'Project Freedom' Aims to Get Thousands of Commercial Ships Safely Through Strait of Hormuz

May 5, 2026 | By C. Todd Lopez, Pentagon News |

Iran has blocked safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for commercial cargo and tanker vessels, trapping thousands inside the Persian Gulf and halting the free flow of commerce in the region.

Project Freedom is meant to reopen the strait to commercial vessels, said Secretary of War Pete Hegseth during a briefing today at the Pentagon. It is also independent of Operation Epic Fury, which for now, is in a ceasefire. 

"President [Donald J.] Trump has directed U.S. Central Command to restart the free flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz under the umbrella of Project Freedom," Hegseth said. "Project Freedom is defensive in nature, focused in scope, temporary in duration [and] with one mission: protecting innocent commercial shipping from Iranian aggression." 

The secretary said as part of Project Freedom, American forces won't need to enter Iranian waters or airspace, but also, that Iran can no longer be allowed to stymie international commerce. 

"Iran ... cannot be allowed to block innocent countries and their goods from an international waterway," Hegseth said. "Iran is the clear aggressor, harassing civilian vessels, threatening mariners from every nation indiscriminately and weaponizing a critical choke point for its own financial benefit." 

Already, Hegseth said, two U.S. commercial ships, along with American destroyers, have traversed the strait, proving that Iranian control of the strait is an illusion.

"We know the Iranians are embarrassed by this fact," he said. "They said they control the strait — they do not. So, American ships led the way, commercial and military, shouldering the initial risk from the front — as Americans always do. Right now, hundreds more ships from nations around the world are lining up to transit." 

The secretary said Centcom and partner nations are working with ships, shipping companies and insurers to let them know it's safe to move out. 

"All of these ships from all around the world want to get out of the Iranian trap that they have been stuck inside," he said. 

Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said right now, there are more than 1,500 vessels with about 22,500 mariners trapped inside the Persian Gulf.

"Over the past seven weeks, Iran has repeatedly threatened and attacked commercial shipping in the strait in order to effectively cut off commercial traffic and damage the global economy," Caine said. "By obstructing one of the world's most critical maritime checkpoints, a vital transit route for approximately one-fifth of the global oil consumption, Iran is weaponizing the global supply chain."

Now, Caine said, Centcom is executing Project Freedom to open the strait up to commercial traffic. 

"Project Freedom is designed to protect commercial shipping and help restore the flow of commerce through the strait and sustain freedom of navigation," he said. "Centcom has established an enhanced security area on the southern side of the strait that is now protected by U.S. land, naval and air assets to help defeat further Iranian aggression against commercial shipping." 

Caine said Centcom is using guided missile destroyers and other warships to detect and defeat Iranian threats, including fast boats and one-way attack drones. He said right now, the threat from those fast boats includes rifles and small machine-gun fire. 

In the air over the Persian Gulf, Caine said, are more than 100 fighters, attack aircraft and other manned and unmanned aircraft, all synchronized by the 82nd Airborne Division. 

"[They] are in the air 24 hours a day, providing defensive overwatch for the enhanced security area and its approaches," he said. 

Making the Persian Gulf safe for commercial vessels, Caine said, are more than 15,000 American service members who are providing very visible overwatch that commercial ships should recognize when they see it. 

"Commercial vessels that transit through the area will see, hear and frankly, feel U.S. combat power around them, on the sea, in the skies and on the radio," he said. "And as of this morning, as was mentioned prior, two U.S.-flag merchant vessels have transited, and we anticipate more to transit over the coming days."

Medal of Honor Monday: Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Robert Bush

May 4, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Robert Eugene Bush, a hospital corpsman, was assigned to the 3rd Platoon, Company G, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, during the World War II Battle of Okinawa, a conflict in which the bravery he showed led him to receive the Medal of Honor.

Bush was born Oct. 4, 1926, in Tacoma, Washington, to Carl and Estelle Bush. His father worked in a sawmill, and his mother was a nurse. After his parents divorced when he was 4, he was raised by his mother in Raymond, Washington. He worked in a sawmill as a teenager to help support his family and dropped out of high school in 1943 to enlist in the Navy Reserve.

After completing recruit training at Farragut Naval Training Station in Farragut, Idaho, Bush graduated from the Naval Hospital Corps School in Farragut. He was then assigned to the Seattle Naval Hospital before completing advanced training at the Field Medical Service School at Camp Pendleton, California.  

On Feb. 10, 1945, Bush was assigned to the 5th Marine Regiment, which landed on Okinawa April 1, 1945.

A month later, on May 2, he braved artillery, mortar and machine-gun fire from strongly entrenched hostile positions. Disregarding his own safety, Bush moved from one casualty to another without hesitation to treat the wounded.

During a Japanese counterattack, he administered blood plasma to a wounded Marine officer. According to his medal citation, while in an exposed position, Bush held the plasma bottle in one hand and fired his pistol at the enemy with the other.

After using all of his ammunition, he found a nearby discarded magazine and fired at the Japanese forces charging at his position, killing six enemy soldiers. Bush suffered serious injuries during the attack and even lost an eye. He continued to defend the officer until the enemy force finally retreated.

Bush refused medical treatment until his patient was finally evacuated and collapsed on his way to the aid station for treatment. 

