wielding a knife and attacking two children. 

Hytower moved in quickly to intervene. 
 
"Once I saw the knife … I was just trying to isolate that knife from anyone trying to cause harm," he said. 

Fortunately, Hytower was not alone. Other service members stopped to help, quickly forming an emergency team on the shoulder of the interstate. 
 
Army Sgt. Ricardo Nunez, assigned to the 7th Infantry Division, assisted Hytower in disarming and restraining the woman. Army Sgt. Alexis McKay, a Washington National Guard combat medic, also responded, providing medical assistance and comfort to one of the injured children until law enforcement arrived. 
 
Once the immediate threat was controlled, Hytower turned his attention to reassuring the two children. As a parent, seeing their fear affected him personally. 
 
"None of us stopped that morning expecting anything like this to happen," he said. "We just saw people who needed help and did what we would want others to do for us and our families. I also think it shows the importance of teamwork. Everyone there played a part, whether it was providing medical care, keeping the kids calm, calling for help, or making sure the situation stayed safe. We weren't looking for recognition; we were just trying to do the right thing." 
 
Hytower's decisive actions reflected the high-stakes readiness he practices and teaches daily at Madigan. 
 
As a practical nursing specialist, Hytower trains service members in patient care using realistic medical simulation. Madigan's advanced simulation capabilities allow medical personnel to practice responding to complex patient scenarios using high-fidelity mannequins that replicate breathing, heart beats, coughing and other critical clinical conditions. 
 
Hytower's response also reflects Madigan's broader commitment to medical readiness and hands-on training. Through a range of clinical education, trauma response and military medical training programs, Madigan prepares service members to assess rapidly changing situations, respond under pressure and provide lifesaving care when it matters most. 
 
As an instructor within that training environment, Hytower helps reinforce the same skills, judgment and readiness that carry from the classroom and clinical setting into unexpected real-world emergencies.

The heroic, collaborative response of the joint service members drew high praise from local military leadership. 
 
"The rapid, decisive actions of Sgt. 1st Class Hytower, Sgt. Nunez and Sgt. McKay represent the very best of our profession," said Army Command Sgt. Maj. Gary D. Petty, Madigan Army Medical Center senior enlisted adviser. 
 
"When confronted with a chaotic and dangerous situation, these soldiers didn't hesitate," Petty said. "They relied on their training, placed themselves between danger and the vulnerable, and saved lives. I am incredibly proud of their courage, their bias for action and their absolute commitment to protecting others." 
 
Several service members helped detain the suspect until Washington State Patrol personnel arrived and assumed responsibility for the investigation. 
 
For Hytower, the interstate rescue serves as a stark reminder of why rigorous military training matters long before a crisis occurs. 
 
"I think the biggest thing was just being able to stay calm and assess what was happening," he said. "With both my soldier and medical training, you're taught to quickly figure out what needs to be done and prioritize what's most important. At first, our focus was making sure everyone involved in the accident was OK and getting them the help they needed. When the situation suddenly changed, we were able to react quickly and make sure everyone was safe. A lot of that comes from the training we've received and being able to fall back on it without really having to think about it."

Medal of Honor Monday: Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone

Oct. 12, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone was an infantryman during World War II. He received the Medal of Honor for his actions on Guadalcanal in 1943, and two years later, he posthumously received the Navy Cross for his gallantry during the Battle of Iwo Jima.

Basilone was born Nov. 4, 1916, in Buffalo, New York, and when he was 2, his family moved to Raritan, New Jersey. He was the sixth child born to Salvatore, an Italian immigrant, and Dora; he had nine siblings.  

He attended St. Bernard Parochial School in Raritan, but after completing middle school in 1931, he dropped out to work as a golf caddy at the local country club.  

In July 1934, Basilone enlisted in the Army and was assigned to the 16th Infantry Regiment at Fort Jay on Governors Island, New York City. However, he wanted to go overseas, so after a few months he accepted a discharge and reenlisted the following day. He joined the 31st Infantry Regiment and immediately deployed to the Philippines, where he served for two years. 

