Centcom Launches First-Ever Multinational Attack Drone Task Force

Aug. 14, 2026 | By U.S. Central Command |

U.S. Central Command announced efforts to establish the first multidomain, multinational attack drone task force yesterday.

The unit, called Task Force Falcon Strike, will employ one-way attack drones consisting of unmanned systems from above, on and below the sea, operated by military support staff from the United States and regional partners.

Falcon Strike's launch occurs nine months after Centcom established Task Force Scorpion Strike, the U.S. military's first dedicated one-way attack drone squadron in the Middle East.

Scorpion Strike rapidly achieved key operational milestones, including the first launch of an aerial attack drone from a Navy warship last December. The squadron also employed one-way unmanned aerial systems during Operation Epic Fury and during strikes on Iranian port facilities in July using unmanned attack vessels at sea.

"Task Force Falcon Strike will expand on Scorpion Strike's success given the tremendous innovation happening among our regional allies and partners," said Navy Adm. Brad Cooper, Centcom commander. "Integrating and deploying our new capabilities together will help us rapidly realize the new possibilities that are on the horizon."

Centcom has initiated consultations with official invitations to regional partners. As regional partners formally join, Task Force Falcon Strike will scale attack drone capabilities across the Middle East into a unified multidomain, multinational deterrent.

"The United States military has a lot of strong partnerships and friends in the region," Cooper said. "We are collectively stronger when we integrate and deploy new capabilities together."

Personnel from U.S. Special Operations Command Central, which launched Scorpion Strike, will lead Falcon Strike's staff of U.S. and regional representatives.

Southcom Mission Shifts to Protecting Sovereignty of U.S., Partner Nations

Aug. 13, 2026 | By C. Todd Lopez, Pentagon News |

At the Combined Jungle Training Center-South in Cristobal Colon, Panama, yesterday, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth met with U.S. service members who are learning how to survive in the most brutal, unforgiving jungles of the Western Hemisphere, all while retaining their combat effectiveness.

The visit coincided with the secretary's address during the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition, a U.S.-led multinational security and political alliance formed to combat transnational drug cartels, reduce illegal migration across the Western Hemisphere and limit foreign geopolitical interference. It also coincided with Exercise Panamax 2026, a multinational military exercise hosted by Panama and sponsored by U.S. Southern Command. 

In the dense jungle on the northern side of the Panama Canal, Hegseth told service members at the training center that what they are doing is exactly what he likes to see when he meets with warfighters. 

"I think this is what ... the warrior ethos looks like; it's what reestablishing it looks like," he said. "It happens in training centers like this, with Americans like this, who do really difficult things in really tough places." 

While at the training center, Hegseth met with instructors assigned to the Jungle Operations Training Course-Panama, along with Marines assigned to Littoral Combat Force-24, who were in Panama to participate in Panamax.

The secretary said the service members who train at the center are willing to do things no other Americans are willing to do, to include helping U.S. allies in both Central and South America protect the nation's backyard. 

"That's what we're doing here with the A3C [and with] Panamax ... expanding peace through strength in our hemisphere, right here in the jungles with our partners," he said. 

Noting a big shift in the Southcom mission, Hegseth said that just 18 months ago, the command was less focused on protecting the Americas and deterring threats. 

 

"This is a different Southcom; this is a different mission," he said. "We are focused on military capabilities against real threats who need to be deterred and defeated, and we're going to give them everything they need to do it, on behalf of the American people." 

The secretary said that under President Donald J. Trump, Southcom's mission has focused on working with partners in the region to keep everybody safe from a variety of shared threats. 

"We know exactly what that mission looks like," he said. "We're empowering commanders like [Marine Corps Gen. Francis L. Donovan] to do it in Southcom; we're working with partners like Panama, like Ecuador, like Colombia ... they're going to send students here soon to swim across this very same river, [to] be a part of this very same training." 

The nations involved in the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition — 19 nations in all, with Colombia signing on just yesterday — are going to be involved in the same training as U.S. service members in Panama. The secretary said that the same things that necessitate American jungle training also motivate every other nation in the region. 

"It turns out, in the [Western] Hemisphere, they face the very same security challenges, the same threat of drugs, the same threat of criminal cartels that threaten their citizens, the same ones that threaten our citizens," Hegseth said. 

U.S. law enforcement personnel stationed at the U.S. southern border to stop illegal immigration and drug traffickers, combined with training across Central and South America in places such as Ecuador, Colombia and Panama, puts increasing pressure on shared threats. 

"That's going after the enemies of our country — designated terrorist organizations — unabashedly," Hegseth said. 

Earlier in the day, the secretary announced the new motto of the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition: "We do bad things to bad people." 

"For too long, bad people did bad things to good people, inside the United States of America and across Central and South America," he said. "We're going to empower great Americans and great partners to do really good stuff and be very capable about bringing violence against drug cartels and designated terrorist organizations, because we're dead serious about securing the homeland." 