For his bravery, President Harry S. Truman presented Bush with the Medal of Honor during a ceremony at the White House, Oct. 5, 1945.

He was honorably discharged July 26, 1945. He then went back and finished high school, before marrying Wanda Spooner of South Bend, Washington, Sept. 30, 1945. The couple had three sons, a daughter and many grandchildren.

After the war, Bush studied business administration at the University of Washington. He then founded the Bayview Lumber Company in South Bend, Washington, in 1951, and Bayview Redi-Mix in Elma, Washington, building both into multimillion-dollar businesses. 

Bush died Oct. 8, 2005, in Olympia, Washington, and is buried at Fern Hill Cemetery in Menlo, Washington. His wife died in 1999 and is buried beside him. 

Former NBC News anchor Tom Brokaw wrote a chapter about Bush in his 1998 book about World War II titled "The Greatest Generation."

The Robert E. Bush Naval Hospital at Twentynine Palms, California, and the Branch Medical Clinic Bush, at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, bear his name.

In 1998, a monument depicting his actions on Okinawa was erected in a park named for him in his hometown of South Bend, Washington. A street in that town was also named for him. 

A "Golden Palm Star" on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars in Palm Springs, California, was dedicated to Bush on Veterans Day in 1999. 

DOW Announces Winners of the 2025 DOW Fire and Emergency Services Awards

May 4, 2026 |

Today, the Department of War (DOW) announced the recipients of the 2025 DOW Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) Awards for the outstanding accomplishments of its fire departments, fire officers, firefighters, and fire service instructors. DOW F&ES Working Group representatives from the Military Services and Defense Logistics Agency selected nine winners from a total of 41 nominations. 

"These remarkable individuals form the bedrock of our operational readiness, ensuring the safety and security of our service members, their families, and the critical infrastructure supporting our national defense," stated Robert E. Thompson, Performing the Duties of the Assistant Secretary of War for Energy, Installations, and Environment. "Their expertise in fire prevention, public education, and emergency response enables them to continuously provide essential services that preserve mission capability and protect lives."

Each year, three of DOW's most outstanding fire departments receive recognition for achieving the highest degree of excellence in mission support and fire protection management. In addition, DOW's finest fire prevention program is awarded based on its depth and breadth, effectiveness, educational value, and thoroughness in direct support of the organization's mission. 

One military firefighter and one civilian firefighter are each awarded for their superior job performance, innovation, and outstanding contributions to a DOW F&ES organization. One military fire officer and one civilian fire officer are also recognized for their superior job performance, outstanding contributions, and leadership within a DOW F&ES organization. Finally, one fire service instructor is awarded for their superior job performance, resourcefulness, and outstanding contributions to a DOW F&ES organization.

Highlights of each winner's 2025 accomplishments, demonstrating the professionalism, courage, and selfless service that define the F&ES community, are as follows:

Small Fire Department of the Year: Naval Support Activity Annapolis, Maryland— Responded to 1,800 mutual aid calls, including 97 vehicle collisions, over 900 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) requests, and 800 structural incidents. The department facilitated 7,156 training hours, training 25 personnel and ensuring 100-percent fire training compliance. The department also hosted a multi-jurisdictional mass casualty drill with over 10 agencies to simulate transporting 50 patients to local hospitals via medivac helicopters, mass casualty buses, and ambulances. 

Medium Fire Department of the Year: Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia— Battled a fire on an M113 armored personnel carrier, extricating the crew and containing the fire to the engine, protecting the $8 million combat asset. The department conducted two rescue task force exercises, certifying one instructor and training 200 emergency responders. As part of Fire Prevention Week, the department also produced eight educational videos and seven written articles within 5 days, reaching an audience of 26,470. 

Large Fire Department of the Year: Metro San Diego, California— Successfully mitigated a 4-day, 16,000-acre wildland fire on San Clemente Island, saving crucial facilities and ensuring no loss to endangered wildlife. The department educated over 11,000 military personnel and local community members through fire prevention classes. The department also mitigated 3,000 emergency incidents including five structure fires, 15 shipboard emergencies, 50 hazardous materials, 15 technical rescues, and over 2,000 EMS calls. 

Fire Prevention Program of the Year: 628th Civil Engineer Squadron, Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina— Completed 896 annual inspections and identified 290 fire safety deficits and hazards, eliminating 166 potential community risks to safeguard 132,000 individuals. The squadron conducted 82 diverse training events, hosting educational seminars, outreach programs, briefings, and fire drills to educate 12,000 residents on fire prevention strategies. The program also strengthened community relations by chairing a 'Letters from Santa' campaign, responding to 81 letters from six drop boxes to bring holiday cheer to families. 

Military Firefighter of the Year: Senior Airman Jacob J. Meyer, Royal Air Force Mildenhall, United Kingdom— Responded to an 800-pound fuel spill, directing seven team members to rapidly execute remedial actions to protect the KC-135 Stratotanker. This efficient response enabled the tanker to deliver 20,000 pounds of fuel to six North Atlantic Treaty Organization fighter jets that same night. Senior Airman Meyer filled the Station Captain role for 90 days, managing 34 firefighters, conducting 130 training hours, and leading responses to mitigate 47 fire incidents. He also led 24 training hours with the Special Operations Wing, training 14 personnel across three agencies to enhance special operations wing taskings and technical rescue capabilities. 