While in Manila, Basilone earned a reputation as a formidable amateur boxer, and he acquired the nickname "Manila John." His time in the Army served him well later in the Marine Corps, where he became an expert marksman. 

Upon his honorable Army discharge in 1937, Basilone returned to the U.S. and worked as a truck driver in Reisterstown, Maryland. However, he wanted to return to the Philippines and to military life. So, in July 1940, with war looming, he enlisted in the Marine Corps.  

Basilone attended basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina, and was deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in September 1940. 

He was reassigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, in January 1941, and in September 1942, his unit landed on Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. 

He was serving as a Marine Corps sergeant in the Lunga area of Guadalcanal Oct. 24, 1942, when about 20,000 Japanese soldiers attacked his unit as they defended Henderson Airfield. 

His Medal of Honor citation states that while the enemy was hammering at the Marines' defensive positions, Basilone, who was in charge of two sections of heavy machine guns, fought valiantly to check the savage assault. In a fierce frontal attack, one of Basilone's sections, with its gun crews, was put out of action, leaving only two men able to carry out the counterattack. 

Moving an extra gun into position, he placed it in action, then, under continual fire, repaired another and personally manned it until replacements arrived. Later, with ammunition critically low, Basilone risked his life and battled his way through hostile lines with shells for his gunners, thereby contributing in large measure to the virtual annihilation of a Japanese regiment.  

Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Alexander A. Vandegrift, commanding general of the 1st Marine Division, presented Basilone with the Medal of Honor during a ceremony in Balcombe, Australia, May 21, 1943.

The Marine Corps offered to make him an officer and let him spend the rest of the war in Washington, but he turned them down. Basilone participated in war bond tours in the U.S., but he grew restless again. After repeated denials, the Marine Corps finally approved his request to return overseas in December 1943, but first sent him to Camp Pendleton, California, for training. 

He was promoted to gunnery sergeant in March 1944 and formally reenlisted in July. That same month, he married Lena Mae Riggi, a sergeant in the Marine Corps Women's Reserve.  

In August 1944, Basilone returned to the Pacific theater and was assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Marine Regiment, 5th Marine Division. In January 1945, his unit sailed for the island of Iwo Jima in the Western Pacific Ocean.  

On Feb. 19, 1945, Basilone was killed by a mortar shell during the Battle of Iwo Jima. He posthumously received the Navy Cross for his gallantry.   

The citation states that shortly after landing on the island, his company's advance was held up by the concentrated fire of a heavily fortified Japanese blockhouse. Basilone boldly defied the enemy bombardment and worked his way around the flank and up to a position directly on top of the blockhouse. Then, attacking with grenades and demolitions, he single-handedly destroyed the entire hostile strong point and its defending garrison. Later in the day, he proceeded to the aid of an American tank that was trapped in an enemy minefield. Under intense mortar and artillery barrages, Basilone guided it to safety. Minutes later, he was instantly killed when a Japanese mortar round exploded.  

He was 28 years old. 

Basilone's widow accepted the Navy Cross, signed by Secretary of the Navy James Forrestal, during a private ceremony in September 1945.  

Basilone is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. His wife died June 11, 1999, and was buried in her home state of California.

There's a bronze statue of Basilone in Raritan, as well as several roads and bridges named for him. In 1981, the city held the first John Basilone Memorial Parade, an annual event held on the third Sunday in September; the route includes Basilone Boulevard, named for him in 2022. 

At Camp Pendleton, two highways and a drop zone bear his name. 

The destroyer USS Basilone sailed from 1945 to 1977. The guided-missile destroyer USS John Basilone was commissioned Nov. 9, 2024. 

In 2005, Basilone was among the four Marines featured in the Postal Service's "Distinguished Marines" commemorative stamp set. 

In 2014, the Basilone Memorial Foundation was established as a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting military veterans and their families, as well as individuals and families impacted by cancer. 

Basilone's Medal of Honor and Navy Cross are on display at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Virginia.