A big part of that is the Trump corollary to the Monroe Doctrine. In 1823, President James Monroe articulated a foreign policy, now known as the Monroe Doctrine, which declared that the Western Hemisphere was off-limits to further colonization efforts or interference by European nations. Later, that expanded to include interference by any foreign power. 

In 1904, President Theodore Roosevelt added to that doctrine that the U.S. could intervene in the affairs of Latin America to protect U.S. interests. 

And now, Hegseth said, there is Trump's corollary to the Monroe Doctrine. 

"It is a recognition that [designated terrorist organizations] ... will not control our hemisphere ... and we will not allow foreign malign influence to take over ... key terrain like the Panama Canal," he said. 

Hegseth said Colombia's inclusion in the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition is significant. 

"The A3C had formed, but in some ways, it missed part of its core," he said. "Colombia is going to be [an] incredible partner. They offered to be a headquarters or a hub for the A3C as the brand-new 19th member. They've got ... hundreds of thousands of capable members of their military and decades of training with the United States ... that mil-to-mil relationship has been long-standing, and that's why they're coming to this jungle course soon."

Army Reserve Engineers Train Across Multiple Missions During Exercise Northern Strike

Aug. 13, 2026 | By Army Sgt. De'Vante Martin, 412th Theater Engineer Command |

Army Reserve soldiers assigned to two engineering companies spent the first week of Exercise Northern Strike 26-2, Aug. 1-7, moving between water operations, chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense training, live demolitions and preparations for urban operations at Camp Grayling, Michigan.

The range of training gave soldiers experience beyond their usual engineering tasks while showing how those skills fit alongside maneuver forces. 

For Army Capt. Brandon Lalonde, 428th Combat Engineer Company-Infantry commander, that connection is an important part of Northern Strike. 

"The maneuver part, though, is something that generally we avoid when we plan training; and I think there's some shame in that because you don't really get to see how security is established, how people move forward on the battlefield [and] where the engineers fit in the mission," Lalonde said. "We need to see the bigger picture." 

On Aug. 3, soldiers conducted helocast operations, exiting a hovering aircraft into the water before making their way to shore. They later moved into CBRN training that included protective mask procedures, decontamination and mission-oriented protective posture operations.  

The next day, they trained with M18A1 claymore mines and selectable lightweight attack munitions and worked through emplacement procedures before conducting live detonations.

"This training is critical to building our unit's readiness and combat effectiveness," said Army 1st Lt. Parker Mock, 365th Engineer Company officer in charge during the event. "Northern Strike provides soldiers with realistic, large-scale training in an [immersive] environment, allowing them to integrate with joint and partner forces while employing emerging technologies and capabilities."

Service members assigned to the 428th Combat Engineer Company-Infantry also worked with industry partners to learn about emerging engineer technologies. Later in the week, soldiers began planning and preparing for urban operations at the Combined Arms Collective Training Facility at Camp Grayling. 

Moving from one event to another required soldiers to apply different skills and work through changing mission requirements. 

"Northern Strike prepares soldiers for real-world missions by replicating the complexity and pace of today's operational environment," Mock said. "This experience develops adaptable, disciplined and mission-ready soldiers who are better prepared to operate and win in large-scale combat operations." 

By the end of the week, the soldiers had trained in the air and water, worked with protective equipment, conducted live demolitions and prepared for operations in an urban setting. The different events allowed the engineers to practice their technical skills while seeing how their work supports other elements on the battlefield.

Utah National Guard Aviation Crews Support Wildfire Response

Aug. 12, 2026 | By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tim Beery, Utah National Guard |

The Utah Army National Guard is supporting wildfire response efforts across Utah, putting specialized aviation capabilities to work alongside local and government firefighting agencies as wildfires continue to challenge communities across the state.

Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 211th General Support Aviation Battalion are conducting water bucket drops over the Rocky Canyon Fire in Morgan County, Utah, to slow the fire's spread.  

"We have two UH-60 Black Hawks and aircrew members and support personnel who are helping with fire suppression activities on this fire," said Army Lt. Col. Penny McCarthy, battalion commander. 

Guard members began wildfire support Aug. 5, assisting with the Black Canyon Fire in Sanpete County, Utah. Several days later, the mission shifted to the Rocky Canyon Fire. When local authorities request assistance, the Utah National Guard is activated to support emergency response efforts through the state's department of emergency management and the governor's office. 

"We stand ready to support our state when these types of incidents occur," McCarthy said. 

Soldiers quickly transitioned from training to real-world operations. For the pilots and aircrews, that means long days, multiple flights and repeated water bucket drops. Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Chris Aylstock, a pilot supporting the mission in Morgan County, said crews are working approximately 12-hour shifts, with pilots sometimes spending seven to eight hours in the air. 

"We fly out there, get gas, get the word to launch, get on the fire, do a full fuel cycle, come back, get gas, shove a sandwich down the throat, go back out and do another fuel cycle," Aylstock said.

The demanding schedule requires careful planning and continuity between crews. Pilots are rotated through the mission while maintaining overlap between shifts so crews arriving for duty understand the fire and the operation's current status. 