Civilian Firefighter of the Year: Katsuhiro Watanabe, Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan— Spearheaded the creation of an internal Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Awareness course, providing a solid foundation for Japanese speakers, and certified six firefighters. Mr. Watanabe responded to a HAZMAT incident on the USS George Washington, isolating toxic gas release and ultimately protecting over $4.5 billion in national assets while ensuring mission readiness. He also mitigated 519 fire incidents and led 24 ship drills.

Military Fire Officer of the Year: Senior Master Sergeant Aaron P. Strayhorn, Misawa Air Base, Japan— Led 848 Airmen through a 7.6 magnitude earthquake and directed the unit control center through 59 infrastructure crises to recover the installation in 11 hours. Senior Master Sergeant Strayhorn forged the Japan Air Self-Defense Force partnership by leading three large-scale Command and Control exercises. This partnership led to the first bilateral exchange program in 7 years, resulting in a successful joint B-1 fire response that saved Air Force's first Bomber Task Force. He also simplified fire department altering codes, reducing the number of codes from 53 to seven and increasing dispatch notification time by 38 percent. 

Civilian Fire Officer of the Year: Richard Matteson, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska— Commanded the response to a F-35 crash in extreme arctic conditions by integrating the deployment of nine wing and mutual aid response teams to save the pilot. Mr. Matteson treated a life-threatening chainsaw injury, applying a tourniquet to stop arterial leg bleeding, and prepared and transported the patient to a trauma center in time to save their life and limb. He also partnered with the Bureau of Land Management to protect a military campground from an approaching 170,000-acre wildfire by clearing 12 acres of fuels, thus protecting 29 log cabins worth $312,000. 

Fire Service Instructor of the Year: Tiana Y. Bykowski, Hill Air Force Base, Utah— Led the "Red Card" wildland fire certification program, qualifying 63 firefighters and mitigating 23 emergencies across a 7-day wildfire mitigation effort. The program resulted in the protection of 2 million acres and $1.2 billion in assets. Ms. Bykowski trained 133 firefighters and managed 12,000 training hours, earning the team 96 certifications, and managed 12,000 training hours for 148 firefighters. She also strengthened DOW's Nuclear Surety Program by partnering with Department of Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, providing design and construction support expertise for the Center's $108 million campus with 2,000 staff. 

Congratulations to the distinguished 2025 DOW F&ES Awards winners for their remarkable accomplishments and devotion to safeguarding national security and supporting our warfighters. DOW extends its deepest gratitude for their vital contributions to the strength and resilience of the Department. For more information, visit the DOW F&ES Awards website at: https://www.acq.osd.mil/eie/emr/fes/index.html. 

82nd Airborne Division Ready to Respond, Support Project Freedom, Caine Says

May 5, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

When the president or the secretary of war needs immediate, scalable and lethal combat power anywhere in the world, 82nd Airborne Division paratroopers answer the call, Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said today during a Pentagon press briefing. 

Caine said the "All American Division" is the core of the nation's immediate response force and is ready to deploy within hours of notice.  

The paratroopers are capable of accomplishing any mission in any environment, constantly training and ready to jump from Air Force aircraft into ground combat and seize key terrain, just like their predecessors did in Sicily and Normandy, France, during World War II, or to secure or enable the flow of follow-on forces into theater, as in Grenada or Panama. 

However, the division is now more than just a formation used for forcible entries, the chairman noted. For example, just today, it is out there coordinating, integrating and synchronizing land, air, sea and cyber forces using all joint all-domain command and control, he said. 

It uses next-generation, artificial intelligence-enabled tactical networks to augment intelligence and operations, and the division seamlessly synchronizes all of these effects. It is now doing so in support of Project Freedom. 

Launched yesterday at the direction of President Donald J. Trump, Project Freedom is an initiative to restore freedom of navigation for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The mission supports merchant vessels seeking to freely transit through the essential international trade corridor.  

Caine said the 82nd Airborne Division's relentless focus on technical innovation allows commanders in the field to see, sense and understand the opportunities along with the associated risks, enabling them to make smart decisions. 

"They are going all the way every day, and whenever the nation calls on them, they are there to answer the call. We are grateful for their service and their leadership," he added. 

The 82nd Airborne Division was first activated as an Army infantry division at Camp Gordon, Georgia, in August 1917. It earned the nickname "All American" because in 1918, it comprised soldiers from every state. The unit's shoulder patch reflects this, with a red square containing a blue circle and a white double AA monogram. The division is currently based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Eerie Company: A New Threat at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center

 May 4, 2026 | By Staff Sgt. Troy Wharton, 314th Theater Public Affairs Support Element |

Soldiers assigned to the newly established Eerie Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, used first-person-view drone systems to enhance reconnaissance capabilities during Joint Multinational Readiness Center exercises in Hohenfels, Germany.

Acting as the opposing force during the exercise, the company replicated a modern battlefield threat by combining emerging drone technology and electronic warfare with traditional infantry tactics, creating a realistic training environment for rotational units. 

Established in December, Eerie Company specializes in short-, mid- and long-range reconnaissance to provide timely, accurate battlefield intelligence. The unit was created to address the evolving demands of modern warfare and to increase situational awareness across the battalion. 

"The rate at which modern warfare is moving, and due to current conflicts, this company was established to help bridge that gap and be the eyes and ears of the battalion," said Army Capt. Luther Salmon, company commander. 

One of the primary systems the company employs is the Archer, a first-person-view drone used to replicate emerging aerial threats observed in ongoing global conflicts, including the war in Ukraine. 

Army Spc. Ryan Hatcher, an infantryman and subject matter expert on the system, emphasized its effectiveness during training.

"It's pretty good for an FPV," Hatcher said. "Other FPVs we've flown here in Hohenfels, Germany, we've only been able to max out at eight to 10 minutes of battery life." 

Hatcher added that operating first-person-view drone systems is not limited to a specific military occupational specialty, which allows soldiers from across the formation to qualify as drone pilots and contribute to reconnaissance efforts. 

He said the Archer can be configured for multiple roles, including intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. In some scenarios, similar systems may be equipped with munitions, allowing soldiers to train on identifying the differences between armed and unarmed drones. 

Due to its limited range, the system is primarily employed in defensive operations, providing units with a close-range aerial perspective of the battlefield and enhancing their ability to detect and respond to threats. 

Through the use of drone technology and specialized reconnaissance elements, Eerie Company continues to adapt to the rapidly changing operational environment, ensuring the battalion remains prepared for modern combat scenarios.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla Honor a Shared History of Service and Sacrifice

May 1, 2026 | By Arlington National Cemetery Courtesy Story |

On April 30, King Charles III and Queen Camilla entered Arlington National Cemetery for a full honors wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, marked by a 21-gun salute. The ceremony was on the final day of their state visit, commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence.  
 
The king and queen were escorted by Army Maj. Gen. Antoinette Gant, commanding general of Joint Task Force - National Capital Region and U.S. Army Military District of Washington; and Monica Crowley, U.S. ambassador, assistant secretary of state and chief of protocol. They stood at attention as the United States Army Band "Pershing's Own" played "God Save the King" and "The Star-Spangled Banner."  
 
At the tomb, King Charles laid a wreath composed of red poppies, a symbol of remembrance in the British Commonwealth dating back to World War I. The wreath included a note from the king that read, "In everlasting remembrance." The queen then placed a bouquet of red, white and purple flowers next to the wreath.  

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier itself embodies the two nations' deep and poignant historical connections. Dedicated on Nov. 11, 1921, with the burial of an Unknown Soldier from World War I, the tomb at Arlington was partly inspired by Britain's Tomb of the Unknown Warrior at Westminster Abbey, dedicated exactly one year earlier. All three unknowns, representing American service members who died in World War I, World War II and the Korean War, fought in conflicts in which the United States and Britain were allies.  
 
After the wreath-laying ceremony, Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director of Army National Military Cemeteries and Office of Army Cemeteries, greeted the royal couple inside the Memorial Amphitheater.  

"Arlington National Cemetery is honored that the king and queen visited these hallowed grounds while commemorating America's 250th birthday," Durham-Aguilera said. "The enduring bond between the United States and the United Kingdom stands as a testament to shared history and sacrifice."  
 
The king and queen's visit to the cemetery concluded at the Canadian Cross of Sacrifice — a memorial at which Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, King Charles' parents, had also paid respect during their 1957 state visit. This memorial honors Americans who volunteered to fight, and ultimately died, with the Canadian Expeditionary Force in World War I, prior to the U.S. entrance into the conflict.  

Like the tomb, the Canadian Cross reflects shared commemorative traditions. Designed by British architect Sir Reginald Blomfield for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, the Cross of Sacrifice stands as an iconic emblem of World War I at CWGC cemeteries worldwide. Fittingly, the king and queen were accompanied at this memorial by service members from not only the U.S. and the U.K., but also British Commonwealth nations Canada, New Zealand and Australia.  
 
The royals' visit to Arlington National Cemetery — described by the British Embassy as "one of the most symbolically significant acts of remembrance a foreign dignitary can undertake on American soil" — reflected the enduring military, diplomatic and cultural alliance between the United States and the United Kingdom.

Synchronized Logistics Enable Engineer Unit Deployment

May 1, 2026 | By Carlos Cuebas, U.S. Army Garrison Fort Buchanan |

Fort Buchanan demonstrated its critical role as a readiness platform, April 29, when hundreds of soldiers assigned to the 756th Engineer Company, 1st Mission Support Command, deployed from the installation in Puerto Rico to a continental United States mobilization station in support of a future mission with a combatant command. 

After training, the soldiers will deploy to an undisclosed location in support of operations in an Army area of operations. 

The installation's logistics readiness center, an element of the 407th Army Field Support Brigade, led mobilization. Its transportation division synchronized ground, maritime and air movement, ensuring a seamless transition from home station to mobilization platform. 

The readiness center provides logistics support to service members and units assigned to or mobilizing through Fort Buchanan, in both peacetime and contingencies. It develops and enforces installationwide policies for supply, maintenance, transportation and materiel readiness — ensuring units can deploy on time and fully mission capable. 

For the transportation division, success begins long before movement day. 

"The process of mobilizing a unit starts a year in advance," said Luisa Segarra, installation movement coordinator. "From that point, units identify the equipment required for the mission and validate its readiness status. We also validate space requirements for equipment and personnel to coordinate movement through ground, air and sea."

Segarra emphasized that continuous coordination is essential to maintaining synchronization across all movement phases. 