"We try to have at least five pilots doing some kind of overlap each day," Aylstock said. "That way, we just have some experience going from one day to the next."

It takes an entire unit to keep the aircraft in the fight. Each helicopter undergoes meticulous maintenance to ensure effectiveness. 

"We have our maintainers back at [the base] turning wrenches and working overtime to get these aircraft ready to launch each morning," Aylstock said. "This really is an all-hands-on-deck push to get these crews out the door. Before each day's mission, crews receive updated maps, frequencies and information about the fire before launching from their staging location."  

Each morning, crews fly from West Jordan, Utah, to Morgan County, then conduct an operational briefing with fire managers and receive the information they need to integrate safely into the larger firefighting effort. While on the fire, Utah Army National Guard helicopters use 530-gallon buckets to drop water on areas identified by fire managers. 

Aylstock said the aircraft supports the priorities of the incident commanders with direct attacks on the fire, supporting backburning operations, pretreating vegetation with water and providing structure protection, all while working in conjunction with other aerial assets and ground crews. 

The operation requires constant coordination with other aircraft. Air tankers and helicopters share the same airspace, requiring National Guard crews to adjust their timing and routes throughout the day. 

The distance between the water source, staging area and fire can also affect how many drops a crew can make during a shift. Aylstock said one of his flight days included 48 bucket drops, with crews adjusting their operations as the fire and mission changed. 

The guard members start preparing months before wildfire season begins.  

"Our battalion has firefighting capability. It is something that we practice ... all the way up until our fire season starts on April 1, so that we are prepared to respond to any kind of incident," McCarthy said. "We do a lot of coordination with our partners from the Department of Natural Resources, the United States Forest Service and local agencies to gain education and coordination so that we're best prepared for fires when our firefighting season kicks off," she added.  Aircrews also conduct flight evaluations and training specifically designed to prepare them for firefighting missions.

"A lot of the tasks that we do, and our training flights, [are] very closely aligned with this type of mission, when we're called upon to respond to fires," McCarthy said. 

That preparation is particularly important because wildfire aviation missions carry significant risks and require experienced crews. Aylstock said pilots assigned to serve as fire pilots typically have extensive flight experience, and the unit deliberately rotates experienced pilots through the mission to build depth across the battalion.  

For the crews flying the Rocky Canyon Fire, the long hours and demanding conditions are balanced by the knowledge that their work directly supports communities in their own state. 

"One of the most important things that we do on these fires, of course, is preserving life, preserving property and easing human suffering," McCarthy said. "And it just hits different when it's our neighbors." Some soldiers in the battalion live in or have family members in communities affected by wildfires, making the mission particularly personal. 

For the soldiers flying above the fire, the mission is more than a training requirement. It is an opportunity to put years of preparation and experience to work protecting the communities they call home. 

"It's really important for us; it's a tremendous honor for us to be able to support the firefighting efforts when we're called upon, especially when it's just right in our own backyard," McCarthy said.

National Guard Continues Washington Wildfire Support

 Aug. 11, 2026 | By Joseph Siemandel, Washington National Guard |

As wildfires burn across the state, the Washington National Guard continues to provide aviation, hand crew and security support to communities and firefighters working to contain them. 

Since the wildfire response began July 19, National Guard aviation crews have flown 225 flight hours, dropping more than 1,400 buckets and nearly 1.2 million gallons of water on fires across eastern and central Washington. 

While weather, winds and smoke conditions play a major part in day-to-day operations, for the aircrews flying those missions, the overall conditions pose unique challenges. 

"These aircrews are performing some of the most tactically and technically challenging flying they will experience in their entire careers," said Army Lt. Col. Kevin Robillard, a pilot assigned to the 96th Aviation Troop Command. 

Robillard said crews are navigating high altitudes, high winds, limited visibility, heavy smoke and extreme heat, while operating around civilian aircraft, firefighters on the ground and areas where radio communications can be limited. 

"I would argue that, in many respects, this flying is every bit as challenging — if not more challenging — than combat flying," he said. 

The mission requires more than skilled aircrews. Fuelers, maintainers, flight operations personnel and military liaisons work behind the scenes to keep aircraft in the air and crews ready to respond. 

"And so far, our crews are doing an absolutely fantastic job," Robillard said. "I'm incredibly proud of our aircrews and our ground support personnel. They are absolutely crushing it while operating in some of the harshest conditions and most demanding flying environments an aircrew will ever experience." 

The National Guard's support also extends to the ground. Since Aug. 1, hand crews have been working alongside firefighting agencies from across the country. Crews are conducting fire line construction, hose lays, mop-up, debris clearing, brushing and chipping operations at a fire near Leavenworth, Washington. The hand crews have provided additional manpower for demanding ground operations. 

"Your [National Guard] team is great," said Craig Covey, incident manager for the fire near Leavenworth. "We have 105 go-getters that come in and say, 'What can we do?' And they work all day until we tell them it's time to stop. We really enjoy having them here."  

U.S. Rep. Kim Schrier, Washington's 8th Congressional District representative, recently visited guard personnel and firefighters supporting the fire mission near Leavenworth to give thanks. 

"I can't tell you how much I appreciate you and everything that you are doing for Washington," Schrier said. 

In Spokane, Washington, National Guardsmen are supporting local authorities by manning 20 traffic control points for the Spokane Police Department and the Spokane County Sheriff's Office.  

For Army Lt. Col. Dan Wessman, Washington National Guard, the mission has provided a unique opportunity to serve his community. 

"As a Spokane guy myself, I am truly humbled about the community and the outpouring of support for all our soldiers and airmen and the first responders who are here to help," Wessman said.

Currently, 345 Washington National Guardsmen, as well as 20 Washington State Guard members, are activated in support of wildfire missions. Their impact can be felt in the communities they are serving. 

"Our job is to be there when Washington needs us, and that's exactly what our soldiers and airmen are doing," said Air Force Maj. Gen. Gent Welsh, Washington National Guard adjutant general. "We're bringing the capabilities of the National Guard to the table, working alongside the agencies leading these responses and doing whatever we can to help protect Washington communities. Whether it's putting water on a fire, building fire lines, clearing debris or supporting local law enforcement, our people are ready to serve wherever they're needed."

U.S., Moroccan Forces Leverage Africa's Multidomain Experimentation Center

Aug. 10, 2026 | By Army Capt. Jordan Beagle, U.S. Africa Command |

U.S. service members partnered with Morocco's royal armed forces to enable the first-ever live-fire demonstration leveraging the Africa Multidomain Training and Experimentation Center, supporting a U.S. defense industry partner in testing long-range precision-strike capabilities as part of the Army's Test Range Expansion Initiative, Aug. 3-7. 

The demonstration marked a major milestone in U.S.-Morocco defense cooperation, expanding opportunities to evaluate emerging capabilities in realistic conditions while accelerating the delivery of new technologies to the joint force. 

"The vision is to establish [the Africa Multidomain Training and Experimentation Center] as a regional hub for innovation, strategic cooperation and industrial development, as well as a center of excellence dedicated to the experimentation, validation, evaluation and development of advanced technologies," said Moroccan Col. Zouhair El Hamdani, the royal armed forces officer in charge of coordination. "This first live-fire demonstration marks a significant milestone in turning that vision into reality." 

The initiative will also continue to bolster the U.S.-Morocco strategic partnership by offering a dedicated space where military forces and defense industry partners can rapidly test, evaluate and refine new capabilities.

"Morocco's partnership provides a crucial venue that accelerates readiness for the U.S. joint force and our African partners," said Air Force Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson, commander of U.S. Africa Command. Anderson added that the Africa Multidomain Training and Experimentation Center not only strengthens security cooperation and drives innovation but also demonstrates that trusted partnerships are how the countries help tackle shared security challenges together. 

U.S. and Moroccan personnel established an expeditionary test site and conducted a single live-fire demonstration, working alongside defense industry engineers and technicians to validate communications systems, assess maneuverability of wings, tires and trolley components, as well as collect critical weather and targeting data. The event generated operational insights to inform future experimentation, capability development and employment. 

"The AMTEC live-fire demonstrates where multinational training is headed, integrating emerging technologies with partner forces in realistic operational environments," said Army Col. Michael M. Gacheru, the regional engagement division chief of Africom's Strategy, Engagement and Programs Directorate. "As AMTEC continues to evolve in Morocco, we're expanding advanced training, strengthening interoperability and accelerating innovation alongside our African and international partners. Together, we're building a more connected, more capable force prepared for tomorrow's security challenges."

The live-fire event employed a low-cost, long-range cruise missile system designed to provide affordable, scalable precision-strike options while collecting operational performance data. By integrating a U.S. defense technology startup into the event, Morocco and Africom demonstrated a model for rapidly connecting operational requirements with industry innovation.

As AMTEC continues to mature, it will provide U.S. and Moroccan forces, as well as allies and defense industry partners with a cost-effective venue to evaluate capabilities across multiple warfighting domains. Future experimentation will expand into long-range fires, autonomous systems, wireless communications and advanced sensing technologies, ensuring innovation translates rapidly into operational capability for the joint force.

USS Thomas Hudner Returns to Naval Station Mayport From Deployment

Aug. 10, 2026 | By Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet |

The guided-missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner returned to Naval Station Mayport, Florida, Aug. 9, concluding an almost nine-month deployment across multiple geographic theaters, including the U.S. 4th, 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations.

During the deployment, the crew demonstrated exceptional resilience and tactical proficiency across three different fleets, said Navy Cmdr. David Cook, the USS Thomas Hudner commander.

"Their dedication is unmatched, and we are absolutely thrilled to be back in Mayport to reunite with the families and loved ones whose unwavering support made our success possible," Cook said.