The transportation coordinators develop a timeline and meet frequently with unit representatives to discuss progress and any changes, using an automated movement system to track organizational equipment and unit deployment lists, she said, ensuring accurate data and proper coordination across all transportation modes. 

While the process is streamlined, Segarra noted that readiness remains the decisive factor. 

"The key part is the level of readiness of the unit," she said. 

Deploying the 756th Engineer Company required close coordination across multiple transportation modes and support elements to ensure personnel and equipment moved safely and efficiently.

Face of Defense: Transportation Chief Builds His Marines Motor Tough

May 1, 2026 | By Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kenneth Garcia, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing |

Leadership rooted in both compassion and accountability drives mission success in Marines assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, where senior enlisted leaders emphasize initiative and performance over simple compliance. 

Marine Corps Master Sgt. Adam Dominguez, a motor transportation chief assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, describes his leadership style as compassionate yet firm.

Marine Corps Master Sgt. Adam Dominguez

Job: Motor Transportation Chief

Stationed: Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan

Unit: Marine Wing Support Squadron 171

Hometown: Watertown, Wisconsin

"I try to come off as an understanding person," Dominguez said. "I remember as a private first class, lance corporal, when I made a mistake, and I remember the additional information those Marines need in order to accomplish the mission."  

At the same time, Dominguez believes direct correction is essential, even when it is uncomfortable, because, "In the long run, you're helping them out," he said. 

Learning From Experience

His approach to leadership has been shaped by years of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges junior Marines face. By remembering his own early mistakes and addressing issues directly, Dominguez focuses on correcting deficiencies while developing Marines into confident, capable leaders who are prepared to operate independently.  

Dominguez prioritizes ensuring Marines understand the intent behind tasks rather than simply following instructions. He developed his leadership and knowledge through the Master Instructor Program at the Marine Corps Combat Service Support School at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He believes this approach enables Marines to think critically and act independently when conditions change.

Supervision, Dominguez explained, is measured by results, not assumptions.  

"It's not somebody saying, 'Yeah, I can do that,'" he said. "It's, show me you can do that."  

Whether evaluating a Marine's ability to operate equipment or complete a qualification, he emphasizes demonstrated performance as proof of readiness. This results in a driven mindset within a Marine and reinforces accountability across the squadron, ensuring tasks are fully accomplished to the standard. 

Think Ahead

In Marine Wing Support Squadron 171's high-tempo aviation support environment, Dominguez encourages junior Marines and noncommissioned officers to anticipate requirements and think several steps ahead.  

"If you can be three or four steps ahead, that mitigates a lot of the friction," he said.  

By reframing common frustrations such as last-minute changes or delayed timelines as opportunities for leadership, he challenges Marines to take initiative rather than wait for direction.

Ultimately, Dominguez measures his success not by personal recognition but by the long-term readiness of the Marines he mentors.  

"If a Marine leader leaves a unit and it crumbles, that means you built the unit off yourself," Dominguez said. "What I'm trying to do is build it off of them."  

Through a combination of compassion, accountability and deliberate mentorship, he aims to leave behind a unit that continues to succeed long after his departure — Marines prepared not only to accomplish the mission today, but to strengthen the Marine Corps of tomorrow. 

The impact of leadership is often measured not by rank but by how effectively it develops those entrusted to carry out a mission. For Marines assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Dominguez's leadership is reflected in their initiative and confidence. 

'Honest and Direct'

Marine Corps Cpl. Jimmy Molina, a motor vehicle operator assigned to the motor transportation section of Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, and a native of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, describes Dominguez's leadership style as "very honest and direct."  

Molina explained that Dominguez does not avoid difficult conversations or soften expectations.  

"He won't beat around the truth," Molina said. "If he has a point that he wants to get across, he'll lean into it and completely squash it. That directness reinforces accountability while eliminating ambiguity in high-tempo operations."

He recalled a recent instance while preparing vehicles for a training evolution to Fuji, Japan, when Dominguez assessed that readiness levels did not meet his expectations. Rather than accept partial effort and completion, Dominguez made it clear that standards will be met.  

"He told us, 'If we have to, we'll stay [until] 10 p.m., until this stuff gets done,'" Molina said.  

The message was to underscore the importance of initiative and personal responsibility in ensuring mission success. 

Mission-Focused Mindset

Beyond enforcing standards, Molina said Dominguez fosters an environment where Marines feel empowered to act decisively.  

"With him, it's more like, 'Make it happen and just get it done,'" Molina said, contrasting that with previous leadership styles that required seeking permission before acting.  

Molina said that the expectation to let your Marines think ahead and exercise their problem-solving skills strengthens his decision-making and reinforces the understanding of the bigger picture.

"His speeches are different," Molina said. "He'll remind you that you have a mission. At the end of the day, you signed the contract. When we get called, [we've] got to go." 

Molina said the steady direction Dominguez provides continues to shape the shop's tempo and focus every day.  

"He's the man that comes down and redirects us," Molina said.  

When morale dips or priorities seem unclear, Dominguez reinforces expectations and realigns the team with the mission. Through firm guidance, clear intent and empowered execution, Dominguez's leadership is reflected in Marines like Molina. 

Prussian Officer Established Drill Manual Used in American Revolutionary War

May 1, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

Drill plays a fundamental role in the military. It serves to build discipline, obedience, unit pride and cohesion, orderly and efficient movement, honor traditions and inspire leader development. 

As America observes 250 years of freedom, here's a look back on the development of drill in the American Revolutionary War. 

The development of drill is credited to Continental Army Maj. Gen. Baron von Steuben, who taught it to soldiers at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, at the request of Gen. George Washington, commander of the Continental Army. Von Steuben learned drill while serving in the Prussian army from 1746 to 1763 as an aide-de-camp of Frederick the Great. Incredibly, he spoke no English, only French and German, so he was always accompanied by an interpreter. 

After training the soldiers, von Steuben wrote the "Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States," commonly known as the "Blue Book." This manual was the foundation of discipline, drill and ceremony in the Army. He wrote the manual in French, which was then translated into English. 

In addition to drill and ceremony instructions, the Blue Book places in writing the duties of noncommissioned officers. These updated guidelines are still in use today, in Field Manual 7-22.7, The Army Noncommissioned Officer Guide and Training Circular 3-21.5. The other services have their own NCO manuals, which share many similarities. 

This manual established the military training and maneuvers that helped the armed forces become the premier fighting force that it is today. 

Von Steuben fought in several major battles and commanded one of the three divisions of the Continental Army at Yorktown in 1781. In 1783, he helped demobilize the Army, and resigned his commission in 1784. 

After the war, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen and lived on an estate in New York's Oneida County. He was born on Sept. 17, 1730, and died Nov. 28, 1794, at the age of 64. 

Every September, von Steuben Day parades take place throughout the nation in conjunction with German festivals, including Oktoberfest. 

A number of Navy warships carried the name USS Von Steuben, the most recent being a Cold War-era ballistic missile submarine. Also, some American cities and counties bear his name, and there are statues of him in various locations. 

The United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps soldiers stationed at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia, wear Revolutionary War period uniforms and perform drill movements that were used during that war. 

As an official representative of the Army, the Fife and Drum Corps averages approximately 500 performances annually. It has entertained millions of people in major parades, pageants and historical celebrations throughout the country and has served America as a goodwill ambassador around the world.  

The Fife and Drum Corps has performed at major sporting events including NCAA bowl games, NBA games, NFL games — including Super Bowl XVI — the Kentucky Derby, the Indianapolis 500 and the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York. 

In support of the president, the Fife and Drum Corps performs for all arrival ceremonies at the White House for foreign heads of state and has participated in every presidential inauguration parade since that of President John F. Kennedy in 1961. 

Multinational Forces Validate Defensive Readiness During Exercise Balikatan 2026

April 28, 2026

Over 500 service members from the United States, Philippines, Australia and New Zealand successfully coordinated fires from land and air to defeat a simulated adversary attack as part of Exercise Balikatan 2026, April 27. 

During the counter-landing live-fire training, forces demonstrated their ability to sense the actions of a dynamic notional enemy, make collective decisions in real time and coordinate an array of fire from missile systems, fighter aircraft, mortars and machine guns. They combined advanced intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities with lethal firepower through a multidomain, combined command and control node to think, decide and act as one team. 

"We can talk about all the capabilities we have, but the integration of those capabilities is the cornerstone of how this is done right," said U.S. Marine Corps Col. G. J. Flynn III, commanding officer of Marine Rotational Force – Darwin. "The friendships that we made being in the dirt in defensive positions alongside each other, that is what really matters about this event."   

This training marked the first time these four nations conducted a counter-landing live-fire event during Exercise Balikatan. Participants included U.S. Marines assigned to the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, U.S. soldiers assigned to the 7th Infantry Division/Multi-Domain Command-Pacific, Philippine marines assigned to the 3rd Marine Brigade and elements of the Philippine Air Force and Philippine Army. They were joined by soldiers assigned to the 5th/7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, and for the first time, soldiers assigned to the 2nd/1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. 

"Beach defense is not the responsibility of a single unit or domain; it requires seamless integration across services and with our allies," said Philippine Marine Corps Col. Dennis Hernandez, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson for Balikatan 2026. "Exercises like this ensure that we are prepared to protect our coastal communities and territorial integrity with precision, speed and overwhelming coordination." 

The training began with intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets detecting a mock enemy amphibious vessel and providing intelligence to the C2 node for decision-making. As the vessel approached the coast, High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems engaged targets from their position at the beachhead. 

As enemy assault amphibious vehicles and fast boats raced toward the beach in the training scenario, targets were met with fire from mortars, Stingers and anti-armor systems like the Javelin and tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-guided missiles.    

The event culminated with a final defensive line of direct-fire weapons from all participating nations engaging the last wave of targets, neutralizing the threat and successfully defending the beachhead. 

"We participated in Exercise Balikatan to strengthen interoperability with partner nations and our ally, Australia," said New Zealand Army Capt. Will Hutchinson, acting second-in-command of Combat Team Jackal. "The soldiers got a lot from working with a combined force and it's something we're looking to continue in the future." 

The counter-landing live-fire exercise and other military training events conducted during Balikatan 2026 built tactical proficiency, compatible capabilities and military-to-military coordination, exemplifying the "shoulder-to-shoulder" spirit of the exercise. 