The USS Thomas Hudner is a multimission guided-missile destroyer capable of air warfare, antisubmarine warfare, naval surface fire support and surface warfare. The ship carries approximately 300 sailors.

The ship bears the name of Navy Capt. Thomas J. Hudner Jr., a Medal of Honor recipient who received the nation's top military honor for his heroic and selfless actions while attempting to save the life of his wingman, Navy Ensign Jesse L. Brown, during the Korean War.

The U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018 in response to the changing global security environment, develops and employs maritime-ready forces to fight across multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arctic to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Sgt. William Shemin

Aug. 10, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News, and Lisa Ferdinando, DOW |

Army Sgt. William Shemin, a rifleman, posthumously received the Medal of Honor in 2015 for extraordinary heroism during World War I combat operations in France.

Shemin was born Oct. 14, 1896, in New York City. Soon after his birth, the family moved to Bayonne, New Jersey. He was born to Russian Jewish immigrants Harris and Bessie Shemin. He had one sibling, a sister named Minnie.

He went to high school in Bayonne and after graduating attended a training class with the New York State College of Forestry. After finishing the course, he returned home to work as an assistant city forester.

Shemin enlisted in the New York National Guard in 1916 and then registered for the draft in June 1917 after the U.S. declared war on Germany. However, the minimum age to be selected for military service at the time was 21.

He enlisted in the Army in October 1917 and attended basic training at Camp Greene, North Carolina. He was assigned to the 47th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, and, along with thousands of other soldiers, departed for Europe.

The regiment joined the Aisne-Marne Offensive in northeast France in the summer of 1918, helping the Allies score an important victory at the Second Battle of the Marne, pushing the German force farther north before digging in for another round of fighting along the Vesle river.

In August 1918, the Allied forces fell under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire. Seeing his comrades in trouble, Shemin left cover, exposing himself to enemy fire, and ran 150 yards into open ground three times to retrieve wounded soldiers, even after getting hit by shrapnel.

With his leadership all killed or injured, Shemin took command of the unit. According to his Medal of Honor citation, he displayed great initiative under fire and, despite being wounded, refused evacuation for medical treatment until all of his men were safe.

He was found unconscious the next day and taken to a nearby field hospital. He was hospitalized for three months and later received light duty until his tour in Europe ended.

He was honorably discharged from the Army in August 1919, after being awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for battlefield valor.

After leaving the service, he used his veteran's benefits and attended college at Syracuse University in Syracuse, New York, graduating with a bachelor of science degree in 1923. He played lacrosse and football while at the university.

He married Bertha Schiffer in 1928, and they had three children, two daughters and a son. His son served in the armed forces during the Korean War.

After college, he started the Ivy Floral and Landscape Company in the New York City. In 1955, his son took over the company, renaming it Shemin Nurseries and moving it to Greenwich, Connecticut.

He died in 1973 and was buried at the Baron Hirsch Cemetery in New York City. His wife died in 1993 and was buried alongside him. His Distinguished Service Cross was later upgraded to the Medal of Honor and presented to his daughters by President Barack Obama in a White House ceremony, June 2, 2015. During the same ceremony, Obama presented a posthumous Medal of Honor to Army Pvt. Henry Johnson.

"It has taken a long time for Henry Johnson and William Shemin to receive the recognition they deserve," the president said, speaking about both men who served on the battlefields of France and risked their lives to save others.

They both left us decades ago, before we could give them the full recognition that they deserved, but it is never too late to say thank you, Obama said, adding the country is what it is because of people like them.

"The least we can do is to say: We know who you are. We know what you did for us. We are forever grateful."

Shemin repeatedly ventured out of the trenches into the open field to rescue wounded comrades. The open space separating the Allies from the Germans was a "bloodbath."

"Soldier after soldier ventured out, and soldier after soldier was mowed down," Obama said. "Those still in the trenches were left with a terrible choice: die trying to rescue your fellow soldier, or watch him die, knowing that part of you will die along with him."

Shemin served at a time when the contributions and heroism of Jewish people in uniform were too often overlooked, the president continued.

"William Shemin saved American lives. He represented our nation with honor, and so it is my privilege, on behalf of the American people, to make this right and finally award the Medal of Honor to Sgt. William Shemin," he said.

Shemin was a wonderful, hardworking, generous man who loved serving his country, said his daughter, Elsie Shemin-Roth, in an interview a week before the ceremony. He had high expectations for his three children and 14 grandchildren.

"He told us all to always do more than you are asked," she said, adding that he taught the entire family how to properly salute and fold a flag.

While he couldn't sleep well at night, had painful wounds from the war and shrapnel in his back, was deaf in one ear, and had post-traumatic stress disorder, he still had the "most wonderful sense of humor," she said.

"He directed our lives to be good, productive Jewish American citizens," she said. "We all loved him dearly. But we also know that he'd been through much too much."

His name continues to be remembered across the country. The Shemin Fitness Center at Fort Carson, Colorado, was named for him, as was the William Shemin Midtown Community School in Bayonne. Syracuse University has a Hall of Honor plaque for him.