"It's fitting that Balikatan in Tagalog means shoulder-to-shoulder. The counter-landing live fire showcases sophisticated capabilities and down at a low level, the soldier-to-soldier partnership with the Philippines Armed Forces," said Australian Army Lt. Col. Benjamin Woolmer, commanding officer of the 5th/7th Battalion, RAR. "Being able to share lessons with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and work shoulder-to-shoulder is a great end in itself."

National Guard Military Police Battalion Deploys in Support of Operation Epic Fury

April 29, 2026 | By Timothy Koster, Connecticut National Guard Public Affairs Office |

Approximately 150 soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 192nd Military Police Battalion, Connecticut Army National Guard, participated in a deployment ceremony at Bradley Air National Guard Base, East Granby, Connecticut, yesterday.  

The 192nd was selected by the Pentagon to deploy on short notice to the Middle East to support Operation Epic Fury, U.S. Central Command's military campaign to destroy Iran's offensive missile capabilities, navy and nuclear infrastructure.  

"When the order came down on short notice, these soldiers didn't hesitate, didn't ask for more time and didn't look for a reason to say, 'no'," said Army Maj. Gen. Francis J. Evon Jr., Connecticut National Guard adjutant general. "They said, 'yes', packed their gear and got ready to move."  
 
The battalion was issued orders to report to active duty for mobilization training March 20, and almost one month later, they're hugging their family goodbye as they embark overseas.  

"Most people will never fully appreciate what that movement actually looks like, what it costs a person to step away from a job, a family, a routine and the life they've built to answer that call," Evon said. "You should know that this unit wasn't selected by accident. The Army looked across the force, identified what the mission required and chose [this unit], 192nd [Military Police Battalion], because this unit had what it takes, and they were ready."  
 
The 192nd is scheduled to provide a multitude of support to U.S. military forces engaged in Operation Epic Fury, including mission command, staff planning, security, personnel services and logistical support.  

"We know that this will not be easy, but you are prepared," said Connecticut Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz. "You have spent long hours training and have set the highest standard for character and integrity ... because of your sacrifice, our country is a beacon for freedom and equality worldwide."  
 
The battalion most recently deployed in 2020 to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where they provided battalion support to the detention facility. With this deployment to the Middle East, they join the approximately 500 other Connecticut National Guardsmen currently deployed overseas in support of various contingency operations.  
 
"Go forth and do great things as we all know that you will," Evon said. "Stay focused on the mission, keep each other safe and look out for one another. Connecticut looks forward to your safe return."

Training in Close Air Support Keeps Idaho Airmen 'Always Ready'

April 28, 2026 | By Air Force Tech. Sgt. Joseph Morgan, 124th Fighter Wing |

Airmen assigned to the 124th Air Support Operations Squadron, Idaho Air National Guard, conducted close air support training at the 188th Wing's Razorback Range at Fort Chaffee Joint Maneuver Training Center, Arkansas, April 20 and 21.

Razorback Range provides air support operations squadron personnel nationwide the ability to train for close air support in a unique, dynamic environment that is supported by the total force, including contract air. 

Combat lethality requires effective communication between ground forces and aircrews. Training at an unfamiliar place like the Razorback Range helps airmen rapidly adjust communication tactics, techniques and procedures. 

"We're the liaison between the ground force commander and the aircrew," said Air Force Master Sgt. Tyler Herlihy, a tactical air control party airman assigned to the 124th ASOS and the joint terminal air controller instructor for the Razorback Range exercise. "The nature of our job is very reactionary. So, we train to tackle complex, dynamic situations in simulated combat environments."

Maintaining effective communication and adapting quickly are key, as executing close air support objectives often comes down to understanding which tactical assets are at play.

"Situational awareness is key for [joint terminal air controllers]," said Air Force Capt. Roger Knizat, a flight commander assigned to the 124th ASOS. "We must be aware of not only our targets, but of all friendly air and ground assets on the battlefield. These exercises allow us to set up communications networks in different environments to induce the chaos that can accompany talking to multiple air and ground assets at once."

Intelligence and mission planning often establish the who, what and where of a tactical threat. Tactical air control party airmen must then respond quickly and with precision to threats as they arise.

"It's important we do our due diligence and focus on mission planning and objectives, but the game plan often goes out the window on first contact," Herlihy said. "When it comes to reinforcing fundamentals and having a good operational baseline, places like this range provide a great opportunity to prepare ourselves for those moments."

Focusing on fundamentals and tactics, techniques and procedures aligns with another core principle of the air support operations squadron — contingency planning.

"[Tactical air control party airmen] are proficient mission planners," Knizat said. "We work contingencies into our training and into our plans. You cannot anticipate when something will go wrong in the real world. If you have a well-developed plan and all players are on the same sheet of music, bombs will still make it to their target."

The 124th ASOS emphasizes training at every level and in every environment to remain "always ready, always there."

Marines Debut New Ground Sensor Systems

April 29, 2026 | By Army Capt. Katherine Sibilla, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa |

Low crawling through the woods for long periods of time is nothing new to Marine Corps Cpl. Joshua Trutna. Splinters, fatigue and heat are all part of the job as a tactical remote sensor system maintainer assigned to the Ground Sensor Platoon, 2nd Intelligence Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group. 

What is new for Trutna is doing it alongside Tunisian special forces soldiers in the forests of northern Tunisia. 

Trutna gained a deeper understanding of what it means to defend a homeland during Exercise African Lion 26, as Tunisian special forces soldiers shared their experiences conducting real-world missions to protect their country from terrorist threats. 

"As tough as the training can be, there's a reason behind it," Trutna said. "[Tunisian special forces] are actually doing the mission."

This interaction with Tunisian forces is part of U.S. Africa Command's largest annual joint exercise, designed to strengthen collective security capabilities of the U.S., African nations and global allies. Co-led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa from April 20 to May 8 and hosted in Ghana, Morocco, Senegal and Tunisia, the exercise involves over 5,600 personnel from more than 40 nations, using innovation to drive partner-led regional security. 

Marines assigned to the Ground Sensor Platoon trained with Tunisian forces on remote sensor systems used to detect movement and provide early warning in complex terrain. 

Throughout the exercise, Marines shared techniques on how to emplace, monitor and recover ground sensors in daylight and lowlight conditions. They also conducted infiltration and observation of named areas of interest with partner forces to build multinational readiness. 

Trutna connected with his counterparts as they worked their way through the dense terrain of the northern Tunisian forests. The shared experience gave Trutna a new perspective on the purpose behind the training and the common hardships endured by warfighters everywhere. 

"We all deal with the same things," he said. "Being tired, sitting in the field, waiting for something to happen."

Tunisia's position in North Africa creates distinct security challenges, as its vast and often remote terrain is difficult to monitor with traditional tools alone, which made the Marines' employment of ground sensors all the more essential. This training paved the way for Tunisian forces to receive faster, more reliable notification of terrorist threats. 

"These sensors give us another tool to understand what's happening in the battlespace," said Marine Corps 1st Lt. Joseph Kennedy, Ground Sensor Platoon commander. 

The Marines demonstrated how these systems can support border security efforts in complex environments. 

"Even covering a small area can provide information that helps us determine where movement is happening and how to respond," Kennedy said. 

This training event also represented a significant milestone for the unit. According to Kennedy, the exercise marked the first deployment of the newest generation of ground sensor systems outside of the United States. Earlier this year, his platoon became the first Marine unit to receive the equipment, and they have continued to refine its employment in real-world environments. 

"It's a great opportunity to expose these sensors, not just to our partner forces, but also to other U.S. services that may not have this capability," Kennedy said. 

Trutna, Kennedy and the rest of the Ground Sensor Platoon said they now carry a clearer sense of why their expertise matters. In Tunisia's forests, they saw how their sensors and skills give partners the ability to spot threats before they strike.

Joint Interagency Task Force 401, Paratroopers Test New Counter-UAS

April 29, 2026 | By Army Lt. Col. Adam Scher, Joint Interagency Task Force 401 |

Paratroopers assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division recently took part in the inaugural training event with the Bumblebee V2 counter-drone system April 22, marking the first operational test of the prototypes purchased by Joint Interagency Task Force 401 earlier this year.

Held on the Salerno drop zone at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the event served as a practical exercise for 20 young paratroopers to engage directly with the system and provide real-time feedback. The acquisition of the new system represented a rapid technology transfer from the battlefields of Europe, giving soldiers hands-on experience with critical tools to increase counter-drone capability across the joint force. 
 
"The [Bumblebee] V2 is a major leap forward because it doesn't rely solely on the skill of the drone operator," said Army Sgt. Maj. Kellen Rowley, Joint Interagency Task Force 401 senior enlisted advisor to the director. "Its automated target recognition allows the drone to lock on and engage an adversary drone autonomously, letting soldiers focus on situational awareness and tactics." 
 
Paratroopers practiced fundamentals essential to both using and defending against unmanned aerial systems. Soldiers learned to interpret sensor, radar and camera data and make split-second decisions about when to launch counter-drone interceptors. Training events like these, in coordination with the services, help ensure every soldier is prepared to face the rapidly evolving aerial threats on the modern battlefield. 
 
"Just as every soldier is trained in basic rifle marksmanship before handling live rounds, we want to ensure that they can master the fundamentals of UAS operation and employment of passive countermeasures before expecting them to operationally employ an air-to-air interceptor," Rowley said.

The Bumblebee V2, funded through a $5.2 million investment in February, is a first-person-view, multirotor drone built to meet National Defense Authorization Act standards. With advanced camera sensors, wide-angle and narrow-angle views, and up to an hour of flight on a single battery, the system provides a crucial kinetic option as part of a layered counter-UAS defense. 
 
"We are seeing prototypes of the V2, with updated cameras, sensors and software for automated target recognition. Its ability to operate all the system's components simultaneously gives us the tools to develop tactics, techniques and procedures in real time," Army Lt. Col. Alex Morse, task force acquisition lead, said regarding the platform's operational flexibility. 
 
The new system was first deployed in March as part of JIATF 401's initiative to accelerate the delivery of top-tier technology to warfighters. Counter-drone systems, like the Bumblebee, will soon be considered core battlefield tools, able to be utilized by soldiers with little to no prior drone experience. 
 
Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, director of JIATF 401, said his team has one measure of effectiveness: to rapidly deliver counter-drone capabilities to warfighters at home and abroad.  
 
"The Bumblebee V2 provides a cost-effective, reliable interceptor that can neutralize threats without endangering our own forces or surrounding infrastructure," Ross said. "On the modern battlefield, where drones are a constant threat, having a low-collateral kinetic option is not just an advantage, it is increasingly becoming essential for protecting our forces."