Multinational Partners Strengthen Regional Readiness During Exercise Panamax 2026

Aug. 7, 2026 | By Andrea Jenkins, Air Forces Southern |

Airmen assigned to 12th Air Force, Air Forces Southern, joined approximately 40 military personnel from across the Americas during Panamax 2026, a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored multinational exercise focused on an integrated approach against simulated threats to the Panama Canal and the region. 

The exercise continues until Aug. 14 and provides participating forces from 19 nations with an opportunity to conduct combined security and stability operations, enhance interoperability, and strengthen their collective capability to support Panama in defending the canal and preserving regional security. 

Approximately 40 military personnel from Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador are working together to synchronize multinational air component planning, command and control, and decision-making in response to simulated threats to the Panama Canal and regional security. 

Air Forces Southern led the combined air component in one of the Western Hemisphere's premier multinational exercises at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. 

"We are proud to host Panamax here at Davis-Monthan and to work alongside our partner nations as we train to protect one of the most strategically important waterways in the world," said Air Force Maj. Gen. David Mineau, 12th Air Force commander. "This exercise helps us sharpen the coordination, trust and readiness needed to support Panama in the defense of the canal and preserve regional security." 

The biennial exercise reinforces the enduring commitment of the United States and partner nations to regional security through cooperation, transparency and shared responsibility. By training together before a crisis occurs, participating nations build the trust, professional relationships and interoperability that enable faster, more effective responses when real-world events demand coordinated action. 

"This opportunity was the first time Ecuador brought air force intelligence personnel, and the immense value of this training for our force and our partners is already clear," said Ecuadorian air force Lt. Col. Andres Acosta, an operations, intelligence and analysis officer. "Exchanging operational perspectives and discussing air doctrine face-to-face builds the mutual trust and understanding essential for our shared security." 

The exercise scenario is designed to challenge participants in a realistic multinational environment while strengthening each nation's ability to operate alongside allies and partners during a coalition response to a notional contingency. 

For Air Forces Southern, Panamax supports the command's commitment to strengthening partnerships across the Western Hemisphere by improving readiness, reinforcing integrated deterrence and enhancing the collective ability of allied and partner air forces to respond to evolving regional security challenges.

"Panamax is more than a multinational exercise; it is an opportunity to bring together talented professionals from across the hemisphere, learn from one another and strengthen the partnerships that underpin regional security," Mineau said. "That cooperation is essential to ensuring we are ready to respond together to future challenges." 

Beyond tactical and operational training, the exercise strengthens the professional networks and institutional relationships that enable long-term cooperation throughout the region. It provides participants the opportunity to exchange best practices, improve communication procedures and develop a shared understanding of multinational planning and execution. 

"Collaborating in a combined air component environment allows us to synchronize our procedures and learn from each other's expertise," Acosta said. "This training ensures that if we are called upon to respond to a real-world contingency, we can operate seamlessly as one united team to preserve regional stability." 

Since its inception, Panamax has evolved into a premier multinational exercise demonstrating the value of enduring partnerships, shared commitment and collective readiness. Each iteration builds upon previous exercises, strengthening interoperability and ensuring participating nations remain prepared to operate together in support of regional security and stability. 

"It is an honor to welcome our partners to Panamax and train together in support of a mission that matters to the hemisphere," Mineau said. "By rehearsing how we integrate, communicate and operate as one team, we improve our collective ability to protect the Panama Canal, strengthen deterrence and meet the shared security responsibilities we all carry." 

Boys & Girls Clubs Honor Military Youth

Aug. 7, 2026 | By C. Todd Lopez, Pentagon News |

Yesterday in the nation's capital, five young Americans from across the War Department were honored as finalists during the Boys & Girls Clubs of America's 2026 National Military Youth of the Year celebration, and one walked away with the honor and the opportunity to compete at the next level.

Stephen B. Simmons, deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy, explained the challenges military children face and how programs like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America provide vital support to them.

"At the Department of War, our No. 1 priority is ensuring America's service members are ready and able to answer our nation's call to serve," he said. "One of the best ways we can achieve that mission is by taking care of the people they love the most."

Simmons is no stranger to the unique challenges that come with being in a military family. He said when he was in the Marine Corps, his family moved five times before his son turned 10.

"Every time those permanent changes of station orders came in, I saw the value of our family support programs," he said. "Compassionate, dedicated professionals the world over, who helped take the sting out of those long goodbyes. They kept our kids excited about the future and made every move feel like a return home."

Simmons noted that Boys & Girls Clubs of America has been an indispensable partner to America's military families for 35 years.

"Wherever families are stationed, Boys & Girls Clubs are waiting for them with open arms; few organizations can say the same," he said. "Above all else, Boys & Girls Clubs promote values that America's youth need now more than ever — healthy minds and bodies, a willingness to serve and a readiness to take the lead."

Each year, five finalists are named to represent youth centers in five regions of the War Department.

Patrick A. is the Northeast Military Youth of the Year from the U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Baumholder child and youth program in Germany. Although he initially grew up in Ghana, three years ago he moved to Germany to live with his aunt and uncle — both Army officers.

Describing his experience as "very unique," Patrick said that because of the short time he's been in a military family, he hasn't seen the things his military friends have seen.

"I only moved here three years ago, so I have never [moved] myself," he said. "But I've seen my friends PCS all the time, and I have to always say goodbye to my friends, and that's ... been very sad sometimes. But then I know that we have the youth centers and the [child and youth services] programs and [Boys & Girls Club of America] programs all around on every military installation. So, I know wherever they go, they have a safe place to go. They have a place to make friends."

Patrick said he's learned about the resilience of military family life. He said he plans to study sports business in college.

Kate P. is the Southeast Military Youth of the Year from Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia. Her dad was in the Navy for 30 years, and she moved five times — from Hawaii to Maine.

"As a military youth, I definitely had to move around a lot when I was younger," she said. "I had to experience a lot of different communities and adapt really quickly to many different places."

Kate said it's a challenge to grow up as a military youth.

"You're forced to move to these different places and experience different things that you never knew would happen," she said. "And also, having a parent who was away half of the time and not being able to see them as much during your childhood — it was kind of hard."

However, she said she learned a lot about leadership.

"I think I learned that to lead, it starts with listening," she said. "You need to start by listening to the people who are around you and listening to the communities that you're going to."

Kate said she hopes to go to school to study engineering.

Ethan K. is the Pacific Military Youth of the Year from Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. His dad served in the Air Force for 20 years. As a kindergartener, Ethan remembers seeing his dad in uniform and interacting with other military kids.

"[The military] definitely affected me because ... [I was] going to the youth center and being around kids who are also military-affiliated and having that same sense and good understanding of service and sacrifice," he said.

While he doesn't remember moving, he said he does remember his dad deploying.

"He was deployed when I was born, even," Ethan said. "He went to Afghanistan, Iraq, Qatar, and these would be like six-month-long deployments. So, it would definitely be a struggle in our family."

Ethan said he's interested in studying biology and government.

"I do hope to do the [Health Professions Scholarship Program] ... which is basically once I finish my college, I go to medical school, and I join the military then," he said. "I do hope to join the military."

Fatimazahra E. is the Midwest Military Youth of the Year from Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. She said she's moved six times and loves it.

"I lived in Turkey, England, Washington state, New Jersey, New Mexico, Germany and now [North Dakota]," she said. "And we're going to move again next year. ... I like moving; my siblings don't. I think it just depends on each person and what they enjoy doing. I like seeing new things, even though it can be hard sometimes to adapt. But adaptability is one of the skills that we learn as military children. So, I'm grateful for that."

Fatimazahra has big goals, but said that being a military youth taught her about determination and embracing opportunities.

"I want to get a double degree in neuroscience and aerospace engineering," she said. "I want to get my doctor of medicine, maybe specialize in aerospace medicine and then apply to NASA and try to become an astronaut. And after that, I'd like to be a senator."

Each of the nominees discussed their thoughts on being a military youth and their plans for the future. At the conclusion of the evening, Jonathan G. was named the 2026 National Military Youth of the Year.

Jonathan is the Southwest Military Youth of the Year from Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. His mother served in the Air Force for 20 years and retired in 2014. But Jonathan said he still values his access to the base's youth programs.

Jonathan graduated high school earlier this year and plans to attend college in Oklahoma, majoring in child development.

"I want to be youth director for the youth center; that's really what I want to do," he said.

After being named the 2026 Military Youth of the Year, Jonathan thanked God, his family and his friends at the youth center at Tinker Air Force Base.

"I don't see Youth of the Year as an individual thing, even though [some] people see it that way," he said. "I see it as a group thing, as a team development thing. That everybody grows when somebody else goes ahead."

All five nominees spent a week in Washington, where they visited the Pentagon and met with representatives of their associated military services. During his acceptance speech, Jonathan said the other nominees are family now.

"I can't believe I'm with these peers and these amazing people that I came up with this whole week," he said. "It's been amazing. I can't believe I get to call them my family. So, I'm thankful for everybody that's at that table right now because you guys did amazing this whole week."

Jonathan also addressed the youth he works with at Tinker Air Force Base.

"For the kids [at Tinker] ... everything is for you guys, and you guys know this from the bottom of my heart. I do everything for you because I want to inspire y'all so much, and I'm so deeply grateful to know everybody that's in this room, and all the kids that I do it for," he said. "I'm just thankful, and I'm thankful to take this award. I'm blessed to be here on this stage, and I'm thankful for everybody."

As part of the competition, the five nominees received a $2,500 scholarship at the state military youth of the year level. At the regional level, they received a $20,000 scholarship. As the winner, Jonathan received an additional $20,000, and in October, he will attend the Boys & Girls Clubs 2026 National Youth of the Year event in New York. That winner will receive a $50,000 scholarship.

Marines Make History With First Attack Drone Live-Fire Series in South Korea

Aug. 6, 2026 | By Marine Corps Capt. Brennen Yancey, 3rd Marine Division |

Marines assigned to the 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, successfully concluded the Marine Corps' first series of live-fire first-person view attack drone flights yesterday in South Korea.  

This historic training series marks a significant milestone in force modernization, demonstrating the Marine Corps' ability to field emerging technologies in the Western Pacific rapidly. The series featured two distinct training events: an inaugural range conducted July 30 by the 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, and a second iteration carried out yesterday by the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment. Both are forward-deployed units to the Pacific region under the unit deployment program.

Throughout the training series, Marines used the Neros Archer drone to execute precise anti-armor and antipersonnel explosive strikes. With an effective range of approximately 20 kilometers, this technology extends the tactical influence of small units far beyond traditional squad-level infantry weapons, allowing Marines to conduct precision strikes from positions of relative safety.  

"Training with these FPV drone systems with deployed Marines, on a live-fire range and in a unique environment allows us to get one step further toward integrating it into real-world operations," said Marine Corps 1st Lt. Evan Brace, 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion company executive officer. "We learn what works, and most importantly, what needs to be worked on and refined, so that when the time comes to use the Neros Archer on the battlefield, we have perfected the craft."  

This training increases the 4th Marine Regiment's tactical proficiency with drones in offensive and defensive scenarios, extending traditional marksmanship into the unmanned domain. Small drone platforms like the Neros Archer give Marines at the squad and platoon level a modern, cost-effective alternative to many larger firing platforms that are not organic to smaller units.

"Equipping our Marines with FPV attack drones give us a useful tool that provides an additional kinetic option for us to use," Brace said. "This capability allows units down to the fireteam level to possess organic, precise fires capable of shaping their battlespace."  

Conducting this live-fire series on the Korean Peninsula required a comprehensive safety and airspace structure. The 4th Marine Regiment worked in close coordination with the 2nd Infantry Division, 8th Army, and the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade to establish the necessary regulatory frameworks in conjunction with South Korea. Before each live-fire execution, Marines conducted rigorous dry-fire safety rehearsals and built-in procedural checks to validate protocols for high-explosive drone training iterations.  We are not just upgrading our tactics, we are building a faster, smarter and deadlier team capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with our South Korean allies, ready to dominate any modern battlefield."

Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Ismael Bamba, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Korea senior enlisted leader

"Many of the obstacles we encountered before conducting this training, since it was the first of its kind here in [South] Korea, were overcome through a mission-focused mindset and through close cooperation and coordination with our [South] Korean allies," Brace said.  

By rapidly adapting to the demands of the future operating environment and validating these systems alongside the joint force and regional allies, the 4th Marine Regiment continues to ensure that the 3rd Marine Division remains a highly capable, ready and survivable forward-deployed force, uniquely postured to safeguard regional stability. This training aims to enable and expand opportunities for future joint and allied FPV attack drone training.

"The Neros Archer live-fire training proves that when we hand cutting-edge attack drones to our young Marines, they rapidly adapt, turning small units into highly lethal, self-sufficient precision strike forces," said Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Ismael Bamba, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Korea senior enlisted leader. "By mastering this technology, we are not just upgrading our tactics, we are building a faster, smarter and deadlier team capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with our South Korean allies, ready to dominate any modern battlefield."  

There will always be countless firsts when implementing any new technology, Brace said.  

"This training is significant because it is the first series of FPV attack drone flights conducted by U.S. Marines in South Korea," he said. "I'm proud that my team of professionals and I are able to play a small part in moving the needle forward when it comes to employing this emerging technology."

Northcom Prepares Deployment to Support Wildfire Suppression

Aug. 6, 2026 | By Army Lt. Col. Cain Claxton, U.S. Army Western Hemisphere Command |

At the request of the National Interagency Fire Center, U.S. Northern Command is preparing to deploy approximately 200 soldiers to support a wildland fire ground response operation in the Pacific Northwest.

U.S. Army Western Hemisphere Command, Northcom's joint force land component, will oversee the military ground operation in support of federal and state efforts.

The 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, has been notified of the upcoming mission. The soldiers, who completed initial wildland firefighter training with the U.S. Forest Service in July, will undergo additional specialized training at JBLM prior to deploying.

"Our soldiers are well-trained and ready to respond quickly and effectively to assist in protecting people, property and public lands," said Army Brig. Gen. Jerry E. Baird Jr., U.S. Army Western Hemisphere Command deputy commanding general. "This mission underscores our unwavering dedication to the defense support of civil authorities mission."

The additional training will be conducted by a highly experienced cadre and will cover firefighter safety, fire suppression methods and the proper use of personal protective equipment. Once fully prepared and deployed, the soldiers will serve as hand crews, constructing fire lines and conducting line-holding actions under the direct guidance of experienced civilian wildland fire crew bosses.

The War Department has been a key wildland firefighting partner for decades, providing unique capabilities and resources to the national response effort.